Synergistic effects of arsenic trioxide and atorvastatin on proliferation and apoptosis in acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells

Abstract

Statins and arsenic trioxide (ATO) are known for their significant anti-neoplastic properties; however, limited research has investigated their potential synergistic effects. This study explores the individual and combined impact of ATO and atorvastatin on programmed cell death and proliferation in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cell model. The ALL cell line was exposed to different doses of atorvastatin and ATO, both individually and in combination, to evaluate their respective IC50 values and identify the most effective concentrations. The proportions of apoptotic cells were quantified using Annexin V/PI staining, while Ki-67 expression, a well-established marker of cell proliferation, was assessed through flow cytometry. The findings revealed that atorvastatin and ATO, at concentrations of 12.4 µM and 3.34 µM, respectively, significantly enhanced apoptosis in ALL cells. Moreover, the combination therapy resulted in a marked increase in anti-proliferative effects. These findings provide new insights into the potential use of ATO and atorvastatin as a combined therapeutic strategy, highlighting their promise as a novel approach in the treatment of ALL.