Nisin Induces Cytotoxicity and Apoptosis in Human Asterocytoma Cell Line (SW1088)

BACKGROUND: Nisin is a member of the group of anti-microbial peptides which are considered as bacteriocins, but it possesses a vast range of activities. Astrocytoma is among the most prevalent types of brain tumor globally. Considering all facts about this peptide, the aim of the present study was the evaluation of any impact of nisin on proliferation and apoptosis of an astrocytoma cell line (SW1088). METHODS: The SW1088 cell line was purchased from the Pasteur Institute of Iran and treated with various concentrations of Nisin. Nisin-induced cell toxicity and apoptosis were detected by both MTT assay and annexin V-FITC /propidium iodide (PI) staining. RESULT: In current study we observed that the cell death and apoptosis were significantly increased following nisin treatment, as compared to the control group. CONCLUSION: These results open a new window for establishment promising approaches with the concept of anti-cancer therapy by nisin in the future.