Herbal medicine teng-long-bu-zhong-tang inhibits the growth of human RKO colorectal cancer by regulating apoptosis, senescence, and angiogenesis

Background: Teng-Long-Bu-Zhong-Tang (TLBZT) is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine used to treat colorectal cancer (CRC). In the present study, we observed the anti-cancer effects of TLBZT on human RKO CRC. Materials and Methods: Mice were subcutaneously transplanted with RKO cells, divided into control, 5-Fu-administered, TLBZT-administered, and TLBZT and 5-Fu combination-administered groups, and treated with 5-Fluorouracil (5-Fu) and/or TLBZT. Apoptosis was detected by TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling assay. The activity of caspase-3,-8, and-9 was detected using specific commercial kits. Cell senescence was assessed using senescence β-galactosidase staining. Protein expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Results: TLBZT inhibited RKO CRC tumor growth, enhanced the anti-cancer effects of 5-Fu, induced apoptosis, and activated caspase-3,-8, and-9. TLBZT induced cell senescence accompanied by the downregulation of cyclin E1 and cyclin-dependent kinase 2 expressions. TLBZT also inhibited angiogenesis and the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 subunit alpha and vascular endothelial growth factor-A. Conclusions: TLBZT inhibited RKO CRC tumor growth and enhanced the anti-cancer effects of 5-Fu, and it could be associated with apoptosis and cell senescence induction, and angiogenesis inhibition.