Trichothecin induces apoptosis of HepG2 cells via caspase-9 mediated activation of the mitochondrial death pathway

► Decreased cell viability induced by trichothecin was observed in HepG2 cells. ► Expressions of Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase-3 and Caspase-9 were changed. ► Apoptosis induced by trichothecin was via mitochondrial pathway. ► Generation of ROS and overload of Ca2+ may be the direct reasons for apoptosis.