The role of chalcones in suppression of NF-κB-mediated inflammation and cancer

The double-edge role of B cells in mediating antitumor T-cell immunity: Pharmacological strategies for cancer immunotherapy

Emerging evidence reveals the controversial role of B cells in antitumor immunity, but the underlying mechanisms have to be explored. Three latest articles published in the issue 521 of Nature in 2015 reconfirmed the puzzling topic and put forward some explanations of how B cells regulate antitumor T-cell responses both positively and negatively. This paper attempts to demonstrate that different B-cell subpopulations have distinct immunological properties and that they are involved in either antitumor responses or immunosuppression. Recent studies supporting the positive and negative roles of B cells in tumor development were summarized comprehensively. Several specific B-cell subpopulations, such as IgG(+), IgA(+), IL-10(+), and regulatory B cells, were described in detail. The mechanisms underlying the controversial B-cell effects were mainly attributed to different B-cell subpopulations, different B-cell-derived cytokines, direct B cell-T cell interaction, different cancer categories, and different malignant stages, and the immunological interaction between B cells and T cells is mediated by dendritic cells. Promising B-cell-based antitumor strategies were proposed and novel B-cell regulators were summarized to present interesting therapeutic targets. Future investigations are needed to make sure that B-cell-based pharmacological strategies benefit cancer immunotherapy substantially.

Isoliquiritigenin Attenuates Adipose Tissue Inflammation in vitro and Adipose Tissue Fibrosis through Inhibition of Innate Immune Responses in Mice

Isoliquiritigenin (ILG) is a flavonoid derived from Glycyrrhiza uralensis and potently suppresses NLRP3 inflammasome activation resulting in the improvement of diet-induced adipose tissue inflammation. However, whether ILG affects other pathways besides the inflammasome in adipose tissue inflammation is unknown. We here show that ILG suppresses adipose tissue inflammation by affecting the paracrine loop containing saturated fatty acids and TNF-α by using a co-culture composed of adipocytes and macrophages. ILG suppressed inflammatory changes induced by the co-culture through inhibition of NF-κB activation. This effect was independent of either inhibition of inflammasome activation or activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ. Moreover, ILG suppressed TNF-α-induced activation of adipocytes, coincident with inhibition of IκBα phosphorylation. Additionally, TNF-α-mediated inhibition of Akt phosphorylation under insulin signaling was alleviated by ILG in adipocytes. ILG suppressed palmitic acid-induced activation of macrophages, with decreasing the level of phosphorylated Jnk expression. Intriguingly, ILG improved high fat diet-induced fibrosis in adipose tissue in vivo. Finally, ILG inhibited TLR4- or Mincle-stimulated expression of fibrosis-related genes in stromal vascular fraction from obese adipose tissue and macrophages in vitro. Thus, ILG can suppress adipose tissue inflammation by both inflammasome-dependent and -independent manners and attenuate adipose tissue fibrosis by targeting innate immune sensors.

Continuous-Flow Synthesis of Deuterium-Labeled Antidiabetic Chalcones: Studies towards the Selective Deuteration of the Alkynone Core

Flow chemistry-based syntheses of deuterium-labeled analogs of important antidiabetic chalcones were achieved via highly controlled partial C≡C bond deuteration of the corresponding 1,3-diphenylalkynones. The benefits of a scalable continuous process in combination with on-demand electrolytic D2 gas generation were exploited to suppress undesired over-reactions and to maximize reaction rates simultaneously. The novel deuterium-containing chalcone derivatives may have interesting biological effects and improved metabolic properties as compared with the parent compounds.

Interplay between the chalcone cardamonin and selenium in the biosynthesis of Nrf2-regulated antioxidant enzymes in intestinal Caco-2 cells

Selenoenzymes and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-regulated phase II enzymes comprise key components of the cellular redox and antioxidant systems, which show multiple interrelations. Deficiency of the micronutrient selenium (Se) and impaired biosynthesis of selenoproteins have been reported to result in induction of Nrf2 target genes. Conversely, transcription of the selenoenzymes glutathione peroxidase 2 (GPx2) and thioredoxin reductase 1 (TrxR1) is up-regulated upon Nrf2 activation. Here, we have studied the interplay between Se and the secondary plant metabolite cardamonin, an Nrf2-activating chalcone, in the regulation of Nrf2-controlled antioxidant enzymes. Se-deficient and Se-repleted (sodium selenite-supplemented) human intestinal Caco-2 cells were exposed to cardamonin. Uptake of cardamonin by the Caco-2 cells was independent of their Se status. Cardamonin strongly induced gene expression of GPx2 and TrxR1. However, cardamonin treatment did not result in elevated GPx or TrxR activity and protein levels, possibly relating to a concomitant down-regulation of O-phosphoseryl-tRNA(Sec) kinase (PSTK), an enzyme involved in translation of selenoprotein mRNAs. On the other hand, induction of the Nrf2-regulated enzyme heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) by cardamonin was diminished in Se-replete compared to Se-deficient cells. Our findings suggest that cardamonin interferes with the biosynthesis of Nrf2-regulated selenoenzymes, in contrast to the Nrf2-activating isothiocyanate compound sulforaphane, which has been shown earlier to synergize with Se-mediated cytoprotection. Conversely, the cellular Se status apparently affects the cardamonin-mediated induction of non-selenoprotein antioxidant enzymes such as HO-1.

Inhibition of sortase A by chalcone prevents Listeria monocytogenes infection

The critical role of sortase A in gram-positive bacterial pathogenicity makes this protein a good potential target for antimicrobial therapy. In this study, we report for the first time the crystal structure of Listeria monocytogenes sortase A and identify the active sites that mediate its transpeptidase activity. We also used a sortase A (SrtA) enzyme activity inhibition assay, simulation, and isothermal titration calorimetry analysis to discover that chalcone, an agent with little anti-L. monocytogenes activity, could significantly inhibit sortase A activity with an IC50 of 28.41 ± 5.34 μM by occupying the active site of SrtA. The addition of chalcone to a co-culture of L. monocytogenes and Caco-2 cells significantly inhibited bacterial entry into the cells and L. monocytogenes-mediated cytotoxicity. Additionally, chalcone treatment decreased the mortality of infected mice, the bacterial burden in target organs, and the pathological damage to L. monocytogenes-infected mice. In conclusion, these findings suggest that chalcone is a promising candidate for the development of treatment against L. monocytogenes infection.

Factors Associated with Multiple Biomarkers of Systemic Inflammation

BACKGROUND

While much is known about correlates of C-reactive protein (CRP), little is known about correlates of other inflammation biomarkers. As these measures are increasingly being used in epidemiologic studies, it is important to determine what factors affect inflammation biomarker concentrations.

METHODS

Using age, sex, and body mass index (BMI) adjusted linear regression, we examined 38 exposures (demographic and anthropometric measures, chronic disease history, NSAIDs, dietary factors, and supplement use) of 8 inflammation biomarkers [CRP, IL1β, IL6, IL8, TNFα, and soluble TNF receptors (sTNFR) in plasma; and prostaglandin E2 metabolite (PGE-M) in urine] in 217 adults, ages 50 to 76 years.

RESULTS

Increasing age was associated with higher concentrations of all biomarkers except IL1β. BMI was positively associated with CRP and sTNFR I and II. Saturated fat intake was associated with increased CRP, sTNFRII, TNFα, and IL1β, whereas eicosapentaenoic acid + docosahexaenoic acid (EPA+DHA) intake (diet or total) was associated with decreased CRP, TNFα, and IL1β. Results for sex were varied: CRP and IL6 were lower among men, whereas PGE-M and sTNFRI were higher. Higher CRP was also associated with smoking, hormone replacement therapy use, and γ-tocopherol intake; lower CRP with physical activity, and intakes of dietary vitamin C and total fiber.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the associations varied by biomarker, the factors having the greatest number of significant associations (P ≤ 0.05) with the inflammation biomarkers were age, BMI, dietary saturated fat, and EPA+DHA omega-3 fatty acids.

IMPACT

Our results suggest that potential confounders in epidemiologic studies assessing associations with inflammation biomarkers vary across specific biomarkers.

Butein and Its Role in Chronic Diseases

Natural compounds isolated from various plant sources have been used for therapeutic purpose for centuries. These compounds have been routinely used for the management of various chronic ailments and have gained considerable attention because of their significant efficacy and comparatively low side effects. Butein, a chacolnoid compound that has been isolated from various medicinal plants has exhibited a wide range of beneficial pharmacological effects, such as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antioxidant, and anti-angiogenic in diverse disease models. This article briefly summarizes the past published literature related to the therapeutic and protective effects of butein, as demonstrated in various models of human chronic diseases. Further analysis of its important cellular targets, toxicity, and pharmacokinetic profile may further significantly expand its therapeutic application.

Crystal structure of (E)-1,3-bis-(6-methoxy-naphthalen-2-yl)prop-2-en-1-one

In the title compound, C25H20O3, the central -C(=O)-C=C- chain is disordered over two positions about the central C atom, with an occupancy ratio of 0.848 (6):0.152 (6). The mol-ecule is twisted with the two naphthalene ring systems being inclined to one another by 52.91 (9)°. In the crystal, mol-ecules are linked by C-H⋯π inter-actions, forming a three-dimensional structure. The structure was refined as a two-component twin with a 180 ° rotation about the c* axis.

Artificial sweetener neohesperidin dihydrochalcone showed antioxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptosis effects against paraquat-induced liver injury in mice

The present study evaluated the protective effect of artificial sweetener neohesperidin dihydrochalcone (NHDC) against paraquat (PQ)-induced acute liver injury in mice. A single dose of PQ (75mg/kg body weight, i.p.) induced acute liver toxicity with the evidences of increased liver damage biomarkers, aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) activities in serum. Consistently, PQ decreased the antioxidant capacity by reducing glutathione peroxidase (GP-X), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and catalase (CAT) activities, glutathione (GSH) level and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), as well as increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels. Histopathological examination revealed that PQ induced numerous changes in the liver tissues. Immunochemical staining assay indicated the upregulation of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expressions. However, NHDC ameliorates PQ-induced hepatic toxicity in mice by reversing these parameters. Additionally, NHDC significantly inhibited PQ-induced nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) expression and mitochondrial-driven apoptotic signaling. TUNEL assay confirmed that PQ-induced apoptosis was relieved by NHDC. In conclusion, these findings suggested that NHDC showed potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects against PQ-induced acute liver damage.

Diverse Molecular Targets for Chalcones with Varied Bioactivities

Natural or synthetic chalcones with different substituents have revealed a variety of biological activities that may benefit human health. The underlying mechanisms of action, particularly with respect to the direct cellular targets and the modes of interaction with the targets, have not been rigorously characterized, which imposes challenges to structure-guided rational development of therapeutic agents or chemical probes with acceptable target-selectivity profile. This review summarizes literature evidence on chalcones’ direct molecular targets in the context of their biological activities.

Effects of chalcone derivatives on players of the immune system

The immune system is the defense mechanism in living organisms that protects against the invasion of foreign materials, microorganisms, and pathogens. It involves multiple organs and tissues in human body, such as lymph nodes, spleen, and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissues. However, the execution of immune activities depends on a number of specific cell types, such as B cells, T cells, macrophages, and granulocytes, which provide various immune responses against pathogens. In addition to normal physiological functions, abnormal proliferation, migration, and differentiation of these cells (in response to various chemical stimuli produced by invading pathogens) have been associated with several pathological disorders. The unwanted conditions related to these cells have made them prominent targets in the development of new therapeutic interventions against various pathological implications, such as atherosclerosis and autoimmune diseases. Chalcone derivatives exhibit a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities, such as immunomodulation, as well as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties. Many studies have been conducted to determine their inhibitory or stimulatory activities in immune cells, and the findings are of significance to provide a new direction for subsequent research. This review highlights the effects of chalcone derivatives in different types of immune cells.

The solid-state emmissive chalcone (2E)-1-(5-chlorothiophen-2-yl)-3-[4-(dimethylamino)phenyl]prop-2-en-1-one

Orange rectangular blocks suitable for X-ray diffraction analysis were obtained for the previously reported [Ahmad & Bano (2011).Int. J. ChemTech Res.3, 1470–1478] title chalcone, C15H14ClNOS. This solid-emissive chalcone exhibits a planar structure and the bond parameters are compared with related compounds already described in the literature. The determination of the structure of this chalcone is quite relevant because it will play an important role in theoretical calculations to investigate potential two-photon absorption processes and could also be useful for studying the interaction of such compounds with a biological target.

Crystal structure of (E)-1-(1-hy-droxy-naphthalen-2-yl)-3-(2,3,4-tri-meth-oxy-phen-yl)prop-2-en-1-one

The title compound, C22H20O5, is composed of a hy-droxy-naphthyl ring and a tri-meth-oxy-phenyl ring [the planes of which are inclined to one another by 21.61 (10)°] bridged by an unsaturated prop-2-en-1-one group. The mean plane of the prop-2-en-1-one group [-C(=O)-C=C-] is inclined to that of the naphthyl system and benzene rings by 3.77 (14) and 18.01 (16)°, respectively. There is an intra-molecular O-H⋯O hydrogen bond present forming an S(6) ring motif. In the crystal, inversion-related mol-ecules are linked by a slipped-parallel π-π inter-action [inter-centroid distance = 3.8942 (13) Å, inter-planar distance = 3.478 (9) Å and slippage = 1.751 Å], and stack along the [101] direction. There are no other significant inter-molecular inter-actions present.

Chalcones from Angelica keiskei attenuate the inflammatory responses by suppressing nuclear translocation of NF-κB

The ethyl acetate-soluble fraction from the ethanolic extract of Angelica keiskei showed potent inhibitory activity against the production of nitric oxide (NO) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated RAW 264.7 cells. We identified seven chalcones (1-7) from EtOAc-soluble fractions through the activity-guided separation. Four active principles, identified as 4-hydroxyderrcine (1), xanthoangelol E (2), xanthokeismin A (4), and xanthoangelol B (5), inhibited the production of NO and the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6, in LPS-activated macrophages. Western blotting and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis demonstrated that these chalcones attenuated protein and mRNA levels of inflammatory enzymes such as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Moreover, these active compounds suppressed the degradation of inhibitory-κBα (I-κBα) and the translocation of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) into nuclei of LPS-activated macrophages. These data demonstrate that four chalcones (1, 2, 4, and 5) from A. keiskei can suppress the LPS-induced production of NO and the expression of iNOS/COX-2 genes by inhibiting the degradation of I-κBα and nuclear translocation of NF-κB. Taken together, four chalcones from A. keiskei may have efficacy as anti-inflammatory agents.

Butein Shows Cytotoxic Effects and Induces Apoptosis in Human Ovarian Cancer Cells

Butein is a polyphenol, one of the compounds of chalcones, which are flavonoids that are widely biosynthesized in plants, and exhibits different pharmacological activities. Plants containing butein have been used in Chinese traditional medicine. Recently, it has been reported that butein suppresses proliferation and triggers apoptosis in various human cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. The aim of this study was to investigate its pro-apoptotic effect and mechanisms in two cultured human ovarian cancer cells (ES-2 and TOV-21G). The effects of butein on cell viability were assessed by a MTT assay at 3, 10, 30, and 100 μ/M. The apoptotic pathway related factors, including the mitochondrial transmembrane potential (MTP), cytochrome c, caspase cascade, and Bcl-2 family proteins, were examined. MTT assay revealed that butein was cytotoxic to both ovarian cancer cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. JC-1 flow cytometry, cytochrome c, and caspase activity assays revealed that butein damaged the MTP, increased the level of cytosol cytochrome c and the activities of caspase-3, -8, and -9 in the two ovarian cancer cells. Western blot analysis revealed that butein down-regulated the anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL and increased the pro-apoptotic proteins Bax and Bad. These findings suggest that butein-induced apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells via the activation of both extrinsic and intrinsic pathways. In addition, butein also down-regulated the expressions of the inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) proteins, XIAP, survivin, CIAP-1, and CIAP-2. This indicates that the inhibition of IAP proteins was also involved in butein-induced apoptosis. The results of our study suggest that butein may be a promising anticancer agent in treating ovarian cancer.

Biotransformation of Flavokawains A, B, and C, Chalcones from Kava (Piper methysticum), by Human Liver Microsomes

The in vitro metabolism of flavokawains A, B, and C (FKA, FKB, FKC), methoxylated chalcones from Piper methysticum, was examined using human liver microsomes. Phase I metabolism and phase II metabolism (glucuronidation) as well as combined phase I+II metabolism were studied. For identification and structure elucidation of microsomal metabolites, LC-HRESIMS and NMR techniques were applied. Major phase I metabolites were generated by demethylation in position C-4 or C-4' and hydroxylation predominantly in position C-4, yielding FKC as phase I metabolite of FKA and FKB, helichrysetin as metabolite of FKA and FKC, and cardamonin as metabolite of FKC. To an even greater extent, flavokawains were metabolized in the presence of uridine diphosphate (UDP) glucuronic acid by microsomal UDP-glucuronosyl transferases. For all flavokawains, monoglucuronides (FKA-2'-O-glucuronide, FKB-2'-O-glucuronide, FKC-2'-O-glucuronide, FKC-4-O-glucuronide) were found as major phase II metabolites. The dominance of generated glucuronides suggests a role of conjugated chalcones as potential active compounds in vivo.

Attenuation of inflammatory response by a novel chalcone protects kidney and heart from hyperglycemia-induced injuries in type 1 diabetic mice

High glucose-induced inflammatory response in diabetic complications plays an important role in disease occurrence and development. With inflammatory cytokines and signaling pathways as important mediators, targeting inflammation may be a new avenue for treating diabetic complications. Chalcones are a class of natural products with various pharmacological activities. Previously, we identified L2H17 as a chalcone with good anti-inflammatory activity, inhibiting LPS-induced inflammatory response in macrophages. In this study, we examined L2H17's effect on hyperglycemia-induced inflammation both in mouse peritoneal macrophages and a streptozotocin-induced T1D mouse model. Our results indicate that L2H17 exhibits a strong inhibitory effect on the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, cell adhesion molecules, chemokines and macrophage adhesion via modulation of the MAPK/NF-κB pathway. Furthermore, in vivo oral administration of L2H17 resulted in a significant decrease in the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and cell adhesion molecules, contributing to a reduction of key markers for renal and cardiac dysfunction and improvements in fibrosis and pathological changes in both renal and cardiac tissues of diabetic mice. These findings provide the evidence supporting targeting MAPK/NF-κB pathway may be effective therapeutic strategy for diabetic complications, and suggest that L2H17 may be a promising anti-inflammatory agent with potential as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of renal and cardiac diabetic complications.

Dietary phytochemicals alter epigenetic events and signaling pathways for inhibition of metastasis cascade: phytoblockers of metastasis cascade

Cancer metastasis is a multistep process in which a cancer cell spreads from the site of the primary lesion, passes through the circulatory system, and establishes a secondary tumor at a new nonadjacent organ or part. Inhibition of cancer progression by dietary phytochemicals (DPs) offers significant promise for reducing the incidence and mortality of cancer. Consumption of DPs in the diet has been linked to a decrease in the rate of metastatic cancer in a number of preclinical animal models and human epidemiological studies. DPs have been reported to modulate the numerous biological events including epigenetic events (noncoding micro-RNAs, histone modification, and DNA methylation) and multiple signaling transduction pathways (Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, Sonic hedgehog, COX-2, EGFR, MAPK-ERK, JAK-STAT, Akt/PI3K/mTOR, NF-κB, AP-1, etc.), which can play a key role in regulation of metastasis cascade. Extensive studies have also been performed to determine the molecular mechanisms underlying antimetastatic activity of DPs, with results indicating that these DPs have significant inhibitory activity at nearly every step of the metastatic cascade. DPs have anticancer effects by inducing apoptosis and by inhibiting cell growth, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis. Growing evidence has also shown that these natural agents potentiate the efficacy of chemotherapy and radiotherapy through the regulation of multiple signaling pathways. In this review, we discuss the variety of molecular mechanisms by which DPs regulate metastatic cascade and highlight the potentials of these DPs as promising therapeutic inhibitors of cancer.

Molecular targeted approaches to cancer therapy and prevention using chalcones

There is an emerging paradigm shift in oncology that seeks to emphasize molecularly targeted approaches for cancer prevention and therapy. Chalcones (1,3-diphenyl-2-propen-1-ones), naturally-occurring compounds with widespread distribution in spices, tea, beer, fruits and vegetables, consist of open-chain flavonoids in which the two aromatic rings are joined by a three-carbon α, β-unsaturated carbonyl system. Due to their structural diversity, relative ease of chemical manipulation and reaction of α, β-unsaturated carbonyl moiety with cysteine residues in proteins, some lead chalcones from both natural products and synthesis have been identified in a variety of screening assays for modulating important pathways or molecular targets in cancers. These pathways and targets that are affected by chalcones include MDM2/p53, tubulin, proteasome, NF-kappa B, TRIAL/death receptors and mitochondria mediated apoptotic pathways, cell cycle, STAT3, AP-1, NRF2, AR, ER, PPAR-γ and β-catenin/Wnt. Compared to current cancer targeted therapeutic drugs, chalcones have the advantages of being inexpensive, easily available and less toxic; the ease of synthesis of chalcones from substituted benzaldehydes and acetophenones also makes them an attractive drug scaffold. Therefore, this review is focused on molecular targets of chalcones and their potential implications in cancer prevention and therapy.

Anti-cancer chalcones: Structural and molecular target perspectives

Chalcone or (E)-1,3-diphenyl-2-propene-1-one scaffold remained a fascination among researchers in the 21st century due to its simple chemistry, ease of synthesis and a wide variety of promising biological activities. Several natural and (semi) synthetic chalcones have shown anti-cancer activity due to their inhibitory potential against various targets namely ABCG2/P-gp/BCRP, 5α-reductase, aromatase, 17-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, HDAC/Situin-1, proteasome, VEGF, VEGFR-2 kinase, MMP-2/9, JAK/STAT signaling pathways, CDC25B, tubulin, cathepsin-K, topoisomerase-II, Wnt, NF-κB, B-Raf and mTOR etc. In this review, a comprehensive study on molecular targets/pathways involved in carcinogenesis, mechanism of actions (MOAs), structure activity relationships (SARs) and patents granted have been highlighted. With the knowledge of molecular targets, structural insights and SARs, this review may be helpful for (medicinal) chemists to design more potent, safe, selective and cost effective anti-cancer chalcones.

Inhibitory activities of Lignum Sappan extractives on growth and growth-related signaling of tumor cells

AIM

To investigate the active constituents of Lignum Sappan (Caesalpinia sappan L.) on growth-related signaling and cell mitosis.

METHOD

The influence of the ethyl acetate (EtOAc) extract of Lignum Sappan and its constituents on growth-related signaling were evaluated by a luciferase assay in cells stably-transfected with NF-κB, STAT1, or STAT3 responsive luciferase reporter plasmid. The inhibitory effect on the cell cycle was determined by flow cytometric analysis. The anti-tumor activities were assessed in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

The EtOAc extract of Lignum Sappan had inhibitory activities on growth-related signaling and cell mitosis. Three major active compounds were sappanchalcone, brazilin, and butein. Sappanchalcone blocked cell cycle progression in the G2/M phase, brazilin inhibited TNFα/NF-κB signaling, while butein inhibited IL-6/STAT3 signaling, as well as TNFα/NF-κB signaling. The three compounds all demonstrated cytotoxic activities against human tumor cells in vitro. In a S180 tumor cell-bearing mice model, the anti-tumor efficacy of the EtOAc extract was better than the individual compounds acting alone.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that Lignum Sappan contains multiple active compounds with different antitumor activities, which act synergistically to enhance their anti-tumor effects. The EtOAc extract of Lignum Sappan may be better than individual active constituent as a novel medicine for the treatment of cancer.

Butein suppresses cervical cancer growth through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway

Cervical cancer is the second most common women carcinoma worldwide and the fourth leading cause of cancer-associated mortality in women. Butein, a bioactive flavonoid isolated from numerous native plants, has been shown to induce apoptosis and inhibits migration and invasion in numerous human cancer cells. However, to the best of our knowledge, the effect of butein on human cervical cancer cells has not been reported. The present study aimed to determine the effect of butein on cell growth, apoptosis, migration and invasion and identify the associated molecular mechanism involved using HeLa human cervical cancer cells in vitro, and on tumor growth in a nude mouse model. It was found that butein notably inhibited cell viability, colony formation, migration and invasion, induced cell cycle at the G2/M stage and cell apoptosis, as well as enhanced caspase-3, -8 and -9 activity in HeLa cells in a dose-dependent manner. When administered intraperitoneally, butein inhibited the tumor growth of human cervical cancer xenograft tumors in the nude mouse model. Additionally, treatment with butein significantly increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and reduced the phosphorylation of PI3K, AKT and mTOR expression, which contributes to the inhibition of the tumor growth of cervical cancer and reduction of oxidative stress. These findings suggested that butein serves as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of cervical cancer.

Biological evaluation of synthetic chalcone and flavone derivatives as anti-inflammatory agents

Flavonoids and chalcones are natural plant derived compounds with inherent therapeutic value for a range of human pathologies. In this study, a series of 24 substituted chalcones and flavones were synthesized and subsequently screened for anti-inflammatory effects on lipopolysaccharide (1 µg/ml)-activated BV-2 microglial cells by assessing initial production/release of nitric oxide (NO). The data obtained eliminate the majority of compounds as weak or non-effective, whereas 2'-hydroxy-3,4,5,3',4'-pentamethoxychalcone (1) and 2'-hydroxy-3,4,5-trimethoxychalcone (2) were potent, having an IC50 of 1.10 and 2.26 µM, respectively; with greater potency than L-N6-(1-iminoethyl)lysine selective iNOS inhibitor (IC50 = 3.1 µM) but less than steroidal dexamethasone (IC50 < 200 nM). The most potent compound (chalcone 1) attenuated NO parallel to reducing iNOS protein expression, events also corresponding to reduction of IL-1α, IL-10 and IL-6 pro-inflammatory cytokines. These findings suggest that the presence of electron donating groups OH and OCH3 on both A and B rings of synthetic compounds correlate to stronger anti-inflammatory potency.

A unifying neuro-fasciagenic model of somatic dysfunction - Underlying mechanisms and treatment - Part II

This paper offers an extensive review of the main fascia-mediated mechanisms underlying various therapeutic processes of clinical relevance for manual therapy. The concept of somatic dysfunction is revisited in light of the several fascial influences that may come into play during and after manual treatment. A change in perspective is thus proposed: from a nociceptive model that for decades has viewed somatic dysfunction as a neurologically-mediated phenomenon, to a unifying neuro-fascial model that integrates neural influences into a multifactorial and multidimensional interpretation of manual therapeutic effects as being partially, if not entirely, mediated by the fascia. By taking into consideration a wide spectrum of fascia-related factors - from cell-based mechanisms to cognitive and behavioural influences - a model emerges suggesting, amongst other results, a multidisciplinary-approach to the intervention of somatic dysfunction. Finally, it is proposed that a sixth osteopathic 'meta-model' - the connective tissue-fascial model - be added to the existing five models in osteopathic philosophy as the main interface between all body systems, thus providing a structural and functional framework for the body's homoeostatic potential and its inherent abilities to heal.

Inhibitory Effect of 3-(4-Hydroxyphenyl)-1-(thiophen-2-yl) prop-2-en-1-one, a Chalcone Derivative on MCP-1 Expression in Macrophages via Inhibition of ROS and Akt Signaling

Chalcones (1,3-diaryl-2-propen-1-ones), a subfamily of flavonoid, are widely known to possess potent anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. In this study, we investigated the effect of 3-(4-Hydroxyphenyl)-1-(thio3-(4-Hydroxyphenyl phen-2-yl)prop-2-en-1-one (TI-I-175), a synthetic chalcone derivative, on endotoxin-induced expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), one of the key chemokines that regulates migration and infiltration of immune cells, and its potential mechanisms. TII-175 potently inhibited MCP-1 mRNA expression stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in RAW 264.7 macrophages without significant effect on cell viability. Treatment of cells with TI-I-175 markedly prevented LPS-induced transcriptional activation of activator protein-1 (AP-1) as measured by luciferase reporter assay, while nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activity was not inhibited by TI-I-175, implying that TI-I-175 suppressed MCP-1 expression probably via regulation of AP-1. In addition, TI-I-175 treatment significantly inhibited LPS-induced Akt phosphorylation and led to a significant decrease in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by LPS, which act as up-stream signaling events required for AP-1 activation in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Taken together, these results indicate that TI-I-175 suppresses MCP-1 gene expression in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages via suppression of ROS production and Akt activation.

Highly Selective Continuous-Flow Synthesis of Potentially Bioactive Deuterated Chalcone Derivatives

The selective synthesis of various dideuterochalcones as potentially bioactive deuterium-labeled products is presented, by means of the highly controlled partial deuteration of antidiabetic chalcone derivatives. The benefits of continuous-flow processing in combination with on-demand electrolytic D₂ gas generation has been exploited to avoid over-reaction to undesired side products and to achieve selective deuterium addition to the carbon-carbon double bond of the starting enones without the need for unconventional catalysts or expensive special reagents. The roles of pressure, temperature, and residence time proved crucial for the fine-tuning of the sensitive balance between the product selectivity and the reaction rate. The presented flow-chemistry-based deuteration technique lacks most of the drawbacks of the classical batch methods, and is convenient, time- and cost-efficient, and safe.

The salutary effects of diphenyldifluoroketone EF24 in liver of a rat hemorrhagic shock model

Background

Liver is a target for injury in low flow states and it plays a central role in the progression of systemic failure associated with hemorrhagic shock. Pharmacologic support can help recover liver function even after it has suffered extensive damage during ischemia and reperfusion phases. In this work we assessed the efficacy of a diphenyldifluoroketone EF24, an IKKβ inhibitor, in controlling hepatic inflammatory signaling caused by hemorrhagic shock in a rat model.

Methods

Sprague Dawley rats were bled to about 50% of blood volume. The hemorrhaged rats were treated with vehicle control or EF24 (0.4 mg/kg) after 1 h of hemorrhage without any accompanying resuscitation. The study was terminated after additional 5 h to excise liver tissue for biochemical analyses and histology.

Results

EF24 treatment alleviated hemorrhagic shock-induced histologic injury in the liver and restored serum transaminases to normal levels. Hemorrhagic shock induced the circulating levels of CD163 (a marker for macrophage activation) and CINC (an IL-8 analog), as well as myeloperoxidase activity in liver tissue. These markers of inflammatory injury were reduced by EF24 treatment. EF24 treatment also suppressed the expression of the Toll-like receptor 4, phospho-p65/Rel A, and cyclooxygenase-2 in liver tissues, indicating that it suppressed inflammatory pathway. Moreover, it reduced the hemorrhagic shock-induced increase in the expression of high mobility group box-1 protein. The evidence for apoptosis after hemorrhagic shock was inconclusive.

Conclusion

Even in the absence of volume support, EF24 treatment suppresses pro-inflammatory signaling in liver tissue and improves liver functional markers in hemorrhagic shock.

Triptolide (TPL) improves locomotor function recovery in rats and reduces inflammation after spinal cord injury

In this study, we studied the effect of triptolide (TPL) on locomotor function in rats with spinal cord injury. A total of 40 rats were studied after dividing them in two major groups, one was experimental group denoted as TPL group while other was control group denoted as PBS group. Each group was subdivided in four subgroups having five rats each (n = 5). TPL was given intraperitonially at the rate of 5 mg/kg/day in TPL group while PBS was given at the same time interval in the same manner in control group for comparison. A reduction in the cavity area of tissue sections was observed by bright field microscopy from 0.22 ± 0.05 to 0.12 ± 0.05 mm(2) in experimental group after 28 days of treatment while BBB score also improved from 1 to 5 after 14 days of treatment. SPSS software, one way ANOVA, was used for recording statistical analysis and values were expressed as mean ± SEM where P value of <0.01 was considered significant. The expression of I-kBα and NF-kB p65 was also studied using western blotting and after recording optical density (OD) values of western blots. It was observed that treatment with TPL significantly reduced the expression of these factors after 28 days of treatment compared with controls.

2-Hydroxy-3,4-naphthochalcone (2H-NC) inhibits TNFα-induced tumor invasion through the downregulation of NF-κB-mediated MMP-9 gene expression

The control of tumor metastasis is important for the successful prevention and treatment of cancer. Emerging evidence indicates that various natural and synthetic chalcones exhibit antimetastatic activity through the inhibition of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), although the precise mechanism by which this occurs is currently unclear. In this study, 2-hydroxy-3,4-naphthochalcone (2H-NC) was found to reduce tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα)-induced MMP-9 mRNA expression and gelatinolytic enzyme activity. These actions were associated with inhibition of RelA/p65 NF-κB activity. In addition, 2H-NC inhibited TNFα-induced invasion of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells, as assessed using a three-dimensional spheroid invasion assay. Taken together, these data demonstrate that 2H-NC prevents TNFα-induced tumor cell invasion through downregulation of NF-κB-mediated MMP-9 gene expression, and thereby identify naphthochalcones as a potentially effective class of molecules to use as a platform for the development of antimetastatic agents.

Isoliquiritigenin is a potent inhibitor of NLRP3 inflammasome activation and diet-induced adipose tissue inflammation

Inflammasome activation initiates the development of many inflammatory diseases, including obesity and type 2 diabetes. Therefore, agents that target discrete activation steps could represent very important drugs. We reported previously that ILG, a chalcone from Glycyrrhiza uralensis, inhibits LPS-induced NF-κB activation. Here, we show that ILG potently inhibits the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome, and the effect is independent of its inhibitory potency on TLR4. The inhibitory effect of ILG was stronger than that of parthenolide, a known inhibitor of the NLRP3 inflammasome. GL, a triterpenoid from G. uralensis, had similar inhibitory effects on NLRP3 activity, but high concentrations of GL were required. In contrast, activation of the AIM2 inflammasome was inhibited by GL but not by ILG. Moreover, GL inhibited NLRP3- and AIM2-activated ASC oligomerization, whereas ILG inhibited NLRP3-activated ASC oligomerization. Low concentrations of ILG were highly effective in IAPP-induced IL-1β production compared with the sulfonylurea drug glyburide. In vivo analyses revealed that ILG potently attenuated HFD-induced obesity, hypercholesterolemia, and insulin resistance. Furthermore, ILG treatment improved HFD-induced macrovesicular steatosis in the liver. Finally, ILG markedly inhibited diet-induced adipose tissue inflammation and IL-1β and caspase-1 production in white adipose tissue in ex vivo culture. These results suggest that ILG is a potential drug target for treatment of NLRP3 inflammasome-associated inflammatory diseases.

Design, synthesis and pharmacological evaluation of chalcone derivatives as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors

A novel series of chalcone derivatives (4a-8d) were designed, synthesized, and evaluated for the inhibition activity against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE). The logP values of the compounds were shown to range from 1.49 to 2.19, which suggested that they were possible to pass blood brain barriers in vivo. The most promising compound 4a (IC50: 4.68 μmol/L) was 2-fold more potent than Rivastigmine against AChE (IC50: 10.54 μmol/L) and showed a high selectivity for AChE over BuChE (ratio: 4.35). Enzyme kinetic study suggested that the inhibition mechanism of compound 4a was a mixed-type inhibition. Meanwhile, the result of molecular docking showed its potent inhibition of AChE and high selectivity for AChE over BuChE.

A new synthetic 2'-hydroxy-2,4,6-trimethoxy-5',6'-naphthochalcone induces G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis by disrupting the microtubular network of human colon cancer cells

Methoxylated chalcones exert antitumor activities. In the present study, we characterized the cytotoxicity of methylated chalcone derivatives against human colon cancer cells. We synthesized a group of methoxychalcones and explored the molecular mechanisms underlying inhibition of tumor growth by these materials. A new synthetic methoxychalcone, 2'-hydroxy-2,4,6-trimethoxy-5',6'-naphthochalcone (named HMNC-74), most effectively inhibited the clonogenicity of SW620 colon cancer cells. Mechanistically, HMNC-74 triggered cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase, followed by an increase in apoptotic cell death. Our results indicate that the cytotoxicity of the novel compound HMNC-74 involves the disruption of microtubular networks.

Preclinical evaluation of 4-[3,5-bis(2-chlorobenzylidene)-4-oxo-piperidine-1-yl]-4-oxo-2-butenoic acid, in a mouse model of lung cancer xenograft

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

4-[3,5-Bis(2-chlorobenzylidene)-4-oxo-piperidine-1-yl]-4-oxo-2-butenoic acid CLEFMA is a new anti-cancer molecule. Here, we investigated changes in apoptosis and inflammatory markers during CLEFMA-induced tumour suppression.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Lung adenocarcinoma H441 and A549, and normal lung fibroblast CCL151 cell lines were used, along with a xenograft model of H441 cells implanted in mice. Tumour tissues were analysed by immunoblotting, immunohistochemistry and/or biochemical assays. The ex vivo results were confirmed by performing selected assays in cultured cells.

KEY RESULTS

CLEFMA-induced cell death was associated with cleavage of caspases 3/9 and PARP. In vivo, CLEFMA treatment resulted in a dose-dependent suppression of tumour growth and (18) F-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake in tumours, along with a reduction in the expression of the proliferation marker Ki-67. In tumour tissue homogenates, the anti-apoptotic markers (cellular inhibitor of apoptosis protein-1(cIAP1), Bcl-xL, Bcl-2, and survivin) were inhibited and the pro-apoptotic Bax and BID were up-regulated. Further, CLEFMA decreased translocation of phospho-p65-NF-κB into the nucleus. In vitro, it inhibited the DNA-binding and transcriptional activity of NF-κB. It also reduced the expression of COX-2 in tumours and significantly depressed serum TNF-α and IL-6 levels. These effects of CLEFMA were accompanied by a reduced transcription and/or translation of the invasion markers VEGF, MMP9, MMP10, Cyclin D1 and ICAM-1.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Overall, CLEFMA inhibited growth of lung cancer xenografts and this tumour suppression was associated with NF-κB-regulated anti-inflammatory and anti-metastatic effects.

Recent developments in biological activities of chalcones: a mini review

Chalcones represent key structural motif in the plethora of biologically active molecules including synthetic and natural products. Synthetic manipulations of chalcones or their isolation from natural sources are being investigated worldwide for the development of more potent and efficient drugs for the treatment of several dreadful diseases such as cancer, diabetes, HIV, tuberculosis, malaria etc. Over the past few years, a large volume of research papers and review articles highlighting the significance of chalcone derivatives has been compiled in the literature. The present review article focuses on the recent developments (2010-2014) on various pharmacological and medicinal aspects of chalcones and their analogues.

Benzylidenetetralones, cyclic chalcone analogues, induce cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in HCT116 colorectal cancer cells

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the world, with 1.2 million new cancer cases annually. Chalcones are secondary metabolite precursors of flavonoids that exhibit diverse biological activities, including antioxidant and antitumor activities. The aim of this study was to investigate the antiproliferative effect of new synthetic chalcone derivatives on HCT116 cells. (E)-2-(2',4'-dimethoxybenzylidene)-1-tetralone (Q705) was found to be the most active (IC50 = 3.44 ± 0.25 μM). Based on these results, this compound was chosen for further analysis of its biochemical and molecular mechanisms. Our results showed that Q705 inhibited the growth and clonogenicity of HCT116 cells. The results of a flow cytometric analyses suggested that this compound caused a significant cell cycle arrest in G2/M phase and increased the proportion of cells in the subG0/G1 phase, marker of apoptosis. Q705-induced apoptosis was confirmed by TdT-mediated dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL) assay. Treatment of HCT116 cells with this chalcone significantly increased the caspase-3,-7 activity and resulted in cleavage of poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP). Changes in the nuclear morphology such as chromatin condensation were also observed. These effects were associated with a decreased expression of bcl-xL and increased overall ratio of bax/bcl-xL mRNA levels. Immunofluorescence and qRT-PCR analysis revealed that Q705 induced H2AX histone modifications characteristic of DNA damage, disruption of microtubule organization and downregulation of tubulins. In summary, these results suggest that the cyclic chalcone analogue Q705 has potential as a new compound for colorectal cancer therapy.

α-Dihydroxychalcone-glycoside (α-DHC) isolated from the heartwood of Pterocarpus marsupium inhibits LPS induced MAPK activation and up regulates HO-1 expression in murine RAW 264.7 macrophage

Three phenolic glycosides isolated from the heartwood of Pterocarpus marsupium showed significant free radical and superoxide ion scavenging activity and antioxidant potential that were comparable to, or several folds higher than those of standard antioxidants, trolox and ascorbic acid. The effective concentrations of these compounds were far below their cytotoxic levels. Compound 3, which was characterized to be α-dihydroxychalcone-glycoside (α-DHC), was the most potent one. Subsequent studies demonstrated that α-DHC effectively reduced nitric oxide and cytokine production by the LPS stimulated RAW 264.7 mouse macrophage cell line. The compound effectively attenuated the expression of inflammation-mediating enzymes COX-2 and iNOS at the mRNA as well as protein levels in a concentration dependent manner. It prevented phosphorylation of all the three MAPKs (JNK, ERK, p38) and eventually blocked the activation of downstream elements contributing to inflammation. Phosphorylation of IκB-α and subsequent translocation of NF-κB into the nucleus were restricted, while the expression of stress responsive gene HO-1 was up-regulated. α-DHC targeted Keap-1 by modifying its cysteine thiols, dissociating it from Nrf-2 and facilitating nuclear entry of the latter; and this in turn induced HO-1 expression. Thus α-DHC exerts its anti-inflammatory activity in a dual manner: by down regulating MAPKs and restricting nuclear stabilization of NF-κB at one end, and by disrupting Nrf-2-Keap-1 complex on the other. In conclusion, the anti-inflammatory potential together with its high therapeutic index envisages α-DHC as a prospective candidate molecule for the development of therapeutic strategy against inflammatory disorders.

Study of effect of salvianolic acid B on motor function recovery in rats with spinal cord injury

In this study effect of salvianolic acid B was observed on motor function recovery of rats with spinal cord injury. 50 rats were selected and after inducing SCI their recovery under controlled conditions was studied using Sal B and PBS (as control). Both compounds were introduced intraperitoneally in respective groups of traumatic rats at the same time intervals for 28 days. It was observed that Sal B introduced at 5  mg/kg/day resulted in better motor function recovery. BBB score was recorded which increased significantly along with the reduction in cavity area observed by bright field microscopy of tissues, that is, from 1 to 10 and from 0.20 ± 0.05 mm(2) to 0.10 ± 0.03 mm(2), in Sal B treated group, respectively, compared to PBS group. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS software (SPSS, Chicago, IL, USA), values were expressed as mean ± SEM, and P value <0.01 was considered significant. Effect of Sal B on expression of NF-kB p65 and IkB α was studied and OD values of densitometry of western blots were taken. MPO activity was also studied. It was observed that treatment of Sal B significantly reduced the expression of both compounds in Sal B treated group as compared to control group after 28 days of treatment.