Berberine Promotes A549 Cell Apoptosis and Autophagy via miR-144

Abstract

Objective: To explore the effects of berberine on A549 lung cancer cells and corresponding changes in miR-144 expression, and the apoptosis and autophagy pathways. Methods: Cell proliferation was detected by cell counting Kit-8. The expression of miR-144 by quantitative PCR, caspase-3, caspase-3 cleaved, Bcl-2, Bax, beclin-1, LC3I, and LC3II were assessed using Western blot. Results: A549 proliferation was reduced with increasing berberine concentration. Berberine appeared to suppress A549 proliferation through apoptosis and autophagy, and, additionally, enhanced miR-144 expression. Berberine promoted A549 cell apoptosis by inhibiting caspase-3 cleavage and Bcl-2 expression and promoting Bax expression. Berberine also promoted A549 autophagy by raising the expression of beclin-1, LC3I, and LC3II. Conclusions: Berberine promotes A549 apoptosis and autophagy via miR-144.