The apoptosis-inducing effect of artesunate on human leukemia K562 cells

Objective To investigate the proliferation inhibition and apoptosis-inducing effect of Artesunate on human leukemia K562 cells. Methods MTT assay was undertaken to observe the growth inhibition of K562 cells exposed to Artesunate. The apoptosis of K562 cells was detected by cell morphological observation, DNA agarose gel electrophoresis,Annexin V/PI double labeling and intracellular DNA content analysis. Results Artesunate markedly inhibited the proliferation of K562 cells in a time-dependent and dose-dependent manner at the range of 1 to 8μg ml.Flow cytometry showed that artesunate induced apoptosis of K562 cells in a time- and dose- dependent manner within 0-72 hours (4μg ml), and within the concentration range of 2 to 8μg ml (at 48 hours). Conclusion Artesunate could inhibit the proliferation and induce apoptosis of human leukemia K562 cells in vitro.