The regulation role of PDK/Akt signaling pathway in berberine combined with ginsenoside Rg3 induced apoptosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells / 中国药理学通报

ABSTRACT

Aim To study the effect of berberine combined with ginsenoside Rg3 on the apoptosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma ( NPC ) cells, and to discuss the role of the PDK/Akt signaling pathway in this process. Methods Real time cellular analysis (RTCA)_fluorescence double-staining flow cytometry and Hoechst 33342 staining were used to detect the effects of ber¬ berine combined with ginsenoside Rg3 on the proliferation and apoptosis of NPC cells. Western blot was used to examine the effects of drugs on the expressions of apoptosis-related proteins and the key proteins of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Results Berberine combined with ginsenoside Rg3 inhibited the proliferation and induced cell apoptosis of NPC cells. Expressions of PI3K p 11 0 α and p-Akt were significantly down-regulated in combined drug group. After activation of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, the effect of berberine combined with ginsenoside Rg3 on inhibiting CNE2 cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis was reduced. Compared with combination group, the levels of Survivin, PCNA and Bcl-2 were relatively enhanced, while the level of Bax declined (P < 0. 05). Conclusions Berberine combined with ginsenoside Rg3 may play a role in inhibiting the proliferation and inducing apoptosis of NPC cells through PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.