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The Prevention and Inhibition Effect of Anthocyanins on Colorectal Cancer

Xin Zhao1,2, Panfeng Feng1, Wenqian He1

  • 1Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.

Current Pharmaceutical Design
|December 14, 2019
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Anthocyanins, natural pigments, effectively inhibit colorectal cancer (CRC) cell growth and promote apoptosis. They target the PI3K/AKT/survivin pathway, offering a promising natural approach for CRC treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Natural product chemistry
  • Cancer biology
  • Molecular pharmacology

Background:

  • Anthocyanins are flavonoids with demonstrated anti-cancer properties, particularly against colorectal cancer (CRC).
  • The precise molecular mechanisms and optimal dosages for anthocyanins in CRC treatment remain largely undetermined.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which anthocyanins exert anti-cancer effects on colorectal cancer.
  • To evaluate the efficacy of anthocyanins in inhibiting colon cancer cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis.

Main Methods:

  • Experiments utilized Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, MTT assay, xenograft models, and HE staining.
  • Cell viability, proliferation, and apoptosis were assessed in human colon cancer HT29 cells.
  • Tumor growth, protein expression (PI3K, AKT, Bcl-2, Bax, survivin), and apoptotic pathways were analyzed in vivo.

Main Results:

  • Anthocyanins significantly reduced colon cancer cell viability and proliferation while promoting apoptosis.
  • In vivo studies showed reduced tumor weight and volume in a mouse model.
  • Anthocyanins modulated key proteins in the PI3K/AKT/survivin pathway and altered the Bcl-2/Bax ratio.

Conclusions:

  • Anthocyanins effectively inhibit CRC cell growth and induce apoptosis.
  • The anti-cancer effects are mediated through the PI3K/AKT/survivin pathway, enhancing caspase-dependent apoptosis.
  • Anthocyanins demonstrate potential as a therapeutic agent for colorectal cancer.
Keywords:
AnthocyaninsBax/Bcl-2Caspase-3Colorectal CancerP13K/AKTSurvivin.

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