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Halma MTJ, Tuszynski JA, Marik PE. Cancer Metabolism as a Therapeutic Target and Review of Interventions. Nutrients 2023; 15:4245. [PMID: 37836529 PMCID: PMC10574675 DOI: 10.3390/nu15194245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is amenable to low-cost treatments, given that it has a significant metabolic component, which can be affected through diet and lifestyle change at minimal cost. The Warburg hypothesis states that cancer cells have an altered cell metabolism towards anaerobic glycolysis. Given this metabolic reprogramming in cancer cells, it is possible to target cancers metabolically by depriving them of glucose. In addition to dietary and lifestyle modifications which work on tumors metabolically, there are a panoply of nutritional supplements and repurposed drugs associated with cancer prevention and better treatment outcomes. These interventions and their evidentiary basis are covered in the latter half of this review to guide future cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew T. J. Halma
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- EbMC Squared CIC, Bath BA2 4BL, UK
| | - Jack A. Tuszynski
- Department of Physics, University of Alberta, 11335 Saskatchewan Dr NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 2M9, Canada
- Department of Data Science and Engineering, The Silesian University of Technology, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
- DIMEAS, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, I-1029 Turin, Italy
| | - Paul E. Marik
- Frontline COVID-19 Critical Care Alliance, Washington, DC 20036, USA
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Ben-Arye E, Lavie O, Heyl W, Ramondetta L, Berman T, Samuels N. Integrative Medicine for Ovarian Cancer. Curr Oncol Rep 2023; 25:559-568. [PMID: 36939963 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-023-01359-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 03/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Integrative oncology (IO) services provide a wide range of complementary medicine therapies, many of which can augment the beneficial effects of conventional supportive and palliative care for patients with ovarian cancer. This study aims to assess the current state of integrative oncology research in ovarian cancer care. RECENT FINDINGS We review the clinical research both supporting the effectiveness of leading IO modalities in ovarian cancer care as well as addressing potential safety-related concerns. There is growing amount of clinical research supporting the use of IO and implementation of integrative gynecological oncology models of care within the conventional supportive cancer care setting. Additional research is still needed in order to create clinical guidelines for IO interventions for the treatment of female patients with ovarian cancer. These guidelines need to address both effectiveness and safety-related issues, providing oncology healthcare professionals with indications for which these patients can be referred to the IO treatment program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eran Ben-Arye
- Integrative Oncology Program, The Oncology Service, Lin, Carmel & Zebulun Medical Centers, Clalit Health Services, Haifa, Western Galilee District, Israel. .,Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel and Clalit Health Services, Haifa, Western Galilee District, Israel.
| | - Ofer Lavie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gynecologic Oncology Service, Carmel Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Wolfgang Heyl
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Center North Wurttemberg, Ludwigsburg, Germany
| | - Lois Ramondetta
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine And Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, & Integrative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Tara Berman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Inova Schar Cancer Institute, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Noah Samuels
- Center for Integrative Complementary Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Shaarei Zedek Medical Center, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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Ephedrae Herba: A Review of Its Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, Clinical Application, and Alkaloid Toxicity. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 28:molecules28020663. [PMID: 36677722 PMCID: PMC9863261 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28020663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Ephedrae Herba (Ephedra), known as "MaHuang" in China, is the dried straw stem that is associated with the lung and urinary bladder meridians. At present, more than 60 species of Ephedra plants have been identified, which contain more than 100 compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, sugars, and organic phenolic acids. This herb has long been used to treat asthma, liver disease, skin disease, and other diseases, and has shown unique efficacy in the treatment of COVID-19 infection. Because alkaloids are the main components causing toxicity, the safety of Ephedra must be considered. However, the nonalkaloid components of Ephedra can be effectively used to replace ephedrine extracts to treat some diseases, and reasonable use can ensure the safety of Ephedra. We reviewed the phytochemistry, pharmacology, clinical application, and alkaloid toxicity of Ephedra, and describe prospects for its future development to facilitate the development of Ephedra.
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Henke O, Bruchhausen W, Massawe A. Use of Herbal Medicine Is Associated With Late-Stage Presentation in Tanzanian Patients With Cancer: A Survey to Assess the Utilization of and Reasons for the Use of Herbal Medicine. JCO Glob Oncol 2022; 8:e2200069. [PMID: 35820080 PMCID: PMC9296184 DOI: 10.1200/go.22.00069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In Tanzania, patients with cancer present late with advanced stages. Among other reasons, the use of herbal medicine (HM) might contribute to delay in diagnosis and treatment. This study aims to understand the utilization of HM and the reasons for its' use. METHODS A semistructured 30-item questionnaire with closed- and open-ended questions was applied to a cohort of patients with cancer at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre. Content analysis was performed for answers to open-ended questions. RESULTS Three hundred two patients were interviewed, 50.9% males and 49.1% females. The mean age was 64 years. 71.6% were in stages III/IV. 70.5% patients used HM and 67.1% started conventional medicine after stopping HM, 7.5% started HM after conventional medicine, and 24.9% combined both. Stage IV patients used HM as first line significantly more often in comparison: stage I 55.6%; II 58.1%; III 57.2%; and IV 70.6%. 77.5% did not tell their doctors about the use of HM. Commonest reasons to use HM were belief in cure, hope of symptom relief, lack of cancer services, and tradition. CONCLUSION The majority of patients used HM before consulting a doctor, which contributes to stage IV presentation. Use of HM alongside with chemotherapy is mostly not known to the treating physician and may lead to interactions. These findings must alert health care workers and health policymakers to further foster health education about cancer and its treatment. Further research is needed to understand the wide use of HM among Tanzanian patients with cancer and the role that traditional and spiritual healers play in the field of cancer care. Use of herbal medicines is common in Tanzania and leads to delays in cancer diagnosis that impedes curative treatment.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Henke
- Cancer Care Centre, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
- Section Global Health, Institute for Hygiene and Public Health, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Walter Bruchhausen
- Section Global Health, Institute for Hygiene and Public Health, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Anna Massawe
- Cancer Care Centre, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
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Ahmed OM, Galaly SR, Mostafa MAMA, Eed EM, Ali TM, Fahmy AM, Zaky MY. Thyme Oil and Thymol Counter Doxorubicin-Induced Hepatotoxicity via Modulation of Inflammation, Apoptosis, and Oxidative Stress. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:6702773. [PMID: 35178158 PMCID: PMC8844103 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6702773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Doxorubicin (DOX) is an effective anticancer agent with a wide spectrum of activities. However, it has many adverse effects on various organs especially on the liver. Thymol, one of the major components of thyme oil, has biological properties that include anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Thus, this study was designed to examine thyme oil and thymol for their ability to prevent doxorubicin-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats. Hepatotoxicity was induced by an intraperitoneal injection of doxorubicin, at a dose of 2 mg/kg bw/week, for seven weeks. Doxorubicin-injected rats were supplemented with thyme oil and thymol at doses 250 and 100 mg/kg bw, respectively, four times/week by oral gavage for the same period. Treatment of rats with thyme oil and thymol reversed the high serum activities of AST, ALT, and ALP and total bilirubin, AFP, and CA19.9 levels, caused by doxorubicin. Thyme oil and thymol also reduced the high levels of TNF-α and the decreased levels of both albumin and IL-4. These agents ameliorated doxorubicin-induced elevation in hepatic lipid peroxidation and associated reduction in GSH content and GST and GPx activities. Further, the supplementation with thyme oil and thymol significantly augmented mRNA expression of the level of antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 and significantly downregulated nuclear and cytoplasmic levels of the hepatic apoptotic mediator p53. Thus, thyme oil and thymol successfully counteracted doxorubicin-induced experimental hepatotoxicity via their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiapoptotic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osama M. Ahmed
- Physiology Division, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, P.O. Box 62521, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Sanaa R. Galaly
- Cell Biology and Histology Division, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, P.O. Box 62521, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Mennah-Allah M. A. Mostafa
- Physiology Division, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, P.O. Box 62521, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Emad M. Eed
- Department of Clinical Laboratories Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tarek M. Ali
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alzhraa M. Fahmy
- Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases Department, Beni-Suef University Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Y. Zaky
- Physiology Division, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, P.O. Box 62521, Beni-Suef, Egypt
- Department of Medical Oncology Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, Dalian 116001, China
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Correlation between an integrative oncology treatment program and survival in patients with advanced gynecological cancer. Support Care Cancer 2021; 29:4055-4064. [PMID: 33404816 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-020-05961-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Integrative oncology (IO) is increasingly becoming part of palliative cancer care. This study examined the correlation between an IO treatment program and rates of survival among patients with advanced gynecological cancer. METHODS Patients were referred by their oncology healthcare professionals to an integrative physician (IP) for consultation and IO treatments. Those undergoing at least 4 treatments during the 6 weeks following the consultation were considered adherence to the integrative care program (AIC), versus non-adherent (non-AIC). Survival was monitored for a period of 3 years, comparing the AIC vs. non-AIC groups, as well as controls who did not attend the IP consultation. RESULTS A total of 189 patients were included: 71 in the AIC group, 44 non-AIC, and 74 controls. Overall 3-year survival was greater in the AIC group (vs. non-AIC, p = 0.012; vs. controls, p = 0.003), with no difference found between non-AIC and controls (p = 0.954). Multimodal IO programs (≥ 3 modalities) were correlated in the AIC group with greater overall 3-year survival (p = 0.027). Greater rates of survival were also found in the AIC group at 12 (p = 0.004) and 18 months (p = 0.001). When compared with the AIC group, a multivariate analysis found higher crude and adjusted hazard ratios for 3-year mortality in the non-AIC group (HR 95% CI 2.18 (1.2-3.9), p = 0.010) and controls (2.23 (1.35-3.7), p = 0.002). CONCLUSION Adherence to an IO treatment program was associated with higher survival rates among patients with advanced gynecological cancer. Larger prospective trials are needed to explore whether the IO setting enhances patients' resilience, coping, and adherence to oncology treatment.
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Lu CL, Li X, Zhou HM, Zhang C, Yang YY, Feng RL, Long CJ, Deng FY, Li JC, Cao ZM, Mao QY, Zhu JP, Hong YF, Huang SY, Qiu JY, Liu YX, Wang Y, Yan YQ, Dong JM, Luo YX, Chen YM, Guan YJ, Wieland LS, Robinson N, Liu JP. Traditional Chinese Medicine in Cancer Care: An Overview of 5834 Randomized Controlled Trials Published in Chinese. Integr Cancer Ther 2021; 20:15347354211031650. [PMID: 34261372 PMCID: PMC8287414 DOI: 10.1177/15347354211031650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is widely integrated into cancer care in China. An overview in 2011 identified 2384 randomized and non-randomized controlled trials (RCTs, non-RCTs) on TCM for cancer published in the Chinese literature. This article summarizes updated evidence of RCTs on TCM for cancer care. METHODS We searched 4 main Chinese databases: China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese Scientific Journal Database, SinoMed, and Wanfang. RCTs on TCM used in cancer care were analyzed in this bibliometric study. RESULTS Of 5834 RCTs (477 157 cancer patients), only 62 RCTs were indexed in MEDLINE. The top 3 cancers treated were lung, stomach, and breast cancer. About 4752 RCTs (81.45%) tested TCM combined with conventional treatment, and 1082 RCTs (18.55%) used TCM alone for treating symptoms and side-effects. Herbal medicine was the most frequently used TCM modality (5087 RCTs; 87.20%). The most frequently reported outcome was symptom improvement (3712 RCTs; 63.63%) followed by quality of life (2725 RCTs; 46.71%), and biomarkers (2384 RCTs; 40.86%). The majority of RCTs (4051; 69.44%) concluded there were beneficial effects using either TCM alone or TCM plus conventional treatment compared with conventional treatment. CONCLUSION Substantial randomized trials demonstrated different types/stages of cancer were treated by various TCM modalities, alone or in combination with conventional medicine. Further evaluation on the effects and safety of TCM modalities focusing on outcomes such as quality of life is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Li Lu
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine,
Beijing, China
| | - Xun Li
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine,
Beijing, China
| | - Hong-Mei Zhou
- Dongfang Hospital of Beijing University
of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine,
Beijing, China
| | | | - Ru-Li Feng
- Dongzhimen Hospital of Beijing
University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chao-Jun Long
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine,
Beijing, China
| | | | - Jing-Chun Li
- Dongfang Hospital of Beijing University
of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ze-Ming Cao
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine,
Beijing, China
| | - Qi-Yuan Mao
- Guang’anmen Hospital of China Academy
of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jin-Pu Zhu
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine,
Beijing, China
| | - Yan-Fei Hong
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine,
Beijing, China
| | - Shou-Yu Huang
- Wangjing Hospital of China Academy of
Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jia-Ying Qiu
- Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of
Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yi-Xiu Liu
- Dongzhimen Hospital of Beijing
University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Wang
- China Press of Traditional Chinese
Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Qian Yan
- University Hospital Zürich, Zurich,
Switzerland
| | - Jia-Min Dong
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine,
Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Xin Luo
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine,
Beijing, China
| | - Yun-Meng Chen
- Dongzhimen Hospital of Beijing
University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ying-Jie Guan
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine,
Beijing, China
| | | | - Nicola Robinson
- Institute of Health and Social Care,
London South Bank University, London, UK
| | - Jian-Ping Liu
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine,
Beijing, China
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Michel-Cherqui M, Had-Bujon R, Mongereau A, Delannoy C, Feliot E, Scotté F, Fischler M. Knowledge and use of complementary therapies in a tertiary care hospital in France: A preliminary study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e23081. [PMID: 33157975 PMCID: PMC7647629 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000023081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Few studies have clarified the use of complementary therapies (CTs) in France. The main objective of this preliminary study was to evaluate knowledge of CTs in 4 representative groups of patients: patients suffering from cancer, patients presenting with a chronic noncancerous disease, chronic dialysis patients and nonchronic or cancerous patients needing surgery.A formalized questionnaire was designed by 2 psychologists, an oncologist and an anesthesiologist in charge of the Pain Clinic and Support Care Unit. One-hundred eleven patients were enrolled, and all agreed to complete the questionnaire.Eighty (72%) patients did not know the term "complementary therapies" (patients who were "not aware of CTs"), and 24 (21.6%) patients knew the term "complementary therapies" (patients who were "aware of CTs"), while 7 patients were not sure of the meaning. There were no differences between aware and unaware patients in gender (P = .27), age (P = .24), level of education (p = 0.24) or professional occupation (P = .06). Knowledge about CTs was significantly different among the different categories of patients (P = .03), with the only statistically significant difference between groups being between oncologic patients receiving ambulatory chemotherapy and patients presenting with a chronic noncancerous disease (P = .004).This preliminary study clearly highlights that patients and health caregivers are not aware of CTs and that there is a need for better communication about CTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mireille Michel-Cherqui
- Pain Unit and Department of Anesthesia, Hôpital Foch, 92151 Suresnes, France and University of Versailles SQY-Paris Saclay, Montigny-le-Bretonneux
| | - Rebecca Had-Bujon
- Pain Unit and Department of Anesthesia, Hôpital Foch, 92151 Suresnes, France and University of Versailles SQY-Paris Saclay, Montigny-le-Bretonneux
| | - Aurèlie Mongereau
- Pain Unit and Department of Anesthesia, Hôpital Foch, 92151 Suresnes, France and University of Versailles SQY-Paris Saclay, Montigny-le-Bretonneux
| | - Caroline Delannoy
- Pain Unit and Department of Anesthesia, Hôpital Foch, 92151 Suresnes, France and University of Versailles SQY-Paris Saclay, Montigny-le-Bretonneux
| | - Elodie Feliot
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Hôpital Saint Louis-Lariboisière, Paris
| | - Florian Scotté
- Interdisciplinary Cancer Course Department, Gustave Roussy Cancer Institute, 94800 Villejuif, France
| | - Marc Fischler
- Pain Unit and Department of Anesthesia, Hôpital Foch, 92151 Suresnes, France and University of Versailles SQY-Paris Saclay, Montigny-le-Bretonneux
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Flavonoids Restore Platinum Drug Sensitivity to Ovarian Carcinoma Cells in a Phospho-ERK1/2-Dependent Fashion. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186533. [PMID: 32906729 PMCID: PMC7555577 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) is the second most common type of gynecological malignancy; it has poor survival rates and is frequently (>75%) diagnosed at an advanced stage. Platinum-based chemotherapy, with, e.g., carboplatin, is the standard of care for OC, but toxicity and acquired resistance to therapy have proven challenging. Despite advances in OC diagnosis and treatment, approximately 85% of patients will experience relapse, mainly due to chemoresistance. The latter is attributed to alterations in the cancer cells and is also mediated by tumor microenvironment (TME). Recently, we reported the synthesis of a platinum (IV) prodrug that exhibits equal potency toward platinum-sensitive and resistant OC cell lines. Here, we investigated the effect of TME on platinum sensitivity. Co-culture of OC cells with murine or human mesenchymal stem cells (MS-5 and HS-5, respectively) rendered them resistant to chemotherapeutic agents, including platinum, paclitaxel and colchicine. Platinum resistance was also conferred by co-culture with differentiated murine adipocyte progenitor cells. Exposure of OC cells to chemotherapeutic agents resulted in activation of phospho-ERK1/2. Co-culture with MS-5, which conferred drug resistance, was accompanied by blockage of phospho-ERK1/2 activation. The flavonoids fisetin and quercetin were active in restoring ERK phosphorylation, as well as sensitivity to platinum compounds. Exposure of OC cells to cobimetinib-a MEK1 inhibitor that also inhibits extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation-which resulted in reduced sensitivity to the platinum compound. This suggests that ERK activity is involved in mediating the function of flavonoids in restoring platinum sensitivity to OC co-cultured with cellular components of the TME. Our data show the potential of combining flavonoids with standard therapy to restore drug sensitivity to OC cells and overcome TME-mediated platinum drug resistance.
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A Review of the Ephedra genus: Distribution, Ecology, Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Properties. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25143283. [PMID: 32698308 PMCID: PMC7397145 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25143283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ephedra is one of the largest genera of the Ephedraceae family, which is distributed in arid and semiarid regions of the world. In the traditional medicine from several countries some species from the genus are commonly used to treat asthma, cold, flu, chills, fever, headache, nasal congestion, and cough. The chemical constituents of Ephedra species have been of research interest for decades due to their contents of ephedrine-type alkaloids and its pharmacological properties. Other chemical constituents such as phenolic and amino acid derivatives also have resulted attractive and have provided evidence-based supporting of the ethnomedical uses of the Ephedra species. In recent years, research has been expanded to explore the endophytic fungal diversity associated to Ephedra species, as well as, the chemical constituents derived from these fungi and their pharmacological bioprospecting. Two additional aspects that illustrate the chemical diversity of Ephedra genus are the chemotaxonomy approaches and the use of ephedrine-type alkaloids as building blocks in organic synthesis. American Ephedra species, especially those that exist in Mexico, are considered to lack ephedrine type alkaloids. In this sense, the phytochemical study of Mexican Ephedra species is a promising area of research to corroborate their ephedrine-type alkaloids content and, in turn, discover new chemical compounds with potential biological activity. Therefore, the present review represents a key compilation of all the relevant information for the Ephedra genus, in particular the American species, the species distribution, their ecological interactions, its ethnobotany, its phytochemistry and their pharmacological activities and toxicities, in order to promote clear directions for future research.
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Islam MT, Hasan J, Snigdha HMSH, Ali ES, Sharifi-Rad J, Martorell M, Mubarak MS. Chemical profile, traditional uses, and biological activities of Piper chaba Hunter: A review. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 257:112853. [PMID: 32283191 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Piper chaba Hunter, called Chui Jhal or Choi Jhal, is commonly used as a culinary (spice) herb in India and Bangladesh. It exhibits numerous important biological activities and has been widely used in traditional medicine. AIM OF THE STUDY This review focuses on the chemical and pharmacological activities of a culinary ingredient P. chaba based on information extracted from the literature to highlight its use in traditional medicine. METHODS A literature search in known databases was conducted (till September 2019) for published articles using the relevant keywords. RESULTS Findings suggest that, to date, a number of important phytoconstituents such as dimeric alkaloids, and alkamides have been isolated from various parts of P. chaba. Extracts from P. chaba or derived compounds exhibit diverse biological activities, such as anti-microbial, anti-leishmanial, anti-malarial, anti-parasitic, cytotoxic/anticancer, adipogenic, hepato- and gastro-protective, anti-diabetic, analgesic, anti-diarrheal, depressive, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, anti-hypertensive, antipyretic, anti-ulcer, and immunomodulatory effect. Among the isolated compounds, chabamides, piperine, piplartine, retrofractamides A/B, methylenedioxyphenyl)-nona-2E,4E,8E-trienoic acid, n-butyl or n-pentyl amine, piperlonguminine, pipernonaline, dehydropipernonaline, N-isobutyl-(2E,4E)-octadecadienamide, and N-isobutyl-(2E,4E,14Z)-eicosatrienamide have documented important biological effects in various test systems. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, P. chaba may be a potential source of plant-based therapeutic lead compounds, which justify its uses in traditional medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Torequl Islam
- Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Biophysics, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Viet Nam; Faculty of Pharmacy, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Viet Nam.
| | - Jabed Hasan
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Life Science Faculty, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University, Gopalganj, 8100, Bangladesh
| | - H M Shadid Hossain Snigdha
- Department of Pharmacy, Life Science Faculty, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University, Gopalganj, 8100, Bangladesh
| | - Eunus S Ali
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Javad Sharifi-Rad
- Phytochemistry Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Miquel Martorell
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Concepcion, Concepcion, 4070386, Chile
| | - Mohammad S Mubarak
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Jordan, Amman, 11942, Jordan.
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Akpoveso OO, Tumbas-Šaponjac V, Oyeniran O, Desančić J, Četojević-Simin D. Antioxidant activity and enhanced cytotoxicity of aqueous Mucuna pruriens L. leaf extract by doxorubicin on different human cancer cell lines. Pharmacogn Mag 2020. [DOI: 10.4103/pm.pm_413_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Tang T, Xia Q, Xi M. Dihydroartemisinin and its anticancer activity against endometrial carcinoma and cervical cancer: involvement of apoptosis, autophagy and transferrin receptor. Singapore Med J 2019; 62:96-103. [PMID: 31680182 DOI: 10.11622/smedj.2019138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) is a first-line antimalarial drug with relatively low toxicity. DHA has been speculated to possess a broad-spectrum antitumour effect. However, the potential value of DHA for the treatment of endometrial carcinoma or cervical cancer is unclear. METHODS We used human endometrial cancer cells and cervical cancer cells to assess whether DHA alone or when combined with cisplatin would induce cell death. We aimed to elucidate the role of autophagy in DHA-induced cytotoxicity in both endometrial and cervical cancer cells, and explore the impact of DHA treatment on cell proliferation, apoptosis and autophagy. RESULTS DHA alone or in combination with cisplatin induced cell death in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Caspase-3 mRNA and cleaved caspase-3 protein levels were markedly elevated following DHA treatment either in the presence or absence of cisplatin, suggesting a role of apoptosis in DHA-induced cell death. DHA treatment activated the autophagic pathway, as evidenced by increased monodansylcadaverine-positive staining, elevated microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3)-II/LC3-I ratio, and enhanced p62/sequestosome 1 degradation. Inhibition of autophagy by 3-methyladenine further enhanced the cytotoxicity of DHA towards tumour cells. mRNA levels of transferrin receptor (TfR) were suppressed upon DHA treatment and knockdown of TfR by RNA interference caused further DHA induction of cancer cell death. CONCLUSION Our results suggest a clinical value for DHA in the treatment of endometrial carcinoma and cervical cancer. Our data revealed possible anticancer mechanisms of DHA that involve regulating apoptosis, autophagy pathway and levels of TfR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second Hospital, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Qingjie Xia
- West China Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mingrong Xi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second Hospital, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
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The prevalence and predictors of using herbal medicines among Iranian cancer patients. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2019; 35:368-373. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2019.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Feng D, Tang T, Fan R, Luo J, Cui H, Wang Y, Gan P. Gancao (Glycyrrhizae Radix) provides the main contribution to Shaoyao-Gancao decoction on enhancements of CYP3A4 and MDR1 expression via pregnane X receptor pathway in vitro. Altern Ther Health Med 2018; 18:345. [PMID: 30594244 PMCID: PMC6311034 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-018-2402-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chinese herbal formula Shaoyao Gancao decoction (SGD) is often used as an adjuvant with chemotherapeutic agents to treat cancer. Due to the herb-drug interactions, the alternations of drug metabolic enzyme and drug transporters induced by SGD deserve to be explored. We aimed to investigate the effect of SGD on the pregnane X receptor (PXR)-mediated transcriptional regulation of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) and drug transporter multidrug resistance protein 1 (MDR1) in vitro. Besides, we assessed the contribution of constituent herbs to SGD on the regulation of CYP3A4 and MDR1. METHODS The dual luciferase reporter gene system containing the hPXR expression plasmid and the reporter gene plasmid of CYP3A4 or MDR1 was co-transfected to HepG2 and Caco2 cells. Luciferase activities were determined using a Dual-luciferase reporter assay kit. The gene expression of CYP3A4 and MDR1 in the hPXR-transfected LS174T cells were assessed by real-time qPCR. Finally, the contribution of constituent herbs from SGD was evaluated. RESULTS SGD, Shaoyao and Gancao concentration-dependently increased promoter activities of CYP3A4 and MDR1 in vitro. Moreover, SGD, Shaoyao and Gancao up-regulated CYP3A4 and MDR1 mRNA in hPXR-transfected LS174T cells. As the herbal constituent of SGD, Gancao possesses significantly higher levels of metabolic enzyme and drug transporters compared with Shaoyao. CONCLUSION SGD tends to enhance CYP3A4 and MDR1 expression via PXR pathway, especially Gancao provides the main contribution. This study highlights a potential in vitro mechanism for SGD on the regulation of drug metabolic enzymes and drug transporters.
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Fu B, Wang N, Tan HY, Li S, Cheung F, Feng Y. Multi-Component Herbal Products in the Prevention and Treatment of Chemotherapy-Associated Toxicity and Side Effects: A Review on Experimental and Clinical Evidences. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:1394. [PMID: 30555327 PMCID: PMC6281965 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is nowadays the main treatment of human cancers. Chemotherapeutic agents target rapidly dividing cancer cells to suppress tumor progression, however, their non-specific cytotoxicity often leads to significant side effects that might be intolerable to cancer patients. Multi-component herbal products have been used for thousands of years for the treatment of multiple human diseases. This study aims to systematically summarize and evaluate the experimental and clinical evidences of the efficacy of multi-component herbal products in improving chemotherapy-induced side effect. Literature was retrieved from PubMed database and evaluated based on the side effects described. Multi-component herbal products were found to be effective in ameliorating the neurotoxicity, gastrointestinal toxicity, hematological toxicity, cardiotoxicity, hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Both experimental and clinical evidences were found, indicating the potential of applying multicomponent herbal products in the clinical treatment of chemotherapy-induced side effects. However, the lack of mechanistic and pharmacokinetic studies, inconsistency in product quality, as well as insufficient clinical evidence suggested that more investigations are urgently necessary. In all, our review shed light on the potential of using multi-component herbal products in the clinical management of chemotherapy-induced toxicity and side effects. We also discussed the potential threats of natural products for cancer treatment and compared the advantages of using herbs to conventional chemical drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Yibin Feng
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Ben-Arye E, Samuels N, Lavie O. Integrative Medicine for Female Patients with Gynecologic Cancer. J Altern Complement Med 2018; 24:881-889. [DOI: 10.1089/acm.2018.0163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Eran Ben-Arye
- Integrative Oncology Program, The Oncology Service, Lin and Carmel Medical Centers, Clalit Health Services, Haifa, Israel
- Complementary and Traditional Medicine Unit, Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Clalit Health Services, Haifa, Israel
| | - Noah Samuels
- Tal Center for Integrative Medicine, Institute of Oncology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Ofer Lavie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gynecologic Oncology Service, Carmel Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
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Integrative cancer care: crossing communication barriers. Oncotarget 2017; 8:90634-90635. [PMID: 29207591 PMCID: PMC5710872 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.21890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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