Estimation of trace elements in mace (Myristica fragrans Houtt) and their effect on uterine cervix cancer induced by methylcholanthrene

Biol Trace Elem Res. 2012 Dec;149(3):431-4. doi: 10.1007/s12011-012-9443-4. Epub 2012 May 9.

Abstract

In the present work, trace elemental analysis of mace (Myristica fragrans Houtt) was carried out by the atomic absorption spectrometry technique. The concentrations of various elements analyzed in this medicine were ranked in decreasing order: selenium (Se) > zinc (Zn) > magnesium (Mg) > iron (Fe) > calcium (Ca) > manganese (Mn) > lead (Pb). The concentrations of Mg, Zn, Fe, Mn, Ca, and Se were significantly decreased in serum of methylcholanthrene tumor models (P < 0.001) compared with the control and mace groups. It is consistent with the result of tumor incidence. These trace elements could be directly or indirectly responsible for the antitumor activity of mace. The inorganic elements in this folk remedy can partly account for the antitumor.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Methylcholanthrene / toxicity*
  • Myristica / chemistry*
  • Plant Extracts / chemistry
  • Plant Extracts / therapeutic use*
  • Trace Elements / therapeutic use*
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / chemically induced*
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Plant Extracts
  • Trace Elements
  • Methylcholanthrene