Inhibitory effect of baicalein on human cervix cancer HeLa cells

Objective: To investigate the role of baicalein in inhibiting the HeLa cells of human cervix cancer and the possible mechanism.Methods: Sulforhodamine B(SRB) assay was used to determine the inhibitory effect of baicalein on HeLa cell growth;cellular apoptosis was detected by Hoechst 33258 fluorescent staining;caspase-3 activity was assayed by colorimetric method.Results: After treated with different concentration of baicalein for 24,36,48 hour,HeLa cell growth were significantly inhibited(P<0.05 to P<0.01);the apoptosis rate of HeLa cells(P<0.01) and the activity of caspase-3(P<0.05 to P<0.01) were increased when HeLa cells were treated with baicalein for 24 hours.Conclusions: Baicalein can inhibit the growth of HeLa cells,and the inhibitory effect probably results from the increased cell apoptosis and caspase-3 activity.