Tumor retardation and immunomodulatory potential of polyherbal formulation HC9 in mouse melanoma model

Background: HC9, a polyherbal formulation, is based on Stanyashodhana Kashaya (an Ayurvedic formulation) that is being prescribed by Ayurvedic physicians for the treatment of various disorders of mammary glands. We have recently reported anticancer activity of HC9 in breast cancer cell lines through various molecular mechanisms. Few studies have shown an association between breast cancer and melanoma that has prompted us to find whether HC9 could regulate the melanoma growth as well. Aim of the Study: The aim was to investigate the tumor retardation and immunomodulatory potential of HC9 in mouse melanoma model. Materials and Methods: C57BL/6 mice, with B16F10-induced melanoma tumors, were divided into six groups: tumor control, doxorubicin (2 mg/kg body weight [b.w.]), low dose (100 mg/kg b.w.), intermediate (200 mg/kg b.w.), and high dose (400 mg/kg b.w.) of HC9. No tumor control served as the negative control group. The mice were orally gavaged with HC9 daily for 3 weeks. The urine and blood samples from all the animals were taken before necropsy. The expression of T-helper type 1 (Th1) (interferon-γ and interleukin [IL]-2) and Th2 (IL-4 and IL-10) serum cytokines was evaluated by ELISA assay. Results: HC9 significantly retarded the tumor growth in C57BL/6 mouse melanoma model. The animals did not show any changes in body weight and food consumption throughout the study period. Urine and histopathological analysis revealed no signs of toxicity in HC9-treated animals. HC9 appreciably increased the serum levels of Th1 with a concomitant decrease in Th2 cytokines. Conclusion: HC9 retarded the tumor growth in mouse melanoma model and induced immunomodulation, thereby suggesting the potential of the formulation against melanomas.