In the estrogen receptor β (ERβ)-positive human CRC cell line SW480, calycosin within the concentration range of 10–80 μM up-regulates the expression of ERβ, decreases levels of IGF-1R and active Akt, and down-regulates microRNAs-95 (miR-95), thus promoting cancer apoptosis. This evidence concerns the gene AKT1 and colorectal carcinoma.