Corylin attenuates oral squamous cell carcinoma progression through c-Myc inhibition

Background

/purpose: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most prevalent malignancy of the head and neck, with current treatment options often limited by low efficacy and drug resistance. In this study, we investigated the anticancer activity and underlying mechanisms of corylin, a flavonoid extracted from Psoralea corylifolia, in OSCC.

Materials and methods

OSCC cell lines (SAS and OECM1) were treated with corylin, and its effects on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were assessed using cell function assays. Flow cytometry and DiOC6/PI staining were performed to analyze cell cycle progression and apoptosis, while Western blotting was used to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of corylin's action.

Results

Corylin selectively inhibited OSCC cell growth, migration, and invasion while exhibiting minimal toxicity toward normal human cells. Mechanistic investigations revealed that corylin downregulated c-Myc expression, which subsequently modulated the expression of cell cycle checkpoint regulators, apoptosis-related proteins, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)-associated markers. This led to G1 phase cell cycle arrest and enhanced apoptosis induction. Additionally, corylin significantly enhanced the anticancer efficacy of cisplatin and 5-FU in OSCC cells.

Conclusion

Corylin exhibits potent anticancer activity against OSCC by targeting c-Myc-mediated oncogenic pathways and may serve as a promising therapeutic candidate. Furthermore, its ability to synergize with cisplatin and 5-FU suggests its potential role in combination therapy to improve treatment efficacy.