The aim of this study was to determine the effect of Jagged1 on the proliferation and migration of colon cancer cells. HT-29 colorectal carcinoma cells were transfected with adenovirus carrying either the Jagged1 gene (Ad-Jagged1) or Jagged1 small interfering RNA (siRNA) (Ad-si/hJagged1). The protein was detected using western blot analysis. The proliferation of cells was observed by assessing the incorporation of [(3)H]-thymidine. The migration of cells was detected using a modified Boyden chamber assay. The level of Jagged1 protein increased by 2.8-fold with Ad-Jagged1 transfection and decreased by 70% with Ad-si/hJagged1 transfection. Proliferation, migration and p-Akt protein expression were enhanced in the Ad-Jagged1-transfected group compared to that in the non-transfected control group. In addition, the proliferation, migration and phosphorylated Akt protein expression were reduced in the Ad-si/hJagged1-transfected group compared to that in the non-transfected control group. The Jagged1 protein may promote proliferation and migration of colon cancer cells, which may be related to its effect on Akt phosphorylation.