Herba Houttuyniae Induces Cell Apoptosis through Caspases, Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress, and Mitochondrial Membrane Potential

Introduction Lung cancer remains a major global health challenge and is the second most common malignancy worldwide, often leading to fatal outcomes if not diagnosed and treated promptly. Herba Houttuyniae exhibits diverse pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, antiviral, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory activities. However, its apoptotic effects on lung cancer cells have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we investigated the impact of Herba Houttuyniae on the viability of A549 and H1299 lung cancer cells. Methods This study investigated the effects of aqueous extract of Herba Houttuyniae (aqueous extract of Herba Houttuyniae (AEHH)) on A549 and H1299 lung cancer cells. A range of aqueous extract of Herba Houttuyniae (AEHH) concentrations was applied, and assays were conducted to assess cell viability, mitochondrial membrane potential, and the expression of apoptosis-related proteins, including Bcl-2-associated X (Bax), caspases, cytochrome c, binding immunoglobulin protein (binding immunoglobulin protein (BiP)), and phosphorylated endoplasmic reticulum (ER)K (p-endoplasmic reticulum (ER)K). Cell migration and wound healing were evaluated using Transwell and scratch assays, respectively. Statistical analyses were performed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey's post hoc test. Results AEHH inhibited lung cancer cell proliferation by decreasing the mitochondrial membrane potential. Western blot analysis demonstrated increased expression of cytochrome c, binding immunoglobulin protein (BiP), phosphorylated extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK) (p-extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK)), Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), and caspases 3 and 8. Furthermore, AEHH suppressed both the migratory capacity and invasive potential of the lung cancer cells examined. Conclusion In conclusion, AEHH exhibited concentration-dependent anticancer effects on the A549 and H1299 cell lines and shows potential for use in lung cancer treatments.