Plant-Derived Anticancer Compounds as New Perspectives in Drug Discovery and Alternative Therapy

iRGD-grafted N-trimethyl chitosan-coated protein nanotubes enhanced the anticancer efficacy of curcumin and melittin

Curcumin (Cur) and Melittin (Mel) are two natural extracts that have been shown anti-tumor effects. However, their applications are limited due to poor oral bioavailability and the lack of tumor-targeting property. Here, we developed a novel nanocomposite that enabled the co-delivery of Cur and Mel, which consists of α-lactalbumin protein nanotubes (NTs), positively charged N,N,N-trimethyl chitosan (TMC), and a tumor-targeting cyclic peptide iRGD. The results showed that NTs/Cur-TMC-Mel-iRGD incorporated the advantages of each component, for instance, effective compounds loading by NTs, improved cellular uptake by TMC, prolonged accumulation in tumors by iRGD as well as synergistic anti-tumor effects of Cur and Mel. In the tumor-bearing mice, NTs/Cur-TMC-Mel-iRGD treatment remarkably induced cancer cell apoptosis while inhibiting cell proliferation, leading to suppressed tumor growth. Besides, no obvious adverse effects were observed in the blood physiology and tissue histology. Overall, our study provided an effective strategy for co-delivering Cur and Mel, which has a potential for translational clinical research aiming to treat solid tumors.

Antibacterial Activity Assessment of Bi2WO6/Ag3PO4/Ag Photocatalyst and Persian Oak fruit Phytobiotic

The antibacterial effect of the previously reported Bi2WO6/Ag3PO4/Ag Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalyst compared with a phytobiotics named, aqueous extract of Persian Oak fruit. The impact of both materials on the expression of the urease gene was checked in two kinds of samples such as clinical and standard Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). The gene expression differences were collected by real-time PCR from clinical strains and the standard of H. pylori as well as the MIC and MBC were found to be 3.1 and 0.8 mg/mL, and 6.2 and 1.6 mg/mL, for Bi2WO6/Ag3PO4/Ag photocatalyst and Oak fruit Phytobiotics, respectively. Due to the impact of Oak fruit extract on the urease gene of H. pylori, it is possible to use it as a disinfector against this bacterium and the proposed photocatalyst, for efficiently purifying H. pylori bacteria from contaminated environment.

Isoquinoline Alkaloids from Coptis chinensis Franch: Focus on Coptisine as a Potential Therapeutic Candidate against Gastric Cancer Cells

Gastric cancer (GC) has high incidence rates and constitutes a common cause of cancer mortality. Despite advances in treatment, GC remains a challenge in cancer therapy which is why novel treatment strategies are needed. The interest in natural compounds has increased significantly in recent years because of their numerous biological activities, including anti-cancer action. The isolation of the bioactive compounds from Coptis chinensis Franch was carried out with the Centrifugal Partition Chromatography (CPC) technique, using a biphasic solvent system composed of chloroform (CHCl₃)—methanol (MeOH)—water (H₂O) (4:3:3, v/v) with an addition of hydrochloric acid and trietylamine. The identity of the isolated alkaloids was confirmed using a high resolution HPLC-MS chromatograph. The phytochemical constituents of Coptis chinensis such as berberine, jatrorrhizine, palmatine and coptisine significantly inhibited the viability and growth of gastric cancer cell lines ACC-201 and NCI-N87 in a dose-dependent manner, with coptisine showing the highest efficacy as revealed using MTT and BrdU assays, respectively. Flow cytometry analysis confirmed the coptisine-induced population of gastric cancer cells in sub-G1 phase and apoptosis. The combination of coptisine with cisplatin at the fixed-ratio of 1:1 exerted synergistic and additive interactions in ACC-201 and NCI-N87, respectively, as determined by means of isobolographic analysis. In in vivo assay, coptisine was safe for developing zebrafish at the dose equivalent to the highest dose active in vitro, but higher doses (greater than 10 times) caused morphological abnormalities in larvae. Our findings provide a theoretical foundation to further studies on more detailed mechanisms of the bioactive compounds from Coptis chinensis Franch anti-cancer action that inhibit GC cell survival in in vitro settings.

Additive Interactions between Betulinic Acid and Two Taxanes in In Vitro Tests against Four Human Malignant Melanoma Cell Lines

The incidence of melanoma is steadily increasing worldwide. Melanoma is the most lethal skin cancer, and new therapeutic methods are being sought. Our research aimed to investigate the cytotoxic and antiproliferative effects of betulinic acid in vitro, used alone and in combination with taxanes (paclitaxel, docetaxel) in four melanoma cell lines. Isobolographic analysis allowed us to assess the interactions between these compounds. Betulinic acid had no cytotoxic effect on normal human keratinocyte HaCaT cells; the amount of LDH released by them was significantly lower compared to melanoma cell lines. The present study shows that betulinic acid significantly inhibits the growth of melanoma cell lines in vitro. The IC50 values of betulinic acid ranged from 2.21 µM to 15.94 µM against the four melanoma lines. Co-treatment of betulinic acid with paclitaxel or docetaxel generated desirable drug–drug interactions, such as an additive and additive with a tendency to synergy interactions.

Traditional Medicinal Plants as a Source of Inspiration for Osteosarcoma Therapy

Osteosarcoma is one of the most common types of bone cancers among paediatric patients. Despite the advances made in surgery, chemo-, and radiotherapy, the mortality rate of metastatic osteosarcoma remains unchangeably high. The standard drug combination used to treat this bone cancer has remained the same for the last 20 years, and it produces many dangerous side effects. Through history, from ancient to modern times, nature has been a remarkable source of chemical diversity, used to alleviate human disease. The application of modern scientific technology to the study of natural products has identified many specific molecules with anti-cancer properties. This review describes the latest discovered anti-cancer compounds extracted from traditional medicinal plants, with a focus on osteosarcoma research, and on their cellular and molecular mechanisms of action. The presented compounds have proven to kill osteosarcoma cells by interfering with different pathways: apoptosis induction, stimulation of autophagy, generation of reactive oxygen species, etc. This wide variety of cellular targets confer natural products the potential to be used as chemotherapeutic drugs, and also the ability to act as sensitizers in drug combination treatments. The major hindrance for these molecules is low bioavailability. A problem that may be solved by chemical modification or nano-encapsulation.

The antitumour activity of C21 steroidal glycosides and their derivatives of Baishouwu: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Baishouwu has been used in China for thousands of years since it was first discovered in the late Tang Dynasty and flourished in the Song and Ming Dynasties. The Chinese herbal medicines named Baishouwu include Cynanchum auriculatum Royle ex Wight., Cynanchum bungei Decne. and Cynanchum wilfordii Hemsl. It is described in the Sign of Materia Medica as "sweet, bitter, reinforce liver and kidney, and non-toxic". It is widely used for nourishing the blood to expel wind, reinforcing liver and kidney, strengthening bones and muscles.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

In this review, the current research status of the C₂₁ steroidal glycosides and their derivatives of Baishouwu for malignant tumours and their anti-tumour mechanisms are discussed. This may lay the ground for potential application of Baishouwu and its active ingredients in the treatment of tumours.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Scientific databases, including PubMed, Elsevier, Science Direct, Google Scholar, CNKI, WANFANG DATA and VIP were searched to gather data about Baishouwu and its C₂₁ steroidal glycosides and their derivatives.

RESULTS

Prior literature indicates that Baishouwu has important biological activities such as anti-tumour, anti-epileptic, reducing cholesterol, protection of liver and kidney and immunomodulatory, which are of increasing interest, especially its anti-tumour activity. Recent studies demonstrate that the C₂₁ steroidal glycosides of Baishouwu, which have prominent antitumour efficacy, are one of its main active ingredients. Presently, a variety of C₂₁ steroidal glycosides have been isolated from Baishouwu medicinal part, the tuberous root. This review summarizes the various antitumour activities of the C₂₁ steroidal glycosides and their derivatives of Baishouwu.

CONCLUSIONS

In this review, the antitumour effects and mechanisms of total C₂₁ steroidal glycosides and monomers and derivatives of Baishouwu in vitro and in vivo were summarized. Baishouwu can inhibit tumourigenesis by blocking tumour cell cycle progression, regulating numerous signaling pathways, promoting apoptosis, inhibiting tumour cells proliferation and metastasis, improving immunity and so on. This review provides a theoretical basis for inheriting and developing the medical heritage of the motherland, exploring the resources of traditional Chinese medicine for ethnic minorities and clinical rational drug use.

The Role of Natural Products and Their Multitargeted Approach to Treat Solid Cancer

Natural products play a critical role in the discovery and development of numerous drugs for the treatment of various types of cancer. These phytochemicals have demonstrated anti-carcinogenic properties by interfering with the initiation, development, and progression of cancer through altering various mechanisms such as cellular proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Treating multifactorial diseases, such as cancer with agents targeting a single target, might lead to limited success and, in many cases, unsatisfactory outcomes. Various epidemiological studies have shown that the steady consumption of fruits and vegetables is intensely associated with a reduced risk of cancer. Since ancient period, plants, herbs, and other natural products have been used as healing agents. Likewise, most of the medicinal ingredients accessible today are originated from the natural resources. Regardless of achievements, developing bioactive compounds and drugs from natural products has remained challenging, in part because of the problem associated with large-scale sequestration and mechanistic understanding. With significant progress in the landscape of cancer therapy and the rising use of cutting-edge technologies, we may have come to a crossroads to review approaches to identify the potential natural products and investigate their therapeutic efficacy. In the present review, we summarize the recent developments in natural products-based cancer research and its application in generating novel systemic strategies with a focus on underlying molecular mechanisms in solid cancer.

Screening of Specific and Common Pathways in Breast Cancer Cell Lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 Treated with Chlorophyllides Composites

Our previous findings have shown that the chlorophyllides composites have anticancer activities to breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231). In the present study, microarray gene expression profiling was utilized to investigate the chlorophyllides anticancer mechanism on the breast cancer cells lines. Results showed that chlorophyllides composites induced upregulation of 43 and 56 differentially expressed genes (DEG) in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells, respectively. In both cell lines, chlorophyllides composites modulated the expression of annexin A4 (ANXA4), chemokine C-C motif receptor 1 (CCR1), stromal interaction molecule 2 (STIM2), ethanolamine kinase 1 (ETNK1) and member of RAS oncogene family (RAP2B). Further, the KEGG annotation revealed that chlorophyllides composites modulated DEGs that are associated with the endocrine system in MCF-7 cells and with the nervous system in MDA-MB-231 cells, respectively. The expression levels of 9 genes were validated by quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR). The expression of CCR1, STIM2, ETNK1, MAGl1 and TOP2A were upregulated in both chlorophyllides composites treated-MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. The different expression of NLRC5, SLC7A7 and PKN1 provided valuable information for future investigation and development of novel cancer therapy.

The impact of aromatic plant-derived bioactive compounds on seafood quality and safety

Plant-derived bioactive compounds have been extensively studied and used within food industry for the last few decades. Those compounds have been used to extend the shelf-life and improve physico-chemical and sensory properties on food products. They have also been used as nutraceuticals due to broad range of potential health-promoting properties. Unlike the synthetic additives, the natural plant-derived compounds are more acceptable and often regarded as safer by the consumers. This chapter summarizes the extraction methods and sources of those plant-derived bioactives as well as recent findings in relation to their health-promoting properties, including cardio-protective, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, immuno-modulatory and neuro-protective properties. In addition, the impact of applying those plant-derived compounds on seafood products is also investigated by reviewing the recent studies on their use as anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, coloring and flavoring agents as well as freshness indicators. Moreover, the current limitations of the use of plant-derived bioactive compounds as well as future prospects are discussed. The discoveries show high potential of those compounds and the possibility to apply on many different seafood. The compounds can be applied as individual while more and more studies are showing synergetic effect when those compounds are used in combination providing new important research possibilities.

Targeting Mechanisms of the DNA Damage Response (DDR) and DNA Repair by Natural Compounds to Improve cAT-Triggered Tumor Cell Death

Recently, we identified secalonic acid F (SA), 5-epi-nakijiquinone Q (NQ) and 5-epi-ilimaquinone (IQ) as natural compounds (NC) affecting mechanisms of the DNA damage response (DDR). Here, we further characterized their effects on DDR, DNA repair and cytotoxicity if used in mono- and co-treatment with conventional anticancer therapeutics (cAT) (cisplatin (Cis), doxorubicin (Doxo)) in vitro. All three NC influence the phosphorylation level of selected DDR-related factors (i.e., pCHK1, pKAP1, pP53, pRPA32) in mono- and/or co-treatment. Both SA and NQ attenuate the Cis- and Doxo-induced G2/M-phase arrest and effectively stimulate caspase-mediated apoptosis. Notably, SA impacts DNA repair as reflected by enhanced steady-state levels of Cis-(1,2-GpG)-DNA adducts and Doxo-induced DNA double-strand breaks (DSB). Moreover, SA decreased the mRNA and protein expression of the homologous recombination (HR)-related DSB repair factors RAD51 and BRCA1. Both SA and NQ promote Cis- and Doxo-induced cytotoxicity in an additive to synergistic manner (CI ≤ 1.0). Summarizing, we conclude that SA promotes cAT-driven caspase-dependent cell death by interfering with DSB repair and DDR-related checkpoint control mechanisms. Hence, SA is considered as the most promising lead compound to evaluate its therapeutic window in forthcoming pre-clinical in vivo studies.

Rediscovering the Therapeutic Potential of Agarwood in the Management of Chronic Inflammatory Diseases

The inflammatory response is a central aspect of the human immune system that acts as a defense mechanism to protect the body against infections and injuries. A dysregulated inflammatory response is a major health concern, as it can disrupt homeostasis and lead to a plethora of chronic inflammatory conditions. These chronic inflammatory diseases are one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide and the need for them to be managed in the long term has become a crucial task to alleviate symptoms and improve patients’ overall quality of life. Although various synthetic anti-inflammatory agents have been developed to date, these medications are associated with several adverse effects that have led to poor therapeutic outcomes. The hunt for novel alternatives to modulate underlying chronic inflammatory processes has unveiled nature to be a plentiful source. One such example is agarwood, which is a valuable resinous wood from the trees of Aquilaria spp. Agarwood has been widely utilized for medicinal purposes since ancient times due to its ability to relieve pain, asthmatic symptoms, and arrest vomiting. In terms of inflammation, the major constituent of agarwood, agarwood oil, has been shown to possess multiple bioactive compounds that can regulate molecular mechanisms of chronic inflammation, thereby producing a multitude of pharmacological functions for treating various inflammatory disorders. As such, agarwood oil presents great potential to be developed as a novel anti-inflammatory therapeutic to overcome the drawbacks of existing therapies and improve treatment outcomes. In this review, we have summarized the current literature on agarwood and its bioactive components and have highlighted the potential roles of agarwood oil in treating various chronic inflammatory diseases.

Dietary phytochemicals targeting Nrf2 for chemoprevention in breast cancer

Breast cancer accounts for 11.7% of all newly diagnosed cancer cases and has become the leading cause of cancer worldwide. Currently, more effective and less toxic chemopreventive strategies for breast cancer are urgently needed. Notably, naturally occurring dietary phytochemical compounds, such as curcumin and resveratrol, are generally considered to be the most promising breast cancer preventive agents. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a transcription factor that plays a key regulatory role in the expression of multiple antioxidant and anti-inflammatory enzymes, which can effectively suppress the excessive accumulation of carcinogens and their metabolites. Therefore, modulation of Nrf2 by dietary phytochemicals appears to be a promising approach for breast cancer prevention, which further removes excessive carcinogenic metabolites by inducing Phase II cytoprotective enzymes such as heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and NAD(P)H quinine oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1). In this review, we summarize recently published findings on the prevention of breast cancer with potential natural phytochemical compounds targeting Nrf2, as well as a mechanistic discussion of Nrf2 activation and its contribution in inhibiting breast cancer carcinogenesis. The epigenetic regulation of Nrf2 by phytochemicals is also explored.

Influence of ethanolic extract of Allium sativum on TP53 gene and its anticancer potential in N-Nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA)-induced hepatocellular carcinoma in male albino rats

Objectives

Cancer is a group of genetic disorders in which the behavior of the cell is disturbed by mutation and other abnormalities thereby posing as the leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is the most common form of liver cancer, highly aggressive with high mortality and incidence rate; and has limited therapeutic options. Most of the conventional cancer chemotherapeutics are associated with undesirable side effects, toxicity, chemoresistance, and high treatment cost, driving the need for a safer and more effective treatment alternative. Medicinal plants and herbs have shown very promising anti-cancer properties which are important for cancer treatment due to their multiple chemical compounds.

Materials and Methods

Qualitative screening of the ethanolic extractof Allium sativum was conducted showing the different phytochemicalspresent. The levels of liver function and hematological parameters wasdetermined via spectrophotometric analysis. Polymerase Chain Reaction techniquewas used to assess the gene patterns of Tumorsuppressor p53 (TP53).

Results

Phytochemical analysis revealed that Allium sativum has properties that antagonize the proliferating process of carcinogenesis in the liver. The NDEA-group showed significant distortion in the liver architecture characterized by vascular congestion of blood sinusoids, cirrhosis, and congestive hepatopathy while the treated groups showed a reduction in the abnormalities and malignant formation. The treated group showed a significant (P<0.05) increase and restored activities of Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Bilirubin and hematological parameters (RBCs, WBCs, and Platelets). TP53 gene amplification was significantly (P<0.05) visible after treatment.

Conclusion

Ethanolic plant extract of A. sativum demonstrates its anticancer properties by improving the liver architecture, increasing the antioxidant defense systems, and activation of the tumor suppressor (TP53) gene. Garlic extract has anti-proliferating properties and can be used as an alternative mode of treatment and prevention for hepatocellular carcinoma.

Hidden in Plants-A Review of the Anticancer Potential of the Solanaceae Family in In Vitro and In Vivo Studies

Many of the anticancer agents that are currently in use demonstrate severe side effects and encounter increasing resistance from the target cancer cells. Thus, despite significant advances in cancer therapy in recent decades, there is still a need to discover and develop new, alternative anticancer agents. The plant kingdom contains a range of phytochemicals that play important roles in the prevention and treatment of many diseases. The Solanaceae family is widely used in the treatment of various diseases, including cancer, due to its bioactive ingredient content. The purpose of this literature review is to highlight the antitumour activity of Solanaceae extracts-single isolated compounds and nanoparticles with extracts-and their synergistic effect with chemotherapeutic agents in various in vitro and in vivo cancer models. In addition, the biological properties of many plants of the Solanaceae family have not yet been investigated, which represents a challenge and an opportunity for future anticancer therapy.

Modulation of TLR/NF-κB/NLRP Signaling by Bioactive Phytocompounds: A Promising Strategy to Augment Cancer Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy

Background

Tumors often progress to a more aggressive phenotype to resist drugs. Multiple dysregulated pathways are behind this tumor behavior which is known as cancer chemoresistance. Thus, there is an emerging need to discover pivotal signaling pathways involved in the resistance to chemotherapeutic agents and cancer immunotherapy. Reports indicate the critical role of the toll-like receptor (TLR)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)/Nod-like receptor pyrin domain-containing (NLRP) pathway in cancer initiation, progression, and development. Therefore, targeting TLR/NF-κB/NLRP signaling is a promising strategy to augment cancer chemotherapy and immunotherapy and to combat chemoresistance. Considering the potential of phytochemicals in the regulation of multiple dysregulated pathways during cancer initiation, promotion, and progression, such compounds could be suitable candidates against cancer chemoresistance.

Objectives

This is the first comprehensive and systematic review regarding the role of phytochemicals in the mitigation of chemoresistance by regulating the TLR/NF-κB/NLRP signaling pathway in chemotherapy and immunotherapy.

Methods

A comprehensive and systematic review was designed based on Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane electronic databases. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed to include papers on TLR/NF-κB/NLRP and chemotherapy/immunotherapy/chemoresistance by phytochemicals.

Results

Phytochemicals are promising multi-targeting candidates against the TLR/NF-κB/NLRP signaling pathway and interconnected mediators. Employing phenolic compounds, alkaloids, terpenoids, and sulfur compounds could be a promising strategy for managing cancer chemoresistance through the modulation of the TLR/NF-κB/NLRP signaling pathway. Novel delivery systems of phytochemicals in cancer chemotherapy/immunotherapy are also highlighted.

Conclusion

Targeting TLR/NF-κB/NLRP signaling with bioactive phytocompounds reverses chemoresistance and improves the outcome for chemotherapy and immunotherapy in both preclinical and clinical stages.

iANP-EC: Identifying Anticancer Natural Products Using Ensemble Learning Incorporated with Evolutionary Computation

Cancer is one of the most deadly diseases that annually kills millions of people worldwide. The investigation on anticancer medicines has never ceased to seek better and more adaptive agents with fewer side effects. Besides chemically synthetic anticancer compounds, natural products are scientifically proved as a highly potential alternative source for anticancer drug discovery. Along with experimental approaches being used to find anticancer drug candidates, computational approaches have been developed to virtually screen for potential anticancer compounds. In this study, we construct an ensemble computational framework, called iANP-EC, using machine learning approaches incorporated with evolutionary computation. Four learning algorithms (k-NN, SVM, RF, and XGB) and four molecular representation schemes are used to build a set of classifiers, among which the top-four best-performing classifiers are selected to form an ensemble classifier. Particle swarm optimization (PSO) is used to optimise the weights used to combined the four top classifiers. The models are developed by a set of curated 997 compounds which are collected from the NPACT and CancerHSP databases. The results show that iANP-EC is a stable, robust, and effective framework that achieves an AUC-ROC value of 0.9193 and an AUC-PR value of 0.8366. The comparative analysis of molecular substructures between natural anticarcinogens and nonanticarcinogens partially unveils several key substructures that drive anticancerous activities. We also deploy the proposed ensemble model as an online web server with a user-friendly interface to support the research community in identifying natural products with anticancer activities.

Computational approaches for evaluation of isobavachin as potential inhibitor against t877a and w741l mutations in prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is the World's second most common cancer, with the fifth-highest male mortality rate. Point mutations such as T877A and W741L are frequently seen in advanced prostate cancer patients, conferring drug-resistance and hence driving cancer growth. Such occurrence of drug resistance in prostate cancer necessitates designing of suitable ligands to ensure better interactions with the receptors which can block the progression of the disease. The present study focus on the modification of plant-derived flavonoids that might act as inhibitors against such point mutations namely, T877A and W741L. In T877A mutation threonine is substituted by alanine at the 877 codon and W741L mutation, tryptophan is substituted by lysine at the 741 codon in prostate cancer. The study revolved on the aspect of the evaluation of Isobavachin and its derivatives as a potential agent to tackle such point mutations by using the in silico approach. A total of 98 molecular dockings were performed to find the ligand-receptor complexes with the lowest binding energy employing Autodock Software to conduct the blind and site-specific docking. Additionally, ligands were screened for Drug-likeness and toxicity using several tools yielding eight possible drug candidates. Based on the results of Molecular Docking, Drug-likeness, and ADMET testing, ten structures, including six complexes and three receptors were subjected to molecular dynamics simulation of 100 ns covering RMSD, RMSF, Rg, and MM/PBSA. Based on the simulation results, Isobavachin, IsoMod4, and IsoMod7 were concluded to be stable and exhibited potential properties for developing a novel drug to combat prostate cancer and its associated drug-resistance.

In Vitro Antitumor Activity of Endophytic and Rhizosphere Gram-Positive Bacteria from Ibervillea sonorae (S. Watson) Greene against L5178Y-R Lymphoma Cells

Plant-associated microorganisms represent a potential source of new antitumor compounds. The aim of the present study was to isolate endophytic and rhizosphere Gram-positive bacteria from Ibervillea sonorae and produce extracts with antitumor activity. Methanol and ethyl acetate extracts were obtained from 28 d bacterial fermentation, after which murine L5178Y-R lymphoma cells growth inhibition was evaluated at concentrations ranging from 15.62 µg/mL to 500 µg/mL by the 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide reduction colorimetric assay. IC₅₀ and the selectivity index (SI) were calculated and compared with healthy control human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Identification of the isolated strains was performed using the 16S ribosomal gene and by MALDI-TOF MS mass spectrometry. The endophytic and rhizosphere bacterial extracts from strains ISE-B22, ISE-B26, ISE-B27, ISS-A01, ISS-A06, and ISS-A16 showed significant (p < 0.05) L5178Y-R cell growth inhibition, compared with an untreated control. The rhizosphere Micromonospora echinospora isolate ISS-A16 showed the highest (90.48%) percentage of lymphoma cells growth inhibition and SI (19.1) for PBMC, whereas the Bacillus subtilis ISE-B26 isolate caused significant (p < 0.01) growth inhibition (84.32%) and a SI of 5.2. Taken together, results of the present study evidenced antitumor effects by I. sonorae endophytic and rhizosphere bacteria culture extracts. Further research will involve the elucidation of the compounds that exert the antitumor activity and their evaluation in pre-clinical studies.

Comparative Evaluation of the Potential Antitumor of Helleborus purpurascens in Skin and Breast Cancer

In the field of oncology, the plant kingdom has an inexhaustible supply of bioactive compounds. Phytochemical compounds isolated from Helleborus species have been found to be useful in various chronic diseases. This has brought Helleborus to the attention of medical researchers. H. purpurascens is a plant characteristic of the Carpathian area, known since ancient times for its beneficial effects. The aim of the study was to evaluate the flavonoids composition of a hydroalcoholic extract of H. purpurascens, as well as to assess its antioxidant activity and antitumor potential at the level of two healthy cell lines and four tumor cell lines. In addition, the expression of the genes involved in the apoptotic process (Bcl-2, Bad, and Bax) were evaluated. The results indicated that the extract has a high concentration of flavonoids, such as epicatechin, quercetin, and kaempferol. The extract has an increased antioxidant activity, very similar to that of the standard, ascorbic acid and cytotoxic effects predominantly in the breast cancer cell line, being free of cytotoxic effects in healthy cell lines. Underlying the cytotoxic effect is the induction of the process of apoptosis, which in the present study was highlighted by decreasing the expression of anti-apoptotic genes (Bcl-2) and increasing the expression of pro-apoptotic genes (Bad and Bax). In conclusion, the hydroalcoholic extract of H. purpurascens can be considered an important source for future medical applications in cancer therapy.

Biological Effects of Gyrophoric Acid and Other Lichen Derived Metabolites, on Cell Proliferation, Apoptosis and Cell Signaling pathways

Secondary metabolites from fungi, algae and lichens have remarkable biological activities as antibiotics, fungicides, antiviral drugs, and cancer therapeutics. This review focuses on the lichen-derived metabolite gyrophoric acid and other select secondary metabolites (e.g., usnic acid, salazinic acid, physodic acid, vulpinic acid ceratinalone, flavicansone, ramalin, physciosporin, tumidulin, atranorin, parmosidone) that modulate a number of cellular pathways relevant to several biomedical diseases and disorders, including cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. We discuss the chemical structure and biochemical activities of gyrophoric acid and other compounds relative to the molecular mechanisms and cellular processes that these metabolites target in a distinct human and rodent cell types. The therapeutic promise of gyrophoric acid and similar lichen derived metabolites is associated with the chemical versatility of these compounds as polyaromatic depsides with functional carboxyl and hydroxyl side-groups that may permit selective interactions with distinct enzymatic active sites. Gyrophoric acid has been examined in a series of studies as an effective anticancer drug because it impinges on topoisomerase 1 activity, as well as causes cell cycle arrest, comprises cell survival, and promotes apoptosis. Because gyrophoric acid has cytostatic properties, its biological roles and possible medicinal utility may extend beyond effects on cancer cells and be relevant to any process that is controlled by cell growth and differentiation.

A brief overview of classical natural product drug synthesis and bioactivity

This manuscript briefly overviewed the total synthesis and structure–activity relationship studies of eight classical natural products, which emphasizes the important role of total synthesis in natural product-based drug development.

Mulberry Leaf Polyphenol Extract and Rutin Induces Autophagy Regulated by p53 in Human Hepatoma HepG2 Cells

The edible leaves of the mulberry (Morus alba L.) plant are used worldwide. They contain abundant polyphenolic compounds with strong anticancer properties. We previously revealed that apoptosis was mediated in p53-negative Hep3B cells, and mulberry leaf polyphenol extract (MLPE) induced autophagy in p53-transfected Hep3B cells. However, how this autophagy is induced by p53 in human hepatoma HepG2 (p53 wild type) cells remains unclear. In the current study, MLPE induced autophagy, as demonstrated by enhanced acidic vesicular organelle staining, by upregulating beclin-1, increasing LC3-II conversion, and phosphorylating AMPK. In HepG2 cells, these processes were associated with p53. Western blot also revealed phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K), p-AKT, and fatty acid synthase (FASN) suppression in MLPE-treated cells. Moreover, treatment with the p53 inhibitor pifithrin-α (PFT-α) inhibited autophagy and increased apoptotic response in MLPE-treated HepG2 cells. PFT-α treatment also reversed MLPE-induced PI3K, p-AKT, and FASN suppression. Thus, co-treatment with MLPE and PFT-α significantly increased caspase-3, caspase-8, and cytochrome c release, indicating that p53 deficiency caused the apoptosis. In addition, rutin, a bioactive polyphenol in MLPE, may affect autophagy in HepG2 cells. This study demonstrates that MLPE is a potential anticancer agent targeting autophagy and apoptosis in cells with p53 status. Moreover, this work provides insight into the mechanism of p53 action in MLPE-induced cytotoxicity in hepatocellular carcinoma.

Phytochemical Analysis and In Vitro Cytotoxic Activity against Colorectal Adenocarcinoma Cells of Hippophae rhamnodies L., Cymbopogon citratus (D.C.) Stapf, and Ocimum basilicum L. Essential Oils

Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancer types with current deficient and aggressive treatment options, but various studied alternative therapies are able to efficiently contribute to its management. Essential oils (EOs) contain valuable compounds, with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties, which might serve as effective solutions in CRC prophylaxis or treatment. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the phytochemical composition and in vitro biological activity of essential oils derived from Hippophae rhamnoides (Hr_EO), Cymbopogon citratus (Cc_EO), and Ocimum basilicum (Ob_EO) species on HT-29 and Caco-2 human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell lines. The main compounds identified by GC-MS analysis were estragole (Hr_EO, Ob_EO), alpha- and beta-citral (Cc_EO). All tested EOs exerted a dose-dependent cytotoxicity on both cell lines by reducing the cell viability, especially in the case of Cc_EO, where at 75 µg/mL the viability percentages reached the values of 62.69% (Caco-2) and 64.09% (HT-29), respectively. The nuclear morphology evaluation highlighted significant dysmorphologies on both lines after their treatment with EOs at 75 µg/mL.

Investigation of Lupeol as Anti-Melanoma Agent: An In Vitro-In Ovo Perspective

Malignant melanoma (MM) represents the most life-threatening skin cancer worldwide, with a narrow and inefficient chemotherapeutic arsenal available in advanced disease stages. Lupeol (LUP) is a triterpenoid-type phytochemical possessing a broad spectrum of pharmacological properties, including a potent anticancer effect against several neoplasms (e.g., colorectal, lung, and liver). However, its potential as an anti-melanoma agent has been investigated to a lesser extent. The current study focused on exploring the impact of LUP against two human MM cell lines (A375 and RPMI-7951) in terms of cell viability, confluence, morphology, cytoskeletal distribution, nuclear aspect, and migration. Additionally, the in ovo antiangiogenic effect has been also examined. The in vitro results indicated concentration-dependent and selective cytotoxicity against both MM cell lines, with estimated IC₅₀ values of 66.59 ± 2.20 for A375, and 45.54 ± 1.48 for RPMI-7951, respectively, accompanied by a reduced cell confluence, apoptosis-specific nuclear features, reorganization of cytoskeletal components, and inhibited cell migration. In ovo, LUP interfered with the process of angiogenesis by reducing the formation of neovascularization. Despite the potential anti-melanoma effect illustrated in our in vitro-in ovo study, further investigations are required to elucidate the underlying LUP-induced effects in A375 and RPMI-7951 MM cells.

Bioactive small-molecule constituents of Lao plants

Laos has a rich plant diversity, and medicinal plants are used extensively in Lao traditional medicine for the treatment of a variety of human diseases. However, only a relatively small number of these plants have been investigated for their major components with potential antitumor, anti-infective, and other types of bioactivities. These species include Asparagus cochinchinensis, Diospyros quaesita, Gongronema napalense, Marsypopetalum modestum, Nauclea orientalis, Rourea minor, Stemona pierrei, and Stemona tuberosa. Thus far, the bioactive compounds isolated from these Lao plants include alkaloids, glycerol esters, phenolic compounds such as lignans and stilbenoids, steroids, and triterpenoids. Of these, the norlignan, nyasol (1b), the triterpenes, pyracrenic acid [3β-O-trans-caffeoylbetulinic acid (3)] and betulinic acid (3b), and the dimeric thiopyridine, dipyrithione (5), were found to show both cancer cell cytotoxicity and anti-infective activity. The present review focuses on examples of promising lead compounds isolated from Lao plants, with their possible development as potential therapeutic agents being discussed. It is hoped that this contribution will provide useful information on higher plants growing in Laos to help stimulate future discoveries of potential agents for the treatment of cancer, infections, and other diseases.

Treating Cancers Using Nature's Medicine: Significance and Challenges

There was a time when plant-derived natural formulations were the cornerstone of ancient therapeutic approaches for treating many illnesses [...].

Insight into Potential Anticancer Activity of Algal Flavonoids: Current Status and Challenges

Flavonoids are some of the most precious phytochemicals, believed to be found largely in terrestrial plants. With the advancement of phytochemical research and marine bioprospecting, flavonoids have also been reported by the research of microalgae and macroalgae. High growth rate with minimal nutritional and growth requirement, saving arable land and rich metabolic profile make microalgae an excellent repertoire of novel anticancer compounds, such as flavonoids. In addition, marine algae, especially seaweeds contain different types of flavonoids which are assumed to have unique chemical structures and bioactivities than their terrestrial counterparts. Flavonoids are not only good antioxidants but also have the abilities to kill cancer cells by inducing apoptosis and autophagy. However, the study of the anticancer properties of flavonoids is largely limited to terrestrial plants. This review offers an insight into the distribution of different classes of flavonoids in eukaryotic microalgae, cyanobacteria and seaweeds with their possible anticancer activities. In addition, extraction and purification methods of these flavonoids have been highlighted. Finally, prospects and challenges to use algal flavonoids as anticancer agents have been discussed.

Vegetal Compounds as Sources of Prophylactic and Therapeutic Agents in Dentistry

Dental pathology remains a global health problem affecting both children and adults. The most important dental diseases are dental caries and periodontal pathologies. The main cause of oral health problems is overpopulation with pathogenic bacteria and for this reason, conventional therapy can often be ineffective due to bacterial resistance or may have unpleasant side effects. For that reason, studies in the field have focused on finding new therapeutic alternatives. Special attention is paid to the plant kingdom, which offers a wide range of plants and active compounds in various pathologies. This review focused on the most used plants in the dental field, especially on active phytocompounds, both in terms of chemical structure and in terms of mechanism of action. It also approached the in vitro study of active compounds and the main types of cell lines used to elucidate the effect and mechanism of action. Thus, medicinal plants and their compounds represent a promising and interesting alternative to conventional therapy.

EGFR and ERK activation resists flavonoid quercetin-induced anticancer activities in human cervical cancer cells in vitro

In the present study, due to the complex and numerous targets of Sarcandrae Herb (also known as Zhong Jie Feng), network pharmacology was performed to analyze its therapeutic effect on 2 cervical cancer cell lines, which could assist with the development of novel therapies. The results suggested that the natural flavonoid quercetin (Que), the effective antitumor ingredient in SH, which is widely present in a variety of plants, may depend on the target, EGFR. Previous studies have shown that EGFR serves a crucial role in the occurrence and development of cervical cancer, but its downstream molecules and regulatory mechanisms remain unknown. The anti-cervical cancer cell properties of Que, which are present in ubiquitous plants, were examined in vitro to identify the association between Que and its underlying pathway using MTT assays, flow cytometry, western blot analysis and Transwell assays. It was found that Que reduced cervical cancer cell viability, promoted G₂/M phase cell cycle arrest and cell apoptosis, as well as inhibited cell migration and invasion. The Tyr1068 phosphorylation site of EGFR and the corresponding ERK target were also examined and the 2 kinases were markedly activated by Que. Furthermore, the EGFR inhibitor, afatinib and the ERK inhibitor, U0126 blocked the increase of EGFR and ERK phosphorylation, and resulted in a notable enhancement of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. Therefore, to the best of our knowledge, the current results provided the first evidence that EGFR and ERK activation induced by Que could resist Que-induced anticancer activities. On this basis, the present study determined the role of EGFR and the underlying signaling pathways involved in the anti-cervical cancer malignant behavior induced by Que and identified the negative regulatory association.

Rutin Exerts Cytotoxic and Senescence-Inducing Properties in Human Melanoma Cells

Malignant melanoma represents the deadliest type of skin cancer with narrow treatment options in advanced stages. Herbal constituents possessing anticancer properties occupy a particular spot in melanoma research as potential chemotherapeutics. Rutin (RUT) is a natural compound exerting antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, UV-filtering, and SPF-enhancing activities that are beneficial to the skin; however, its effect as an anti-melanoma agent is less investigated. The current study is focused on assessing the cytotoxic potential of RUT against two different human melanoma cell lines: RPMI-7951 and SK-MEL-28 by evaluating its impact in terms of cell viability, cells’ morphology, and nuclear aspect assessment, and senescence-inducing properties. The results indicate a dose-dependent decrease in the viability of both cell lines, with calculated IC₅₀ values of 64.49 ± 13.27 µM for RPMI-7951 cells and 47.44 ± 2.41 µM for SK-MEL-28, respectively, accompanied by a visible reduction in the cell confluency and apoptotic features within the cell nuclei. RUT exerted a senescence-inducing property highlighted by the elevated expression of senescent-associated beta-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) in SK-MEL-28 cells. Despite the in vitro anti-melanoma effect revealed by our results, further studies are required to elucidate the mechanisms of RUT-induced cytotoxicity and senescence in melanoma cells.

Curcumin Reverses NNMT-Induced 5-Fluorouracil Resistance via Increasing ROS and Cell Cycle Arrest in Colorectal Cancer Cells

Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) plays multiple roles in improving the aggressiveness of colorectal cancer (CRC) and enhancing resistance to 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU), making it an attractive therapeutic target. Curcumin (Cur) is a promising natural compound, exhibiting multiple antitumor effects and potentiating the effect of 5-FU. The aim of the present study is to explore the effect of Cur on attenuating NNMT-induced resistance to 5-FU in CRC. A panel of CRC cell lines with different NNMT expressions are used to characterize the effect of Cur. Herein, it is observed that Cur can depress the expression of NNMT and p-STAT3 in CRC cells. Furthermore, Cur can induce inhibition of cell proliferation, G2/M phase cell cycle arrest, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, especially in high-NNMT-expression CRC cell lines. Cur can also re-sensitize high-NNMT-expression CRC cells to 5-FU both in vitro and in vivo. In summary, it is proposed that Cur can reverse NNMT-induced cell proliferation and 5-FU resistance through ROS generation and cell cycle arrest. Given that Cur has long been used, we suppose that Cur is a promising anticancer drug candidate with minimal side effects for human CRC therapy and can attenuate NNMT-induced resistance to 5-FU.

Role of Luteolin-Induced Apoptosis and Autophagy in Human Glioblastoma Cell Lines

Background and Objectives: Malignant glioblastoma (GBM) is caused by abnormal proliferation of glial cells, which are found in the brain. The therapeutic effects of surgical treatment, radiation therapy, and chemo-therapy against GBM are relatively poor compared with their effects against other tumors. Luteolin is abundant in peanut shells and is also found in herbs and other plants, such as thyme, green pepper, and celery. Luteolin is known to be effective against obesity and metabolic syndrome. The anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer activities of luteolin have been investigated. Most studies have focused on the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of luteolin, which is a natural flavonoid. However, the association between the induction of apoptosis by luteolin in GBM and autophagy has not yet been investigated. This study thus aimed to confirm the occurrence of luteolin-induced apoptosis and autophagy in GBM cells and to assess their relationship. Materials and Methods: A172 and U-373MG glioblastoma cell lines were used for this experiment. We confirmed the apoptosis effect of Luteolin on GBM cells using methods such as 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, immunofluorescence, Flow cytometry (FACS) western blot, and real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR). Results: In the luteolin-treated A172 and U-373MG cells, cell viability decreased in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. In addition, in A172 and U-373MG cells treated with luteolin at concentrations greater than 100 μM, nuclear fragmentation, which is a typical morphological change characterizing apoptosis, as well as fragmentation of caspase-3 and Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), which are apoptosis-related factors, were observed. Autophagy was induced after treatment with at least 50 μM luteolin. Inhibition of autophagy using 3MA allowed for a low concentration of luteolin to more effectively induce apoptosis in A172 and U-373MG cells. Conclusions: Results showed that luteolin induces apoptosis and autophagy and that the luteolin-induced autophagy promotes cell survival. Therefore, an appropriate combination therapy involving luteolin and an autophagy inhibitor is expected to improve the prognosis of GBM treatment.

Assessment of Betulinic Acid Cytotoxicity and Mitochondrial Metabolism Impairment in a Human Melanoma Cell Line

Melanoma represents one of the most aggressive and drug resistant skin cancers with poor prognosis in its advanced stages. Despite the increasing number of targeted therapies, novel approaches are needed to counteract both therapeutic resistance and the side effects of classic therapy. Betulinic acid (BA) is a bioactive phytocompound that has been reported to induce apoptosis in several types of cancers including melanomas; however, its effects on mitochondrial bioenergetics are less investigated. The present study performed in A375 human melanoma cells was aimed to characterize the effects of BA on mitochondrial bioenergetics and cellular behavior. BA demonstrated a dose-dependent inhibitory effect in both mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis in A375 melanoma cells and at sub-toxic concentrations (10 μM) induced mitochondrial dysfunction by eliciting a decrease in the mitochondrial membrane potential and changes in mitochondria morphology and localization. In addition, BA triggered a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect characterized by apoptotic features: morphological alterations (nuclear fragmentation, apoptotic bodies) and the upregulation of pro-apoptotic markers mRNA expression (Bax, Bad and Bak). BA represents a viable therapeutic option via a complex modulatory effect on mitochondrial metabolism that might be useful in advanced melanoma or as reliable strategy to counteract resistance to standard therapy.

Potential Health Benefits of Plant Food-Derived Bioactive Components: An Overview

Plant foods are consumed worldwide due to their immense energy density and nutritive value. Their consumption has been following an increasing trend due to several metabolic disorders linked to non-vegetarian diets. In addition to their nutritive value, plant foods contain several bioactive constituents that have been shown to possess health-promoting properties. Plant-derived bioactive compounds, such as biologically active proteins, polyphenols, phytosterols, biogenic amines, carotenoids, etc., have been reported to be beneficial for human health, for instance in cases of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes, as well as for people with gut, immune function, and neurodegenerative disorders. Previous studies have reported that bioactive components possess antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties, in addition to improving intestinal barrier functioning etc., which contribute to their ability to mitigate the pathological impact of various human diseases. This review describes the bioactive components derived from fruit, vegetables, cereals, and other plant sources with health promoting attributes, and the mechanisms responsible for the bioactive properties of some of these plant components. This review mainly compiles the potential of food derived bioactive compounds, providing information for researchers that may be valuable for devising future strategies such as choosing promising bioactive ingredients to make functional foods for various non-communicable disorders.

Conventional grade 1 chondrosarcoma: a challenging diagnosis with important implications on therapy and prognosis

Chondrosarcoma (CHS) is a malignant tumor of soft tissue with cartilaginous differentiation that represent one tenth of all malignant proliferations developed from bone tissues. Even if CHS represents the third malignancy with bone localization, after myeloma and osteosarcoma, it is far less diagnosed in the head and neck region. The current paper presented two cases of conventional CHSs, which were diagnosed in Department of Thoracic Surgery and Department of Otorhinolaryngology of Emergency City Hospital, Timişoara, Romania, between February and June 2021. The malignant cases were of peripheral CHSs, one of scapula, and the other one had an extremely rare tracheal location with microscopic features of conventional low-grade tumors (grade 1). In all cases, conservative surgical curative treatment was performed, with a favorable postoperative evolution.