[Zoledronic acid blocks cell cycle and induces apoptosis in lung cancer cell line 95D cells and their mechanisms of action]

Abstract

Objective: To study the effect of zoledronic acid on cell cycle blocking and induction of apoptosis in lung cancer cell line 95D cells, and their mechanisms of action.

Methods: The effect of zoledronic acid (ZOL) on proliferation of lung cancer cell line 95D cells was observed by MTT assay. Cell cycle and apoptosis of the lung cancer cells was examined by flow cytometry. The apoptosis in the cancer cells was also examined by light and transmission electron microscopy. The expressions of ERK, Bcl-2, Bax and survivin were measured by Western blot and RT-PCR.

Results: ZOL showed inhibitory effect on the proliferation of lung cancer cells in vitro, in a time-dependant and a dose-dependant manner. With time extending after ZOL treatment, the number of apoptosis cells was increased. The expression of ERK, Bcl-2 and survivin was down-regulated and that of Bax up-regulated.

Conclusion: Zoledronic acid can block the cell cycle and induce apoptosis in lung cancer cells in vitro.