Matrine-induced apoptosis in human lung squamous cell carcinoma SK-MES-1 cells and the possible mechanism

Objective:To explore the effects of matrine on the cell cycle and apoptosis in human lung squamous cell carcinoma SK-MES-1 cells and explore the possible mechanisms.Methods:The effect of matrine on cell proliferation was assessed using MTT assay.The cell cycle arrest and the apoptosis rate induced by matrine were determined with flow cytometry.The expression of caspase-3,Bcl-2 and Bax proteins were assayed by flow cytometry.Results:Matrine inhibited the proliferation of SK-MES-1 cells in a dose-and time-dependent manner.Compared with the control group,the matrine-treated cells showed increased cell percentage arrested in G0/G1 phase with decreased S-phase cells.After treatment of 48 hours,the apoptosis rate was increased.The expression of caspase-3 and Bax increased.The expression of Bcl-2 decreased.Conclusion:Matrine can inhibit SK-MES-1 cell proliferation,cause cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase,and induce apoptosis in a dose-and time-dependent manner,which may be related to activation of caspase-3 and Bax and suppression of Bcl-2.