Mitochondrial apoptosis contributes to the anti-cancer effect of Smilax glabra Roxb.

► Herein we examined the anti-cancer effect of Smilax glabra Roxb. (SGR). ► SGR inhibited growth of cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. ► SGR induced apoptosis through mitochondrial pathway. ► SGR affected expression of genes related to cell apoptosis and proliferation.