Effects of baicalin on c-myc expression in HL-60 cells

Objective To investigate the effects of baicalin on proliferation inhibition and apoptosis induction in human myeloid leukemia cell line HL-60 cells and on c-myc gene and protein expressions. Methods HL-60 cells were exposed to baicalin at different dosages. Proliferation inhibition was detected by MTT assay. The ability of baicalin to induce apoptosis of HL-60 cells was examined by DNA fragmentation.The expression of c-myc was detected by RT-PCR and Western-blot. Results Baicalin remarkably inhibited the HL-60 cells proliferation, with an IC50 value of 20 μmol/L. Concomitantly, apoptosis was induced in HL-60 cells, as measured by detection of DNA fragmentation. The expressions of c-myc in HL-60 induced by baicalin decreased. Conclusion Baicalin could efficiently induce proliferation inhibition and apoptosis in HL-60 cells. c-myc may involved in these processes.