Antioxidant and anticancer efficacy of hesperidin in benzo(a)pyrene induced lung carcinogenesis in mice

Recent Advances in the Health Benefits and Application of Tangerine Peel (Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium): A Review

Citrus fruits, renowned for their abundant of phytochemicals and bioactive compounds, hold a prominent position as commercially grown fruits with health-promoting properties. In this context, tangerine peel (Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium, CRP) is garnering attention as a byproduct of citrus fruits. Within the framework of the circular economy, CRP has emerged as a focal point due to its potential health benefits. CRP, extracted from Citrus reticulata cv. and aged for over three years, has attracted increasing attention for its diverse health-promoting effects, including its anticancer, cardiovascular-protecting, gastrointestinal-modulating, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. Moreover, CRP positively impacts skeletal health and various physiological functions. This review delves into the therapeutic effects and molecular mechanisms of CRP. The substantial therapeutic potential of CRP highlights the need for further research into its applications in both food and medicine. As a value-added functional ingredient, CRP and its constituents are extensively utilized in the development of food and health supplements, such as teas, porridges, and traditional medicinal formulations.

Neuroprotective effects of flavonoids: endoplasmic reticulum as the target

The incidence of neurological disorders, particularly age-related neurodegenerative pathologies, exhibits an alarming upward trend, while current pharmacological interventions seldom achieve curative outcomes. Despite their diverse clinical presentations, neurological diseases often share a common pathological thread: the aberrant accumulation of misfolded proteins within the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). This phenomenon, known as ER stress, arises when the cell's intrinsic quality control mechanisms fail to cope with the protein-folding burden. Consequently, misfolded proteins accumulate in the ER lumen, triggering a cascade of cellular stress responses. Recognizing this challenge, researchers have intensified their efforts over the past two decades to explore natural compounds that could potentially slow or even reverse these devastating pathologies. Flavonoids constitute a vast and heterogeneous class of plant polyphenols, with over 10,000 identified from diverse natural sources such as wines, vegetables, medicinal plants, and organic products. Flavonoids are generally divided into six different subclasses: anthocyanidins, flavanones, flavones, flavonols, isoflavones, and flavonols. The diverse family of flavonoids, featuring a common phenolic ring backbone adorned with varying hydroxyl groups and additional modifications, exerts its antioxidant activity by inhibiting the formation of ROS, as evidenced by research. Also, studies suggest that polyphenols such as flavonoids can regulate ER stress through apoptosis and autophagy. By understanding these mechanisms, we can unlock the potential of flavonoids as novel therapeutic agents for neurodegenerative disorders. Therefore, this review critically examines the literature exploring the modulatory effects of flavonoids on various steps of the ER stress in neurological disorders.

Testicular protective effects of hesperidin against chemical and biological toxicants

Toxic agents can adversely impact the male reproductive system mainly via activating oxidative stress affecting the seminiferous epithelia, spermatogenesis, sperms, and the testis. Toxic agents lead to the excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as hydroxyl radicals, hydrogen peroxide, and superoxide anions. ROS exert a cytotoxic effect and oxidative damage to nucleic acids, proteins, and membrane lipids. Hesperidin is a pharmacologically active phytoflavone abundantly occurring in citrus fruits, such as oranges and lemons. It has shown various pharmacological properties such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, analgesic, antiviral, anti-coagulant, hypolipidemic, and hypoglycemic effects. Hesperidin has been found to exert protective effects against natural and chemical toxins-induced organ toxicity. Considerable evidence has implicated the testicular protective effects of hesperidin against the toxicological properties of pharmaceutical drugs as well as biological and chemical agents, and in the present review, we discussed, for the first time, the reported studies. The resultant data indicate that hesperidin can exert testicular protective effects through antioxidant properties.

Protective effects of hesperidin in gastric damage caused by experimental ischemia-reperfusion injury model in rats

PURPOSE

This study evaluated the protective effect of hesperidin on injury induced by gastric ischemia-reperfusion.

METHODS

Fifty male Sprague Dawley rats (250-300 g) were divided into five groups: control (C), sham (S), ischemia (I), ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) and hesperidin + ischemia-reperfusion (Hes + I/R). Hesperidin was injected intraperitoneally at the dose of 100 mg/kg one hour before the experimental stomach ischemia-reperfusion. Celiac artery was ligated. After 45 minutes ischemia and 60 minutes reperfusion period, blood samples were obtained under anesthesia. Then, animals were sacrificed, stomach tissues were excised for biochemical, and histopathological analyses were performed. Malondialdehyde levels and superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase activities and total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), protein, total thiol parameters were measured in plasma, and tissue homogenate samples. H + E, periodic acid-Schiff, hypoxia inducible factor, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end-labeling (TUNEL), and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) for cell proliferation as immunohistochemical parameters were determined.

RESULTS

Upon biochemical and histopathological assessment, hesperidin decreased stomach tissue changes in comparison with IR group. Ischemia-reperfusion injury led to a considerably increase in malondialdehyde, protein, and TOS levels (p < 0.001) in stomach tissue. Hesperidin treatment significantly decreased malondialdehyde, protein, and TOS levels (p < 0.001). Hesperidin increased superoxide dismutase, TAS, total thiol and glutathione peroxidase activities in comparison with IR group. Hesperidin reduced damage and also increased TUNEL and PCNA immunoreactivity in stomach tissue.

CONCLUSIONS

Hesperidin was able to decrease I/R injury of the stomach tissue due to inhibition of lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation, duration of antioxidant, and free radical scavenger properties. Consequently, hesperidin can provide a beneficial therapeutic choice for preventing stomach tissue ischemia-reperfusion injury in clinical application.

Immunomodulatory effect of Myrtenol on benzo (a) pyrene-induced lung cancer in Swiss albino mice via modulation of tumor markers, cytokines and inhibition of PCNA expression

Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. Although many diagnostic and treatment regimens have been followed in the treatment for lung cancer, increasing mortality rate due to lung cancer is depressing and hence requires alternative plant based therapeutics with with less side-effects. Myrtenol exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Hence we intended to study the effect of Myrtenol on B(a)P-induced lung cancer. Our study showed that B(a)P lowered hematological count, decreased phagocyte and avidity indices, nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction, levels of immunoglubulins, antioxidant levels, whereas Myrtenol treatment restored them back to normal levels. On the other hand, xenobiotic and liver dysfunction marker enzymes and pro-inflammatory cytokines were elevated on B(a)P exposure, which retuned back to normal by Myrtenol. This study thus describes the immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects of Myrtenol on B[a]P-induced immune destruction.

Potential Chemopreventive Effects of Dietary Combination of Phytochemicals against Cancer Development

Cancer remains a major cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Over 70% of epithelial malignancies are sporadic and are related to lifestyle. Epidemiological studies suggest an inverse correlation between cancer incidence and fruit and vegetable intake. Numerous preclinical studies using in vitro (cell lines) and in vivo animal models of oncogenesis have reported the chemopreventive effects of dietary phytochemical agents through alterations in different biomarkers and signaling pathways. However, there is contrasting evidence from preclinical studies and clinical trials. To date, the most studied compounds include curcumin, resveratrol, isoflavones, green tea extract (epigallocatechin gallate), black raspberry powder (anthocyanins and ellagitannins), bilberry extract (anthocyanins), ginger extract (gingerol derivatives), and pomegranate extract (ellagitannins and ellagic acid). Overall, the clinical evidence of the preventive effects of dietary phytochemicals against cancer development is still weak, and the amount of these phytochemicals needed to exert chemopreventive effects largely exceeds the common dietary doses. Therefore, we propose a combination treatment of natural compounds that are used clinically for another purpose in order to obtain excess inhibitory efficacy via low-dose administration and discuss the possible reasons behind the gap between preclinical research and clinical trials.

Unveiling the therapeutic potential of natural-based anticancer compounds inducing non-canonical cell death mechanisms

In the Mid-19th century, Rudolf Virchow considered necrosis to be a prominent form of cell death; since then, pathologists have recognized necrosis as both a cause and a consequence of disease. About a century later, the mechanism of apoptosis, another form of cell death, was discovered, and we now know that this process is regulated by several molecular mechanisms that "programme" the cell to die. However, discoveries on cell death mechanisms are not limited to these, and recent studies have allowed the identification of novel cell death pathways that can be molecularly distinguished from necrotic and apoptotic cell death mechanisms. Moreover, the main goal of current cancer therapy is to discover and develop drugs that target apoptosis. However, resistance to chemotherapeutic agents targeting apoptosis is mainly responsible for the failure of clinical therapy and adverse side effects of the chemotherapeutic agents currently in use pose a major threat to the well-being and lives of patients. Therefore, the development of natural-based anticancer drugs with low cellular and organismal side effects is of great interest. In this comprehensive review, we thoroughly examine and discuss natural anticancer compounds that specifically target non-canonical cell death mechanisms.

Current Update on Role of Hesperidin in Inflammatory Lung Diseases: Chemistry, Pharmacology, and Drug Delivery Approaches

Inflammation is a common feature of many respiratory diseases, such as pneumonia, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, acute lung injury, and COVID-19. Flavonoids have demonstrated their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects by influencing inflammation at different stages and majorly impacting several respiratory diseases’ onset and development. According to current studies, hesperidin, one of the most abundant polyphenols, can inhibit transcription factors or regulatory enzymes essential for controlling inflammation-linked mediators, including nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). It also improved cellular antioxidant defences by activating the ERK/Nrf2 signalling pathway. Therefore, this review provides the latest studies on the effect of hesperidin in different respiratory diseases, its pharmacokinetic profile, and innovative drug delivery methods.

Hesperidin protects against aluminum-induced renal injury in rats via modulating MMP-9 and apoptosis: biochemical, histological, and ultrastructural study

Aluminum, one of the most abundant metallic elements, is known to be toxic to multiple organs including the kidneys. This study aimed to investigate the pleiotropic nephroprotective effects of Hesperidin in aluminum chloride (ALCL3)-induced renal injury, highlighting the potential molecular mechanisms underlying. Twenty-four male albino rats were divided into four groups: control, Hesperidin (80 mg/kg BW, orally), ALCL3 (10 mg/kg BW, IP), and ALCL3 + Hesperidin groups. By the end of the study, blood samples were collected, and tissue samples were harvested at sacrifice. ALCL3 rats showed dramatically declined renal function, enhanced intrarenal oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and extravagant renal histopathological damage with interstitial fibrosis as shown by a higher Endothelial, Glomerular, Tubular, and Interstitial (EGTI) score. Hesperidin significantly reversed all the aforementioned detrimental effects in ALCL3-treated rats. The study verified the nephroprotective effects of Hesperidin on ALCL3-induced renal damage and confirmed the critical role of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and apoptosis inhibition.

Mechanism of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium as an Anticancer Agent from the Perspective of Flavonoids: A Review

Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (CRP), also known as “chenpi”, is the most common qi-regulating drug in traditional Chinese medicine. It is often used to treat cough and indigestion, but in recent years, it has been found to have multi-faceted anti-cancer effects. This article reviews the pharmacology of CRP and the mechanism of the action of flavonoids, the key components of CRP, against cancers including breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, hepatic carcinoma, gastric cancer, colorectal cancer, esophageal cancer, cervical cancer, bladder cancer and other cancers with a high diagnosis rate. Finally, the specific roles of CRP in important phenotypes such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy and migration–invasion in cancer were analyzed, and the possible prospects and deficiencies of CRP as an anticancer agent were evaluated.

Investigation of the effect of hesperidin on some reproductive parameters in testicular toxicity induced by Bisphenol A

Bisphenol A (BPA) is one of the chemicals that cause dysfunction and infertility in testicles. Therefore, it is crucial to develop effective treatments against this damage. In this study, the effects of Hesperidin (HESP), a flavonoid in testicular toxicity induced by BPA in rats, on oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, histological damage, spermatogenesis, steroidogenic enzymes and reproductive hormones were investigated. Our study used 52 Sprague Dawley male rats weighing 250-300 g, and four experimental groups were formed. From the experimental groups, 1 ml of olive oil was administered to the control group, HESP at a dose of 50 mg/kg to the HESP group, BPA at a dose of 100 mg/kg to the BPA group, HESP at a dose of 50 mg/kg to the BPA + HESP group and 100 mg/kg BPA was administered intragastrically (ig) for 14 days. We determined that BPA administration causes apoptosis, histological damage, inflammation, oxidative stress and toxic effects on spermatogenesis and steroidogenic enzymes in testicles. We observed that the administration of HESP with BPA attenuated oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis resulting in therapeutic effects on both steroidogenic enzymes and spermatogenesis and reproductive hormones (FSH, LH and testosterone). Our findings from this study clearly showed that while HESP treatment alleviates oxidative damage, inflammation and apoptosis in testicles of rats treated with BPA, it has regulatory effects on steroidogenic enzymes, spermatogenesis and serum reproductive hormones.

A comprehensive and current review on the role of flavonoids in lung cancer-Experimental and theoretical approaches

BACKGROUND

It is well-known that flavonoids, which can be easily obtained from many fruits and vegetables are widely preferred in the treatment of some important diseases. Some researchers noted that these chemical compounds exhibit high inhibition effect against various cancer types. Many experimental studies proving this ability of the flavonoids with high antioxidant activity are available in the literature.

PUROPOSE

The main aim of this review is to summarize comprehensively anticancer properties of flavonoids against the lung cancer in the light of experimental studies and well-known theory and electronic structure principles. In this review article, more detailed and current information about the using of flavonoids in the treatment of lung cancer is presented considering theoretical and experimental approaches.

STUDY DESIGN

In addition to experimental studies including the anticancer effects of flavonoids, we emphasized the requirement of the well-known electronic structure principle in the development of anticancer drugs. For this aim, Conceptual Density Functional Theory should be considered as a powerful tool. Searching the databases including ScienceDirect, PubMed and Web of Science, the suitable reference papers for this project were selected.

METHODS

Theoretical tools like DFT and Molecular Docking provides important clues about anticancer behavior and drug properties of molecular systems. Conceptual Density Functional Theory and CDFT based electronic structure principles and rules like Hard and Soft Acid-Base Principle (HSAB), Maximum Hardness Principle, Minimum Polarizability, Minimum Electrophilicity Principles and Maximum Composite Hardness Rule introduced by one of the authors of this review are so useful to predict the mechanisms and powers of chemical systems. Especially, it cannot be ignored the success of HSAB Principle in the explanations and highlighting of biochemical interactions.

RESULTS

Both theoretical analysis and experimental studies confirmed that flavonoids have higher inhibition effect against lung cancer. In addition to many superior properties like anticancer activity, antimicrobial activity, antioxidant activity, antidiabetic effect of flavonoids, their toxicities are also explained with the help of published popular papers. Action modes of the mentioned compounds are given in detail.

CONCLUSION

The review includes detailed information about the mentioned electronic structure principles and rules and their applications in the cancer research. In addition, the epidemiology and types of lung cancer anticancer activity of flavonoids in lung cancer are explained in details.

Therapeutic potential of flavonoids in cancer: ROS-mediated mechanisms

Cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality around the globe. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play contradicting roles in cancer incidence and progression. Antioxidants have attracted attention as emerging therapeutic agents. Among these are flavonoids, which are natural polyphenols with established anticancer and antioxidant capacities. Increasing evidence shows that flavonoids can inhibit carcinogenesis via suppressing ROS levels. Surprisingly, flavonoids can also trigger excessive oxidative stress, but this can also induce death of malignant cells. In this review, we explore the inherent characteristics that contribute to the antioxidant capacity of flavonoids, and we dissect the scenarios in which they play the contrasting role as pro-oxidants. Furthermore, we elaborate on the pathways that link flavonoid-mediated modulation of ROS to the prevention and treatment of cancer. Special attention is given to the ROS-mediated anticancer functions that (-)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), hesperetin, naringenin, quercetin, luteolin, and apigenin evoke in various cancers. We also delve into the structure-function relations that make flavonoids potent antioxidants. This review provides a detailed perspective that can be utilized in future experiments or trials that aim at utilizing flavonoids or verifying their efficacy for developing new pharmacologic agents. We support the argument that flavonoids are attractive candidates for cancer therapy.

Modelling and targeting mitochondrial protein tyrosine phosphatase 1: a computational approach

The present research scintillates on the homology modelling of rat mitochondrial protein tyrosine phosphatase 1 (PTPMT1) and targeting its activity using flavonoids through a computational docking approach. PTPMT1 is a dual-specificity phosphatase responsible for protein phosphorylation and plays a vital role in the metabolism of cardiolipin biosynthesis, insulin regulation, etc. The inhibition of PTPMT1 has also shown enhanced insulin levels. The three-dimensional structure of the protein is not yet known. The homology modelling was performed using SWISS-MODEL and Geno3D webservers to compare the efficiencies. The PROCHECK for protein modelled using SWISS-MODEL showed 91.6% of amino acids in the most favoured region, 0.7% residues in the disallowed region that was found to be significant compared to the model built using Geno3D. 210 common flavonoids were docked in the modelled protein using the AutoDock 4.2.6 along with a control drug alexidine dihydrochloride. Our results show promising candidates that bind protein tyrosine phosphatase 1, including, prunin (- 8.66 kcal/mol); oroxindin (- 8.56 kcal/mol); luteolin 7-rutinoside (- 8.47 kcal/mol); 3(2H)-isoflavenes (- 8.36 kcal/mol); nicotiflorin (- 8.29 kcal/mol), ranked top in the docking experiments. We predicted the pharmacokinetic and Lipinski properties of the top ten compounds with the lowest binding energies. To further validate the stability of the modelled protein and docked complexes molecular dynamics simulations were performed using Desmond, Schrodinger for 150 ns in conjunction with MM-GBSA. Thus, flavonoids could act as potential inhibitors of PTPMT1, and further, in-vitro and in-vivo studies are essential to complete the drug development process.

Hesperidin delays cell cycle progression into the G0/G1 phase via suspension of MAPK signaling pathway in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) derived from epithelial cells of bile ducts is highly aggressive tumor. Hesperidin extracted from citrus fruits is a promising antitumor compound. The purpose of this study is to explore molecular mechanism by which hesperidin affects cholangiocarcinoma progression. Cellular functional experiments were performed and subcutaneous transplant xenograft model was established. Our findings indicated that hesperidin suppressed iCCA cell proliferation in time- and concentration-dependent manners. Hesperidin treatment induced cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase, whereas it has no effect on cell apoptosis. Further, data revealed that hesperidin attenuated MEK5 and ERK5 phosphorylation and inhibited ERK5 nuclear localization by reducing MEKK2 activity in MAPK signaling pathway. It could cause alterations in expression of the downstream genes, including CDK4, CDK6 (cell cycle protein kinases), Cyclin D1 (a G1/S checkpoint), P21, and P27 (two G1-checkpoint CDK inhibitors), thereby arresting cell cycle distribution of iCCA cells in the G0/G1 phase. BIX02189 treatment, a specific inhibitor of MEK5, in combination with hesperidin displayed synergistic inhibitory effects on cell cycle arrest and gene expressions. Furthermore, hesperidin administration alone or in combination with MEK5 inhibitor BIX02189 restrained iCCA tumor growth in vivo. Taken together, these results confirmed that hesperidin regulated the expression of cell cycle-related genes by inhibiting the activation of MEKK2/MEK5/ERK5 signaling pathway, inducing iCCA cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase. Our study provides a theoretical foundation and experimental basis for further development of hesperidin as a therapeutic agent for iCCA treatment.

Protective role of a melon superoxide dismutase combined with gliadin (GliSODin) on the status of lipid peroxidation and antioxidant defense against azoxymethane-induced experimental colon carcinogenesis

Background

Azoxymethane (AOM) is a potent carcinogenic agent commonly used to induce colon cancer in rats and mice, with the cytotoxicity of AOM mediated by oxidative stress.

Aim of Study

This study investigated the protective effect of a natural antioxidant (GliSODin) against AOM-induced oxidative stress and carcinogenesis in rat colon.

Methods

Twenty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (five rats/group). The control group was fed a basal diet. AOM-treated group (AOM) was fed a basal diet and received intraperitoneal injections of AOM for 2 weeks at a dose of 15 mg/kg. The GliSODin treatment group (superoxide dismutase [SOD]) received oral supplementation of GliSODin (300 mg/kg) for 3 months, and the fourth combined group received AOM and GliSODin (AOM + SOD). All animals were continuously fed ad libitum until the age of 16 weeks when all rats were sacrificed. The colon tissues were examined microscopically for pathological changes and aberrant crypt foci (ACF) development, oxidant status (lipid peroxidation-LPO), and enzyme antioxidant system (glutathione [GSH], GSH-S-transferase, catalase, and SOD).

Results

Our results showed that AOM induced ACF development and oxidative stress (GSH depletion and lipid peroxidation) in rat colonic cells. The concomitant treatment of AOM with GliSODin significantly ameliorated the cytotoxic effects of AOM.

Conclusion

The results of this study provide in vivo evidence that GliSODin reduced the AOM-induced colon cancer in rats, through their potent antioxidant activities.

Protective effects of hesperidin through attenuation of Ki67 expression against DMBA-induced breast cancer in female rats

AIMS

Doxorubicin (Dox) is routinely used for breast cancer treatment but toxicity and drug resistance limit its use. The objective of the study was to investigate the protective effects of hesperidin alone and in combination with doxorubicin against experimentally induced breast cancer in female rats.

METHODS

Breast cancer (BC) was induced by administration of 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) through subcutaneous injection into the 3rd right mammary gland of female Wistar rats. Hesperidin (Hes) pretreated groups were started with Hes (200 mg/kg) two weeks prior to DMBA induction. Animals were randomly divided into nine groups namely vehicle control, DMBA-induced, Dox 4 mg/kg, Dox 2 mg/kg, Hes (200 mg/kg), Hes (200 mg/kg) plus Dox 4 mg/kg treated groups and Hes pretreated groups treated with DMBA, Dox 4 mg/kg and Dox 2 mg/kg.

KEY FINDINGS

Hes pretreated groups showed reduced tumor occurrence, tumor volume and increased survival rate as compared to DMBA-induced group of animals. Hes pretreated animals treated with Dox 4 mg/kg and 2 mg/kg exhibited significant reduction in malondialdehyde and improvement in levels of glutathione and inflammatory markers like IL-6, TNF-α, NF-κB, IFN-γ as compared to Dox 4 mg/kg and 2 mg/kg treated animals. Histopathology and Ki67 expression depicted better control of tumor with Hes pretreatment groups as compared to DMBA-induced. Histopathology of vital organs of Hes pretreated groups treated with Dox revealed lesser toxicity than Dox treated groups.

SIGNIFICANCE

Hesperidin possesses protective effect against experimentally induced breast cancer in female rats that appears to be related to attenuation of Ki67 expression.

Sesame Extract Promotes Chemopreventive Effect of Hesperidin on Early Phase of Diethylnitrosamine-Initiated Hepatocarcinogenesis in Rats

The combination of natural products is an alternative approach to achieving chemopreventive potential. Accordingly, citrus hesperidin exhibits numerous biological activities, including anticarcinogenic activities, while the sesamin in sesame exhibits potent anticancer activities and lipid-lowering effects. We investigated the cancer chemopreventive effects of mixed sesame and orange seed extract (MSO) containing hesperidin and sesamin in diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced hepatocarcinogenesis. Rats were injected with DEN once a week for 3 weeks to induce hepatocarcinogenesis. Rats were fed with MSO and various compositions that included sesame extract (SE) and hesperidin. The 10-week administration of MSO more effectively inhibited the number and size of hepatic GST-P-positive foci than hesperidin in DEN-initiated rats. MSO and hesperidin decreased the number of PCNA-positive hepatocytes but increased the apoptotic cells in DEN-induced rats. Furthermore, MSO and its constituents suppressed hepatic triglyceride content concurrently along with the expression of fatty acid synthase. Although the 5-week administration of MSO or hesperidin did not alter hepatic, preneoplastic lesion formation in DEN-initiated rats, it alleviated DEN-induced hepatotoxicity. MSO and its applied compositions did not impact upon the cytochrome P450 system. In conclusion, sesame extract promoted the chemopreventive effect of hesperidin on DEN-induced early stage of hepatocarcinogenesis in rats. The inhibitory mechanisms are likely involved with the induction of cell apoptosis, suppression of cell proliferation and modulation of hepatic lipogenesis. This study may provide revelations in the development of alternative treatments against hepatocellular carcinoma.

Modulatory effects of catechin hydrate on benzo[a]pyrene-induced nephrotoxicity in adult male albino rats

Benzo [a] pyrene (B[a]P) is a potent mutagen and carcinogen, considered one of the commonest concomitants in the environment. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of catechin hydrate on benzo pyrene-induced kidney toxicity. Thirty-six adult male albino rats were divided into six groups: group I untreated control, group II received 10 mL/kg of corn oil (solvent of benzo [a] pyrene) twice a week, group III received 1 mL/kg 0.5% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) (solvent of catechin) once per day, group IV received 50 mg/kg body weight of benzo[a]pyrene twice a week, group V received 20 mg/kg body weight of catechin in 1 mL/kg 0.5% DMSO once daily, and group VI received both catechin+benzo [a] pyrene with the same doses. All treatment was given by oral gavage for four weeks. At the end of the experiment, blood samples were collected for biochemical investigations, tissues were obtained for genotoxicity, RT-PCR, and histopathological studies. B[a]P exposure induced an increase in serum urea and creatinine levels along with severe renal histopathological changes. Our results showed a subsequent decrease in the antioxidant enzyme activities (catalase and superoxide dismutase), and conversely, (malondialdehyde) levels markedly elevated. Also, B[a]P induced DNA damage as well as activated an apoptotic pathway confirmed by upregulation of Bax, caspase-3, and downregulation of Bcl-2 expression. However, treatment with catechin-corrected kidney functions and antioxidant enzymes as well as regulated apoptosis. Histological results also supported the protective effects of catechin. These findings suggested that catechin hydrate is an effective natural product that attenuates benzo pyrene-induced kidney toxicity.

Chemoprotective effect of atorvastatin against benzo(a)pyrene-induced lung cancer via the inhibition of oxidative stress and inflammatory parameters

Background

Lung cancer affects approximately 9% of women and 17% of men worldwide, and has a mortality rate of 17%. Previously published studies have suggested that oxidative stress expansion can lead to lung cancer. The aim of the current study was to analyze the possible inhibitory pathway of atorvastatin against lung cancer cells in an in vivo model.

Methods

The cytotoxic effects of atorvastatin on lung cancer cell lines H460 and A549 were analyzed, as well as cell cycle arrest and cell morphology. Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) was used for the induction of lung cancer in experimental rats, and atorvastatin (5, 10, and 20 mg/kg body weight) was used for treatment in a dose-dependent manner. Body weight and lung tumors were calculated at regular intervals. Antioxidants, pro-inflammatory cytokines, phase I and II antioxidant enzymes, polyamine enzymes, and apoptosis markers were determined at end of the experimental study.

Results

Cell cycle arrest occurred at the G2/M phase after atorvastatin treatment. Atorvastatin increased cytochrome C expression and caspase activity in a dose-dependent manner, and increased the activity of antioxidative enzymes, such as GPx, SOD, GST, reduced glutathione, and catalase, and reduced the level of nitrate and LPO. It also altered the xanthine oxidase (XO), Lactic Acid Dehydrogenase (LDH), quinone reductase (QR), UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UDP-GT), adenosine deaminase (ADA), Aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase (AHH), 5'-nucleotidase, cytochrome P450, cytochrome B5 and NADPH cytochrome C reductase levels. Atorvastatin was found to modulate polyamine enzyme levels, such as histamine, spermine, spermidine, and putrescine, and significantly (P<0.001) reduced the pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, such as tumor necrosis factor-α. Interleukin (IL)-6 and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) increased caspase-3 and caspase-9 levels in a dose-dependent manner.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that atorvastatin can inhibit lung cancer through apoptosis.

Citrus flavonoids and their antioxidant evaluation

The antioxidant ability is the link and bridge connecting a variety of biological activities. Citrus flavonoids play an essential role in regulating oxidative stress and are an important source of daily intake of antioxidant supplements. Many studies have shown that citrus flavonoids promote health through antioxidation. In this review, the biosynthesis, composition and distribution of citrus flavonoids were concluded. The detection methods of antioxidant capacity of citrus flavonoids were divided into four categories: chemical, cellular, animal and clinical antioxidant capacity evaluation systems. The modeling methods, applicable scenarios, and their relative merits were compared based on these four systems. The antioxidant functions of citrus flavonoids under different evaluation systems were also discussed, especially the regulation of the Nrf2-antioxidases pathway. Some shortcomings in the current research were pointed out, and some suggestions for progress were put forward.

Medicinal Chemistry Targeting Mitochondria: From New Vehicles and Pharmacophore Groups to Old Drugs with Mitochondrial Activity

Interest in tumor cell mitochondria as a pharmacological target has been rekindled in recent years. This attention is due in part to new publications documenting heterogenous characteristics of solid tumors, including anoxic and hypoxic zones that foster cellular populations with differentiating metabolic characteristics. These populations include tumor-initiating or cancer stem cells, which have a strong capacity to adapt to reduced oxygen availability, switching rapidly between glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation as sources of energy and metabolites. Additionally, this cell subpopulation shows high chemo- and radioresistance and a high capacity for tumor repopulation. Interestingly, it has been shown that inhibiting mitochondrial function in tumor cells affects glycolysis pathways, cell bioenergy, and cell viability. Therefore, mitochondrial inhibition may be a viable strategy for eradicating cancer stem cells. In this context, medicinal chemistry research over the last decade has synthesized and characterized "vehicles" capable of transporting novel or existing pharmacophores to mitochondrial tumor cells, based on mechanisms that exploit the physicochemical properties of the vehicles and the inherent properties of the mitochondria. The pharmacophores, some of which have been isolated from plants and others, which were synthesized in the lab, are diverse in chemical nature. Some of these molecules are active, while others are prodrugs that have been evaluated alone or linked to mitochondria-targeted agents. Finally, researchers have recently described drugs with well-proven safety and efficacy that may exert a mitochondria-specific inhibitory effect in tumor cells through noncanonical mechanisms. The effectiveness of these molecules may be improved by linking them to mitochondrial carrier molecules. These promising pharmacological agents should be evaluated alone and in combination with classic chemotherapeutic drugs in clinical studies.

Hesperidin administration suppresses the proliferation of lung cancer cells by promoting apoptosis via targeting the miR‑132/ZEB2 signalling pathway

This aim of the present study was to identify the relationship between hesperidin and microRNA (miR)-132, and to study the role of hesperidin and miR-132 in the pathogenesis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Computational analysis and luciferase assays were performed to identify the target of miR-132. Subsequently, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blot assays were used to detect the effect of miR-132 and hesperidin on the expression of haematological and neurological expressed 1 (HN1) and zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 2 (ZEB2). Finally, MTT assays and flow cytometry analysis were used to investigate the effect of hesperidin on cell proliferation and apoptosis. ZEB2 was identified as a target gene of miR-132, and transfection with miR-132 mimic reduced the luciferase activity of the wild-type ZEB2 3′-untranslated region (3′-UTR) but not that of the mutant ZEB2 3′-UTR. By contrast, neither transfection with miR-132 mimic nor hesperidin treatment affected HN1 expression. Furthermore, hesperidin evidently inhibited cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, the tumour volume in rats transplanted with NSCLC cells and treated with hesperidin was notably smaller compared with that in rats transplanted with NSCLC cells alone, while treatment with hesperidin significantly reduced the colony formation efficiency of NSCLC cells by increasing miR-132 expression and decreasing ZEB2 expression. To the best of our knowledge, the present study demonstrated for the first time that the administration of hesperidin decreased the expression of ZEB2 by upregulating the expression of miR-132, which in turn promoted apoptosis and inhibited the proliferation of NSCLC cells.

Therapeutic potential of hesperidin and its aglycone hesperetin: Cell cycle regulation and apoptosis induction in cancer models

BACKGROUND

The ability of cancer cells to divide without restriction and to escape programmed cell death is a feature of the proliferative state. Citrus flavanones are flavonoids with potential multiple anticancer actions, from antioxidant and chemopreventive, to anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, cytostatic and cytotoxic in different cancer models.

PURPOSE

This review aims to summarize the current knowledge on the antiproliferative actions of the citrus flavanones hesperidin (HSD) and hesperetin (HST), with emphasis on cell cycle arrest and apoptosis.

METHODS

Cochrane Library, Scopus, Pubmed and Web of Science collection databases were queried for publications reporting antiproliferative effects of HSD and HST in cancer models.

RESULTS

HSD and HST have been proven to delay cell proliferation in several cancer models. Depending on the compound, dose and cell line studied, different effects have been reported. Cell cycle arrest associated with cytostatic effects has been reported in cells with increased levels of p53 and also cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors, as well as decreased levels of specific cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases. Moreover, apoptotic effects have been found to be associated with altered ratios of pro-/antiapoptotic proteins, caspase activation, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway activation and caspase-independent pathways.

CONCLUSION

Available scientific literature data indicate complex effects, dependent on cell lines and exposure conditions, suggesting that HSD and HST doses need to be optimized according to the cellular and organismal context. The establishment of the main antiproliferative mechanisms is of utmost importance for a possible therapeutic benefit of citrus flavanones in the context of cancer.

Comparison Among Garlic, Berberine, Resveratrol,Hibiscus sabdariffa, GenusZizyphus, Hesperidin, Red Beetroot,Catha edulis,Portulaca oleracea, and Mulberry Leaves in the Treatment of Hypertension and Type 2 DM: A Comprehensive Review

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension are 2 of the most prevalent diseases with poor impact on health status worldwide. In most cases, they coexist with other metabolic disorders as well as cardiac, micro- and macrovascular complications. Many plants are known for their hypotensive, cardioprotective, and/or antidiabetic activities. Their active ingredients either identified and isolated or still utilized as herbal preparations of certain plant parts. The use of medicinal plants comprises the main basis for most of the traditional medicine (TM) systems and procedures. As conventional medicines seem insufficient to control such progressive diseases, herbal agents from TM could be used as adjuvant with good impact on disease control and progression as well as other concomitant health conditions. The aim of this study is to compare the efficacy of 10 different herbal medicines of botanical origin or herbal preparations in the management of hypertension and its cardiovascular complications and type 2 DM along with various coexisting health disorders. These herbal medicines are garlic, berberine, resveratrol, Hibiscus sabdariffa, Zizyphus ( oxyphylla, mucronate, jujube, rugosa), hesperidin, red beetroot, Catha edulis, mulberry leaves, and Portulaca oleracea.

Protective Effect of Chrysin, a Dietary Flavone against Genotoxic and Oxidative Damage Induced by Mitomycin C in Balb/C Mice

Anticancer drugs, such as Mitomycin C (MMC), can interact with biological molecules and cause genetic damage in normal cells. In this respect, we investigated the potential of chrysin, a flavone known as a potent scavenger of free radicals generated by anticancer agents, to protect mice against MMC-induced genotoxicity. The amount of DNA damage in the liver, kidney and bone marrow cells, in Balb/C mice treated with MMC (6 mg/kg, i.p) and the frequency of chromosomal aberrations indicated the genotoxic effect of MMC. Besides, a significant increase in the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx, GST) and lipid peroxidation is revealed. On the other hand, we noticed a regression of the genotoxic effect when studying the same parameters in Balb/C mice treated with chrysin (40 mg/kg b. wt., i.p) 24 h prior to MMC (6 mg/kg, i.p) injection. This study concluded that the protective effect of chrysin against genotoxicity of MMC results partly from its antioxidant effect.

Molecular mechanisms of action of hesperidin in cancer: Recent trends and advancements

Hesperidin belongs to flavanones class of flavonoids and is known to possess broad-spectrum applicability to prevent dreadful diseases such as cardiovascular disease, neurodegeneration, and cancer. The reported anticancer effects of hesperidin have been found to be associated with its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Hesperidin interacts with numerous recognized cellular targets and inhibits cancer cell proliferation by inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. In addition, evidence has suggested its promising role in inhibiting tumor cell metastasis, angiogenesis, and chemoresistance. The present mini-review highlights the ongoing development to identify hesperidin targets in cancer. Furthermore, the potential of nano technology-based hesperidin combinations and delivery systems will also be discussed. Overall, this review highlights all the possible molecular targets affected by hesperidin in tumor cells on a single platform.

Impact statement

Experimental findings from numerous studies have demonstrated the anticancer effects of hesperidin (Hesp) to be associated with anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities along with its potential role in inhibiting the tumor cell metastasis and angiogenesis. Additionally, Hesp can also reverse drug resistance of cancer cells, which make it a promising candidate to be used in combination with existing anti-cancer drugs. This review will be helpful for upcoming researchers and scientific community to find out complete capsular package about cancer drug targets of Hesp and its role in modulating various important hallmarks of cancer.

Hesperetin reverses P‑glycoprotein‑mediated cisplatin resistance in DDP‑resistant human lung cancer cells via modulation of the nuclear factor‑κB signaling pathway

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-associated mortality worldwide. Cisplatin (DDP) is a first-line chemotherapeutic drug for the treatment of lung cancer; however, the majority of patients develop resistance to DDP. P-glycoprotein (P-gp), also referred to as multidrug resistance (MDR) protein 1, is associated with an MDR phenotype, which results in failure of cancer chemotherapy; thus, identifying effective MDR pump inhibitors may improve the outcomes of patients who develop resistance to treatment. Hesperetin is a derivative of hesperidin, which is extracted from tangerine peel and exhibits multiple antitumor properties. In the present study, human lung adenocarcinoma A549 and A549/DDP cells were treated with different concentrations of hesperetin and DDP, respectively. Furthermore, rhodamine 123 efflux assays, Cell Counting Kit-8 assays, immunofluorescence, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blot analysis were used to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the effects of hesperetin On A549/DDP cells. Additionally, a xenograft model of lung cancer in nude mice was established to explore the effects of hesperetin on A549/DDP cell growth in vivo. The results demonstrated that hesperetin sensitized A549/DDP cells to DDP. In vivo, hesperetin pretreatment significantly inhibited tumor growth. Mechanistically, hesperetin markedly decreased the expression of P-gp and increased the intracellular accumulation of the P-gp substrate, rhodamine 123, in A549/DDP cells. In addition, pretreatment of A549/DDP cells with hesperetin significantly inhibited nuclear factor (NF)-κB (p65) activity and its nuclear translocation. Taken together, the results of the present study suggest that hesperetin reversed P-gp-mediated MDR by decreasing P-gp expression in A549/DDP cells, which was associated with inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway. These findings may provide the basis for the use of hesperetin clinically to reverse MDR.

Hesperidin loaded Zn2+@ SA/PCT nanocomposites inhibit the proliferation and induces the apoptosis in colon cancer cells (HCT116) through the enhancement of pro-apoptotic protein expressions

Colon carcinoma is a recurring type of cancer that affects the intestine epithelial with a poor survival rate. It was already proven the anticancer property of hesperidin in various cancers but the bioavailability hesperidin is poor, which hinders the hesperidin usage. In this investigation we synthesized hesperidin loaded Zn²⁺@ SA/PCT nanocomposites and assessed its anticancer potential against colon cancer (HCT116) cells. Hesperidin loaded Zn²⁺@ SA/PCT nanocomposites were characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) analysis. The drug releasing capacity and cytotoxic property was assessed via drug releasing assay, MTT assay with HCT116 cells. The anticancer potency of hesperidin nanocomposites were evaluated with TUNEL, DAPI staining, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation assay and it is confirmed with flow cytometry analysis of MMP disruption in colon cancer (HCT116) cell line. Further the immunoblotting analysis of cysteine proteases Caspases 3, 9, PARP, proapoptotic protein Bax and antiapoptotic protein Bcl2 were performed. The results of FTIR, XRD and electroscopic analyses confirmed the synthesized hesperidin nanocomposites accomplish the properties of potent nanodrug and the MTT assay authentically confirmed that the synthesized hesperidin nanocomposite inhibited the HCT116 cell growth, and the results of fluorescent staining proved that the hesperidin nanocomposite induced the apoptotic mediated cell necrosis via promoting the expression of apoptotic proteins thereby induced the apoptosis in colon cancer (HCT116) cells. Hence, it was concluded that the, hesperidin loaded nanocomposites persuasively inhibited proliferation of colon carcinoma cell and induced apoptosis in in vitro condition.

Lagerstroemia speciosa (L.) Pers Leaf Extract Attenuates Lung Tumorigenesis via Alleviating Oxidative Stress, Inflammation and Apoptosis

One of the major etiological factors that account for lung cancer is tobacco use. Benzo(a)pyrene [B(a)P], one of the main constituents of tobacco smoke, has a key role in lung carcinogenesis. The present study was conducted to investigate the cytotoxicity of an aqueous ethanolic extract of Lagerstroemia speciosa (L.) Pers leaves (LLE) on human lung adenocarcinoma cells (A549), as well as its in vivo antitumor effect on a lung tumorigenesis mice model. Our results revealed that LLE possesses cytotoxic activity against the A549 cell line. Mice orally administered B(a)P (50 mg/kg body weight) showed an increase in relative lung weight with subsequent decrease in final body weight. Serum levels of tumor marker enzymes AHH, ADA and LDH and the inflammatory mediator NF-κB increased, while total antioxidant capacity (TAC) decreased. In addition, we observed the increased activity of metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and MMP-12) and levels of the tumor angiogenesis marker VEFG and the lipid peroxidation marker MDA, as well as decreased levels of the non-enzymatic antioxidant GSH and enzymatic antioxidants CAT and GSH-Px in lung tissues. Moreover, B(a)P administration up-regulated the expression of the COX-2 gene, pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6, and an anti-apoptotic gene Bcl-2, and at the same time down-regulated expression of pro-apoptotic genes BAX and caspase-3 and the p53 gene. Pre- and post-treatment with LLE (250 mg/kg body weight) attenuated all these abnormalities. Histopathological observations verified the protective effect of LLE. Overall, the present data positively confirm the potent antitumor effect of L. speciosa leaves against lung tumorigenesis.

Anticancer effect of Limonin against benzo(a)pyrene-induced lung carcinogenesis in Swiss albino mice and the inhibition of A549 cell proliferation through apoptotic pathway

The main purpose of the current study is to reveal the anticancer action of limonin against benzo(a)pyrene [B(a)P]-treated lung carcinogenesis in Swiss albino mice and A549 lung cancer cells. B(a)P was orally supplemented (50 mg/kg body weight) twice a week for four weeks induction of lung cancer in mice. The lung weight, body weight, incidence of tumor, lipid peroxidation, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidants (superoxide dismutase, GPx, glutathione, glutathione reductase, catalase, and glutathione S-transferase), serum marker enzymes (aryl hydroxylase, lactate dehydrogenase, 5'-nucleotidases, and γ-glutamyl transpeptidase), and inflammatory mediators (interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α) were estimated. Moreover, a histopathological study of lung tissues was supported by the biochemical analysis. Furthermore, the anticancer activity of limonin on A549 cells was measured by cell viability, production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), apoptotic morphological changes by AO/EtBr staining. Additionally, the status of apoptosis protein (caspase-9 and -3) expressions was analyzed by the colorimetric analysis. B(a)P-induced mice showed increased lipid peroxidation, CEA, serum marker enzymes and inflammatory cytokines levels with simultaneously decreased in the nonenzymatic and enzymatic antioxidants levels. Limonin supplements significantly reverted back to all these changes in this manner, showing the efficiency of anticancer effect. Furthermore, our in vitro study also supported the anticancer effect of the treatment of limonin-enhanced apoptosis by loss of cell viability, improved ROS production, apoptotic morphological changes, and apoptosis protein expression were analyzed. Overall, these results suggest the anticancer potential of limonin against B(a)P-induced lung cancer in Swiss albino mice and A549 lung cancer cells.

Protective effect of vanillic acid against benzo(a)pyrene induced lung cancer in Swiss albino mice

Vanillic acid (VA) is found in high concentrations in various plants and used as traditional medicine for various diseases. The aim of the existing study is to illustrate the protective effects of VA against benzo(a)pyrene (B(a)P)-induced lung cancer in Swiss albino mice. B(a)P (50 mg/kg b.wt.) was given orally to induce lung cancer in mice. The body weight, tumor incidence, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), neuron-specific enolase (NSE), and enzymatic/nonenzymatic antioxidants (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione) were estimated. Further histochemical investigation through hematoxylin and eosin staining was also carried out. B(a)P administered groups showed increased levels of serum pathological markers CEA, NSE along with reduced final body weight as well as decreased tissue enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidants activities, whereas VA treatment (200mg/kg/b.wt) along with B(a)P showed significantly reverted the above changes, which proves as prominent anticancer effects in experimentally induced lung cancer. Overall, these results suggest that VA has an efficient preventive action against B(a)P-induced lung cancer, and this is attributed to its free-radical scavenging antioxidant activities.

Aluminium phosphide-induced testicular toxicity through oxidative stress in Wistar rats: Ameliorative role of hesperidin

The present study was designed to investigate aluminium phosphide (ALP)-induced testicular toxicity, including its effects on sperm parameters and histological alterations in Wistar rats, and the possible protective role of hesperidin (HSD). Oral administration of ALP at 1.15 mg/kg body weight (1/10 LD50) for 30 days resulted in a significant increase in testicular malondialdehyde, lipid hydroperoxides, and oxidized protein levels. These indicators of oxidative stress were accompanied by decreased activity of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase, followed by a drastic reduction in the non-enzymatic antioxidant indices of glutathione and total antioxidant capacity when compared to control. Furthermore, ALP treatment produced a marked reduction in sperm count, motility and viability while increasing abnormal sperm morphology and adverse histopathological changes in testis. Co-administration with HSD significantly ameliorated ALP-induced testicular damage by suppressing oxidative stress indices and enhancing antioxidant status while also improving the sperm parameters and histological alterations in ALP-treated rats. The results of the present study indicated that testicular toxic effects of ALP are due to oxidative imbalance and that HSD could be a potential therapeutic agent against ALP-induced testicular damage.

Hesperidin promotes programmed cell death by downregulation of nongenomic estrogen receptor signalling pathway in endometrial cancer cells

Endometrial carcinoma (EC) is the most common malignant gynecologic tumor in women. EC is thought to be caused by increasing estrogen levels relative to progesterone in the body. Hesperidin (Hsd), a biologically active flavonoid, could be extracted from Citrus species. It has been recently shown that Hsd could exert anticarcinogenic properties in different cancer types. However, the effects of Hsd and its molecular mechanisms on EC remain unclear. In this study, the antiproliferative, apoptotic and genomic effects of Hsd in EC and its underlying mechanisms were identified. We found that Hsd significantly suppressed the proliferation of EC cells in dose and time dependent manner. Mechanistic studies showed that Hsd could contribute apoptosis by inducing externalization of phosphatidyl serine (PS), caspase-3 activity and loss of mitochondrial membrane (MMP). Furthermore, we examined that Hsd could also significantly upregulate the expression of proapoptotic Bax subgroup genes (Bax and Bik) while downregulating the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 in EC cell lines. According to GO enrichment and KEGG pathway analysis of differentially expressed genes in Hsd treated EC cells, we identified that Hsd could promote cell death via downregulation of estrogen receptor I (ESRI) that was directly related to ERK/MAPK pathway. Taken together, our study first showed that Hsd could be an antiestrogenic compound that could modulate nongenomic estrogen receptor signaling through inhibition of EC cell growth. Our findings may provide us a novel growth inhibitory agent for EC treatment after verifying its molecular mechanism with in vivo studies.

Hesperidin suppresses the migration and invasion of non-small cell lung cancer cells by inhibiting the SDF-1/CXCR-4 pathway

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to investigate the ability of hesperidin to suppress the migration and invasion of A549 cells, and to investigate the role of the SDF-1/CXCR-4 cascade in this suppression.

METHODS

We performed a Transwell migration assay to measure the migratory capability of A549 cells treated with 0.5% DMSO, SDF-1α, AMD3100 or hesperidin. The SDF-1 level in the culture medium was determined by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect whether different concentrations of hesperidin affected SDF-1 secretion. A wound-healing assay was performed to determine the effects of different concentrations of hesperidin on the migration inhibition of A549, H460 and H1975 cells. Additionally, the effect of various hesperidin concentrations on the rate of A549 cell invasion and migration was examined with and without Matrigel in Transwell assays, respectively. Western blot analysis was used to evaluate the protein levels of CXCR-4, MMP-9, CK-19, Vimentin, p65, p-p65, p-IκB, IκB, p-Akt and Akt. RT-qPCR was used to detect the mRNA levels of CXCR-4, MMP-9, CK-19, Vimentin, p65, IκB, SDF-1 and Akt.

RESULTS

The Transwell migration assay indicated that SDF-1α promoted A549 cell migration, while AMD3100 and hesperidin significantly inhibited the migratory capability. The wound-healing assay demonstrated that hesperidin treatment significantly reduced the rate of wound closure compared with the control group in a dose-dependent manner. Similarly, the migration and invasive abilities of A549 cells, H460 and H1975 cells treated with hesperidin were significantly decreased compared with the control group. The ELISA data suggested that hesperidin attenuated the secretion of SDF-1 from A549 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, western blot analysis indicated that SDF-1α treatment significantly increased the levels of CXCR-4, p-p65, p-IκB and p-Akt in A549 cells. In contrast, AMD3100 or hesperidin reversed the effect induced by SDF-1α through decreasing the expression of CXCR-4. Subsequent RT-qPCR and western blot analyses also confirmed that hesperidin had a significant effect on the expression of EMT-related proteins, including MMP-9, CK-19 and Vimentin, in A549 cells.

CONCLUSION

In summary, we demonstrated that hesperidin inhibited the migratory and invasive capabilities of A549 human non-small cell lung cancer cells by the mediation of the SDF-1/CXCR-4 signaling cascade, thus providing the foundation for the development of hesperidin as a safer and more effective anticancer drug for non-small cell lung cancer.

Hesperidin induces apoptosis and G0/G1 arrest in human non-small cell lung cancer A549 cells

Lung cancer has high incidence and mortality rates worldwide. In the present study, the mechanisms by which hesperidin decreases the viability and induces the apoptosis of human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) A549 cells were investigated. Initially, MTT and flow cytometric assays were performed to evaluate the effects of hesperidin on the viability and apoptosis of A549 cells and human normal lung epithelial BEAS-2B cells. The results revealed that hesperidin has no negative effects on the human normal lung epithelial BEAS-2B cells and the viability of cells treated with various concentrations of hesperidin was inhibited in a time- and dose-dependent manner compared with the control groups. Subsequently, the expression levels of proteins involved in the mitochondria-associated apoptotic pathway were studied by western blot analysis. Hesperidin was identified to induce A549 cell apoptosis by downregulating the levels of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) and Bcl extra large protein and simultaneously upregulating the levels of Bcl-2-associated X protein, BH3 interacting-domain death agonist (Bid), tBid, cleaved caspase-9, cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved poly(adenosine diphosphate ribose)polymerase. The effect of hesperidin on the cell cycle was assessed by flow cytometry. Hesperidin was observed to cause G0/G1 arrest of A549 cells by decreasing the expression of cyclin D1 and increasing the expression of p21 and p53. In summary, it was demonstrated that hesperidin induced apoptosis through the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway and induced G0/G1 arrest in human NSCLC A549 cells. Therefore, hesperidin may be developed as a potential therapeutic drug for the treatment of NSCLC.

Antioxidant Capacity, Anticancer Ability and Flavonoids Composition of 35 Citrus (Citrus reticulata Blanco) Varieties

Citrus (Citrus reticulate Blanco) is one of the most commonly consumed and widely distributed fruit in the world, which is possessing extensive bioactivities. Present study aimed to fully understand the flavonoids compositions, antioxidant capacities and in vitro anticancer abilities of different citrus resources. Citrus fruits of 35 varieties belonging to 5 types (pummelos, oranges, tangerines, mandarins and hybrids) were collected. Combining li quid chromatography combined with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS) and ultra-performance liquid chromatography combined with diode array detector (UPLC-DAD), a total of 39 flavonoid compounds were identified, including 4 flavones, 9 flavanones and 26 polymethoxylated flavonoids (PMFs). Each citrus fruit was examined and compared by 4 parts, flavedo, albedo, segment membrane and juice sacs. The juice sacs had the lowest total phenolics, following by the segment membrane. Four antioxidant traits including 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) and cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) were applied for the antioxidant capacities evaluation. Three gastric cancer cell lines, SGC-7901, BGC-823 and AGS were applied for the cytotoxicity evaluation. According to the results of correlation analysis, phenolics compounds might be the main contributor to the antioxidant activity of citrus extracts, while PMFs existing only in the flavedo might be closely related to the gastric cancer cell line cytotoxicity of citrus extracts. The results of present study might provide a theoretical guidance for the utilization of citrus resources.

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from rat model of pleurisy: The effects of hesperidin on ectoenzymes activity, apoptosis, cell cycle and reactive oxygen species production

The present study investigates the effect of hesperidin; a flavonone commonly found in citrus fruits, on the ectoenzymes (ectonucleotidase and ecto-adenosine deaminase) activity, cell viability, apoptosis, cell cycle arrest and reactive oxygen species production in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from rat model of pleurisy. Wistar rats were pretreated with either saline or hesperidin (80mg/kg) by oral gavage for 21days and injected intrapleurally with 2% carrageenan or saline on the 22nd day. PBMCs were subsequently prepared after 4h of carrageenan induction. The results revealed that hesperidin may exhibit its anti-inflammatory effects through possible modulation of ectonucleotidase (E-NTPDase) and ecto-adenosine deaminase (E-ADA) activities, reduction of intracellular reactive oxygen species, prevention of DNA damage and modulation of apoptosis as well as activation of cell cycle arrest. This study suggests some possible underlying anti-inflammatory mechanisms of hesperidin on PBMCs in acute inflammatory condition. Furthermore, hesperidin may minimize oxidative injury mediated pleurisy in rat.

Health-promoting effects of the citrus flavanone hesperidin

Hesperidin, a member of the flavanone group of flavonoids, can be isolated in large amounts from the rinds of some citrus species. Considering the wide range of pharmacological activities and widespread application of hesperidin, this paper reviews preclinical and clinical trials of hesperidin and its related compounds, including their occurrence, pharmacokinetics, and some marketed products available. Preclinical studies and clinical trials demonstrated therapeutical effects of hesperidin and its aglycone hesperetin in various diseases, such as neurological disorders, psychiatric disorders, and cardiovascular diseases and others, due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, lipid-lowering, and insulin-sensitizing properties.

The phenolic profiles of Radix Tetrastigma after solid phase extraction (SPE) and their antitumor effects and antioxidant activities in H22 tumor-bearing mice

Photographic illustrations of phenolic profiles, antitumor effects and antioxidant activities of Radix Tetrastigma after solid phase extraction (SPE) in H22 tumor-bearing mice.

Flavonoids: an overview

Flavonoids, a group of natural substances with variable phenolic structures, are found in fruits, vegetables, grains, bark, roots, stems, flowers, tea and wine. These natural products are well known for their beneficial effects on health and efforts are being made to isolate the ingredients so called flavonoids. Flavonoids are now considered as an indispensable component in a variety of nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, medicinal and cosmetic applications. This is attributed to their anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-mutagenic and anti-carcinogenic properties coupled with their capacity to modulate key cellular enzyme function. Research on flavonoids received an added impulse with the discovery of the low cardiovascular mortality rate and also prevention of CHD. Information on the working mechanisms of flavonoids is still not understood properly. However, it has widely been known for centuries that derivatives of plant origin possess a broad spectrum of biological activity. Current trends of research and development activities on flavonoids relate to isolation, identification, characterisation and functions of flavonoids and finally their applications on health benefits. Molecular docking and knowledge of bioinformatics are also being used to predict potential applications and manufacturing by industry. In the present review, attempts have been made to discuss the current trends of research and development on flavonoids, working mechanisms of flavonoids, flavonoid functions and applications, prediction of flavonoids as potential drugs in preventing chronic diseases and future research directions.

Chemopreventive Agents and Inhibitors of Cancer Hallmarks: May Citrus Offer New Perspectives?

Fruits and vegetables have long been recognized as potentially important in the prevention of cancer risk. Thus, scientific interest in nutrition and cancer has grown over time, as shown by increasing number of experimental studies about the relationship between diet and cancer development. This review attempts to provide an insight into the anti-cancer effects of Citrus fruits, with a focus on their bioactive compounds, elucidating the main cellular and molecular mechanisms through which they may protect against cancer. Scientific literature was selected for this review with the aim of collecting the relevant experimental evidence for the anti-cancer effects of Citrus fruits and their flavonoids. The findings discussed in this review strongly support their potential as anti-cancer agents, and may represent a scientific basis to develop nutraceuticals, food supplements, or complementary and alternative drugs in a context of a multi-target pharmacological strategy in the oncology.