Targeting Cell Necroptosis and Apoptosis Induced by Shikonin via Receptor Interacting Protein Kinases in Estrogen Receptor Positive Breast Cancer Cell Line, MCF-7

Author(s):

Zahra Shahsavari, Fatemeh Karami-Tehrani* and Siamak Salami   Pages 245 - 254 ( 10 )

Abstract:

Background: Recognition of a new therapeutic agent may activate an alternative programmed cell death for the treatment of breast cancer. </P><P> Objective: Here, it has been tried to evaluate the effects of Shikonin, a naphthoquinone derivative of Lithospermum erythrorhizon, on the induction of necroptosis and apoptosis mediated by RIPK1-RIPK3 in the ER+ breast cancer cell line, MCF-7. </P><P> Methods: In the current study, cell death modalities, cell cycle patterns, RIPK1 and RIPK3 expressions, caspase-3 and caspase-8 activities, reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial membrane potential have been evaluated in the Shikonin-treated MCF-7 cells. </P><P> Results: Necroptosis and apoptosis have been occurred by Shikonin, with a significant increase in RIPK1 and RIPK3 expressions, although necroptosis was the major rout in MCF-7 cells. Shikonin significantly increased the percentage of the cells in sub-G1 and also those in the later stages of cell cycle, which represents an increase in necroptosis and apoptosis. Under caspase inhibition by Z-VAD-FMK, Shikonin has stimulated necroptosis, which could be arrested by Nec-1. An increase in ROS levels and a decrease in the mitochondrial membrane potential have also been observed. </P><P> Conclusion: On the basis of present findings, Shikonin has been suggested as a good candidate for the induction of cell death in ER+ breast cancer, although further investigations, experimental and clinical, are required.

Keywords:

Shikonin, Necroptosis, Apoptosis, ROS, Estrogen receptor positive, MCF-7.

Affiliation:

Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran

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