In Vitro and In Silico Analysis of Phytocomponents from Stevia rebaudiana Leaf Extracts as Anticancer Agents for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer(NSCLC) Targeting EGFR Receptor

Lung cancer, which has a high mortality rate, remains a global health challenge. The overexpression of the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) gene is a key factor in its progression. This study explored the anti-cancer potential of Stevia rebaudiana leaf extracts, targeting EGFR gene expression in lung cancer. Both Stevia methanol (SME) and Stevia aqueous (SAE) extracts were analysed, revealing the presence of flavonoids, phenolic compounds, proteins, phytosterols, and reducing sugars. The total phenolic content was estimated in gallic acid equivalence, while the total flavonoid content was measured in quercetin equivalence. Protein estimation revealed the presence of proteins that were higher in SAE than in SME. Both extracts demonstrated significant antioxidant activities, with concentrations comparable to those of ascorbic acid. Molecular docking indicated promising binding affinities of Stevia compounds to EGFR, with the best affinity at -7.8 kcal/mol. Cytotoxicity assays revealed IC50 values of 290.48 μg/mL for SAE and 510.25 μg/mL for SME. Qualitative RTPCR studies showed notable downregulation of EGFR expression, suggesting that Stevia extracts are potential therapeutic agents for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).In summary, this study characterised Stevia extracts as natural therapeutic agents for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), offering insights into their potential as viable treatment options.