Inhibitory Effects of Codonopsis lanceolata Root Extract on Cell Proliferation and Invasion in Human A549 Lung Cancer Cells

Non-small cell lung cancer(NSCLC) is a highly malignant tumor with limited treatment options. Conventional chemotherapy significant has limitations, including drug resistance and side effects. In this study, we investigated the anticancer effects of Codonopsis lanceolata root extract(CLRE), a traditional medicinal herb, on the human lung cancer cell line A549. Our results showed that CLRE inhibited A549 cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Furthermore, CLRE effectively suppressed epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition(EMT) markers, including N-cadherin, vimentin, and MMP-9, induced by TGF-β1. Also CLRE inhibited cell migration and invasion in A549 cells through the downregulation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. These findings suggest that CLRE has potential as a natural anticancer agent or adjunct therapy for NSCLC by inhibiting cell proliferation and EMT processes. Further studies are needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and assess the safety and therapeutic potential of CLRE in preclinical and clinical studies.