Human gastric cancer cell line SGC-7901 apoptosis induced by SFPS-B2 via a mitochondrial-mediated pathway

Yu-Bin Ji1, Chen-Feng Ji, Lei Yue

  • 1Engineering Research Center of Natural Anticancer Drugs, Ministry of Education, Harbin University of Commerce, Harbin, China.

Insights

Sargassum fusiforme polysaccharides (SFPS-B2) effectively inhibit human gastric cancer cell growth. SFPS-B2 induces apoptosis via a mitochondrial pathway, suggesting potential as a novel cancer treatment agent.

Area of Science:

  • Marine natural products
  • Cancer biology
  • Cellular and molecular pharmacology

Background:

  • Gastric cancer remains a significant global health challenge.
  • Natural compounds are increasingly explored for anticancer properties.
  • Sargassum fusiforme polysaccharides (SFPS-B2) are bioactive compounds from seaweed.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects of SFPS-B2 on the SGC-7901 human gastric cancer cell line.
  • To elucidate the underlying mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis pathway induced by SFPS-B2.

Main Methods:

  • Cell viability was assessed using MTT assays.
  • Apoptosis was analyzed by flow cytometry (FCM) and morphological observation.
  • Mitochondrial function (MPTP, MMP) and calcium ion concentration were measured using laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM).
  • Caspase activity (Caspase-9, Caspase-3) and protein expression (Bcl-2, Bax, cytochrome C) were quantified.

Main Results:

  • SFPS-B2 significantly inhibited SGC-7901 cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner.
  • Morphological analysis revealed characteristic apoptotic features, including apoptotic bodies.
  • SFPS-B2 treatment led to increased apoptotic rates, activation of MPTP, decreased MMP, and elevated Caspase-9 and Caspase-3 activities.
  • Downregulation of Bcl-2, upregulation of Bax, and release of cytochrome C were observed, confirming mitochondrial pathway involvement.

Conclusions:

  • SFPS-B2 exhibits potent anti-gastric cancer activity by inducing apoptosis through the mitochondrial pathway.
  • SFPS-B2 demonstrates potential as a therapeutic agent for gastric cancer treatment.