Background and aimAdenosine A1 receptor (AA1R) has been shown to have an inhibitory effect on cell growth in several cancers; however, its function in esophageal cancer is still unclear. In this study, we examined the effect of AA1R on cell growth and apoptosis in esophageal cancer cells.Materials and methodsIn this study, YM-1 and KYSE-30 esophageal cancer cell lines were cultured. AA1R gene expression was determined by quantitative Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). As well, the AA1R antagonist (DPCPX) effect on cell viability was evaluated by the MTT assay. Moreover, apoptosis was assessed by annexin-V and propidium iodide staining, and the caspase-3/7 activity assay kit.ResultqRT-PCR results indicated that the AA1R was expressed in YM-1 and KYSE-30 cells. In addition, DPCPX significantly decreased cell proliferation in both cell lines. Furthermore, the A1AR antagonist induced apoptosis in KYSE-30 and YM-1 cells. After treatment of both cell lines with DPCPX, the caspase 3/7 activity was increased.ConclusionOur finding indicates the AA1R antagonist induces apoptosis through caspase 3/7 activation and can be considered a potential target in esophageal cancer therapy.