The in vitro antitumor activity of vitamins C and K3 against ovarian carcinoma.
BACKGROUND
The objective was to evaluate the cytotoxic effect and mechanism of action of vitamins C (VC) and K3 (VK3) on ovarian carcinoma.


METHODS
Cytotoxicity assays were performed on ovarian cancer cell lines with VC, VK3 or a VC/VK3 combination. FIC index was employed to evaluate synergism. Flow cytometry was accomplished at 90% cytotoxic doses. Light, transmission electron microscopy and DNA isolation were performed.


RESULTS
Antitumor activity was exhibited by both VC, VK3 and VC/VK3. VC/VK3 demonstrated synergistic activity. VC/VK3 may induce a G1 block in the cell cycle. Combined vitamin treatment resulted in cells that maintain apparently intact nuclei while extruding pieces of organelle-free cytoplasm. Degradation of chromosomal DNA was observed.


CONCLUSIONS
Cell death (autoschizis) displayed characteristics of both apoptosis and necrosis. The cytotoxic effects observed may enable vitamins C and K3 to play an adjuvant role in the treatment of ovarian cancer.
von Gruenigen
Vivian E
VE
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, SUMMA Health System, 525 E. Market Street, Akron, OH 44309, USA. vivian.vongruenigen@uhhs.com
Jamison
James M
JM
Gilloteaux
Jacques
J
Lorimer
Heather E
HE
Summers
Marcia
M
Pollard
Robert R
RR
Gwin
Carley A
CA
Summers
Jack L
JL
D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000494:pharmacology*; D001205:Ascorbic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology*; D002455:Cell Division / Q000187:drug effects; D004273:DNA, Neoplasm / Q000302:isolation & purification / Q000378:metabolism; D004357:Drug Synergism; D005260:Female; D005434:Flow Cytometry; D006801:Humans; D008854:Microscopy, Electron; D010051:Ovarian Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000235:genetics / Q000473:pathology; D014407:Tumor Cells, Cultured; D024483:Vitamin K 3 / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology*
D004273:DNA, Neoplasm; D024483:Vitamin K 3; D001205:Ascorbic Acid