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[Apoptosis and activity changes of telomerase induced by essential oil from pine needles in HepG2 cell line]

Feng-xiang Wei1, Mei-yu Li, Yu-hong Song

  • 1Department of biology, Guangdong pharmaceutical university, Guangzhou 510006, China. haowei727499@163.com

Zhong Yao Cai = Zhongyaocai = Journal of Chinese Medicinal Materials
|December 31, 2008
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Pine needle essential oil inhibits HepG2 cell growth and induces apoptosis. This effect may involve downregulating telomerase activity and bcl-2 gene expression, offering potential therapeutic insights.

Area of Science:

  • Phytochemistry
  • Cell Biology
  • Molecular Biology

Context:

  • Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a significant global health challenge.
  • Exploring natural compounds for anticancer therapies is crucial.
  • HepG2 cells are a widely used model for HCC research.

Purpose:

  • To investigate the cytotoxic and apoptotic effects of pine needle essential oil on the HepG2 cell line.
  • To elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms, including telomerase activity and bcl-2 gene expression.

Summary:

  • Pine needle essential oil significantly inhibited HepG2 cell proliferation in a dose- and time-dependent manner.
  • Morphological analysis confirmed apoptosis induction, characterized by nuclear changes.
  • Telomerase activity was downregulated, and bcl-2 gene expression was suppressed following treatment.

Impact:

  • Demonstrates the potential of pine needle essential oil as a natural agent against HCC.
  • Provides evidence for the role of telomerase and bcl-2 in mediating the oil's effects.
  • Suggests a basis for further research into natural product-based cancer therapeutics.

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