Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 12, 2026

Activation of Apoptosis by Cytoplasmic Microinjection of Cytochrome c
Published on: June 29, 2011
Echinocystic acid induces apoptosis in HL-60 cells through mitochondria-mediated death pathway
Xuhui Tong1, Shigang Lin, Makoto Fujii
1Department of Biochemical Science and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kagoshima University, Korimoto 1-21-24, Kagoshima City 890-0065, Japan.
Abstract:
Echinocystic acid (EA) is a natural triterpone enriched in various herbs and used for medicinal purpose in many Asian countries. In the present study, we reported that EA can induce apoptosis in human promyelocytic leukemia cells (HL-60), as characterized by DNA fragmentation, poly (ADP) ribose polymerase cleavage. The efficacious induction of apoptosis was observed at 100 microM for 6 h. Further molecular analysis showed that EA induced the cleavage of Bid protein, the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (DeltaPsim) cytochrome c release from mitochondria into cytosol, and activation of caspase-3, -8 and -9. However, EA did not generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), and antioxidants including N-acetyl cysteine and catalase could not block EA-induced apoptosis in the HL-60 cells. These data suggest that EA induces apoptosis in HL-60 cells through ROS-independent mitochondrial dysfunction pathway.
Related Concept Videos
Overview of Cell Death
Cell death was observed in the early 19th century, but there was no experimental evidence to prove it. In 1842, Carl Vogt first discovered cell death in a metamorphic toad; however, it was not termed ‘cell death.’ Scientists discovered different cell death pathways only in the 20th century...
Apoptosis
Caspases
The Extrinsic Apoptotic Pathway
The Intrinsic Apoptotic Pathway
Phagocytosis of Apoptotic Cells
Normal cells contain receptors that prevent them from being recognized by phagocytes.

