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Wu Y, Wang A, Feng G, Pan X, Shuai W, Yang P, Zhang J, Ouyang L, Luo Y, Wang G. Autophagy modulation in cancer therapy: Challenges coexist with opportunities. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 276:116688. [PMID: 39033611 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Autophagy, a crucial intracellular degradation process facilitated by lysosomes, plays a pivotal role in maintaining cellular homeostasis. The elucidation of autophagy key genes and signaling pathways has significantly advanced our understanding of this process and has led to the exploration of autophagy as a promising therapeutic approach. This review comprehensively assesses the latest developments in small molecule modulators targeting autophagy. Moreover, the review delves into the most recent strategies for drug discovery, specifically focusing on selective agents that exploit autophagosomes and lysosomes for targeted protein degradation. Additionally, this article highlights the prevailing challenges and outlines potential future advancements in the field. By amalgamating the cutting-edge knowledge in the field, we aim to offer valuable insights and references for the anti-cancer drug development of autophagy-targeted therapies, thus contributing to the advancement of novel therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongya Wu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Orthopedics, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Aoxue Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Orthopedics, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Guotai Feng
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Orthopedics, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiaoli Pan
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Orthopedics, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Wen Shuai
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Orthopedics, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Panpan Yang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Orthopedics, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Orthopedics, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Liang Ouyang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Orthopedics, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yi Luo
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Orthopedics, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Guan Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Orthopedics, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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Kumar A, Singh MK, Singh V, Shrivastava A, Sahu DK, Bisht D, Singh S. The role of autophagy dysregulation in low and high-grade nonmuscle invasive bladder cancer: A survival analysis and clinicopathological association. Urol Oncol 2024:S1078-1439(24)00570-2. [PMID: 39256148 DOI: 10.1016/j.urolonc.2024.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Bladder cancer disproportionately affects men and often presents as nonmuscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). Despite initial treatments, the recurrence and progression of NMIBC are linked to autophagy. This study investigates the expression of autophagy genes (mTOR, ULK1, Beclin1, and LC3) in low and high-grade NMIBC, providing insights into potential prognostic markers and therapeutic targets. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 115 tissue samples (n = 85 NMIBC (pTa, pT1, and CIS) and n = 30 control from BPH patients) were collected. The expression level of autophagy genes (mTOR, ULK1, Beclin1, and LC3) and their proteins were assessed in low and high-grade NMIBC, along with control tissue samples using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. Association with clinicopathological characteristics and autophagy gene expression was analyzed by multivariate and univariate survival analysis using SPSS. RESULT In high-grade NMIBC, ULK1, P = 0.0150, Beclin1, P = 0.0041, and LC3, P = 0.0014, were substantially downregulated, whereas mTOR, P = 0.0006, was significantly upregulated. The KM plots show significant survival outcomes with autophagy genes. The clinicopathological characters, high grade (P = 0.019), tumor stage (CIS P = 0.039, pT1 P = 0.018, P = 0.045), male (P = 0.010), lymphovascular invasion (P = 0.028) and autophagy genes (ULK1 P = 0.002, beclin1 (P = 0.010, P = 0.022) were associated as risk factors for survival outcome in NMIBC patients. CONCLUSION The upregulated mTOR, downregulated ULK1, and beclin1 expression is linked to a high-grade, CIS and pT1 stage, resulting in poor recurrence-free survival and progression-free survival and highlights the prognostic significance of autophagy gene in nonmuscle-invasive bladder cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anil Kumar
- Department of Urology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Mukul Kumar Singh
- Department of Urology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Vishwajeet Singh
- Department of Urology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| | - Ashutosh Shrivastava
- Center For Advance Research, Faculty of Medicine, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Dinesh Kumar Sahu
- Central Research Facility, Post Graduate Institute of Child Health, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Dakshina Bisht
- Department Microbiology, Santosh Deemed to Be University, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shubhendu Singh
- Department Microbiology, Santosh Deemed to Be University, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Sun Y, Li Q, Huang Y, Yang Z, Li G, Sun X, Gu X, Qiao Y, Wu Q, Xie T, Sui X. Natural products for enhancing the sensitivity or decreasing the adverse effects of anticancer drugs through regulating the redox balance. Chin Med 2024; 19:110. [PMID: 39164783 PMCID: PMC11334420 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-024-00982-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Redox imbalance is reported to play a pivotal role in tumorigenesis, cancer development, and drug resistance. Severe oxidative damage is a general consequence of cancer cell responses to treatment and may cause cancer cell death or severe adverse effects. To maintain their longevity, cancer cells can rescue redox balance and enter a state of resistance to anticancer drugs. Therefore, targeting redox signalling pathways has emerged as an attractive and prospective strategy for enhancing the efficacy of anticancer drugs and decreasing their adverse effects. Over the past few decades, natural products (NPs) have become an invaluable source for developing new anticancer drugs due to their high efficacy and low toxicity. Increasing evidence has demonstrated that many NPs exhibit remarkable antitumour effects, whether used alone or as adjuvants, and are emerging as effective approaches to enhance sensitivity and decrease the adverse effects of conventional cancer therapies by regulating redox balance. Among them are several novel anticancer drugs based on NPs that have entered clinical trials. In this review, we summarize the synergistic anticancer effects and related redox mechanisms of the combination of NPs with conventional anticancer drugs. We believe that NPs targeting redox regulation will represent promising novel candidates and provide prospects for cancer treatment in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yitian Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, 999078, China
- College of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qinyi Li
- College of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yufei Huang
- College of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zijing Yang
- College of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Guohua Li
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, 999078, China
- College of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoyu Sun
- College of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoqing Gu
- College of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yunhao Qiao
- College of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qibiao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, 999078, China.
| | - Tian Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, 999078, China.
- College of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Xinbing Sui
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, 999078, China.
- College of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, China.
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Wen L, Chan BCL, Qiu MH, Leung PC, Wong CK. Artemisinin and Its Derivatives as Potential Anticancer Agents. Molecules 2024; 29:3886. [PMID: 39202965 PMCID: PMC11356986 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29163886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Artemisinin is a natural sesquiterpene lactone obtained from the traditional Chinese medicinal herb Artemisia annua L. (qinghao). Artemisinin and its derivatives share an unusual endoperoxide bridge and are extensively used for malaria treatment worldwide. In addition to antimalarial activities, artemisinin and its derivatives have been reported to exhibit promising anticancer effects in recent decades. In this review, we focused on the research progress of artemisinin and its derivatives with potential anticancer activities. The pharmacological effects, potential mechanisms, and clinical trials in cancer therapy of artemisinin and its derivatives were discussed. This review may facilitate the future exploration of artemisinin and its derivatives as effective anticancer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luan Wen
- Institute of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (L.W.); (P.-C.L.); (C.-K.W.)
| | - Ben Chung-Lap Chan
- Institute of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (L.W.); (P.-C.L.); (C.-K.W.)
| | - Ming-Hua Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China;
| | - Ping-Chung Leung
- Institute of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (L.W.); (P.-C.L.); (C.-K.W.)
| | - Chun-Kwok Wong
- Institute of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (L.W.); (P.-C.L.); (C.-K.W.)
- Department of Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Li Dak Sum Yip Yio Chin R & D Centre for Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Mungo C, Sorgi K, Ogollah C, Misiko B, Cheserem C, Githongo G, Omoto J. Phase I study on the pharmacokinetics of intravaginal, self-administered artesunate vaginal pessaries among women in Kenya. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.07.08.24309596. [PMID: 39148845 PMCID: PMC11326355 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.08.24309596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Cervical cancer remains a significant global health issue, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where access to prevention and treatment is limited and women are at a higher risk of cervical cancer. Artesunate, a widely available drug used to treat malaria, has shown promise in treating human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated anogenital lesions including high-grade cervical precancer, in a recent Phase I studies in the United States. Data on the pharmacokinetics of artesunate following intravaginal use, and its implications on malaria resistance, are lacking. Objectives The primary objective of this study is to investigate the pharmacokinetics of Artesunate (AS) and its active metabolite, dihydroartemisinin (DHA) following intravaginal use at the dosing and frequency intended for cervical precancer treatment. A secondary objective is to assess safety among study participants. Methods We are conducting a single-arm, phase I trial with a sample size of 12 female volunteers. Participants will self-administer artesunate vaginal pessaries in the study clinic daily for 5 consecutive days. Participants will have their blood drawn prior to receiving the first dose of artesunate on day one of the study and then will receive 8 blood draws on study day five, prior to artesunate administration and at 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 6 hours, and 8 hours after pessary administration. Pharmacokinetic parameters of artesunate and DHA will be calculated by way of quantitative analysis of with determination of maximum concentration (Cmax), time to Cmax (Tmax), area under the plasma concentration versus time curve (AUC), apparent clearance, and elimination half-life (t1/2).
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Affiliation(s)
- Chemtai Mungo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, 321 S Columbia St, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, 450 West Dr, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599, USA
| | - Katherine Sorgi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, 321 S Columbia St, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599, USA
| | | | - Brenda Misiko
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Busia Rd, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | | | - Jackton Omoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maseno University School of Medicine, P.O, Kisumu, Kenya
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Zhang C, Hu B, Ren J, Du W, Meng M. Thiol-Amino Bifunctional Metal-Organic-Framework-Based Membrane Regulating Hydrophobic Sites for Selective Separation of Artesunate. Inorg Chem 2024; 63:14699-14711. [PMID: 39047187 DOI: 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.4c02295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
The selective separation and purification of artesunate (ARU) and artemisinin (ART) using zirconium-based metal-organic frameworks (MOF), especially UiO-66 MOF, are receiving increasing attention. In this study, tunable "hydrophobic" sites of thiol (-SH) were introduced to amino-functionalized MOFs (UiO-66-NH2) to fabricate a thiol-amino bifunctional UiO-66/polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)-blended membrane (S1-UiO/PVDF-DPIM) via the delayed-phase-inversion method for selective separation of ARU/ART. The adsorption results indicated that the modification of UiO-66-NH2 with thiol can indeed increase the ARU adsorption. The thiol-functional MOF (S1-UiO-66-NH2) was chosen as the optimal thiol-amino bifunctional MOF, as it possessed the maximum ARU adsorption capacity (111.14 mg g-1) and the highest selective-separation factor (α = 51.84). The ATR FT-IR dynamic spectrum disclosed the recognition mechanism, indicating that incorporating thiol groups into a hydrophilic MOF as hydrophobic sites can boost adsorption efficiency. Moreover, the static-selective permeation results showed that the S1-UiO/PVDF-DPIM preferentially transfers ARU when mixed with ART, even achieving complete ARU/ART separation. The most crucial aspect was the introduction of a hydrophobic core of -SH and new spontaneously formed disulfide bonds to S1-UiO/PVDF-DPIM, creating alternated hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. This work provides an alternative strategy to prepare hydrophobic-hydrophilic MOF-based membranes for the highly efficient and selective separation of complex analogue systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanxun Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Bo Hu
- College of Chemistry, Baicheng Normal University, Baicheng 137000, China
- School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Jiajia Ren
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Wanqi Du
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Minjia Meng
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
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Li Z, Fei X, Pan Z, Liang Y, Yang Q, Cheng D. Mometasone furoate inhibits tumor progression and promotes apoptosis through activation of the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway in osteosarcoma. J Bone Oncol 2024; 47:100618. [PMID: 39050186 PMCID: PMC11267072 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbo.2024.100618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma is the most common primary malignant bone tumor in adolescents. While treatments for osteosarcoma have improved, the overall survival has not changed for three decades, and thus, new targets for therapeutic development are needed. Recently, glucocorticoids have been reported to have antitumor effects. Mometasone furoate (MF), a synthetic glucocorticoid, is of great value in clinical application, but there are few reports on its antitumor effect. Here, we verified the effect of MF on osteosarcoma in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, apoptosis and cell metastasis were detected using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), colony formation, flow cytometry, wound-healing and transwell assays, respectively. In vivo, we generated a xenograft mouse model. To examine the potential role of the AMPK pathway, an AMPK-specific inhibitor (dorsomorphin) was used. The expression levels of factors related to the cell cycle, apoptosis and activation of the AMPK/mTOR pathway were assessed by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. MF inhibited proliferation and metastasis and induced S phase arrest and apoptosis in osteosarcoma cells in a dose-dependent manner. In vivo, MF effectively inhibited osteosarcoma cell growth and pulmonary metastasis; however, it had no negative effect on the internal organs. Additionally, MF could activate the AMPK/mTOR pathway in osteosarcoma. Dorsomorphin significantly attenuated MF-induced antitumor activities. In summary, MF can inhibit osteosarcoma proliferation and metastasis and promote osteosarcoma cell apoptosis through the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo, which can provide a new rationale for subsequent academic and clinical research on osteosarcoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohui Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Xiang Fei
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Zhen Pan
- Department of Orthopedics, Tong Ren Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Yonghui Liang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Qingcheng Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Dongdong Cheng
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200233, China
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Wang J, Tan Z, Huang Y, Li C, Zhan P, Wang H, Li H. Integrating single-cell RNA-seq to identify fibroblast-based molecular subtypes for predicting prognosis and therapeutic response in bladder cancer. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:11385-11408. [PMID: 39033778 PMCID: PMC11315389 DOI: 10.18632/aging.206021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bladder cancer (BLCA) is a highly aggressive and heterogeneous disease, posing challenges for diagnosis and treatment. Cancer immunotherapy has recently emerged as a promising option for patients with advanced and drug-resistant cancers. Fibroblasts, a significant component of the tumor microenvironment, play a crucial role in tumor progression, but their precise function in BLCA remains uncertain. METHODS Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data for BLCA were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The R package "Seurat" was used for processing scRNA-seq data, with uniform manifold approximation and projection (UMAP) for downscaling and cluster identification. The FindAllMarkers function identified marker genes for each cluster. Differentially expressed genes influencing overall survival (OS) of BLCA patients were identified using the limma package. Differences in clinicopathological characteristics, immune microenvironment, immune checkpoints, and chemotherapeutic drug sensitivity between high- and low-risk groups were investigated. RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry validated the expression of prognostic genes. RESULTS Fibroblast marker genes identified three molecular subtypes in the testing set. A prognostic signature comprising ten genes stratified BLCA patients into high- and low-score groups. This signature was validated in one internal and two external validation sets. High-score patients exhibited increased immune cell infiltration, elevated chemokine expression, and enhanced immune checkpoint expression but had poorer OS and a reduced response to immunotherapy. Six sensitive anti-tumor drugs were identified for the high-score group. RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry showed that CERCAM, TM4SF1, FN1, ANXA1, and LOX were highly expressed, while EMP1, HEYL, FBN1, and SLC2A3 were downregulated in BLCA. CONCLUSION A novel fibroblast marker gene-based signature was established, providing robust predictions of survival and immunotherapeutic response in BLCA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Wang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Zhiyong Tan
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Yinglong Huang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Charles Li
- Core Facility for Protein Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Zhongke Jianlan Medical Research Institute, Beijing, China
- Zhejiang Institute of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Peiqin Zhan
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Haifeng Wang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Haihao Li
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
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Zhang Q, Li X, He C, Zhou R, Wang J, Liu L. Artesunate promotes cervical cancer cell apoptosis by regulating Bcl2 family molecules and reducing the mitochondrial membrane potential. Oncol Lett 2024; 28:315. [PMID: 38807670 PMCID: PMC11130610 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2024.14447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Artesunate (ART), an antimalarial drug, has a broad spectrum of antitumour effects in cancer types such as esophageal and gastric cancer. However, evidence demonstrating the role of ART in cervical cancer cells is limited. In the present study, the inhibitory effect of ART on the growth of cervical cancer cells through the modulation of the cell cycle and apoptosis was investigated. The growth-inhibitory effect of ART on a cervical cancer cell line (SiHa) was detected using a Cell Counting Kit-8 assay after treatment with ART for 24 h, after which the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) was calculated. Using flow cytometry assays, apoptosis, the cell cycle, the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and calcium (Ca2+) ions, as well as the mitochondrial membrane potential were evaluated in SiHa cells following treatment with ART for 24 and 48 h. The mRNA expression levels of Bcl2, Bcl-xl, (myeloid cell leukaemia 1) Mcl-1, Bcl2-like protein 11 (BIM), (Bcl2-related ovarian killer protein) Bok, Bax and (Bcl2 homologous antagonist/killer) Bak in SiHa cells were detected using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. ART inhibited the growth of SiHa cells in a dose-dependent manner. The IC50 of ART in SiHa cells was 26.32 µg/ml. According to the IC50 value, 15, 30 and 100 µg/ml ART were selected for further experiments, and normal saline (0 µg/ml ART) was used as the control group. The results indicated that treatment with 15, 30 and 100 µg/ml ART for 24 and 48 h induced apoptosis, increased the levels of ROS, the levels of Ca2+ and the mRNA expression levels of BIM, Bok, Bax and Bak, but decreased the cell proliferation indices, the mitochondrial membrane potential and the mRNA expression levels of Bcl2, Bcl-xl and Mcl-1 in a dose- and time-dependent manner. In conclusion, ART inhibited the growth of SiHa cells and induced apoptosis via a mechanism associated with the regulation of Bcl2 family member expression, which was associated with the increase of the levels of ROS and Ca2+ and the reduction of the mitochondrial membrane potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianying Zhang
- Department of Gynaecological Oncology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, P.R. China
| | - Xing Li
- Department of Flow Cytometry, Tumour Institute, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, P.R. China
| | - Caiyi He
- Department of Flow Cytometry, Tumour Institute, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, P.R. China
| | - Rongmiao Zhou
- Department of Molecular Biology, Tumour Institute, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, P.R. China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Flow Cytometry, Tumour Institute, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, P.R. China
| | - Liang Liu
- Department of Flow Cytometry, Tumour Institute, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, P.R. China
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Zhu M, Wang Y, Han J, Sun Y, Wang S, Yang B, Wang Q, Kuang H. Artesunate Exerts Organ- and Tissue-Protective Effects by Regulating Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, Autophagy, Apoptosis, and Fibrosis: A Review of Evidence and Mechanisms. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:686. [PMID: 38929125 PMCID: PMC11200509 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13060686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The human body comprises numerous organs and tissues operating in synchrony, it facilitates metabolism, circulation, and overall organismal function. Consequently, the well-being of our organs and tissues significantly influences our overall health. In recent years, research on the protective effects of artesunate (AS) on various organ functions, including the heart, liver, brain, lungs, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, bones, and others has witnessed significant advancements. Findings from in vivo and in vitro studies suggest that AS may emerge as a newfound guardian against organ damage. Its protective mechanisms primarily entail the inhibition of inflammatory factors and affect anti-fibrotic, anti-aging, immune-enhancing, modulation of stem cells, apoptosis, metabolic homeostasis, and autophagy properties. Moreover, AS is attracting a high level of interest because of its obvious antioxidant activities, including the activation of Nrf2 and HO-1 signaling pathways, inhibiting the release of reactive oxygen species, and interfering with the expression of genes and proteins associated with oxidative stress. This review comprehensively outlines the recent strides made by AS in alleviating organismal injuries stemming from various causes and protecting organs, aiming to serve as a reference for further in-depth research and utilization of AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingtao Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao (Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Harbin 150040, China; (M.Z.); (Y.W.); (J.H.); (Y.S.); (S.W.); (B.Y.)
| | - Yu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao (Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Harbin 150040, China; (M.Z.); (Y.W.); (J.H.); (Y.S.); (S.W.); (B.Y.)
| | - Jianwei Han
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao (Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Harbin 150040, China; (M.Z.); (Y.W.); (J.H.); (Y.S.); (S.W.); (B.Y.)
| | - Yanping Sun
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao (Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Harbin 150040, China; (M.Z.); (Y.W.); (J.H.); (Y.S.); (S.W.); (B.Y.)
| | - Shuang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao (Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Harbin 150040, China; (M.Z.); (Y.W.); (J.H.); (Y.S.); (S.W.); (B.Y.)
| | - Bingyou Yang
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao (Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Harbin 150040, China; (M.Z.); (Y.W.); (J.H.); (Y.S.); (S.W.); (B.Y.)
| | - Qiuhong Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510024, China
| | - Haixue Kuang
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao (Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Harbin 150040, China; (M.Z.); (Y.W.); (J.H.); (Y.S.); (S.W.); (B.Y.)
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Botrous S, Elmaghraby A, El-Achy S, Mustafa Y, Badr E, Haggag A, Abdel-Rahman S. Inhibition of TNF-α Oncogene Expression by Artemisia Annua L. Extract Against Pioglitazone Side Effects in Male Albino Mice. Mol Biotechnol 2024; 66:432-441. [PMID: 37179253 PMCID: PMC10881748 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-00762-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Pioglitazone (Actos) is one of the most recent oral antidiabetic drugs for treating the second type of diabetes mellitus as a common chronic and lifelong disease, but with harmful side effects. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of Artemisia annua L. extract against the Actos drug side effects in the male albino mice. In present study, the use of Actos drug alone induced hepatotoxicity, renal inflammation, hematological disorders and bladder cancer, which are manifested by biochemical abnormalities and histopathological changes, moreover, the severity of toxicity depends on its dose. In contrast, the concurrent treatment with both Actos drug (45 mg/kg) and Artemisia extract (4 g/kg) was effective against the harmful side effects of the Actos drug. Where, the biochemical, hematological and histopathological investigations showed that the hepatotoxicity, renal inflammation, hematological disorders and histopathological changes were improved using combination of Actos and Artemisia extract. In addition, the results of TNF-ɑ oncogene expression levels in bladder tissues were significantly decreased by about 99.99% using the mix of both Actos drug and Artemisia extract. In conclusion, these findings reveal that the Artemisia annua extract on TNF-ɑ oncogene expression level is very significant and effective natural product against harmful side effects of pioglitazone which associated with an increased risk of incident bladder cancer among people, but for application more studies must be achieved in that field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Botrous
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ayaat Elmaghraby
- Department of Nucleic Acid Research, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Samar El-Achy
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Yehia Mustafa
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Effat Badr
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Amany Haggag
- Department of Nucleic Acid Research, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Salah Abdel-Rahman
- Department of Nucleic Acid Research, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications, Alexandria, Egypt.
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Strik H, Efferth T, Kaina B. Artesunate in glioblastoma therapy: Case reports and review of clinical studies. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 123:155274. [PMID: 38142662 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Artesunate, a derivative of the active ingredient artemisinin from Artemisia annua L. used for centuries in the traditional Chinese medicine, is being applied as front-line drug in malaria treatment. As it is cytotoxic for cancer cells, trials are ongoing to include this drug as supplement in cancer therapy. In glioblastoma cells, artesunate was shown to induce oxidative stress, DNA base damage and double-strand breaks (DSBs), apoptosis, and necroptosis. It also inhibits DNA repair functions and bears senolytic activity. Compared to ionizing radiation, DNA damages accumulate over the whole exposure period, which makes the agent unique in its genotoxic profile. Artesunate has been used in adjuvant therapy of various cancers. PURPOSE As artesunate has been used in adjuvant therapy of different types of cancer and clinical trials are lacking in brain cancer, we investigated its activity in glioma patients with focus on possible side effects. STUDY DESIGN Between 2014 and 2020, twelve patients were treated with artesunate for relapsing glioma and analyzed retrospectively: 8 males and 4 females, median age 45 years. HISTOLOGY 4 glioblastomas WHO grade 4, 5 astrocytomas WHO grade 3, 3 oligodendrogliomas grade 2 or 3. All patients were pretreated with radiation and temozolomide-based chemotherapy. Artesunate 100 mg was applied twice daily p.o. combined with dose-dense temozolomide alone (100 mg/m2 day 1-5/7, 10 patients) or with temozolomide (50 mg/m2 day 1-5/7) plus lomustine (CCNU, 40 mg day 6/7). Blood count, C-reactive protein (CRP), liver enzymes, and renal parameters were monitored weekly. RESULTS Apart from one transient grade 3 hematological toxicity, artesunate was well tolerated. No liver toxicity was observed. While 8 patients with late stage of the disease had a median survival of 5 months after initiation of artesunate treatment, 4 patients with treatment for remission maintenance showed a median survival of 46 months. We also review clinical trials that have been performed in other cancers where artesunate was included in the treatment regimen. CONCLUSIONS Artesunate administered at a dose of 2 × 100 mg/day was without harmful side effects, even if combined with alkylating agents used in glioma therapy. Thus, the phytochemical, which is also utilized as food supplement, is an interesting, well tolerated supportive agent useful for long-term maintenance treatment. Being itself cytotoxic on glioblastoma cells and enhancing the cytotoxicity of temozolomide as well as in view of its senolytic activity, artesunate has clearly a potential to enhance the efficacy of malignant brain cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Herwig Strik
- Department of Neurology, Sozialstiftung Bamberg, Bamberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Efferth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Bernd Kaina
- Institute of Toxicology, University Medical Center, Obere Zahlbacher Str. 67, D-55131 Mainz, Germany.
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Hill RM, Fok M, Grundy G, Parsons JL, Rocha S. The role of autophagy in hypoxia-induced radioresistance. Radiother Oncol 2023; 189:109951. [PMID: 37838322 PMCID: PMC11046710 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2023.109951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
Radiotherapy is a widely used treatment modality against cancer, and although survival rates are increasing, radioresistant properties of tumours remain a significant barrier for curative treatment. Tumour hypoxia is one of the main contributors to radioresistance and is common in most solid tumours. Hypoxia is responsible for many molecular changes within the cell which helps tumours to survive under such challenging conditions. These hypoxia-induced molecular changes are predominantly coordinated by the hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) and have been linked with the ability to confer resistance to radiation-induced cell death. To overcome this obstacle research has been directed towards autophagy, a cellular process involved in self degradation and recycling of macromolecules, as HIF plays a large role in its coordination under hypoxic conditions. The role that autophagy has following radiotherapy treatment is conflicted with evidence of both cytoprotective and cytotoxic effects. This literature review aims to explore the intricate relationship between radiotherapy, hypoxia, and autophagy in the context of cancer treatment. It provides valuable insights into the potential of targeting autophagy as a therapeutic strategy to improve the response of hypoxic tumours to radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhianna Mae Hill
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, L7 8TX, UK
| | - Matthew Fok
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, L7 8TX, UK
| | - Gabrielle Grundy
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, L7 8TX, UK
| | - Jason Luke Parsons
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Sonia Rocha
- Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology, University of Liverpool, L69 7ZB, UK.
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14
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Hashemi M, Razzazan M, Bagheri M, Asadi S, Jamali B, Khalafi M, Azimi A, Rad S, Behroozaghdam M, Nabavi N, Rashidi M, Dehkhoda F, Taheriazam A, Entezari M. Versatile function of AMPK signaling in osteosarcoma: An old player with new emerging carcinogenic functions. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 251:154849. [PMID: 37837858 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling has a versatile role in Osteosarcoma (OS), an aggressive bone malignancy with a poor prognosis, particularly in cases that have metastasized or recurred. This review explores the regulatory mechanisms, functional roles, and therapeutic applications of AMPK signaling in OS. It focuses on the molecular activation of AMPK and its interactions with cellular processes like proliferation, apoptosis, and metabolism. The uncertain role of AMPK in cancer is also discussed, highlighting its potential as both a tumor suppressor and a contributor to carcinogenesis. The therapeutic potential of targeting AMPK signaling in OS treatment is examined, including direct and indirect activators like metformin, A-769662, resveratrol, and salicylate. Further research is needed to determine dosing, toxicities, and molecular mechanisms responsible for the anti-osteosarcoma effects of these compounds. This review underscores the complex involvement of AMPK signaling in OS and emphasizes the need for a comprehensive understanding of its molecular mechanisms. By elucidating the role of AMPK in OS, the aim is to pave the way for innovative therapeutic approaches that target this pathway, ultimately improving the prognosis and quality of life for OS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Hashemi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrnaz Razzazan
- Medical Student, Student Research Committee, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Maryam Bagheri
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saba Asadi
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behdokht Jamali
- Department of Microbiology and Genetics, Kherad Institute of Higher Education, Bushehr, lran
| | - Maryam Khalafi
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Genetics,Faculty of Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Kish International Branch, Kish, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Azimi
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Genetics,Faculty of Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Kish International Branch, Kish, Iran
| | - Sepideh Rad
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Genetics,Faculty of Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Kish International Branch, Kish, Iran
| | - Mitra Behroozaghdam
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Noushin Nabavi
- Department of Urologic Sciences and Vancouver Prostate Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6H3Z6, Canada
| | - Mohsen Rashidi
- The Health of Plant and Livestock Products Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; Department Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
| | - Farshid Dehkhoda
- Department of Orthopedics, Imam Hossein Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Afshin Taheriazam
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Maliheh Entezari
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
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15
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Yuan W, Fang W, Zhang R, Lyu H, Xiao S, Guo D, Ali DW, Michalak M, Chen XZ, Zhou C, Tang J. Therapeutic strategies targeting AMPK-dependent autophagy in cancer cells. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2023; 1870:119537. [PMID: 37463638 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2023.119537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Macroautophagy is a health-modifying process of engulfing misfolded or aggregated proteins or damaged organelles, coating these proteins or organelles into vesicles, fusion of vesicles with lysosomes to form autophagic lysosomes, and degradation of the encapsulated contents. It is also a self-rescue strategy in response to harsh environments and plays an essential role in cancer cells. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is the central pathway that regulates autophagy initiation and autophagosome formation by phosphorylating targets such as mTORC1 and unc-51 like activating kinase 1 (ULK1). AMPK is an evolutionarily conserved serine/threonine protein kinase that acts as an energy sensor in cells and regulates various metabolic processes, including those involved in cancer. The regulatory network of AMPK is complicated and can be regulated by multiple upstream factors, such as LKB1, AKT, PPAR, SIRT1, or noncoding RNAs. Currently, AMPK is being investigated as a novel target for anticancer therapies based on its role in macroautophagy regulation. Herein, we review the effects of AMPK-dependent autophagy on tumor cell survival and treatment strategies targeting AMPK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbin Yuan
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, National "111" Center for Cellular Regulation and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wanyi Fang
- Membrane Protein Disease Research Group, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Rui Zhang
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, National "111" Center for Cellular Regulation and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hao Lyu
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, National "111" Center for Cellular Regulation and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shuai Xiao
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, National "111" Center for Cellular Regulation and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dong Guo
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, National "111" Center for Cellular Regulation and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Declan William Ali
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Marek Michalak
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Xing-Zhen Chen
- Membrane Protein Disease Research Group, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Cefan Zhou
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, National "111" Center for Cellular Regulation and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Jingfeng Tang
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, National "111" Center for Cellular Regulation and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, China.
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16
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He X, Li X, Tian W, Li C, Li P, Zhao J, Yang S, Li S. The role of redox-mediated lysosomal dysfunction and therapeutic strategies. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115121. [PMID: 37418979 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Redox homeostasis refers to the dynamic equilibrium between oxidant and reducing agent in the body which plays a crucial role in maintaining normal physiological activities of the body. The imbalance of redox homeostasis can lead to the development of various human diseases. Lysosomes regulate the degradation of cellular proteins and play an important role in influencing cell function and fate, and lysosomal dysfunction is closely associated with the development of various diseases. In addition, several studies have shown that redox homeostasis plays a direct or indirect role in regulating lysosomes. Therefore, this paper systematically reviews the role and mechanisms of redox homeostasis in the regulation of lysosomal function. Therapeutic strategies based on the regulation of redox exerted to disrupt or restore lysosomal function are further discussed. Uncovering the role of redox in the regulation of lysosomes helps to point new directions for the treatment of many human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomeng He
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xuening Li
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Tian
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Chenyu Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Pengfei Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Jingyuan Zhao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
| | - Shilei Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
| | - Shuai Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
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Ding W, Liao L, Liu J, Zhao J, Tang Q, Liao Y. Lower dose of metformin combined with artesunate induced autophagy-dependent apoptosis of glioblastoma by activating ROS-AMPK-mTOR axis. Exp Cell Res 2023:113691. [PMID: 37399981 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2023.113691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiform (GBM), one of the most common, aggressive primary brain tumours, demonstrates resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy after surgical resection and treatment failure. Metformin (MET) has been shown to suppress the proliferative capacity and invasion ability of GBM cells by activating AMPK and inhibiting mTOR, but the effective dose exceeded the maximum tolerated dose. Artesunate (ART) can exert certain anti-tumour effects by activating the AMPK-mTOR axis and inducing autophagy in tumour cells. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of MET combined with ART combination therapy on autophagy and apoptosis in GBM cells. MET combined with ART treatment effectively suppressed the viability, mono-cloning ability, migration and invasion capacities, as well as metastatic ability of GBM cells. The underlying mechanism involved modulation of the ROS-AMPK-mTOR axis, which was confirmed using 3-methyladenine and rapamycin to inhibit or promote the effects of MET combined with ART, respectively. The study findings suggest that MET used in combination with ART can induce autophagy-dependent apoptosis in GBM cells by activating the ROS-AMPK-mTOR pathway, providing a potential new treatment for GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wencong Ding
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Nanhua Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421002, Hunan, China
| | - Lingxiao Liao
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Nanhua Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421002, Hunan, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Clinical Research Institute, The Affiliated Nanhua Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421002, Hunan, China
| | - Jiaxing Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Nanhua Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421002, Hunan, China
| | - Qiongyan Tang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, China.
| | - Yongshi Liao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Nanhua Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421002, Hunan, China.
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18
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Liu Y, Li H, Luo Z, Yu Y, Yang J, Zhang M, Law BYK, Huang Z, Li W. Artesunate, a new antimalarial clinical drug, exhibits potent anti-AML activity by targeting the ROS/Bim and TFRC/Fe 2+ pathways. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:701-720. [PMID: 36368726 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Artesunate, approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2020 as a new treatment for severe malaria, also shows anti-tumour activity against acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). However, the underlying molecular mechanism(s) of artesunate-induced apoptosis and differentiation of AML is not clearly elucidated. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The biological effects of artesunate on AML were explored in vitro, using cells from AML patients and leukaemia cell lines, and in vivo, using female C57BL/6 or nude nu/nu BALB/c mice. Underlying mechanisms in vitro were examined with the Trypan blue dye exclusion assay, western blotting and flow cytometry. Effects of artesunate in C57BL/6 mice intravenously injected with murine AML cells (C1498-GFP) were assessed by numbers of AML cells and by survival. KEY RESULTS In vitro, artesunate promoted apoptosis and differentiation in both leukaemia cell lines and patient-derived primary leukaemia cells. Mechanistically, artesunate promoted cell apoptosis by triggering reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and increasing expression of the pro-apoptotic protein Bim. Interestingly, transferrin receptor 1 (TFRC)-mediated regulation of intracellular iron homeostasis also played an essential role in AML cell differentiation induced by artesunate. In vivo, artesunate slowed AML progression and prolonged survival in a mouse leukaemia model. Notably, artesunate displayed no apparent toxicity towards healthy haematopoietic stem cells, bone marrow mononuclear cells or experimental animals. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Artesunate is a safe agent with significant anti-leukaemia effects in mice and may serve as a promising chemotherapeutic strategy for patients with AML, based on two different mechanisms, targeting the ROS/Bim and the TFRC/Fe2+ pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Liu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Han Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Zhihong Luo
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - You Yu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Jingzhao Yang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Union Hospital of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Betty Yuen Kwan Law
- Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau SAR, PR China
| | - Zan Huang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Wenhua Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
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Bernitsa S, Dayan R, Stephanou A, Tzvetanova ID, Patrikios IS. Natural biomolecules and derivatives as anticancer immunomodulatory agents. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1070367. [PMID: 36700235 PMCID: PMC9868674 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1070367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite advancements in chemotherapy, the issue of resistance and non-responsiveness to many chemotherapeutic drugs that are currently in clinical use still remains. Recently, cancer immunotherapy has gathered attention as a novel treatment against select cancers. Immunomodulation is also emerging as an effective strategy to improve efficacy. Natural phytochemicals, with known anticancer properties, been reported to mediate their effects by modulating both traditional cancer pathways and immunity. The mechanism of phytochemical mediated-immunomodulatory activity may be attributed to the remodeling of the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment and the sensitization of the immune system. This allows for improved recognition and targeting of cancer cells by the immune system and synergy with chemotherapeutics. In this review, we will discuss several well-known plant-derived biomolecules and examine their potential as immunomodulators, and therefore, as novel immunotherapies for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rotem Dayan
- School of Medicine, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
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20
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Dong L, He J, Luo L, Wang K. Targeting the Interplay of Autophagy and ROS for Cancer Therapy: An Updated Overview on Phytochemicals. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16010092. [PMID: 36678588 PMCID: PMC9865312 DOI: 10.3390/ph16010092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved self-degradation system that recycles cellular components and damaged organelles, which is critical for the maintenance of cellular homeostasis. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) are short-lived molecules containing unpaired electrons that are formed by the partial reduction of molecular oxygen. It is widely known that autophagy and ROS can regulate each other to influence the progression of cancer. Recently, due to the wide potent anti-cancer effects with minimal side effects, phytochemicals, especially those that can modulate ROS and autophagy, have attracted great interest of researchers. In this review, we afford an overview of the complex regulatory relationship between autophagy and ROS in cancer, with an emphasis on phytochemicals that regulate ROS and autophagy for cancer therapy. We also discuss the effects of ROS/autophagy inhibitors on the anti-cancer effects of phytochemicals, and the challenges associated with harnessing the regulation potential on ROS and autophagy of phytochemicals for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixia Dong
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jingqiu He
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Li Luo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610041, China
- Correspondence: (L.L.); (K.W.)
| | - Kui Wang
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Correspondence: (L.L.); (K.W.)
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21
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Jin Q, Liu T, Chen D, Yang L, Mao H, Ma F, Wang Y, Li P, Zhan Y. Therapeutic potential of artemisinin and its derivatives in managing kidney diseases. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1097206. [PMID: 36874000 PMCID: PMC9974673 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1097206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Artemisinin, an antimalarial traditional Chinese herb, is isolated from Artemisia annua. L, and has shown fewer side effects. Several pieces of evidence have demonstrated that artemisinin and its derivatives exhibited therapeutic effects on diseases like malaria, cancer, immune disorders, and inflammatory diseases. Additionally, the antimalarial drugs demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, regulating the immune system and autophagy and modulating glycolipid metabolism properties, suggesting an alternative for managing kidney disease. This review assessed the pharmacological activities of artemisinin. It summarized the critical outcomes and probable mechanism of artemisinins in treating kidney diseases, including inflammatory, oxidative stress, autophagy, mitochondrial homeostasis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, glycolipid metabolism, insulin resistance, diabetic nephropathy, lupus nephritis, membranous nephropathy, IgA nephropathy, and acute kidney injury, suggesting the therapeutic potential of artemisinin and its derivatives in managing kidney diseases, especially the podocyte-associated kidney diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Jin
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guang'anmen Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tongtong Liu
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guang'anmen Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Danqian Chen
- China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liping Yang
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guang'anmen Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Huimin Mao
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guang'anmen Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Fang Ma
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guang'anmen Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuyang Wang
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guang'anmen Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ping Li
- China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yongli Zhan
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guang'anmen Hospital, Beijing, China
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22
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Li G, Ling M, Yu K, Yang W, Liu Q, He L, Cai X, Zhong M, Mai Z, Sun R, Xiao Y, Yu Z, Wang X. Synergetic delivery of artesunate and isosorbide 5-mononitrate with reduction-sensitive polymer nanoparticles for ovarian cancer chemotherapy. J Nanobiotechnology 2022; 20:471. [PMID: 36335352 PMCID: PMC9636721 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-022-01676-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is a highly fatal gynecologic malignancy worldwide. Chemotherapy remains the primary modality both for primary and maintenance treatments of ovarian cancer. However, the progress in developing chemotherapeutic agents for ovarian cancer has been slow in the past 20 years. Thus, new and effective chemotherapeutic drugs are urgently needed for ovarian cancer treatment. A reduction-responsive synergetic delivery strategy (PSSP@ART-ISMN) with co-delivery of artesunate and isosorbide 5-mononitrate was investigated in this research study. PSSP@ART-ISMN had various effects on tumor cells, such as (i) inducing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which contributes to mitochondrial damage; (ii) providing nitric oxide and ROS for the tumor cells, which further react to generate highly toxic reactive nitrogen species (RNS) and cause DNA damage; and (iii) arresting cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase and inducing apoptosis. PSSP@ART-ISMN also demonstrated excellent antitumor activity with good biocompatibility in vivo. Taken together, the results of this work provide a potential delivery strategy for chemotherapy in ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang Li
- grid.413107.0Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510630 China
| | - Mingjian Ling
- Southern Medical University Shenzhen Stomatology Hospital (Pingshan), Shenzhen, 518000 China
| | - Kunyi Yu
- grid.513392.fShenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen, 518110 China
| | - Wei Yang
- grid.417404.20000 0004 1771 3058Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280 China
| | - Qiwen Liu
- grid.413107.0Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510630 China
| | - Lijuan He
- grid.413107.0Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510630 China
| | - Xuzi Cai
- grid.413107.0Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510630 China
| | - Min Zhong
- grid.413107.0Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510630 China
| | - Ziyi Mai
- grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515 China
| | - Rui Sun
- grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515 China
| | - Yuanling Xiao
- grid.417404.20000 0004 1771 3058Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Center, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280 China
| | - Zhiqiang Yu
- grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471Department of Laboratory Medicine, Dongguan Institute of Clinical Cancer Research, Affiliated Dongguan Hospital, Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523018 China
| | - Xuefeng Wang
- grid.413107.0Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510630 China
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23
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Artesunate promoted anti-tumor immunity and overcame EGFR-TKI resistance in non-small-cell lung cancer by enhancing oncogenic TAZ degradation. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 155:113705. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
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24
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Hernandezine induces autophagic cell death in human pancreatic cancer cells via activation of the ROS/AMPK signaling pathway. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2022; 44:865-876. [PMID: 36284209 PMCID: PMC10042859 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-022-01006-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractHernandezine (Her) is a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid extracted from the traditional Chinese herbal medicine Thalictrum glandulosissimum. Evidence shows that Her is a natural agonist of adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and induces apoptosis and autophagy in tumor cells. In this study, we investigated the role of autophagy in Her-induced cell death in human pancreatic cancer cell lines. We showed that Her dose-dependently suppressed cell proliferation, promoted autophagy and induced autophagic death in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cell lines Capan-1 and SW1990. The IC50 values of Her in inhibition of Capan-1 and SW1990 cells were 47.7 μM and 40.1 μM, respectively. Immunoblotting showed that Her (1−40 μM) promoted the conversion of LC3-I to LC3-II, and Her exerted concentration-dependent and time-dependent effects on autophagy activation in PDAC cells. In transmission electron microscopy and fluorescence image analysis, we found that autophagic vacuoles were significantly increased in Her-treated cells. Knockdown of ATG5, a key gene in the autophagy pathway, alleviated the activation of autophagy by Her. These results demonstrated that Her induced autophagy in PDAC cells. Intensely activated autophagy could promote cell death. The autophagy inhibitors, BafA1 and HCQ significantly inhibited Her-induced cell death, implying that Her induced autophagic cell death in PDAC cells. Moreover, we showed that Her activated autophagy by increasing the phosphorylation of AMPK and decreasing the phosphorylation of mTOR/p70S6K. Knockdown of AMPKα relieves the autophagic cell death induced by Her. Furthermore, Her concentration-dependently enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in PDAC cells. Antioxidants could reduce the phosphorylation of AMPK and suppress autophagic cell death induced by Her. Our study provides evidence for the development of Her as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
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25
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Zheng Z, Zhang L, Hou X. Potential roles and molecular mechanisms of phytochemicals against cancer. Food Funct 2022; 13:9208-9225. [PMID: 36047380 DOI: 10.1039/d2fo01663j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Increasing evidence has been reported regarding phytochemicals, plant secondary metabolites, having therapeutic functions against numerous human diseases. Recently, phytochemicals (flavonoids, polyphenols, terpenoids, alkaloids, saponins, coumarins and so on) have shown promising anti-cancer efficacy with their distinct advantages of high efficiency and low toxicity. They regulate programmed cell death (apoptosis, pyroptosis, and autophagy), migration and senescence-related signaling pathways of cancer via the modulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, deleted in liver cancer 1 (DLC1), nuclear factor κ light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell (NF-κB) pathways and glycolytic enzymes. Here, we review the molecular mechanisms by which phytochemicals prevent the development of cancer. Furthermore, phytochemicals combined with chemotherapeutic agents could target the crosstalk among multiple signal cascades to block chemoresistance and attenuate carcinogenic properties, and can be considered as a novel and potential therapeutic strategy. Our review highlights that the mechanisms and promising applications are required to be understood to decisively establish the anti-cancer efficacy of natural phytochemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaodi Zheng
- School of Forensics and Laboratory Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, 272067, Shandong, China.
| | - Leilei Zhang
- School of Forensics and Laboratory Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, 272067, Shandong, China.
| | - Xitan Hou
- School of Forensics and Laboratory Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, 272067, Shandong, China.
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26
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Witayateeraporn W, Nguyen HM, Ho DV, Nguyen HT, Chanvorachote P, Vinayanuwattikun C, Pongrakhananon V. Aspiletrein A Induces Apoptosis Cell Death via Increasing Reactive Oxygen Species Generation and AMPK Activation in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169258. [PMID: 36012522 PMCID: PMC9409406 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer remains a leading cause of death in cancer patients, and deregulation of apoptosis is a serious concern in clinical practice, even though therapeutic intervention has been greatly improved. Plants are a versatile source of biologically active compounds for anticancer drug discovery, and aspiletrein A (AA) is a steroidal saponin isolated from Aspidistra letreae that has a potent cytotoxic effect on various cancer cell lines. In this study, we investigated and determined the underlying molecular mechanism by which AA induces apoptosis. AA strongly induced apoptosis in NSCLC cells by mediating ROS generation and thereby activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling. Consequently, downstream signaling and levels of phosphorylated mTOR and Bcl-2 were significantly decreased. Pretreatment with either an antioxidant, N-acetylcysteine, or an AMPK inhibitor, compound C, could reverse the apoptosis-inducing effect and counteract the effect of AA on the AMPK signaling pathway. Decreased levels of Bcl-2 were due to AA-mediating Bcl-2 degradation via a ROS/AMPK/mTOR axis-dependent proteasomal mechanism. Consistently, the apoptotic-inducing effect of AA was also observed in patient-derived malignant lung cancer cells, and it suppressed an in vitro 3D-tumorigenesis. This study identified the underlying mechanism of AA on lung cancer apoptosis, thereby facilitating potential research and development of this compound for further clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wasita Witayateeraporn
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Hien Minh Nguyen
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - Duc Viet Ho
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue City 49000, Vietnam
| | - Hoai Thi Nguyen
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue City 49000, Vietnam
| | - Pithi Chanvorachote
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Chanida Vinayanuwattikun
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Varisa Pongrakhananon
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Preclinical Toxicity and Efficacy Assessment of Medicines and Chemicals Research Unit, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +66-2-218-8325; Fax: +66-2-218-8340
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27
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Annese T, Tamma R, Ribatti D. Update in TIGIT Immune-Checkpoint Role in Cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:871085. [PMID: 35656508 PMCID: PMC9152184 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.871085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The in-depth characterization of cross-talk between tumor cells and T cells in solid and hematological malignancies will have to be considered to develop new therapeutical strategies concerning the reactivation and maintenance of patient-specific antitumor responses within the patient tumor microenvironment. Activation of immune cells depends on a delicate balance between activating and inhibitory signals mediated by different receptors. T cell immunoreceptor with immunoglobulin and ITIM domain (TIGIT) is an inhibitory receptor expressed by regulatory T cells (Tregs), activated T cells, and natural killer (NK) cells. TIGIT pathway regulates T cell-mediated tumor recognition in vivo and in vitro and represents an exciting target for checkpoint blockade immunotherapy. TIGIT blockade as monotherapy or in combination with other inhibitor receptors or drugs is emerging in clinical trials in patients with cancer. The purpose of this review is to update the role of TIGIT in cancer progression, looking at TIGIT pathways that are often upregulated in immune cells and at possible therapeutic strategies to avoid tumor aggressiveness, drug resistance, and treatment side effects. However, in the first part, we overviewed the role of immune checkpoints in immunoediting, the TIGIT structure and ligands, and summarized the key immune cells that express TIGIT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Annese
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Libera Università del Mediterraneo (LUM) Giuseppe Degennaro University, Bari, Italy.,Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - Roberto Tamma
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - Domenico Ribatti
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
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28
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Huang X, Zhang S, Wang W. Artesunate restrains the malignant progression of human cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma cells via the suppression of the PI3K/AKT pathway. Tissue Cell 2022; 76:101789. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2022.101789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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29
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Begum H, Chirra N, Kumar D, Murugesan P, Kantevari S, Tangutur AD. Autophagic and apoptotic cell death induced by the quinoline derivative 2-(6-methoxynaphthalen-2-yl)quinolin-4-amine in pancreatic cancer cells is via ER stress and inhibition of Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. Drug Dev Res 2022; 83:910-926. [PMID: 35092073 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.21916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is among the most lethal cancers and is resistant to existing therapies, which highlights the need for new and alternative therapeutic treatments. Autophagy is emerging as one of the alternative cell death mechanisms and is well known to cross-talk with apoptosis. Autophagy can act as a viable option to treat highly resistant PC. The current study investigates and provides insight into the autophagic and apoptotic cell death induced by quinoline derivative 2-(6-methoxynaphthalen-2-yl)quinolin-4-amine (6MN-4-AQ) in PC cell lines PANC-1 and MIA PaCa-2. Treatment with 6MN-4-AQ reduced cell viability in concentration dependent manner (2-16 μM) and inhibited the clonogenic potential of PC cells at a concentration of 4 μM for 24 h. Further, we found that 6MN-4-AQ induced both apoptosis and autophagic cell death simultaneously. We identified that 6MN-4-AQ induced autophagic cell death by forming cytoplasmic vacuoles, the elevation of autophagy flux, increase in LC3-II, Beclin-1 protein expression, and degradation of p62. Moreover, 6MN-4-AQ induced apoptosis via Caspase-3 activation and cleavage of PARP in PC cells. Upon investigating the underlying mechanism associated with 6MN-4-AQ induced cell death, it was observed that 6MN-4-AQ treatment is able to suppress the Akt/mTOR pathway and induced ER stress leading to the induction of autophagy. Also, 6MN-4-AQ treatment suppressed epithelial to mesenchymal transition by reducing the protein expression of SLUG, snail, and vimentin. Subsequently, 6MN-4-AQ inhibited cell migration and invasion by down regulating MMP-7 and MMP-9 protein expression, suggesting that 6MN-4-AQ may serve as a plausible therapeutic agent for PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Habeebunnisa Begum
- Department of Applied Biology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Nagaraju Chirra
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
- Fluoro & Agrochemicals Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, India
| | - Dinesh Kumar
- Department of Applied Biology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Periyasamy Murugesan
- Department of Applied Biology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Srinivas Kantevari
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
- Fluoro & Agrochemicals Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, India
| | - Anjana Devi Tangutur
- Department of Applied Biology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
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30
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Shi Q, Xia F, Wang Q, Liao F, Guo Q, Xu C, Wang J. Discovery and repurposing of artemisinin. Front Med 2022; 16:1-9. [PMID: 35290595 PMCID: PMC8922983 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-021-0898-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Malaria is an ancient infectious disease that threatens millions of lives globally even today. The discovery of artemisinin, inspired by traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has brought in a paradigm shift and been recognized as the “best hope for the treatment of malaria” by World Health Organization. With its high potency and low toxicity, the wide use of artemisinin effectively treats the otherwise drug-resistant parasites and helps many countries, including China, to eventually eradicate malaria. Here, we will first review the initial discovery of artemisinin, an extraordinary journey that was in stark contrast with many drugs in western medicine. We will then discuss how artemisinin and its derivatives could be repurposed to treat cancer, inflammation, immunoregulation-related diseases, and COVID-19. Finally, we will discuss the implications of the “artemisinin story” and how that can better guide the development of TCM today. We believe that artemisinin is just a starting point and TCM will play an even bigger role in healthcare in the 21st century.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoli Shi
- Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Fei Xia
- Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Qixin Wang
- Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Fulong Liao
- Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Qiuyan Guo
- Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Chengchao Xu
- Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China. .,Department of Geriatrics, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518020, China.
| | - Jigang Wang
- Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China. .,Central People's Hospital of Zhanjiang, Zhanjiang, 524045, China. .,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China. .,Department of Geriatrics, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518020, China.
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31
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Paskeh MDA, Entezari M, Clark C, Zabolian A, Ranjbar E, Farahani MV, Saleki H, Sharifzadeh SO, Far FB, Ashrafizadeh M, Samarghandian S, Khan H, Ghavami S, Zarrabi A, Łos MJ. Targeted regulation of autophagy using nanoparticles: New insight into cancer therapy. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2022; 1868:166326. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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32
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Bai Z, Peng Y, Ye X, Liu Z, Li Y, Ma L. Autophagy and cancer treatment: four functional forms of autophagy and their therapeutic applications. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2022; 23:89-101. [PMID: 35187884 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b2100804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide. Drugs play a pivotal role in cancer treatment, but the complex biological processes of cancer cells seriously limit the efficacy of various anticancer drugs. Autophagy, a self-degradative system that maintains cellular homeostasis, universally operates under normal and stress conditions in cancer cells. The roles of autophagy in cancer treatment are still controversial because both stimulation and inhibition of autophagy have been reported to enhance the effects of anticancer drugs. Thus, the important question arises as to whether we should try to strengthen or suppress autophagy during cancer therapy. Currently, autophagy can be divided into four main forms according to its different functions during cancer treatment: cytoprotective (cell survival), cytotoxic (cell death), cytostatic (growth arrest), and nonprotective (no contribution to cell death or survival). In addition, various cell death modes, such as apoptosis, necrosis, ferroptosis, senescence, and mitotic catastrophe, all contribute to the anticancer effects of drugs. The interaction between autophagy and these cell death modes is complex and can lead to anticancer drugs having different or even completely opposite effects on treatment. Therefore, it is important to understand the underlying contexts in which autophagy inhibition or activation will be beneficial or detrimental. That is, appropriate therapeutic strategies should be adopted in light of the different functions of autophagy. This review provides an overview of recent insights into the evolving relationship between autophagy and cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoshi Bai
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Yaling Peng
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xinyue Ye
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Zhixian Liu
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yupeng Li
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Lingman Ma
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
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Zhou X, Suo F, Haslinger K, Quax WJ. Artemisinin-Type Drugs in Tumor Cell Death: Mechanisms, Combination Treatment with Biologics and Nanoparticle Delivery. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:395. [PMID: 35214127 PMCID: PMC8875250 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14020395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Artemisinin, the most famous anti-malaria drug initially extracted from Artemisia annua L., also exhibits anti-tumor properties in vivo and in vitro. To improve its solubility and bioavailability, multiple derivatives have been synthesized. However, to reveal the anti-tumor mechanism and improve the efficacy of these artemisinin-type drugs, studies have been conducted in recent years. In this review, we first provide an overview of the effect of artemisinin-type drugs on the regulated cell death pathways, which may uncover novel therapeutic approaches. Then, to overcome the shortcomings of artemisinin-type drugs, we summarize the recent advances in two different therapeutic approaches, namely the combination therapy with biologics influencing regulated cell death, and the use of nanocarriers as drug delivery systems. For the former approach, we discuss the superiority of combination treatments compared to monotherapy in tumor cells based on their effects on regulated cell death. For the latter approach, we give a systematic overview of nanocarrier design principles used to deliver artemisinin-type drugs, including inorganic-based nanoparticles, liposomes, micelles, polymer-based nanoparticles, carbon-based nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers and niosomes. Both approaches have yielded promising findings in vitro and in vivo, providing a strong scientific basis for further study and upcoming clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kristina Haslinger
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Biology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands; (X.Z.); (F.S.)
| | - Wim J. Quax
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Biology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands; (X.Z.); (F.S.)
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Farmanpour-Kalalagh K, Beyraghdar Kashkooli A, Babaei A, Rezaei A, van der Krol AR. Artemisinins in Combating Viral Infections Like SARS-CoV-2, Inflammation and Cancers and Options to Meet Increased Global Demand. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:780257. [PMID: 35197994 PMCID: PMC8859114 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.780257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Artemisinin is a natural bioactive sesquiterpene lactone containing an unusual endoperoxide 1, 2, 4-trioxane ring. It is derived from the herbal medicinal plant Artemisia annua and is best known for its use in treatment of malaria. However, recent studies also indicate the potential for artemisinin and related compounds, commonly referred to as artemisinins, in combating viral infections, inflammation and certain cancers. Moreover, the different potential modes of action of artemisinins make these compounds also potentially relevant to the challenges the world faces in the COVID-19 pandemic. Initial studies indicate positive effects of artemisinin or Artemisia spp. extracts to combat SARS-CoV-2 infection or COVID-19 related symptoms and WHO-supervised clinical studies on the potential of artemisinins to combat COVID-19 are now in progress. However, implementing multiple potential new uses of artemisinins will require effective solutions to boost production, either by enhancing synthesis in A. annua itself or through biotechnological engineering in alternative biosynthesis platforms. Because of this renewed interest in artemisinin and its derivatives, here we review its modes of action, its potential application in different diseases including COVID-19, its biosynthesis and future options to boost production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karim Farmanpour-Kalalagh
- Department of Horticultural Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arman Beyraghdar Kashkooli
- Department of Horticultural Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
- *Correspondence: Arman Beyraghdar Kashkooli,
| | - Alireza Babaei
- Department of Horticultural Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Rezaei
- Department of Horticultural Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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Liu J, Wang L, Ge L, Sun W, Song Z, Lu X, Jin C, Wu S, Yang J. Lanthanum decreased VAPB-PTPP51, BAP31-FIS1, and MFN2-MFN1 expression of mitochondria-associated membranes and induced abnormal autophagy in rat hippocampus. Food Chem Toxicol 2022; 161:112831. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2022.112831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Shu Y, Sun X, Ye G, Xu M, Wu Z, Wu C, Li S, Tian J, Han H, Zhang J. DHOK Exerts Anti-Cancer Effect Through Autophagy Inhibition in Colorectal Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:760022. [PMID: 34977014 PMCID: PMC8719673 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.760022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
DHOK (14,15β-dihydroxyklaineanone) is a novel diterpene isolated from roots of Eurycoma longifolia Jack, a traditional herb widely applied in Southeast Asia. It is reported that DHOK has cytotoxic effect on cancer cells, but its anti-cancer mechanism has still been not clear. In our study, we first observed that DHOK inhibits cell proliferation of colorectal cancer cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Next, we performed transcriptome sequencing to identify the targets of DHOK and found that autophagy-related signaling pathways are involved under DHOK treatment. Indeed, in DHOK-treated cells, the level of autophagosome marker LC3 and the formation of GFP-LC3 puncta were decreased, indicating the reduction of autophagy. Moreover, confocal microscopy results revealed the lysosomal activity and the formation of autolysosomes are also inhibited. Our western blotting results demonstrated the activation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway by DHOK, which may be attributed to the enhancement of ERK and AKT activity. Functionally, activation of autophagy attenuated DHOK-caused cell death, indicating that autophagy serves as cell survival. In xenograft mouse model, our results also showed that DHOK activates the mTOR signaling pathway, decreases autophagy level and inhibits the tumorigenesis of colon cancer. Taken together, we revealed the molecular mechanism of DHOK against cancer and our results also demonstrate great potential of DHOK in the treatment of colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhan Shu
- College of Biomedical Engineering and Instrument Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xin Sun
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Guiqin Ye
- Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mengting Xu
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhipan Wu
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Caixia Wu
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shouxin Li
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jingkui Tian
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haote Han
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Jianbin Zhang, ; Haote Han,
| | - Jianbin Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Jianbin Zhang, ; Haote Han,
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Yang X, Wang W, Ma JL, Qiu YL, Lu K, Cao DS, Wu CK. BioNet: a large-scale and heterogeneous biological network model for interaction prediction with graph convolution. Brief Bioinform 2021; 23:6440126. [PMID: 34849567 PMCID: PMC8690188 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbab491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Motivation Understanding chemical–gene interactions (CGIs) is crucial for screening drugs. Wet experiments are usually costly and laborious, which limits relevant studies to a small scale. On the contrary, computational studies enable efficient in-silico exploration. For the CGI prediction problem, a common method is to perform systematic analyses on a heterogeneous network involving various biomedical entities. Recently, graph neural networks become popular in the field of relation prediction. However, the inherent heterogeneous complexity of biological interaction networks and the massive amount of data pose enormous challenges. This paper aims to develop a data-driven model that is capable of learning latent information from the interaction network and making correct predictions. Results We developed BioNet, a deep biological networkmodel with a graph encoder–decoder architecture. The graph encoder utilizes graph convolution to learn latent information embedded in complex interactions among chemicals, genes, diseases and biological pathways. The learning process is featured by two consecutive steps. Then, embedded information learnt by the encoder is then employed to make multi-type interaction predictions between chemicals and genes with a tensor decomposition decoder based on the RESCAL algorithm. BioNet includes 79 325 entities as nodes, and 34 005 501 relations as edges. To train such a massive deep graph model, BioNet introduces a parallel training algorithm utilizing multiple Graphics Processing Unit (GPUs). The evaluation experiments indicated that BioNet exhibits outstanding prediction performance with a best area under Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve of 0.952, which significantly surpasses state-of-theart methods. For further validation, top predicted CGIs of cancer and COVID-19 by BioNet were verified by external curated data and published literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Yang
- College of Computer, National University of Defense Technology, China
| | - Wei Wang
- National Supercomputer Center in Tianjin, China
| | - Jing-Lun Ma
- College of Computer, National University of Defense Technology, China
| | - Yan-Long Qiu
- College of Computer, National University of Defense Technology, China
| | - Kai Lu
- College of Computer, National University of Defense Technology, China
| | - Dong-Sheng Cao
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, China
| | - Cheng-Kun Wu
- Institute for Quantum Information & State Key Laboratory of High Performance Computing, College of Computer Science and Technology, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha 410073, China
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Zheng Y, Liu Z, Yang X, Liu L, Ahn KS. An updated review on the potential antineoplastic actions of oleuropein. Phytother Res 2021; 36:365-379. [PMID: 34808696 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Oleuropein is an ester of elenolic acid and hydroxytyrosol (3, 4-dihydroxyphenylethanol). It is a phenolic compound and the most luxuriant in olives. The detailed information related to the anticancer effects of oleuropein was collected from the internet database PubMed/Medline, ResearchGate, Web of Science, Wiley Online Library, and Cnki using appropriate keywords until the end of October 2021. Oleuropein has been shown to have antioxidant, anticancer, antiinflammatory, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, and hepatoprotective effects. Previous studies also revealed that oleuropein could effectively inhibit the malignant progression of esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, ovarian cancer, prostate cancer, and cervical cancer. Recently, the role of oleuropein in inhibiting tumor cell proliferation, invasion, and migration and inducing tumor cell apoptosis has gained extensive attention. In this review, we have summarized the latest research progress related to the antioncogenic mechanisms and the potential role of oleuropein in targeting different human malignancies. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that oleuropein can function as a promising chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agent against cancer, but its more detailed anticancer effects and underlying mechanisms need to be further validated in future preclinical as well as clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yudong Zheng
- Department of Pharmacology, Basic Medical School of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Zhenzhen Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, Basic Medical School of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Xiulan Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, Basic Medical School of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Lian Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, Basic Medical School of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Kwang Seok Ahn
- Kyung Department of Science in Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Bu F, Zhang J, Shuai W, Liu J, Sun Q, Ouyang L. Repurposing drugs in autophagy for the treatment of cancer: From bench to bedside. Drug Discov Today 2021; 27:1815-1831. [PMID: 34808390 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2021.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Autophagy is a multistep degradation pathway involving the lysosome, which supports nutrient reuse and metabolic balance, and has been implicated as a process that regulates cancer genesis and development. Targeting tumors by regulating autophagy has become a therapeutic strategy of interest. Drugs with other indications can have antitumor activity by modulating autophagy, providing a shortcut to developing novel antitumor drugs (i.e., drug repurposing/repositioning), as successfully performed for chloroquine (CQ); an increasing number of repurposed drugs have since advanced into clinical trials. In this review, we describe the application of different drug-repurposing approaches in autophagy for the treatment of cancer and focus on repurposing drugs that target autophagy to treat malignant neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faqian Bu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jifa Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Wen Shuai
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jie Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qiu Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Liang Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
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Chen Y, Wang F, Wu P, Gong S, Gao J, Tao H, Shen Q, Wang S, Zhou Z, Jia Y. Artesunate induces apoptosis, autophagy and ferroptosis in diffuse large B cell lymphoma cells by impairing STAT3 signaling. Cell Signal 2021; 88:110167. [PMID: 34628002 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2021.110167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Artesunate (ART), a water-soluble derivative of artemisinin, has been reported to exert antineoplastic effects via diverse mechanisms in various types of cancer. Therefore, understanding the underlying mechanism of action of ART in distinct cancer types is indispensable to optimizing the therapeutic application of ART for different types of cancer. The present study aimed to investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms responsible for the antineoplastic effects of ART in diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) cells. Cell proliferation was measured using Cell Counting Kit-8 and colony formation assays. The levels of apoptosis and cell cycle distribution were investigated using flow cytometry. In addition, western blotting was used to analyze the expression levels of ART-induced apoptosis-, autophagy- and ferroptosis-related proteins. Monodansylcadaverine staining was performed to determine the levels of autophagy. Moreover, malondialdehyde and reactive oxygen species assays were used to determine the levels of ferroptosis. The results of the present study revealed that ART inhibited proliferation, and induced apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, autophagy and ferroptosis in DLBCL cells. Pharmacological inhibition of autophagy and ferroptosis alleviated the increased levels of apoptosis induced by ART. Notably, ART was found to exert its effects via inhibition of STAT3 activation. The genetic knockdown of STAT3 enhanced ART-induced autophagy and ferroptosis, and concomitantly upregulated the expression levels of apoptosis- and cell cycle-related proteins. In conclusion, the findings of the current study suggested that ART may induce apoptosis and cell cycle arrest to inhibit cell proliferation, and regulate autophagy and ferroptosis via impairing the STAT3 signaling pathway in DLBCL cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Chen
- Department of Hematology and Research Laboratory of Hematology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Fujue Wang
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China
| | - Pengqiang Wu
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, China
| | - Shuaige Gong
- Department of Hematology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jie Gao
- Department of Hematology and Research Laboratory of Hematology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Huan Tao
- Department of Hematology and Research Laboratory of Hematology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Qianqing Shen
- Department of Hematology and Research Laboratory of Hematology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Shuoting Wang
- Department of Hematology and Research Laboratory of Hematology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhencang Zhou
- Department of Hematology and Research Laboratory of Hematology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yongqian Jia
- Department of Hematology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China.
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Chen BC, Lu JJ, Jiang N, Ma XR, Li RT, Ye RR. Synthesis, characterization and antitumor mechanism investigation of ruthenium(II) polypyridyl complexes with artesunate moiety. J Biol Inorg Chem 2021; 26:909-918. [PMID: 34545414 DOI: 10.1007/s00775-021-01901-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Six artesunate (ART) conjugated ruthenium(II) complexes (Ru(II)-ART conjugates) with the formula [Ru(N^N)2bpy(4-CH3-4'-CH2OART)](PF6)2 (Ru-ART-1-3) and [Ru(N^N)2bpy(4-CH2OART-4'-CH2OART)](PF6)2 (Ru-ART-4-6) (N^N = 2,2'-bipyridine (bpy, in Ru-ART-1 and Ru-ART-4), 1,10-phenanthroline (phen, in Ru-ART-2 and Ru-ART-5) and 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline (DIP, in Ru-ART-3 and Ru-ART-6)), were synthesized and characterized. Among them, Ru-ART-1-3 and Ru-ART-4-6 carry one and two ART moieties, respectively. Ru-ART-3 and Ru-ART-6 exhibit better cytotoxicity among six Ru(II)-ART conjugates. These two complexes can be effectively taken up by human cervical carcinoma (HeLa) cells. In addition, they selectively kill cancer cell lines while mildly affect normal cells. Mechanism studies have shown that HeLa cells treated with Ru-ART-3 and Ru-ART-6 show typical apoptotic characteristics (morphology changes, mitochondrial dysfunction, caspase cascade, etc.). On the other hand, the up regulation of Beclin-1 and conversion of LC3-I to LC3-II note the appearance of autophagy. As a result, Ru-ART-3 and Ru-ART-6 induce autophagy-dependent cell apoptosis via mitochondrial dysfunction and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. In this work, six artesunate (ART) conjugated ruthenium(II) complexes (Ru(II)-ART conjugates) have been synthesized and characterized. Among them, Ru-ART-3 and Ru-ART-6 exhibit better cytotoxicity. Mechanism studies have shown that HeLa cells treated with Ru-ART-3 and Ru-ART-6 show typical apoptotic characteristics (morphology changes, mitochondrial dysfunction, caspase cascade, etc.). On the other hand, the up regulation of Beclin-1 and conversion of LC3-I to LC3-II note the appearance of autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bi-Chun Chen
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun-Jian Lu
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, People's Republic of China
| | - Ning Jiang
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiu-Rong Ma
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, People's Republic of China
| | - Rong-Tao Li
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui-Rong Ye
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, People's Republic of China.
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Yang X, Zheng Y, Liu L, Huang J, Wang F, Zhang J. Progress on the study of the anticancer effects of artesunate. Oncol Lett 2021; 22:750. [PMID: 34539854 PMCID: PMC8436334 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.13011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Artesunate (ART) is a derivative of artemisinin that is extracted from the wormwood plant Artemisia annua. ART is an antimalarial drug that has been shown to be safe and effective for clinical use. In addition to its antimalarial properties, ART has been attracting attention over recent years due to its reported inhibitory effects on cancer cell proliferation, invasion and migration. Therefore, ART has a wider range of potential clinical applications than first hypothesized. The aim of the present review was to summarize the latest research progress on the possible anticancer effects of ART, in order to lay a theoretical foundation for the further development of ART as a therapeutic option for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiulan Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, The School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei 434023, P.R. China
| | - Yudong Zheng
- Department of Pharmacology, The School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei 434023, P.R. China
| | - Lian Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, The School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei 434023, P.R. China
| | - Jiangrong Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, The School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei 434023, P.R. China
| | - Fei Wang
- Center of Experiment and Training, Hubei College of Chinese Medicine, Jingzhou, Hubei 434020, P.R. China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, The School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei 434023, P.R. China
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Li Y, Gao S, Du X, Ji J, Xi Y, Zhai G. Advances in autophagy as a target in the treatment of tumours. J Drug Target 2021; 30:166-187. [PMID: 34319838 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2021.1961792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Autophagy is a multi-step lysosomal degradation process, which regulates energy and material metabolism and has been used to maintain homeostasis. Autophagy has been shown to be involved in the regulation of health and disease. But at present, there is no consensus on the relationship between autophagy and tumour, and we consider that it plays a dual role in the occurrence and development of tumour. That is to say, under certain conditions, it can inhibit the occurrence of tumour, but it can also promote the process of tumour. Therefore, autophagy could be used as a target for tumour treatment. The regulation of autophagy plays a synergistic role in the radiotherapy, chemotherapy, phototherapy and immunotherapy of tumour, and nano drug delivery system provides a promising strategy for improving the efficacy of autophagy regulation. This review summarised the progress in the regulatory pathways and factors of autophagy as well as nanoformulations as carriers for the delivery of autophagy modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Shan Gao
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Xiyou Du
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Jianbo Ji
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Yanwei Xi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Guangxi Zhai
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China
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Abstract
Terpenoids are the largest class of natural products, most of which are derived from plants. Amongst their numerous biological properties, their anti-tumor effects are of interest for they are extremely diverse which include anti-proliferative, apoptotic, anti-angiogenic, and anti-metastatic activities. Recently, several in vitro and in vivo studies have been dedicated to understanding the 'terpenoid induced autophagy' phenomenon in cancer cells. Light has already been shed on the intricacy of apoptosis and autophagy relationship. This latter crosstalk is driven by the delicate balance between activating or silencing of certain proteins whereby the outcome is expressed via interrelated signaling pathways. In this review, we focus on nine of the most studied terpenoids and on their cell death and autophagic activity. These terpenoids are grouped in three classes: sesquiterpenoid (artemisinin, parthenolide), diterpenoids (oridonin, triptolide), and triterpenoids (alisol, betulinic acid, oleanolic acid, platycodin D, and ursolic acid). We have selected these nine terpenoids among others as they belong to the different major classes of terpenoids and our extensive search of the literature indicated that they were the most studied in terms of autophagy in cancer. These terpenoids alone demonstrate the complexity by which these secondary metabolites induce autophagy via complex signaling pathways such as MAPK/ERK/JNK, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, AMPK, NF-kB, and reactive oxygen species. Moreover, induction of autophagy can be either destructive or protective in tumor cells. Nevertheless, should this phenomenon be well understood, we ought to be able to exploit it to create novel therapies and design more effective regimens in the management and treatment of cancer.
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Jiu X, Liu Y, Wen J. Artesunate combined with verteporfin inhibits uveal melanoma by regulation of the MALAT1/yes-associated protein signaling pathway. Oncol Lett 2021; 22:597. [PMID: 34188699 PMCID: PMC8228376 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.12858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common ocular malignancy and has no effective clinical treatment. Therefore, novel drugs to suppress UM tumor progression are urgently required. The present study aimed to clarify the underlying mechanism of the inhibitory effects of artesunate on UM. By using plasmid transfection and detecting apoptotic level, the present study identified artesunate as a potential candidate for UM treatment. Compared with those in the vehicle (DMSO)-treated control cells, artesunate enhanced the apoptotic rate and increased lactate dehydrogenase release, reactive oxygen species and IL1b and IL18 levels in C918 cells. Overexpression of yes-associated protein (YAP) or metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) in C918 cells reversed the effects of artesunate and reduced the apoptotic rate compared with those observed in cells transfected with the negative control plasmid. Notably, verteporfin enhanced the effects of artesunate on C918 cells by increasing the apoptotic rate, indicating that combined therapy was more effective compared with treatment with artesunate alone. In conclusion, the results of the present study demonstrated that artesunate elevated the apoptotic rate and suppressed C918 cell viability by regulating the MALAT1/YAP signaling pathway, and these effects were enhanced by supplementation with verteporfin. These results suggested that artesunate may exert an inhibitory effect on C918 cells and that the MALAT1/YAP signaling may serve important role in mediating these effects, providing evidence of its potential for treating UM in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xudong Jiu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730020, P.R. China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730020, P.R. China
| | - Jin Wen
- Department of Ophthalmology, People's Hospital of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
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Li YQ, Zheng Z, Liu QX, Lu X, Zhou D, Zhang J, Zheng H, Dai JG. Repositioning of Antiparasitic Drugs for Tumor Treatment. Front Oncol 2021; 11:670804. [PMID: 33996598 PMCID: PMC8117216 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.670804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug repositioning is a strategy for identifying new antitumor drugs; this strategy allows existing and approved clinical drugs to be innovatively repurposed to treat tumors. Based on the similarities between parasitic diseases and cancer, recent studies aimed to investigate the efficacy of existing antiparasitic drugs in cancer. In this review, we selected two antihelminthic drugs (macrolides and benzimidazoles) and two antiprotozoal drugs (artemisinin and its derivatives, and quinolines) and summarized the research progresses made to date on the role of these drugs in cancer. Overall, these drugs regulate tumor growth via multiple targets, pathways, and modes of action. These antiparasitic drugs are good candidates for comprehensive, in-depth analyses of tumor occurrence and development. In-depth studies may improve the current tumor diagnoses and treatment regimens. However, for clinical application, current investigations are still insufficient, warranting more comprehensive analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Qi Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Zhi Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Quan-Xing Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Xiao Lu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Dong Zhou
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jiao Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Hong Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Ji-Gang Dai
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
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Wang J, Wu Z, Peng Y, Li W, Liu G, Tang Y. Pathway-Based Drug Repurposing with DPNetinfer: A Method to Predict Drug-Pathway Associations via Network-Based Approaches. J Chem Inf Model 2021; 61:2475-2485. [PMID: 33900090 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.1c00009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Identification of drug-pathway associations plays an important role in pathway-based drug repurposing. However, it is time-consuming and costly to uncover new drug-pathway associations experimentally. The drug-induced transcriptomics data provide a global view of cellular pathways and tell how these pathways change under different treatments. These data enable computational approaches for large-scale prediction of drug-pathway associations. Here we introduced DPNetinfer, a novel computational method to predict potential drug-pathway associations based on substructure-drug-pathway networks via network-based approaches. The results demonstrated that DPNetinfer performed well in a pan-cancer network with an AUC (area under curve) = 0.9358. Meanwhile, DPNetinfer was shown to have a good capability of generalization on two external validation sets (AUC = 0.8519 and 0.7494, respectively). As a case study, DPNetinfer was used in pathway-based drug repurposing for cancer therapy. Unexpected anticancer activities of some nononcology drugs were then identified on the PI3K-Akt pathway. Considering tumor heterogeneity, seven primary site-based models were constructed by DPNetinfer in different drug-pathway networks. In a word, DPNetinfer provides a powerful tool for large-scale prediction of drug-pathway associations in pathway-based drug repurposing. A web tool for DPNetinfer is freely available at http://lmmd.ecust.edu.cn/netinfer/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiye Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Zengrui Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Yayuan Peng
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Weihua Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Guixia Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Yun Tang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
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Zhao F, Vakhrusheva O, Markowitsch SD, Slade KS, Tsaur I, Cinatl J, Michaelis M, Efferth T, Haferkamp A, Juengel E. Artesunate Impairs Growth in Cisplatin-Resistant Bladder Cancer Cells by Cell Cycle Arrest, Apoptosis and Autophagy Induction. Cells 2020; 9:E2643. [PMID: 33316936 PMCID: PMC7763932 DOI: 10.3390/cells9122643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Cisplatin, which induces DNA damage, is standard chemotherapy for advanced bladder cancer (BCa). However, efficacy is limited due to resistance development. Since artesunate (ART), a derivative of artemisinin originating from Traditional Chinese Medicine, has been shown to exhibit anti-tumor activity, and to inhibit DNA damage repair, the impact of artesunate on cisplatin-resistant BCa was evaluated. Cisplatin-sensitive (parental) and cisplatin-resistant BCa cells, RT4, RT112, T24, and TCCSup, were treated with ART (1-100 µM). Cell growth, proliferation, and cell cycle phases were investigated, as were apoptosis, necrosis, ferroptosis, autophagy, metabolic activity, and protein expression. Exposure to ART induced a time- and dose-dependent significant inhibition of tumor cell growth and proliferation of parental and cisplatin-resistant BCa cells. This inhibition was accompanied by a G0/G1 phase arrest and modulation of cell cycle regulating proteins. ART induced apoptos is by enhancing DNA damage, especially in the resistant cells. ART did not induce ferroptosis, but led to a disturbance of mitochondrial respiration and ATP generation. This impairment correlated with autophagy accompanied by a decrease in LC3B-I and an increase in LC3B-II. Since ART significantly inhibits proliferative and metabolic aspects of cisplatin-sensitive and cisplatin-resistant BCa cells, it may hold potential in treating advanced and therapy-resistant BCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuguang Zhao
- Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, University Medical Center Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (F.Z.); (O.V.); (S.D.M.); (K.S.S.); (I.T.); (A.H.)
| | - Olesya Vakhrusheva
- Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, University Medical Center Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (F.Z.); (O.V.); (S.D.M.); (K.S.S.); (I.T.); (A.H.)
| | - Sascha D. Markowitsch
- Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, University Medical Center Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (F.Z.); (O.V.); (S.D.M.); (K.S.S.); (I.T.); (A.H.)
| | - Kimberly S. Slade
- Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, University Medical Center Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (F.Z.); (O.V.); (S.D.M.); (K.S.S.); (I.T.); (A.H.)
| | - Igor Tsaur
- Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, University Medical Center Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (F.Z.); (O.V.); (S.D.M.); (K.S.S.); (I.T.); (A.H.)
| | - Jindrich Cinatl
- Institute of Medical Virology, Goethe-University, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany;
| | - Martin Michaelis
- Industrial Biotechnology Centre, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NJ, UK;
| | - Thomas Efferth
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany;
| | - Axel Haferkamp
- Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, University Medical Center Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (F.Z.); (O.V.); (S.D.M.); (K.S.S.); (I.T.); (A.H.)
| | - Eva Juengel
- Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, University Medical Center Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (F.Z.); (O.V.); (S.D.M.); (K.S.S.); (I.T.); (A.H.)
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