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Ghosh S, Das SK, Sinha K, Ghosh B, Sen K, Ghosh N, Sil PC. The Emerging Role of Natural Products in Cancer Treatment. Arch Toxicol 2024; 98:2353-2391. [PMID: 38795134 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-024-03786-3] [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: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024]
Abstract
The exploration of natural products as potential agents for cancer treatment has garnered significant attention in recent years. In this comprehensive review, we delve into the diverse array of natural compounds, including alkaloids, carbohydrates, flavonoids, lignans, polyketides, saponins, tannins, and terpenoids, highlighting their emerging roles in cancer therapy. These compounds, derived from various botanical sources, exhibit a wide range of mechanisms of action, targeting critical pathways involved in cancer progression such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Through a meticulous examination of preclinical and clinical studies, we provide insights into the therapeutic potential of these natural products across different cancer types. Furthermore, we discuss the advantages and challenges associated with their use in cancer treatment, emphasizing the need for further research to optimize their efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and delivery methods. Overall, this review underscores the importance of natural products in advancing cancer therapeutics and paves the way for future investigations into their clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit Ghosh
- Department of Zoology, Ramakrishna Mission Vidyamandira, Belur Math, Howrah, 711202, India
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, Kolkata, 700054, India
| | - Sanjib Kumar Das
- Department of Zoology, Jhargram Raj College, Jhargram, 721507, India
| | - Krishnendu Sinha
- Department of Zoology, Jhargram Raj College, Jhargram, 721507, India.
| | - Biswatosh Ghosh
- Department of Zoology, Bidhannagar College, Kolkata, 700064, India
| | - Koushik Sen
- Department of Zoology, Jhargram Raj College, Jhargram, 721507, India
| | - Nabanita Ghosh
- Department of Zoology, Maulana Azad College, Kolkata, 700013, India
| | - Parames C Sil
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, Kolkata, 700054, India.
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2
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Li H, Huang Y, Yang Q, Zhang Z, Shen S, Guo H, Wei W. Pharmacological activation of TLR7 exerts inhibition on the replication of EV-D68 in respiratory cells. J Virol 2024; 98:e0043424. [PMID: 38690875 PMCID: PMC11237570 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00434-24] [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: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The globally reemerging respiratory pathogen enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is implicated in outbreaks of severe respiratory illness and associated with acute flaccid myelitis. However, there remains a lack of effective treatments for EV-D68 infection. In this work, we found that the host Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) proteins, which function as powerful innate immune sensors, were selectively elevated in expression in response to EV-D68 infection. Subsequently, we investigated the impact of Vesatolimod (GS-9620), a Toll-like receptor 7 agonist, on EV-D68 replication. Our findings revealed that EV-D68 infection resulted in increased mRNA levels of TLR7. Treatment with Vesatolimod significantly inhibited EV-D68 replication [half maximal effective concentration (EC50) = 0.1427 µM] without inducing significant cytotoxicity at virucidal concentrations. Although Vesatolimod exhibited limited impact on EV-D68 attachment, it suppressed RNA replication and viral protein synthesis after virus entry. Vesatolimod broadly inhibited the replication of circulating isolated strains of EV-D68. Furthermore, our findings demonstrated that treatment with Vesatolimod conferred resistance to both respiratory and neural cells against EV-D68 infection. Overall, these results present a promising strategy for drug development by pharmacologically activating TLR7 to initiate an antiviral state in EV-D68-infected cells selectively.IMPORTANCEConventional strategies for antiviral drug development primarily focus on directly targeting viral proteases or key components, as well as host proteins involved in viral replication. In this study, based on our intriguing discovery that enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) infection specifically upregulates the expression of immune sensor Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) protein, which is either absent or expressed at low levels in respiratory cells, we propose a potential antiviral approach utilizing TLR7 agonists to activate EV-D68-infected cells into an anti-viral defense state. Notably, our findings demonstrate that pharmacological activation of TLR7 effectively suppresses EV-D68 replication in respiratory tract cells through a TLR7/MyD88-dependent mechanism. This study not only presents a promising drug candidate and target against EV-D68 dissemination but also highlights the potential to exploit unique alterations in cellular innate immune responses induced by viral infections, selectively inducing a defensive state in infected cells while safeguarding uninfected normal cells from potential adverse effects associated with therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huili Li
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yuehan Huang
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Qingran Yang
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Siyu Shen
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Haoran Guo
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, Institute of Translational Medicine, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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3
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Shaik GM, Khan MS. Betulinic Acid Potentiates Mast Cell Degranulation by Compromising Cell Membrane Integrity and Without Involving Fcεri Receptors. Immunol Invest 2024; 53:695-711. [PMID: 38504489 DOI: 10.1080/08820139.2024.2329990] [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] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Mast cells play important role in acquired and natural immunity making these favorable therapeutic targets in various inflammatory diseases. Here we observed that, pentacyclic tri terpenoid betulinic acid (BA) treatment resulted in a significantly high number (9%) of cells positive for Hoechst and negative for annexin-V indicating that BA could interfere with plasma membrane integrity. The degranulation of both activated and non-activated mast cells was enhanced upon treatment with BA. The pre-treatment of BA had remarkable effect on calcium response in activated mast cells which showed increased calcium influx relative compared to untreated cells. The results also showed potentially less migration of BA treated mast cells signifying the possible effect of BA on cell membrane. BA treatment resulted in a significant increase in mRNA levels of IL-13 while as mRNA levels of other target cytokines, IL-6 and TNF-α seem to be not affected. Moreover, there was global Increase in phosphorylation of signaling proteins and no significant change in phosphorylation of FcεRI receptors indicating that the effect of BA was independent of signaling cascade or FcεRI receptor mediated mast cell aggregation. Overall, these results portray BA potentiates mast cell effector functions by compromising the membrane integrity and independent of FcεRI involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gouse M Shaik
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohd Shahnawaz Khan
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Grudzińska M, Stachnik B, Galanty A, Sołtys A, Podolak I. Progress in Antimelanoma Research of Natural Triterpenoids and Their Derivatives: Mechanisms of Action, Bioavailability Enhancement and Structure Modifications. Molecules 2023; 28:7763. [PMID: 38067491 PMCID: PMC10707933 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28237763] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is one of the most dangerous forms of skin cancer, characterized by early metastasis and rapid development. In search for effective treatment options, much attention is given to triterpenoids of plant origin, which are considered promising drug candidates due to their well described anticancer properties and relatively low toxicity. This paper comprehensively summarizes the antimelanoma potential of natural triterpenoids, that are also used as scaffolds for the development of more effective derivatives. These include betulin, betulinic acid, ursolic acid, maslinic acid, oleanolic acid, celastrol and lupeol. Some lesser-known triterpenoids that deserve attention in this context are 22β-hydroxytingenone, cucurbitacins, geoditin A and ganoderic acids. Recently described mechanisms of action are presented, together with the results of preclinical in vitro and in vivo studies, as well as the use of drug delivery systems and pharmaceutical technologies to improve the bioavailability of triterpenoids. This paper also reviews the most promising structural modifications, based on structure-activity observations. In conclusion, triterpenoids of plant origin and some of their semi-synthetic derivatives exert significant cytotoxic, antiproliferative and chemopreventive effects that can be beneficial for melanoma treatment. Recent data indicate that their poor solubility in water, and thus low bioavailability, can be overcome by complexing with cyclodextrins, or the use of nanoparticles and ethosomes, thus making these compounds promising antimelanoma drug candidates for further development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Grudzińska
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland; (M.G.); (B.S.); (A.S.); (I.P.)
- Department of Food Chemistry and Nutrition, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
- Doctoral School of Medical and Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Łazarza 16, 31-530 Kraków, Poland
| | - Bogna Stachnik
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland; (M.G.); (B.S.); (A.S.); (I.P.)
| | - Agnieszka Galanty
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland; (M.G.); (B.S.); (A.S.); (I.P.)
| | - Agnieszka Sołtys
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland; (M.G.); (B.S.); (A.S.); (I.P.)
| | - Irma Podolak
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland; (M.G.); (B.S.); (A.S.); (I.P.)
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Wróblewska-Łuczka P, Cabaj J, Bargieł J, Łuszczki JJ. Anticancer effect of terpenes: focus on malignant melanoma. Pharmacol Rep 2023; 75:1115-1125. [PMID: 37515699 PMCID: PMC10539410 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-023-00512-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
Melanoma is a highly aggressive and life-threatening form of skin cancer that accounts for a significant proportion of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Although conventional cancer therapies, such as surgical excision, chemotherapy, and radiation, have been used to treat malignant melanoma, their efficacy is often limited due to the development of resistance and adverse side effects. Therefore, there is a growing interest in developing alternative treatment options for melanoma that are more effective and less toxic. Terpenes, a diverse group of naturally occurring compounds of plant origin, have emerged as potential anticancer agents due to their ability to inhibit tumor growth and induce apoptosis in cancer cells. In this review, the current understanding of the anticancer effects of terpenes (including, thymoquinone, β-elemene, carvacrol, limonene, α-pinene, β-caryophyllene, perillyl alcohol, taxol, betulinic acid, α-bisabolol, ursolic acid, linalool, lupeol, and artesunate) was summarized, with a special focus on their potential as therapeutic agents for malignant melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Wróblewska-Łuczka
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8B, 20-090, Lublin, Poland
| | - Justyna Cabaj
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8B, 20-090, Lublin, Poland
| | - Julia Bargieł
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8B, 20-090, Lublin, Poland
| | - Jarogniew J Łuszczki
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8B, 20-090, Lublin, Poland.
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Tsepaeva OV, Salikhova TI, Ishkaeva RA, Kundina AV, Abdullin TI, Laikov AV, Tikhomirova MV, Idrisova LR, Nemtarev AV, Mironov VF. Bifunctionalized Betulinic Acid Conjugates with C-3-Monodesmoside and C-28-Triphenylphosphonium Moieties with Increased Cancer Cell Targetability. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2023; 86:1939-1949. [PMID: 37497692 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.3c00304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
A convenient synthesis is presented for a new class of bioactive bifunctionalized conjugates of lupane-type triterpenoids with triphenylphosphonium (TPP) and glycopyranosyl targeting moieties. The main synthesis steps include glycosylation of haloalkyl esters of the triterpene acid at the C-3 position by the imidate derivatives of glycopyranose followed by the product modification at the C-28 position with triphenylphosphine. The conjugates of betulinic acid (BetA) with TPP and d-glucose, l-rhamnose, or d-mannose moieties were thus synthesized as potential next-generation BetA-derived anticancer compounds. LC-MS/MS analysis in glucose-free physiological solution indicated that the glycosides showed better accumulation in PC-3 prostate cancer cells than both BetA and TPP-BetA conjugate, while the transporting effect of monosaccharide residues increased as follows: d-mannose < l-rhamnose ≈ d-glucose. At saturated concentrations, the glycosides caused a disturbing effect on mitochondria with a more drastic drop in transmembrane potential but weaker overproduction of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) compared to TPP-BetA conjugate. Cytotoxicity of the glycosides in culture medium was comparable with or higher than that of the nonglycosylated conjugate, depending on the cancer cell line, whereas the compounds were less active toward primary fibroblasts. Glycosylation tended to increase pro-apoptotic and decrease pro-autophagic activities of the BetA derivatives. Cytotoxicity of the synthesized glycosides was considered in comparison with the summarized data on the natural and modified BetA glycosides. The results obtained are important for the development of bifunctionalized conjugates of triterpenoids with an increased cancer cell targetability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga V Tsepaeva
- Arbuzov Institute of Organic and Physical Chemistry, FRC Kazan Scientific Center of RAS, 8 Arbuzov Street, 420088 Kazan, Russian Federation
| | - Taliya I Salikhova
- Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, 18 Kremlevskaya Street, 420008 Kazan, Russian Federation
| | - Rezeda A Ishkaeva
- Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, 18 Kremlevskaya Street, 420008 Kazan, Russian Federation
| | - Alexandra V Kundina
- Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, 18 Kremlevskaya Street, 420008 Kazan, Russian Federation
| | - Timur I Abdullin
- Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, 18 Kremlevskaya Street, 420008 Kazan, Russian Federation
| | - Alexander V Laikov
- Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, 18 Kremlevskaya Street, 420008 Kazan, Russian Federation
| | - Mariya V Tikhomirova
- Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, 18 Kremlevskaya Street, 420008 Kazan, Russian Federation
| | - Leysan R Idrisova
- Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, 18 Kremlevskaya Street, 420008 Kazan, Russian Federation
| | - Andrey V Nemtarev
- Arbuzov Institute of Organic and Physical Chemistry, FRC Kazan Scientific Center of RAS, 8 Arbuzov Street, 420088 Kazan, Russian Federation
| | - Vladimir F Mironov
- Arbuzov Institute of Organic and Physical Chemistry, FRC Kazan Scientific Center of RAS, 8 Arbuzov Street, 420088 Kazan, Russian Federation
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7
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Byun HS, Ju E, Park KA, Sohn KC, Jung CS, Hong JH, Ro H, Lee HY, Quan KT, Park I, Na M, Hur GM. Rubiarbonol B induces RIPK1-dependent necroptosis via NOX1-derived ROS production. Cell Biol Toxicol 2023; 39:1677-1696. [PMID: 36163569 DOI: 10.1007/s10565-022-09774-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The activation of receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) by death-inducing signaling complex (DISC) formation is essential for triggering the necroptotic mode of cell death under apoptosis-deficient conditions. Thus, targeting the induction of necroptosis by modulating RIPK1 activity could be an effective strategy to bypass apoptosis resistance in certain types of cancer. In this study, we screened a series of arborinane triterpenoids purified from Rubia philippinesis and identified rubiarbonol B (Ru-B) as a potent caspase-8 activator that induces DISC-mediated apoptosis in multiple types of cancer cells. However, in RIPK3-expressing human colorectal cancer (CRC) cells, the pharmacological or genetic inhibition of caspase-8 shifted the mode of cell death by Ru-B from apoptosis to necroptosis though upregulation of RIPK1 phosphorylation. Conversely, Ru-B-induced cell death was almost completely abrogated by RIPK1 deficiency. The enhanced RIPK1 phosphorylation and necroptosis triggered by Ru-B treatment occurred independently of tumor necrosis factor receptor signaling and was mediated by the production of reactive oxygen species via NADPH oxidase 1 in CRC cells. Thus, we propose Ru-B as a novel anticancer agent that activates RIPK1-dependent cell death via ROS production, and suggest its potential as a novel necroptosis-targeting compound in apoptosis-resistant CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee Sun Byun
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 35015, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunjin Ju
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 35015, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyeong Ah Park
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 35015, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Cheol Sohn
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 35015, Republic of Korea
| | - Chan Seok Jung
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 35015, Republic of Korea
| | - Jang Hee Hong
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 35015, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunju Ro
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Hoi Young Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon, 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Khong Trong Quan
- College of Pharmacy, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - InWha Park
- Natural Product Informatics Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Gangneung Institute, Gangneung, 25451, Republic of Korea
| | - MinKyun Na
- College of Pharmacy, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea.
| | - Gang Min Hur
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 35015, Republic of Korea.
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Hosea R, Hillary S, Wu S, Kasim V. Targeting Transcription Factor YY1 for Cancer Treatment: Current Strategies and Future Directions. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3506. [PMID: 37444616 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15133506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer represents a significant and persistent global health burden, with its impact underscored by its prevalence and devastating consequences. Whereas numerous oncogenes could contribute to cancer development, a group of transcription factors (TFs) are overactive in the majority of tumors. Targeting these TFs may also combat the downstream oncogenes activated by the TFs, making them attractive potential targets for effective antitumor therapeutic strategy. One such TF is yin yang 1 (YY1), which plays crucial roles in the development and progression of various tumors. In preclinical studies, YY1 inhibition has shown efficacy in inhibiting tumor growth, promoting apoptosis, and sensitizing tumor cells to chemotherapy. Recent studies have also revealed the potential of combining YY1 inhibition with immunotherapy for enhanced antitumor effects. However, clinical translation of YY1-targeted therapy still faces challenges in drug specificity and delivery. This review provides an overview of YY1 biology, its role in tumor development and progression, as well as the strategies explored for YY1-targeted therapy, with a focus on their clinical implications, including those using small molecule inhibitors, RNA interference, and gene editing techniques. Finally, we discuss the challenges and current limitations of targeting YY1 and the need for further research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rendy Hosea
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
- The 111 Project Laboratory of Biomechanics and Tissue Repair, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Sharon Hillary
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
- The 111 Project Laboratory of Biomechanics and Tissue Repair, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Shourong Wu
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
- The 111 Project Laboratory of Biomechanics and Tissue Repair, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Vivi Kasim
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
- The 111 Project Laboratory of Biomechanics and Tissue Repair, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
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Alam M, Rashid S, Fatima K, Adnan M, Shafie A, Akhtar MS, Ganie AH, Eldin SM, Islam A, Khan I, Hassan MI. Biochemical features and therapeutic potential of α-Mangostin: Mechanism of action, medicinal values, and health benefits. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 163:114710. [PMID: 37141737 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114710] [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: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
α-Mangostin (α-MG) is a natural xanthone obtained from the pericarps of mangosteen. It exhibits excellent potential, including anti-cancer, neuroprotective, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, and induces apoptosis. α-MG controls cell proliferation by modulating signaling molecules, thus implicated in cancer therapy. It possesses incredible pharmacological features and modulates crucial cellular and molecular factors. Due to its lesser water solubility and pitiable target selectivity, α-MG has limited clinical application. As a known antioxidant, α-MG has gained significant attention from the scientific community, increasing interest in extensive technical and biomedical applications. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems were designed to improve the pharmacological features and efficiency of α-MG. This review is focused on recent developments on the therapeutic potential of α-MG in managing cancer and neurological diseases, with a special focus on its mechanism of action. In addition, we highlighted biochemical and pharmacological features, metabolism, functions, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant effects and pre-clinical applications of α-MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manzar Alam
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Summya Rashid
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, PO Box 173, Al-kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kisa Fatima
- Department of Biotechnology, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Mohd Adnan
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Hail, PO Box 2440, Hail 2440, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alaa Shafie
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Salman Akhtar
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Albaha University, Albaha, Saudi Arabia
| | - A H Ganie
- Basic Sciences Department, College of Science and Theoretical Studies, Saudi Electronic University, Abha Male 61421, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sayed M Eldin
- Center of Research, Faculty of Engineering, Future University in Egypt, New Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Asimul Islam
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Ilyas Khan
- Department of Mathematics, College of Science Al-Zulfi, Majmaah University, Al-Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Md Imtaiyaz Hassan
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India.
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Li L, Wang S, Xue J, Lin Y, Su L, Xue C, Mao C, Cai N, Tian Y, Zhu S, Wu L, Yan X. Development of Spectral Nano-Flow Cytometry for High-Throughput Multiparameter Analysis of Individual Biological Nanoparticles. Anal Chem 2023; 95:3423-3433. [PMID: 36735936 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c05159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Correlated analysis of multiple biochemical parameters at the single-particle level and in a high-throughput manner is essential for insights into the diversity and functions of biological nanoparticles (BNPs), such as bacteria and subcellular organelles. To meet this challenge, we developed a highly sensitive spectral nano-flow cytometer (S-nFCM) by integrating a spectral recording module to a laboratory-built nFCM that is 4-6 orders of magnitude more sensitive in side scattering detection and 1-2 orders of magnitude more sensitive in fluorescence detection than conventional flow cytometers. An electron-multiplying charge-coupled device (EMCCD) was used to acquire the full fluorescence spectra of single BNPs upon holographic grating dispersion. Up to 10,000 spectra can be collected in 1 min with 2.1 nm resolution. The precision, linearity, and sensitivity were examined. Complete discernment of single influenza viruses against the background signal, discrimination of different strains of marine cyanobacteria in a mixed sample based on their spectral properties of natural fluorescence, classification of bacterial categories exhibiting different patterns of antigen expression, and multiparameter analysis of single mitochondria for drug discovery were successfully demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihong Li
- Department of Chemical Biology, The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis & Instrumentation, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Shuo Wang
- Department of Chemical Biology, The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis & Instrumentation, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Junwei Xue
- Department of Chemical Biology, The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis & Instrumentation, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Yao Lin
- Department of Chemical Biology, The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis & Instrumentation, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Liyun Su
- Department of Chemical Biology, The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis & Instrumentation, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Chengfeng Xue
- Department of Chemical Biology, The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis & Instrumentation, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Cuiping Mao
- Department of Chemical Biology, The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis & Instrumentation, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Niangui Cai
- Department of Chemical Biology, The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis & Instrumentation, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Ye Tian
- Department of Chemical Biology, The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis & Instrumentation, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Shaobin Zhu
- Department of Chemical Biology, The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis & Instrumentation, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Lina Wu
- Department of Chemical Biology, The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis & Instrumentation, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Xiaomei Yan
- Department of Chemical Biology, The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis & Instrumentation, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
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11
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Martins-Gomes C, Nunes FM, Silva AM. Modulation of Cell Death Pathways for Cellular Protection and Anti-Tumoral Activity: The Role of Thymus spp. Extracts and Their Bioactive Molecules. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021691. [PMID: 36675206 PMCID: PMC9864824 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021691] [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: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural products used for their health-promoting properties have accompanied the evolution of humanity. Nowadays, as an effort to scientifically validate the health-promoting effects described by traditional medicine, an ever-growing number of bioactivities are being described for natural products and the phytochemicals that constitute them. Among them, medicinal plants and more specifically the Thymus genus spp., arise as products already present in the diet and with high acceptance, that are a source of phytochemicals with high pharmacological value. Phenolic acids, flavonoid glycoside derivatives, and terpenoids from Thymus spp. have been described for their ability to modulate cell death and survival pathways, much-valued bioactivities in the pharmaceutical industry, that continually sought-after new formulations to prevent undesired cell death or to control cell proliferation. Among these, wound treatment, protection from endogenous/exogenous toxic molecules, or the induction of selective cell death, such as the search for new anti-tumoral agents, arise as main objectives. This review summarizes and discusses studies on Thymus spp., as well as on compounds present in their extracts, with regard to their health-promoting effects involving the modulation of cell death or survival signaling pathways. In addition, studies regarding the main bioactive molecules and their cellular molecular targets were also reviewed. Concerning cell survival and proliferation, Thymus spp. present themselves as an option for new formulations designed for wound healing and protection against chemicals-induced toxicity. However, Thymus spp. extracts and some of their compounds regulate cell death, presenting anti-tumoral activity. Therefore Thymus spp. is a rich source of compounds with nutraceutical and pharmaceutical value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Martins-Gomes
- Centre for Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Cell Biology and Biochemistry Lab, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Chemistry Research Centre-Vila Real (CQ-VR), Food and Wine Chemistry Lab, UTAD Quinta de Prados, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Fernando M. Nunes
- Chemistry Research Centre-Vila Real (CQ-VR), Food and Wine Chemistry Lab, UTAD Quinta de Prados, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Chemistry, School of Life Sciences and Environment, UTAD, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Amélia M. Silva
- Centre for Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Cell Biology and Biochemistry Lab, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Biology and Environment, School of Life Sciences and Environment, UTAD, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-259-350-921
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12
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Spivak AY, Davletshin EV, Gubaidullin RR, Tukhbatullin AA, Nedopekina DA. Synthesis of Bodipy-Labeled Fluorescent Betulinic Acid Derivatives with a Terminal Triphenylphosphonium Group on Side-Chain C-28. Chem Nat Compd 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10600-022-03869-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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13
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Aswathy M, Vijayan A, Daimary UD, Girisa S, Radhakrishnan KV, Kunnumakkara AB. Betulinic acid: A natural promising anticancer drug, current situation, and future perspectives. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2022; 36:e23206. [PMID: 36124371 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Natural products serve as the single most productive source for the discovery of drugs and pharmaceutical leads. Among the various chemicals derived from microbes, plants, and animals, phytochemicals have emerged as potential candidates for the development of anticancer drugs due to their structural diversities, complexities, and pleiotropic effects. Herein, we discuss betulinic acid (BA), a ubiquitously distributed lupane structured pentacyclic triterpenoid, scrutinized as a promising natural agent for the prevention, suppression, and management of various human malignancies. Ease of availability, common occurrences, cell-specific cytotoxicity, and astonishing selectivity are the important factors that contribute to the development of BA as an anticancer agent. The current review delineates the mechanistic framework of BA-mediated cancer suppression through the modulation of multiple signaling pathways and also summarizes the key outcomes of BA in preclinical investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maniyamma Aswathy
- Chemical Sciences and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST), Thiruvananthapuram, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Ajesh Vijayan
- Department of Chemistry, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, India
| | - Uzini D Daimary
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Sosmitha Girisa
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Kokkuvayil V Radhakrishnan
- Chemical Sciences and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST), Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - Ajaikumar B Kunnumakkara
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, Assam, India
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14
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Hordyjewska A, Prendecka-Wróbel M, Kurach Ł, Horecka A, Olszewska A, Pigoń-Zając D, Małecka-Massalska T, Kurzepa J. Antiproliferative Properties of Triterpenoids by ECIS Method—A New Promising Approach in Anticancer Studies? Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27103150. [PMID: 35630627 PMCID: PMC9146930 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27103150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Electric cell–substrate impedance sensing is an advanced in vitro impedance measuring system which uses alternating current to determine behavior of cells in physiological conditions. In this study, we used the abovementioned method for checking the anticancer activities of betulin and betulinic acid, which are some of the most commonly found triterpenes in nature. In our experiment, the threshold concentrations of betulin required to elicit antiproliferative effects, verified by MTT and LDH release methods, were 7.8 µM for breast cancer (T47D), 9.5 µM for lung carcinoma (A549), and 21.3 µM for normal epithelial cells (Vero). The ECIS results revealed the great potential of betulin and betulinic acid’s antitumor properties and their maintenance of cytotoxic substances to the breast cancer T47D line. Moreover, both substances showed a negligible toxic effect on healthy epithelial cells (Vero). Our investigation showed that the ECIS method is a proper alternative to the currently used assay for testing in vitro anticancer activity of compounds, and that it should thus be introduced in cellular routine research. It is also a valuable tool for live-monitoring changes in the morphology and physiology of cells, which translates into the accurate development of anticancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Hordyjewska
- Chair and Department of Medical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodzki Str., 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.H.); (A.H.); (J.K.)
| | - Monika Prendecka-Wróbel
- Chair and Department of Human Physiology, Medical University of Lublin, 11 Radziwiłłowska Str., 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (M.P.-W.); (A.O.); (D.P.-Z.); (T.M.-M.)
| | - Łukasz Kurach
- Independent Laboratory of Behavioral Studies, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodzki Str., 20-093 Lublin, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-814486196
| | - Anna Horecka
- Chair and Department of Medical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodzki Str., 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.H.); (A.H.); (J.K.)
| | - Anna Olszewska
- Chair and Department of Human Physiology, Medical University of Lublin, 11 Radziwiłłowska Str., 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (M.P.-W.); (A.O.); (D.P.-Z.); (T.M.-M.)
| | - Dominika Pigoń-Zając
- Chair and Department of Human Physiology, Medical University of Lublin, 11 Radziwiłłowska Str., 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (M.P.-W.); (A.O.); (D.P.-Z.); (T.M.-M.)
| | - Teresa Małecka-Massalska
- Chair and Department of Human Physiology, Medical University of Lublin, 11 Radziwiłłowska Str., 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (M.P.-W.); (A.O.); (D.P.-Z.); (T.M.-M.)
| | - Jacek Kurzepa
- Chair and Department of Medical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodzki Str., 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.H.); (A.H.); (J.K.)
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15
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Hydroxyethylamide substituted triterpenoic acids hold good cytotoxicity for human tumor cells. RESULTS IN CHEMISTRY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rechem.2022.100371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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16
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Tewari D, Priya A, Bishayee A, Bishayee A. Targeting transforming growth factor-β signalling for cancer prevention and intervention: Recent advances in developing small molecules of natural origin. Clin Transl Med 2022; 12:e795. [PMID: 35384373 PMCID: PMC8982327 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer is the world's second leading cause of death, but a significant advancement in cancer treatment has been achieved within the last few decades. However, major adverse effects and drug resistance associated with standard chemotherapy have led towards targeted treatment options. Objectives Transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) signaling plays a key role in cell proliferation, differentiation, morphogenesis, regeneration, and tissue homeostasis. The prime objective of this review is to decipher the role of TGF‐β in oncogenesis and to evaluate the potential of various natural and synthetic agents to target this dysregulated pathway to confer cancer preventive and anticancer therapeutic effects. Methods Various authentic and scholarly databases were explored to search and obtain primary literature for this study. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA) criteria was followed for the review. Results Here we provide a comprehensive and critical review of recent advances on our understanding of the effect of various bioactive natural molecules on the TGF‐β signaling pathway to evaluate their full potential for cancer prevention and therapy. Conclusion Based on emerging evidence as presented in this work, TGF‐β‐targeting bioactive compounds from natural sources can serve as potential therapeutic agents for prevention and treatment of various human malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devesh Tewari
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Anu Priya
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | | | - Anupam Bishayee
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, Florida, USA
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17
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Rai V, Pogu SV, Bhatnagar R, Bomzan P, Dutta A, Mandal A, Roy MN, Kumar A, Ghosh S. Biological evaluation of a natural steroid ester, Stigmasta-5(6), 22(23)-dien-3-beta-yl acetate isolated from the Himalayan herb Astilbe rivularis as potential antitumor agent. Chem Biol Interact 2022; 360:109935. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2022.109935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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18
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Therapeutic Potential of Certain Terpenoids as Anticancer Agents: A Scoping Review. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051100. [PMID: 35267408 PMCID: PMC8909202 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a life-threatening disease and is considered to be among the leading causes of death worldwide. Chemoresistance, severe toxicity, relapse and metastasis are the major obstacles in cancer therapy. Therefore, introducing new therapeutic agents for cancer remains a priority to increase the range of effective treatments. Terpenoids, a large group of secondary metabolites, are derived from plant sources and are composed of several isoprene units. The high diversity of terpenoids has drawn attention to their potential anticancer and pharmacological activities. Some terpenoids exhibit an anticancer effect by triggering various stages of cancer progression, for example, suppressing the early stage of tumorigenesis via induction of cell cycle arrest, inhibiting cancer cell differentiation and activating apoptosis. At the late stage of cancer development, certain terpenoids are able to inhibit angiogenesis and metastasis via modulation of different intracellular signaling pathways. Significant progress in the identification of the mechanism of action and signaling pathways through which terpenoids exert their anticancer effects has been highlighted. Hence, in this review, the anticancer activities of twenty-five terpenoids are discussed in detail. In addition, this review provides insights on the current clinical trials and future directions towards the development of certain terpenoids as potential anticancer agents.
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19
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Screening of Apoptosis Pathway-Mediated Anti-Proliferative Activity of the Phytochemical Compound Furanodienone against Human Non-Small Lung Cancer A-549 Cells. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12010114. [PMID: 35054507 PMCID: PMC8779876 DOI: 10.3390/life12010114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Furanodienone (FDN), a major bioactive component of sesquiterpenes produced from Rhizoma Curcumae, has been repeatedly acknowledged for its intrinsic anticancer efficacy against different types of cancer. In this study, we aimed to investigate the cytotoxic potential of furanodienone against human lung cancer (NSCLC A549) cells in vitro, as well as its underlying molecular mechanisms in the induction of apoptosis. Herein, we found that FDN significantly inhibited the proliferation of A549 cells in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, treatment with FDN potentially triggered apoptosis in A549 cells via not only disrupting the nuclear morphology, but by activating capsase-9 and caspase-3 with concomitant modulation of the pro- and antiapoptotic gene expression as well. Furthermore, FDN revealed its competence in inducing cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase in A549 cells, which was associated with decreased expression of cyclin D1 and cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4), along with increased expression of CDK inhibitor p21Cip1. Intriguingly, FDN treatment efficiently downregulated the Wnt signaling pathway, which was correlated with increased apoptosis, as well as cell cycle arrest, in A549 cells. Collectively, FDN might represent a promising adjuvant therapy for the management of lung cancer.
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20
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Agame-Lagunes B, Alegria-Rivadeneyra M, Alexander-Aguilera A, Quintana-Castro R, Torres-Palacios C, Grube-Pagola P, Cano-Sarmiento C, García-Varela R, García H. Bioactivity of betulinic acid nanoemulsions on skin carcinogenesis in transgenic mice K14E6. GRASAS Y ACEITES 2022. [DOI: 10.3989/gya.0553201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Alternative therapies for cancer treatment have been developed using bioactive compounds such as betulinic acid (BA). The objective of this study was to investigate the bioactivity of BA in its free form and compare it with its nano-encapsulated form under a skin carcinogenesis protocol in a genetically modified murine model. K14E6 and FVB mice were divided into four groups to be treated with free BA and with betulinic acid nanoemulsion (BANE). Lecithin enriched with medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs) was employed as an emulsifier to prepare the nanoemulsions with a mean droplet size of 40 nm. Skin tumors were induced by exposure to DMBA and TPA directly to the transgenic mice. Tumor development was completely inhibited by BANE and by 70% with free BA. This was validated by histological sections and the gene expression of the Cdk4 and Casp8 genes.
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21
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Liu Z, Wen X, Wang G, Zhou Y. Involvement of P-gp on Reversing Multidrug Resistance Effects of 23-Hydroxybetulinic Acid on Chemotherapeutic Agents. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:796745. [PMID: 34975494 PMCID: PMC8714961 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.796745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Betulinic acid (BA) and 23-Hydroxybetulinic acid (23-HBA) are natural products with similar structures, which show a range of biological effects including cytotoxicity activity. The aim of current research was to investigate and evaluate the combinational cytotoxicity of BA and 23-HBA with chemotherapeutic agents in vitro, and to clarify the potential interaction and related mechanism with P-gp. Instead of BA, 23-HBA could increase cytotoxicity of MCF-7/ADR cells to adriamaycin (ADR) and vincristine (VCR). The intracellular accumulation of ADR/VCR in MCF-7/ADR cells was obviously increased in the presence of 23-HBA. Furthermore, 23-HBA could show dose-dependent increase on the transport of VCR and digoxin, which are typical P-gp substrates, in both MDCK-MDR1 and Caco-2 cells. However, the transport of BA and 23-HBA was not influenced by P-gp inhibition in MDCK-MDR1 cells. MDR1 shift assay and molecular docking model suggested that both compounds showed interaction with P-gp, yet the binding affinity and sites are different. In conclusion, 23-HBA could strongly improve the efficacy of anti-tumor agents in multidrug resistance (MDR) cells, which was related to P-gp inhibition. The MDR1 shift assay and molecular docking study further revealed that 23-HBA and BA showed different interaction modes with P-gp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihao Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xiaozhou Wen
- Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Guangji Wang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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22
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Hoenke S, Serbian I, Csuk R. A Malaprade cleavage, a McMurry ring closure and an intramolecular aldol contraction of maslinic acid’s ring A. RESULTS IN CHEMISTRY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rechem.2022.100547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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23
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Xu G, Xu X, Liu J, Jia Q, Ke C, Zhang H, Xu C, Ou E, Tan W, Zhao Y. Mitochondria-Targeted Triphenylphosphonium Conjugated C-3 Modified Betulin: Synthesis, Antitumor Properties and Mechanism of Action. ChemMedChem 2021; 17:e202100659. [PMID: 34881517 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202100659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
A series of mitochondria-targeted triphenylphosphonium conjugated C-3 modified betulin were synthesized and evaluated against tumor cells. As a result, a new derivative 13 i, the conjugate of 3-O-(3'-acetylphenylacetate)-betulin with triphenylphosphonium, was identified as the one with the best anti-tumor effect. Conjugate 13 i significantly inhibited HCT116 cells with IC50 at 0.66 μM. While betulin, C-3 modified betulin, and the triphenylphosphonium moiety showed no inhibition of HCT116 cell proliferation at 20 μM. More importantly, 13 i exhibited a more cytotoxic effect against the tumor cell HCT116 than normal cell NCM460. Mode of action studies demonstrated that 13 i induced the G2/M phase cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in HCT116 cells through the mitochondrial pathway. Structure-activity relationship analysis revealed that integration of triphenylphosphonium moiety into the C-28 of betulin can greatly improve cytotoxicity. Appropriate modification on C-3 of the conjugate would improve the selectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geng Xu
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Xiaojia Xu
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Jiansong Liu
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Qi Jia
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Changhong Ke
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Hanyuan Zhang
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Chao Xu
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - E Ou
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Wen Tan
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Yu Zhao
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
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24
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Caetano-Silva S, Simbi BH, Marr N, Hibbert A, Allen SP, Pitsillides AA. Restraint upon Embryonic Metatarsal Ex Vivo Growth by Hydrogel Reveals Interaction between Quasi-Static Load and the mTOR Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413220. [PMID: 34948015 PMCID: PMC8706285 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanical cues play a vital role in limb skeletal development, yet their influence and underpinning mechanisms in the regulation of endochondral ossification (EO) processes are incompletely defined. Furthermore, interactions between endochondral growth and mechanics and the mTOR/NF-ĸB pathways are yet to be explored. An appreciation of how mechanical cues regulate EO would also clearly be beneficial in the context of fracture healing and bone diseases, where these processes are recapitulated. The study herein addresses the hypothesis that the mTOR/NF-ĸB pathways interact with mechanics to control endochondral growth. To test this, murine embryonic metatarsals were incubated ex vivo in a hydrogel, allowing for the effects of quasi-static loading on longitudinal growth to be assessed. The results showed significant restriction of metatarsal growth under quasi-static loading during a 14-day period and concentration-dependent sensitivity to hydrogel-related restriction. This study also showed that hydrogel-treated metatarsals retain their viability and do not present with increased apoptosis. Metatarsals exhibited reversal of the growth-restriction when co-incubated with mTOR compounds, whilst it was found that these compounds showed no effects under basal culture conditions. Transcriptional changes linked to endochondral growth were assessed and downregulation of Col2 and Acan was observed in hydrogel-treated metatarsi at day 7. Furthermore, cell cycle analyses confirmed the presence of chondrocytes exhibiting S-G2/M arrest. These data indicate that quasi-static load provokes chondrocyte cell cycle arrest, which is partly overcome by mTOR, with a less marked interaction for NF-ĸB regulators.
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25
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Zhen W, An S, Wang S, Hu W, Li Y, Jiang X, Li J. Precise Subcellular Organelle Targeting for Boosting Endogenous-Stimuli-Mediated Tumor Therapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2101572. [PMID: 34611949 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202101572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Though numerous external-stimuli-triggered tumor therapies, including phototherapy, radiotherapy, and sonodynamic therapy have made great progress in cancer therapy, the low penetration depth of the laser, safety concerns of radiation, the therapeutic resistance, and the spatio-temporal constraints of the specific equipment restrict their convenient clinical applications. What is more, the inherent physiological barriers of the tumor microenvironment (TME), including hypoxia, heterogeneity, and high expression of antioxidant molecules also restrict the efficiency of tumor therapy. As a result, the development of nanoplatforms responsive to endogenous stimuli (such as glucose, acidic pH, cellular redox events, and etc.) has attracted great attention for starvation therapy, ion therapy, prodrug-mediated chemotherapy, or enzyme-catalyzed therapy. In addition, nanomedicines can be modified by some targeted units for precisely locating in subcellular organelles and boosting the destroying of tumor tissue, decreasing the dosage of nanoagents, reducing side effects, and enhancing the therapeutic efficiency. Herein, the properties of the TME, the advantages of endogenous stimuli, and the principles of subcellular-organelle-targeted strategies will be emphasized. Some necessary considerations for the exploitation of precision medicine and clinical translation of multifunctional nanomedicines in the future are also pointed out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyao Zhen
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
| | - Shangjie An
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
| | - Shuqi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
| | - Wenxue Hu
- Shenyang University of Chemical Technology, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110142, China
| | - Yujie Li
- Department of Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Xiue Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
| | - Jinghong Li
- Department of Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
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Weber LA, Delarocque J, Feige K, Kietzmann M, Kalbitz J, Meißner J, Paschke R, Cavalleri JMV. Effects of Topically Applied Betulinic Acid and NVX-207 on Melanocytic Tumors in 18 Horses. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11113250. [PMID: 34827981 PMCID: PMC8614291 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Melanomas are skin tumors of the pigment-producing melanocytes. Equine melanomas are among the most frequently diagnosed tumors affecting grey horses. The melanocytic tumors progress to malignancy in more than two-thirds of cases. Previous laboratory experiments and studies with horses utilizing the naturally occurring betulinic acid (BA) and its derivative NVX-207 showed promising results with respect to the topical (epicutaneous) treatment of equine melanoma. Therefore, the aim of this feasibility study was to gain first insights into the effect and safety of BA and NVX-207 in eighteen horses with early-stage melanocytic tumors after a 13-week-long topical application. The topical treatment was convenient and safe. Compared to a placebo, the data suggest a positive treatment effect from topical application of BA and NVX-207 on equine melanomas toward the end of the treatment period. However, the time period studied was too short to conclusively prove this. Further advancement of the investigational medicinal products studied herein could lead to an effective, topical and marketable novel drug which helps to relieve suffering and, consequently, improve the welfare of equine skin cancer patients. Abstract The naturally occurring betulinic acid (BA) and its derivative NVX-207 induce apoptosis in equine melanoma cells in vitro. After topical application, high concentrations of the substances can be reached in healthy equine skin. With the aim to investigate the effect and safety of topically applied BA and NVX-207 in horses with melanocytic tumors, the longitudinal, prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study protocol included eighteen Lipizzaner mares with early-stage cutaneous melanoma assigned to three groups. Melanocytic lesions were topically treated either with a placebo, 1% BA or 1% NVX-207 twice a day for 91 days. Caliper measurements, clinical examinations and blood tests were performed to assess the effects and safety of the medication. The topical treatment was convenient and safe. The volumes of tumors treated with BA were significantly reduced over time as compared to tumors treated with the placebo from day 80 of the study. Although treatment with NVX-207 seemed to decrease tumor volume, these results did not reach statistical significance. The findings must be regarded as preliminary due to the limited group size and need to be replicated in a larger cohort with modified pharmaceutical test formulations. Accordingly, the treatment protocol cannot yet be recommended in its current form.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa A. Weber
- Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 9, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (L.A.W.); (J.D.); (K.F.)
| | - Julien Delarocque
- Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 9, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (L.A.W.); (J.D.); (K.F.)
| | - Karsten Feige
- Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 9, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (L.A.W.); (J.D.); (K.F.)
| | - Manfred Kietzmann
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany;
| | - Jutta Kalbitz
- Biosolutions Halle GmbH, Weinbergweg 22, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany;
| | - Jessica Meißner
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany;
- Correspondence: (J.M.); (J.-M.V.C.)
| | - Reinhard Paschke
- Biozentrum, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Weinbergweg 22, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany;
| | - Jessika-M. V. Cavalleri
- Equine Internal Medicine, University Equine Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
- Correspondence: (J.M.); (J.-M.V.C.)
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Kim HK, Park Y, Shin M, Kim JM, Go GW. Betulinic Acid Suppresses de novo Lipogenesis by Inhibiting Insulin and IGF1 Signaling as Upstream Effectors of the Nutrient-Sensing mTOR Pathway. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2021; 69:12465-12473. [PMID: 34645271 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.1c04797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Despite its beneficial properties, effects of betulinic acid on the nutrient-sensing mTOR pathway via insulin or IGF1 signaling remain unclear. Here, we investigated whether betulinic acid reduces intracellular lipid accumulation via the nutrient-sensing pathway in HepG2 cells. Results showed that betulinic acid reduced intracellular lipid accumulation in a dose-dependent manner and inhibited the expression of de novo lipogenesis-related genes and proteins. RNA sequencing analysis revealed the transcriptional modulation of plasma membrane proteins by betulinic acid, and an in silico binding assay indicated an interaction between betulinic acid and IR or IGF1R. Furthermore, betulinic acid downregulated the post-translational modification of the canonical IRS1/PI3K/AKT-pT308 and IGF1/mTORC2/AKT-pS473 pathways, thereby reducing the activity of the mTOR/S6K/S6 pathway. These findings imply that betulinic acid suppresses hepatic lipid synthesis by inhibiting insulin and IGF1 signaling as upstream effectors of the nutrient-sensing mTOR pathway and could be a potent nutraceutical agent for the treatment of metabolic syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Kyung Kim
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Yejee Park
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Minhye Shin
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Inha University, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Mo Kim
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Gwang-Woong Go
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
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Ghosh A, Panda CK. Role of Pentacyclic Triterpenoid Acids in the Treatment of Bladder Cancer. Mini Rev Med Chem 2021; 22:1331-1340. [PMID: 34719363 DOI: 10.2174/1389557521666211022145052] [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: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Bladder cancer carries a poor prognosis and has proven resistance to chemotherapy. Pentacyclic Triterpenoid Acids (PTAs) are natural bioactive compounds that have a well-known impact on cancer research because of their cytotoxic and chemopreventive activities. This review focuses on bladder cancer which can no longer be successfully treated by DNA damaging drugs. Unlike most of the existing drugs against bladder cancer, PTAs are non-toxic to normal cells. Collecting findings from both in vitro and in vivo studies, it has been concluded that PTAs may serve as promising agents in future bladder cancer therapy. In this review, the roles of various PTAs in bladder cancer have been explored, and their mechanisms of action in the treatment of bladder cancer have been described. Specific PTAs have been shortlisted from each of the chief skeletons of pentacyclic triterpenoids, which could be effective against bladder cancer because of their mode of action. This review thereby throws light on the multi targets and mechanisms of PTAs, which are responsible for their selective anticancer effects and provides guidelines for further research and development of new natural antitumor compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anindita Ghosh
- Department of Oncogene Regulation, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata. India
| | - Chinmay Kumar Panda
- Department of Oncogene Regulation, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata. India
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Betulinic Acid-Doxorubicin-Drug Combination Induced Apoptotic Death via ROS Stimulation in a Relapsed AML MOLM-13 Cell Model. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10091456. [PMID: 34573088 PMCID: PMC8471649 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10091456] [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: 07/11/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, cell death regulation and induction in AML cell line from a relapsed MLL-rearranged cell model (MOLM-13) was investigated with doxorubin (Dox) and betulinic acid (BetA), singly and in combination. CyQUANT Direct® and Annexin V/propidium iodide double staining were used to measure the cytotoxic and cell death induction effects of the compounds, respectively. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was measured using 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescin diacetate staining. Expressions of proteins and genes were examined by Western blot and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis, respectively. BetA (20 μM) and Dox (1 μM) indicated a synergistic growth inhibitory effect on MOLM-13 cells. The combined drug caused more cells to reside in irreversible late apoptotic stage compared to the single treatments (p < 0.05). Elevation in ROS may be the synergistic mechanism involved in MOLM-13 cell death since ROS can directly disrupt mitochondrial activity. In contrast, in leukaemic U-937 cells, the combination treatments attenuated Dox-induced cell death. Dox and the drug combination selectively reduced (p < 0.05) a recently reported anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein isoform p15-20-Bcl-2 in MOLM-13 by our group, without affecting the usually reported p26-Bcl-2-α. Further studies using known inhibitors of apoptosis are required to confirm the potential of Dox-BetA combination to modulate these pathways.
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Sultani HN, Morgan I, Hussain H, Roos AH, Haeri HH, Kaluđerović GN, Hinderberger D, Westermann B. Access to New Cytotoxic Triterpene and Steroidal Acid-TEMPO Conjugates by Ugi Multicomponent-Reactions. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22137125. [PMID: 34281176 PMCID: PMC8268079 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22137125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Multicomponent reactions, especially the Ugi-four component reaction (U-4CR), provide powerful protocols to efficiently access compounds having potent biological and pharmacological effects. Thus, a diverse library of betulinic acid (BA), fusidic acid (FA), cholic acid (CA) conjugates with TEMPO (nitroxide) have been prepared using this approach, which also makes them applicable in electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. Moreover, convertible amide modified spin-labelled fusidic acid derivatives were selected for post-Ugi modification utilizing a wide range of reaction conditions which kept the paramagnetic center intact. The nitroxide labelled betulinic acid analogue 6 possesses cytotoxic effects towards two investigated cell lines: prostate cancer PC3 (IC50 7.4 ± 0.7 μM) and colon cancer HT29 (IC50 9.0 ± 0.4 μM). Notably, spin-labelled fusidic acid derivative 8 acts strongly against these two cancer cell lines (PC3: IC50 6.0 ± 1.1 μM; HT29: IC50 7.4 ± 0.6 μM). Additionally, another fusidic acid analogue 9 was also found to be active towards HT29 with IC50 7.0 ± 0.3 μM (CV). Studies on the mode of action revealed that compound 8 increased the level of caspase-3 significantly which clearly indicates induction of apoptosis by activation of the caspase pathway. Furthermore, the exclusive mitochondria targeting of compound 18 was successfully achieved, since mitochondria are the major source of ROS generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haider N. Sultani
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Leibniz-Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Weinberg 3, 06120 Halle, Germany; (H.N.S.); (I.M.); (H.H.); (G.N.K.)
| | - Ibrahim Morgan
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Leibniz-Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Weinberg 3, 06120 Halle, Germany; (H.N.S.); (I.M.); (H.H.); (G.N.K.)
| | - Hidayat Hussain
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Leibniz-Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Weinberg 3, 06120 Halle, Germany; (H.N.S.); (I.M.); (H.H.); (G.N.K.)
| | - Andreas H. Roos
- Physical Chemistry—Complex Self-Organizing Systems, Institute of Chemistry, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, von-Danckelmann-Platz 4, 06120 Halle, Germany; (A.H.R.); (H.H.H.); (D.H.)
| | - Haleh H. Haeri
- Physical Chemistry—Complex Self-Organizing Systems, Institute of Chemistry, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, von-Danckelmann-Platz 4, 06120 Halle, Germany; (A.H.R.); (H.H.H.); (D.H.)
| | - Goran N. Kaluđerović
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Leibniz-Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Weinberg 3, 06120 Halle, Germany; (H.N.S.); (I.M.); (H.H.); (G.N.K.)
- Department of Engineering and Natural Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Merseburg, Eberhard-Leibnitz-Strasse 2, 06217 Merseburg, Germany
| | - Dariush Hinderberger
- Physical Chemistry—Complex Self-Organizing Systems, Institute of Chemistry, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, von-Danckelmann-Platz 4, 06120 Halle, Germany; (A.H.R.); (H.H.H.); (D.H.)
| | - Bernhard Westermann
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Leibniz-Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Weinberg 3, 06120 Halle, Germany; (H.N.S.); (I.M.); (H.H.); (G.N.K.)
- Organic Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Strasse 2, 06120 Halle, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-345-5582-1340; Fax: +49-345-5582-1309
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Kim SH, Baek KH. Regulation of Cancer Metabolism by Deubiquitinating Enzymes: The Warburg Effect. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126173. [PMID: 34201062 PMCID: PMC8226939 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a disorder of cell growth and proliferation, characterized by different metabolic pathways within normal cells. The Warburg effect is a major metabolic process in cancer cells that affects the cellular responses, such as proliferation and apoptosis. Various signaling factors down/upregulate factors of the glycolysis pathway in cancer cells, and these signaling factors are ubiquitinated/deubiquitinated via the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). Depending on the target protein, DUBs act as both an oncoprotein and a tumor suppressor. Since the degradation of tumor suppressors and stabilization of oncoproteins by either negative regulation by E3 ligases or positive regulation of DUBs, respectively, promote tumorigenesis, it is necessary to suppress these DUBs by applying appropriate inhibitors or small molecules. Therefore, we propose that the DUBs and their inhibitors related to the Warburg effect are potential anticancer targets.
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Conjugation of Natural Triterpenic Acids with Delocalized Lipophilic Cations: Selective Targeting Cancer Cell Mitochondria. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11060470. [PMID: 34070567 PMCID: PMC8226687 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11060470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, a new line of research on mitochondria-targeted anticancer drugs is actively developing in the field of biomedicine and medicinal chemistry. The distinguishing features of this universal target for anticancer agents include presence of mitochondria in the overwhelming majority, if not all types of transformed cells, crucial importance of these cytoplasmic organelles in energy production, regulation of cell death pathways, as well as generation of reactive oxygen species and maintenance of calcium homeostasis. Hence, mitochondriotropic anticancer mitocan agents, acting through mitochondrial destabilization, have good prospects in cancer therapy. Available natural pentacyclic triterpenoids are considered promising scaffolds for development of new mitochondria-targeted anticancer agents. These secondary metabolites affect the mitochondria of tumor cells and initiate formation of reactive oxygen species. The present paper focuses on the latest research outcomes of synthesis and study of cytotoxic activity of conjugates of pentacyclic triterpenoids with some mitochondria-targeted cationic lipophilic molecules and highlights the advantages of applying them as novel mitocan agents compared to their prototype natural triterpenic acids.
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Fru PN, Nweke EE, Mthimkhulu N, Mvango S, Nel M, Pilcher LA, Balogun M. Anti-Cancer and Immunomodulatory Activity of a Polyethylene Glycol-Betulinic Acid Conjugate on Pancreatic Cancer Cells. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:462. [PMID: 34063891 PMCID: PMC8223974 DOI: 10.3390/life11060462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug delivery systems involving polymer therapeutics enhance drug potency by improved solubility and specificity and may assist in circumventing chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer (PC). We compared the effectiveness of the naturally occurring drug, betulinic acid (BA), alone and in a polymer conjugate construct of polyethylene glycol (PEG), (PEG-BA), on PC cells (MIA PaCa-2), a normal cell line (Vero) and on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). PEG-BA, was tested for its effect on cell death, immunomodulation and chemoresistance-linked signalling pathways. The conjugate was significantly more toxic to PC cells (p < 0.001, IC50 of 1.35 ± 0.11 µM) compared to BA (IC50 of 12.70 ± 0.34 µM), with a selectivity index (SI) of 7.28 compared to 1.4 in Vero cells. Cytotoxicity was confirmed by increased apoptotic cell death. PEG-BA inhibited the production of IL-6 by 4-5.5 fold compared to BA-treated cells. Furthermore, PEG-BA treatment of MIA PaCa-2 cells resulted in the dysregulation of crucial chemoresistance genes such as WNT3A, TXNRD1, SLC2A1 and GATA3. The dysregulation of chemoresistance-associated genes and the inhibition of cytokines such as IL-6 by the model polymer construct, PEG-BA, holds promise for further exploration in PC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascaline Nanga Fru
- Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa; (E.E.N.); (N.M.); (M.N.)
| | - Ekene Emmanuel Nweke
- Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa; (E.E.N.); (N.M.); (M.N.)
| | - Nompumelelo Mthimkhulu
- Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa; (E.E.N.); (N.M.); (M.N.)
| | - Sindisiwe Mvango
- Biopolymer Modification and Therapeutics Laboratory, Chemicals Cluster, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Meiring Naude Road, Brummeria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (S.M.); (M.B.)
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa;
| | - Marietha Nel
- Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa; (E.E.N.); (N.M.); (M.N.)
| | | | - Mohammed Balogun
- Biopolymer Modification and Therapeutics Laboratory, Chemicals Cluster, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Meiring Naude Road, Brummeria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (S.M.); (M.B.)
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Dubinin MV, Semenova AA, Ilzorkina AI, Penkov NV, Nedopekina DA, Sharapov VA, Khoroshavina EI, Davletshin EV, Belosludtseva NV, Spivak AY, Belosludtsev KN. Mitochondria-targeted prooxidant effects of betulinic acid conjugated with delocalized lipophilic cation F16. Free Radic Biol Med 2021; 168:55-69. [PMID: 33812008 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.03.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The paper examines the molecular mechanisms of the cytotoxicity of conjugates of betulinic acid with the penetrating cation F16. The in vitro experiments on rat thymocytes revealed that all the obtained F16-betulinic acid derivatives showed more than 10-fold higher cytotoxicity as compared to betulinic acid and F16. In this case, 0.5-1 μM of all conjugates showed mitochondria-targeted action, inducing superoxide overproduction and reducing the mitochondrial potential of cells. Experiments on isolated rat liver mitochondria revealed the ability of conjugates to dose-dependently reduce the membrane potential of organelles, as well as the intensity of respiration and oxidative phosphorylation, which is also accompanied by an increase in the production of hydrogen peroxide by mitochondria. It was shown that these actions of derivatives may be due to several effects: the reversion of ATP synthase, changes in the activity of complexes of the respiratory chain and permeabilization of the inner mitochondrial membrane. All compounds also demonstrated the ability to induce aggregation of isolated rat liver mitochondria. Using the model of lecithin liposomes, we found that the F6 conjugate (2 μM) induces the permeability of vesicle membranes for the fluorescent probe sulforhodamine B. High concentrations (25 μM) of the F6 derivative have been found to induce dynamic processes in the liposome membrane leading to aggregation and/or fusion of vesicle membranes. The paper discusses the relationship between the mitochondria-targeted effects of F16-betulinic acid conjugates and their cytotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikhail V Dubinin
- Mari State University, Pl. Lenina 1, Yoshkar-Ola, Mari El, 424001, Russia.
| | - Alena A Semenova
- Mari State University, Pl. Lenina 1, Yoshkar-Ola, Mari El, 424001, Russia
| | - Anna I Ilzorkina
- Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Institutskaya 3, Pushchino, Moscow Region, 142290, Russia
| | - Nikita V Penkov
- Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, PSCBR RAS, Institutskaya 3, Pushchino, Moscow Region, 142290, Russia
| | - Darya A Nedopekina
- Institute of Petrochemistry and Catalysis, Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Oktyabrya 141, Ufa, Republic of Bashkortostan, 450075, Russia
| | | | | | - Eldar V Davletshin
- Institute of Petrochemistry and Catalysis, Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Oktyabrya 141, Ufa, Republic of Bashkortostan, 450075, Russia
| | - Natalia V Belosludtseva
- Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Institutskaya 3, Pushchino, Moscow Region, 142290, Russia
| | - Anna Yu Spivak
- Institute of Petrochemistry and Catalysis, Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Oktyabrya 141, Ufa, Republic of Bashkortostan, 450075, Russia
| | - Konstantin N Belosludtsev
- Mari State University, Pl. Lenina 1, Yoshkar-Ola, Mari El, 424001, Russia; Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Institutskaya 3, Pushchino, Moscow Region, 142290, Russia; Prokhorov General Physics Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilova 38, Moscow, 119991, Russia
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Chiu CF, Chang HY, Huang CY, Mau CZ, Kuo TT, Lee HC, Huang SY. Betulinic Acid Affects the Energy-Related Proteomic Profiling in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Cells. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26092482. [PMID: 33923185 PMCID: PMC8123215 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26092482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive disease with a 5-year survival rate of <8%. Therefore, finding new treatment strategies against PDAC cells is an imperative issue. Betulinic acid (BA), a plant-derived natural compound, has shown great potential to combat cancer owing to its versatile physiological functions. In this study, we observed the impacts of BA on the cell viability and migratory ability of PDAC cell lines, and screened differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) by an LC-MS/MS-based proteomics analysis. Our results showed that BA significantly inhibited the viability and migratory ability of PDAC cells under a relatively low dosage without affecting normal pancreatic cells. Moreover, a functional analysis revealed that BA-induced downregulation of protein clusters that participate in mitochondrial complex 1 activity and oxidative phosphorylation, which was related to decreased expressions of RNA polymerase mitochondrial (POLRMT) and translational activator of cytochrome c oxidase (TACO1), suggesting that the influence on mitochondrial function explains the effect of BA on PDAC cell growth and migration. In addition, BA also dramatically increased Apolipoprotein A1 (APOA1) expression and decreased NLR family CARD domain-containing protein 4 (NLRC4) expression, which may be involved in the dampening of PDAC migration. Notably, altered expression patterns of APOA1 and NLRC4 indicated a favorable clinical prognosis of PDAC. Based on these findings, we identified potential proteins and pathways regulated by BA from a proteomics perspective, which provides a therapeutic window for PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Feng Chiu
- Graduate Institute of Metabolism and Obesity Sciences, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (C.-F.C.); (H.-Y.C.); (C.-Z.M.)
- Nutrition Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- TMU Research Center of Cancer Translational Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Yi Chang
- Graduate Institute of Metabolism and Obesity Sciences, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (C.-F.C.); (H.-Y.C.); (C.-Z.M.)
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Master Program in Clinical Pharmacogenomics and Pharmacoproteomics, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Yine Huang
- School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan;
| | - Chen-Zou Mau
- Graduate Institute of Metabolism and Obesity Sciences, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (C.-F.C.); (H.-Y.C.); (C.-Z.M.)
| | - Tzu-Ting Kuo
- Ph.D. Program for Cancer Molecular Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and Academia Sinica, Taipei 11031, Taiwan;
| | - Hsiu-Chuan Lee
- School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan;
- Correspondence: (H.-C.L.); (S.-Y.H.)
| | - Shih-Yi Huang
- Graduate Institute of Metabolism and Obesity Sciences, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; (C.-F.C.); (H.-Y.C.); (C.-Z.M.)
- Nutrition Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan;
- Correspondence: (H.-C.L.); (S.-Y.H.)
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Barreto Vianna DR, Gotardi J, Baggio Gnoatto SC, Pilger DA. Natural and Semisynthetic Pentacyclic Triterpenes for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Therapy: Reality, Challenges and Perspectives. ChemMedChem 2021; 16:1835-1860. [PMID: 33682360 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202100038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a neoplasm characterized by BCR-ABL1, an oncoprotein with vital role in leukemogenesis. Its inhibition by tyrosine kinase inhibitors represents the main choice of treatment. However, therapeutic failure is worrying given the lack of pharmacological options. Pentacyclic triterpenes are phytochemicals with outstanding antitumoral properties and have also been explored as a basis for the design of potential leads. In this review, we have gathered and discuss data regarding both natural and semisynthetic pentacyclic triterpenes applied to CML cell treatment. We found consistent evidence that the class of pentacyclic triterpenes in general exerts promising pro-apoptotic and antiproliferative activities in sensitive and resistant CML cells, and thus represents a rich source for drug development. We also analyze the predicted drug-like properties of the molecules, discuss the structural changes with biological implications and show the great opportunities this class represents, as well as the perspectives they provide on drug discovery for CML treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Débora Renz Barreto Vianna
- Laboratory of Biochemical and Cytological Analysis, Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Avenida Ipiranga, 2752 CEP, 90610-000, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Jessica Gotardi
- Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Organic Synthesis, Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil), Avenida Ipiranga 2752, 90610-000, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Simone Cristina Baggio Gnoatto
- Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Organic Synthesis, Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil), Avenida Ipiranga 2752, 90610-000, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Diogo André Pilger
- Laboratory of Biochemical and Cytological Analysis, Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Avenida Ipiranga, 2752 CEP, 90610-000, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Anticancer Activity of the Acetylenic Derivative of Betulin Phosphate Involves Induction of Necrotic-Like Death in Breast Cancer Cells In Vitro. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26030615. [PMID: 33503929 PMCID: PMC7865664 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26030615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Betulin (BT) is a natural pentacyclic lupane-type triterpene exhibiting anticancer activity. Betulin derivatives bearing propynoyloxy and phosphate groups were prepared in an effort to improve the availability and efficacy of the drug. In this study, a comparative assessment of the in vitro anticancer activity of betulin and its four derivatives was carried out using two human breast cancer cell lines: SK-BR-3 and MCF-7. In both studied cell lines, 30-diethoxyphosphoryl-28-propynoylbetulin (compound 4) turned out to be the most powerful inhibitor of growth and inducer of cellular death. Detailed examination of that derivative pertained to the mechanisms underlying its anticancer action. Treatment with compound 4 decreased DNA synthesis and up-regulated p21WAF1/Cip1 mRNA and protein levels in both cell lines. On the other hand, that derivative caused a significant increase in cell death, as evidenced by increased lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release and ethidium homodimer uptake. Shortly after the compound addition, an increased generation of reactive oxygen species and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential were detected. The activation of caspase-3 and fragmentation of genomic DNA suggested an apoptotic type of cell death. However, analysis of cellular morphology did not reveal any nuclear features typical of apoptosis. Despite necrosis-like morphology, dead cells exhibited activation of the cascade of caspases. These observations have led to the conclusion that compound 4 pushed cells to undergo a form of necrotic-like regulated cell demise.
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Spivak AY, Nedopekina DA, Gubaidullin RR, Davletshin EV, Tukhbatullin AA, D’yakonov VA, Yunusbaeva MM, Dzhemileva LU, Dzhemilev UM. Pentacyclic triterpene acid conjugated with mitochondria-targeting cation F16: Synthesis and evaluation of cytotoxic activities. Med Chem Res 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s00044-021-02702-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Grymel M, Pastuch-Gawołek G, Lalik A, Zawojak M, Boczek S, Krawczyk M, Erfurt K. Glycoconjugation of Betulin Derivatives Using Copper-Catalyzed 1,3-Dipolar Azido-Alkyne Cycloaddition Reaction and a Preliminary Assay of Cytotoxicity of the Obtained Compounds. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25246019. [PMID: 33353244 PMCID: PMC7766341 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25246019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pentacyclic lupane-type triterpenoids, such as betulin and its synthetic derivatives, display a broad spectrum of biological activity. However, one of the major drawbacks of these compounds as potential therapeutic agents is their high hydrophobicity and low bioavailability. On the other hand, the presence of easily transformable functional groups in the parent structure makes betulin have a high synthetic potential and the ability to form different derivatives. In this context, research on the synthesis of new betulin derivatives as conjugates of naturally occurring triterpenoid with a monosaccharide via a linker containing a heteroaromatic 1,2,3-triazole ring was presented. It has been shown that copper-catalyzed 1,3-dipolar azide-alkyne cycloaddition reaction (CuAAC) provides an easy and effective way to synthesize new molecular hybrids based on natural products. The chemical structures of the obtained betulin glycoconjugates were confirmed by spectroscopic analysis. Cytotoxicity of the obtained compounds was evaluated on a human breast adenocarcinoma cell line (MCF-7) and colorectal carcinoma cell line (HCT 116). The obtained results show that despite the fact that the obtained betulin glycoconjugates do not show interesting antitumor activity, the idea of adding a sugar unit to the betulin backbone may, after some modifications, turn out to be correct and allow for the targeted transport of betulin glycoconjugates into the tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirosława Grymel
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Bioorganic Chemistry and Biotechnology, Silesian University of Technology, B. Krzywoustego 4, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland; (G.P.-G.); (M.Z.); (S.B.); (M.K.)
- Biotechnology Center, Silesian University of Technology, B. Krzywoustego 8, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-032-237-1873
| | - Gabriela Pastuch-Gawołek
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Bioorganic Chemistry and Biotechnology, Silesian University of Technology, B. Krzywoustego 4, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland; (G.P.-G.); (M.Z.); (S.B.); (M.K.)
- Biotechnology Center, Silesian University of Technology, B. Krzywoustego 8, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland;
| | - Anna Lalik
- Biotechnology Center, Silesian University of Technology, B. Krzywoustego 8, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland;
- Department of Systems Biology and Engineering, Silesian University of Technology, Akademicka 16, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
| | - Mateusz Zawojak
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Bioorganic Chemistry and Biotechnology, Silesian University of Technology, B. Krzywoustego 4, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland; (G.P.-G.); (M.Z.); (S.B.); (M.K.)
| | - Seweryn Boczek
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Bioorganic Chemistry and Biotechnology, Silesian University of Technology, B. Krzywoustego 4, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland; (G.P.-G.); (M.Z.); (S.B.); (M.K.)
| | - Monika Krawczyk
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Bioorganic Chemistry and Biotechnology, Silesian University of Technology, B. Krzywoustego 4, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland; (G.P.-G.); (M.Z.); (S.B.); (M.K.)
- Biotechnology Center, Silesian University of Technology, B. Krzywoustego 8, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland;
| | - Karol Erfurt
- Department of Chemical Organic Technology and Petrochemistry, Silesian University of Technology, B. Krzywoustego 4, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland;
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Jin X, Yang Q, Cai N, Zhang Z. A cocktail of betulinic acid, parthenolide, honokiol and ginsenoside Rh2 in liposome systems for lung cancer treatment. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2020; 15:41-54. [PMID: 31868113 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2018-0479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Lung cancer has a very high incidence rate, and thus, there is an urgent need for novel and effective therapies. Materials & methods: In this study, we proposed a potential treatment option by combining four natural products in liposome systems. Results: In vitro studies indicated that the combination of betulinic acid, parthenolide, honokiol and ginsenoside Rh2 exhibited a synergistic action. When these four natural products were loaded into liposome systems, we observed an increased effect. The relative action was also observed in vivo. The cisplatin group presented obvious kidney damage, whereas both cocktail therapy and cocktail liposome therapy were safer. Conclusion: Therefore, we propose cocktail liposome systems may provide a more efficient and safer treatment for lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Jin
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Suqian Branch Jiangsu Province Hospital, 120 Suzhilu, Suqian, 223800, PR China
| | - Qing Yang
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Suqian Branch Jiangsu Province Hospital, 120 Suzhilu, Suqian, 223800, PR China
| | - Ning Cai
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Suqian Branch Jiangsu Province Hospital, 120 Suzhilu, Suqian, 223800, PR China
| | - Zhenhai Zhang
- Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 100 Shizijie, Nanjing, 210000, PR China
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Weber LA, Funtan A, Paschke R, Delarocque J, Kalbitz J, Meißner J, Feige K, Kietzmann M, Cavalleri JMV. In vitro assessment of triterpenoids NVX-207 and betulinyl-bis-sulfamate as a topical treatment for equine skin cancer. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0241448. [PMID: 33151949 PMCID: PMC7643960 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0241448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Equine sarcoid (ES) is the most prevalent skin tumor in equids worldwide. Additionally, aging grey horses frequently suffer from equine malignant melanoma (EMM). Current local therapies targeting these skin tumors remain challenging. Therefore, more feasible topical treatment options should be considered. In order to develop a topical therapy against ES and EMM, betulinyl-bis-sulfamate and NVX-207, derivatives of the naturally occurring betulin and betulinic acid, respectively, were evaluated for their antiproliferative (crystal violet staining assay), cytotoxic (MTS assay) and apoptotic (AnnexinV staining, cell cycle investigations) effects on primary ES cells, EMM cells and equine dermal fibroblasts in vitro. The more potent derivative was assessed for its in vitro penetration and permeation on isolated equine skin within 30 min and 24 h using Franz-type diffusion cells and HPLC analysis. Betulinyl-bis-sulfamate and NVX-207 inhibited the proliferation and metabolism in ES cells, EMM cells and fibroblasts significantly (p < 0.001) in a time- and dose-dependent manner. NVX-207 had superior anticancer effects compared to betulinyl-bis-sulfamate. Both compounds led to the externalization of phosphatidylserines on the cell membrane and DNA fragmentation, demonstrating that the effective mode of action was apoptosis. After 48 h of treatment with NVX-207, the number of necrotic cells was less than 2% in all cell types. Detected amounts of NVX-207 in the different skin layers exceeded the half-maximal inhibitory concentrations calculated by far. Even though data obtained in vitro are auspicious, the results are not unconditionally applicable to the clinical situation. Consequently, in vivo studies are required to address the antitumoral effects of topically applied NVX-207 in ES and EMM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Annabel Weber
- Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Anne Funtan
- Biozentrum, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Reinhard Paschke
- Biozentrum, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Julien Delarocque
- Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Jessica Meißner
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Karsten Feige
- Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Manfred Kietzmann
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
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Garcês de Couto NM, Willig JB, Ruaro TC, de Oliveira DL, Buffon A, Pilger DA, Arruda MS, Miron D, Zimmer AR, Gnoatto SC. Betulinic Acid and Brosimine B Hybrid Derivatives as Potential Agents against Female Cancers. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2020; 20:622-633. [DOI: 10.2174/1871520620666200124111634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Background:
Cancer is a multifactorial disease, representing one of the leading causes of death
worldwide. On a global estimate, breast cancer is the most frequently occurring cancer in women and cervical
cancer, the fourth most common. Both types of cancer remain the major cause of cancer-related mortality in
developing countries. A strategy for rational drug design is hybridization, which aims to bring together in one
molecule, two or more pharmacophores in order to reach several biological targets.
Objective:
The objective of this work was to develop new hybrids based on natural pharmacophores: Betulinic
acid (1) and brosimine b (2), active in female cancer cell lines.
Methods:
The coupling reactions were carried out by Steglich esterification. Different compounds were designed
for the complete and simplified structural hybridization of molecules. The anticancer activities of the
compounds were evaluated in human cervical adenocarcinoma (HeLa), human cervical metastatic epidermoid
carcinoma (ME-180), and human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) cell lines.
Results:
Hybrid 3 presented higher potency (IC50 = 9.2 ± 0.5μM) and SI (43.5) selectively in MCF-7 cells (in
relation to Vero cells) with its cytotoxic effect occurring via apoptosis. In addition, compound 6 showed activity
in MCF-7 and HeLa cells with intermediate potency, but with high efficacy, acting via apoptosis as well.
Conclusion:
In this context, we showed that the combination of two complex structures generated the development
of hybrids with differing inhibitory profiles and apoptotic modes of action, thus representing potential
alternatives in female cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nádia M. Garcês de Couto
- Post-graduation of Pharmaceutical Science Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Júlia B. Willig
- Post-graduation of Pharmaceutical Science Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Thaís C. Ruaro
- Post-graduation of Pharmaceutical Science Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Andréia Buffon
- Laboratory of Biochemical and Cytological Analysis, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Diogo A. Pilger
- Post-graduation of Pharmaceutical Science Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Mara S.P. Arruda
- Institute of Exact and Natural Sciences, Federal University of Para, Belem, Brazil
| | - Diogo Miron
- Post-graduation of Pharmaceutical Science Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Aline R. Zimmer
- Post-graduation of Pharmaceutical Science Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Simone C.B. Gnoatto
- Post-graduation of Pharmaceutical Science Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Chen Y, Wu X, Liu C, Zhou Y. Betulinic acid triggers apoptosis and inhibits migration and invasion of gastric cancer cells by impairing EMT progress. Cell Biochem Funct 2020; 38:702-709. [PMID: 32283563 PMCID: PMC7496801 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most prevalent types of malignancies. Betulinic acid (BA) is a natural pentacyclic triterpene with a lupine structure. However, to the best of our knowledge, there is no research study on the anti‐tumour and anti‐metastasis effect of BA on GC. In this study, we assessed the anti‐cancer effect of BA on human GC cells in vitro and in vivo. We first investigated the cytotoxicity and anti‐proliferation effect of BA on GC cells of SNU‐16 and NCI‐N87. The results indicated that BA had significant cytotoxic and inhibitory effects on GC cells in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. To further study the cytotoxic action of BA on GC cells, we assessed the apoptotic induction effect of BA on SNU‐16 cells and found that BA distinctly induced apoptosis in SNU‐16 cells. In addition, BA inhibited the migratory and invasive abilities of SNU‐16 cells. Western‐blot analysis revealed that BA suppressed the migration and invasion of GC cells by impairing epithelial‐mesenchymal transition progression. Furthermore, in vivo experiments showed that BA could delay tumour growth and inhibit pulmonary metastasis, which is consistent with the results of in vitro studies. Overall, we evaluated the anti‐cancer effect of BA on human GC cells in vivo and in vitro, and the present study provides new evidence on the use of BA as a potential anti‐cancer drug for GC treatment. Significance of the study BA significantly suppressed proliferation and triggered apoptosis in GC cells. Additionally, BA remarkably inhibited migration and invasion of GC cells by impairing the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition signalling pathway. It is worth noting that BA drastically retarded tumour growth in the xenograft mouse model of GC. Our results indicated that BA can be considered a candidate drug for GC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Chen
- Digestive System Department, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiongjian Wu
- Digestive System Department, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Chi Liu
- School of Medical & Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yun Zhou
- Digestive System Department, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, People's Republic of China
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Huang W, Liu C, Liu F, Liu Z, Lai G, Yi J. Hinokiflavone induces apoptosis and inhibits migration of breast cancer cells via EMT signalling pathway. Cell Biochem Funct 2020; 38:249-256. [PMID: 32107809 PMCID: PMC7318630 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hinokiflavone is a natural product, isolated from Selaginella P. Beauv, Juniperus phoenicea and Rhus succedanea. Even though hinokiflavone was reported to possess cytotoxicity to many cancer cells, and has potential in cancer treatment, the anti‐proliferation and anti‐metastasis efficacy of hinokiflavone on human breast cancer cells has not a further research. In this study, we investigated the anti‐cancer activity of hinokiflavone in human breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Hinokiflavone exhibited a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner apoptosis induction by upregulating expression of Bax and downregulating Bcl‐2 in breast cancer cells. Furthermore, hinokiflavone significantly inhibited the migration and invasion of breast cancer cells by impairing the process of epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition. In addition, the tumour growth was distinctly inhibited by treatment of hinokiflavone in a xenograft tumour mouse model of MDA‐MB‐231 cells. Immunohistochemical analysis of tumour sections showed that MMP‐2+ cells and Ki‐67+ cells were remarkably decreased in tumour tissues of mice after treatment of hinokiflavone, indicating that hinokiflavone inhibits not only proliferation but also metastasis of breast cancer cells. Our study suggested that hinokiflavone can be a potential drug to breast cancer. Significance of the study Hinokiflavone significantly inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis in breast cancer cells. In addition, hinokiflavone remarkably inhibited migration and invasion of breast cancer cells via EMT signalling pathway. It is worth noting that hinokiflavone possesses anti‐tumour effect in tumour mouse xenograft model of breast cancer. Overall, our results indicated that hinokiflavone may be a potential anticancer drug for breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenzhen Huang
- Department of Vascular and Breast Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, P.R. China
| | - Chi Liu
- School of Medical & Life Sciences, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Fengen Liu
- Department of Vascular and Breast Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, P.R. China
| | - Zhiyong Liu
- Department of Vascular and Breast Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, P.R. China
| | - Guie Lai
- Department of Vascular and Breast Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, P.R. China
| | - Jian Yi
- Department of Vascular and Breast Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, P.R. China
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CXCL11-CXCR3 Axis Mediates Tumor Lymphatic Cross Talk and Inflammation-Induced Tumor, Promoting Pathways in Head and Neck Cancers. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2020; 190:900-915. [PMID: 32035061 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2019.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Tumor metastasis to the draining lymph nodes is critical in patient prognosis and is tightly regulated by molecular interactions mediated by lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs). The underlying mechanisms remain undefined in the head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs). Using HNSCC cells and LECs we determined the mechanisms mediating tumor-lymphatic cross talk. The effects of a pentacyclic triterpenoid, methyl 2-trifluoromethyl-3,11-dioxoolean-1,12-dien-30-oate (CF3DODA-Me), a potent anticancer agent, were studied on cancer-lymphatic interactions. In response to inflammation, LECs induced the chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 9/10/11 chemokines with a concomitant increase in the chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 3 (CXCR3) in tumor cells. CF3DODA-Me showed antiproliferative effects on tumor cells, altered cellular bioenergetics, suppressed matrix metalloproteinases and chemokine receptors, and the induction of CXCL11-CXCR3 axis and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/AKT pathways. Tumor cell migration to LECs was inhibited by blocking CXCL11 whereas recombinant CXCL11 significantly induced tumor migration, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and matrix remodeling. Immunohistochemical analysis of HNSCC tumor arrays showed enhanced expression of CXCR3 and increased lymphatic vessel infiltration. Furthermore, The Cancer Genome Atlas RNA-sequencing data from HNSCC patients also showed a positive correlation between CXCR3 expression and lymphovascular invasion. Collectively, our data suggest a novel mechanism for cross talk between the LECs and HNSCC tumors through the CXCR3-CXCL11 axis and elucidate the role of the triterpenoid CF3DODA-Me in abrogating several of these tumor-promoting pathways.
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Weber LA, Meißner J, Delarocque J, Kalbitz J, Feige K, Kietzmann M, Michaelis A, Paschke R, Michael J, Pratscher B, Cavalleri JMV. Betulinic acid shows anticancer activity against equine melanoma cells and permeates isolated equine skin in vitro. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:44. [PMID: 32024502 PMCID: PMC7003431 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-2262-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Equine malignant melanoma (EMM) is a frequently occurring dermoepidermal tumor in grey horses. Currently available therapies are either challenging or inefficient. Betulinic acid (BA), a naturally occurring triterpenoid, is a promising compound for cancer treatment. To evaluate the potential of BA as a topical therapy for EMM, its anticancer effects on primary equine melanoma cells and dermal fibroblasts and its percutaneous permeation through isolated equine skin were assessed in vitro. RESULTS BA showed antiproliferative and cytotoxic effects on both primary equine melanoma cells and fibroblasts in a time- and dose-dependent manner. The lowest half-maximal inhibitory concentrations were obtained 96 h after the beginning of drug exposure (12.7 μmol/L and 23.6 μmol/L for melanoma cells eRGO1 and MelDuWi, respectively, in cytotoxicity assay). High concentrations of the compound were reached in the required skin layers in vitro. CONCLUSION BA is a promising substance for topical EMM treatment. Further clinical studies in horses are necessary to assess safety and antitumoral effects in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa A Weber
- Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 9, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Jessica Meißner
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany.
| | - Julien Delarocque
- Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 9, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Jutta Kalbitz
- Biosolutions Halle GmbH, Weinbergweg 22, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Karsten Feige
- Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 9, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Manfred Kietzmann
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| | - Anne Michaelis
- Biozentrum, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Weinbergweg 22, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Reinhard Paschke
- Biozentrum, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Weinbergweg 22, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Julia Michael
- Skinomics GmbH, Weinbergweg 23, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Barbara Pratscher
- University Small Animal Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
- University Equine Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jessika-M V Cavalleri
- University Equine Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
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Li S, Zhang J, Fang Y, Yi J, Lu Z, Chen Y, Guo B. Enhancing Betulinic Acid Dissolution Rate and Improving Antitumor Activity via Nanosuspension Constructed by Anti-Solvent Technique. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2020; 14:243-256. [PMID: 32021108 PMCID: PMC6970624 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s233851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study was to prepare and evaluate betulinic acid nanosuspension (BA-NS) for new drug delivery to enhance its solubility and in vitro anti-tumor activity. Methods BA-NS was formulated by an anti-solvent precipitation method using the Box-Behnken design (BBD). Particle size (PS) and Zeta potential were measured by laser particle size analysis. The drug solid state after freeze drying was characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) after freeze drying. The saturation solubility and dissolution rate were determined by solubility assay and in vitro dissolution studies, respectively. The in vitro cytotoxicity assay was performed using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazole)-2,5-diphenltetraazolium bromide (MTT) method. Results The PS was 129.7±12.2 nm having a Zeta potential of −28.1±4.5 mV and the polydispersity index (PDI) was 0.231±0.013, which confirmed that the nanosuspension was in the stable amorphous state. A series of characterization experiments demonstrated that nanoparticles retained original effective structure and existed as spherical or near-spherical nanoparticles in the nanosuspension, but the drug transferred from the crystal state to the amorphous state. The form of lyophilized BA-NS was very successful in enhancing the dissolution rate in PH-dependent way. The cytotoxicity assay revealed that BA-NS could significantly enhance the in vitro anti-proliferation against tumor cells compared to the BA suspension (BA-S). Conclusion The BA-NS can remarkably improve solubility and in vitro antitumor activity, which seems very promising for the treatment of cancers in practical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuqi Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery Systems, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.,R&D Team for Formulation Innovation, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery Systems, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.,R&D Team for Formulation Innovation, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuqi Fang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery Systems, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.,R&D Team for Formulation Innovation, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Yi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhufen Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery Systems, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.,R&D Team for Formulation Innovation, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanzhong Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery Systems, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.,R&D Team for Formulation Innovation, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Bohong Guo
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery Systems, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.,R&D Team for Formulation Innovation, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
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Lu H, Shu Q, Lou H, Chen Q. Mitochondria-Mediated Programmed Cell Death in Saccharomyces cerevisiae Induced by Betulinic Acid Is Accelerated by the Deletion of PEP4 Gene. Microorganisms 2019; 7:microorganisms7110538. [PMID: 31703462 PMCID: PMC6920885 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms7110538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2019] [Revised: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In this work, using Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model, we showed that BetA could inhibit cell proliferation and lead to lethal cytotoxicity accompanying programmed cell death (PCD). Interestingly, it was found that vacuolar protease Pep4p played a pivotal role in BetA-induced S. cerevisiae PCD. The presence of Pep4p reduced the damage of BetA-induced cells. This work implied that BetA may induce cell death of S. cerevisiae through mitochondria-mediated PCD, and the deletion of Pep4 gene possibly accelerated the effect of PCD. The present investigation provided the preliminary research for the complicated mechanism of BetA-induced cell PCD regulated by vacular protease Pep4p and lay the foundation for understanding of the Pep4p protein in an animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Qihe Chen
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-0571-8698-4316
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Grymel M, Zawojak M, Adamek J. Triphenylphosphonium Analogues of Betulin and Betulinic Acid with Biological Activity: A Comprehensive Review. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2019; 82:1719-1730. [PMID: 31141361 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.8b00830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Naturally occurring pentacyclic lupane triterpenoids such as betulin (1) or betulinic acid (2) and their synthetic derivatives display a broad spectrum of biological activities and, therefore, have been the subject of great interest. However, the use of these compounds as potential therapeutic agents is limited by their low bioavailability, high hydrophobicity, and insufficient intracellular accumulation. In this context, research on modifications of the parent structures that will improve their pharmacokinetic properties is particularly important. In the past few years, methods of synthesis as well as cytotoxic and antiparasitic properties of a series of lupane triterpenoids modified by introducing one or two triphenylphosphonium moieties at the C-2, C-3, C-28, or C-30 positions by carbon-carbon or ester bonds have been described. The presence of triphenylphosphonium groups affects not only physical properties but also the mechanism of action of a potential drug. This review summarizes published findings on synthetic methods and biological properties of the triphenylphosphonium derivatives of betulin and betulinic acid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirosława Grymel
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Bioorganic Chemistry and Biotechnology , Silesian University of Technology , 44-100 Gliwice , Poland
- Biotechnology Center of Silesian University of Technology , 44-100 Gliwice , Poland
| | - Mateusz Zawojak
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Bioorganic Chemistry and Biotechnology , Silesian University of Technology , 44-100 Gliwice , Poland
| | - Jakub Adamek
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Bioorganic Chemistry and Biotechnology , Silesian University of Technology , 44-100 Gliwice , Poland
- Biotechnology Center of Silesian University of Technology , 44-100 Gliwice , Poland
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50
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Betulinic acid induces apoptosis and inhibits metastasis of human colorectal cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Bioorg Med Chem 2019; 27:2546-2552. [PMID: 30910472 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2019.03.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Betulinic acid (BA) is a pentacyclic triterpenoids extracted from birch with a wide range of biological properties. Recent studies have shown that BA has significant cytotoxicity to various types of human cancer cells, and shows potential in cancer treatment. However, the efficacy of BA on human colorectal cancer tumor cells is still unclear. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the anti-cancer activity of BA in human colorectal cancer cells in vitro and in vivo to investigate the possible mechanism. In this experiment, we found that BA inhibited colorectal cancer cell lines in vitro with a time-dependent and dose-dependent manner. Moreover, BA could induce cell apoptosis by upregulating expression of Bax and cleaved caspase-3 and downregulating protein of Bcl-2. BA could increase the production of reactive oxygen species and reduce mitochondrial membrane potential of cancer cell, suggesting that BA induced cancer cells apoptosis by mitochondrial mediated pathways. Furthermore, BA significantly inhibited the migration and invasion of colorectal cancer cells, reduced the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs) and increased the expression of MMPs inhibitor (TIMP-2). In addition, the growth of tumor was significantly suppressed by intraperitoneal administration of 20 mg/kg/day of BA in a xenograft tumor mouse model of HCT-116. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis showed that MMP-2+ cells and Ki-67+ cells were reduced and cleaved caspase-3+ cells were increased in tumor tissues of mice after BA administration. The results showed that BA not only promoted the apoptosis of colorectal cancer cells, but also inhibited the metastasis of cancer cells. Our results suggest that BA can be a potential natural drug to inhibit the growth and metastasis of colorectal cancer.
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