Apatinib has anti-tumor effects and induces autophagy in colon cancer cells

Wu Lu1,2, He Ke3,4, Ding Qianshan1

  • 1Department of Gastroenterology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.

Abstract

Insights

Apatinib inhibits colon cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. This drug also induces apoptosis and regulates autophagy, offering potential as a colon cancer therapeutic.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Apatinib is approved for gastric cancer treatment.
  • Its role in colon cancer is not well-understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Investigate apatinib's effects on colon cancer cell biological functions.
  • Elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action.

Main Methods:

  • Assessed cell viability, migration, and invasion.
  • Analyzed apoptosis and cell cycle via flow cytometry.
  • Examined autophagy-related proteins and pathways.

Main Results:

  • Apatinib (20, 40 μM) inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion.
  • Apoptosis increased with higher apatinib concentrations.
  • Apatinib altered cell cycle distribution and inhibited the AKT-mTOR pathway.
  • Increased LC3-II expression indicated autophagy regulation.

Conclusions:

  • Apatinib significantly suppresses colon cancer cell malignant phenotypes.
  • Apatinib's mechanism involves autophagy regulation.

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