Inhibition of the JAK-STAT3 pathway by andrographolide enhances chemosensitivity of cancer cells to doxorubicin

A strategic review of STAT3 signaling inhibition by phytochemicals for cancer prevention and treatment: Advances and insights

Cancer remains a significant global health concern. The dysregulation of signaling networks in tumor cells greatly affects their functions. This review intends to explore phytochemicals possessing potent anticancer properties that specifically target the STAT3 signaling pathway, elucidating strategies and emphasizing their potential as promising candidates for cancer therapy. The review comprehensively examines various STAT3 inhibitors designed to disrupt the signaling cascade, including those targeting upstream activation, SH2 domain phosphorylation, DNA binding domain (DBD), N-terminal domain (NTD), nuclear translocation, and enhancing endogenous STAT3 negative regulators. A literature review was conducted to identify phytochemicals with anticancer activity targeting the STAT3 signaling pathway. Popular research databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, and ResearchGate were searched from the years 1989 - 2023 based on the keywords "Cancer", "STAT3", "Phytochemicals", "Phytochemicals targeting STAT3 signaling", "upstream activation of STAT3", "SH2 domain of STAT3", "DBD of STAT3", "NTD of STAT3, "endogenous negative regulators of STAT3", or "nuclear translocation of STAT3", and their combinations. A total of 264 relevant studies were selected and analyzed based on the mechanisms of action and the efficacy of the phytocompounds. The majority of the discussed phytochemicals primarily focus on inhibiting upstream activation of STAT3. Additionally, flavonoid and terpenoid compounds exhibit multifaceted effects by targeting one or more checkpoints within the STAT3 pathway. Analysis reveals that phytochemicals targeting upstream activation predominantly belong to the classes of flavonoids and terpenoids, which hold significant promise as effective anticancer therapeutics. Future research in this field can be directed towards exploring and developing these scrutinized classes of phytochemicals to achieve desired therapeutic outcomes in cancer treatment.

Dysregulation of calcium homeostasis in cancer and its role in chemoresistance

Globally, cancer, as a major public health concern, poses a severe threat to people's well-being. Advanced and specialized therapies can now cure the majority of people with early-stage cancer. However, emerging resistance to traditional and novel chemotherapeutic drugs remains a serious issue in clinical medicine. Chemoresistance often leads to cancer recurrence, metastasis, and increased mortality, accounting for 90% of chemotherapy failures. Thus, it is important to understand the molecular mechanisms of chemoresistance and find novel therapeutic approaches for cancer treatment. Among the several factors responsible for chemoresistance, calcium (Ca2+) dysregulation plays a significant role in cancer progression and chemoresistance. Therefore, targeting this derailed Ca2+ signalling for cancer therapy has become an emerging research area. Of note, the Ca2+ signal and its proteins are a multifaceted and potent tool by which cells achieve specific outcomes. Depending on cell survival needs, Ca2+ is either upregulated or downregulated in both chemosensitive and chemoresistant cancer cells. Consequently, the appropriate treatment should be selected based on Ca2+ signalling dysregulation. This review discusses the role of Ca2+ in cancer cells and the targeting of Ca2+ channels, pumps, and exchangers. Furthermore, we have emphasised the role of Ca2+ in chemoresistance and therapeutic strategies. In conclusion, targeting Ca2+ signalling is a multifaceted process. Methods such as site-specific drug delivery, target-based drug-designing, and targeting two or more Ca2+ proteins simultaneously may be explored; however, further clinical studies are essential to validate Ca2+ blockers' anti-cancer efficacy.

Abnormal metabolism in hepatic stellate cells: Pandora's box of MAFLD related hepatocellular carcinoma

Metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a significant risk factor for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), as key mediators in liver injury response, are believed to play a crucial role in the repair process of liver injury. However, in MAFLD patients, the normal metabolic and immunoregulatory mechanisms of HSCs become disrupted, leading to disturbances in the local microenvironment. Abnormally activated HSCs are heavily involved in the initiation and progression of HCC. The metabolic disorders and abnormal activation of HSCs not only initiate liver fibrosis but also contribute to carcinogenesis. In this review, we provide an overview of recent research progress on the relationship between the abnormal metabolism of HSCs and the local immune system in the liver, elucidating the mechanisms of immune imbalance caused by abnormally activated HSCs in MAFLD patients. Based on this understanding, we discuss the potential and challenges of metabolic-based and immunology-based mechanisms in the treatment of MAFLD-related HCC, with a specific focus on the role of HSCs in HCC progression and their potential as targets for anti-cancer therapy. This review aims to enhance researchers' understanding of the importance of HSCs in maintaining normal liver function and highlights the significance of HSCs in the progression of MAFLD-related HCC.

Terpenoid-Mediated Targeting of STAT3 Signaling in Cancer: An Overview of Preclinical Studies

Cancer has become one of the most multifaceted and widespread illnesses affecting human health, causing substantial mortality at an alarming rate. After cardiovascular problems, the condition has a high occurrence rate and ranks second in terms of mortality. The development of new drugs has been facilitated by increased research and a deeper understanding of the mechanisms behind the emergence and advancement of the disease. Numerous preclinical and clinical studies have repeatedly demonstrated the protective effects of natural terpenoids against a range of malignancies. Numerous potential bioactive terpenoids have been investigated in natural sources for their chemopreventive and chemoprotective properties. In practically all body cells, the signaling molecule referred to as signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is widely expressed. Numerous studies have demonstrated that STAT3 regulates its downstream target genes, including Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, cyclin D1, c-Myc, and survivin, to promote the growth of cells, differentiation, cell cycle progression, angiogenesis, and immune suppression in addition to chemotherapy resistance. Researchers viewed STAT3 as a primary target for cancer therapy because of its crucial involvement in cancer formation. This therapy primarily focuses on directly and indirectly preventing the expression of STAT3 in tumor cells. By explicitly targeting STAT3 in both in vitro and in vivo settings, it has been possible to explain the protective effect of terpenoids against malignant cells. In this study, we provide a complete overview of STAT3 signal transduction processes, the involvement of STAT3 in carcinogenesis, and mechanisms related to STAT3 persistent activation. The article also thoroughly summarizes the inhibition of STAT3 signaling by certain terpenoid phytochemicals, which have demonstrated strong efficacy in several preclinical cancer models.

Natural STAT3 Inhibitors for Cancer Treatment: A Comprehensive Literature Review

Cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide, affecting millions of people physically and financially every year. Over time, many anticancer treatments have been proposed and studied, including synthetic compound consumption, surgical procedures, or grueling chemotherapy. Although these treatments have improved the daily life quality of patients and increased their survival rate and life expectancy, they have also shown significant drawbacks, including staggering costs, multiple side effects, and difficulty in compliance and adherence to treatment. Therefore, natural compounds have been considered a possible key to overcoming these problems in recent years, and thorough research has been done to assess their effectiveness. In these studies, scientists have discovered a meaningful interaction between several natural materials and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 molecules. STAT3 is a transcriptional protein that is vital for cell growth and survival. Mechanistic studies have established that activated STAT3 can increase cancer cell proliferation and invasion while reducing anticancer immunity. Thus, inhibiting STAT3 signaling by natural compounds has become one of the favorite research topics and an attractive target for developing novel cancer treatments. In the present article, we intend to comprehensively review the latest knowledge about the effects of various organic compounds on inhibiting the STAT3 signaling pathway to cure different cancer diseases.

Andrographolide causes p53-independent HCC cell death through p62 accumulation and impaired DNA damage repair

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly lethal cancer characterized by dominant driver mutations, including p53. Consequently, there is an urgent need to search for novel therapeutic agents to treat HCC. Andrographolide (Andro), a clinically available anti-inflammatory phytochemical agent, has shown inhibitory effects against various types of cancer, including HCC. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of its action remain poorly understood.

PURPOSE

This study aims to investigate the molecular mechanisms by which p53 and p62 collectively affect Andro-induced HCC cell death, using both in vitro and in vivo models.

METHODS

In vitro cellular experiments were conducted to examine the effects of Andro on cell viability and elucidate its mechanisms of action. In vivo xenograft experiments further validated the anti-cancer effects of Andro.

RESULTS

Andro induced dose- and time-dependent HCC cell death while sparing normal HL-7702 hepatocytes. Furthermore, Andro caused DNA damage through the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), a critical event leading to cell death. Notably, HCC cells expressing p53 exhibited greater resistance to Andro-induced cell death compared to p53-deficient cells, likely due to the ability of p53 to induce G2/M cell cycle arrest. Additionally, Andro-induced p62 aggregation led to the proteasomal degradation of RAD51 and 53BP1, two key proteins involved in DNA damage repair. Consequently, silencing or knocking out p62 facilitated DNA damage repair and protected HCC cells. Importantly, disruption of either p53 or p62 did not affect the expression of the other protein. These findings were further supported by the observation that xenograft tumors formed by p62-knockout HCC cells displayed increased resistance to Andro treatment.

CONCLUSION

This study elucidates the mechanistic basis of Andro-induced HCC cell death. It provides valuable insights for repurposing Andro for the treatment of HCC, regardless of the presence of functional p53.

Natural-Product-Derived Adjunctive Treatments to Conventional Therapy and Their Immunoregulatory Activities in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an invasive and persistent subtype of breast cancer that is likely to be resistant to conventional treatments. The rise in immunotherapy has created new modalities to treat cancer, but due to high costs and unreliable efficacy, adjunctive and complementary treatments have sparked interest in enhancing the efficacy of currently available treatments. Natural products, which are bioactive compounds derived from natural sources, have historically been used to treat or ameliorate inflammatory diseases and symptoms. As TNBC patients have shown little to no response to immunotherapy, the potential of natural products as candidates for adjuvant immunotherapy is being explored, as well as their immunomodulatory effects on cancer. Due to the complexity of TNBC and the ever-changing tumor microenvironment, there are challenges in determining the feasibility of using natural products to enhance the efficacy or counteract the toxicity of conventional treatments. In view of technological advances in molecular docking, pharmaceutical networking, and new drug delivery systems, natural products show promise as potential candidates in adjunctive therapy. In this article, we summarize the mechanisms of action of selected natural-product-based bioactive compounds and analyze their roles and applications in combination treatments and immune regulation.

Development and Optimization of Novel Emulgel Loaded with Andrographolide-Rich Extract and Sesame Oil Using Quality by Design Approach: In Silico and In Vitro Cytotoxic Evaluation against A431 Cells

An epidermoid carcinoma is a form of non-melanoma skin cancer that originates from the outer layer of the skin's squamous cells. Previous studies have shown that andrographis extract and andrographolide inhibit the growth and proliferation of epidermoid carcinoma cells while also inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. The objective of this study was to improve the anticancer efficacy of the andrographolide-rich extract by delivering it in the form of nanoemulgel. During the formulation of emulgels, sonication, and homogenization were employed, and a 2²-factorial design was used to optimize the formulations through the quality by design (QbD) approach. The optimized formulation (AEE8) was subjected to preliminary evaluations along with particle size, drug release, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies. The potential of the optimized emulgel against A431 cell lines was also investigated using MTT assay followed by flow cytometric analysis. The SEM results reveal that the optimized emulgel had a well-defined spherical shape, with a droplet size of 226 ± 1.8 nm, a negative surface charge of -30.1 ± 1.6 mV, and a PDI of 0.157. The cellular data indicate that AEE8 reduced the viability of the A431 cells with an IC₅₀ of 16.56 μg/mL, as determined by MTT assay when compared to cells treated with the extract alone. Furthermore, the flow cytometric analysis of the optimized emulgel formulation demonstrated a marked G2/M phase arrest. This finding further supports the effectiveness of the gel in disrupting the cell cycle at the critical G2 and M phases, which are pivotal for cell division and proliferation. This disruption in cell cycle progression can impede the growth and spread of cancer cells, making the gel a promising candidate for anti-skin-cancer therapy. The safety of emulgels (AEE8) was validated through rigorous biocompatibility testing conducted on HDF (human dermal fibroblast) cell lines, ensuring their suitability for use. Considering the potential of the nanoemulgel, particularly AEE8, as demonstrated by its favorable properties and its ability to disrupt the cell cycle, it holds great promise as an innovative approach to treating skin cancer.

Anti-Cancer Agent: The Labdane Diterpenoid-Andrographolide

In spite of the progress in treatment strategies, cancer remains a major cause of death worldwide. Therefore, the main challenge should be the early diagnosis of cancer and the design of an optimal therapeutic strategy to increase the patient's life expectancy as well as the continuation of the search for increasingly active and selective molecules for the treatment of different forms of cancer. In the recent decades, research in the field of natural compounds has increasingly shifted towards advanced and molecular level understandings, thus leading to the development of potent anti-cancer agents. Among them is the diterpene lactone andrographolide, isolated from Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Wall. ex Nees that showed shows a plethora of biological activities, including not only anti-cancer activity, but also anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, and immunomodulatory properties. Andrographolide has been shown to act as an anti-tumor drug by affecting specific molecular targets that play a part in the development and progression of several cancer types including breast, lung, colon, renal, and cervical cancer, as well as leukemia and hepatocarcinoma. This review comprehensively and systematically summarized the current research on the potential anti-cancer properties of andrographolide highlighting its mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, and potential side effects and discussing the future perspectives, challenges, and limitations of use.

Natural bioactive compounds-doxorubicin combinations targeting topoisomerase II-alpha: Anticancer efficacy and safety

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, so pursuing effective and safe therapeutics for cancer is a key research objective nowadays. Doxorubicin (DOX) is one of the commonly prescribed chemotherapeutic agents that has been used to treat cancer with its antimitotic properties via inhibition of topoisomerase II (TOP2) activity. However, many problems hinder the broad use of DOX in clinical practice, including cardiotoxicity and drug resistance. Research in drug discovery has confirmed that natural bioactive compounds (NBACs) display a wide range of biological activities correlating to anticancer outcomes. The combination of NBACs has been seen to be an ideal candidate that might increase the effectiveness of DOX therapy and decreases its unfavorable adverse consequences. The current review discusses the chemo-modulatory mechanism and the protective effects of combined DOX with NBACs with a binding affinity (pKi) toward TOP2A more than pKi of DOX. This review will also discuss and emphasize the molecular mechanisms to provide a pathway for further studies to reveal other signaling pathways. Taken together, understanding the fundamental mechanisms and implications of combined therapy may provide a practical approach to battling cancer diseases.

Andrographis Reverses Gemcitabine Resistance through Regulation of ERBB3 and Calcium Signaling Pathway in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most lethal malignancies, primarily due to intrinsic or acquired resistance to chemotherapy, such as Gemcitabine (Gem). Naturally occurring botanicals, including Andrographis (Andro), can help enhance the anti-tumorigenic therapeutic efficacy of conventional chemotherapy through time-tested safety and cost-effectiveness. Accordingly, we hypothesized that Andro might reverse Gem resistance in PDAC. The critical regulatory pathways associated with Gem resistance in PDAC were identified by analyzing publicly available transcriptomic profiling and PDAC tissue specimens. A series of systematic in vitro experiments were performed using Gem-resistant (Gem-R) PDAC cells and patient-derived 3D-organoids to evaluate the Andro-mediated reversal of Gem resistance in PDAC. Transcriptomic profiling identified the calcium signaling pathway as a critical regulator of Gem-resistance (Fold enrichment: 2.8, p = 0.002). Within this pathway, high ERBB3 expression was significantly associated with poor prognosis in PDAC patients. The combination of Andro and Gem exhibited superior anti-cancer potential in Gem-R PDAC cells through potentiating cellular apoptosis. The combined treatment down-regulated ERBB3 and decreased intracellular calcium concentration in Gem-R PDAC cells. Finally, these findings were successfully interrogated in patient-derived 3D-organoids. In conclusion, we demonstrate novel evidence for Andro-mediated reversal of chemoresistance to Gem in PDAC cells through the regulation of ERBB3 and calcium signaling.

Andrographolide suppresses the malignancy of triple-negative breast cancer by reducing THOC1-promoted cancer stem cell characteristics

Triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) are difficult to cure and currently lack of effective treatment strategies. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are highly associated with the poor clinical outcome of TNBCs. Thoc1 is a core component of the THO complex (THOC) that regulates the elongation, processing and nuclear export of mRNA. The function of thoc1 in TNBC and whether Thoc1 serves as a drug target are poorly understood. In this study, we demonstrated that thoc1 expression is elevated in TNBC cell lines and human TNBC patient tissues. Knockdown of thoc1 decreased cancer stem cell populations, reduced mammosphere formation, impaired THOC function, and downregulated the expression of stemness-related proteins. Moreover, the thoc1-knockdown 4T1 cells showed less lung metastasis in an orthotopic breast cancer mouse model. Overexpression of Thoc1 promoted TNBC malignancy and the mRNA export of stemness-related genes. Furthermore, treatment of TNBC cells with the natural compound andrographolide reduced the expression of Thoc1 expression, impaired homeostasis of THOC, suppressed CSC properties, and delayed tumor growth in a 4T1-implanted orthotopic mouse model. Andrographolide also reduced the activity of NF-κB, an upstream transcriptional regulator of Thoc1. Notably, thoc1 overexpression attenuates andrographolide-suppressed cellular proliferation. Altogether, our results demonstrate that THOC1 promotes cancer stem cell characteristics of TNBC, and andrographolide is a potential natural compound for eliminating CSCs of TNBCs by downregulating the NF-κB-thoc1 axis.

Exploring the mechanism of andrographolide in the treatment of gastric cancer through network pharmacology and molecular docking

Gastric cancer has emerged as a key challenge in oncology research as a malignant tumour with advanced stage detection. Apart from surgical management, a pharmacotherapeutic approach to stomach cancer treatment is an appealing option to consider. Andrographolide has been shown to have anticancer and chemosensitizer properties in a variety of solid tumors, including stomach cancer but the exact molecular mechanism is skeptical. In this study, we identified and validated pharmacological mechanism involved in the treatment of GC with integrated approach of network pharmacology and molecular docking. The targets of andrographolide and GC were obtained from databases. The intersected targets between andrographolide and GC-related genes were used to construct protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. Furthermore, mechanism of action of the targets was predicted by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses. Finally, these results were validated by molecular docking experiments, mRNA and protein expression level. A total of 197 targets were obtained for andrographolide treating GC. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that the target genes were exerted promising therapeutic effects on GC by HIF-1 and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. The possible mechanism of action is by inactivation of HIF-1 signaling pathway which is dependent on the inhibition of upstream PI3K-AKT pathway. The PPI network identified SRC, AKT1, TP53, STAT3, PIK3CA, MAPK1, MAPK3, VEGFA, JUN and HSP90AA1 as potential hub targets. In addition, these results were further validated with molecular docking experiments. Survival analysis indicated that the expression levels of the hub genes were significantly associated with the clinical prognosis of GC. This study provided a novel approach to reveal the therapeutic mechanisms of andrographolide on GC, making future clinical application of andrographolide in the treatment of GC.

Andrographolide protects bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells against glucose and serum deprivation under hypoxia via the NRF2 signaling pathway

Background

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMSCs) therapy is an important cell transplantation strategy in the regenerative medicine field. However, a severely ischemic microenvironment, such as nutrient depletion and hypoxia, causes a lower survival rate of transplanted BMSCs, limiting the application of BMSCs. Therefore, improving BMSCs viability in adverse microenvironments is an important means to improve the effectiveness of BMSCs therapy.

Objective

To illustrate the protective effect of andrographolide (AG) against glucose and serum deprivation under hypoxia (1% O₂) (GSDH)-induced cell injury in BMSCs and investigate the possible underlying mechanisms.

Methods

An in vitro primary rat BMSCs cell injury model was established by GSDH, and cellular viability, proliferation and apoptosis were observed after AG treatment under GSDH. Reactive oxygen species levels and oxidative stress-related genes and proteins were measured by flow cytometry, RT-qPCR and Western blotting. Mitochondrial morphology, function and number were further assessed by laser confocal microscopy and flow cytometry.

Results

AG protected BMSCs against GSDH-induced cell injury, as indicated by increases in cell viability and proliferation and mitochondrial number and decreases in apoptosis and oxidative stress. The metabolic status of BMSCs was changed from glycolysis to oxidative phosphorylation to increase the ATP supply. We further observed that the NRF2 pathway was activated by AG, and treatment of BMSCs with a specific NRF2 inhibitor (ML385) blocked the protective effect of AG.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that AG is a promising agent to improve the therapeutic effect of BMSCs.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-03016-6.

A Review on Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles and its Role Against Cancer

Cancer is a fatal disease, with a collection of related diseases in various body parts. The conventional therapies cannot show the desired results of treatment due to their imprecise targeting, deprived drug delivery, and side effects. Therefore, it is required to make the drug engineered in such a way that it can target only cancerous cells and can inhibit its growth and proliferation. Nanotechnology is a technology that can target and differentiate between cancerous cells and the normal cells of the body. Silver itself is a good anticancer and antibacterial agent and employing it with phytochemicals having anticancer properties, and nanotechnology can give the best approach for the treatment. The synthesis of silver nanoparticles using plant extracts is an economical, energy-efficient, low-cost approach and it doesn't need any hazardous chemicals. In the present review, we discussed different methods of synthesis of silver nanoparticles using herbal extracts and their role against cancer therapy along with the synergistic role of silver and plant extracts against cancer in the formulation.

Mechanisms of Natural Extracts of Andrographis paniculata That Target Lipid-Dependent Cancer Pathways: A View from the Signaling Pathway

Andrographis paniculata is a local medicinal plant that is widely cultivated in Malaysia. It is comprised of numerous bioactive compounds that can be isolated using water, ethanol or methanol. Among these compounds, andrographolide has been found to be the major compound and it exhibits varieties of pharmacological activities, including anti-cancer properties, particularly in the lipid-dependent cancer pathway. Lipids act as crucial membrane-building elements, fuel for energy-demanding activities, signaling molecules, and regulators of several cellular functions. Studies have shown that alterations in lipid composition assist cancer cells in changing microenvironments. Thus, compounds that target the lipid pathway might serve as potential anti-cancer therapeutic agents. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the medicinal chemistry and pharmacology of A. paniculata and its active compounds in terms of anti-cancer activity, primary mechanism of action, and cellular targets, particularly in the lipid-dependent cancer pathway.

Modulation of TLR/NF-κB/NLRP Signaling by Bioactive Phytocompounds: A Promising Strategy to Augment Cancer Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy

Background

Tumors often progress to a more aggressive phenotype to resist drugs. Multiple dysregulated pathways are behind this tumor behavior which is known as cancer chemoresistance. Thus, there is an emerging need to discover pivotal signaling pathways involved in the resistance to chemotherapeutic agents and cancer immunotherapy. Reports indicate the critical role of the toll-like receptor (TLR)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)/Nod-like receptor pyrin domain-containing (NLRP) pathway in cancer initiation, progression, and development. Therefore, targeting TLR/NF-κB/NLRP signaling is a promising strategy to augment cancer chemotherapy and immunotherapy and to combat chemoresistance. Considering the potential of phytochemicals in the regulation of multiple dysregulated pathways during cancer initiation, promotion, and progression, such compounds could be suitable candidates against cancer chemoresistance.

Objectives

This is the first comprehensive and systematic review regarding the role of phytochemicals in the mitigation of chemoresistance by regulating the TLR/NF-κB/NLRP signaling pathway in chemotherapy and immunotherapy.

Methods

A comprehensive and systematic review was designed based on Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane electronic databases. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed to include papers on TLR/NF-κB/NLRP and chemotherapy/immunotherapy/chemoresistance by phytochemicals.

Results

Phytochemicals are promising multi-targeting candidates against the TLR/NF-κB/NLRP signaling pathway and interconnected mediators. Employing phenolic compounds, alkaloids, terpenoids, and sulfur compounds could be a promising strategy for managing cancer chemoresistance through the modulation of the TLR/NF-κB/NLRP signaling pathway. Novel delivery systems of phytochemicals in cancer chemotherapy/immunotherapy are also highlighted.

Conclusion

Targeting TLR/NF-κB/NLRP signaling with bioactive phytocompounds reverses chemoresistance and improves the outcome for chemotherapy and immunotherapy in both preclinical and clinical stages.

An insight into the pharmacological and analytical potential of Andrographolide

Andrographis paniculata is an annual medicinal herb from the family Acanthaceae. Andrographolide is generally considered an essential bioactive component of plant A. paniculata. Since ancient times, it has been widely recognized for its therapeutic qualities and has attracted the scientific and medical communities' attention. This review summarizes the molecular, clinical, and in vitro research of compound andrographolide and its mechanism of action. Andrographolide, when combined with other enhancing agents, offers a wide variety of health benefits. The therapeutic potential of andrographolide has been exemplified and exhibited by directly regulating genes and indirectly interacting with small molecules and different enzymes. This review compiles and consolidates the pharmacological action of andrographolide and its analogs and deciphers the gaps that have hindered its use in medicinal research.

The Adroitness of Andrographolide as a Natural Weapon Against Colorectal Cancer

The conventional carcinoma treatment generally encompasses the employment of radiotherapy, chemotherapy, surgery or use of cytotoxic drugs. However, recent advances in pharmacological research have divulged the importance of traditional treatments in cancer. The aim of the present review is to provide an overview of the importance of one such medicinal herb of Chinese and Indian origin: Andrographis paniculate on colorectal cancer with special emphasis on its principal bioactive component andrographolide (AGP) and its underlying mechanisms of action. AGP has long been known to possess medicinal properties. Studies led by numerous groups of researchers shed light on its molecular mechanism of action. AGP has been shown to act in a multi-faceted manner in context of colorectal cancer by targeting matrix metalloproteinase-9, Toll-like receptor or NFκB signaling pathways. In this review, we highlighted the recent studies that show that AGP can act as an effective immunomodulator by harnessing effective anti-tumor immune response. Recent studies strongly recommend further research on this compound and its analogues, especially under in-vivo condition to assess its actual potential as a prospective and efficient candidate against colorectal cancer. The current review deals with the roles of this phytomedicine in context of colorectal cancer and briefly describes its perspectives to emerge as an essential anti-cancer drug candidate. Finally, we also point out the drawbacks and difficulties in administration of AGP and indicate the use of nano-formulations of this phytomedicine for better therapeutic efficacy.

Antiproliferative and Apoptotic Properties of Andrographolide Against Human Colon Cancer DLD1 Cell Line

BACKGROUND

In recent years, natural products have received great attention for cancer prevention owing to their various health benefits, noticeable lack of toxicity and side effects, and the limitations of chemotherapeutic agents. Andrographolide, a labdane diterpenoid is a principal bioactive constituent of Andrographis paniculata Nees, exhibits significant anticancer activity.

OBJECTIVE

The efficacy of andrographolide on colon cancer cells is yet to be elucidated completely. Therefore, we investigated the anticancer efficiency of andrographolide in colon cancer DLD1 cell line.

METHODS

Antiproliferative activity of andrographolide on DLD1 cells was evaluated by MTT assay, LDH release assay, morphological analysis and colony formation assay. Induction of apoptosis was determined by DAPI staining, Annexin V-FITC staining assay, and caspase-3 activation assay. Role of andrographolide induced cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and its association with apoptosis induction in DLD1 cells was elucidated by DCFDA dye. Synergistic ability of andrographolide with 5- fluorouracil (5-FU) and paclitaxel (PTX) was evaluated by MTT assay.

RESULTS

Results of the present study indicated that andrographolide declined cell viability of DLD1 cells in a concentration and time-dependent manner. Andrographolide induced apoptosis via nuclear condensation, phosphatidylserine externalization and caspase-3 activation. It also augmented cellular ROS levels which were in turn associated with apoptosis induction in DLD1 cells. Moreover, andrographolide displayed synergistic activity with 5-FU and PTX against DLD1 cells.

CONCLUSION

The present study showed that andrographolide demonstrated antiproliferative and apoptotic properties, moreover it also displayed synergistic effect with chemotherapeutic drugs in colon cancer DLD1 cells.

Anticancer potential of andrographolide from Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Nees and its mechanisms of action

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Synthetic drugs used for cancer treatment have side effects that may be immunosupressive, can cause liver, kidney and cardiac toxicity, and infertility and ovarian failure, among others. Thus, herbal drugs could be used in the cancer treatment as an adjuvant therapy. Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Nees (AP) is one of the traditional herbs used in different alternative medicinal systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, Chinese, Malayi, Siddha, etc. for the treatment of various disorders and diseases including cancer.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of writing this review is to highlight the medicinal importance of AP and its main phytoconstituent andrographolide (AG). The main emphasis was given on the anticancer activity of AG, its proposed mechanisms of action, novel approaches used to improve its biopharmaceutical properties with the perspective of evidence-based research, and its development as an adjuvant therapy for cancer treatment in future.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Literature survey was conducted and research papers were retrieved from different databases such as Pubmed, Google Scholar, ACS, Wiley online library, ScienceDirect, Springer, and Scopus during 1970-2020. Research articles, review articles, and short communications, etc. were used for this purpose. The papers were selected on the basis of exclusion and inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

Different anticancer mechanisms of AG have been reportedly proven such as cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, NF-κβ inhibition, antiangiogenesis, cytokine inhibition, etc. whereas its pharmacokinetic properties showed its highly protein bound nature, Cyt P400 (CYP) inhibition, low aqueous solubility, poor oral bioavailability, etc. Different novel formulations of AG have been investigated to increase its bioavailability for better efficacy.

CONCLUSION

This review can provide knowledge about the potential applicability of AP or AG as an adjuvant therapy in cancer treatment. Further research is needed before making any conclusion about the efficacy in humans as an adjuvant therapy in cancer.

Antitumor effects of Andrographis via ferroptosis-associated genes in gastric cancer

The overall prognosis of advanced/metastatic gastric cancer (GC) remains poor despite the development of pharmacotherapy. Therefore, other treatment options, such as complementary and alternative medicine, should be considered to overcome this aggressive malignancy. Andrographis, which is a generally unharmful botanical compound, has gained increasing interest for its anticancer effects in multiple malignancies via the regulation of cancer progression-associated signaling pathways. In the present study, a series of in vitro experiments (cell proliferation, colony formation and apoptosis assays) was designed to elucidate the antitumor potential and mechanism of Andrographis in GC cells. The present study demonstrated that Andrographis exerted antitumor effects in GC cell lines (MKN74 and NUGC4) by inhibiting proliferation, reducing colony formation and enhancing apoptotic activity. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that the expression levels of the ferroptosis-associated genes heme oxygenase-1, glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic and glutamate-cysteine ligase modifier were significantly upregulated after Andrographis treatment in both GC cell lines in reverse transcription-quantitative PCR experiments (P<0.05); this finding was further confirmed by immunoblotting assays (P<0.05). In conclusion, to the best of our knowledge, the present study was the first to demonstrate that Andrographis possessed antitumor properties by altering the expression levels of ferroptosis-associated genes, thereby providing novel insights into the potential of Andrographis as an adjunctive treatment option for patients with metastatic GC.

Andrographis overcomes 5-fluorouracil-associated chemoresistance through inhibition of DKK1 in colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks as the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the USA. 5-Fluorouracil (5FU)-based chemotherapeutic drug remains a mainstay of CRC treatment. Unfortunately, ~50-60% of patients eventually develop resistance to 5FU, leading to poor survival outcomes. Our previous work revealed that andrographis enhanced 5FU-induced anti-cancer activity, but the underlying mechanistic understanding largely remains unclear. In this study, we first established 5FU-resistant (5FUR) CRC cells and observed that combined treatment with andrographis-5FU in 5FUR cells exhibited superior effect on cell viability, proliferation, and colony formation capacity compared with individual treatments (P < 0.001). To identify key genes and pathways responsible for 5FU resistance, we analyzed genome-wide transcriptomic profiling data from CRC patients who either responded or did not respond to 5FU. Among a panel of differentially expressed genes, Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) overexpression was a critical event for 5FU resistance. Moreover, andrographis significantly downregulated 5FU-induced DKK1 overexpression, accompanied with enhanced anti-tumor effects by abrogating downstream Akt-phosphorylation. In line with in vitro findings, andrographis enhanced 5FU-induced anti-cancer activity in mice xenografts and patient-derived tumoroids (P < 0.01). In conclusion, our data provide novel evidence for andrographis-mediated reversal of 5FU resistance, highlighting its potential role as an adjunct to conventional chemotherapy in CRC.

Natural Polyphyllins (I, II, D, VI, VII) Reverses Cancer Through Apoptosis, Autophagy, Mitophagy, Inflammation, and Necroptosis

Cancer is the second leading cause of mortality worldwide. Conventional therapies, including surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, have limited success because of secondary resistance. Therefore, safe, non-resistant, less toxic, and convenient drugs are urgently required. Natural products (NPs), primarily sourced from medicinal plants, are ideal for cancer treatment because of their low toxicity and high success. NPs cure cancer by regulating different pathways, such as PI3K/AKT/mTOR, ER stress, JNK, Wnt, STAT3, MAPKs, NF-kB, MEK-ERK, inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, mitophagy, and necroptosis. Among the NPs, steroid saponins, including polyphyllins (I, II, D, VI, and VII), have potent pharmacological, analgesic, and anticancer activities for the induction of cytotoxicity. Recent research has demonstrated that polyphyllins (PPs) possess potent effects against different cancers through apoptosis, autophagy, inflammation, and necroptosis. This review summarizes the available studies on PPs against cancer to provide a basis for future research.

Synergistic potential of dual andrographolide and melatonin targeting of metastatic colon cancer cells: Using the Chou-Talalay combination index method

Colorectal cancer (CRC) mortality has diminished for decades due to new and improved treatment profiles. However, CRC still ranks as the third most diagnosed cancer in the US. Therefore, a new therapeutic approach is needed to overcome colospheroids inhibition and drug resistance. It is well documented that andrographolide (AGP) and melatonin (MLT) have anti-carcinogenic properties. Our goal was to evaluate their synergistic effects on metastatic colon cancer cells (mCRC) and colospheroids. HT-29 and HCT-15 mCRC cells were simultaneously treated with serial dilutions of AGP and MLT for 24, 48 and 72 h. Cell viability was monitored using the MTT assay. The Chou-Talalay method for drug combination is based on the median effect equation, providing a theoretical basis for the combination index and the isobologram equation. This allows quantitative determination of drug interactions using the CompuSyn software, where CI < 1, = 1, and >1 indicates synergistic, additive, and antagonistic effects respectively. Our results demonstrate that AGP and MLT in combination show synergism with CI values of 0.35293 and 0.34152 for HT-29 and HCT-15 respectively and a fractional inhibition of Fa = 0.50-0.90, as shown by the Fa-CI plot and isobologram. The synergism value was validated in colospheroids (HT-29-s and HCT-15-s) based on morphology, viability, and colony formation and in 5-FU drug resistant cell (HT-29R and HCT-116R) viability. The mechanism(s) of decreased cell viability are due to the induction of ER stress proteins and angiogenic inhibition. Our results provide rationale for using AGP in combination with MLT on mCRC.

Quercetin induces p53-independent cancer cell death through lysosome activation by the transcription factor EB and Reactive Oxygen Species-dependent ferroptosis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Cancer cells exhibit more dependence on iron and enhanced sensitivity to iron-dependent, programmed cell death (ferroptosis) than normal cells. Quercetin exerts anti-cancer effects, but the underlying molecular mechanism is largely unknown. In this study, we aimed to investigate the involvement of lysosome function and ferroptosis in the anti-cancer potential of quercetin.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

We used MTT assays and DNA content analysis to evaluate the cytotoxicity, colony formation assay to investigate cell proliferation, and flow cytometry and confocal microscopy to detect lysosomal acidification and protease enzyme activity. Western blotting, cell subfractionation, RT-PCR and siRNA transfection were used to establish molecular mechanisms of action.

KEY RESULTS

Quercetin is known to promote p53-independent cell death in various cancer cell lines. Although quercetin induces autophagy, genetic silencing of Atg7 fails to affect quercetin-induced cell death. In contrast, both lysosome inhibitors and knockdown of the transcription factor EB can prevent quercetin-induced cell death, suggesting the involvement of lysosome. Next, quercetin is found to induce lysosomal activation sequentially through nuclear translocation of EB and transcriptional activation of lysosomal genes. Notably, quercetin promoted lysosome-dependent ferritin degradation and free iron release. This action and quercetin-induced ROS generation synergistically resulted in lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis. Furthermore, Bid may link ferroptosis with apoptosis to cause cell death.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Quercetin induced EB-mediated lysosome activation and increased ferritin degradation leading to ferroptosis and Bid-involved apoptosis. Results from this study may expand our current knowledge about the mechanism of quercetin as an anti-cancer agent.

Molecular mechanisms of anticancer activities of polyphyllin VII

Cancer is the leading cause of mortality in the world. The major therapies for cancer treatment are chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy. All these therapies expensive, toxic and show resistance. The plant-derived compounds are considered safe, cost-effective and target cancer through different pathways. In these pathways include oxidative stress, mitochondrial dependent and independent, STAT3, NF-kB, MAPKs, cell cycle, and autophagy pathways. One of the new plants derived compounds is Polyphyllin VII (PPVII), which target cancer through different molecular mechanisms. In literature, there is a review gap of studies on PPVII; therefore in the current review, we summarized the available studies on PPVII to provide a base for future research.

Andrographolide, an Anti-Inflammatory Multitarget Drug: All Roads Lead to Cellular Metabolism

Andrographolide is a labdane diterpene and the main active ingredient isolated from the herb Andrographis paniculata. Andrographolide possesses diverse biological effects including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antineoplastic properties. Clinical studies have demonstrated that andrographolide could be useful in therapy for a wide range of diseases such as osteoarthritis, upper respiratory diseases, and multiple sclerosis. Several targets are described for andrographolide, including the interference of transcription factors NF-κB, AP-1, and HIF-1 and signaling pathways such as PI3K/Akt, MAPK, and JAK/STAT. In addition, an increase in the Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2) signaling pathway also supports its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, this scenario could be more complex since recent evidence suggests that andrographolide targets can modulate glucose metabolism. The metabolic effect of andrographolide might be the key to explaining the diverse therapeutic effects described in preclinical and clinical studies. This review discusses some of the most recent evidence about the anti-inflammatory and metabolic effects of andrographolide.

Andrographolide Induces Apoptosis and Cell Cycle Arrest through Inhibition of Aberrant Hedgehog Signaling Pathway in Colon Cancer Cells

BACKGROUND

Hedgehog signaling pathway (Hh) is abnormally stimulated in colon cancer. Evidence suggests the therapeutic effectiveness of andrographolide against several cancers. This study attempts to delineate the effect of andrographolide on Hh signaling pathway in colon cancer HCT-116 cells. Methods: Effects of andrographolide were studied on HCT-116 cells by evaluating cytotoxicity by MTT assay, morphology assessment, trypan blue exclusion, and colony formation assay; migratory potential by scratch assay; apoptosis by DAPI, Hoechst staining, FITC-Annexin V assay, and caspases activation; mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) by Mito Tracker and Rhodamine 123. Intracellular ROS by DCFH-DA staining. Cell cycle regulation by flow cytometry. Expression of BAX, BAD, BCL2, Cyclin B1, CDK1, Smo, and Gli1 by qRT-PCR. Interaction between andrographolide and Smo protein by in-silico molecular docking. Results: Andrographolide induced antiproliferative effect on HCT-116 cells in a dose-dependent and time-dependent manner. It also induced apoptosis and anti-migratory effect in HCT-116 cells. In combination with 5FU, andrographolide exhibited synergistic effect. It Induced G2/M phase arrest through downregulating CDK1 and Cyclin B1. Andrographolide also inhibited Hh signaling by downregulating Smo and Gli1 in HCT-116 cells. It showed high affinity toward Smo protein in-silico. Conclusion: Andrographolide repressed the colon cancer cell growth via inhibiting Hh signaling pathway.

The Prowess of Andrographolide as a Natural Weapon in the War against Cancer

There has been a paradigm shift in our understanding about the multifaceted nature of cancer, and a wealth of information has revealed that single-target drugs are not good enough to provide satisfactory clinical outcomes and therapeutic effects for complex diseases which involve multiple factors. Therefore, there has been a reignition to search for natural products having premium pharmacological activities aim to efficiently target multiple deregulated cellular signaling pathways. Andrographolide, a diterpene lactone from Andrographis paniculata was brought into to the limelight because of its ability to inhibit cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis. Here we reviewed andrographolide on cellular pathways regulation including Wnt/β-catenin, mTOR, VEGF-mediated intracellular signaling, as well as TRAIL-mediated apoptosis to inhibit cancer development.

Efficacy of Andrographis paniculata supplements induce a non-specific immune system against the pathogenicity of Aeromonas hydrophila infection in Indian major carp (Labeo rohita)

Aeromonas hydrophila, an opportunistic fish pathogen, which causes several major diseases including skin ulcer and haemorrhagic septicemia, contributes considerably to the lethality in aquaculture. Chemical and antibiotic treatment employed against A. hydrophila for disease management are expensive and consequently prompted the advent of drug resistance among the pathogens. To overcome these draw backs, alternative aquatic disease control methods using conventional plant-based medicines are focussed. Our present study aimed to augment the fish non-specific immune system with the implementation of methanolic crude extracts of Andrographis paniculata to Labeo rohita, for evaluating their efficacy against A. hydrophila. Histology of major organs of A. hydrophila-infected fish such as the gills and liver displayed severe tissue damage. A. paniculata extracts exhibited the strong antibacterial activity against A. hydrophila even at lower concentrations (50 μl). The extracts also altered the haematological profile of treated infected fishes by increasing the levels of haemoglobin and total erythrocyte-leucocyte counts, along with the phagocytic index. The extracts also had a significant impact on modifying the anatomy and swimming pattern of infected fish, post treatment with the extracts. Also, A. paniculata treated infected fishes in all the plant extract administration methods, viz. injection, oral feeding and diffusion, and reduced the cumulative mortality rate to less than 30%. Even lower concentrations of A. paniculata extracts (50 μl) resulted in maximum relative percentage survival of treated fishes. Therefore, our findings suggest that A. paniculata was effective against A. hydrophila infection in aquaculture, thereby maintaining a healthy status of these fishes in aquaculture.

Targeting the JAK/STAT Signaling Pathway Using Phytocompounds for Cancer Prevention and Therapy

Cancer is a prevalent cause of mortality around the world. Aberrated activation of Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) signaling pathway promotes tumorigenesis. Natural agents, including phytochemicals, exhibit potent anticancer activities via various mechanisms. However, the therapeutic potency of phytoconstituents as inhibitors of JAK/STAT signaling against cancer has only come into focus in recent days. The current review highlights phytochemicals that can suppress the JAK/STAT pathway in order to impede cancer cell growth. Various databases, such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, SpringerLink, Scopus, and Google Scholar, were searched using relevant keywords. Once the authors were in agreement regarding the suitability of a study, a full-length form of the relevant article was obtained, and the information was gathered and cited. All the complete articles that were incorporated after the literature collection rejection criteria were applied were perused in-depth and material was extracted based on the importance, relevance, and advancement of the apprehending of the JAK/STAT pathway and their relation to phytochemicals. Based on the critical and comprehensive analysis of literature presented in this review, phytochemicals from diverse plant origins exert therapeutic and cancer preventive effects, at least in part, through regulation of the JAK/STAT pathway. Nevertheless, more preclinical and clinical research is necessary to completely comprehend the capability of modulating JAK/STAT signaling to achieve efficient cancer control and treatment.

Crosstalk between endoplasmic reticulum stress and anti-viral activities: A novel therapeutic target for COVID-19

The outbreak of COVID-19 caused by 2019–nCov/SARS-CoV-2 has become a pandemic with an urgent need for understanding the mechanisms and identifying a treatment. Viral infections including SARS-CoV are associated with increased levels of reactive oxygen species, disturbances of Ca⁺⁺ caused by unfolded protein response (UPR) mediated by endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and is due to the exploitation of virus's own protein i.e., viroporins into the host cells. Several clinical trials are on-going including testing Remdesivir (anti-viral), Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine derivatives (anti-malarial drugs) etc. Unfortunately, each drug has specific limitations. Herein, we review the viral protein involvement to activate ER stress transducers (IRE-1, PERK, ATF-6) and their downstream signals; and evaluate combination therapies for COVID-19 mediated ER stress alterations. Melatonin is an immunoregulator, anti-pyretic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and ER stress modulator during viral infections. It enhances protective mechanisms for respiratory tract disorders. Andrographolide, isolated from Andrographis paniculata, has versatile biological activities including immunomodulation and determining SARS-CoV-2 binding site. Considering the properties of both compounds in terms of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-pyrogenic, anti-viral and ER stress modulation and computational approaches revealing andrographolide docks with the SARS-CoV2 binding site, we predict that this combination therapy may have potential utility against COVID-19.

Cytotoxicity and Synergistic Effect of Biogenically Synthesized Ternary Therapeutic Nano Conjugates Comprising Plant Active Principle, Silver and Anticancer Drug on MDA-MB-453 Breast Cancer Cell Line

Drug delivery through biogenically synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in cancer treatment is exerted by smaller size entailing high surface area and synergistic effects of embedded biomolecules. In this study, prepared ternary conjugates of silver with plant active compound and anticancer drug towards reducing the dose through synergy, rendered by Electrostatic Attraction (EA) of functionalized drug on to the surface of biogenically synthesized AgNPs. The biogenic synthesis resulted in particles of nanometer range as well as serving reducing and capping agents. The cytotoxicity and synergistic effect of ternary therapeutic nano conjugates evaluated using MDA-MB-453 breast cancer cells were found to be superior than Doxorubicin (Dox). Quantitative HPTLC analysis showed 57.22 % inhibition by Dox-AP-AgNPs at a concentration of 2.5 µg/mL of Andrographolide and 0.95 µg/mL of Dox validating synergistic effect of the ternary conjugate.

Hsp105α suppresses Adriamycin-induced cell death via nuclear localization signal-dependent nuclear accumulation

Heat shock protein 105 (Hsp105) is a molecular chaperone, and the isoforms Hsp105α and Hsp105β exhibit distinct functions with different subcellular localizations. Hsp105β localizes in the nucleus and induces the expression of the major heat shock protein Hsp70, whereas cytoplasmic Hsp105α is less effective in inducing Hsp70 expression. Hsp105 shuttles between the cytoplasm and the nucleus; the subcellular localization is governed by the relative activities of the nuclear localization signal (NLS) and nuclear export signal (NES). Here, we show that nuclear accumulation of Hsp105α but not Hsp105β is involved in Adriamycin (ADR) sensitivity. Knockdown of Hsp105α induces cell death at low ADR concentration, at which ADR is less effective in inducing cell death in the presence of Hsp105α. Of note, Hsp105 is localized in the nucleus under these conditions, even though Hsp105β is not expressed, indicating that Hsp105α accumulates in the nucleus in response to ADR treatment. The exogenously expressed Hsp105α but not its NLS mutant localizes in the nucleus of ADR-treated cells. In addition, the expression level of the nuclear export protein chromosomal maintenance 1 (CRM1) was decreased by ADR treatment of cells, and CRM1 knockdown caused nuclear accumulation of Hsp105α both in the presence and absence of ADR. These results indicating that Hsp105α accumulates in the nucleus in a manner dependent on the NLS activity via the suppression of nuclear export. Our findings suggest a role of nuclear Hsp105α in the sensitivity against DNA-damaging agents in tumor cells.

Andrographolide sensitizes prostate cancer cells to TRAIL-induced apoptosis

Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is a promising agent for anticancer therapy. The identification of small molecules that can establish the sensitivity of prostate cancer (PCa) cells to TRAIL-induced apoptosis is crucial for the targeted treatment of PCa. PC3, DU145, JAC-1, TsuPr1, and LNCaP cells were treated with Andrographolide (Andro) and TRAIL, and the apoptosis was measured using the Annexin V/PI double staining method. Real time-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Western blot analysis were performed to measure the expression levels of target molecules. RNA interference technique was used to down-regulate the expression of the target protein. We established a nude mouse xenograft model of PCa, which was used to measure the caspase-3 activity in the tumor cells using flow cytometry. In this research study, our results demonstrated that Andro preferentially increased the sensitivity of PCa cells to TRAIL-induced apoptosis at subtoxic concentrations, and the regulation mechanism was related to the up-regulation of DR4. In addition, it also increased the p53 expression and led to the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the cells. Further research revealed that the DR4 inhibition, p53 expression, and ROS generation can significantly reduce the apoptosis induced by the combination of TRAIL and Andro in PCa cells. In conclusion, Andro increases the sensitivity of PCa cells to TRAIL-induced apoptosis through the generation of ROS and up-regulation of p53 and then promotes PCa cell apoptosis associated with the activation of DR4.

Identification of Chinese Herbal Compounds with Potential as JAK3 Inhibitors

The Janus kinases (JAKs) consist of four similar tyrosine kinases and function as key hubs in the signaling pathways that are implicated in both innate and adaptive immunity. Among the four members, JAK3 is probably the more attractive target for treatment of inflammatory diseases because its inhibition demonstrates the greatest immunosuppression and most profound effect in the treatment of such disorders. Although many JAK3 inhibitors are already available, certain shortcomings have been identified, mostly acquired drug resistance or unwanted side effects. To discover and identify new promising lead candidates, in this study, the structure of JAK3 (3LXK) was obtained from the Protein Data Bank and used for simulation modeling and protein-ligand interaction analysis. The ~36,000 Chinese herbal compounds obtained from TCM Database@Taiwan were virtually screened by AutoDock Vina docking program and filtered with Lipinski's Rules and ADME/T virtual predictions. Because of high occurrence of fake hits during docking, we selected 12 phytochemicals which have demonstrated modulating JAKs expressions among the top 50 chemicals from docking results. To validate whether these compounds are able to directly mediate JAK3 kinase, we have investigated the inhibitory activity using enzymatic activity assays, western blot, and HEK 293 cell STAT5 transactivity assays. The molecular analysis included docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations in order to investigate structural conformations and to explore the key amino acids in the interaction between JAK3 kinase and its putative ligands. The results demonstrated that Cryptotanshinone, Icaritin, and Indirubin exhibited substantial inhibitory activity against JAK3 kinase in vitro. The results also provide binding models of the protein-ligand interaction, detailing the interacting amino acid residues at the active ATP-binding domains of JAK3 kinase. In conclusion, our work discovered 3 potential natural inhibitors of JAK3 kinase and could provide new possibilities and stimulate new insights for the treatment of JAK3-targeted diseases.

Sodium butyrate increases P-gp expression in lung cancer by upregulation of STAT3 and mRNA stabilization of ABCB1

As a new type of anticancer drug, the effect of histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACIs) in cancer clinical therapy is disappointing owing to drug resistance. P-glycoprotein (P-gp) is clearly recognized as a multidrug resistance protein. However, the relationship between P-gp and sodium butyrate (SB), a kind of HDACIs, has not been investigated. In this study, we found that SB increased mRNA and protein expression of P-gp in lung cancer cells and the underlying mechanisms were elucidated. We found that SB treatment enhanced the mRNA and protein expression of STAT3 rather than that of β-catenin, Foxo3a, PXR, or CAR, which were reported to directly regulate the transcription of ABCB1, a P-gp-encoding gene. Interestingly, inhibition of STAT3 expression obviously attenuated SB-increased P-gp expression in lung cancer cells, indicating that STAT3 played an important role in SB-mediated P-gp upregulation. Furthermore, we found that SB increased the mRNA stability of ABCB1. In summary, this study showed that SB increased P-gp expression by facilitating transcriptional activation and improving ABCB1 mRNA stability. This study indicated that we should pay more attention to HDACIs during cancer clinical therapy.

Oncosuppressors and Oncogenes: Role in Haemangioma Genesis and Potential for Therapeutic Targeting

Genetic lesions in proto-oncogenes result in the perturbation of angiogenesis, the formation of neovessels from a pre-existing microvasculature. Similarly, the subversion of tumor suppressor genes promotes tumor vascularization. Excessive neovessel formation is associated with various neoplasms such as infantile hemangiomas (IH). Hemangiomas are the most common tumors in pediatric patients and at present have no definitive treatment. The pathogenesis of IH is not well understood; however, both vasculogenesis and angiogenesis are associated with hemangioma genesis. A number of factors that modulate angiogenesis and vasculogenesis have been shown to be dysregulated in IH. Several of the oncogenes and tumor suppressors linked to the promotion of angiogenesis are also altered in infantile hemangioma. In this review, the roles of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes during neovascularization and hemangioma genesis are explored. In addition, the potential for targeting these genes in IH therapy is discussed.

Andrographolide, a diterpene lactone from Andrographis paniculata and its therapeutic promises in cancer

The diterpene lactone andrographolide, isolated from Andrographis paniculata, has been proven to possess several important protective biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antiseptic, antimicrobial, cytotoxic, hypolipidemic, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective effects. In addition, it has been reported to play a therapeutic role in the treatment of major human diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and colitis. This systematic review aims to highlight andrographolide as a promising agent in cancer treatment. To this purpose, a number of databases were used to search for the cytotoxic/anticancer effects of andrographolide in pre-clinical and clinical studies. Among 1703 identified literature articles, 139 were included in this review; 109 were investigated as non-clinical, whereas 24, 3, and 3 were pre-clinical, clinical, and non-pre-clinical trials, respectively. Among the model systems, cultured cell lines appeared as the most frequently (79.14%) used, followed by in vivo models using rodents, among others. Furthermore, andrographolide was found to exert cytotoxic/anticancer effects on almost all types of cell lines with the underlying mechanisms involving oxidative stress, cell cycle arrest, anti-inflammatory and immune system mediated effects, apoptosis, necrosis, autophagy, inhibition of cell adhesion, proliferation, migration, invasion, anti-angiogenic activity, and other miscellaneous actions. After careful consideration of the relevant evidence, we suggest that andrographolide can be one of the potential agents in the treatment of cancer in the near future.

Inhibition of two gastric cancer cell lines induced by fucoxanthin involves downregulation of Mcl-1 and STAT3

Fucoxanthin is a natural carotenoid that had never been previously demonstrated to have anti-tumor effect on human gastric adenocarcinoma SGC-7901 or BGC-823 cells. Here it was found to inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis through JAK/STAT signal pathway in these cells; the mechanism by which this occurred was investigated. We find that fucoxanthin significantly increased the number of apoptotic cells by propidium iodide (PI) dye staining and flow cytometry. Fucoxanthin (50 or 75 μM) induced SGC-7901 cells cycle arrest at S phase, while BGC-823 cells arrest at G2/M phase. RT-PCR and western blot analysis revealed that the expressions of Mcl-1, STAT3 and p-STAT3 were obviously decreased by fucoxanthin in a dose-dependent manner. Synthetic siRNA targeting Mcl-1 was transfected into cells which had no effect on expressions of STAT3. After pretreatment with AG490 (50 μM) which led to blocking of the JAK/STAT signal pathway, the reductive expressions of Mcl-1, STAT3 and p-STAT3 caused by fucoxanthin were inhibited. This is the first analysis of effects on SGC-7901 and BGC-823 cells by fucoxanthin. Fucoxanthin can induce cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis in these cells. These effects involved downregulation of Mcl-1, STAT3 and p-STAT3. This work is significant for better understanding of mechanisms leading to human gastric adenocarcinoma formation and informing exploitation of anti-tumor marine drug, and for providing Mcl-1 and STAT3 as potential therapeutic targets for gastric adenocarcinoma.

Andrographolide enhances cisplatin-mediated anticancer effects in lung cancer cells through blockade of autophagy

Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related death worldwide and the platinum-based drugs such as cisplatin have been used as the first line of the treatment. However, the clinical effectiveness of such chemotherapy is limited by intrinsic or acquired resistance. In this study, we found that cisplatin induced autophagy that attenuated the sensitivity of both A549 and Lewis lung cancer (LLC) cells to cisplatin. In contrast, the clinical drug andrographolide (Andro) suppressed autophagy and enhanced cisplatin-mediated apoptosis in these cells. Using two murine lung cancer models, including a subcutaneously inoculated LLC model and an orthotopic LLC implantation model, we investigated the therapeutic efficacy of the combined treatment of cisplatin and Andro. Compared with the sole cisplatin treatment, combining cisplatin with Andro potentially inhibited tumor growth, reduced the incidence of lung metastases, and relieved renal tubular damage. Moreover, the combined treatment prolonged the life span of tumor-bearing mice. TUNEL and immunohistochemistry assays showed the increase in apoptotic cells and the decrease in both conversion of LC3B-I to LC3B-II and Atg5 protein expression in the tumor tissues from mice with the combined treatment. These results suggest that Andro offers an ideal candidate of autophagy inhibitors in clinical application, and combination of cisplatin with Andro could be a promising strategy for the treatment of lung cancer.

Role of medicinal plants on growth performance and immune status in fish

Disease outbreaks increase proportionally with increases in intensive aquaculture. Natural products including medicinal plants have been known from thousands of years for treating some human diseases. It is well known that many active compounds are responsible for potential bio-activities. For that reason, there has been considerable interest in the use of medicinal plants in aquaculture with a view to providing safe and eco-friendly compounds for replacing antibiotics and chemical compounds as well as to enhance immune status and control fish diseases. This article describes a wide range of medicinal plants such as herbs, seeds, and spices with different forms such as crude, extracts, mixed and active compounds, used as immunostimulants and resulting in a marked enhancement in the immune system of fish to prevent and control microbial diseases. Moreover, different activity was recorded from plant parts like seeds, roots, flowers and leaves. The mode of action of medicinal plants was stimulation of the cellular and humoral immune response which was monitored through elevation in immune parameters. Various levels of immune stimulation have been shown by medicinal plants at different concentrations through injection or immersion or oral administration. However, it is critically important to determine the optimal dose to enhance the immune system of fish and avoid the risk of immunosuppression. Some medicinal plants have been used to replace the protein in fishmeal as a cheap source of protein and proved to be efficient in this respect. Medicinal plants can act as a growth promoter and immunomodulator at the same time. Further investigations should be carried out to examine the influence of those plants on fish health (including physiological and histological parameters) as a preliminary step for use in large scale in aquaculture. The current review describes the role of medicinal plants and their derivatives on innate and adaptive immune status as well as growth performance in fish.

Solanum nigrum Unripe fruit fraction attenuates Adriamycin resistance by down-regulating multi-drug resistance protein (Mdr)-1 through Jak-STAT pathway

Background

Solanum nigrum, herbal plant that commonly grows in temperate climate zone, has been used as a traditional folk medicine whose ripen fruits were proven to exhibit anti-tumor properties. In traditional Chinese medicine, it has been used for centuries to cure inflammation, edema, mastitis and hepatic cancer and in the Ayurvedic system of traditional medicine in India, S. nigrum is applied against enteric diseases, ulcer, diarrhea and skin diseases. A methanolic glycosidic extract fraction of unripe fruit of S. nigrum (SNME) was investigated for its anticancer property and possible mechanism to surmount adriamycin resistance in NCI/ADR-RES cells.

Methods

The NCI/ADR-RES cells were treated with 7.8125, 15.625, 31.25, 62.5, 125 and 250 μg/ml of methanolic extract of S. nigrum (SNME) for 12, 24 and 48 h, to check the cell viability and proliferation. The cells were also exposed to adriamycin alone or in combination with SNME and the effects on cell growth were determined by MTT. Cell cycle analysis, Ethidium bromide and Acridine orange staining, Annexin-binding efficiency, nuclear condensation and DNA fragmentation of the apoptotic NCI/ADR-RES cells were also determined. To elucidate the relationship between SNME and multi drug resistance, we analyzed the expression levels of Mdr-1, JAK1, STAT3, and pSTAT3 in NCI/ADR-RES cells after treatment with SNME.

Results

Results from the cytotoxicity assay showed a direct correlation between the concentration of methanolic glycosidic extract fraction of S. nigrum (SNME) and the surviving cell population. Combination with Adriamycin, SNME exhibits a synergistic action on NCI/ADR-RES cells, giving the first line of evidence to overcoming Adriamycin resistance. The SNME mediated cell growth suppression was proven to be apoptotic, based on results obtained from DNA fragmentation, annexin V apoptosis assaay and PARP cleavage analysis. Looking into the molecular insight SNME surpasses the chemoresistance of NCI/ADR-RES cells by inhibiting the JAK-STAT3 signaling pathway through the down regulation of JAK1, STAT3, pSTAT3, and Mdr1 expression.

Conclusions

Collectively our findings suggest that unripe fruit of Solanum nigrum could possibly be used as a chemosensitizing agent against Adriamycin resistant cancers.

Anti-tumor effect of cisplatin in human oral squamous cell carcinoma was enhanced by andrographolide via upregulation of phospho-p53 in vitro and in vivo

Oral squamous cell carcinoma is one of the most common neoplasm in the world. Despite the improvements in diagnosis and treatment, the outcome is still poor now. Thus, the development of novel therapeuticapproaches is needed. The aim of this study is to assess the synergistic anti-tumor effect of andrographolide with cisplatin (DDP) in oral squamous cell carcinoma CAL-27 cells in vitro and in vivo. We performed Cell Counting Kit-8 proliferation assay, apoptosis assay, and western blotting on CAL-27 cells treated with andrographolide, DDP or the combination in vitro. In vivo, we also treated CAL-27 xenografts with andrographolide or the combination, and performed terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick-end labeling assay and immunohistochemical analysis of Ki-67. The results showed the combination of andrographolide and DDP synergistically inhibited CAL-27 cell proliferation in vitro and caused tumor regression in vivo in the CAL-27 xenografts. In addition, the synergistic anti-tumor effect of andrographolide with synergistic was due to an enhanced apoptosis. Moreover, the combination therapy upregulated the expression level of p-p53 in vitro and decreased Ki-67 expression in vivo. Our data indicate that the combination treatment of andrographolide and DDP results in synergistic anti-tumor growth activity against oral squamous cell carcinoma CAL-27 in vitro and in vivo. These results demonstrated that combination of andrographolide with DDP was likely to represent a potential therapeutic strategy for oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Prevention and treatment of cancer targeting chronic inflammation: research progress, potential agents, clinical studies and mechanisms

Numerous experimental and clinical studies indicate that chronic inflammation is closely related to the initiation, progression, and spread of cancer, in which proinflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and transcription factors, such as nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), play pivotal roles. Stimulated by proinflammatory cytokines, NF-κB and STAT3 can modulate the expression of target genes, most of which are oncogenic ones, and promote the survival, proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of cancer cells. Now it is generally accepted that inflammation-related molecules and pathways are useful targets for the prevention and treatment of cancer. In this review, we summarize the relationship between chronic inflammation and cancer and describe some potentially useful agents including aspirin, meformin, statins, and some natural products (green tea catechins, andrographolide, curcumin) for their cancer prevention and treatment activities targeting chronic inflammation. The results of typical clinical studies are included, and the influences of these agents on the proinflammatory cytokines and inflammation-related pathways are discussed. Data from the present review support that agents targeting chronic inflammation may have a broad application prospect for the prevention and treatment of cancer in the future.