The anti-tumoral role of Hesperidin and Aprepitant on prostate cancer cells through redox modifications

The investigation of the interaction determination between carbendazim and elastase, using both in vitro and in silico methods

Pesticides, including fungicides, are one of the important groups of environmental toxins that affect human and animal health. Studies have shown that these compounds are considered chemical pollutants. Carbendazim is a systemic fungicide. Unfortunately, excessive use of carbendazim has caused environmental pollution all over the world. In this study, the effect of carbendazim on the enzyme elastase (secreted from the endocrine gland of the pancreas) has been investigated. In a study, the performance and reaction of carbendazim with elastase were investigated using spectroscopic techniques. The stability and structure of elastase enzymes were studied under the influence of carbendazim. The results of fluorescence emission and UV-visible absorption spectrum showed that in the presence of carbendazim, there is an increase in UV-Vis absorption and a decrease in the intensity of the intrinsic fluorescence emission in the protein spectrum. Additionally, a decrease in the thermal stability of elastase was observed in the presence of carbendazim. The stability and structure of elastase enzyme were investigated in the presence of carbendazim. The results revealed that the UV-Vis absorption increased due to the presence of carbendazim, as indicated by the hyperchromic spectrum at 220 and 280 nm peaks. Additionally, the intrinsic fluorescence emission in the protein spectrum decreased with increasing carbendazim concentration at three different temperatures (298, 303, and 313 K). Moreover, the study demonstrated that the TM decreased from 2.59 to 4.58 with the increase of carbendazim, suggesting a decrease in the stability of the elastase structure in response to the elevated carbendazim concentration. According to the results of the research, the interaction between elastase and carbendazim has occurred, and changes have been made in the enzyme under the influence of carbendazim. The formation of the complex between elastase and carbendazim was consistent with the results obtained from molecular simulation and confirmed the thermodynamic data.

Revealing the interaction between alpha-chymotrypsin and eugenol: An integrated multi-spectral and dynamic simulation approach

The study aims to explore the effects of Eugenol (EUG) as an antioxidant on α-Chymotrypsin (α-Chy) and its interaction mechanism, with potential implications for new therapy development. The interaction between EUG and α-Chy was demonstrated through ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy, which resulted in a shift in absorption with docking energies of -22.76 kJ/mol. An increase in fluorescence intensity indicated that the Trp residues moved to a less polar environment, which is consistent with the changes in accessible surface area (ASA) values. The presence of EUG led to a decrease in α-helix, β-turn, and random coil structures as shown by circular dichroism (CD) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis. Additionally, there was a slight increase in β-sheet structures, indicating a decrease in enzyme stability. However, tests for thermal stability showed a decrease in folding upon the introduction of EUG, which contradicted the results obtained from molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The docking studies revealed that EUG forms hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces with the enzyme, indicating the interaction mechanism. Kinetic studies confirmed that EUG acts as a mixed inhibitor. However, further research involving live organisms is necessary to fully understand its potential.

Hesperidin attenuates radiation-induced ovarian failure in rats: Emphasis on TLR-4/NF-ĸB signaling pathway

Young women suffering from premature ovarian failure after radiotherapy carry a huge burden in the field of cancer therapy including reproductive loss, emotional stress, and physical troubles that reduce their long-term quality of life. Hesperidin (HSP) exhibited antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. HSP enhanced in vitro follicular maturation and preserved in vivo ovarian stockpile. In this research, the role of HSP in radiation-induced POF in rats was investigated besides ascertaining its underlying mechanisms. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were arbitrarily allocated into four groups: control-group, ϒ-irradiated-group (3.2 Gy once on the 7th day), HSP-group (100 mg/kg, orally for 10 days), and HSP/ϒ-irradiated-group (ϒ-radiation was applied one hour after HSP). At the end of experiment, the whole ovaries were collected for histological and biochemical analyses. Administration of HSP preserved the ovarian histoarchitecture and follicular stock, retained ovarian weight, and conserved serum estradiol and AMH levels following radiation exposure. HSP ameliorated the ovarian oxidative damage mediated by radiation through augmenting the activities of glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and catalase antioxidant enzymes. HSP exhibited remarkable anti-inflammatory activity by downregulating the expression of ovarian TLR-4, NF-ĸB, and TNF-α. Moreover, HSP suppressed the apoptotic machinery triggered by radiation by reducing p53 and Bax while increasing Bcl-2 mRNA expressions alongside diminishing caspase-3 expression. Additionally, HSP regulated estrous cycle disorder of irradiated rats and improved their reproductive capacity reflected by enhancing pregnancy outcomes. Therefore, HSP represents an appealing candidate as an adjunct remedy for female cancer patients during radiotherapy protocols owing to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and hormone-regulatory effects.

Investigating the anticancer effects of chitosan-NLC-folate nanohybrid loaded with auraptene on A2780 ovarian cancer cells

The significant fatality rate associated with ovarian cancer underscores the urgent need for novel therapeutic interventions in this area. The focus of this study was to assess the cytotoxic impact of auraptene nanohybrid chitosan folate on A2780 ovarian cancer cells. A combination of liquid and solid lipids were used to create auraptene-nanostructured lipid carriers. Folic acid was conjugated to chitosan in order to modify the surface. The nanoparticles containing methylene blue were dissolved in deionized distilled water to attach the chitosan-folic acid to the nanoparticles. The resazurin cell viability assay was employed to gauge the cytotoxicity of auraptene on the cells. Real-time PCR was utilized to quantify the expression levels of Bcl-2, Bax, and P53 genes. DLS analysis exposed a spheroidal particle with an approximate diameter of 211 nm. The auraptene nanoparticles did not revealed inhibitory effect on normal cell line (HFF-1) at the concentrations that it was toxic for cancerous cells (A2780). In vitro trials suggested that auraptene nanoparticles trigger apoptosis in A2780 cells in a dose-responsive manner by promoting the expression of pro-apoptotic genes (Bax and P53), while suppressing the expression of the anti-apoptotic gene (Bcl-2). Furthermore, auraptene nanoparticles also heightened the production of reactive oxygen species within the cancerous cells. The notable cytotoxic and lethal influence of auraptene nanoparticles on human ovarian cancer may be attributed to their capacity to generate oxidative stress conditions and induce apoptosis.

Comprehensive Analysis of Kisspeptin Signaling: Effects on Cellular Dynamics in Cervical Cancer

Kisspeptin, a key neuropeptide derived from the KISS1R gene, is renowned for its critical role in regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and reproductive hormone secretion. Beyond its primary function in reproductive biology, emerging research has illuminated its influence in various cancers, mediating significant effects through its interaction with the G protein-coupled receptor, kisspeptin receptor. This interaction has been implicated in modulating cellular processes such as proliferation and metastasis, making it a potential target for therapeutic intervention. Our study initially screened ten kisspeptin-10 analogs through cytotoxic effects of kisspeptin-10 (KP10) and its analogs in several cancer types, including cervical, prostate, breast, and gastric cancers, with a particular focus on cervical cancer, where the most profound effects were observed. Further exploration using kinase array assays revealed that these analogs specifically alter key kinases involved in cancer progression. Migration assays demonstrated a substantial decrease in cell motility, and Bioluminescence Resonance Energy Transfer assays confirmed these analogs' strong interactions with the kisspeptin receptor. Overall, our results indicate that these KP10 analogs not only hinder cervical cancer cell proliferation but also curtail migration through targeted modulation of kinase signaling, suggesting their potential as therapeutic agents in managing cervical cancer progression. This comprehensive approach underscores the therapeutic promise of exploiting kisspeptin signaling in cancer treatment strategies.

Predictive identification and design of potent inhibitors targeting resistance-inducing candidate genes from E. coli whole-genome sequences

Introduction: This work utilizes predictive modeling in drug discovery to unravel potential candidate genes from Escherichia coli that are implicated in antimicrobial resistance; we subsequently target the gidB, MacB, and KatG genes with some compounds from plants with reported antibacterial potentials. Method: The resistance genes and plasmids were identified from 10 whole-genome sequence datasets of E. coli; forty two plant compounds were selected, and their 3D structures were retrieved and optimized for docking. The 3D crystal structures of KatG, MacB, and gidB were retrieved and prepared for molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and ADMET profiling. Result: Hesperidin showed the least binding energy (kcal/mol) against KatG (-9.3), MacB (-10.7), and gidB (-6.7); additionally, good pharmacokinetic profiles and structure-dynamics integrity with their respective protein complexes were observed. Conclusion: Although these findings suggest hesperidin as a potential inhibitor against MacB, gidB, and KatG in E. coli, further validations through in vitro and in vivo experiments are needed. This research is expected to provide an alternative avenue for addressing existing antimicrobial resistances associated with E. coli's MacB, gidB, and KatG.

Thermodynamic and functional changes of alpha-chymotrypsin after interaction with gallic acid

In the present study, the interaction mechanism between gallic acid (GA) and α-Chymotrypsin (α-CT) was investigated by employing a series ofspectroscopic methods, computational docking and molecular dynamic (MD) simulation. Fluorescence spectra analysis indicated the formation of a stable complex between GA and α-CT, where the quenching of the fluorescence emission was predominantly characterized by a static mechanism. TheCA obtained binding constants for the α-CT-GA complex were in the order of 103 M-1, indicating the moderate binding affinity of GA for α-CT. The corresponding CD findings showed that the interaction between GA and α-CT resulted in an alteration of the protein's secondary structure. The findings of the enzyme activity investigation clearly showed that the presence of GA led to a notable decline in the enzymatic activity of α-CT, highlighting GA's function as an effective inhibitor for α-CT. The molecular docking simulations revealed the optimal binding site for the GA molecule within the α-CT structure and MD simulations confirmed the stability of the α-CT-GA complex. This research expands our comprehension regarding the behavior of enzymes in the presence of small-molecule ligands and opens avenues for food safety.

Scaffold hopping for designing of potent and selective CYP1B1 inhibitors to overcome docetaxel resistance: synthesis and evaluation

Cytochrome P450 1B1, a tumor-specific overexpressed enzyme, significantly impairs the pharmacokinetics of several commonly used anticancer drugs including docetaxel, paclitaxel and cisplatin, leading to the problem of resistance to these drugs. Currently, there is no CYP1B1 inhibition-based adjuvant therapy available to treat this resistance problem. Hence, in the current study, exhaustive in-silico studies including scaffold hopping followed by molecular docking, three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationships (3D-QSAR), molecular dynamics and free energy perturbation studies were carried out to identify potent and selective CYP1B1 inhibitors. Initially, scaffold hopping analysis was performed against a well-reported potent and selective CYP1B1 inhibitor (i.e. compound 3n). A total of 200 scaffolds were identified along with their shape and field similarity scores. The top three scaffolds were further selected on the basis of these scores and their synthesis feasibility to design some potent and selective CYP1B1 inhibitors using the aforementioned in-silico techniques. Designed molecules were further synthesized to evaluate their CYP1B1 inhibitory activity and docetaxel resistance reversal potential against CYP1B1 overexpressed drug resistance MCF-7 cell line. In-vitro results indicated that compounds 2a, 2c and 2d manifested IC50 values for CYP1B1 ranging from 0.075, 0.092 to 0.088 μM with at least 10-fold selectivity. At low micromolar concentrations, compounds 1e, 1f, 2a and 2d exhibited promising cytotoxic effects in the docetaxel-resistant CYP1B1 overexpressed MCF-7 cell line. In particular, compound 2a is most effective in reversing the resistance with IC50 of 29.0 ± 3.6 μM. All of these discoveries could pave the way for the development of adjuvant therapy capable of overcoming CYP1B1-mediated resistance.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Role of a Polyphenol-Enriched Blueberry Preparation on Inhibition of Melanoma Cancer Stem Cells and Modulation of MicroRNAs

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer known for its high mortality rate. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a subpopulation of cancer cells that significantly contribute to tumour recurrence and differentiation. Epigenetic-specific changes involving miRNAs maintain CSCs. Plant polyphenols have been reported to be involved in cancer chemoprevention and chemotherapy, with miRNAs being the novel effectors in their biological activities. A polyphenol-enriched blueberry preparation (PEBP) derived from fermented blueberries has demonstrated promising chemopreventative properties on breast cancer stem cells by influencing inflammatory pathways and miRNAs. In our current investigation, we seek to unveil the impact of PEBP on inhibiting melanoma development and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Our study employs various human cell lines, including an ex vivo cell line derived from a patient's metastatic tumour. We found that it elevates miR-200c, increasing E-cadherin expression and inhibiting miR-210-3p through NF-κB signalling, impacting Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT), a critical process in cancer progression. PEBP increases the SOCS1 expression, potentially contributing to miR-210-3p inhibition. Experiments involving miRNA manipulation confirm their functional roles. The study suggests that PEBP's anti-inflammatory effects involve regulating miR-200c and miR-210 expression and their targets in EMT-related pathways. The overall aim is to provide evidence-based supportive care and preclinical evaluation of PEBP, offering a promising strategy for skin cancer chemoprevention.

Role of Cannabinoids in Oral Cancer

Cannabinoids have incited scientific interest in different conditions, including malignancy, due to increased exposure to cannabis. Furthermore, cannabinoids are increasingly used to alleviate cancer-related symptoms. This review paper aims to clarify the recent findings on the relationship between cannabinoids and oral cancer, focusing on the molecular mechanisms that could link cannabinoids with oral cancer pathogenesis. In addition, we provide an overview of the current and future perspectives on the management of oral cancer patients using cannabinoid compounds. Epidemiological data on cannabis use and oral cancer development are conflicting. However, in vitro studies assessing the effects of cannabinoids on oral cancer cells have unveiled promising anti-cancer features, including apoptosis and inhibition of cell proliferation. Downregulation of various signaling pathways with anti-cancer effects has been identified in experimental models of oral cancer cells exposed to cannabinoids. Furthermore, in some countries, several synthetic or phytocannabinoids have been approved as medical adjuvants for the management of cancer patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy. Cannabinoids may improve overall well-being by relieving anxiety, depression, pain, and nausea. In conclusion, the link between cannabinoid compounds and oral cancer is complex, and further research is necessary to elucidate the potential risks or their protective impact on oral cancer.

Shake It Up Baby Now: The Changing Focus on TWIST1 and Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition in Cancer and Other Diseases

TWIST1 is a transcription factor that is necessary for healthy neural crest migration, mesoderm development, and gastrulation. It functions as a key regulator of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process by which cells lose their polarity and gain the ability to migrate. EMT is often reactivated in cancers, where it is strongly associated with tumor cell invasion and metastasis. Early work on TWIST1 in adult tissues focused on its transcriptional targets and how EMT gave rise to metastatic cells. In recent years, the roles of TWIST1 and other EMT factors in cancer have expanded greatly as our understanding of tumor progression has advanced. TWIST1 and related factors are frequently tied to cancer cell stemness and changes in therapeutic responses and thus are now being viewed as attractive therapeutic targets. In this review, we highlight non-metastatic roles for TWIST1 and related EMT factors in cancer and other disorders, discuss recent findings in the areas of therapeutic resistance and stemness in cancer, and comment on the potential to target EMT for therapy. Further research into EMT will inform novel treatment combinations and strategies for advanced cancers and other diseases.

The OSR9 Regimen: A New Augmentation Strategy for Osteosarcoma Treatment Using Nine Older Drugs from General Medicine to Inhibit Growth Drive

As things stand in 2023, metastatic osteosarcoma commonly results in death. There has been little treatment progress in recent decades. To redress the poor prognosis of metastatic osteosarcoma, the present regimen, OSR9, uses nine already marketed drugs as adjuncts to current treatments. The nine drugs in OSR9 are: (1) the antinausea drug aprepitant, (2) the analgesic drug celecoxib, (3) the anti-malaria drug chloroquine, (4) the antibiotic dapsone, (5) the alcoholism treatment drug disulfiram, (6) the antifungal drug itraconazole, (7) the diabetes treatment drug linagliptin, (8) the hypertension drug propranolol, and (9) the psychiatric drug quetiapine. Although none are traditionally used to treat cancer, all nine have attributes that have been shown to inhibit growth-promoting physiological systems active in osteosarcoma. In their general medicinal uses, all nine drugs in OSR9 have low side-effect risks. The current paper reviews the collected data supporting the role of OSR9.