Effect of DNA Methyltransferase in Comparison to and in Combination with Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors on Hepatocellular Carcinoma HepG2 Cell Line

Abstract

Background: DNA demethylating agents and histone deacetylase inhibitors can affect reactivation of gene<br />expression and apoptosis induction by DNA acetylation and demethylation. The aim of the present study was to analyze<br />the effects of DNA demethylating agent genistein (GE) and histone deacetylase inhibitor valproic acid VPA), alone<br />and combined, on hepatocellular carcinoma Hep G2 cell line. Methods: The cells were treated with various doses of<br />genistein and valproic acid (alone and combined) and the MTT assay and flow cytometry were used to determine cell<br />viability and apoptosis. Results: Genistein and valproic acid inhibited the growth of HepG 2 cells significantly. Result<br />of flow cytometry demonstrated that genistein and valproic acid (alone and combined) induce apoptosis significantly in<br />a time‑dependent manner. Conclusions: Genistein and valproic acid can significantly inhibit proliferation and induce<br />apoptosis in HepG2 cell line. The apoptotic effects of GE in combination with VPA were more significant that of each<br />compound alone.