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Yang H, Wu B, Yang Q, Tan T, Shang D, Chen J, Cao C, Xu C. Urolithin C suppresses colorectal cancer progression via the AKT/mTOR pathway. J Nat Med 2024:10.1007/s11418-024-01821-2. [PMID: 38849679 DOI: 10.1007/s11418-024-01821-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Urolithin families are gut-microbial metabolites of ellagic acid (EA). Although urolithin A (UA) and urolithin B (UB) were reported to have antiproliferative activities in cancer cells, the role and related mechanisms of urolithin C (UC) in colorectal cancer (CRC) have not yet been clarified. In this study, we assess the antitumor activities of UC in vitro and in vivo and further explore the underlying mechanisms in CRC cell lines. We found that UC inhibited the proliferation and migration of CRC cells, induced apoptosis, and arrested the cell cycle at the G2/M phase in vitro, and UC inhibited tumor growth in a subcutaneous transplantation tumor model in vivo. Mechanically, UC blocked the activation of the AKT/mTOR signaling pathway by decreasing the expression of Y-box binding protein 1(YBX1). The AKT agonist SC79 could reverse the suppression of cell proliferation in UC-treated CRC cells. In conclusion, our research revealed that UC could prevent the progression of CRC by blocking AKT/mTOR signaling, suggesting that it may have potential therapeutic values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haochi Yang
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Binghuo Wu
- Department of Oncology and Cancer Institute, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, China
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610047, China
- Yu-Yue Pathology Scientific Research Centre, Chongqing, 400039, China
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, 401329, China
| | - Qi Yang
- Biotherapy Centre, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Tian Tan
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Dan Shang
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610047, China
| | - Jie Chen
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610047, China
| | - Chenhui Cao
- Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute, Sichuan Cancer Centre, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610042, China.
| | - Chuan Xu
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
- Department of Oncology and Cancer Institute, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, China.
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, China.
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610047, China.
- Yu-Yue Pathology Scientific Research Centre, Chongqing, 400039, China.
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, 401329, China.
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2
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Tajvar Nasab N, Jalili-Nik M, Afshari AR, Rezaei Farimani A, Soukhtanloo M. Urolithin B inhibits proliferation and migration and promotes apoptosis and necrosis by inducing G2/M arrest and targeting MMP-2/-9 expression in osteosarcoma cells. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2023; 37:e23486. [PMID: 37555500 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most prevalent primary bone cancer, with a high morbidity and mortality rate. Over the past decades, therapeutic approaches have not considerably improved patients' survival rates, and further research is required to find efficient treatments for OS. Data from several studies have shown that urolithin B (UB), the intestinal metabolite of polyphenolic ellagitannins, is emerging as a new class of anticancer compounds, yet its effect on OS cancer cells remains elusive. Herein, we investigated UB's antimetastatic, antiproliferative, and apoptotic effects on the MG-63 OS cell line. Cell viability assay, annexin V/propidium iodide staining, cell cycle arrest analysis, determination of the gene expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, Bax, Bcl-2, and p53 messenger RNA (mRNA), evaluation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and migration, and MMP-2 and MMP-9 protein expression assessments were performed. UB caused late apoptosis, necrosis, G2/M arrest, and ROS generation in MG-63 cells. It increased the mRNA expression of the p53 tumor suppressor and Bax proapoptotic genes. UB also inhibited the migration and metastatic behavior of MG-63 OS cells by downregulating mRNA and MMP-2 and MMP-9 protein expression. In general, although further in vivo investigations are warranted, the current results showed that UB might be utilized as a potential novel natural compound for OS therapy due to its nontoxic, antiproliferative, and antimetastatic nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahid Tajvar Nasab
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
- Cardiovascular Diseases Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Mohammad Jalili-Nik
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amir R Afshari
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Azam Rezaei Farimani
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
- Cardiovascular Diseases Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Mohammad Soukhtanloo
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Pharmacological Research Center of Medicinal Plants, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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3
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Zhao H, Song G, Zhu H, Qian H, Pan X, Song X, Xie Y, Liu C. Pharmacological Effects of Urolithin A and Its Role in Muscle Health and Performance: Current Knowledge and Prospects. Nutrients 2023; 15:4441. [PMID: 37892516 PMCID: PMC10609777 DOI: 10.3390/nu15204441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Urolithin A (UA) is a naturally occurring compound derived from the metabolism of gut microbiota, which has attracted considerable research attention due to its pharmacological effects and potential implications in muscle health and performance. Recent studies have demonstrated that Urolithin A exhibits diverse biological activities, encompassing anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-tumor, and anti-aging properties. In terms of muscle health, accumulating evidence suggests that Urolithin A may promote muscle protein synthesis and muscle growth through various pathways, offering promise in mitigating muscle atrophy. Moreover, Urolithin A exhibits the potential to enhance muscle health and performance by improving mitochondrial function and regulating autophagy. Nonetheless, further comprehensive investigations are still warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of Urolithin A and to assess its feasibility and safety in human subjects, thereby advancing its potential applications in the realms of muscle health and performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haotian Zhao
- Department of Physical Education, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China;
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (H.Z.); (H.Q.)
| | - Ge Song
- School of Sport Science, Beijing Sport University, Beijing 100084, China; (G.S.); (X.P.)
| | - Hongkang Zhu
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (H.Z.); (H.Q.)
| | - He Qian
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (H.Z.); (H.Q.)
| | - Xinliang Pan
- School of Sport Science, Beijing Sport University, Beijing 100084, China; (G.S.); (X.P.)
| | - Xiaoneng Song
- Department of Physical Education, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China;
| | - Yijie Xie
- Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214062, China
| | - Chang Liu
- School of Sport Science, Beijing Sport University, Beijing 100084, China; (G.S.); (X.P.)
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Xie W, Li R, Tang W, Ma Z, Miao S, Li C, Yang C, Li B, Wang T, Gong Z, Zhou Y, Yu S. Proteomics profiling reveals mitochondrial damage in the thalamus in a mouse model of chronic migraine. J Headache Pain 2023; 24:122. [PMID: 37667199 PMCID: PMC10478405 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-023-01646-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Migraine, a complex brain disorder, is regarded as a possible clinical manifestation of brain energy dysfunction. The trigeminovascular system is considered the basis for the pathogenesis of migraine, hence we depicted the proteomics profiling of key regions in this system, then focusing on protein alterations related to mitochondrial function. The aim of this study is to illustrate the role of mitochondria in migraine. METHODS A mouse model of chronic migraine (CM) was established by repeated nitroglycerin (NTG) stimulation and evaluated by von-Frey filaments, a hot plate and a light-dark box. Differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in some subcortical brain regions of the trigeminovascular system were screened through liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC‒MS/MS) to analyse the specificity of key signaling pathways in different brain regions. And then mitochondrial function, structure and dynamics were determined by qPCR, ELISA, and transmission electron microscope (TEM). Finally, the effect of mitochondrial intervention-Urolithin A (UA) on CM was investigated. RESULTS Repeated NTG injection triggered photophobia, periorbital and hind paw allodynia in mice. The proteomics profiling of CM model showed that 529, 109, 163, 152 and 419 DEPs were identified in the thalamus, hypothalamus, periaqueductal grey (PAG), trigeminal ganglion (TG) and trigeminocervical complex (TCC), respectively. The most significant changes in the brain region-specific pathways pointed to thalamic mitochondrial impairment. NTG induced mitochondrial structural disruption, dysfunction and homeostatic dysregulation, which could be partially attenuated by UA intervention. CONCLUSION Our findings highlight the involvement of mitochondrial damage in the thalamus in central sensitization of CM, which provides evidence of possible metabolic mechanisms in migraine pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Xie
- Department of Neurology, the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Ruibing Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wenjing Tang
- Department of Neurology, the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenjie Ma
- Department of Neurology, the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Shuai Miao
- Department of Neurology, the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chenhao Li
- Department of Neurology, the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Chunxiao Yang
- Department of Neurology, the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Bozhi Li
- Department of Neurology, the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Neurology, the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Zihua Gong
- Department of Neurology, the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Zhou
- College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shanxi, China.
| | - Shengyuan Yu
- Department of Neurology, the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.
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Wojciechowska O, Kujawska M. Urolithin A in Health and Diseases: Prospects for Parkinson's Disease Management. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1479. [PMID: 37508017 PMCID: PMC10376282 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12071479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic and progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a complex pathophysiology and a range of symptoms. The prevalence increases with age, putting the ageing population at risk. Disease management includes the improvement of symptoms, the comfort of the patient's life, and palliative care. As there is currently no cure, growing evidence points towards the beneficial role of polyphenols on neurodegeneration. Numerous studies indicate the health benefits of the family of urolithins, especially urolithin A (UA). UA is a bacterial metabolite produced by dietary ellagitannins and ellagic acid. An expanding body of literature explores the involvement of the compound in mitochondrial health, and its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-apoptotic properties. The review organizes the existing knowledge on the role of UA in health and diseases, emphasizing neurodegenerative diseases, especially PD. We gathered data on the potential neuroprotective effect in in vivo and in vitro models. We discussed the possible mechanisms of action of the compound and related health benefits to give a broader perspective of potential applications of UA in neuroprotective strategies. Moreover, we projected the future directions of applying UA in PD management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Wojciechowska
- Department of Toxicology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Dojazd 30, 60-631 Poznań, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Kujawska
- Department of Toxicology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Dojazd 30, 60-631 Poznań, Poland
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6
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Lyubitelev A, Studitsky V. Inhibition of Cancer Development by Natural Plant Polyphenols: Molecular Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10663. [PMID: 37445850 PMCID: PMC10341686 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant tumors remain one of the main sources of morbidity and mortality around the world. A chemotherapeutic approach to cancer treatment poses a multitude of challenges, primarily due to the low selectivity and genotoxicity of the majority of chemotherapeutic drugs currently used in the clinical practice, often leading to treatment-induced tumors formation. Highly selective antitumor drugs can largely resolve this issue, but their high selectivity leads to significant drawbacks due to the intrinsic tumor heterogeneity. In contrast, plant polyphenols can simultaneously affect many processes that are involved in the acquiring and maintaining of hallmark properties of malignant cells, and their toxic dose is typically much higher than the therapeutic one. In the present work we describe the mechanisms of the action of polyphenols on cancer cells, including their effects on genetic and epigenetic instability, tumor-promoting inflammation, and altered microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vasily Studitsky
- Biology Faculty, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia;
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA
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7
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Epigenetic Modifications Induced by the Gut Microbiota May Result from What We Eat: Should We Talk about Precision Diet in Health and Disease? Metabolites 2023; 13:metabo13030375. [PMID: 36984815 PMCID: PMC10051796 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13030375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Diet is currently considered one of the most important adjustable determinants of human health. The gut microbiota, the collection of microorganisms that inhabit (mainly) the distal bowel, has recently been shown to ensure critical physiological functions, such as immune, metabolic and neuropsychiatric. Many of these biological effects result from the production of bacterial metabolites that may target host cells, tissues and organs. In line with this rationale, epigenetics has brought new insights to our understanding of how environmental factors influence gene expression and, interestingly, gut microbiota metabolites have recently been proposed as novel and significant inducers of epigenetic modifications. Efforts have been dedicated to unveil how the production of specific metabolites influences the activity of epigenetic writers and erasers in order to establish a mechanistic link between gut microbiota, epigenetic modifications and health. Recent data is now evidencing how specific microbial metabolites shape the epigenetic landscape of eukaryotic cells, paving new avenues for innovative therapeutic strategies relying on diet-driven microbiota: epigenetic interactions. Herein is discussed the impact of diet on gut microbiota and the molecular mechanisms underlying microbiota–host interactions, highlighting the influence of diet on microbiota metabolome and how this may induce epigenetic modifications in host cells. Furthermore, it is hypothesized that epigenetics may be a key process transducing the effects of diet on gut microbiota with consequences for health and disease. Accordingly, innovating strategies of disease prevention based on a “precision diet”, a personalized dietary planning according to specific epigenetic targets, are discussed.
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8
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Banc R, Rusu ME, Filip L, Popa DS. The Impact of Ellagitannins and Their Metabolites through Gut Microbiome on the Gut Health and Brain Wellness within the Gut-Brain Axis. Foods 2023; 12:foods12020270. [PMID: 36673365 PMCID: PMC9858309 DOI: 10.3390/foods12020270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Ellagitannins (ETs) are a large group of bioactive compounds found in plant-source foods, such as pomegranates, berries, and nuts. The consumption of ETs has often been associated with positive effects on many pathologies, including cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative syndromes, and cancer. Although multiple biological activities (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, chemopreventive) have been discussed for ETs, their limited bioavailability prevents reaching significant concentrations in systemic circulation. Instead, urolithins, ET gut microbiota-derived metabolites, are better absorbed and could be the bioactive molecules responsible for the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities or anti-tumor cell progression. In this review, we examined the dietary sources, metabolism, and bioavailability of ETs, and analyzed the last recent findings on ETs, ellagic acid, and urolithins, their intestinal and brain activities, the potential mechanisms of action, and the connection between the ET microbiota metabolism and the consequences detected on the gut-brain axis. The current in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies indicate that ET-rich foods, individual gut microbiomes, or urolithin types could modulate signaling pathways and promote beneficial health effects. A better understanding of the role of these metabolites in disease pathogenesis may assist in the prevention or treatment of pathologies targeting the gut-brain axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxana Banc
- Department of Bromatology, Hygiene, Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Marius Emil Rusu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400010 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +40-264-450-555
| | - Lorena Filip
- Department of Bromatology, Hygiene, Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Daniela-Saveta Popa
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Zhang Y, Jiang L, Su P, Yu T, Ma Z, Liu Y, Yu J. Urolithin A suppresses tumor progression and induces autophagy in gastric cancer via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Drug Dev Res 2022; 84:172-184. [PMID: 36477869 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.22021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Urolithin A (UA) is a microbial metabolite of natural polyphenols ellagitannins and ellagic acid with well-established antitumor properties against various malignancies. However, the exact role of UA in gastric cancer (GC) progression remains largely unclear. In the present study, we investigated the effects and potential mechanisms of UA in GC in vitro and in vivo. Our results revealed that UA could suppress GC cell proliferation, inhibit migration and invasion, promote apoptosis, and induce autophagy via the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin pathway in vitro. The autophagy inhibitors 3-methyladenine and chloroquine augmented the inhibitory effect of UA on proliferation and promoted apoptosis, implying that UA mediated the cytoprotective role of autophagy. Meanwhile, the in vivo experiments showed that UA effectively suppressed tumor growth, enhanced the therapeutic effects, and alleviated chemotherapy toxicity in xenograft models. Overall, these findings offer novel insights into the role of UA in tumor therapy and suggest that UA may possess potential therapeutic applications for GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingjing Zhang
- Department of General Surgery Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| | - Lin Jiang
- Department of General Surgery Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| | - Pengfei Su
- Department of General Surgery Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| | - Tian Yu
- Department of General Surgery Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| | - Zhiqiang Ma
- Department of General Surgery Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| | - Yuqin Liu
- Department of Pathology Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| | - Jianchun Yu
- Department of General Surgery Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
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Huang TT, Chen CM, Lan YW, Lin SS, Choo KB, Chong KY. Blockade of c-Met-Mediated Signaling Pathways by E7050 Suppresses Growth and Promotes Apoptosis in Multidrug-Resistant Human Uterine Sarcoma Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314884. [PMID: 36499211 PMCID: PMC9740914 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
E7050 is a potent inhibitor of c-Met receptor tyrosine kinase and has potential for cancer therapy. However, the underlying molecular mechanism involved in the anti-cancer property of E7050 has not been fully elucidated. The main objective of this study was to investigate the anti-tumor activity of E7050 in multidrug-resistant human uterine sarcoma MES-SA/Dx5 cells in vitro and in vivo, and to define its mechanisms. Our results revealed that E7050 reduced cell viability of MES-SA/Dx5 cells, which was associated with the induction of apoptosis and S phase cell cycle arrest. Additionally, E7050 treatment significantly upregulated the expression of Bax, cleaved PARP, cleaved caspase-3, p21, p53 and cyclin D1, while it downregulated the expression of survivin and cyclin A. On the other hand, the mechanistic study demonstrated that E7050 inhibited the phosphorylation of c-Met, Src, Akt and p38 in HGF-stimulated MES-SA/Dx5 cells. Further in vivo experiments showed that treatment of athymic nude mice carrying MES-SA/Dx5 xenograft tumors with E7050 remarkably suppressed tumor growth. E7050 treatment also decreased the expression of Ki-67 and p-Met, and increased the expression of cleaved caspase-3 in MES-SA/Dx5 tumor sections. Therefore, E7050 is a promising drug that can be developed for the treatment of multidrug-resistant uterine sarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsung-Teng Huang
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Biotechnology, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Chuan-Mu Chen
- Department of Life Sciences, Agricultural Biotechnology Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
- The iEGG and Animal Biotechnology Center and the Rong Hsing Research Center for Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Wei Lan
- Division of Pulmonary Biology, The Perinatal Institute of Cincinnati Children’s Research Foundation, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Song-Shu Lin
- Department of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Medical Research Lab, Bone and Joint Research Center, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Kong-Bung Choo
- Centre for Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kajang 43000, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Kowit-Yu Chong
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Biotechnology, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Medical Research Lab, Bone and Joint Research Center, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
- Centre for Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kajang 43000, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Keelung, Keelung City 20401, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-2211-8393
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11
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Eidizade F, Soukhtanloo M, Zhiani R, Mehrzad J, Mirzavi F. Inhibition of glioblastoma proliferation, invasion, and migration by Urolithin B through inducing G0/G1 arrest and targeting MMP-2/-9 expression and activity. Biofactors 2022; 49:379-389. [PMID: 36310375 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
One kind of brain cancer with a dismal prognosis is called glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) due to its high growth rate and widespread tumor cell invasion into various areas of the brain. To improve therapeutic approaches, the objective of this research investigates the cytotoxic, anti-metastatic, and apoptotic effect of urolithin-B (UB) as a bioactive metabolite of ellagitannins (ETs) on GBM U87 cells. The malignant GBM cell line (U87) was examined for apoptosis rate, cell cycle analysis, cell viability, mRNA expressions of several apoptotic and metastasis-associated genes, production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), MMP-2, and MMP-9 activity and protein expression, and migration ability. The findings revealed that UB decreased U87 GBM viability in a dose-dependent manner and NIH/3T3 normal cells with the IC50 value of 30 and 55 μM after 24 h, respectively. UB also induces necrosis and G0/G1 cell cycle arrest in U87 cells. UB also increases ROS production and caused down-regulation of Bcl2 and up-regulation of Bax apoptotic genes. Additionally, treatment of UB reduced the migration of U87 cells. The protein levels, mRNA expression, and the MMP-2 and MMP-9 enzyme activities also decreased concentration-dependently. So, due to the non-toxic nature of UB and its ability to induce apoptosis and reduce the U87 GBM cell invasion and migration, after more research, it can be regarded as a promising new anti-GBM compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fateme Eidizade
- Department of Biochemistry, Neyshabur Branch, Islamic Azad University, Neyshabur, Iran
| | - Mohammad Soukhtanloo
- Department of Biochemistry, Neyshabur Branch, Islamic Azad University, Neyshabur, Iran
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Pharmacological Research Center of Medicinal Plants, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Rahele Zhiani
- Department of Chemistry, Neyshabur Branch, Islamic Azad University, Neyshabur, Iran
- New Materials Technology and Processing Research Center, Department of Chemistry, Neyshabur Branch, Islamic Azad University, Neyshabur, Iran
| | - Jamshid Mehrzad
- Department of Biochemistry, Neyshabur Branch, Islamic Azad University, Neyshabur, Iran
| | - Farshad Mirzavi
- Cardiovascular Diseases Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
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Yu ZH, Cao M, Wang YX, Yan SY, Qing LT, Wu CM, Li S, Li TY, Chen Q, Zhao J. Urolithin A Attenuates Helicobacter pylori-Induced Damage In Vivo. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2022; 70:11981-11993. [PMID: 36106620 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c03711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Urolithin A (UA) is a metabolite produced in the gut following the consumption of ellagic acid (EA) rich foods. EA has shown anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Because EA is poorly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, urolithins are considered to play a major role in bioactivity. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is the most common chronic bacterial infection all over the world. It is potentially hazardous to humans because of its relationship to various gastrointestinal diseases. In this study, we investigated the effect of UA on inflammation by H. pylori. The results indicated that UA attenuated H. pylori-induced inflammation in vitro and in vivo. UA also reduced the secretion of H. pylori virulence factors and tissue injuries in mice. Furthermore, UA decreased the relative abundance of Helicobacteraceae in feces of H. pylori-infected mice. In summary, taking UA effectively inhibited the injury caused by H. pylori.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Hao Yu
- Key Laboratory of Biological Resource and Ecological Environment of Chinese Education Ministry, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Mei Cao
- Core Laboratory, School of Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital Affiliated to University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Yuan-Xiao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biological Resource and Ecological Environment of Chinese Education Ministry, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Shi-Ying Yan
- Key Laboratory of Biological Resource and Ecological Environment of Chinese Education Ministry, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Li-Ting Qing
- Key Laboratory of Biological Resource and Ecological Environment of Chinese Education Ministry, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Cheng-Meng Wu
- Key Laboratory of Biological Resource and Ecological Environment of Chinese Education Ministry, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Shu Li
- Key Laboratory of Biological Resource and Ecological Environment of Chinese Education Ministry, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Tian-Yi Li
- Key Laboratory of Biological Resource and Ecological Environment of Chinese Education Ministry, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Qian Chen
- Irradiation Preservation Technology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Institute of Atomic Energy, Chengdu 610101, China
| | - Jian Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Biological Resource and Ecological Environment of Chinese Education Ministry, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
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13
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Guo P, Liu Y, Feng J, Tang S, Wei F, Feng J. p21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1) as a therapeutic target for cardiotoxicity. Arch Toxicol 2022; 96:3143-3162. [DOI: 10.1007/s00204-022-03384-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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14
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Gandhi GR, Antony PJ, Ceasar SA, Vasconcelos ABS, Montalvão MM, Farias de Franca MN, Resende ADS, Sharanya CS, Liu Y, Hariharan G, Gan RY. Health functions and related molecular mechanisms of ellagitannin-derived urolithins. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2022; 64:280-310. [PMID: 35959701 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2022.2106179] [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] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Ellagitannins are vital bioactive polyphenols that are widely distributed in a variety of plant-based foods. The main metabolites of ellagitannins are urolithins, and current research suggests that urolithins provide a variety of health benefits. This review focused on the role of the gut bacteria in the conversion of ellagitannins to urolithins. Based on the results of in vitro and in vivo studies, the health benefits of urolithins, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, anti-aging, cardiovascular protective, neuroprotective, kidney protective, and muscle mass protective effects, were thoroughly outlined, with a focus on their associated molecular mechanisms. Finally, we briefly commented on urolithins' safety. Overall, urolithins' diverse health benefits indicate the potential utilization of ellagitannins and urolithins in the creation of functional foods and nutraceuticals to treat and prevent some chronic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gopalsamy Rajiv Gandhi
- Department of Biosciences, Rajagiri College of Social Sciences, Kalamaserry, Kochi, India
| | | | | | - Alan Bruno Silva Vasconcelos
- Postgraduate Program of Physiological Sciences (PROCFIS), Federal University of Sergipe (UFS), São Cristóvão, Sergipe, Brazil
| | - Monalisa Martins Montalvão
- Postgraduate Program of Physiological Sciences (PROCFIS), Federal University of Sergipe (UFS), São Cristóvão, Sergipe, Brazil
| | - Mariana Nobre Farias de Franca
- Postgraduate Program of Health Sciences (PPGCS), Federal University of Sergipe (UFS), Campus Prof. João Cardoso Nascimento, Aracaju, CEP, Sergipe, Brazil
| | - Ayane de Sá Resende
- Postgraduate Program of Health Sciences (PPGCS), Federal University of Sergipe (UFS), Campus Prof. João Cardoso Nascimento, Aracaju, CEP, Sergipe, Brazil
| | | | - Yi Liu
- Research Center for Plants and Human Health, Institute of Urban Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Chengdu National Agricultural Science and Technology Center, Chengdu, China
| | - Govindasamy Hariharan
- Department of Biochemistry, Srimad Andavan Arts and Science College (Autonomous) affiliated to the Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirapalli, India
| | - Ren-You Gan
- Nepal Jesuit Society, St. Xavier's College, Jawalakhel, Lalitpur Dt. Kathmandu, Nepal
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15
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Rogovskii V. The therapeutic potential of urolithin A for cancer treatment and prevention. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2022; 22:717-724. [PMID: 35657053 DOI: 10.2174/1568009622666220602125343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Urolithin A is the metabolite of natural polyphenol ellagic acid and ellagitannins, generated by gut microbiota. Urolithin A is better absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract than its parent substances. Thus, the variable effects of ellagitannin-reach food (like pomegranate fruit, walnuts, tea, and others) on people's health might be linked with the differences in individual microbiota content. Urolithin A possesses various anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects, shown by in vivo and in vitro studies. OBJECTIVE In the current review, we consider anti-inflammatory and direct anticancer urolithin A effects as well as their molecular mechanisms, which might be the basement of clinical trials, estimating urolithin A anticancer effects. CONCLUSION Urolithin A attenuated the pro-inflammatory factors production (IL-6, IL-1β, NOS2 and others) in vitro studies. Oral urolithin A treatment caused prominent anticancer and anti-inflammatory action in various in vivo studies, including colitis rat model, carrageenan-induced paw edema mice model, models of pancreatic cancer, and models of obesity. The main molecular mechanisms of these effects might be the modulation of aryl hydrocarbon receptors, which antagonism may lead to decreasing of chronic inflammation. Other primary targets of urolithin A might be the processes of protein phosphorylation (for instance, it decreases the phosphorylation of protein kinase B) and p53 stabilization. Anti-inflammatory effects of urolithin A can be reached in physiologically relevant concentrations. This might be of vital importance for preventing immune suppression, associated with chronic inflammation in cancer. Considering the favorable urolithin A safety profile, it is the promising compound for cancer treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Rogovskii
- Department of molecular pharmacology and radiobiology, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
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16
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Feng ZH, Chen J, Yuan PT, Ji ZY, Tao SY, Zheng L, Wei XA, Zheng ZY, Zheng BJ, Chen B, Chen J, Zhao FD. Urolithin A Promotes Angiogenesis and Tissue Regeneration in a Full-Thickness Cutaneous Wound Model. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:806284. [PMID: 35359856 PMCID: PMC8964070 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.806284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The treatment of chronic wound is an important topic of current clinical issue. Neovascularization plays a crucial role in skin wound healing by delivering fresh nutrients and oxygen to the wound area. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanisms of urolithin A (UA) in angiogenesis during wound healing. The results of in vitro experiments showed that treatment with UA (5–20 μM) promoted the proliferation, migration, and angiogenic capacity of HUVECs. Furthermore, we investigated the effect of UA in vivo using a full-thickness skin wound model. Subsequently, we found that UA promoted the regeneration of new blood vessels, which is consistent with the results of accelerated angiogenesis in vitro experiments. After UA treatment, the blood vessels in the wound are rapidly formed, and the deposition and remodeling process of the collagen matrix is also accelerated, which ultimately promotes the effective wound healing. Mechanistic studies have shown that UA promotes angiogenesis by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT pathway. Our study provides evidence that UA can promote angiogenesis and skin regeneration in chronic wounds, especially ischemic wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-hua Feng
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration and Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jia Chen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration and Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Pu-tao Yuan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration and Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhong-yin Ji
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration and Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Si-yue Tao
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration and Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lin Zheng
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration and Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-an Wei
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration and Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ze-yu Zheng
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration and Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bing-jie Zheng
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration and Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bin Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, China
- *Correspondence: Feng-dong Zhao, ; Jian Chen, ; Bin Chen,
| | - Jian Chen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration and Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Feng-dong Zhao, ; Jian Chen, ; Bin Chen,
| | - Feng-dong Zhao
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration and Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Feng-dong Zhao, ; Jian Chen, ; Bin Chen,
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Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition Is Not a Major Modulating Factor in the Cytotoxic Response to Natural Products in Cancer Cell Lines. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26195858. [PMID: 34641401 PMCID: PMC8512490 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26195858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous natural products exhibit antiproliferative activity against cancer cells by modulating various biological pathways. In this study, we investigated the potential use of eight natural compounds (apigenin, curcumin, epigallocatechin gallate, fisetin, forskolin, procyanidin B2, resveratrol, urolithin A) and two repurposed agents (fulvestrant and metformin) as chemotherapy enhancers and mesenchymal-to-epithelial (MET) inducers of cancer cells. Screening of these compounds in various colon, breast, and pancreatic cancer cell lines revealed anti-cancer activity for all compounds, with curcumin being the most effective among these in all cell lines. Although some of the natural products were able to induce MET in some cancer cell lines, the MET induction was not related to increased synergy with either 5-FU, irinotecan, gemcitabine, or gefitinib. When synergy was observed, for example with curcumin and irinotecan, this was unrelated to MET induction, as assessed by changes in E-cadherin and vimentin expression. Our results show that MET induction is compound and cell line specific, and that MET is not necessarily related to enhanced chemosensitivity.
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Hasheminezhad SH, Boozari M, Iranshahi M, Yazarlu O, Sahebkar A, Hasanpour M, Iranshahy M. A mechanistic insight into the biological activities of urolithins as gut microbial metabolites of ellagitannins. Phytother Res 2021; 36:112-146. [PMID: 34542202 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Urolithins are the gut metabolites produced from ellagitannin-rich foods such as pomegranates, tea, walnuts, as well as strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and cloudberries. Urolithins are of growing interest due to their various biological activities including cardiovascular protection, anti-inflammatory activity, anticancer properties, antidiabetic activity, and antiaging properties. Several studies mostly based on in vitro and in vivo experiments have investigated the potential mechanisms of urolithins which support the beneficial effects of urolithins in the treatment of several diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, liver disease, cardiovascular disease, and various cancers. It is now obvious that urolithins can involve several cellular mechanisms including inhibition of MDM2-p53 interaction, modulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway, and suppressing nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) activity. Antiaging activity is the most appealing and probably the most important property of urolithin A that has been investigated in depth in recent studies, owing to its unique effects on activation of mitophagy and mitochondrial biogenesis. A recent clinical trial showed that urolithin A is safe up to 2,500 mg/day and can improve mitochondrial biomarkers in elderly patients. Regarding the importance of mitochondria in the pathophysiology of many diseases, urolithins merit further research especially in clinical trials to unravel more aspects of their clinical significance. Besides the nutritional value of urolithins, recent studies proved that urolithins can be used as pharmacological agents to prevent or cure several diseases. Here, we comprehensively review the potential role of urolithins as new therapeutic agents with a special focus on the molecular pathways that have been involved in their biological effects. The pharmacokinetics of urolithins is also included.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Motahareh Boozari
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Iranshahi
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Omid Yazarlu
- Department of General Surgery, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Maede Hasanpour
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Milad Iranshahy
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Punicalagin in Cancer Prevention-Via Signaling Pathways Targeting. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13082733. [PMID: 34444893 PMCID: PMC8400644 DOI: 10.3390/nu13082733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The extract of pomegranate (Punica granatum) has been applied in medicine since ancient times due to its broad-spectrum health-beneficial properties. It is a rich source of hydrolyzable tannins and anthocyanins, exhibiting strong antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antineoplastic properties. Anticancer activities of pomegranate with reference to modulated signaling pathways in various cancer diseases have been recently reviewed. However, less is known about punicalagin (Pug), a prevailing compound in pomegranate, seemingly responsible for its most beneficial properties. In this review, the newest data derived from recent scientific reports addressing Pug impact on neoplastic cells are summarized and discussed. Its attenuating effect on signaling circuits promoting cancer growth and invasion is depicted. The Pug-induced redirection of signal-transduction pathways from survival and proliferation into cell-cycle arrest, apoptosis, senescence, and autophagy (thus compromising neoplastic progression) is delineated. Considerations presented in this review are based mainly on data obtained from in vitro cell line models and concern the influence of Pug on human cervical, ovarian, breast, lung, thyroid, colorectal, central nervous system, bone, as well as other cancer types.
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