Lipoic acid induces p53-independent cell death in colorectal cancer cells and potentiates the cytotoxicity of 5-fluorouracil

Protein lipoylation: mitochondria, cuproptosis, and beyond

Protein lipoylation, a crucial post-translational modification (PTM), plays a pivotal role in mitochondrial function and emerges as a key player in cell death through cuproptosis. This novel copper-driven cell death pathway is activated by excessive copper ions binding to lipoylated mitochondrial proteins, disrupting energy production and causing lethal protein aggregation and cell death. The intricate relationship among protein lipoylation, cellular energy metabolism, and cuproptosis offers a promising avenue for regulating essential cellular functions. This review focuses on the mechanisms of lipoylation and its significant impact on cell metabolism and cuproptosis, emphasizing the key genes involved and their implications for human diseases. It offers valuable insights into targeting dysregulated cellular metabolism for therapeutic purposes.

Influence of Bilberry Extract on Neuronal Cell Toxicity

Increased intake of dietary antioxidants such as anthocyanins, which are enriched in colourful fruits, is a promising alternative to reduce the risk of degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Since Amyloid β (Aβ) is one of the key components contributing to AD pathology, probably by reactive oxygen species (ROS) induction, this study investigated the preventive effect of anthocyanin-rich bilberry extract (BE) and its anthocyanin fraction (ACN) on ROS generation and cell toxicity. The results showed a significant and concentration-dependent decrease in neuroblastoma cell (SH-SY5Y) viability by BE or ACN, whereas no cell toxicity was observed in HeLa cells. Incubation with BE and ACN for 24 h diminished the generation of induced ROS levels in SH-SY5Y and HeLa cells. In addition, low concentrations of BE (1-5 µg/mL) showed protective effects against Aβ-induced cytotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells. In conclusion, our results suggest antioxidant and protective effects of BE and ACN, which could potentially be used to delay the course of neurodegenerative diseases such as AD. Further studies are needed to clarify the high potential of anthocyanins and their in vivo metabolites on neuronal function.

α-lipoic acid modulates prostate cancer cell growth and bone cell differentiation

Prostate cancer (PCa) progression leads to bone modulation in approximately 70% of affected men. A nutraceutical, namely, α-lipoic acid (α-LA), is known for its potent anti-cancer properties towards various cancers and has been implicated in treating and promoting bone health. Our study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism behind the role of α-LA as therapeutics in preventing PCa and its associated bone modulation. Notably, α-LA treatment significantly reduced the cell viability, migration, and invasion of PCa cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, α-LA supplementation dramatically increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and HIF-1α expression, which started the downstream molecular cascade and activated JNK/caspase-3 signaling pathway. Flow cytometry data revealed the arrest of the cell cycle in the S-phase, which has led to apoptosis of PCa cells. Furthermore, the results of ALP (Alkaline phosphatase) and TRAP (tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase) staining signifies that α-LA supplementation diminished the PCa-mediated differentiation of osteoblasts and osteoclasts, respectively, in the MC3T3-E1 and bone marrow macrophages (BMMs) cells. In summary, α-LA supplementation enhanced cellular apoptosis via increased ROS levels, HIF-1α expression, and JNK/caspase-3 signaling pathway in advanced human PCa cell lines. Also, the treatment of α-LA improved bone health by reducing PCa-mediated bone cell modulation.

Targeting the Metabolic Paradigms in Cancer and Diabetes

Dysregulated metabolic dynamics are evident in both cancer and diabetes, with metabolic alterations representing a facet of the myriad changes observed in these conditions. This review delves into the commonalities in metabolism between cancer and type 2 diabetes (T2D), focusing specifically on the contrasting roles of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and glycolysis as primary energy-generating pathways within cells. Building on earlier research, we explore how a shift towards one pathway over the other serves as a foundational aspect in the development of cancer and T2D. Unlike previous reviews, we posit that this shift may occur in seemingly opposing yet complementary directions, akin to the Yin and Yang concept. These metabolic fluctuations reveal an intricate network of underlying defective signaling pathways, orchestrating the pathogenesis and progression of each disease. The Warburg phenomenon, characterized by the prevalence of aerobic glycolysis over minimal to no OXPHOS, emerges as the predominant metabolic phenotype in cancer. Conversely, in T2D, the prevailing metabolic paradigm has traditionally been perceived in terms of discrete irregularities rather than an OXPHOS-to-glycolysis shift. Throughout T2D pathogenesis, OXPHOS remains consistently heightened due to chronic hyperglycemia or hyperinsulinemia. In advanced insulin resistance and T2D, the metabolic landscape becomes more complex, featuring differential tissue-specific alterations that affect OXPHOS. Recent findings suggest that addressing the metabolic imbalance in both cancer and diabetes could offer an effective treatment strategy. Numerous pharmaceutical and nutritional modalities exhibiting therapeutic effects in both conditions ultimately modulate the OXPHOS-glycolysis axis. Noteworthy nutritional adjuncts, such as alpha-lipoic acid, flavonoids, and glutamine, demonstrate the ability to reprogram metabolism, exerting anti-tumor and anti-diabetic effects. Similarly, pharmacological agents like metformin exhibit therapeutic efficacy in both T2D and cancer. This review discusses the molecular mechanisms underlying these metabolic shifts and explores promising therapeutic strategies aimed at reversing the metabolic imbalance in both disease scenarios.

Synergistic effects of punicic acid and alpha lipoic acid ameliorate inflammatory and metabolic genes expression in C2C12 myoblast cells under oxidative stress condition

Inflammation is a reaction of the immune system to infection and injury; in fact, it positioned at the center of metabolic disorders, particularly obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Thus play a major role not only in their development, but also exerts as a crucial linking factor among those diseases. In this regard, one of the strategies for tackling this problem is application of antioxidants to treat such diseases. The present study was performed to evaluate the synergistic effects of punicic acid (PUA) and alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) as antioxidants and radical scavenging reagents on the expression of some inflammatory and metabolism-related genes under oxidative stress in the muscle cells. The experimental treatments consisted of a range of 20, 40, 80, 160, and 320 µM of PUA, and 5, 25, 50, 100, and 200 µM of ALA with a 200 µM concentration of H2 O2 as an oxidative stress inducer. Accordingly, fatty acid treatments were applied for 24 h, and H2 O2 was treated for 1 h. Our results indicated that the simultaneous treatment of PUA and ALA at optimal concentrations (80 and 50 µM, respectively) decreased the expression of inflammation genes and increased the expression of regulatory genes (Pparγ, Pgc-1α) related to metabolism (p < .05). Unexpectedly, H2 O2 treatment increased the Fndc5 expression (p < .05). Maximal upregulation of Pparγ, Pgc-1α were obtained when fatty acids combination (PUA and ALA) were used in the culture of H2 O2 treated cells (p < .05). Therefore, our findings suggest that the simultaneous use of PUA and ALA fatty acids could reduce oxidative stress, and the expression of inflammatory genes, thereby improving the cell metabolism.

Alpha-lipoic acid induced apoptosis of PC3 prostate cancer cells through an alteration on mitochondrial membrane depolarization and MMP-9 mRNA expression

Cancer has become an important cause of mortality and morbidity in the world. Over the past decades, biomedical research revealed insights into the molecular events and signaling pathways involved in carcinogenesis and cancer progression. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a diverse family of enzymes that can degrade various components of the extracellular matrix and are considered as potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for many cancer types and cancer stages. Recently, studies on the role of natural-origin active substances in the prevention of cancer development gained importance. Among them, the α-lipoic acid, which is commonly found in plants, displayed potent anti-proliferative effects on cancer cell lines. However, the effect of the compound on the induction of apoptosis and mRNA expression of MMPs in human prostate cancer cells remains unclear. The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-proliferative and apoptotic activity of α-lipoic acid in human PC3 prostate carcinoma cells considering different concentrations and exposure durations. The findings showed that, α-lipoic acid significantly decreased PC3 cell viability with an IC₅₀ value of 1.71 mM at 48 h (p < 0.05). Additionally, the compound significantly increased Annexin-V binding in cells compared to control and induced a significant alteration in mitochondrial membrane potential and caspase levels (p < 0.05). Furhermore, the RT-PCR analyses have revealed that α-lipoic acid reduced MMP-9 mRNA expression in PC3 cells compared to the control (p < 0.05). In conclusion, this study highlights that α-lipoic acid induced apoptosis in human PC3 prostate cancer cells and inhibited the MMP-9 gene at the mRNA level, which is known to play a role in metastasis development.

p53 triggers mitochondrial apoptosis following DNA damage-dependent replication stress by the hepatotoxin methyleugenol

Liver cancer is one of the most frequent tumor entities worldwide, which is causally linked to viral infection, fatty liver disease, life-style factors and food-borne carcinogens, particularly aflatoxins. Moreover, genotoxic plant toxins including phenylpropenes are suspected human liver carcinogens. The phenylpropene methyleugenol (ME) is a constituent of essential oils in many plants and occurs in herbal medicines, food, and cosmetics. Following its uptake, ME undergoes Cytochrome P450 (CYP) and sulfotransferase 1A1 (SULT1A1)-dependent metabolic activation, giving rise to DNA damage. However, little is known about the cellular response to the induced DNA adducts. Here, we made use of different SULT1A1-proficient cell models including primary hepatocytes that were treated with 1'-hydroxymethyleugenol (OH-ME) as main phase I metabolite. Firstly, mass spectrometry showed a concentration-dependent formation of N²-MIE-dG as major DNA adduct, strongly correlating with SULT1A1 expression as attested in cells with and without human SULT1A1. ME-derived DNA damage activated mainly the ATR-mediated DNA damage response as shown by phosphorylation of CHK1 and histone 2AX, followed by p53 accumulation and CHK2 phosphorylation. Consistent with these findings, the DNA adducts decreased replication speed and caused replication fork stalling. OH-ME treatment reduced viability particularly in cell lines with wild-type p53 and triggered apoptotic cell death, which was rescued by pan-caspase-inhibition. Further experiments demonstrated mitochondrial apoptosis as major cell death pathway. ME-derived DNA damage caused upregulation of the p53-responsive genes NOXA and PUMA, Bax activation, and cytochrome c release followed by caspase-9 and caspase-3 cleavage. We finally demonstrated the crucial role of p53 for OH-ME triggered cell death as evidenced by reduced pro-apoptotic gene expression, strongly attenuated Bax activation and cell death inhibition upon genetic knockdown or pharmacological inhibition of p53. Taken together, our study demonstrates for the first time that ME-derived DNA damage causes replication stress and triggers mitochondrial apoptosis via the p53-Bax pathway.

Protective Effects of Alpha-Lipoic Acid against 5-Fluorouracil-Induced Gastrointestinal Mucositis in Rats

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is extensively utilized in multivitamin formulas and anti-aging products. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential protective benefits of ALA on 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-induced gastrointestinal mucositis in Wistar albino rats. Tissues from the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine were excised, and blood sera were obtained to identify biochemical indices such as TNF-α, IL-1β, MDA, GPx, SOD, MMP-1, -2, -8, and TIMP-1. A histopathological study was also performed. The results revealed mucositis-elevated TNF-, IL-1, MDA, MMP-1, -2, -8, and TIMP-1 levels in both tissues and sera, and these values dropped dramatically following ALA treatment. Reduced SOD and GPx activities in mucositis groups were reversed in ALA-treated groups. The damage produced by mucositis in the stomach and small intestine regressed in the ALA-treated group, according to histopathological evaluation. Consequently, the implementation of ALA supplementation in 5-FU therapy may act as a protective intervention for cancer patients with gastrointestinal mucositis. In light of the findings, ALA, a food-derived antioxidant with pleiotropic properties, may be an effective treatment for 5-FU-induced gastrointestinal mucositus, and prevent oxidative stress, inflammation, and tissue damage in cancer patients receiving 5-FU therapy.

The mitochondrial disruptor devimistat (CPI-613®) synergizes with genotoxic anticancer drugs in colorectal cancer therapy in a Bim-dependent manner

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most frequent tumor entities, with an increasing incidence and mortality in younger adults in Europe and the US. 5-year survival rates for advanced CRC are still low, highlighting the need for novel targets in CRC therapy. Here, we investigated the therapeutic potential of the compound devimistat (CPI 613®) that targets altered mitochondrial cancer cell metabolism and its synergism with the antineoplastic drugs 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and irinotecan (IT) in CRC. Devimistat exerted a comparable cytotoxicity in a panel of established CRC cell lines and patient-derived short-term culture independent of their genetic and epigenetic status, whereas human colonic epithelial cells were more resistant indicating tumor selectivity. These findings were corroborated in intestinal organoid and tumoroid models. Mechanistically, devimistat disrupted mitochondrial membrane potential and severely impaired mitochondrial respiration, resulting in CRC cell death induction independent of p53. Combination treatment of devimistat with 5-FU or IT demonstrated synergistic cell killing in CRC cells as shown by Combenefit modelling and Chou-Talalay analysis. Increased cell death induction was revealed as major mechanism involving downregulation of anti-apoptotic genes and accumulation of pro-apoptotic Bim, which was confirmed by its genetic knockdown. In human CRC xenograft mouse models, devimistat showed anti-tumor activity and synergized with IT, resulting in prolonged survival and enhanced therapeutic efficacy. In human tumor xenografts, devimistat prevented IT-triggered p53 stabilization and caused synergistic Bim induction. Taken together, our study revealed devimistat as a promising candidate in CRC therapy by synergizing with established antineoplastic drugs in vitro and in vivo.

Synergistic Tumoricidal Effects of Alpha-Lipoic Acid and Radiotherapy on Human Breast Cancer Cells via HMGB1

PURPOSE

Radiotherapy (RT) is one of main strategies of cancer treatment. However, some cancer cells are resistant to radiation-induced cell death, including apoptosis. Therefore, alternative approaches targeting different anti-tumor mechanisms such as cell senescence are required. This study aimed to investigate the synergistic effect of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) on radiation-induced cell death and senescence in MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The cells were divided into four groups depending on the cell treatment (control, ALA, RT, and ALA+RT). Cells were analyzed for morphology, apoptotic cell death, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species, membrane potential, cellular senescence, and cell cycle.

RESULTS

Our data showed that ALA significantly promoted apoptotic cell death when combined with RT, as reflected by Annexin V staining, expression of apoptosis-related factors, mitochondrial damages as well as cell morphological changes and reduction of cell numbers. In addition, ALA significantly enhanced radiation-induced cellular senescence, which was shown by increased HMGB1 expression in the cytosol fraction compared to the control, increased p53 expression compared to the control, activation of p38 as well as nuclear factor кB, and G2/M cell cycle arrest.

CONCLUSION

The current study is the first report showing a new mode of action (senescence induction) of ALA beyond apoptotic cell death in MDA-MB-231 cancer cells known to be resistant to RT.

Natural Merosesquiterpenes Activate the DNA Damage Response via DNA Strand Break Formation and Trigger Apoptotic Cell Death in p53-Wild-type and Mutant Colorectal Cancer

Simple Summary

Bowel cancer is a serious disease, which affects many people worldwide. Unfortunately, the disease is often diagnosed in an advanced stage, which impairs the chance of survival. Furthermore, resistance to therapy occurs frequently. Thus, novel therapeutic approaches are required to improve cancer therapy. Here, we studied whether merosesquiterpenes might be useful for cancer treatment. These compounds occur in marine sponges and were isolated by our group. We were able to identify three compounds with potent cytotoxic activity in different cell lines established from human large bowel cancer. Our experiments provided evidence that the compounds cause DNA damage and trigger cell death, so-called mitochondrial apoptosis, which was attested in cancer cells with expression of wild-type and mutated p53 tumor suppressor. Finally, we show that merosesquiterpenes also kill intestinal tumor organoids, an ex vivo model of large bowel cancer.

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a frequently occurring malignant disease with still low survival rates, highlighting the need for novel therapeutics. Merosesquiterpenes are secondary metabolites from marine sponges, which might be useful as antitumor agents. To address this issue, we made use of a compound library comprising 11 isolated merosesquiterpenes. The most cytotoxic compounds were smenospongine > ilimaquinone ≈ dactylospontriol, as shown in different human CRC cell lines. Alkaline Comet assays and γH2AX immunofluorescence microscopy demonstrated DNA strand break formation in CRC cells. Western blot analysis revealed an activation of the DNA damage response with CHK1 phosphorylation, stabilization of p53 and p21, which occurred both in CRC cells with p53 knockout and in p53-mutated CRC cells. This resulted in cell cycle arrest followed by a strong increase in the subG1 population, indicative of apoptosis, and typical morphological alterations. In consistency, cell death measurements showed apoptosis following exposure to merosesquiterpenes. Gene expression studies and analysis of caspase cleavage revealed mitochondrial apoptosis via BAX, BIM, and caspase-9 as the main cell death pathway. Interestingly, the compounds were equally effective in p53-wild-type and p53-mutant CRC cells. Finally, the cytotoxic activity of the merosesquiterpenes was corroborated in intestinal tumor organoids, emphasizing their potential for CRC chemotherapy.

Amelioration of Metal-Induced Cellular Stress by α-Lipoic Acid and Dihydrolipoic Acid through Antioxidative Effects in PC12 Cells and Caco-2 Cells

α-Lipoic acid (ALA) and its reduced form dihydrolipoic acid (DHLA) are endogenous dithiol compounds with significant antioxidant properties, both of which have the potential to detoxify cells. In this study, ALA (250 μM) and DHLA (50 μM) were applied to reduce metal (As, Cd, and Pb)-induced toxicity in PC12 and Caco-2 cells as simultaneous exposure. Both significantly decreased Cd (5 μM)-, As (5 μM)-, and Pb (5 μM)-induced cell death. Subsequently, both ALA and DHLA restored cell membrane integrity and intracellular glutathione (GSH) levels, which were affected by metal-induced toxicity. In addition, DHLA protected PC12 cells from metal-induced DNA damage upon co-exposure to metals. Furthermore, ALA and DHLA upregulated the expression of survival-related proteins mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin), Akt (protein kinase B), and Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) in PC12 cells, which were previously downregulated by metal exposure. In contrast, in Caco-2 cells, upon co-exposure to metals and ALA, Nrf2 was upregulated and cleaved PARP-1 (poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1) was downregulated. These findings suggest that ALA and DHLA can counterbalance the toxic effects of metals. The protection of ALA or DHLA against metal toxicity may be largely due to an enhancement of antioxidant defense along with reduced glutathione level, which ultimately reduces the cellular oxidative stress.

Heme oxygenase 1 protects human colonocytes against ROS formation, oxidative DNA damage and cytotoxicity induced by heme iron, but not inorganic iron

The consumption of red meat is probably carcinogenic to humans and is associated with an increased risk to develop colorectal cancer (CRC). Red meat contains high amounts of heme iron, which is thought to play a causal role in tumor formation. In this study, we investigated the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of heme iron (i.e., hemin) versus inorganic iron in human colonic epithelial cells (HCEC), human CRC cell lines and murine intestinal organoids. Hemin catalyzed the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and induced oxidative DNA damage as well as DNA strand breaks in both HCEC and CRC cells. In contrast, inorganic iron hardly affected ROS levels and only slightly increased DNA damage. Hemin, but not inorganic iron, caused cell death and reduced cell viability. This occurred preferentially in non-malignant HCEC, which was corroborated in intestinal organoids. Both hemin and inorganic iron were taken up into HCEC and CRC cells, however with differential kinetics and efficiency. Hemin caused stabilization and nuclear translocation of Nrf2, which induced heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and ferritin heavy chain (FtH). This was not observed after inorganic iron treatment. Chemical inhibition or genetic knockdown of HO-1 potentiated hemin-triggered ROS generation and oxidative DNA damage preferentially in HCEC. Furthermore, HO-1 abrogation strongly augmented the cytotoxic effects of hemin in HCEC, revealing its pivotal function in colonocytes and highlighting the toxicity of free intracellular heme iron. Taken together, this study demonstrated that hemin, but not inorganic iron, induces ROS and DNA damage, resulting in a preferential cytotoxicity in non-malignant intestinal epithelial cells. Importantly, HO-1 conferred protection against the detrimental effects of hemin.

Targeting Altered Energy Metabolism in Colorectal Cancer: Oncogenic Reprogramming, the Central Role of the TCA Cycle and Therapeutic Opportunities

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the most frequent cancer entities worldwide. Multiple factors are causally associated with CRC development, such as genetic and epigenetic alterations, inflammatory bowel disease, lifestyle and dietary factors. During malignant transformation, the cellular energy metabolism is reprogrammed in order to promote cancer cell growth and proliferation. In this review, we first describe the main alterations of the energy metabolism found in CRC, revealing the critical impact of oncogenic signaling and driver mutations in key metabolic enzymes. Then, the central role of mitochondria and the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle in this process is highlighted, also considering the metabolic crosstalk between tumor and stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment. The identified cancer-specific metabolic transformations provided new therapeutic targets for the development of small molecule inhibitors. Promising agents are in clinical trials and are directed against enzymes of the TCA cycle, including isocitrate dehydrogenase, pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase, pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) and α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase (KGDH). Finally, we focus on the α-lipoic acid derivative CPI-613, an inhibitor of both PDC and KGDH, and delineate its anti-tumor effects for targeted therapy.

Docetaxel and alpha-lipoic acid co-loaded nanoparticles for cancer therapy

Aim: The current study aims to co-deliver docetaxel (DTX) and alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) using solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) as a carrier for the treatment of breast cancer. Methods: Computational analysis was used to screen different solid lipids as carriers, following which SLNs were prepared and characterized. Furthermore, antioxidant activity assays and cell culture studies were performed. Results: In vitro assessment in 4T1 (murine mammary carcinoma) and MCF-7 (human breast adenocarcinoma) cells revealed enhanced efficacy of the co-loaded SLNs as compared with free drugs and single drug-loaded SLNs. Increased apoptosis following treatment with DTX-ALA co-loaded SLN was also observed. Conclusion: The developed SLNs showed significantly higher uptake efficiency along with improved cytotoxic and apoptotic potential indicating the usefulness of this combination.

Lipoic acid decreases breast cancer cell proliferation by inhibiting IGF-1R via furin downregulation

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in the world. Despite advances in therapies, the mechanisms of resistance remain the underlying cause of morbidity and mortality. Lipoic acid (LA) is an antioxidant and essential cofactor in oxidative metabolism. Its potential therapeutic effects have been well documented, but its mechanisms of action (MOA) are not fully understood.

METHODS

The aim of this study is to validate the inhibitory LA effect on the proliferation of various breast cancer cell lines and to investigate the MOA that may be involved in this process. We tested LA effects by ex vivo studies on fresh human mammary tumour samples.

RESULTS

We demonstrate that LA inhibits the proliferation and Akt and ERK signalling pathways of several breast cancer cells. While searching for upstream dysregulations, we discovered the loss of expression of IGF-1R upon exposure to LA. This decrease is due to the downregulation of the convertase, furin, which is implicated in the maturation of IGF-1R. Moreover, ex vivo studies on human tumour samples showed that LA significantly decreases the expression of the proliferation marker Ki67.

CONCLUSION

LA exerts its anti-proliferative effect by inhibiting the maturation of IGF-1R via the downregulation of furin.

Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Alpha-Lipoic Acid: Beneficial or Harmful in Alzheimer's Disease?

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterised by impairments in the cognitive domains associated with orientation, recording, and memory. This pathology results from an abnormal deposition of the β-amyloid (Aβ) peptide and the intracellular accumulation of neurofibrillary tangles. Mitochondrial dysfunctions play an important role in the pathogenesis of AD, due to disturbances in the bioenergetic properties of cells. To date, the usual therapeutic drugs are limited because of the diversity of cellular routes in AD and the toxic potential of these agents. In this context, alpha-lipoic acid (α-LA) is a well-known fatty acid used as a supplement in several health conditions and diseases, such as periphery neuropathies and neurodegenerative disorders. It is produced in several cell types, eukaryotes, and prokaryotes, showing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. α-LA acts as an enzymatic cofactor able to regulate metabolism, energy production, and mitochondrial biogenesis. In addition, the antioxidant capacity of α-LA is associated with two thiol groups that can be oxidised or reduced, prevent excess free radical formation, and act on improvement of mitochondrial performance. Moreover, α-LA has mechanisms of epigenetic regulation in genes related to the expression of various inflammatory mediators, such PGE2, COX-2, iNOS, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Regarding the pharmacokinetic profile, α-LA has rapid uptake and low bioavailability and the metabolism is primarily hepatic. However, α-LA has low risk in prolonged use, although its therapeutic potential, interactions with other substances, and adverse reactions have not been well established in clinical trials with populations at higher risk for diseases of aging. Thus, this review aimed to describe the pharmacokinetic profile, bioavailability, therapeutic efficacy, safety, and effects of combined use with centrally acting drugs, as well as report in vitro and in vivo studies that demonstrate the mitochondrial mechanisms of α-LA involved in AD protection.

Lipoic acid a multi-level molecular inhibitor of tumorigenesis

We discuss how lipoic acid (LA), a natural antioxidant, induces apoptosis and inhibits proliferation, EMT, metastasis and stemness of cancer cells. Furthermore, owing to its ability to reduce chemotherapy-induced side effects and chemoresistance, LA appears to be a promising compound for cancer treatment.

Synergetic Impact of Combined 5-Fluorouracil and Rutin on Apoptosis in PC3 Cancer Cells through the Modulation of P53 Gene Expression

Purpose: Prostate cancer is as far the most prevalent male cancer. Rutin (a glycoside from quercetin flavonoid) displays antioxidant activity leading to cell apoptosis. Combined effects of rutin with the widely used anti-cancer drug, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), on prostate cancer cell line (PC3) was investigated herein.

Methods: Different concentrations of combined 5-FU and rutin were applied to PC3 cells compared to separate treatment for 48 hours. Cell viability, as well p53 gene expression respectively were assessed by MTT assay and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Changes of Bcl-2 signal protein and apoptosis were determined using western blot and flow cytometry procedures, respectively. Clonogenic assay was used to colony counts assessment.

Results: 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of separate cell treatment with either rutin and 5-FU respectively were 900 μM and 3Mm, while combination index (CI) of combined 5-FU /rutin application reached a level of synergistic effects (0.33). Combination of 5-FU/rutin enhanced apoptosis and p53 gene expression in PC3 cells. PC3 cell colony counts and Bcl-2 signaling protein were decreased by 5-FU/rutin combination.

Conclusion: Synergistic effects of 5-FU/rutin combination on PC3 cells line enhanced apoptosis, p53 gene expression, and down-regulation of Bcl-2 protein, compared to control separate application. 5-FU/rutin combination does seem an interesting therapeutic pathway to be further investigated.

Lipoic Acid Synergizes with Antineoplastic Drugs in Colorectal Cancer by Targeting p53 for Proteasomal Degradation

Lipoic acid (LA) is a redox-active disulphide compound, which functions as a pivotal co-factor for mitochondrial oxidative decarboxylation. LA and chemical derivatives were shown to target mitochondria in cancer cells with altered energy metabolism, thereby inducing cell death. In this study, the impact of LA on the tumor suppressor protein p53 was analyzed in various colorectal cancer (CRC) cell lines, with a focus on the mechanisms driving p53 degradation. First, LA was demonstrated to trigger the depletion of both wildtype and mutant p53 protein in all CRC cells tested without influencing its gene expression and preceded LA-triggered cytotoxicity. Depletion of p53 coincided with a moderate, LA-dependent ROS production, but was not rescued by antioxidant treatment. LA induced the autophagy receptor p62 and differentially modulated autophagosome formation in CRC cells. However, p53 degradation was not mediated via autophagy as shown by chemical inhibition and genetic abrogation of autophagy. LA treatment also stabilized and activated the transcription factor Nrf2 in CRC cells, which was however dispensable for p53 degradation. Mechanistically, p53 was found to be readily ubiquitinylated and degraded by the proteasomal machinery following LA treatment, which did not involve the E3 ubiquitin ligase MDM2. Intriguingly, the combination of LA and anticancer drugs (doxorubicin, 5-fluorouracil) attenuated p53-mediated stabilization of p21 and resulted in synergistic killing in CRC cells in a p53-dependant manner.

PARP-1 protects against colorectal tumor induction, but promotes inflammation-driven colorectal tumor progression

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common tumor entities, which is causally linked to DNA repair defects and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Here, we studied the role of the DNA repair protein poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) in CRC. Tissue microarray analysis revealed PARP-1 overexpression in human CRC, correlating with disease progression. To elucidate its function in CRC, PARP-1 deficient (PARP-1^-/-) and wild-type animals (WT) were subjected to azoxymethane (AOM)/ dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colorectal carcinogenesis. Miniendoscopy showed significantly more tumors in WT than in PARP-1^-/- mice. Although the lack of PARP-1 moderately increased DNA damage, both genotypes exhibited comparable levels of AOM-induced autophagy and cell death. Interestingly, miniendoscopy revealed a higher AOM/DSS-triggered intestinal inflammation in WT animals, which was associated with increased levels of innate immune cells and proinflammatory cytokines. Tumors in WT animals were more aggressive, showing higher levels of STAT3 activation and cyclin D1 up-regulation. PARP-1^-/- animals were then crossed with O⁶-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT)-deficient animals hypersensitive to AOM. Intriguingly, PARP-1^-/-/MGMT^-/- double knockout (DKO) mice developed more, but much smaller tumors than MGMT^-/- animals. In contrast to MGMT-deficient mice, DKO animals showed strongly reduced AOM-dependent colonic cell death despite similar O⁶-methylguanine levels. Studies with PARP-1^-/- cells provided evidence for increased alkylation-induced DNA strand break formation when MGMT was inhibited, suggesting a role of PARP-1 in the response to O⁶-methylguanine adducts. Our findings reveal PARP-1 as a double-edged sword in colorectal carcinogenesis, which suppresses tumor initiation following DNA alkylation in a MGMT-dependent manner, but promotes inflammation-driven tumor progression.

Antinflammatory and anticancer effects of terpenes from oily fractions of Teucruim alopecurus, blocker of IκBα kinase, through downregulation of NF-κB activation, potentiation of apoptosis and suppression of NF-κB-regulated gene expression

Teucrium alopecurus is an endemic plant limited to southern Tunisia. In the present study, the chemical composition, anticancer and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) inhibitory effects of Teucrium alopecurus leaf essential oil was investigated. The analysis of Teucrium alopecurus (TA-1) with Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) showed that α-Bisabolol, (+)-epi-Bicyclosesquiphellandrene and α-Cadinol, were found in relatively high amounts (16.16%, 15.40% and 8.52%, respectively). Cell viability was determined by 3-(4-5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl) 2-5-diphenyl-tetrazolium (MTT) assay. Cell cycle and apoptosis assay were determined by flow cytometry. TA-1 functions as an anticancer agent by triggering apoptosis potentiated by chemotherapeutic agents and TNF in human myeloid leukemia cells (KBM5) through a mechanism involving poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage and initiator and effector caspases activation. Moreover, electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) revealed that TA-1 downregulated nuclear localization of NF-κB and its phosphorylation induced by TNF-α and this, allows the suppression of the degradation and phosphorylation of IκB and the inhibition of the phosphorylation of p65 phosphorylation and the p50-p65 heterodimer nuclear translocation, causing attenuation of NF-κB-regulated antiapoptotic (Survivin, Bcl-2, c-IAP1/2, Bcl-xL, Mcl-1, and cFLIP), invasion (ICAM1), metasatsis (MMP-9), and angiogenesis (VEGF) gene expression in KBM5; and finally reporter gene expression. Furthermore, treatment with essential oil and TNF-α suppressed the NF-κB DNA binding activity. Finally, the activation of nuclear factor-κB induced by different plasmids (TNFR1, TRADD, TRAF2, NIK, TAK1/TAB1, and IKKβ) was inhibited following treatment with TA-1. Overall, TA-1 inhibits NF-κB activation and further growth and proliferation of cancer cells.

AKT2 suppresses pro-survival autophagy triggered by DNA double-strand breaks in colorectal cancer cells

DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are critical DNA lesions, which threaten genome stability and cell survival. DSBs are directly induced by ionizing radiation (IR) and radiomimetic agents, including the cytolethal distending toxin (CDT). This bacterial genotoxin harbors a unique DNase-I-like endonuclease activity. Here we studied the role of DSBs induced by CDT and IR as a trigger of autophagy, which is a cellular degradation process involved in cell homeostasis, genome protection and cancer. The regulatory mechanisms of DSB-induced autophagy were analyzed, focusing on the ATM-p53-mediated DNA damage response and AKT signaling in colorectal cancer cells. We show that treatment of cells with CDT or IR increased the levels of the autophagy marker LC3B-II. Consistently, an enhanced formation of autophagosomes and a decrease of the autophagy substrate p62 were observed. Both CDT and IR concomitantly suppressed mTOR signaling and stimulated the autophagic flux. DSBs were demonstrated as the primary trigger of autophagy using a DNase I-defective CDT mutant, which neither induced DSBs nor autophagy. Genetic abrogation of p53 and inhibition of ATM signaling impaired the autophagic flux as revealed by LC3B-II accumulation and reduced formation of autophagic vesicles. Blocking of DSB-induced apoptotic cell death by the pan-caspase inhibitor Z-VAD stimulated autophagy. In line with this, pharmacological inhibition of autophagy increased cell death, while ATG5 knockdown did not affect cell death after DSB induction. Interestingly, both IR and CDT caused AKT activation, which repressed DSB-triggered autophagy independent of the cellular DNA-PK status. Further knockdown and pharmacological inhibitor experiments provided evidence that the negative autophagy regulation was largely attributable to AKT2. Finally, we show that upregulation of CDT-induced autophagy upon AKT inhibition resulted in lower apoptosis and increased cell viability. Collectively, the findings demonstrate that DSBs trigger pro-survival autophagy in an ATM- and p53-dependent manner, which is curtailed by AKT2 signaling.

The impact of α-Lipoic acid on cell viability and expression of nephrin and ZNF580 in normal human podocytes

Human podocytes (hPC) are essential for maintaining normal kidney function and dysfunction or loss of hPC play a pivotal role in the manifestation and progression of chronic kidney diseases including diabetic nephropathy. Previously, α-Lipoic acid (α-LA), a licensed drug for treatment of diabetic neuropathy, was shown to exhibit protective effects on diabetic nephropathy in vivo. However, the effect of α-LA on hPC under non-diabetic conditions is unknown. Therefore, we analyzed the impact of α-LA on cell viability and expression of nephrin and zinc finger protein 580 (ZNF580) in normal hPC in vitro. Protein analyses were done via Western blot techniques. Cell viability was determined using a functional assay. hPC viability was dynamically modulated via α-LA stimulation in a concentration-dependent manner. This was associated with reduced nephrin and ZNF580 expression and increased nephrin phosphorylation in normal hPC. Moreover, α-LA reduced nephrin and ZNF580 protein expression via 'kappa-light-chain-enhancer' of activated B-cells (NF-κB) inhibition. These data demonstrate that low α-LA had no negative influence on hPC viability, whereas, high α-LA concentrations induced cytotoxic effects on normal hPC and reduced nephrin and ZNF580 expression via NF-κB inhibition. These data provide first novel information about potential cytotoxic effects of α-LA on hPC under non-diabetic conditions.

DNA damage response curtails detrimental replication stress and chromosomal instability induced by the dietary carcinogen PhIP

PhIP is an abundant heterocyclic aromatic amine (HCA) and important dietary carcinogen. Following metabolic activation, PhIP causes bulky DNA lesions at the C8-position of guanine. Although C8-PhIP-dG adducts are mutagenic, their interference with the DNA replication machinery and the elicited DNA damage response (DDR) have not yet been studied. Here, we analyzed PhIP-triggered replicative stress and elucidated the role of the apical DDR kinases ATR, ATM and DNA-PKcs in the cellular defense response. First, we demonstrate that PhIP induced C8-PhIP-dG adducts and DNA strand breaks. This stimulated ATR-CHK1 signaling, phosphorylation of histone 2AX and the formation of RPA foci. In proliferating cells, PhIP treatment increased the frequency of stalled replication forks and reduced fork speed. Inhibition of ATR in the presence of PhIP-induced DNA damage strongly promoted the formation of DNA double-strand breaks, activation of the ATM-CHK2 pathway and hyperphosphorylation of RPA. The abrogation of ATR signaling potentiated the cell death response and enhanced chromosomal aberrations after PhIP treatment, while ATM and DNA-PK inhibition had only marginal effects. These results strongly support the notion that ATR plays a key role in the defense against cancer formation induced by PhIP and related HCAs.

3-Monochloro-1,2-propanediol (3-MCPD) induces apoptosis via mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation system impairment and the caspase cascade pathway

3-Monochloro-1,2-propanediol (3-MCPD) is the most toxic chloropropanols compounds in foodstuff which mainly generated during thermal processing. Kidney is one of the primary target organs for 3-MCPD. Using human embryonic kidney cell (HEK293FT) as an in vitro model, we found that 3-MCPD caused concentration-dependent increase in cytoxicity as assessed by dye uptake, lactatedehydrogenase (LDH) leakage and MTT assays. HEK293FT cell treated with 3-MCPD suffered the decrease of mitochondrial membrane potential and the impairment of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation system, especially the reduced amount of mRNA expression and protein synthesis of electron transport chain complex II, complex IV, and complex III. More importantly, energy release (ATP synthesis) was significantly inhibited by 3-MCPD resulting from the down regulation expressions of ATP synthase (ATP6 and ATP8), as well as the loss of transmembrane potential required for synthesis of ATP. The decreased ratio of mitochondrial apoptogenic factors Bax/Bcl-2 and the cytochrome-c release from mitochondria to cytosol followed by the activation of apoptotic initiators caspase 9 and apoptotic executioners (caspase 3, caspase 6 and caspase 7) leading to apoptosis. The activation of caspase 8 and caspase 2 implied that there were probably other factors to induce the caspase-dependent apoptosis.

Combined strategy for suppressing breast carcinoma MCF-7 cell lines by loading simvastatin on alpha lipoic acid nanoparticles

BACKGROUND

Augmentation of simvastatin (SMV) cytotoxicity in breast carcinoma cell lines MCF-7, by: improvement of cellular uptake and loading on alpha lipoic acid (ALA).

METHODS

In this study, SMV was loaded on ALA nanoparticles and characterized for surface morphology, SMV entrapment efficiency percent (%EE), zeta potential and release profile. Cellular viability, morphology and uptake and DNA fragmentations were analyzed as a hallmark of cellular apoptosis.

RESULTS

TEM images demonstrated spherical nanoparticles with particle size 104.7 ± 5.5 nm, SMV %EE was 95.8 ± 2.1% with a zeta potential - 23.6 ± 5.4 mV, and release properties were significantly enhanced. IC₅₀ was decreased to 22.2 ± 2.4 µM while raw SMV was 49.3 ± 6.6 µM. Cellular uptake of SMV-ALA nanoparticles was increased by about 3- and 2-folds after 2 and 4 h, respectively. DNA fragments confirmed the apoptosis property of ALA, which is associated with SMV cytotoxicity.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests evidence that SMV loaded on ALA nanoparticles increases the MCF-7 cellular uptake and cytotoxic effects induced by SMV as revealed by significantly enhanced cell death rates in MCF-7 cells. These findings demonstrate that ALA induces cell death, which makes the combination a candidate for tumor therapy.

Epigenetic Treatment of Neurodegenerative Disorders: Alzheimer and Parkinson Diseases

Preclinical Research In this review, we discuss epigenetic-driven methods for treating neurodegenerative disorders associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, focusing on carnitinoid antioxidant-histone deacetylase inhibitors that show an ability to reinvigorate synaptic plasticity and protect against neuromotor decline in vivo. Aging remains a major risk factor in patients who progress to dementia, a clinical syndrome typified by decreased mental capacity, including impairments in memory, language skills, and executive function. Energy metabolism and mitochondrial dysfunction are viewed as determinants in the aging process that may afford therapeutic targets for a host of disease conditions, the brain being primary in such thinking. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a core feature in the pathophysiology of both Alzheimer and Parkinson diseases and rare mitochondrial diseases. The potential of new therapies in this area extends to glaucoma and other ophthalmic disorders, migraine, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, post-traumatic stress disorder, systemic exertion intolerance disease, and chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment. An emerging and hopefully more promising approach to addressing these hard-to-treat diseases leverages their sensitivity to activation of master regulators of antioxidant and cytoprotective genes, antioxidant response elements, and mitophagy. Drug Dev Res 77 : 109-123, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The disulfide compound α-lipoic acid and its derivatives: A novel class of anticancer agents targeting mitochondria

The endogenous disulfide α-lipoic acid (LA) is an essential mitochondrial co-factor. In addition, LA and its reduced counterpart dihydro lipoic acid form a potent redox couple with antioxidative functions, for which it is used as dietary supplement and therapeutic. Recently, it has gained attention due to its cytotoxic effects in cancer cells, which is the key aspect of this review. We initially recapitulate the dietary occurrence, gastrointestinal absorption and pharmacokinetics of LA, illustrating its diverse antioxidative mechanisms. We then focus on its mode of action in cancer cells, in which it triggers primarily the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis, whereas non-transformed primary cells are hardly affected. Furthermore, LA impairs oncogenic signaling and displays anti-metastatic potential. Novel LA derivatives such as CPI-613, which target mitochondrial energy metabolism, are described and recent pre-clinical studies are presented, which demonstrate that LA and its derivatives exert antitumor activity in vivo. Finally, we highlight clinical studies currently performed with the LA analog CPI-613. In summary, LA and its derivatives are promising candidates to complement the arsenal of established anticancer drugs due to their mitochondria-targeted mode of action and non-genotoxic properties.

Lipoic acid inhibits the DNA repair protein O 6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) and triggers its depletion in colorectal cancer cells with concomitant autophagy induction

Alkylating agents are present in food and tobacco smoke, but are also used in cancer chemotherapy, inducing the DNA lesion O (6)-methylguanine. This critical adduct is repaired by O (6)-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT), resulting in MGMT inactivation and degradation. In the present study, we analyzed the effects of the natural disulfide compound lipoic acid (LA) on MGMT in vitro and in colorectal cancer cells. We show that LA, but not its reduced form dihydrolipoic acid, potently inhibits the activity of recombinant MGMT by interfering with its catalytic Cys-145 residue, which was partially reversible by N-acetyl cysteine. Incubation of HCT116 colorectal cancer cells with LA altered their glutathione pool and caused a decline in MGMT activity. This was mirrored by LA-induced depletion of MGMT protein, which was not attributable to changes in MGMT messenger RNA levels. Loss of MGMT protein coincided with LA-induced autophagy, a process resulting in lysosomal degradation of proteins, including presumably MGMT. LA-stimulated autophagy in a p53-independent manner as revealed by the response of isogenic HCT116 cell lines. Knockdown of the crucial autophagy component beclin-1 and chemical inhibitors blocked LA-induced autophagy, but did not abrogate LA-triggered MGMT degradation. Concomitant with MGMT depletion, LA pretreatment resulted in enhanced O (6)-methylguanine levels in DNA. It also increased the cytotoxicity of the alkylating anticancer drug temozolomide in temozolomide-resistant colorectal cancer cells. Taken together, our study showed that the natural compound LA inhibits MGMT and induces autophagy. Furthermore, LA enhanced the cytotoxic effects of temozolomide, which makes it a candidate for a supplement in cancer therapy.