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Srivastava A, Ahmad R, Yadav K, Siddiqui S, Trivedi A, Misra A, Mehrotra S, Ahmad B, Ali Khan M. An update on existing therapeutic options and status of novel anti-metastatic agents in breast cancer: Elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying the pleiotropic action of Withania somnifera (Indian ginseng) in breast cancer attenuation. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 136:112232. [PMID: 38815352 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Major significant advancements in pharmacology and drug technology have been made to heighten the impact of cancer therapies, improving the life expectancy of subjects diagnosed with malignancy. Statistically, 99% of breast cancers occur in women while 0.5-1% occur in men, the female gender being the strongest breast cancer risk factor. Despite several breakthroughs, breast cancer continues to have a worldwide impact and is one of the leading causes of mortality. Additionally, resistance to therapy is a crucial factor enabling cancer cell persistence and resurgence. As a result, the search and discovery of novel modulatory agents and effective therapies capable of controlling tumor progression and cancer cell proliferation is critical. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (WS), commonly known as Indian ginseng, has long been used traditionally for the treatment of several ailments in the Indian context. Recently, WS and its phytoconstituents have shown promising anti-breast cancer properties and, as such, can be employed as prophylactic as well as therapeutic adjuncts to the main line of breast cancer treatment. The present review is an attempt to explore and provide experimental evidences in support of the prophylactic and therapeutic potential of WS in breast cancer, along with a deeper insight into the multiple molecular mechanisms and novel targets through which it acts against breast and other hormonally-induced cancers viz. ovarian, uterine and cervical. This exploration might prove crucial in providing better understanding of breast cancer progression and metastasis and its use as an adjunct in improving disease prognosis and therapeutic outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Srivastava
- Dept. of Biochemistry, Era's Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, Era University, Sarfarazganj, Hardoi Road, Lucknow 226003, UP., India.
| | - Rumana Ahmad
- Dept. of Biochemistry, Era's Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, Era University, Sarfarazganj, Hardoi Road, Lucknow 226003, UP., India.
| | - Kusum Yadav
- Dept. of Biochemistry, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226007, UP., India.
| | - Sahabjada Siddiqui
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Era's Lucknow Medical College & Hospital, Era University, Sarfarazganj, Hardoi Road, Lucknow 226003, UP., India.
| | - Anchal Trivedi
- Dept. of Biochemistry, Era's Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, Era University, Sarfarazganj, Hardoi Road, Lucknow 226003, UP., India.
| | - Aparna Misra
- Dept. of Biochemistry, Era's Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, Era University, Sarfarazganj, Hardoi Road, Lucknow 226003, UP., India.
| | - Sudhir Mehrotra
- Dept. of Biochemistry, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226007, UP., India.
| | - Bilal Ahmad
- Research Cell, Era University, Sarfarazganj, Hardoi Road, Lucknow 226003, UP., India.
| | - Mohsin Ali Khan
- Dept. of Research & Development, Era University, Lucknow 226003, UP., India.
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Kołodziejska R, Tafelska-Kaczmarek A, Pawluk M, Sergot K, Pisarska L, Woźniak A, Pawluk H. Ashwagandha-Induced Programmed Cell Death in the Treatment of Breast Cancer. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:7668-7685. [PMID: 39057095 PMCID: PMC11275341 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46070454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this review is to provide experimental evidence for the programmed-death activity of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in the anti-cancer therapy of breast cancer. The literature search was conducted using online electronic databases (Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus). Collection schedule data for the review article covered the years 2004-2024. Ashwagandha active substances, especially Withaferin A (WA), are the most promising anti-cancer compounds. WS exerts its effect on breast cancer cells by inducing programmed cell death, especially apoptosis, at the molecular level. Ashwagandha has been found to possess a potential for treating breast cancer, especially estrogen receptor/progesterone receptor (ER/PR)-positive and triple-negative breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Kołodziejska
- Department of Medical Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Karłowicza 24, 85-092 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (M.P.); (L.P.); (H.P.)
| | - Agnieszka Tafelska-Kaczmarek
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Gagarina 7, 87-100 Toruń, Poland;
| | - Mateusz Pawluk
- Department of Medical Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Karłowicza 24, 85-092 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (M.P.); (L.P.); (H.P.)
| | - Krzysztof Sergot
- Laboratory of Laser Molecular Spectroscopy, Institute of Applied Radiation Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Lodz University of Technology, Wroblewskiego 15, 93-590 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Lucyna Pisarska
- Department of Medical Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Karłowicza 24, 85-092 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (M.P.); (L.P.); (H.P.)
| | - Alina Woźniak
- Department of Medical Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Karłowicza 24, 85-092 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (M.P.); (L.P.); (H.P.)
| | - Hanna Pawluk
- Department of Medical Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Karłowicza 24, 85-092 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (M.P.); (L.P.); (H.P.)
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Saini H, Basu P, Nesari T, Huddar VG, Ray K, Srivastava A, Gupta S, Mehrotra R, Tripathi R. Therapeutic and pharmacological efficacy of plant-derived bioactive compounds in targeting breast cancer. Am J Transl Res 2024; 16:1499-1520. [PMID: 38883353 PMCID: PMC11170612 DOI: 10.62347/nuzn4999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) ranks number one among cancers affecting women globally. Serious concerns include delayed diagnosis, poor prognosis, and adverse side effects of conventional treatment, leading to residual morbidity. Therefore, an alternative treatment approach that is safe and effective has become the need of the hour. In this regard, plant-based medicines via a combination of conventional drugs are gaining increasing acceptance worldwide, playing a pivotal role in cancer management as proven by their efficacy evaluation studies. This review aims to fill the knowledge gaps by providing the preclinical evidence of cellular and molecular mechanisms of Indian phytomedicines in targeting varied pathways of breast cancer progression. A comprehensive search was performed on different platforms, followed by screening of relevant studies for review. In this article, the in-depth of various botanical drugs covering their nomenclature, dosage, toxicity, and modus operandi in BC cells have been extensively discussed. Various signaling pathways like Notch signaling, MAPK signaling, apoptosis, Wnt signaling, etc. regulated by herbal medicine treatment in BC are also highlighted to understand the drug mechanism better. This will guide the researchers to plan future strategies and generate more robust integrated evidence of plant-based drugs or botanical formulations for their potential role in the management of BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heena Saini
- Integrated Translational Molecular Biology Unit (ITMBU), Department of Rog Nidan evam Vikriti Vigyan (Pathology), All India Institute of Ayurveda New Delhi-110076, India
| | - Partha Basu
- Section of Early Detection and Prevention, International Agency for Research on Cancer Lyon-69008, France
| | - Tanuja Nesari
- Department of Dravyaguna (Materia Medica and Pharmacology), All India Institute of Ayurveda New Delhi-110076, India
| | - Vitthal Govindappa Huddar
- Department of Kayachikitsa (Internal Medicine), All India Institute of Ayurveda New Delhi-110076, India
| | - Koninika Ray
- Open Health Systems Laboratory (OHSL) Los Gatos, California-95032, US
| | - Anil Srivastava
- Open Health Systems Laboratory (OHSL) Los Gatos, California-95032, US
| | - Subhash Gupta
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital, All India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi-110029, India
| | - Ravi Mehrotra
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University Atlanta, Georgia-30322, US
| | - Richa Tripathi
- Integrated Translational Molecular Biology Unit (ITMBU), Department of Rog Nidan evam Vikriti Vigyan (Pathology), All India Institute of Ayurveda New Delhi-110076, India
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Yadav N, Tripathi S, Sangwan NS. Phyto-therapeutic potential of Withania somnifera: Molecular mechanism and health implications. Phytother Res 2024; 38:1695-1714. [PMID: 38318763 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Withania somnifera, the plant named Indian ginseng, Ashwagandha, or winter cherry, has been used since ancient times to cure various health ailments. Withania somnifera is rich in constituents belonging to chemical classes like alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and withanolides. Several chemotypes were identified based on their phytochemical composition and credited for their multiple bioactivities. Besides, exhibiting neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, adaptogenic, anti-stress, bone health, plant has shown promising anti-cancer properties. Several withanolides have been reported to play a crucial role in cancer; they target cancer cells by different mechanisms such as modulating the expression of tumor suppressor genes, apoptosis, telomerase expression, and regulating cell signaling pathway. Though, many treatments are available for cancer; however, to date, no assured reliable cure for cancer is made available. Additionally, synthetic drugs may lead to development of resistance in time; therefore, focus on new and natural drugs for cancer therapeutics may prove a longtime effective alternative. This current report is a comprehensive combined analysis upto 2023 with articles focused on bio-activities of plant Withania somnifera from various sources, including national and international government sources. This review focuses on understanding of various mechanisms and pathways to inhibit uncontrolled cell growth by W. somnifera bioactives, as reported in literature. This review provides a recent updated status of the W. somnifera on pharmacological properties in general and anti-cancer in particular and may provide a guiding resource for researchers associated with natural product-based cancer research and healthcare management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Yadav
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Interdisciplinary and Applied Sciences, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, India
| | | | - Neelam S Sangwan
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Interdisciplinary and Applied Sciences, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, India
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Baker R, Dell'Acqua G, Richards A, Thornton MJ. Nutraceuticals known to promote hair growth do not interfere with the inhibitory action of tamoxifen in MCF7, T47D and BT483 breast cancer cell lines. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297080. [PMID: 38408073 PMCID: PMC10896530 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hair loss/thinning is a common side effect of tamoxifen in estrogen receptor (ER) positive breast cancer therapy. Some nutraceuticals known to promote hair growth are avoided during breast cancer therapy for fear of phytoestrogenic activity. However, not all botanical ingredients have similarities to estrogens, and in fact, no information exists as to the true interaction of these ingredients with tamoxifen. Therefore, this study sought to ascertain the effect of nutraceuticals (+/- estrogen/tamoxifen), on proliferation of breast cancer cells and the relative expression of ERα/β. METHODS Kelp, Astaxanthin, Saw Palmetto, Tocotrienols, Maca, Horsetail, Resveratrol, Curcumin and Ashwagandha were assessed on proliferation of MCF7, T47D and BT483 breast cancer cell lines +/- 17β-estradiol and tamoxifen. Each extract was analysed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) prior to use. Cellular ERα and ERβ expression was assessed by qRT-PCR and western blot. Changes in the cellular localisation of ERα:ERβ and their ratio following incubation with the nutraceuticals was confirmed by immunocytochemistry. RESULTS Estradiol stimulated DNA synthesis in three different breast cancer cell lines: MCF7, T47D and BT483, which was inhibited by tamoxifen; this was mirrored by a specific ERa agonist in T47D and BT483 cells. Overall, nutraceuticals did not interfere with tamoxifen inhibition of estrogen; some even induced further inhibition when combined with tamoxifen. The ERα:ERβ ratio was higher at mRNA and protein level in all cell lines. However, incubation with nutraceuticals induced a shift to higher ERβ expression and a localization of ERs around the nuclear periphery. CONCLUSIONS As ERα is the key driver of estrogen-dependent breast cancer, if nutraceuticals have a higher affinity for ERβ they may offer a protective effect, particularly if they synergize and augment the actions of tamoxifen. Since ERβ is the predominant ER in the hair follicle, further studies confirming whether nutraceuticals can shift the ratio towards ERβ in hair follicle cells would support a role for them in hair growth. Although more research is needed to assess safety and efficacy, this promising data suggests the potential of nutraceuticals as adjuvant therapy for hair loss in breast cancer patients receiving endocrine therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Baker
- Centre for Skin Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - M Julie Thornton
- Centre for Skin Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford, United Kingdom
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Zhang Q, Yuan Y, Cao S, Kang N, Qiu F. Withanolides: Promising candidates for cancer therapy. Phytother Res 2024; 38:1104-1158. [PMID: 38176694 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Natural products have played a significant role throughout history in the prevention and treatment of numerous diseases, particularly cancers. As a natural product primarily derived from various medicinal plants in the Withania genus, withanolides have been shown in several studies to exhibit potential activities in cancer treatment. Consequently, understanding the molecular mechanism of withanolides could herald the discovery of new anticancer agents. Withanolides have been studied widely, especially in the last 20 years, and attracted the attention of numerous researchers. Currently, over 1200 withanolides have been classified, with approximately a quarter of them having been reported in the literature to be able to modulate the survival and death of cancer cells through multiple avenues. To what extent, though, has the anticancer effects of these compounds been studied? How far are they from being developed into clinical drugs? What are their potential, characteristic features, and challenges? In this review, we elaborate on the current knowledge of natural compounds belonging to this class and provide an overview of their natural sources, anticancer activity, mechanism of action, molecular targets, and implications for anticancer drug research. In addition, direct targets and clinical research to guide the design and implementation of future preclinical and clinical studies to accelerate the application of withanolides have been highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Zhang
- School of Medical Technology, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - YongKang Yuan
- School of Medical Technology, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Shijie Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Substance of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Ning Kang
- School of Medical Technology, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Substance of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
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Abeesh P, Guruvayoorappan C. The Therapeutic Effects of Withaferin A against Cancer: Overview and Updates. Curr Mol Med 2024; 24:404-418. [PMID: 37076466 DOI: 10.2174/1566524023666230418094708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is a rapidly rising health problem among the global population, and this burden causes a significant challenge for public health. Current chemotherapeutic agents have different limitations, including drug resistance and severe side effects, and it demands a robust approach to accessing promising anti-cancer therapeutics. The natural compounds have been extensively studied to identify improved therapeutic agents for cancer therapy. Withaferin A (WA) is a steroidal lactone found in Withania somnifera and possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-angiogenesis, and anticancer properties. Multiple studies have shown that WA treatment attenuated various cancer hallmarks by inducing apoptosis and reducing angiogenesis and metastasis with reduced side effects. WA is a promising agent for the treatment of various cancer, and it targets various signaling pathways. With recent updates, the current review highlights the therapeutic implications of WA and its molecular targets in different cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prathapan Abeesh
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Division of Cancer Research, Regional Cancer Centre, (Research Centre, University of Kerala), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Chandrasekaran Guruvayoorappan
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Division of Cancer Research, Regional Cancer Centre, (Research Centre, University of Kerala), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
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Vilaboa N, Voellmy R. Withaferin A and Celastrol Overwhelm Proteostasis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:367. [PMID: 38203539 PMCID: PMC10779417 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Withaferin A (WA) and celastrol (CEL) are major bioactive components of plants that have been widely employed in traditional medicine. The pleiotropic activities of plant preparations and the isolated compounds in vitro and in vivo have been documented in hundreds of studies. Both WA and CEL were shown to have anticancer activity. Although WA and CEL belong to different chemical classes, our synthesis of the available information suggests that the compounds share basic mechanisms of action. Both WA and CEL bind covalently to numerous proteins, causing the partial unfolding of some of these proteins and of many bystander proteins. The resulting proteotoxic stress, when excessive, leads to cell death. Both WA and CEL trigger the activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) which, if the proteotoxic stress persists, results in apoptosis mediated by the PERK/eIF-2/ATF4/CHOP pathway or another UPR-dependent pathway. Other mechanisms of cell death may play contributory or even dominant roles depending on cell type. As shown in a proteomic study with WA, the compounds appear to function largely as electrophilic reactants, indiscriminately modifying reachable nucleophilic amino acid side chains of proteins. However, a remarkable degree of target specificity is imparted by the cellular context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuria Vilaboa
- Hospital Universitario La Paz-IdiPAZ, 28046 Madrid, Spain
- CIBER de Bioingenieria, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina, CIBER-BBN, 28046 Madrid, Spain
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Zhang Z, Yang Y, Xu Y, Liu Y, Li H, Chen L. Molecular targets and mechanisms of anti-cancer effects of withanolides. Chem Biol Interact 2023; 384:110698. [PMID: 37690745 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2023.110698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Withanolides are a class of natural products with a steroidal lactone structure that exhibit a broad spectrum of anti-cancer effects. To date, several studies have shown that their possible mechanisms in cancer development and progression are associated with the regulation of cell proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, and angiogenesis. Withanolides can also attenuate inflammatory responses, as well as modulate the genomic instability and energy metabolism of cancer cells. In addition, they may improve the safety and efficacy of cancer treatments as adjuvants to traditional cancer therapeutics. Herein, we summarize the molecular targets and mechanisms of withanolides in different cancers, as well as their current clinical studies on them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiruo Zhang
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
| | - Yueying Yang
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
| | - Yang Xu
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
| | - Hua Li
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China; Institute of Structural Pharmacology & TCM Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China.
| | - Lixia Chen
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China.
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Xing Z, Su A, Mi L, Zhang Y, He T, Qiu Y, Wei T, Li Z, Zhu J, Wu W. Withaferin A: A Dietary Supplement with Promising Potential as an Anti-Tumor Therapeutic for Cancer Treatment - Pharmacology and Mechanisms. Drug Des Devel Ther 2023; 17:2909-2929. [PMID: 37753228 PMCID: PMC10519218 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s422512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer, as the leading cause of death worldwide, poses a serious threat to human health, making the development of effective tumor treatments a significant challenge. Natural products continue to serve as crucial resources for drug discovery. Among them, Withaferin A (WA), the most active phytocompound extracted from the renowned dietary supplement Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, exhibits remarkable anti-tumor efficacy. In this manuscript, we aim to comprehensively summarize the pharmacological characteristics of WA as a potential anti-tumor drug candidate, with the objective of contributing to its further development and the discovery of prospective drugs. Through an extensive review of literature from PubMed, Science Direct, and Web of Science, we have gathered substantial evidence showcasing WA's significant anti-tumor effects against a wide range of cancers in both in vitro and in vivo studies. Mechanistically, WA exerts its anti-tumor influence by inducing cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, autophagy, and ferroptosis. Additionally, it inhibits cell proliferation, cancer stem cells, tumor metastasis, and also suppresses epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and angiogenesis. Several studies have identified direct target proteins of WA, such as vimentin, Hsp90, annexin II and mFAM72A, while BCR-ABL, Mortalin (mtHsp70), Nrf2, and c-MYB are potential targets of WA. Notwithstanding its remarkable anti-tumor efficacy, there are some limitations associated with WA, including potential toxicity and poor oral bioavailability, which need to be addressed when considering it as an anti-tumor candidate agent. Nevertheless, I given its promising anti-tumor attributes, WA remains an encouraging candidate for future drug development. Unveiling the exact target and comprehensive mechanism of WA's action represents a crucial research direction to pursue in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhichao Xing
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Anping Su
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Li Mi
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yujie Zhang
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ting He
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuxuan Qiu
- Department of Ultrasound, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tao Wei
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhihui Li
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jingqiang Zhu
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenshuang Wu
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
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Hahm ER, Kim SH, Singh SV. Withaferin A inhibits breast cancer-induced osteoclast differentiation. Mol Carcinog 2023; 62:1051-1061. [PMID: 37067392 PMCID: PMC10330236 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Bone is the most prone to metastatic spread of breast cancer cells for each subtype of the disease. Bone metastasis-related complications including severe pain and pathological fractures affect patients' quality of life. Current treatment options including surgery, radiation, and bone-targeted therapies (e.g., bisphosphonates) are costly or have serious adverse effects such as renal toxicity and osteonecrosis of the jaws. Therefore, a safe, inexpensive, and efficacious agent for prevention of breast cancer bone metastasis is urgently needed. Our previously published RNA sequencing analysis revealed that many genes implicated in bone remodeling and breast cancer bone metastasis were significantly downregulated by treatment with withaferin A (WA), which is a promising cancer chemopreventive agent derived from a medicinal plant (Withania somnifera). The present study investigated whether WA inhibits breast cancer induction of osteoclast differentiation. At plasma achievable doses, WA treatment inhibited osteoclast differentiation (osteoclastogenesis) induced by three different subtypes of breast cancer cells (MCF-7, SK-BR-3, and MDA-MB-231). WA and the root extract of W. somnifera were equally effective for inhibition of breast cancer induction of osteoclast differentiation. This inhibition was accompanied by suppression of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand, which are pivotal osteoclastogenic cytokines. The expression of runt-related transcription factor 2, nuclear factor-κB, and SOX9 transcription factors, which positively regulate osteoclastogenesis, was decreased in WA-treated breast cancer cells as revealed by confocal microscopy and/or immunoblotting. Taken together, these data suggest that WA could be a promising agent for prevention of breast cancer-induced bone metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun-Ryeong Hahm
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Su-Hyeong Kim
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Shivendra V. Singh
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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Kumar S, Mathew SO, Aharwal RP, Tulli HS, Mohan CD, Sethi G, Ahn KS, Webber K, Sandhu SS, Bishayee A. Withaferin A: A Pleiotropic Anticancer Agent from the Indian Medicinal Plant Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:160. [PMID: 37259311 PMCID: PMC9966696 DOI: 10.3390/ph16020160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer represents the second most deadly disease and one of the most important public health concerns worldwide. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immune therapy are the major types of treatment strategies that have been implemented in cancer treatment. Unfortunately, these treatment options suffer from major limitations, such as drug-resistance and adverse effects, which may eventually result in disease recurrence. Many phytochemicals have been investigated for their antitumor efficacy in preclinical models and clinical studies to discover newer therapeutic agents with fewer adverse effects. Withaferin A, a natural bioactive molecule isolated from the Indian medicinal plant Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, has been reported to impart anticancer activities against various cancer cell lines and preclinical cancer models by modulating the expression and activity of different oncogenic proteins. In this article, we have comprehensively discussed the biosynthesis of withaferin A as well as its antineoplastic activities and mode-of-action in in vitro and in vivo settings. We have also reviewed the effect of withaferin A on the expression of miRNAs, its combinational effect with other cytotoxic agents, withaferin A-based formulations, safety and toxicity profiles, and its clinical potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suneel Kumar
- Bio-Design Innovation Centre, Rani Durgavati University, Jabalpur 482 001, India
| | - Stephen O. Mathew
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA
| | | | - Hardeep Singh Tulli
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Markandeshwar Engineering College, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana-Ambala 133 207, India
| | | | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
| | - Kwang-Seok Ahn
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Kassidy Webber
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL 34211, USA
| | - Sardul Singh Sandhu
- Bio-Design Innovation Centre, Rani Durgavati University, Jabalpur 482 001, India
| | - Anupam Bishayee
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL 34211, USA
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Singh KB, Hahm ER, Kim SH, Singh SV. Withaferin A Inhibits Fatty Acid Synthesis in Rat Mammary Tumors. Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 2023; 16:5-16. [PMID: 36251722 PMCID: PMC9812931 DOI: 10.1158/1940-6207.capr-22-0193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Withaferin A (WA), which is a small molecule derived from a medicinal plant (Withania somnifera), inhibits growth of human breast cancer xenografts and mammary tumor development in rodent models without any toxicity. However, the mechanism underlying inhibition of mammary cancer development by WA administration is not fully understood. Herein, we demonstrate that the fatty acid synthesis pathway is a novel target of WA in mammary tumors. Treatment of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells with WA resulted in suppression of fatty acid metabolizing enzymes, including ATP-citrate lyase (ACLY), acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1 (ACC1), fatty acid synthase (FASN), and carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A (CPT1A). Expression of FASN and CPT1A was significantly higher in N-methyl-N-nitrosourea-induced mammary tumors in rats when compared with normal mammary tissues. WA-mediated inhibition of mammary tumor development in rats was associated with a statistically significant decrease in expression of ACC1 and FASN and suppression of plasma and/or mammary tumor levels of total free fatty acids and phospholipids. WA administration also resulted in a significant increase in percentage of natural killer cells in the spleen. The protein level of sterol regulatory element binding protein 1 (SREBP1) was decreased in MDA-MB-231 cells after WA treatment. Overexpression of SREBP1 in MDA-MB-231 cells conferred partial but significant protection against WA-mediated downregulation of ACLY and ACC1. In conclusion, circulating and/or mammary tumor levels of fatty acid synthesis enzymes and total free fatty acids may serve as biomarkers of WA efficacy in future clinical trials. PREVENTION RELEVANCE The present study shows that breast cancer prevention by WA in rats is associated with suppression of fatty acid synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna B. Singh
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Eun-Ryeong Hahm
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Su-Hyeong Kim
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Shivendra V. Singh
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania,UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Atteeq M. Evaluating anticancer properties of Withaferin A—a potent phytochemical. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:975320. [PMID: 36339589 PMCID: PMC9629854 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.975320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Withaferin A is a C28 steroidal lactone derived from the plant Withania somnifera, commonly known as Ashwagandha. Withaferin A has received great attention for its anticancer properties noted in cancer cells of various origins. Extracts of Withania somnifera have been used in traditional Ayurvedic and Unani Indian medicine for their various pharmacological benefits. In recent years, Withania somnifera or Ashwagandha extract has become popularized as a health supplement marketed for its stress and anxiety reducing effects. Withaferin A is one of the most studied withanolides extracted from Withania somnifera that has gained great attention for its anticancer, anti-inflammatory, metabolic, and pro-apoptotic effects. Extensive in vivo and in vitro studies have depicted Withaferin A’s interactions with key role players in cancerous activity of the cell to exert its pro-apoptotic effects. Withaferin A interactions with NF-κB, STAT, Hsp90, ER-α, p53, and TGF-β have noted inhibition in cancer cell proliferation and cell cycle arrest in G2/M stage, ultimately leading to apoptosis or cell death. This review highlights pro-apoptotic properties of Withaferin A including generation of reactive oxidative species, Par-4 activation, endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER) induction, and p53 activation. Analysis of Withaferin A’s involvement in various oncogenic pathways leading to malignant neoplasm and its pharmacologic activity in conjunction with various cancer drugs provides promising evidence in therapeutic potential of Withaferin A as a cancer treatment.
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Liu Y, Chen Z, Li A, Liu R, Yang H, Xia X. The Phytochemical Potential for Brain Disease Therapy and the Possible Nanodelivery Solutions for Brain Access. Front Oncol 2022; 12:936054. [PMID: 35814371 PMCID: PMC9259986 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.936054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Plant-derived phytochemicals have gifted humans with vast therapeutic potentials. Yet, the unique features of the blood–brain barrier significantly limit their accession to the target tissue and thus clinical translation in brain disease treatment. Herein, we explore the medicinal outcomes of both the rare examples of phytochemicals that can easily translocate across the blood–brain barrier and most of the phytochemicals that were reported with brain therapeutic effects, but a bizarre amount of dosage is required due to their chemical nature. Lastly, we offer the nanodelivery platform that is capable of optimizing the targeted delivery and application of the non-permeable phytochemicals as well as utilizing the permeable phytochemicals for boosting novel applications of nanodelivery toward brain therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Henan-Macquarie University Joint Centre for Biomedical Innovation, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Zhouchun Chen
- Henan-Macquarie University Joint Centre for Biomedical Innovation, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Aijie Li
- Henan-Macquarie University Joint Centre for Biomedical Innovation, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Runhan Liu
- Henan-Macquarie University Joint Centre for Biomedical Innovation, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Haoying Yang
- Henan-Macquarie University Joint Centre for Biomedical Innovation, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Xue Xia
- Henan-Macquarie University Joint Centre for Biomedical Innovation, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- *Correspondence: Xue Xia,
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Tewari D, Chander V, Dhyani A, Sahu S, Gupta P, Patni P, Kalick LS, Bishayee A. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal: Phytochemistry, structure-activity relationship, and anticancer potential. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 98:153949. [PMID: 35151215 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.153949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ayurveda is a highly recognized, well-documented, and well-accepted traditional medicine system. This system utilizes many natural products in various forms for therapeutic purposes. Thousands of plants mentioned in the Ayurvedic system are useful in disease mitigation and health preservation. One potential plant of the Ayurvedic system is "Ashwagandha" [Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal], commonly regarded as Indian Ginseng. It possesses various therapeutic activities, such as neuroprotective, hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective, antiarthritic, and anticancer effects. PURPOSE Here we present a comprehensive insight on the anticancer effects of W. somnifera and mechanistic attributes of its bioactive phytocompounds. This review also provides updated information on the clinical studies pertaining to cancer, safety evaluation and opportunities for chemical modifications of withanolides, a group of specialized phytochemicals of W. somnifera. METHODS The present study was performed in accordance with the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systemic Reviews and Meta-Analysis. Various scientific databases, such as PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Google Scholar, were explored for related studies published up to May 2021. RESULTS An updated review on the anticancer potential and mechanisms of action of the major bioactive components of W. somnifera, including withanolides, withaferin A and withanone, is presented. Comprehensive information on clinical attributes of W. somnifera and its active components are presented with the structure-activity relationship (SAR) and toxicity evaluation. CONCLUSION The outcome of the work clearly indicates that W. somnifera has a significant potential for cancer therapy. The SAR revealed that various withanolides in general and withaferin A in particular have binding energies against various proteins and tremendous potential to serve as the lead for new chemical entities. Nevertheless, additional studies, particularly well-designed clinical trials are required before therapeutic application of withanolides for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devesh Tewari
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India.
| | - Vikas Chander
- Department of Pharmacy, Uttarakhand Technical University, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Archana Dhyani
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun 248001, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Sanjeev Sahu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India
| | - Pawan Gupta
- Shree SK Patel College of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ganpat University, Mehsana 384012, Gujarat, India
| | - Pooja Patni
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India
| | - Lindsay S Kalick
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL 34211, USA
| | - Anupam Bishayee
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL 34211, USA.
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Kashyap VK, Peasah-Darkwah G, Dhasmana A, Jaggi M, Yallapu MM, Chauhan SC. Withania somnifera: Progress towards a Pharmaceutical Agent for Immunomodulation and Cancer Therapeutics. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14030611. [PMID: 35335986 PMCID: PMC8954542 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14030611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is one of the prime treatment options for cancer. However, the key issues with traditional chemotherapy are recurrence of cancer, development of resistance to chemotherapeutic agents, affordability, late-stage detection, serious health consequences, and inaccessibility. Hence, there is an urgent need to find innovative and cost-effective therapies that can target multiple gene products with minimal adverse reactions. Natural phytochemicals originating from plants constitute a significant proportion of the possible therapeutic agents. In this article, we reviewed the advances and the potential of Withania somnifera (WS) as an anticancer and immunomodulatory molecule. Several preclinical studies have shown the potential of WS to prevent or slow the progression of cancer originating from various organs such as the liver, cervix, breast, brain, colon, skin, lung, and prostate. WS extracts act via various pathways and provide optimum effectiveness against drug resistance in cancer. However, stability, bioavailability, and target specificity are major obstacles in combination therapy and have limited their application. The novel nanotechnology approaches enable solubility, stability, absorption, protection from premature degradation in the body, and increased circulation time and invariably results in a high differential uptake efficiency in the phytochemical’s target cells. The present review primarily emphasizes the insights of WS source, chemistry, and the molecular pathways involved in tumor regression, as well as developments achieved in the delivery of WS for cancer therapy using nanotechnology. This review substantiates WS as a potential immunomodulatory, anticancer, and chemopreventive agent and highlights its potential use in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek K. Kashyap
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA; (V.K.K.); (G.P.-D.); (A.D.); (M.J.)
- South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA
| | - Godwin Peasah-Darkwah
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA; (V.K.K.); (G.P.-D.); (A.D.); (M.J.)
- South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA
| | - Anupam Dhasmana
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA; (V.K.K.); (G.P.-D.); (A.D.); (M.J.)
- South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA
| | - Meena Jaggi
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA; (V.K.K.); (G.P.-D.); (A.D.); (M.J.)
- South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA
| | - Murali M. Yallapu
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA; (V.K.K.); (G.P.-D.); (A.D.); (M.J.)
- South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA
- Correspondence: (M.M.Y.); (S.C.C.); Tel.: +1-956-296-1734 (M.M.Y.); +1-956-296-5000 (S.C.C.)
| | - Subhash C. Chauhan
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA; (V.K.K.); (G.P.-D.); (A.D.); (M.J.)
- South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA
- Correspondence: (M.M.Y.); (S.C.C.); Tel.: +1-956-296-1734 (M.M.Y.); +1-956-296-5000 (S.C.C.)
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Sekar P, Ravitchandirane R, Khanam S, Muniraj N, Cassinadane AV. Novel molecules as the emerging trends in cancer treatment: an update. Med Oncol 2022; 39:20. [PMID: 34982273 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-021-01615-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
As per World Health Organization cancer remains as a leading killer disease causing nearly 10 million deaths in 2020. Since the burden of cancer increases worldwide, warranting an urgent search for anti-cancer compounds from natural sources. Secondary metabolites from plants, marine organisms exhibit a novel chemical and structural diversity holding a great promise as therapeutics in cancer treatment. These natural metabolites target only the cancer cells and the normal healthy cells are left unharmed. In the emerging trends of cancer treatment, the natural bioactive compounds have long become a part of cancer chemotherapy. In this review, we have tried to compile about eight bioactive compounds from plant origin viz. combretastatin, ginsenoside, lycopene, quercetin, resveratrol, silymarin, sulforaphane and withaferin A, four marine-derived compounds viz. bryostatins, dolastatins, eribulin, plitidepsin and three microorganisms viz. Clostridium, Mycobacterium bovis and Streptococcus pyogenes with their well-established anticancer potential, mechanism of action and clinical establishments are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Sekar
- Sri Venkateshwaraa Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Pondicherry, 605102, India
| | | | - Sofia Khanam
- Calcutta Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and Allied Health Sciences, Howrah, WB, 711316, India
| | - Nethaji Muniraj
- Centre for Cancer Immunology Research, Children's National Hospital, Children's National Research Institute, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, D.C, 20010, USA.
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Singh N, Yadav SS, Rao AS, Nandal A, Kumar S, Ganaie SA, Narasihman B. Review on anticancerous therapeutic potential of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 270:113704. [PMID: 33359918 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Withania somnifera, commonly known as Ashwagandha, is an important medicinal herb belonging to family Solanaceae. It is widely used in folkloric and Ayurvedic medicines since antiquity. Traditionally, the plant is highly practiced throughout the globe as immunomodulator, anti-inflammatory, anti-stress, anti-parkinson, anti-alzheimer, cardio protective, neural and physical health enhancer, neurodefensive, anti-diabetic, aphrodisiac, memory boosting etc. The plant is also effective in combating various types of cancer and other related problems of colon, mammary, lung, prostate, skin, blood, liver and kidney. AIM OF THIS REVIEW The present review represents the critical assessment of the literature available on the anticancerous role of W. somnifera. The present study throws light on its diverse chemical compounds and the possible mechanisms of action involved. This review also suggests further research strategies to harness the therapeutic potential of this plant. MATERIALS AND METHODS The present review is the outcome of a systematic search of scientific literature about 'Withania somnifera and its role in cancer prevention'. The scientific databases viz. Google Scholar, Science Direct, Pubmed and Web of Science were searched from 2001 to 2019. Textbooks, magazines and newspapers were also consulted. This review summarizes all the published literature about its therapeutic potential for the treatment of different types of cancers. RESULTS W. somnifera has been widely used in traditional and ayurvedic medicines for treatment of numerous problems related to health and vitality. The plant is a reservoir of diverse phytoconstituents like alkaloids, steroids, flavonoids, phenolics, nitrogen containing compounds and trace elements. Withanolides are the major alkaloids which renders its anticancer potential due to its highly oxygenated nature. The plant is highly effective in combating various types of cancers viz. colon, mammary, lung, prostate, skin, blood, liver and kidney. Previous studies depict that this plant is more effective against breast cancer followed by colon, lung, prostate and blood cancer. Furthermore, from different clinical studies it has been observed that the active constituents of the plant like withaferin-A, withanolide-D have least toxic effects. CONCLUSION The present review confirms the various medicinal values of W. somnifera without any significant side effects. Withaferin-A (WA) and Withanolides are its most promising anticancer compounds that play a major role in apoptosis induction. Keeping in mind the anticancerous potential of this plant, it is suggested that this plant may further be investigated and more clinical studies can be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neetu Singh
- Department of Botany, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124 001, India
| | - S S Yadav
- Department of Botany, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124 001, India.
| | - Amrender Singh Rao
- Department of Botany, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124 001, India
| | - Abhishek Nandal
- Department of Botany, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124 001, India
| | - Sanjiv Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ch. Bansi Lal University, Bhiwani, Haryana, India
| | - S A Ganaie
- Department of Botany, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124 001, India
| | - B Narasihman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124 001, India
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Lin CC, Yang TY, Lu HJ, Wan CK, Hsu SL, Wu CC. Attenuating role of withaferin A in the proliferation and migration of lung cancer cells via a p53-miR-27a/miR-10b pathway. Oncol Lett 2021; 21:232. [PMID: 33613721 PMCID: PMC7856700 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.12493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) are known to play a key role in tumorigenesis and usually serve as therapeutic targets in cancer treatment. In the present study, the inhibitory effects and the targeting miRNAs of withaferin A (WA) were investigated in human lung cancer cells. Different lung cancer cell lines were administrated with different concentrations of WA for different time interval followed by western blot or reverse transcription-quantitative PCR analyses to determine the underlying signaling pathway. The results demonstrated that WA decreased the viability of lung cancer cells in a caspase-dependent manner. Further investigations indicated that treatment with WA induced the expression of proapoptotic molecules, p53 and Bax, and decreased Bcl-2 expression in A549 cells. Notably, the results demonstrated that WA also decreased the motility of lung cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner, at a relatively lower concentration. Western blot analysis revealed increased E-cadherin and decreased vimentin expression levels in lung cancer cells treated with WA. In addition, two oncomiRs, including miR-10b and miR-27a, which regulate the expression of E-cadherin and Bax, respectively, were downregulated in the presence of WA. The ectopic expression of miR-10b mimics was able to recover the WA-decreased motility of lung cancer cells, which was accompanied by a reduction in E-cadherin expression. Conversely, the ectopic expression of miR-27a mimics decreased the expression of Bax and recovered the viability of lung cancer cells attenuated by WA. In addition, the ectopic expression of p53-wild type decreased the expression levels of both miR-10b and miR-27a, whereas p53 knockdown induced their expression. Transient knockdown of p53 decreased the inhibitory effects of WA in the motility and viability of lung cancer cells, suggesting an association between WA-p53-miR-10b/27a and motility/viability. Further investigations demonstrated that p53 knockdown in lung cancer stable cell lines exhibited higher levels of both miR-10b and miR-27a, and higher motility and viability following treatment with WA. However, suppression of miR-10b and miR-27a effectively decreased motility and viability, respectively, following treatment with WA. Taken together, the results of the present study suggest that WA inhibits the functionality of lung cancer cells by decreasing the expression levels of both miR-10b and miR-27a in a p53-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Chu Lin
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Tsung-Ying Yang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Chest Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan, R.O.C
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11121, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Hseuh-Ju Lu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40201, Taiwan, R.O.C
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Chen-Kai Wan
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Shih-Lan Hsu
- Department of Medical Research, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Chun-Chi Wu
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan, R.O.C
- Department of Medical Research, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40201, Taiwan, R.O.C
- Department of Health Diet and Industry Management, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan, R.O.C
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Panossian AG, Efferth T, Shikov AN, Pozharitskaya ON, Kuchta K, Mukherjee PK, Banerjee S, Heinrich M, Wu W, Guo D, Wagner H. Evolution of the adaptogenic concept from traditional use to medical systems: Pharmacology of stress- and aging-related diseases. Med Res Rev 2021; 41:630-703. [PMID: 33103257 PMCID: PMC7756641 DOI: 10.1002/med.21743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Adaptogens comprise a category of herbal medicinal and nutritional products promoting adaptability, resilience, and survival of living organisms in stress. The aim of this review was to summarize the growing knowledge about common adaptogenic plants used in various traditional medical systems (TMS) and conventional medicine and to provide a modern rationale for their use in the treatment of stress-induced and aging-related disorders. Adaptogens have pharmacologically pleiotropic effects on the neuroendocrine-immune system, which explain their traditional use for the treatment of a wide range of conditions. They exhibit a biphasic dose-effect response: at low doses they function as mild stress-mimetics, which activate the adaptive stress-response signaling pathways to cope with severe stress. That is in line with their traditional use for preventing premature aging and to maintain good health and vitality. However, the potential of adaptogens remains poorly explored. Treatment of stress and aging-related diseases require novel approaches. Some combinations of adaptogenic plants provide unique effects due to their synergistic interactions in organisms not obtainable by any ingredient independently. Further progress in this field needs to focus on discovering new combinations of adaptogens based on traditional medical concepts. Robust and rigorous approaches including network pharmacology and systems pharmacology could help in analyzing potential synergistic effects and, more broadly, future uses of adaptogens. In conclusion, the evolution of the adaptogenic concept has led back to basics of TMS and a new level of understanding of holistic approach. It provides a rationale for their use in stress-induced and aging-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas Efferth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmacy and BiochemistryJohannes Gutenberg UniversityMainzGermany
| | - Alexander N. Shikov
- Department of technology of dosage formsSaint‐Petersburg State Chemical‐Pharmaceutical UniversitySt. PetersburgRussia
| | - Olga N. Pozharitskaya
- Department of BiotechnologyMurmansk Marine Biological Institute of the Kola Science Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences (MMBI KSC RAS)MurmanskRussia
| | - Kenny Kuchta
- Department of Far Eastern Medicine, Clinic for Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal OncologyUniversity Medical Center GöttingenGöttingenGermany
| | - Pulok K. Mukherjee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Natural Product StudiesJadavpur UniversityKolkataIndia
| | - Subhadip Banerjee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Natural Product StudiesJadavpur UniversityKolkataIndia
| | - Michael Heinrich
- Research Cluster Biodiversity and Medicines, UCL School of Pharmacy, Centre for Pharmacognosy and PhytotherapyUniversity of LondonLondonUK
| | - Wanying Wu
- Shanghai Research Center for TCM Modernization, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - De‐an Guo
- Shanghai Research Center for TCM Modernization, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Hildebert Wagner
- Department of Pharmacy, Center for Pharma ResearchLudwig‐Maximilians‐Universität MünchenMunichGermany
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Dell’Acqua G, Richards A, Thornton MJ. The Potential Role of Nutraceuticals as an Adjuvant in Breast Cancer Patients to Prevent Hair Loss Induced by Endocrine Therapy. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12113537. [PMID: 33217935 PMCID: PMC7698784 DOI: 10.3390/nu12113537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Nutraceuticals, natural dietary and botanical supplements offering health benefits, provide a basis for complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Use of CAM by healthy individuals and patients with medical conditions is rapidly increasing. For the majority of breast cancer patients, treatment plans involve 5–10 yrs of endocrine therapy, but hair loss/thinning is a common side effect. Many women consider this significant, severely impacting on quality of life, even leading to non-compliance of therapy. Therefore, nutraceuticals that stimulate/maintain hair growth can be proposed. Although nutraceuticals are often available without prescription and taken at the discretion of patients, physicians can be reluctant to recommend them, even as adjuvants, since potential interactions with endocrine therapy have not been fully elucidated. It is, therefore, important to understand the modus operandi of ingredients to be confident that their use will not interfere/interact with therapy. The aim is to improve clinical/healthcare outcomes by combining specific nutraceuticals with conventional care whilst avoiding detrimental interactions. This review presents the current understanding of nutraceuticals beneficial to hair wellness and outcomes concerning efficacy/safety in breast cancer patients. We will focus on describing endocrine therapy and the role of estrogens in cancer and hair growth before evaluating the effects of natural ingredients on breast cancer and hair growth.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - M. Julie Thornton
- Centre for Skin Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford BD17 7DF, UK
- Correspondence:
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Hahm ER, Kim SH, Singh KB, Singh K, Singh SV. A Comprehensive Review and Perspective on Anticancer Mechanisms of Withaferin A in Breast Cancer. Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 2020; 13:721-734. [PMID: 32727824 DOI: 10.1158/1940-6207.capr-20-0259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Withaferin A (hereafter abbreviated as WA) is a promising anticancer steroidal lactone abundant in a medicinal plant (Withania somnifera) native to Asia. The root/leaf extract of Withania somnifera, which belongs to the Solanaceae family, continues to be included in the Ayurvedic medicine formulations of alternative medicine practice. Numerous chemicals are detectable in the root/leaf extract of Withania somnifera [e.g., withanolides (WA, withanone, withanolide A, etc.), alkaloids, sitoindosides, etc.], but the anticancer effect of this medicinal plant is largely attributed to WA. Anticancer effect of WA was initially reported in the early 70s in the Ehrlich ascites tumor cell model in vitro Since then, numerous preclinical studies have been performed using cellular and animal models of different cancers including breast cancer to determine cancer therapeutic and chemopreventive effects of WA. Chemoprevention, a word first introduced by Dr. Michael B. Sporn, was intended to impede, arrest, or reverse carcinogenesis at its earliest stages with pharmacologic agents. This review succinctly summarizes the published findings on anticancer pharmacology of WA in breast cancer focusing on pharmacokinetic behavior, in vivo efficacy data in preclinical models in a therapeutic and chemoprevention settings, and its known effects on cancer-relevant cellular processes (e.g., growth arrest, apoptosis induction, autophagy, metabolic adaptation, immune function, etc.) and molecular targets (e.g., suppression of oncogenes such as estrogen receptor-α, STAT3, etc.). Potential gaps in knowledge as well as future research directions essential for clinical development of WA for chemoprevention and/or treatment of breast cancer are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun-Ryeong Hahm
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Su-Hyeong Kim
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Krishna B Singh
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Kamayani Singh
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Shivendra V Singh
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. .,UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Withaferin A suppresses breast cancer cell proliferation by inhibition of the two-pore domain potassium (K2P9) channel TASK-3. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 129:110383. [PMID: 32563149 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Withaferin A (WFA), a C5,C6-epoxy steroidal lactone isolated from the medicinal plant Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, inhibits growth of tumor cells in different cancer types. However, the mechanisms underlying the effect of WFA on tumor cells are not fully understood. In the present study, we evaluated the blockade of TASK-3 channels by WFA in TASK-3-expressing HEK-293 cells. Explore if the WFA-mediated TASK-3 blockade can be used as a pharmacological tool to decrease the cell viability in cancer cells. A combination of functional experiments (patch-clamp, gene downregulation, overexpression and pharmacological inhibition) and molecular docking analysis were used to get insights into the mechanism by which the inhibition of TASK-3 by WFA affects the growth and viability of cancer cells. Withaferin A was found to inhibit the activity of TASK-3 channels. The inhibitory effect of Withaferin A on TASK-3 potassium currents was dose-dependent and independent of voltage. Molecular modeling studies identified putative WFA-binding sites in TASK-3 channel involved the channel blockade. In agreements with the molecular modeling predictions, mutation of residues F125 to A (F125A), L197 to V (L197 V) and the double mutant F125A-L197 V markedly decreased the WFA-induced inhibition of TASK-3. Finally, the cytotoxic effect of WFA was tested in MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells transfected with TASK-3 or shRNA that decreases TASK-3 expression. Together, our results show that the cytotoxic effect of WFA on fully transformed MDA-MB-231 cells depends on the expression of TASK-3. Herein, we also provide insights into the mechanism of TASK-3 inhibition by WFA.
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Mehta V, Chander H, Munshi A. Mechanisms of Anti-Tumor Activity of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha). Nutr Cancer 2020; 73:914-926. [PMID: 33949906 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2020.1778746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Increasing herbal formulations have been used to treat several diseases including cancer. W. somnifera (Ashwagandha) is one such plant the extracts of which have been tested against a number of ailments including cancer, which remains as one of the most dreadful diseases on the globe. The ever-increasing number of cancer related mortality demands the development of novel chemopreventive agents with minimum side effects. Different compounds isolated from various parts of the plant like root, stem, and leaves have been reported to display significant anti-cancerous and immunomodulating properties and thus can be used alone or in combination with other chemotherapeutic drugs for cancer treatment. Through this review, we highlight the importance of W. somnifera in countering the potential oncogenic signaling mediators that are modulated by active constituents of W. somnifera in a variety of cancer types. Further, we hope that active constituents of W. somnifera will be tested in clinical trials so that they can be used as an important adjuvant in the near future for the effective treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikrant Mehta
- Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Harish Chander
- National Institute of Biologicals, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Anjana Munshi
- Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
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Saggam A, Tillu G, Dixit S, Chavan-Gautam P, Borse S, Joshi K, Patwardhan B. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal: A potential therapeutic adjuvant in cancer. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 255:112759. [PMID: 32173425 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2020] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (WS) is one of the moststudied Rasayana botanicals used in Ayurveda practice for its immunomodulatory, anti-aging, adaptogenic, and rejuvenating effects. The botanical is being used for various clinical indications, including cancer. Several studies exploring molecular mechanisms of WS suggest its possible role in improving clinical outcomes in cancer management. Therefore, research on WS may offer new insights in rational development of therapeutic adjuvants for cancer. AIM OF THIS REVIEW The review aims at providing a detailed analysis of in silico, in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies related to WS and cancer. It suggests possible role of WS in regulating molecular mechanisms associated with carcinogenesis. The review discusses potential of WS in cancer management in terms of cancer prevention, anti-cancer activity, and enhancing efficacy of cancer therapeutics. MATERIAL AND METHODS The present narrative review offers a critical analysis of published literature on WS studies in cancer. The reported studies were analysed in the context of pathophysiology of cancer, commonly referred as 'cancer hallmarks'. The review attempts to bridge Ayurveda knowledge with biological insights into molecular mechanisms of cancer. RESULTS Critical analysisof the published literature suggests an anti-cancer potential of WS with a key role in cancer prevention. The possible mechanisms for these effects are associated with the modulation of apoptotic, proliferative, and metastatic markers in cancer. WS can attenuate inflammatory responses and enzymes involved in invasion and metastatic progression of cancer.The properties of WS are likely to be mediated through withanolides, which may activate tumor suppressor proteins to restrict proliferation of cancer cells. Withanolides also regulate the genomic instability, and energy metabolism of cancer cells. The reported studies indicate the need for deeper understanding of molecular mechanisms of WS in inhibiting angiogenesis and promoting immunosurveillance. Additionally, WS can augment efficacy and safety of cancer therapeutics. CONCLUSION The experimentally-supported evidence of immunomodulatory, anti-cancer, adaptogenic, and regenerative attributes of WS suggest its therapeutic adjuvant potential in cancer management. The adjuvant properties of withanolides can modulate multidrug resistance and reverse chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression. These mechanisms need to be further explored in systematically designed translational and clinical studies that will pave the way for integration of WS as a therapeutic adjuvant in cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akash Saggam
- AYUSH Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Girish Tillu
- AYUSH Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | | | - Preeti Chavan-Gautam
- AYUSH Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Swapnil Borse
- AYUSH Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Kalpana Joshi
- Department of Biotechnology, Sinhgad College of Engineering, Pune, India
| | - Bhushan Patwardhan
- AYUSH Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India.
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Ali MA, Farah MA, Al-Anazi KM, Basha SH, Bai F, Lee J, Al-Hemaid FMA, Mahmoud AH, Hailan WAQ. In Silico Elucidation of the Plausible Inhibitory Potential of Withaferin A of Withania Somnifera Medicinal Herb Against Breast Cancer Targeting Estrogen Receptor. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2020; 21:842-851. [PMID: 31995002 DOI: 10.2174/1389201021666200129121843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estrogen Receptors (ER) are members of the nuclear intracellular receptors family. ER once activated by estrogen, it binds to DNA via translocating into the nucleus and regulates the activity of various genes. Withaferin A (WA) - an active compound of a medicinal plant Withania somnifera was reported to be a very effective anti-cancer agent and some of the recent studies has demonstrated that WA is capable of arresting the development of breast cancer via targeting estrogen receptor. OBJECTIVE The present study is aimed at understanding the molecular level interactions of ER and Tamoxifen in comparison to Withaferin A using In-silico approaches with emphasis on Withaferin A binding capability with ER in presence of point mutations which are causing de novo drug resistance to existing drugs like Tamoxifen. METHODS Molecular modeling and docking studies were performed for the Tamoxifen and Withaferin A with the Estrogen receptor. Molecular docking simulations of estrogen receptor in complex with Tamoxifen and Withaferin A were also performed. RESULTS Amino acid residues, Glu353, Arg394 and Leu387 was observed as crucial for binding and stabilizing the protein-ligand complex in case of Tamoxifen and Withaferin-A. The potential of Withaferin A to overcome the drug resistance caused by the mutations in estrogen receptor to the existing drugs such as Tamoxifen was demonstrated. CONCLUSION In-silico analysis has elucidated the binding mode and molecular level interactions which are expected to be of great help in further optimizing Withaferin A or design / discovery of future breast cancer inhibitors targeting estrogen receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad A Ali
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh- 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Abul Farah
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh- 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid M Al-Anazi
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh- 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Syed H Basha
- Innovative Informatica Technologies, HIG, HUDA, Mayuri Nagar, Miyapur, Hyderabad, 500 049, India
| | - Fang Bai
- Center for Theoretical Biological Physics, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, United States
| | - Joongku Lee
- Department of Environment and Forest Resources, Chungnam National University, Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Fahad M A Al-Hemaid
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh- 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed H Mahmoud
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh- 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed A Q Hailan
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh- 11451, Saudi Arabia
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Dutta R, Khalil R, Green R, Mohapatra SS, Mohapatra S. Withania Somnifera (Ashwagandha) and Withaferin A: Potential in Integrative Oncology. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20215310. [PMID: 31731424 PMCID: PMC6862083 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20215310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera, WS), belonging to the family Solanaceae, is an Ayurvedic herb known worldwide for its numerous beneficial health activities since ancient times. This medicinal plant provides benefits against many human illnesses such as epilepsy, depression, arthritis, diabetes, and palliative effects such as analgesic, rejuvenating, regenerating, and growth-promoting effects. Several clinical trials of the different parts of the herb have demonstrated safety in patients suffering from these diseases. In the last two decades, an active component of Withaferin A (WFA) has shown tremendous cytotoxic activity suggesting its potential as an anti-carcinogenic agent in treatment of several cancers. In spite of enormous progress, a thorough elaboration of the proposed mechanism and mode of action is absent. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of the properties of WS extracts (WSE) containing complex mixtures of diverse components including WFA, which have shown inhibitory properties against many cancers, (breast, colon, prostate, colon, ovarian, lung, brain), along with their mechanism of actions and pathways involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rinku Dutta
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (R.D.); (R.K.); (R.G.)
- Center for Research and Education in Nanobioengineering, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
| | - Roukiah Khalil
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (R.D.); (R.K.); (R.G.)
- Center for Research and Education in Nanobioengineering, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
| | - Ryan Green
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (R.D.); (R.K.); (R.G.)
- Center for Research and Education in Nanobioengineering, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
| | - Shyam S Mohapatra
- Center for Research and Education in Nanobioengineering, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
- Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
- James A Haley VA Hospital, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Subhra Mohapatra
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (R.D.); (R.K.); (R.G.)
- Center for Research and Education in Nanobioengineering, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
- James A Haley VA Hospital, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-813-974-4127
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29
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Bioactive Compounds: Multi-Targeting Silver Bullets for Preventing and Treating Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11101563. [PMID: 31618928 PMCID: PMC6826729 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11101563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Revised: 10/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Each cell in our body is designed with a self-destructive trigger, and if damaged, can happily sacrifice itself for the sake of the body. This process of self-destruction to safeguard the adjacent normal cells is known as programmed cell death or apoptosis. Cancer cells outsmart normal cells and evade apoptosis and it is one of the major hallmarks of cancer. The cardinal quest for anti-cancer drug discovery (bioactive or synthetic compounds) is to be able to re-induce the so called “programmed cell death” in cancer cells. The importance of bioactive compounds as the linchpin of cancer therapeutics is well known as many effective chemotherapeutic drugs such as vincristine, vinblastine, doxorubicin, etoposide and paclitaxel have natural product origins. The present review discusses various bioactive compounds with known anticancer potential, underlying mechanisms by which they induce cell death and their preclinical/clinical development. Most bioactive compounds can concurrently target multiple signaling pathways that are important for cancer cell survival while sparing normal cells hence they can potentially be the silver bullets for targeting cancer growth and metastatic progression.
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Sehrawat A, Samanta SK, Hahm ER, St Croix C, Watkins S, Singh SV. Withaferin A-mediated apoptosis in breast cancer cells is associated with alterations in mitochondrial dynamics. Mitochondrion 2019; 47:282-293. [PMID: 30685490 PMCID: PMC6599725 DOI: 10.1016/j.mito.2019.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Withaferin A (WA), a steroidal lactone derived from a medicinal plant (Withania somnifera), inhibits cancer development in transgenic and chemically-induced rodent models of breast cancer but the underlying mechanism is not fully grasped. We have shown previously that WA treatment causes apoptotic cell death in human breast cancer cells that is preceded by inhibition of complex III of the mitochondrial electron transport chain. This study extends these observations to now demonstrate alterations in mitochondrial dynamics in WA-induced apoptosis. Assembly of complex III was decreased in MCF-7 and SUM159 cells but not in MDA-MB-231 as determined by native blue gel electrophoresis. Because WA is a Michael acceptor (electrophile), we explored the possibility of whether it covalently modifies cysteine residue(s) in ubiquinol-cytochrome c reductase, Rieske iron-sulfur polypeptide 1 (UQCRFS1). Covalent modification of cysteine in UQCRFS1 was not observed after WA treatment. Instead, WA treatment inhibited chemically-induced mitochondrial fusion and decreased the mitochondrial volume, and this effect was accompanied by a decrease in the expression of proteins involved in fusion process, including mitofusin1, mitofusin2, and full-length optic atrophy protein 1 (OPA1). A loss of volume in fragmented mitochondria also occurred in WA-exposed cells when compared to vehicle-treated control. WA treatment also caused a decrease in protein level of mitochondrial fission-regulating protein dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1). Functional studies revealed that DRP1 deficiency and OPA1 knockdown attenuated apoptotic potential of WA. Taken together, these results indicate that WA not only alters Complex III assembly but also inhibits mitochondrial dynamics in breast cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuradha Sehrawat
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Suman K Samanta
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Life Sciences Division, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, Guwahati, India
| | - Eun-Ryeong Hahm
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Claudette St Croix
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Simon Watkins
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Shivendra V Singh
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Ma L, Yin W, Ma H, Elshoura I, Wang L. Targeting claudin-3 suppresses stem cell-like phenotype in nonsquamous non-small-cell lung carcinoma. Lung Cancer Manag 2019; 8:LMT04. [PMID: 31044015 PMCID: PMC6488947 DOI: 10.2217/lmt-2018-0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To determine the role of claudin-3 in cancer stemness in nonsquamous non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). MATERIALS & METHODS In vitro/vivo extreme limiting dilution analysis and the side population assay were used to investigate the role of claudin-3 in regulating cancer stemness in nonsquamous NSCLC. RESULTS & CONCLUSION Claudin-3 depletion decreased the formation rates of spheres and tumors and increased cisplatin sensitivity. Claudin-3 was also identified as one downstream target of estrogen receptor-α in regulating cancer stemness. Moreover, targeting CLDN-3 transcription by small molecules including withaferin A, estradiol and fulvestrant suppressed cancer stemness and reversed chemoresistance. These results demonstrated claudin-3 is one positive regulator of cancer stemness in nonsuqamous NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Ma
- School of Materials Science & Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
- R&D Center, Guangzhou Ribobio Co., Ltd, Guangzhou 510663, China
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210046, China
| | - Wu Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210046, China
| | - Heliang Ma
- Department of Radiology, Jinan Central Hospital, Jinan, Shandong 250013, China
| | - Ihab Elshoura
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210046, China
| | - Lan Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Affiliated Jiangyin Hospital of Southeast University, Jiangyin 214400, China
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Samanta SK, Lee J, Hahm ER, Singh SV. Peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase Pin1 regulates withaferin A-mediated cell cycle arrest in human breast cancer cells. Mol Carcinog 2018; 57:936-946. [PMID: 29603395 DOI: 10.1002/mc.22814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2017] [Revised: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
We have reported previously that withaferin A (WA) prevents breast cancer development in mouse mammary tumor virus-neu (MMTV-neu) transgenic mice, but the mechanism is not fully understood. Unbiased proteomics of the mammary tumors from control- and WA-treated MMTV-neu mice revealed downregulation of peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase (Pin1) protein by WA administration. The present study extends these findings to elucidate the role of Pin1 in cancer chemopreventive mechanisms of WA. The mammary tumor level of Pin1 protein was lower by about 55% in WA-treated rats exposed to N-methyl-N-nitrosourea, compared to control. Exposure of MCF-7 and SK-BR-3 human breast cancer cells to WA resulted in downregulation of Pin1 protein. Ectopic expression of Pin1 attenuated G2 and/or mitotic arrest resulting from WA treatment in both MCF-7 and SK-BR-3 cells. WA-induced apoptosis was increased by Pin1 overexpression in MCF-7 cells but not in the SK-BR-3 cell line. In addition, molecular docking followed by mass spectrometry indicated covalent interaction of WA with cysteine 113 of Pin1. Overexpression of Pin1C113A mutant failed to attenuate WA-induced mitotic arrest or apoptosis in the MCF-7 cells. Furthermore, antibody array revealed upregulation of proapoptotic insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBPs), including IGFBP-3, IGFBP-4, IGFBP-5, and IGFBP-6, in Pin1 overexpressing MCF-7 cells following WA treatment when compared to empty vector transfected control cells. These data support a crucial role of the Pin1 for mitotic arrest and apoptosis signaling by WA at least in the MCF-7 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suman K Samanta
- Life Science Division, Institute of Advance Study in Science and Technology, Guwahati, India
| | - Joomin Lee
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Chosun University, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Eun-Ryeong Hahm
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Shivendra V Singh
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Kiyama R. Estrogenic terpenes and terpenoids: Pathways, functions and applications. Eur J Pharmacol 2017; 815:405-415. [PMID: 28970013 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2017.09.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Revised: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 09/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Terpenes are made of the isoprene unit (C5), and along with their derivatives, terpenoids, they are widely distributed in plants as active ingredients involved in anti-inflammation, anti-carcinogenesis and neuroprotection. Estrogenic terpenes and terpenoids are an important category of phytoestrogens and have been used as traditional medicines. The comprehensive list of estrogenic terpenes and terpenoids includes hemi-, mono-, sesqui-, di-, tri-, tetra- and polyterpenes, their derivatives, and meroterpenes, along with the signaling pathways and cellular functions on which their estrogenicity is exerted. Signaling pathways are further classified as bidirectional or unidirectional, the latter being further divided into two types depending upon the presence of both ligands, or the absence of one or both ligands. Although estrogenic activity of terpenes and terpenoids was evaluated by ligand-binding assays, yeast two-hybrid assays, reporter-gene assays, transcription assays, protein assays, cell assays and animal testing, the mechanism of estrogenic activity is still not fully understood. Applications of estrogenic terpenes and terpenoids are categorized into cancer treatment and prevention, cardioprotection, endocrine toxicity/reproductive dysfunction, food/supplement/traditional medicine, immunology/inflammation, menopausal syndromes and neuroprotection, where their benefits are discussed based on their availability, stability and variations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryoiti Kiyama
- Faculty of Life Science, Kyushu Sangyo University, Fukuoka, Japan.
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Zhang HL, Zhang H. Withaferin-A Induces Apoptosis in Osteosarcoma U2OS Cell Line via Generation of ROS and Disruption of Mitochondrial Membrane Potential. Pharmacogn Mag 2017; 13:523-527. [PMID: 28839383 PMCID: PMC5551376 DOI: 10.4103/0973-1296.211042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Revised: 11/08/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Withaferin-A (WF-A) is a well-known dietary compound isolated from Withania sominifera. It has tremendous pharmacological potential and has been shown to exhibit antiproliferative activity against several types of cancerous cells. Currently, the main focus of anti-cancer therapeutic development is to identify apoptosis inducing drug-like molecules. Osteosarcoma is a rare type of osteocancer, affecting human. The present study therefore focused on the evaluation of antitumor potential of WF-A against several osteosarcoma cell lines. Materials and Methods: MTT assay was used to evaluate WF-A against osteosarcoma cell lines and to calculate the IC50. DAPI staining was used to confirm the apoptosis inducing potential of WF-A. Mitochondrial membrane potential, reactive oxygen species (ROS) assay, and Western blotting were used to confirm the basis of apoptosis. Results: The results revealed that that WF-A exhibited strong antiproliferative activity against all the cells lines, with IC50 ranging from 0.32 to 7.6 μM. The lowest IC50 (0.32 μM) was observed against U2OS cell line and therefore it was selected for further analysis. DAPI staining indicated that WF-A exhibited antiproliferative activity via induction of apoptosis. Moreover, WF-A induced ROS-mediated reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential ΔΨm) in a dose-dependent manner and activation of caspase-3 in osteosarcoma cells. Conclusion We propose that WF-A may prove a potent therapeutic agent for inducing apoptosis in osteosarcoma cell lines via generation of ROS and disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential. SUMMARY WF-A exhibits strong anticancer activity against osteosarcoma cell lines Antiproliferative activity of WF-A is via induction of apoptosis WF-A induced ROS-mediated reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential WF-A induced expression of caspase-3 in osteosarcoma cells.
Abbreviations used: WA: Withaferin A; ROS: Reactive oxygen species; OS: Osteosarcoma; MMP: Mitochondrial membrane potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Liang Zhang
- Department of Elderly Orthopedics, The Second Hospital of Tangshan, Tangshan.,Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Bone and Joint, The First Affiliated Hospital of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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35
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Panossian A. Understanding adaptogenic activity: specificity of the pharmacological action of adaptogens and other phytochemicals. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/nyas.13399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Royston KJ, Udayakumar N, Lewis K, Tollefsbol TO. A Novel Combination of Withaferin A and Sulforaphane Inhibits Epigenetic Machinery, Cellular Viability and Induces Apoptosis of Breast Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18051092. [PMID: 28534825 PMCID: PMC5455001 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18051092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2017] [Revised: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
With cancer often classified as a disease that has an important epigenetic component, natural compounds that have the ability to regulate the epigenome become ideal candidates for study. Humans have a complex diet, which illustrates the need to elucidate the mechanisms of interaction between these bioactive compounds in combination. The natural compounds withaferin A (WA), from the Indian winter cherry, and sulforaphane (SFN), from cruciferous vegetables, have numerous anti-cancer effects and some report their ability to regulate epigenetic processes. Our study is the first to investigate the combinatorial effects of low physiologically achievable concentrations of WA and SFN on breast cancer cell proliferation, histone deacetylase1 (HDAC1) and DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs). No adverse effects were observed on control cells at optimal concentrations. There was synergistic inhibition of cellular viability in MCF-7 cells and a greater induction of apoptosis with the combinatorial approach than with either compound administered alone in both MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells. HDAC expression was down-regulated at multiple levels. Lastly, we determined the combined effects of these bioactive compounds on the pro-apoptotic BAX and anti-apoptotic BCL-2 and found decreases in BCL-2 and increases in BAX. Taken together, our findings demonstrate the ability of low concentrations of combinatorial WA and SFN to promote cancer cell death and regulate key epigenetic modifiers in human breast cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendra J Royston
- Department of Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1300 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama Birmingham, 1802 6th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.
| | - Neha Udayakumar
- Department of Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1300 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.
| | - Kayla Lewis
- Department of Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1300 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.
| | - Trygve O Tollefsbol
- Department of Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1300 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama Birmingham, 1802 6th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.
- Comprehensive Center for Healthy Aging, University of Alabama Birmingham, 1530 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.
- Nutrition Obesity Research Center, University of Alabama Birmingham, 1675 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.
- Comprehensive Diabetes Center, University of Alabama Birmingham, 1825 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.
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Henley AB, Yang L, Chuang KL, Sahuri-Arisoylu M, Wu LH, Bligh SWA, Bell JD. Withania somnifera Root Extract Enhances Chemotherapy through 'Priming'. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0170917. [PMID: 28129345 PMCID: PMC5271386 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0170917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Withania somnifera extracts are known for their anti-cancerous, anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. One of their mechanisms of actions is to modulate mitochondrial function through increasing oxidative stress. Recently 'priming' has been suggested as a potential mechanism for enhancing cancer cell death. In this study we demonstrate that 'priming', in HT-29 colon cells, with W. somnifera root extract increased the potency of the chemotherapeutic agent cisplatin. We have also showed the W. somnifera root extract enhanced mitochondrial dysfunction and that the underlying mechanism of 'priming' was selectively through increased ROS. Moreover, we showed that this effect was not seen in non-cancerous cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aine Brigette Henley
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Westminster, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ling Yang
- Department of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Kun-Lin Chuang
- Department of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Meliz Sahuri-Arisoylu
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Westminster, London, United Kingdom
| | - Li-Hong Wu
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - S. W. Annie Bligh
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Westminster, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jimmy David Bell
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Westminster, London, United Kingdom
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Subramani R, Lakshmanaswamy R. Complementary and Alternative Medicine and Breast Cancer. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2017; 151:231-274. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2017.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Samanta SK, Sehrawat A, Kim SH, Hahm ER, Shuai Y, Roy R, Pore SK, Singh KB, Christner SM, Beumer JH, Davidson NE, Singh SV. Disease Subtype-Independent Biomarkers of Breast Cancer Chemoprevention by the Ayurvedic Medicine Phytochemical Withaferin A. J Natl Cancer Inst 2016; 109:2758643. [PMID: 28040797 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djw293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2016] [Revised: 10/02/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A nontoxic chemopreventive intervention efficacious against different subtypes of breast cancer is still a clinically unmet need. The present study was undertaken to determine the efficacy of an Ayurvedic medicine phytochemical (Withaferin A, [WA]) for chemoprevention of breast cancer and to elucidate its mode of action. Methods Chemopreventive efficacy of WA (4 and 8 mg/kg body weight) was determined using a rat model of breast cancer induced by N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU; n = 14 for control group, n = 15 for 4 mg/kg group, and n = 18 for 8 mg/kg group). The mechanisms underlying breast cancer chemoprevention by WA were elucidated by immunoblotting, biochemical assays, immunohistochemistry, and cytokine profiling using plasma and tumors from the MNU-rat (n = 8-12 for control group, n = 7-11 for 4 mg/kg group, and n = 8-12 for 8 mg/kg group) and/or mouse mammary tumor virus-neu (MMTV-neu) models (n = 4-11 for control group and n = 4-21 for 4 mg/kg group). Inhibitory effect of WA on exit from mitosis and leptin-induced oncogenic signaling was determined using MCF-7 and/or MDA-MB-231 cells. All statistical tests were two-sided. Results Incidence, multiplicity, and burden of breast cancer in rats were decreased by WA administration. For example, the tumor weight in the 8 mg/kg group was lower by about 68% compared with controls (8 mg/kg vs control, mean = 2.76 vs 8.59, difference = -5.83, 95% confidence interval of difference = -9.89 to -1.76, P = .004). Mitotic arrest and apoptosis induction were some common determinants of breast cancer chemoprevention by WA in the MNU-rat and MMTV-neu models. Cytokine profiling showed suppression of plasma leptin levels by WA in rats. WA inhibited leptin-induced oncogenic signaling in cultured breast cancer cells. Conclusions WA is a promising chemopreventative phytochemical with the ability to inhibit at least two different subtypes of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Yongli Shuai
- Department of Biostatistics.,University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute
| | - Ruchi Roy
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology
| | | | | | | | - Jan H Beumer
- University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Nancy E Davidson
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology.,University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute
| | - Shivendra V Singh
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology.,University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute
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Sehrawat A, Kim SH, Hahm ER, Arlotti JA, Eiseman J, Shiva SS, Rigatti LH, Singh SV. Cancer-selective death of human breast cancer cells by leelamine is mediated by bax and bak activation. Mol Carcinog 2016; 56:337-348. [PMID: 27149078 DOI: 10.1002/mc.22497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Revised: 04/15/2016] [Accepted: 04/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The present study is the first to report inhibition of breast cancer cell growth in vitro and in vivo and suppression of self-renewal of breast cancer stem cells (bCSC) by a pine bark component (leelamine). Except for a few recent publications in melanoma, anticancer pharmacology of this interesting phytochemical is largely elusive. Leelamine (LLM) dose-dependently inhibited viability of MDA-MB-231 (triple-negative), MCF-7 (estrogen receptor-positive), and SUM159 (triple-negative) human breast cancer cells in association with apoptotic cell death induction. To the contrary, a normal mammary epithelial cell line derived from fibrocystic breast disease and spontaneously immortalized (MCF-10A) was fully resistant to LLM-mediated cell growth inhibition and apoptosis induction. LLM also inhibited self-renewal of breast cancer stem cells. Apoptosis induction by LLM in breast cancer cells was accompanied by a modest increase in reactive oxygen species production, which was not due to inhibition of mitochondrial electron transport chain complexes. Nevertheless, ectopic expression of manganese superoxide dismutase conferred partial protection against LLM-induced cell death but only at a lower yet pharmacologically relevant concentration. Exposure of breast cancer cells to LLM resulted in (a) induction and/or activation of multidomain proapoptotic proteins Bax and Bak, (b) caspase-9 activation, and (c) cytosolic release of cytochrome c. Bax and Bak deficiency in immortalized fibroblasts conferred significant protection against cell death by LLM. Intraperitoneal administration of LLM (7.5 mg/kg; 5 times/wk) suppressed the growth of orthotopic SUM159 xenografts in mice without any toxicity. In conclusion, the present study provides critical preclinical data to warrant further investigation of LLM. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuradha Sehrawat
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Su-Hyeong Kim
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Eun-Ryeong Hahm
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Julie A Arlotti
- University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Julie Eiseman
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Sruti S Shiva
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Lora H Rigatti
- University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Shivendra V Singh
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Lee IC, Choi BY. Withaferin-A--A Natural Anticancer Agent with Pleitropic Mechanisms of Action. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:290. [PMID: 26959007 PMCID: PMC4813154 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17030290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2016] [Revised: 02/16/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer, being the second leading cause of mortality, exists as a formidable health challenge. In spite of our enormous efforts, the emerging complexities in the molecular nature of disease progression limit the real success in finding an effective cancer cure. It is now conceivable that cancer is, in fact, a progressive illness, and the morbidity and mortality from cancer can be reduced by interfering with various oncogenic signaling pathways. A wide variety of structurally diverse classes of bioactive phytochemicals have been shown to exert anticancer effects in a large number of preclinical studies. Multiple lines of evidence suggest that withaferin-A can prevent the development of cancers of various histotypes. Accumulating data from different rodent models and cell culture experiments have revealed that withaferin-A suppresses experimentally induced carcinogenesis, largely by virtue of its potent anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative and apoptosis-inducing properties. Moreover, withaferin-A sensitizes resistant cancer cells to existing chemotherapeutic agents. The purpose of this review is to highlight the mechanistic aspects underlying anticancer effects of withaferin-A.
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Affiliation(s)
- In-Chul Lee
- Department of Cosmetic science, Seowon University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 361-742, Korea.
| | - Bu Young Choi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science & Engineering, Seowon University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 361-742, Korea.
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42
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Ovadje P, Roma A, Steckle M, Nicoletti L, Arnason JT, Pandey S. Advances in the research and development of natural health products as main stream cancer therapeutics. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2015; 2015:751348. [PMID: 25883673 PMCID: PMC4391654 DOI: 10.1155/2015/751348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2014] [Revised: 03/07/2015] [Accepted: 03/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Natural health products (NHPs) are defined as natural extracts containing polychemical mixtures; they play a leading role in the discovery and development of drugs, for disease treatment. More than 50% of current cancer therapeutics are derived from natural sources. However, the efficacy of natural extracts in treating cancer has not been explored extensively. Scientific research into the validity and mechanism of action of these products is needed to develop NHPs as main stream cancer therapy. The preclinical and clinical validation of NHPs would be essential for this development. This review summarizes some of the recent advancements in the area of NHPs with anticancer effects. This review also focuses on various NHPs that have been studied to scientifically validate their claims as anticancer agents. Furthermore, this review emphasizes the efficacy of these NHPs in targeting the multiple vulnerabilities of cancer cells for a more selective efficacious treatment. The studies reviewed here have paved the way for the introduction of more NHPs from traditional medicine to the forefront of modern medicine, in order to provide alternative, safer, and cheaper complementary treatments for cancer therapy and possibly improve the quality of life of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Ovadje
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
| | - Alessia Roma
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
| | - Matthew Steckle
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
| | - Leah Nicoletti
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
| | | | - Siyaram Pandey
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
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Yco LP, Mocz G, Opoku-Ansah J, Bachmann AS. Withaferin A Inhibits STAT3 and Induces Tumor Cell Death in Neuroblastoma and Multiple Myeloma. BIOCHEMISTRY INSIGHTS 2014; 7:1-13. [PMID: 25452693 PMCID: PMC4226392 DOI: 10.4137/bci.s18863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2014] [Revised: 09/19/2014] [Accepted: 10/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is an oncogenic transcription factor that has been implicated in many human cancers and has emerged as an ideal target for cancer therapy. Withaferin A (WFA) is a natural product with promising antiproliferative properties through its association with a number of molecular targets including STAT3. However, the effect of WFA in pediatric neuroblastoma (NB) and its interaction with STAT3 have not been reported. In this study, we found that WFA effectively induces dose-dependent cell death in high-risk and drug-resistant NB as well as multiple myeloma (MM) tumor cells, prevented interleukin-6 (IL-6)–mediated and persistently activated STAT3 phosphorylation at Y705, and blocked the transcriptional activity of STAT3. We further provide computational models that show that WFA binds STAT3 near the Y705 phospho-tyrosine residue of the STAT3 Src homology 2 (SH2) domain, suggesting that WFA prevents STAT3 dimer formation similar to BP-1-102, a well-established STAT3 inhibitor. Our findings propose that the antitumor activity of WFA is mediated at least in part through inhibition of STAT3 and provide a rationale for further drug development and clinical use in NB and MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisette P Yco
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Hilo, USA. ; Department of Molecular Biosciences and Bioengineering, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - Gabor Mocz
- Pacific Biosciences Research Center, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - John Opoku-Ansah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Hilo, USA
| | - André S Bachmann
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Hilo, USA. ; Department of Molecular Biosciences and Bioengineering, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA. ; Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA. ; Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, USA
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Khazal KF, Hill DL, Grubbs CJ. Effect of Withania somnifera root extract on spontaneous estrogen receptor-negative mammary cancer in MMTV/Neu mice. Anticancer Res 2014; 34:6327-6332. [PMID: 25368231 PMCID: PMC4386658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The cancer-preventive activity of an extract of Withania somnifera (WS) roots was examined in female transgenic (MMTV/Neu) mice that received a diet containing the extract (750 mg/kg of diet) for 10 months. Mice in the treated group (n=35) had an average of 1.66 mammary carcinomas, and mice in the control group (n=33) had 2.48, showing a reduction of 33%. The average weights of the carcinomas were 2.36 g for mice in the treated group and 2.63 g for the controls, a difference of 10%. Labeling indices for Ki67 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen marker in mammary carcinomas of the treated group were 35% and 30% lower, respectively, than those of the corresponding control group. Expression of the chemokine was reduced by 50%. These results indicate that the root extract reduced the number of mammary carcinomas that developed and reduced the rate of cell division in the carcinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamel F Khazal
- Department of Biomedical Sciences School of Veterinary Medicine, Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, AL, U.S.A
| | - Donald L Hill
- Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, U.S.A
| | - Clinton J Grubbs
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, U.S.A.
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Sonego JM, Rivero EM, Gargiulo L, Lüthy I, Alvarez LD, Veleiro AS, Burton G. Synthesis and biological evaluation of salpichrolide analogs as antiestrogenic agents. Eur J Med Chem 2014; 82:233-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2014.05.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2013] [Revised: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 05/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Kim SH, Singh SV. Mammary cancer chemoprevention by withaferin A is accompanied by in vivo suppression of self-renewal of cancer stem cells. Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 2014; 7:738-47. [PMID: 24824039 DOI: 10.1158/1940-6207.capr-13-0445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Current dogma favors elimination of therapy-resistant cancer stem cells for chemoprevention of breast cancer. We showed recently that mammary cancer development in a transgenic mouse model (mouse mammary tumor virus-neu; MMTV-neu) was inhibited significantly upon treatment with withaferin A (WA), a steroidal lactone derived from a medicinal plant. Herein, we demonstrate that the mammary cancer prevention by WA is accompanied by in vivo suppression of breast cancer stem cells (bCSC). In vitro mammosphere formation was dose-dependently inhibited by WA treatment in MCF-7 and SUM159 human breast cancer cells. Other markers of bCSC, including aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1) activity and CD44(high)/CD24(low)/epithelial-specific antigen-positive (ESA+) fraction, were also decreased significantly in the presence of plasma achievable doses of WA. However, WA exposure resulted in cell line-specific changes in Oct4, SOX-2, and Nanog mRNA expression. WA administration to MMTV-neu mice (0.1 mg/mouse, 3 times/week for 28 weeks) resulted in inhibition of mammosphere number and ALDH1 activity in vivo. Mechanistic studies revealed that although urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor overexpression conferred partial protection against bCSC inhibition by WA, Notch4 was largely dispensable for this response. WA treatment also resulted in sustained (MCF-7) or transient (SUM159) downregulation of Bmi-1 (B-cell-specific Moloney murine leukemia virus insertion region-1) protein. Ectopic expression of Bmi-1 conferred partial but significant protection against ALDH1 activity inhibition by WA. Interestingly, WA treatment caused induction of Kruppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) and its knockdown augmented bCSC inhibition by WA. In conclusion, this study shows in vivo effectiveness of WA against bCSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Hyeong Kim
- Authors' Affiliation: Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Shivendra V Singh
- Authors' Affiliation: Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Won YS, Lee JH, Kwon SJ, Kim JY, Park KH, Lee MK, Seo KI. α-Mangostin-induced apoptosis is mediated by estrogen receptor α in human breast cancer cells. Food Chem Toxicol 2014; 66:158-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2014.01.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2013] [Revised: 01/20/2014] [Accepted: 01/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Hahm ER, Singh SV. Diallyl trisulfide inhibits estrogen receptor-α activity in human breast cancer cells. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2014; 144:47-57. [PMID: 24487688 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-014-2841-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2013] [Accepted: 01/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Organosulfur compounds from garlic effectively inhibit growth of transplanted as well as spontaneous cancers in preclinical animal models without any adverse side effects. However, the mechanisms underlying anticancer effect of this class of compounds are not fully understood. This study reports, for the first time, that garlic organosulfide diallyl trisulfide (DATS) inhibits estrogen receptor-α (ER-α) activity in human breast cancer cells. Exposure of MCF-7 and T47D cells to DATS resulted in downregulation of ER-α protein, which peaked between 12- and 24-h post-treatment. DATS was relatively more effective in suppressing ER-α protein expression compared with its mono and disulfide analogs. The 17β-estradiol (E2)-induced expression of pS2 and cyclin D1, ER-α target gene products, was also decreased in the presence of DATS. Downregulation of ER-α protein expression resulting from DATS treatment was accompanied by a decrease in nuclear levels of ER-α protein, ER-α mRNA suppression, and inhibition of ERE2e1b-luciferase reporter activity. DATS-mediated inhibition of cell viability and apoptosis induction were not affected in the presence of E2. In agreement with these results, ectopic expression of ER-α in MDA-MB-231 cell line failed to confer any protection against cell proliferation inhibition or apoptosis induction resulting from DATS exposure. DATS treatment caused a decrease in protein levels of peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase (Pin1), and overexpression of Pin1 partially attenuated ER-α downregulation by DATS. DATS-induced apoptosis was modestly but significantly augmented by overexpression of Pin1. In conclusion, this study identifies ER-α as a novel target of DATS in mammary cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun-Ryeong Hahm
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, and University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 2.32A Hillman Cancer Center Research Pavilion, 5117 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
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Antony ML, Lee J, Hahm ER, Kim SH, Marcus AI, Kumari V, Ji X, Yang Z, Vowell CL, Wipf P, Uechi GT, Yates NA, Romero G, Sarkar SN, Singh SV. Growth arrest by the antitumor steroidal lactone withaferin A in human breast cancer cells is associated with down-regulation and covalent binding at cysteine 303 of β-tubulin. J Biol Chem 2013; 289:1852-65. [PMID: 24297176 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.496844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Withaferin A (WA), a C5,C6-epoxy steroidal lactone derived from a medicinal plant (Withania somnifera), inhibits growth of human breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo and prevents mammary cancer development in a transgenic mouse model. However, the mechanisms underlying the anticancer effect of WA are not fully understood. Herein, we report that tubulin is a novel target of WA-mediated growth arrest in human breast cancer cells. The G2 and mitotic arrest resulting from WA exposure in MCF-7, SUM159, and SK-BR-3 cells was associated with a marked decrease in protein levels of β-tubulin. These effects were not observed with the naturally occurring C6,C7-epoxy analogs of WA (withanone and withanolide A). A non-tumorigenic normal mammary epithelial cell line (MCF-10A) was markedly more resistant to mitotic arrest by WA compared with breast cancer cells. Vehicle-treated control cells exhibited a normal bipolar spindle with chromosomes aligned along the metaphase plate. In contrast, WA treatment led to a severe disruption of normal spindle morphology. NMR analyses revealed that the A-ring enone in WA, but not in withanone or withanolide A, was highly reactive with cysteamine and rapidly succumbed to irreversible nucleophilic addition. Mass spectrometry demonstrated direct covalent binding of WA to Cys(303) of β-tubulin in MCF-7 cells. Molecular docking indicated that the WA-binding pocket is located on the surface of β-tubulin and characterized by a hydrophobic floor, a hydrophobic wall, and a charge-balanced hydrophilic entrance. These results provide novel insights into the mechanism of growth arrest by WA in breast cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie L Antony
- From the Departments of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology and
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Lee J, Hahm ER, Marcus AI, Singh SV. Withaferin A inhibits experimental epithelial-mesenchymal transition in MCF-10A cells and suppresses vimentin protein level in vivo in breast tumors. Mol Carcinog 2013; 54:417-29. [PMID: 24293234 DOI: 10.1002/mc.22110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2013] [Revised: 10/23/2013] [Accepted: 10/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
We have shown previously that withaferin A (WA), a bioactive component of the medicinal plant Withania somnifera, inhibits growth of cultured and xenografted human breast cancer cells and prevents breast cancer development and pulmonary metastasis incidence in a transgenic mouse model. The present study was undertaken to determine if the anticancer effect of WA involved inhibition of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Experimental EMT induced by exposure of MCF-10A cells to tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β) was partially reversed by treatment with WA but not by its structural analogs withanone or withanolide A. Combined TNF-α and TGF-β treatments conferred partial protection against MCF-10A cell migration inhibition by WA. Inhibition of TNF-α and TGF-β-induced MCF-10A cell migration by WA exposure was modestly attenuated by knockdown of E-cadherin protein. MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells exposed to WA exhibited sustained (MCF-7) or transient (MDA-MB-231) induction of E-cadherin protein. On the other hand, the level of vimentin protein was increased markedly after 24 h treatment of MDA-MB-231 cells with WA. WA-induced apoptosis was not affected by vimentin protein knockdown in MDA-MB-231 cells. Protein level of vimentin was significantly lower in the MDA-MB-231 xenografts as well as in MMTV-neu tumors from WA-treated mice compared with controls. The major conclusions of the present study are that (a) WA treatment inhibits experimental EMT in MCF-10A cells, and (b) mammary cancer growth inhibition by WA administration is associated with suppression of vimentin protein expression in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joomin Lee
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, and University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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