OBJECTIVETo investigate whether CYC116 can potentiate matrine-dependent growth inhibition and apoptosis in multiple myeloma (MM) cells.

METHODSThe dose response relationship of matrine to dexamethasone-resistant and dexamethasone-sensitive MM cells was first established. Myeloma RPMI8226 cells were treated with matrine alone or combined with CYC116 for 24 h. Cell proliferation was measured using an MTT assay and apoptosis induction was evaluated by flow cytometry. Activation of the caspase pathway and expression of apoptosis regulator proteins were detected by Western blotting.

RESULTSMatrine significantly induced growth arrest and apoptosis in both drug-resistant and drug-sensitive MM cells. Treatment with the combination of matrine and CYC116 had a stronger cytotoxic effect on MM cells than did single drug treatments. Enhanced apoptosis observed following the combined treatment of matrine and CYC116 was associated with higher levels of activation of caspase-9, caspase-3, and poly adenosine diphosphate ribose polymerase (PARP) and down-regulation of the anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and Mcl-1 and the signaling proteins p-Akt and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB).

CONCLUSIONCYC116 enhances the growth inhibitory and apoptotic effects of matrine on MM cells.