• Herbal Formula Science
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• v.17 no.2
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• pp.73-83
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• 2009

Objective : In vitro proapoptotic effect of Hangbaek-Tang (HBT) has been documented by one of us. In the present study, we aimed to demonstrate in vivo effect of HBT on tumor growth. Methods : In vitro selective cytotoxicity of HBT was examined by enumeration of viable cell numbers using BC3A mouse leukemic cells and normal spleen cells. In vivo effect of HBT (25 and 50 mg/mouse) on tumor growth was assayed using BC3A cells innoculated subcutaneously in the flank. Annexin-V apoptosis assay and PI staining was performed to determine the effective serum factor in HBT-treated mice. Leukocyte recruitment into peritoneum were analyzed by microscopy with a stained cytosmear of peritoneal lavage fluid. Results : HBT exhibited in vitro selective cytotoxicity to leukemic cells and did not show any toxicity on immune organs. In vivo i.p. administration of HBT induced significant reduction in tumor growth but not complete regression. Sera obtained from HBT-treated mice strongly inhibited BC3A cell growth in vitro and were revealed to markedly enhance apoptosis and accompanying cell death, when compared to those from PBS-treated mice. Abundant extravasation of leukocytes, especially neutrophils, into peritoneum was observed in HBT-treated mice. Conclusions : HBT causes leukemic, BC3A cell death in vivo via apoptosis as well as in vitro, for which functional involvement of leukocytes is suggested.