OBJECTIVETo investigate the biological effects of ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation on human bronchial epithelial cells (16HBE cells) and explore the possible mechanism.

METHODSThe survival rates of 16HBE cells were detected by MTT assay at 12 h after UVB irradiation at different doses (0, 10, 30, 50, 70, and 100 J/m(2)) or at 50 J/m(2) for different durations (2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 h). The DNA ladder was detected by agarose gel electrophoresis, the cell cycle changes were analyzed by flow cytometry, and the expression of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)/p65 protein was assayed by Western blotting following the exposures.

RESULTSUVB irradiation of the cells resulted in lowered cell survival rates, DNA fragmentation, S phase arrest and up-regulation of NF-κB/p65 protein expression.

CONCLUSIONSUVB irradiation can induce growth inhibition and apoptosis of 16HBE cells, in which process NF-κB protein may play a key role.