Epigallocatechin Gallate Inhibits Cell Growth and Hedgehog Signalling in Human Rhabdomyosarcoma Cell Lines

Abstract

Background/Aim: Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a major polyphenol of green tea, has been shown to inhibit cancer cell proliferation. In this study the effect of EGCG on cell metabolism and the human hedgehog signalling pathway (HH) in human rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) cells was investigated. Materials and Methods: Two human RMS cell lines (RD and RH30) were incubated with EGCG. To evaluate the effects of EGCG on RMS cells, cell viability, colony formation, cell migration, and alteration of genes related to the HH signalling pathway were investigated. Results: EGCG showed cytostatic effects on RMS cells in a dose-dependent manner. Incubation with 25 μM EGCG resulted in a significant reduction of cell migration by 70% and downregulation of the HH pathway transcription factor GLI1. Conclusion: EGCG inhibits RMS cells in vitro by reducing cell proliferation and downregulating the HH signalling pathway. It may therefore be a promising agent in chemoresistant or advanced RMS in children.