Acetazolamide inhibits aquaporin-1 protein expression and angiogenesis.

AIM

To study effects of acetazolamide on aquaporin-1 (AQP(1)) protein expression and angiogenesis.

METHODS

Establishing Lewis-lung-carcinoma model, the localization of AQP(1) in tumor tissues was investigated by immunohistochemical methods; The biological activity of acetazolamide was detected by endothelial cells proliferation test (MTT) assay and chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) vascular inhibition test.

RESULTS

Immunohistochemical localization of AQP(1) in mice tumor was labeled in capillaries, post capillary venules endothelial cells. After being treated with acetazolamide, the number of capillaries and post capillary venules was significantly decreased in tumor tissue. Acetazolamide showed significant inhibitory effect on angiogenesis in CAM and endothelial cell proliferation.

CONCLUSION

Acetazolamide might be identified and developed as one of potential lead compounds for a new therapeutic intervention in inhibiting cancer angiogenesis.