Effects of Different Forms of Anthocyanins on the Growth Inhibition and Gene Expression of Colorectal Cancer Cells

Scope: Anthocyanins obtained from the diet have therapeutic potential for various cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC). Given the diverse forms of anthocyanins, it is unclear whether different types of anthocyanins share common pathways in regulating intestinal cell function. This study aims to explore the core gene pathways modulated by anthocyanins in intestinal cells and to identify potential compounds with similar therapeutic effects.

Methods and Results: Three different forms of anthocyanins (cyanidin chloride, cyanidin 3-O-glucoside, and cyanidin 3-O-rutinoside) were used to treat CRC cells at different concentrations and time points, and growth inhibition was observed for all anthocyanins, with varying patterns. RNA-seq analysis showed that the regulatory pathways of anthocyanins with different structures were different, and the time factor had a greater effect. Time-series analysis of regulatory genes shared among different concentrations and structures of anthocyanins was performed. By overlapping with a public PPAR target gene set, a core gene set across three types of anthocyanins was identified and used in Connectivity Map (CMap) analysis to screen for compounds. The repositioned drug candidates included known anticancer drugs that have effects of transcriptome interventions like anthocyanins.

Conclusion: These findings provide new insights into the mechanisms that underlie the anti-CRC effects of anthocyanins and may facilitate the development of novel therapeutic agents for CRC.