An optimal combination of four active components in Huangqin decoction for the synergistic sensitization of irinotecan against colorectal cancer.

Background: Irinotecan (CPT-11) is a first-line treatment for advanced colorectal cancer (CRC). Four components (baicalin, baicalein, wogonin, and glycyrrhizic acid) derived from Huangqin Decoction (HQD) have been proven to enhance the anticancer activity of CPT-11 in our previous study.

Objective: This study aimed to determine the optimal combination of the four components for sensitizing CPT-11 as well as to explore the underlying mechanism.