Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Activities of Kudzu Roots and Soy Molasses against Pediatric Tumors and Phytochemical Analysis of Isoflavones Using HPLC-DAD-ESI-HRMS

Could a humble root and a sticky byproduct of soy sauce hold the key to fighting childhood cancer? New research says maybe.

Pediatric solid tumors are ruthless adversaries, claiming too many young lives despite aggressive chemotherapy and radiation. But nature may offer a gentler weapon. Scientists turned to two botanical sources rich in isoflavones—kudzu roots and soy molasses—and extracted these compounds using eco-friendly natural deep eutectic solvents, a green chemistry approach that avoids harsh chemicals.

Using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry, the team identified 10 isoflavones in kudzu root extracts and 3 in soy molasses. Both extracts were then tested against three pediatric tumor cell lines: glioblastoma multiforme, osteosarcoma, and rhabdomyosarcoma. The results were promising: both extracts exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxic effects, particularly against rhabdomyosarcoma cells.

Notably, kudzu roots showed significantly higher antioxidant activity than soy molasses, which correlated with stronger cytotoxic effects against glioblastoma and osteosarcoma. The total flavonoid content and antioxidant power were attributed to the isoflavones present.

This study highlights that HPLC-ESI-HRMS is a reliable tool for identifying isoflavones with anticancer potential. More importantly, it suggests that kudzu roots and soy molasses could become natural, sustainable ingredients for future cancer therapies and health products.

Key Points

• 10 isoflavones found in kudzu roots, 3 in soy molasses
• Extracts showed dose-dependent toxicity against pediatric tumor cells
• Kudzu roots had higher antioxidant activity than soy molasses