Analysis of Volatile Compounds in Caulerpa lentillifera for Anti-Proliferative Studies in HEPG2 Liver Cancer Cells and in silico Comparison

Background: Liver cancer remains a significant cause of mortality despite standard therapies. Recent studies have highlighted the anti-inflammatory properties and cancer prevention potential of certain agents. Caulerpa lentillifera (C. lentillifera) is known for its anti-inflammatory activity, yet there is limited understanding regarding its impact on liver cancer. Aim: Hence, this study aims to identify volatile compounds in C. lentillifera and associate them with cytotoxicity and molecular interactions involving the molecular marker SREBP-1A in liver cancer cells. Materials and Methods: Compounds present in the extract were identified using gas chromatography MS. Functional analysis involved proliferation and clonogenic assays. The interaction of the fatty acids with the biomarkers was assessed using AutoDock software. Results: The most abundant fatty acids identified were palmitic acid and tridecanoic acid. Cellular analysis revealed a dose-response antiproliferative effect on HepG2 cell growth, with a half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of 1.2 mg/mL. Similarly, colony formation was significantly suppressed (p < 0.05). In silico analysis demonstrated a higher affinity binding of palmitic acid to SREBP-1A compared to alpha-fetoprotein. Conclusion: The study suggests that palmitic acid exhibits antiproliferative activity in HepG2 liver cancer cells by binding to SREBP-1A. Further investigations are warranted to determine the regulatory effect of palmitic acid in liver cancer.