Evaluation of the Molecular Effects of the Anticancer Adjuvant Valproic Acid on HEK293T Cells

Objective: Valproic acid (VPA) can induce apoptosis while inhibiting proliferation in various cancer cells. This study adopted a novel strategy for investigating the molecular effects of VPA on non-cancerous cells. Building upon our previous work, which examined the effects of VPA in PANC-1 cells, we now turn our attention to HEK293T cells to determine the effect of VPA in non-cancerous cells. Materials and Methods: HEK293T cells were treated with 2.5 and 5-mM VPA. Flow cytometry analyses were performed on the 24, 48, 72, and 96 h. Assays for apoptosis and proliferation were conducted using annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) staining and carboxyfluoresceinsuccinimidyl ester (CFSE) dilution, respectively. Results: No statistical significance was detected between the two different doses of VPA-treated cells and the controls at any time point. While early apoptosis values remained stable until 72 h in all groups, an increase was monitored in cells subjected to VPA for 96 h. Conclusion: Preliminary results indicated no proliferative effect of VPA treatment. However, it may induce apoptosis in long-term incubations. Nevertheless, additional doses of VPA at increased concentrations should be administered to explore cytotoxic levels and their impact on proliferation and apoptosis.