Study of apoptosis and MRP mRNA expression induced by arsenic trioxide on colonic carcinoma cells

Objective To study the apoptosis and MRP mRNA expression induced by arsenic trioxide(As2O3) on colonic carcinoma cells.Methods The flow cytometry and RT-PCR tests were used to investigate of apoptosis levels induced by arsenic trioxide and the effect on MRP mRNA expression.Results As2O3 inhibited the growth of SW620 colon cancer cells and increased the rate of apoptosis.1.0 μmol/L and 2.0 μmol/L arsenic trioxide decreased MRP mRNA expression.Conclusion Low concentrations may improve apoptosis of colonic cancer as well as decrease MRP mRNA expression.