Water extract of Frankincense and Myrrh inhibits liver cancer progression and epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) through Wnt/β-catenin signaling

Abstract

Background The Wnt/β-catenin signaling is closely related to epithelial mesenchymal transformation (EMT), which plays an important role in HCC invasion and metastasis. Frankincense and myrrh (FM) are anti-tumor agents commonly used in clinic. This study aimed to investigate the effect and mechanism of the water extract of FM on the progression of liver cancer cells. Methods Different concentrations of FM were applied to study cell proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. The ability of cell migration and invasion were detected by wound healing test and Transwell assay. Western blot was used to study the related protein levels of EMT and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling. The nuclear translocation of β-catenin was detected by the immunofluorescence assay. Results FM at a non-toxic dose significantly inhibited the invasion and metastasis of liver cancer cells. Furthermore, FM promotes EMT marker E-cadherin, while decreasing the expression of Vimentin and N-cadherin. Finally, the protein and the nuclear staining level of DVL2 and β-catenin were both suppressed by water extract of FM. Conclusion The water extract of FM inhibited the migration and invasion of liver cancer cells, and blocked the occurrence of EMT via suppressing the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.