Daidzein, R-(+)equol and S-(-)equol inhibit the invasion of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells potentially via the down-regulation of matrix metalloproteinase-2

Equol: a metabolite of gut microbiota with potential antitumor effects

An increasing number of studies have shown that the consumption of soybeans and soybeans products is beneficial to human health, and the biological activity of soy products may be attributed to the presence of Soy Isoflavones (SI) in soybeans. In the intestinal tracts of humans and animals, certain specific bacteria can metabolize soy isoflavones into equol. Equol has a similar chemical structure to endogenous estradiol in the human body, which can bind with estrogen receptors and exert weak estrogen effects. Therefore, equol plays an important role in the occurrence and development of a variety of hormone-dependent malignancies such as breast cancer and prostate cancer. Despite the numerous health benefits of equol for humans, only 30-50% of the population can metabolize soy isoflavones into equol, with individual variation in gut microbiota being the main reason. This article provides an overview of the relevant gut microbiota involved in the synthesis of equol and its anti-tumor effects in various types of cancer. It also summarizes the molecular mechanisms underlying its anti-tumor properties, aiming to provide a more reliable theoretical basis for the rational utilization of equol in the field of cancer treatment.

GPER binding site detection and description: A flavonoid-based docking and molecular dynamics simulations study

Flavonoids, a phenolic compounds class widely distributed in the plant kingdom, have attracted much interest for their implications on several health and disease processes. Usually, the consumption of this type of compounds is approximately 1 g/d, primarily obtained from cereals, chocolate, and dry legumes ensuring its beneficial role in maintaining the homeostasis of the human body. In this context, in cancer disease prominent data points to the role of flavonoids as adjuvant treatment aimed at the regression of the disease. GPER, an estrogen receptor on the cell surface, has been postulated as a probable orchestrator of the beneficial effects of several flavonoids through modulation/inhibition of various mechanisms that lead to cancer progression. Therefore, applying pocket and cavity protein detection and docking and molecular dynamics simulations (MD), we generate, from a cluster composed of 39 flavonoids, crucial insights into the potential role as GPER ligands, of Puerarin, Isoquercetin, Kaempferol 3-O-glucoside and Petunidin 3-O-glucoside, aglycones whose sugar moiety delimits a new described sugar-acceptor sub-cavity into the cavity binding site on the receptor, as well as of the probable activation mechanism of the receptor and the pivotal residues involved in it. Altogether, our results shed light on the potential use of the aforementioned flavonoids as GPER ligands and for further evaluations in in vitro and in vivo assays to elucidate their probable anti-cancer activity.

A discovery of potent kaempferol derivatives as multi-target medicines against diabetes as well as bacterial infections: an in silico approach

Flavonoids demonstrate beneficial effects on human health because flavonoids contain important biological properties. Kaempferol is a flavonol, type of flavonoid found in eatable plants and in plants usually employed in ancient drugs (Moringa oleifera, Tilia spp., fern genus spp. and gingko etc.). Some medicinal studies have shown that the use of foods full of kaempferol decreases the risk of many (cancer, vascular) diseases. All the data of 50 kaempferol derivatives were collected from PubChem database. Through Schrödinger software, 3D-QSAR study was performed for 50 compounds by using method of field base. Conformer of kaempferol derivatives was docked against anti-diabetic, anti-microbial co-crystal structures and protein. To monitor the best anti-diabetic and antibacterial agent, particular kaempferol derivatives were downloaded from PubChem database. Virtual screening by molecular docking provided four lead compounds with four different proteins. These hit compounds were found to be potent inhibitor for diabetic enzymes alpha-amylase and DPP IV and had the potential to suppress DNA gyrase and dihydrofolate reductase synthesis. Molecular dynamic simulation of docked complexes evaluates the value of root mean square fluctuation by iMOD server. Kaempferol 3-O-alpha-L-(2, 3-di-Z-p-coumaroyl) rhamnoside (42) compound used as anti-diabetic and kaempferol 3-O-gentiobioside (3) as antibacterial with good results can be used for drug discovery.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Multi-Anticancer Activities of Phytoestrogens in Human Osteosarcoma

Phytoestrogens are plant-derived bioactive compounds with estrogen-like properties. Their potential health benefits, especially in cancer prevention and treatment, have been a subject of considerable research in the past decade. Phytoestrogens exert their effects, at least in part, through interactions with estrogen receptors (ERs), mimicking or inhibiting the actions of natural estrogens. Recently, there has been growing interest in exploring the impact of phytoestrogens on osteosarcoma (OS), a type of bone malignancy that primarily affects children and young adults and is currently presenting limited treatment options. Considering the critical role of the estrogen/ERs axis in bone development and growth, the modulation of ERs has emerged as a highly promising approach in the treatment of OS. This review provides an extensive overview of current literature on the effects of phytoestrogens on human OS models. It delves into the multiple mechanisms through which these molecules regulate the cell cycle, apoptosis, and key pathways implicated in the growth and progression of OS, including ER signaling. Moreover, potential interactions between phytoestrogens and conventional chemotherapy agents commonly used in OS treatment will be examined. Understanding the impact of these compounds in OS holds great promise for developing novel therapeutic approaches that can augment current OS treatment modalities.

Evaluating chemotherapeutic potential of soya-isoflavonoids against high penetrance genes in triple-negative breast cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive molecular subtype of breast cancer (BC) associated with a poor prognosis. Owing to the structural similarity with 17-β-estradiol, consumption of soya-isoflavonoids are associated with a reduced rate of hormone-receptive BC incidence, but their role in TNBC is not deciphered in detail. This present study thus aims to investigate the therapeutic binding dynamics of dietary soya-flavonoids with the six high penetrance (HP) receptors in TNBC, viz. BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, PTEN, STK11 and TP53. Out of the 14 soya-flavonoids screened based on ADMET descriptors and several other physicochemical, bioavailability, drug and lead-likeness properties, four hits were shortlisted (Daidzein, Genistein, Glycitein and Biochanin A). Docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation revealed Genistein as the most potential multi-target inhibitor of the six TNBC HP genes. Additionally, Genistein exhibited excellent binding specificity with PTEN, a potent mediator of the PI3K signaling pathway in TNBC. The binding interaction of PTEN and Genistein was further compared against a standardized FDA-approved chemotherapeutic inhibitor, Olaparib, computed through various MD trajectory analysis, principal component analysis and computation of free energy landscape. This study reveals a comparatively better binding dynamics of PTEN-Genistein than PTEN-Olaparib. With a significant global surge in biomarker-based precision therapeutics in oncology, the results of this exhaustive in-silico study thus encourage the prospect of validating PTEN as a druggable target of Genistein, a unique drug-receptor combination in the future.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Inhibition of Cancer Development by Natural Plant Polyphenols: Molecular Mechanisms

Malignant tumors remain one of the main sources of morbidity and mortality around the world. A chemotherapeutic approach to cancer treatment poses a multitude of challenges, primarily due to the low selectivity and genotoxicity of the majority of chemotherapeutic drugs currently used in the clinical practice, often leading to treatment-induced tumors formation. Highly selective antitumor drugs can largely resolve this issue, but their high selectivity leads to significant drawbacks due to the intrinsic tumor heterogeneity. In contrast, plant polyphenols can simultaneously affect many processes that are involved in the acquiring and maintaining of hallmark properties of malignant cells, and their toxic dose is typically much higher than the therapeutic one. In the present work we describe the mechanisms of the action of polyphenols on cancer cells, including their effects on genetic and epigenetic instability, tumor-promoting inflammation, and altered microbiota.

Unveiling the Pharmacological and Nanotechnological Facets of Daidzein: Present State-of-the-Art and Future Perspectives

Herbal drugs have been attracting much scientific interest in the last few decades and nowadays, phytoconstituents-based research is in progress to disclose their unidentified medicinal potential. Daidzein (DAI) is the natural phytoestrogen isoflavone derived primarily from leguminous plants, such as the soybean and mung bean, and its IUPAC name is 4',7-dihydroxyisoflavone. This compound has received great attention as a fascinating pharmacophore with remarkable potential for the therapeutic management of several diseases. Certain pharmacokinetic properties of DAI such as less aqueous solubility, low permeability, and poor bioavailability are major obstacles restricting the therapeutic applications. In this review, distinctive physicochemical characteristics and pharmacokinetics of DAI has been elucidated. The pharmacological applications in treatment of several disorders like oxidative stress, cancer, obesity, cardiovascular, neuroprotective, diabetes, ovariectomy, anxiety, and inflammation with their mechanism of action are explained. Furthermore, this review article comprehensively focuses to provide up-to-date information about nanotechnology-based formulations which have been investigated for DAI in preceding years which includes polymeric nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carrier, polymer-lipid nanoparticles, nanocomplexes, polymeric micelles, nanoemulsion, nanosuspension, liposomes, and self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems.

Gut Microbiota-Assisted Synthesis, Cellular Interactions and Synergistic Perspectives of Equol as a Potent Anticancer Isoflavone

It is well known that, historically, plants have been an important resource of anticancer agents, providing several clinically approved drugs. Numerous preclinical studies have shown a strong anticancer potential of structurally different phytochemicals, including polyphenolic constituents of plants, flavonoids. In this review article, suppressing effects of equol in different carcinogenesis models are unraveled, highlighting the mechanisms involved in these anticancer activities. Among flavonoids, daidzein is a well-known isoflavone occurring in soybeans and soy products. In a certain part of population, this soy isoflavone is decomposed to equol under the action of gut microflora. Somewhat surprisingly, this degradation product has been shown to be more bioactive than its precursor daidzein, revealing a strong and multifaceted anticancer potential. In this way, it is important to bear in mind that the metabolic conversion of plant flavonoids might lead to products that are even more efficient than the parent compounds themselves, definitely deserving further studies.

Taxonomic distribution and evolutionary analysis of the equol biosynthesis gene cluster

Background

Equol, an isoflavonoid metabolite with possible health benefits in humans, is known to be produced by some human gut bacteria. While the genes encoding the equol production pathway have been characterized in a few bacterial strains, a systematic analysis of the equol production pathway is currently lacking.

Results

This study presents an analysis of the taxonomic distribution and evolutionary history of the gene cluster encoding the equol production pathway. A survey for equol gene clusters within the Genome Taxonomy Database bacterial genomes and human gut metagenomes resulted in the identification of a highly conserved gene cluster found in nine bacterial species from the Eggerthellaceae family. The identified gene clusters from human gut metagenomes revealed potential variations in the equol gene cluster organization and gene content within the equol-producing Eggerthellaceae clades. Subsequent analysis showed that in addition to the four genes directly involved in equol production, multiple other genes were consistently found in the equol gene clusters. These genes were predicted to encode a putative electron transport complex and hydrogenase maturase system, suggesting potential roles for them in the equol production pathway. Analysis of the gene clusters and a phylogenetic reconstruction of a putative NAD kinase gene provided evidence of the recent transfer of the equol gene cluster from a basal Eggerthellaceae species to Slackia_A equolifaciens, Enteroscipio sp000270285, and Lactococcus garvieae 20–92.

Conclusions

This analysis demonstrates that the highly conserved equol gene cluster is taxonomically restricted to the Eggerthellaceae family of bacteria and provides evidence of the role of horizontal gene transfer in the evolutionary history of these genes. These results provide a foundation for future studies of equol production in the human gut and future efforts related to bioengineering and the use of equol-producing bacteria as probiotics.

Anticancer properties of arylchromenes and arylchromans: an overview

Cancers are a set of pathologies originated by cells that have the ability to divide and multiply uncontrollably, associated with the capacity to invade and colonize adjacent tissues. Chemotherapy is one of the main approaches of treatment for cancer patients. Despite of the numerous antineoplastic drugs available, cancer cannot be cured; particularly at the late stages deprived of any side effect. Arylchromenes and arylchromans are a group of small molecules, of natural or synthetic origin, of great interest as prototypes for the drug development, especially against cancer. In this chapter, we will present the antineoplastic activity studies of the most promising examples of these arylchromenes and arylchroman derivatives.

Maximizing the Estrogenic Potential of Soy Isoflavones through the Gut Microbiome: Implication for Cardiometabolic Health in Postmenopausal Women

Soy isoflavones have been suggested as an alternative treatment for managing postmenopausal symptoms and promoting long-term health due to their structural similarity to mammalian estrogen and ability to bind to estrogen receptors. Among all soy isoflavones and their metabolites, (S)-equol is known for having the strongest estrogenic activity. Equol is a metabolite of the soy isoflavone daidzein produced through intestinal bacterial metabolism. However, more than half of the human population is not able to produce equol due to the lack of equol-producing bacteria in their gastrointestinal tract. The interpersonal variations in the gut microbiome complicate the interpretation of data collected from humans. Furthermore, because rodents are efficient equol-producers, translatability between rodent models and humans is challenging. Herein, we first summarized the current knowledge of the microbial conversion of daidzein to equol, its relation to health, and proposed the need for developing model systems by which equol production can be manipulated while controlling other known confounding factors. Determining the necessity of equol-producing capacity within a gut microbial community when consuming soy as a functional ingredient, and identifying strategies to maximize equol production by modulating the gut microbiome, may provide future therapeutic approaches to improve the health of postmenopausal women.

The role of isoflavones in augmenting the effects of radiotherapy

Cancer is one of the major health problems and the second cause of death worldwide behind heart disease. The traditional soy diet containing isoflavones, consumed by the Asian population in China and Japan has been identified as a protective factor from hormone-related cancers. Over the years the research focus has shifted from emphasizing the preventive effect of isoflavones from cancer initiation and promotion to their efficacy against established tumors along with chemo- and radiopotentiating effects. Studies performed in mouse models and results of clinical trials emphasize that genistein or a mixture of isoflavones, containing in traditional soy diet, could be utilized to both potentiate the response of cancer cells to radiotherapy and reduce radiation-induced toxicity in normal tissues. Currently ongoing clinical research explores a potential of another significant isoflavone, idronoxil, also known as phenoxodiol, as radiation enhancing agent. In the light of the recent clinical findings, this article reviews the accumulated evidence which support the clinically desirable interactions of soy isoflavones with radiation therapy resulting in improved tumor treatment. This review discusses important aspects of the development of isoflavones as anticancer agents, and mechanisms potentially relevant to their activity in combination with radiation therapy of cancer. It gives a critical overview of studies characterizing isoflavone targets such as topoisomerases, ENOX2/PMET, tyrosine kinases and ER receptor signaling, and cellular effects on the cell cycle, DNA damage, cell death, and immune responses.

Effects and mechanisms of dietary bioactive compounds on breast cancer prevention

Breast cancer (BC) is the most often diagnosed cancer among females globally and has become an increasing global health issue over the last decades. Despite the substantial improvement in screening methods for initial diagnosis, effective therapy remains lacking. Still, there has been high recurrence and disease progression after treatment of surgery, endocrine therapy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Considering this view, there is a crucial requirement to develop safe, freely accessible, and effective anticancer therapy for BC. The dietary bioactive compounds as auspicious anticancer agents have been recognized to be active and their implications in the treatment of BC with negligible side effects. Hence, this review focused on various dietary bioactive compounds as potential therapeutic agents in the prevention and treatment of BC with the mechanisms of action. Bioactive compounds have chemo-preventive properties as they inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells, downregulate the expression of estrogen receptors, and cell cycle arrest by inducing apoptotic settings in tumor cells. Therapeutic drugs or natural compounds generally incorporate engineered nanoparticles with ideal sizes, shapes, and enhance their solubility, circulatory half-life, and biodistribution. All data of in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies of dietary bioactive compounds and their impact on BC were collected from Science Direct, PubMed, and Google Scholar. The data of chemopreventive and anticancer activity of dietary bioactive compounds were collected and orchestrated in a suitable place in the review. These shreds of data will be extremely beneficial to recognize a series of additional diet-derived bioactive compounds to treat BC with the lowest side effects.

Investigation of inhibition effect of daidzein on osteosarcoma cells based on experimental validation and systematic pharmacology analysis

Objective

This study aims to explore the effect of daidzein, which is a natural isoflavone compound mainly extracted from soybeans, on osteosarcoma and the potential molecular mechanism.

Material and Methods

143B and U2OS osteosarcoma cells were treated with gradient concentrations of daidzein, and MTT assay was used to determine the cell proliferation capacity and IC₅₀. Hoechst 33342 staining and Annexin V-FITC/PI detection were used to determine apoptosis. Cell cycle was analyzed by flow cytometry, and migration ability were detected by transwell assays and scratch wound assay. An osteosarcoma xenograft mice model was applied to investigate the effect of daidzein on osteosarcoma in vivo. Systematic pharmacology and molecular modeling analysis were applied to predict the target of daidzein to osteosarcoma, and the target Src was verified by western blotting. We also observed the effect of daidzein on cell proliferation and apoptosis of Src-overexpressing osteosarcoma cells.

Results

In vitro, daidzein significantly inhibited 143B and U2OS osteosarcoma cell proliferation and migration, and induced cell cycle arrest. In vivo, daidzein exerts antitumor effects in osteosarcoma xenograft mice. After systematic screening and analysis, Src-MAPK signaling pathway was predicted as the highest-ranked pathway. Western blot demonstrated that daidzein inhibited phosphorylation of the Src-ERK pathway in osteosarcoma cells. Also, overexpression of Src could partially reverse the inhibitory effects of daidzein on osteosarcoma cell proliferation.

Conclusion

Daidzein exerts an antitumor effect on osteosarcoma, and the mechanism may be through the Src-ERK pathway.

Natural isoflavonoids in invasive cancer therapy: From bench to bedside

Cancer is a public health problem worldwide, and one of the crucial steps within tumor progression is the invasion and metastasis of cancer cells, which are directly related to cancer-associated deaths in patients. Recognizing the molecular markers involved in invasion and metastasis is essential to find targeted therapies in cancer. Interestingly, about 50% of the discovered drugs used in chemotherapy have been obtained from natural sources such as plants, including isoflavonoids. Until now, most drugs are used in chemotherapy targeting proliferation and apoptosis-related molecules. Here, we review recent studies about the effect of isoflavonoids on molecular targets and signaling pathways related to invasion and metastasis in cancer cell cultures, in vivo assays, and clinical trials. This review also reports that glycitein, daidzein, and genistein are the isoflavonoids most studied in preclinical and clinical trials and displayed the most anticancer activity targeting invasion-related proteins such as MMP-2 and MMP-9 and also EMT-associated proteins. Therefore, the diversity of isoflavonoids is promising molecules to be used as chemotherapeutic in invasive cancer. In the future, more clinical trials are needed to validate the effectiveness of the various natural isoflavonoids in the treatment of invasive cancer.

A Systematic Review of the Effects of Equol (Soy Metabolite) on Breast Cancer

Equol is a soy isoflavone metabolite that can be produced by intestinal bacteria. It is lipophilic and resembles natural oestrogens with an affinity to oestrogen receptors. This review is focused on how equol affects breast cancer, as evidenced by in vivo and in vitro studies. Equol is considered chemoprotective in specific endocrine-related pathologies, such as breast cancer, prostate cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and menopausal symptoms. In humans, not everyone can produce equol from gut metabolism. It is postulated that equol producers benefit more than non-equol producers for all the endocrine-related effects. Equol exists in two enantiomers of R-equol and S-equol. Earlier studies, however, did not specify which enantiomer was being used. This review considers equol's type and concentration variations, pathways affected, and its outcome in in vivo and in vitro studies.

Potential Role of Phytochemicals Against Matrix Metalloproteinase Induced Breast Cancer; An Explanatory Review

World Health Organization (WHO) estimated breast cancer as one of the most prevailed malignancy around the globe. Its incident cases are gradually increasing every year, resulting in considerable healthcare burden. The heterogeneity of breast cancer accounts for its differential molecular subtyping, interaction between pathways, DNA damaging, and chronic inflammation. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a group of zinc-containing, calcium dependent endopeptidases which play a substantial role in breast carcinogenesis through several mechanisms. These mechanisms include remodeling of extracellular matrix (ECM), cell proliferation, and angiogenesis which promote metastasis and result in tumor progression. In this context, compounds bearing MMP inhibitory potential can serve as potent therapeutic agents in combating MMPs provoked breast cancer. Current systematic review aimed to encompass the details of potent natural lead molecules that can deter MMPs-provoked breast cancer. Following the critical appraisal of literature, a total of n = 44 studies that explored inhibitory effect of phytochemicals on MMPs were included in this review. These phytoconstituents include alkaloids (n = 11), flavonoids (n = 23), terpenoids (n = 7), and lignans (n = 2). The most common inhibitory methods used to evaluate efficacy of these phytoconstituents included Gelatin Zymography, Western Blotting, and real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis. Moreover, current limitations, challenges, and future directions of using such compounds have been critically discussed. This review underscores the potential implications of phytochemicals in the management of breast cancer which could lessen the growing encumbrance of disease.

Daidzein Induces Intrinsic Pathway of Apoptosis along with ER α/β Ratio Alteration and ROS Production

Background:

Low risk of breast cancer is observed among females consuming a moderate quantity of soy throughout their life. The present study was conducted to evaluate the anticancer potential of Daidzein, one of the major Isoflavones in soy using Human breast cancer cells MCF-7.

Methods:

MCF-7 were subjected to various doses of Daidzein treatment to determine the IC50 value. Onset of apoptosis was ascertained by AnnexinV assay and caspase 3/7 activity post treatment. Expression of pro-apoptotic protein Bax and anti-apoptotic protein Bcl2 was also assessed to further confirm apoptotic mode of cell death. ROS production post treatment with Daidzein was assessed to ascertain the apoptosis via intrinsic pathway. Expression of ER α and ER β was evaluated by western blot analysis.

Results:

Human breast cancer cells MCF-7 were found to be sensitive to Daidzein treatment, with an IC₅₀ value of 50µM. Increased percentage of treated cells stained with Annexin V confirmed apoptosis mediated cell death. Activity of Caspase 3/7 activity was found to be 1.4-fold higher in Daidzein treated cells than control cells, confirming apoptosis. Daidzein caused over expression of Bax and down-regulated expression of Bcl2. There has been an outburst of ROS in Daidzein treated cells indicating that Daidzein induces apoptosis via intrinsic pathway. A decrease in the expression of ER α and increase in levels of ER β has been observed which are conducive indicator of apoptosis.

Conclusions:

In conclusion, the present study suggests that Daidzein induces apoptosis in MCF-7 cells by mitochondrial pathway along with lowering the ratio of ER α/β and an outburst of Reactive Oxygen Species(ROS).

From Proteomics to Personalized Medicine: The Importance of Isoflavone Dose and Estrogen Receptor Status in Breast Cancer Cells

Continuing efforts are directed towards finding alternative breast cancer chemotherapeutics, with improved safety and efficacy profiles. Soy isoflavones represent promising agents but, despite extensive research, limited information exists regarding their impact on the breast cancer cell proteome. The purpose of this study was to compare the proteomic profiles of MCF-7 (estrogen responsive) and MDA-MB-231 (estrogen non-responsive) breast cancer cells exposed to different concentrations of genistein, daidzein, and a soy seed extract, using a high throughput LC-UDMSE protein profiling approach. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay confirmed the dual activity of soy isoflavones on MCF-7 cells and the inhibitory effect on MDA-MB-231 cells. Proteome profiling of paramagnetic beads prepared peptides by nano-LC UDMSE and pathway enrichment analysis revealed that isoflavones affected distinct molecular pathways in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells, such as tyrosine kinases signaling pathway, cytoskeleton organization, lipid and phospholipid catabolism, extracellular matrix degradation and mRNA splicing. Also, in MCF-7 cells, low and high isoflavone doses induced different changes of the proteome, including cell cycle alterations. Therefore, the expression of estrogen receptors and the isoflavone dose are determinant factors for the molecular impact of isoflavones and must be taken into account when considering adjuvant breast cancer therapy towards personalized medicine.

Flavonoids Regulate Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Cancer

Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally. Millions of persons die due to cancer each year. In the last two decades, the anticancer effects of natural flavonoids have become a hot topic in many laboratories. Meanwhile, flavonoids, of which over 8000 molecules are known to date, are potential candidates for the discovery of anticancer drugs. The current review summarizes the major flavonoid classes of anticancer efficacy and discusses the potential anti-cancer mechanisms through inflammation and oxidative stress action, which were based on database and clinical studies within the past years. The results showed that flavonoids could regulate the inflammatory response and oxidative stress of tumor through some anti-inflammatory mechanisms such as NF-κB, so as to realize the anti-tumor effect.

Genistin: A Novel Potent Anti-Adipogenic and Anti-Lipogenic Agent

Soy isoflavones are popular ingredients with anti-adipogenic and anti-lipogenic properties. The anti-adipogenic and anti-lipogenic properties of genistein are well-known, but those of genistin and glycitein remain unknown, and those of daidzein are characterized by contrasting data. Therefore, the purpose of our study was to investigate the effects of daidzein, glycitein, genistein, and genistin on adipogenesis and lipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells. Proliferation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes was unaffected by genistin and glycitein, but it was affected by 50 and 100 µM genistein and 100 µM daidzein for 48 h. Among the four isoflavones, only 50 and 100 µM genistin and genistein markedly suppressed lipid accumulation during adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells through a similar signaling pathway in a dose-dependent manner. Genistin and genistein suppress adipocyte-specific proteins and genes, such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein α (C/EBPα), and adipocyte binding protein 2 (aP2)/fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4), and lipogenic enzymes such as ATP citrate lyase (ACL), acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1 (ACC1), and fatty acid synthase (FAS). Both isoflavones also activate AMP-activated protein kinase α (AMPKα), an essential factor in adipocyte differentiation, and inhibited sterol regulatory element-binding transcription factor 1c (SREBP-1c). These results indicate that genistin is a potent anti-adipogenic and anti-lipogenic agent.

Combinatorial Epigenetics Impact of Polyphenols and Phytochemicals in Cancer Prevention and Therapy

Polyphenols are potent micronutrients that can be found in large quantities in various food sources and spices. These compounds, also known as phenolics due to their phenolic structure, play a vital nutrient-based role in the prevention of various diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, liver disease, and cancers. However, the function of polyphenols in disease prevention and therapy depends on their dietary consumption and biological properties. According to American Cancer Society statistics, there will be an expected rise of 23.6 million new cancer cases by 2030. Due to the severity of the increased risk, it is important to evaluate various preventive measures associated with cancer. Relatively recently, numerous studies have indicated that various dietary polyphenols and phytochemicals possess properties of modifying epigenetic mechanisms that modulate gene expression resulting in regulation of cancer. These polyphenols and phytochemicals, when administrated in a dose-dependent and combinatorial-based manner, can have an enhanced effect on epigenetic changes, which play a crucial role in cancer prevention and therapy. Hence, this review will focus on the mechanisms of combined polyphenols and phytochemicals that can impact various epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation and histone modifications as well as regulation of non-coding miRNAs expression for treatment and prevention of various types of cancer.

Dietary Flavonoids for Immunoregulation and Cancer: Food Design for Targeting Disease

Flavonoids, one of the most abundant phytochemicals in a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, have been recognized as possessing anti-proliferative, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and estrogenic activities. Numerous cellular and animal-based studies show that flavonoids can function as antioxidants by preventing DNA damage and scavenging reactive oxygen radicals, inhibiting formation of DNA adducts, enhancing DNA repair, interfering with chemical damage by induction of Phase II enzymes, and modifying signaling pathways. Recent evidence also shows their ability to regulate the immune system. However, findings from clinical trials have been mixed with no clear consensus on dose, frequency, or type of flavonoids best suited to elicit many of the beneficial effects. Delivery of these bioactive compounds to their biological targets through "targeted designed" food processing strategies is critical to reach effective concentration in vivo. Thus, the identification of novel approaches that optimize flavonoid bioavailability is essential for their successful clinical application. In this review, we discuss the relevance of increasing flavonoid bioavailability, by agricultural engineering and "targeted food design" in the context of the immune system and cancer.

Soy-Induced Fecal Metabolome Changes in Ovariectomized and Intact Female Rats: Relationship with Cardiometabolic Health

Phytoestrogens are plant-derived compounds found in a variety of foods, most notably, soy. These compounds have been shown to improve immuno-metabolic health, yet mechanisms remain uncertain. We demonstrated previously that dietary phytoestrogen-rich soy (SOY) rescued metabolic dysfunction/inflammation following ovariectomy (OVX) in female rats; we also noted remarkable shifts in gut microbiota in SOY vs control diet-fed rats. Importantly, specific bacteria that significantly increased in those fed the SOY correlated positively with several favorable host metabolic parameters. One mechanism by which gut microbes might lead to such host effects is through production of bacterial metabolites. To test this possibility, we utilized non-targeted gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS) to assess the fecal metabolome in those previously studied animals. Partial least square discriminant analysis (PLSDA) revealed clear separation of fecal metabolomes based on diet and ovarian state. In particular, SOY-fed animals had greater fecal concentrations of the beneficial bacterial metabolite, S-equol, which was positively associated with several of the bacteria upregulated in the SOY group. S-equol was inversely correlated with important indicators of metabolic dysfunction and inflammation, suggesting that this metabolite might be a key mediator between SOY and gut microbiome-positive host health outcomes.

Metastatic and triple-negative breast cancer: challenges and treatment options

The major current conventional types of metastatic breast cancer (MBC) treatments include surgery, radiation, hormonal therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. Introducing biological drugs, targeted treatment and gene therapy can potentially reduce the mortality and improve the quality of life in patients with MBC. However, combination of several types of treatment is usually recommended. Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for 10-20% of all cases of breast carcinoma and is characterized by the low expression of progesterone receptor (PR), estrogen receptor (ER), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). Consequently, convenient treatments used for MBC that target these receptors are not effective for TNBC which therefore requires special treatment approaches. This review discusses the occurrence of MBC, the prognosis and predictive biomarkers of MBC, and focuses on the novel advanced tactics for treatment of MBC and TNBC. Nanotechnology-based combinatorial approach for the suppression of EGFR by siRNA and gifitinib is described.

[ARTICLE WITHDRAWN] Long Noncoding RNA MEG3 Inhibits Cell Proliferation and Metastasis in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia via Targeting miR-184

THIS ARTICLE WAS WITHDRAWN BY THE PUBLISHER IN 03/2021. We submitted a manuscript entitled "Long Noncoding RNA MEG3 Inhibits Cell Proliferation and Metastasis in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia via Targeting miR-184", which was published in the 26(2) issue of Oncology Research. But now we found some inaccuracies in this manuscript. So after carefully thinking, we are going to withdraw manuscript and try to give more precise model. Thus we decided to withdraw this manuscript with great pity. We sincerely say sorry for all the staffs involved this manuscript because of our action. All authors agree to withdraw this manuscript. Thank you very much for your time and kind consideration. Thanks for your time and best wishes. Li Jingdong.

Effects of equol on multiple K+ channels stably expressed in HEK 293 cells

The present study investigated the effects of equol on cardiovascular K+ channel currents. The cardiovascular K+ channel currents were determined in HEK 293 cells stably expressing cloned differential cardiovascular K+ channels with conventional whole-cell patch voltage-clamp technique. We found that equol inhibited hKv1.5 (IC50: 15.3 μM), hKv4.3 (IC50: 29.2 μM and 11.9 μM for hKv4.3 peak current and charge area, respectively), IKs (IC50: 24.7 μM) and IhERG (IC50: 31.6 and 56.5 μM for IhERG.tail and IhERG.step, respectively), but not hKir2.1 current, in a concentration-dependent manner. Interestingly, equol increased BKCa current with an EC50 of 0.1 μM. It had no significant effect on guinea pig ventricular action potentials at concentrations of ≤3 μM. These results demonstrate that equol inhibits several cardiac K+ currents at relatively high concentrations, whereas it increases BKCa current at very low concentrations, suggesting that equol is a safe drug candidate for treating patients with cerebral vascular disorders.

Dietary Natural Products for Prevention and Treatment of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among females worldwide. Several epidemiological studies suggested the inverse correlation between the intake of vegetables and fruits and the incidence of breast cancer. Substantial experimental studies indicated that many dietary natural products could affect the development and progression of breast cancer, such as soy, pomegranate, mangosteen, citrus fruits, apple, grape, mango, cruciferous vegetables, ginger, garlic, black cumin, edible macro-fungi, and cereals. Their anti-breast cancer effects involve various mechanisms of action, such as downregulating ER-α expression and activity, inhibiting proliferation, migration, metastasis and angiogenesis of breast tumor cells, inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, and sensitizing breast tumor cells to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. This review summarizes the potential role of dietary natural products and their major bioactive components in prevention and treatment of breast cancer, and special attention was paid to the mechanisms of action.

Assessing the anticancer effects associated with food products and/or nutraceuticals using in vitro and in vivo preclinical development-related pharmacological tests

This review is part of a special issue entitled "Role of dietary pattern, foods, nutrients and nutraceuticals in supporting cancer prevention and treatment" and describes a pharmacological strategy to determine the potential contribution of food-related components as anticancer agents against established cancer. Therefore, this review does not relate to chemoprevention, which is analysed in several other reviews in the current special issue, but rather focuses on the following: i) the biological events that currently represent barriers against the treatment of certain types of cancers, primarily metastatic cancers; ii) the in vitro and in vivo pharmacological pre-clinical tests that can be used to analyse the potential anticancer effects of food-related components; and iii) several examples of food-related components with anticancer effects. This review does not represent a catalogue-based listing of food-related components with more or less anticancer activity. By contrast, this review proposes an original pharmacological strategy that researchers can use to analyse the potential anticancer activity of any food-related component-e.g., by considering the crucial characteristics of cancer biological aggressiveness. This review also highlights that cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy should restrict the use of "food complements" without supervision by a medical nutritionist. By contrast, an equilibrated diet that includes the food-related components listed herein would be beneficial for cancer patients who are not undergoing chemotherapy.

lncRNA MEG3 had anti-cancer effects to suppress pancreatic cancer activity

AIM

The aim of this study was to explain the mechanism of lncRNA MEG 3 in pancreatic cancer.

METHODS

We were collecting 30 pancreatic cancer patients, taking the sample from these patients. We measured the PI3K protein expressions from 30 patients by IHC and WB methods and MEG 3 expression by RT-PCR, and analyzed the relationship between PI3K protein expression and pancreatic cancer patients' clinical pathology and the correlation between lncRNA MEG 3 and PI3K. In the cell experiment, PANC-1 cells were divided into three groups: NC, BL and lncRNA groups, after treatment,we measured cell proliferation rate of 3 groups by MTT methods, evaluated cell apoptosis and cell cycle using flow cytometry, tested the invasion cells and migrate rate of 3 groups by transwell and wound healing assays.

RESULTS

Compared with carcinoma adjacent tissue, The PI3K protein expression of pancreatic cancer tissue were significantly up-regulation (P>0.05). MEG 3 gene expression was negatively correlated with PI3K expression. The MEG 3 was negatively correlated with tumor size, Metastasis and Vascular invasion in pancreatic cancer (P<0.05, respectively). In the cell experiment, The cell proliferation and apoptosis rates of lncRNA group were significantly difference compared with NC group (P<0.05, respectively), and the G1 phase rate of lncRNA group was higher than NC group (P<0.05). The invasion cells and wound healing rate were significantly reduced in lncRNA group than those in NC group (P<0.05, respectively).

CONCLUSION

MEG 3 over-expressing had anti-cancer effects to suppress pancreatic cancer activity by regulation PI3K/AKT/Bcl-2/Bax/Cyclin D1/P53 and PI3K/AKT/MMP-2/MMP-9 signaling pathways.

Anti-metastatic activity of fangchinoline in human gastric cancer AGS cells

Fangchinoline (FCL) is an active component isolated from the traditional medicinal plant Stephania tetrandra S. Moore, and has been reported to possess anti-cancer functions in several types of cancers; however, the effect of FCL on gastric cancer metastasis and its underlying molecular mechanisms remain unknown. The current study aimed to investigate the effect of FCL on the cell migration and invasion of human metastatic gastric cancer AGS cells and its mechanisms. Our study demonstrates that FCL dosage dependently suppressed the adhesion, migration and invasion capacities of human gastric cancer AGS cells without obvious cytotoxic effects. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blot assays demonstrated that FCL greatly inhibited the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 at both the mRNA and protein levels, while it significantly increased the expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP) 1 and TIMP2 messenger RNAs. Our results also indicated that FCL repressed the phosphorylation of AKT in gastric cancer AGS cells. In summary, FCL may exert its anti-metastatic property in human gastric cancer cells in vitro by suppression of MMP-2 and MMP-9, increase of TIMP1 and TIMP2 genes, and inhibition of AKT phosphorylation. FCL may be a drug candidate for the treatment of gastric cancer metastasis.

Natural Polyphenols for Prevention and Treatment of Cancer

There is much epidemiological evidence that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables could lower the risk of certain cancers. The effect has been attributed, in part, to natural polyphenols. Besides, numerous studies have demonstrated that natural polyphenols could be used for the prevention and treatment of cancer. Potential mechanisms included antioxidant, anti-inflammation as well as the modulation of multiple molecular events involved in carcinogenesis. The current review summarized the anticancer efficacy of major polyphenol classes (flavonoids, phenolic acids, lignans and stilbenes) and discussed the potential mechanisms of action, which were based on epidemiological, in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies within the past five years.

Soy Isoflavones and Breast Cancer Cell Lines: Molecular Mechanisms and Future Perspectives

The potential benefit of soy isoflavones in breast cancer chemoprevention, as suggested by epidemiological studies, has aroused the interest of numerous scientists for over twenty years. Although intensive work has been done in this field, the preclinical results continue to be controversial and the molecular mechanisms are far from being fully understood. The antiproliferative effect of soy isoflavones has been commonly linked to the estrogen receptor interaction, but there is growing evidence that other pathways are influenced as well. Among these, the regulation of apoptosis, cell proliferation and survival, inhibition of angiogenesis and metastasis or antioxidant properties have been recently explored using various isoflavone doses and various breast cancer cells. In this review, we offer a comprehensive perspective on the molecular mechanisms of isoflavones observed in in vitro studies, emphasizing each time the dose-effect relationship and estrogen receptor status of the cells. Furthermore, we present future research directions in this field which could provide a better understanding of the inner molecular mechanisms of soy isoflavones in breast cancer.

Cancer therapy using natural ligands that target estrogen receptor beta

Estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) is one of the two key receptors (ERα, ERβ) that facilitate biological actions of 17β-estradiol (E2). ERβ is widely expressed in many tissues, and its expression is reduced or lost during progression of many tumors. ERβ facilitates estrogen signaling by both genomic (classical and non-classical) and extra-nuclear signaling. Emerging evidence suggests that ERβ functions as a tissue-specific tumor suppressor with anti-proliferative actions. Recent studies have identified a number of naturally available selective ERβ agonists. Targeting ERβ using its naturally available ligands is an attractive approach for treating and preventing cancers. This review presents the beneficial actions of ERβ signaling and clinical utility of several natural ERβ ligands as potential cancer therapy.

Role of the LKB1/AMPK pathway in tumor invasion and metastasis of cancer cells (Review)

Liver kinase B1 (LKB1), also known as serine/threo-nine kinase 11 (STK11), is a tumor suppressor that is inactivated in Peutz-Jeghers familial cancer syndrome. LKB1 phosphorylates and activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which negatively regulates cancer cell proliferation and metabolism. However, recent evidence demonstrates that the LKB1/AMPK pathway is involved in the process of tumor invasion and migration, which is an important hallmark of carcinoma progression to higher pathological grades of malignancy. This review focuses on the function of the LKB1/AMPK pathway in the invasion and migration of cancer cells and provides an overview of therapeutic strategies aimed at this pathway in malignant tumors.

Effects of daidzein in regards to cytotoxicity in vitro, apoptosis, reactive oxygen species level, cell cycle arrest and the expression of caspase and Bcl-2 family proteins

In the present study, the in vitro cytotoxicity of daidzein was evaluated in human BEL-7402, A549, HeLa, HepG-2 and MG-63 cancer cell lines. BEL-7402 cells were sensitive to daidzein treatment, with an IC₅₀ value of 59.7±8.1 µM. Daidzein showed no cytotoxic activity toward A549, HeLa, HepG-2 and MG-63 cells. Daidzein increased the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and induced a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential. Morphological and comet assays showed that daidzein effectively induced apoptosis in BEL-7402 cells. Additionally, daidzein caused cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase in the BEL-7402 cell line. Daidzein downregulated the expression of Bcl-2, Bcl-x and Baid proteins and upregulated the levels of Bim protein in the BEL-7402 cells. The results demonstrated that daidzein induced BEL-7402 cell apoptosis through an ROS-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction pathway.

High levels of dietary soy decrease mammary tumor latency and increase incidence in MTB-IGFIR transgenic mice

BACKGROUND

Epidemiologic data indicates that Asian diets, which are high in soy protein, reduce a women's risk of developing breast cancer. However, it has been difficult to dissociate the benefits of soy from other variables including environmental and lifestyle factors. Since prospective studies in humans would take decades to complete, rodent models provide a valuable research alternative.

METHODS

In this study, MTB-IGFIR transgenic mice, which develop mammary tumors resulting from overexpression of the type I insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF-IR), were utilized. MTB-IGFIR mice were fed a soy-based or casein-based diet throughout all stages of development to reflect soy exposure in Asian cultures. Mammary tumors were initiated at 2 different developmental stages by commencing IGF-IR transgene expression either during puberty or in adult mice.

RESULTS

MTB-IGFIR mice fed a soy-based diet displayed increased tumor incidence and accelerated tumor onset compared to MTB-IGFIR mice fed a casein diet. Two markers of estrogen receptor signaling, Pgr and Areg, were elevated in mammary tissue from mice fed the soy diet compared to mice fed the casein diet suggesting that high levels of soy may promote mammary tumor development through acting as an estrogen receptor agonist. Mammary tumors from mice fed a soy diet more frequently expressed metaplastic markers such as cytokeratins 5 and 14 as well as p63 and displayed reduced lung metastases compared to mammary tumors from mice fed a casein diet.

CONCLUSIONS

Diets consisting of very high levels of soy protein promote mammary tumor development and decrease tumor latency possibly through activating estrogen receptor signaling. Additional studies are required to determine whether a more moderate amount of dietary soy can inhibit oncogene-induced mammary tumorigenesis.

The role of colonic bacteria in the metabolism of the natural isoflavone daidzin to equol

Isoflavones are found in leguminous plants, especially soybeans. They have a structural similarity to natural estrogens, which enables them to bind to estrogen receptors and elicit biological activities similar to natural estrogens. They have been suggested to be beneficial for the prevention and therapy of hormone-dependent diseases. After soy products are consumed, the bacteria of the intestinal microflora metabolize isoflavones to metabolites with altered absorption, bioavailability, and estrogenic characteristics. Variations in the effect of soy products have been correlated with the isoflavone metabolites found in plasma and urine samples of the individuals consuming soy products. The beneficial effects of the soy isoflavone daidzin, the glycoside of daidzein, have been reported in individuals producing equol, a reduction product of daidzein produced by specific colonic bacteria in individuals called equol producers. These individuals comprise 30% and 60% of populations consuming Western and soy-rich Asian diets, respectively. Since the higher percentage of equol producers in populations consuming soy-rich diets is correlated with a lower incidence of hormone-dependent diseases, considerable efforts have been made to detect the specific colonic bacteria involved in the metabolism of daidzein to the more estrogenic compound, equol, which should facilitate the investigation of the metabolic activities related to this compound.

Bioavailability, bioactivity and impact on health of dietary flavonoids and related compounds: an update

There is substantial interest in the role of plant secondary metabolites as protective dietary agents. In particular, the involvement of flavonoids and related compounds has become a major topic in human nutrition research. Evidence from epidemiological and human intervention studies is emerging regarding the protective effects of various (poly)phenol-rich foods against several chronic diseases, including neurodegeneration, cancer and cardiovascular diseases. In recent years, the use of HPLC-MS for the analysis of flavonoids and related compounds in foods and biological samples has significantly enhanced our understanding of (poly)phenol bioavailability. These advancements have also led to improvements in the available food composition and metabolomic databases, and consequently in the development of biomarkers of (poly)phenol intake to use in epidemiological studies. Efforts to create adequate standardised materials and well-matched controls to use in randomised controlled trials have also improved the quality of the available data. In vitro investigations using physiologically achievable concentrations of (poly)phenol metabolites and catabolites with appropriate model test systems have provided new and interesting insights on potential mechanisms of actions. This article will summarise recent findings on the bioavailability and biological activity of (poly)phenols, focusing on the epidemiological and clinical evidence of beneficial effects of flavonoids and related compounds on urinary tract infections, cognitive function and age-related cognitive decline, cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Effect of soy isoflavones on the growth of human breast tumors: findings from preclinical studies

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, and many women with breast cancer live more than 5 years after their diagnosis. Breast cancer patients and survivors have a greater interest in taking soy foods and isoflavone supplements. However, the effect of isoflavones on breast cancer remains controversial. Thus, it is critical to determine if and when isoflavones are beneficial or detrimental to breast cancer patients. According to the available preclinical data, high concentrations of isoflavones inhibit the proliferation of breast cancer cells, regardless of their estrogen receptor (ER) status. In comparison, genistein, a major isoflavone, has stimulated tumor growth at low concentrations and mitigated tamoxifen efficacy in ER-positive breast cancer. Studies have indicated that the relative levels of genistein and estrogen at the target site are important to determine the genistein effect on the ER-positive tumor growth. However, studies using ovariectomized mice and subcutaneous xenograft models might not truly reflect estrogen concentrations in human breast tumors. Moreover, it may be an oversimplification that isoflavones stimulate hormone-dependent tumor growth due to their potential estrogenic effect since studies also suggest nonestrogenic anticancer effects of isoflavones and ER-independent anticancer activity of tamoxifen. Therefore, the concentrations of isoflavones and estrogen in human breast tumors should be considered better in future preclinical studies and the parameters that can estimate those levels in breast tumors are required in human clinical/epidemiological investigation. In addition, it will be important to identify the molecular mechanisms that either inhibit or promote the growth of breast cancer cells by soy isoflavones, and use those molecules to evaluate the relevance of the preclinical findings to the human disease and to predict the health effects of isoflavones in human breast tumors.

Daidzein suppresses tumor necrosis factor-α induced migration and invasion by inhibiting hedgehog/Gli1 signaling in human breast cancer cells

In breast cancer, the cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) induces cell invasion, although the molecular basis of it has not been clearly elucidated. In this study, we investigated the role of daidzein in regulating TNF-α induced cell invasion and the underlying molecular mechanisms. Daidzein inhibited TNF-α induced cellular migration and invasion in estrogen receptor (ER) negative MCF10DCIS.com human breast cancer cells. TNF-α activated Hedgehog (Hh) signaling by enhancing Gli1 nuclear translocation and transcriptional activity, which resulted in increased invasiveness; these effects were blocked by daidzein and the Hh signaling inhibitors, cyclopamine and vismodegib. Moreover, these compounds suppressed TNF-α induced matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 mRNA expression and activity. Taken together, mammary tumor cell invasiveness was stimulated by TNF-α induced activation of Hh signaling; these effects were abrogated by daidzein, which suppressed Gli1 activation, thereby inhibiting migration and invasion.