Rongbei Maimendong Decoction Promotes Radiosensitivity of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells by Inhibiting SOD1...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pharmacology
• Radiotherapy

Background:

• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) remedies show potential in cancer treatment.
• The specific effects of Rongbei Maimendong decoction (RBMD) on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) radiosensitivity are not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the synergistic effects of RBMD's active ingredients on NSCLC radiosensitivity.
• To identify the key compound in RBMD responsible for enhancing radiosensitivity.

Main Methods:

• Bioinformatics analysis and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) were used for compound identification.
• In vitro assays assessed the effects of β-thymidine (β-thy) on NSCLC cell lines.
• In vivo studies in mice evaluated tumor growth inhibition and DNA damage repair.

Main Results:

• β-thymidine (β-thy), identified in RBMD, was found to inhibit NSCLC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion.
• β-thy attenuated tumor growth in mice post-radiotherapy and hindered SOD1's protective effect against DNA damage.
• SOD1 was shown to mitigate DNA damage in irradiated NSCLC cells, a protective effect reduced by β-thy.

Conclusions:

• RBMD, rich in β-thy, may enhance NSCLC radiosensitivity.
• β-thy potentially hinders DNA repair mechanisms and augments DNA damage, facilitating apoptosis.
• This suggests RBMD as a potential adjuvant therapy to improve NSCLC radiotherapy outcomes.