The effect of terpenes on model cancer and healthy cell membranes. Combined molecular dynamics simulation and cell toxicity study

Essential oils (EOs) have been used in medicine for hundreds of years. Terpenes, the main components of EOs, are well known for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and penetration enhancement properties. EOs are natural products and commonly used to treat respiratory tract infections in children [1, 2]. Recent research demonstrates that terpenes also possess anticancer activity.The compositions of lipids in cell membranes depends greatly on cell type. By controlling lipid components cells obtain required properties for their membranes. The ratio of the lipid components of cell membranes differs significantly between normal and cancerous cells [6-8]. Experimental and theoretical studies report that one essential change induced by canceration is the decrease in the concentration of cholesterol.

Grant Award – Kidscan Placement Student (2019 – 2020)

Funding Award – £2000

Funding Awarded To – Dr Anna Akinshina

Research Location – University of Salford

Lead Researcher – Dr Anna Akinshina