Positive Health Online

Abstract

MA and coworkers, Department of Biochemistry, Center for Biopharmaceutical Research and State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, College of Life Science, Zhongshan University, Guangzhou, Peoples Republic of China, tested the possible cytotoxic effects of a constituent (isoliquiritigenin ) of the traditional Chinese herb licorice on human stomach cancer cells in vitro.

Background

There is evidence that the traditional Chinese herb licorice has anti-tumour effects and the main constituent responsible for this action may be isoliquiritigenin .

Methodology

The effects of isoliquiritigenin were examined in vitro in cultured human gastric cancer MGC-803 cells . Analytical methods included flow cytometry and fluorescent probes (Fluo-3 and Rh123). Evidence of cell death (apoptosis) including effects on membrane potentials, mitochondria, intracellular free calcium concentration and molecular structure were investigated.

Results

MGC-803 cells treated with isoliquiritigenin displayed typical features of apoptosis such as cell shrinkage, chromatin condensation, DNA ladder formation and apoptotic peaks (subG(1)). Apoptotic cells showed a dose-dependent increase in intracellular free calcium concentration and decrease in mitochondrial transmembrane potential (Deltapsi(m)).

Conclusion

Isoliquiritigenin appeared to induce apoptosis of MGC-803 cells through calcium- and Deltapsi(m)-dependent pathways . These findings suggest that this component of licorice may be useful as a natural antic ancer agent .

References

Ma J et al. Apoptosis induced by isoliquiritigenin in human gastric cancer MGC-803 cells. Planta Medica 67 (8): 754-7. Nov 2001.