Dihydroartemisinin enhances cell apoptosis in diffuse large B cell lymphoma by inhibiting the STAT3 activity

Background: Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) is reported to be a potential anticancer agent, and the mechanisms underlying the effects of DHA on diffuse large B cell lymphoma however are still obscure. This study aimed to assess the antitumor effect of DHA on diffuse large B cell lymphoma cells and to determine the potential underlying mechanisms of DHA-induced cell apoptosis. Methods: Here, the Cell Counting Kit 8 assay was conducted to study cell proliferation. We performed Annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide staining, real-time polymerase chain reaction, and western blot analysis to analyze cell apoptosis and potential molecular mechanisms. Results: The results showed that DHA substantially suppressed cell proliferation and induced cell apoptosis in vitro in a time- and concentration-dependent fashion. Moreover, STAT3 activity could be inhibited after stimulation with DHA. Conclusion: These results imply that the underlying anti-tumoral effect of DHA may increase apoptosis in diffuse large B cell lymphoma cells via the STAT3 signaling pathway. In addition, DHA might be an effective drug for diffuse large B cell lymphoma therapy.