Ojeok-san enhances platinum sensitivity in ovarian cancer by regulating adipocyte paracrine IGF1 secretion

Abstract

Background Platinum is a commonly used drug for ovarian cancer (OvCa) treatment, but drug resistance limits its clinical application. This study intended to delineate the effects of adipocytes on platinum resistance in OvCa. Methods OvCa cells were maintained in the adipocyte-conditioned medium. Cell viability and apoptosis were detected by CCK-8 and flow cytometry, separately. Proliferation and apoptosis-related protein expression were assayed by western blot. The IC 50 values of cisplatin and carboplatin were determined using CCK-8. IGF1 secretion and expression were assayed via ELISA and western blot, respectively. A xenograft model was established, and pathological changes were detected by H&E staining. Proliferation and apoptosis-associated protein expression was assessed via IHC. Results Adipocytes promoted the viability and repressed cell apoptosis in OvCa, as well as enhancing platinum resistance, while the addition of IGF-1 R inhibitor reversed the effects of adipocytes on proliferation, apoptosis, and drug resistance of OvCa cells. Treatment with different concentrations of Ojeok-san (OJS) inhibited the adipocyte-induced platinum resistance in OvCa cells by suppressing IGF1. The combined treatment of OJS and cisplatin significantly inhibited tumour growth in vivo with good mouse tolerance. Conclusion In summary, OJS inhibited OvCa proliferation and platinum resistance by suppressing adipocyte paracrine IGF1 secretion.