Abstract:
Objective This study aims to investigate the possible inhibitory effect of baicalein on the migration and invasion of the human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line SMMC-7721 by studying the expression of ezrin, matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the said cells.
Methods Wound-healing and transwell chamber assays were performed to investigate the migration and invasion of baicalein-treated SMMC-7721 cells. The mRNA and protein expression of ezrin, MMP-9, and VEGF in baicalein-treated SMMC-7721 cells were determined using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and immunocytochemistry, respectively.
Results The results of the wound-healing assay showed that the percentage of wound closure in the experimental group declined (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, the results of the transwell assay showed that the number of SMMC-7721 cells permeating through the artificant membrane in the baicalein-treated group also decreased (P < 0.05). The protein and mRNA expression levels of ezrin, VEGF, and MMP-9 were downregulated (P < 0.05).
Conclusion Baicalein may partly induce anti-neoplastic effectiveness by directly or indirectly inhibiting the expression of ezrin, VEGF, and MMP-9. This Baical Skullcap root extract can be used in clinical applications and may be used as a new, safe, and effective plant medicine for hepatocellular carcinoma.