OBJECTIVETo observe the effect of Jiedu Sangen Decoction (JSD, consisting of Polygonum cuspidatum, Geum Japonicum Thumnb, Radix Actinidiae Chinensis) on the migration capability of colon cancer CT-26 cells were observed, and on expressions of carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) such as transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1), matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), and alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA).

METHODSThe BALB/C mice were subcutaneously inoculated with colon cancer CT-26 cells (1.2 x 10(6)mL) and then randomly divided into 3 groups, i.e., the normal control group, the model group, the JSD treated group. The effects of three different serums on the migration ability of colon cancer CT-26 cells were observed using Transwell. The expression quantities of TGF-beta1 and MMP-9 in the supernatant of CAFs were detected using ELISA. The mRNA expression quantities of TGF-beta1 and alpha-SMA in CAFs were detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR.

RESULTSThe number of semi-permeable film cells in the JSD treated group significantly decreased, when compared with the model group, showing statistical significance (P < 0.01). Compared with the model group, the expressions of TGF-beta1 and MMP-9 in the supernatant of CAFs decreased in the JSD treated group at 24 and 48 h, showing statistical difference (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). Compared with the model group, the mRNA expressions of TGF-beta1 and alpha-SMA in the JSD treated group obviously decreased, showing statistical difference (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONJSD could decrease expressions of TGF-beta1 and MMP-9 in the supernatant of CAFs, lower mRNA expressions of alpha-SMA and TGF-beta1, which might be possible mechanisms for inhibiting the migration and invasion of tumor cells.