Cissus quadrangularis protects cell surface glycoconjugates during 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene induced oral carcinogenesis

Abstract

Glycoproteins play a pivotal role in the maintenance of cellular integrity and thus alterations in the status of glycoproteins could lead to several pathological conditions including malignant transformation. The aim of the present study is to explore the effect of the ethanolic extract of the Cissus quadrangularis leaves on the plasma and buccal mucosa glycoproteins in 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) induced hamster buccal pouch carcinogenesis. Oral carcinoma was induced in the hamsters’ buccal pouch using the site specific carcinogen, DMBA (3 times a week for 14 weeks, topical application). Plasma and buccal mucosa glycoproteins were found to be enhanced in both the plasma and buccal mucosa of hamsters treated with DMBA alone (tumor bearing hamsters). The status of glycoproteins was found to be reverted in hamsters treated with DMBA + Cissus quadrangularis leaves. The present results thus reveal the defensive role of the Cissus quadrangularis leaves in preserving the cellular integrity during DMBA induced oral carcinogenesis.