Casiopeina III-ia induces apoptosis in HCT-15 cells in vitro through caspase-dependent mechanisms and has antitumor effect in vivo

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo effects of the new chemotherapy agent Casiopeina III-ia [(4,4′-dimethyl-2,2′-bipiridine)(acetylacetonate) Copper (II) nitrate] on HCT-15 (p53–/-) colon cellular line. In vitro, the drug reduced the viability and induced necrosis and apoptosis in a dose dependent manner, without affecting cell cycle phases. Apoptosis was related to Bax increasing levels, suggesting a caspase-dependent mechanism of death , as verified by nucleosomal fragmentation of DNA. In vivo, the antitumor activity of Casiopeina III-ia was tested in HCT-15 cells transplanted to nude mice. In this study we will show that the novel antineoplastic agent Casiopeina III-ia is active on this colon tumor line, setting out as a good candidate for the treatment of colon tumors refractory to chemotherapy.