The effect of quercetin on cell cycle progression and growth of human gastric cancer cells

Abstract

Quercetin, a flavonoid, is found in many plants, including edible fruits and vegetables. We examined the effects on cell growth of human malignant cells derived from the gastrointestinal tract and on cell cycle progression. Quercetin markedly inhibited the growth of human gastric cancer cells and the IC ₅₀ value was 32–55 μM. DNA synthesis was suppressed to 14% of the control level by the treatment with 70 μM quercetin for 2 days. Furthermore, quercetin blocked cell progression from the G₁ to the S phase.