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Banerjee S, Banerjee S, Bishayee A, Da Silva MN, Sukocheva OA, Tse E, Casarcia N, Bishayee A. Cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the potential of betulinic acid in cancer prevention and treatment. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 132:155858. [PMID: 39053249 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Betulinic acid (BA), which is a pentacyclic triterpenoid found in the bark of plane, birch, and eucalyptus trees, has emerged as a compound of significant interest in scientific research due to its potential therapeutic applications. BA has a range of well-documented pharmacological and biological effects, including antibacterial, immunomodulatory, diuretic, antiviral, antiparasitic, antidiabetic, and anticancer activities. Although numerous research studies have explored the potential anticancer effects of BA, there is a noticeable gap in the literature, highlighting the need for a more up-to-date and comprehensive evaluation of BA's anticancer potential. PURPOSE The aim of this work is to critically assess the reported cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the cancer preventive and therapeutic effects of BA. METHODS Relevant research on the inhibitory effects of BA against cancerous cells was searched using Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. RESULTS The anticancer properties of BA are mediated by the activation of cell death and cell cycle arrest, production of reactive oxygen species, increased mitochondrial permeability, modulation of nuclear factor-κB and Bcl-2 family signaling. Emerging evidence also underscores the combined anticancer effects of BA with other natural bioactive compounds or approved drugs. Notably, several novel BA nanoformulations have been found to exhibit encouraging antineoplastic activities. CONCLUSION BA, whether used alone or in combination, or as a form of nanoformulation, shows significant potential for cancer prevention and treatment. Nevertheless, further detailed studies are necessary to confirm the therapeutic effectiveness of this natural compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhasis Banerjee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Gupta College of Technological Sciences, Asansol 713 301, West Bengal, India
| | - Sabyasachi Banerjee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Gupta College of Technological Sciences, Asansol 713 301, West Bengal, India
| | | | - Milton Nascimento Da Silva
- Laboratory of Liquid Chromatography, Institute of Exact and Natural Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; Chemistry Post-Graduation Program, Institute of Exact and Natural Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; Pharmaceutical Science Post-Graduation Program, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil
| | - Olga A Sukocheva
- Department of Hepatology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Edmund Tse
- Department of Hepatology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Nicolette Casarcia
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL 34211, USA
| | - Anupam Bishayee
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL 34211, USA.
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Yu P, Cao W, Wang Y. Dynamics simulation and in vitro studies of betulinic acid derivative with liver X receptor. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:7014-7023. [PMID: 37498160 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2239924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Molecular dynamics simulation of the dominant conformational conjugate was performed for 40 ns and 100 ns via Amber software based on molecular docking by Sybyl software. Because the RMSD and RMSF of 100 ns MD simulation were higher than that of 40 ns MD simulation, the 40 ns was reasonable and credible for MD simulation. The binding free energy and decomposition free energy of the two systems of betulinic acid, com3 with liver X receptor was calculated by the MM_GBSA and MM_PBSA methods, respectively. The results showed that the two systems reached equilibrium and convergence at 20 ns, both stable at about 2 Å, and exhibited low volatility in the range of amino acid 270 to 370 (RMSF <1 Å). The binding energy of com3 (ΔGbind = -68.02 kcal/mol by the MM_GBSA method or -55.50 kcal/mol by the MM_PBSA method) with the liver X receptor was lower than that of betulinic acid (ΔGbind = -55.70 kcal/mol or -42.73 kcal/mol) respectively, and van der Waals force was the most important main driving force, which was consistent with molecular docking and previous experiments. Hydrophobic groups and aromatic rings can be introduced appropriately in structure optimization to increase the van der Waals force and π-π accumulation effect of betulinic acid and liver X receptor, which is conducive to binding and thereby increasing antitumor activity. The clone formation assay and results of western blotting indicated that BA derivative com3 exposure inhibited cell proliferation may relate to the regulation of the AKT/mTOR pathway in 7721 cells. This study clarifies the dynamic interaction mode and potential mechanism of betulinic acid and its derivatives with the liver X receptor, which provides a new idea for the rapid screening of liver X receptor agonists from traditional Chinese medicines.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Yu
- College of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, China
| | - Weiya Cao
- College of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, China
| | - Yuan Wang
- College of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, China
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Fiorito S, Collevecchio C, Epifano F, Genovese S. Targeting prolidase. A survey of the literature data to depict a structure-activity relationship frame and to address future studies for drug development. Bioorg Med Chem 2024; 110:117833. [PMID: 38996544 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2024.117833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Prolidase (EC.3.4.13.9) is a Mn+2-dependent dipeptidase that is well known to play a crucial role in several physiological and pathological processes affecting humans. More in particular, this enzyme is involved in the cleavage of proline- and hydroxyproline-containing dipeptides (imidodipeptides), providing a fine regulation of the homeostasis of these two amino acids. Hyperactivity or deficiency of prolidase have been clearly associated to the development and progress of several acute and chronic syndromes (e.g. chronic liver fibrosis, viral and acute hepatitis, cancer, neurological disorders, inflammation, skin diseases, intellectual disability, respiratory infection). Thus, targeting prolidase and modulating its activity is an intriguing field of research with a great therapeutic potential for the next future and for the design of specific and selective drugs. Prolidase can be exploited in two essential ways: as an activator of proline containing prodrugs and by direct interaction. In this latter case, few specific ligands for the title enzyme have been described, but with no reports about their structure-activity relationship. The aim of this comprehensive review is to gather all available information on prolidase targeting so far reported in the literature, to rationalize the observed data and effect into a preliminary structure-relationship picture, to comment about the effectiveness of each reported ligands, and to address future research activities providing new potential and putative natural, semisynthetic, and purely synthetic molecules able to trigger prolidase as the main biological target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Fiorito
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università "Gabriele d'Annunzio" Chieti - Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti Scalo (CH), Italy
| | - Chiara Collevecchio
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università "Gabriele d'Annunzio" Chieti - Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti Scalo (CH), Italy
| | - Francesco Epifano
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università "Gabriele d'Annunzio" Chieti - Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti Scalo (CH), Italy.
| | - Salvatore Genovese
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università "Gabriele d'Annunzio" Chieti - Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti Scalo (CH), Italy.
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Rahman MA, Rakib-Uz-Zaman SM, Chakraborti S, Bhajan SK, Gupta RD, Jalouli M, Parvez MAK, Shaikh MH, Hoque Apu E, Harrath AH, Moon S, Kim B. Advancements in Utilizing Natural Compounds for Modulating Autophagy in Liver Cancer: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targets. Cells 2024; 13:1186. [PMID: 39056768 PMCID: PMC11274515 DOI: 10.3390/cells13141186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Autophagy, an intrinsic catabolic mechanism that eliminates misfolded proteins, dysfunctional organelles, and lipid droplets, plays a vital function in energy balance and cytoplasmic quality control, in addition to maintaining cellular homeostasis. Liver cancer such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common causes of cancer deaths globally and shows resistance to several anticancer drugs. Despite the rising incidence and poor prognosis of malignant HCC, the underlying molecular mechanisms driving this aggressive cancer remain unclear. Several natural compounds, such as phytochemicals of dietary and non-dietary origin, affect hepatocarcinogenesis signaling pathways in vitro and in vivo, which may help prevent and treat HCC cells. Current HCC cells treatments include chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. However, these standard therapies have substantial side effects, and combination therapy enhances side effects for an acceptable therapeutic benefit. Therefore, there is a need to develop treatment strategies for HCC cells that are more efficacious and have fewer adverse effects. Multiple genetic and epigenetic factors are responsible for the HCC cells to become resistant to standard treatment. Autophagy contributes to maintain cellular homeostasis, which activates autophagy for biosynthesis and mitochondrial regulation and recycling. Therefore, modifying autophagic signaling would present a promising opportunity to identify novel therapies to treat HCC cells resistant to current standard treatments. This comprehensive review illustrates how natural compounds demonstrate their anti-hepatocellular carcinoma function through autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Ataur Rahman
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA;
| | - S M Rakib-Uz-Zaman
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA; (S.M.R.-U.-Z.); (S.C.)
- Biotechnology Program, Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, School of Data and Sciences, BRAC University, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Somdeepa Chakraborti
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA; (S.M.R.-U.-Z.); (S.C.)
| | - Sujay Kumar Bhajan
- Department of Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science & Technology University, Gopalganj 8100, Bangladesh;
| | - Rajat Das Gupta
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA;
| | - Maroua Jalouli
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11623, Saudi Arabia;
| | | | - Mushfiq H. Shaikh
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Western University, London, ON N6A 4V2, Canada;
| | - Ehsanul Hoque Apu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Dental Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, Knoxville, TN 37923, USA;
- DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, TN 37752, USA
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Abdel Halim Harrath
- Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Seungjoon Moon
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 1–5 Hoegidong Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea;
| | - Bonglee Kim
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 1–5 Hoegidong Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea;
- Korean Medicine-Based Drug Repositioning Cancer Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
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Yin Q, Song SY, Bian Y, Wang Y, Deng A, Lv J, Wang Y. Unlocking the potential of pyroptosis in tumor immunotherapy: a new horizon in cancer treatment. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1381778. [PMID: 38947336 PMCID: PMC11211258 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1381778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The interaction between pyroptosis-a form of programmed cell death-and tumor immunity represents a burgeoning field of interest. Pyroptosis exhibits a dual role in cancer: it can both promote tumor development and counteract it by activating immune responses that inhibit tumor evasion and encourage cell death. Current tumor immunotherapy strategies, notably CAR-T cell therapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), alongside the potential of certain traditional Chinese medicinal compounds, highlight the intricate relationship between pyroptosis and cancer immunity. As research delves deeper into pyroptosis mechanisms within tumor therapy, its application in enhancing tumor immune responses emerges as a novel research avenue. Purpose This review aims to elucidate the mechanisms underlying pyroptosis, its impact on tumor biology, and the advancements in tumor immunotherapy research. Methods A comprehensive literature review was conducted across PubMed, Embase, CNKI, and Wanfang Database from the inception of the study until August 22, 2023. The search employed keywords such as "pyroptosis", "cancer", "tumor", "mechanism", "immunity", "gasdermin", "ICB", "CAR-T", "PD-1", "PD-L1", "herbal medicine", "botanical medicine", "Chinese medicine", "traditional Chinese medicine", "immunotherapy", linked by AND/OR, to capture the latest findings in pyroptosis and tumor immunotherapy. Results Pyroptosis is governed by a complex mechanism, with the Gasdermin family playing a pivotal role. While promising for tumor immunotherapy application, research into pyroptosis's effect on tumor immunity is still evolving. Notably, certain traditional Chinese medicine ingredients have been identified as potential pyroptosis inducers, meriting further exploration. Conclusion This review consolidates current knowledge on pyroptosis's role in tumor immunotherapy. It reveals pyroptosis as a beneficial factor in the immunotherapeutic landscape, suggesting that leveraging pyroptosis for developing novel cancer treatment strategies, including those involving traditional Chinese medicine, represents a forward-looking approach in oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinan Yin
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Si-Yuan Song
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Yuan Bian
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Yiping Wang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Anchen Deng
- Department of Neuroscience, Chengdu Shishi School, Chengdu, China
| | - Jianzhen Lv
- School of Pharmacy, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Clinical Immunology Translational Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Center of Organ Transplantation, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science and Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Wang Y, Ai Q, Gu M, Guan H, Yang W, Zhang M, Mao J, Lin Z, Liu Q, Liu J. Comprehensive overview of different medicinal parts from Morus alba L.: chemical compositions and pharmacological activities. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1364948. [PMID: 38694910 PMCID: PMC11061381 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1364948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Morus alba L., a common traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with a centuries-old medicinal history, owned various medicinal parts like Mori folium, Mori ramulus, Mori cortex and Mori fructus. Different medical parts exhibit distinct modern pharmacological effects. Mori folium exhibited analgesic, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic action and lipid-regulation effects. Mori ramulus owned anti-bacterial, anti-asthmatic and diuretic activities. Mori cortex showed counteraction action of pain, inflammatory, bacterial, and platelet aggregation. Mori fructus could decompose fat, lower blood lipids and prevent vascular sclerosis. The main chemical components in Morus alba L. covered flavonoids, phenolic compounds, alkaloids, and amino acids. This article comprehensively analyzed the recent literature related to chemical components and pharmacological actions of M. alba L., summarizing 198 of ingredients and described the modern activities of different extracts and the bioactive constituents in the four parts from M. alba L. These results fully demonstrated the medicinal value of M. alba L., provided valuable references for further comprehensive development, and layed the foundation for the utilization of M. alba L.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumei Wang
- The Research Institute of Medicine and Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, China
| | - Qing Ai
- The Research Institute of Medicine and Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, China
- School of Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, China
| | - Meiling Gu
- The Research Institute of Medicine and Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, China
- School of Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, China
| | - Hong Guan
- Office of Academic Research, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, China
| | - Wenqin Yang
- Office of Academic Research, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- The Research Institute of Medicine and Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, China
- School of Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, China
| | - Jialin Mao
- The Research Institute of Medicine and Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, China
| | - Zhao Lin
- The Research Institute of Medicine and Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, China
| | - Qi Liu
- The Research Institute of Medicine and Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, China
| | - Jicheng Liu
- The Research Institute of Medicine and Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, China
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Fernandes S, Vieira M, Prudêncio C, Ferraz R. Betulinic Acid for Glioblastoma Treatment: Reality, Challenges and Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2108. [PMID: 38396785 PMCID: PMC10889789 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Betulinic acid is a naturally occurring compound that can be obtained through methanolic or ethanolic extraction from plant sources, as well as through chemical synthesis or microbial biotransformation. Betulinic acid has been investigated for its potential therapeutic properties, and exhibits anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antimalarial, and antioxidant activities. Notably, its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier addresses a significant challenge in treating neurological pathologies. This review aims to compile information about the impact of betulinic acid as an antitumor agent, particularly in the context of glioblastoma. Importantly, betulinic acid demonstrates selective antitumor activity against glioblastoma cells by inhibiting proliferation and inducing apoptosis, consistent with observations in other cancer types. Compelling evidence published highlights the acid's therapeutic action in suppressing the Akt/NFκB-p65 signaling cascade and enhancing the cytotoxic effects of the chemotherapeutic agent temozolomide. Interesting findings with betulinic acid also suggest a focus on researching the reduction of glioblastoma's invasiveness and aggressiveness profile. This involves modulation of extracellular matrix components, remodeling of the cytoskeleton, and secretion of proteolytic proteins. Drawing from a comprehensive review, we conclude that betulinic acid formulations as nanoparticles and/or ionic liquids are promising drug delivery approaches with the potential for translation into clinical applications for the treatment and management of glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sílvia Fernandes
- Center for Translational Health and Medical Biotechnology Research (TBIO), School of Health (ESS), Polytechnic University of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 400, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (S.F.); (C.P.)
- Center for Research on Health and Environment (CISA), School of Health (ESS), Polytechnic University of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 400, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - Mariana Vieira
- Center for Translational Health and Medical Biotechnology Research (TBIO), School of Health (ESS), Polytechnic University of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 400, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (S.F.); (C.P.)
| | - Cristina Prudêncio
- Center for Translational Health and Medical Biotechnology Research (TBIO), School of Health (ESS), Polytechnic University of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 400, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (S.F.); (C.P.)
- Ciências Químicas e das Biomoléculas, School of Health (ESS), Polytechnic University of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 400, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Ferraz
- Center for Translational Health and Medical Biotechnology Research (TBIO), School of Health (ESS), Polytechnic University of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 400, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (S.F.); (C.P.)
- Ciências Químicas e das Biomoléculas, School of Health (ESS), Polytechnic University of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 400, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 687, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
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Khan F, Pandey P, Verma M, Upadhyay TK. Terpenoid-Mediated Targeting of STAT3 Signaling in Cancer: An Overview of Preclinical Studies. Biomolecules 2024; 14:200. [PMID: 38397437 PMCID: PMC10886526 DOI: 10.3390/biom14020200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer has become one of the most multifaceted and widespread illnesses affecting human health, causing substantial mortality at an alarming rate. After cardiovascular problems, the condition has a high occurrence rate and ranks second in terms of mortality. The development of new drugs has been facilitated by increased research and a deeper understanding of the mechanisms behind the emergence and advancement of the disease. Numerous preclinical and clinical studies have repeatedly demonstrated the protective effects of natural terpenoids against a range of malignancies. Numerous potential bioactive terpenoids have been investigated in natural sources for their chemopreventive and chemoprotective properties. In practically all body cells, the signaling molecule referred to as signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is widely expressed. Numerous studies have demonstrated that STAT3 regulates its downstream target genes, including Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, cyclin D1, c-Myc, and survivin, to promote the growth of cells, differentiation, cell cycle progression, angiogenesis, and immune suppression in addition to chemotherapy resistance. Researchers viewed STAT3 as a primary target for cancer therapy because of its crucial involvement in cancer formation. This therapy primarily focuses on directly and indirectly preventing the expression of STAT3 in tumor cells. By explicitly targeting STAT3 in both in vitro and in vivo settings, it has been possible to explain the protective effect of terpenoids against malignant cells. In this study, we provide a complete overview of STAT3 signal transduction processes, the involvement of STAT3 in carcinogenesis, and mechanisms related to STAT3 persistent activation. The article also thoroughly summarizes the inhibition of STAT3 signaling by certain terpenoid phytochemicals, which have demonstrated strong efficacy in several preclinical cancer models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahad Khan
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai 602105, India;
| | - Pratibha Pandey
- University Centre for Research and Development, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali 140413, India
| | - Meenakshi Verma
- University Centre for Research and Development, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali 140413, India
- Department of Chemistry, University Institute of Sciences, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali 140413, India
| | - Tarun Kumar Upadhyay
- Department of Biotechnology, Parul Institute of Applied Sciences and Research and Development Cell, Parul University, Vadodara 391760, India;
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Bouyahya A, Bakrim S, Chamkhi I, Taha D, El Omari N, El Mneyiy N, El Hachlafi N, El-Shazly M, Khalid A, Abdalla AN, Goh KW, Ming LC, Goh BH, Aanniz T. Bioactive substances of cyanobacteria and microalgae: Sources, metabolism, and anticancer mechanism insights. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 170:115989. [PMID: 38103309 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyanobacteria and microalgae contain various phytochemicals, including bioactive components in the form of secondary metabolites, namely flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenoids, and tannins, with remarkable anticancer effects. This review highlights the recent advances in bioactive compounds, with potential anticancer activity, produced by cyanobacteria and microalgae. Previous in vitro investigations showed that many of these bioactive compounds exhibit potent effects against different human cancer types, such as leukemia and breast cancers. Multiple mechanisms implicated in the antitumor effect of these compounds were elucidated, including their ability to target cellular, subcellular, and molecular checkpoints linked to cancer development and promotion. Recent findings have highlighted various mechanisms of action of bioactive compounds produced by cyanobacteria and microalgae, including induction of autophagy and apoptosis, inhibition of telomerase and protein kinases, as well as modulation of epigenetic modifications. In vivo investigations have demonstrated a potent anti-angiogenesis effect on solid tumors, as well as a reduction in tumor volume. Some of these compounds were examined in clinical investigations for certain types of cancers, making them potent candidates/scaffolds for antitumor drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelhakim Bouyahya
- Laboratory of Human Pathologies Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Mohammed V University in Rabat, 10106, Morocco.
| | - Saad Bakrim
- Geo-Bio-Environment Engineering and Innovation Laboratory, Molecular Engineering, Biotechnologies, and Innovation Team, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taroudant, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Imane Chamkhi
- Geo-Biodiversity and Natural Patrimony Laboratory (GeoBio), Geophysics, Natural Patrimony Research Center (GEOPAC), Scientific Institute, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Morocco
| | - Douae Taha
- Laboratoire de Spectroscopie, Modélisation Moléculaire, Matériaux, Nanomatériaux, Eau et Environnement, CERNE2D, Faculté des Sciences, Mohammed V University, Rabat 10106, Morocco
| | - Nasreddine El Omari
- Laboratory of Histology, Embryology, and Cytogenetic, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Rabat 10100, Morocco
| | - Naoual El Mneyiy
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, National Agency of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, 34025 Taouanate, Morocco
| | - Naoufal El Hachlafi
- Microbial Biotechnology and Bioactive Molecules Laboratory, Sciences and Technologies Faculty, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Imouzzer Road Fez, Fez 30003, Morocco
| | - Mohamed El-Shazly
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain-Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt; Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, The German University in Cairo, Cairo 11432, Egypt
| | - Asaad Khalid
- Substance Abuse and Toxicology Research Center, Jazan University, P.O. Box: 114, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia; Medicinal and Aromatic Plants and Traditional Medicine Research Institute, National Center for Research, P.O. Box 2404, Khartoum, Sudan.
| | - Ashraf N Abdalla
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khang Wen Goh
- Faculty of Data Science and Information Technology, INTI International University, 71800 Nilai, Malaysia
| | - Long Chiau Ming
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Sunway City 47500, Malaysia.
| | - Bey Hing Goh
- Sunway Biofunctional Molecules Discovery Centre (SBMDC), School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500 Sunway City, Malaysia; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Tarik Aanniz
- Biotechnology Laboratory (MedBiotech), Bioinova Research Center, Rabat Medical and Pharmacy School, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco
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10
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Casarcia N, Rogers P, Guld E, Iyer S, Li Y, Burcher JT, DeLiberto LK, Banerjee S, Bishayee A. Phytochemicals for the prevention and treatment of pancreatic cancer: Current progress and future prospects. Br J Pharmacol 2023. [PMID: 37740585 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, owing to its aggressive nature and suboptimal treatment options, emphasizing the need for novel therapeutic approaches. Emerging studies have exhibited promising results regarding the therapeutic utility of plant-derived compounds (phytochemicals) in pancreatic cancer. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the potential of phytochemicals in the treatment and prevention of pancreatic cancer. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses was applied to collect articles for this review. Scholarly databases, including PubMed, Scopus and ScienceDirect, were queried for relevant studies using the following keywords: phytochemicals, phenolics, terpenoids, alkaloids, sulfur-containing compounds, in vitro, in vivo, clinical studies, pancreatic cancer, tumour, treatment and prevention. Aggregate results pooled from qualified studies indicate phytochemicals can inhibit pancreatic cancer cell growth or decrease tumour size and volume in animal models. These effects have been attributed to various mechanisms, such as increasing proapoptotic factors, decreasing antiapoptotic factors, or inducing cell death and cell cycle arrest. Notable signalling pathways modulated by phytochemicals include the rat sarcoma/mitogen activated protein kinase, wingless-related integration site/β-catenin and phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin signal transduction pathways. Clinically, phytochemicals have been found to increase survival while being well-tolerated and safe, though research is scarce. While these promising results have produced great interest in this field, further in-depth studies are required to characterize the anticancer activities of phytochemicals before they can be utilized to prevent or treat pancreatic cancer in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolette Casarcia
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, Florida, USA
| | - Patrick Rogers
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, Florida, USA
| | - Emma Guld
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, Florida, USA
| | - Samvit Iyer
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, Florida, USA
| | - Yutong Li
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, Florida, USA
| | - Jack T Burcher
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, Florida, USA
| | - Lindsay K DeLiberto
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, Florida, USA
| | - Sabyasachi Banerjee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Gupta College of Technological Sciences, Asansol, India
| | - Anupam Bishayee
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, Florida, USA
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11
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Sun Y, Yu F, Cao W, Zhang W, Liu W, Dai F. Betulinic acid alleviates neuropathic pain induced by chronic constriction injury of the sciatic nerve in mice. Neurosci Lett 2023; 813:137429. [PMID: 37574162 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2023.137429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain refers to a type of pain that arises from primary damage and dysfunction within the nervous system. Addressing this condition presents significant challenges and complexities. Betulinic acid (BA), known for its potent antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, has garnered extensive attention; nevertheless, the impact upon neuropathic pain induced by CCI is still uncertain. This paper explores the analgesic effects concerning BA on mice experiencing neuropathic pain due to sciatic nerve injury. Throughout the experiment, mice with CCI received oral gavage of BA at dosages of 3, 10, and 30 mg/kg for consecutively 8 days from the 7th day post-surgery. To assess their responses, behavioral tests and sciatic functional index (SFI) evaluations were conducted on zeroth, seventh, eighth, tenth, twelveth and fourteenth day post-CCI. On day 14, histopathological examinations and measurements of biochemical markers were performed. Immunofluorescence techniques were employed to detect Nrf2 and glial cell activation, while the Western blot method was utilized to evaluate Nrf2/HO-1 protein levels and pro-inflammatory cytokine expression. The results elucidated that BA significantly alleviated hyperalgesia and allodynia, demonstrating a dose-dependent enhancement in sciatic nerve function and facilitating the recovery of sciatic nerve injury. Furthermore, BA prominently augmented the entire antioxidative capacity (T-AOC) and T-SOD levels, concomitantly reducing MDA concentrations. Notably, BA activated the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway, inhibited glial cell activation, and downregulation of the expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, specifically, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 were observed. As such, this study provides a basis to support BA as a candidate drug for the treatment of neuropathic pain, attributing its analgesic effects to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and neuroprotective properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Sun
- Department of Pain Medicine, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu 212000, China
| | - Fei Yu
- Department of Pain Medicine, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu 212000, China
| | - Weibiao Cao
- Department of Pain Medicine, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu 212000, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Pain Medicine, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu 212000, China
| | - Wu Liu
- Department of Pain Medicine, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu 212000, China
| | - Fucheng Dai
- Department of Pain Medicine, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu 212000, China.
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12
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Mu H, Sun Y, Yuan B, Wang Y. Betulinic acid in the treatment of breast cancer: Application and mechanism progress. Fitoterapia 2023; 169:105617. [PMID: 37479118 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2023.105617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Betulinic acid (BA) is a pentacyclic triterpene compound, which can be obtained by separation, chemical synthesis and biotransformation. BA has excellent biological activities, especially its role in the treatment of breast cancer deserves attention. Its mechanisms mainly include inducing mitochondrial oxidative stress, regulating specific protein (Sp) transcription factors, inhibiting breast cancer metastasis, inhibiting glucose metabolism and NF-κB pathway. In addition, BA can also increase the sensitivity of breast cancer cells to other chemotherapy drugs such as paclitaxel and reduce its toxic side effects. This article reviews the application and possible mechanism of BA in the treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huijuan Mu
- Department of Drug Clinical Trials, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250011, China
| | - Yuli Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250011, China
| | - Bo Yuan
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250011, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250011, China.
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13
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Tsepaeva OV, Salikhova TI, Ishkaeva RA, Kundina AV, Abdullin TI, Laikov AV, Tikhomirova MV, Idrisova LR, Nemtarev AV, Mironov VF. Bifunctionalized Betulinic Acid Conjugates with C-3-Monodesmoside and C-28-Triphenylphosphonium Moieties with Increased Cancer Cell Targetability. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2023; 86:1939-1949. [PMID: 37497692 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.3c00304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
A convenient synthesis is presented for a new class of bioactive bifunctionalized conjugates of lupane-type triterpenoids with triphenylphosphonium (TPP) and glycopyranosyl targeting moieties. The main synthesis steps include glycosylation of haloalkyl esters of the triterpene acid at the C-3 position by the imidate derivatives of glycopyranose followed by the product modification at the C-28 position with triphenylphosphine. The conjugates of betulinic acid (BetA) with TPP and d-glucose, l-rhamnose, or d-mannose moieties were thus synthesized as potential next-generation BetA-derived anticancer compounds. LC-MS/MS analysis in glucose-free physiological solution indicated that the glycosides showed better accumulation in PC-3 prostate cancer cells than both BetA and TPP-BetA conjugate, while the transporting effect of monosaccharide residues increased as follows: d-mannose < l-rhamnose ≈ d-glucose. At saturated concentrations, the glycosides caused a disturbing effect on mitochondria with a more drastic drop in transmembrane potential but weaker overproduction of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) compared to TPP-BetA conjugate. Cytotoxicity of the glycosides in culture medium was comparable with or higher than that of the nonglycosylated conjugate, depending on the cancer cell line, whereas the compounds were less active toward primary fibroblasts. Glycosylation tended to increase pro-apoptotic and decrease pro-autophagic activities of the BetA derivatives. Cytotoxicity of the synthesized glycosides was considered in comparison with the summarized data on the natural and modified BetA glycosides. The results obtained are important for the development of bifunctionalized conjugates of triterpenoids with an increased cancer cell targetability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga V Tsepaeva
- Arbuzov Institute of Organic and Physical Chemistry, FRC Kazan Scientific Center of RAS, 8 Arbuzov Street, 420088 Kazan, Russian Federation
| | - Taliya I Salikhova
- Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, 18 Kremlevskaya Street, 420008 Kazan, Russian Federation
| | - Rezeda A Ishkaeva
- Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, 18 Kremlevskaya Street, 420008 Kazan, Russian Federation
| | - Alexandra V Kundina
- Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, 18 Kremlevskaya Street, 420008 Kazan, Russian Federation
| | - Timur I Abdullin
- Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, 18 Kremlevskaya Street, 420008 Kazan, Russian Federation
| | - Alexander V Laikov
- Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, 18 Kremlevskaya Street, 420008 Kazan, Russian Federation
| | - Mariya V Tikhomirova
- Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, 18 Kremlevskaya Street, 420008 Kazan, Russian Federation
| | - Leysan R Idrisova
- Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, 18 Kremlevskaya Street, 420008 Kazan, Russian Federation
| | - Andrey V Nemtarev
- Arbuzov Institute of Organic and Physical Chemistry, FRC Kazan Scientific Center of RAS, 8 Arbuzov Street, 420088 Kazan, Russian Federation
| | - Vladimir F Mironov
- Arbuzov Institute of Organic and Physical Chemistry, FRC Kazan Scientific Center of RAS, 8 Arbuzov Street, 420088 Kazan, Russian Federation
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14
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Du Y, Cai X. Therapeutic potential of natural compounds from herbs and nutraceuticals in spinal cord injury: Regulation of the mTOR signaling pathway. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 163:114905. [PMID: 37207430 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a disease in which the spinal cord is subjected to various external forces that cause it to burst, shift, or, in severe cases, injure the spinal tissue, resulting in nerve injury. SCI includes not only acute primary injury but also delayed and persistent spinal tissue injury (i.e., secondary injury). The pathological changes post-SCI are complex, and effective clinical treatment strategies are lacking. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) coordinates the growth and metabolism of eukaryotic cells in response to various nutrients and growth factors. The mTOR signaling pathway has multiple roles in the pathogenesis of SCI. There is evidence for the beneficial effects of natural compounds and nutraceuticals that regulate the mTOR signaling pathways in a variety of diseases. Therefore, the effects of natural compounds on the pathogenesis of SCI were evaluated by a comprehensive review using electronic databases, such as PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Medline, combined with our expertise in neuropathology. In particular, we reviewed the pathogenesis of SCI, including the importance of secondary nerve injury after the primary mechanical injury, the roles of the mTOR signaling pathways, and the beneficial effects and mechanisms of natural compounds that regulate the mTOR signaling pathway on pathological changes post-SCI, including effects on inflammation, neuronal apoptosis, autophagy, nerve regeneration, and other pathways. This recent research highlights the value of natural compounds in regulating the mTOR pathway, providing a basis for developing novel therapeutic strategies for SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Du
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Xue Cai
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, PR China.
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15
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Mügge FLB, Morlock GE. Chemical and cytotoxicity profiles of 11 pink pepper (Schinus spp.) samples via non-targeted hyphenated high-performance thin-layer chromatography. Metabolomics 2023; 19:48. [PMID: 37130976 PMCID: PMC10154279 DOI: 10.1007/s11306-023-02008-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pink pepper is a worldwide used spice that corresponds to the berries of two species, Schinus terebinthifolia Raddi or S. molle L. (Anacardiaceae). Toxic and allergic reactions by ingestion or contact with these plants were reported, and classical in vitro studies have highlighted the cytotoxic properties of apolar extracts from the fruits. OBJECTIVES Perform a non-targeted screening of 11 pink pepper samples for the detection and identification of individual cytotoxic substances. METHODS After reversed-phase high-performance thin-layer chromatography (RP-HPTLC) separation of the extracts and multi-imaging (UV/Vis/FLD), cytotoxic compounds were detected by bioluminescence reduction from luciferase reporter cells (HEK 293 T-CMV-ELuc) applied directly on the adsorbent surface, followed by elution of detected cytotoxic substance into atmospheric-pressure chemical ionization high-resolution mass spectrometry (APCI-HRMS). RESULTS Separations for mid-polar and non-polar fruit extracts demonstrated the selectivity of the method to different substance classes. One cytotoxic substance zone was tentatively assigned as moronic acid, a pentacyclic triterpenoid acid. CONCLUSION The developed non-targeted hyphenated RP-HPTLC-UV/Vis/FLD-bioluminescent cytotoxicity bioassay-FIA-APCI-HRMS method was successfully demonstrated for cytotoxicity screening (bioprofiling) and respective cytotoxin assignment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda L B Mügge
- Chair of Food Science, Institute of Nutritional Science, and Interdisciplinary Research Center, IFZ, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Gertrud E Morlock
- Chair of Food Science, Institute of Nutritional Science, and Interdisciplinary Research Center, IFZ, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392, Giessen, Germany.
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16
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Betulinic Acid Inhibits the Stemness of Gastric Cancer Cells by Regulating the GRP78-TGF-β1 Signaling Pathway and Macrophage Polarization. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28041725. [PMID: 36838713 PMCID: PMC9964887 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28041725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stemness is the process by which cancer cells acquire chemoresistance and self-renewal in the tumor microenvironment. Glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) is a biomarker for gastric cancer and is involved in cancer stemness. By inducing cancer stemness in various types of cancer, the polarization of macrophages into tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) controls tumor progression. Betulinic acid (BA) is a bioactive natural compound with anticancer properties. However, whether GRP78 regulates TAM-mediated cancer stemness in the tumor microenvironment and whether BA inhibits GRP78-mediated cancer stemness in gastric cancer remain unknown. In this study, we investigated the role of GRP78 in gastric cancer stemness in a tumor microenvironment regulated by BA. The results indicated that BA inhibited not only GRP78-mediated stemness-related protein expression and GRP78-TGF-β-mediated macrophage polarization into TAMs, but also TAM-mediated cancer stemness. Therefore, BA is a promising candidate for clinical application in combination-chemotherapy targeting cancer stemness.
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17
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Farooqi AA, Turgambayeva A, Tashenova G, Tulebayeva A, Bazarbayeva A, Kapanova G, Abzaliyeva S. Multifunctional Roles of Betulinic Acid in Cancer Chemoprevention: Spotlight on JAK/STAT, VEGF, EGF/EGFR, TRAIL/TRAIL-R, AKT/mTOR and Non-Coding RNAs in the Inhibition of Carcinogenesis and Metastasis. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 28:molecules28010067. [PMID: 36615262 PMCID: PMC9822120 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28010067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The pursual of novel anticancer molecules from natural sources has gained worthwhile appreciation, and a significant fraction of conceptual knowledge has revolutionized our understanding about heterogeneous nature of cancer. Betulinic acid has fascinated interdisciplinary researchers due to its tremendous pharmacological properties. Ground-breaking discoveries have unraveled previously unprecedented empirical proof-of-concept about momentous chemopreventive role of betulinic acid against carcinogenesis and metastasis. Deregulation of cell signaling pathways has been reported to play a linchpin role in cancer progression and colonization of metastatically competent cancer cells to the distant organs for the development of secondary tumors. Importantly, betulinic acid has demonstrated unique properties to mechanistically modulate oncogenic transduction cascades. In this mini-review, we have attempted to provide a sophisticated compendium of regulatory role of betulinic acid in cancer chemoprevention. We have partitioned this multi-component review into different sections in which we summarized landmark research-works which highlighted betulinic acid mediated regulation of JAK/STAT, VEGF, EGF/EGFR, TRAIL/TRAIL-R, AKT/mTOR and ubiquitination pathways in the inhibition of cancer. In parallel, betulinic acid mediated regulation of signaling cascades and non-coding RNAs will be critically analyzed in cell culture and animal model studies. Better comprehension of the pharmaceutical features of betulinic acid and mapping of the existing knowledge gaps will be valuable in the translatability of preclinical studies into rationally designed clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ammad Ahmad Farooqi
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute of Biomedical and Genetic Engineering (IBGE), Islamabad 54000, Pakistan
- Correspondence:
| | - Assiya Turgambayeva
- Department of Public Health and Management, NJSC “Astana Medical University”, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Gulnara Tashenova
- Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty 050040, Kazakhstan
- Scientific Center of Pediatrics and Pediatric Surgery, Almaty 050060, Kazakhstan
| | - Aigul Tulebayeva
- Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty 050040, Kazakhstan
- Scientific Center of Pediatrics and Pediatric Surgery, Almaty 050060, Kazakhstan
| | - Aigul Bazarbayeva
- Scientific Center of Pediatrics and Pediatric Surgery, Almaty 050060, Kazakhstan
| | - Gulnara Kapanova
- Scientific Center of Anti-Infectious Drugs, 75 al-Faraby Ave, Almaty 050040, Kazakhstan
- Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, 71 al-Farabi Ave, Almaty 050040, Kazakhstan
| | - Symbat Abzaliyeva
- Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, 71 al-Farabi Ave, Almaty 050040, Kazakhstan
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18
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Sudharshan SJ, Krishna Narayanan A, Princilly J, Dyavaiah M, Nagegowda DA. Betulinic acid mitigates oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis and enhances longevity in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae model. Free Radic Res 2022; 56:699-712. [PMID: 36624963 DOI: 10.1080/10715762.2023.2166505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Betulinic acid (BA), a pentacyclic triterpenoid found in certain plant species, has been reported to have several health benefits including antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties. However, the mechanism by which BA confers these properties is currently unknown. Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a budding yeast with a short life cycle and conserved cellular mechanism with high homology to humans, was used as a model for determining the role of BA in aging and programmed cell death (PCD). Treatment with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) exhibited significantly increased (30-35%) survivability of antioxidant (sod1Δ, sod2Δ, cta1Δ, ctt1Δ, and tsa1Δ) and anti-apoptotic (pep4Δ and fis1Δ) mutant strains when cells were pretreated with BA (30 µM) as demonstrated in spot and CFU (Colony forming units) assays. Measurement of intracellular oxidation level using the ROS-specific dye H2DCF-DA showed that all tested BA-pretreated mutants exhibited decreased ROS than the control when exposed to H2O2. Similarly, when mutant strains were pretreated with BA and then exposed to H2O2, there was reduced lipid peroxidation as revealed by the reduced malondialdehyde content. Furthermore, BA-pretreated mutant cells showed significantly lower apoptotic activity by decreasing DNA/nuclear fragmentation and chromatin condensation under H2O2-induced stress as determined by DAPI and acridine orange/ethidium bromide staining. In addition, BA treatment also extended the life span of antioxidant and anti-apoptotic mutants by ∼10-25% by scavenging ROS and preventing apoptotic cell death. Our overall results suggest that BA extends the chronological life span of mutant strains lacking antioxidant and anti-apoptotic genes by lowering the impact of oxidative stress, ROS levels, and apoptotic activity. These properties of BA could be further explored for its use as a valuable nutraceutical.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J Sudharshan
- Molecular Plant Biology and Biotechnology Lab, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Centre, Bengaluru, India
| | - Ananth Krishna Narayanan
- Molecular Plant Biology and Biotechnology Lab, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Centre, Bengaluru, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, India
| | - Jemima Princilly
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry, India
| | - Madhu Dyavaiah
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry, India
| | - Dinesh A Nagegowda
- Molecular Plant Biology and Biotechnology Lab, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Centre, Bengaluru, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, India
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