Exploiting the synergistic biological properties of Linum usitatissimum and Cucurbita maxima seeds ethanolic extract in combating anticancer activity against THP-1 cell line

Flax seeds (Linum usitatissimum) and Pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita maxima) are esteemed for their rich phytochemical profile, positioning them as noteworthy sources of dietary polyphenols. However, a notable research void exists regarding the exploration of their antimicrobial and anticancer properties, particularly through encapsulation for immune enhancement. The principal objective was to conduct a thorough examination of combined bioactive compounds from flax and pumpkin seeds utilizing an array of assays, including radical scavenging, Fe³⁺ reduction, antimicrobial, anti-diabetic, and MTT assays. The findings unveil considerable radical scavenging capabilities in both seeds. In the DPPH assay, C. maxima exhibited an IC₅₀ of 142.42 µg/mL, while L. usitatissimum demonstrated 117.86 µg/mL, with their combination yielding 143.14 µg/mL. Superoxide radical scavenging activity revealed IC₅₀ values of 19.84 µg/mL (C. maxima), 47.55 µg/mL (L. usitatissimum), and 11.18 µg/mL (combination). The Fe³⁺ reduction assay illustrated antioxidant activity with IC values of 43.54 µg/mL (C. maxima), 49.73 µg/mL (L. usitatissimum), and 34.03 µg/mL (combination). Antimicrobial evaluations disclosed significant inhibition zones, notably with C. maxima against Enterococcus faecalis and L. usitatissimum against Candida tropicalis. Anti-diabetic activity peaked at 67% (L. usitatissimum), 65.89% (C. maxima), and 74.93% (combination) at 120 µg/mL. The MTT assay suggested promising anticancer potential, with an IC₅₀ of 7.00 µg/mL and a cell death rate of 93.81%. In summary, this study underscored the therapeutic potential of encapsulated bioactive compounds from flax and pumpkin seeds, providing valuable insights for potential applications in immune enhancement.