Inhibitory Effects of Ginsenosides on Tumor Growth and NF-κB-related Gene Expression

Objective To investigate the inhibitory effects on growth and NF-κB-related gene expression of Lewis lung cancer cells exposure to ginsenosides Rh2 and PPD in vitro and in vivo. Methods Using MTT assay to determine growth inhibition of Rh2 and PPD in Lewis lung cancer cells.Growth inhibitory efficacies of Rh2 and PPD were determined by subcutaneously implanted Lewis lung cancer cells into C57 mice.Expression of NF-κB (p65 and p50) and relevant down-stream genes were measured using real-time PCR technique. Results Rh2 and PPD significantly reduced cell viability of Lewis lung cancer in vitro.Rh2 and PPD also potently inhibited the growth of lung cancer xenograft in vivo.In the meantime,expressions of p65,p50 and down-stream genes were significantly down-regulated. Conclusion Rh2 and PPD possess strong inhibitory effect on tumor growth while testing with Lewis lung cancer cells in vitro and in vivo.They also down-regulate the expression of NF-κB and its down-stream genes.