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Zhang Q, Yuan Y, Cao S, Kang N, Qiu F. Withanolides: Promising candidates for cancer therapy. Phytother Res 2024; 38:1104-1158. [PMID: 38176694 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8090] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Natural products have played a significant role throughout history in the prevention and treatment of numerous diseases, particularly cancers. As a natural product primarily derived from various medicinal plants in the Withania genus, withanolides have been shown in several studies to exhibit potential activities in cancer treatment. Consequently, understanding the molecular mechanism of withanolides could herald the discovery of new anticancer agents. Withanolides have been studied widely, especially in the last 20 years, and attracted the attention of numerous researchers. Currently, over 1200 withanolides have been classified, with approximately a quarter of them having been reported in the literature to be able to modulate the survival and death of cancer cells through multiple avenues. To what extent, though, has the anticancer effects of these compounds been studied? How far are they from being developed into clinical drugs? What are their potential, characteristic features, and challenges? In this review, we elaborate on the current knowledge of natural compounds belonging to this class and provide an overview of their natural sources, anticancer activity, mechanism of action, molecular targets, and implications for anticancer drug research. In addition, direct targets and clinical research to guide the design and implementation of future preclinical and clinical studies to accelerate the application of withanolides have been highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Zhang
- School of Medical Technology, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - YongKang Yuan
- School of Medical Technology, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Shijie Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Substance of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Ning Kang
- School of Medical Technology, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Substance of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
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2
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Gopalaiah SB, Jayaseelan K. Analytical Strategies to Investigate Molecular Signaling, Proteomics, Extraction and Quantification of Withanolides - A Comprehensive Review. Crit Rev Anal Chem 2024:1-25. [PMID: 38300174 DOI: 10.1080/10408347.2024.2307887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Withanolides are the class of steroidal molecules getting greater emphasis in recent years. Quality control throughout the manufacturing and storage period is often one of the key problems that have restricted their broad use in India's indigenous and Ayurvedic medical systems for thousands of years. Because of their diverse clinical potential, withanolides have received a great deal of scientific attention. Analytical techniques are being devised for the automated isolation, identification, and estimation of every single protein within the cell as well as in herbal extracts of withanolides, due to which now researchers are interested in determining the effects of metabolism as well as various stimuli on protein expression, which made the study easier. This study discusses the potential use of hyphenated analytical methods that are reliable in understanding the molecular signaling features, proteome evaluation and characterization of withanolides, in addition to examining existing methodological limitations. The choice of analytical techniques for the withanolides analysis, however, relies on the nature of the sample matrix, the aim of the analysis, and the sensitivity of the technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinchana B Gopalaiah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, SRM College of Pharmacy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, India
| | - Kavitha Jayaseelan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, SRM College of Pharmacy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, India
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3
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Abeesh P, Guruvayoorappan C. Withaferin A-Encapsulated PEGylated Nanoliposomes Induce Apoptosis in B16F10 Melanoma Cells by Regulating Bcl2 and Bcl xl Genes and Mitigates Murine Solid Tumor Development. J Environ Pathol Toxicol Oncol 2024; 43:29-42. [PMID: 38505911 DOI: 10.1615/jenvironpatholtoxicoloncol.2023046909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Withaferin A (WA) is a natural steroidal lactone with promising pharmacological activities, but its poor solubility and bioavailability hinder its clinical application. The liposomal drug delivery system has attracted considerable attention to overcome the delivery limitations of pharmacological agents. The present study investigated the effect of WA-loaded pegylated nanoliposomes (LWA) on in vitro and in vivo B16F10 melanoma tumor models. In vitro results showed that LWA had significantly (P < 0.01) higher cytotoxicity than free WA and induced ROS-mediated apoptosis in B16F10 cells. Transwell cell migration and invasion studies demonstrated that LWA treatment significantly (P < 0.01) decreased the migratory and invasive capacities of melanoma cells compared with WA. In vivo study revealed that treatment significantly (P < 0.01) reduced tumor growth in experimental animals compared with WA or tumor control. Also, LWA administration remarkably inhibited tumor cell proliferation by downregulating the expression of Ki-67 and Cyclin D1 and induced apoptosis by regulating the expression of Bax, Bcl2, and Bcl xl levels. Our results strongly suggest that LWA could be a promising therapeutic formulation for treating malignant melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prathapan Abeesh
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Division of Cancer Research, Regional Cancer Centre, Research Centre, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram 695 011, Kerala, India
| | - Chandrasekharan Guruvayoorappan
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Division of Cancer Research, Regional Cancer Centre, Research Centre, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram 695 011, Kerala, India
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4
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van den Bosch QCC, de Klein A, Verdijk RM, Kiliç E, Brosens E. Uveal melanoma modeling in mice and zebrafish. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189055. [PMID: 38104908 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.189055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Despite extensive research and refined therapeutic options, the survival for metastasized uveal melanoma (UM) patients has not improved significantly. UM, a malignant tumor originating from melanocytes in the uveal tract, can be asymptomatic and small tumors may be detected only during routine ophthalmic exams; making early detection and treatment difficult. UM is the result of a number of characteristic somatic alterations which are associated with prognosis. Although UM morphology and biology have been extensively studied, there are significant gaps in our understanding of the early stages of UM tumor evolution and effective treatment to prevent metastatic disease remain elusive. A better understanding of the mechanisms that enable UM cells to thrive and successfully metastasize is crucial to improve treatment efficacy and survival rates. For more than forty years, animal models have been used to investigate the biology of UM. This has led to a number of essential mechanisms and pathways involved in UM aetiology. These models have also been used to evaluate the effectiveness of various drugs and treatment protocols. Here, we provide an overview of the molecular mechanisms and pharmacological studies using mouse and zebrafish UM models. Finally, we highlight promising therapeutics and discuss future considerations using UM models such as optimal inoculation sites, use of BAP1mut-cell lines and the rise of zebrafish models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quincy C C van den Bosch
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annelies de Klein
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Robert M Verdijk
- Department of Pathology, Section of Ophthalmic Pathology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Emine Kiliç
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Erwin Brosens
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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5
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Xing Z, Su A, Mi L, Zhang Y, He T, Qiu Y, Wei T, Li Z, Zhu J, Wu W. Withaferin A: A Dietary Supplement with Promising Potential as an Anti-Tumor Therapeutic for Cancer Treatment - Pharmacology and Mechanisms. Drug Des Devel Ther 2023; 17:2909-2929. [PMID: 37753228 PMCID: PMC10519218 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s422512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer, as the leading cause of death worldwide, poses a serious threat to human health, making the development of effective tumor treatments a significant challenge. Natural products continue to serve as crucial resources for drug discovery. Among them, Withaferin A (WA), the most active phytocompound extracted from the renowned dietary supplement Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, exhibits remarkable anti-tumor efficacy. In this manuscript, we aim to comprehensively summarize the pharmacological characteristics of WA as a potential anti-tumor drug candidate, with the objective of contributing to its further development and the discovery of prospective drugs. Through an extensive review of literature from PubMed, Science Direct, and Web of Science, we have gathered substantial evidence showcasing WA's significant anti-tumor effects against a wide range of cancers in both in vitro and in vivo studies. Mechanistically, WA exerts its anti-tumor influence by inducing cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, autophagy, and ferroptosis. Additionally, it inhibits cell proliferation, cancer stem cells, tumor metastasis, and also suppresses epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and angiogenesis. Several studies have identified direct target proteins of WA, such as vimentin, Hsp90, annexin II and mFAM72A, while BCR-ABL, Mortalin (mtHsp70), Nrf2, and c-MYB are potential targets of WA. Notwithstanding its remarkable anti-tumor efficacy, there are some limitations associated with WA, including potential toxicity and poor oral bioavailability, which need to be addressed when considering it as an anti-tumor candidate agent. Nevertheless, I given its promising anti-tumor attributes, WA remains an encouraging candidate for future drug development. Unveiling the exact target and comprehensive mechanism of WA's action represents a crucial research direction to pursue in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhichao Xing
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Anping Su
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Li Mi
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yujie Zhang
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ting He
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuxuan Qiu
- Department of Ultrasound, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tao Wei
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhihui Li
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jingqiang Zhu
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenshuang Wu
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
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6
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Viana AR, Bottari NB, Oviedo VR, Santos D, Londero JEL, Schetinger MRC, Flores EMM, Pigatto A, Schuch AP, Krause A, Krause LMF. Phytochemical and biological characterization of aqueous extract of Vassobia breviflora on proliferation and viability of melanoma cells: involvement of purinergic pathway. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2023; 86:632-652. [PMID: 37434435 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2023.2233989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
Vassobia breviflora belongs to the Solanaceae family, possessing biological activity against tumor cells and is a promising alternative for therapy. The aim of this investigation was to determine the phytochemical properties V. breviflora using ESI-ToF-MS. The cytotoxic effects of this extract were examined in B16-F10 melanoma cells and the relationship if any to purinergic signaling was involved. The antioxidant activity of total phenols, (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) was analyzed, as well as production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) was determined. Genotoxicity was assessed by DNA damage assay. Subsequently, the structural bioactive compounds were docked against purinoceptors P2X7 and P2Y1 receptors. The bioactive compounds found in V. breviflora were N-methyl-(2S,4 R)-trans-4-hydroxy-L-proline, calystegine B, 12-O-benzoyl- tenacigenin A and bungoside B. In vitro cytotoxicity was demonstrated at concentration ranges of 0.1-10 mg/ml, and plasmid DNA breaks only at the concentration of 10 mg/ml. V. breviflora extracts affected hydrolysis by ectoenzymes, such as ectonucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase (E-NTPDase) and ectoadenosine deaminase (E-ADA) which control levels of degradation and formation of nucleosides and nucleotides. In the presence of substrates ATP, ADP, AMP and adenosine, the activities of E-NTPDase, 5´-NT or E-ADA were significantly modulated by V. breviflora. N-methyl-(2S,4 R)-trans-4-hydroxy-L-proline presented higher binding affinity (according to receptor-ligand complex estimated binding affinity as evidenced by ∆G values) to bind to both P2X7 and P2Y1purinergic receptors.Our results suggest a putative interaction of V. breviflora bioactive compounds with growth inhibitory potential in B16-F10 melanoma and suggest that may be considered as promising compounds in melanoma and cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Altevir Rossato Viana
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
| | | | | | - Daniel Santos
- Chemistry, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Aline Pigatto
- Postgraduate Program in Teaching Science and Mathematics, Franciscan University, Santa Maria, Brazil
| | - André Passaglia Schuch
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Krause
- Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
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Wang HY, Yu P, Chen XS, Wei H, Cao SJ, Zhang M, Zhang Y, Tao YG, Cao DS, Qiu F, Cheng Y. Identification of HMGCR as the anticancer target of physapubenolide against melanoma cells by in silico target prediction. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2022; 43:1594-1604. [PMID: 34588618 PMCID: PMC9160031 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-021-00745-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Physapubenolide (PB), a withanolide-type compound extracted from the traditional herb Physalis minima L., has been demonstrated to exert remarkable cytotoxicity against cancer cells; however, its molecular mechanisms are still unclear. In this study, we demonstrated that PB inhibited cell proliferation and migration in melanoma cells by inducing cell apoptosis. The anticancer activity of PB was further verified in a melanoma xenograft model. To explore the mechanism underlying the anticancer effects of PB, we carried out an in silico target prediction study, which combined three approaches (chemical similarity searching, quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR), and molecular docking) to identify the targets of PB, and found that PB likely targets 3-hydroxy-methylglutaryl CoA reductase (HMGCR), the rate-limiting enzyme of the mevalonate pathway, which promotes cancer cell proliferation, migration, and metastasis. We further demonstrated that PB interacted with HMGCR, decreased its protein expression and inhibited the HMGCR/YAP pathway in melanoma cells. In addition, we found that PB could restore vemurafenib sensitivity in vemurafenib-resistant A-375 cells, which was correlated with the downregulation of HMGCR. In conclusion, we demonstrate that PB elicits anticancer action and enhances sensitivity to vemurafenib by targeting HMGCR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-yan Wang
- grid.452708.c0000 0004 1803 0208Department of Pharmacy, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011 China
| | - Pian Yu
- grid.452708.c0000 0004 1803 0208Department of Pharmacy, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011 China
| | - Xi-sha Chen
- grid.452708.c0000 0004 1803 0208Department of Pharmacy, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011 China ,Hunan Provincial Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine and Innovative Drug, Changsha, 410011 China
| | - Hui Wei
- grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410008 China
| | - Shi-jie Cao
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218School of Chinese Materia Medica and Tianjin State Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 China
| | - Meng Zhang
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218School of Chinese Materia Medica and Tianjin State Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 China
| | - Yi Zhang
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215031 China
| | - Yong-guang Tao
- grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410078 China ,grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164NHC Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, 410078 China
| | - Dong-sheng Cao
- grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410008 China
| | - Feng Qiu
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218School of Chinese Materia Medica and Tianjin State Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 China
| | - Yan Cheng
- grid.452708.c0000 0004 1803 0208Department of Pharmacy, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011 China ,Hunan Provincial Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine and Innovative Drug, Changsha, 410011 China
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Oxidative Stress and AKT-Associated Angiogenesis in a Zebrafish Model and Its Potential Application for Withanolides. Cells 2022; 11:cells11060961. [PMID: 35326412 PMCID: PMC8946239 DOI: 10.3390/cells11060961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress and the AKT serine/threonine kinase (AKT) signaling pathway are essential regulators in cellular migration, metastasis, and angiogenesis. More than 300 withanolides were discovered from the plant family Solanaceae, exhibiting diverse functions. Notably, the relationship between oxidative stress, AKT signaling, and angiogenesis in withanolide treatments lacks comprehensive understanding. Here, we summarize connecting evidence related to oxidative stress, AKT signaling, and angiogenesis in the zebrafish model. A convenient vertebrate model monitored the in vivo effects of developmental and tumor xenograft angiogenesis using zebrafish embryos. The oxidative stress and AKT-signaling-modulating abilities of withanolides were highlighted in cancer treatments, which indicated that further assessments of their angiogenesis-modulating potential are necessary in the future. Moreover, targeting AKT for inhibiting AKT and its AKT signaling shows the potential for anti-migration and anti-angiogenesis purposes for future application to withanolides. This particularly holds for investigating the anti-angiogenetic effects mediated by the oxidative stress and AKT signaling pathways in withanolide-based cancer therapy in the future.
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OUP accepted manuscript. J Pharm Pharmacol 2022; 74:660-680. [DOI: 10.1093/jpp/rgac009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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10
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Zhang S, Wang K, Zhu X, Cherepanoff S, Conway RM, Madigan MC, Zhu L, Murray M, Zhou F. The unfolded protein response and the biology of uveal melanoma. Biochimie 2022; 197:9-18. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2022.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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Shukal DK, Malaviya PB, Sharma T. Role of the AMPK signalling pathway in the aetiopathogenesis of ocular diseases. Hum Exp Toxicol 2022; 41:9603271211063165. [PMID: 35196887 DOI: 10.1177/09603271211063165] [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] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) plays a precise role as a master regulator of cellular energy homeostasis. AMPK is activated in response to the signalling cues that exhaust cellular ATP levels such as hypoxia, ischaemia, glucose depletion and heat shock. As a central regulator of both lipid and glucose metabolism, AMPK is considered to be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of various diseases, including eye disorders. OBJECTIVE To review all the shreds of evidence concerning the role of the AMPK signalling pathway in the pathogenesis of ocular diseases. METHOD Scientific data search and review of available information evaluating the influence of AMPK signalling on ocular diseases. RESULTS Review highlights the significance of AMPK signalling in the aetiopathogenesis of ocular diseases, including cataract, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, retinoblastoma, age-related macular degeneration, corneal diseases, etc. The review also provides the information on the AMPK-associated pathways with reference to ocular disease, which includes mitochondrial biogenesis, autophagy and regulation of inflammatory response. CONCLUSION The study concludes the role of AMPK in ocular diseases. There is growing interest in the therapeutic utilization of the AMPK pathway for ocular disease treatment. Furthermore, inhibition of AMPK signalling might represent more pertinent strategy than AMPK activation for ocular disease treatment. Such information will guide the development of more effective AMPK modulators for ocular diseases.[Formula: see text].
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhaval K Shukal
- 534329Iladevi Cataract and IOL Research Centre, Memnagar, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India.,76793Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Pooja B Malaviya
- 534329Iladevi Cataract and IOL Research Centre, Memnagar, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India.,76793Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Tusha Sharma
- 534329Iladevi Cataract and IOL Research Centre, Memnagar, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
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12
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Sultana T, Okla MK, Ahmed M, Akhtar N, Al-Hashimi A, Abdelgawad H, Haq IU. Withaferin A: From Ancient Remedy to Potential Drug Candidate. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26247696. [PMID: 34946778 PMCID: PMC8705790 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26247696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Withaferin A (WA) is a pivotal withanolide that has conquered a conspicuous place in research, owning to its multidimensional biological properties. It is an abundant constituent in Withania somnifera Dunal. (Ashwagandha, WS) that is one of the prehistoric pivotal remedies in Ayurveda. This article reviews the literature about the pharmacological profile of WA with special emphasis on its anticancer aspect. We reviewed research publications concerning WA through four databases and provided a descriptive analysis of literature without statistical or qualitative analysis. WA has been found as an effective remedy with multifaceted mechanisms and a broad spectrum of pharmacological profiles. It has anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiherpetic, antifibrotic, antiplatelet, profibrinolytic, immunosuppressive, antipigmentation, antileishmanial, and healing potentials. Evidence for wide pharmacological actions of WA has been established by both in vivo and in vitro studies. Further, the scientific literature accentuates the role of WA harboring a variable therapeutic spectrum for integrative cancer chemoprevention and cure. WA is a modern drug from traditional medicine that is necessary to be advanced to clinical trials for advocating its utility as a commercial drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahira Sultana
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan;
| | - Mohammad K. Okla
- Botany and Microbiology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (M.K.O.); (A.A.-H.)
| | - Madiha Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan;
- Shifa College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
- Correspondence: (M.A.); (I.-u.-H.)
| | - Nosheen Akhtar
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Medical Sciences, Rawalpindi 43600, Pakistan;
| | - Abdulrahman Al-Hashimi
- Botany and Microbiology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (M.K.O.); (A.A.-H.)
| | - Hamada Abdelgawad
- Integrated Molecular Plant Physiology Research, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, 2020 Antwerpen, Belgium;
| | - Ihsan-ul- Haq
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan;
- Correspondence: (M.A.); (I.-u.-H.)
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Abstract
Covering: March 2010 to December 2020. Previous review: Nat. Prod. Rep., 2011, 28, 705This review summarizes the latest progress and perspectives on the structural classification, biological activities and mechanisms, metabolism and pharmacokinetic investigations, biosynthesis, chemical synthesis and structural modifications, as well as future research directions of the promising natural withanolides. The literature from March 2010 to December 2020 is reviewed, and 287 references are cited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gui-Yang Xia
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, State Key Laboratory of Component-Based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin State Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, Jinghai District, Tianjin, 301617, China. .,Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China.
| | - Shi-Jie Cao
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, State Key Laboratory of Component-Based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin State Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, Jinghai District, Tianjin, 301617, China.
| | - Li-Xia Chen
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China.
| | - Feng Qiu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, State Key Laboratory of Component-Based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin State Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, Jinghai District, Tianjin, 301617, China.
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14
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Paul S, Chakraborty S, Anand U, Dey S, Nandy S, Ghorai M, Saha SC, Patil MT, Kandimalla R, Proćków J, Dey A. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Ashwagandha): A comprehensive review on ethnopharmacology, pharmacotherapeutics, biomedicinal and toxicological aspects. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 143:112175. [PMID: 34649336 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Solanaceae) has been used as a traditional Rasayana herb for a long time. Traditional uses of this plant indicate its ameliorative properties against a plethora of human medical conditions, viz. hypertension, stress, diabetes, asthma, cancer etc. This review presents a comprehensive summary of the geographical distribution, traditional use, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities of W. somnifera and its active constituents. In addition, it presents a detailed account of its presence as an active constituent in many commercial preparations with curative properties and health benefits. Clinical studies and toxicological considerations of its extracts and constituents are also elucidated. Comparative analysis of relevant in-vitro, in-vivo, and clinical investigations indicated potent bioactivity of W. somnifera extracts and phytochemicals as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, apoptotic, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective, hypoglycaemic, hypolipidemic, cardio-protective and spermatogenic agents. W. somnifera was found to be especially active against many neurological and psychological conditions like Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, ischemic stroke, sleep deprivation, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The probable mechanism of action that imparts the pharmacological potential has also been explored. However, in-depth studies are needed on the clinical use of W. somnifera against human diseases. Besides, detailed toxicological analysis is also to be performed for its safe and efficacious use in preclinical and clinical studies and as a health-promoting herb.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhabrata Paul
- School of Biotechnology, Presidency University (2nd Campus), Kolkata 700156, West Bengal, India
| | - Shreya Chakraborty
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, 86/1 College Street, Kolkata 700073, West Bengal, India
| | - Uttpal Anand
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Swarnali Dey
- Department of Botany, University of Calcutta, Kolkata 700019, West Bengal, India
| | - Samapika Nandy
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, 86/1 College Street, Kolkata 700073, West Bengal, India
| | - Mimosa Ghorai
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, 86/1 College Street, Kolkata 700073, West Bengal, India
| | - Suchismita Chatterjee Saha
- Department of Zoology, Nabadwip Vidyasagar College (Affiliated to the University of Kalyani), Nabadwip 741302, West Bengal, India
| | - Manoj Tukaram Patil
- Post Graduate Department of Botany, SNJB's KKHA Arts, SMGL Commerce and SPHJ Science College (Affiliated to Savitribai Phule Pune University), Chandwad, Nashik 423101, Maharashtra, India
| | - Ramesh Kandimalla
- CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Uppal Road, Tarnaka, Hyderabad 500007, Telangana, India; Department of Biochemistry, Kakatiya Medical College, Warangal-506007, Telangana, India
| | - Jarosław Proćków
- Department of Plant Biology, Institute of Environmental Biology, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Kożuchowska 5b, 51-631 Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Abhijit Dey
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, 86/1 College Street, Kolkata 700073, West Bengal, India.
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Withaferin A-A Promising Phytochemical Compound with Multiple Results in Dermatological Diseases. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26092407. [PMID: 33919088 PMCID: PMC8122412 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26092407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Withaferin A (WFA) was identified as the most active phytocompound of the plant Withania somnifera (WS) and as having multiple therapeutic/ameliorating properties (anticancer, antiangiogenic, anti-invasive, anti-inflammatory, proapoptotic, etc.) in case of various diseases. In drug chemistry, WFA in silico approaches have identified favorite biological targets, stimulating and accelerating research to evaluate its pharmacological activity—numerous anticancer effects manifested in various organs (breast, pancreas, skin, colon, etc.), antivirals, anti-infective, etc., which are not yet sufficiently explored. This paper is a synthesis of the most relevant specialized papers in the field that are focused on the use of WFA in dermatological diseases, describing its mechanism of action while providing, at the same time, details about the results of its testing in in vitro/in vivo studies.
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Cui Y, Zheng M, Chen J, Xu N. Autophagy-Related Long Non-coding RNA Signature as Indicators for the Prognosis of Uveal Melanoma. Front Genet 2021; 12:625583. [PMID: 33868366 PMCID: PMC8047156 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.625583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to develop an autophagy-associated long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) signature to predict the prognostic outcomes of uveal melanoma (UM). The data of UM from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) were enrolled to obtain differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between metastasizing and non-metastasizing UM patients. A total of 13 differentially expressed autophagy genes were identified and validated in Gene Expression Omnibus, and 11 autophagy-related lncRNAs were found to be associated with overall survival. Through performing least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analyses, a six-autophagy-related lncRNA signature was built, and its efficacy was confirmed by receiver-operating characteristic, Kaplan–Meier analysis, and univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses. A comprehensive nomogram was established and its clinical net benefit was validated by decision curve analysis. GSEA revealed that several biological processes and signaling pathways including Toll-like receptor signaling pathway, natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity, and B- and T-cell receptor signaling pathway were enriched in the high-risk group. CIBERSORT results showed that the signature was related to the immune response especially HLA expression. This signature could be deployed to assist clinicians to identify high-risk UM patients and help scientists to explore the molecular mechanism of autophagy-related lncRNAs in UM pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Cui
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Union Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Mi Zheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Shengli Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Shengli Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Nuo Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Shengli Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
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Withaferin A activates TRIM16 for its anti-cancer activity in melanoma. Sci Rep 2020; 10:19724. [PMID: 33184347 PMCID: PMC7665169 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-76722-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Although selective BRAF inhibitors and novel immunotherapies have improved short-term treatment responses in metastatic melanoma patients, acquired resistance to these therapeutics still represent a major challenge in clinical practice. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of Withaferin A (WFA), derived from the medicinal plant Withania Somnifera, as a novel therapeutic agent for the treatment of melanoma. WFA showed selective toxicity to melanoma cells compared to non-malignant cells. WFA induced apoptosis, significantly reduced cell proliferation and inhibited migration of melanoma cells. We identified that repression of the tumour suppressor TRIM16 diminished WFA cytotoxicity, suggesting that TRIM16 was in part responsible for the cytotoxic effects of WFA in melanoma cells. Together our data indicates that WFA has potent cytopathic effects on melanoma cells through TRIM16, suggesting a potential therapeutic application of WFA in the disease.
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Lacombe J, Harris AF, Zenhausern R, Karsunsky S, Zenhausern F. Plant-Based Scaffolds Modify Cellular Response to Drug and Radiation Exposure Compared to Standard Cell Culture Models. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:932. [PMID: 32850759 PMCID: PMC7426640 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Plant-based scaffolds present many advantages over a variety of biomaterials. Recent studies explored their potential to be repopulated with human cells and thus highlight a growing interest for their use in tissue engineering or for biomedical applications. However, it is still unclear if these in vitro plant-based scaffolds can modify cell phenotype or affect cellular response to external stimuli. Here, we report the characterization of the mechano-regulation of melanoma SK-MEL-28 and prostate PC3 cells seeded on decellularized spinach leaves scaffolds, compared to cells deposited on standard rigid cell culture substrate, as well as their response to drug and radiation treatment. The results showed that YAP/TAZ signaling was downregulated, cellular morphology altered and proliferation rate decreased when cells were cultured on leaf scaffold. Interestingly, cell culture on vegetal scaffold also affected cellular response to external stress. Thus, SK-MEL-28 cells phenotype is modified leading to a decrease in MITF activity and drug resistance, while PC3 cells showed altered gene expression and radiation response. These findings shed lights on the decellularization of vegetal materials to provide substrates that can be repopulated with human cells to better reproduce a soft tissue microenvironment. However, these complex scaffolds mediate changes in cell behavior and in order to exploit the capability of matching physical properties of the various plant scaffolds to diverse physiological functionalities of cells and human tissue constructs, additional studies are required to better characterize physical and biochemical cell-substrate interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerome Lacombe
- Center for Applied NanoBioscience and Medicine, College of Medicine Phoenix, University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Ashlee F. Harris
- Center for Applied NanoBioscience and Medicine, College of Medicine Phoenix, University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Ryan Zenhausern
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Sophia Karsunsky
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Frederic Zenhausern
- Center for Applied NanoBioscience and Medicine, College of Medicine Phoenix, University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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Mandlik Ingawale DS, Namdeo AG. Pharmacological evaluation of Ashwagandha highlighting its healthcare claims, safety, and toxicity aspects. J Diet Suppl 2020; 18:183-226. [PMID: 32242751 DOI: 10.1080/19390211.2020.1741484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Withania somnifera, commonly known as "Ashwagandha" or "Indian ginseng" is an essential therapeutic plant of Indian subcontinent regions. It is regularly used, alone or in combination with other plants for the treatment of various illnesses in Indian Systems of Medicine over the period of 3,000 years. Ashwagandha (W. somnifera) belongs to the genus Withania and family Solanaceae. It comprises a broad spectrum of phytochemicals having wide range of biological effects. W. somnifera has demonstrated various biological actions such as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-microbial, anti-arthritic, anti-stress/adaptogenic, neuro-protective, cardio-protective, hepato-protective, immunomodulatory properties. Furthermore, W. somnifera has revealed the capability to decrease reactive oxygen species and inflammation, modulation of mitochondrial function, apoptosis regulation and improve endothelial function. Withaferin-A is an important phytoconstituents of W. somnifera belonging to the category of withanolides been used in the traditional system of medicine for the treatment of various disorders. In this review, we have summarized the active phytoconstituents, pharmacologic activities (preclinical and clinical), mechanisms of action, potential beneficial applications, marketed formulations and safety and toxicity profile of W. somnifera.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepa S Mandlik Ingawale
- Department of Pharmacology, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed to be University, Poona College of Pharmacy, Erandwane, Pune, India
| | - Ajay G Namdeo
- Department of Pharmacology, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed to be University, Poona College of Pharmacy, Erandwane, Pune, India
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20
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Richards JR, Yoo JH, Shin D, Odelberg SJ. Mouse models of uveal melanoma: Strengths, weaknesses, and future directions. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2020; 33:264-278. [PMID: 31880399 PMCID: PMC7065156 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.12853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Uveal melanoma is the most common primary malignancy of the eye, and a number of discoveries in the last decade have led to a more thorough molecular characterization of this cancer. However, the prognosis remains dismal for patients with metastases, and there is an urgent need to identify treatments that are effective for this stage of disease. Animal models are important tools for preclinical studies of uveal melanoma. A variety of models exist, and they have specific advantages, disadvantages, and applications. In this review article, these differences are explored in detail, and ideas for new models that might overcome current challenges are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jackson R. Richards
- Department of Oncological SciencesUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUTUSA
- Program in Molecular MedicineUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUTUSA
| | - Jae Hyuk Yoo
- Program in Molecular MedicineUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUTUSA
| | - Donghan Shin
- Program in Molecular MedicineUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUTUSA
| | - Shannon J. Odelberg
- Program in Molecular MedicineUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUTUSA
- Department of Internal MedicineDivision of Cardiovascular MedicineUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUTUSA
- Department of Neurobiology and AnatomyUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUTUSA
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Hassannia B, Logie E, Vandenabeele P, Vanden Berghe T, Vanden Berghe W. Withaferin A: From ayurvedic folk medicine to preclinical anti-cancer drug. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 173:113602. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2019.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Dom M, Vanden Berghe W, Van Ostade X. Broad-spectrum antitumor properties of Withaferin A: a proteomic perspective. RSC Med Chem 2020; 11:30-50. [PMID: 33479603 PMCID: PMC7523023 DOI: 10.1039/c9md00296k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The multifunctional antitumor properties of Withaferin A (WA), the manifold studied bioactive compound of the plant Withania somnifera, have been well established in many different in vitro and in vivo cancer models. This undoubtedly has led to a much better insight in the underlying mechanisms of WAs broad antitumor activity range, but also raises additional challenging questions on how all these antitumor properties could be explained on a molecular level. Therefore, a lot of effort was made to characterize the cellular WA target proteins, since these binding events will lead and initiate the observed downstream effects. Based on a proteomic perspective, this review provides novel insights in the molecular chain of events by which WA potentially exercises its antitumor activities. We illustrate that WA triggers multiple cellular stress pathways such as the NRF2-mediated oxidative stress response, the heat shock response and protein translation events and at the same time inhibits these cellular protection mechanisms, driving stressed cancer cells towards a fatal state of collapse. If cancer cells manage to restore homeostasis and survive, a stress-independent WA antitumor response comes into play. These include the known inhibition of cytoskeleton proteins, NFκB pathway inhibition and cell cycle inhibition, among others. This review therefore provides a comprehensive overview which integrates the numerous WA-protein binding partners to formulate a general WA antitumor mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Dom
- Laboratory of Protein Chemistry , Proteomics and Epigenetic Signalling (PPES) , Department of Biomedical Sciences , University of Antwerp (UA) , Universiteitsplein 1 , 2610 Wilrijk , Belgium . ; Tel: +3232562319
| | - Wim Vanden Berghe
- Laboratory of Protein Chemistry , Proteomics and Epigenetic Signalling (PPES) , Department of Biomedical Sciences , University of Antwerp (UA) , Universiteitsplein 1 , 2610 Wilrijk , Belgium . ; Tel: +3232562319
| | - Xaveer Van Ostade
- Laboratory of Protein Chemistry , Proteomics and Epigenetic Signalling (PPES) , Department of Biomedical Sciences , University of Antwerp (UA) , Universiteitsplein 1 , 2610 Wilrijk , Belgium . ; Tel: +3232562319
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Wang HC, Hu HH, Chang FR, Tsai JY, Kuo CY, Wu YC, Wu CC. Different effects of 4β-hydroxywithanolide E and withaferin A, two withanolides from Solanaceae plants, on the Akt signaling pathway in human breast cancer cells. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2019; 53:213-222. [PMID: 30668401 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2018.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2017] [Revised: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents a clinical challenge because it lacks sensitivity to hormone therapy or other available molecule-targeted agents. In addition, TNBC frequently exhibits over-activation of the PI3K/Akt survival pathway that can contribute to chemotherapy resistance. 4β-Hydroxywithanolide E (4-HW) and withaferin A (WA) are two withanolides from Solanaceae plants that exhibit promising anticancer activity in vitro and in vivo. PURPOSE The aim of this study is to investigate and compare the effects of 4-HW and WA on TNBC cells and underling mechanisms. STUDY DESIGN/METHODS The anticancer effects of 4-HW and WA were evaluated by cell viability, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis assays. PI3K/Akt signaling and the expression of survivin, Bcl-2 family proteins and cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors were evaluated by Western blot. The role of PI3K/Akt signaling in the withanolides-induced anticancer effects was examined by using a PI3K inhibitor and overexpression of a constitutively active form of Akt. RESULTS In TNBC MDA-MB-231 cells, 4-HW and WA displayed different kinetic effect on cell availability. Cell cycle analysis revealed that 4-HW induced the G1-phase arrest while WA caused the G2/M-phase block. Both withanolides induced apoptosis, but WA also caused necrosis. 4-HW inhibited the PI3K/Akt pathway and survivin expression as well as up-regulated the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors p21 and p27. In contrast, WA is a more potent inhibitor of Hsp90 and elicited Akt activation at low doses but inhibited Akt signaling at higher doses by depleting the Akt protein. The PI3K inhibitor LY294002 mimicked the effects of 4-HW and potentiated the cytotoxic activity of WA. In contrast, overexpressing a constitutively active form of myristoylated Akt rescue cancer cells from 4-HW-induced cell death. CONCLUSION The withanolides 4-HW and WA potently inhibit the viability of TNBC cells through induction of cell cycle arrest and apoptosis/necrosis. The PI3K/Akt pathway plays distinct roles in cancer cells respond to 4-HW and WA. These results suggest the potential applications of the withanolides for the treatment of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Chun Wang
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Shih-Chuan 1st Road, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan; Research Center for Natural Product and Drug Development, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hao-Han Hu
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Shih-Chuan 1st Road, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Fang-Rong Chang
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Shih-Chuan 1st Road, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan; Research Center for Natural Product and Drug Development, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ju-Ying Tsai
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Shih-Chuan 1st Road, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Ying Kuo
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Shih-Chuan 1st Road, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Yang-Chang Wu
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Shih-Chuan 1st Road, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan; Research Center for Natural Product and Drug Development, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Chung Wu
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Shih-Chuan 1st Road, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan; Research Center for Natural Product and Drug Development, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
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Aliebrahimi S, Kouhsari SM, Arab SS, Shadboorestan A, Ostad SN. Phytochemicals, withaferin A and carnosol, overcome pancreatic cancer stem cells as c-Met inhibitors. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 106:1527-1536. [PMID: 30119228 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.07.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Revised: 07/09/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are pharmaceutically attractive targets due to their fundamental role in tumor formation. The hallmark of pancreatic cancer is its high mortality rate attributed to the existence of cancer stem cell (CSC) subpopulations which result in therapy resistance and recurrence. c-Met is a known pancreatic CSC marker that belongs to the family of RTKs. To surmount the hurdles related to ligand-independent c-Met activation, we aimed to elucidate the inhibitory mechanisms of withaferin A (WA) and carnosol (CA) as two hit phytochemicals against c-Met kinase domain. Both tested compounds attenuated HGF-mediated proliferation across various established c-Met+ cancer cell lines and altered cell cycle distribution accompanied by apoptosis induction. Scratch assay confirmed the anti-migratory activity of WA and CA in AsPC-1 cells. The blockade of HGF-driven cellular growth and motility was reflected by the suppression of c-Met phosphorylation and its downstream pro-survival pathway Akt. Further studies showed that the administration of WA and CA diminished the sphere-formation and clonogenic potential which was validated by down-regulation of pluripotency maintaining genes (oct-4 and nanog), demonstrating their potentiality to target pancreatic CSCs. As more than 60% of anti-cancer drugs are composed of natural product-derived inhibitors known as fourth generation inhibitors, our present data suggest that WA and CA may hold promise to eradicate CSCs in c-Met-dependent cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shima Aliebrahimi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shideh Montasser Kouhsari
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Shahriar Arab
- Department of Biophysics, School of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Shadboorestan
- Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Toxicology and Poisoning Research Centre, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Nasser Ostad
- Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Toxicology and Poisoning Research Centre, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Subramanian C, Grogan PT, Opipari VP, Timmermann BN, Cohen MS. Novel natural withanolides induce apoptosis and inhibit migration of neuroblastoma cells through down regulation of N-myc and suppression of Akt/mTOR/NF-κB activation. Oncotarget 2018; 9:14509-14523. [PMID: 29581860 PMCID: PMC5865686 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.24429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/04/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite recent advances in intensive chemotherapy treatments, long-term success is achieved in less than 30% of children with high-risk neuroblastoma (NB). Key regulatory pathways including the PI3K/Akt, mTOR and NF-κB are implicated in the pathogenesis of NB. Although drugs targeting these individual pathways are in clinical trials, they are not effective due to the activation of compensatory mechanisms. We have previously reported that natural novel withanolides from Physalis longifolia can potently inhibit these key regulatory pathways simultaneously. In the present study, we examined the efficacy and mechanisms through which novel withanolides and their acetate derivatives (WGA-TA and WGB-DA) from P.longifolia kill NB cells. The results from the study demonstrated that our novel acetate derivatives are highly effective in inhibiting the proliferation, shifting the cell cycle and inducing apoptosis in a dose dependent manner. Analysis of oncogenic pathway proteins targeted by withanolides indicated induction of heat shock response due to oxidative stress. Dose dependent decrease in clients of HSP90 chaperone function due to suppression of Akt, mTOR, and NF-κB pathways led to decrease in the expressions of target genes such as cyclin D1, N-myc and Survivin. Additionally, there was a dose dependent attenuation of the migration and invasion of NB cells. Furthermore, the lead compound WGA-TA showed significant reduction in tumor growth of NB xenografts. Taken together, these results suggest that withanolides are an effective therapeutic option against NBs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrick T Grogan
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Valerie P Opipari
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Mark S Cohen
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Yan X, Huang G, Liu Q, Zheng J, Chen H, Huang Q, Chen J, Huang H. Withaferin A protects against spinal cord injury by inhibiting apoptosis and inflammation in mice. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2017; 55:1171-1176. [PMID: 28228044 PMCID: PMC6130570 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2017.1288262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2016] [Revised: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Withaferin A (WFA) exhibits diverse pharmaceutical applications on human diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, cancers and microbial infection. OBJECTIVE We evaluated the neuroprotective role of WFA using a mouse model of spinal cord injury (SCI). MATERIALS AND METHODS BALB/c mice were administrated 10 mg/kg of WFA. Gene expression was measured by real-time PCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry. Cell morphology and apoptosis were determined by H&E staining and TUNEL assay. Motor function was evaluated by the BBB functional scale for continuous 7 weeks. RESULTS WFA significantly improved neurobehavioural function and alleviated histological alteration of spinal cord tissues in traumatized mice. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) significantly increased in WFA-treated mice. Meanwhile, the expression of Nogo-A and RhoA remarkably decreased in the presence of WFA. Furthermore, the apoptotic cell death was attenuated in mice treated with WFA (31.48 ± 2.50% vs. 50.08 ± 2.08%) accompanied by decreased bax and increased bcl-2. In addition, WFA decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators such as IL-1β (11.20 ± 1.96 ng/mL vs. 17.59 ± 1.42 ng/mL) and TNF-α (57.38 ± 3.57 pg/mL vs. 95.06 ± 9.13 pg/mL). The anti-inflammatory cytokines including TGF-β1 (14.32 ± 1.04 pg/mL vs. 9.37 ± 1.17 pg/mL) and IL-10 (116.80 ± 6.91 pg/mL vs. 72.33 ± 9.35 pg/mL) were elevated after WFA administration. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that WFA has a neuroprotective role by inhibition of apoptosis and inflammation after SCI in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianlei Yan
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, China
| | - Guangxiang Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Quan Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, China
| | - Jiemin Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, China
| | - Hongmou Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, China
| | - Qidan Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, China
| | - Jiakang Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, China
| | - Heqing Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, China
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Abstract
Background. The polysaccharide fucoidan is widely investigated as an anti-cancer agent. Here, we tested the effect of fucoidan on uveal melanoma cell lines. Methods. The effect of 100 µM fucoidan was investigated on five cell lines (92.1, Mel270 OMM1, OMM2.3, OMM2.5) and of 1 µg/mL–1 mg/mL fucoidan in two cell lines (OMM1, OMM2.3). Cell proliferation and viability were investigated with a WST-1 assay, migration in a wound healing (scratch) assay. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) was measured in ELISA. Angiogenesis was evaluated in co-cultures with endothelial cells. Cell toxicity was induced by hydrogen-peroxide. Protein expression (Akt, ERK1/2, Bcl-2, Bax) was investigated in Western blot. Results. Fucoidan increased proliferation in two and reduced it in one cell line. Migration was reduced in three cell lines. The effect of fucoidan on VEGF was cell type and concentration dependent. In endothelial co-culture with 92.1, fucoidan significantly increased tubular structures. Moreover, fucoidan significantly protected all tested uveal melanoma cell lines from hydrogen-peroxide induced cell death. Under oxidative stress, fucoidan did not alter the expression of Bcl-2, Bax or ERK1/2, while inducing Akt expression in 92.1 cells but not in any other cell line. Conclusion. Fucoidan did not show anti-tumorigenic effects but displayed protective and pro-angiogenic properties, rendering fucoidan unsuitable as a potential new drug for the treatment of uveal melanoma.
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Natural Withanolides in the Treatment of Chronic Diseases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 928:329-373. [PMID: 27671823 PMCID: PMC7121644 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-41334-1_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Withanolides, and in particular extracts from Withania somnifera, have been used for over 3,000 years in traditional Ayurvedic and Unani Indian medical systems as well as within several other Asian countries. Traditionally, the extracts were ascribed a wide range of pharmacologic properties with corresponding medical uses, including adaptogenic, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, sedative/anxiolytic, cytotoxic, antitussive, and immunomodulatory. Since the discovery of the archetype withaferin A in 1965, approximately 900 of these naturally occurring, polyoxygenated steroidal lactones with 28-carbon ergostane skeletons have been discovered across 24 diverse structural types. Subsequently, extensive pharmacologic research has identified multiple mechanisms of action across key inflammatory pathways. In this chapter we identify and describe the major withanolides with anti-inflammatory properties, illustrate their role within essential and supportive inflammatory pathways (including NF-κB, JAK/STAT, AP-1, PPARγ, Hsp90 Nrf2, and HIF-1), and then discuss the clinical application of these withanolides in inflammation-mediated chronic diseases (including arthritis, autoimmune, cancer, neurodegenerative, and neurobehavioral). These naturally derived compounds exhibit remarkable biologic activity across these complex disease processes, while showing minimal adverse effects. As novel compounds and analogs continue to be discovered, characterized, and clinically evaluated, the interest in withanolides as a novel therapeutic only continues to grow.
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Kim G, Kim TH, Hwang EH, Chang KT, Hong JJ, Park JH. Withaferin A inhibits the proliferation of gastric cancer cells by inducing G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Oncol Lett 2017; 14:416-422. [PMID: 28693185 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2017.6169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Human gastric adenocarcinoma (AGS) is one of the most common types of malignant tumor and the third-leading cause of tumor-associated mortality worldwide. Withaferin A (WA), a steroidal lactone derived from Withania somnifera, exhibits antitumor activity in a variety of cancer models. However, to the best of our knowledge, the direct effect of WA on AGS cells has not previously been determined. The present study investigated the effects of WA on the proliferation and metastatic activity of AGS cells. WA exerted a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect on AGS cells. The effect was associated with cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase and the expression of apoptotic proteins. Additionally, WA treatment resulted in a decrease in the migration and invasion ability of the AGS cells, as demonstrated using a wound healing assay and a Boyden chamber assay. These results indicate that WA directly inhibits the proliferation and metastatic activity of gastric cancer cells, and suggest that WA may be developed as a drug for the treatment of gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Green Kim
- Laboratory Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea.,National Primate Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk 28116, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Hyoun Kim
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, David H. Smith Center for Vaccine Biology and Immunology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Eun-Ha Hwang
- Laboratory Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea.,National Primate Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk 28116, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu-Tae Chang
- National Primate Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk 28116, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Joo Hong
- National Primate Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk 28116, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Hwan Park
- Laboratory Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
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Hou WC, Miao XH, Ma LJ, Bai XX, Liu Q, Song L. WITHAFERIN A INDUCES APOPTOSIS IN RAT C6 GLIOMA CELLS THROUGH REGULATING NF-KB NUCLEAR TRANSLOCATION AND ACTIVATION OF CASPASE CASCADE. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF TRADITIONAL, COMPLEMENTARY, AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINES 2017; 14:319-324. [PMID: 28573248 PMCID: PMC5446457 DOI: 10.21010/ajtcam.v14i2.33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The demand for the chemopreventive drug from the plant source is increasing in recent times, owing to its various biological activities without any adverse effect. The intention of this current study was to examine the anti-glioma effect of Withaferin A (WFA) on C6 glioma cell line model. MATERIALS AND METHODS C6 glioma cells were administrated with different concentration of WFA (50, 100, 200 and 500 μg/mL) and DMSO (control) group to examine its anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory and pro-apoptotic activities. RESULTS Treatment with WFA showed a significant decline in the glioma cell count in a dose-dependent manner and thus proving its anti-proliferative effect. Similarly, inflammatory markers were also substantially lowered upon treatment with different concentration of WFA. However, DNA fragmentation and apoptotic markers like Caspase-3 and 9 were concomitantly enhanced after co-cultured with different concentration of WFA and thus exhibiting its cytotoxicity efficacy. Furthermore, the protein expression of Bcl2 and Bax were markedly downregulated and upregulated respectively; upon treatment with WFA on C6 glioma cells. CONCLUSION The outcome of this study evidently demonstrates that C6 glioma cells co-cultured with increased concentration of WFA, showed an anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory and pro-apoptotic effect in a dose-dependent fashion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Chen Hou
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Xiao-Hui Miao
- Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Lian-Jun Ma
- Department of Endoscopy Center, The China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130033, China
| | - Xiao-Xue Bai
- Department of Cadre's Ward, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Qun Liu
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Lei Song
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
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Zhu F, Dai C, Fu Y, Loo JFC, Xia D, Gao SP, Ma Z, Chen Z. Physalin A exerts anti-tumor activity in non-small cell lung cancer cell lines by suppressing JAK/STAT3 signaling. Oncotarget 2017; 7:9462-76. [PMID: 26843613 PMCID: PMC4891052 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.7051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2015] [Accepted: 01/01/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway plays critical roles in the pathogenesis and progression of various human cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this study, we aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of physalin A, a bioactive withanolide derived from Physalis alkekengi var. francheti used in traditional Chinese medicine, was evaluated in human NSCLC cells. Its and determined whether it effect oninhibited both constitutive and induced STAT3 activity, through repressing the phosphorylation levels of JAK2 and JAK3, resulting in anti-proliferation and pro-apoptotic effects on NSCLC cells was also determined, and. theThe antitumor effects of physalin A were also validated usingin an in vivo mouse xenograft models of NSCLC cells. Physalin A had anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects in NSCLC cells with constitutively activated STAT3; it also suppressed both constitutive and induced STAT3 activity by modulating the phosphorylation of JAK2 and JAK3. Furthermore, physalin A abrogated the nuclear translocation and transcriptional activity of STAT3, thereby decreasing the expression levels of STAT3, its target genes, such as Bcl-2 and XIAP. Knockdown of STAT3 expression by small interfering RNA (siRNA) significantly enhanced the pro-apoptotic effects of physalin A in NSCLC cells. Moreover, physalin A significantly suppressed tumor xenograft growth. Thus, as an inhibitor of JAK2/3-STAT3 signaling, physalin A, has potent anti-tumor activities, which may facilitate the development of a therapeutic strategy for treating NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanfan Zhu
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Gastro-Intestinal Pathophysiology, Zhejiang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, PR China
| | - Chunyan Dai
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Gastro-Intestinal Pathophysiology, Zhejiang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, PR China
| | - Yufei Fu
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Gastro-Intestinal Pathophysiology, Zhejiang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, PR China
| | - Jacky F C Loo
- Biochemistry Program, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Dajin Xia
- Zhejiang University School of Public Health, Zijingang Campus, Hangzhou, PR China
| | - Sizhi P Gao
- HOPP, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zhongjun Ma
- Institute of Marine Biology and Natural Products, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zijingang Campus, Hangzhou, PR China
| | - Zhe Chen
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Gastro-Intestinal Pathophysiology, Zhejiang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, PR China
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Abstract
Through years of evolutionary selection pressures, organisms have developed potent toxins that coincidentally have marked antineoplastic activity. These natural products have been vital for the development of multiagent treatment regimens currently employed in cancer chemotherapy, and are used in the treatment of a variety of malignancies. Therefore, this review catalogs recent advances in natural product-based drug discovery via the examination of mechanisms of action and available clinical data to highlight the utility of these novel compounds in the burgeoning age of precision medicine. The review also highlights the recent development of antibody-drug conjugates and other immunotoxins, which are capable of delivering highly cytotoxic agents previously deemed too toxic to elicit therapeutic benefit preferentially to neoplastic cells. Finally, the review examines natural products not currently used in the clinic that have novel mechanisms of action, and may serve to supplement current chemotherapeutic protocols.
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McKenna MK, Gachuki BW, Alhakeem SS, Oben KN, Rangnekar VM, Gupta RC, Bondada S. Anti-cancer activity of withaferin A in B-cell lymphoma. Cancer Biol Ther 2016; 16:1088-98. [PMID: 26020511 DOI: 10.1080/15384047.2015.1046651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Withaferin A (WA), a withanolide from the plant, Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) used in Ayurvedic medicine, has been found to be valuable in the treatment of several medical ailments. WA has been found to have anticancer activity against various solid tumors, but its effects on hematological malignancies have not been studied in detail. WA strongly inhibited the survival of several human and murine B cell lymphoma cell lines. Additionally, in vivo studies with syngeneic-graft lymphoma cells suggest that WA inhibits the growth of tumor but does not affect other proliferative tissues. We demonstrate that WA inhibits the efficiency of NF-κB nuclear translocation in diffuse large B cell lymphomas and found that WA treatment resulted in a significant decrease in protein levels involved in B cell receptor signaling and cell cycle regulation. WA inhibited the activity of heat shock protein (Hsp) 90 as reflected by a sharp increase in Hsp70 expression levels. Hence, we propose that the anti-cancer effects of WA in lymphomas are likely due to its ability to inhibit Hsp90 function and subsequent reduction of critical kinases and cell cycle regulators that are clients of Hsp90.
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Affiliation(s)
- M K McKenna
- a Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics; Markey Cancer Center; University of Kentucky ; Lexington , KY , USA
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Lee IC, Choi BY. Withaferin-A--A Natural Anticancer Agent with Pleitropic Mechanisms of Action. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:290. [PMID: 26959007 PMCID: PMC4813154 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17030290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2016] [Revised: 02/16/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer, being the second leading cause of mortality, exists as a formidable health challenge. In spite of our enormous efforts, the emerging complexities in the molecular nature of disease progression limit the real success in finding an effective cancer cure. It is now conceivable that cancer is, in fact, a progressive illness, and the morbidity and mortality from cancer can be reduced by interfering with various oncogenic signaling pathways. A wide variety of structurally diverse classes of bioactive phytochemicals have been shown to exert anticancer effects in a large number of preclinical studies. Multiple lines of evidence suggest that withaferin-A can prevent the development of cancers of various histotypes. Accumulating data from different rodent models and cell culture experiments have revealed that withaferin-A suppresses experimentally induced carcinogenesis, largely by virtue of its potent anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative and apoptosis-inducing properties. Moreover, withaferin-A sensitizes resistant cancer cells to existing chemotherapeutic agents. The purpose of this review is to highlight the mechanistic aspects underlying anticancer effects of withaferin-A.
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Affiliation(s)
- In-Chul Lee
- Department of Cosmetic science, Seowon University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 361-742, Korea.
| | - Bu Young Choi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science & Engineering, Seowon University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 361-742, Korea.
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Effects of Zeaxanthin on Growth and Invasion of Human Uveal Melanoma in Nude Mouse Model. J Ophthalmol 2015; 2015:392305. [PMID: 26682063 PMCID: PMC4670663 DOI: 10.1155/2015/392305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2015] [Accepted: 10/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Uveal melanoma cells were inoculated into the choroid of nude mice and treated with or without intraocular injection of zeaxanthin. After 21 days, mice were sacrificed and the eyes enucleated. Histopathological analysis was performed in hematoxylin and eosin stained frozen sections. Melanoma developed rapidly in the control group (without treatment of zeaxanthin). Tumor-bearing eye mass and tumor mass in the control group were significantly greater than those in zeaxanthin treated group. Melanoma in the controlled eyes occupied a large part of the eye, was epithelioid in morphology, and was with numerous mitotic figures. Scleral perforation and extraocular extension were observed in half of the eyes. Melanomas in zeaxanthin treated eyes were significantly smaller with many necrosis and apoptosis areas and no extraocular extension could be found. Quantitative image analysis revealed that the tumor size was reduced by 56% in eyes treated with low dosages of zeaxanthin and 92% in eyes treatment with high dosages of zeaxanthin, as compared to the controls. This study demonstrated that zeaxanthin significantly inhibits the growth and invasion of human uveal melanoma in nude mice, suggesting that zeaxanthin may be a promising agent to be explored for the prevention and treatment of uveal melanoma.
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Abstract
Plant-based Ayurvedic medicine has been practiced in India for thousands of years for the treatment of a variety of disorders. They are rich sources of bioactive compounds potentially useful for prevention and treatment of cancer. Withania somnifera (commonly known as Ashwagandha in Ayurvedic medicine) is a widely used medicinal plant whose anticancer value was recognized after isolation of steroidal compounds withanolides from the leaves of this shrub. Withaferin A is the first member of withanolides to be isolated, and it is the most abundant withanolide present in W. somnifera. Its cancer-protective role has now been established using chemically induced and oncogene-driven rodent cancer models. The present review summarizes the key preclinical studies demonstrating anticancer effects of withaferin along with its molecular targets and mechanisms related to its anticancer effects. Anticancer potential of other withanolides is also discussed.
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Chen L, Xu L, Wang G. Regulation of MET-mediated proliferation of thyroid carcinoma cells by miR-449b. Tumour Biol 2015; 36:8653-60. [PMID: 26044563 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-015-3619-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2015] [Accepted: 05/26/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid carcinoma (TC) is a lethal cancer worldwide, whereas its carcinogenesis is not fully understood. Although growing evidence has demonstrated that dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) contributes to the development of various cancers, the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of TC is poorly characterized. Here, we analyzed the levels of miR-449b in TC tissues and detected significantly lower miR-449b levels in TC tissues. Moreover, the low miR-449b levels were associated with poor survival. We then overexpressed miR-449b by miRNA mimic transfection and inhibited miR-449b by miRNA antisense transfection. Cell growth was analyzed by CCK-8 assay and MTT assay, and apoptosis and cell proliferation were analyzed by flow cytometry. Overexpression of miR-449b significantly inhibited cell growth, while depletion of miR-449b increased cell growth. Moreover, the effects of miR-449b on cell growth were through modulation of cell proliferation rather than through modulation of cell apoptosis. Targeted genes were predicted by a bioinformatics algorithm and confirmed by a dual luciferase reporter assay, showing that miR-449b binds to the 3'-UTR of MET (hepatocyte growth factor receptor) mRNA, to inhibit its expression in TC cells. MET levels were regulated by miR-449b in TT cells. Together, we show that reduced miR-449b levels in TT tissues may promote TC growth, through MET-mediated cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Chen
- Department of General Surgery, The Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, 301 Middle Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Lei Xu
- Department of General Surgery, The Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, 301 Middle Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Gang Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, 301 Middle Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072, China.
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Niwano T, Terazawa S, Nakajima H, Wakabayashi Y, Imokawa G. Astaxanthin and withaferin A block paracrine cytokine interactions between UVB-exposed human keratinocytes and human melanocytes via the attenuation of endothelin-1 secretion and its downstream intracellular signaling. Cytokine 2015; 73:184-97. [PMID: 25777483 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2015.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2014] [Revised: 02/04/2015] [Accepted: 02/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paracrine interactions between keratinocytes and melanocytes via cytokines play an essential role in regulating pigmentation in epidermal hyperpigmentary disorders. There is an urgent need for a human epidermal model in which melanogenic paracrine interactions between UVB-exposed keratinocytes and melanocytes can be precisely evaluated because human epidermal equivalents consisting of multilayered keratinocytes and melanocytes have significant limitations in this respect. OBJECTIVE To resolve this challenge, we established a co-culture system with cell inserts using human keratinocytes and human melanocytes that serves as an appropriate new model for UVB-induced hyperpigmentation. Using that new model, we examined the blocking effects of two natural chemicals, astaxanthin and withaferin A, on paracrine cytokine interactions between UVB-exposed keratinocytes and melanocytes and characterized their mechanisms of action. METHODS AND RESULTS RT-PCR analysis showed that co-culture of human keratinocytes that had been exposed to UVB significantly stimulated human melanocytes to increase their expression of genes encoding microphthalmia-associated transcription factor, tyrosinase and tyrosinase-related protein 1. The catalytic activity of tyrosinase was also increased. ELISA assays revealed that UVB significantly increased the secretion of interleukin-1α, interleukin-6/8, granulocyte macrophage stimulatory factor and endothelin-1 but not α-melanocyte stimulating hormone. The addition of an endothelin-1 neutralizing antibody significantly abrogated the increase of tyrosinase activity. Post-irradiation treatment with astaxanthin or withaferin A significantly abolished the up-regulation of tyrosinase activity induced by UVB. Treatment with astaxanthin or withaferin A significantly reduced the increased levels of interleukin-1α, interleukin-6/8, granulocyte macrophage stimulatory factor and endothelin-1. Withaferin A but not astaxanthin also significantly abrogated the endothelin-1-stimulated activity of tyrosinase in melanocytes. Western blot analysis of intracellular signaling factors revealed that withaferin A but not astaxanthin significantly abolished the endothelin-1-stimulated phosphorylation of Raf-1, MEK, ERK, MITF and CREB in human melanocytes. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that this co-culture system is an appropriate model to characterize melanogenic paracrine interactions and that astaxanthin and withaferin A serve as potent inhibitors of those interactions. Their effects are caused not only by down-regulating the increased secretion of an intrinsic melanogenic cytokine, endothelin-1, by UVB-exposed human keratinocytes, but also by interrupting the endothelin-1-triggered downstream intracellular signaling between protein kinase C and Raf-1 in human melanocytes (only for withaferin A).
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Affiliation(s)
- Takao Niwano
- Tsuno Rice Fine Chemicals, Co., Ltd., Japan; School of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Tokyo University of Technology, Japan
| | - Shuko Terazawa
- Research Institute for Biological Functions, Chubu University, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Nakajima
- School of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Tokyo University of Technology, Japan
| | - Yuki Wakabayashi
- School of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Tokyo University of Technology, Japan
| | - Genji Imokawa
- School of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Tokyo University of Technology, Japan; Research Institute for Biological Functions, Chubu University, Japan.
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Synergistic antitumor activity of withaferin A combined with oxaliplatin triggers reactive oxygen species-mediated inactivation of the PI3K/AKT pathway in human pancreatic cancer cells. Cancer Lett 2015; 357:219-230. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2014.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2014] [Revised: 11/11/2014] [Accepted: 11/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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High c-Met expression is a negative prognostic marker for colorectal cancer: a meta-analysis. Tumour Biol 2015; 36:515-20. [DOI: 10.1007/s13277-014-2659-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2014] [Accepted: 09/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
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Withaferin A abolishes the stem cell factor-stimulated pigmentation of human epidermal equivalents by interrupting the auto-phosphorylation of c-KIT in human melanocytes. Arch Dermatol Res 2014; 307:73-88. [PMID: 25376854 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-014-1518-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2014] [Revised: 09/30/2014] [Accepted: 10/21/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
We characterized the mechanism(s) underlying the abrogating effect of withaferin A (WFA) on the stem cell factor (SCF)-stimulated pigmentation of human epidermal equivalents (HEEs). Increased gene and protein expression levels of tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein1, dopachrome tautomerase, PMEL17, c-KIT and their targeted transcription factor, microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) were significantly reversed at days 7 and 10, respectively, by treatment with WFA. In WFA-treated normal human melanocytes (NHMs), there was a marked deficiency in the SCF-stimulated series of phosphorylations of c-KIT, Shc, Raf-1, MEK, ERK, MITF and CREB. Treatment with dithiothreitol (DTT) distinctly abolished the suppressive effect of WFA on the SCF-stimulated phosphorylation of c-KIT in NHMs. On the other hand, even after incubation at 4 °C for 2 h with 5 nM SCF, followed by the removal of unbound SCF by washing and then raising the temperature to 37 °C to start the signaling reaction, c-KIT was distinctly phosphorylated to a similar extent by incubation for 15 min with SCF only or with SCF + WFA. These findings indicate that WFA attenuates the SCF-induced activation of c-KIT in NHMs by interrupting the auto-phosphorylation of c-KIT through DTT-suppressible Michael addition thioalkylation reactions without interrupting the binding of SCF to the c-KIT receptor.
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Subramanian C, Zhang H, Gallagher R, Hammer G, Timmermann B, Cohen M. Withanolides are Potent Novel Targeted Therapeutic Agents Against Adrenocortical Carcinomas. World J Surg 2014; 38:1343-52. [DOI: 10.1007/s00268-014-2532-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Grogan PT, Sarkaria JN, Timmermann BN, Cohen MS. Oxidative cytotoxic agent withaferin A resensitizes temozolomide-resistant glioblastomas via MGMT depletion and induces apoptosis through Akt/mTOR pathway inhibitory modulation. Invest New Drugs 2014; 32:604-17. [PMID: 24718901 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-014-0084-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2013] [Accepted: 03/03/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Temozolomide (TMZ) has remained the chemotherapy of choice in patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) primarily due to the lack of more effective drugs. Tumors, however, quickly develop resistance to this line of treatment creating a critical need for alternative approaches and strategies to resensitize the cells. Withaferin A (WA), a steroidal lactone derived from several genera of the Solanaceae plant family has previously demonstrated potent anti-cancer activity in multiple tumor models. Here, we examine the effects of WA against TMZ-resistant GBM cells as a monotherapy and in combination with TMZ. WA prevented GBM cell proliferation by dose-dependent G2/M cell cycle arrest and cell death through both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways. This effect correlated with depletion of principle proteins of the Akt/mTOR and MAPK survival and proliferation pathways with diminished phosphorylation of Akt, mTOR, and p70 S6K but compensatory activation of ERK1/2. Depletion of tyrosine kinase cell surface receptors c-Met, EGFR, and Her2 was also observed. WA demonstrated induction of N-acetyl-L-cysteine-repressible oxidative stress as measured directly and through a subsequent heat shock response with HSP32 and HSP70 upregulation and decreased HSF1. Finally, pretreatment of TMZ-resistant GBM cells with WA was associated with O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) depletion which potentiated TMZ-mediated MGMT degradation. Combination treatment with both WA and TMZ resulted in resensitization of MGMT-mediated TMZ-resistance but not resistance through mismatch repair mutations. These studies suggest great clinical potential for the utilization of WA in TMZ-resistant GBM as both a monotherapy and a resensitizer in combination with the standard chemotherapeutic agent TMZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick T Grogan
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Therapeutics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
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Vyas AR, Singh SV. Molecular targets and mechanisms of cancer prevention and treatment by withaferin a, a naturally occurring steroidal lactone. AAPS JOURNAL 2013; 16:1-10. [PMID: 24046237 DOI: 10.1208/s12248-013-9531-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2013] [Accepted: 08/21/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The plants used in Ayurvedic medicine, which has been practiced in India for thousands of years for the treatment of a variety of disorders, are rich in chemicals potentially useful for prevention and treatment of cancer. Withania somnifera (commonly known as Ashwagandha in Ayurvedic medicine) is one such medicinal plant whose anticancer value was realized over four decades ago after isolation of a crystalline steroidal compound (withaferin A) from the leaves of this shrub. The root and leaf extracts of W. somnifera are shown to confer protection against chemically-induced cancers in experimental rodents, and retard tumor xenograft growth in athymic mice. Anticancer effect of W. somnifera is generally attributable to steroidal lactones collectively referred to as withanolides. Withaferin A (WA) appears most active against cancer among structurally divergent withanolides isolated from the root or leaf of W. somnifera. Cancer-protective role for WA has now been established using chemically-induced and oncogene-driven rodent cancer models. This review summarizes the key in vivo preclinical studies demonstrating anticancer effects of WA. Molecular targets and mechanisms likely contributing to the anticancer effects of WA are also discussed. Finally, challenges in clinical development of WA for the prevention and treatment of cancer are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avani R Vyas
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Grogan PT, Sleder KD, Samadi AK, Zhang H, Timmermann BN, Cohen MS. Cytotoxicity of withaferin A in glioblastomas involves induction of an oxidative stress-mediated heat shock response while altering Akt/mTOR and MAPK signaling pathways. Invest New Drugs 2012; 31:545-57. [PMID: 23129310 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-012-9888-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2012] [Accepted: 09/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Withaferin A (WA), a steroidal lactone derived from the plant Vassobia breviflora, has been reported to have anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, and anti-angiogenic properties against cancer growth. In this study, we identified several key underlying mechanisms of anticancer action of WA in glioblastoma cells. WA was found to inhibit proliferation by inducing a dose-dependent G2/M cell cycle arrest and promoting cell death through both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways. This was accompanied by an inhibitory shift in the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway which included diminished expression and/or phosphorylation of Akt, mTOR, p70 S6K, and p85 S6K with increased activation of AMPKα and the tumor suppressor tuberin/TSC2. Alterations in proteins of the MAPK pathway and cell surface receptors like EGFR, Her2/ErbB2, and c-Met were also observed. WA induced an N-acetyl-L-cysteine-repressible enhancement in cellular oxidative potential/stress with subsequent induction of a heat shock stress response primarily through HSP70, HSP32, and HSP27 upregulation and HSF1 downregulation. Taken together, we suggest that WA may represent a promising chemotherapeutic candidate in glioblastoma therapy warranting further translational evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick T Grogan
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Therapeutics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas, KS 66160, USA
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Razdan S, Bhat WW, Rana S, Dhar N, Lattoo SK, Dhar RS, Vishwakarma RA. Molecular characterization and promoter analysis of squalene epoxidase gene from Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal. Mol Biol Rep 2012; 40:905-16. [PMID: 23065254 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-012-2131-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2012] [Accepted: 10/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Withania somnifera is a rich reservoir of pharmaceutically active steroidal lactones known as withanolides. The plant is well characterized in terms of its chemistry and pharmacology, but very little is known about the pathway involved in the biosynthesis of withanolides. The present investigation describes the cloning, characterization and expression of squalene epoxidase (SE) gene from W. somnifera. SE (SQE; EC. 1.14.99.7) is one of the rate limiting enzymes in the biosynthesis of triterpenoids, catalyzing the stereospecific epoxidation of squalene to 2,3-oxidosqualene. A full length SE gene (WsSQE) of 1,956 bp was cloned which contained an open reading frame of 1,596 bp, encoding a protein of 531 amino acids with a predicted molecular mass of 57.67 kDa and theoretical PI of 8.48. Full length WsSQE was cloned into pGEX4T-2 vector and expressed in E.coli. Phylogenetic analysis indicated a significant evolutionary relatedness of WsSQE with squalene epoxidases of other plant species and the degree of relatedness with deduced amino acid sequences showed a significant correlation with different plant species. Using genome walking approach, a promoter sequence of 513 bp of WsSQE was isolated which revealed several key cis-regulatory elements known to be involved in various biotic and abiotic plant stresses. Comparative expression analysis of tissue specific WsSQE done by quantitative-PCR demonstrated the highest transcript levels in leaves, as compared to stalk and root tissues. This is the first report of cloning and bacterial expression of SE from W. somnifera and may be of significant interest to understand the regulatory role of SE in the biosynthesis of withanolides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumeer Razdan
- Plant Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR), Canal Road, Jammu Tawi, 180001, India
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