12(S)-HETE in cancer metastasis

Palmitic acid inhibits macrophage-mediated chemotherapy resistance in multiple myeloma via ALOX12 signaling

We previously discovered that macrophages (MΦs), especially tumor-associated MΦs (tMΦs), contribute to chemotherapy resistance in multiple myeloma (MM). However, the mechanism underlying MΦ-mediated chemotherapy resistance in MM needs further elucidation, and the identification of factors that preferentially abrogate MΦ-induced inhibition of MM chemotherapy may have important clinical significance. In this study, we showed that the expression of FASN and SCD2, the enzymes that synthesize palmitic acid and convert it to palmitoleic acid, was decreased in tMΦs compared with MΦs. Interestingly, palmitic acid abrogated the MΦ-mediated protection of MM cells from the effects of bortezomib and melphalan in vitro. Combination treatment with palmitic acid and bortezomib or melphalan further inhibited MM tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, palmitic acid treatment increased ALOX12 expression in MΦs. ALOX12 inhibition partially abrogated the palmitic acid-induced decrease in MΦ-mediated MM cell survival. Palmitic acid treatment inhibited AMPK signaling in MΦs, and ALOX12 knockdown activated the AMPK signaling pathway in MΦs. AMPK inhibition decreased the MΦ-mediated protection of drug-treated MM cells, and AMPK activation partially abolished the palmitic acid-induced inhibition of MΦ-mediated protection. ALOX12 converts arachidonic acid (AA) to 12-HETE. Moreover, treatment with AA but not 12-HETE partially abrogated the inhibitory effect of palmitic acid on MΦ-mediated MM cell survival in response to bortezomib or melphalan. Overall, we identified palmitic acid as a factor that inhibits MΦ-mediated resistance to bortezomib and melphalan in MM, which may have clinical significance.

Alteration of Hepatic Cytochrome P450 Expression and Arachidonic Acid Metabolism by Arsenic Trioxide (ATO) in C57BL/6 Mice

The success of arsenic trioxide (ATO) in acute promyelocytic leukemia has driven a plethora studies to investigate its efficacy in other malignancies. However, the inherent toxicity of ATO limits the expansion of its clinical applications. Such toxicity may be linked to ATO-induced metabolic derangements of endogenous substrates. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to investigate the effect of ATO on the hepatic formation of arachidonic acid (AA) metabolites, hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids (HETEs), as well as their most notable producing machinery, cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes. For this purpose, C57BL/6 mice were intraperitoneally injected with 8 mg/kg ATO for 6 and 24 h. Total RNA was extracted from harvested liver tissues for qPCR analysis of target genes. Hepatic microsomal proteins underwent incubation with AA, followed by identification/quantification of the produced HETEs. ATO downregulated Cyp2e1, while induced Cyp2j9 and most of Cyp4a and Cyp4f, and this has resulted in a significant increase in 17(S)-HETE and 18(R)-HETE, while significantly decreased 18(S)-HETE. Additionally, ATO induced Cyp4a10, Cyp4a14, Cyp4f13, Cyp4f16, and Cyp4f18, resulting in a significant elevation in 20-HETE formation. In conclusion, ATO altered hepatic AA metabolites formation through modulating the underlying network of CYP enzymes. Modifying the homeostatic production of bioactive AA metabolites, such as HETEs, may entail toxic events that can, at least partly, explain ATO-induced hepatotoxicity. Such modification can also compromise the overall body tolerability to ATO treatment in cancer patients.

Tumor-Educated Platelet Extracellular Vesicles: Proteomic Profiling and Crosstalk with Colorectal Cancer Cells

BACKGROUND

Platelet-cancer cell interactions modulate tumor metastasis and thrombosis in cancer. Platelet-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) can contribute to these outcomes.

METHODS

We characterized the medium-sized EVs (mEVs) released by thrombin-stimulated platelets of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients and healthy subjects (HS) on the capacity to induce epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related genes and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2(PTGS2), and thromboxane (TX)B₂ production in cocultures with four colorectal cancer cell lines. Platelet-derived mEVs were assessed for their size distribution and proteomics signature.

RESULTS

The mEV population released from thrombin-activated platelets of CRC patients had a different size distribution vs. HS. Platelet-derived mEVs from CRC patients, but not from HS, upregulated EMT marker genes, such as TWIST1 and VIM, and downregulated CDH1. PTGS2 was also upregulated. In cocultures of platelet-derived mEVs with cancer cells, TXB₂ generation was enhanced. The proteomics profile of mEVs released from activated platelets of CRC patients revealed that 119 proteins were downregulated and 89 upregulated vs. HS.

CONCLUSIONS

We show that mEVs released from thrombin-activated platelets of CRC patients have distinct features (size distribution and proteomics cargo) vs. HS and promote prometastatic and prothrombotic phenotypes in cancer cells. The analysis of platelet-derived mEVs from CRC patients could provide valuable information for developing an appropriate treatment plan.

Biology and pharmacology of platelet-type 12-lipoxygenase in platelets, cancer cells, and their crosstalk

Platelet-type lipoxygenase (pl12-LOX), encoded by ALOX12, catalyzes the production of the lipid mediator 12S-hydroperoxyeicosa-5,8,10,14-tetraenoic acid (12S-HpETE), which is quickly reduced by cellular peroxidases to form 12(S)-hydroxy-5,8,10,14-eicosatetraenoic acid (12S-HETE). Platelets express high levels of pl12-LOX and generate considerable amounts of 12S-HETE from arachidonic acid (AA; C20:4, n-6). The development of sensitive chiral liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) methods has allowed the accurate quantification of 12S-HETE in biological samples. Moreover, advances in the knowledge of the mechanism of action of 12S-HETE have been achieved. The orphan G-protein-coupled receptor 31 (GPR31) has been identified as the high-affinity 12S-HETE receptor. Moreover, upon platelet activation, 12S-HETE is produced, and significant amounts are found esterified to membrane phospholipids (PLs), such as phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and phosphatidylcholine (PC), promoting thrombin generation. Platelets play many roles in cancer metastasis. Among them, the platelets' ability to interact with cancer cells and transfer platelet molecules by the release of extracellular vesicles (EVs) is noteworthy. Recently, it was found that platelets induce epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT) in cancer cells, a phenomenon known to confer high-grade malignancy, through the transfer of pl12-LOX contained in platelet-derived EVs. These cancer cells now generate 12-HETE, considered a key modulator of cancer metastasis. Interestingly, 12-HETE was mainly found esterified in plasmalogen phospholipids of cancer cells. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the regulation and functions of pl12-LOX in platelets and cancer cells and their crosstalk.Novel approaches to preventing cancer and metastasis by the pharmacological inhibition of pl12-LOX and the internalization of mEVs are discussed.

Platelets induce free and phospholipid-esterified 12-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid generation in colon cancer cells by delivering 12-lipoxygenase

Platelets promote tumor metastasis by inducing promalignant phenotypes in cancer cells and directly contributing to cancer-related thrombotic complications. Platelet-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) can promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in cancer cells, which confers high-grade malignancy. 12S-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12-HETE) generated by platelet-type 12-lipoxygenase (12-LOX) is considered a key modulator of cancer metastasis through unknown mechanisms. In platelets, 12-HETE can be esterified into plasma membrane phospholipids (PLs), which drive thrombosis. Using cocultures of human platelets and human colon adenocarcinoma cells (line HT29) and LC-MS/MS, we investigated the impact of platelets on cancer cell biosynthesis of 12S-HETE and its esterification into PLs and whether platelet ability to transfer its molecular cargo might play a role. To this aim, we performed coculture experiments with CFSE[5-(and-6)-carboxyfluorescein diacetate, succinimidyl ester]-loaded platelets. HT29 cells did not generate 12S-HETE or express 12-LOX. However, they acquired the capacity to produce 12S-HETE mainly esterified in plasmalogen phospholipid forms following the uptake of platelet-derived medium-sized EVs (mEVs) expressing 12-LOX. 12-LOX was detected in plasma mEV of patients with adenomas/adenocarcinomas, implying their potential to deliver the protein to cancer cells in vivo. In cancer cells exposed to platelets, endogenous but not exogenous 12S-HETE contributed to changes in EMT gene expression, mitigated by three structurally unrelated 12-LOX inhibitors. In conclusion, we showed that platelets induce the generation of primarily esterified 12-HETE in colon cancer cells following mEV-mediated delivery of 12-LOX. The modification of cancer cell phospholipids by 12-HETE may functionally impact cancer cell biology and represent a novel target for anticancer agent development.

Ibuprofen alters epoxide hydrolase activity and epoxy-oxylipin metabolites associated with different metabolic pathways in murine livers

Over the last decade oxylipins have become more recognized for their involvement in several diseases. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen are known to inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, but how NSAIDs affect oxylipins, in addition to COX products, in animal tissues is not well understood. Oxylipins in livers from male and female mice treated with 100 mg/kg/day of ibuprofen for 7 days were investigated. The results showed that ibuprofen treated male livers contained 7 times more altered oxylipins than ibuprofen treated female livers. In male and female livers some prostaglandins were altered, while diols, hydroxy fatty acids and epoxides were significantly altered in male livers. Some soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) products, such as 9,10-DiHODE were found to be decreased, while sEH substrates (such as 9(10)-EpODE and 5(6)-EpETrE) were found to be increased in male livers treated with ibuprofen, but not in ibuprofen treated female livers. The enzymatic activities of sEH and microsomal epoxide hydrolase (mEH) were elevated by ibuprofen in both males and females. Analyzing the influence of sex on the effect of ibuprofen on oxylipins and COX products showed that approximately 27% of oxylipins detected were influenced by sex. The results reveal that ibuprofen disturbs not only the COX pathway, but also the CYP450 and lipoxygenase pathways in male mice, suggesting that ibuprofen is likely to generate sex related differences in biologically active oxylipins. Increased sEH activity after ibuprofen treatment is likely to be one of the mechanisms by which the liver reduces the higher levels of EpODEs and EpETrEs.

Targeting of the Alox12-12-HETE in Blast Crisis Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Inhibits Leukemia Stem/Progenitor Cell Function

Introduction

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a myeloid malignancy characterized by the oncogene BCR-ABL. CML responds well to therapy targeting BCR-ABL in the chronic phase but is resistant to treatment when it progresses to the blast phase (BP). This study attempted to address whether arachidonate 12-lipoxygenase (Alox12) confers to CML drug resistance.

Materials and Methods

We analyzed the expression of Alox12 using Western blotting, ELISA, and RT-PCR methods. Loss of functional analysis was performed using cellular activity assays on CML and normal hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs).

Results

Alox12 and 12-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12-HETE) are overexpressed in BP-CML but not HSPCs, and that Alox12-12-HETE axis is regulated by BCR-ABL. The Alox12-12-HETE axis is required for CML. Specific Alox12 inhibitor inhibits colony formation, survival, and self-renewal capacity in BP-CML HSPCs, and to a significantly greater extent than in normal HSPCs. Of note, the Alox12 inhibitor significantly augments dasatinib’s efficacy in BP-CML HSPCs. Mechanism studies show that Alox12 inhibition does not affect activities of essential signaling pathways involved in maintaining stem cell function, such as Wnt, p53, and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP). In contrast, we show that Alox12 inhibition disrupts nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) homeostasis and induces oxidative stress and damage in CML HSPCs and committed cells.

Conclusion

Alox12-12-HETE axis is a specific and critical regulator of BP-CML HSPCs functions. Pharmacological inhibition of Alox12 may be useful in BP-CML.

Oils' Impact on Comprehensive Fatty Acid Analysis and Their Metabolites in Rats

Fatty acids, especially polyunsaturated, and their metabolites (eicosanoids) play many pivotal roles in human body, influencing various physiological and pathological processes. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of supplementation with edible oils diverse in terms of fatty acid composition on fatty acid contents, activities of converting their enzymes, and on lipoxygenase metabolites of arachidonic and linoleic acids (eicosanoids) in rat serum. Female Sprague-Dawley rats divided into seven groups were used in the study. Animals from six groups were fed one of oils daily (carotino oil, made up by combining of red palm oil and canola oil, linseed oil, olive oil, rice oil, sesame oil, or sunflower oil). One group received a standard diet only. Fatty acids were determined using gas chromatography with flame ionization detection. Eicosanoids—hydroxyeicosatetraenoic (HETE) and hydroxyoctadecadienoic acids (HODE) were extracted using a solid-phase extraction method and analyzed with HPLC. Vegetable oils given daily to rats caused significant changes in serum fatty acid profile and eicosanoid concentrations. Significant differences were also found in desaturases’ activity, with the linseed and olive oil supplemented groups characterized by the highest D6D and D5D activity. These findings may play a significant role in various pathological states.

Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid: From Herbal Medicine to Clinical Development for Cancer and Chronic Diseases

Nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) is a phenolic lignan obtained from Larrea tridentata, the creosote bush found in Mexico and USA deserts, that has been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of numerous diseases such as cancer, renal, cardiovascular, immunological, and neurological disorders, and even aging. NDGA presents two catechol rings that confer a very potent antioxidant activity by scavenging oxygen free radicals and this may explain part of its therapeutic action. Additional effects include inhibition of lipoxygenases (LOXs) and activation of signaling pathways that impinge on the transcription factor Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-related Factor (NRF2). On the other hand, the oxidation of the catechols to the corresponding quinones my elicit alterations in proteins and DNA that raise safety concerns. This review describes the current knowledge on NDGA, its targets and side effects, and its synthetic analogs as promising therapeutic agents, highlighting their mechanism of action and clinical projection towards therapy of neurodegenerative, liver, and kidney disease, as well as cancer.

Inhibition of arachidonate lipoxygenase12 targets lung cancer through inhibiting EMT and suppressing RhoA and NF-κB activity

The carcinogenic function of arachidonate lipoxygenase12 (Alox12) has been reported in various cancers. However, little is known on the role of Alox12 in lung cancer. Here, we demonstrate that Alox12 is upregulated and contributes to biological activities of lung cancer through multiple mechanisms. We found that Alox12 mRNA and protein levels were increased by 2.5-fold in a panel of lung cancer cell lines compared to normal lung cells. The expression of Alox12 varied among lung cancer cell lines. The immunohistochemistry analysis on paired normal and tumor lung tissues from twenty patients showed that Alox12 protein level is higher in lung cancer than normal lung tissues from the majority of patients. We further observed the upregulation of Alox12-12-HETE signaling axis in lung cancer tissues. Overexpression of Alox12 promoted growth and migration in normal lung cells and lung cancer cells. In contrast, Alox12 inhibition via genetic and pharmacological approaches suppressed growth and migration, induced apoptosis, and sensitized lung cancer cells to chemotherapy. This is through suppressing RhoA signaling, inhibiting epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and NF-κB activity. Our work reveals the therapeutic value of inhibiting Alox12 in overcoming chemoresistance in lung cancer.

ALOX12 inhibition sensitizes breast cancer to chemotherapy via AMPK activation and inhibition of lipid synthesis

Arachidonate lipoxygenase12 (Alox12) and its metabolites 12S-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12S-HETE) have been implicated in influencing tumor transformation and progression. In this study, we have systematically evaluated the expression, function and the downstream effectors of Alox12 in breast cancer using loss- and gain-of-function approaches. We demonstrated that both mRNA and protein levels of Alox12 were significantly increased in multiple breast cancer cell lines compared to normal breast cells. The upregulation of Alox12 expression was also observed in breast cancer tissues and their matched normal breast tissues obtained from patients. Functionally, we demonstrated that Alox12 overexpression was sufficient to stimulate growth in normal breast cells but not breast cancer cells. This also protects breast cancer cell from chemotherapy-induced growth arrest and apoptosis. In contrast, Alox12 depletion inhibited breast cancer growth and survival, and significantly enhanced the chemotherapeutic agents' efficacy. Mechanism studies showed that Alox12 depletion activated AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), leading to the inhibition of acetyl-CoA carboxylase1 (ACC1) enzyme activity and lipid synthesis. The recuse of the effects of Alox12 depletion using Alox12 metabolites 12S-HETE further confirmed that AMPK and its subsequent inhibition of ACC1 activity and lipid synthesis were the downstream signaling of Alox12 inhibition. Our findings highlighted the important role of Alox12 in breast cancer, particularly in response to chemotherapy. Our work also demonstrate that inhibiting Alox12 is a possible alternative therapeutic strategy to overcome chemoresistance in breast cancer.

Eicosanoids in prostate cancer

Many epidemiological studies revealed an association of dietary consumption of fatty acids and prostate cancer. Linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid and their derivatives such as arachidonic acid and eicosapentanoic acid are important polyunsaturated fatty acids in animal fats and in many vegetable oils. Their metabolism at the cellular level by enzymes such as lipoxygenases and cycloxygenases produces the group of eicosanoids molecules with many biological roles and activities in a variety of human diseases including cancer. In this review, we describe the biological activities of lipids with focus in eicosanoids and prostate cancer.

Arachidonic Acid Metabolite as a Novel Therapeutic Target in Breast Cancer Metastasis

Metastatic breast cancer (BC) (also referred to as stage IV) spreads beyond the breast to the bones, lungs, liver, or brain and is a major contributor to the deaths of cancer patients. Interestingly, metastasis is a result of stroma-coordinated hallmarks such as invasion and migration of the tumor cells from the primary niche, regrowth of the invading tumor cells in the distant organs, proliferation, vascularization, and immune suppression. Targeted therapies, when used as monotherapies or combination therapies, have shown limited success in decreasing the established metastatic growth and improving survival. Thus, novel therapeutic targets are warranted to improve the metastasis outcomes. We have been actively investigating the cytochrome P450 4 (CYP4) family of enzymes that can biosynthesize 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE), an important signaling eicosanoid involved in the regulation of vascular tone and angiogenesis. We have shown that 20-HETE can activate several intracellular protein kinases, pro-inflammatory mediators, and chemokines in cancer. This review article is focused on understanding the role of the arachidonic acid metabolic pathway in BC metastasis with an emphasis on 20-HETE as a novel therapeutic target to decrease BC metastasis. We have discussed all the significant investigational mechanisms and put forward studies showing how 20-HETE can promote angiogenesis and metastasis, and how its inhibition could affect the metastatic niches. Potential adjuvant therapies targeting the tumor microenvironment showing anti-tumor properties against BC and its lung metastasis are discussed at the end. This review will highlight the importance of exploring tumor-inherent and stromal-inherent metabolic pathways in the development of novel therapeutics for treating BC metastasis.

Impact of conjugated linoleic acid administered to rats prior and after carcinogenic agent on arachidonic and linoleic acid metabolites in serum and tumors

The objective of the study was to assess the influence of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) daily supplementation prior and after carcinogenic agent on the concentrations of eicosanoids - metabolites of arachidonic acid (15-, 12- or 5-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids (15-, 12-, 5-HETE), prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂)) and linoleic acid (13- or 9-hydroxyoctadecadienoic acids (13-, 9-HODE)) in rat serum and 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-induced tumors. Female rats were randomised into six groups, receiving 1% or 2% Bio-C.L.A or plant oil since the 37th day of life throughout the whole experiment. Some rats (50-day-old) were administered DMBA to induce tumors. Eicosanoids were analyzed with LC-MS/MS. The study indicated that CLA supplemented daily to rats prior and after carcinogen administration affected concentrations of arachidonic and linoleic acid metabolites in rat serum and induced tumors. However, ratios of eicosanoids exerting opposite activities (e.g. 12-HETE/15-HETE) appear to act as more precise factors reflecting pathological changes in an organism than individual compounds.

Influence of maternal diet enrichment with conjugated linoleic acids on lipoxygenase metabolites of polyunsaturated fatty acids in serum of their offspring with 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene induced mammary tumors

Conjugated linoleic acids (CLA), which are a group of naturally occurring in food isomers of linoleic acid, seem to be active in each step of cancer development. There are many possible mechanisms of this action, and interactions with polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in lipoxygenase (LOX) and cyclooxygenase (COX) pathways are among the most likely ones. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of diet supplementation with CLA of pregnant and breastfeeding Sprague-Dawley female rats on selected polyunsaturated fatty acids and their LOX metabolites concentrations in serum of the progeny with chemically induced mammary tumors. We confirmed that higher supply of CLA in the diet of female rats corresponded with the lower susceptibility to chemically induced mammary tumors in their female offspring. It also influenced the polyunsaturated n-3 and n-6 fatty acid concentrations in serum, as well as the concentrations of their LOX metabolites. The significant negative correlation between the concentrations of two CLA isomers in serum and linoleic acid (p=0.0144, p=0.0098), eicosapentaenoic acid (p=0.0158, p=0.0124), and 5-HEPE (p=0.0014, p=0.01690) and between cis-9, trans-11 CLA and 15-HEPE was detected, whereas arachidonic acid concentration positively correlated with CLA concentration in serum (p=0.0150, p=0.0231). Our results indicate that CLA can compete with PUFA and influence serum concentration of PUFA and their LOX metabolites, which could partly explain the anticancerogenic action of CLA.

Analysis, physiological and clinical significance of 12-HETE: a neglected platelet-derived 12-lipoxygenase product

While the importance of cyclooxygenase (COX) in platelet function has been amply elucidated, the identification of the role of 12-lipoxygenase (12-LOX) and of its stable metabolite, 12-hydroxyeicosatretraenoic acid (12-HETE), has not been clarified as yet. Many studies have analysed the implications of 12-LOX products in different pathological disorders but the information obtained from these works is controversial. Several analytical methods have been developed over the years to simultaneously detect eicosanoids, and specifically 12-HETE, in different biological matrices, essentially enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), radioimmunoassays (RIA), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry coupled with both gas and liquid chromatography methods (GC- and LC-MS). This review is aimed at summarizing the up to now known physiological and clinical features of 12-HETE together with the analytical methods used for its determination, focusing on the critical issues regarding its measurement.

Emerging targets in lipid-based therapy

The use of prostaglandins and NSAIDS in the clinic has proven that lipid mediators and their associated pathways make attractive therapeutic targets. When contemplating therapies involving lipid pathways, several basic agents come to mind. There are the enzymes and accessory proteins that lead to the metabolism of lipid substrates, provided through diet or through actions of lipases, the subsequent lipid products, and finally the lipid sensors or receptors. There is abundant evidence that molecules along this lipid continuum can serve as prognostic and diagnostic indicators and are in fact viable therapeutic targets. Furthermore, lipids themselves can be used as therapeutics. Despite this, the vernacular dialog pertaining to "biomarkers" does not routinely include mention of lipids, though this is rapidly changing. Collectively these agents are becoming more appreciated for their respective roles in diverse disease processes from cancer to preterm labor and are receiving their due appreciation after decades of ground work in the lipid field. By relating examples of disease processes that result from dysfunction along the lipid continuum, as well as examples of lipid therapies and emerging technologies, this review is meant to inspire further reading and discovery.

Arachidonic acid metabolism in human prostate cancer

The arachidonic acid pathway is important in the development and progression of numerous malignant diseases, including prostate cancer. To more fully evaluate the role of individual cyclooxygenases (COXs), lipoxygenases (LOXs) and their metabolites in prostate cancer, we measured mRNA and protein levels of COXs and LOXs and their arachidonate metabolites in androgen-dependent (LNCaP) and androgen-independent (PC-3 and DU145) prostate cancer cell lines, bone metastasis-derived MDA PCa 2a and MDA PCa 2b cell lines and their corresponding xenograft models, as well as core biopsy specimens of primary prostate cancer and nonneoplastic prostate tissue taken ex vivo after prostatectomy. Relatively high levels of COX-2 mRNA and its product PGE2 were observed only in PC-3 cells and their xenografts. By contrast, levels of the exogenous 12-LOX product 12-HETE were consistently higher in MDA PCa 2b and PC-3 cells and their corresponding xenograft tissues than were those in LNCaP cells. More strikingly, the mean endogenous level of 12-HETE was significantly higher in the primary prostate cancers than in the nonneoplastic prostate tissue (0.094 vs. 0.010 ng/mg protein, respectively; p=0.019). Our results suggest that LOX metabolites such as 12-HETE are critical in prostate cancer progression and that the LOX pathway may be a target for treating and preventing prostate cancer.

Regulation of inflammation in cancer by eicosanoids

Inflammation in the tumor microenvironment is now recognized as one of the hallmarks of cancer. Endogenously produced lipid autacoids, locally acting small molecule lipid mediators, play a central role in inflammation and tissue homeostasis, and have recently been implicated in cancer. A well-studied group of autacoid mediators that are the products of arachidonic acid metabolism include: the prostaglandins, leukotrienes, lipoxins and cytochrome P450 (CYP) derived bioactive products. These lipid mediators are collectively referred to as eicosanoids and are generated by distinct enzymatic systems initiated by cyclooxygenases (COX 1 and 2), lipoxygenases (5-LOX, 12-LOX, 15-LOXa, 15-LOXb), and cytochrome P450s, respectively. These pathways are the target of approved drugs for the treatment of inflammation, pain, asthma, allergies, and cardiovascular disorders. Beyond their potent anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and COX-2 specific inhibitors have been evaluated in both preclinical tumor models and clinical trials. Eicosanoid biosynthesis and actions can also be directly influenced by nutrients in the diet, as evidenced by the emerging role of omega-3 fatty acids in cancer prevention and treatment. Most research dedicated to using eicosanoids to inhibit tumor-associated inflammation has focused on the COX and LOX pathways. Novel experimental approaches that demonstrate the anti-tumor effects of inhibiting cancer-associated inflammation currently include: eicosanoid receptor antagonism, overexpression of eicosanoid metabolizing enzymes, and the use of endogenous anti-inflammatory lipid mediators. Here we review the actions of eicosanoids on inflammation in the context of tumorigenesis. Eicosanoids may represent a missing link between inflammation and cancer and thus could serve as therapeutic target(s) for inhibiting tumor growth.

A nutritional strategy for reducing disease and obesity risks

Overweight and obesity are the most common nutritional disorders in our age and are becoming more and more common worldwide. The most harmful consequences of an incorrect diet leading to overweight or obesity are a series of cardio-vascular diseases often leading to disability and death. In recent years various studies have shown that a reduction in caloric intake is the main factor involved in reduction of pathology risk. In this article, a nutrition strategy, based on the Zone diet by US biochemist Dr. Barry Sears is proposed. It underlines the importance of choosing certain types of foods over others, their beneficial physiological effects on the human body and how they can reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.

Discovery of platelet-type 12-human lipoxygenase selective inhibitors by high-throughput screening of structurally diverse libraries

Human lipoxygenases (hLO) have been implicated in a variety of diseases and cancers and each hLO isozyme appears to have distinct roles in cellular biology. This fact emphasizes the need for discovering selective hLO inhibitors for both understanding the role of specific lipoxygenases in the cell and developing pharmaceutical therapeutics. To this end, we have modified a known lipoxygenase assay for high-throughput (HTP) screening of both the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the UC Santa Cruz marine extract library (UCSC-MEL) in search of platelet-type 12-hLO (12-hLO) selective inhibitors. The HTP screen led to the characterization of five novel 12-hLO inhibitors from the NCI repository. One is the potent but non-selective michellamine B, a natural product, anti-viral agent. The other four compounds were selective inhibitors against 12-hLO, with three being synthetic compounds and one being alpha-mangostin, a natural product, caspase-3 pathway inhibitor. In addition, a selective inhibitor was isolated from the UCSC-MEL (neodysidenin), which has a unique chemical scaffold for a hLO inhibitor. Due to the unique structure of neodysidenin, steady-state inhibition kinetics were performed and its mode of inhibition against 12-hLO was determined to be competitive (K(i)=17microM) and selective over reticulocyte 15-hLO-1 (K(i) 15-hLO-1/12-hLO>30).

Platelet 12-lipoxygenase Arg261Gln polymorphism: functional characterization and association with risk of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma in combination with COX-2 polymorphisms

BACKGROUND

Aberrant arachidonic acid metabolism by 12-lipoxygenase (12-LOX) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) has been implicated in human carcinogenesis. Inherited polymorphisms in 12-LOX and COX-2 contributed to differential expression or activity of these enzymes might confer interindividual susceptibility to cancer.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the functional significance of 12-LOX 261 Arg> Gln polymorphism and its association, alone and in combination with COX-2 -1195G > A and -765G > C polymorphisms, with risk of developing esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).

METHODS

The platelet 12-LOX activity was measured by quantifying 12-HETE in the lipoxygenation reaction. Genotypes of 12-LOX261Arg>Gln and COX-2 -1195G>A and -765G>C polymorphisms were determined in a case-control study consisting of 1026 patients and 1270 controls. Associations with the risk of ESCC were estimated by logistic regression.

RESULTS

Subjects with the 12-LOX Gln/Gln genotype had higher platelet 12-LOX activity (mean+/-SEM nmol/mg/min) than those with the Arg/Arg genotype (0.405+/-0.047 [n=10] versus 0.136+/-0.022 [n=6]; P=0.001). Genotyping data showed that the 12-LOX Gln/Gln genotype was associated with increased risk of developing ESCC (odds ratio [OR]=1.42, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.12-1.81), compared with the Arg/Arg genotype adjusted for sex, age, and smoking. An increased risk of ESCC was also associated with the COX-2 -1195GA (OR=1.34, 95% CI=1.08-1.68; P=0.008), -1195AA (OR=1.72, 95% CI=1.35-2.20; P=<0.001), and -765GC (OR=2.24, 95% CI=1.59-3.16; P<0.001) genotypes. Furthermore, a multiplicative interaction between the 12-LOX Gln/Gln and COX-2 -1195AA or -765GC genotype in intensifying risk of ESCC was observed, with the ORs for the presence of both 12-LOX Gln/Gln and COX-2 -1195AA or -765GC genotypes being 3.21 (95% CI=1.93-5.34) and 3.33 (95% CI=1.59-6.98). A multiplicative interaction between the -765GC genotype and smoking was also evident (OR=4.45, 95% CI=2.71-7.29).

CONCLUSION

These observations suggest that inherited polymorphisms in arachidonic acid-metabolizing enzymes, which result in heightened gene expression or enzymatic activity, may confer host susceptibility to ESCC.

Platelet-type 12-lipoxygenase activates NF-kappaB in prostate cancer cells

Platelet-type arachidonate 12-lipoxygenase (12-LOX) is highly expressed in many types of cancers and plays an important role in cancer pathophysiology. Arachidonic acid metabolism by 12-LOX results in the stable end product 12(S)-hydroxy eicosatetraenoic acid (12(S)-HETE), which is a signaling molecule with effects on cell proliferation, motility, invasiveness, angiogenesis, and inhibition of apoptosis. The myriad biological activities manifested by 12(S)-HETE appear to be mediated, at least in part, by the activation of NF-kappaB. Overexpression of the 12-LOX in PC-3 prostate cancer cells resulted in the constitutive activation of the transcription factor. The enzymatic product of arachidonic acid metabolism, 12(S)-HETE, mediates the activation of NF-kappaB by the 12-LOX. 12(S)-HETE treatment of PC-3 cells induced the degradation of IkappaB by the S6 proteasomal pathway and the activated NF-kappaB translocated to the nucleus causing kappaB-induced transcription. Specificity of the NF-kappaB activation by 12(S)-HETE was established by the use of a 12-LOX-specific inhibitor and 13(S)-HODE, a known 12(S)-HETE antagonist. Considering the known involvement of MAP kinase pathway in NF-kappaB activation and that of 12(S)-HETE in MAP kinase pathway, 12-LOX present in prostate cancer tissues may contribute to the constitutive activation of NF-kappaB in prostate cancer cells.

Nutritional and botanical modulation of the inflammatory cascade--eicosanoids, cyclooxygenases, and lipoxygenases--as an adjunct in cancer therapy

Emerging on the horizon in cancer therapy is an expansion of the scope of treatment beyond cytotoxic approaches to include molecular management of cancer physiopathology. The goal in these integrative approaches, which extends beyond eradicating the affected cells, is to control the cancer phenotype. One key new approach appears to be modulation of the inflammatory cascade, as research is expanding that links cancer initiation, promotion, progression, angiogenesis, and metastasis to inflammatory events. This article presents a literature review of the emerging relationship between neoplasia and inflammatory eicosanoids (PGE2 and related prostaglandins), with a focus on how inhibition of their synthesizing oxidases, particularly cyclooxygenase (COX), offers anticancer actions in vitro and in vivo. Although a majority of this research emphasizes the pharmaceutical applications of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and selective COX-2 inhibitors, these agents fail to address alternate pathways available for the synthesis of proinflammatory eicosanoids. Evidence is presented that suggests the inhibition of lipoxygenase and its by-products-LTB4, 5-HETE, and 12-HETE-represents an overlooked but crucial component in complementary cancer therapies. Based on the hypothesis that natural agents capable of modulating both lipoxygenase and COX may advance the efficacy of cancer therapy, an overview and discussion is presented of dietary modifications and selected nutritional and botanical agents (notably, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, boswellia, bromelain, curcumin, and quercetin) that favorably influence eicosanoid production.

Nonradiometric HPLC measurement of 13(S)-hydroxyoctadecadienoic acid from rat tissues

A major bioactive metabolite of linoleic acid formed by the action of 15-lipoxygenase-1 is 13(S)-hydroxy-cis-9, trans-11-octadecadienoic acid (13(S)-HODE). 13(S)-HODE is an important intracellular signal agent and is involved in cell proliferation and differentiation in various biological systems. Separation and quantification of 13(S)-HODE from biological materials has previously been achieved only by using radiolabeled linoleic acid as the substrate and two serially connected or two separate HPLC columns to achieve separation of 13(S)-HODE. In the current method, separation and quantification of 13(S)-HODE was achieved by use of a normal-phase HPLC and a solvent system containing hexane/isopropanol/acetonitrile/acetic acid (800/8/30/1, v/v) using isocratic elution with detection at 235 nm. With the currently described method, good separation from unreacted interfering compounds and quantification for 13(S)-HODE were achieved within 35 min with a minimum detection limit of 0.5 ng per injection.

Current prospects for controlling cancer growth with non-cytotoxic agents--nutrients, phytochemicals, herbal extracts, and available drugs

In animal or cell culture studies, the growth and spread of cancer can be slowed by many nutrients, food factors, herbal extracts, and well-tolerated, available drugs that are still rarely used in the clinical management of cancer, in part because they seem unlikely to constitute definitive therapies in themselves. However, it is reasonable to expect that mechanistically complementary combinations of these measures could have a worthwhile impact on survival times and, when used as adjuvants, could improve the cure rates achievable with standard therapies. The therapeutic options available in this regard include measures that: down-regulate serum free IGF-I; suppress the synthesis of mevalonic acid and/or certain derivatives thereof; modulate arachidonate metabolism by inhibiting 5-lipoxygenase, 12-lipoxygenase, or COX-2; antagonize the activation of AP-1 transcription factors; promote the activation of PPAR-gamma transcription factors; and that suppress angiogenesis by additional mechanisms. Many of these measures appear suitable for use in cancer prevention.

A short catalytic enantioselective synthesis of the proinflammatory eicosanoid 12(R)-hydroxy- 5(Z),8(Z),10(E),14(Z)-eicosatetraenoic acid (12(R)-HETE)

A new and effective pathway is described for the synthesis of 12(R)-HETE and the 12(S)-enantiomer from the common intermediates 4 and 8.