Morin inhibits colorectal tumor growth through inhibition of NF-κB signaling pathway.

Background: To explore the effects and underlying mechanisms of Morin in human colorectal cancer. Methods: Effects of Morin on proliferation of human colorectal cells in vitro were detected by MTT and colony formation assay. Effects of Morin on growth of colorectal tumors in vivo were examined using the xenograft tumor model. Production of inflammatory cytokines was evaluated by ELISA assay. Effects of Morin on p65-NF kappa B expression and activation in HCT-116 cells were determined by qRT-PCR and western blot. Effects of C/EBP beta-induced upregulation of p65-NF kappa B on the inhibitory effects of Morin in HCT-116 cells were evaluated by qRT-PCR, western blot and immunofluorescent staining analysis. Results: Morin inhibited cell proliferation of human colorectal cells in vitro and growth of colorectal tumors in vivo. Morin treatment suppressed TNF-alpha-induced p65-NF kappa B expression and activation as well as production of IL-6 and IL-8 in HTC-116 cells. The inhibitory effects of Morin were abrogated by C/EBP beta-induced upregulation of p65-NF kappa B. Morin had inhibitory effects on human colorectal cancer both in vitro and in vivo. Conclusion: The antitumor functions of Morin in human colorectal cancer cells might be partially due to inhibition of NF-kappa B signaling.