Effects of Anthraquinone on Inducing Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis in Human Malignant Melanoma Cell Line (A375.S2)

The study investigated the effects of Danthron, an extract from Rhubarb, on the human malignant melanoma cell line A375.S2. It was found that Danthron induced cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase and promoted apoptosis in these cells. The mechanisms involved included DNA damage, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, and the release of cytochrome c, AIF, and Endo G into the cytoplasm. Danthron increased Bax expression while suppressing Bcl-xL/Bcl-2, activating caspase-9 and caspase-3, leading to apoptosis through both caspase-dependent and caspase-independent pathways. Additionally, Danthron affected intracellular calcium levels and reactive oxygen species, further contributing to apoptosis via mitochondrial, endoplasmic reticulum, and death receptor pathways.