Differential Effects of Wedelia chinensis on Human Glioblastoma Multiforme Cells

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive glioma, and its diffuse nature makes resection of it difficult. Moreover, even with the administration of postoperative radiotherapy and chemotherapy, prolonged remission is often not achieved. Hence, innovative or alternative treatments for GBM are urgently required. Traditional Chinese herbs and their functional components have long been used in the treatment of various cancers, including GBM. The current study investigated the antitumor activity of Wedelia chinensis and its major functional components, luteolin and apigenin, on GBM.

MTT assay, Transwell migration assay, and flow cytometry analysis were adopted to assess the cell viability, invasive capability, and cell cycle. Immunofluorescence staining and Western blotting were used to detect the expressions of apoptotic and autophagy-related signaling molecules.

The W. chinensis extract (WCE) significantly inhibited the proliferation and invasive ability of both GBM8401 and U-87MG cells in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, differential effects of WCE on GBM8401 and U-87MG cells were observed: WCE induced apoptosis in GBM8401 cells and autophagy in U-87MG cells. Notably, WCE had significant effects in reducing the cell survival and invasive capability of both GBM8401 and U-87MG cells than the combination of luteolin and apigenin.

Taken together, these findings indicate the potential of using WCE and the combination of luteolin and apigenin for GBM treatment. However, further investigations are warranted before considering recommending the clinical use of WCE or the combination of luteolin and apigenin as the standard for GBM treatment.