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FTIR microspectroscopic study of biomacromolecular changes in As2O3 induced MGC803 cells apoptosis
Abstract:
It is well-known that As2O3 has significant anticancer effects, however, little is known regarding its mechanism for treating gastric cancer. Thus, we investigated biomacromolecular (DNA, proteins and lipids) changes of human gastric cancer cell line MGC803 to further understand As2O3-induced apoptosis. Conventional methods showed the increase of the apoptosis rate, the decrease of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the changes of apoptotic proteins, etc. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) microspectroscopy sensitively recognized overall biomacromolecular changes caused by the above: Peak-area ratios indicated the content/structure changes in DNA, proteins and lipids. Principle component analysis (PCA) revealed significant changes in intracellular DNA concentration and structure. This study suggests that As2O3 may exert anti-gastric cancer effect by altering intracellular biomacromolecules especially DNA.
Insights
Arsenic trioxide (As2O3) triggers cancer cell death in gastric cancer by altering key biomacromolecules, particularly DNA. This mechanism enhances our understanding of As2O3
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Arsenic trioxide (As2O3) is recognized for its anticancer properties.
- The precise mechanism of As2O3 in treating gastric cancer remains largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the biomacromolecular alterations induced by As2O3 in human gastric cancer cells.
- To elucidate the role of As2O3-induced apoptosis in gastric cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Utilized conventional assays to assess apoptosis rate, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels.
- Employed Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) microspectroscopy to detect biomacromolecular changes.
- Applied Principle Component Analysis (PCA) to analyze intracellular DNA concentration and structural modifications.
Main Results:
- Confirmed increased apoptosis rates and decreased MMP, alongside elevated ROS levels.
- FTIR microspectroscopy revealed significant changes in DNA, protein, and lipid content and structure.
- PCA demonstrated substantial alterations in intracellular DNA concentration and structure.
Conclusions:
- As2O3 induces apoptosis in gastric cancer cells through significant biomacromolecular modifications.
- Alterations in intracellular DNA concentration and structure are key effects of As2O3 treatment.
- This study highlights As2O3's potential anti-gastric cancer effects via modulation of intracellular biomacromolecules, especially DNA.
