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An Orthotopic Bladder Cancer Model for Gene Delivery Studies
07:48

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Published on: December 1, 2013

Bee venom induces apoptosis through intracellular Ca2+ -modulated intrinsic death pathway in human bladder cancer

Siu-Wan Ip1, Yung-Lin Chu, Chun-Shu Yu

  • 1Department of Nutrition, China Medical, Taipei, Taiwan.

International Journal of Urology : Official Journal of the Japanese Urological Association
|December 14, 2011
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Bee venom induces apoptosis in human bladder cancer cells by affecting cell viability and promoting key proteins. Intracellular calcium plays a role in this cell death pathway.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Biochemistry
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Human bladder cancer (TSGH-8301 cells) is a significant health concern.
  • Apoptosis is a critical process in cancer therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Investigate bee venom's effect on apoptosis in human bladder cancer cells.
  • Elucidate the signaling pathway involved, focusing on intracellular calcium (Ca(2+)).

Main Methods:

  • Flow cytometry to analyze cytotoxic effects, reactive oxygen species, Ca(2+) levels, and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm).
  • Western blot and confocal microscopy to examine apoptosis-associated proteins.
  • Nuclear staining (4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole) and DNA gel electrophoresis to assess apoptosis hallmarks.

Main Results:

  • Bee venom decreased cell viability and induced apoptosis in TSGH-8301 cells.
  • Increased levels of apoptosis-related proteins (Bax, caspases, endonuclease G) and endoplasmic reticulum stress markers.
  • Bee venom elevated Ca(2+) release, decreased ΔΨm, and triggered nuclear condensation and DNA fragmentation.

Conclusions:

  • Bee venom induces both caspase-dependent and -independent apoptosis in bladder cancer cells.
  • Intracellular Ca(2+) modulates the intrinsic death pathway, contributing to bee venom-mediated apoptosis.

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