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Maackiain suppresses the development of cervical cancer via AMPK priming autophagy

Juan He1,2, Lan Xiang2, Tingting Zhu2

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.

The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology
|November 7, 2023
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Maackiain (Mac) effectively treats cervical cancer by inhibiting cell growth and invasion. It activates the AMPK/mTOR/autophagy pathway, offering a potential natural therapeutic strategy.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Maackiain (Mac), a flavonoid from Sophora flavescens, has known neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Its therapeutic potential in cervical cancer remained unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the therapeutic effects and molecular mechanisms of Maackiain (Mac) in cervical cancer.
  • To evaluate Mac's efficacy alone and in combination with cisplatin.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized RT-qPCR, western blot, and immunofluorescence assays.
  • Assessed Mac's impact on cervical cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion.
  • Investigated the role of the AMPK/mTOR/autophagy pathway and conducted in vivo studies using mouse xenograft models.

Main Results:

  • Mac significantly inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion in HeLa and SiHa cervical cancer cell lines.
  • Mac enhanced cisplatin's pro-apoptotic effects and demonstrated efficacy in a mouse xenograft model.
  • Mac induced autophagy by inhibiting the mammalian target of the rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, mediated by AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation.

Conclusions:

  • Maackiain (Mac) exhibits significant anti-cervical cancer activity by activating the AMPK/mTOR/autophagy pathway.
  • Mac represents a promising natural compound for cervical cancer treatment.
  • This study elucidates a feasible molecular mechanism for Mac's anti-cancer effects.
Keywords:
AMPKMaackiainautophagycervical cancermTOR pathway

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