Fructus schisandrae (Wuweizi)-containing compound inhibits secretion of HBsAg and HBeAg in hepatocellular carcinoma cell line

Chronic hepatitis B is probably the major cause of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The detection of the hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg) and HBV core protein, the e antigen (HBeAg), indicates infection with the hepatitis B virus and replication activity, respectively. Fructus schisandrae containing compound (KY88) may affect the elimination of HBV, strengthen the immune system, as well as stimulate liver cell regeneration. The present study was conducted to demonstrate the ability of KY88 in inhibiting hepatocellular carcinoma cell proliferation and secretions of HBsAg and HBeAg. The hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HB-8064 was treated by KY88 followed by the measurement of cell proliferation rate and secretions of HBsAg and HBeAg on days 1, 3, 5, and 7. A semi-quantitative RT–PCR method was used to quantify the expression of the mRNA. Seventy Sprague–Dawley rats were fed for 28 days with purified KY88 for a toxicity test. The expression of surface and e antigens was lower when the cells were treated for a longer time with KY88 or when the doses were higher. One-way ANOVA analysis confirmed the mRNA content of HBsAg to be significantly less than control. The body weight did not show a significant difference compared to the control group. Fructus schisandrae-containing compound (KY88) was potentially effective in suppressing the proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. The decreased secretion and gene expression of HBsAg and HBeAg might restrict the growth of tumour masses.