Sequence‑dependent effect of sorafenib in combination with natural phenolic compounds on hepatic cancer cells and the possible mechanism of action.

Sorafenib (Nexavar, BAY43‑9006 or Sora) is the first molecular targeted agent that has exhibited significant therapeutic benefits in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, not all HCC patients respond well to Sora and novel therapeutic strategies to optimize the efficacy of Sora are urgently required. Plant‑based drugs have received increasing attention owing to their excellent chemotherapeutic and chemopreventive activities; they are also well tolerated, non‑toxic, easily available and inexpensive.

Roscovitine synergizes with conventional chemo-therapeutic drugs to induce efficient apoptosis of human colorectal cancer cells.

Aim: To examine the ability of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor (CDKI) roscovitine (Rosco) to enhance the antitumor effects of conventional chemotherapeutic agents acting by different mechanisms against human colorectal cancer.

Methods: Human colorectal cancer cells were treated, individually and in combination, with Rosco, taxol, 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU), doxorubicine or vinblastine. The antiproliferative effects and the type of interaction of Rosco with tested chemotherapeutic drugs were determined.