Ginsenoside-Rg2 exerts anti-cancer effects through ROS-mediated AMPK activation associated mitochondrial damage and oxidation in MCF-7 cells

Pleiotropic Regulation of PGC-1α in Tumor Initiation and Progression

Significance: Mitochondria are recognized as a central metabolic hub with bioenergetic, biosynthetic, and signaling functions that tightly control key cellular processes. As a crucial component of mitochondrial biogenesis, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1α (PGC-1α) is involved in regulating various metabolic pathways, including energy metabolism and reactive oxygen species homeostasis. Recent Advances: Recent studies have highlighted the significant role of PGC-1α in tumorigenesis, cancer progression, and treatment resistance. However, PGC-1α exhibits pleiotropic effects in different cancer types, necessitating a more comprehensive and thorough understanding. Critical Issues:In this review, we discuss the structure and regulatory mechanisms of PGC-1α, analyze its cellular and metabolic functions, explore its impact on tumorigenesis, and propose potential strategies for targeting PGC-1α. Future Directions: The targeted adjustment of PGC-1α based on the metabolic preferences of different cancer types could offer a hopeful therapeutic approach for both preventing and treating tumors.

In vitro antiviral activity of eugenol on Singapore grouper iridovirus

The high mortality rate of Singapore grouper iridovirus (SGIV) posing a serious threat to the grouper aquaculture industry and causing significant economic losses. Therefore, finding effective drugs against SGIV is of great significance. Eugenol (C10H12O2) is a phenolic aromatic compound, has been widely studied for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiviral capacity. In this study, we explored the effect of eugenol on SGIV infection and its possible mechanisms using grouper spleen cells (GS) as an in vitro model. We found that treatment of GS cells with 100 μM eugenol for 4 h exhibited the optimal inhibitory effect on SGIV. Eugenol was able to reduce the expression level of inflammatory factors by inhibiting the activation of MAPK pathway and also inhibited the activity of NF-κB and AP-1 promoter. On the other hand, eugenol attenuated cellular oxidative stress by reducing intracellular ROS and promoted the expression of interferon-related genes. Therefore, we conclude that eugenol inhibits SGIV infection by enhancing cellular immunity through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant functions.

Ginsenosides in cancer: Proliferation, metastasis, and drug resistance

Ginseng, the dried root of Panax ginseng C.A. Mey., is widely used in Chinese herbal medicine. Ginsenosides, the primary active components of ginseng, exhibit diverse anticancer functions through various mechanisms, such as inhibiting tumor cell proliferation, promoting apoptosis, and suppressing cell invasion and migration. In this article, the mechanism of action of 20 ginsenoside subtypes in tumor therapy and the research progress of multifunctional nanosystems are reviewed, in order to provide reference for clinical prevention and treatment of cancer.

Effects of mitochondrial dysfunction on cellular function: Role in atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis, an immunoinflammatory disease of medium and large arteries, is associated with life-threatening clinical events, such as acute coronary syndromes and stroke. Chronic inflammation and impaired lipoprotein metabolism are considered to be among the leading causes of atherosclerosis, while numerous risk factors, including arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity, and aging, can contribute to the development of the disease. In recent years, emerging evidence has underlined the key role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Mitochondrial dysfunction is believed to result in an increase in reactive oxygen species, leading to oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and intracellular lipid deposition, all of which can contribute to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Critical cells, including endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, and macrophages, play an important role in atherosclerosis. Mitochondrial function is also involved in maintaining the normal function of these cells. To better understand the relationship between mitochondrial dysfunction and atherosclerosis, this review summarizes the findings of recent studies and discusses the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the risk factors and critical cells of atherosclerosis. FACTS: OPEN QUESTIONS.

3'-Sialyllactose protects against LPS-induced endothelial dysfunction by inhibiting superoxide-mediated ERK1/2/STAT1 activation and HMGB1/RAGE axis

AIM

Endothelial hyperpermeability is an early stage of endothelial dysfunction associated with the progression and development of atherosclerosis. 3'-Sialyllactose (3'-SL) is the most abundant compound in human milk oligosaccharides, and it has the potential to regulate endothelial dysfunction. This study investigated the beneficial effects of 3'-SL on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endothelial dysfunction in vitro and in vivo.

MAIN METHODS

We established LPS-induced endothelial dysfunction models in both cultured bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAECs) and mouse models to determine the effects of 3'-SL. Western blotting, qRT-PCR analysis, immunofluorescence staining, and en face staining were employed to clarify underlying mechanisms. Superoxide production was measured by 2',7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate, and dihydroethidium staining.

KEY FINDINGS

LPS significantly decreased cell viability, whereas 3'-SL treatment mitigated these effects via inhibiting ERK1/2 activation. Mechanistically, 3'-SL ameliorated LPS-induced ROS accumulation leading to ERK1/2 activation-mediated STAT1 phosphorylation and subsequent inhibition of downstream transcriptional target genes, including VCAM-1, TNF-α, IL-1β, and MCP-1. Interestingly, LPS-induced ERK1/2/STAT1 activation leads to the HMGB1 release from the nucleus into the extracellular space, where it binds to RAGE, while 3'-SL suppressed EC hyperpermeability by suppressing the HMGB1/RAGE axis. This interaction also led to VE-cadherin endothelial junction disassembly and endothelial cell monolayer disruption through ERK1/2/STAT1 modulation. In mouse endothelium, en face staining revealed that 3'-SL abolished LPS-stimulated ROS production and VCAM-1 overexpression.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our findings suggest that 3'-SL inhibits LPS-induced endothelial hyperpermeability by suppressing superoxide-mediated ERK1/2/STAT1 activation and HMGB1/RAGE axis. Therefore, 3'-SL may be a potential therapeutic agent for preventing the progression of atherosclerosis.

AaLaeA targets AaFla1 to mediate the production of antitumor compound in Alternaria alstroemeria

Endophytic fungi are an important source of novel antitumor substances. Previously, we isolated an endophytic fungus, Alternaria alstroemeria, from the medicinal plant Artemisia artemisia, whose crude extracts strongly inhibited A549 tumor cells. We obtained a transformant, namely AaLaeAOE26 , which completely loses its antitumor activity due to overexpression of the global regulator AaLaeA. Re-sequencing analysis of the genome revealed that the insertion site was in the noncoding region and did not destroy any other genes. Metabolomics analysis revealed that the level of secondary antitumor metabolic substances was significantly lower in AaLaeAOE26 compared with the wild strain, in particular flavonoids were more downregulated according to the metabolomics analysis. A further comparative transcriptome analysis revealed that a gene encoding FAD-binding domain protein (Fla1) was significantly downregulated. On the other hand, overexpression of AaFla1 led to significant enhancement of antitumor activity against A549 with a sevenfold higher inhibition ratio than the wild strain. At the same time, we also found a significant increase in the accumulation of antitumor metabolites including quercetin, gitogenin, rhodioloside, liensinine, ginsenoside Rg2 and cinobufagin. Our data suggest that the global regulator AaLaeA negatively affects the production of antitumor compounds via controlling the transcription of AaFla1 in endophytic A. alstroemeria.

Human milk oligosaccharides 3'-sialyllactose and 6'-sialyllactose attenuate LPS-induced lung injury by inhibiting STAT1 and NF-κB signaling pathways

Acute lung injury (ALI) is the leading cause of respiratory diseases induced by uncontrolled inflammation and cell death. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a major trigger of ALI in the progression through macrophage differentiation and the accelerated release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The present study aimed to investigate the protective effects of human milk oligosaccharides, specifically 3'-sialyllactose (3'-SL) and 6'-sialyllactose (6'-SL), on LPS-induced ALI and elucidate their underlying signaling pathways. The inhibitory effects of 3'-SL and 6'-SL on inflammation were evaluated using LPS-treated RAW 264.7 macrophages. To establish the ALI model, mice were treated with 10 mg/kg LPS for 24 h. Histological changes in the lung tissues were assessed using hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunofluorescence. LPS causes thickening of the alveolar wall infiltration of immune cells in lung tissues and increased serum levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and GM-CSF. However, these effects were significantly alleviated by 100 mg/kg of 3'-SL and 6'-SL. Consistent with the inhibitory effects of 3'-SL and 6'-SL on LPS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion in serum, 3'-SL and 6'-SL suppressed mRNA expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, MCP-1, iNOS, and COX2 in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells. Mechanistically, 3'-SL and 6'-SL abolished LPS-mediated phosphorylation of NF-κB and STAT1. Interestingly, fludarabine treatment, a STAT1 inhibitor, did not affect LPS-mediated NF-κB phosphorylation. In summary, 3'-SL and 6'-SL protect LPS-induced macrophage activation and ALI through the STAT1 and NF-κB signaling pathways.

Ginsenosides: changing the basic hallmarks of cancer cells to achieve the purpose of treating breast cancer

In 2021, breast cancer accounted for a substantial proportion of cancer cases and represented the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women worldwide. Although tumor cells originate from normal cells in the human body, they possess distinct biological characteristics resulting from changes in gene structure and function of cancer cells in contrast with normal cells. These distinguishing features, known as hallmarks of cancer cells, differ from those of normal cells. The hallmarks primarily include high metabolic activity, mitochondrial dysfunction, and resistance to cell death. Current evidence suggests that the fundamental hallmarks of tumor cells affect the tissue structure, function, and metabolism of tumor cells and their internal and external environment. Therefore, these fundamental hallmarks of tumor cells enable tumor cells to proliferate, invade and avoid apoptosis. Modifying these hallmarks of tumor cells represents a new and potentially promising approach to tumor treatment. The key to breast cancer treatment lies in identifying the optimal therapeutic agent with minimal toxicity to normal cells, considering the specific types of tumor cells in patients. Some herbal medicines contain active ingredients which can precisely achieve this purpose. In this review, we introduce Ginsenoside's mechanism and research significance in achieving the therapeutic effect of breast cancer by changing the functional hallmarks of tumor cells, providing a new perspective for the potential application of Ginsenoside as a therapeutic drug for breast cancer.

Anticancer therapeutic effect of ginsenosides through mediating reactive oxygen species

Dysregulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and ROS-regulated pathways in cancer cells leads to abnormal accumulation of reactive oxygen species, displaying a double-edged role in cancer progression, either supporting transformation/proliferation and stimulating tumorigenesis or inducing cell death. Cancer cells can accommodate reactive oxygen species by regulating them at levels that allow the activation of pro-cancer signaling pathways without inducing cell death via modulation of the antioxidant defense system. Therefore, targeting reactive oxygen species is a promising approach for cancer treatment. Ginsenosides, their derivatives, and related drug carriers are well-positioned to modulate multiple signaling pathways by regulating oxidative stress-mediated cellular and molecular targets to induce apoptosis; regulate cell cycle arrest and autophagy, invasion, and metastasis; and enhance the sensitivity of drug-resistant cells to chemotherapeutic agents of different cancers depending on the type, level, and source of reactive oxygen species, and the type and stage of the cancer. Our review focuses on the pro- and anticancer effects of reactive oxygen species, and summarizes the mechanisms and recent advances in different ginsenosides that bring about anticancer effects by targeting reactive oxygen species, providing new ideas for designing further anticancer studies or conducting more preclinical and clinical studies.

Ginsenoside Rh1 ameliorates the asthma and allergic inflammation via inhibiting Akt, MAPK, and NF-κB signaling pathways in vitro and in vivo

AIMS

Overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines and its-mediated immune cell infiltration play a crucial role in asthma progression. In this study, we investigated the role of ginsenoside Rh1 (Rh1) in ovalbumin (OVA)/lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced allergic asthma both in vitro and in vivo.

MATERIALS AND MAIN METHODS

The phorbol ester (PMA) and LPS were used to induce inflammation in lung airway cells and macrophage activation, respectively. Western blotting, quantitative reverse transcription-PCR, and immunofluorescence (IF) assays were performed to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. To evaluating the effects of Rh1 in vivo, OVA and LPS were used to establish allergic asthma models.

KEY FINDINGS

Rh1 significantly suppressed PMA-induced lung inflammation and macrophage activation by suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, MCP-1), ICMA-1, and matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9) in A549 cells. Rh1 abolished the PMA-induced inflammation by suppressing MAPK, Akt, and NF-κB p65. Pretreatment with Rh1 blocked PMA-mediated translocation of NF-κB, a key marker of pro-inflammatory cytokine release, into the nucleus. Similar to PMA-induced lung inflammation, Rh1 suppressed LPS-induced macrophage activation by suppressing NF-κB p65 activation and inducible nitric oxide synthase protein and mRNA expression. Consistent with in vitro data, LPS injection enhanced the number of immune cells induced by OVA in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, whereas 20 mg/kg Rh1 significantly decreased OVA/LPS-mediated immune cell induction. In addition, Rh1 inhibited eosinophil, macrophage, and neutrophil maturation through by IL-4 and OVA-specific IgE production.

SIGNIFICANCE

Rh1 protects against OVA/LPS-induced allergic asthma by suppressing immune cell infiltration by blocking the activation of MAPK, Akt, and NF-κB signaling pathways.

Novel Anti-Cancer Products Targeting AMPK: Natural Herbal Medicine against Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a common cancer in women worldwide. The existing clinical treatment strategies have been able to limit the progression of breast cancer and cancer metastasis, but abnormal metabolism, immunosuppression, and multidrug resistance involving multiple regulators remain the major challenges for the treatment of breast cancer. Adenosine 5'-monophosphate (AMP)-Activated Protein Kinase (AMPK) can regulate metabolic reprogramming and reverse the "Warburg effect" via multiple metabolic signaling pathways in breast cancer. Previous studies suggest that the activation of AMPK suppresses the growth and metastasis of breast cancer cells, as well as stimulating the responses of immune cells. However, some other reports claim that the development and poor prognosis of breast cancer are related to the overexpression and aberrant activation of AMPK. Thus, the role of AMPK in the progression of breast cancer is still controversial. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of AMPK, particularly the comprehensive bidirectional functions of AMPK in cancer progression; discuss the pharmacological activators of AMPK and some specific molecules, including the natural products (including berberine, curcumin, (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate, ginsenosides, and paclitaxel) that influence the efficacy of these activators in cancer therapy; and elaborate the role of AMPK as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of breast cancer.

Ginsenoside Rh2 sensitizes the anti-cancer effects of sunitinib by inducing cell cycle arrest in renal cell carcinoma

Sunitinib, a VEGF blockade, is used to treat clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). However, the anti-cancer treatment effects of sunitinib do not last long in ccRCC patients. Ginsenoside, a natural medicine extracted from ginseng, has been studied in cancer treatment and shown to have anti-tumor effects and low toxicity. We assessed cell viability and cell cycle analysis in ccRCC cell lines after treatment with ginsenoside and sunitinib. DNA damage was evaluated by measuring 8-OHdG levels and comet assay. ROS levels, reflecting the cause of oxidative stress, were also measured. Ginsenoside significantly enhanced the inhibition of cell viability by sunitinib, a result that was also confirmed in the xenograft model. In cell cycle analysis, combination treatment of ginsenoside and sunitinib enhanced G2M arrest in comparison with single-treatment groups. In addition, DNA damage was increased by ginsenoside and sunitinib according to the comet assay, and the level of 8-OHdG, which reflects oxidative DNA damage, also increased. We verified that ginsenoside enhances the efficacy of sunitinib to inhibit the proliferation of ccRCC cells via induction of oxidative DNA damage. The combination therapy of sunitinib and ginsenoside suggested the possibility of effectively treating ccRCC patients.

Anti-cancer effect and potential microRNAs targets of ginsenosides against breast cancer

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common malignant tumor, the incidence of which has increased worldwide in recent years. Ginsenosides are the main active components of Panax ginseng C. A. Mey., in vitro and in vivo studies have confirmed that ginsenosides have significant anti-cancer activity, including BC. It is reported that ginsenosides can induce BC cells apoptosis, inhibit BC cells proliferation, migration, invasion, as well as autophagy and angiogenesis, thereby suppress the procession of BC. In this review, the therapeutic effects and the molecular mechanisms of ginsenosides on BC will be summarized. And the combination strategy of ginsenosides with other drugs on BC will also be discussed. In addition, epigenetic changes, especially microRNAs (miRNAs) targeted by ginsenosides in the treatment of BC are clarified.

Ursolic acid augments the chemosensitivity of drug-resistant breast cancer cells to doxorubicin by AMPK-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction

Multidrug resistance remains the major obstacle to successful therapy for breast carcinoma. Ursolic acid (UA), a triterpenoid compound, has been regarded as a potential neoplasm chemopreventive drug in some preclinical studies since it exerts multiple biological activities. In this research, we investigated the role of UA in augmenting the chemosensitivity of drug-resistant breast carcinoma cells to doxorubicin (DOX), and we further explored the possible molecular mechanisms. Notably, we found that UA treatment led to inhibition of cellular proliferation and migration and cell cycle arrest in DOX-resistant breast cancers. Furthermore, combination treatment with UA and DOX showed a stronger inhibitory effect on cell viability, colony formation, and cell migration; induced more cell apoptosis in vitro; and generated a more potent inhibitory effect on the growth of the MCF-7/ADR xenograft tumor model than DOX alone. Mechanistically, UA effectively increased p-AMPK levels and concomitantly reduced p-mTOR and PGC-1α protein levels, resulting in impaired mitochondrial function, such as mitochondrial respiration inhibition, ATP depletion, and excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. In addition, UA induced a DNA damage response by increasing intracellular ROS production, thus causing cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase. UA also suppressed aerobic glycolysis by prohibiting the expression and function of Glut1. Considered together, our data demonstrated that UA potentiated the susceptibility of DOX-resistant breast carcinoma cells to DOX by targeting energy metabolism through the AMPK/mTOR/PGC-1α signaling pathway, and it is a potential adjuvant chemotherapeutic candidate in MDR breast cancer.

Ginsenoside Rh1 protects human endothelial cells against lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory injury through inhibiting TLR2/4-mediated STAT3, NF-κB, and ER stress signaling pathways

AIM

Endothelial cell (EC) dysfunction initiates atherosclerosis by inducing inflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules. Herein, we investigated the role of ginsenoside Rh1 (Rh1) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced EC dysfunction.

MAIN METHODS

The inhibitory effect of Rh1 on LPS binding to toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) or TLR4 was evaluated using an immunofluorescence (IF) assay. Annexin V and cleaved caspase-3-positive EC apoptosis were evaluated by flow cytometry and IF assay. Western blotting and quantitative reverse transcription-PCR were performed to clarify underlying molecular mechanisms. In vivo model, effect of Rh1 on EC dysfunction was evaluated by using en face IF assay on aortas isolated C57BL/6 mice.

KEY FINDING

LPS (500 ng/mL) activated inflammatory signaling pathways, including ERK1/2, STAT3, and NF-κB. Interestingly, Rh1 significantly abolished the binding of LPS to TLR2 and TLR4. Consistently, Rh1 inhibited LPS-induced NF-κB activation and its downstream molecules, including inflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules. Furthermore, Rh1 alleviated LPS-induced downregulation of eNOS promoter activity. Notably, inactivation of eNOS by 50 μM L-NAME significantly increased NF-κB promoter activity. In addition, Rh1 abolished LPS-mediated cell cycle arrest and EC apoptosis by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress via PERK/CHOP/ERO1-α signaling pathway. Consistent with in vitro experimental data, Rh1 effectively suppressed LPS-induced VCAM-1 and CHOP expression and rescuing LPS-destroyed tight junctions between ECs as indicated in ZO-1 expression on mice aorta.

SIGNIFICANCE

Rh1 suppresses LPS-induced EC inflammation and apoptosis by inhibiting STAT3/NF-κB and endoplasmic reticulum stress signaling pathways, mediated by blocking LPS binding-to TLR2 and TLR4. Consistently, Rh1 effectively reduced EC dysfunction in vivo model.

Inhibitory effects of 6'-sialyllactose on angiotensin II-induced proliferation, migration, and osteogenic switching in vascular smooth muscle cells

Excessive production and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are associated with vascular remodeling that causes vascular diseases, such as restenosis and hypertension. Angiotensin II (Ang II) stimulation is a key factor in inducing abnormal VSMC function. This study aimed to investigate the effects of 6'-sialyllactose (6'SL), a human milk oligosaccharide, on Ang II-stimulated cell proliferation, migration and osteogenic switching in rat aortic smooth muscle cells (RASMCs) and human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMCs). Compared with the control group, Ang II increased cell proliferation by activating MAPKs, including ERK1/2/p90RSK/Akt/mTOR and JNK pathways. However, 6'SL reversed Ang II-stimulated cell proliferation and the ERK1/2/p90RSK/Akt/mTOR pathways in RASMCs and HASMCs. Moreover, 6'SL suppressed Ang II-stimulated cell cycle progression from G0/G1 to S and G2/M phases in RASMCs. Furthermore, 6'SL effectively inhibited cell migration by downregulating NF-κB-mediated MMP2/9 and VCAM-1 expression levels. Interestingly, in RASMCs, 6'SL attenuated Ang II-induced osteogenic switching by reducing the production of p90RSK-mediated c-fos and JNK-mediated c-jun, leading to the downregulation of AP-1-mediated osteopontin production. Taken together, our data suggest that 6'SL inhibits Ang II-induced VSMC proliferation and migration by abolishing the ERK1/2/p90RSK-mediated Akt and NF-κB signaling pathways, respectively, and osteogenic switching by suppressing p90RSK- and JNK-mediated AP-1 activity.

Anticolon Cancer Effect of Korean Red Ginseng via Autophagy- and Apoptosis-Mediated Cell Death

Ginseng (Panax ginseng Meyer) has been used in East Asian traditional medicine for a long time. Korean red ginseng (KRG) is effective against several disorders, including cancer. The cytotoxic effects of KRG extract in terms of autophagy- and apoptosis-mediated cell death and its mechanisms were investigated using human colorectal cancer lines. KRG induced autophagy-mediated cell death with enhanced expression of Atg5, Beclin-1, and LC3, and formed characteristic vacuoles in HCT-116 and SNU-1033 cells. An autophagy inhibitor prevented cell death induced by KRG. KRG generated mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS); antioxidant countered this effect and decreased autophagy. KRG caused apoptotic cell death by increasing apoptotic cells and sub-G₁ cells, and by activating caspases. A caspase inhibitor suppressed cell death induced by KRG. KRG increased phospho-Bcl-2 expression, but decreased Bcl-2 expression. Moreover, interaction of Bcl-2 with Beclin-1 was attenuated by KRG. Ginsenoside Rg2 was the most effective ginsenoside responsible for KRG-induced autophagy- and apoptosis-mediated cell death. KRG induced autophagy- and apoptosis-mediated cell death via mitochondrial ROS generation, and thus its administration may inhibit colon carcinogenesis.

Ononin Shows Anticancer Activity Against Laryngeal Cancer via the Inhibition of ERK/JNK/p38 Signaling Pathway

Background

Laryngeal cancer is a type of head and neck tumor with a poor prognosis and survival rate. The new cases of laryngeal cancer increased rapidly with a higher mortality rate around the world.

Objective

The current research work was focused to unveil the in vitro antitumor effects of ononin against the laryngeal cancer Hep-2 cells.

Methodology

The cytotoxic effects of ononin against the laryngeal cancer Hep-2 cells and normal HuLa-PC laryngeal cells were studied using an 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The intracellular Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) generation, apoptotic cell death, Mitochondrial Membrane Potential (MMP), and cell adhesion on the 25 and 50 µM ononin-treated Hep-2 cells were detected using respective staining assays. The levels of TBARS and antioxidants were assayed using specific kits. The expressions of c-Jun N-terminal kinase 1/2 (JNK1/2), Extracellular Signal-regulated Kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), p38, Phosphatidylinositol-3 Kinase 1/2 (PI3K1/2), and protein kinase-B (Akt) in the ononin-treated Hep-2 cells were investigated using Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) assay.

Results

The ononin treatment effectively inhibited the Hep-2 cell viability but did not affect the viability of HuLa-PC cells. Furthermore, the ononin treatment effectively improved the intracellular ROS accumulation, depleted the MMP, and triggered apoptosis in Hep-2 cells. The Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were improved, and Glutathione (GSH) levels and Superoxide dismutase (SOD) were depleted in the ononin-administered Hep-2 cells. The ononin treatment substantially inhibited the JNK/ERK/p38 axis in the Hep-2 cells.

Conclusion

Together, the outcomes of this exploration proved that the ononin has remarkable antitumor activity against laryngeal cancer Hep-2 cells.

SUMO2-mediated SUMOylation of SH3GLB1 promotes ionizing radiation-induced hypertrophic cardiomyopathy through mitophagy activation

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HC) is characterized by the enlargement of individual cardiomyocytes, which is a typical pathophysiological process that occurs in various cardiovascular diseases. Ionizing radiation (IR) is an important independent risk factor for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, but the underlying molecular mechanism is still unclear. In the present study, we aimed to clarify the role of IR in promoting cardiac hypertrophy and investigate the mechanism by which the SUMO2-mediated SUMOylation of SH3GLB1 affects mitophagy in IR-induced cardiac hypertrophy. In vivo, IR promoted cardiac hypertrophy by activating mitophagy. In vitro, IR upregulated PINK1 and Parkin protein expression and damaged mitochondrial morphological structure. We further demonstrated that SH3GLB1 deficiency inhibited mitophagy activation and restored mitochondrial cristae, revealing a regulatory role of SH3GLB1 in cardiac hypertrophy. IR promoted interactions between SH3GLB1 and mitochondrial membrane proteins, such as MFN1/2, TOM20 and Drp1, further indicating that the mechanism by which SH3GLB1 functions in cardiac hypertrophy might involve mitophagy. A bioinformatics prediction found that SUMO2 could SUMOylate SH3GLB1 at position K82. Consistent with this finding, both co-IP assays and laser confocal microscopy showed that IR promoted the interaction and colocalization of SUMO2 and SH3GLB1. In summary, our study identifies IR as an important factor that promotes hypertrophic cardiomyopathy by accelerating the activation of mitophagy through the SUMO2-mediated SUMOylation of SH3GLB1; thus, IR exerts dual therapeutic effects in the treatment of thoracic tumours with long-term radiotherapy. Additionally, this study provides novel treatment strategies and targets for preventing the hypertrophic cardiomyopathy caused by thoracic tumour radiotherapy. Furthermore, SH3GLB1 may be a promising experimental target for the development of strategies for treating cardiovascular diseases caused by IR.

Ginsenoside Rh1 Inhibits Angiotensin II-Induced Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Migration and Proliferation through Suppression of the ROS-Mediated ERK1/2/p90RSK/KLF4 Signaling Pathway

Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation and migration play key roles in the progression of atherosclerosis and restenosis. A variety of ginsenosides exert various cardiovascular benefits. However, whether and how ginsenoside Rh1 (Rh1) inhibits VSMC dysfunction remain unclear. Here, we investigated the inhibitory effects of Rh1 on rat aortic smooth muscle cell (RASMC) migration and proliferation induced by angiotensin II (Ang II) and the underlying mechanisms. Cell proliferation and migration were evaluated using sulforhodamine B and wound-healing assay. The molecular mechanisms were investigated using Western blotting, quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis, immunofluorescence staining, and luciferase assay. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was measured using dihydroethidium and MitoSOX staining. We found that Rh1 dose-dependently suppressed Ang II-induced cell proliferation and migration. Concomitantly, Ang II increased protein levels of osteopontin, vimentin, MMP2, MMP9, PCNA, and cyclin D1, while these were reduced by Rh1 pretreatment. Notably, Ang II enhanced both the protein expression and promoter activity of KLF4, a key regulator of phenotypic switching, whereas pretreatment with Rh1 reversed these effects. Mechanistically, the effects of Rh1 on VSMC proliferation and migration were found to be associated with inhibition of ERK1/2/p90RSK signaling. Furthermore, the inhibitory effects of Rh1 were accompanied by inhibition of ROS production. In conclusion, Rh1 inhibited the Ang II-induced migration and proliferation of RASMCs by suppressing the ROS-mediated ERK1/2/p90RSK signaling pathway.

Ginsenoside Rh1 inhibits tumor growth in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells via mitochondrial ROS and ER stress-mediated signaling pathway

Ginsenoside-Rh1 (Rh1) is a ginseng-derived compound that has been reported to exert anticancer effects by regulating cell cycle arrest and apoptosis according to reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. However, the effects of Rh1 on mitochondrial dysfunction are involved in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell apoptosis, and the related molecular mechanisms remain unknown. Rh1 treatment induced cell toxicity less than 50% at 50 μM. In addition, Rh1 induced apoptosis in TNBC cells through cleaved caspase-3 activation and G1/S arrest. The Rh1-treated TNBC cells showed a significant increase in mitochondrial ROS (mtROS), which in turn increased protein expression of mitochondrial molecules, such as Bak and cytochrome C, and caused the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. Pretreatment with mitochondria-targeted antioxidant Mito-TEMPO alters the Rh1-reduced rate of mito- and glycol-ATP. Furthermore, Rh1 induces ER stress-mediated calcium accumulation via PERK/eIF2α/ATF4/CHOP pathway. Inhibition of ATF4 by siRNA transfection significantly inhibited Rh1-mediated apoptosis and calcium production. Interestingly, Mito-TEMPO treatment significantly reduced apoptosis and ER stress induced by Rh1. Finally, Rh1 at 5 mg/kg suppressed tumor growth through increased levels of ROS production, cleaved caspase-3, and ATF4 more than 5-fluorouracil treated group. Overall, our results suggest that Rh1 has potential for use in TNBC treatment.

Ginsenoside Rg2 Ameliorating CDAHFD-Induced Hepatic Fibrosis by Regulating AKT/mTOR-Mediated Autophagy

Ginsenoside Rg2 (G-Rg2) in the rhizome of Panax ginseng can modify lipid accumulation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in the liver induced by a high-fat diet. This research adds to this by assessing the potential antifibrosis effect of G-Rg2 (including possible mechanisms). G-Rg2 significantly improved pathological changes in liver tissue induced by a choline-deficient, l-amino acid-defined, high-fat diet (CDAHFD), it inhibited serum transaminase, plasma lipopolysaccharide, and liver hydroxyproline levels; it inhibited TGF-β1, α-SMA, and COL1A1 expression, it activated the AKT/mTOR signal pathway, and it inhibited liver expression of autophagy-related proteins. The in vitro experiments showed that G-Rg2 also restored the autophagy flux impairment induced by oleic acid and inhibited TGF-β1 expression by promoting p62 degradation in hepatocytes. In hepatic stellate (HSC-T6) cells, G-Rg2 reversed lipopolysaccharide-induced activation through the AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, inhibiting autophagy. Thus, G-Rg2 ameliorates CDAHFD-induced liver fibrosis and lipopolysaccharide-induced HSC-T6 cell activation by inhibiting AKT/mTOR-mediated autophagy.

Ginsenoside Rg2 Attenuated Trastuzumab-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Rats

Aim

Trastuzumab (TZM) is a monoclonal antibody drug for HER2-positive breast cancer by targeting epidermal growth factor 2, but it has significant cardiotoxicity. Ginsenoside Rg2 has shown a variety of biological activities. This study was aimed at investigating whether Rg2 attenuates TZM-induced cardiotoxicity.

Methods

A model of TZM-induced cardiotoxicity was established in Wistar rats, and the rats were pretreated with Rg2. After echocardiography analysis, the rats were killed and the hearts were dissected for RNAseq analysis. Primary human cardiomyocytes (HCMs) were treated with TZM with or without pretreatment with Rg2 and then subjected to a colony formation assay, flow cytometry analysis, and Western blot analysis for the detection of caspase-3, caspase-9, and BAX.

Results

TZM induced LV dysfunction in rats, but Rg2 could attenuate TZM-induced LV dysfunction. The mRNA levels of caspase-3, caspase-9, and BAX were significantly higher in TZM-treated rats. The colony formation ability of HCMs was significantly lower in TZM-treated cells but was recovered after pretreatment with Rg2. The apoptosis rate of HCMs was significantly higher in TZM-treated cells but was significantly lower after pretreatment with Rg2. Moreover, protein levels of caspase-3, caspase-9, and BAX were significantly higher in TZM-treated cells but were significantly lower after pretreatment with Rg2.

Conclusion

Ginsenoside Rg2 inhibited TZM-induced cardiotoxicity, and the mechanism may be related to the downregulation of the expression of proapoptotic proteins caspase-3, caspase-9, and BAX and the inhibition of TZM-induced apoptosis in cardiomyocytes. Ginsenoside Rg2 has a potential to be applied in patients with breast cancer to prevent TZM-induced cardiotoxicity.

Role of mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy of vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration in progression of atherosclerosis

Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation and migration are critical events that contribute to the pathogenesis of vascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, restenosis, and hypertension. Recent findings have revealed that VSMC phenotype switching is associated with metabolic switch, which is related to the role of mitochondria. Mitochondrial dynamics are directly associated with mitochondrial function and cellular homeostasis. Interestingly, it has been suggested that mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy play crucial roles in the regulation of VSMC proliferation and migration through various mechanisms. Especially, dynamin-related protein-1 and mitofusion-2 are two main molecules that play a key role in regulating mitochondrial dynamics to induce VSMC proliferation and migration. Therefore, this review describes the function and role of mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy in VSMC homeostasis as well as the underlying mechanisms. This will provide insight into the development of innovative approaches to treat atherosclerosis.