Antiproliferative and proapoptotic activity of ursolic acid in human skin malignant melanoma cells

Abstract

Aim: Pentacyclic triterpenoid – ursolic acid is one of the most promising anticancer agents of biological origin. Especially modulation of cellular signalling pathways (STAT3, TRAIL, IRE1-TRAF-2-ASK1 signalling pathways) and enzymes inhibition (MMP-7, u-PA) may lead to apoptosis induction as well as inhibition of the following: tumorigenesis, tumor promotion, metastasis and angiogenesis. Melanoma malignum is one of the most malignant invasive cancers. It is characterized by a fast growth rate, multiple metastases, and late diagnosis. Substances of natural origin, including ursolic acid, have attracted broad attention recently, as potential antimelanoma agents. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of ursolic acid on the proliferation and apoptosis in human G361 malignant melanoma cell line. Material/Methods: The effect of ursolic acid on the number of G361 cells was measured using In Vitro Toxicology Assay Kit Sulforhodamine B. DNA synthesis of G361 cells was evaluated by means of BrdU colorimetric immunoassay. Detection of caspase-3 activity was performed using Caspase 3 Assay Kit, Colorimetric. Results: Ursolic acid had a strong effect on the number and proliferation of G361 cells. The most remarkable effect was observed at a concentration of 20 µM. Our results suggest that in some concentrations ursolic acid can induce apoptosis via activation of caspase-3 in melanoma G361 cells. Conclusions: The presented results suggest that ursolic acid can have an influence in a dose and time dependent manner on skin melanoma malignant cells. Ursolic acid has antiproliferative and cytotoxic activity and it can induce apoptosis in human melanoma malignum G361 cell line.