Eriodictyol inhibits the growth of CNE1 human nasopharyngeal cancer growth by targeting MEK/ERK signalling pathway, inducing cellular autophagy and inhibition of cell migration and invasion

Purpose: Eriodictyol is an active flavonoid present in several vegetables and fruits. Eriodictyol-bearing plants have long been used in folk medicine used to treat different human disorders. It has been reported to exhibit the anticancer, antioxidative and antiinflammatory properties. The current research study was designed to explore the anticancer potential of eriodictyol against CNE1 nasopharyngeal cancer (NP) cells. Additionally, its effects of targeting MEK/ERK signalling pathway, autophagy, cell migration and invasion were also examined. Methods: MTT assay was applied for viability measurements, and clonogenic potency measurements were made by clonogenic assay. Autophagy was monitored by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Cell migration capability was examined by wound healing assay, and transwell chambers assay was used for estimation of cell invasion. Western blotting assay was performed to examine protein expression levels. Results: The results indicated the proliferation rate of CNE1 cells was reduced in eriodictyol dose-dependently. Cell colonies were also observed to be minimised after eriodictyol exposure. The underlying mechanism of antiproliferative effects of eriodictyol in the current research was found to be autophagy-mediated as suggested by TEM and increased expressions of pro-autophagy proteins. Cell migration and invasion was significantly suppressed by eriodictyol in CNE1 cells. Finally, western blotting assay indicated that eriodictyol blocked MEK/ERK signalling pathway dose-dependently. In conclusion, the results of the currently performed investigation indicated that eriodictyol is a potential anticancer agent against CNE1 nasopharyngeal cancer. Conclusions: Therefore, this molecule may prove a leading agent in nasopharyngeal cancer treatment provided further in vitro and in vivo investigations are performed. Key words: nasopharyngeal cancer, flavonoids, eriodictyol, autophagy