In lab tests, the peptide thymosin‑alpha‑1 slowed the growth and movement of lung cancer cells and boosted the cells' own antioxidant defenses, but it didn’t trigger cell death. These effects were seen at relatively high concentrations that are not comparable to typical human supplement doses.

This research was conducted to investigate the biochemical effects of thymosin alpha-1 using human lung cancer cells (A549). The A549 cells were treated with different concentrations of Thα1 for 24 h and the growth, inhibition of cells was determined. Thα1 revealed anti-proliferative effect at 24 and 48 μg/ml after 24 h. Furthermore, it indicated antioxidant properties by significantly enhancing the activity of catalase (12 μg/ml), superoxide dismutase (6 and 12 μg/ml), and glutathione peroxidase (3, 6 and 12 μg/ml) and reducing the production of cellular ROS. Our results showed that Thα1 inhibits the migration of A549 cells in a concentration-dependent manner after 24 and 48 h. Moreover, the effect of Thα1 on apoptosis was investigated by Hoechst 33342 staining and cell cycle analysis. Results demonstrated no significant effect on the induction of apoptosis in A549 cells. In conclusion, our results showed the antioxidant properties of Thα1 on A549 cancer cells.