Effect of Ferula persica plant methanol extract on the level of Cox-2 in induced squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in rat tongue

Background. More than 90% of oral cancers are cases of squamous cell carcinoma. Standard treatment of cancer includes a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Each of these treatments, however, brings about certain problems and side effects. Today herbal medicines have become a more preferable option in dealing with health problems or preventing them because they have better compatibility with the body and do not cause undesirable side effects. In this study, the effect of Ferula persica plant methanol extract on Cox-2 levels in SCC induced in rat tongue was evaluated in vivo. Methods. In this experimental study, 75 rats from SD race in the age range of 2.5–3 months were selected and assigned to five groups. In order to induce tongue carcinoma, 4- nitroquinoline 1-oxide (4NQO) powder was used 3 times a week for each rat. Furthermore, Ferula persica extract was given to each group in order to examine Cox-2 changes in the blood. Results. There were significant differences between the Cox-2 levels in the groups receiving the carcinogen only and the other groups. In this group, Cox-2 level was low and in the group receiving Ferula extract (500 mg) along with carcinogen, Cox-2 level was found to be higher than other groups. Conclusion. Ferula persica extract did not decrease serum Cox-2 levels.