Study on As4S4 induced apoptosis and its effect on telomerase activity in human cervical cancer cells Hela

Objective To investigate the Hela cells growth inhibition and apoptosis induced by As4S4 and its relationship with telomerase activity. Methods Hela cells were treated with As4S4 in various concentrations with varions durations. Cell growth was measured by MTT. Apoptosis was detected by double staining flow cytometry (FCM) and DNA ladder. Telomerase activity in cells was measured by PCR-ELISA. Results After being treated with different concentrations of As4S4,the cell growth of Hela was suppressed significantly in a dose-and time-dependent manner,24 h IC50 was 30mg/L. The apoptotic rate was increased obviously in a dose-dependent manner by As4S4. DNA fragmentation gel analysis showed DNA ladder. Telomerase activity in cells was inhibited obviously. Conclusion As4S4 can inhibit the proliferation and increase apoptosis in human Hela cells. Its mechanism may depend on the inhibition of the telomerase activity.