Cell growth inhibition and gene expression regulation by (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate in human cervical cancer cells.

EGCG [(-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate] has shown its antitumor ability and perhaps a potential regimen for cancer patients. The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of EGCG on human papilloma virus (HPV) positive cervical cancer cell lines. EGCG inhibited the growth of CaSki (HPV16 positive) and HeLa (HPV18 positive) cells in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Cell cycle arrest and apoptosis were observed in two cell lines after EGCG exposure. More importantly, we focused on EGCG regulation ability on pivotal genes involved in cervical cancer: viral oncogenes E6/E7, estrogen receptor (ER) and aromatase. Our results suggested that EGCG may be suitable for prevention and treatment of cervical cancer.