Alpha-Santalol, a Component of Sandalwood Oil Inhibits Migration of Breast Cancer Cells by Targeting the β-catenin Pathway

Background/Aim: Alpha-santalol, a terpenoid found in sandalwood oil has been shown to inhibit breast cancer cell growth in vitro by inducing apoptosis, but the mechanisms underlying the growth inhibitory effects of alpha-santalol are not fully understood. In this study, we demonstrate that alpha-santalol treatment targets Wnt/beta-catenin pathway to inhibit migration of cultured breast cancer cells. Materials and Methods: Migration assays, immunoblotting and immunofluorescence were used to examine the mechanism of action of alpha-santalol in breast cancer cells. Results: Exposure of MDA-MB 231 and MCF-7 cells to alpha-santalol resulted in a significant reduction in their migratory potential and wound healing ability. In addition, alpha-santalol affected the localization of beta-catenin from cytosol to nucleus in MDA-MB 231 cells. Conclusion: Alpha-santalol inhibited migration of breast cancer cells may be mediated, in part, by targeting Wndlfl-catenin pathway. beta-catenin represents an important target of alpha-santalol's response for future preclinical studies.