Abstract: Objective To optimize the extraction process of Gecko extract and preliminarily assess its antitumor activity in vitro.Methods We used approaches of ultrasonication and extraction with ethanol,and performed orthogonal tests upon univariate analysis.Results Our results revealed the optimal extraction conditions as follows:the ratio of material to solvent(1∶4),ultrasonic time(30 min),ultrasonic power(400 W),and final concentration of ethanol(55%).Thus,the yield of Gecko extract was about 6.5% and the total content of protein included was about 23.15%.Conclusion The results showed that exposure to Gecko extract dramatically suppressed the proliferation of esophageal carcinoma EC-109 cells and prostatic cancer PC-3 cells in a dose and time-dependent manner.

Key words: Gecko, extract, antitumor activity