Abstract

Objective In this study, we aim to investigate the effect of Dysosma versipellis extract on biological behavior of esophageal cancer cells and its underlying mechanisms. Methods A total of 30 BALB/C nude mice (class SPF) were equally and randomly divided into the control group, model group, and Dysosma versipellis group. CP-C cell of esophageal cancer was subcutaneously injected into the model group as well as the Dysosma versipellis group, and the same amount of normal saline into the control group, in order to compare the tumorigenesis of nude mice of three groups. Wnt, β-catenin, and p-GSK3β/GSK3β expression in tumor tissues was detected using Western blot. CP-C cells in logarithmic growth were selected and divided into 4 groups, including the control group, podophyllotoxin group, Wnt activator group, and combined group (mixture of podophyllotoxin and Wnt activator). The cell viability, apoptosis, and invasion ability, Wnt, β-catenin, and p-GSK3β/GSK3β expression level of CP-C cells in each group were detected via MTT assay, flow cytometry, transwell, and Western blot, respectively. Results The tumorigenesis rates of the control group, model group, and Dysosma versipellis group were 0%, 90% (1 tumor-free mouse), and 80% (2 tumor-free mice), respectively. The tumor mass in the Dysosma versipellis group was significant less than that in the model group. Based on the results of Western blot, Wnt, ß-catenin, and p-GSK3β/GSK3β expression of the Dysosma versipellis group was lower than that of the control group. The in vitro viability test indicated that there was a significant difference in cell viability exhibited among four groups. Cell viability level in the 3 groups, including the combined group, blank group, and Wnt activator group, was higher than the podophyllotoxin group at each time point. In vitro apoptosis assay revealed that significant differences in cell apoptosis exhibited among four groups.