MicroRNA: A novel target of curcumin in cancer therapy

PTEN in kidney diseases: a potential therapeutic target in preventing AKI-to-CKD transition

Renal fibrosis, a critical factor in the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD), is predominantly initiated by acute kidney injury (AKI) and subsequent maladaptive repair resulting from pharmacological or pathological stimuli. Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), also known as phosphatase and tensin-associated phosphatase, plays a pivotal role in regulating the physiological behavior of renal tubular epithelial cells, glomeruli, and renal interstitial cells, thereby preserving the homeostasis of renal structure and function. It significantly impacts cell proliferation, apoptosis, fibrosis, and mitochondrial energy metabolism during AKI-to-CKD transition. Despite gradual elucidation of PTEN's involvement in various kidney injuries, its specific role in AKI and maladaptive repair after injury remains unclear. This review endeavors to delineate the multifaceted role of PTEN in renal pathology during AKI and CKD progression along with its underlying mechanisms, emphasizing its influence on oxidative stress, autophagy, non-coding RNA-mediated recruitment and activation of immune cells as well as renal fibrosis. Furthermore, we summarize prospective therapeutic targeting strategies for AKI and CKD-treatment related diseases through modulation of PTEN.

Enough is enough: feedback control of specialized metabolism

Recent advances in our understanding of plant metabolism have highlighted the significance of specialized metabolites in the regulation of gene expression associated with biosynthetic networks. This opinion article focuses on the molecular mechanisms of small-molecule-mediated feedback regulation at the transcriptional level and its potential modes of action, including metabolite signal perception, the nature of the sensor, and the signaling transduction mechanisms leading to transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation, based on evidence available from plants and other kingdoms of life. We also discuss the challenges associated with identifying the occurrences, effects, and localization of small molecule-protein interactions. Further understanding of small-molecule-controlled metabolic fluxes will enable rational design of transcriptional regulation systems in metabolic engineering to produce high-value specialized metabolites.

Curcumin inhibits prostate cancer by upregulating miR-483-3p and inhibiting UBE2C

Prostate cancer (PCa) is an extremely common genitourinary malignancy among elderly men. Many evidence have shown the efficacy of curcumin (CUR) in inhibiting the progression of PCa. However, the pharmacological function of CUR in PCa is still not quite clear. In this research, CUR was found to suppress the proliferation and enhance the apoptotic rate in in vitro PCa cell models in a dose- and time-dependent manner. In a xenograft animal model, the administration of CUR contributed to a significant decrease in the growth of the xenograft tumor induced by the transplanted PC-3 cells. Ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2 C is implicated in the modulation of multiple types of cancers. In humans, the expression levels of UBE2C are significantly higher in PCa versus benign prostatic hyperplasia. Treatment with CUR decreased the expression of UBE2C, whereas it increased miR-483-3p expression. In contrast with the control mice, the CUR-treated mice showed a significant reduction in UBE2C and Ki-67 in PCa cells. The capability of proliferation, migration, and invasion of PCa cells was inhibited by the knockdown of UBE2C mediated by siRNA. Furthermore, dual luciferase reporter gene assay indicated the binding of miR-483-3p to UBE2C. In summary, CUR exerts its antitumor effects through regulation of the miR-483-3p/UBE2C axis by decreasing UBE2C and increasing miR-483-3p. The findings may also provide new molecular markers for PCa diagnosis and treatment.

Curcumin inhibits colon cancer malignant progression and promotes T cell killing by regulating miR-206 expression

Colon cancer is a great threat to human health. Curcumin, as a traditional Chinese medicine extract with anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory effects, can affect the development of diverse human diseases including cancer. The aim of this research was to probe the mechanism by which curcumin regulates colon cancer progression. Colon cancer cells were processed with graded concentrations of curcumin. The proliferation and apoptosis of the treated cells were determined by MTT, colony formation assay and flow cytometry. Expression of signaling pathway-related proteins and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) was measured by western blotting. The effect of curcumin on tumor cell growth was verified through T cell-mediated killing and ELISA assays. The relationship between target gene expression and the survival rate of colon cancer patients was analyzed by a survival curve. Curcumin treatment restrained proliferation and accelerated apoptosis of colon cancer cells. It elevated miR-206 expression, which in turn affected colon cancer cell function. miR-206 enhanced colon cancer cell apoptosis and inhibited PD-L1 expression; thus, curcumin enhanced the killing effect of T cells on tumor cells by suppressing PD-L1 through inhibiting the JAK/STAT3 pathway. Patients with high expression of miR-206 had better survival rates than those with low expression. Curcumin can regulate miR-206 expression and inhibit the malignant behavior of colon cancer cells and enhance T cell killing through the JAK/STAT3 pathway.

Nanocurcumin Reduces High Glucose and Particulate Matter-Induced Endothelial Inflammation: Mitochondrial Function and Involvement of miR-221/222

Purpose

Particulate matter (PM) 2.5, harmful air pollutants, and diabetes are associated with high morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the combined effects of PM and diabetes on CVD remain unclear.

Methods

Endothelial cells (ECs) treated with high glucose (HG) and PM mimic hyperglycemia and air pollutant exposure in CVD. Endothelial inflammation was evaluated by Western blot and immunofluorescence of ICAM-1 expression and monocyte adhesion. The mechanisms underlying endothelial inflammation were elucidated through MitoSOX Red analysis, JC-1 staining, MitoTracker analysis, and Western blot analysis of mitochondrial fission-related, autophagy-related, and mitophagy-related proteins. Furthermore. nanocurcumin (NCur) pretreatment was used to test if it has a protective effect.

Results

ECs under co-exposure to HG and PM increased ICAM-1 expression and monocyte adhesion, whereas NCur pretreatment attenuated these changes and improved endothelial inflammation. PM exposure increased mitochondrial ROS levels, worsened mitochondrial membrane potential, promoted mitochondrial fission, induced mitophagy, and aggravated inflammation in HG-treated ECs, while NCur reversed these changes. Also, HG and PM-induced endothelial inflammation is through the JNK signaling pathway and miR-221/222 specifically targeting ICAM-1 and BNIP3. PM exposure also aggravated mitochondrial ROS levels, mitochondrial fission, mitophagy, and endothelial inflammation in STZ-induced hyperglycemic mice, whereas NCur attenuated these changes.

Conclusion

This study elucidated the mechanisms underlying HG and PM-induced endothelial inflammation in vitro and in vivo. HG and PM treatment increased mitochondrial ROS, mitochondrial fission, and mitophagy in ECs, whereas NCur reversed these conditions. In addition, miR-221/222 plays a role in the amelioration of endothelial inflammation through targeting Bnip3 and ICAM-1, and NCur pretreatment can modulate miR-221/222 levels. Therefore, NCur may be a promising approach to intervene in diabetes and air pollution-induced CVD.

Curcumin modulates cell type-specific miRNA networks to induce cytotoxicity in ovarian cancer cells

AIM

To understand the epigenetic role of curcumin, a natural polyphenolic compound extracted from the spice Curcuma longa in inducing cytotoxicity in two molecularly distinct ovarian cancer cell lines: PA1 and A2780.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An integrated mRNA-miRNA sequence analysis was performed to determine the curcumin-induced mRNA-miRNA regulatory networks in the induction of cytotoxicity. The miRNA-mRNA pathways, the miRNAs and their targets implicated in apoptosis, autophagy, DNA damage, and stemness markers were validated. Gene/miRNA expressions were validated using qPCR and protein expressions by western blotting. Curcumin-induced oncogenic /tumor-suppressor miRNAs were profiled utilising the oncomiRdb database. Similarly, the expressions of oncogenes/tumor suppressor genes were profiled and correlated with the TCGA ovarian cancer dataset. A dual luciferase assay was performed to investigate the interaction of miR-199a-5p to its direct target, DDR1.

KEY FINDINGS

The expression of several miRNAs demonstrated an inverse correlation with their respective direct targets. In curcumin-treated PA1 cells, miR-335-5p target ATG5 (autophagic), and OCT4 (pluripotent gene) were downregulated, miR-32a target PTEN (tumor suppressor) was upregulated, miR-1285 target P53 (tumor suppressor) was upregulated, and both miR-182-5p and miR-503-3p target BCL2, were down-regulated. Contrastingly, in curcumin-treated A2780 cells, miR-181a-3p target ATG5, miR-30a-5p, and miR-216a target BECN1 (autophagic) were upregulated, and miR-129a-5p target BCL2 were downregulated. The reversal of the oncomiR/TSmiR profile revealed suppression of oncogenic processes by curcumin. Curcumin treatment induced a moderate cisplatin-sensitisation effect and impaired epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) characteristics. Curcumin also regulated the miR-199a-5p/DDR1 axis with a decrease in collagen deposition.

SIGNIFICANCE

The activity of curcumin is cell-type specific. Distinct miRNA regulatory networks were activated to induce multiple modes of cellular cytotoxicity in these ovarian cancer cells. This study further highlights the molecular mechanism of curcumin action in ovarian cancers establishing its candidacy as a promising drug candidate.

Combined Treatment of Dendrosomal-Curcumin and Daunorubicin Synergistically Inhibit Cell Proliferation, Migration and Induce Apoptosis in A549 Lung Cancer Cells

Purpose

Chemotherapy drugs used to treat lung cancer are associated with drug resistance and severe side effects. There have been rising demands for new therapeutic candidates and novel approaches, including combination therapy. Here, we aimed to investigate the combinatorial effect of a dendrosomal formulation of curcumin (DNC) and daunorubicin (DNR) on the A549 lung cancer cell line.

Methods

We performed cytotoxicity, apoptosis, cell migration, colony-formation capacity, and gene expression analysis to interpret the mechanism of action for a combination of DNC and DNR on A549 cells.

Results

Our results revealed that the combination of DNC and DNR could synergistically inhibit the A549 cells' growth. This synergistic cytotoxicity was further approved by flow cytometry, migration assessment, colony-forming capacity and gene expression analysis. DNR combination with DNC resulted in increased apoptosis to necrosis ratio compared to DNR alone. In addition, the migration and colony-forming capacity were at the minimal range when DNC was combined with DNR. Combined treatment decreased the expression level of MDR-1, hTERT and Bcl-2 genes significantly. In addition, the ratio of Bax/Bcl2 gene expression significantly increased. Our analysis by free curcumin, dendrosomes and DNC also showed that dendrosomes do not have any significant cytotoxic effect on the A549 cells, suggesting that this carrier has a high potential for enhancing the curcumin's biological effects.

Conclusion

Our observations suggest that the DNC formulation of curcumin synergistically enhances the antineoplastic effect of DNR on the A549 cell line through the modulation of apoptosis/necrosis ratio, as well as Bax/Bcl2 ratio, MDR-1 and hTERT gene expression.

Molecular mechanisms of microRNA-301a during tumor progression and metastasis

Cancer is known as one of the leading causes of human deaths globally. Late diagnosis is considered as one of the main reasons for the high mortality rate among cancer patients. Therefore, the introduction of early diagnostic tumor markers can improve the efficiency of therapeutic modalities. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have a key role in regulation of cell proliferation and apoptosis. MiRNAs deregulation has been frequently reported during tumor progressions. Since, miRNAs have a high stability in body fluids; they can be used as the reliable non-invasive tumor markers. Here, we discussed the role of miR-301a during tumor progressions. MiR-301a mainly functions as an oncogene via the modulation of transcription factors, autophagy, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and signaling pathways. This review paves the way to suggest miR-301a as a non-invasive marker for the early tumor diagnosis. MiR-301a can also be suggested as an effective target in cancer therapy.

New Hybrid Scaffolds Based on 5-FU/Curcumin: Synthesis, Cytotoxic, Antiproliferative and Pro-Apoptotic Effect

A series of 5-FU-Curcumin hybrids were synthesized, and their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic analysis. The synthesized hybrid compounds were evaluated in different colorectal cancer cell lines (SW480 and SW620) and in non-malignant cells (HaCaT and CHO-K1), to determine their chemopreventive potential. Hybrids 6a and 6d presented the best IC₅₀ value against the SW480 cell line with results of 17.37 ± 1.16 µM and 2.43 ± 0.33 µM, respectively. Similarly, compounds 6d and 6e presented IC₅₀ results of 7.51 ± 1.47 µM and 14.52 ± 1.31 µM, respectively, against the SW620 cell line. These compounds were more cytotoxic and selective than curcumin alone, the reference drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), and the equimolar mixture of curcumin and 5-FU. In addition, hybrids 6a and 6d (in SW480) and compounds 6d and 6e (in SW620) induced cell cycle arrest in S-phase, and, compounds 6d and 6e caused a significant increase in the sub-G0/G1 phase population in both cell lines. Hybrid 6e was also observed to induce apoptosis of SW620 cells with a respective increase in executioner caspases 3 and 7. Taken together, these results suggest that the hybrids could actively act on a colorectal cancer model, making them a privileged scaffold that could be used in future research.

Prostate Cancer and microRNAs: New insights into Apoptosis

Prostate cancer (PCa) is known as one of the most prevalent malignancies globally and is not yet curable owing to its progressive nature. It has been well documented that Genetic and epigenetic alterations maintain mandatory roles in PCa development. Apoptosis, a form of programmed cell death, has been shown to be involved in a number of physiological processes. Apoptosis disruption is considered as one of the main mechanism involved in lots of pathological conditions, especially malignancy. There is ample of evidence in support of the fact that microRNAs (miRNAs) have crucial roles in several cellular biological processes, including apoptosis. Escaping from apoptosis is a common event in malignancy progression. Emerging evidence revealed miRNAs capabilities to act as apoptotic or anti-apoptotic factors by altering the expression levels of tumor inhibitor or oncogene genes. In the present narrative review, we described in detail how apoptosis dysfunction could be involved in PCa processes and additionally, the mechanisms behind miRNAs affect the apoptosis pathways in PCa. Identifying the mechanisms behind the effects of miRNAs and their targets on apoptosis can provide scientists new targets for PCa treatment.

The effect of curcumin supplementation on weight loss and anthropometric indices: an umbrella review and updated meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Curcumin supplementation may promote weight loss and ameliorate obesity-related complications through its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties.

OBJECTIVE

An umbrella review and updated meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to evaluate the effect of curcumin supplementation on anthropometric indices.

METHODS

Systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SRMAs) of RCTs were identified from electronic databases (Medline, Scopus, Cochrane, and Google Scholar) up to 31 March, 2022, without language restriction. SRMAs were included if they assessed curcumin supplementation on any of the following: BMI, body weight (BW), or waist circumference (WC). Subgroup analyses were performed, stratifying by patient types, severity of obesity, and curcumin formula. The study protocol was a priori registered.

RESULTS

From an umbrella review, 14 SRMAs with 39 individual RCTs were included with a high degree of overlap. In addition, searching was updated from the last search of included SRMAs in April 2021 up to 31 March, 2022, and we found 11 additional RCTs, bringing the total up to 50 RCTs included in the updated meta-analyses. Of these, 21 RCTs were deemed of high risk of bias. Curcumin supplementation significantly reduced BMI, BW, and WC with mean differences (MDs) of -0.24 kg/m² (95% CI: -0.32, -0.16 kg/m²), -0.59 kg (95% CI: -0.81, -0.36 kg), and -1.32 cm (95% CI: -1.95, -0.69 cm), respectively. The bioavailability-enhanced form reduced BMI, BWs, and WC more, with MDs of -0.26 kg/m² (95% CI: -0.38, -0.13 kg/m²), -0.80 kg (95% CI: -1.38, -0.23 kg) and -1.41 cm (95% CI: -2.24, -0.58 cm), respectively. Significant effects were also seen in subgroups of patients, especially in adults with obesity and diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Curcumin supplementation significantly reduces anthropometric indices, and bioavailability-enhanced formulas are preferred. Augmenting curcumin supplement with lifestyle modification should be an option for weight reduction. This trial was registered at PROSPERO as CRD42022321112 (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022321112).

Curcumin a Natural Phenol and Its Therapeutic Role in Cancer and Photodynamic Therapy: A Review

Cancer continues to cause an alarming number of deaths globally, and its burden on the health system is significant. Though different conventional therapeutic procedures are exploited for cancer treatment, the prevalence and death rates remain elevated. These, therefore, insinuate that novel and more efficient treatment procedures are needed for cancer. Curcumin, a bioactive, natural, phenolic compound isolated from the rhizome of the herbaceous plant turmeric, is receiving great interest for its exciting and broad pharmacological properties. Curcumin presents anticancer therapeutic capacities and can be utilized as a photosensitizing drug in cancer photodynamic therapy (PDT). Nonetheless, curcumin's poor bioavailability and related pharmacokinetics limit its clinical utility in cancer treatment. This review looks at the physical and chemical properties, bioavailability, and safety of curcumin, while focusing on curcumin as an agent in cancer therapy and as a photosensitizer in cancer PDT. The possible mechanisms and cellular targets of curcumin in cancer therapy and PDT are highlighted. Furthermore, recent improvements in curcumin's bioavailability in cancer therapy using nanoformulations and delivery systems are presented.

Retinal protective effect of curcumin metabolite hexahydrocurcumin against blue light-induced RPE damage

BACKGROUND

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells. We have previously demonstrated that blue light can damage RPE cells and their underlying mechanisms. We found that hexahydrocurcumin (HHC), a metabolite of curcumin, had better retinal protection than curcumin. However, the involved mechanisms remain unclear.

METHODS

By exposing ARPE-19 human RPE cells and mouse primary RPE cells to blue light, the intracellular mechanisms of HHC in cells were investigated, including the proliferation of RPE cells and the effects of HHC on activating intracellular protective mechanisms and related factors. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) RNA sequencing revealed the underlying mechanisms involved in the induction and regulation of HHC treatment following blue light exposure.

RESULTS

HHC promoted autophagy by enhancing autophagic flux, reduced oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and effectively reversed blue light-induced cell death. RNA sequencing-based bioinformatics approaches comprehensively analyze HHC-mediated cellular processes.

CONCLUSION

Our findings elucidate the mechanisms of HHC against blue light damage in RPE cells and are beneficial for the development of natural metabolite-based preventive drugs or functional foods.

The key role of microRNA-766 in the cancer development

Cancer is caused by defects in coding and non-coding RNAs. In addition, duplicated biological pathways diminish the efficacy of mono target cancer drugs. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, endogenous, non-coding RNAs that regulate many target genes and play a crucial role in physiological processes such as cell division, differentiation, cell cycle, proliferation, and apoptosis, which are frequently disrupted in diseases such as cancer. MiR-766, one of the most adaptable and highly conserved microRNAs, is notably overexpressed in several diseases, including malignant tumors. Variations in miR-766 expression are linked to various pathological and physiological processes. Additionally, miR-766 promotes therapeutic resistance pathways in various types of tumors. Here, we present and discuss evidence implicating miR-766 in the development of cancer and treatment resistance. In addition, we discuss the potential applications of miR-766 as a therapeutic cancer target, diagnostic biomarker, and prognostic indicator. This may shed light on the development of novel therapeutic strategies for cancer therapy.

An overview of natural products that modulate the expression of non-coding RNAs involved in oxidative stress and inflammation-associated disorders

Oxidative stress is a state in which oxidants are produced in excess in the body's tissues and cells, resulting in a biological imbalance amid the generation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) from redox reactions. In case of insufficient antioxidants to balance, the immune system triggers signaling cascades to mount inflammatory responses. Oxidative stress can have deleterious effects on major macromolecules such as lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, hence, Oxidative stress and inflammation are among the multiple factors contributing to the etiology of several disorders such as diabetes, cancers, and cardiovascular diseases. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) which were once referred to as dark matter have been found to function as key regulators of gene expression through different mechanisms. They have dynamic roles in the onset and development of inflammatory and oxidative stress-related diseases, therefore, are potential targets for the control of those diseases. One way of controlling those diseases is through the use of natural products, a rich source of antioxidants that have drawn attention with several studies showing their involvement in combating chronic diseases given their enormous gains, low side effects, and toxicity. In this review, we highlighted the natural products that have been reported to target ncRNAs as mediators of their biological effects on oxidative stress and several inflammation-associated disorders. Those natural products include Baicalein, Tanshinone IIA, Geniposide, Carvacrol/Thymol, Triptolide, Oleacein, Curcumin, Resveratrol, Solarmargine, Allicin, aqueous extract or pulp of Açai, Quercetin, and Genistein. We also draw attention to some other compounds including Zanthoxylum bungeanum, Canna genus rhizome, Fuzi-ganjiang herb pair, Aronia melanocarpa, Peppermint, and Gingerol that are effective against oxidative stress and inflammation-related disorders, however, have no known effect on ncRNAs. Lastly, we touched on the many ncRNAs that were found to play a role in oxidative stress and inflammation-related disorders but have not yet been investigated as targets of a natural product. Shedding more light into these two last points of shadow will be of great interest in the valorization of natural compounds in the control and therapy of oxidative stress- and inflammation-associated disorders.

Biocolorants in food: Sources, extraction, applications and future prospects

Color of a food is one of the major factors influencing its acceptance by consumers. At presently synthetic dyes are the most commonly used food colorant in food industry by providing more esthetically appearance and as a means to quality control. However, the growing concern about health and environmental due to associated toxicity with synthetic food colorants has accelerated the global efforts to replace them with safer and healthy food colorants obtained from natural resources (plants, microorganisms, and animals). Further, many of these biocolorants not only provide myriad of colors to the food but also exert biological properties, thus they can be used as nutraceuticals in foods and beverages. In order to understand the importance of nature-derived pigments as food colorants, this review provides a thorough discussion on the natural origin of food colorants. Following this, different extraction methods for isolating biocolorants from plants and microbes were also discussed. Many of these biocolorants not only provide color, but also have many health promoting properties, for this reason their physicochemical and biological properties were also reviewed. Finally, current trends on the use of biocolorants in foods, and the challenges faced by the biocolorants in their effective utilization by food industry and possible solutions to these challenges were discussed.

Curcumin ameliorates oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-caused damage in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) through the miR-599/MYD88/NF-κB axis

BACKGROUND

The role of curcumin in multiple human diseases was widely reported, including arteriosclerosis (AS). We aimed to investigate the correlation between curcumin and AS-related microRNAs (miRNAs) to find out more underlying mechanism of curcumin used in AS.

METHODS

Cell proliferation and apoptosis were determined using CCK-8 assay, EdU staining assay, flow cytometry, and western blot for the detection of PCNA and Bax protein expression in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Inflammation response was evaluated using ELISA kits, and oxidative stress was evaluated by detecting SOD activity and MDA level using the matched commercial kits. RT-qPCR analysis was applied for miR-599 and MYD88 mRNA level measurement.

RESULTS

Curcumin treatment and miR-599 overexpression could promote cell proliferation, and inhibit cell apoptosis, inflammation response and oxidative stress, thereby alleviating ox-LDL-induced cell damage in HUVECs. Mir-599 was lowly expressed and MYD88 was highly expressed in AS patients and AS cell model. Curcumin could modulate miR-599 to exert the protective effect on ox-LDL-caused cell damage, and miR-599 directly targeted MYD88 to alleviate ox-LDL-caused cell damage in HUVECs. Curcumin targeted miR-599 to regulate MYD88 expression, thereby inactivating the NF-κB pathway in AS cell model.

CONCLUSION

Our findings illustrated that curcumin exhibited anti-AS effect through the miR-599/MYD88 axis and thereby inhibiting the NF-κB pathway.

Evidence for Multilevel Chemopreventive Activities of Natural Phenols from Functional Genomic Studies of Curcumin, Resveratrol, Genistein, Quercetin, and Luteolin

Herein, I present an updated and contextualized literature review of functional genomic studies of natural phenols in the context of cancer. I suggest multilevel chemopreventive and anticancer mechanisms of action, which are shared by multiple dietary natural phenols. Specifically, I cite evidence that curcumin and resveratrol have multilevel anti-cancer effects through: (1) inducing either p53-dependent or p53-independent apoptosis in cancer cell lines, (2) acting as potent regulators of expression of oncogenic and anti-oncogenic microRNAs, and (3) inducing complex epigenetic changes that can switch off oncogenes/switch on anti-oncogenes. There is no simple reductionist explanation for anti-cancer effects of curcumin and resveratrol. More generally, multilevel models of chemoprevention are suggested for related natural phenols and flavonoids such as genistein, quercetin, or luteolin.

NF-κB Signaling in Tumor Pathways Focusing on Breast and Ovarian Cancer

Immune disorders and cancer share a common pathway involving NF-κb signaling. Through involvement with GM-CSF, NF-κB can contribute to proliferation and activation of T- and B- cells as well as immune cell migration to sites of inflammation. In breast cancer, this signaling pathway has been linked to resistance with endocrine and chemotherapies. Similarly, in ovarian cancer, NF-κB influences angiogenesis and inflammation pathways. Further, BRCA1 signaling common to both breast and ovarian cancer also has the capability to induce NF-κB activity. Immunotherapy involving NF-κB can also be implemented to combat chemoresistance. The complex signaling pathways of NF-κB can be harnessed for developing cancer therapeutics to promote immunotherapy for improving patient outcomes.

Uniaxial and Coaxial Nanofibers PCL/Alginate or PCL/Gelatine Transport and Release Tamoxifen and Curcumin Affecting the Viability of MCF7 Cell Line

Breast cancer is the second cause of cancer death in women worldwide. The search for therapeutic and preventive alternatives has increased in recent years. One synthetic drug for patients with hormone receptor-positive tumours is tamoxifen citrate (TMX). Curcumin (Cur) is a natural compound that is being tested. Both were coupled with nanoscale-controlled and sustained release systems to increase the effectiveness of the treatment and reduce adverse effects. We produced a controlled release system based on uniaxial and coaxial polymeric nanofibers of polycaprolactone (PCL), alginate (Alg) and gelatine (Gel) for the transport and release of TMX and Cur, as a new alternative to breast cancer treatment. Nanofibers combining PCL-Alg and PCL-Gel were fabricated by the electrospinning technique and physicochemically characterised by thermal analysis, absorption spectroscopy in the infrared region and X-ray diffraction. Morphology and size were studied by scanning electron microscopy. Additionally, the release profile of TMX and Cur was obtained by UV-Vis spectroscopy. Additionally, the cytotoxic effect on breast cancer cell line MCF7 and peripheral-blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from a healthy donor were evaluated by a Resazurin reduction assay. These assays showed that PCL-TMX nanofiber was highly toxic to both cell types, while PCL-Cur was less toxic.

Natural products exert anti-tumor effects by regulating exosomal ncRNA

Currently, more than 60% of the approved anti-cancer drugs come from or are related to natural products. Natural products and exosomal non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) exert anti-cancer effects through various regulatory mechanisms, which are of great research significance. Exosomes are a form of intercellular communication and contain ncRNAs that can act as intercellular signaling molecules involved in the metabolism of tumor cells. This review exemplifies some examples of natural products whose active ingredients can play a role in cancer prevention and treatment by regulating exosomal ncRNAs, with the aim of illustrating the mechanism of action of exosomal ncRNAs in cancer prevention and treatment. Meanwhile, the application of exosomes as natural drug delivery systems and predictive disease biomarkers in cancer prevention and treatment is introduced, providing research ideas for the development of novel anti-tumor drugs.

Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Propolis and Its Polyphenolic Compounds against Cancer

In recent years, interest in natural products such as alternative sources of pharmaceuticals for numerous chronic diseases, including tumors, has been renewed. Propolis, a natural product collected by honeybees, and polyphenolic/flavonoid propolis-related components modulate all steps of the cancer progression process. Anticancer activity of propolis and its compounds relies on various mechanisms: cell-cycle arrest and attenuation of cancer cells proliferation, reduction in the number of cancer stem cells, induction of apoptosis, modulation of oncogene signaling pathways, inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases, prevention of metastasis, anti-angiogenesis, anti-inflammatory effects accompanied by the modulation of the tumor microenvironment (by modifying macrophage activation and polarization), epigenetic regulation, antiviral and bactericidal activities, modulation of gut microbiota, and attenuation of chemotherapy-induced deleterious side effects. Ingredients from propolis also "sensitize" cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents, likely by blocking the activation of the transcription factor nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB). In this review, we summarize the current knowledge related to the the effects of flavonoids and other polyphenolic compounds from propolis on tumor growth and metastasizing ability, and discuss possible molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in the modulation of inflammatory pathways and cellular processes that affect survival, proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis, and metastasis of the tumor.

MiR-125b-5p is targeted by curcumin to regulate the cellular antioxidant capacity

As a natural polyphenolic food supplement and the principal curcuminoid in turmeric, curcumin shows antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor activities. However, its specific functional mechanism remains unclear. Our preliminary study indicated that miR-125b-5p was downregulated by a curcumin extract. This study aimed to determine whether miR-125b-5p is involved in the antioxidant regulation of curcumin. The results showed that miR-125b-5p overexpression had a pro-oxidant effect by reducing the cellular antioxidant capacity, as well as decreasing the activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the normal liver cell line LO2. However, miR-125b-5p repression significantly increased the cellular antioxidant capacity and enhanced the activities of CAT and SOD. Further investigation demonstrated that the cellular antioxidant capacity induced by curcumin extract was inhibited by miR-125b-5p overexpression. Thus, curcumin may exhibit antioxidant effects by repressing miR-125b-5p expression, which provides new insights into the molecular antioxidant mechanism of curcumin and other functional food components.

Plants as a Source of Anticancer Agents: From Bench to Bedside

Cancer is the second leading cause of death after cardiovascular diseases. Conventional anticancer therapies are associated with lack of selectivity and serious side effects. Cancer hallmarks are biological capabilities acquired by cancer cells during neoplastic transformation. Targeting multiple cancer hallmarks is a promising strategy to treat cancer. The diversity in chemical structure and the relatively low toxicity make plant-derived natural products a promising source for the development of new and more effective anticancer therapies that have the capacity to target multiple hallmarks in cancer. In this review, we discussed the anticancer activities of ten natural products extracted from plants. The majority of these products inhibit cancer by targeting multiple cancer hallmarks, and many of these chemicals have reached clinical applications. Studies discussed in this review provide a solid ground for researchers and physicians to design more effective combination anticancer therapies using plant-derived natural products.

Nano-Curcumin Prevents Copper Reproductive Toxicity by Attenuating Oxidative Stress and Inflammation and Improving Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling and Pituitary-Gonadal Axis in Male Rats

Copper is essential for several cellular processes and is an important catalytic factor for many proteins. However, excess copper can provoke oxidative stress and reproductive toxicity. This study evaluated the effect of liposomal nano-curcumin (N-CUR) and CUR on testicular oxidative injury, inflammation, and apoptosis, and altered steroidogenesis and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling induced by copper sulfate (CuSO4). Rats received CuSO4 and N-CUR or CUR via oral gavage for 7 days. CuSO4 induced histopathological changes and altered pituitary-gonadal axis manifested by decreased serum gonadotropins and testosterone. Testicular steroidogenesis genes (StAR, 3β-HSD, CYP17A1, and 17β-HSD) and androgen receptor (AR) were downregulated in rats that received CuSO4. N-CUR and CUR prevented testicular tissue injury, increased circulating FSH, LH, and testosterone, and upregulated testicular steroidogenesis genes and AR. Additionally, N-CUR and CUR decreased testicular MDA, NO, NF-κB, iNOS, TNF-α, Bax, and caspase-3 while enhanced Bcl-2, Nrf2, and the antioxidants GSH, HO-1, SOD, and catalase. In conclusion, N-CUR and CUR prevented CuSO4-induced reproductive toxicity in male rats by suppressing oxidative injury and inflammatory response and boosting steroidogenesis, sex hormones, and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling. N-CUR was more effective in ameliorating tissue injury, oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis and enhancing steroidogenesis and Nrf2/HO-1 than the native form.

Tracing New Landscapes in the Arena of Nanoparticle-Based Cancer Immunotherapy

Over the past two decades, unique and comprehensive cancer treatment has ushered new hope in the holistic management of the disease. Cancer immunotherapy, which harnesses the immune system of the patient to attack the cancer cells in a targeted manner, scores over others by being less debilitating compared to the existing treatment strategies. Significant advancements in the knowledge of immune surveillance in the last few decades have led to the development of several types of immune therapy like monoclonal antibodies, cancer vaccines, immune checkpoint inhibitors, T-cell transfer therapy or adoptive cell therapy (ACT) and immune system modulators. Intensive research has established cancer immunotherapy to be a safe and effective method for improving survival and the quality of a patient’s life. However, numerous issues with respect to site-specific delivery, resistance to immunotherapy, and escape of cancer cells from immune responses, need to be addressed for expanding and utilizing this therapy as a regular mode in the clinical treatment. Development in the field of nanotechnology has augmented the therapeutic efficiency of treatment modalities of immunotherapy. Nanocarriers could be used as vehicles because of their advantages such as increased surface areas, targeted delivery, controlled surface and release chemistry, enhanced permeation and retention effect, etc. They could enhance the function of immune cells by incorporating immunomodulatory agents that influence the tumor microenvironment, thus enabling antitumor immunity. Robust validation of the combined effect of nanotechnology and immunotherapy techniques in the clinics has paved the way for a better treatment option for cancer than the already existing procedures such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In this review, we discuss the current applications of nanoparticles in the development of ‘smart’ cancer immunotherapeutic agents like ACT, cancer vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, their site-specific delivery, and modulation of other endogenous immune cells. We also highlight the immense possibilities of using nanotechnology to accomplish leveraging the coordinated and adaptive immune system of a patient to tackle the complexity of treating unique disease conditions and provide future prospects in the field of cancer immunotherapy.

Proapoptotic Effect and Molecular Docking Analysis of Curcumin–Resveratrol Hybrids in Colorectal Cancer Chemoprevention

Different hybrids based on curcumin and resveratrol were previously synthesized and characterized by spectroscopic techniques. The most active molecules (3a, 3e, 3i, and 3k) were evaluated in vitro as an approach to determine the possible mechanism of action of the hybrids. The results indicated that the evaluated curcumin/resveratrol hybrids induce mitochondrial instability in SW620 and SW480 cells. Moreover, these molecules caused a loss in membrane integrity, suggesting an apoptotic process mediated by caspases after the treatment with compounds 3i (SW480) and 3k (SW620). In addition, the results suggest that the mechanism of action of the hybrids could be independent of the p53 status. Furthermore, hybrids 3e and 3i caused G0/G1 phase arrest, which highlights the potential of these molecules not only as cytotoxic but also as cytostatic compounds. Hybrids 3e and 3i caused a negative modulation of the matrix metalloproteinase 7 (MMP7) on SW480 cells. These curcumin resveratrol hybrids could be potential candidates for further investigations in the search for potential chemopreventive agents, even in those cases with resistance to conventional chemotherapy because of the lack of p53 expression or function. Molecular docking simulations showed that compounds 3e, 3i, and 3k bind efficiently to proapoptotic human caspases 3/7 proteins, as well as human MMP-7 and p53, which, in turn, could explain at the molecular level the in vitro cytotoxic effect of these compounds in SW480 and SW620 colon cancer cell lines.

The influence of antioxidant dietary-derived polyphenolic combination on breast cancer: Molecular study

Breast cancer remains a leading cause of female mortality worldwide. Therefore, novel complementary treatments have been sought. Recently, there has been a growing interest in investigating the possible complementary effects of polyphenolic compounds against various malignancies. In the present study, using MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 human breast adenocarcinoma cells, the anticancer efficacy of a polyphenolic mixture (PFM) was investigated. PFM is composed of curcumin, resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate, and quercetin. PFM treatment led to a dose-dependent inhibition of cell proliferation, with IC₅₀ values of 25.9 ± 3 µg/ml and 29.4 ± 0.9 µg/ml for MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells, respectively. In addition, PFM induced apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 cells and cell cycle arrest at the S phase in MCF-7 cells. Using RT-qPCR, PFM treatment was observed to result in significant downregulation of the oncogenic miR-155 (P < 0.05), as well as significant downregulation of the rate-limiting glycolytic enzyme, hexokinase 2 (HK2) (P < 0.05), while upregulating the expression of the zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 2 gene (P < 0.01). PFM was also found to exert an anti-migration effect in breast cancer cells using the wound healing assay, as well as significantly (P < 0.05) increasing the median survival of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) tumor-bearing mice. These results suggest that PFM possesses potential antitumor effects against breast cancer. A possible mechanism of action could be due to PFM's effect in modulating the expression of the glycolytic enzyme HK2 through suppression of miR-155 in MCF-7 cells. Combining polyphenolic compounds that interact with one another could result in synergistic effects that potentially target various tumour hallmarks.

Effects of Polyphenols on ncRNAs in cancer - An update

In recent years, oncotherapy has received considerable attention concerning plant polyphenols. Increasing evidence suggests that due to the efficiency of polyphenols, they may have antitumor effects in various cancers. However, their regulatory structures remain elusive. Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) have been identified in the regulation of various forms of tumorigenesis and tumor development. Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) have recently emerged as regulatory eukaryotic transcripts and therapeutic targets with important and diverse functions in health and diseases. LncRNAs may be associated with the initiation, development, and progression of cancer. This review summarizes the research on the modulatory effects of LncRNAs and their roles in mediating cellular processes. The mechanisms of action of polyphenols underlying their therapeutic effects on cancers are also discussed. Based on our review, polyphenols might facilitate a significant epigenetic modification as part of their tissue-/cell-related biological effects. This finding may be attributed to their interaction with cellular signaling pathways involved in chronic diseases. Certain LncRNAs might be the target of specific polyphenols, and some critical signaling processes involved in the intervention of cancers might mediate the therapeutic roles of polyphenols. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Hematoporphyrin monomethyl ether mediated photodynamic therapy inhibits oral squamous cell carcinoma by regulating the P53-miR-21-PDCD4 axis via singlet oxygen

The objective of this study was to determine the mechanism and effect of hematoporphyrin monomethyl ether mediated photodynamic therapy (HMME-PDT) on oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Human OSCC CAL-27 cells were randomly divided into four groups: control group, HMME group, laser group, and HMME-PDT group. Cell viability was detected by the CCK-8 method. Cell cycle distribution was evaluated by flow cytometry. GEO database was used to screen differentially expressed microRNAs (DEMs), and TCGA database was performed to verify DEM expression in OSCC and normal tissues. The effects of HMME-PDT on DEM expression were assayed by real-time PCR, and the expressions of miRNAs target genes were measured by western blot. Fluorescence probes were used to determine the production of singlet oxygen (¹O₂). Compared with the other three groups, HMME-PDT dramatically inhibited CAL-27 cell proliferation and induced G0/G1 cycle arrest. The expressions of miR-21 and miR-155 were significantly upregulated in OSCC. HMME-PDT downregulated the expression of miR-21 but had no obvious effect on miR-155. HMME-PDT remarkably upregulated the levels of P53 and miR-21 target proteins, such as PDCD4, RECK, and SPRY2. ¹O₂ was generated during HMME-PDT, and inhibition of ¹O₂ production could reverse the regulation of HMME-PDT on P53, miR-21, and its target proteins, thus restoring cell viability. HMME-PDT can significantly inhibit the growth of OSCC cells, and the mechanism of this effect is related to the regulation of the P53-miR-21-PDCD4 axis via ¹O₂ induced by HMME-PDT.

Antitumor and Protective Effects of Melatonin: The Potential Roles of MicroRNAs

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous short noncoding RNAs with approximately 22 nucleotides. The primary function of miRNAs is the negative regulation of target gene expression via mRNA degradation or translation inhibition. During recent years, much attention has been made toward miRNAs' role in different disorders; particularly cancer and compounds with modulatory effects on miRNAs are of interest. Melatonin is one of these compounds which is secreted by the pineal gland. Also, melatonin is present in the leaves, fruits, and seeds of plants. Melatonin has several valuable biological activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammation, antitumor, and antiaging activities. This important agent is extensively used to treat different disorders such as cancer and neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases. This review aims to describe the modulatory effect of melatonin on miRNAs as novel targets.

Curcumin Synergizes with Cisplatin to Inhibit Colon Cancer through Targeting the MicroRNA-137-Glutaminase Axis

OBJECTIVE

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most lethal and prevalent malignancies world-wide. Currently, surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy are clinically applied as common approaches for CRC patients. Cisplatin is one of the most frequently used chemotherapy drugs for diverse cancers. Although chemotherapeutic strategies have improved the prognosis and survival of cancer patients, development of cisplatin resistance has led to cancer recurrence. Curcumin, isolated from turmeric, has been used as an effective anti-cancer agent. However, the molecular mechanisms for curcumin-mediated cisplatin sensitivity of CRC have not been elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the effects of curcumin treatment on cisplatin-resistant CRC cells.

METHODS

Expression levels of miRNAs and mRNAs were determined by qRT-PCR. Protein expression levels were detected by Western blotting. Cell responses to curcumin treatments were evaluated by MTT assay, Clonogenic assay and Annexin V apoptosis assay. The glutamine metabolism of colon cancer cells was assessed by glutamine uptake and glutaminase (GLS) activity. The binding of miR-137 on 3' UTR of GLS was validated by Western blotting and luciferase assay.

RESULTS

Results demonstrated that curcumin significantly synergized with cisplatin (combination index <1) to suppress proliferation of colon cancer cells compared with curcumin or cisplatin alone. Moreover, from the established cisplatin-resistant cell line (HT-29), glutamine metabolism was remarkedly elevated in cisplatin-resistant CRC cells that displayed a glutamine addictive phenotype. Furthermore, curcumin treatments attenuated glutamine metabolism in colon cancer cells. Under low glutamine supply, colon cancer cells showed less sensitivity to curcumin. Using a microRNA (miRNA) microArray assay, miR-137, a tumor suppressor in colon cancer, was significantly induced by curcumin treatments in CRC cells. Bioinformatics analysis and a luciferase assay illustrated miR-137 directly targeted the 3' UTR of GLS mRNA. Rescue experiments demonstrated that miR-137-induced cisplatin sensitization was through targeting of GLS. Finally, curcumin treatment overcame cisplatin resistance through miR-137-mediated glutamine inhibition.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, these results indicate that curcumin could be clinically applied as an anti-chemoresistance approach against CRC by modulating miR-137-inhibited glutamine metabolism.

Immunometabolism modulation, a new trick of edible and medicinal plants in cancer treatment

The edible and medicinal plants (EMPs) are becoming an abundant source for cancer prevention and treatment since the natural and healthy trend for modern human beings. Currently, there are more than one hundred species of EMPs widely used and listed by the national health commission of China, and most of them indicate immune or metabolic regulation potential in cancer treatment with numerous studies over the past two decades. In the present review, we focused on the metabolic influence in immunocytes and tumor microenvironment, including immune response, immunosuppressive factors and cancer cells, discussing the immunometabolic potential of EMPs in cancer treatment. There are more than five hundred references collected and analyzed through retrieving pharmacological studies deposited in PubMed by medical subject headings and the corresponding names derived from pharmacopoeia of China as a sole criterion. Finally, the immunometabolism modulation of EMPs was sketch out implying an immunometabolic control in cancer treatment.

Curcumin inhibits ovarian cancer progression by regulating circ-PLEKHM3/miR-320a/SMG1 axis

BACKGROUND

Curcumin has a potential therapeutic role in ovarian cancer. However, whether curcumin plays anti-cancer role in ovarian cancer by mediating the circular RNA (circRNA)/microRNA (miRNA)/mRNA network is still unclear.

METHODS

The expression of circ-PLEKHM3, miR-320a, and suppressor of morphogenesis in genitalia 1 (SMG1) was detected via qRT-PCR. Cell viability, colony-formation ability and apoptosis were analyzed via cell counting kit-8 assay, colony formation analysis, and flow cytometry. Protein expression was measured using western blot. The in vivo experiments were performed using a xenograft model. Target association was evaluated via dual-luciferase reporter analysis and RIP assay.

RESULTS

Curcumin suppressed ovarian cancer cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis. Circ-PLEKHM3 was downregulated in ovarian cancer, and its expression could be promoted by curcumin treatment. Circ-PLEKHM3 overexpression exacerbated the effect of curcumin on ovarian cancer cell proliferation and apoptosis, as well as anti-tumor effect. MiR-320a was targeted by circ-PLEKHM3. The inhibition effect of circ-PLEKHM3 overexpression on cell proliferation and the enhancing effect on cell apoptosis could be reversed by miR-320a mimic. SMG1 was targeted by miR-320a, and its knockdown also reversed the regulation of miR-320a inhibitor on the proliferation and apoptosis of ovarian cancer cells. In addition, circ-PLEKHM3 could upregulate SMG1 expression via sponging miR-320a.

CONCLUSION

Curcumin restrained proliferation and facilitated apoptosis in ovarian cancer by regulating the circ-PLEKHM3/miR-320a/SMG1 axis.

Circulating Tumour Cells (CTCs) in NSCLC: From Prognosis to Therapy Design

Designing optimal (neo)adjuvant therapy is a crucial aspect of the treatment of non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). Standard methods of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy represent effective strategies for treatment. However, in some cases with high metastatic activity and high levels of circulating tumour cells (CTCs), the efficacy of standard treatment methods is insufficient and results in treatment failure and reduced patient survival. CTCs are seen not only as an isolated phenomenon but also a key inherent part of the formation of metastasis and a key factor in cancer death. This review discusses the impact of NSCLC therapy strategies based on a meta-analysis of clinical studies. In addition, possible therapeutic strategies for repression when standard methods fail, such as the administration of low-toxicity natural anticancer agents targeting these phenomena (curcumin and flavonoids), are also discussed. These strategies are presented in the context of key mechanisms of tumour biology with a strong influence on CTC spread and metastasis (mechanisms related to tumour-associated and -infiltrating cells, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, and migration of cancer cells).

Where Epigenetics Meets Food Intake: Their Interaction in the Development/Severity of Gout and Therapeutic Perspectives

Gout is the most frequent form of inflammatory arthritis in the world. Its prevalence is particularly elevated in specific geographical areas such as in the Oceania/Pacific region and is rising in the US, Europe, and Asia. Gout is a severe and painful disease, in which co-morbidities are responsible for a significant reduction in life expectancy. However, gout patients remain ostracized because the disease is still considered "self-inflicted", as a result of unhealthy lifestyle and excessive food and alcohol intake. While the etiology of gout flares is clearly associated with the presence of monosodium urate (MSU) crystal deposits, several major questions remain unanswered, such as the relationships between diet, hyperuricemia and gout flares or the mechanisms by which urate induces inflammation. Recent advances have identified gene variants associated with gout incidence. Nevertheless, genetic origins of gout combined to diet-related possible uric acid overproduction account for the symptoms in only a minor portion of patients. Hence, additional factors must be at play. Here, we review the impact of epigenetic mechanisms in which nutrients (such as ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids) and/or dietary-derived metabolites (like urate) trigger anti/pro-inflammatory responses that may participate in gout pathogenesis and severity. We propose that simple dietary regimens may be beneficial to complement therapeutic management or contribute to the prevention of flares in gout patients.

Polyphenols as adjunctive treatments in psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders: Efficacy, mechanisms of action, and factors influencing inter-individual response

The pathophysiology of psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders is complex and multifactorial. Polyphenols possess a range of potentially beneficial mechanisms of action that relate to the implicated pathways in psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. The aim of this review is to highlight the emerging clinical trial and preclinical efficacy data regarding the role of polyphenols in mental and brain health, elucidate novel mechanisms of action including the gut microbiome and gene expression, and discuss the factors that may be responsible for the mixed clinical results; namely, the role of interindividual differences in treatment response and the potentially pro-oxidant effects of some polyphenols. Further clarification as part of larger, well conducted randomized controlled trials that incorporate precision medicine methods are required to inform clinical efficacy and optimal dosing regimens.

Curcumin-cisplatin chemotherapy: A novel strategy in promoting chemotherapy efficacy and reducing side effects

The efficacy of chemotherapy in cancer therapy is limited due to resistance, treatment selectivity, and severe adverse effects. Immunotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation, and surgery are the most common therapeutic strategies for treatment, with chemotherapy being the most successful. Nonetheless, these treatments exhibit poor effectiveness due to toxicity and resistance. Therefore, combination therapies of natural products may be used as an effective and novel strategy to overcome such barriers. Cisplatin is a platinum-based chemotherapy agent, and when administered alone, it can lead to severe adverse effects and resistance mechanism resulting in therapeutic failure. Curcumin is a polyphenolic compound extracted from turmeric (Curcuma longa) exhibiting anticancer potential with minimal adverse effects. The combination therapy of curcumin and cisplatin is a novel strategy to mitigate/attenuate cisplatin-related adverse effects and improve the barrier of resistance reducing unwanted effects. However, there are uncertainties on the efficacy of curcumin, and more in depth and high-quality studies are needed. This review aims to explain the adverse effects related to individual cisplatin delivery, the positive outcome of individual curcumin delivery, and the combination therapy of curcumin and cisplatin from nano platform as a novel strategy for cancer therapy.

Expression profile of miRNAs involved in the hepatoprotective effects of curcumin against oxidative stress in Nile tilapia

Curcumin is a polyphenol with antioxidant activity that has been used to protect the health of fish livers. Our previous studies about comparative transcriptome have shown that curcumin can enhance the Nrf2-Keap1 signaling pathway and induce downstream anti-stress genes to maintain cell viability. However, the possible role of miRNAs in the protective mechanism of curcumin is not understood. In this study, the tilapia hepatocyte H₂O₂ stress model was used, and the miRNA expression profile for four groups (control group, curcumin group, H₂O₂ group, and protection group) were established by high-throughput sequencing. In our results, 278-333 types of Oreochromis niloticus miRNAs, 309-543 types of conserved miRNAs, and 535-746 types of novel miRNAs were identified in different samples. Differentially expressed miRNAs were identified by comparing miRNA expression profiles among the four groups. The expression levels were confirmed by q-PCR. The target genes of these differentially expressed miRNAs were predicted, and their functional annotations were enriched by GO and KEGG analysis, which revealed that many target genes were involved in "response to stimulus" and "antioxidant activity" in each pair of groups. Several miRNAs related to oxidative stress showed differential expression. For example, in the H₂O₂ group, the expression of miR-122 was decreased, and the expression of miR-21 and miR-489 increased significantly. In the curcumin group, the expression of miR-153b was decreased, and the expression of miR-200a and miR-29 was increased significantly. miR-153b, miR-200a, and miR-29 may be involved in the regulation of the Nrf2-Keap1 signaling pathway by curcumin. This work might provide insights into the molecular mechanisms of miRNA regulation of curcumin on the prevention and alleviation of liver diseases in fish.

Identification of Natural Compounds to Inhibit Sonic Hedgehog Pathway in Oral Cancer

BACKGROUND

Conventional treatment resistance remains a significant problem in cancer care. Cancer stem cells might play a major role in treatment resistance, and as a result, basic stem cell pathways are instrumental in cancer. Sonic Hedgehog signaling has not been widely studied in oral cancer, and being one of the major cancer stem cell pathways, targeting it with natural compounds could open many opportunities in the treatment scenario.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to identify the role of various natural compounds as an anti-cancer agent for oral cancer by targeting the Hedgehog signaling pathway.

METHODS

The selection of natural compounds were identified through literature review and NPACT database. The protein (3M1N and 3MXW) and ligand molecules were retrieved through the PDB and PubChem database. To carry out docking experiments, the AutoDock 4.2 program was used to study the interaction between the identified protein and ligand.

RESULTS

Among the 13 identified natural compounds, the top three were selected based on their binding energy. The higher the binding energy on the negative side, the better the interaction formed between protein and ligand. The natural compound showing best results with 3M1N protein were Butein, Biochanin-A, and Curcumin, whereas, with 3MXW, Zerumbone, Curcumin, and Butein were identified.

CONCLUSION

The identified natural compounds have shown better binding energy to bind the Hh ligands in the absence/presence of a known Sonic Hedgehog inhibitor. Based on the results, natural compounds can be utilized in the current treatment modality for oral cancer either as an individual anti-cancer agent or in combination with the known Sonic Hedgehog inhibitor to curb the increasing incidence rate. Yet, in-vitro evidence in lab setup is required.

Molecular mechanisms underlying curcumin-mediated microRNA regulation in carcinogenesis; Focused on gastrointestinal cancers

Curcumin is a bioactive ingredient found in the Rhizomes of Curcuma longa. Curcumin is well known for its chemopreventive and anti-cancer properties. Recent findings have demonstrated several pharmacological and biological impacts of curcumin, related to the control and the management of gastrointestinal cancers. Mechanistically, curcumin exerts its biological impacts via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects through the interaction with various transcription factors and signaling molecules. Moreover, epigenetic modulators such as microRNAs (miRNAs) have been revealed as novel targets of curcumin. Curcumin was discovered to regulate the expression of numerous pathogenic miRNAs in gastric, colorectal, esophageal and liver cancers. The present systematic review was performed to identify miRNAs that are modulated by curcumin in gastrointestinal cancers.

Curcumin inhibits the viability, migration and invasion of papillary thyroid cancer cells by regulating the miR-301a-3p/STAT3 axis

Thyroid cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors, and the mortality rate associated with thyroid cancer has been increasing annually. Curcumin has been reported to exert an antitumor effect on papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), and the identification of additional mechanisms underlying the anticancer effect of curcumin on PTC requires further investigation. The present study aimed to explore the effects of curcumin on the viability, migration and invasion of PTC cells. TPC-1 cells were incubated with different concentrations of curcumin, and then, cell viability, migration and invasion, and wound healing were examined by CCK-8, Transwell and wound healing assays, respectively. Subsequently, microRNA (miR)-301a-3p mimics, miR-301a-3p inhibitors and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)3 overexpression vector were transfected into TPC-1 cells, and cell viability, migration, and invasion were reassessed in these transfected cells. Matrix metallopeptidase (MMP)-2, MMP-9, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related markers, and Janus kinase (JAK)/STAT signaling pathway components were assessed by western blot analysis. Curcumin significantly inhibited cell viability, migration and invasion and downregulated MMP-2, MMP-9 and EMT marker expression. Additionally, curcumin decreased STAT3 expression by upregulating miR-301a-3p expression, and the inhibition of miR-301a-3p and the overexpression of STAT3 reversed the effects of curcumin on cell viability, migration and invasion, and MMP-2, MMP-9 and EMT marker expression in TPC-1 cells. Furthermore, curcumin suppressed the JAK/STAT signaling pathway through the miR-301a-3p/STAT3 axis. The data of the present study indicated that curcumin could inhibit the viability, migration and invasion of TPC-1 cells by regulating the miR-301a-3p/STAT3 axis. These findings may provide a possible strategy for the clinical treatment of PTC.

Anti-Metastatic and Anti-Angiogenic Effects of Curcumin Analog DK1 on Human Osteosarcoma Cells In Vitro

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a life-threatening malignant bone tumor associated with poor prognosis among children. The survival rate of the patient is still arguably low even with intensive treatment provided, plus with the inherent side effects from the chemotherapy, which gives more unfavorable outcomes. Hence, the search for potent anti-osteosarcoma agent with promising safety profile is still on going. Natural occurring substance like curcumin has gained a lot of attention due to its splendid safety profile as well as it pharmacological advantages such as anti-metastasis and anti-angiogenesis. However, natural curcumin was widely known for its poor cellular uptake, which undermines all potential that it possesses. This prompted the development of synthetically synthesized curcuminoid analog, known as (Z)-3-hydroxy-1-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-3-phenylprop-2- en-1-one (DK1). In this present study, in vitro scratch assay, transwell migration/invasion assay, HUVEC tube formation assay, and ex vivo rat aortic ring assays were performed in order to investigate the anti-metastatic and anti-angiogenic potential of DK1. For further comprehension of DK1 mechanism on human osteosarcoma cell lines, microarray gene expression analysis, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and proteome profiler were adopted, providing valuable forecast from the expression of important genes and proteins related to metastasis and angiogenesis. Based on the data gathered from the bioassays, DK1 was able to inhibit the metastasis and angiogenesis of human osteosarcoma cell lines by significantly reducing the cell motility, number of migrated and invaded cells as well as the tube formation and micro-vessels sprouting. Additionally, DK1 also has significantly regulated several cancer pathways involved in OS proliferation, metastasis, and angiogenesis such as PI3K/Akt and NF-κB in both U-2 OS and MG-63. Regulation of PI3K/Akt caused up-regulation of genes related to metastasis inhibition, namely, PTEN, FOXO, PLK3, and GADD45A. Meanwhile, NF-κB pathway was regulated by mitigating the expression of NF-κB activator such as IKBKB and IKBKE in MG-63, whilst up-regulating the expression of NF-κB inhibitors such as NFKBIA and NFKBIE in U-2 OS. Finally, DK1 also has successfully hindered the metastatic and angiogenic capability of OS cell lines by down-regulating the expression of pro-metastatic genes and proteins like MMP3, COL11A1, FGF1, Endoglin, uPA, and IGFBP2 in U-2 OS. Whilst for MG-63, the significantly down-regulated oncogenes were Serpin E1, AKT2, VEGF, uPA, PD-ECGF, and Endoglin. These results suggest that curcumin analog DK1 may serve as a potential new anti-osteosarcoma agent due to its anti-metastatic and anti-angiogenic attributes.