Hinokitiol exhibits potent anticancer effects in human oral squamous cell carcinoma by inducing apoptosis and inhibition of cell migration

Objective Hinokitiol (HNK) has been shown to have various pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial activities, against various diseases. However, its effects on oral cancer have not been reported. Therefore, we investigated the anti-cancer activity and mechanism of action of HNK in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Methods Cell viability was measured using the MTT assay , while apoptosis was assessed through DAPI staining, TUNEL assay, annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) staining, and flow cytometry. Cell migration capacity was evaluated using a wound-healing assay. Results Our findings indicate that HNK inhibits the proliferation of HSC-2 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, our evaluation revealed that HNK exerts its anticancer effects by inducing apoptosis . Moreover, HNK inhibited the migration of HSC-2 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusions Based on our results, we conclude that HNK has the potential as an important lead compound in treating OSCC. Moreover, HNK inhibits OSCC by inducing apoptosis and suppressing cell migration.