VEGF-C siRNA induces apoptosis and inhibits growth of human breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-435

Objective To construct recombinant small interfering RNA (siRNA) plasmid vector targeting VEGF-C, and observe its impact on the growth and apoptosis of human breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-435. Methods Three small fragments of siRNA and one negative control were sequenced and cloned into vector pSilencer3.0-H1. The recombinant plasmids were then transfected into breast cancer cell line MDA-MBA-435, by positive liposomal transfection assay. The transcription and translation level of VEGF-C expression were detected by RT-PCR and Western Blot. Meanwhile, the proliferation and apoptosis of transfected tumor cells were determined by MTT and flow-cytometry assay. Results The recombinant plasmids containing VEGF-C siRNA were successfully constructed. VEGF-C expression was significantly knocked-down after siRNA plasmid transfection. The maximum inhibitory rate of transfected breast cancer cells reached 85.4%, significantly higher that observed in the control group. The apoptosis rate was 60% 72hr after transfection. Conclusions VEGF-C gene silenced by siRNA can inhibit the proliferation and induce the apoptosis of human breast cancer cell line MDA-MBA-435. The process might serve as a potential approach for cancer gene therapy.