Evidence of biological activity of Mentha species extracts on apoptotic and autophagic targets on murine RAW264.7 and human U937 monocytic cells

Context: Mints (Lamiaceae) are used as traditional remedies for the treatment of several diseases. Their extracts are recognized as anti-inflammatory compounds. Objective: This study characterized the cytotoxic effects of Mentha spicata L. (MS), Mentha pulegium L. (MP) and Mentha rotundifolia (L). Huds (MR) on macrophage cells (RAW264.7; U937) and determined their impact on apoptosis and autophagy, which can play a role in controlling inflammation. Materials and methods: The extracts were prepared in culture medium and tested from 25 to 400 μg/mL after 24–48 h of treatment. To show the effect of the aqueous ethanol (50%) extracts on apoptosis and authophagy, the presence of cleaved caspase-3, and the conversion of LC3-I to LC3-II was evaluated by Western blotting. Results: Compared with the MTT assay, crystal violet showed a pronounced decrease in the number of cells with all extracts at 48 h. Calculated IC(50) values were 257.31, 207.82 and 368.02 μg/mL for MS, MP and MR, respectively. A significant increase in PI positive cells was observed with all extracts at 200-400 μg/mL. Mitochondrial dysfunctions and nuclear morphological changes were detected with MS and MR extracts at 400 μg/mL. At this concentration, no cleaved caspase-3 was found whereas stabilized caspase-3 in its dimeric form was identified. MS and MR extracts also favour LC3-I to LC3-II conversion which is a criterion of autophagy. Conclusions: The cytotoxic profiles depend on the extracts considered; MS extract showed the strong activity. However, all the mint extracts studied interact with the apoptotic and autophagic pathways at elevated concentrations.