How NSAIDs Affect Cancer Cells
Author Information
Author(s): Zhu G H, Wong B C Y, Eggo M C, Ching C K, Yuen S T, Chan E Y T, Lai K C, Lam S K
Primary Institution: Queen Mary Hospital, University of Hong Kong
Hypothesis
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) induce apoptosis in gastric cancer cells, and this effect is influenced by protein kinase C and c-myc.
Conclusion
NSAIDs can induce cell death in gastric cancer cells, but this effect can be blocked by protein kinase C activation.
Supporting Evidence
- Aspirin and indomethacin inhibited cell growth and induced apoptosis in gastric cancer cells.
- Indomethacin increased c-myc mRNA and protein levels.
- Down-regulation of c-myc reduced apoptosis induction by indomethacin.
- PKC activation inhibited indomethacin-induced apoptosis.
Takeaway
Some pain relievers can help kill cancer cells, but a certain protein can stop this from happening.
Methodology
The study used MTT assays, acridine orange staining, DNA fragmentation, and flow cytometry to assess cell growth and apoptosis in gastric cancer cells after NSAID treatment.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website