A5520 Effects of Metformin on cell proliferation and secretion function in adrenocortical carcinoma H295R cells

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the effects of metformin on cell proliferation and secretion function in adrenocortical carcinoma H295R cells. Methods: H295R cells were treated with different doses of metformin for 3 days or with 20 mmol/L metformine for different times. Cell proliferation was detected by MTS method. The concentrations of cortisol and aldosterone in culture medium were determined by chemiluminescent method and radioimmunoassay, respectively. H295R cells were treated with 20 mmol/L metformin for 24 hours, and mRNA expressions of 11 beta-hydroxylase (CYP11B1) and aldosterone synthase (CYP11B2) were detected by real-time quantitative PCR. Results: No difference of cell proliferation and hormone secretion were detected between the control group and metformin groups with doses lower than 5mmol/L. Metformin with higher doses (≥ 10 mmol/L) significantly inhibited cell proliferation and secretion of cortisol and aldosterone in a dose-dependent pattern. Metformine inhibited cell proliferation at 12 hours’ treatment, and the inhibitory effects enhanced with time. Compared with the control group, metformin decreased the mRNA expression of CYP11B1. Conclusion: Metformin inhibits cell proliferation and the secretion of cortisol and aldosterone in H295R cells, suggesting a potential treatment of metformin for patients with adrenocortical carcinoma.