Effect of resveratrol on angiogenesis and growth of U87 human glioma xenografts in nude mice

Abstract

Objective To explore the anti-tumor effect of resveratrol (Res) against U87 human glioma cells in nude mice and its effect on tumor angiogenesis. Methods U87 human glioma cells were implanted into the right flank of 20 nude mice, which were subsequently randomized into 4 groups (n=5), namely 10 and 100 mg/kg Res-treated group, vehicle-treated group and blank control group. The growth curve of the xenografts in the nude mice was observed and the microvessei density (MVD) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in the tumor tissues were detected using immunohistochemistry. The apoptosis of the tumor cells was evaluated with TUNEL assay. Results At the daily dose of 100 mg/kg, Res significantly reduced the tumor volume and weight, and lowered the MVD and VEGF expressions as compared with the blank control and vehicle-treated groups (P<0.05), resulting also in significant U87 cell apoptosis in the tumor-bearing mice (P<0.05). Conclusion Resveratrol can significantly inhibit the growth of U87 human glioma cells implanted in nude mice possibly by inducing tumor cell apoptosis and reducing the tumor angiogenesis. Key words: Resveratrol; Glioma; Apoptosis; Nude mice; Vascular endothelial growth factor