Beta-Caryophyllene can inhibit the proliferation and autophagy of HPV16-infected immortalized cervical epithelial cells

Cervical cancer arises due to the progressive dysplasia of cervical epithelial cells, characterized pathologically as cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). Given the urgency for effective treatments against CIN, exploring novel pharmaceutical candidates is of paramount importance. Beta-Caryophyllene (BCP), derived from various plants, has shown promise in impeding the progression of various malignancies. However, its potential efficacy in CIN treatment remains unexplored. In this study, we investigate the impact of BCP on CIN progression and elucidate its mechanism of action. An immortalized cervical epithelial cell line (H8) infected with HPV16 was used as a model for CIN. The results revealed that BCP significantly inhibited the proliferation of H8 cells and induced apoptosis. Moreover, BCP demonstrated the ability to suppress autophagy in H8 cells. Mechanistically, our findings indicate that BCP exerts its effects by modulating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Specifically, BCP was found to block this pathway, thereby impeding cell growth and autophagy in H8 cells. These results suggest that BCP holds promise as a therapeutic agent for CIN, potentially through its regulatory effects on the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN); Beta-Caryophyllene (BCP); HPV16; Autophagy; Wnt/β-catenin pathway

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