Zerumbone increases oxidative stress in a thiol-dependent ROS-independent manner to increase DNA damage and sensitize colorectal cancer cells to radiation

Anti-cancer potential of zerumbone in cancer and glioma: current trends and future perspectives

Plant-derived immunomodulators and antitumor factors have appealed lots of attention from natural product scientists for their efficiency and safety and their important contribution to well-designed targeted drug action and delivery mechanisms. Zerumbone (ZER), the chief component of Zingiber zerumbet rhizomes, has been examined for its wide-spectrum in the treatment of multi-targeted diseases. The rhizomes have been used as food flavoring agents in numerous cuisines and in flora medication. Numerous in vivo and in vitro experiments have prepared confirmation of ZER as a potent immunomodulator as well as a potential anti-tumor agent. This review is an interesting compilation of all the important results of the research carried out to date to investigate the immunomodulatory and anticancer properties of ZER. The ultimate goal of this comprehensive review is to supply updated information and a crucial evaluation on ZER, including its chemistry and immunomodulating and antitumour properties, which may be of principal importance to supply a novel pathway for subsequent investigation to discover new agents to treat cancers and immune-related sickness. In addition, updated information on the toxicology of ZER has been summarized to support its safety profile.

Cellular and molecular antiproliferative effects in 2D monolayer and 3D-cultivated HT-29 cells treated with zerumbone

Zerumbone (ZER) is a phytochemical isolated from plants of the Zingiberaceae family. Numerous studies have demonstrated its diverse pharmacological properties, particularly its potent antitumorigenic activity. This study aimed to assess the antiproliferative effects of ZER on HT-29 cells cultivated in both two-dimensional (2D) monolayer and three-dimensional (3D) spheroid culture systems. The evaluation of growth (size), cell death, and cell cycle arrest in 3D spheroid HT-29 cells was correlated with mRNA expression data. Treatment of 2D cells revealed that ZER exhibited cytotoxicity at concentrations above 30 µM, and an IC50 of 83.54 µM (24-h post-ZER treatment) effectively suppressed cell migration. In the 3D model, ZER induced an increase in spheroid volume over a 72-h period attributed to disaggregation and reconfiguration of characteristic zones. Analysis of cell death demonstrated a significant rise in apoptotic cells after 24 h of ZER treatment, along with cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase. Furthermore, ZER treatment resulted in alterations in mRNA expression, affecting key signaling pathways involved in cell death (BCL2 and BBC3), endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERN1), DNA damage (GADD45A), cell cycle regulation (CDKN1A, NFKB1, MYC, and TP53), and autophagy (BECN1 and SQSTM1). These findings suggested that ZER holds promise as a potential candidate for the development of novel anticancer agents that can modulate crucial cell signaling pathways. Additionally, the use of the 3D culture system proved to be a valuable tool in our investigation.

N-acetyl-l-tryptophan (NAT) ameliorates radiation-induced cell death in murine macrophages J774A.1 via regulating redox homeostasis and mitochondrial dysfunction

Ionizing radiation interacts with the immune system and induces molecular damage in the cellular milieu by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) leading to cell death. The present study was performed to investigate the protective efficacy of N-acetyl-L-tryptophan (NAT) against gamma-radiation-induced cell death in murine macrophage J774A.1 cells. The radioprotective efficacy of NAT was evaluated in terms of cell survivability, effect on antioxidant enzyme activity, and free radicals inhibition. Radioprotective efficacy of NAT pretreatment to irradiated cells was assessed via cell cycle progression, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) perturbation, and apoptosis regulation using flow cytometry. Results of the study demonstrated significant radioprotective efficacy (>80%) of NAT in irradiated cells as estimated by sulforhodamine B (SRB), MTT, and clonogenic assay. Significant (p < 0.001) reduction in ROS, xanthine oxidase, and mitochondrial superoxide levels along with increment in catalase, glutathione-s-transferase, glutathione, and ATPase activities in NAT pretreated plus irradiated cells was observed as compared to the gamma-irradiated cells. Further, significant (p < 0.001) stabilization of MMP and reduction in apoptosis was also observed in NAT pretreated plus irradiated cells as compared to irradiated cells that not pretreated with NAT. The current study demonstrates that NAT pretreatment to irradiated cells protects against gamma radiation-induced cell death by reducing oxidative stress, stabilizing MMP, and inhibiting apoptosis. These observations conclusively highlight the potential of developing NAT as a prospective radioprotective agent upon further validation using in-depth preclinical assessment in cellular and animal models.

Sesquiterpene-evoked phytochemical toxicity in PC12 neuronal cells reveals a variable degree of oxidative stress and alpha-tocopherol and glutathione-dependent protection

Phytochemicals are often promoted generally as antioxidants and demonstrate variable levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) sequestration in vitro, which attributes to their neuroprotective bioactivity. Sesquiterpenes from cannabis and essential oils may demonstrate bifunctional properties towards cellular oxidative stress, possessing pro-oxidant activities by generating ROS or scavenging ROS directly. Sesquiterpenes can also oxidize forming sesquiterpene oxides, however the relative contribution they make to the bioactivity or cytotoxicity of complex botanical extracts more generally is unclear, while selected cannabis-prevalent terpenes such as β-caryophyllene may also activate cannabinoid receptors as part of their biological activity. In the present study, we investigated selected sesquiterpenes β-caryophyllene and humulene and their oxidized forms (β-caryophyllene oxide and zerumbone, respectively) against established antioxidants (ascorbic acid, α-tocopherol, and glutathione) and in the presence of cannabinoid receptor 1 and cannabinoid receptor 2 antagonists, to gain a better understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of neuroprotection versus neurotoxicity in semi-differentiated rat neuronal phaeochromocytoma (PC12) cells. Our results demonstrate that the sesquiterpenes β-caryophyllene, humulene and zerumbone possess concentration-dependent neurotoxic effects in PC12 cells. Both β-caryophyllene- and humulene-evoked toxicity was unaffected by CB1 or CB2 receptor antagonism, demonstrating this occurred independently of cannabinoid receptors. Both glutathione and α-tocopherol were variably able to alleviate the concentration-dependent loss of PC12 cell viability from exposure to β-caryophyllene, humulene and zerumbone. During 4-hour exposure to sesquiterpenes only modest increases in ROS levels were noted in PC12 cells, with glutathione co-incubation significantly inhibiting intracellular ROS production. However, significant increases in ROS levels in PC12 cells were demonstrated during 24-hour incubation with either antioxidants or sesquiterpenes individually, and with additive toxicity exhibited in combination. Overall, the results highlight a concentration-dependent profile of sesquiterpene neurotoxicity independent of cannabinoid receptors and dissociated from the formation of reactive oxygen species as a marker or correlate to the loss of cell viability.

SOV sensitizes gastric cancer cells to radiation by suppressing radiation-induced autophagy in vitro and in vivo

Vanadium is a transition metal that naturally occurs in the environment and has a variety of biological and physiological impacts on humans. Sodium orthovanadate (SOV), a well-known chemical compound of vanadium, has shown notable anti-cancer activity in various types of human malignancies. However, the effect of SOV on stomach cancer is yet undetermined. Furthermore, only a few studies have investigated the association of SOV and radiosensitivity with stomach cancer. Our study has investigated the ability of SOV to increase the sensitivity of gastric cancer cells to radiation. To detect autophagy triggered by ionizing radiation and the influence of SOV on cell radiosensitivity, the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) test, EDU staining experiment, colony formation assay, and immunofluorescence were performed. The possible synergistic effects of SOV and irradiation were examined in vivo using a xenograft mouse model of stomach cancer cells. Both in vitro and in vivo studies showed that SOV markedly reduced the growth of stomach cancer cells and improved their radiosensitivity. Our results showed that SOV increased gastric cancer cells' radiosensitivity, thereby blocking the radiation-induced autophagy-related protein, ATG10. Thus, SOV can be considered a potential agent for radiosensitizing gastric cancer.

The effects of Ginger (Zingiber officinale) roots on the reproductive aspects in male Japanese Quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica)

BACKGROUND

The Japanese quail is considered one of the most significant species in the poultry industry. However, the high male-to-female ratio results in the aggressive behavior of males. Dietary strategies that improve the properties of semen could reduce the number of males required to maintain optimal fertility and reduce aggressive behavior. Therefore, this study aims to provide insight into the possible improving efm fect of ginger roots on the reproductive aspects of Japanese male quails.

RESULTS

To achieve this objective, powder of Ginger roots was administrated to 2 groups of quails (10, and 15 g/Kg feed) from 7 days until 70 days of age. Some males were reared singly in cages (n = 40 for each group) to assess sperm quality and other males (n = 32 for each group) were raised with females to assess fertility and sperm-egg penetration. Additionally, biochemical tests and histological examination were also performed. When compared to the control group, dietary inclusion of Ginger at a dose of 15 g caused more improvement in ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, motility, viability and sperm-egg penetration. Whereas, the motility and fertility percentages of sperms were equipotent in both doses. Dose-dependent increases were found in the cloacal gland area and volume, as well as foam production and weight. Both doses resulted in a significant reduction in plasma total cholesterol along with an elevation cin plasma testosterone and lipid peroxides. The comparison between all groups concerning nitric oxide, catalase, superoxide dismutase, and total antioxidant capacity revealed the absence of significant difference. Morphologically, the diameter of the seminiferous tubules and the height of germinal epithelium significantly increased especially in the higher dose of Ginger.

CONCLUSIONS

Ginger roots especially at a dose of 15 gm/kg feed was effective in improving male reproductive performance. These findings are of utmost importance in encouraging the addition of Ginger roots in ration formulation in male quails.

Nitrogen, sulfur, and phosphorus Co-doped carbon dots-based ratiometric chemosensor for highly selective sequential detection of Al3+ and Fe3+ ions in logic gate, cell imaging, and real sample analysis

Heteroatom-doped photoluminescent (PL) carbon dots (CDs) have recently gained attention as optical sensors due to their excellent tunable properties. In this work, we propose a one-pot hydrothermal synthesis of PL nitrogen (N), sulfur (S), and phosphorus (P) co-doped carbon dots (NSP-CDs) using glutathione and phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄) as precursors. The synthesized NSP-CDs were characterized using different spectroscopic and microscopic techniques, including ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis. The NSP-CDs exhibited excellent PL properties with green emission at 492 nm upon excitation at 417 nm, a high quantum yield of 26.7%, and dependent emission behavior. The as-prepared NSP-CDs were spherical with a well-monodispersed average particle size of 5.2 nm. Moreover, NSP-CDs demonstrate high PL stability toward a wider pH, high salt ionic strength, and various solvents. Furthermore, the NSP-CDs showed a three-state "off-on-off" PL response upon the sequential addition of Al³⁺ and Fe³⁺ ions, with a low limit of detection (LOD) of 10.8 nM for Al³⁺ and 50.7 nM for Fe³⁺. The NSP-CD sensor can construct an INHIBIT logic gate with Al³⁺ and Fe³⁺ ions as the chemical inputs and emissions as the output mode. Owing to an excellent tunable PL property and biocompatibility, the NSP-CDs were applied for sensing Al³⁺ and Fe³⁺ ions as well as live cell imaging. Furthermore, NSP-CDs were designed as PL sensors for detecting Al³⁺ and Fe³⁺ ions in real water show their potential application.

Zerumbone-induced reactive oxygen species-mediated oxidative stress re-sensitizes breast cancer cells to paclitaxel

Chemotherapy is an effective approach for cancer therapy when plant-derived sensitizers are combined with chemotherapeutics. Zerumbone, a natural phytochemical, has been documented to have various pharmacological roles. Here, we evaluated the chemosensitization potential of zerumbone in a breast cancer cell line in vitro. Zerumbone-induced cytotoxicity in MCF-7 cells was assessed by 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT)-based metabolic analysis. Reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated mitochondrial membrane alterations, DNA damage, and apoptotic morphological changes were measured by fluorescence microscopy methods. A biochemical assay was employed to analyze Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and antioxidant levels. Apoptotic marker expression levels were investigated by immunoblotting. MTT assay revealed that zerumbone significantly enhanced paclitaxel (PTX)-induced cell death in breast cancer cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, our study demonstrated that zerumbone (15 μM) significantly enhanced ROS when combined with PTX (1 μM) treatment. Additionally, we observed that zerumbone enhanced the impairment of mitochondrial membrane potential and oxidative DNA damage, thereby inducing apoptosis in combination with PTX. Western blot analysis indicated that zerumbone significantly upregulated BAX, caspase-7, and caspase-9 expression and decreased BCL-2 expression, thereby inducing proapoptotic protein-mediated cell death combined with PTX. The prooxidant properties of zerumbone potentially resensitize breast cancer cells to PTX by enhancing intracellular ROS-mediated oxidative stress.

Role of Zerumbone, a Phytochemical Sesquiterpenoid from Zingiber zerumbet Smith, in Maintaining Macrophage Polarization and Redox Homeostasis

Macrophages and microglia are highly versatile cells that can be polarized into M1 and M2 phenotypes in response to diverse environmental stimuli, thus exhibiting different biological functions. In the central nervous system, activated resident macrophages and microglial cells trigger the production of proinflammatory mediators that contribute to neurodegenerative diseases and psychiatric disorders. Therefore, modulating the activation of macrophages and microglia by optimizing the inflammatory environment is beneficial for disease management. Several naturally occurring compounds have been reported to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. Zerumbone is a phytochemical sesquiterpenoid and also a cyclic ketone isolated from Zingiber zerumbet Smith. In this study, we found that zerumbone effectively reduced the expression of lipocalin-2 in macrophages and microglial cell lines. Lipocalin-2, also known as neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), has been characterized as an adipokine/cytokine implicated in inflammation. Moreover, supplement with zerumbone inhibited reactive oxygen species production. Phagocytic activity was decreased following the zerumbone supplement. In addition, the zerumbone supplement remarkably reduced the production of M1-polarization-associated chemokines CXC10 and CCL-2, as well as M1-polarization-associated cytokines interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α. Furthermore, the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 and the production of NO were attenuated in macrophages and microglial cells supplemented with zerumbone. Notably, we discovered that zerumbone effectively promoted the production of the endogenous antioxidants heme oxygenase-1, glutamate-cysteine ligase modifier subunit, glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit, and NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase-1 and remarkably enhanced IL-10, a marker of M2 macrophage polarization. Endogenous antioxidant production and M2 macrophage polarization were increased through activation of the AMPK/Akt and Akt/GSK3 signaling pathways. In summary, this study demonstrated the protective role of zerumbone in maintaining M1 and M2 polarization homeostasis by decreasing inflammatory responses and enhancing the production of endogenous antioxidants in both macrophages and microglia cells. This study suggests that zerumbone can be used as a potential therapeutic drug for the supplement of neuroinflammatory diseases.

Ginger for Healthy Ageing: A Systematic Review on Current Evidence of Its Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Anticancer Properties

The world's population is ageing at an accelerated pace. Ageing is a natural, physiological but highly complex and multifactorial process that all species in the Tree of Life experience over time. Physical and mental disabilities, and age-related diseases, would increase along with the increasing life expectancy. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a plant that belongs to the Zingiberaceae family, native to Southeast Asia. For hundreds of years, ginger has been consumed in various ways by the natives of Asian countries, both as culinary and medicinal herb for the treatment of many diseases. Mounting evidence suggests that ginger can promote healthy ageing, reduce morbidity, and prolong healthy lifespan. Ginger, a well-known natural product, has been demonstrated to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antimicrobial properties, as well as an outstanding antiviral activity due to a high concentration of antiviral compounds. In this review, the current evidence on the potential role of ginger and its active compounds in the prevention of ageing is discussed.

Plants of the Genus Zingiber: A Review of Their Ethnomedicine, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology

Plant of the genus Zingiber (Zingiberaceae) have primarily distributed in subtropical and tropical Asia, South America and Africa. The species of this genus have been widely used as food and in folk with a long history for treating various diseases. Reports related to the phytochemistry and phytochemistry of Zingiber species are numerous, but articles on the summary of the genus Zingiber remain scarce. This review aims at presenting comprehensive information about the genus Zingiber and providing a reference for the future application by systematically reviewing the literature from 1981 to 2020. Currently, a total of 447 phytochemical constituents have been isolated and identified from this genus, in which volatile oils, diarylheptanoids, gingerols, flavonoids and terpenoids are the major components. Gingerols, which are the main functional components, are the spicy and aromatic ingredients in the Zingiber species. Extracts and single compounds from Zingiber plants have been discovered to possess numerous biological functions, such as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antimicrobial, larvicidal, antioxidant and hypoglycemic activities. This review provides new insights into the ethnomedicine, phytochemistry and pharmacology of the genus Zingiber and brings to the forefront key findings on the functional components of this genus in food and pharmaceutical industries.

Analysis of Cytotoxic Effects of Zerumbone in Malignant Glioblastoma Cells

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is an aggressive tumor in the central nervous system with a poor prognosis. Currently, the main interventions include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Recently, several natural products have been reported as potentially effective and safer treatment options. Here, we studied the effects of zerumbone, a sesquiterpene compound derived from Zingiber zerumbet Smith rhizomes, on human GBM U-87 MG cells in vitro. To meet this purpose, we used a cytotoxicity assay, as well as a quantitative polymerase chain reaction of apoptosis-related genes and western blot analysis of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), a transcription factor that controls the production of cytokines and molecules involved in cell survival.

Medicinal Plants for Glioblastoma Treatment

Glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer, demonstrates the least life expectancy among all brain cancers. Because of the regulation of diverse signaling pathways in cancers, the chemotherapeutic approaches used to suppress their multiplication and spreading are restricted. Sensitivity towards chemotherapeutic agents has developed because of the pathological and drug-evading abilities of these diverse mechanisms. As a result, the identification and exploration of strategies or treatments, which can overcome such refractory obstacles to improve glioblastoma response to treatment as well as recovery, is essential. Medicinal herbs contain a wide variety of bioactive compounds, which could trigger aggressive brain cancers, regulate their anti-cancer mechanisms and immune responses to assist in cancer elimination, and cause cell death. Numerous tumor-causing proteins, which facilitate invasion as well as metastasis of cancer, tolerance of chemotherapies, and angiogenesis, are also inhibited by these phytochemicals. Such herbs remain valuable for glioblastoma prevention and its incidence by effectively being used as anti-glioma therapies. This review thus presents the latest findings on medicinal plants using which the extracts or bioactive components are being used against glioblastoma, their mechanism of functioning, pharmacological description as well as recent clinical studies conducted on them.

Zerumbone acts as a radiosensitizer in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Introduction. Zerumbone is a phytochemical compound of the ginger plant Zingiber zerumbet with cytotoxic effects in various cancer cell lines. To date, zerumbone has shown an antiproliferative effect in oral squamous cell carcinoma cells lines. However, the effect of combination with radiation or cisplatin in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of zerumbone alone, and in combination with irradiation and cisplatin on HNSCC cell lines. Methods. The three HNSCC cell lines SCC25, Cal27 and FaDu were treated with zerumbone, radiation and/or cisplatin. Cell viability and clonogenic assays were performed. The interaction between zerumbone and radiation or cisplatin was evaluated using the combination index. Apoptosis was measured by flow cytometry and cell migration was assessed using a wound healing assay. Results. Treatment with zerumbone resulted in a dose dependent induction of cytotoxicity and apoptosis in all three cell lines. The combination with cisplatin revealed a synergistic to additive effect in Cal27. The clonogenic assay showed a significant radiosensitizing effect in all three cell lines. The wound healing assay showed a reduction of cell migration in Cal27. Conclusion. The natural compound zerumbone shows a cytotoxic and proapoptotic effect on HNSCC cell lines. Furthermore, zerumbone enhances the radiation effect in all three cell lines and thus may be a suitable candidate for combination therapy in HNSCC.

Potential Role of Natural Products to Combat Radiotherapy and Their Future Perspectives

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the world. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy (RT) are the common cancer treatments. In addition to these limitations, the development of adverse effects from chemotherapy and RT reduces the quality of life for cancer patients. Cellular radiosensitivity, or the ability to resist and overcome cell damage caused by ionizing radiation (IR), is directly related to cancer cells' response to RT. Therefore, radiobiological research is emphasizing chemical compounds 'radiosensitization of cancer cells so that they are more reactive in the IR spectrum. Recent years researchers have seen an increase in interest in natural products that have antitumor effects with minimal side effects. Natural products, on the other hand, are easy to recover and therefore less expensive. There have been several scientific studies done based on these compounds that have tested their ability in vitro and in vivo to induce tumor radiosensitization. The role of natural products in RT, as well as their usefulness and potential applications, is the goal of this current review.

Anti-Cancer and Anti-Angiogenesis Activities of Zerumbone Isolated from Zingiber Zerumbet - A Systematic Review

Significant number of literatures has demonstrated the antiproliferative effect of Zerumbone and its role as anti-angiogenesis. The aims of this systematic review were to assess the anti-cancer effects of Zerumbone and the role of its antiangiogenic properties in treating cancer. Relevant articles were selected based on specific inclusion criteria. Articles chosen for this systematic review were between January 2008 and December 2018. Relevant articles were identified through an extensive search in Science Direct, PubMed, Google Scholar and Scopus. The literature searches of the electronic databases combined the following key words: anti-angiogenic, anticancer, Zerumbone and Zingiber zerumbet. Studies chosen for this review includes the following designs in vitro, in vivo and ex vivo. The initial literature search obtained a total of 352 related records and the final number of studies that met the inclusion criteria in the current review was 43 studies. In vitro studies were the commonest study design. Evidently, Zerumbone demonstrate a potential antiproliferative and antiangiogenic. The antiproliferative activities of Zerumbone was shown to induce by different signalling pathway. Zerumbone through its antiangiogenic effect play a great role in reducing invasion and metastasis. Some selected studies on Zerumbone were found to plague with limitation such as lack of toxic threshold value which may be needed for the clinical trials on this compound.

Essential Oil from Zingiber ottensii Induces Human Cervical Cancer Cell Apoptosis and Inhibits MAPK and PI3K/AKT Signaling Cascades

Zingiber ottensii (ZO) is a local plant in Thailand and has been used as a Thai traditional therapy for many conditions. ZO has been reported to exhibit many pharmacological effects, including anti-cancer activity. Nevertheless, its anti-cancer effects explored at the signaling level have not been elucidated in cervical cancer, which is one of the leading causes of fatality in females. We discovered that the essential oil of ZO significantly increased the apoptosis of human cervical cancer cells (HeLa) after 24 h of treatment in a concentration-dependent manner. Our data also clearly demonstrated that ZO essential oil reduced IL-6 levels in the culture supernatants of the cancer cells. Moreover, Western blot analysis clearly verified that cells were induced to undergo apoptotic death via caspase activation upon treatment with ZO essential oil. Interestingly, immunofluorescence studies and Western blot analyses showed that ZO essential oil suppressed epidermal growth factor (EGF)-induced pAkt and pERK1/2 signaling pathway activation. Together, our study demonstrates that ZO essential oil can reduce the proliferation and survival signaling of HeLa cervical cancer cells. Our study provides convincing data that ZO essential oil suppresses the growth and survival of cervical cancer cells, and it may be a potential choice for developing an anti-cancer agent for treating certain cervical cancers.

Antioxidant and anticancer potentials of edible flowers: where do we stand?

Edible flowers are attracting special therapeutic attention and their administration is on the rise. Edible flowers play pivotal modulatory roles on oxidative stress and related interconnected apoptotic/inflammatory pathways toward the treatment of cancer. In this review, we highlighted the phytochemical content and therapeutic applications of edible flowers, as well as their modulatory potential on the oxidative stress pathways and apoptotic/inflammatory mediators, resulting in anticancer effects. Edible flowers are promising sources of phytochemicals (e.g., phenolic compounds, carotenoids, terpenoids) with several therapeutic effects. They possess anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-microbial, anti-depressant, anxiolytic, anti-obesity, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective effects. Edible flowers potentially modulate oxidative stress by targeting erythroid nuclear transcription factor-2/extracellular signal-regulated kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinase (Nrf2/ERK/MAPK), reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant response elements (AREs). As the interconnected pathways to oxidative stress, inflammatory mediators, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), interleukins (ILs) as well as apoptotic pathways such as Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), Bcl-2, caspase and cytochrome C are critical targets of edible flowers in combating cancer. In this regard, edible flowers could play promising anticancer effects by targeting oxidative stress and downstream dysregulated pathways.

The roles of PKC-δ and PKC-ε in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury

Ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) cause a reduction in arterial blood supply to tissues, followed by the restoration of perfusion and consequent reoxygenation. The reestablishment of blood flow triggers further damage to ischemic tissue through reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, interference with cellular ion homeostasis, opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pores (mPTPs) and promotion of cell death (apoptosis or necrosis). PKC-δ and PKC-ε, belonging to a family of serine/threonine kinases, have been demonstrated to play important roles during I/R injury in cardiovascular diseases. However, the cardioprotective mechanisms of PKC-δ and PKC-ε in I/R injury have not been elaborated until now. This article discusses the roles of PKC-δ and PKC-ε during myocardial I/R in redox regulation (redox signaling and oxidative stress), cell death (apoptosis and necrosis), Ca²⁺ overload, and mitochondrial dysfunction.

Zerumbone Promotes Cytotoxicity in Human Malignant Glioblastoma Cells through Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) Generation

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most hostile tumor in the central nervous system. Unfortunately, the prognosis of GBM patients is poor following surgical interventions, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Consequently, more efficient and effective treatment options for the treatment of GBM need to be explored. Zerumbone, as a sesquiterpene derived from Zingiber zerumbet Smith, has substantial cytotoxic and antiproliferative activities in some types of cancer. Here, we show that exposure of GBM cells (U-87 MG) to Zerumbone demonstrated significant growth inhibition in a concentration-dependent manner. Zerumbone also induced apoptosis and caused cell cycle arrest of human GBM U-87 MG cells in the G2/M phase of the cell cycle. In detail, the apoptotic process triggered by Zerumbone involved the upregulation of proapoptotic Bax and the suppression of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 genes expression as determined by qRT-PCR. Moreover, Zerumbone enhanced the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), as an antioxidant, reversed the ROS-induced cytotoxicity of U-87 MG cells. The Western blot analysis suggested that Zerumbone activated the NF-κB p65, which was partly inhibited by NAC treatment. Collectively, our results confirmed that Zerumbone induces cytotoxicity by ROS generation. Thus, the study raises the possibility of Zerumbone as a potential natural agent for treating GBM due to its ability to induce cytotoxicity.

Anticancer Potential of Raddeanin A, a Natural Triterpenoid Isolated from Anemone raddeana Regel

Natural compounds extracted from plants have gained immense importance in the fight against cancer cells due to their lesser toxicity and potential therapeutic effects. Raddeanin A (RA), an oleanane type triterpenoid is a major compound isolated from Anemone raddeana Regel. As an anticancer agent, RA induces apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, inhibits invasion, migration and angiogenesis in malignant cell lines as well as in preclinical models. In this systemic review, the pharmacological effects of RA and its underlying molecular mechanisms were carefully analyzed and potential molecular targets have been highlighted. The apoptotic potential of RA can be mediated through the modulation of Bcl-2, Bax, caspase-3, caspase-8, caspase-9, cytochrome c and poly-ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) cleavage. PI3K/Akt signaling pathway serves as the major molecular target affected by RA. Furthermore, RA can block cell proliferation through inhibition of canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in colorectal cancer cells. RA can also alter the activation of NF-κB and STAT3 signaling pathways to suppress invasion and metastasis. RA has also exhibited promising anticancer potential against drug resistant cancer cells and can enhance the anticancer effects of several chemotherapeutic agents. Overall, RA may function as a promising compound in combating cancer, although further in-depth study is required under clinical settings to validate its efficacy in cancer patients.

The role of radiation induced oxidative stress as a regulator of radio-adaptive responses

Purpose: Various sources of radiation including radiofrequency, electromagnetic radiation (EMR), low- dose X-radiation, low-level microwave radiation and ionizing radiation (IR) are indispensable parts of modern life. In the current review, we discussed the adaptive responses of biological systems to radiation with a focus on the impacts of radiation-induced oxidative stress (RIOS) and its molecular downstream signaling pathways.Materials and methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in Web of Sciences, PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Embase, and Cochrane Library. Keywords included Mesh terms of "radiation," "electromagnetic radiation," "adaptive immunity," "oxidative stress," and "immune checkpoints." Manuscripts published up until December 2019 were included.Results: RIOS induces various molecular adaptors connected with adaptive responses in radiation exposed cells. One of these adaptors includes p53 which promotes various cellular signaling pathways. RIOS also activates the intrinsic apoptotic pathway by depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane potential and activating the caspase apoptotic cascade. RIOS is also involved in radiation-induced proliferative responses through interaction with mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPks) including p38 MAPK, ERK, and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). Protein kinase B (Akt)/phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling pathway has also been reported to be involved in RIOS-induced proliferative responses. Furthermore, RIOS promotes genetic instability by introducing DNA structural and epigenetic alterations, as well as attenuating DNA repair mechanisms. Inflammatory transcription factors including macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), and signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT-3) paly major role in RIOS-induced inflammation.Conclusion: In conclusion, RIOS considerably contributes to radiation induced adaptive responses. Other possible molecular adaptors modulating RIOS-induced responses are yet to be divulged in future studies.

Protective Effects of Zerumbone on Colonic Tumorigenesis in Enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis (ETBF)-Colonized AOM/DSS BALB/c Mice

Chronic inflammation has been linked to colitis-associated colorectal cancer in humans. The human symbiont enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis (ETBF), a pro-carcinogenic bacterium, has the potential to initiate and/or promote colorectal cancer. Antibiotic treatment of ETBF has shown promise in decreasing colonic polyp formation in murine models of colon cancer. However, there are no reported natural products that have shown efficacy in decreasing polyp burden. In this study, we investigated the chemopreventive effects of oral administration of zerumbone in ETBF-colonized mice with azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced tumorigenesis. Zerumbone significantly reduced the severity of disease activity index (DAI) scores as well as several parameters of colonic inflammation (i.e., colon weight, colon length, cecum weight and spleen weight). In addition, inflammation of the colon and cecum as well as hyperplasia was reduced. Zerumbone treatment significantly inhibited colonic polyp numbers and prevented macroadenoma progression. Taken together, these findings suggest that oral treatment with zerumbone inhibited ETBF-promoted colon carcinogenesis in mice indicating that zerumbone could be employed as a promising protective agent against ETBF-mediated colorectal cancer.

Nutraceutical Compounds as Sensitizers for Cancer Treatment in Radiation Therapy

The improvement of diagnostic techniques and the efficacy of new therapies in clinical practice have allowed cancer patients to reach a higher chance to be cured together with a better quality of life. However, tumors still represent the second leading cause of death worldwide. On the contrary, chemotherapy and radiotherapy (RT) still lack treatment plans which take into account the biological features of tumors and depend on this for their response to treatment. Tumor cells' response to RT is strictly-connected to their radiosensitivity, namely, their ability to resist and to overcome cell damage induced by ionizing radiation (IR). For this reason, radiobiological research is focusing on the ability of chemical compounds to radiosensitize cancer cells so to make them more responsive to IR. In recent years, the interests of researchers have been focused on natural compounds that show antitumoral effects with limited collateral issues. Moreover, nutraceuticals are easy to recover and are thus less expensive. On these bases, several scientific projects have aimed to test also their ability to induce tumor radiosensitization both in vitro and in vivo. The goal of this review is to describe what is known about the role of nutraceuticals in radiotherapy, their use and their potential application.

Dietary zerumbone from shampoo ginger: new insights into its antioxidant and anticancer activity

The dietary sesquiterpene dienone zerumbone (ZER) selectively targets cancer cells, inducing mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis, and protects non-cancerous cells towards oxidative stress and insult. This study examines the in vitro effects of ZER on lipid peroxidation in biological systems (cholesterol and phospholipid membrane oxidation) and explores its antitumor action in terms of its ability to modulate cancer cell lipid profile. Evaluation of the antioxidant activity of ZER showed that this compound is unable to trap lipoperoxyl radicals per se. ZER significantly modulated the total lipid and fatty acid profiles in cancer cells, inducing marked changes in the phospholipid/cholesterol ratio, with significant decreases in the levels of oleic and palmitic acids and a marked increase of stearic acid. Cell-based fluorescent measurements of intracellular membranes and lipid droplets using the Nile Red staining technique showed that in cancer cells, ZER induced significant accumulation of cytosolic lipid droplets and altered cell membrane organization/protein dynamics, depolarizing the mitochondrial membranes and inducing apoptosis and alteration of nuclear morphology. The modulatory activity of ZER on the total lipid and fatty acid profiles and lipid droplets may therefore represent another possible mechanism of its anticancer properties.

Potential of Zerumbone as an Anti-Cancer Agent

Cancer is still a major risk factor to public health globally, causing approximately 9.8 million deaths worldwide in 2018. Despite advances in conventional treatment modalities for cancer treatment, there are still few effective therapies available due to the lack of selectivity, adverse side effects, non-specific toxicities, and tumour recurrence. Therefore, there is an immediate need for essential alternative therapeutics, which can prove to be beneficial and safe against cancer. Various phytochemicals from natural sources have been found to exhibit beneficial medicinal properties against various human diseases. Zerumbone is one such compound isolated from Zingiber zerumbet Smith that possesses diverse pharmacological properties including those of antioxidant, antibacterial, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, as well as anti-neoplastic. Zerumbone has shown its anti-cancer effects by causing significant suppression of proliferation, survival, angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis through the molecular modulation of different pathways such as NF-κB, Akt, and IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 (interleukin-6/janus kinase-2/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3) and their downstream target proteins. The current review briefly summarizes the modes of action and therapeutic potential of zerumbone against various cancers.

Physical plasma-treated saline promotes an immunogenic phenotype in CT26 colon cancer cells in vitro and in vivo

Metastatic colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cause of cancer death. Current options in palliation such as hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) present severe side effects. Recent research efforts suggested the therapeutic use of oxidant-enriched liquid using cold physical plasma. To investigate a clinically accepted treatment regimen, we assessed the antitumor capacity of plasma-treated saline solution. In response to such liquid, CT26 murine colon cancer cells were readily oxidized and showed cell growth with subsequent apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and upregulation of immunogenic cell death (ICD) markers in vitro. This was accompanied by marked morphological changes with re-arrangement of actin fibers and reduced motility. Induction of an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition phenotype was not observed. Key results were confirmed in MC38 colon and PDA6606 pancreatic cancer cells. Compared to plasma-treated saline, hydrogen peroxide was inferiorly toxic in 3D tumor spheroids but of similar efficacy in 2D models. In vivo, plasma-treated saline decreased tumor burden in Balb/C mice. This was concomitant with elevated numbers of intratumoral macrophages and increased T cell activation following incubation with CT26 cells ex vivo. Being a potential adjuvant for HIPEC therapy, our results suggest oxidizing saline solutions to inactivate colon cancer cells while potentially stimulating antitumor immune responses.

Systematic review of treatment intensification using novel agents for chemoradiotherapy in rectal cancer

BACKGROUND

With the well established shift to neoadjuvant treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer, there is increasing focus on the use of radiosensitizers to improve the efficacy and tolerability of radiotherapy. There currently exist few randomized data exploring novel radiosensitizers to improve response and it is unclear what the clinical endpoints of such trials should be.

METHODS

A qualitative systematic review was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines using preset search criteria across the PubMed, Cochrane and Scopus databases from 1990 to 2017. Additional results were generated from the reference lists of included papers.

RESULTS

A total of 123 papers were identified, of which 37 were included; a further 60 articles were obtained from additional referencing to give a total of 97 articles. Neoadjuvant radiosensitization for locally advanced rectal cancer using fluoropyrimidine-based chemotherapy remains the standard of treatment. The oral derivative capecitabine has practical advantages over 5-fluorouracil, with equal efficacy, but the addition of a second chemotherapeutic agent has yet to show a consistent significant efficacy benefit in randomized clinical assessment. Preclinical and early-phase trials are progressing with promising novel agents, such as small molecular inhibitors and nanoparticles.

CONCLUSION

Despite extensive research and promising preclinical studies, a definite further agent in addition to fluoropyrimidines that consistently improves response rate has yet to be found.

Zerumbone, a Tropical Ginger Sesquiterpene of Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Attenuates α-MSH-Induced Melanogenesis in B16F10 Cells

Zerumbone (ZER), an active constituent of the Zingiberaceae family, has been shown to exhibit several biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-microbial, and anti-cancer; however, it has not been studied for anti-melanogenic properties. In the present study, we demonstrate that ZER and Zingiber officinale (ZO) extract significantly attenuate melanin accumulation in α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH)-stimulated mouse melanogenic B16F10 cells. Further, to elucidate the molecular mechanism by which ZER suppresses melanin accumulation, we analyzed the expression of melanogenesis-associated transcription factor, microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), and its target genes, such as tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein 1 (TYRP1), and tyrosinase-related protein 2 (TYRP2), in B16F10 cells that are stimulated by α-MSH. Here, we found that ZER inhibits the MITF-mediated expression of melanogenic genes upon α-MSH stimulation. Additionally, cells treated with different concentrations of zerumbone and ZO showed increased extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) phosphorylation, which are involved in the degradation mechanism of MITF. Pharmacological inhibition of ERK1/2 using U0126 sufficiently reversed the anti-melanogenic effect of ZER, suggesting that increased phosphorylation of ERK1/2 is required for its anti-melanogenic activity. Taken together, these results suggest that ZER and ZO extract can be used as active ingredients in skin-whitening cosmetics because of their anti-melanogenic effect.

DNA damage response and repair in colorectal cancer: Defects, regulation and therapeutic implications

DNA damage response, a key factor involved in maintaining genome integrity and stability, consists of several kinase-dependent signaling pathways, which sense and transduce DNA damage signal. The severity of damage appears to determine DNA damage responses, which can include cell cycle arrest, damage repair and apoptosis. A number of recent studies have demonstrated that defection in signaling through this network is thought to be an underlying mechanism behind the development and progression of various types of human malignancies, including colorectal cancer. In this review, colorectal cancer and its molecular pathology as well as DNA damage response is briefly introduced. Finally, the involvement of key components of this network in the initiation/progression, prognosis, response to treatment and development of drug resistance is comprehensively discussed.

Structural and lipid peroxidation effects of lead on rat hippocampus and its attenuation by hydrogen rich water

Despite the well-known toxicity and the efforts to control its exposure, lead still has a serious health concern, particularly in young ages. Chelation therapy cannot correct the neurocognitive effects of chronic exposure. So, there is a requirement to test different protective agents for lead intoxication. Hydrogen-rich water (HRW) has gained attraction recently as an antioxidant. Four groups of rats received sodium acetate, HRW, lead acetate (LA), or LA plus HRW for 8 weeks. Oxidative stress, histological and immunohistochemistry using p53 antibody were used to investigate the toxic effect of lead and the possible HRW protective effect in rat hippocampus. Results showed that HRW corrected the elevated malondialdehyde levels (MDA) and restore the lead-induced depletion of antioxidant enzymes; glutathione reductase (GR), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). HRW does not affect the diminished nitric oxide (NO) level in the LA-treated group. Moreover, HRW reversed the LA-induced histological and immunohistochemical changes. It significantly decreased the percentage of the apoptotic index. We concluded that HRW protects the neurons against lead-induced oxidative stress and has anti-apoptotic effects without a noticeable change in NO level which already was diminished by LA.

In vitro stimulatory effect of N-acetyl tryptophan-glucopyranoside against gamma radiation induced immunosuppression

Radiation-induced manifestations like free radical burst, oxidative damage and apoptosis leading to cell death. In present study, N-acetyl tryptophan glucopyranoside (NATG) was assessed for its immune-radioprotective activities using J774A.1 cells. Clonogenic cell survival, cell cycle progression and cytokines i.e. IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-2, IL-10, IL-12, IL-13 and IL-17A expression were evaluated in irradiated and NATG pretreated cells using clonogenic formation ability, flow cytometry and ELISA assay. Results indicated that 0.25μg/ml NATG exhibited maximum radioprotection against gamma-radiation (2Gy) without intervening in cell cycle progression. NATG pretreated (-2 h) plus irradiated cells showed significant elevation in IFN-γ (∼38.2%), IL-17A (∼53.7%) and IL-12 (∼58.8%) expression as compared to only irradiated cells. Conversely, significant decrease in TNF-α (∼21.6%), IL-10 (∼31.2%), IL-2 (∼23.7%) and IL-13 expression (∼17.8%) were observed in NATG pretreated plus irradiated cells as compared to irradiated cells. Conclusively, NATG pretreatment to irradiated J774A.1 cells, stimulate Th₁ while diminish Th₂ cytokines that contributes to radioprotection.

Anticancer effects of 10-hydroxycamptothecin induce apoptosis of human osteosarcoma through activating caspase-3, p53 and cytochrome c pathways

In order to evaluate the anticancer effect of 10-hydroxycamptothecin (HCPT) in terms of inducing the apoptosis of human osteosarcoma cells, its apoptosis-inducing molecular mechanisms were investigated. In the present study, the anticancer effects of HCPT were revealed to result in suppressed cell viability, increased cytotoxicity, the induction of apoptosis and an augmented apoptotic nucleolus of human osteosarcoma cells. MG-63 cells were cultured with HCPT (0, 20, 40 and 80 nM) for 24 and 48 h. An MTT assay and a lactate dehydrogenase assay were used to analyze the anticancer effect of HCPT on cell viability and cytotoxicity in MG-63 cells. MG-63 cell apoptosis, and caspase-9 and caspase-3 activity levels were evaluated using flow cytometry and an ELISA. Western blot analysis was used to detect the protein expression levels of p53, poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1), cytochrome c and B cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) in MG-63 cells. The anticancer effects of HCPT were demonstrated to significantly activate the protein expression of p53, PARP-1 and cytochrome c, and suppress Bcl-2 protein expression and promote the activity of caspase-9 and caspase-3 in human osteosarcoma cells. In conclusion, the anticancer effects of HCPT appear to induce the apoptosis of human osteosarcoma cells through the activation of the caspase-3, p53 and cytochrome c pathways.

Alpinumisoflavone radiosensitizes esophageal squamous cell carcinoma through inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest

Radiotherapy remains a mainstream treatment for patients with unresectable and locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). However, intrinsic radioresistance of ESCC tumors has largely compromised the efficacy of radiotherapy. The following study investigates the potential radiosensitizing effect of alpinumisoflavone (AIF) and explores its underlying mechanisms in ESCC. Briefly, our results showed that AIF could significantly increase radiosensitivity of ESCC cells both in vitro and in vivo, by increasing the effect of AIF on irradiation-induced DNA damage, apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. Mechanically, AIF aggravated irradiation-induced ROS generation in ESCC cells, which occurred via suppressing the expression of nuclear transcription factor Nrf2 and Nrf2-driven antioxidant molecule NQO-1 and HO-1. Collectively, we concluded that AIF functions as a potent radiosensitizer in human ESCC.

A Review of the Biomedical Applications of Zerumbone and the Techniques for Its Extraction from Ginger Rhizomes

Zerumbone (ZER) is a phytochemical isolated from the subtropical Zingiberaceae family and as a natural compound it has different biomedical properties such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory anti-proliferative activity. ZER also has effects on angiogenesis and acts as an antitumor drug in the treatment of cancer, showing selective toxicity toward various cancer cell lines. Several techniques also have been established for extraction of ZER from the rhizomes of ginger. This review paper is an overview of recent research about different extraction methods and their efficiencies, in vivo and vitro investigations of ZER and also its prominent chemopreventive properties and treatment mechanisms. Most of the studies mentioned in this review paper may be useful use as a knowledge summary to explain ZER extraction and anticancer activities, which will show a way for the development of strategies in the treatment of malignancies using ZER.

Bigelovin triggered apoptosis in colorectal cancer in vitro and in vivo via upregulating death receptor 5 and reactive oxidative species

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most prevalent cancer and the third highest cancer-related mortality in the United States. Bigelovin, a sesquiterpene lactone isolated from Inula helianthus aquatica, has been proven to induce apoptosis and exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic activities. However, the effects of bigelovin on CRC and underlying mechanisms have not been explored. The present study demonstrated that bigelovin exhibited potent anti-tumor activities against CRC in vitro and in vivo. Bigelovin suppressed cell proliferation and colony formation and induced apoptosis in human colorectal cancer HT-29 and HCT 116 cells in vitro. Results also revealed that bigelovin activated caspases, caused the G2/M cell cycle arrest and induced DNA damage through up-regulation of death receptor (DR) 5 and increase of ROS. In HCT 116 xenograft model, bigelovin treatment resulted in suppression of tumor growth. Bigelovin at 20 mg/kg showed more significant tumor suppression and less side effects than conventional FOLFOX (containing folinic acid, 5-fluorouracil and oxaliplatin) treatment. In addition, in vivo data confirmed that anti-tumor activity of bigelovin in CRC was through induction of apoptosis by up-regulating DR5 and increasing ROS. In conclusion, these results strongly suggested that bigelovin has potential to be developed as therapeutic agent for CRC patients.

Zerumbone, a Sesquiterpene, Controls Proliferation and Induces Cell Cycle Arrest in Human Laryngeal Carcinoma Cell Line Hep-2

Zerumbone (ZER), a sesquiterpene found in Zingiber zerumbet Smith, has been shown to possess antiproliferative, anticancer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activity against various types of human carcinoma. The molecular mechanism by which ZER mediates its activity against many cancer types is revealed by many studies. Upregulation of proapoptotic molecules and suppression of antiapoptotic gene expression are few of the mechanisms by which ZER mediates its effect. The present study is focused on investigating the effect of ZER on proliferation of laryngeal carcinoma cells (Hep-2). MTT assay results showed that ZER (0.01-100 μM) induced death of Hep-2 cells in a concentration-dependent manner; significant suppression of proliferation of Hep-2 cells was seen with a IC50 value of 15 µM. ZER at a concentration of 15 and 30 μM for 48 h showed early signs of apoptosis as evidenced by confocal microscopy imaging. Flow cytometry studies showed that ZER induced cell cycle arrest. ZER arrested Hep-2 proliferation at S and G2/M phases of cell cycle. In conclusion, these results indicate that ZER has antiproliferative effect and arrests cell cycle in Hep-2 cells in vitro. This could be a potential anticancer drug against laryngeal carcinoma.

Possible Anticancer Mechanisms of Some Costus speciosus Active Ingredients Concerning Drug Discovery

Costus speciosus is native to South East Asia, especially found in India, Srilanka, Indonesia and Malaysia. C. speciosus have numerous therapeutic potentials against a wide variety of complains. The therapeutic properties of C. speciosus are attributed to the presence of various ingredients such as alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, phenols, saponins, sterols and sesquiterpenes. This review presented the past, present, and the future status of C. speciosus active ingredients to propose a future use as a potential anticancer agent. All possible up-regulation of cellular apoptotic molecules as p53, p21, p27, caspases, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and others attribute to the anticancer activity of C. speciosus along the down-regulation of anti-apoptotic agents such as Akt, Bcl2, NFKB, STAT3, JAK, MMPs, actin, surviving and vimentin. Eventually, we recommend further investigation of different C. speciosus extracts, using some active ingredients and evaluate the anticancer effect of these chemicals against different cancers.

Pyrrocidine A, a metabolite of endophytic fungi, has a potent apoptosis-inducing activity against HL60 cells through caspase activation via the Michael addition

Pyrrocidine A is a known antimicrobial compound produced by endophytic fungi and has a unique 13-membered macrocyclic alkaloid structure with an α,β-unsaturated carbonyl group. We have previously reported that pyrrocidine A shows potent cytotoxicity against human acute promyelocytic leukemia HL60 cells, and the activity is 70-fold higher than that of pyrrocidine B which is the analog lacking the α,β-unsaturated carbonyl group. Pyrrocidine A induced nuclear condensation, DNA fragmentation and caspase activation in HL60 cells. Since the DNA fragmentation was suppressed by pretreatment with the pan-caspase inhibitor, benzyloxycarbonyl-Val-Ala-Asp (OMe) fluoromethylketone (z-VAD-fmk), caspase-mediated apoptosis contributes to pyrrocidine A-induced cytotoxicity. JFCR39 human cancer cells panel indicated that the mechanism of action of pyrrocidine A is different from other clinical anticancer drugs, and this compound broadly inhibited the growth of various cancer cell lines. The apoptosis induction by pyrrocidine A was suppressed by both N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) and glutathione, both of which are thiol-containing antioxidants. Furthermore, pyrrocidine A directly bound to N-acetyl-l-cysteine methyl ester (NACM) through the Michael-type addition at the α,β-unsaturated carbonyl group and was detected by HPLC and liquid chromatography-ESI-tandem MS (LC-ESI-MS/MS) analyses. This indicates that this moiety is crucial for the potent apoptosis-inducing activity of pyrrocidine A.

Gambogic acid enhances the radiosensitivity of human esophageal cancer cells by inducing reactive oxygen species via targeting Akt/mTOR pathway

Radiotherapy is a widespread treatment in human solid tumors. However, therapy resistance and poor prognosis are still problems. Gambogic acid (GA), extracted from the dried yellow resin of gamboges, has an anticancer effect against various types of cancer cells. To explore the radiosensitivity of GA on esophageal cancer cell line TE13, cell viability was tested by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, colony formation assay was used to assess the effects of GA on the radiosensitivity of TE13, and flow cytometry was performed to meter the percentage of apoptosis. The protein levels of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3), caspase3, caspase8, casepase9, pAkt, and p-mammalian target of rapamycin (p-mTOR) were tested using Western blot. The distribution of LC3 was detected by immunofluorescence. Additionally, we also examined reactive oxygen species (ROS) expression by laser scanning confocal microscope (LSCM). The cells were transfected with adenovial vector to monitor the autophagy through the expression of green fluorescent protein (GFP-red fluroscent protein (RFP)-LC3. The rates of apoptotic cells in combined-treated TE13 increased significantly compared with the control groups in accordance with the results of Western blot. The clonogenic survival assay showed that GA enhances radiosensitivity with a sensitizing enhancement ratio (SER) of 1.217 and 1.436 at different concentrations. The LC3-II protein level increased in the combined group indicating the increase of autophagy incidence, and the results of GFP-RFP-LC3 experiment showed that GA may block the process of autophagic flux in TE13 cells. Moreover, we successfully demonstrated that ROS is involved in the induction of autophagy. ROS-mediated autophagy depends on the inhibition of the Akt/mTOR pathway. Taken together, GA induced radiosensitivity involves autophagy and apoptosis which are regulated by ROS hypergeneration and Akt/mTOR inhibition.

Ginger and its constituents: role in prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal cancer

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer, a cancer of different organs of the digestive system, is one of the most common cancers around the world. The incidence and death rate of some of these cancers are very high. Although a large variety of chemotherapeutic agents have been introduced since the last few decades to combat GI cancer, most of them are very expensive and have side effects. Therefore, the compounds derived from natural sources, which are considered to be safe and cost effective, are needed. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is one of the most widely used natural products consumed as a spice and medicine for treating nausea, dysentery, heartburn, flatulence, diarrhea, loss of appetite, infections, cough, and bronchitis. Experimental studies showed that ginger and its active components including 6-gingerol and 6-shogaol exert anticancer activities against GI cancer. The anticancer activity of ginger is attributed to its ability to modulate several signaling molecules like NF-κB, STAT3, MAPK, PI3K, ERK1/2, Akt, TNF-α, COX-2, cyclin D1, cdk, MMP-9, survivin, cIAP-1, XIAP, Bcl-2, caspases, and other cell growth regulatory proteins. In this review, the evidences for the chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic potential of ginger extract and its active components using in vitro, animal models, and patients have been described.