Inhibition of diethylnitrosamine-induced liver cancer in rats by Rhizoma paridis saponin

Anticancer effect of propranolol on diethylnitrosamine-induced hepatocellular carcinoma rat model

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most widespread type of primary liver cancer. Diethylnitrosamine (DEN), a hepatotoxic hepatocarcinogenic compound, is used to induce HCC in animal models. The non-selective β-blocker propranolol demonstrated antiproliferative activity in many cancer types.

OBJECTIVE

This investigation aimed to evaluate the anticancer effect of propranolol against DEN-induced HCC in rats.

METHODS

Thirty adult male rats were divided into the following groups: Group I (C, control), Group II (HCC); received DEN, 70 mg/kg body weight (b.wt.) once a week for 10 weeks, to induce HCC, and Group III (HCC/Prop); received DEN for 10 weeks for HCC induction, then received 20 mg/kg b.wt. propranolol, intraperitoneally for four successive weeks.

RESULTS

HCC was developed in rats' livers and confirmed via significant liver architecture changes, significantly elevated activity of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), α-fetoprotein (AFP), total- and direct-bilirubin (Bil), and a decline in albumin (ALB) level in serum. HCC group demonstrated elevated levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), HIF-1α, IL-8, NF-κB, PGE2, TGF-β1, VEGF, and CD8, but significant decline of GSH, and IL-10 level, with suppression of the antioxidant enzymes' activities. In addition, the gene expression of the hepatic inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and LAG-3 were up-regulated. Moreover, the protein expression of p-PKC was up-regulated, while that of PD-1 and PD-L1 were down-regulated in the liver tissues of the HCC group. However, propranolol ameliorated the investigated parameters in the HCC/Prop group.

CONCLUSION

Propranolol exhibited an anticancer effect and thus can be considered as a promising treatment for HCC. Blocking of PD-1/PD-L1 and LAG-3 signals participated in the anti-tumor effect of propranolol on HCC.

A new insight into material basis of rhizoma Paridis saponins in alleviating pain

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Paris polyphylla, as a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, was often used to relieve inflammation and pain. Rhizoma Paridis saponins (RPS) as the main active components of Paris polyphylla have excellent analgesic effects.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Determine the analgesic material basis of RPS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

LC-MS/MS was used to analyze RPS, plasma after intravenous injection of RPS, and oral administration of RPS. H22 plantar pain model was established to explore the analgesic material basis of RPS. Moreover, correlation analysis, network pharmacology, RT-PCR and molecular docking were applied in this research.

RESULTS

RPS had dose-dependently analgesic effects in acetic acid- and formalin-induced pain models. LC-MS/MS detection indicated that diosgenin as the metabolite of RPS mainly distributed in brain tissues. The addition of antibiotics increased the anti-tumor effect of RPS, but reduced its analgesic effect. Network pharmacology, RT-PCR and molecular docking showed that diosgenin exerted its analgesic effect through SRC and Rap1 signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

Diosgenin exhibited analgesic effects, while saponins had good anti-tumor effects in RPS. This discovery provided a better indication for the later application of RPS in anti-tumor and analgesic settings.

Response Surface Optimization for Water-Assisted Extraction of Two Saponins from Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis Leaves

The process of extracting polyphyllin II and polyphyllin VII by water-assisted extraction was established and optimized in this study. Response surface methodology was used to establish a prediction model to optimize the extraction conditions. Based on the one-way test, the Box-Behnken design with three factors and three levels was used for the experimental program, and the composition analysis was carried out by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The optimal extraction conditions for polyphyllin II and polyphyllin VII were as follows: extraction time of 57 and 21 min, extraction temperature of 36 and 32 °C, solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:10 and 1:5 g/mL, respectively, and the yields of polyphyllin II and polyphyllin VII were 1.895 and 5.010%, which was similar to the predicted value of 1.835 and 4.979%. The results of the ANOVA showed that the model fit was good, and the Box-Behnken response surface method could optimize the water-assisted extraction of saponins from the leaves of Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis. This study provides a theoretical basis for the application of polyphyllin II and polyphyllin VII in pharmaceutical production.

Research trends and hotspots of polyphyllin in high-incidence cancers: A bibliometric analysis

Background

Polyphyllin, a natural compound derived primarily from the Paris genus, manifests its anticancer properties. Extensive research on its therapeutic potential in cancers has been reported. However, there is no systematical analysis of the general aspects of research on polyphyllin by bibliometric analysis. The aim of this study is to visualize emerging trends and hotspots and predict potential research directions in this field.

Methods

In this study, we collected relevant research articles from the Web of Science Core Collection Bibliometrics. Using R-bibliometrix, we analyzed the research status, hotspots, frontiers, and development trends of polyphyllin in high-incidence cancers. To conduct a comprehensive visual analysis, CiteSpace and VOSviewer were used for visual analysis of authors, countries, institutions, keywords, and co-cited references within the published articles.

Results

A total of 257 articles focusing on the research of polyphyllin in high-incidence cancers were retrieved from the WOSCC database, covering the period from 2005 to 2023. The analysis revealed a consistent increasing trend in annual publications during this timeframe. Notably, China emerged as the most productive country, with Tianjin University leading the institutions. The Journal of Ethnopharmacology stood out as the most prominent journal in this field, while Gao WY emerged as the most prolific author. Polyphyllin VI, polyphyllin II, and polyphyllin VII have emerged as the latest research hotspots. Additionally, the investigation of autophagy and its associated mechanisms has gained significant attention as a novel research direction.

Conclusion

This study presents a novel visualization of the research on polyphyllin saponins in the field of highly prevalent cancers using bibliometric analysis. The investigation of polyphyllin D has emerged as a primary focus in this field, with lung cancer, breast cancer, and liver cancer being the key areas of current research. Lastly, polyphyllin saponins show potential application in the field of cancer.

Promotion of a quality standard for Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis based on the efficacy-oriented effect-constituent index

Multi-component determination and bioassays used for the quality control of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) may have certain shortcomings. The effect-constituent index (ECI) is a quality evaluation index weighted by chemical composition analysis and effect detection. This index can be established by the dose-effect relationship of the active ingredients in TCM. In this study, Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis (PY) was selected as the representative drug. Chemical evaluation and bioactivity evaluation were combined to establish the ECI, to compensate for the deficiency of a single evaluation method to some extent, and can be related to the efficacy of PY, in order to improve its quality standard. The ECI not only reflects the contribution of component content to the quality of PY, but also relates to clinical efficacy and reflects the influence of different components on the biological activity. Moreover, this study provided a reference method for the quality control of other TCMs.

PC 18:1/18:1 mediates the anti-inflammatory effects of exercise and remodels tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma

AIM

Phosphatidylcholine (PC) is essential for membrane structural integrity and lipid-dependent signaling pathways, and is an essential component required for cancer cell growth. Using hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as a tumor model, this study aims to further screen phospholipid biomarkers of the tumor microenvironment and explore the anti-tumor effects and mechanisms of aerobic exercise.

MAIN METHODS

The HCC of C57BL/6J mice was induced by the injection of the carcinogen diethylnitrosamine (DEN). Exercise was performed on an ungraded treadmill for weeks. The inflammation-related markers were detected by ELISA, PCR and immunohistochemistry, hepatic metabolic profile was analyzed by GC/MS, and lipid metabolism profile was further detected by lipid-targeted LC/MS. Cell culture was used to verify the anti-inflammatory effect of PC.

KEY FINDINGS

Exercise reduced hepatic inflammation, tumor incidence and volume. Metabolomics analysis showed that palmitic acid is a key metabolic marker for exercise to improve tumor microenvironment. Injection of exogenous palmitic acid following exercise impaired the anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects of exercise. Lipid metabolomics analysis further showed that metabolites for exercise were enriched in glycerol phospholipid metabolism, including 14 phosphatidylcholines (PCs), 18 phosphatidylethanolamines (PEs), and 6 triglycerides (TGs). These biomarkers contain different lengths of fatty acid chains and different numbers of unsaturated bonds, respectively. Cell culture verified that PC (18:1/18:1) mediated lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in HepG2 cell.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our results suggest that exercise remodels glycerophospholipid metabolism and reduces hepatic palmitic acid loading and PC (18:1/18:1) level, thereby reconstructing a microenvironment that is hostile to HCC.

The San-Qi-Xue-Shang-Ning formula protects against ulcerative colitis by restoring the homeostasis of gut immunity and microbiota

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality due to repetitive remissions and relapses, and many severe complications, including colitis-associated cancer (CAC). The San-Qi-Xue-Shang-Ning (SQ) formula has been utilized in clinical practice to treat gut diseases, but its pharmacological evidence is limited and awaits elucidation.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Here, we elucidated the molecular mechanisms of the SQ formula.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Its therapeutic value in combating UC and CAC was predicted from network pharmacology and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Experimental colitis models were established by feeding dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) to C57BL/6N mice for 7 days, and they were subjected to the SQ formula for 14 days. High-throughput technologies and biochemical investigations were executed to corroborate the anti-colitis effect.

RESULTS

Network pharmacology and WGCNA demonstrated that the targets of the SQ formula were associated with interleukin-17 (IL-17), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), IL-1b and peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathways, and correlated with the survival in patients with colorectal cancer. In mice with colitis, the SQ treatment hindered colitis progression in a dose-dependent manner, as evidenced by the rescued colon length and weight loss, improved colonic epithelial integrity, and abolished crypt loss. In addition to the suppressed serum IL-17, TNFα, and IL-1b levels, the SQ-treated colitis mice exhibited decreased colonic protein abundance of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1 α), PPARα, and Caspase3 (Casp3) with an increased PPARγ expression. Concurrently, the high dose of SQ promoted the alternative activation of peritoneal macrophages by increasing Arg1 and inhibiting iNOS2, thereby facilitating the migration of NCM460 cells and controlling TNF-induced reactive oxygen species production and apoptosis in intestinal organoids. In colitis-accompanied dysbiosis, the SQ formula reversed the decreased microbiota diversity indexes and restored the microbiome profile in the murine colitis models.

CONCLUSION

The SQ formula is a potent anti-colitis drug that facilitates inflammation resolution and restores gut microbiota homeostasis.

Polyphyllin II induced apoptosis of NSCLC cells by inhibiting autophagy through the mTOR pathway

CONTEXT

Polyphyllin II (PPII) is a steroidal saponin isolated from Rhizoma Paridis. It exhibits significant antitumor activity such as anti-proliferation and pro-apoptosis in lung cancer.

OBJECTIVE

To explore whether PPII induce autophagy and the relationship between autophagy and apoptosis in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effects of PPII (0, 1, 5, and 10 μM) were elucidated by CCK8 assay, colony formation test, TUNEL staining, MDC method, and mRFP-GFP-LC3 lentivirus transfection in A549 and H1299 cells for 24 h. DMSO-treated cells were selected as control. The protein expression of autophagy (LC3-II, p62), apoptosis (Bcl-2, Bax, caspase-3) and p-mTOR was detected by Western blotting. We explored the relationship between autophagy and apoptosis by autophagy inhibitor CQ (10 μM) and 3-MA (5 mM).

RESULTS

PPII (0, 1, 5, and 10 μM) inhibited the proliferation and induced apoptosis. The IC₅₀ values of A549 and H1299 cells were 8.26 ± 0.03 and 2.86 ± 0.83 μM. We found that PPII could induce autophagy. PPII promoted the formation of autophagosome, increased the expression of LC3-II/LC3-I (p < 0.05), while decreased p62 and p-mTOR (p < 0.05). Additionally, the co-treatment with autophagy inhibitors promoted the protein expression of c-caspase-3 and rate of Bax/Bcl-2 (p < 0.05), compared with PPII-only treatment group. Therefore, our results indicated that PPII-induced autophagy may be a mechanism to promote cell survival, although it can also induce apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

PPII-induced apoptosis exerts its anticancer activity by inhibiting autophagy, which will hopefully provide a prospective compound for NSCLC treatment.

CPSF1 mediates retinal vascular dysfunction in diabetes mellitus via the MAPK/ERK pathway

This study investigated the expression and underlying molecular mechanism of CPSF1 in diabetic retinopathy. Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were employed as a diabetic model, and high-glucose (HG)-induced human retinal vascular endothelial cells （HRVECs）were used as an in vitro experimental model to explore the effect of CPSF1. The results showed that CPSF1 was downregulated in diabetic retinopathy (DR) tissues and HRVECs under HG conditions. Adeno-associated viral CPSF1 attenuated histological abnormalities of retinas. CPSF1 regulates the apoptosis, migration, and vascularisation of HRVECs under HG conditions in vitro. CPSF1 mediates retinal vascular dysfunction by suppressing the phosphorylation mechanism in the mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (MAPK/ERK) pathway in DR. In conclusion, CPSF1 may be associated with the development of DR, and upregulated CPSF1 alleviates apoptosis and migration via MAPK/ERK pathway.

Crinum jagus (J. Thomps. Dandy): Antioxidant and protective properties as a medicinal plant on toluene-induced oxidative stress damages in liver and kidney of rats

Crinum jagus (C. jagus; J. Thomps.) Dandy (Liliaceae) is a pantropical plant known for its medicinal values and pharmacological properties. The study assessed the protective effects and changes in oxidative stress indices due to C. jagus leaf extracts on the toluene-induced liver and kidney injuries in rats. The study was conducted on 8-week-old male Wistar rats (n = 80), weighing 243.3 ± 1.42 g. Group I, 1 ml/kg distilled water for 7 days; Group II, 4.5 ml/kg toluene once, 1 ml/kg distilled water for 7 days; Group III, 4.5 ml/kg toluene once, 500 mg/kg methanolic extract for 7 days; Group IV, 4.5 ml/kg toluene once, 500 mg/kg aqueous extract for 7 days; Group V, 500 mg/kg methanolic extract for 7 days; Group VI, 500 mg/kg aqueous extract for 7 days; Group VII, 500 mg/kg of vitamin C for 7 days; Group, VIII, 4.5 ml/kg toluene once, 500 mg/kg vitamin C for 7 days, all administrations were given by oral gavage. The phytochemical contents, absolute and relative organ weights of liver and kidneys, liver and kidney function tests, antioxidant status, as well as histological tests were analyzed using standard protocols. The tannins, flavonoids, and polyphenols were in highest concentration in both extracts, content in methanol extract (57.04 ± 1.51 mgg-1, 35.43 ± 1.03 mgg-1, 28.2 ± 0.34 mgg-1 respectively) > aqueous extract (18.74 ± 1.01 mgg-1, 13.43 ± 0.47 mgg-1, 19.65 ± 0.21 mgg-1 respectively). In the negative control group (II), bodyweights significantly (P < 0.05) reduced by 22%, liver weight and kidney weight significantly (P < 0.05) increased by 42% and 83% respectively, liver-to-bodyweight and kidney-to-bodyweight ratios increased significantly (P < 0.05); serum liver function tests (LFTs) i.e., bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and serum kidney function tests (creatinine and urea) were significantly (P < 0.05) elevated; oxidant status (tissue malondialdehyde; MDA) was significantly (P < 0.05) elevated, antioxidant status i.e., tissue superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH) levels was significantly (P < 0.05) reduced; with markedly visible renal and hepatic histopathological findings, compared to the normal control group. In C. jagus extract test groups (III and IV), the parameters were significantly (P < 0.05) alleviated and reversed to normal/near normal compared to the negative control. The LFTs, kidney function tests, and antioxidant status were significantly (P < 0.05) more improved with the methanol extract test and standard control groups compared to the aqueous extract test group; Also, the methanol extract test group showed better histological features than the aqueous extract test and standard control groups. The methanolic extract shows better antioxidant potential due to the availability of more nonenzymatic antioxidants (tannins, flavonoids, and polyphenols). The findings showed that toluene is a very aggressive xenobiotic due to the promotion of oxidative stress and peroxidation of cellular lipids, but C. jagus leaves provide significant protection through the reducing power of nonenzymatic antioxidants and their ability to induce endogenous antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and glutathione reductase or GR) causing reduced cellular lipid peroxidation and tissue damages, quickened tissue repair, and improved cell biology of liver and kidneys during toluene toxicity. The methanol leaf extract provides better protection and should be advanced for more experimental and clinical studies to confirm its efficacy in alleviating oxidative stress tissue injuries, specifically due to toluene.

Chemical Constituents and Pharmacological Activities of Steroid Saponins Isolated from Rhizoma Paridis

Rhizoma Paridis, the rhizome of liliaceous plants Paris polyphylla, is one of the most commonly used herbal drugs in China. Phytochemical and pharmacological studies have shown that steroid saponins were the major effective ingredients of Rhizoma Paridis to exert antitumor, anti-inflammatory, hemostasis, and antifibrosis functions. In this review, we discussed the chemical structures of steroid saponins and their related biological activity and mechanisms in cellular and animal models, aiming to provide a reference for future comprehensive exploitation and development of saponins.

An Overview of Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Emphasis on Dietary Products and Herbal Remedies

The most common principal malignant tumor that accounts for ∼80% of cases of liver cancer across the world is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It is a multifacetedillness that is caused by several risk factors and often progresses in the context of underlying cirrhosis. It is tremendously difficult and essential for the screening of novel therapeutic medications to establish HCC preclinical models that are equivalent to clinical diseases settings, i.e., representing the tumor microenvironment of HCC. In the progress of HCC, numerous molecular cascades have been supposed to play a part. Sorafenib is the only drug permitted by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of HCC. Yet because of the increasing resistance to the drug and its toxicity, clinical treatment methods are not completely adequate. Newer treatment therapy options are essential for the management of HCC in patients. Natural compounds can be afforded by the patients with improved results with less toxicity and fewer side effects, among different methods of liver cancer treatment. The treatment and management of HCC with natural drugs and their phytoconstituents are connected to several paths that can prevent the occurrence and progress of HCC in several ways. The present review summarizes the etiology of HCC, molecular pathways, newer therapeutic approaches, natural dietary products, herbal plants and phytoconstituents for HCC treatment.

Tissue distribution, metabolism and absorption of Rhizoma Paridis Saponins in the rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Paris polyphylla var yunnanensis as a traditional Chinese medicine has been used in the treatment of liver disease for thousands of years. Rhizoma Paridis saponins (RPS) were the main active ingredients in Paris polyphylla with an excellent antitumor effect. However, metabolic and distribution of RPS has not been known.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The objective of this study was to research metabolic and distribution of RPS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, the separation and simultaneous determination of RPS in rat plasma and tissues were developed and validated by LC-MS/MS. The permeability and recovery of RPS were tested by Caco-2. S9 assay suggested the metabolic mode of RPS in rats.

RESULTS

After oral administration of RPS, the metabolic compound like diosgenin was detected in different tissues although there was none in RPS. The concentration of PI, PII, PVI, PVII, PH and gracillin in the spleen was the highest among these organs. The content of diosgenin were the highest in lung and brain. Caco-2 test indicated that PI, PII, PVI and PVII were low permeability and low recovery. Efflux ratio indicated that PVI should be a potential P-gp substrate. Potential P-gp substrate may be PVI. S9 assay suggested that RPS possess slow metabolic and moderate metabolic compounds.

CONCLUSIONS

Integrated LC-MS/MS analysis of serum samples, together with Caco-2 and S9 assays provided a theoretical basis for the application of RPS in the future.

Qizhen capsule inhibits colorectal cancer by inducing NAG-1/GDF15 expression that mediated via MAPK/ERK activation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Qizhen capsule (QZC) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) preparation that has been widely used in clinical practice and exerts promising therapeutic effects against breast, lung, and gastric cancers. However, studies have not reported whether QZC inhibits colorectal cancer (CRC) development and progression. Meanwhile, the underlying molecular mechanisms of its anticancer activity have not been studied.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the anticancer effects of QZC on CRC and the possible underlying molecular mechanisms of QZC in vitro and in vivo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The MTT assay and flow cytometry were used to determine the viability and apoptosis of HCT116 and HT-29 cancer cells. A xenograft nude mouse model was used to study the antitumor effects of QZC in vivo. Western blotting was performed to determine the expression of key proteins responsible for the molecular mechanisms elicited by QZC. Immunofluorescence staining was performed to detect the expression of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-activated gene-1 or growth differentiation factor-15 (NAG-1/GDF15). Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) were used to silence NAG-1/GDF15 in cells.

RESULTS

In this study, QZC significantly reduced the viability of HCT116 and HT-29 cells and induced apoptosis in dose- and time-dependent manners, but displayed much less toxicity toward normal cells. QZC-induced apoptosis in HCT116 cells was accompanied by the deregulation of the expression of the Bcl-2, Bax, PARP, caspase-3, and caspase-9 proteins. Furthermore, QZC induced NAG-1/GDF15 expression in HCT116 cells, while silencing of NAG-1/GDF15 attenuated QZC-induced apoptosis and cell death. Next, QZC increased the phosphorylation of mTOR, AMPK, p38, and MAPK/ERK in HCT116 cells. We then demonstrated that QZC-induced apoptosis and NAG-1/GDF15 upregulation were mediated by MAPK/ERK activation. Moreover, QZC significantly inhibited HCT116 xenograft tumor growth in nude mice, which was accompanied by NAG/GDF15 upregulation and MAPK/ERK activation. QZC also prevented 5-FU-induced weight loss or cachexia in tumor-bearing mice. The expression of Ki67 and PCNA was suppressed, while cleaved caspase-3 level and TUNEL staining were increased in the tumor sections from QZC-treated mice compared to the control.

CONCLUSION

QZC is a novel anticancer agent for CRC that targets NAG-1/GDF15 via the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway.

Protective Role of Vanillic Acid against Diethylnitrosamine- and 1,2-Dimethylhydrazine-Induced Hepatocarcinogenesis in Rats

This study aimed to evaluate the cancer chemopreventive activity of vanillic acid (VA) in diethylnitrosamine- and 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced liver and colon carcinogenesis in rats. VA did not induce the formation of hepatic glutathione S-transferase placental form (GST-P) positive foci and colonic aberrant crypt foci, demonstrating no carcinogenic activity. VA (75 mg kg-1 body weight) could significantly reduce the number and areas of hepatic GST-P positive foci when administered before carcinogen injections, but no such effect was seen when it was administered after carcinogen injection. No protection was seen in the colon when VA was treated before or after carcinogen injection. Immunohistochemical studies demonstrated the decreased expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen and the induction of apoptosis. Mechanistic studies showed that VA significantly induced the expression of GSTA-5 and Nrf-2 genes, which are associated with the detoxification system. Likewise, the antiproliferative effect was noticed by the reduction of Cyclin D1 expression. The apoptotic activity may be due to the upregulation of Caspase-3 and Bad levels and downregulation of the Bcl-2 level. These data suggest that VA exhibited significant protection against diethylnitrosamine- and 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced hepatocarcinogenesis, which might be related to the induction of the detoxifying enzyme, the reduction of proliferation and the induction of apoptosis.

Design and Optimization of Orally Administered Luteolin Nanoethosomes to Enhance Its Anti-Tumor Activity against Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Luteolin (LUT) is a natural flavonoid with low oral bioavailability with restricted clinical applications due to its low solubility. LUT shows significant anti-tumor activity in many cancer cells, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The most recent trend in pharmaceutical innovations is the application of phospholipid vesicles to improve the solubility of such hydrophobic drugs. Ethosomes are one of the most powerful phospholipid vesicles used to achieve that that target. In this study, LUT-loaded ethosomal nanoparticles (LUT-ENPs) were prepared by the cold method. Full factorial design and response surface methodology were used to analyze and optimize the selected formulation variables. Drug entrapment efficiency, vesicle size, zeta potential, Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and cumulative percent drug released was estimated. The selected LUT-ENPs were subjected to further investigations as estimation of hepatic gene expression levels of GPC3, liver biomarkers, and oxidative stress biomarkers. The prepared LUT-ENPs were semi-spherical in shape with high entrapment efficiency. The prepared LUT-ENPs have a small particle size with high zeta potential values. The in vitro liver biomarkers assay revealed a significant decrease in the hepatic tissue nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and the expression of the GPC3 gene. Results showed a high increase in the hepatic tissue levels of glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Histopathological examination showed a small number of hepatic adenomas and a significant decrease of neoplastic hepatic lesions after treatment with LUT-ENPs. Our results firmly suggest the distinctive anti-proliferative activity of LUT-ENPs as an oral drug delivery system for the treatment of HCC.

Evaluation of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities of diosgenin enriched Paris polyphylla rhizome extract of Indian Himalayan landraces

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditional medicinal plants have gained attention as a potential therapeutic agent to combat cancer and inflammation. Diosgenin rich fresh extracts of Paris polyphylla rhizome from Indian Himalaya is traditionally used as wound healing, anti-bleeding, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer agent by the folk healers.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Present study was aimed to prepare two types of extracts from Paris polyphylla rhizome of Indian Himalayan landraces - 1. ethanolic extract of Paris polyphylla rhizome (EEPPR) and 2. Diosgenin enriched Paris polyphylla rhizome extract (DPPE), quantification of diosgenin content, and to evaluate their in vitro anti-oxidant, in vivo anti-inflammatory and in vitro cytotoxicity and anti-cancer activities of the DPPE.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Diosgenin content of EEPPR was quantified through GC-MS while diosgenin content of DPPE was quantified through HPTLC, and the diosgenin yield from EEPPR and DPPE were compared. In vitro antioxidant activities of DPPE were performed using DPPH, NOD, RP and SOD assay while in vivo anti-inflammatory activity of DPPE were evaluated in dextran induced hind paw edema in rats. In vitro cytotoxicity and anti-cancer activities of DPPE were evaluated in human breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7, MDA-MB-231), cervical cancer cell lines (HeLa) and Hep-2 cell lines.

RESULTS

EEPPR obtained through cold extraction method using 70% ethanol showed maximum diosgenin content of 17.90% quantified through GC-MS while similar compounds pennogenin (3.29%), 7β-Dehydrodiosgenin (1.90%), 7-Ketodiosgenin acetate (1.14%), and 7 β-hydroxydiosgenin (0.55%) were detected in low concentration, and thus confirmed diosgenin as major and lead phytochemical. However, DPPE obtained through both cold and repeated hot extraction with the same solvent (70% ethanol) showed diosgenin content of 60.29% which is significantly higher (p < 0.001) than the diosgenin content in EEPPR. DPPE demonstrated significant in vitro antioxidant activities by dose-dependently quenched (p < 0.001) SOD free radicals by 76.66%, followed by DPPH (71.43%), NOD (67.35%), and RP (63.74%) at a max concentration of 2 μg/μl of ascorbic acid and test drugs with remarkable IC50 values (p < 0.01). Further, DPPE also showed potent anti-inflammatory activities by dose-dependently suppressed dextran induced paw edema in rats (p < 0.01) from 2 h to 4 h. DPPE suppressed the proliferation of MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, Hep-2 and HeLa cell lines. Maximum activity was observed in MCF-7 cells. The DPPE also induced apoptosis in MCF-7 cell lines as measured by AO/PI and DAPI staining, as well as DNA laddering, cell cycle analysis and phosphatidylserine externalization assay. The growth-inhibitory effect of DPPE on MCF-7 breast cancer cells was further confirmed from the colony-formation assay. DPPE upregulated expression of Bax and downregulated Bcl-2 and survivin mRNA transcripts.

CONCLUSION

DPPE obtained through both cold and repeated hot extraction using ethanol showed significantly higher content of diosgenin than the diosgenin content detected in EEPPR. However, diosgenin yield of both the extracts (EEPPR & DPPE) clearly confirmed diosgenin as major and lead phytochemical of Paris polyphylla rhizome of Indian Himalayan landraces. Further, DPPE also demonstrated potent in vitro anti-oxidative and in vivo anti-inflammatory activities and showed in vitro cytotoxicity and significant anti-cancer (apoptosis) effects in MCF-7 breast cancer cells.

Anti-proliferative and Apoptosis Induction Activity of Rhizome Extracts of Paris polyphylla Smith on Oral Cancer Cell

Background:

Paris polyphylla is a member of the family of Melanthiaceae (earlier Trilliaceae or Liliaceae). It is known as love apple in English. This traditional herbaceous medicinal plant is found mostly in South East Asia.

Objective:

To investigate the anti-proliferative and apoptosis induction activity of crude extracts of P. polyphylla on SAS oral cancer cell lines.

Methods:

The crude extracts (CE) of P. polyphylla (PP) collected from Rambrai (R), Meghalaya (Northeast India) were prepared by using 70% ethanol (E) and 70% methanol (M) solvents and named as PPR-ECE and PPR-MCE. The anti-proliferative effects of PPR-ECE and PPR-MCE were tested using the MTT assay. The apoptosis was examined by Annexin V-FITC/PI doublestaining assay.

Results:

PPR-ECE significantly (p≤ 0.05) decreased the proliferation of SAS cells up to 3.12% with an IC50 value of 25.84 μg/ml. Whereas, PPR-MCE decreased the survival rate of SAS cells up to 24.67% (p≤ 0.05) with an IC50 value of 425 μg/ml. PPR-ECE demonstrated higher cytotoxicity than PPR-MCE against SAS cells. When SAS cells were treated with PPR-ECE and PPR-MCE for 72 h, the apoptotic cells increased from 0.1% (control) to 28.35% and 34% at 500μg/ml respectively.

Conclusion:

The present study revealed that P. polyphylla collected from Meghalaya has an anti-proliferative capacity to inhibit the multiplication of the SAS cells. In comparison to PPRMCE extract, PPR-ECE was found to be more effective against SAS proliferation. Though the anticancer property of the herb is well documented, this investigation is the first report on the effects of P. polyphylla extracts against SAS oral cancer cells.

Polyphyllin II inhibits liver cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion through downregulated cofilin activity and the AKT/NF-κB pathway

The morbidity and mortality of primary liver cancer is one of the highest amongst all cancers. Deficiency of effective treatment and characteristics of cancer metastasis are believed to be responsible for this situation, thus a great demand is required for new agent development. Polyphyllin II (PP2), an important steroidal saponin extracted from Rhizoma Paris, has emerged as a potential anti-cancer agent, but the effects of PP2 in liver cancers and its underlying mechanisms remain unexplored. In our study, we found that PP2 could remarkably suppress the proliferation of two liver cancer cell lines, HepG2 and BEL7402, resulting in significant cell death. Besides, low doses of PP2 have displayed properties that inhibit cellular motility and invasion of liver cancer cells. In addition, we have found that PP2-mediated cofilin activity suppression was implicated in the inhibition of liver cancer cell motility. Decreased expression of two major hydrolytic enzymes (MMP2/MMP9), through the AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway may also be also responsible for this process. Rescue experiments done with either non-phosphorylatable mutant cofilin-1 (S3A) transfection or an activator of the AKT pathway significantly reversed the inhibition effects of PP2 on liver cancer cells. Taken together, we report a potential agent for liver cancer treatment and reveal its underlying mechanisms.

Suppression of miR-10a-5p in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells enhances the therapeutic effect on spinal cord injury via BDNF

BACKGROUNDS/AIMS

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a primary role in the maturation, proliferation, and differentiation of neuronal cells, can induce bone-marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to differentiate into nerve cells. This study aims to explore whether regulation of BDNF through microRNAs (miRNAs) in MSCs may further enhance the therapeutic effect on spinal cord injury (SCI).

METHODS

Bioinformatics analyses were done to predict miRNAs that target BDNF in MSCs. Dual-luciferase reporter gene assays were performed to verify the target relationship between microRNA and BDNF. We examined the mRNA and protein levels of BDNF in MSCs by RT-qPCR and Western blot, respectively. CCK 8 assay was chosen to assess cell viability. MSCs were transduced with miR-10a-5p-ASO, which were transplanted into rats that underwent SCI. The tissue integrity percentage, cavity volume, and Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan (BBB) scale were assessed. Neurofilament (NF) was detected using immunohistochemistry. Histological features of spinal cord tissues examined following HE staining.

RESULTS

MiR-10a-5p inhibited protein translation of BDNF, through binding to the 3'-UTR of the BDNF. MSCs transduced with MiR-10a-5p-ASO further increased the tissue integrity percentage, decreased cavity volume, and enhanced the recovery of BBB score in SCI model rats, compared to control MSCs.

CONCLUSION

Upregulation of BDNF by miR-10a-5p suppression in MSCs further improve the therapeutic potential of MSCs in treating SCI in rats.

Hepatocellular Toxicity of Paris Saponins I, II, VI and VII on Two Kinds of Hepatocytes-HL-7702 and HepaRG Cells, and the Underlying Mechanisms

Rhizoma paridis is a popularly-used Chinese medicine in clinics, based on the pharmacodynamic properties of its saponin components. The four main saponins in Rhizoma paridis are designated saponins I, II, VI, and VII. At present, much attention is focused on the anticancer effect of Rhizoma paridis which is manifested in its cytotoxicity to various cancer cells. The purpose of this study was to investigate the hepatocellular toxicities of the four saponins in Rhizoma paridis and the relative intensities of their cytotoxic effects. It was found that the four saponins were cytotoxic to two types of hepatocytes-HL-7702 and HepaRG cells. The cytotoxicities of the four saponins to the two cell models were compared. One of the most cytotoxic saponins was Rhizoma paridis saponin I (PSI). This was used to determine the mechanism of hepatocellular toxicity. Results from MTT assays demonstrated that the four saponins induced apoptosis of the two hepatocyte models in a dose-dependent and time-dependent manner. In addition, fluorescent 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining was used to observe the morphological changes of HepaRG cells after saponin administration. Further, as the concentration increased, PSI-induced lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release from HepaRG cells increased gradually. In addition, PSI enhanced the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and blocked the S and G2 phases of the cell cycle in HepaRG cells. A western blot indicated that PSI upregulated the protein expression levels of p53, p21, and Fas. Furthermore, the PSI-induced changes in the p53 protein increased the Bax/bcl-2 ratio, resulting in enhancement of the release of mitochondrial cytochrome c, activation of caspases-3, -8, and -9, poly-ADP ribose polymerase (PARP), and ultimately apoptosis. Increased Fas protein activated caspase-8, which led to the activation of caspase-3 and its downstream PARP protein, resulting in cell apoptosis. These results indicate that PSI induced apoptosis in HepaRG cells through activation of ROS and death receptor pathways. The results obtained in this study suggest that the hepatocellular toxicity of saponins in Rhizoma paridis should be considered during the clinical application of this drug. In addition, they provide a reference for future anti-cancer studies on Rhizoma paridis.

Determination of Inorganic Elements in the Rhizome of Paris polyphylla Smith Var. chinensis (Franch.) Hara by Using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry

The objective of this study was to investigate the concentrations of inorganic elements in the rhizome of Paris polyphylla Smith var. chinensis (Franch.) Hara of different planting years and cultivation conditions. Twenty-five inorganic elements including Al, As, B, Ba, Be, Bi, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, P, Pb, Se, Sr, Ti, V, and Zn in the rhizome were determined by using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The analytical method was validated by measuring several parameters including linearity, correlation coefficient, limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantification (LOQ), and recovery. The linear working ranges were three, 0-300 μg/L, 0-500 μg/L, and 0-1000 μg/L, and the correlation coefficients (r) values were higher than 0.998. LOD varied from 0.001 μg/L (Be) to 11.957 μg/L (P), and LOQ varied from 0.003 μg/L (Be) to 35.870 μg/L (P). The recoveries spanned from 95.2 (Co) to 105.3% (Pb). Validation parameters showed the possibility of using whole of the sample preparation procedures used in this study. Based on the determined results, it is indicated that the toxic elements As, Cd, and Pb had no ingestion risk. The planting years and cultivation conditions had significant effects on the concentrations of inorganic elements of P. polyphylla var. chinensis. The concentrations of inorganic elements in cultivated samples were different from those in wild samples. The results can provide useful theoretical basis for the quality control and rational use of P. polyphylla var. chinensis.

Advances in the antitumor activities and mechanisms of action of steroidal saponins

The steroidal saponins are one of the saponin types that exist in an unbound state and have various pharmacological activities, such as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial and nerves-calming properties. Cancer is a growing health problem worldwide. Significant progress has been made to understand the antitumor effects of steroidal saponins in recent years. According to reported findings, steroidal saponins exert various antitumor activities, such as inhibiting proliferation, inducing apoptosis and autophagy, and regulating the tumor microenvironment, through multiple related signaling pathways. This article focuses on the advances in domestic and foreign studies on the antitumor activity and mechanism of actions of steroidal saponins in the last five years to provide a scientific basis and research ideas for further development and clinical application of steroidal saponins.

Combinatorial treatment of Rhizoma Paridis saponins and sorafenib overcomes the intolerance of sorafenib

Sorafenib, as a multi-kinase inhibitor, was the first FDA-approved anti- hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) drug. Rhizoma Paridis saponins (RPS) as natural products have shown antitumor activity through regulation of glycolytic and lipid metabolism which was regarded as the side effect limited the utility of sorafenib. In this research, we tried to use metabolomics to verify the probability of combinatorial treatment of RPS and Sorafenib. As a result, Sorafenib + RPS increased the antitumor effect of sorafenib and RPS in H22 mice. They mitigated the change of liver weight and the increasing levels of AST and ALT in serum, and AFP and MDA in liver tissues, which indicated their liver protective activity. They also up-regulated the activity of NOX and SDH, concentration of ATP, and down-regulated the mRNA and protein levels of HIF-1a and concentration of lactate, which suggested they protected against mitochondria damage and inhibited anaerobic glycolysis. Meanwhile, the combination group remarkably down-regulated the concentration of octadecanoic acid and hexadecanoic acid in serum, and tetradecanoic acid in liver tissues compared with model group (p < 0.05). Relative regulation mechanism included their decreasing mRNA levels of FASN, CPT1, GLUT1, Myc, Akt, mTOR and LDHA, and increasing the protein expression of p53 in tumor and liver tissues (p < 0.05). Furthermore, similar influence can be observed in protein levels of CPT1A, p-PI3K, p-mTOR and p53 in liver tissues and FASN in serum. All of that provided possibility to overcome the intolerance of sorafenib by drug compatibility through protection against mitochondria damage, inhibition of anaerobic glycolysis and suppression of lipid synthesis based on PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway.

Paris Polyphylla-Derived Saponins Inhibit Growth of Bladder Cancer Cells by Inducing Mutant P53 Degradation While Up-Regulating CDKN1A Expression

Objectives

Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis (PPVY), a Chinese herb, has long been used for cancer treatment, and its steroidal saponins are suggested to exert an anti-tumor activity, however, the underlying mechanism is incompletely understood and their effect on bladder cancer (BC) remains unknown. The present study is thus designed to address these issues.

Material and Methods

Total steroidal saponins were extracted with ethanol from PPVY and used to treat BC cells (HT1197 and J82 carrying mutant p53). Gene expression was determined using qPCR and immunoblotting and cell cycle analyzed using flow cytometry. DNA damage response activation was assessed using immunofluorescence staining.

Results

PPVY saponins treatment led to dose-dependent declines in the number of both HT1197 and J82 cells with IC50 approximately 1.2 μg/ml, which was coupled with strong growth arrest at G2/M phase and the activation of DNA damage response pathway. Moreover, the clonogenic potential of these cells was severely impaired even in the presence of low concentrations of PPVY saponins. Mechanistically, PPVY saponins induced the degradation of mutant p53 while stimulated CDKN1A gene transcription. Phosphorylated AKT was diminished in PPVY saponin-treated cells, but its specific inhibitor LY294002 exhibited significantly weaker efficacy in inducing CDKN1A expression than did PPVY saponins.

Conclusion

PPVY saponins activate DNA damage response pathway, degrade mutant p53 and stimulate CDKN1A expression, thereby inhibiting BC cell growth. Given their poor absorption via oral administration, PPVY saponins may be applicable for intravesical instillations in BC treatment.

Curcumin Attenuates N-Nitrosodiethylamine-Induced Liver Injury in Mice by Utilizing the Method of Metabonomics

N-Nitrosodiethylamine (DEN) exists as a food additive in cheddar cheese, processed meats, beer, water, and so forth. It is a potent hepatocarcinogen in animals and humans. Curcumin as a natural dietary compound decreased DEN-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in this research. According to the histopathological examination of liver tissues and biomarker detection in serum and livers, it was demonstrated that curcumin attenuated DEN-induced hepatocarcinogenesis through parts of regulating the oxidant stress enzymes (T-SOD and CAT), liver function (ALT and AST) and LDHA, AFP level, and COX-2/PGE2 pathway. Furthermore, curcumin attenuated metabolic disorders via increasing concentration of glucose and fructose, and decreasing levels of glycine and proline, and mRNA expression of GLUT1, PKM and FASN. Docking study indicated that curcumin presented strong affinity with key metabolism enzymes such as GLUT1, PKM, FASN and LDHA. There were a number of amino acid residues involved in curcumin-targeting enzymes of hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. All in all, curcumin exhibited a potent liver protective agent inhibiting chemically induced liver injury through suppressing liver cellular metabolism in the prospective application.