Optimisation of extraction conditions for total saponins from Cynanchum wallichii using response surface methodology and its anti-tumour effects

Cynanchum wallichii Wight, is a traditional Chinese medicine herb, which is rich in saponins and has varieties of pharmacological activities. In this study, a standardized C. wallichii extract was established and the anti-tumor activity of the total saponins was evaluated by MTT assay. The extraction conditions of the standardized extract was optimized using response surface methodology. The experimental value was in good agreement (the yield 4.28%) with predicted values. The total saponins of the extract showed significant anti-tumor activity against three human tumor cell lines (A549, HepG2 and MCF-7), especially for MCF-7 (IC50. 67.63 μg/mL) cells in vitro.