Histone deacetylase inhibitors interact synergistically with tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) to induce apoptosis in carcinoma cell lines.

Author(s): Sonnemann J, Gange J, Kumar KS, Muller C, Bader P, Beck JF

Affiliation(s): Peter Holtz Research Center of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Ernst Moritz Arndt University, Greifswald, Germany.

Publication date & source: 2005-03, Invest New Drugs., 23(2):99-109.

Publication type: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't ; Review

Both tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) and histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDIs) show promise for the treatment of cancer. However, in a number of reports they have been proven ineffective to induce cell death when applied as single agents. In this study, we show that A549 lung carcinoma cells and PC-3 prostate carcinoma cells underwent substantial apoptosis when coexposed to TRAIL and either suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid, sodium butyrate or trichostatin A. HDIs and TRAIL synergized in activation of capase-3, induction of internucleosomal DNA fragmentation and promoting mitochondrial damage. Significantly, cotreatment with minimally toxic doses of HDIs and TRAIL resulted in a marked apoptotic response in both cell lines. These data provide a rationale for a more in-depth exploration into the potential of combining TRAIL and HDIs as a valuable anticancer strategy.