Inhibition of growth and expression of inflammation mediators in human leukemic cell line U-937 by a nutrient mixture

AIM

A nutrient mixture (NM) containing ascorbic acid, lysine, proline and green tea extract has exhibited anticancer activity in vitro and in vivo in a number of cancer cell lines. We investigated the effect of NM on human leukemic myeloid U-937 cells in vitro by measuring: cell proliferation, MMP expression, invasion, apoptosis, and COX-2 and COX-1 protein expression.

METHODS

Human leukemic cell line U-937 (ATCC) was cultured in RPMI medium supplemented with fetal bovine serum and antibiotics. After 24 h, the cells were treated with NM at 0, 50, 100, 250, 500 and 1000 Ојg/ml, in triplicate at each dose. Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), 100 ng/ml was added to cells to induce MMP-9 secretion. Cell proliferation was evaluated by MTT assay, MMP expression by gelatinase zymography, invasion through Matrigel, apoptosis by using live green caspase detection kit (Molecular Probe), and COX-2 and COX-1 expression by Western blot.

RESULTS

NM had no effect on U-937 cell growth at a concentration of 250 Ојg/ml and exhibited an antiproliferative effect at 500 Ојg/ml concentration. Zymography did not demonstrate MMP-2 or MMP-9 secretion in normal cells; however, PMA strongly induced MMP-9, which was inhibited by NM in a dose-dependent manner. Cell penetration through Matrigel was significantly reduced (by 95%) at 250 Ојg/ml NM and completely blocked at 500 Ојg/ml NM. NM induced slight apoptosis at 100 Ојg/ml and moderate at 500 and 1000 Ојg/ml concentration. NM inhibited COX-2 expression in a dose-dependent fashion and had no effect on COX-1 expression.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that NM has potent inhibitory effects on U-937 cell growth and expression of inflammatory mediators, significant parameters in AML progression.

Modulation of u-PA, MMPs and their inhibitors by a novel nutrient mixture in pediatric human sarcoma cell lines

Pediatric sarcomas are highly aggressive tumors that are characterized by high levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and -9 secretions that degrade the ECM and basement membrane, allowing cancer cells to spread to distal organs. Proteases play a key role in tumor cell invasion and metastasis by digesting the basement membrane and ECM components. Strong clinical and experimental evidence demonstrates association of elevated levels of u-PA and MMPs with cancer progression, metastasis and shortened patient survival. MMP activities are regulated by specific tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). Our main objective was to study the effect of a nutrient mixture (NM) on activity of u-PA, MMPs and TIMPs in various human pediatric sarcomas. Human osteosarcoma MNNG-HOS, osteosarcoma U-2OS and rhabdomyosarcoma RD cell lines (ATCC) were cultured in their respective media and treated at confluence with NM at 0, 50, 100, 250, 500 and 1,000 µg/ml. Analysis of u-PA activity was carried out by fibrin zymography, MMPs by gelatinase zymography and TIMPs by reverse zymography. All sarcoma cell lines studied expressed u-PA, which was inhibited by NM in a dose-dependent manner. On gelatinase zymography, osteosarcoma MNNG-HOS showed a band corresponding to MMP-2 and induction of MMP-9 with PMA (100 ng/ml) treatment. U-2OS osteosarcoma cells showed strong bands corresponding to inactive MMP-2 and MMP-9 and faint bands corresponding to active MMP-2 and MMP-9 dimer; PMA treatment enhanced MMP-9 and MMP-9 dimer activity. Rhabdomyosarcoma showed MMP-2 and faint MMP-9 bands; PMA treatment enhanced MMP-9 expression. NM inhibited their expression in a dose-dependent manner. Activity of TIMPs was upregulated by NM in all cancer cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. Analysis revealed a positive correlation between u-PA and MMPs and a negative correlation between u-PA/MMPs and TIMPs. These findings suggest the therapeutic potential of NM in treatment of pediatric sarcomas.

Modulation of u-PA, MMPs and their inhibitors by a novel nutrient mixture in adult human sarcoma cell lines

Adult sarcomas are highly aggressive tumors that are characterized by high levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and -9 secretions that degrade the ECM and basement membrane, allowing cancer cells to spread to distal organs. Proteases play a key role in tumor cell invasion and metastasis by digesting the basement membrane and ECM components. Strong clinical and experimental evidence demonstrates association of elevated levels of u-PA and MMPs with cancer progression, metastasis and shortened patient survival. MMP activities are regulated by specific tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). Our main objective was to study the effect of a nutrient mixture (NM) on the activity of u-PA, MMPs and TIMPs in various human adult sarcomas. Human fibrosarcoma (HT-1080), chondrosarcoma (SW-1353), liposarcoma (SW-872), synovial sarcoma (SW-982) and uterine leimyosarcoma (SK-UT-1) cell lines (ATCC) were cultured in their respective media and treated at confluence with NM at 0, 50, 100, 250, 500 and 1,000 μg/ml. Analysis of u-PA activity was carried out by fibrin zymography, MMPs by gelatinase zymography and TIMPs by reverse zymography. Fibrosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, liposarcoma and leiomyosarcoma cancer cell lines expressed u-PA, which was inhibited by NM in a dose-dependent manner. However, no bands corresponding to u-PA were detected for synovial sarcoma cells. On gelatinase zymography, fibrosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, liposarcoma and synovial sarcoma showed bands corresponding to MMP-2 and MMP-9 with enhancement of MMP-9 with PMA (100 ng/ml) treatment. Uterine leiomyosarcoma showed strong bands corresponding to inactive and active MMP-9 and a faint band corresponding to MMP-9 dimer induced with PMA treatment, but no MMP-2 band. NM inhibited their expression in a dose-dependent manner. Activity of TIMPs was upregulated by NM in all cancer cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. Analysis revealed a positive correlation between u-PA and MMPs and a negative correlation between u-PA/MMPs and TIMPs. These findings suggest the therapeutic potential of NM in treatment of adult sarcomas.

Abstract 2822: Ascorbic acid synergistically potentiates antimetastatic effect of natural products on 4T1 tumors

Our main objective was to determine the differential response of female gulonolactone oxidase (Gulo) mice challenged with 4T1 to vitamin C deficient, subclinical vitamin C sufficient, or vitamin C combined with other additional natural products (EQC) diets against 4T1 secondary growth phase metastasis to lungs, kidneys, and liver. Live murine 4T1 cells (5x105) were administered subcutaneously to the right flank of female Gulo (-/-) mice (n=27) 35-40 weeks of age and 18 age matched female wild-type mice. Tumors were established for an additional 2 weeks on subclinical vitamin C (100mg/L in water) in the Gulo (-/-) group, or with regular food and water in the wild-type vitamin C-generating mice. Tumor measurements were taken and the Gulo (-/-) mice were distributed into 3 groups (n=9 in each) to ensure average tumor burden was equivalent before therapy. Mice were then maintained for an additional 2 weeks on either subclinical vitamin C in water, subclinical C water + vitamin C (equivalent to that provided by 0.5% EQC supplemented diet), and subclinical C water + 0.5% EQC supplemented diet. Wild-type mice received an additional 2 weeks of either regular murine diet or 0.5% EQC supplemented food and regular water. At the endpoint, serum was collected, lungs, livers, and kidneys were evaluated for metastatic burden, and tissues collected for histology. Tumors were also harvested, weighed, and sectioned for histology. EQC exhibited the strongest anti-metastatic effect upon the second growth phase in scorbutic Gulo (-/-) mice as well as wild type vitamin C generating mice. Gulo (-/-) mice maintained throughout the study on subclinical vitamin C presented with the worst outcomes, including novel renal involvement. Vitamin C in diet equivalent to that in 0.5% EQC afforded only protection against novel renal pathology, but the metastatic burden was similar to that in subclinical C group. 0.5% EQC abrogated the cases of moderate to severe metastasis in scorbutic Gulo (-/-) mice by 16% compared to subclinical vitamin C group. In wild-type mice, 0.5% EQC abrogated the cases of moderate to severe metastasis by 37%. This study demonstrates that 0.5% EQC is superior to vitamin C alone in reducing metastasis from a primary 4T1 tumor and that prior scurvy is deleterious upon host resistance to primary tumors and reduces the efficacy of subsequent therapy against metastasis. Prior endogenous vitamin C generation in wild-type mice before tumor inoculation and continuous vitamin C generation during therapy with 0.5% EQC suggests that vitamin C both enhances host resistance and synergistically potentiates the effect of additional therapy. Tumor mass itself was not related to metastatic burden, suggesting that differing biochemical composition of the stromal and tumor structures are responsible for a metastatic or non-metastatic tumor of equal size.

Citation Format: John Cha, M. Waheed Roomi, Matthias Rath, Aleksandra Niedzwiecki. Ascorbic acid synergistically potentiates antimetastatic effect of natural products on 4T1 tumors. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2822. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-2822

Modulation of u-PA, MMPs and their inhibitors by a novel nutrient mixture in human lung cancer and mesothelioma cell lines

Lung cancer, the most prevalent cancer worldwide and malignant mesothelioma are highly aggressive tumors that are characterized by high levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and -9 secretion. Proteases play a key role in tumor cell invasion and metastasis by digesting the basement membrane and ECM components. Strong clinical and experimental evidence demonstrates association of elevated levels of u-PA and MMPs with cancer progression, metastasis and shortened patient survival. MMP activities are regulated by specific tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPS). Our main objective was to study the effect of a nutrient mixture (NM) on the activity of u-PA, MMPs and TIMPs on human lung and malignant mesothelioma (MM) cell lines. Human lung cancer (A-549 and Calu-3) and malignant mesothelioma (MSTO-211H) cell lines were cultured in their respective media and treated at confluence with NM at 0, 50, 100, 250, 500 and 1000 μg/ml. Analysis of u-PA activity was carried out by fibrin zymography, MMPs by gelatinase zymography and TIMPs by reverse zymography. Both lung cancer cell lines expressed u-PA, which was inhibited by NM in a dose-dependent manner. However, no bands corresponding to u-PA were detected for the MSTO-211H MM cell line. On gelatinase zymography, A-549 cells showed one band corresponding to MMP-2 and induction of MMP-9 with PMA (100 ng/ml) treatment. MSTO-211H showed two bands, an intense band corresponding to MMP-2 and a faint band corresponding to MMP-9; MMP-9 was enhanced significantly with PMA treatment. NM inhibited their expression in both cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. Calu-3 showed no MMP-2 or MMP-9 expression. Activity of TIMPs was upregulated by NM in all cancer cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. Analysis revealed a positive correlation between u-PA and MMPs and a negative correlation between u-PA/MMPs and TIMPs. These findings suggest the therapeutic potential of NM in the treatment of lung and mesothelioma cancers.

Repression of matrix metalloproteinases and inhibition of cell invasion by a nutrient mixture, containing ascorbic acid, lysine, proline, and green tea extract on human Fanconi anemia fibroblast cell lines

AIM

Fanconi Anemia, an autosomal recessive disorder, is characterized by chromosomal abnormality leading to birth defects, progressive bone marrow failure, and a high probability of developing malignancy at an early age. Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and myeloid leukemia are the major causes of cancer related morbidity and mortality in Fanconi anemia patients.

METHODS

We investigated the effect of a nutrient mixture on Fanconi Anemia human fibroblast cell lines FA-A:PD20 and FA-A:PD220 on matrix metalloproteinase expression, invasion, cell proliferation, morphology and apoptosis. The cell lines were grown in a modified Dulbecco's Eagle medium and at near confluence were treated with the nutrient mixture at increasing doses: 0; 10; 50; 100; 500; 1000 µg/ml. The cells were also treated with PMA to induce MMP-9 expression.

RESULTS

Zymography demonstrated MMP-2 and PMA-induced MMP-9 activity. The nutrient mixture inhibited expression of both, MMP-2 and MMP-9, in a dose dependent manner with virtually total inhibition observed at 500 µg/ml. Matrigel invasion was inhibited in both cells lines; with 100% inhibition for FA-A:PD20 at 500 µg/ml and 100% inhibition of FA-A:P220 cells at 100 µg/ml. H&E staining did not indicate any change in cell morphology and causes apoptosis at higher doses.

CONCLUSION

Our data demonstrated that the nutrient mixture inhibited matrix metalloproteinase expression, invasion and induced apoptosis, the important parameters for cancer prevention. The results suggest that the nutrient mixture may have therapeutic potential in Fanconi Anemia associated neoplasia.

Inhibition of the SK-N-MC human neuroblastoma cell line in vivo and in vitro by a novel nutrient mixture

Neuroblastoma, a peripheral nervous system cancer that can be highly invasive and metastatic, accounts for 8–10% of all solid childhood tumors in children under the age of 15 years. Despite multiple clinical efforts, prognosis remains poor for this enigmatic disease. A nutrient mixture (NM) containing lysine, proline, ascorbic acid and green tea extract has shown significant antitumor effects. Using the nude mouse xenograft model, we investigated the efficacy of NM. We also tested the effect of NM in vitro, evaluating cell viability, secretion of the matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-2 and MMP-9, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-2 secretion, Matrigel invasion and cellular apoptosis and morphology. Athymic nude mice 5–6 weeks of age were inoculated with 3×10⁶ SK-N-MC neuroblastoma cells subcutaneously and randomly divided into two groups. Group A was fed a regular diet and group B a regular diet supplemented with 0.5% NM. Four weeks later, the mice were sacrificed and their tumors were excised, weighed and processed for histology. We also tested the effect of NM in vitro. NM inhibited the growth of xenograft tumors by 22% (P=0.04); and, in vitro, NM induced dose-dependent inhibition of cell proliferation with a decrease of 27% (P=0.001) and 36% (P=0.002) at 500 and 1000 μg/ml NM compared to the control, respectively. Zymography revealed MMP-2 secretion in normal cells and PMA (100 ng/ml)-induced MMP-9 secretion. NM inhibited the secretion of both MMPs with total blockage at a concentration of 100 μg/ml. Reverse zymography demonstrated a dose-dependent increase in TIMP-2 expression by NM. Notable, SK-N-MC human neuroblastoma cells were not invasive through Matrigel. NM induced dose-dependent apoptosis of SK-N-MC cells. The results suggest that NM may have therapeutic potential in treating neuroblastoma.

Suppression of metastasis of intratesticular inoculation of B16FO melanoma cells by a novel nutrient mixture in male athymic nude mice

Metastasis, commonly to the lung, is the major cause of mortality from testicular cancer. The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of a novel nutrient mixture (NM) containing ascorbic acid, amino acids and green tea extract on the inhibition of melanoma growth and metastasis using a model of intratesticular inoculation of B16FO cells into nude mice. Male athymic mice (n=12), 10–12 weeks of age, were inoculated with 5×10⁵ B16FO melanoma cells in 100 μl of PBS into the right testis, while the left testis was left untreated. Following inoculation, the mice were randomly divided into two groups. The control group (n=6) was fed a regular mouse chow diet and the NM 1% group (n=6) the same diet, but supplemented with 1% NM. Four weeks later the mice were sacrificed and the abdominal cavity was opened. Mice in the control group exhibited extensive metastasis in the peritoneal cavity and severely enlarged right testes and necrotic seminiferous tubules. By contrast, in the NM 1% fed group there was no evidence of peritoneal metastasis in 50% of the animals and mild metastasis in the remaining 50%. The right testes were enlarged and seminiferous tubules in the area of invasion showed evidence of degeneration. No metastasis to the liver, kidney or spleen were evident in either group. However, severe lung metastasis was observed in 2 of 6 mice in the control group and mild metastasis in 2 of 6 mice in the NM 1% group. In conclusion, these results confirm earlier studies and verify the anti-metastatic potential of NM.

Ascorbate supplementation inhibits growth and metastasis of B16FO melanoma and 4T1 breast cancer cells in vitamin C-deficient mice

Degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a critical role in the formation of tumors and metastasis and has been found to correlate with the aggressiveness of tumor growth and invasiveness of cancer. Ascorbic acid, which is known to be essential for the structural integrity of the intercellular matrix, is not produced by humans and must be obtained from the diet. Cancer patients have been shown to have very low reserves of ascorbic acid. Our main objective was to determine the effect of ascorbate supplementation on metastasis, tumor growth and tumor immunohistochemistry in mice unable to synthesize ascorbic acid [gulonolactone oxidase (gulo) knockout (KO)] when challenged with B16FO melanoma or 4T1 breast cancer cells. Gulo KO female mice 36-38 weeks of age were deprived of or maintained on ascorbate in food and water for 4 weeks prior to and 2 weeks post intraperitoneal (IP) injection of 5×10⁵ B16FO murine melanoma cells or to injection of 5×10⁵ 4T1 breast cancer cells into the mammary pad of mice. Ascorbate-supplemented gulo KO mice injected with B16FO melanoma cells demonstrated significant reduction (by 71%, p=0.005) in tumor metastasis compared to gulo KO mice on the control diet. The mean tumor weight in ascorbate supplemented mice injected with 4T1 cells was reduced by 28% compared to tumor weight in scorbutic mice. Scorbutic tumors demonstrated large dark cores, associated with increased necrotic areas and breaches to the tumor surface, apoptosis and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and weak, disorganized or missing collagen I tumor capsule. In contrast, the ascorbate-supplemented group tumors had smaller fainter colored cores and confined areas of necrosis/apoptosis with no breaches from the core to the outside of the tumor and a robust collagen I tumor capsule. In both studies, ascorbate supplementation of gulo KO mice resulted in profoundly decreased serum inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-6 (99% decrease, p=0.01 in the B16F0 study and 85% decrease, p=0.08 in the 4T1 study) compared to the levels in gulo KO mice deprived of ascorbate. In the B16FO study, ascorbate supplementation of gulo KO mice resulted in profoundly decreased serum VEGF (98% decrease, p=0.019 than in the scorbutic gulo KO mice). As expected, mean serum ascorbate level in ascorbate-restricted mice was 2% (p<0.001) of the mean ascorbate levels in supplemented mice. In conclusion, ascorbate supplementation hinders metastasis, tumor growth and inflammatory cytokine secretion as well as enhanced encapsulation of tumors elicited by melanoma and breast cancer cell challenge in gulo KO mice.

Antineoplastic activity of a nutrient mixture in Y-79 malignant retinoblastoma cells

Retinoblastoma is one of the most common ocular malignancies in children under the age of six. Occasionally, retinoblastoma metastasizes to extraocular organs including the bone, lung and brain. Left untreated, retinoblastoma is fatal. At present, there is no effective treatment for metastatic retinoblastoma. We investigated the antineoplastic activity of a nutrient mixture (NM) (lysine, proline, ascorbic acid and green tea extract) at concentrations of 10, 50, 100, 500 and 1,000 μg/ml in triplicate at each dose in the human malignant retinoblastoma Y-79 cell line. The parameters used were cell proliferation, expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), invasion through Matrigel, morphology and apoptosis. Cell viability was assessed by trypan blue dye exclusion test. Invasion was evaluated through Matrigel and MMP activity by gelatinase zymography. H&E staining for morphological cell alterations and apoptotic studies using the Live Green Poly Caspase Detection kit were also conducted. The nutrient mixture at 10–100 μg/ml demonstrated approximately 25% toxicity towards Y-79 retinoblastoma cells and significant toxicity at 500 and 1,000 μg/ml. The Y-79 cells secreted only MMP-2 as demonstrated by zymography; the nutrient mixture had no effect on MMP-2 expression up to 100 μg/ml, but completely blocked it at 500 μg/ml. Importantly, Y-79 retinoblastoma cells were not invasive through Matrigel. H&E staining showed cell morphological changes related to apoptosis, which was confirmed using the Live Green Poly Caspase Detection kit. Our results suggest that this nutrient mixture, which inhibited cell proliferation, expression of MMP-2 and induced apoptosis, may be a candidate for further exploration for its therapeutic potential in metastatic retinoblastoma.

In vitro and in vivo inhibition of human Fanconi anemia-associated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma by a novel nutrient mixture

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and acute myeloid leukemia are the major causes of mortality and morbidity in Fanconi anemia (FA) patients. The objective of this study was to investigate the antineoplastic activity of a novel antineoplastic nutrient mixture (NM) (containing lysine, proline, ascorbic acid and green tea extract) in human FA-associated HNSCC (FA HNSCC) in vitro and in vivo. The human FA HNSCC cell line, OHSU-974 (Fanconi Anemia Research Fund), was cultured in RPMI medium supplemented with 20% FBS and antibiotics. At near confluence, cells were treated in triplicate with various concentrations of NM: 0, 50, 100, 250, 500 and 1,000 μg/ml. Cells were also treated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) to induce matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 activity. Cell proliferation was detected by MTT assay, the secretion of MMPs by gelatinase zymo graphy, cell invasion through Matrigel, cell migration by a scratch test and morphology by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. In vivo, athymic male nude mice (n=12) were inoculated with 3×10⁶ OHSU-974 cells subcutaneously and randomly divided into 2 groups: group A was fed a regular diet and group B a regular diet supplemented with 1% NM. Four weeks later, the mice were sacrificed and their tumors were excised, weighed and processed for histological analysis. NM inhibited the growth of OHSU-974 tumors by 47% and tumor burden by 50%. At lower concentrations, NM demonstrated no effect on proliferation, but at 1,000 μg/ml a 40% toxicity was observed. Zymography revealed the MMP-2 and PMA-induced MMP-9 secretion. NM suppressed the secretion of both MMPs in a dose-dependent manner, with a virtual inhibition at 500 μg/ml. NM inhibited OHSU-974 cell invasion through Matrigel in a dose-dependent manner with a complete block at 1,000 μg/ml. H&E staining showed no morphological changes below 500 μg/ml. These results suggest that NM has potential therapeutic use in the treatment of human FA HNSCC.

Modulation of u-PA, MMPs and their inhibitors by a novel nutrient mixture in human female cancer cell lines

Cancers of the breast, cervix, uterus and ovary are the most prevalent cancers in women worldwide. Proteases play a key role in tumor cell invasion and metastasis by digesting the basement membrane and ECM components. Strong clinical and experimental evidence demonstrates association of elevated levels of urokinase plasminogen activators (u-PA) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) with cancer progression, metastasis and shortened patient survival. MMP activities are regulated by specific tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). Our main objective was to study the effect of a nutrient mixture (NM) on the activity of u-PA, MMPs and TIMPs in human breast, cervix, uterine and ovarian cancer cell lines. Human breast (MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7), cervical (HeLa), uterine (SK-UT-1) and ovarian (SKOV3) cancer cell lines were cultured in their respective media and treated at confluence with NM at 0, 50, 100, 250, 500 and 1000 μg/ml. Analysis of u-PA activity was carried out by fibrin zymography, MMPs by gelatinase zymography and TIMPs by reverse zymography. Both breast and uterine cancer cell lines expressed u-PA, which was inhibited by NM in a dose-dependent manner. However, no bands corresponding to u-PA were detected for HeLa and SK-OV-3 cell lines. On gelatinase zymography, MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 showed one band corresponding to MMP-9, HeLa showed two bands, an intense band corresponding to MMP-2 and a faint band corresponding to MMP-9, SK-UT-1 showed PMA-induced MMP-9, and SK-OV-3 showed a band corresponding to MMP-2. NM inhibited their expression in all cell lines. The activity of TIMPs was upregulated in all cancer cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. Analysis revealed a positive correlation between u-PA and MMPs and a negative correlation between u-PA/MMPs and TIMPs. These findings suggest the therapeutic potential of NM in the treatment of female cancers.

Abstract 2348: Suppression of metastasis of intratesticular inoculation of B16FO melanoma cells by a novel nutrient mixture in male athymic nude mice

Testicular cancer (TC) is rare, but still represents one of the most common diseases in young men between the ages of 20-45. However, men of any age can develop this disease. The incidence in Caucasians is greater than in African Americans. Risk factors include undescended testis, Klinefelter syndrome, and HIV positive patients. If left untreated, it is almost certainly fatal. Metastasis is the major cause of cancer death. The most common place for TC to spread in the body is to the lung. In this investigation, we studied the effect of a novel nutrient mixture (NM) containing ascorbic acid, amino acids and green tea extract that has been shown to exhibit anti-cancer activity, on inhibition of B16FO melanoma cells inoculated intratesticularly. Male athymic mice (n=12), 10-12 weeks of age, were inoculated with half a million B16FO melanoma cells in 100 µL of PBS into the right testis; the left testis was left untreated. After inoculation, the mice were randomly divided into two groups. Group A (n=6) was fed a regular mouse chow diet, while the mice in Group B (n=6) were fed the same diet but supplemented with 0.5% NM. Four weeks later the mice were sacrificed and the abdominal cavity was opened. Mice in the control group (Group A) exhibited extensive metastasis in the peritoneal cavity, which was totally masked by B16FO melanoma cells. The testis was severely enlarged and replaced by invading malignant melanoma cells. The remaining testicular tissue was represented by necrotic seminiferous tubules. The capsular region of the testis was severely infiltrated with a population of mixed cells. In contrast, in the NM fed group (Group B), there was no evidence of peritoneal metastasis, but the testes were enlarged. Seminiferous tubules in the area of invasion showed evidence of degeneration. In all groups, there was no metastasis to liver, kidney and spleen. However, severe lung metastasis was observed in the control group (2 out of 6) and mild in the test group (2 out of 6). In conclusion, these results suggest that NM has potential to suppress tumor metastasis.

Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2348. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-2348

Micronutrient Synergy in the Fight against Hepatocellular Carcinoma

The incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), once thought to be a rare tumor in North America, has rapidly increased in recent years in the United States. Current treatment modalities to halt the progression of this disease are only marginally effective. The mainstay treatment is liver transplantation, which is often confronted with donor shortage. Invasion, metastasis and recurrence contribute to the high mortality rate of this disease. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) that degrade the extracellular matrix (ECM) have been associated with the progression, invasion and metastasis of the disease. We have developed strategies to strengthen the ECM collagen and inhibit MMPs through micronutrients such as lysine, proline and ascorbic acid. Addition of epigallocatechin gallate or green tea extract to these micronutrients synergistically enhanced anti-carcinogenic activity in HepG2 cells. Addition of certain other micronutrients, such as N-acetylcysteine, selenium, copper and zinc (NM) synergistically enhanced the anticancer activity of the mixture in a model of hepatocellular carcinoma using HepG2 cells. In vitro studies using HepG2 demonstrated that NM was very effective in inhibiting cell proliferation (by MTT assay), MMPs secretion (by gelatinase zymography), cell invasion (through Matrigel) and induction of apoptosis (by live green caspase). In addition, NM was shown to down-regulate urokinase plasminogen activator (by fibrin zymography) and up-regulate tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (by reverse zymography) in another HCC cell line, SK-Hep-1. MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities were further modulated by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) induction and inhibited by NM. In previous studies, NM inhibited Sk-Hep-1 xenografts in nude mice and also inhibited hepatic metastasis of B16FO melanoma cells. Our results suggest that NM is an excellent candidate for therapeutic use in the treatment HCC by inhibiting critical parameters in cancer development and progression, such as proliferation, invasion and metastasis, and by inducing apoptosis.

Ascorbate depletion increases growth and metastasis of melanoma cells in vitamin C deficient mice

AIM

Our main objective was to determine the effect of ascorbate supplementation in mice unable to synthesize ascorbic acid (gulo KO) when challenged with murine B16FO cancer cells.

METHODS

Gulo KO female mice 36-40 weeks of age were deprived of or maintained on ascorbate in food and water for 4 weeks prior to subcutaneous injection of 2.5×10(6) B16FO murine melanoma cells in the right flank of mice. A control group of wild type mice were also injected with the melanoma cells and maintained on a regular murine diet. Mice were continued on their respective diets for another 2 weeks after injection. The mice were then sacrificed, blood was drawn and their tumors were measured, excised and processed for histology.

RESULTS

Mean weight of animals decreased significantly (30%, p < 0.0001) in the ascorbate-restricted group but increased slightly, but insignificantly, in the ascorbate-supplemented group. The mean tumor weight in ascorbate supplemented mice was significantly reduced (by 64%, p = 0.004) compared to tumor weight in ascorbate-deprived gulo mice. The mean tumor weight of wild type mice did not differ significantly from the ascorbate-supplemented mice. Gulo KO mice supplemented with ascorbate developed smaller tumors with more collagen encapsulation and fibrous capsule interdigitation, while gulo KO mice deprived of ascorbate hosted large tumors with poorly defined borders, showing more necrosis and mitosis. Ascorbate supplementation of gulo KO mice resulted in profoundly decreased serum inflammatory cytokine IL-6 (90% decrease, p = 0.04) and IL-1β (62% decrease) compared to the levels in gulo KO mice deprived of ascorbate.

CONCLUSION

Ascorbate supplementation modulated tumor growth and inflammatory cytokine secretion as well as enhanced encapsulation of tumors in scorbutic mice.

Nutrient mixture inhibits in vitro and in vivo growth of human acute promyelocytic leukemia HL-60 cells

AIM

Untreated acute promyelocytic leukemia is the most malignant form of acute leukemias, with median survival of less than one month. We investigated in vitro and in vivo synergistic effects of a nutrient mixture (NM) containing ascorbic acid, lysine, proline, and green tea extract, on acute promyelocytic leukemia HL-60 cells.

METHODS

In vitro, the HL-60 cells were cultured and exposed to NM at doses 0-1000 μg/ml. Cell viability was assessed by Trypan blue dye exclusion test, matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) expression by gelatinase zymography, invasion through Matrigel and apoptosis by live green Poly Caspase Detection Kit. In vivo studies were carried out in athymic nude mice subcutaneously inoculated with HL-60 cells.

RESULTS

In vitro, NM exhibited a dose dependent reduction in cells viability. Zymography revealed matrix MMP-2 and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate induced MMP-9 expression. NM inhibited expression of both MMP in a dose dependent manner. Similar step-wise reduction in the Matrigel invasion by HL-60 cells was also observed by this combination with incremental doses. Gradually increasing doses of NM induced significant apoptosis in HL-60 cells. In vivo, NM inhibited tumor growth by 50%.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that NM significantly suppresses tumor growth, decreases cell viability, inhibits MMP expression, Matrigel invasion and induces apoptosis in HL-60 cells.

Anticancer effects of a specific mixture of nutrients in the multidrug-resistant human uterine sarcoma MES-SA/Dx5 and the drug-sensitive MES-SA cell lines

A specific nutrient mixture (NM) containing lysine, proline, ascorbic acid and green tea extract has demonstrated a broad spectrum of antitumor activity against a number of cancer cell lines. In this study, our main objective was to investigate the comparative effects of NM on anticancer parameters, such as cytotoxicity, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) secretion and Matrigel invasion in the human uterine sarcoma drug-resistant MES-SA/Dx5 and the drug-sensitive MES-SA cell lines. In addition we studied the effects of NM on P-glycoprotein (Pgp) on these cell lines. Cell proliferation was evaluated by MTT assay, MMPs by gelatinase zymography, invasion through Matrigel, morphology by H&E and Pgp expression by Western blot analysis and immunodetection using FITC-conjugated antibody and rhodamine 123 (Rh123) accumulation and efflux assays. NM exhibited antiproliferative effects on MES-SA/Dx5, by 20% at 50 and 100 µg/ml and by 36, 40 and 48% at 250, 500 and 1,000 µg/ml, respectively. By contrast, NM treatment of MES-SA cells resulted in significantly increased cytotoxicity: 40, 46, 65 and 72% at 50, 100, 500 and 1,000 µg/ml, respectively. In both cell lines, zymography demonstrated a band corresponding to MMP-2 in normal cells and MMP-9 with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate treatment. The two MMPs showed dose-response inhibition by NM. As shown by Western blot analysis and immunodetection, NM treatment resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in Pgp expression in the MES-SA/Dx5 cell line. The MES-SA cell line does not exhibit Pgp. NM enhanced the accumulation and efflux of the Pgp substrate, Rh123, in the MES-SA/Dx5 uterine sarcoma cell line but not in the drug-sensitive cell line, MES-SA. Therefore, it can be concluded that NM demonstrates potent anticancer effects in both the drug-resistant and sensitive cell lines and modulates Pgp, suggesting its potential therapeutic effects in drug-resistant as well as sensitive cancers.

Nutritional improvement of metabolic syndrome parameters in immature fructose-fed wild-type mice

The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus is on the increase worldwide, with both environmental and genetic factors implicated in its development. Diabetes is often preceded by metabolic syndrome (MS) and may develop in normal adults ingesting a high fructose diet. The effect of high fructose intake on the development of MS in children and adolescents is less clear. Our objective was to study the effects of a nutrient mixture and metformin (MET), a widely used oral diabetic medication, in modulating the physiological and biochemical parameters of a high fructose diet in immature mice. C57BL/6J wild‑type mice aged 7 weeks were administered 12% fructose in their water and MET in distilled water or a diabetic nutrient mix (DNM) over 7 weeks. DNM-fed mice showed a decrease in systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol and fructosamine compared to the fructose-fed only group (p<0.05). A discordant result was observed in the MET group, with a decrease in blood pressure but increases in total cholesterol and fructosamine (p<0.05). Serum glucose did not change significantly among the groups. Thus, symptoms of fructose-induced MS in young mice could be countered nutritionally. Additionally, MET may improve certain biochemical markers while worsening others.

In vivo and in vitro antitumor effects of nutrient mixture in murine leukemia cell line P-388

AIM

Leukemia is characterized by uncontrolled marrow cell proliferation and metastatic foci. We investigated the antitumor potential of a nutrient mixture on malignant leukemia P-388 cells.

METHODS

The nutrient mixture containing lysine, proline, ascorbic acid, green tea extract and other nutrients is formulated to target key pathways in cancer progression. The cells were treated with the mixture, and tested at doses 0, 10, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 μg/ml in triplicates. The effects were evaluated by cell proliferation, Matrigel invasion, cell morphology and apoptosis. The in vivo effect was measured in male nude mice (n = 12) inoculated with P-388 cells. After randomly dividing in two groups, each group was fed regular and the nutrient mixture supplemented diet and the mice were sacrificed after four weeks.

RESULTS

The nutrient mixture decreased P-388 cell proliferation at 500 and 1000 μg/ml. Only 10% cells were viable at 1000 μg/ml. Matrigel invasion was significantly inhibited in a dose dependent manner with virtually total inhibition at 1000 μg/ml. Cell morphological features notably changed with dose increase to 1000 μg/ml. Analysis of apoptotic cells on live green caspase kit exhibited gradual increase with the increasing dose of the nutrient mixture, and at 1000 μg/ ml 92% of P-388 cells were in late apoptosis. Tumors in the group of mice supplemented with the nutrient mixture had 50% lower weight compared to the tumors in control group (p = 0.0105). Histopathologically, both the groups of tumors were similar, yet size of tumors in the group treated with the nutrient mixture was considerably smaller.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that the nutrient mixture exhibited significant action against multiple targets in P-388 leukemia and may have potential in human leukemia.

Abstract 1503: Anticancer effects of a nutrient mixture in human melanoma cells A2058: Inhibition of cell proliferation, MMP expression, invasion and apoptosis

Introduction: Melanoma, an extremely aggressive cancer, causes the majority of skin cancer-related deaths, secondary to metastasis to other organs of the body, such as lymph nodes, lungs, liver, brain or bone. Currently, there are no viable treatments for melanoma. We investigated the effect of a specific mixture (PB) of quercetin, cruciferex, curcumin, green tea extract and resveratrol on human melanoma cell line A2058 for viability, MMP expression, invasion, apoptosis and cell morphology.

Materials and Methods: Melanoma cells A2058 (ATCC), were maintained in DMEM culture, supplemented with 10% FBS and antibiotics in 24-well tissue plates. At near confluence, cells were treated with PB at 0, 10, 25, 50, 75 and 100 mcg/mL concentration in triplicate at each dose. Cells were also treated with PMA (100 ng/mL) for MMP-9 induction. Cell proliferation was assessed by MTT assay, MMPs by zymography, invasion through Matrigel, apoptosis using green caspase detection, and morphology by H&E staining.

Results: PB inhibited proliferation of melanoma cells A2058 by 45% at 10 mcg/mL and 80% at 25-100 mcg/mL concentration, and inhibited the secretion of both MMP-2 and MMP-9 in a dose dependent manner with total inhibition at 50 mcg/mL concentration. Invasion through Matrigel was inhibited by 65% at 10 mcg/mL and 100% at 25 mcg/mL, respectively. PB also induced apoptosis in a dose-dependent fashion. H&E staining showed slight morphological changes at higher concentrations.

Conclusions: In conclusion, PB significantly inhibited melanoma cell growth, invasion through Matrigel, MMP-2 and -9 expression and apoptosis, important parameters for cancer prevention, suggesting PB as a potential effective treatment of melanoma.

Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1503. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-1503

Abstract 1500: A novel nutrient mixture exhibits antitumor activity in human fibrosarcoma cell line HT-1080

Introduction: Fibrosarcoma, an aggressive and highly metastatic cancer of connective tissue, is generally associated with poor prognosis. Cancer mortality usually results from tumor invasion of local tissue and metastasis to vital organs. We investigated the effect of a specific nutrient mixture (PB) of quercetin, cruciferex, curcumin, green tea extract and resveratrol on human fibrosarcoma cell line HT-1080 for viability, MMP expression, invasion, apoptosis and morphology.

Material and Methods: Human fibrosarcoma cell line HT-1080 (ATCC) was cultured in DEM media, supplemented with 10% FBS and antibiotics in 24-well tissue plates. At near confluence, cells were treated with PB at 0, 10, 25, 50, 75 and 100 mcg/mL, in triplicate at each dose. Cells were also treated with PMA (100 ng/mL) for MMP-9 induction. Cell proliferation was assayed by MTT assay, MMP by zymography, invasion through Matrigel, apoptosis using green caspase detection, and morphology by H&E staining.

Results: PB inhibited proliferation of human fibrosarcoma cells HT-1080 by 50% at 10 mcg/mL, 60% at 25 mcg/mL and 80% at 50-100 mcg/mL, and inhibited the secretion of both MMP-2 and MMP-9 in a dose-dependent manner, with total inhibition at 50 mcg/mL concentration. Invasion through Matrigel was inhibited 100% at 25 mcg/mL PB. PB also induced apoptosis in a dose- dependent fashion. H&E staining showed slight morphological changes at higher concentrations.

Conclusion: These results suggest that PB is a potential therapeutic agent for fibrosarcoma, with potent anti-metastatic activity, because it inhibited fibrosarcoma cell proliferation, MMP-2 and -9 expression, invasion through Matrigel and apoptosis, important parameters for cancer prevention.

Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1500. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-1500

Micronutrient synergy--a new tool in effective control of metastasis and other key mechanisms of cancer

Consumption of a plant-based diet has been associated with prevention of the development and progression of cancer. We have developed strategies to inhibit cancer development and its spread by targeting common mechanisms used by all types of cancer cells that decrease stability and integrity of connective tissue. Strengthening of collagen and connective tissue can be achieved naturally through the synergistic effects of selected nutrients, such as lysine, proline, ascorbic acid and green tea extract (NM). This micronutrient mixture has exhibited a potent anticancer activity in vivo and in vitro in a few dozen cancer cell lines. Its anti-cancer effects include inhibition of metastasis, tumor growth, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) secretion, invasion, angiogenesis, and cell growth as well as induction of apoptosis. Many cancers are often diagnosed at later stages, when metastasis has occurred, which standard treatment has been unable to control. Our studies on NM effects on hepatic and pulmonary metastasis demonstrated profound, significant suppression of metastasis in a murine model. Evaluation of effects of NM on xenografts in murine models demonstrated significant reduction in tumor size and tumor burden in all human cancer cell lines tested. In vitro studies demonstrated that NM was very effective in inhibition of cell proliferation (by MTT assay), MMP secretion (by gelatinase zymography), cell invasion (through Matrigel), cell migration (by scratch test), induction of apoptosis (by live green caspase) and induction of pro-apoptotic genes in many diverse cancer cell lines. Furthermore, in vivo and in vitro studies of effects of individual micronutrients compared to their specific combination demonstrated synergistic effects resulting in improved anticancer potency.

Inhibition of invasion and MMPs by a nutrient mixture in human cancer cell lines: a correlation study

Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and -9 secretion is elevated in various human cancers and their elevated expression has been associated with poor prognosis due to associated increased cancer cell invasion and metastasis.

AIM

To examine the correlation between in vitro MMP-2 and MMP-9 secretion and Matrigel invasion in 42 different human cancer cell lines (selected on the basis of organ malignancies) treated with a nutrient mixture (NM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The cells were cultured in their recommended media supplemented with 10% FBS and antibiotics in 24-well tissue culture plates. At near confluence, the cells were treated with NM dissolved in media at 0, 10, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 μg/mL in triplicate. Parallel sets of cultures were also treated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) 100 ng/mL for induction of enzymes. After 24 h the media were collected and MMP-2 and MMP-9 levels were assayed by gelatinase zymography. Invasion studies were conducted using Matrigel in 24-well plates.

RESULTS

Correlation of pooled data from different cancer cell line groups demonstrated dose-dependent inhibition of MMP-2 and -9 and Matrigel invasion with NM treatment and significant negative correlation between MMP-2 and MMP-9 levels and Matrigel invasion. Pooled data of cell lines expressing only MMP-2 and resistance to PMA induction of MMP-9 showed significant negative correlation (r = -0.77, p = 0.003) between MMP-2 secretion and inhibition of invasion through Matrigel. Cell lines expressing only MMP-9, showed significant negative correlation (r = -0.726, p = 0.003) between MMP-9 secretion and Matrigel invasion. Pooled data of cell lines expressing MMP-2 and MMP-9 demonstrated significant negative correlation (r = -0.821, p < 0.0001) between MMP-9 secretion and inhibition of invasion through Matrigel. Pooled data of cancer cell lines expressing no basal MMP- 9 secretion demonstrated significant negative correlation (r = -0.686, p < 0.0001) between PMA-induced MMP-9 secretion and inhibition of invasion through Matrigel.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, regardless of MMP-2 and MMP-9 patterns of expression, MMP modulation by NM was found to be significantly correlated with NM modulation of Matrigel invasion of these cell lines.

Comparative effects of EGCG, green tea and a nutrient mixture on the patterns of MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression in cancer cell lines

Type IV collagenase matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), especially MMP-2 and MMP-9, have been found to promote invasion and metastasis of malignant tumors. Extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation by MMPs and increased expression of MMPs in cancer cells and tumor microvascular endothelial cells make MMPs an attractive target for cancer. Focused on a common pathomechanism of cancer growth and invasion, the disintegration of connective tissue, we used natural approaches to increase the integrity and strength of connective tissues. Utilizing the principle of nutrition synergy, we developed a novel micronutrient mixture (NM) containing lysine, proline, ascorbic acid and green tea extract. This study evaluates the potency of the components EGCG and green tea extract independently compared to that of NM on modulation of patterns of MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression in four cancer cell lines expressing MMP-2, MMP-9 or both. Human fibrosarcoma (HT-1080), hepatocellular carcinoma (SK-Hep-1), glioblastoma (T-98G), uterine leiomyosarcoma (SK-UT-1) cell lines were obtained from ATCC and grown in minimum essential medium (MEM) supplemented with 10% FBS, penicillin (100 U/ml) and streptomycin (100 mg/ml) in 24-well tissue culture plates. At near confluence, the cells were treated with agents dissolved in media and tested at concentrations indicated in triplicate at each dose. Cells were also treated with PMA 100 ng/ml to study enhanced expression of MMP-9. MMP expression was assessed by gelatinase zymography. Fibrosarcoma and hepatocellular carcinoma cells expressed both MMP-2 and MMP-9. Glioblastoma cells expressed MMP-2 and PMA treatment induced MMP-9 expression. Uterine leimyosarcoma cells expressed no MMPs but PMA induced MMP-9. NM was the most potent dose-dependent inhibitor of MMPs, followed by green tea extract and EGCG. In conclusion, these results suggest the enhanced efficacy of nutrients working in synergy to modulate complex pathways such as MMP expression.

In vivo and In vitro effect of a nutrient mixture on human hepatocarcinoma cell line SK-HEP-1

Long-term survival of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a common cancer worldwide, remains poor, due to metastasis and recurrence.

AIM

To investigate the effect of a novel nutrient mixture (NM) containing ascorbic acid, lysine, proline, and green tea extract on human HCC cell line Sk-Hep-1 In vivo and In vitro.

METHODS

After one week of isolation, 5-6 week old male athymic nude mice were inoculated with 3 x 10(6) SK-Hep-1 cells subcutaneously and randomly divided into two groups; group A was fed a regular diet and group B a regular diet supplemented with 0.5% NM. Four weeks later, the mice were sacrificed and their tumors were excised, weighed and processed for histology. We also tested the effect of NM In vitro on SK-Hep-1 cells, measuring cell proliferation by MTT assay, invasion through Matrigel, apoptosis by green caspase detection kit, MMP secretion by zymography, and morphology by H&E staining.

RESULTS

NM inhibited tumor weight and burden of SK-Hep-1 xenografts by 42% and 33% respectively. In vitro , NM exhibited 33% toxicity over the control at 500 and 1,000 microg/ml concentration. Zymography demonstrated MMP-2 and MMP-9 secretion which was inhibited by NM in a dose dependent fashion, with virtual total inhibition at 1000 microg/ml. Invasion through Matrigel was inhibited at 100, 500 and 1,000 microg/ml by 53%, 83% and 100% respectively. NM induced slight apoptosis at 100 microg/ml, and profound apoptosis at 500 microg/ml and 1000 microg/ml concentration.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that NM has therapeutic potential in treatment of HCC.