Celastrus orbiculatus Extract Inhibits the Malignancy of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells Through PI3K/AKT/mTOR Pathway

Abstract

Aim: This study is targeted at investigating the effects of Celastrus orbiculatus extract (COE) on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. Methods: At 24, 48 and 72 h after different concentrations of COE were applied to treat NSCLC cells, MTT method, 5-Ethynyl- 2′ -deoxyuridine (EdU) assay, Transwell assay and flow cytometry were conducted to explore the effects of COE at different concentrations on the phenotypes of NSCLC cells. The expression of apoptosis-associated proteins and PI3K/AKT/mTOR-associated proteins were examined via Western blot. Results: COE inhibited NSCLC cell multiplication, migration and invasion and facilitated the apoptosis, and this effect was dosedependent. Additionally, also in a dose-dependent manner, COE suppressed Bcl-2 expression and facilitated Bax expression. After COE treatment, the phosphorylation levels of AKT, mTOR and PI3K were noticeably decreased. Conclusion: COE suppresses the malignancy of NSCLC cells, probably via inhibiting PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling.