Anticancer effect of lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid and green tea extract on human renal adenocarcinoma line 786-0

Five-year survival is limited to 60% in renal cancer patients at diagnosis. Due to the cancer's resistance to conventional treatments and associated high morbidity, we investigated the antimetastatic effects of a specific nutrient mixture (NM) containing lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid and green tea extract on human renal adenocarcinoma cell line 786-0 by measuring: cell proliferation, modulation of MMP-2 and -9 secretion, and cancer cell invasive potential. Human renal cancer cell line 786-0 (ATCC) was grown in RPMI medium in 24-well tissue culture plates. At near confluence, the cells were treated with NM, dissolved in media, and tested at 0, 10, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 microg/ml in triplicate at each dose. Cells were also treated with PMA 200 ng/ml to study enhanced MMP-9 activity. Cell proliferation was evaluated by MTT assay, MMP secretion by gelatinase zymography, and invasion through Matrigel. Zymography demonstrated MMP-2 and MMP-9 secretion by uninduced renal cancer cells with enhanced MMP-9 induced by PMA (200 ng/ml) treatment. NM inhibited the secretion of both MMPs in a dose-dependent fashion with virtual total inhibition of MMP-2 at 500-microg/ml concentration and MMP-9 at 100 microg/ml. The invasion of renal cancer cells through Matrigel was totally inhibited (p=0.0001) by NM at 1000 microg/ml concentration. Our results support a potential role for the nutrient mixture tested in the treatment of renal cell carcinoma, by inhibition of MMP-2 and MMP-9 secretion and invasion.

Antitumor effect of ascorbic acid, lysine, proline, arginine, and green tea extract on bladder cancer cell line T-24

AIMS

Bladder cancer, the fourth highest incident cancer in men and tenth in women, is associated with a high rate of recurrence, even when treated in situ, and prognosis is poor once the cancer metastasizes to distant sites. Based on anticancer properties, we investigated the effect of a mixture of lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid, and green tea extract on human bladder cancer cells T-24 by measuring: proliferation, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression, and cancer cell invasive potential.

METHODS

Human bladder cancer cells T-24 (ATCC) were grown in McCoy medium supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum, penicillin (100 U/mL) and streptomycin (100 mg/mL) in 24-well tissue culture plates. At near confluence, the cells were treated with the nutrient mixture dissolved in media and tested at 0, 10, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 microg/mL in triplicate at each dose. Cells were also treated with PMA 200 ng/mL to study enhanced MMP-9 activity. Cell proliferation was evaluated by MTT assay, MMP activity by gelatinase zymography, and invasion through Matrigel.

RESULTS

Nutrient mixture inhibited the T-24 cell secretion of MMP-2 and -9, with virtual total inhibition of MMP-2 at 500 microg/mL and MMP-9 at 100 microg/mL. The nutrient mixture significantly reduced the invasion of human bladder cancer cells T-24 through Matrigel in a dose-dependent fashion, with 95% inhibition at 500 microg/mL and 100% at 1000 microg/mL nutrient mixture (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that our nutrient mixture is an excellent candidate for therapeutic use in the treatment of bladder cancer, by inhibiting critical steps in cancer development and spread, such as MMP secretion and invasion.

Inhibition of malignant mesothelioma cell matrix metalloproteinase production and invasion by a novel nutrient mixture

Malignant mesothelioma (MM), an asbestos-associated cancer with no known cure, is a highly aggressive tumor causing profound morbidity and nearly universal mortality. Extracellular matrix (ECM) matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) produced by tumor and stromal cells play a key role in tumor invasion and metastasis. Prevention of ECM degradation by MMP inhibition has been shown to be a promising therapeutic approach to inhibition of cancer development. Based on reported anticancer properties, the authors investigated the effect of a mixture (NM) containing lysine, proline, ascorbic acid, and green tea extract on MM cell line MSTO-211 H proliferation (by [MTT] [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide] assay), MMP secretion (by gelatinase zymography), invasion (through Matrigel), and morphology (by hematoxylin and eosin [H&E] staining). MMP-2 and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-induced MMP-9 secretion were inhibited by NM in a dose-dependent fashion, with virtual total inhibition at 500 microg/ml NM. Invasion through Matrigel was inhibited at 50, 100, and 500 microg/ml by 27%, 36%, and 100%, respectively. NM was not toxic to the MM cell line, and H&E staining did not indicate any changes at and below 100 microg/ml concentration. In conclusion, NM significantly inhibited MM cell MMP secretion and invasion-both important parameters for cancer prevention, suggesting NM is an effective treatment strategy for MM.

Inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase-2 secretion and invasion by human ovarian cancer cell line SK-OV-3 with lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid and green tea extract

AIMS

Based on the poor prognosis associated with ovarian cancer and reported anticancer properties of specific nutrients, we investigated the effect of a nutrient mixture (NM) containing lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid and epigallocatechin gallate on human ovarian cancer cells SK-OV-3 by measuring: cell proliferation, modulation of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and -9 expression, and cancer cell invasive potential.

METHODS

Cell proliferation was evaluated by MTT assay, MMP activity by gelatinase zymography, and invasion through Matrigel.

RESULTS

Human ovarian cancer cell growth was not significantly affected by the NM. Zymography demonstrated inhibition of MMP-2 secretion in a dose-dependent fashion with virtual total inhibition at 50 microg/mL NM concentration. Invasion of human ovarian cancer cells through Matrigel decreased in a dose-dependent fashion, with 90% inhibition at 500 microg/mL NM and 100% inhibition at 1000 microg/mL NM (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

The combination of lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid and green tea extract tested inhibited critical steps in cancer development and spread, such as MMP expression and invasion, indicating its potential as a treatment modality against ovarian cancer.

In vivo and in vitro antitumor effect of ascorbic acid, lysine, proline, arginine, and green tea extract on human fibrosarcoma cells HT-1080

Current treatment of fibrosarcoma, an aggressive cancer of the connective tissue, is generally associated with poor prognosis. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and constituents of the extracellular matrix (ECM), such as fibronectin, play a critical role in angiogenesis and underlie neoplastic invasion and metastasis. This and anticancer properties of lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid, and green tea extract (NM) prompted us to investigate the effect of these nutrients in vitro on human fibrosarcoma cells HT-1080 by measuring cell proliferation, modulation of MMP-2 and MMP-9, and invasive potential. In vivo, we studied the growth of human fibrosarcoma HT-1080 cells in athymic nude mice and the expression of MMPs and VEGF. Cell proliferation was evaluated by MTT assay, MMP expression by gelatinase zymography, and invasion through Matrigel and migration by scratch assay. Tumors were excised, weighed, and processed for histology in both the control and nutrient-supplemented groups. Results showed NM inhibited the growth and reduced the size of tumors in nude mice; decreased MMP-9 and VEGF secretion was found in the supplemented group tissues. NM inhibited invasion through Matrigel and migration with total inhibition at 1,000 microg/mL. These results offer promise in the therapeutic use of the nutrient mixture of lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid, and green tea extract tested in the treatment of fibrosarcoma.

Preneoplastic liver cell foci expansion induced by thioacetamide toxicity in drug-primed mice

Mice primed by feeding griseofulvin or diethyl 1,4-dihydro 1,4,6-trimethyl 3,5-pyridine decarboxylate for 5 months followed by drug withdrawal for 1 month (drug-primed mice) were given thioacetamide intraperitoneally, and the livers were subsequently studied at intervals up to 7 days. The hepatocellular proliferative response was measured by immunostaining for proliferative cell nuclear antigen. Necrosis was followed by measuring ALT. Mallory bodies were identified by immunoperoxidase stains for ubiquitin and cytokeratin. Preneoplastic foci were localized using immunofluorescence stain for glutathione S-transferase (GST mu) and histochemical stain for gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT). The results showed that the preneoplastic foci selectively proliferated and expanded and formed nodules as indicated by quantitation of nuclei stained positive for proliferating cell nuclear antigen after thioacetamide treatment. Data support the hypothesis that the preneoplastic foci consisted of clones of hepatocytes which preferentially express GST mu, GGT and Mallory bodies. These preneoplastic cells selectively proliferate in response to the promoter effects of necrosis-induced liver cell regeneration ("chemical partial hepatectomy").

Natural nutrient mixture effectively reduces collagen matrix contraction driven by human uterine smooth muscle cells

AIM

Abnormal uterine myometrial contractility causes preterm delivery, contributing to perinatal morbidity and mortality. Disturbances in hormonal regulation and inflammation-related processes have been attributed a role in the pathophysiological mechanisms of uterine contractility. We investigated the effects of natural nutrients on uterine tissue contractility in vitro.

METHODS

We used an in vitro model of collagen I gel contraction driven by embedded cultured human uterine smooth muscle cells (SMC). The effects of tested compounds were evaluated using their capacity to affect gel contraction (measured by reduction in gel area during 24-h incubation in serum free medium). Cellular expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) was followed by gel zymography.

RESULTS

Collagen gel contraction driven by uterine SMC was significantly stimulated by potassium chloride, pituitary hormone oxytocin and by inflammatory cytokine alpha-tumor necrosis factor (TNF-alpha). Accelerated gel contraction was accompanied by elevated secretion of MMP-2 and MMP-9 into cell culture media. Among a variety of purified bioflavonoids and polyphenol-enriched plant extracts tested for their ability to counteract uterine SMC-dependent collagen gel contraction, the strongest effects were demonstrated by epigallocatechin gallate and green tea leaf extract, respectively. The addition of ascorbic acid and the amino acids lysine, arginine, cysteine and proline to green tea extract further increased its effectiveness. A reduction in gel contraction correlated with decreased MMP expression.

CONCLUSION

Based on these findings, we found that nutrients can effectively counteract uterine myometrial contraction and MMP activity in vitro, suggesting that pathophysiological mechanisms of abnormal uterine myometrial contractility can be counteracted by a combination of naturally occurring nutrients. These mechanisms might involve extracellular matrix remodeling.

Suppression of human cervical cancer cell lines Hela and DoTc2 4510 by a mixture of lysine, proline, ascorbic acid, and green tea extract

Cervical cancer, the second most common cancer in women, once metastasized, leads to poor prognosis. We investigated the antitumor effect of a nutrient mixture (NM) containing lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid, and green tea extract on human cervical cancer cells Hela (CCL-2) and DoTc2 4510 by measuring cell proliferation (MTT assay), modulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-2 and MMP-9) expression (gelatinase zymography), and cancer cell invasive potential (Matrigel). NM showed significant antiproliferative effect on CCL-2 and DoTc2 4510 cancer cells. The NM inhibited CCL-2 expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in a dose-dependent fashion, with virtual total inhibition of MMP-2 at 1000 microg/mL and MMP-9 at 500 microg/mL NM. Untreated DoTc2 4510 cells showed MMP-9 expression, which was enhanced with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate treatment. NM inhibited MMP-9 expression in a dose-dependent fashion, with virtual inhibition at 500 microg/mL. Invasion of human cervical cancer cells CCL-2 and DoTc2 4510 through Matrigel decreased in a dose-dependent fashion, with 100% inhibition at 500 microg/mL NM (P < 0.0001) and 1000 microg/mL NM (P < 0.0001), respectively. Our results suggest that the mixture of lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid, and green tea extract has potential in the treatment of cervical cancer by inhibiting critical steps in cancer development and spread.

Bioflavonoids effectively inhibit smooth muscle cell-mediated contraction of collagen matrix induced by angiotensin II

Plant-derived bioflavonoids have been recognized to support arterial wall structural integrity and interfere with a variety of proatherosclerotic stimuli. In this study we tested the effects of bioflavonoids on the contractile activity of cultured human aortic smooth muscle cells (SMC) embedded in a 3-dimensional type I collagen matrix. Collagen I solution mixed with human aortic SMC in 24-well plates were allowed to form gels. Tested compounds were added to the wells, and the gels were set afloat by gentle tapping. Digital photographs of the gels were taken after 24 hours of incubation at 37 degrees C. The area of contracted gel was measured and expressed as a percentage of the control gel area from 3 or more replicates. Expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-2) in conditioned media was assessed by gel zymography. Different classes of bioflavanoids showed variable efficiency in inhibiting angiotensin II (ATII)-dependent collagen gel contraction by SMCs. An increase in the number of gallate groups per catechin molecule was associated with increased inhibition of angiotensin II-dependent collagen gel contraction by SMC. Antioxidants (N-acetyl cysteine and ascorbic acid) did not inhibit collagen gel contraction. Bioflavonoid inhibition of collagen gel contraction by SMC correlated with inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression. Bioflavonoids participate in the regulation of SMC-mediated contraction and have a strong potential in counteracting pathophysiological effects of ATII. Bioflavonoid activity depends on structural characteristics and can be related to extracellular matrix integrity.

Modulation of Human Renal Cell Carcinoma 786-0 MMP-2 and MMP-9 Activity by Inhibitors and Inducers In Vitro

A hallmark of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) invasion is its ability to degrade ECM by local production of gelatinase enzymes. Although many studies on RCC have demonstrated the importance of MMPs, very little information is currently known regarding the effect of inducers and inhibitors. We therefore investigated the effect of inducers and inhibitors on RCC 786-0 in vitro. Human RCC 786-0 (ATCC) was grown in RPMI medium supplemented with 10% FBS, penicillin, and streptomycin in 24-well tissue plates. At near confluence, the cells were washed with PBS; the serum-free medium was incubated with various inducers: phorbol ester (PMA), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin 1-beta (IL-1beta) and lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Cells were also incubated with inhibitors: EGCG, doxycycline, and a nutrient mixture with and without PMA; retinoic acid, dexamethasone, H-7; actinomycin D, or cyclohexamide. After 24 h, the medium was removed and analyzed for MMP-2 and MMP-9 by gelatinase zymography. RCC 786-0 secreted two bands, a major band corresponding to MMP-2 and a faint band corresponding to MMP-9. PMA and TNF-alpha, with increased concentration, increased MMP-9 secretion, while IL-1beta and LPS did not significantly modify MMP-9 activity. MMP-2 secretion was not affected by any of the inducers. All the inhibitors tested without and with PMA showed a dose-dependent decrease in both MMP-2 and -9 expression. Further studies are in progress to confirm the role of MMP-9 on Matrigel invasion using PMA, cytokines, and LPS.

In vivo and in vitro antitumor effect of ascorbic acid, lysine, proline and green tea extract on human melanoma cell line A2058

BACKGROUND

Melanoma, a very serious form of skin cancer, causes the most skin cancer-related deaths, due to metastasis. Structural changes in the extracellular matrix (ECM) are necessary for cell migration during tissue remodeling. MMPs, VEGF, Ki-67 (proliferative protein) and constituents of ECM play a critical role in angiogenesis, and are crucial in neoplastic invasion and metastasis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effect of a diet (NM) containing lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid and green tea extract on the growth of tumors induced by implanting human melanoma A2058 cells in athymic nude mice was examined and, also, on the expression of MMPs, VEGF and Ki-67 in these tumors. The effect of NM in vitro on the melanoma A2058 cell line was tested by measuring: cell proliferation by the MTT assay, expression of MMPs by gelatinase zymography and invasion through Matrigel.

RESULTS

Nutrient supplementation strongly suppressed the growth of tumors (by 57%)without adverse effects in nude mice. Histological studies supported these findings by showing inhibition of MMP-9 and VEGF secretion and mitotic index. In vitro, NM inhibited melanoma cell growth by 64% at 500 microg/ml and Matrigel invasion by 95% at 100 microg/ml NM.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that NM may have a therapeutic potential in melanoma.

Effect of Ascorbic Acid, Lysine, Proline, and Green Tea Extract on Human Osteosarcoma Cell Line MNNG-HOS Xenografts in Nude Mice: Evaluation of Tumor Growth and Immunohistochemistry

Structural changes in the extracellular matrix (ECM) are necessary for cell migration during tissue remodeling. MMPs, VEGF, Ki-67 (proliferative protein), and constituents of ECM play a critical role in angiogenesis and underlie neoplastic invasion and metastasis. This prompted us to investigate the effect of a diet containing lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid, and green tea extract (NM) on the growth of tumors induced by implanting human osteosarcoma MNNG in athymic nude mice and the expression of MMPs, VEGF, Ki-67 and fibronectin in these tumors, as well as the production of mucin (by PAS staining). We also investigated the effect of the supplemented diet on serum ascorbic acid, total protein content, alkaline phosphatase activity, and liver enzymes. Athymic male nude mice (n = 12) were inoculated with 3 x 10(6) osteosarcoma cells MNNG-HOS and randomly divided into group A (fed a regular diet) and group B (fed a regular diet supplemented with 0.5% NM). Four weeks later, the mice were sacrificed. Results showed that NM inhibited the growth and reduced the size of tumors in nude mice. Histological evaluation revealed increased mitotic index, MMP-9, and VEGF secretion in the control group tissues. Results demonstrate that the nutrient mixture of lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid, and green tea extract tested strongly suppressed the growth of tumors without adverse effects in nude mice, suggesting potential as an anticancer agent.

Anti-angiogenic effects of a nutrient mixture on human umbilical vein endothelial cells

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have been recognized as key players in the degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) by migration and proliferation of endothelial cells and their subsequent invasion of the underlying stroma. The prevention of ECM degradation through the inhibition of MMP activity has been shown to be a promising therapeutic approach to block the invasion that occurs during angiogenesis. In previous studies, we demonstrated the anti-tumor effect of a nutrient mixture (NM) containing ascorbic acid, lysine, proline, green tea extract, arginine, N-acetyl cysteine, selenium, copper and manganese on various tumor cell lines in vivo and in vitro. The aim of the present study was to determine whether this mixture has anti-angiogenic effects on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). At near confluence, the HUVEC cell cultures were tested with NM at 0, 10, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 microg/ml in triplicate at each dose for proliferation, migration, MMP expression, and invasion. Cell proliferation was evaluated by MTT assay, invasion potential by Matrigel invasion, MMP expression by gelatinase zymography, and cell migration by a 2 mm-wide scratch in plates. For tube formation, HUVECs were cultured in previously polymerized Matrigel. NM inhibited HUVEC migration, MMP expression and invasion through Matrigel in a dose-dependent manner. Zymography showed a dose-dependent inhibition of MMP-2 expression with virtual total inhibition at a 500 microg/ml concentration. Invasion through Matrigel was totally inhibited at 500 microg/ml NM. NM reduced cell migration by scratch test in a dose-dependent fashion with total inhibition at a 500 microg/ml concentration. NM also inhibited the tube formation of HUVECs, but did not significantly inhibit cell proliferation. These results together with our earlier findings suggest that NM is a relatively non-toxic formulation with anti-angiogenic effects, such as inhibiting vascular tube formation and endothelial cell invasion and migration.

In vitro and in vivo antitumorigenic activity of a mixture of lysine, proline, ascorbic acid, and green tea extract on human breast cancer lines MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7

Current treatments are generally ineffective once breast cancer has metastasized; median survival is reduced to 2-3 yr. Previous research studies demonstrating potent synergistic antitumor activity of lysine, proline, ascorbic acid, and epigallocatechin gallate prompted us to investigate the in vivo inhibitory effect of a nutrient mixture containing lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid, and epigallocatechin gallate (NM) on the growth of human cancer xenografts in female athymic nude mice. Five to six week old female mice were inoculated with 3x106 breast cancer cells MDA-MB-231. After injection, the mice were randomly divided into two groups A and B; group A was fed a regular diet and group B with the regular diet supplemented with 0.5% of the nutrient mixture (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 estrogen-receptor positive (ER+) MCF-7 and estrogen-receptor negative (ER-) MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines by measuring: cell proliferation by MTT assay, expression of MMPs by gelatinase zymography, invasion through Matrigel, and VEGF by ELISA. MCF-7 cells were also treated with estradiol to study enhanced invasion and expression of MMPs and VEGF. Results showed that NM inhibited the growth and reduced the size of tumors in female nude mice by 27%. Furthermore, histological evaluation revealed increased mitotic index, MMP-9 and VEGF secretion, and PAS material (mucin) in the control group tissues. In vitro studies showed NM inhibited MDA-MB-231 cell growth by 34% at 500 microg/mL and MCF-7 cell growth by 18% at 1000 microg/mL. Invasion of MDA-MB-231 through Matrigel was inhibited by 50%, 60%, and 95% by 10, 50, and 100 microg/mL of NM, respectively. The results of this study demonstrated that the nutrient mixture tested significantly suppressed tumor growth of breast cancer cells in female athymic nude mice and significantly inhibited MMP expression, angiogenesis, and invasion in breast cancer cells, in vitro, offering promise for therapeutic use in the treatment of breast cancer.

Inhibitory effect of a mixture containing ascorbic acid, lysine, proline and green tea extract on critical parameters in angiogenesis

Degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM) is a hallmark of tumor invasion, metastasis and angiogenesis. Based on the Rath multitargeted approach to cancer using natural substances to control ECM stability and enhancing its strength, we developed a novel formulation (NM) of lysine, proline, ascorbic acid and green tea extract that has shown significant anti-cancer activity against a number of cancer cell lines. The aim of the present study was to determine whether NM exhibits anti-angiogenic and anti-metastatic effects using in vitro and in vivo experimental models. Angiogenesis was measured using a chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay in chick embryos and bFGF-induced vessel growth in C57BL/6J female mice. To determine the in vivo effect of NM on the tumor xenograft growth, male nude mice were inoculated with 3 x 10(6) MNNG-HOS cells. Control mice were fed a mouse chow diet, while the test group was fed a mouse chow diet supplemented with 0.5% NM for 4 weeks. In vitro studies on cell proliferation (MTT assay), MMP expression (zymography) and Matrigel invasion were conducted on human osteosarcoma U2OS, maintained in McCoy medium, supplemented with 10% FBS, penicillin and streptomycin in 24-well tissue culture plates and tested with NM at 0, 10, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 microg/ml in triplicate at each dose. NM at 250 microg/ml caused a significant (p<0.05) reduction in bFGF-induced angiogenesis in CAM. NM inhibited tumor growth of osteosarcoma MNNG-HOS cell xenografts in nude mice by 53%; furthermore, tumors in NM-treated mice were less vascular and expressed lower levels of VEGF and MMP-9 immunohistochemically than tumors in the control group. In addition, NM exhibited a dose-dependent inhibition of osteosarcoma U2OS cell proliferation (up to 60% at 1000 microg/ml), MMP-2 and -9 expression (with virtual total inhibition at 500 microg/ml NM), and invasion through Matrigel (with total inhibition at 100 microg/ml NM). Moreover, NM decreased U2OS cell expression of VEGF, angiopoietin-2, bFGF, PDGF and TGFbeta-1. These results together with our earlier findings suggest that NM is a relatively non-toxic formulation, which inhibits growth, invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis of tumor cells.

Antitumor effect of a combination of lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid, and green tea extract on pancreatic cancer cell line MIA PaCa-2

BACKGROUND

Current treatment of pancreatic cancer is generally associated with poor prognosis, even if diagnosed early, owing to its aggressive rate of metastasis and non-responsiveness to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have received much attention in recent years for their role in various malignancies, and have been implicated in tumor invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis.

AIM OF STUDY

Reported antitumor properties of ascorbic acid, lysine, proline, and green tea extract prompted us to investigate the effect of a combination of lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid, and green tea extract on pancreatic cancer cell line MIA PaCa-2 for viability, MMP expression, invasion, and morphology.

METHODS

Viability was evaluated based on cell proliferation by MTT assay and MMP expression in condition media by gelatinase zymography. Invasion through Matrigel was assayed and morphology was observed by hematoxylin and eosin (H+E)staining. Data was analyzed by independent sample "t" test.

RESULTS

The nutrient mixture (NM) did not inhibit cell proliferation at 10 microg/mL and exhibited a dose-dependent antiproliferative effect with maximum inhibition of 38% over the control at 1000 microg/mL. Zymography demonstrated production of only MMP-9, which showed a dose-dependent decreased expression that was abolished at 100 microg/mL of NM. Invasion through Matrigel was inhibited at 10, 50, 100, and 500 microg/mL by 66%, 66%, 87% and 100%, respectively. H&E staining did not indicate changes even at the highest concentration of NM.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that the formulation of green tea extract, lysine, proline, and ascorbic acid, tested as a promising adjunct to standard treatment of pancreatic cancer, by inhibiting MMP expression and invasion without toxic effects important parameters in cancer metastasis.

In vivo antitumor effect of ascorbic acid, lysine, proline and green tea extract on human colon cancer cell HCT 116 xenografts in nude mice: evaluation of tumor growth and immunohistochemistry

Colorectal cancer is the second most deadly cancer in the United States. When diagnosed early, current treatments bring a limited success; however, once metastasis occurs, radiation and chemotherapy are generally ineffective. Structural changes in the ECM are necessary for cell migration during tissue remodeling. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), VEGF, Ki-67 (proliferative protein), and constituents of ECM, such as fibronectin, play a critical role in angiogenesis and are thus crucial in neoplastic invasion and metastasis. Based on antitumor properties of certain nutrients, we investigated the effect of a diet containing lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid, and green tea extract (NM) on the growth of tumors, induced by implanting human colon HCT 116 cancer cells in athymic nude mice, and the expression of MMPs, VEGF, Ki-67 and fibronectin in these tumors, as well as the production of mucin (by PAS staining). After one week of isolation, 5 to 6 week-old athymic male nude mice (n=12) were inoculated with 3x10(6) colon cancer HCT 116 cells. After injection, the mice were randomly divided into 2 groups; group A was fed a regular diet and group B was fed a regular diet supplemented with 0.5% NM. The mice were sacrificed 4 weeks later, and their tumors were excised, weighed, and processed for histology. Results showed that the nutrient mixture (NM) inhibited growth and reduced the size of tumors in nude mice. Furthermore, histological evaluation revealed increased mitotic index, MMP-9 and VEGF secretion and reduced basement membrane in the control group tissues. Nutrient supplementation strongly suppressed the growth of tumors without any adverse effects in nude mice, suggesting the nutrient combination has potential as an anticancer agent. Histological studies supported these findings by showing inhibition of MMP-9 and VEGF secretion and mitotic index, which are critical parameters for cancer control and prevention.

Antitumor effect of nutrient synergy on human osteosarcoma cells U-2OS, MNNG-HOS and Ewing's sarcoma SK-ES.1

Current treatment of osteosarcoma is associated with poor prognosis, especially due to the increased risk of developing other cancers with chemotherapy. Therefore, new, safe and effective treatment strategies are needed. We investigated the effect of a unique mixture of nutrients containing lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid, and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) on human osteosarcoma cell lines U-2OS, MNNG-HOS, and Ewing's sarcoma SK-ES-1 by measuring: cell proliferation, expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), MMP-9, and invasive and angiogenesis potential. Cell proliferation was evaluated by MTT assay, matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) expression by gelatinase zymography, VEGF expression by ELISA, and invasion through Matrigel. Cells were also treated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) to study enhanced MMP and VEGF expression. The invasion of osteosarcoma U-2OS and MNNG-HOS cells through Matrigel was significantly reduced in a dose-dependent fashion, with 100% inhibition of invasion of U-2OS cells at 100 microg/ml, and MNNG cells at 50 microg/ml concentration of the synergistically acting nutrient mixture. Ewing's sarcoma SK-ES-1 cells were not invasive. Nutrient synergy (NS) exhibited a dose response antiproliferative effect on osteosarcoma U-2OS cells, reaching 67% at 1000 microg/ml of NS; no significant suppression of cell proliferation was seen with MNNG or Ewing's sarcoma cells. Zymography showed dose-dependent inhibition of MMP secretion by all three cell lines in the presence of NS. VEGF secretion by U-2OS cells was completely blocked at 500 microg/ml of NS. Our results suggest NS is an excellent candidate for therapeutic use in the treatment of osteosarcoma, by inhibiting cancer cell invasion, and secretion of MMPs and VEGF, all critical parameters for cancer control and prevention.

Modulation of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea induced mammary tumors in Sprague-Dawley rats by combination of lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid and green tea extract

Introduction

The limited ability of current treatments to control metastasis and the proposed antitumor properties of specific nutrients prompted us to examine the effect of a specific formulation (nutrient supplement [NS]) of lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid, and green tea extract in vivo on the development of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU)-induced mammary tumors in rats.

Methods

A single intraperitoneal dose of MNU was injected into each of 20 female Sprague–Dawley rats (aged 50 days) to induce tumors. Two weeks after MNU treatment, a time by which the animals had recovered from MNU-induced toxicity, the rats were divided into two groups. Rats in group 1 (n = 10) were fed Purina chow diet, whereas those in group 2 (n = 10) were fed the same diet supplemented with 0.5% NS. After a further 24 weeks, the rats were killed and tumors were excised and processed.

Results

NS reduced the incidence of MNU-induced mammary tumors and the number of tumors by 68.4%, and the tumor burden by 60.5%. The inhibitory effect of NS was also reflected by decreased tumor weight; the tumor weights per rat and per group were decreased by 41% and 78%, respectively. In addition, 30% of the control rats developed ulcerated tumors, in contrast to 10% in the nutrient supplemented rats.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the specific formulation of lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid, and green tea extract tested significantly reduces the incidence and growth of MNU-induced mammary tumors, and therefore has strong potential as a useful therapeutic regimen for inhibiting breast cancer development.

In vivo antitumor effect of ascorbic acid, lysine, proline and green tea extract on human prostate cancer PC-3 xenografts in nude mice: evaluation of tumor growth and immunohistochemistry

BACKGROUND

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Ki 67 (proliferative protein) and constituents of ECM play a critical role in angiogenesis, and are crucial in neoplastic invasion and metastasis. Based on the antitumor properties of certain nutrients, we investigated the effect of a diet containing lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid and green tea extract on the growth of tumors induced by implanting human prostate cancer PC-3 cells in athymic nude mice and on the expression of MMPs, VEGF, Ki 67 and fibronectin in these tumors, as well as the production of mucin (by PAS staining).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male nude mice (n =12) were inoculated with 3x10(6) prostate cancer PC-3 cells and randomly divided into two groups; Group A was fed a regular diet and Group B was fed a regular diet supplemented with 0.5% of the nutrient mixture (NM). Four weeks later, tumors were excised, weighed and processed for histology.

RESULTS

The results showed inhibition of tumor growth in Group B. Histological studies revealed inhibition of MMP-9 and VEGF secretion and mitosis in Group B tissues.

CONCLUSION

Nutrient supplementation strongly suppressed the growth of tumors without any adverse effects in nude mice, suggesting strong potential as an anticancer agent.

Anti-tumor effect of ascorbic acid, lysine, proline, arginine, and epigallocatechin gallate on prostate cancer cell lines PC-3, LNCaP, and DU145

Once prostate cancer has metastasized, current treatment methods are generally ineffective. Due to the reported anti-tumor properties of specific nutrients, we investigated the effect of a unique formulation (NS) of lysine, proline, arginine, ascorbic acid, and epigallocatechin gallate on human prostate cancer cell lines: PC-3, DU145 (androgen insensitive) and LNCaP (androgen sensitive), by measuring cell proliferation, MMP expression, and invasion potential. Cell lines DU145, PC-3, and LNCaP were treated at near confluence with NS at various concentrations. Cell proliferation was measured by MTT assay after 24 hours, MMP expression was measured by gelatinase zymography in condition media, and invasion activity was measured by Matrigel. The nutrient mixture did not significantly inhibit PC-3 cell proliferation at 50 microg/ml, but showed significant antiproliferative effect at 500 ug/ml. When treated with NS, proliferation of LNCaP cells was inhibited by 80% of control at 100 microg/ml. NS showed dose-dependent inhibition of DU145 cell proliferation with 47% reduction at 1000 microg/ml. NS showed a dose-dependent inhibition of both MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression by PC-3 cells and MMP-9 expression by PMA-treated (200 ng/ml) DU145 cells. Neither MMP-2 nor MMP-9 gelatinolytic activity was detected in LNCaP cell culture. Invasion of DU145 and LNCaP cells through Matrigel was completely inhibited at 500 microg/ml and PC-3 at 1000 microg/ml. Inhibition of MMP expression and invasion suggests the mixture of nutrients studied is a potent, natural anticancer agent for the treatment of prostate cancer.