An ethanolic extract of Bailian (Radix Ampelopsis Japonicae): demonstration of colorectal cancer treatment efficacy via inhibition of β-catenin signaling in vitro

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the underlying mechanism of Bailian (Radix Ampelopsis Japonicae, BL) extract action on colorectal cancer (CRC). METHODS: We explored the involvement of β-catenin signaling on the anti-CRC effects of an BL ethanolic extract (BLE) in cell models by using the 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, immunofluorescent staining, luciferase assay, Western blot analysis and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis. Anti-CRC compounds were quantified by high performance liquid chromatography. RESULTS: The contents of gallic acid, catechin, and epicatechin in the BLE were 0.23, 1.25, and 0.18 g/ kg, respectively. BLE-mediated cytotoxic and apoptotic effects were accompanied by lowered β-catenin/Tcf transcriptional activity, reduced β-catenin nuclear localization, and downregulated protein and mRNA levels of both β-catenin and molecules regulated by β-catenin. CONCLUSION: The mechanism underpinning the anti-CRC effects of BLE may involve inhibition of β-catenin signaling. Further studies are necessary to establish the role of β-catenin signaling in the action of BLE-mediated anti-CRC effects.