In our previous study, a relationship between low expression of D2-like
dopamine receptor genes and
non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) disease was found. In this new research, by using selective agonist of these receptors,
Bromocriptine (BR), we attempted to activate D2-like expression and apoptotic induction in a selective cell line of NSCLC. In addition, the relationship of apoptotic response of human lung
carcinoma cells to BR and D2-
dopamine receptor genes is investigated. Human
lung cancer (QU-DB) cells were treated by five doses of BR at 48 h and cell viability was determined by MTT assay. The gene expression pattern of D2-like
dopamine receptor Genes was studied by Real Time PCR. Nuclear morphology of cells was monitored by
DAPI flourescent staining then induction of DNA fragmentation by BR was shown in an
agarose gel. Finally, the detection and quantification of apoptosis and its differentiation from
necrosis was carried out by using Annecxin-V-
Fluos Staining. In this study, it is demonstrated that BR inhibited the proliferation of human
lung cancer cells and induced apoptosis in them. In addition, the probable relationship between D2-dopamine receptor genes expression and the development of apoptosis was found. In conclusion, BR is responsible for induction of apoptosis in human
lung cancer cells and can be used in treatment of these tumoric cells. In addition, normal expression of D2
dopamine receptors was associated with apoptotic effect of BR on these cells.