Casticin induced apoptotic cell death and altered associated gene expression in human colon cancer colo 205 cells.

Casticin, a polymethoxyflavone, derived from natural plant Fructus Viticis exhibits biological activities including anti-cancer characteristics. The anti-cancer and alter gene expression of casticin on human colon cancer cells and the underlying mechanisms were investigated. Flow cytometric assay was used to measure viable cell, cell cycle and sub-G1 phase, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Ca productions, level of mitochondria membrane potential (ΔΨ ) and caspase activity.