Combination of baicalein and docetaxel additively inhibits the growth of non-small cell lung cancer in vivo

Objective: The objective of this study is to preliminarily evaluate the efficacy of the combination of baicalein and docetaxel on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in vivo. Methods: The subcutaneous model was established by inoculation of A549 cells, and then these tumor-bearing mice were randomly assigned to eight groups to receive normal saline (NS) as control, baicalein alone, Taxotere[Formula: see text] (docetaxel injection) alone or the combination of baicalein and Taxotere[Formula: see text]. The effect of the combination treatment was evaluated by [Formula: see text] value. Tumors were harvested for TUNEL and CD31 immunohistochemical staining and important organs for H&E staining. Results: Baicalein 50[Formula: see text]mg/kg plus docetaxel 10[Formula: see text]mg/kg significantly reduced tumor weight and inhibited the growth rate of tumor, displaying the additive effect indicated by the [Formula: see text] value. Increased apoptosis and decreased tumor angiogenesis also provided pathological evidence. Additionally, baicalein 50[Formula: see text]mg/kg plus docetaxel 10[Formula: see text]mg/kg did not increase toxicity in lung, liver and kidney. Conclusion: Baicalein 50[Formula: see text]mg/kg plus docetaxel 10[Formula: see text]mg/kg additively inhibits the growth of NSCLC in vivo, and the mechanism underlying remains to be discovered.