Inhibition of proliferation and induction of apoptosis of acute promyelocytic leukemia cell line NB4 by celecoxib

Objective To investigate the effects of celecoxib on NB4 cell proliferation and apoptosis. Methods NB4 cells were treated with celecoxib at different concentration(0,20,40,80,120 and 160 μmol/L).The proliferation of NB4 cells was observed by MTT assay and apoptosis was detected by DNA fragmentation analysis and flow cytometry using Annexin V-FITC/PI staining.Cell morphology was also used to identify apoptosis.The effect on cell cycle was analyzed by flow cytometry. Results NB4 cell viability in presence of celecoxib decreased markedly in a dose-and time-dependent manner.A DNA ladder pattern of internucleosomal fragmentation was observed.The translocation of phosphatidylserine at the outer surface of the cell plasma membrane could be induced by celecoxib and its level increased following the augmentation of the drug concentration.Cell cycle analysis indicated a G1/S phase arrest in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion Celecoxib could inhibit NB4 cell proliferation and induce apoptosis.