ABSTRACT
Objective: To explore the effects of recombinant human calcineurin B (rhCNB) on hepatocellular carcinoma in mice. Methods: An in vivo mouse model with hepatocellular carcinoma was established, and the mice were randomized into the rhCNB, positive control and vehicle treatments groups. Tumor growth was assessed via bioluminescence using a small animal imaging system. Relative tumor proliferation rate and tumor growth inhibition were calculated. The expression of p53 and caspase-9 proteins in tumors were detected by immunohistochemistry. In vitro, flow cytometry was used to quantify the cell-cycle stages and rate of apoptosis. Western blotting and quantitative real-time PCR assays were used to evaluate the effects of rhCNB on protein and gene expression of CDK1, cyclin B1, p53 and caspase-9. Results: rhCNB at the higher dose significantly reduced tumor growth in vivo and caused tumor cell apoptosis in vitro. The rhCNB at the higher dose was as effective as cisplatin, and was safer. Conclusions: rhCNB has potent pro-apoptotic effects on tumor cells in vivo and in vitro and is well tolerated in vivo.