3-Bromo-1-hydroxy-9,10-anthraquinone (BHAQ) inhibits growth and migration of the human breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB231

Molecules. 2013 Aug 27;18(9):10367-77. doi: 10.3390/molecules180910367.

Abstract

Breast cancer is becoming more prominent in women today. As of now, there are no effective treatments in treating metastatic breast cancer. We have tested the cytotoxic and anti-migration effects of BHAQ, a synthesized anthraquinone, on two breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7 and MDA-MB231. Anthraquinones are an interesting class of molecules that display a wide spectrum of biological applications, including anticancer properties. Cellular inhibition was tested through a MTT assay, double acridine orange/propidium iodide staining and FACS cell cycle analysis. Inhibition of migration was tested by the wound healing method, and migration through a Boyden chamber. BHAQ was cytotoxic towards both cell lines in a dose dependent and possibly cell-dependent manner. Additionally, BHAQ also inhibited the migration of the highly metastatic MDA-MB231 cell line.

MeSH terms

  • Anthraquinones / chemical synthesis
  • Anthraquinones / pharmacology*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / chemical synthesis
  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacology*
  • Breast Neoplasms
  • Cell Movement / drug effects*
  • Cell Proliferation / drug effects
  • Doxorubicin / pharmacology
  • Drug Screening Assays, Antitumor
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Inhibitory Concentration 50
  • MCF-7 Cells
  • Tamoxifen / pharmacology

Substances

  • 3-bromo-1-hydroxy-9,10-anthraquinone
  • Anthraquinones
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Tamoxifen
  • Doxorubicin