Effects of berberine on proliferation and apoptosis of human hepatoma Bel-7402 cell line

[Objective] To study the growth inhibitory effect and apoptosis inducing effect of berberine on human hepatoma Bel-7402 cells. [Methods] Anti-proliferative effects of berberine on Bel-7402 cells were analyzed by cell counting and colony forming inhibition assay. Apoptotic morphology changes were studied by Hochest 33258 staining and apoptotic rates were analyzed by propidium iodide staining flowcytometry. [Results] In this study, the proliferation and colony forming activity of Bel-7402 cells were inhibited by berberine in a dose- and time-dependent manner; within 72 hours after treatment with berberine, the cell nuclear condensation and formation of apoptotic bodies were found by morphological observation. Meanwhile, apoptotic rate in berberine group was significantly higher than that of control group in the same manner. [Conclusion] Berberine can inhibit the proliferation of human hepatoma Bel- 7402 cells and induce cell apoptosis. The results of this study implied berberine could be a promising medicament in human hepatoma therapy.