AKT/mTOR signaling pathway is involved in salvianolic acid B-induced autophagy and apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma cells

摘要: Chinese medicines are emerging as an attractive new generation of anticancer drugs. Here, we explored the impact salvianolic acid B (Sal B), major water-soluble compounds Danshen, on apoptosis and autophagy human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HCC). We also investigated related molecular mechanisms. found that Sal B exhibits potent ability to inhibit HCC viability in a concentration-dependent manner, induce via mitochondrial pathway. Additionally, could autophagy. Furthermore, pretreatment with inhibitor chloroquine or 3-methyladenine showed potential attenuating rate induced by Sal B. Mechanistically, treatment inhibited AKT/mTOR signaling cascade vitro. Overexpression AKT abolished effects cells, suggesting critical role pathway Sal B-induced biological effects. Our results indicated was involved cells. Moreover, autophagy, which promoted apoptosis. This study may provide promising strategy for using chemotherapeutic agent patients HCC.