Platycodin D Induces Cancer Cell Death Associated with Extreme Vacuolization via Activation of AMP-activated Protein Kinase.

초록

BackgroundPlatycodin D (PD) is one of the major active components of the roots of Platycodon grandiflorum and possesses multiple biological and pharmacological properties, including anti-cancer activity. The aim of this study was to characterize PD-induced cytoplasmic vacuolation in human cancer cells and to investigate the underlying mechanisms. ResultsPD-induced cancer cell death was associated with cytoplasmic autophagic and pinocytic vacuolation. It decreased the cellular energy level that led to activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Additionally, compound C, an inhibitor of AMPK, completely prevented PD-induced vacuolation. ConclusionPD induced cancer cell death, associated with excessive autophagic and pinocytic vacuolation, through AMPK activation. Our findings provide a mechanistic rationale for a novel combinatorial approach targeting AMPK for the treatment of cancer.