Saikosaponin a inhibits the proliferation and activation of T cells through cell cycle arrest and induction of apoptosis

In the present study, we aimed at examining the immunosuppressive activity of saikosaponin a, a triterpene saponin derived from Bupleurum falcatum L. (Umbelliferae), and the underlying mechanisms. Saikosaponin a significantly inhibited the proliferation and activation of T cells activated by concanavalin A (Con A) in a concentration-dependent manner. Additionally, it potently suppressed Con A-stimulated IL-2, IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha production in mouse T cells. Saikosaponin a also caused G0/G1 arrest of activated T cells through down-regulating the protein levels of CDK6 and Cyclin D3 and up-regulating the protein level of p27(kip). Furthermore, the compound dose-dependently induced apoptosis of Con A-activated T cells rather than those non-activated, as determined by Annexin V/PI staining. Besides, it induced a remarkable collapse of mitochondrial membrane potential and caused significant release of cytochrome c from mitochondria to cytosol. In summary, these results suggest that the G0/G1 arrest as well as the induction of apoptosis via mitochondrial pathway are involved in the immunosuppressive activity of saikosaponin a against activated T cells. This may herald a novel approach for further studies of saikosaponin a as a candidate for the treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.