The preliminary study of antiproliferative effect on MCF-7 cells of Rhodiola algida Var. tangutica

The anti-tumor effect of Rhodiola algida Var. tangutica in vitro was researched in this article. HPLC analysis of the aqueous extract defined the presence of salidroside and tyrosol. The results of MTT assay showed that the extract reduces survival of MCF-7 tumor cells markedly. Microscopic observation confirmed the apoptosis of the tumor cells after being treated by the extract. Some cells containing vacuoles and apoptotic bodies were observed. The FCM analysis showed that lower concentrations of the extract caused much apoptotic cells and higher concentrations led to much necrotic cells.