Radiosensitivity of β-elemene on rabbit VX2 renal transplant carcinoma model

Objective: To investigate the effects of low dosage of β-elemene on the radiosensitivity of rabbit VX2 renal transplant carcinoma model. Methods: We took the rabbit VX2 renal transplant carcinoma as the model. Experimental rabbits were divided into three groups: the control group, the radiation group, and the radiation + β-elemene (radiosensitivity) group. The change of tumor was observed by Spiral CT and B ultrasound to compare its regrowth period. The tumor was measured by light microscopy and electron microscopy. Results: The tumor in radiosensitivity group was restrained obviously and the sensitization enhancement ratio (SER) of β-elemene was 1.89. Different apoptosis was observed under transmission electron microscopy. Conclusion: Low dosage β-elemene can enhance the radiosensitivity of rabbit VX2 renal transplant carcinoma model and induce the apoptosis of tumor cells, but the mechanism needs further study. It promotes apoptosis in mechanisms in vitro.