Inhibitory effects of andrographolide on migration and invasion in human non-small cell lung cancer A549 cells via down-regulation of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Eur J Pharmacol. 2010;632:23-32. [PMID: 20097193 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2010.01.009]

PI3K/AKT/mTORC1 signalling pathway regulates MMP9 gene activation via transcription factor NF-κB in mammary epithelial cells of dairy cows

Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) plays a pivotal role in mammary ductal morphogenesis, angiogenesis and glandular tissue architecture remodeling. However, the molecular mechanism of MMP9 expression in mammary epithelial cells of dairy cows remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the underlying mechanism of MMP9 expression. In this study, to determine whether the PI3K/AKT/mTORC1/NF-κB signalling pathway participates in the regulation of MMP9 expression, we treated mammary epithelial cells with specific pharmacological inhibitors of PI3K (LY294002), mTORC1 (Rapamycin) or NF-κB (Celastrol), respectively. Western blotting results indicated that LY294002, Rapamycin and Celastrol markedly decreased MMP9 expression and P65 nuclear translocation. Furthermore, we found that NF-κB (P65) overexpression resulted in elevated expression of MMP9 protein and activation of MMP9 promoter. In addition, we observed that Celastrol markedly decreases P65-overexpression-induced MMP9 promoter activity. Moreover, the results of the promoter assay indicated that the core regulation sequence for MMP9 promoter activation may be located at -420 ∼ -80 bp downstream from the transcription start site. These observations indicated that the PI3K/AKT/mTORC1 signalling pathway is involved in MMP9 expression by regulating MMP9 promoter activity via NF-κB in the mammary epithelial cells of dairy cows.

Inhibition of NF-kB and COX-2 by andrographolide regulates the progression of cervical cancer by promoting PTEN expression and suppressing PI3K/AKT signalling pathway

In the face of recent advances in Cervical cancer (CC) treatment, therapeutic and surgical procedures for CC management are still inadequate. In the current study for the first time Andrographolide (Andro) has been explored for its multitarget therapeutic efficacy on NF-kB, COX-2, and PI3K/AKT expressions together in CC. The expression levels of NF-kB, COX-2, PI3K and PTEN in the CC patient samples, both at mRNA and protein levels have shown significant association with poor survival and increased tumor aggressiveness. The binding efficacy of Andro was investigated using molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulations, and the protein and ligand complex for NF-kB and COX-2 has shown high binding energy. Andro displayed cytotoxicity by impeding the in-vitro proliferation of CC cells. Andro significantly supressed the NF-kB, COX-2, and PI3K expression and enhanced the expression levels of PTEN at protein levels in-vitro. Andro induced apoptosis in a dose dependent manner and significantly inhibited the migration and invasion of CC cells. Andro exhibited similar activity in-vivo and suppressed the CC tumor growth in xenograft C57BL/6 mice model. The anti-tumor activity of Andro, both in-vitro and in-vivo has shown considerable downregulation of NF-kB and COX-2 and induced apoptosis through impeding the PI3K/AKT signalling pathway. These findings from the above study projects, administration of Andro as an effective alternate safe compound to curtail and impede cervical cancer progression.

Bioinformatics analysis and experimental verification of TIGD1 in non-small cell lung cancer

Introduction

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a prevalent respiratory system tumor. Triggered transposable element derivative 1 (TIGD1) exhibits significant overexpression in various tumor cells and tissues, suggesting its involvement in cancer progression.

Methods

Clinical data and gene expression profiles of lung adenocarcinoma were collected from TCGA, UCSC XENA, and GEO databases. Computational techniques and empirical studies were employed to analyze the role of TIGD1 in NSCLC. Cellular experiments were conducted using the H1299 cell line, including RNA interference, cell viability assays, quantitative PCR, wound-healing assays, western blotting, and plate clone formation assays.

Results

Bioinformatics analysis revealed TIGD1's potential as a biomarker for diagnosing and predicting lung cancer. It also indicated promise as a target for immune-related therapy and targeted drug therapy. Cellular studies confirmed TIGD1's involvement in cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and migration. Furthermore, an association between TIGD1 and the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway was suggested.

Discussion

The findings suggest that TIGD1 plays a vital role in NSCLC progression, making it a potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target. The association with the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway provides insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms. Integrating computational analysis with empirical studies enhances our understanding of TIGD1's significance in NSCLC and opens avenues for further research into targeted therapies.

Andrographis paniculata methanol extract suppresses the phosphorylation of ETV6‑NTRK3

ETS variant transcription factor 6 (ETV6)-neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase 3 (NTRK3) (EN) fusions are typically found in rare diseases, such as primary renal fibrosarcoma (only six cases have been reported), secretory carcinoma of the breast and salivary gland (1 case), and AML (4 cases). Few cases have been reported, and expression of the EN gene fusion requires additional clinical data and fundamental research to be supported. The aim of the present study was to determine the inhibitory effect of Andrographis paniculata methanol extract (MeAP) on EN-related cell lines, IMS-M2 and BaF3/EN, as well as evaluate the mechanism of action. Vero cells were used as control cells. Trypan blue staining and MTT were used to evaluate the inhibitory effect of MeAP on tested cells. Western blotting and immunoprecipitation were used to detect the activation of EN after MeAP treatment. The IC₅₀ values of MeAP were found to be 12.38±0.57 µg/ml (IMS-M2) and 13.06±0.49 µg/ml (BaF3/EN). MeAP was observed to inhibit cell proliferation in a time, dose, and cell density-dependent manner. The IC₅₀ value for MeAP in Vero cells was markedly higher, at 109.97±4.24 (µg/ml), indicating a much less sensitive effect. Furthermore, MeAP treatment inhibited EN phosphorylation and induced apoptosis in these cells. Collectively, the present study demonstrated that MeAP has an oncogenic effect on EN fusion-positive cell lines, in particular.

Bacteriocin-Nanoconjugates (Bac10307-AgNPs) Biosynthesized from Lactobacillus acidophilus-Derived Bacteriocins Exhibit Enhanced and Promising Biological Activities

The proteinaceous compounds produced by lactic acid bacteria are called bacteriocins and have a wide variety of bioactive properties. However, bacteriocin's commercial availability is limited due to short stability periods and low yields. Therefore, the objective of this study was to synthesize bacteriocin-derived silver nanoparticles (Bac10307-AgNPs) extracted from Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus), which may have the potential to increase the bioactivity of bacteriocins and overcome the hurdles. It was found that extracted and purified Bac10307 had a broad range of stability for both temperature (20-100 °C) and pH (3-12). Further, based on Sodium dodecyl-sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) analysis, its molecular weight was estimated to be 4.2 kDa. The synthesized Bac10307-AgNPs showed a peak of surface plasmon resonance at 430 nm λmax. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) confirmed the presence of biological moieties, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) coupled with Energy dispersive X-Ray (EDX) confirmed that AgNPs were spherical and irregularly shaped, with a size range of 9-20 nm. As a result, the Bac10307-AgNPs displayed very strong antibacterial activity with MIC values as low as 8 μg/mL for Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), when compared to Bac10307 alone. In addition, Bac10307-AgNPs demonstrated promising in vitro antioxidant activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) (IC₅₀ = 116.04 μg/mL) and in vitro cytotoxicity against human liver cancer cells (HepG2) (IC₅₀ = 135.63 μg/mL), more than Bac10307 alone (IC₅₀ = 139.82 μg/mL against DPPH and 158.20 μg/mL against HepG2). Furthermore, a protein-protein molecular docking simulation study of bacteriocins with target proteins of different biological functions was also carried out in order to ascertain the interactions between bacteriocins and target proteins.

DM-MOGA: a multi-objective optimization genetic algorithm for identifying disease modules of non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Constructing molecular interaction networks from microarray data and then identifying disease module biomarkers can provide insight into the underlying pathogenic mechanisms of non-small cell lung cancer. A promising approach for identifying disease modules in the network is community detection.

RESULTS

In order to identify disease modules from gene co-expression networks, a community detection method is proposed based on multi-objective optimization genetic algorithm with decomposition. The method is named DM-MOGA and possesses two highlights. First, the boundary correction strategy is designed for the modules obtained in the process of local module detection and pre-simplification. Second, during the evolution, we introduce Davies-Bouldin index and clustering coefficient as fitness functions which are improved and migrated to weighted networks. In order to identify modules that are more relevant to diseases, the above strategies are designed to consider the network topology of genes and the strength of connections with other genes at the same time. Experimental results of different gene expression datasets of non-small cell lung cancer demonstrate that the core modules obtained by DM-MOGA are more effective than those obtained by several other advanced module identification methods.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed method identifies disease-relevant modules by optimizing two novel fitness functions to simultaneously consider the local topology of each gene and its connection strength with other genes. The association of the identified core modules with lung cancer has been confirmed by pathway and gene ontology enrichment analysis.

Mechanism of andrographis paniculata on lung cancer by network pharmacology and molecular docking

BACKGROUND

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been widely recognized and accepted worldwide to provide favorable therapeutic effects for cancer patients. As Andrographis paniculata has an anti-tumor effect, it might inhibit lung cancer.

OBJECTIVE

The drug targets and related pathways involved in the action of Andrographis paniculata against lung cancer were predicted using network pharmacology, and its mechanism was further explored at the molecular level.

METHODS

This work selected the effective components and targets of Andrographis paniculata against the Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology (TCMSP) database. Targets related to lung cancer were searched for in the GEO database (accession number GSE136043). The volcanic and thermal maps of differential expression genes were produced using the software R. Then, the target genes were analyzed by GO and KEGG analysis using the software R. This also utilized the AutoDock tool to study the molecular docking of the active component structures downloaded from the PubChem database and the key target structures downloaded from the PDB database, and the docking results were visualized using the software PyMol.

RESULTS

The results of molecular docking show that wogonin, Mono-O-methylwightin, Deoxycamptothecine, andrographidine F_qt, Quercetin tetramethyl (3',4',5,7) ether, 14-deoxyandrographolide, andrographolide-19-β-D-glucoside_qt and 14-deoxy-11-oxo-andrographolide were potential active components, while AKT1, MAPK14, RELA and NCOA1 were key targets.

CONCLUSION

This study showed the main candidate components, targets, and pathways involved in the action of Andrographis paniculata against lung cancer.

Novel Venetin-1 nanoparticle from earthworm coelomic fluid as a promising agent for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer

The present research shows the antitumor activity of a protein-polysaccharide complex Venetin-1 obtained from the coelomic fluid of Dendrobaena veneta earthworms against A549 cancer cells. The investigations are a continuation of experiments on the antitumor activity of coelomic fluid obtained from this species. The Venetin-1 nanoparticle was obtained after thermal treatment of the coelomic fluid, separation from coelomocytes, filtration, and lyophilization. The preparation showed a selective effect on cancer cells, whereas normal cells were unaffected. Venetin-1 was effective against the lung cancer cells at doses of 31.3 and 62.5 µg/ml, and the results were imaged using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The cells died mainly via the apoptosis pathway. Necrotic cells appeared sporadically in the microscopic view. SEM imaging revealed complete destruction of the A549 cells after the incubation with Venetin-1. The atomic force microscopy (AFM) analyses showed changes in the topography, peak force error images, and Young's modulus (elasticity) of the A549 cells after the incubation with Venetin-1. The transmission electron cryomicroscopy (Cryo-TEM) analysis indicated a polymeric nature of the analyzed preparation. The samples of Venetin-1 showed a very homogeneous size profile with the microparticle size of approximately 58.23 nm. A significant decrease in Venetin-1 binding to sphingomyelin was observed. Venetin-1 lost its pore-forming activity or deactivation of the pore-forming activity occurred. This confirms the absence of hemolytic capacity of Venetin-1 towards red blood cells. The conducted analyses show the suitability of the obtained complex for biomedical research. The next step will consist in analyses of the effect of Venetin-1 on the immune system in mice.

Advances on Natural Abietane, Labdane and Clerodane Diterpenes as Anti-Cancer Agents: Sources and Mechanisms of Action

Extensive research over the past decades has identified numerous phytochemicals that could represent an important source of anti-cancer compounds. There is an immediate need for less toxic and more effective preventive and therapeutic strategies for the treatment of cancer. Natural compounds are considered suitable candidates for the development of new anti-cancer drugs due to their pleiotropic actions on target events with multiple manners. This comprehensive review highlighted the most relevant findings achieved in the screening of phytochemicals for anticancer drug development, particularly focused on a promising class of phytochemicals such as diterpenes with abietane, clerodane, and labdane skeleton. The chemical structure of these compounds, their main natural sources, and mechanisms of action were critically discussed.

Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles from Eruca sativa Miller Leaf Extract Exhibits Antibacterial, Antioxidant, Anti-Quorum-Sensing, Antibiofilm, and Anti-Metastatic Activities

Worldwide, the primary problem today is the proliferation of cancer and secondary bacterial infections caused by biofilms, as they are the principal causes of death due to the lack of effective drugs. A great deal of biological activities of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have made them a brilliant choice for the development of new drugs in recent years. The present study was conducted to evaluate the anticancer, antibacterial, anti-QS, and antibiofilm effects of AgNPs synthesized from Eruca sativa (E. sativa) leaf extract. The ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectra showed a peak of surface plasmon resonance at 424 nm λmax, which corresponded to AgNP formation. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) confirmed that biological moieties are involved for the development of AgNPs. Moreover, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses confirmed the spherical shape and uniform size (8.11 to 15 nm) of the AgNPs. In human lung cancer cells (A549), the anticancer potential of AgNPs was examined by the MTT [3-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] assay, scratch assay, and invasion assay. The results indicated that AgNPs inhibit the migration of A549 cells. The synthesized AgNPs showed MIC values of 12.5 µg/mL against Chromobacterium violaceum (C. violaceum) and 25 µg/mL against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), which demonstrated their antibacterial abilities. Biological compounds that disable the QS system are being investigated as potential strategies for preventing bacterial infections. Thus, we analyzed the potential effectiveness of synthesized AgNPs in inhibiting QS-regulated virulence factors and biofilm formation in both strains of bacteria. In C. violaceum, the synthesized AgNPs significantly inhibited both violacein (85.18% at 1/2 × MIC) and acyl homoserine lactone (78.76% at 1/2 × MIC). QS inhibitory activity was also demonstrated in P. aeruginosa at a sub-MIC concentration (1/2 × MIC) by a reduction in pyocyanin activity (68.83%), total protease (68.50%), LasA activity (63.91%), and LasB activity (56.40%). Additionally, the exopolysaccharide production was significantly reduced in both C. violaceum (65.79% at 1/2 × MIC) and P. aeruginosa (57.65% at 1/2 × MIC). The formation of biofilm was also significantly inhibited at 1/2 × MIC in C. violaceum (76.49%) and in P. aeruginosa (65.31%). Moreover, a GC–MS analysis confirmed the presence of different classes of bioactive phytochemical constituents present in the leaf extract of E. sativa. On the basis of our results, we conclude that biologically synthesized AgNPs showed numerous multifunctional properties and have the potential to be used against human cancer and bacterial biofilm-related infections.

Andrographolide Inhibits Proliferation and Promotes Apoptosis in Bladder Cancer Cells by Interfering with NF-κB and PI3K/AKT Signaling In Vitro and In Vivo

OBJECTIVE

To explore the influences of andrographolide (Andro) on bladder cancer cell lines and a tumor xenograft mouse model bearing 5637 cells.

METHODS

For in vitro experiments, T24 cells were stimulated with Andro (0-40 µmol/L) and 5637 cells were stimulated with Andro (0 to 80 µmol/L). Cell growth, migration, and infiltration were assessed using cell counting kit-8, colony formation, wound healing, and transwell assays. Apoptosis rate was examined using flow cytometry. In in vivo study, the antitumor effect of Andro (10 mg/kg) was evaluated by 5637 tumor-bearing mice, and levels of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase/AKT related-proteins were determined by immunoblotting.

RESULTS

Andro suppressed growth, migration, and infiltraion of bladder cancer cells (P⩽0.05 or P⩽0.01). Additionally, Andro induced intrinsic mitochondria-dependent apoptosis in bladder cancer cell lines. Furthermore, Andro inhibited bladder cancer growth in mice (P⩽0.01). The expression of p65, p-AKT were suppressed by Andro treatment in vitro and in vivo (P⩽0.05 or P⩽0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Andrographolide inhibits proliferation and promotes apoptosis in bladder cancer cells by interfering with NF-κB and PI3K/AKT signaling in vitro and in vivo.

An insight into the pharmacological and analytical potential of Andrographolide

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

Andrographolide inhibits non-small cell lung cancer cell proliferation through the activation of the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway and by reprogramming host glucose metabolism

Background

The main aim of this research was to explore the role and mechanism of Andrographolide (Andro) in controlling non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell proliferation.

Methods

Human NSCLC H1975 cells were treated with Andro (0–20 µM) for 4–72 h. B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)-antagonist/killer (Bak)-small interfering RNA (siRNA) (Bak-siRNA) and fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase (FBP1)-siRNA were transfected into H1975 cells to inhibit the endogenic Bak and FBP1 expression, respectively, and their expressions were detected by real-time quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting (WB). Cellular proliferation ability was determined through various assessments, including 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), colony formation, and cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assays. Cell apoptosis ability was measured using flow cytometry. Pro-apoptotic-related proteins (cleaved caspase 9, cleaved caspase 8, and cleaved caspase 3) and mitochondrial apoptosis pathway proteins [Bcl2-associated X (Bax), Bak, Bcl-2, and cytochrome C (cyto C)] were assessed by WB. Aerobic glycolysis-associated genes [pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2), lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA), and glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1)] and gluconeogenesis genes [phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase 1 (PEPCK1), fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase 1 (FBP1), and phosphofructokinase (PFK)] were measured by qRT-PCR. The mitochondrial membrane depolarization sensor, 5, 50, 6, 60-tetrachloro-1, 10, 3, 30 tetraethyl benzimidazolo carbocyanine iodide (JC-1) assay was used for the measurement of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). Additionally, glycolytic metabolism, lactate production, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis were also analyzed.

Results

Andro inhibited human NSCLC cellular proliferation and induced apoptosis in a dose-time or dose-dependent manner via activation of the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. Andro inhibited glycolysis, promoted the gluconeogenesis pathway, and increased the levels of cleaved caspase 9, cleaved caspase 8, cleaved caspase 3, Bax, Bak, PEPCK1, FBP1, and PFK, and decreased the levels of Bcl-2, PKM2, LDHA, and GLUT1. Moreover, it also decreased the ΔΨm and facilitated the release of cyto C from mitochondria into the cytoplasm. Furthermore, Andro enhanced the mitochondrial translocation of Bak, glucose uptake, lactate release, and intracellular ATP synthesis. Suppression of endogenic Bak and FBP1 expression significantly reduced the effects of Andro in H1975 cells.

Conclusions

Andro represses NSCLC cell proliferation through the activation of the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway and by reprogramming glucose metabolism.

The Effect of Terpenoid Natural Chinese Medicine Molecular Compound on Lung Cancer Treatment

Among all malignant tumors in the whole universe, the incidence and mortality of lung cancer disease rank first. Especially in the past few years, the occurrence of lung cancer in the urban population has continued to increase, which seriously threatens the lives and health of people. Among the many treatments for lung cancer, chemotherapy is the best one, but traditional chemotherapy has low specificity and drug resistance. To address the above issue, this study reviews the five biological pathways that common terpenoid compounds in medicinal plants interfere with the occurrence and development of lung cancer: cell proliferation, cell apoptosis, cell autophagy, cell invasion, metastasis, and immune mechanism regulation. In addition, the mechanism of the terpenoid natural traditional Chinese medicine monomer compound combined with Western medicine in the multipathway antilung cancer is summarized.

Advances in ameliorating inflammatory diseases and cancers by andrographolide: Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and perspective

Andrographolide, a well-known natural lactone having a range of pharmacological actions in traditional Chinese medicine. It has long been used to cure a variety of ailments. In this review, we cover the pharmacokinetics and pharmacological activity of andrographolide which supports its further clinical application in cancers and inflammatory diseases. Growing evidence shows a good therapeutic effect in inflammatory diseases, including liver diseases, joint diseases, respiratory system diseases, nervous system diseases, heart diseases, inflammatory bowel diseases, and inflammatory skin diseases. As a result, the effects of andrographolide on immune cells and the processes that underpin them are discussed. The preclinical use of andrographolide to different organs in response to malignancies such as colorectal, liver, gastric, breast, prostate, lung, and oral cancers has also been reviewed. In addition, several clinical trials of andrographolide in inflammatory diseases and cancers have been summarized. This review highlights recent advances in ameliorating inflammatory diseases as well as cancers by andrographolide and its analogs, providing a new perspective for subsequent research of this traditional natural product.

Andrographolide - A prospective remedy for chikungunya fever and viral arthritis

AIM

Andrographolide, the major bioactive compound of the plant Andrographis paniculata, exerts anti-inflammatory, cyto-, neuro- and hepato-protective effects. Traditional remedies for infectious diseases include A. paniculata for maladies like fever, pain, rashes which are associated with chikungunya and other arboviral diseases. Since andrographolide and A. paniculata have potent antiviral properties, the present review aims to provide a comprehensive report of symptoms and immunological molecules involved in chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection and the therapeutic role of andrographolide in the mitigation of chikungunya and associated symptoms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Studies on the therapeutic role of A. paniculata and andrographolide in chikungunya and other viral infections published between 1991 and 2021 were searched on various databases.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The havoc created by chikungunya is due to the associated debilitating symptoms including arthralgia and myalgia which sometimes remains for years. The authors reviewed and summarized the various symptoms and immunological molecules related to CHIKV replication and associated inflammation, oxidative and unfolded protein stress, apoptosis and arthritis. Additionally, the authors suggested andrographolide as a remedy for chikungunya and other arboviral infections by highlighting its role in the regulation of molecules involved in unfolded protein response pathway, immunomodulation, inflammation, virus multiplication, oxidative stress, apoptosis and arthritis.

CONCLUSION

The present review demonstrated the major complications associated with chikungunya and the role of andrographolide in alleviating the chikungunya associated symptoms to encourage further investigations using this promising compound towards early development of an anti-CHIKV drug. Chemical Compound studied: andrographolide (PubChem CID: 5318517).

Andrographolide as a potent and promising antiviral agent

Andrographolide is a labdane diterpenoid extracted and purified from the aerial parts of plants belonging to genus Andrographis (Acanthaceae). The research has shown the plant based compound is low cytotoxic, having antimicrobial, anti-cancer, antiviral and anti-parasitic effects. Andrographolide both prevent spread as well as transmission of virus to neighboring cells by interfering with different cell signaling pathways. In addition to its medicinal value, plant has been found having nutritional value. Therefore being cost effective, easy availability and having nutritional value as a natural supplement, can be used to improve the quality of life in countries having low standard of living. Due to the limited number of effective vaccines, the plant-based antiviral drugs have provided considerable hope for fighting against the viral infections. The plant-derived compound when produced in large quantities is cost effective with low cytotoxic effects. However, much deep insight research at the molecular level is needed to develop the molecules against the viral infection. This paper aims to highlight the antiviral role of Andrographolide that can made significant contributions toward the improvement of human health and will also summarize the current status and future strategies concerning the therapeutic applications of Andrographolide to combat different viral disease in humans.

Raddeanin A induced apoptosis of non-small cell lung cancer cells by promoting ROS-mediated STAT3 inactivation

PURPOSE

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a high-risk type of lung cancer. Raddeanin A exerts anti-tumor activity by regulating cell proliferation and apoptosis, but its role in NSCLC remains to be elucidated. This study was to investigate the effect of raddeanin A in NSCLC and its mechanism.

METHODS

The effect of raddeanin A (2, 4, 8, 10 μmol/L) on the viability, proliferation and apoptosis of A549 and H1299 cells was determined by cell counting kit-8, colony formation and flow cytometry assays, respectively. Next, western blot was performed to examine the protein expressions of cleaved caspase-3, Bax, phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (p-STAT3) and STAT3. Subsequently, the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and mitochondrial membrane potential of NSCLC cells were detected by 2', 7'-dichlorofluorescein-diacetate (DCFH-DA) and JC-1 assay. Lastly, the effect of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on the apoptosis, ROS generation, and STAT3 was evaluated by the above-mentioned assays again.

RESULTS

Raddeanin A treatment had no obvious effect on 16HBE cells viability, but it inhibited viability and proliferation of A549 and H1299 cells, promoted the apoptosis, increased the protein expressions of cleaved caspase-3 and Bax, generated intracellular ROS, as well as decreased mitochondrial membrane potential and the expressions of p-STAT3 and STAT3 in A549 and H1299 cells. After cells treated with NAC, the effect of raddeanin A was reversed, as evidenced by the apoptosis and ROS generation were suppressed, and the expression of p-STAT3 was promoted.

CONCLUSION

Raddeanin A suppressed the proliferation and induced apoptosis of NSCLC cells via promoting the ROS-mediated STAT3 inactivation.

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

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

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

AIM OF THE STUDY

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

MATERIALS AND METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

Deciphering the Molecular Mechanism Responsible for Efficiently Inhibiting Metastasis of Human Non-Small Cell Lung and Colorectal Cancer Cells Targeting the Matrix Metalloproteinases by Selaginella repanda

Selaginella species are known to have antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic as well as anticancer effects. However, no study has examined the cytotoxic and anti-metastatic efficacy of Selaginella repanda (S. repanda) to date. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the potential anti-metastatic properties of ethanol crude extract of S. repanda in human non-small-cell lung (A-549) and colorectal cancer (HCT-116) cells with possible mechanisms. Effect of S. repanda crude extract on the growth, adhesion, migration and invasion of the A-549 and HCT-116 were investigated. We demonstrated that S. repanda crude extract inhibited cell growth of metastatic cells in a dose and time dependent manner. Incubation of A-549 and HCT-116 cells with 100-500 µg/mL of S. repanda crude extract significantly inhibited cell adhesion to gelatin coated surface. In the migration and invasion assay, S. repanda crude extract also significantly inhibited cellular migration and invasion in both A-549 and HCT-116 cells. Moreover, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, and real-time PCR (RT-PCR) analysis revealed that the activity and mRNA level of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and membrane type 1-matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP) were inhibited. While the activity of tissue inhibitor matrix metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1); an inhibitor of MMPs was stimulated by S. repanda crude extract in a concentration-dependent manner. Therefore, the present study not only indicated the inhibition of motility and invasion of malignant cells by S. repanda, but also revealed that such effects were likely associated with the decrease in MMP-2/-9 expression of both A-549 and HCT-116 cells. This further suggests that S. repanda could be used as a potential source of anti-metastasis agent in pharmaceutical development for cancer therapy.

Berberine Exerts Anti-cancer Activity by Modulating Adenosine Monophosphate- Activated Protein Kinase (AMPK) and the Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase/ Protein Kinase B (PI3K/AKT) Signaling Pathways

Background

The antagonistic relationship between adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) signaling play a vital role in cancer development. The anti-cancer effects of berberine have been reported as a main component of the traditional Chinese medicine Rhizoma coptidis, although the roles of these signaling pathways in these effects have not been systematically reviewed.

METHODS

We searched the PubMed database for studies with keywords including ["berberine"] and ["tumor" or "cancer"] and ["AMPK"] or ["AKT"] published between January 2010 and July 2020, to elucidate the roles of the AMPK and PI3K/AKT pathways and their upstream and downstream targets in the anti-cancer effects of berberine.

RESULTS

The anti-cancer effects of berberine include inhibition of cancer cell proliferation, promotion of apoptosis and autophagy in cancer cells, and prevention of metastasis and angiogenesis. The mechanism of these effects involves multiple cell kinases and signaling pathways, including activation of AMPK and forkhead box transcription factor O3a (FOXO3a), accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and inhibition of the activity of PI3K/AKT, rapamycin (mTOR) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). Most of these mechanisms converge on regulation of the balance of AMPK and PI3K/AKT signaling by berberine.

CONCLUSION

This evidence supports the possibility that berberine is a promising anti-cancer natural product, with pharmaceutical potential in inhibiting cancer growth, metastasis and angiogenesis via multiple pathways, particularly by regulating the balance of AMPK and PI3K/AKT signaling. However, systematic preclinical studies are still required to provide scientific evidence for further clinical studies.

Andrographolide Against Lung Cancer-New Pharmacological Insights Based on High-Throughput Metabolomics Analysis Combined with Network Pharmacology

Andrographolide (Andro) has known to treat various illnesses such as colds, diarrhea, fever and infectious diseases. However, the effect mechanism of Andro is still unclear. Therefore, we used high-throughput metabolomics analysis to discover biomarkers, metabolic profiles and pathways to reveal the pharmacological action and effective mechanism of Andro against lung cancer. The metabolic effects of Andro on lung cancer animal was explored by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-triple-time of flight/mass spectrometry (UPLC-TOF/MS) analysis. Our results showed that Andro exhibited significant protective effects against lung cancer. Compared with control group, a total of 25 metabolites biomarkers was identified in urine of model animals, which 18 of them were regulated toward the normal direction after Andro treatment, and network pharmacology analysis showed that they were related with 570 proteins. Biological pathways analysis showed that the 11 metabolism pathways were regulated by Andro treatment in lung cancer mouse, and amino acid metabolism and arachidonic acid metabolism have great potential as target pathways for Andro against lung cancer. It revealed that high-throughput metabolomics combined with network pharmacology analysis provides deeply insight into the therapeutic mechanisms of natural product for promoting medicine development and disease treatment.

K. H, Basavaraju P, Pasumarthi D, S. D. A, Soujanya P, Arnold Emeson I, Bodiga V, Pawar SC. Inhibition of Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase (iNOS) by Andrographolide and In Vitro Evaluation of Its Antiproliferative and Proapoptotic Effects on Cervical Cancer

This work is aimed at investigating the expression levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in cervical cancer and identifying a potential iNOS inhibitor. The data mining studies performed advocated iNOS to be a promising biomarker for cancer prognosis, as it is highly overexpressed in several malignant cancers. The elevated iNOS was found to be associated with poor survival and increased tumor aggressiveness in cervical cancer. Immunohistochemical and RT-PCR investigations of iNOS showed significant upregulation of endogenous iNOS expression in the cervical tumor samples, thus making iNOS a potent target for decreasing tumor inflammation and aggressiveness. Andrographolide, a plant-derived diterpenoid lactone, is widely reported to be effective against infections and inflammation, causing no adverse side effects on humans. In the current study, we investigated the effect of andrographolide on the prognostic value of iNOS expression in cervical cancer, which has not been reported previously. The binding efficacy of andrographolide was analyzed by performing molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulations. Multiple parameters were used to analyze the simulation trajectory, like root mean square deviation (RMSD), torsional degree of freedom, protein-root mean square fluctuations (P-RMSF), ligand RMSF, total number of intramolecular hydrogen bonds, secondary structure elements (SSE) of the protein, and protein complex with the time-dependent functions of MDS. Ligand-protein interactions revealed binding efficacy of andrographolide with tryptophan amino acid of iNOS protein. Cancer cell proliferation, cell migration, cell cycle analysis, and apoptosis-mediated cell death were assessed in vitro, post iNOS inhibition induced by andrographolide treatment (demonstrated by Western blot). Results. Andrographolide exhibited cytotoxicity by inhibiting the in vitro proliferation of cervical cancer cells and also abrogated the cancer cell migration. A significant increase in apoptosis was observed with increasing andrographolide concentration, and it also induced cell cycle arrest at G1-S phase transition. Our results substantiate that andrographolide significantly inhibits iNOS expression and exhibits antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects on cervical cancer cells.

Pulsatilla saponin E suppresses viability, migration, invasion and promotes apoptosis of NSCLC cells through negatively regulating Akt/FASN pathway via inhibition of flotillin-2 in lipid raft

PURPOSE

Pulsatilla saponins from pulsatilla chinensis (Bunge) Regel have potential anti-tumor activities to certain human cancers. However, the roles of pulsatilla saponin E separated from pulsatilla saponins in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have not been reported.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After treating NSCLC cells by pulsatilla saponin E at different concentrations, cell viability was measured by MTT and CCK-8 assays, and cell migration, invasion and apoptosis were detected by scratch wound-healing, transwell and flow cytometry assays. The contents of free cholesterol (FC) and total cholesterol (TC) were measured by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The expression levels of flotillin-1, flotillin-2, Akt, fatty acid synthase (FASN) were detected by qRT-PCR and Western blot assays.

RESULTS

Pulsatilla saponin E suppressed viability, migration, invasion and promoted apoptosis of NSCLC cells followed by regulation of apoptosis-related proteins, reduced contents of FC and TC, and the expression levels of flotillin-1, flotillin-2, Akt, and FASN in a concentration-dependent manner. However, the inhibitory effects of pulsatilla saponin E on viability, migration, invasion of A549 cells and the expression levels of flotillin-1, flotillin-2, Akt, and FASN were reversed by flotillin-2 overexpression.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study revealed that pulsatilla saponin E suppressed migration, invasion and promoted apoptosis of NSCLC cells through negatively regulating Akt/FASN signaling pathway via the inhibition of flotillin-2 in lipid raft (LR). The current findings could be explored for developing a novel therapeutic drug for NSCLC treatment.

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

BACKGROUND

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

Electrochemical Assessment of Anticancer Compounds on the Human Tongue Squamous Carcinoma Cells

The most common oral cancer is squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and its highest occurrence is in the tongue. Almost 30% of patients with one primary head and neck tumor will have a second primary malignancy. In recent studies, two novel plant extracts, andrographolide and cannabidiol (CBD), have been exploited for their anticancer effects. Here, we investigated the cytotoxic effects of these two compounds on SCC-25 cells, a human tongue squamous carcinoma cell line, and compared the outcomes with two chemotherapeutic drugs, cisplatin and fluorouracil. Electric cell substrate impedance sensing (ECIS) system was applied to measure frequency- and time-dependent impedance of SCC-25 cell-covered electrodes and to further assess subtle changes in cell morphology and micromotion in response to different concentrations (0, 10, 30, 100, and 300 µM) of these compounds. AlamarBlue and Annexin V/7-AAD binding assays were used to measure the concentration dependent changes in viability and apoptosis of SCC-25 cells. Our results demonstrate that 24 hours after exposure to 30 µM CBD can significantly decrease the micromotion rate, damage the integrity of cell morphology, reduce cell viability, and induce higher apoptosis in treated SCC-25 cells, while the other three drugs attain similar effects at the concentration of 100 µM or higher. The apoptosis-induced changes in cell morphology and micromotion monitored by ECIS correlate well with biochemical assays. Thus, both frequency- and time-dependent impedance measurements using ECIS can be used to real-time follow cancer cell activities in response to anticancer drugs with different temporal cytotoxicity profiles.

MPPa-PDT suppresses breast tumor migration/invasion by inhibiting Akt-NF-κB-dependent MMP-9 expression via ROS

Background

Breast cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in women, with high morbidity and mortality. Tumor metastasis is implicated in most breast cancer deaths; thus, inhibiting metastasis may provide a therapeutic direction for breast cancer. In the present study, pyropheophorbide-α methyl ester-mediated photodynamic therapy (MPPa-PDT) was used to inhibit metastasis in MCF-7 breast cancer cells.

Methods

Uptake of MPPa was detected by fluorescence microscopy. Cell viability was evaluated by the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8). ROS generation was detected by 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA). The migration of cells was assessed by wound healing assay, and invasion ability was assessed by Matrigel invasion assay. Levels of MMP2 and MMP9 were measured by PCR. Akt, phospho-Akt (Ser473), phospho-NF-κB p65 (Ser536) and NF-κB p65 were measured by western blotting. The F-actin cytoskeleton was observed by immunofluorescence. Lung tissue was visualized by hematoxylin and eosin staining.

Results

Following MPPa-PDT, migration and invasion were decreased in the MCF-7 cells. MPPa-PDT downregulated the expression of MMP2 and MMP9, which are responsible for the initiation of metastasis. MPPa-PDT reduced the phosphorylation of Akt and NF-κB. MPPa-PDT also reduced the expression of F-actin in cytoskeleton in MCF-7 cells. These effects were blocked by the reactive oxygen species scavenger NAC or the Akt activator SC79, while the PI3K inhibitor LY294002 or the Akt inhibitor triciribine enhanced these effects. Moreover, MPPa-PDT inhibited tumor metastasis and destroyed F-actin in vivo.

Conclusion

Taken together, these results demonstrate that MPPa-PDT inhibits the metastasis of MCF-7 cells both in vitro and in vivo and may be involved in the Akt/NF-κB-dependent MMP-9 signaling pathway. Thus, MPPa-PDT may be a promising treatment to inhibit metastasis.

GINS2 facilitates epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in non-small-cell lung cancer through modulating PI3K/Akt and MEK/ERK signaling

Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a cancer with high morbidity and mortality. We aimed to define the effect of Go-Ichi-Ni-San complex subuint 2 (GINS2) acting on NSCLC. The expressions of GINS2 in NSCLC tissues and cells were detected using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blot, and immunohistochemistry (IHC). The relationship between GINS2 expression and NSCLC prognosis or clinicopathologic features was analyzed through statistical analysis. The overexpressed or downexpressed plasmids of GINS2 were transfected into NSCLC cell lines, and then cell proliferation, invasion, and migration viability were, respectively, determined by Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, transwell, and wound healing assay. The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) was observed and the EMT-related proteins were measured using IHC and western blot. The function of GINS2 in vivo was assessed by mice model. The related proteins of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and phosphoinositide-3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) pathways were evaluated using western blot. GINS2 expression was upregulated in NSCLC tissues and cell lines, and its high expression was correlated with the poor prognosis and several clinicopathologic features, such as TMN stages (tumor size, lymph node, and metastasis) and clinical stages. GINS2 enhanced NSCLC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion viability in vivo and in vitro. GINS2 also promoted NSCLC cells EMT. In addition, GINS2 could regulate phosphorylated proteins of PI3K p85, Akt, MEK, and ERK expressions, it revealed that GINS2 effected on PI3K/Akt and MEK/ERK pathways. GINS2 promoted cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT via modulating PI3K/Akt and MEK/ERK signaling pathways. It might be a target in NSCLC treatment.

α-Hispanolol Induces Apoptosis and Suppresses Migration and Invasion of Glioblastoma Cells Likely via Downregulation of MMP-2/9 Expression and p38MAPK Attenuation

α-Hispanolol (α-H) is a labdane diterpenoid that has been shown to induce apoptosis in several human cancer cells. However, the effect of α-H in human glioblastoma cells has not been described. In the present work, we have investigated the effects of α-H on apoptosis, migration, and invasion of human glioblastoma cells with the aim of identifying the molecular targets underlying its mechanism of action. The results revealed that α-H showed significant cytotoxicity against human glioma cancer cell lines U87 and U373 in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. This effect was higher in U87 cells and linked to apoptosis, as revealed the increased percentage of sub-G₁ population by cell cycle analysis and acquisition of typical features of apoptotic cell morphology. Apoptosis was also confirmed by significant presence of annexin V-positive cells and caspase activation. Pretreatment with caspase inhibitors diminishes the activities of caspase 8, 9, and 3 and maintains the percentage of viable glioblastoma cells, indicating that α-H induced cell apoptosis through both the extrinsic and the intrinsic pathways. Moreover, we also found that α-H downregulated the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL proteins and activated the pro-apoptotic Bid and Bax proteins. On the other hand, α-H exhibited inhibitory effects on the migration and invasion of U87 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, additional experiments showed that α-H treatment reduced the enzymatic activities and protein levels of matrix metalloproteinase MMP-2 and MMP-9 and increased the expression of TIMP-1 inhibitor, probably via p38MAPK regulation. Finally, xenograft assays confirmed the anti-glioma efficacy of α-H. Taken together, these findings suggest that α-H may exert anti-tumoral effects in vitro and in vivo through the inhibition of cell proliferation and invasion as well as by the induction of apoptosis in human glioblastoma cells. This research describes α-H as a new drug that may improve the therapeutic efficacy against glioblastoma tumors.

Andrographolide Inhibits Cholangiocarcinoma Cell Migration by Down-Regulation of Claudin-1 via the p-38 Signaling Pathway

Andrographolide, a bioactive phytochemical from Andrographis paniculata, is emerging as a promising anticancer agent against various cancers. This study aims to investigate anticancer activities of andrographolide against cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) and to understand the underlying mechanism. The anti-proliferative activity of andrographolide was evaluated in a range of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) cell lines including HuCCA-1, KKU-100, KKU-M213, and RMCCA-1. The anti-migration activity and the corresponding mechanism were studied in highly metastatic KKU-M213 cells. The results indicated that andrographolide significantly inhibited the proliferation of CCA cells with the 50% inhibitory growth concentration (IC₅₀) of ∼120 µM. Andrographolide also inhibited CCA cell migration and invasion. Our further explorations demonstrated that andrographolide decreased the expression of claudin-1, a major tight junction protein, while it up-regulated the expression of Snail, a transcriptional repressor of claudin-1. Moreover, andrographolide induced the phosphorylation of Jun N-terminus kinase (JNK) and p-38 Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). Treatment with the p-38-specific inhibitor recovered the claudin-1 expression and migration ability of CCA cells. This work demonstrated the potential anticancer effects of andrographolide, indicating that andrographolide could inhibit CCA cell migration via suppression of claudin-1 through the activation of p-38 MAPK signaling pathway. This compound would be useful for development of alternative therapeutic agent for CCA.

Fisetin and 5-fluorouracil: Effective combination for PIK3CA-mutant colorectal cancer

The normal colon epithelium is transformed into its neoplastic counterpart through a series of genetic alterations in driver genes including activating mutations in PIK3CA. Treatment often involves surgery followed by 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) based therapy, which has limited efficiency and serious side effects. We sought to determine whether fisetin, a dietary flavonoid, alone or in combination with 5-FU affected tumorigenesis in the mammalian intestine. We first determined the effect of fisetin, 5-FU or their combination on PIK3CA-mutant and PIK3CA wild-type colon cancer cells by assessing cell viability, colony formation, apoptosis and effects on PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling. Treatment of PIK3CA-mutant cells with fisetin and 5-FU reduced the expression of PI3K, phosphorylation of AKT, mTOR, its target proteins, constituents of mTOR signaling complex and this treatment increased the phosphorylation of AMPKα. We then determined whether fisetin and 5-FU together or singly affected tumorigenesis in Apc^Min/+ mice that also express constitutively active PI3K in the distal small intestine and colon. Tumor incidence was markedly lower in fisetin-treated FC¹ 3K¹ Apc^Min/+ mice that also express constitutively active PI3K in distal small intestine and colon, as compared to control animals, indicating that fisetin is a strong preventive agent. In addition, the combination of fisetin and 5-FU also reduced the total number of intestinal tumors. Fisetin could be used as a preventive agent plus an adjuvant with 5-FU for the treatment of PIK3CA-mutant colorectal cancer.

Beneficial effects of andrographolide in a rat model of autoimmune myocarditis and its effects on PI3K/Akt pathway

The study is to investigate effects of andrographolide on experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM). Lewis rats were immunized on day 0 with porcine cardiac myosin to establish EAM. The EAM rats were treated with either andrographolide (25, 50, 100 mg/kg/day) or vehicle for 21 days. An antigen-specific splenocytes proliferation assay was performed by using the cells from control rats immunized with cardiac myosin. Survival rates, myocardial pathology and myocardial functional parameters (left ventricle end-diastolic pressure, ± dP/dt and left ventricular internal dimension) of EAM rats received andrographolide were significantly improved. Andrographolide treatment caused an decrease in the infiltration of CD3⁺ and CD14⁺ positive cells in myocardial tissue. Moreover, andrographolide treatment caused a reduction in the plasma levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-17 (IL-17) and myosin-antibody, and an increase in the level of IL-10 in EAM rats. Oral administration of andrographolide resulted in the decreased expression of p-PI3K, p-Akt without any change of PI3K and Akt. Further results indicate andrographolide significantly inhibited myosin-induced proliferation in splenocytes, and this effect was inhibited by co-treatment of SC79 (Akt activator). Our data indicate andrographolide inhibits development of EAM, and this beneficial effect may be due to powerful anti-inflammatory activity and inhibitory effect on PI3K/Akt pathway.

Quadruplex-forming oligonucleotide targeted to the VEGF promoter inhibits growth of non-small cell lung cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is commonly overexpressed in a variety of tumor types including lung cancer. As a key regulator of angiogenesis, it promotes tumor survival, growth, and metastasis through the activation of the downstream protein kinase B (AKT) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK 1/2) activation. The VEGF promoter contains a 36 bp guanine-rich sequence (VEGFq) which is capable of forming quadruplex (four-stranded) DNA. This sequence has been implicated in the down-regulation of both basal and inducible VEGF expression and represents an ideal target for inhibition of VEGF expression.

RESULTS

Our experiments demonstrate sequence-specific interaction between a G-rich quadruplex-forming oligonucleotide encoding a portion of the VEGFq sequence and its double stranded target sequence, suggesting that this G-rich oligonucleotide binds specifically to its complementary C-rich sequence in the genomic VEGF promoter by strand invasion. We show that treatment of A549 non-small lung cancer cells (NSCLC) with this oligonucleotide results in decreased VEGF expression and growth inhibition. The VEGFq oligonucleotide inhibits proliferation and invasion by decreasing VEGF mRNA/protein expression and subsequent ERK 1/2 and AKT activation. Furthermore, the VEGFq oligonucleotide is abundantly taken into cells, localized in the cytoplasm/nucleus, inherently stable in serum and intracellularly, and has no effect on non-transformed cells. Suppression of VEGF expression induces cytoplasmic accumulation of autophagic vacuoles and increased expression of LC3B, suggesting that VEGFq may induce autophagic cell death.

CONCLUSION

Our data strongly suggest that the G-rich VEGFq oligonucleotide binds specifically to the C-rich strand of the genomic VEGF promoter, via strand invasion, stabilizing the quadruplex structure formed by the genomic G-rich sequence, resulting in transcriptional inhibition. Strand invading oligonucleotides represent a new approach to specifically inhibit VEGF expression that avoids many of the problems which have plagued the therapeutic use of oligonucleotides. This is a novel approach to specific inhibition of gene expression.

Andrographolide disrupts meiotic maturation by blocking cytoskeletal reorganisation and decreases the fertilisation potential of mouse oocytes

Andrographolide (AG) is a diterpenoid lactone isolated from the stem and leaves of Andrographis paniculata Nees that is used for the effective treatment of infectious diseases in Asian countries. Previous studies have reported adverse effects of AG on female fertility in rodents; however, the underlying mechanisms are unknown. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of AG on the IVM of mouse oocytes and their fertilisation potential. Immature oocytes incubated for 6, 14 or 24h in medium containing 5, 10 or 20μM AG showed time- and dose-dependent decreases in maturation rates compared with the control group. Immunostaining revealed that AG exposure disrupted spindle organisation and migration, as well as actin cap formation and cytokinesis. Furthermore, most oocytes exposed to 20μM AG underwent apoptosis, and the few oocytes exposed to 5 or 10μM AG that reached MII exhibited lower fertilisation rates after intracytoplasmic sperm injection. The findings of the present study suggest that AG may disrupt mouse oocyte meiotic maturation by blocking cytoskeletal reorganisation, and may thus have an adverse effect on female fertility.

Inhibitory effect of 11-carbonyl-beta-boswellic acid on non-small cell lung cancer H446 cells

BACKGROUND

The anti-lung tumor potential of 11-carbonyl-β-boswellic acid was investigated.

MATERIALS & METHODS

The inhibitory effects of 11-carbonyl-β-boswellic acid on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) was assessed by proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle and molecular mechanisms in NSCLC H446 cells in vitro. The results showed that the growth of H446 cells was significantly inhibited by 11-carbonyl-β-boswellic acid in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Meanwhile, 11-carbonyl-β-boswellic acid induced cell apoptosis and cell cycle G2-M phase arrest in H446 cells.

RESULTS

Mechanistically, 11-carbonyl-β-boswellic acid could activate JNK signaling pathway, down-regulate the expression of surviving protein, and activate the cleavage of PARP, leading to marked inhibitory effect on H446 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that 11-carbonyl-β-boswellic acid may be a potential usefulness for preventing and treatment of NSCLC.

Andrographolide Exhibits Anticancer Potential Against Human Colon Cancer Cells by Inducing Cell Cycle Arrest and Programmed Cell Death via Augmentation of Intracellular Reactive Oxygen Species Level

Andrographolide, a diterpenoid lactone and a major constituent of Andrographis paniculata Nees, exhibits remarkable anticancer activity. However, the effect of andrographolide on colon cancer has not been completely elucidated yet. Thus, we investigated the chemopreventive potential of andrographolide in colon cancer HT-29 cells. The cytotoxic potential of andrographolide on HT-29 cells was determined by MTT assay, trypan blue exclusion assay, colony formation assay, and morphological analysis; and apoptotic property by DAPI and Hoechst staining, FITC-Annexin V assay, DNA fragmentation assay and caspase-3 activity assay. To elucidate andrographolide action, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level was determined by DCFDA dye; change in mitochondrial potential by Rhodamine123 and Mito Tracker Red CMXRos dye; and cell cycle modulatory property by flow cytometric analysis. Results of the study have shown that andrographolide decreased cell viability of HT-29 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Furthermore, andrographolide induced apoptosis in HT-29 cells which seemed to be linked with augmented intracellular ROS level and disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential. Interestingly, andrographolide caused significant cell cycle arrest in G2/M phase at lower doses, but, in G0/G1 phase at higher doses. In summary, our results indicated that andrographolide exhibited antiproliferative and apoptotic properties against colon cancer HT-29 cells.

Increased reactive oxygen species levels cause ER stress and cytotoxicity in andrographolide treated colon cancer cells

Chemotherapy continues to play an essential role in the management of many cancers including colon cancer, the third leading cause of death due to cancer in the United States. Many naturally occurring plant compounds have been demonstrated to possess anti-cancer cell activity and have the potential to supplement existing chemotherapy strategies. The plant metabolite andrographolide induces cell death in cancer cells and apoptosis is dependent upon the induction of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER stress) leading to the unfolded protein response (UPR). The goal of the present study was to determine the mechanism by which andrographolide induces ER stress and to further evaluate its role in promoting cell death pathways. The T84 and COLO 205 cancer cell lines were used to demonstrate that andrographolide induces increased ROS levels, corresponding anti-oxidant response molecules, and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential. No increases in ROS levels were detected in control colon fibroblast cells. Andrographolide-induced cell death, UPR signaling, and CHOP, Bax, and caspase 3 apoptosis elements were all inhibited in the presence of the ROS scavenger NAC. Additionally, andrographolide-induced suppression of cyclins B1 and D1 were also reversed in the presence of NAC. Finally, Akt phosphorylation and phospho-mTOR levels that are normally suppressed by andrographolide were also expressed at normal levels in the absence of ROS. These data demonstrate that andrographolide induces ER stress leading to apoptosis through the induction of ROS and that elevated ROS also play an important role in down-regulating cell cycle progression and cell survival pathways as well.

Andrographolide impedes cancer stemness and enhances radio-sensitivity in oral carcinomas via miR-218 activation

Current evidence suggests that oral cancer stem cells (OCSCs) possess high tumorigenic and metastatic properties as well as chemo- and radioresistance. In this study, we demonstrated that andrographolide, the main bioactive component in the medicinal plant Andrographis, significantly reduced oncogenicity and restored radio-sensitivity of ALDH1⁺CD44⁺ OCSCs. Mechanistic studies showed that andrographolide treatment increased the expression of microRNA-218 (miR-218), leading to the downregulation of Bmi1. We showed that knockdown of miR-218 in ALDH1⁻CD44⁻ non-OCSCs enhanced cancer stemness, while silencing of Bmi1 significantly counteracted it. Furthermore, we found tumor growth was reduced in mice bearing xenograft tumors after andrographolide treatment via activation of miR-218/Bmi1 axis. Together, these data demonstrated that the inhibition of tumor aggressiveness in OCSCs by andrographolide was mediated through the upregulation of miR-218, thereby reducing Bmi1 expression. These findings suggest that andrographolide may be a valuable natural compound for anti-CSCs treatment of OSCC.

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

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

Phytochemicals and PI3K Inhibitors in Cancer-An Insight

In today's world of modern medicine and novel therapies, cancer still remains to be one of the prime contributor to the death of people worldwide. The modern therapies improve condition of cancer patients and are effective in early stages of cancer but the advanced metastasized stage of cancer remains untreatable. Also most of the cancer therapies are expensive and are associated with adverse side effects. Thus, considering the current status of cancer treatment there is scope to search for efficient therapies which are cost-effective and are associated with lesser and milder side effects. Phytochemicals have been utilized for many decades to prevent and cure various ailments and current evidences indicate use of phytochemicals as an effective treatment for cancer. Hyperactivation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling cascades is a common phenomenon in most types of cancers. Thus, natural substances targeting PI3K pathway can be of great therapeutic potential in the treatment of cancer patients. This chapter summarizes the updated research on plant-derived substances targeting PI3K pathway and the current status of their preclinical studies and clinical trials.

Alkyne-azide cycloaddition analogues of dehydrozingerone as potential anti-prostate cancer inhibitors via the PI3K/Akt/NF-kB pathway

Herein, we report the isolation and synthetic modification of dehydrozingerone (DHZ, 1), a secondary metabolite present in the rhizome of Zingiber officinale. We synthesized O-propargylated dehydrozingerone, which was subsequently coupled by alkyne-azide cycloaddition (3-20) using click chemistry. The compounds (1-20) were evaluated for their in vitro cytotoxic activity in a panel of three cancer cell lines. Among all the DHZ derivatives, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 15 displayed potent cytotoxic potential with an IC50 value ranging from 1.8-3.0 μM in MCF-7, PC-3 and HCT-116 cell lines. Furthermore, compound 7 has proven to be the most potent cytotoxic compound in all the three distinct cancer cell lines and also demonstrated significant anti-invasive potential in prostate cancer. The mechanistic study of compound 7 showed that it not only suppressed the AKT/mTOR signalling which regulates nuclear transcription factor-NF-kB but also augmented the expression of anti-invasive markers E-cadherin and TIMP. Compound 7 significantly decreased the expression of pro-invasive markers vimentin, MMP-2 and MMP-9, respectively. This study underscores an efficient synthetic approach employed to evaluate the structure-activity relationship of dehydrozingerone (1) in search of potential new anticancer agents.