Induction of apoptosis by furanodiene in HL60 leukemia cells through activation of TNFR1 signaling pathway

Research Progress on Sesquiterpenoids of Curcumae Rhizoma and Their Pharmacological Effects

Curcumae Rhizoma, a traditional Chinese medicine with a wide range of pharmacological activities, is obtained from the dried rhizomes of Curcuma phaeocaulis VaL., Curcuma kwangsiensis S. G. Lee et C. F. Liang, and Curcuma wenyujin Y. H. Chen et C. Ling. Sesquiterpenoids and curcuminoids are found to be the main constituents of Curcumae Rhizoma. Sesquiterpenoids are composed of three isoprene units and are susceptible to complex transformations, such as cyclization, rearrangement, and oxidation. They are the most structurally diverse class of plant-based natural products with a wide range of biological activities and are widely found in nature. In recent years, scholars have conducted abundant studies on the structures and pharmacological properties of components of Curcumae Rhizoma. This article elucidates the chemical structures, medicinal properties, and biological properties of the sesquiterpenoids (a total of 274 compounds) isolated from Curcumae Rhizoma. We summarized extraction and isolation methods for sesquiterpenoids, established a chemical component library of sesquiterpenoids in Curcumae Rhizoma, and analyzed structural variances among sesquiterpenoids sourced from Curcumae Rhizoma of diverse botanical origins. Furthermore, our investigation reveals a diverse array of sesquiterpenoid types, encompassing guaiane-type, germacrane-type, eudesmane-type, elemane-type, cadinane-type, carane-type, bisabolane-type, humulane-type, and other types, emphasizing the relationship between structural diversity and activity. We hope to provide a valuable reference for further research and exploitation and pave the way for the development of new drugs derived from medicinal plants.

Potential roles and molecular mechanisms of bioactive ingredients in Curcumae Rhizoma against breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer worldwide, with high morbidity and mortality. Despite great advances in the therapeutic strategies, the survival rate in the past decades of patients with breast cancer remains unsatisfactory. Growing evidence has demonstrated that Curcumae Rhizoma, called Ezhu in Chinese, showed various pharmacological properties, including anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor activities. It has been widely used in Chinese medicine to treat many types of human cancer.

PURPOSE

To comprehensively summarize and analyze the effects of active substances in Curcumae Rhizoma on breast cancer malignant phenotypes and the underlying mechanisms, as well as discuss its medicinal value and future perspectives.

METHOD

We used "Curcumae Rhizoma" or the name of crude extracts and bioactive components in Curcumae Rhizoma in combination with "breast cancer" as key words. Studies focusing on their anti-breast cancer activities and mechanisms of action were extracted from Pubmed, Web of Science and CNKI databases up to October 2022. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guideline was followed.

RESULTS

Crude extracts and 7 main bioactive phytochemicals (curcumol, β-elemene, furanodiene, furanodienone, germacrone, curdione and curcumin) isolated from Curcumae Rhizoma have shown many anti-breast cancer pharmacological properties, including inhibiting cell proliferation, migration, invasion and stemness, reversing chemoresistance, and inducing cell apoptosis, cycle arrest and ferroptosis. The mechanisms of action were involved in regulating MAPK, PI3K/AKT and NF-κB signaling pathways. In vivo and clinical studies demonstrated that these compounds exhibited high anti-tumor efficacy and safety against breast cancer.

CONCLUSION

These findings provide strong evidence that Curcumae Rhizoma acts as a rich source of phytochemicals and has robust anti-breast cancer properties.

Review of the traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of Curcuma wenyujin Y. H. Chen et C. Ling

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Curcuma wenyujin is a multifunctional medicinal plant belonging to the ginger family (Zingiberaceae). It has been used to treat blood stasis, promote the flow of qi, dredge the meridians, and relieve pain for more than 1500 years. Its raw rhizomes, steamed rhizomes, and steamed roots constitute three herbal medicines currently listed in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia: pian-jiang-huang (), wen-e-zhu () and wen-yu-jin (), respectively.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

The aim of this review was to comprehensively summarize the traditional use, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of C. wenyujin in order to provide theoretical support for its further investigation and utilization.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Multiple databases (Scifinder, CNKI, Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Baidu Scholar) were searched. Some information was also obtained from the literatures on traditional Chinese medicine.

RESULTS

A total of 169 compounds have been isolated from C. wenyujin so far. Sesquiterpenoids are the major constituents and are crucial chemotaxonomic markers. Modern pharmacological studies and clinical trials have demonstrated that the extracts or active compounds from C. wenyujin have anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, and hepatoprotective properties.

CONCLUSIONS

Until now, significant progress has been witnessed in phytochemistry and pharmacology of C. wenyujin. Some traditional uses of C. wenyujin have been supported by modern pharmacological studies. However, the establishment of quality control standards and additional clinical studies are warranted.

Terpenoids from Curcumae Rhizoma: Their anticancer effects and clinical uses on combination and versus drug therapies

Cancer is a fatal disease with high mortality and low survival rate worldwide. At present, there is still no known cure for most cancers. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) represents a noteworthy reservoir for anticancer agents in drug discovery and development. Curcumae Rhizoma (called Ezhu in Chinese) is widely prescribed in TCM for anticancer therapy owing to its broad-spectrum antineoplastic activities. Especially, the terpenoids isolated from the essential oil of Curcumae Rhizoma form an integral part of cancer research and are well established as a potential anticancer agent. For example, β-elemene has been developed into a new drug for the treatment of solid tumors in China, and is currently undergoing clinical trials in the United States. The review aims to systematically summarize the recent advances on the anticancer effects and related molecular mechanisms of Curcumae Rhizoma, and its terpenoids (β-elemene, Furanodiene, Furanodienone, Germacrone, Curcumol, Curdione). In addition, we evaluated and compared the anticancer efficacy and clinical use of the terpenoids with combination therapies and traditional therapies. Therefore, this review provides sufficient evidence for the anticancer therapeutic potential of Curcumae Rhizoma and its terpenoids, and will contribute to the development of potential anticancer drugs.

Nanostructured liquid crystalline particles as delivery vectors for isofuranodiene: Characterization and in-vitro anticancer activity

Isofuranodiene is an oxygenated sesquiterpene containing a furan ring isolated from the essential oil of Smyrnium olusatrum L. (Apiaceae) owning notable anticancer activity. Despite its biological potential, the high lipophilicity along with a relatively low stability due to Cope rearrangement giving rise to a less active compound, make the perspective of its therapeutical use unlikely. On this basis, in the present work we evaluated bulk and dispersed non lamellar liquid crystalline phases as effective delivery vectors for isofuranodiene, and capable of preserving its structure and enhancing the biological activity. Small-angle X-ray scattering, dynamic light scattering, and UV resonance Raman spectroscopy were used to characterize the nanosystems in an integrated experimental approach. Encapsulation of isofuranodiene in the lipid matrix resulted in a transition from a cubic Im3m to a reversed hexagonal phase because of the highly lipophilic character of the drug, as obtained in SAXS measurements, and in significant shifts in the components of the Raman spectrum of isofuranodiene. The anticancer activity of isofuranodiene-loaded lipidic nanoparticles was assessed on MDA-MB 231 cell line by MTT assay and was found to be higher than that of pristine isofuranodiene.

Conformational states of TNFR1 as a molecular switch for receptor function

Tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 (TNFR1) is a transmembrane receptor that plays a key role in the regulation of the inflammatory pathway. While inhibition of TNFR1 has been the focus of many studies for the treatment of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, activation of the receptor is important for the treatment of immunodeficiency diseases such as HIV and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease where a boost in immune signaling is required. In addition, activation of other TNF receptors such as death receptor 5 or FAS receptor is important for cancer therapy. Here, we used a previously established TNFR1 fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) biosensor together with a fluorescence lifetime technology as a high-throughput screening platform to identify a novel small molecule that activates TNFR1 by increasing inter-monomeric spacing in a ligand-independent manner. This shows that the conformational rearrangement of pre-ligand assembled receptor dimers can determine the activity of the receptor. By probing the interaction between the receptor and its downstream signaling molecule (TRADD) our findings support a new model of TNFR1 activation in which varying conformational states of the receptor act as a molecular switch in determining receptor function.

Natural Products and Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A Review Highlighting Mechanisms of Action

Recent findings have shown great potential of alternative interventions such as immunotherapy and natural products for acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This study aims to review the anti-AML effect of various natural compounds. Natural compounds were classified into five groups: alkaloids, carotenoids, nitrogen-containing compounds, organosulfur compounds or phenolics based on each compound’s chemical properties. Fifty-eight studies were collected and reviewed in this article. Phenolics are the most abundant group to have an apoptotic effect over AML cells, while other groups have also shown significant apoptotic effects. Some compounds induced apoptosis by regulating unique mechanism like human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) or laminin receptor (67LR), while others modified caspases, poly (adp-ribose) polymerase (PARP) and p53. Further study is required to identify side-effects of potent compounds and the synergistic effects of combination of two or more natural compounds or existing conventional anti-AML drugs to treat this dreadful disease.

Sensitization and synergistic anti-cancer effects of Furanodiene identified in zebrafish models

Furanodiene is a natural terpenoid isolated from Rhizoma Curcumae, a well-known Chinese medicinal herb that presents anticancer effects in various types of cancer cell lines. In this study, we have successfully established zebrafish xenografts with 5 various human cancer cell lines; and validated these models with anti-cancer drugs used clinically for treating human cancer patients. We found that Furanodiene was therapeutically effective for human JF 305 pancreatic cancer cells and MCF-7 breast cancer cells xenotranplanted into zebrafish. Furanodiene showed a markedly synergistic anti-cancer effect when used in combination with 5-FU (5-Fluorouracil) for both human breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells and human liver cancer BEL-7402 cells xenotransplanted into zebrafish. Unexpectedly, Furanodiene reversed multiple drug resistance in the zebrafish xenotransplanted with cis-Platinum-resistant human non-small cell lung cancer cells and Adriamycin-resistant human breast cancer cells. Furanodiene played its anti-cancer effects through anti-angiogenesis and inducing ROS production, DNA strand breaks and apoptosis. Furanodiene suppresseed efflux transporter Pgp (P-glycoprotein) function and reduced Pgp protein level, but no effect on Pgp related gene (MDR1) expression. These results suggest sensitizition and synergistic anti-cancer effects of Furanodiene that is worthy of a further investigation.

Non-Curcuminoids from Turmeric and Their Potential in Cancer Therapy and Anticancer Drug Delivery Formulations

Over the past decades curcuminoids have been extensively studied for their biological activities such as antiulcer, antifibrotic, antiviral, antibacterial, antiprotozoal, antimutagenic, antifertility, antidiabetic, anticoagulant, antivenom, antioxidant, antihypotensive, antihypocholesteremic, and anticancer activities. With the perception of limited toxicity and cost, these compounds forms an integral part of cancer research and is well established as a potential anticancer agent. However, only few studies have focused on the other bioactive molecules of turmeric, known as non-curcuminoids, which are also equally potent as curcuminoids. This review aims to explore the comprehensive potency including the identification, physicochemical properties, and anticancer mechanism inclusive of molecular docking studies of non-curcuminoids such as turmerones, elemene, furanodiene (FN), bisacurone, germacrone, calebin A (CA), curdione, and cyclocurcumin. An insight into the clinical studies of these curcumin-free compounds are also discussed which provides ample evidence that favors the therapeutic potential of these compounds. Like curcuminoids, limited solubility and bioavailability are the most fragile domain, which circumscribe further applications of these compounds. Thus, this review credits the encapsulation of non-curcuminoid components in diverse drug delivery systems such as co-crystals, solid lipid nanoparticles, liposomes, microspheres, polar-non-polar sandwich (PNS) technology, which help abolish their shortcomings and flaunt their ostentatious benefits as anticancer activities.

Isofuranodiene synergizes with temozolomide in inducing glioma cells death

BACKGROUND

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and deadly brain form of tumor. GBM exhibits high resistance to the standard treatment consisting of temozolomide (TMZ) combined with radiotherapy. Isofuranodiene (IFD) is a bioactive sesquiterpene occurring in the essential oils obtained from Alexanders (Smyrnium olusatrum L., Apiaceae). This compound has shown a broad spectrum of antitumoral activities in different human cancer cell lines both in vitro and in vivo. However, the mechanism of action of IFD on GBM and its potential effects in combination with chemotherapeutic drugs, have not been fully elucidated.

PURPOSE

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the anticancer effects of IFD itself and in combination with TMZ in GBM.

METHODS

Sulforhodamine B-based proliferation assay, cell cycle analysis and Annexin V/PI staining were carried out to determine the IFD effects on three human GBM cell lines, U87, T98, U251 and in normal human astrocyte. Modulation of protein expression levels was determined by western blot analysis. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was evaluated by cytofluorimetry. Moreover, the effects on cell viability of the IFD and TMZ co-administration was evaluated through the calculation of combination index (CI).

RESULTS

IFD exerted cytotoxic effects against the GBM cell lines, but not in normal cells (normal human astrocytes). This compound induced a cell cycle blockage and a necrotic cell death depending on the increase of intracellular ROS levels. Furthermore, the synergism between IFD and TMZ was demonstrated in GBM cell lines.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated the glioma selectivity of IFD and its cytotoxic properties suggesting a new strategy for the treatment of GBM in order to overcome the TMZ resistance and to reduce its side effects.

Umbelliprenin shows antitumor, antiangiogenesis, antimetastatic, anti-inflammatory, and immunostimulatory activities in 4T1 tumor-bearing Balb/c mice

Umbelliprenin (UMB) has shown various pharmacological properties in vitro. We investigated the antineoplastic and immunostimulatory effects of UMB in 4T1 mammary-tumor-bearing mice. Two-hundred microliter of UMB (12.5 mg/ml) was intraperitoneally administrated to healthy and tumor-bearing female Balb/c mice for a period of 18 days. Data was analyzed using GraphPad Prism 5 software for Windows (version 5, La Jolla, CA). UMB caused a significant decrease in tumor size (P < 0.01). Serum interferon gamma (IFNγ) was augmented in both healthy and tumor-bearing animals (P < 0.01), and IL-4 declined in healthy animals (P < 0.01) treated with UMB. Expressions of Ki-67, VEGF, CD31, MMP2, MMP9, VCAM1, and NF-κB were significantly decreased in tumors from UMB-treated animals (P < 0.001), whereas E-Cadherin and TNFR1 expressions were markedly increased (P < 0.001). The rates of liver and lung metastases in UMB-administrated animals were smaller compared to the control. UMB can potently inhibit tumor growth, angiogenesis, metastasis, and inflammation and potentiate an antitumor immune response in vivo. However, further investigations are required to evaluate the UMB mechanisms of action in cancerous cells.

Molecular mechanism of apoptosis induction in Jurkat E6-1 cells by Tribulus terrestris alkaloids extract

The present study demonstrates apoptosis-inducing potential and mechanism of action of Tribulus terristris alkaloid extract in Jurkat E6-1 cancer cell line. Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry and High Resolution-Mass Spectrometry analysis identified the presence of four N-feruloyltyramine derivatives, namely trans-N-feruloyl-3-hydroxytyramine (1), trans-N-coumaroyltyramine (2), trans-N-feruloyltyramine (3) and trans-N-feruloyl-3-ethoxytyramine (4) in the alkaloid extract. Compounds 2 and 3 have not been yet reported in the alkaloid extract of T. terristris. In silico analysis revealed therapeutic potential of N-feruloyltyramine derivatives and strong binding efficiency to both chains of Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor 1. Treatment of alkaloids extract to Jurkat E6-1 clone induced dose-dependent cytotoxicity (LC₅₀ 140.4 μg mL⁻¹). Jurkat cells treated with alkaloids extract at sub-lethal concentration showed DNA fragmentation, enhancement in caspase-3 activity and phosphatidylserine translocation (apoptosis indicator) compared to control cells. Gene expression analysis using Human Apoptosis RT² Profiler PCR Array analysis upon alkaloid treatment was found to significantly alter expression of critical genes such as TNFR1, FADD, AIFM, CASP8, TP53, DFFA and NFKB1. These genes are predicted to mediate apoptotic cell death via both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis pathway. In summary, we report the identification of new N-feruloyltyramine derivatives from alkaloid extract of T. terristris fruit with probable anti-leukemic and pharmacological potential.

Furanodiene Induces Extrinsic and Intrinsic Apoptosis in Doxorubicin-Resistant MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells via NF-κB-Independent Mechanism

Chemotherapy is used as a primary approach in cancer treatment after routine surgery. However, chemo-resistance tends to occur when chemotherapy is used clinically, resulting in poor prognosis and recurrence. Currently, Chinese medicine may provide insight into the design of new therapies to overcome chemo-resistance. Furanodiene, as a heat-sensitive sesquiterpene, is isolated from the essential oil of Rhizoma Curcumae. Even though mounting evidence claiming that furanodiene possesses anti-cancer activities in various types of cancers, the underlying mechanisms against chemo-resistant cancer are not fully clear. Our study found that furanodiene could display anti-cancer effects by inhibiting cell viability, inducing cell cytotoxicity, and suppressing cell proliferation in doxorubicin-resistant MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Furthermore, furanodiene preferentially causes apoptosis by interfering with intrinsic/extrinsic-dependent and NF-κB-independent pathways in doxorubicin-resistant MCF-7 cells. These observations also prompt that furanodiene may be developed as a promising natural product for multidrug-resistant cancer therapy in the future.

Multi-Dimensional Spectrum-Effect Relationship of the Impact of Chinese Herbal Formula Lichong Shengsui Yin on Ovarian Cancer

Lichong Shengsui Yin (LCSSY) is an effective and classic compound prescription of Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCMs) used for the treatment of ovarian cancer. To investigate its pharmacodynamic basis for treating ovarian cancer, the multi-dimensional spectrum-effect relationship was determined. Four compositions (I to IV) were obtained by extracting LCSSY successively with supercritical CO₂ fluid extraction, 75% ethanol reflux extraction, and the water extraction-ethanol precipitation method. Nine samples for pharmacological evaluation and fingerprint analysis were prepared by changing the content of the four compositions. The specific proportions of the four compositions were designed according to a four-factor, three-level L₉(3⁴) orthogonal test. The pharmacological evaluation included in vitro tumor inhibition experiments and the survival extension rate in tumor-bearing nude mice. The fingerprint analyzed by chromatographic condition I (high-performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array detec tor，HPLC-PDA) identified 19 common peaks. High-performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array detector-Evaporative Light-scattering Detector (HPLC-PDA-ELSD )hyphenated techniques were used to compensate for the use of a single detector, and the fingerprint analyzed by chromatographic condition II identified 28 common peaks in PDA and 23 common peaks in ELSD. Furthermore, multiple statistical analyses were utilized to calculate the relationships between the peaks and the pharmacological results. The union of the regression and the correlation analysis results were the peaks of X₅, X₉, X₁₁, X₁₂, X₁₆, X₁₈, Y₅, Y₈, Y₁₂, Y₁₄, Y₂₀, Z₄, Z₅, Z₆, and Z₈. The intersection of the regression and the correlation analysis results were the peaks of X₁₁, X₁₂, X₁₆, X₁₈, Y₅, Y₁₂, and Z₅. The correlated peaks were assigned by comparing the fingerprints with the negative control samples and reference standard samples, and identifying the structure using high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry detector(HPLC-MS). The results suggested that the pharmacodynamic basis of LCSSY on anti-ovarian cancer activities were germacrone, furandiene, β-elemene, calycosin-7-glucoside, ononin, epimedin B, icariin, ginsenoside Rc, astragaloside, ginsenoside Rd, astragaloside II, and some unknown components.

Furanodienone induces G0/G1 arrest and causes apoptosis via the ROS/MAPKs-mediated caspase-dependent pathway in human colorectal cancer cells: a study in vitro and in vivo

Furanodienone, a major bioactive constituents of sesquiterpene derived from Rhizoma Curcumae, has been proven to possess the potent anticancer efficacy on human breast cancer cells. Here, we investigated the cytotoxicity of furanodienone on human colorectal carcinoma cell lines in vitro and in vivo, as well as its underlying molecular mechanisms in the induction of apoptosis. In this study, we found that furanodienone significantly inhibited proliferation of RKO and HT-29 cells, induced mitochondrial dysfunction characterized by collapse of mitochondrial transmembrane potential and reduction of ATP level, and promoted the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that functions upstream of caspase-dependent apoptosis. The antioxidant N-acetyl cysteine, a ROS scavenger, abolished this apoptosis induced by furanodienone. In addition, furanodienone elevated the expression of p-p38, p-JNK, but decreased p-ERK, as a result of the produced ROS. The specific inhibitors U0126, SP600125 and SB202190 attenuated the expression of MAPKs, and regulated the expression of cleaved caspase-8, -9 and -3. Furthermore, the potential inhibitory effect of furanodienone on CRC cells was also corroborated in mouse xenograft model. In conclusion, the results demonstrated that furanodienone-triggered ROS plays a pivotal role in apoptosis as an upstream molecule-modulating activity of caspases in mitochondrial pathway via stimulating MAPKs signaling pathway. Our finding may provide a novel candidate for development of antitumor drugs targeting on colorectal cancer.

Chemical constituents and biological research on plants in the genus Curcuma

Curcuma, a valuable genus in the family Zingiberaceae, includes approximately 110 species. These plants are native to Southeast Asia and are extensively cultivated in India, China, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Peru, Australia, and the West Indies. The plants have long been used in folk medicine to treat stomach ailments, stimulate digestion, and protect the digestive organs, including the intestines, stomach, and liver. In recent years, substantial progress has been achieved in investigations regarding the chemical and pharmacological properties, as well as in clinical trials of certain Curcuma species. This review comprehensively summarizes the current knowledge on the chemistry and briefly discusses the biological activities of Curcuma species. A total of 720 compounds, including 102 diphenylalkanoids, 19 phenylpropene derivatives, 529 terpenoids, 15 flavonoids, 7 steroids, 3 alkaloids, and 44 compounds of other types isolated or identified from 32 species, have been phytochemically investigated. The biological activities of plant extracts and pure compounds are classified into 15 groups in detail, with emphasis on anti-inflammatory and antitumor activities.

Stabilization of the cyclodecadiene derivative isofuranodiene by silver (I) coordination. Mechanistic and biological aspects

The industrial extraction and further applications of isofuranodiene are limited because at room temperature it spontaneously converts to curzerene, a structurally less active isomer. This work definitively identified the structure of isofuranodiene in the solid state, showing the two methyl groups in syn position. In addition, two bioactive metal cations, namely, silver(I) and copper(II) ions, were used in the attempt to obtain the chemical stability of isofuranodiene: in the case of silver(I), a labile adduct was formed, while in the case of copper(II), a more stable 1:1 adduct was achieved. In the former, the presence of silver did not significantly affect the biological activities of isofuranodiene, while in the latter, the copper(II) coordination suppressed them. The biological activities of the isofuranodiene adducts were then evaluated as antiproliferative agents against human tumor cell lines (HCT116, MDA-MB 231, and T98G). In addition, for the first time, isofuranodiene was tested as an inhibitor of DHFR (DiHydroFolateReductase) from Escherichia coli. Anticancer activity was observed in the isofuranodiene with the AgCF₃SO₃ adduct, in the tested cell lines, with IC₅₀ values ranging from 4.89μM to 13.06μM, while inhibition assays highlighted a Ki of 6.22μM for isofuranodiene and of 0.17μM for the related silver adduct. Docking studies indicated a binding mode score of -6.83Kcal/mol for isofuranodiene, and an energy value of -11.82Kcal/mol for methotrexate (a classic DHFR inhibitor).

Biological Activities of Essential Oils: From Plant Chemoecology to Traditional Healing Systems

Essential oils are complex mixtures of hydrocarbons and their oxygenated derivatives arising from two different isoprenoid pathways. Essential oils are produced by glandular trichomes and other secretory structures, specialized secretory tissues mainly diffused onto the surface of plant organs, particularly flowers and leaves, thus exerting a pivotal ecological role in plant. In addition, essential oils have been used, since ancient times, in many different traditional healing systems all over the world, because of their biological activities. Many preclinical studies have documented antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities of essential oils in a number of cell and animal models, also elucidating their mechanism of action and pharmacological targets, though the paucity of in human studies limits the potential of essential oils as effective and safe phytotherapeutic agents. More well-designed clinical trials are needed in order to ascertain the real efficacy and safety of these plant products.

Furanodiene alters mitochondrial function in doxorubicin-resistant MCF-7 human breast cancer cells in an AMPK-dependent manner

Furanodiene is a bioactive sesquiterpene isolated from the spice-producing Curcuma wenyujin plant (Y. H. Chen and C. Ling) (C. wenyujin), which is a commonly prescribed herb used in clinical cancer therapy by modern practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine.

Effects of furanodiene on 95-D lung cancer cells: apoptosis, autophagy and G1 phase cell cycle arrest

Furanodiene (FUR) is a natural terpenoid isolated from Rhizoma curcumae, a well-known Chinese medicinal herb that presents anti-proliferative activities in several cancer cell lines. Herein, we systematically investigated the effects of FUR on the significant processes of tumor progression with the relatively low concentrations in 95-D lung cancer cells. FUR concentration-dependently inhibited cell proliferation and blocked the cell cycle progressions in G1 phase by down-regulating the protein levels of cyclin D1 and CDK6, and up-regulating those of p21 and p27 in 95-D cells. FUR also affected the signaling molecules that regulate apoptosis in 95-D cells revealed by the down-regulation of the protein levels of full PARP, pro-caspase-7, survivin, and Bcl-2, and the up-regulation of cleaved PARP. Further studies showed that FUR enhanced the expression of light chain 3-II (LC3-II) in the protein level, indicating that autophagy is involved in this process. Besides, the adhesion ability of 95-D cells to matrigel and fibronectin was slightly inhibited after FUR treatment for 1 h in our experimental condition. FUR also slightly suppressed cell migration and invasion in 95-D cells according to the data from wound healing and Transwell assays, respectively. Taken together, FUR activated the signal molecules regulating G1 cell cycle arrest, apoptosis and autophagy, while slightly affecting the key steps of cell metastasis in 95-D lung cancer cells in the relatively low concentrations.

Wild celery (Smyrnium olusatrum L.) oil and isofuranodiene induce apoptosis in human colon carcinoma cells

Smyrnium olusatrum (Apiaceae), well known as wild celery, is a biennal celery-scented plant used for many centuries as a vegetable, then abandoned after the introduction of celery. In the present work, the essential oil obtained from inflorescences and the amounts of its main constituents isofuranodiene, curzerene and germacrone were analyzed by GC as well as by HPLC because of their degradation (Cope rearrangement) occurring at high temperatures. The oil and the main constituents were assayed for cytotoxic activity on the human colon cancer cell line (HCT116) by MTT assay. Flower oil and isofuranodiene showed noteworthy activity on tumor cells with IC50 of 10.71 and 15.06 μg/ml, respectively. Analysis of the cytotoxic activity showed that wild celery oil and isofuranodiene are able to induce apoptosis in colon cancer cells in a time and concentration-dependent manner suggesting a potential role as models for the development of chemopreventive agents.

Curcumin-free turmeric exhibits anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities: Identification of novel components of turmeric

Turmeric, a dried powder derived from the rhizome of Curcuma longa, has been used for centuries in certain parts of the world and has been linked to numerous biological activities including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antigrowth, anti-arthritic, anti-atherosclerotic, antidepressant, anti-aging, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, wound healing, and memory-enhancing activities. One component of turmeric is curcumin, which has been extensively studied, as indicated by more than 5600 citations, most of which have appeared within the past decade. Recent research has identified numerous chemical entities from turmeric other than curcumin. It is unclear whether all of the activities ascribed to turmeric are due to curcumin or whether other compounds in turmeric can manifest these activities uniquely, additively, or synergistically with curcumin. However, studies have indicated that turmeric oil, present in turmeric, can enhance the bioavailability of curcumin. Studies over the past decade have indicated that curcumin-free turmeric (CFT) components possess numerous biological activities including anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antidiabetic activities. Elemene derived from turmeric is approved in China for the treatment of cancer. The current review focuses on the anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities exhibited by CFT and by some individual components of turmeric, including turmerin, turmerone, elemene, furanodiene, curdione, bisacurone, cyclocurcumin, calebin A, and germacrone.

Furanodiene presents synergistic anti-proliferative activity with paclitaxel via altering cell cycle and integrin signaling in 95-D lung cancer cells

Furanodiene (FUR) is a natural terpenoid isolated from Rhizoma Curcumae, a well-known Chinese medicinal herb that presents anti-proliferative activities in several cancer cell lines. Recently, we found that the combined treatment of FUR with paclitaxel (TAX) showed synergetic anti-proliferative activities in 95-D lung cancer cells. Herein, we showed that FUR reduced the cell numbers distributed in mitosis phase induced by TAX while increased those in G1 phase. The protein levels of cyclin D1, cyclin B1, CDK6 and c-Myc were all down-regulated in the group of combined treatment. The dramatically down-regulated expression of integrin β4, focal adhesion kinase and paxillin might partially contribute to the synergic effect. Though FUR alone obviously induced endoplasmic reticulum stress, this signaling pathway may not contribute to the synergetic anti-proliferative effect as the protein expression of CHOP and BIP was similar in FUR alone and combined treatment group.

Anti-cancer properties of terpenoids isolated from Rhizoma Curcumae--a review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Rhizoma Curcumae is a popular type of traditional Chinese medicine whose essential oils are widely used in the treatment of cancer in China. This review aims to systematically summarize and analyze the anti-cancer properties of terpenoids, the main components of essential oils in Rhizoma Curcumae, and thus enable the development of new anti-cancer drugs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Information on the recent progress of anti-cancer studies on terpenoids isolated from Rhizoma Curcumae, including β-elemene, δ-elemene, furanodiene, furanodienone, curcumol, and germacrone, was gathered and analyzed.

RESULTS

Among these terpenoids, β-elemene is the most widely studied, whereas δ-elemene, furanodiene, furanodienone, curcumol, and germacrone have just recently attracted the attention of researchers. The anti-cancer effects of these terpenoids are related to the retardation of cell cycle arrest, the induction of apoptosis, and the inhibition of metastasis or tissue invasion, among others.

CONCLUSIONS

Most studies have focused on the in vitro data, and in vivo data is urgently needed. Further insight into the anti-cancer activity and the molecular basis of these compounds, combined with efforts in pharmaceutical chemistry and/or pharmaceutics, will potentially enable the development of new anti-cancer agents.

Furanodiene induces endoplasmic reticulum stress and presents antiproliferative activities in lung cancer cells

Furanodiene (FUR) is a natural terpenoid isolated from Curcumae Rhizoma, a well-known Chinese medicinal herb that presents antiproliferation activities in several cancer cell lines. In this study, we demonstrated that FUR concentration dependently inhibits the cell proliferation of A549, NIH-H1299, and 95-D lung cancer cells. β-elemene, another terpenoid isolated from Curcumae Rhizoma, exhibited weaker antiproliferative effects in A549 and NIH-H1299 cells and activities similar to FUR in 95-D cells. FUR significantly inhibited colony formation in A549 and 95-D cells and upregulated both the mRNA and protein expression levels of binding immunoglobulin protein (BIP) and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), indicating that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is induced. FUR treatment led to the accumulation of CHOP in the nucleus, which further confirms induction of ER stress. Furthermore, combined treatment of FUR with paclitaxel showed significant synergetic activities in NIH-H1299 and 95-D cells, suggesting its potential roles in combination therapy. These findings provide a basis for the further study of the anticancer effects in vivo and the internal mechanisms of FUR.

Anti-angiogenic effect of furanodiene on HUVECs in vitro and on zebrafish in vivo

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Furanodiene is an active ingredient of the traditional Chinese medicine, Rhizoma Curcumae, commonly used for the treatment of cancer in China.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the anti-cancer property of Rhizoma Curcumae, this study describes the anti-angiogenic activities of furanodiene in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in vitro and in zebrafish in vivo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

HUVECs were treated with different doses of furanodiene in the presence or absence of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The anti-proliferative effect of furanodiene was measured using the XTT assay. The anti-migration and anti-invasion activities of this compound were investigated with a wound-healing migration model and a three-dimensional cell invasion model, respectively. The effects of furanodiene on HUVEC differentiation were assessed by in vitro tube formation in Matrigel™. The expression of related proteins was detected by Western blot. Morphological observations of zebrafish were evaluated in transgenic Tg (fli1: EGFP) zebrafish embryos.

RESULTS

Our results showed that furanodiene exposure could significantly inhibit the proliferation of HUVECs in a dose-dependent manner and inhibit VEGF-induced proliferation at a low dose. Relative to the VEGF-induced control, the number of invading and migrating cells was significantly reduced in the furanodiene-treated groups. Furanodiene also dramatically suppressed tube formation and p-Akt (Ser473), p-Erk 1/2 (Thr202/Tyr204), ICAM-1, p-p85 (Ser428) as well as p85 protein expression. Furthermore, exposure to furanodiene inhibited angiogenesis in the zebrafish model.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that furanodiene exposure exhibits a potential anti-angiogenic effect through suppression of endothelial cell growth, invasion, migration and tube formation via regulation of the PI3K pathway. This potential anti-angiogenic effect of furanodiene may play an important role in the anti-tumor activity of the traditional Chinese medicine, Rhizoma Curcumae.

NSP 5a3a: a potential novel cancer target in head and neck carcinoma

NSP 5a3a along with three other distinct though similar splice variants were initially identified corresponding to locus HCMOGT-1 on chromosome 17p11.2 [1]. Secondary structure analysis of the novel structural protein (NSP) isoforms revealed similarity to Spectrin like proteins containing coiled coil domains [1]. The NSP 5a3a isoform had been found to be highly expressed in-vitro in particular cancer cell lines while very low to un-detectable levels in normal body tissues [1]. Subsequent investigation of this isoform revealed its novel interaction with B23 [2], a multifunctional nucleolar protein involved in ribosome biogenesis, rRNA transcription, mitosis, cell growth control, and apoptosis [3]. Subsequent investigation, elucidated NSP 5a3a's potential involvement in cellular processes such as ribosome biogenesis and rRNA processing by validating NSP 5a3a's novel interaction with B23 and ribonuclear protein hnRNP-L possibly implicating NSP 5a3a's involvement in cellular activities such as RNA metabolism and processing [4]. In this preliminary investigation, we wanted to observe the effect that over-expressing NSP 5a3a may have on cell cycle and its potential application in cancer treatment in aggressive cancers such as head and neck carcinomas. Over-expressed NSP 5a3a in HN30 cells induced a significant degree of apoptosis, an average of a 10.85 fold increase compared to controls 3 days post-transfection. This effect was more significant then the apoptosis observed between Fadu cells over-expressing NSP 5a3a and its controls. Though, the apoptosis induced in the WI38 control cell line showed an average of a 13.2 fold increase between treated and controls comparable to the HN30 cell line 3 days post-transfection. Molecular analysis indentified a novel p73 dependent mechanism independent of p53 and caspase 3 activity through which NSP 5a3a is inducing apoptosis. We propose NSP 5a3a as a potential therapeutic target for site directed cancer treatment in perhaps certain head and neck carcinomas by induction of apoptosis.

The synthesized novel fluorinated compound (LJJ-10) induces death receptor- and mitochondria-dependent apoptotic cell death in the human osteogenic sarcoma U-2 OS cells

We designed the 6-fluoro-2-(3-fluorophenyl)-4-substituted anilinoquinazoline derivatives as less toxic anti-cancer candidates. Our result demonstrated that LJJ-10 has greater cytotoxicity than that of the other compounds in human osteogenic sarcoma U-2 OS cells. LJJ-10-induced apoptosis was associated with enhancing ROS generation, DNA damage, and an increase of the protein levels of Fas, FasL, FADD, caspase-8, cytochrome c, Apaf-1, AIF, Endo G, caspase-9 and caspase-3 in U-2 OS cells. LJJ-10-triggered growth inhibition was significantly attenuated by N-acetylcysteine, cyclosporine A, anti-FasL monoclonal antibody, and caspase-8, -9 and -3 specific inhibitors in U-2 OS cells. We suggest that LJJ-10-induced apoptotic cell death in U-2 OS cells through death receptor- and mitochondria-dependent apoptotic signaling pathways.

Furanodienone induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis by suppressing EGFR/HER2 signaling in HER2-overexpressing human breast cancer cells

PURPOSE

Overexpression of EGFR and HER2 is seen in breast cancers and results in poor prognosis and decreased patient survival. Clinically, EGFR and HER2 are effective therapeutic targets. The objective of this study is to investigate the in vitro effects of furanodienone, an active chemical component isolated from Rhizoma Curcumae, on the activation of EGFR/HER2 signaling, cell cycle, and apoptosis in HER2-overexpressing BT474 and SKBR3 cells.

METHODS

Cell growth was assessed by SRB protein assay. Cell cycle analysis was carried out by flow cytometry, and apoptosis was observed by Annexin V and DAPI staining. Effects of furanodienone on the activation of EGFR/HER2 signaling-related proteins were analyzed by western blotting.

RESULTS

Furanodienone inhibited cell growth in BT474 and SKBR3 cells. Furanodienone caused G1 arrest in BT474 cells and induced apoptosis in SKBR3 cells. Furanodienone interfered with EGFR/HER2 signaling in treated cells as shown by decreases in phosphorylated EGFR, HER2, Akt, Gsk3β and an increase in p27(kip1) protein. Accordingly, furanodienone inhibited EGF-induced phosphorylation of EGFR, HER2, Akt, and Gsk3β. EGFR-specific siRNA knockdown did not affect the cell growth inhibitory effect of furanodienone. On the contrary, specific siRNA knockdown of HER2 increased cellular resistance to furanodienone toxicity. In HER-2-deficient MDA-MB-231 cells, the transfection and expression of HER2 increased the sensitivity of cells to furanodienone toxicity.

CONCLUSION

Furanodienone inhibited EGFR/HER2 signaling pathway in BT474 and SKBR3 cells. More importantly, the effect of furanodienone was specifically dependent on HER2, but not EGFR, expression.

NSP 5a3a: a potential novel cancer target in head and neck carcinoma

NSP 5a3a along with three other distinct though similar splice variants were initially identified corresponding to locus HCMOGT-1 on chromosome 17p11.2 [1]. Secondary structure analysis of the novel structural protein (NSP) isoforms revealed similarity to Spectrin like proteins containing coiled coil domains [1]. The NSP 5a3a isoform had been found to be highly expressed in-vitro in particular cancer cell lines while very low to un-detectable levels in normal body tissues [1]. Subsequent investigation of this isoform revealed its novel interaction with B23 [2], a multifunctional nucleolar protein involved in ribosome biogenesis, rRNA transcription, mitosis, cell growth control, and apoptosis [3]. Subsequent investigation, elucidated NSP 5a3a's potential involvement in cellular processes such as ribosome biogenesis and rRNA processing by validating NSP 5a3a's novel interaction with B23 and ribonuclear protein hnRNP-L possibly implicating NSP 5a3a's involvement in cellular activities such as RNA metabolism and processing [4]. In this preliminary investigation, we wanted to observe the effect that over-expressing NSP 5a3a may have on cell cycle and its potential application in cancer treatment in aggressive cancers such as head and neck carcinomas. Over-expressed NSP 5a3a in HN30 cells induced a significant degree of apoptosis, an average of a 10.85 fold increase compared to controls 3 days post-transfection. This effect was more significant then the apoptosis observed between Fadu cells over-expressing NSP 5a3a and its controls. Though, the apoptosis induced in the WI38 control cell line showed an average of a 13.2 fold increase between treated and controls comparable to the HN30 cell line 3 days post-transfection. Molecular analysis indentified a novel p73 dependent mechanism independent of p53 and caspase 3 activity through which NSP 5a3a is inducing apoptosis. We propose NSP 5a3a as a potential therapeutic target for site directed cancer treatment in perhaps certain head and neck carcinomas by induction of apoptosis.

Curcuma wenyujin Extract Induces Apoptosis and Inhibits Proliferation of Human Cervical Cancer Cells In Vitro and In Vivo

An essential oil extract, derived from the rhizome of Curcuma wenyujin (CWE), possesses antioxidative, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, it remains unknown how exactly CWE inhibits tumor growth. In this study, using human cervical cancer HeLa cells, the authors postulated that CWE has the ability to inhibit tumor growth. The study shows that CWE dose-dependently suppressed colony formation and inhibited the proliferation of HeLa cells through blockade of cell cycle progression at G1 phase and apoptosis. CWE-induced G1 arrest was associated with retinoblastoma protein dephosphorylation and reduced amounts of cyclins D1 and D3, and cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 proteins. CWE treatment resulted in apoptosis in HeLa cells as evidenced by morphological changes, caspase activation and PARP cleavage, which can be reversed by a pan-caspase inhibitor. It was observed that CWE treatment activated the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway indicated by a decrease in Mcl-1 and Bcl-xL levels, resulting in mitochondrial membrane potential loss and caspases 9 activation. CWE-treated cells displayed reduced PTEN, AKT, and STAT3 phosphorylation and downregulation of NFκB signaling, providing a mechanism for the G1 arrest and apoptosis observed. Furthermore, CWE inhibited tumor growth of HeLa in a xenograft mouse tumor model, suggesting that CWE inhibited tumorigenesis by inhibiting cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis. These findings are the first to reveal the molecular basis for the anticervical cancer action of CWE. The results suggest that CWE could be developed as a drug for the management of cervical cancer.

2(+/-)-7,8,3',4',5'-Pentamethoxyflavan induces G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis in HL60 cells

2(+/-)-7,8,3',4',5'-pentamethoxyflavan (PMF), a synthetic flavan racemate, showed growth inhibitory effect on various kinds of tumor cells. The present study is to investigate the molecular mechanisms of action of PMF in human leukemia HL60 cells. Anti-proliferative effect of PMF on HL60 cells was associated with G2/M cell cycle arrest, which was mediated by regulating the expression of Cdc25C, cyclin A and p21 proteins and inhibiting the phosphorylation of Cdc2 at Thr161. PMF also induced apoptosis of HL60 cells via death receptor and mitochondria apoptotic pathways, which was characterized by DNA fragmentation, cleavage of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase, caspase-3, caspase-8 and caspase-9, changes of Bcl-2 and Bax expression, cytochrome c release from mitochondria and a decrease in the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). These data suggest that PMF produces anti-tumor effect via induction of G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis.

Melatonin induces mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis in human myeloid HL-60 cells

The role of melatonin in the mediation of apoptotic events has recently gained attention, especially after recent studies have reported that melatonin exerts antiapoptotic actions in normal cells but may activate proapoptotic pathways in some tumor cells. Here, we have evaluated the effect of melatonin on apoptosis in the human leukemia cell line HL-60. Melatonin treatment (1 mm) induced a significant increase in caspase-3 and -9 activities. The effect of melatonin on the activation of caspases was time dependent, reaching a maximum after 12 hr of stimulation, and then decreasing to a minimum after 72 hr. Treatment with melatonin also evoked mitochondrial membrane depolarization and permeability transition pore induction, which caused loss of mitochondrial staining by calcein, and increased cell death by apoptosis/necrosis as demonstrated by propidium iodide positive-staining of cells after 72 hr of stimulation. In addition, the exposure of cells to melatonin resulted in an activation and association of the proapoptotic proteins Bax and Bid, as well as promoting detectable increases in the expression of both proteins. We conclude that melatonin has proapoptotic and/or oncostatic effects in the human myeloid cell line HL-60.