Graphene Oxide Induces Autophagy and Apoptosis Via The ROS-Dependent AMPK/mTOR/ULK-1 Pathway in Colorectal Cancer Cells

Abstract

<b>Aim:</b> To investigate the anticancer effects and action mechanism of graphene oxide (GO) in colorectal cancer (CRC). <b>Materials & methods:</b> Anticancer effects and mechanisms of GO in CRC were investigated both <i>in vivo</i> and <i>in vitro</i>. <b>Results:</b> GO significantly inhibited tumor growth both <i>in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i>. GO was able to enter HCT116 cells through endocytosis. GO treatment resulted in cytotoxicity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, apoptosis, autophagy and activation of the AMPK/mTOR/ULK1 signal pathway. However, ROS scavenger <i>N</i>-acetylcysteine (NAC) attenuated the above effects and restored the effects of GO on protein expressions related to apoptosis, autophagy and AMPK/mTOR/ULK1 signal pathways. <b>Conclusion:</b> GO exerts anticancer effects against CRC via ROS-dependent AMPK/mTOR/ULK-1 pathway-related autophagy and apoptosis.