Effects of Hylomecon vernalis ethanol extracts on cell cycle and apoptosis of colon cancer cells

Hylomecon vernalis Maxim. has traditionally been used to promote blood circulation, alleviate pain, dissipate stasis, and reduce swelling. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect and potential mechanism of H. vernalis Maxim. ethanol extracts (HVMEE) on the growth and apoptosis of human colon cancer HT‑29 and SW620 cells. H. vernalis samples were extracted three times with ethanol, dried, and concentrated into powder. The components of HVMEE were investigated using high performance liquid chromatography in tandem with mass spectrometry analysis. MTT assay was used to investigate the effect of HVMEE on viability of human colon cancer HT‑29 and SW620 cells. Apoptosis of HT‑29 and SW620 cells was evaluated using flow cytometric analysis. Expression levels of apoptosis and cell cycle‑related proteins were assessed by western blot. The findings demonstrated that the alkaloid content of HVMEE was as high as 89.67%, and it effectively inhibited viability in HT‑29 and SW620 cells, with IC50 values of 0.105±0.022 mg/ml and 0.146±0.013 mg/ml, respectively. In addition, HVMEE induced apoptosis in HT‑29 and SW620 cells, by increasing caspase‑3, caspase‑9 and BCL2 associated X expression, and reducing Bcl‑2 expression. The present study suggests that HVMEE has a potential role in the treatment of colorectal cancer.