1
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Verhoog NJD, Spies LML. The anti-aromatase and anti-estrogenic activity of plant products in the treatment of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2024; 243:106581. [PMID: 38997071 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2024.106581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Despite being the focal point of decades of research, female breast cancer (BC) continues to be one of the most lethal cancers in the world. Given that 80 % of all diagnosed BC cases are estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) with carcinogenesis driven by estrogen-ERα signalling, current standard of care (SOC) hormone therapies are geared towards modulating the function and expression levels of estrogen and its receptors, ERα and ERβ. Currently, aromatase inhibitors (AIs), selective ER modulators (SERMs) and selective ER degraders (SERDs) are clinically prescribed for the management and treatment of ER+ BC, with the anti-aromatase activity of AIs abrogating estrogen biosynthesis, while the anti-estrogenic SERMs and SERDs antagonise and degrade the ER, respectively. The use of SOC hormone therapies is, however, significantly hampered by the onset of severe side-effects and the development of resistance. Given that numerous studies have reported on the beneficial effects of plant compounds and/or extracts and the multiple pathways through which they target ER+ breast carcinogenesis, recent research has focused on the use of dietary chemopreventive agents for BC management. When combined with SOC treatments, several of these plant components and/or extracts have demonstrated improved efficacy and/or synergistic impact. Moreover, despite a lack of in vivo investigations, plant products are generally reported to have a lower side-effect profile than SOC therapies and are therefore thought to be a safer therapeutic choice. Thus, the current review summarizes the findings from the last five years regarding the anti-aromatase and anti-estrogenic activity of plant products, as well as their synergistic anti-ER+ BC effects in combination with SOC therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lee-Maine Lorin Spies
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Van de Byl Street, Stellenbosch, 7601, South Africa
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2
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El Oirdi M. Harnessing the Power of Polyphenols: A New Frontier in Disease Prevention and Therapy. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:692. [PMID: 38931359 PMCID: PMC11206774 DOI: 10.3390/ph17060692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
There are a wide variety of phytochemicals collectively known as polyphenols. Their structural diversity results in a broad range of characteristics and biological effects. Polyphenols can be found in a variety of foods and drinks, including fruits, cereals, tea, and coffee. Studies both in vitro and in vivo, as well as clinical trials, have shown that they possess potent antioxidant activities, numerous therapeutic effects, and health advantages. Dietary polyphenols have demonstrated the potential to prevent many health problems, including obesity, atherosclerosis, high blood sugar, diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and neurological diseases. In this paper, the protective effects of polyphenols and the mechanisms behind them are investigated in detail, citing the most recent available literature. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge on the role of polyphenols in preventing and managing chronic diseases. The cited publications are derived from in vitro, in vivo, and human-based studies and clinical trials. A more complete understanding of these naturally occurring metabolites will pave the way for the development of novel polyphenol-rich diet and drug development programs. This, in turn, provides further evidence of their health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed El Oirdi
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Science, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia;
- Department of Basic Sciences, Preparatory Year, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
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3
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Hamedani SG, Pourmasoumi M, Askari G, Bagherniya M, Sathyapalan T, Sahebkar A. An Investigation into the Effects of Chemical, Pharmaceutical, and Herbal Compounds on Neuroglobin: A Literature Review. Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:2944-2954. [PMID: 37069714 DOI: 10.2174/0929867330666230413093409] [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: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Neuroglobin (Ngb) is an oxygen-binding globin protein that is mainly expressed in the neurons of the central and peripheral nervous system. However, moderate levels of Ngb have also been detected in non-neural tissues. Ngb and Ngb modulating factors have been increasingly studied over the last decade due to their neuroprotective role in neurological disorders and hypoxia. Studies have shown that a number of chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and herbal compounds can modulate the expression of Ngb at different dose levels, indicating a protective role against neurodegenerative diseases. Iron chelators, hormones, antidiabetic drugs, anticoagulants, antidepressants, plant derivatives and short-chain fatty acids are among these compounds. Therefore, this study aimed to review the literature focused on the possible effects and mechanisms of chemical, pharmaceutical, and herbal compounds on Ngbs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Golpour Hamedani
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Makan Pourmasoumi
- Gastrointestinal & Liver Diseases Research Center, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Askari
- Nutrition and Food Security Research Center and Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Anesthesia and Critical Care Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Bagherniya
- Nutrition and Food Security Research Center and Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Anesthesia and Critical Care Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Thozhukat Sathyapalan
- Department of Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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4
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Jakobušić Brala C, Karković Marković A, Kugić A, Torić J, Barbarić M. Combination Chemotherapy with Selected Polyphenols in Preclinical and Clinical Studies-An Update Overview. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28093746. [PMID: 37175156 PMCID: PMC10180288 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28093746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This review article describes studies published over the past five years on the combination of polyphenols, which are the most studied in the field of anticancer effects (curcumin, quercetin, resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate, and apigenin) and chemotherapeutics such as cisplatin, 5-fluorouracil, oxaliplatin, paclitaxel, etc. According to WHO data, research has been limited to five cancers with the highest morbidity rate (lung, colorectal, liver, gastric, and breast cancer). A systematic review of articles published in the past five years (from January 2018 to January 2023) was carried out with the help of all Web of Science databases and the available base of clinical studies. Based on the preclinical studies presented in this review, polyphenols can enhance drug efficacy and reduce chemoresistance through different molecular mechanisms. Considering the large number of studies, curcumin could be a molecule in future chemotherapy cocktails. One of the main problems in clinical research is related to the limited bioavailability of most polyphenols. The design of a new co-delivery system for drugs and polyphenols is essential for future clinical research. Some polyphenols work in synergy with chemotherapeutic drugs, but some polyphenols can act antagonistically, so caution is always required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cvijeta Jakobušić Brala
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, A. Kovačića 1, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana Karković Marković
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, A. Kovačića 1, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Azra Kugić
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, A. Kovačića 1, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Jelena Torić
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, A. Kovačića 1, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Monika Barbarić
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, A. Kovačića 1, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
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5
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Cracco P, Montalesi E, Parente M, Cipolletti M, Iucci G, Battocchio C, Venditti I, Fiocchetti M, Marino M. A Novel Resveratrol-Induced Pathway Increases Neuron-Derived Cell Resilience against Oxidative Stress. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065903. [PMID: 36982977 PMCID: PMC10058936 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
A promising therapeutic strategy to delay and/or prevent the onset of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) could be to restore neuroprotective pathways physiologically triggered by neurons against stress injury. Recently, we identified the accumulation of neuroglobin (NGB) in neuronal cells, induced by the 17β-estradiol (E2)/estrogen receptor β (ERβ) axis, as a protective response that increases mitochondria functionality and prevents the activation of apoptosis, increasing neuron resilience against oxidative stress. Here, we would verify if resveratrol (Res), an ERβ ligand, could reactivate NGB accumulation and its protective effects against oxidative stress in neuronal-derived cells (i.e., SH-SY5Y cells). Our results demonstrate that ERβ/NGB is a novel pathway triggered by low Res concentrations that lead to rapid and persistent NGB accumulation in the cytosol and in mitochondria, where the protein contributes to reducing the apoptotic death induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Intriguingly, Res conjugation with gold nanoparticles increases the stilbene efficacy in enhancing neuron resilience against oxidative stress. As a whole, ERβ/NGB axis regulation is a novel mechanism triggered by low concentration of Res to regulate, specifically, the neuronal cell resilience against oxidative stress reducing the triggering of the apoptotic cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizio Cracco
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, V.le G. Marconi, 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Emiliano Montalesi
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, V.le G. Marconi, 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Parente
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, V.le G. Marconi, 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Manuela Cipolletti
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, V.le G. Marconi, 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanna Iucci
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, V.le G. Marconi, 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Battocchio
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, V.le G. Marconi, 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Iole Venditti
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, V.le G. Marconi, 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano, 64, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Fiocchetti
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, V.le G. Marconi, 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano, 64, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Marino
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, V.le G. Marconi, 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano, 64, 00179 Rome, Italy
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6
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Costa AR, Duarte AC, Costa-Brito AR, Gonçalves I, Santos CRA. Bitter taste signaling in cancer. Life Sci 2023; 315:121363. [PMID: 36610638 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Pharmacoresistance of cancer cells to many drugs used in chemotherapy remains a major challenge for the treatment of cancer. Multidrug resistance transporters, especially ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, are a major cause of cancer drug resistance since they translocate a broad range of drug compounds across the cell membrane, extruding them out of the cells. The regulation of ABC transporters by bitter taste receptors (TAS2Rs), which might be activated by specific bitter tasting compounds, was described in several types of cells/organs, becoming a potential target for cancer therapy. TAS2Rs expression has been reported in many organs and several types of cancer, like breast, ovarian, prostate, and colorectal cancers, where their activation was shown to be involved in various biological actions (cell survival, apoptosis, molecular transport, among others). Moreover, many TAS2Rs' ligands, such as flavonoids and alkaloids, with well-recognized beneficial properties, including several anticancer effects, have been reported as potential adjuvants in cancer therapies. In this review, we discuss the potential therapeutic role of TAS2Rs and bitter tasting compounds in different types of cancer as a possible way to circumvent chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana R Costa
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Ana C Duarte
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal; CPIRN-IPG - Centro de Potencial e Inovação de Recursos Naturais, Instituto Politécnico da Guarda, Guarda, Portugal
| | - Ana R Costa-Brito
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal; Research Unit for Inland Development (UDI), Polytechnic of Guarda, Guarda, Portugal
| | - Isabel Gonçalves
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Cecília R A Santos
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal.
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7
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Resveratrol Analogs and Prodrugs Differently Affect the Survival of Breast Cancer Cells Impairing Estrogen/Estrogen Receptor α/Neuroglobin Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032148. [PMID: 36768470 PMCID: PMC9916867 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the first leading tumor in women in terms of incidence worldwide. Seventy percent of cases are estrogen receptor (ER) α-positive. In these malignancies, 17β-estradiol (E2) via ERα increases the levels of neuroglobin (NGB), a compensatory protein that protects cancer cells from stress-induced apoptosis, including chemotherapeutic drug treatment. Our previous data indicate that resveratrol (RSV), a plant-derived polyphenol, prevents E2/ERα-induced NGB accumulation in this cellular context, making E2-dependent breast cancer cells more prone to apoptosis. Unfortunately, RSV is readily metabolized, thus preventing its effectiveness. Here, four different RSV analogs have been developed, and their effect on the ERα/NGB pathway has been compared with RSV conjugated with highly hydrophilic gold nanoparticles as prodrug to evaluate if RSV derivatives maintain the breast cancer cells' susceptibility to the chemotherapeutic drug paclitaxel as the original compound. Results demonstrate that RSV conjugation with gold nanoparticles increases RSV efficacy, with respect to RSV analogues, reducing NGB levels and enhancing the pro-apoptotic action of paclitaxel, even preventing the anti-apoptotic action exerted by E2 treatment on these cells. Overall, RSV conjugation with gold nanoparticles makes this complex a promising agent for medical application in breast cancer treatment.
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8
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Ciccone L, Nencetti S, Marino M, Battocchio C, Iucci G, Venditti I, Marsotto M, Montalesi E, Socci S, Bargagna B, Orlandini E. Pterostilbene fluorescent probes as potential tools for targeting neurodegeneration in biological applications. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2022; 37:1812-1820. [PMID: 35758192 PMCID: PMC9246042 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2022.2091556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Several epidemiological studies suggest that a diet rich in fruit and vegetables reduces the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases. Resveratrol (Res) and its dimethylated metabolite, pterostibene (Ptb), have been largely studied for their neuroprotective action. The clinical use of Res is limited because of its rapid metabolism and its poor bioavailability. Ptb with two methoxy groups and one hydroxyl group has a good membrane permeability, metabolic stability and higher in vivo bioavailability in comparison with Res. The metabolism and pharmacokinetics of Ptb are still sparse, probably due to the lack of tools that allow following the Ptb destiny both in living cells and in vivo. In this contest, we propose two Ptb fluorescent derivatives where Ptb has been functionalised by benzofurazan and rhodamine-B-isothiocyanate, compounds 1 and 2, respectively. Here, we report the synthesis, the optical and structural characterisation of 1 and 2, and, their putative cytotoxicity in two different cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Ciccone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,CISUP - Centre for Instrumentation Sharing, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Susanna Nencetti
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,CISUP - Centre for Instrumentation Sharing, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Marino
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Iole Venditti
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Simone Socci
- Department of Earth Science, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Elisabetta Orlandini
- Department of Earth Science, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Research Centre E. Piaggio, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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9
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Marino M, Misasi R, Ruoppolo M. Editorial for Special Issue: Neuroglobin from Brain Protection to Cancer Progression. Cells 2022; 11:cells11142181. [PMID: 35883624 PMCID: PMC9317416 DOI: 10.3390/cells11142181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Marino
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Viale Guglielmo Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (R.M.); (M.R.); Tel.: +39-06-5733-6320 (M.M.); +39-6-4453612 (R.M.); +39-0813737850 (M.R.); Fax: +39-06-5733-6321 (M.M.)
| | - Roberta Misasi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (R.M.); (M.R.); Tel.: +39-06-5733-6320 (M.M.); +39-6-4453612 (R.M.); +39-0813737850 (M.R.); Fax: +39-06-5733-6321 (M.M.)
| | - Margherita Ruoppolo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (R.M.); (M.R.); Tel.: +39-06-5733-6320 (M.M.); +39-6-4453612 (R.M.); +39-0813737850 (M.R.); Fax: +39-06-5733-6321 (M.M.)
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10
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Resveratrol as a modulatory of apoptosis and autophagy in cancer therapy. Clin Transl Oncol 2022; 24:1219-1230. [PMID: 35038152 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-021-02770-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death, with a heavy socio-economical burden for countries. Despite the great advances that have been made in the treatment of cancer, chemotherapy is still the most common method of treatment. However, many side effects, including hepatotoxicity, renal toxicity, and cardiotoxicity, limit the efficacy of conventional chemotherapy. Over recent years, natural products have attracted attention as therapeutic agents against various diseases, such as cancer. Resveratrol (RES), a natural polyphenol occurring in grapes, nuts, wine, and berries, exhibited potential for preventing and treating various cancer types. RES also ameliorates chemotherapy-induced detrimental effects. Furthermore, RES could modulate apoptosis and autophagy as the main forms of cancer cell deaths by targeting various signaling pathways and up/downregulation of apoptotic and autophagic genes. This review will summarize the anti-cancer effects of RES and focus on the fundamental mechanisms and targets for modulating apoptosis and autophagy by RES.
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11
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Solar Fernandez V, Marino M, Fiocchetti M. Neuroglobin in Retinal Neurodegeneration: A Potential Target in Therapeutic Approaches. Cells 2021; 10:cells10113200. [PMID: 34831423 PMCID: PMC8621852 DOI: 10.3390/cells10113200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal neurodegeneration affects an increasing number of people worldwide causing vision impairments and blindness, reducing quality of life, and generating a great economic challenge. Due to the complexity of the tissue, and the diversity of retinal neurodegenerative diseases in terms of etiology and clinical presentation, so far, there are no cures and only a few early pathological markers have been identified. Increasing efforts have been made to identify and potentiate endogenous protective mechanisms or to abolish detrimental stress responses to preserve retinal structure and function. The discovering of the intracellular monomeric globin neuroglobin (NGB), found at high concentration in the retina, has opened new possibilities for the treatment of retinal disease. Indeed, the NGB capability to reversibly bind oxygen and its neuroprotective function against several types of insults including oxidative stress, ischemia, and neurodegenerative conditions have raised the interest in the possible role of the globin as oxygen supplier in the retina and as a target for retinal neurodegeneration. Here, we provide the undercurrent knowledge on NGB distribution in retinal layers and the evidence about the connection between NGB level modulation and the functional outcome in terms of retinal neuroprotection to provide a novel therapeutic/preventive target for visual pathway degenerative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Solar Fernandez
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi, 00146 Rome, Italy; (V.S.F.); (M.M.)
- Neuroendocrinology, Metabolism, and Neuropharmacology Unit, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Marino
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi, 00146 Rome, Italy; (V.S.F.); (M.M.)
- Neuroendocrinology, Metabolism, and Neuropharmacology Unit, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Fiocchetti
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi, 00146 Rome, Italy; (V.S.F.); (M.M.)
- Neuroendocrinology, Metabolism, and Neuropharmacology Unit, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00143 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-06-5733-6455; Fax: +39-06-5733-6321
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12
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Cocetta V, Quagliariello V, Fiorica F, Berretta M, Montopoli M. Resveratrol as Chemosensitizer Agent: State of Art and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2049. [PMID: 33669559 PMCID: PMC7922064 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22042049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Resistance to chemotherapy still remains a major challenge in the clinic, impairing the quality of life and survival rate of patients. The identification of unconventional chemosensitizing agents is therefore an interesting aspect of cancer research. Resveratrol has emerged in the last decades as a fascinating molecule, able to modulate several cancer-related molecular mechanisms, suggesting a possible application as an adjuvant in cancer management. This review goes deep into the existing literature concerning the possible chemosensitizing effect of resveratrol associated with the most conventional chemotherapeutic drugs. Despite the promising effects observed in different cancer types in in vitro studies, the clinical translation still presents strong limitations due to the low bioavailability of resveratrol. Recently, efforts have been moved in the field of drug delivery to identifying possible strategies/formulations useful for a more effective administration. Despite the necessity of a huge implementation in this research area, resveratrol appears as a promising molecule able to sensitize resistant tumors to drugs, suggesting its potential use in therapy-refractory cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Cocetta
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy;
| | - Vincenzo Quagliariello
- Division of Cardiology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione G. Pascale, 80131 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Francesco Fiorica
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Az. ULSS 9 Scaligera, 37045 Legnago, VR, Italy;
| | - Massimiliano Berretta
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Monica Montopoli
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy;
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, VIMM, 35129 Padova, Italy
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13
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Ciccone L, Nencetti S, Socci S, Orlandini E. Neuroglobin and neuroprotection: the role of natural and synthetic compounds in neuroglobin pharmacological induction. Neural Regen Res 2021; 16:2353-2358. [PMID: 33907006 PMCID: PMC8374583 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.300981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroglobin (Ngb) is a 17 kDa monomeric hexa-coordinated heme protein belonging to the globin family. Ngb is mainly expressed in neurons of the central and peripheral nervous system, although moderate levels of Ngb have been detected in non-nervous tissues. In the past decade, Ngb has been studied for its neuroprotective role in a large number of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, brain ischemia and hypoxia. This review discusses and summarizes the natural compounds and the small synthetic molecules capable of modulating Ngb expression that exhibits a protective role against various neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Ciccone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Simone Socci
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Orlandini
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Pisa; Research Center "E. Piaggio," University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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14
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Ciccone L, Tonali N, Nencetti S, Orlandini E. Natural compounds as inhibitors of transthyretin amyloidosis and neuroprotective agents: analysis of structural data for future drug design. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2020; 35:1145-1162. [PMID: 32419519 PMCID: PMC7301710 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2020.1760262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural compounds, such as plant and fruit extracts have shown neuroprotective effect against neurodegenerative diseases. It has been reported that several natural compounds binding to transthyretin (TTR) can be useful in amyloidosis prevention. TTR is a transporter protein that under physiological condition carries thyroxine (T4) and retinol in plasma and in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF); it also has a neuroprotective role against Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, TTR also is an amyloidogenic protein responsible for familial amyloid polyneuropathy (FAP) and familial amyloid cardiomyopathy (FAC). The TTR amyloidogenic potential is speeded up by several point mutations. One therapeutic strategy against TTR amyloidosis is the stabilisation of the native tetramer by natural compounds and small molecules. In this review, we examine the natural products that, starting from 2012 to present, have been studied as a stabiliser of TTR tetramer. In particular, we discussed the chemical and structural features which will be helpful for future drug design of new TTR stabilisers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Ciccone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Nicoló Tonali
- CNRS, Université Paris-Saclay, Châtenay-Malabry, France
| | - Susanna Nencetti
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Centre “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health (NUTRAFOOD), University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Orlandini
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Research Center “E. Piaggio”, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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15
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Zhang M, Chen X, Radacsi N. New tricks of old drugs: Repurposing non-chemo drugs and dietary phytochemicals as adjuvants in anti-tumor therapies. J Control Release 2020; 329:96-120. [PMID: 33259852 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2020.11.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Combination therapy has long been applied to enhance therapeutic effect and deal with the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in cancer treatment. However, the overlapping toxicity of multiple anticancer drugs to healthy tissues and increasing financial burden on patients emerged as major concerns. As promising alternatives to chemo agents, repurposed non-chemo drugs and dietary phytochemicals have been investigated as adjuvants to conventional anti-tumor therapeutics, offering a safe and economic strategy for combination therapy. In this review, we aim to highlight the advances in research about combination therapy using conventional therapeutics and repurposed drugs or phytochemicals for an enhanced anti-tumor efficacy, along with the mechanisms involved in the synergism. Beyond these, we outlined the potential challenges and solutions for clinical translation of the proposed combination therapy, providing a safe and affordable strategy to improve the reach of cancer therapy to low income regions with such new tricks of old drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Zhang
- School of Engineering, Institute for Materials and Processes, University of Edinburgh, Robert Stevenson Road, Edinburgh EH9 3FB, United Kingdom; School of Engineering, Institute for Bioengineering, University of Edinburgh, The King's Buildings, Edinburgh EH9 3JL, United Kingdom.
| | - Xianfeng Chen
- School of Engineering, Institute for Bioengineering, University of Edinburgh, The King's Buildings, Edinburgh EH9 3JL, United Kingdom.
| | - Norbert Radacsi
- School of Engineering, Institute for Materials and Processes, University of Edinburgh, Robert Stevenson Road, Edinburgh EH9 3FB, United Kingdom.
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16
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Venditti I, Iucci G, Fratoddi I, Cipolletti M, Montalesi E, Marino M, Secchi V, Battocchio C. Direct Conjugation of Resveratrol on Hydrophilic Gold Nanoparticles: Structural and Cytotoxic Studies for Biomedical Applications. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 10:E1898. [PMID: 32977463 PMCID: PMC7598182 DOI: 10.3390/nano10101898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Strongly hydrophilic gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), functionalized with citrate and L-cysteine, were synthetized and used as Resveratrol (RSV) vehicle to improve its bioavailability. Two different conjugation procedures were investigated: the first by adding RSV during AuNPs synthesis (1) and the second by adding RSV after AuNPs synthesis (2). The two different conjugated systems, namely AuNPs@RSV1 and AuNPs@RSV2 respectively, showed good loading efficiency (η%): η1 = 80 ± 5% for AuNPs@RSV1 and η2 = 20 ± 3% for AuNPs@RSV2. Both conjugated systems were investigated by means of Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), confirming hydrophilic behavior and nanodimension (<2RH> 1 = 45 ± 12 nm and <2RH> 2 = 170 ± 30 nm). Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Synchrotron Radiation induced X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (SR-XPS) and Near Edge X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (NEXAFS) techniques were applied to deeply understand the hooking mode of RSV on AuNPs surface in the two differently conjugated systems. Moreover, the biocompatibility of AuNPs and AuNPs@RSV1 was evaluated in the concentration range 1.0-45.5 µg/mL by assessing their effect on breast cancer cell vitality. The obtained data confirmed that, at the concentration used, AuNPs do not induce cell death, whereas AuNPs@RSV1 maintains the same anticancer effects as the unconjugated RSV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iole Venditti
- Department of Sciences, Roma Tre University of Rome, 00146 Rome, Italy; (G.I.); (M.C.); (E.M.); (M.M.); (V.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Giovanna Iucci
- Department of Sciences, Roma Tre University of Rome, 00146 Rome, Italy; (G.I.); (M.C.); (E.M.); (M.M.); (V.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Ilaria Fratoddi
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Manuela Cipolletti
- Department of Sciences, Roma Tre University of Rome, 00146 Rome, Italy; (G.I.); (M.C.); (E.M.); (M.M.); (V.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Emiliano Montalesi
- Department of Sciences, Roma Tre University of Rome, 00146 Rome, Italy; (G.I.); (M.C.); (E.M.); (M.M.); (V.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Maria Marino
- Department of Sciences, Roma Tre University of Rome, 00146 Rome, Italy; (G.I.); (M.C.); (E.M.); (M.M.); (V.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Valeria Secchi
- Department of Sciences, Roma Tre University of Rome, 00146 Rome, Italy; (G.I.); (M.C.); (E.M.); (M.M.); (V.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Chiara Battocchio
- Department of Sciences, Roma Tre University of Rome, 00146 Rome, Italy; (G.I.); (M.C.); (E.M.); (M.M.); (V.S.); (C.B.)
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17
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Li X, Yu N, Li J, Bai J, Ding D, Tang Q, Xu H. Novel "Carrier-Free" Nanofiber Codelivery Systems with the Synergistic Antitumor Effect of Paclitaxel and Tetrandrine through the Enhancement of Mitochondrial Apoptosis. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2020; 12:10096-10106. [PMID: 32027119 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b17363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Paclitaxel (Ptx), a type of microtubule depolymerization inhibitor, is one of the main components in gastric cancer chemotherapy. Some studies have demonstrated that tetrandrine (Tet), a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid, has potential antitumor effects in several cancers. Aside from the direct anticancer effect, Tet is proved to synergistically enhance the antitumor effect of Ptx in gastric cancer. However, the application of the combinational strategy is limited by the poor solubility of both drugs. Nanodrug delivery systems including polymeric nanoparticles, self-assembled nanofibers, hydrogels, etc., hold the potential to meet the need. Here, a novel supramolecular nanomaterial, based on the concept of "carrier-free nanodrugs", is reported as a feasible platform for synergistic drug delivery. Ptx-SA-RGD is obtained through the conjugation of Ptx and the tumor-specific peptide RGD (arginine-glycine-aspartic acid) with succinic acid (SA) as a linker. Ptx-SA-RGD could self-assemble into Ptx nanofibers (P-NFs) with high drug-loading efficiency. Tet was then encapsulated into P-NFs to acquire novel Ptx and Tet coloaded self-assembled nanofibers (P/T-NFs). The uptake study shows the dynamic internalization of P/T-NFs by the gastric cancer cell line MGC-803. P/T-NFs significantly triggered the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in gastric cancer cells MGC803 and further decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential, which led to the induction of mitochondrial apoptosis with superior cytotoxicity against free drugs. Moreover, P/T-NFs suppressed the expressions of p-STAT3 and p-JAK, initiated cytochrome-C release, and promoted caspase protein expression. Furthermore, P/T-NFs demonstrated the strongest tumor-delaying effect as well as the lowest toxicity. Therefore, self-assembled nanofibers of P/T-NFs demonstrated an increase of the mitochondrial apoptosis level and a stronger antitumor effect both in vitro and in vivo, which could be a potential way to enhance the clinical efficacy and reduce the side-effects of Ptx in gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolin Li
- Department of Geriatric Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Na Yu
- Department of Geriatric Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Jun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, and College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Jianan Bai
- Department of Geriatric Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Dan Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, and College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Qiyun Tang
- Department of Geriatric Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Huae Xu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211116, China
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18
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Montalesi E, Cipolletti M, Cracco P, Fiocchetti M, Marino M. Divergent Effects of Daidzein and its Metabolites on Estrogen-Induced Survival of Breast Cancer Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12010167. [PMID: 31936631 PMCID: PMC7017042 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12010167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Although soy consumption is associated with breast cancer prevention, the low bioavailability and the extensive metabolism of soy-active components limit their clinical application. Here, the impact of daidzein (D) and its metabolites on estrogen-dependent anti-apoptotic pathway has been evaluated in breast cancer cells. In estrogen receptor α-positive breast cancer cells treated with D and its metabolites, single or in mixture, ERα activation and Neuroglobin (NGB) levels, an anti-apoptotic estrogen/ERα-inducible protein, were evaluated. Moreover, the apoptotic cascade activation, as well as the cell number after stimulation was assessed in the absence/presence of paclitaxel to determine the compound effects on cell susceptibility to a chemotherapeutic agent. Among the metabolites, only D-4'-sulfate maintains the anti-estrogenic effect of D, reducing the NGB levels and rendering breast cancer cells more prone to the paclitaxel treatment, whereas other metabolites showed estrogen mimetic effects, or even estrogen independent effects. Intriguingly, the co-stimulation of D and gut metabolites strongly reduced D effects. The results highlight the important and complex influence of metabolic transformation on isoflavones physiological effects and demonstrate the need to take biotransformation into account when assessing the potential health benefits of consumption of soy isoflavones in cancer.
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19
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Gao J, Ma F, Wang X, Li G. Combination of dihydroartemisinin and resveratrol effectively inhibits cancer cell migrationviaregulation of the DLC1/TCTP/Cdc42 pathway. Food Funct 2020; 11:9573-9584. [DOI: 10.1039/d0fo00996b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Mechanism of DHA combined with RES in inhibition of cancer cell migration by DLC1/TCTP/Cdc42 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junying Gao
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistant Biology
- School of Life Sciences
- Shandong Normal University
- Jinan
- China
| | - Fengqiu Ma
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistant Biology
- School of Life Sciences
- Shandong Normal University
- Jinan
- China
| | - Xingjie Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistant Biology
- School of Life Sciences
- Shandong Normal University
- Jinan
- China
| | - Guorong Li
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistant Biology
- School of Life Sciences
- Shandong Normal University
- Jinan
- China
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20
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Pham TND, Stempel S, Shields MA, Spaulding C, Kumar K, Bentrem DJ, Matsangou M, Munshi HG. Quercetin Enhances the Anti-Tumor Effects of BET Inhibitors by Suppressing hnRNPA1. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E4293. [PMID: 31480735 PMCID: PMC6747365 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20174293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Bromodomain and extraterminal domain (BET) proteins, which are important epigenetic readers, are often dysregulated in cancer. While a number of BET inhibitors are currently in early phase clinical trials, BET inhibitors show limited single-agent activity. The purpose of this study is to determine if Quercetin, a naturally occurring polyphenolic flavonoid often found abundant in fruits and vegetables, can enhance the anti-tumor effects of BET inhibitors. The efficacy of the combination was evaluated in vitro and in a xenograft model of pancreatic cancer. Co-treatment with BET inhibitors and Quercetin promoted apoptosis, decreased sphere-forming ability by cancer cells, and decreased cell proliferation. We found that hnRNPA1, a nuclear protein known to control mRNA export and mRNA translation of anti-apoptotic proteins, mediates some anti-tumor effects by Quercetin. Additionally, we show that combining BET inhibitors with Quercetin or hnRNPA1 knockdown decreased the anti-apoptotic protein Survivin. Significantly, Quercetin decreased hnRNPA1 in vivo and enhanced the effects of BET inhibitors at suppressing tumor growth. Together, these results demonstrate that Quercetin enhances the efficacy of BET inhibitors by suppressing hnRNPA1, and identify combination therapy with Quercetin and BET inhibitors for the treatment of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thao N D Pham
- Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
- Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | - Sophie Stempel
- Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Mario A Shields
- Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Christina Spaulding
- Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Krishan Kumar
- Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- The Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - David J Bentrem
- Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- The Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Maria Matsangou
- Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- The Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Hidayatullah G Munshi
- Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
- Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
- The Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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