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Duan D, Guo X, Tian J, Li M, Jin X, Wang Z, Wang L, Yan Y, Xiao J, Song P, Wang X. Targeting thioredoxin reductase by eupalinilide B promotes apoptosis of colorectal cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Chem Biol Interact 2024; 399:111137. [PMID: 38977166 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2024.111137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Aberrant activation of thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) is correlated with tumor occurrence and progression, suggesting that TrxR inhibitors can be used as antitumor agents. In this study, we evaluated the anticancer efficacy of eupalinilides B on colorectal cancer cells. Eupalinilides B primarily targeted the conserved selenocysteine 498 residues in TrxR. Besides, it inhibited the enzyme activity in an irreversible manner. After eupalinilides B was used to pharmacologically inhibit TrxR, reactive oxygen species accumulated, and the intracellular redox balance was broken, finally causing oxidative stress-induced tumor cell apoptosis. Significantly, eupalinilides B treatment inhibited in vivo tumor growth. Targeting TrxR by eupalinilides B reveals the new mechanism underlying eupalinilides B and provides insight in developing eupalinilides B as the candidate antitumor chemotherapeutic agent for the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongzhu Duan
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Baoji University of Arts and Sciences, Baoji, 721013, China
| | - Xiangyu Guo
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Baoji University of Arts and Sciences, Baoji, 721013, China
| | - Jingjing Tian
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Baoji University of Arts and Sciences, Baoji, 721013, China
| | - Mi Li
- School of Pharmacy and Gansu University Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine & Chinese Medicine Prevention and Treatment of Major Diseases, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Xiaojie Jin
- School of Pharmacy and Gansu University Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine & Chinese Medicine Prevention and Treatment of Major Diseases, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Zihua Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, China.
| | - Le Wang
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Baoji University of Arts and Sciences, Baoji, 721013, China
| | - Yunyun Yan
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Baoji University of Arts and Sciences, Baoji, 721013, China
| | - Jian Xiao
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Baoji University of Arts and Sciences, Baoji, 721013, China.
| | - Peng Song
- Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine and Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment for Chronic Diseases by TCM, Gansu Province, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
| | - Xiaoling Wang
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Baoji University of Arts and Sciences, Baoji, 721013, China.
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Wu J, Ding Z, Zhong M, Xi J, He Y, Zhang B, Fang J. Polyphyllin II Induces Apoptosis in Fibrosarcoma Cells via Activating Pyruvate Kinase M2. Chem Res Toxicol 2024; 37:1394-1403. [PMID: 39066737 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.4c00154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Aerobic glycolysis is a metabolic reprogramming of tumor cells that is essential for sustaining their phenotype of fast multiplication by continuously supplying energy and mass. Pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) has a vital role in this process, which has given it high interest as a target for anticancer drug development. With potent toxicity to many types of cancer cells, polyphyllin II (PP2), a steroidal saponin isolated from the herbaceous plant Rhizoma paridis, brought to our attention that it might interfere with the PKM2 activity. In this study, we discovered that PP2 was a novel agonist of PKM2. PP2 activated recombinant PKM2 and changed the protein's oligomeric state to activate intracellular PKM2. At the same time, PP2 suppressed its protein kinase function by decreasing the content of nuclear PKM2. The mRNA levels of its downstream genes, such as Glut1, LDHA, and MYC, were inhibited. In addition, PP2 induced oxidative stress by downregulating the expression and activity of antioxidant proteins such as NQO1, TrxR, and Trx in HT-1080 cells, which in turn led to mitochondrial dysfunction and ultimately induced apoptosis. Moreover, PP2 reduced the proliferation and migration of HT-1080 cells. Thus, targeting the glycolysis pathway offers an unprecedented mode of action for comprehending PP2's pharmacological impacts and advances PP2's further development in fibrosarcoma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Zhenjiang Ding
- Beijing Key Laboratory of the Innovative Development of Functional Staple and Nutritional Intervention for Chronic Diseases, China National Research Institute of Food and Fermentation Industries, Beijing 100015, China
| | - Miao Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Junmin Xi
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Ying He
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Baoxin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Jianguo Fang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094 , Jiangsu, China
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Hjazi A, Alissa M, Alqasem AA, Alghamdi A, Alghamdi SA. Cynaropicrin, a sesquiterpene lactone, triggers apoptotic cell death in triple negative breast cancer cells. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:856. [PMID: 39066893 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09723-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the world. Cynaropicrin is a natural sesquiterpene lactone with potential anticancer effects. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of cynaropicrin on proliferation and apoptosis in breast cancer cells. METHODS MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cell lines were treated with increasing concentrations of cynaropicrin. The viability of both cell lines was measured using MTT assay. Flowcytometry was used to detect apoptotic cells. The expression levels of apoptosis-related genes were determined using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The protein expression of apoptosis markers was determined by western blotting. RESULTS Cynaropicrin significantly diminished the proliferation of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. Flowcytometry data uncovered that cynaropicrin augmented early and late apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 cells. Real time-PCR and western blotting results also confirmed the upregulation of pro-apoptotic Bax, caspase-3, -8, and 9 as well as downregulated level of anti-apoptotic marker Bcl-2. Cynaropicrin also remarkably increased the activity of caspase-3, -8, and 9 in MDA-MB-231 cells. However, cynaropicrin neither promoted apoptosis in MCF-7 cells nor altered the expression levels and activity of above mentioned apoptotic markers. CONCLUSION The present data indicated anti-proliferative properties of cynaropicrin against breast cancer and highlighted apoptosis-inducing effects of this sesquiterpene on triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. These data may suggest cynaropicrin as a potential anti-TNBC agent to tackle therapy resistance in this type of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Hjazi
- Department of Medical Laboratory, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, 11942, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Mohammed Alissa
- Department of Medical Laboratory, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah A Alqasem
- Department of Medical Laboratory, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Alghamdi
- Department of Medical Laboratory, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Suad A Alghamdi
- Department of Medical Laboratory, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, 11942, Saudi Arabia
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Hsu CY, Rajabi S, Hamzeloo-Moghadam M, Kumar A, Maresca M, Ghildiyal P. Sesquiterpene lactones as emerging biomolecules to cease cancer by targeting apoptosis. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1371002. [PMID: 38529189 PMCID: PMC10961375 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1371002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis is a programmed cell death comprising two signaling cascades including the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. This process has been shown to be involved in the therapy response of different cancer types, making it an effective target for treating cancer. Cancer has been considered a challenging issue in global health. Cancer cells possess six biological characteristics during their developmental process known as cancer hallmarks. Hallmarks of cancer include continuous growth signals, unlimited proliferation, resistance to proliferation inhibitors, apoptosis escaping, active angiogenesis, and metastasis. Sesquiterpene lactones are one of the large and diverse groups of planet-derived phytochemicals that can be used as sources for a variety of drugs. Some sesquiterpene lactones possess many biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-microbial, anti-malarial, anticancer, anti-diabetic, and analgesic. This review article briefly overviews the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways of apoptosis and the interactions between the modulators of both pathways. Also, the present review summarizes the potential effects of sesquiterpene lactones on different modulators of the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways of apoptosis in a variety of cancer cell lines and animal models. The main purpose of the present review is to give a clear picture of the current knowledge about the pro-apoptotic effects of sesquiterpene lactones on various cancers to provide future direction in cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chou-Yi Hsu
- Department of Pharmacy, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Sadegh Rajabi
- Traditional Medicine and Materia Medica Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Hamzeloo-Moghadam
- Traditional Medicine and Materia Medica Research Center and Department of Traditional Pharmacy, School of Traditional Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abhinav Kumar
- Department of Nuclear and Renewable Energy, Ural Federal University Named After the First President of Russia Boris Yeltsin, Ekaterinburg, Russia
| | - Marc Maresca
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Centrale Marseille, iSm2, Marseille, France
| | - Pallavi Ghildiyal
- Uttaranchal Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, India
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Kim TH, Heo SY, Chandika P, Kim YM, Kim HW, Kang HW, Je JY, Qian ZJ, Kim N, Jung WK. A literature review of bioactive substances for the treatment of periodontitis: In vitro, in vivo and clinical studies. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24216. [PMID: 38293511 PMCID: PMC10826675 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Periodontitis is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the supporting tissues of the tooth that involves a complex interaction of microorganisms and various cell lines around the infected site. To prevent and treat this disease, several options are available, such as scaling, root planning, antibiotic treatment, and dental surgeries, depending on the stage of the disease. However, these treatments can have various side effects, including additional inflammatory responses, chronic wounds, and the need for secondary surgery. Consequently, numerous studies have focused on developing new therapeutic agents for more effective periodontitis treatment. This review explores the latest trends in bioactive substances with therapeutic effects for periodontitis using various search engines. Therefore, this study aimed to suggest effective directions for therapeutic approaches. Additionally, we provide a summary of the current applications and underlying mechanisms of bioactive substances, which can serve as a reference for the development of periodontitis treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae-Hee Kim
- Research Center for Marine Integrated Bionics Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
- Marine Integrated Biomedical Technology Center, The National Key Research Institutes in Universities, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Yeong Heo
- Jeju Marine Research Center, Korea Institute of Ocean Science & Technology (KIOST), Jeju, 63349, Republic of Korea
| | - Pathum Chandika
- Research Center for Marine Integrated Bionics Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
- Marine Integrated Biomedical Technology Center, The National Key Research Institutes in Universities, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Mog Kim
- Research Center for Marine Integrated Bionics Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
- Marine Integrated Biomedical Technology Center, The National Key Research Institutes in Universities, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Woo Kim
- Research Center for Marine Integrated Bionics Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
- Marine Integrated Biomedical Technology Center, The National Key Research Institutes in Universities, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
- Department of Marine Biology, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Wook Kang
- Research Center for Marine Integrated Bionics Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
- Marine Integrated Biomedical Technology Center, The National Key Research Institutes in Universities, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
- Major of Biomedical Engineering, Division of Smart Healthcare, College of Information Technology and Convergence and New-senior Healthcare Innovation Center (BK21 Plus), Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Young Je
- Research Center for Marine Integrated Bionics Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
- Major of Human Bioconvergence, School of Smart Healthcare, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
| | - Zhong-Ji Qian
- College of Food Science and Technology, School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, 524088, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, 518108, China
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Zhanjiang, 524025, China
| | - Namwon Kim
- Ingram School of Engineering, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX, 78666, USA
- Materials Science, Engineering, and Commercialization (MSEC), Texas State University, San Marcos, TX, 78666, USA
| | - Won-Kyo Jung
- Research Center for Marine Integrated Bionics Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
- Marine Integrated Biomedical Technology Center, The National Key Research Institutes in Universities, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
- Major of Biomedical Engineering, Division of Smart Healthcare, College of Information Technology and Convergence and New-senior Healthcare Innovation Center (BK21 Plus), Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
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Tüfekçi AR, Demirtaş İ, Akşit H, Arslan Ş, Kocabıyık K, Zeybek S, Ozen T, Köksal E. Two new compounds from endemic Centaurea paphlagonica (Bornm.) Wagenitz and their cytotoxic activities. Chem Biol Drug Des 2024; 103:e14409. [PMID: 38030403 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.14409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Centaurea paphlagonica (Bornm.) Wagenitz is an endemic plant in Turkey. Pyrocatechol, vanillic acid, 3,4-dihydroxy benzoic acid, 5-O-caffeoylshikimic acid, tamarixetin, chlorogenic acid methyl ester, quercetin, 1,3-dicaffeoylquinic acid, tamarixetin-7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, quercimetrin, daucosterin, paphlagonicanin B, tamarixetin-7-O-β-rutinoside, rutin, chlorogenic acid, isoorientin, orientin, 3-O-feruloylquinic acid, quercetagetin-3-methyl ether 6-O-β-glucopyranoside, diosmetin 6-C-β-glucopyranoside, quercetagetin 4'-methyl ether 7-O-β-glucopyranoside, paphlagonicanin A, nepetin, cirsiliol, desacylcynaropicrin, and 8α-O-(2',3'-dihydroxyisobutyryl) desacylcynaropicrin were isolated from both flower and aerial parts of C. paphlagonica. These compounds were identified using 1D and 2D NMR methods and ESI-MS. The MTT assay assessed the antiproliferative activities of all isolated (known and new compounds) compounds on Caco-2, LNCaP, A549, HeLa, and HEK-293 cell lines. The 8α-O-(2',3'-dihydroxyisobutyryl) desacylcynaropicrin demonstrated the highest activity against CaCo-2 and HeLa cancer cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Rıza Tüfekçi
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Çankırı Karatekin University, Çankırı, Turkey
| | - İbrahim Demirtaş
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Iğdır University, Iğdır, Turkey
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Hüseyin Akşit
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Erzincan Binali Yıldırım University, Erzincan, Turkey
| | - Şevki Arslan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Kübra Kocabıyık
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Sibel Zeybek
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Tevfik Ozen
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Ekrem Köksal
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Arts, Erzincan Binali Yıldırım University, Erzincan, Turkey
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Boulos JC, Omer EA, Rigano D, Formisano C, Chatterjee M, Leich E, Klauck SM, Shan LT, Efferth T. Cynaropicrin disrupts tubulin and c-Myc-related signaling and induces parthanatos-type cell death in multiple myeloma. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2023; 44:2265-2281. [PMID: 37344563 PMCID: PMC10618500 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-023-01117-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The majority of blood malignancies is incurable and has unforeseeable remitting-relapsing paths in response to different treatments. Cynaropicrin, a natural sesquiterpene lactone from the edible parts of the artichoke plant, has gained increased attention as a chemotherapeutic agent. In this study, we investigated the effects of cynaropicrin against multiple myeloma (MM) cells in vitro and assessed its in vivo effectiveness in a xenograft tumor zebrafish model. We showed that cynaropicrin exerted potent cytotoxicity against a panel of nine MM cell lines and two leukemia cell lines with AMO1 being the most sensitive cell line (IC50 = 1.8 ± 0.3 µM). Cynaropicrin (0.8, 1.9, 3.6 µM) dose-dependently reduced c-Myc expression and transcriptional activity in AMO1 cells that was associated with significant downregulation of STAT3, AKT, and ERK1/2. Cell cycle analysis showed that cynaropicrin treatment arrested AMO1 cells in the G2M phase along with an increase in the sub-G0G1 phase after 24 h. With prolonged treatment times, cells accumulated more in the sub-G0G1 phase, implying cell death. Using confocal microscopy, we revealed that cynaropicrin disrupted the microtubule network in U2OS cells stably expressing α-tubulin-GFP. Furthermore, we revealed that cynaropicrin promoted DNA damage in AMO1 cells leading to PAR polymer production by PARP1 hyperactivation, resulting in AIF translocation from the mitochondria to the nucleus and subsequently to a novel form of cell death, parthanatos. Finally, we demonstrated that cynaropicrin (5, 10 µM) significantly reduced tumor growth in a T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) xenograft zebrafish model. Taken together, these results demonstrate that cynaropicrin causes potent inhibition of hematopoietic tumor cells in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joelle C Boulos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Ejlal A Omer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Daniela Rigano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Carmen Formisano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Manik Chatterjee
- University Hospital Würzburg, Translational Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Ellen Leich
- Julius Maximilian University, Institute of Pathology, Würzburg, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken, Translational Oncology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Sabine M Klauck
- Division of Cancer Genome Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Le-Tian Shan
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Thomas Efferth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128, Mainz, Germany.
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Zhong M, Chen L, Tao Y, Zhao J, Chang B, Zhang F, Tu J, Cai W, Zhang B. Synthesis and evaluation of Piperine analogs as thioredoxin reductase inhibitors to cause oxidative stress-induced cancer cell apoptosis. Bioorg Chem 2023; 138:106589. [PMID: 37320912 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Inhibiting thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) to disrupt the redox equilibrium and induce tumor cell apoptosis is a significant tumor therapeutic strategy. Piperine, a natural product from black pepper, has been demonstrated to suppress tumor cell proliferation by enhancing reactive oxygen species (ROS), subsequently leading to cell death. However, the development of Piperine as an active molecule is hampered by its weak cytotoxicity. To develop a compound with higher activity, we synthesized 22 Piperine analogs and evaluated their pharmacological properties. Ultimately, B5 was screened by the results of cytotoxicity and inhibition of TrxR activity. In contrast to Piperine, B5 had significant cytotoxicity with a 4-fold increase. The structure-activity relationship demonstrated that the introduction of an electron-withdrawing group into the benzene ring adjacent to the amino group, particularly in the meta-position, was positive and that shortening the olefin double bond had no appreciable impact on cytotoxicity. Further investigating the physiological activity of B5 in HeLa cells, we found that B5 selectively inhibits the activity of TrxR by binding to Sec residues on TrxR. B5 then induces cellular oxidative stress and finally leads to apoptosis. As a result, the study of B5 paved the way for further investigation into the modification and function of Piperine analogs as TrxR inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Zhong
- The State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Lingzhen Chen
- The State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Yue Tao
- The State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Jintao Zhao
- The State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Bingbing Chang
- The State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Fang Zhang
- The State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Jingwen Tu
- The State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Wenqing Cai
- Regor Therapeutics Inc, 1206 Zhangjiang Road, Building C, Pu Dong New District, Shanghai 201210, China.
| | - Baoxin Zhang
- The State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China.
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9
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Song Z, Fan C, Zhao J, Wang L, Duan D, Shen T, Li X. Fluorescent Probes for Mammalian Thioredoxin Reductase: Mechanistic Analysis, Construction Strategies, and Future Perspectives. BIOSENSORS 2023; 13:811. [PMID: 37622897 PMCID: PMC10452626 DOI: 10.3390/bios13080811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
The modulation of numerous signaling pathways is orchestrated by redox regulation of cellular environments. Maintaining dynamic redox homeostasis is of utmost importance for human health, given the common occurrence of altered redox status in various pathological conditions. The cardinal component of the thioredoxin system, mammalian thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) plays a vital role in supporting various physiological functions; however, its malfunction, disrupting redox balance, is intimately associated with the pathogenesis of multiple diseases. Accordingly, the dynamic monitoring of TrxR of live organisms represents a powerful direction to facilitate the comprehensive understanding and exploration of the profound significance of redox biology in cellular processes. A number of classic assays have been developed for the determination of TrxR activity in biological samples, yet their application is constrained when exploring the real-time dynamics of TrxR activity in live organisms. Fluorescent probes offer several advantages for in situ imaging and the quantification of biological targets, such as non-destructiveness, real-time analysis, and high spatiotemporal resolution. These benefits facilitate the transition from a poise to a flux understanding of cellular targets, further advancing scientific studies in related fields. This review aims to introduce the progress in the development and application of TrxR fluorescent probes in the past years, and it mainly focuses on analyzing their reaction mechanisms, construction strategies, and potential drawbacks. Finally, this study discusses the critical challenges and issues encountered during the development of selective TrxR probes and proposes future directions for their advancement. We anticipate the comprehensive analysis of the present TrxR probes will offer some glitters of enlightenment, and we also expect that this review may shed light on the design and development of novel TrxR probes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zilong Song
- Natural Medicine Research & Development Center, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730070, China; (Z.S.); (C.F.); (L.W.)
| | - Chengwu Fan
- Natural Medicine Research & Development Center, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730070, China; (Z.S.); (C.F.); (L.W.)
| | - Jintao Zhao
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University of Science & Technology, Nanjing 210094, China; (J.Z.); (X.L.)
| | - Lei Wang
- Natural Medicine Research & Development Center, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730070, China; (Z.S.); (C.F.); (L.W.)
| | - Dongzhu Duan
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Baoji University of Arts and Sciences, Baoji 721013, China;
| | - Tong Shen
- Natural Medicine Research & Development Center, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730070, China; (Z.S.); (C.F.); (L.W.)
| | - Xinming Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University of Science & Technology, Nanjing 210094, China; (J.Z.); (X.L.)
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10
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He YL, Zhong M, Song ZL, Shen YK, Zhao L, Fang J. Synthesis and discovery of Baylis-Hillman adducts as potent and selective thioredoxin reductase inhibitors for cancer treatment. Bioorg Med Chem 2023; 79:117169. [PMID: 36657375 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2023.117169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The selenoprotein thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) is of paramount importance in maintaining cellular redox homeostasis, and aberrant upregulation of TrxR is frequently observed in various cancers due to their elevated oxidative stress in cells. Thus, it seems promising and feasible to target the ablation of intracellular TrxR for the treatment of cancers. We report herein the design and synthesis of a series of Baylis-Hillman adducts, and identified a typical adduct that possesses the superior cytotoxicity against HepG2 cells over other types of cancer cells. The biological investigation shows the selected typical adduct selectively targets TrxR in HepG2 cells, which thereafter results in the collapse of intracellular redox homeostasis. Further mechanistic studies reveal that the selected typical adduct arrests the cell cycle in G1/G0 phase. Importantly, the malignant metastasis of HepG2 cells is significantly restrained by the selected typical adduct. With well-defined molecular target and mechanism of action, the selected typical adduct, even other Baylis-Hillman skeleton-bearing compounds, merits further development as candidate or ancillary agent for the treatment of various cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Lin He
- Natural Medicine Research & Development Center, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730070, China; State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Miao Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Zi-Long Song
- Natural Medicine Research & Development Center, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730070, China; State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Yu-Kai Shen
- Lizhi College, Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 28, Xianning West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China
| | - Lanning Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China.
| | - Jianguo Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
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11
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Abstract
Significance: Thioredoxin (Trx) is a powerful antioxidant that reduces protein disulfides to maintain redox stability in cells and is involved in regulating multiple redox-dependent signaling pathways. Recent Advance: The current accumulation of findings suggests that Trx participates in signaling pathways that interact with various proteins to manipulate their dynamic regulation of structure and function. These network pathways are critical for cancer pathogenesis and therapy. Promising clinical advances have been presented by most anticancer agents targeting such signaling pathways. Critical Issues: We herein link the signaling pathways regulated by the Trx system to potential cancer therapeutic opportunities, focusing on the coordination and strengths of the Trx signaling pathways in apoptosis, ferroptosis, immunomodulation, and drug resistance. We also provide a mechanistic network for the exploitation of therapeutic small molecules targeting the Trx signaling pathways. Future Directions: As research data accumulate, future complex networks of Trx-related signaling pathways will gain in detail. In-depth exploration and establishment of these signaling pathways, including Trx upstream and downstream regulatory proteins, will be critical to advancing novel cancer therapeutics. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 38, 403-424.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junmin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xinming Li
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhengjia Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | | | - Jianguo Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University of Science & Technology, Nanjing, China
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12
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Zhong M, He J, Zhang B, Liu Q, Fang J. Mitochondria-targeted iridium-based photosensitizers enhancing photodynamic therapy effect by disturbing cellular redox balance. Free Radic Biol Med 2023; 195:121-131. [PMID: 36581057 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2022.12.091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a non-invasive, light-activated treatment approach that has been broadly employed in cancer. Cyclometallic iridium (Ш) complexes are candidates for ideal photosensitizers due to their unique photophysical and photochemical features, such as high quantum yield, large Stokes shift, strong resistance to photobleaching, and high cellular permeability. We evaluated a panel of iridium complexes and identified PC9 as a powerful photosensitizer to kill cancer cells. PC9 shows an 8-fold increase of cytotoxicity to HeLa cells under light irradiation. Further investigation discloses that PC9 has a strong mitochondrial-targeting ability and can inhibit the antioxidant enzyme thioredoxin reductase, which contributes to improving PDT efficacy. Our data indicate that iridium complexes are efficient photosensitizers with distinct physicochemical properties and cellular actions, and deserve further development as promising agents for PDT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Zhong
- The State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, China
| | - Jian He
- The State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, China; Sichuan Key Laboratory of Medical Imaging, School of Medical Imaging, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, 637000, China
| | - Baoxin Zhang
- The State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- The State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, China.
| | - Jianguo Fang
- The State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, China; School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University of Science & Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China.
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13
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Yang Y, Chen Y, Wu JH, Ren Y, Liu B, Zhang Y, Yu H. Targeting regulated cell death with plant natural compounds for cancer therapy: A revisited review of apoptosis, autophagy-dependent cell death, and necroptosis. Phytother Res 2023; 37:1488-1525. [PMID: 36717200 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Regulated cell death (RCD) refers to programmed cell death regulated by various protein molecules, such as apoptosis, autophagy-dependent cell death, and necroptosis. Accumulating evidence has recently revealed that RCD subroutines have several links to many types of human cancer; therefore, targeting RCD with pharmacological small-molecule compounds would be a promising therapeutic strategy. Moreover, plant natural compounds, small-molecule compounds synthesized from plant sources, and their derivatives have been widely reported to regulate different RCD subroutines to improve potential cancer therapy. Thus, in this review, we focus on updating the intricate mechanisms of apoptosis, autophagy-dependent cell death, and necroptosis in cancer. Moreover, we further discuss several representative plant natural compounds and their derivatives that regulate the above-mentioned three subroutines of RCD, and their potential as candidate small-molecule drugs for the future cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery and Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yanmei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery and Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Jun Hao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery and Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yueting Ren
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Temerity Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery and Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery and Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Haiyang Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
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14
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Xi J, Tian LL, Xi J, Girimpuhwe D, Huang C, Ma R, Yao X, Shi D, Bai Z, Wu QX, Fang J. Alterperylenol as a Novel Thioredoxin Reductase Inhibitor Induces Liver Cancer Cell Apoptosis and Ferroptosis. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2022; 70:15763-15775. [PMID: 36472370 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c05339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Natural products are a rich resource for discovering innovational drugs. Herein, we isolated and characterized two compounds dihydroalterperylenol (DAP) and alterperylenol (AP) from Alternaria sp. MG1, an endophytic fungus isolated from Vitis quinquangularis, and investigated the underlying antitumor mechanism of AP. Mechanistically, AP inhibits the growth of HepG2 cells by targeting the selenoprotein thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) and ultimately induces cell apoptosis and ferroptosis. Compared to DAP, the α,β-unsaturated carbonyl structure of AP is an indispensable moiety for its antitumor activity and TrxR inhibition. Specifically, inhibition of TrxR causes the extensive reactive oxygen species and consequently results in DNA damage, G2/M cell cycle arrest, and mitochondrial fission. Furthermore, ferroptosis is driven via excess toxic lipid peroxidation and elevation of intracellular iron levels via regulating iron-related proteins. In vivo validation also shows that AP owns anticancer activity in xenograft mice. Collectively, our results disclose a novel natural TrxR inhibitor AP exerting the antitumor effect via inducing cell apoptosis and ferroptosis and evidence that AP is a promising candidate agent for liver carcinoma therapy. The link of TrxR inhibition to ferroptosis further highlights the physiological importance of TrxR in regulating ferroptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junmin Xi
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou730000, China
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou730000, China
| | - Li-Li Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou730000, China
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou730000, China
| | - Jiahui Xi
- General Surgery Department, Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou730000, Gansu Province, China
| | - Desire Girimpuhwe
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou730000, China
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou730000, China
| | - Chongfei Huang
- General Surgery Department, Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou730000, Gansu Province, China
| | - Ruixia Ma
- General Surgery Department, Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou730000, Gansu Province, China
| | - Xiaojun Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou730000, China
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou730000, China
| | - Danfeng Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou730000, China
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou730000, China
| | - Zhongtian Bai
- General Surgery Department, Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou730000, Gansu Province, China
| | - Quan-Xiang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou730000, China
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou730000, China
| | - Jianguo Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou730000, China
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou730000, China
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University of Science & Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu210094, China
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15
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Shimada BK, Swanson S, Toh P, Seale LA. Metabolism of Selenium, Selenocysteine, and Selenoproteins in Ferroptosis in Solid Tumor Cancers. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12111581. [PMID: 36358931 PMCID: PMC9687593 DOI: 10.3390/biom12111581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A potential target of precision nutrition in cancer therapeutics is the micronutrient selenium (Se). Se is metabolized and incorporated as the amino acid selenocysteine (Sec) into 25 human selenoproteins, including glutathione peroxidases (GPXs) and thioredoxin reductases (TXNRDs), among others. Both the processes of Se and Sec metabolism for the production of selenoproteins and the action of selenoproteins are utilized by cancer cells from solid tumors as a protective mechanism against oxidative damage and to resist ferroptosis, an iron-dependent cell death mechanism. Protection against ferroptosis in cancer cells requires sustained production of the selenoprotein GPX4, which involves increasing the uptake of Se, potentially activating Se metabolic pathways such as the trans-selenation pathway and the TXNRD1-dependent decomposition of inorganic selenocompounds to sustain GPX4 synthesis. Additionally, endoplasmic reticulum-resident selenoproteins also affect apoptotic responses in the presence of selenocompounds. Selenoproteins may also help cancer cells adapting against increased oxidative damage and the challenges of a modified nutrient metabolism that result from the Warburg switch. Finally, cancer cells may also rewire the selenoprotein hierarchy and use Se-related machinery to prioritize selenoproteins that are essential to the adaptations against ferroptosis and oxidative damage. In this review, we discuss both the evidence and the gaps in knowledge on how cancer cells from solid tumors use Se, Sec, selenoproteins, and the Se-related machinery to promote their survival particularly via resistance to ferroptosis.
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16
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Xu Q, Zhang J, Zhao Z, Chu Y, Fang J. Revealing PACMA 31 as a new chemical type TrxR inhibitor to promote cancer cell apoptosis. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2022; 1869:119323. [PMID: 35793738 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2022.119323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) is a pivotal regulator of redox homeostasis, while dysregulation of redox homeostasis is a hallmark for cancer cells. Thus, there is considerable potential to inhibit the aberrantly upregulated TrxR in cancer cells to discover selective cancer therapeutic agents. Nevertheless, the structural types of TrxR inhibitors presented currently are still relatively limited. We herein report that PACMA 31, previously reported to inhibit protein disulfide isomerase (PDI), is a potent TrxR inhibitor. PACMA 31 possesses a pharmacophore scaffold that is structurally different from the announced TrxR inhibitors and exhibits effective cytotoxicity against cervical cancer cells. Our results reveal that PACMA 31 selectively inhibits TrxR over the related glutathione reductase (GR) and in the presence of reduced glutathione (GSH). Further studies with mutant enzyme and molecular docking suggest that the propynamide fragment of PACMA 31 interacts covalently with the selenocysteine residue of TrxR. Moreover, PACMA 31 effectively and selectively curbs TrxR activity in cells and further stimulates the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) at low micromolar concentrations, which in turn triggers the accumulation of oxidized thioredoxin (Trx) and GSSG in cells. Follow-up studies demonstrate that PACMA 31 targets TrxR in cells to induce oxidative stress-mediated cancer cell apoptosis. Our results provide a new structural type of TrxR inhibitor that may serve as a useful probe for investigating the biology of TrxR-implicated pathways, and uncover a new target of PACMA 31 that contributes to it becoming a candidate for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianhe Xu
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Junmin Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China..
| | - Zhengjia Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Yajun Chu
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Jianguo Fang
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China..
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17
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Ben Mrid R, Bouchmaa N, Ouedrhiri W, Ennoury A, ZouaouI Z, Kabach I, Nhiri M, El Fatimy R. Synergistic antioxidant effects of natural compounds on H2O2-induced cytotoxicity of human monocytes. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:830323. [PMID: 36120290 PMCID: PMC9474927 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.830323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural compounds are endowed with a broad spectrum of biological activities, including protection against Toxins. Most of them are known for their antioxidant and radical scavenging activities. However, the synergistic combination of these natural molecules is not well studied. Therefore, the present study aims first to investigate the effect of four potent natural molecules [rosmarinic acid (Ros-A), ellagic acid (Ella-A), curcumin (Cur), and syringic acid (Syr-A)] on H2O2 -induced cell cytotoxicity and oxidative stress on the human monocytes (THP-1) and then to evaluate their combined action effect. Optimal combinations of these molecules were predicted using an augmented mixture design approach. In the first, as preliminary antioxidant activities screening, two in vitro assays were adopted to assess the single radicals scavenging activity of these natural compounds, DPPH• and ABTS• + tests. Based on the results obtained, the multitude of optimal formulas proposed by the mixture design study led to choosing four potent compositions (comp) in addition to ellagic acid, proposed as the most efficient when applied alone. The different molecules and mixtures were used to assess their cytoprotective effect on THP-1 cells in the presence and absence of H2O2. The most potent Comp-4, as well as the molecules forming this mixture, were exploited in a second experiment, aiming to understand the effect on oxidative stress via antioxidant enzyme activities analysis in the H2O2-induced oxidative stress in the THP-1 cell line. Interestingly, the natural molecules used for THP-1 cells treatment exhibited a significant increase in the antioxidant defense and glyoxalase system as well as suppression of ROS generation evaluated as MDA content. These results indicate that the natural compounds tested here, especially the synergistic effect of Cur and Ros-A (Comp-4), could serve as cytoprotective and immunostimulant agents against H2O2-induced cytotoxicity THP-1 cells, which makes them interesting for further investigations on the molecular mechanisms in preclinical animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reda Ben Mrid
- Institute of Biological Sciences (ISSB-P), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), Ben-Guerir, Morocco
- *Correspondence: Reda Ben Mrid, ; Najat Bouchmaa,
| | - Najat Bouchmaa
- Institute of Biological Sciences (ISSB-P), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), Ben-Guerir, Morocco
- *Correspondence: Reda Ben Mrid, ; Najat Bouchmaa,
| | - Wessal Ouedrhiri
- Laoratory of Inorganic Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Abdelhamid Ennoury
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tangier, Morocco
| | - Zakia ZouaouI
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tangier, Morocco
| | - Imad Kabach
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tangier, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Nhiri
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tangier, Morocco
| | - Rachid El Fatimy
- Institute of Biological Sciences (ISSB-P), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), Ben-Guerir, Morocco
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18
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NO news: S-(de)nitrosylation of cathepsins and their relationship with cancer. Anal Biochem 2022; 655:114872. [PMID: 36027970 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2022.114872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Tumor formation and progression have been much of a study over the last two centuries. Recent studies have seen different developments for the early diagnosis and treatment of the disease; some of which even promise survival of the patient. Cysteine proteases, mainly cathepsins have been unequivocally identified as putative worthy players of redox imbalance that contribute to the premonition and further progression of cancer by interfering in the normal extracellular and intracellular proteolysis and initiating a proteolytic cascade. The present review article focuses on the study of cancer so far, while establishing facts on how future studies focused on the cellular interrelation between nitric oxide (NO) and cancer, can direct their focus on cathepsins. For a tumor cell to thrive and synergize a cancerous environment, different mutations in the proteolytic and signaling pathways and the proto-oncogenes, oncogenes, and the tumor suppressor genes are made possible through cellular biochemistry and some cancer-stimulating environmental factors. The accumulated findings show that S-nitrosylation of cathepsins under the influence of NO-donors can prevent the invasion of cancer and cause cancer cell death by blocking the activity of cathepsins as well as the major denitrosylase systems using a multi-way approach. Faced with a conundrum of how to fill the gap between the dodging of established cancer hallmarks with cathepsin activity and gaining appropriate research/clinical accreditation using our hypothesis, the scope of this review also explores the interplay and crosstalk between S-nitrosylation and S-(de)nitrosylation of this protease and highlights the utility of charging thioredoxin (Trx) reductase inhibitors, low-molecular-weight dithiols, and Trx mimetics using efficient drug delivery system to prevent the denitrosylation or regaining of cathepsin activity in vivo. In foresight, this raises the prospect that drugs or novel compounds that target cathepsins taking all these factors into consideration could be deployed as alternative or even better treatments for cancer, though further research is needed to ascertain the safety, efficiency and effectiveness of this approach.
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19
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Rotondo R, Oliva MA, Arcella A. The Sesquiterpene Lactone Cynaropicrin Manifests Strong Cytotoxicity in Glioblastoma Cells U-87 MG by Induction of Oxidative Stress. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10071583. [PMID: 35884887 PMCID: PMC9312546 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10071583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Cynaropicrin has shown a wide range of pharmacological properties, such as antitumor action. Here, we showed the inhibitory effect of Cyn on human glioblastoma cell U-87 MG growth. According to the IC50 values, Cyn 4, 8 and 10 µM displayed a significant cytotoxicity, as confirmed by the cell count and MTT assay. Furthermore, Cyn completely abolished the ability of U-87 MG to form colonies and induced drastic morphological changes. Interestingly, pretreatment with ROS scavenger N-acetylcysteine 3 mM reversed the cytotoxicity induced by Cyn 25 µM and preserved the cells by morphological changes. Therefore, oxidative stress induction was evaluated at low 8- and high 25-µM concentrations in U-87 MG, as demonstrated by the quantitative and qualitative analysis of ROS. A prolonged increase in ROS generation under Cyn 25 µM exposure was followed by the loss of the mitochondrial membrane potential in treated U-87 MG cells. An acute treatment with Cyn 25 µM induced Cyt c release, as revealed by immunofluorescence staining and the activation of cell death pathways, apoptosis and autophagy. On the other hand, chronic treatment with Cyn 8 µM induced senescence, as revealed by the increase in SA-β-Gal activity. Moreover, at this concentration, Cyn led to ERK dephosphorylation accompanied by a relevant reduction of the NF-κB p65 subunit. Finally, the combined effect of TMZ and Cyn resulted in synergistic cytotoxicity, as evaluated by the Bliss additivity model. The strong cytotoxicity of Cyn was also confirmed on IDH1 mutant U-87 MG cells and patient-derived IDH wild-type glioblastoma cell lines NULU and ZAR. In conclusion, given the high toxicity at minimal concentrations, the high inhibition of tumor cell growth and synergy with the standard drug for glioblastoma TMZ, Cyn could be proposed as a potential adjuvant for the treatment of glioblastoma.
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20
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Zhang J, Chen Y, Fang J. Targeting thioredoxin reductase by micheliolide contributes to radiosensitizing and inducing apoptosis of HeLa cells. Free Radic Biol Med 2022; 186:99-109. [PMID: 35561844 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2022.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Inhibition of thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) is a crucial strategy for the discovery of antineoplastic drugs and radiosensitizers. As an anticancer candidate derived from Michelia, micheliolide (MCL) is converted readily from parthenolide (PTL), and has better stability and solubility than PTL. However, the anticancer mechanism of MCL has not been fully dissected. We present here for the first time that MCL-targeted inhibition of TrxR not only promotes oxidative stress-mediated HeLa cell apoptosis but also sensitizes ionizing radiation (IR) treatment. Further mechanistic studies demonstrate that MCL covalently binds to Sec at position 498 of TrxR to restrain the biological function of TrxR. It exhibits the inhibition of TrxR activity, enhancement of oxidized Trx, and sensitization of IR in the cellular environment, accompanied by the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the collapse of the intracellular redox balance. In addition, HeLa-shTrxR1 cells with knockdown of TrxR were more sensitive than the HeLa-shNT cells to either MCL-treated or IR-induced cytotoxicity, ROS, and apoptosis, suggesting that inhibition of TrxR by MCL is likely responsible for increased cytotoxicity and enhanced radiation response. These findings further establish the mechanistic understanding and preclinical data to support the further investigation of MCL's potential as a prospective radiosensitizer and cancer chemotherapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junmin Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, And College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Yaxiong Chen
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, And College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China; Key Laboratory of Space Radiobiology of Gansu Province & CAS Key Laboratory of Heavy Ion Radiation Biology and Medicine, And Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Jianguo Fang
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, And College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China; School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University of Science & Technology, Nanjing, 210094, China.
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Jovanović M, Podolski-Renić A, Krasavin M, Pešić M. The Role of the Thioredoxin Detoxification System in Cancer Progression and Resistance. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:883297. [PMID: 35664671 PMCID: PMC9161637 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.883297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The intracellular redox homeostasis is a dynamic balancing system between the levels of free radical species and antioxidant enzymes and small molecules at the core of cellular defense mechanisms. The thioredoxin (Trx) system is an important detoxification system regulating the redox milieu. This system is one of the key regulators of cells’ proliferative potential as well, through the reduction of key proteins. Increased oxidative stress characterizes highly proliferative, metabolically hyperactive cancer cells, which are forced to mobilize antioxidant enzymes to balance the increase in free radical concentration and prevent irreversible damage and cell death. Components of the Trx system are involved in high-rate proliferation and activation of pro-survival mechanisms in cancer cells, particularly those facing increased oxidative stress. This review addresses the importance of the targetable redox-regulating Trx system in tumor progression, as well as in detoxification and protection of cancer cells from oxidative stress and drug-induced cytotoxicity. It also discusses the cancer cells’ counteracting mechanisms to the Trx system inhibition and presents several inhibitors of the Trx system as prospective candidates for cytostatics’ adjuvants. This manuscript further emphasizes the importance of developing novel multitarget therapies encompassing the Trx system inhibition to overcome cancer treatment limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirna Jovanović
- Department of Neurobiology, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”- National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ana Podolski-Renić
- Department of Neurobiology, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”- National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Mikhail Krasavin
- Organic Chemistry Division, Institute of Chemistry, Saint Petersburg State University, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Milica Pešić
- Department of Neurobiology, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”- National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- *Correspondence: Milica Pešić, , orcid.org/0000-0002-9045-8239
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22
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Natural compounds as inhibitors of thioredoxin reductase (TrxR1). Russ Chem Bull 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11172-022-3431-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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23
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Rheumatoid arthritis drug sinomenine induces apoptosis of cervical tumor cells by targeting thioredoxin reductase in vitro and in vivo. Bioorg Chem 2022; 122:105711. [PMID: 35247807 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.105711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Overexpression of thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) has been linked to tumorigenesis and phenotypic maintenance of malignant tumors. Thus, targeting TrxR with natural molecules is a promising strategy for developing anticancer drugs. Sinomenine is a naturally occurring alkaloid isolated from Sinomenium acutum. The drug, Zhengqing Fengtongning made from sinomenine, has been universally applied in rheumatoid arthritis treatment in China as well as other Asian countries for decades. Recently, increasing evidence indicates that sinomenine appears to be a promising therapeutic agent against various cancer cells. However, the exact mechanism underlying the anticancer activity of sinomenine remains unclear. In this study, we identified sinomenine as a kind of new inhibitor for TrxR. Pharmacological inhibition of TrxR by sinomenine results in the decrease of thiols content, increases the levels of reactive oxygen species, and finally facilitates oxidative stress-mediated cancer cell apoptosis. It is vital that knockdown in TrxR1 by shRNA can increase cell sensitivity to sinomenine. Treatment with sinomenine in vivo leads to a decrease in TrxR activity and tumor growth, and an increase in apoptosis. Our findings provide a novel action mechanism related to sinomenine and presents an insight on how to develop sinomenine as a chemotherapeutic agent for cancer therapy.
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Zhang Y, Sun S, Xu W, Yang R, Yang Y, Guo J, Ma K, Xu J. Thioredoxin reductase 1 inhibitor shikonin promotes cell necroptosis via SecTRAPs generation and oxygen-coupled redox cycling. Free Radic Biol Med 2022; 180:52-62. [PMID: 34973363 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.12.314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Shikonin, a naturally occurring naphthoquinone with potent anti-tumor activity, has been reported to induce cancer cell death via targeting selenoenzyme thioredoxin reductase 1 (TrxR1; TXNRD1). However, the interaction between shikonin and TrxR1 remains unclear, and the roles of the cellular antioxidant system in shikonin induced cell death are obscure. Here, we found that shikonin modified the Sec498 residue of TrxR1 to fully inhibit its antioxidant activity, however, the shikonin-modified TrxR1 still remained intrinsic NADPH oxidase activity, which promotes superoxide anions production. Besides, TrxR1 efficiently reduced shikonin in both selenocysteine dependent and selenocysteine independent manners, and the oxygen-coupled redox cycling of shikonin also generates excessive superoxide anions. The inhibitory effects and the redox cycling of shikonin towards TrxR1 caused cancer cell ROS-dependent necroptosis. Interestingly, as we evaluated, some cancer cell lines were insensitive to shikonin, especially kelch-like ECH associated protein 1 (KEAP1)-mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells, which harbor constitutive activation of the nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2). NADPH bankruptcy caused by glucose starvation or glucose limitation (inhibiting glucose transporter 1 by BAY-876) could efficiently overcome the resistance of KEAP1-mutant NSCLC cells to shikonin. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), was known as a rate-limiting enzyme in the pentose phosphate pathway, however, the pharmacological inhibition of G6PD by 6-aminonicotinamide (6-AN), enhanced the shikonin-induced cytotoxicity but has no selectivity on KEAP1-mutant NSCLC cells. This study will be helpful in applying shikonin for potential chemotherapy, and in combinational treatment of KEAP1-mutant NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zhang
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences (LPS) & Panjin Institute of Industrial Technology (PIIT) & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Chemical Additive Synthesis and Separation (CASS), Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, 124221, China
| | - Shibo Sun
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences (LPS) & Panjin Institute of Industrial Technology (PIIT) & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Chemical Additive Synthesis and Separation (CASS), Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, 124221, China
| | - Weiping Xu
- School of Ocean Science and Technology (OST) & Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering of MOE, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, 124221, China
| | - Rui Yang
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences (LPS) & Panjin Institute of Industrial Technology (PIIT) & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Chemical Additive Synthesis and Separation (CASS), Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, 124221, China
| | - Yijia Yang
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences (LPS) & Panjin Institute of Industrial Technology (PIIT) & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Chemical Additive Synthesis and Separation (CASS), Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, 124221, China
| | - Jianli Guo
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences (LPS) & Panjin Institute of Industrial Technology (PIIT) & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Chemical Additive Synthesis and Separation (CASS), Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, 124221, China
| | - Kun Ma
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences (LPS) & Panjin Institute of Industrial Technology (PIIT) & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Chemical Additive Synthesis and Separation (CASS), Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, 124221, China
| | - Jianqiang Xu
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences (LPS) & Panjin Institute of Industrial Technology (PIIT) & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Chemical Additive Synthesis and Separation (CASS), Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, 124221, China.
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25
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Zhang J, Xu Q, Ma D. Inhibition of thioredoxin reductase by natural anticancer candidate β-lapachone accounts for triggering redox activation-mediated HL-60 cell apoptosis. Free Radic Biol Med 2022; 180:244-252. [PMID: 35091063 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2022.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
β-Lapachone as a natural novel anticancer candidate is under clinical trials. Previous studies suggested that β-lapachone works by redox activation to ablate cancer cells. However, it is still unclear whether thioredoxin reductase (TrxR), one of the key redox catalytic enzymes in cells, plays a role in the pharmacological effects of β-lapachone. Herein, we present that β-lapachone kills human promyelocytic leukemia HL-60 cells with preference over other cancer cells and normal cells. The follow-up studies demonstrate that β-lapachone induces the HL-60 cell apoptosis through inhibition of TrxR and further elevation of oxidative stress. Overexpression of the TrxR alleviates the efficiency of β-lapachone while knockdown of the enzyme increases the β-lapachone cytotoxicity, scientifically underpinning the correlation of the observed biological behaviors of β-lapachone to TrxR inhibition. The disclosure of the novel action mechanism of β-lapachone sheds light on understanding its capacity in interfering with cellular redox signaling and supports β-lapachone as an anticancer drug candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junmin Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China; State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau (SAR), China.
| | - Qianhe Xu
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Di Ma
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
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26
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Expanding the armory for treating lymphoma: Targeting redox cellular status through thioredoxin reductase inhibition. Pharmacol Res 2022; 177:106134. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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27
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Qian J, Xu Z, Zhu P, Meng C, Liu Y, Shan W, He A, Gu Y, Ran F, Zhang Y, Ling Y. A Derivative of Piperlongumine and Ligustrazine as a Potential Thioredoxin Reductase Inhibitor in Drug-Resistant Hepatocellular Carcinoma. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2021; 84:3161-3168. [PMID: 34806369 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.1c00618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The natural products piperlongumine (1) and ligustrazine (2) have been reported to exert antiproliferative effects against various types of cancer cells by up-regulating the level of reactive oxidative species (ROS). However, the moderate activities of 1 and 2 limit their application. To improve their potential antitumor activity, novel piperlongumine/ligustrazine derivatives were designed and prepared, and their potential pharmacological effects were determined in vitro and in vivo. Among the derivatives obtained, 11 exerted more prominent inhibitory activities against proliferation of drug-sensitive/-resistant cancer cells with lower IC50 values than 1. Particularly, the IC50 value of 11 against drug-resistant Bel-7402/5-FU cells was 0.9 μM, which was about 9-fold better than that of 1 (IC50 value of 8.4 μM). Mechanistic studies showed that 11 demonstrated thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) inhibitory activity, increase of ROS levels, decrease of mitochondrial transmembrane potential levels, and occurrence of DNA damage and autophagy, in a dose-dependent manner, via regulation of DNA damage protein H2AX and autophagy-associated proteins LC3, beclin-1, and p62 in drug-resistant Bel-7402/5-FU cells. Finally, compound 11 at 5 mg/kg displayed potent antitumor activity in vivo with tumor suppression of 76% (w/w). Taken together, compound 11 may represent a promising candidate drug for the chemotherapy of drug-resistant hepatocellular carcinoma and warrant more intensive study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianqiang Qian
- Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Targets, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhongyuan Xu
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Targets, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Peng Zhu
- Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Chi Meng
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Targets, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Yun Liu
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Targets, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenpei Shan
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Targets, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Ang He
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Targets, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Yipeng Gu
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Targets, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Fansheng Ran
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Targets, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanan Zhang
- Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Targets, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Ling
- Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Targets, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
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28
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Zhang J, Zheng ZQ, Xu Q, Li Y, Gao K, Fang J. Onopordopicrin from the new genus Shangwua as a novel thioredoxin reductase inhibitor to induce oxidative stress-mediated tumor cell apoptosis. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2021; 36:790-801. [PMID: 33733960 PMCID: PMC7993383 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2021.1899169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Isolation and identification of natural products from plants is an essential approach for discovering drug candidates. Herein we report the characterization of three sesquiterpene lactones from a new genus Shangwua, e.g. onopordopicrin (ONP), C2, and C3, and evaluation of their pharmacological functions in interfering cellular redox signaling. Compared to C2 and C3, ONP shows the most potency in killing cancer cells. Further experiments demonstrate that ONP robustly inhibits thioredoxin reductase (TrxR), which leads to perturbation of cellular redox homeostasis with the favor of oxidative stress. Knockdown of the TrxR sensitizes cells to the ONP treatment while overexpression of the enzyme reduces the potency of ONP, underpinning the correlation of TrxR inhibition to the cytotoxicity of ONP. The discovery of ONP expands the library of the natural TrxR inhibitors, and the disclosure of the action mechanism of ONP provides a foundation for the further development of ONP as an anticancer agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junmin Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zai-Qin Zheng
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Qianhe Xu
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ya Li
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Kun Gao
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jianguo Fang
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
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29
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Ding Z, Xi J, Zhong M, Chen F, Zhao H, Zhang B, Fang J. Cynaropicrin Induces Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis by Inhibiting PKM2 to Cause DNA Damage and Mitochondrial Fission in A549 Cells. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2021; 69:13557-13567. [PMID: 34726896 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.1c05394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic reprogramming is critical for tumorigenesis. Pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) is overexpressed in lung carcinoma cells and plays a critical role in the Warburg effect, making the enzyme a research hotspot for anticancer drug development. Cynaropicrin (CYN), a natural sesquiterpene lactone compound from artichoke, has received increasing consideration due to its consumable esteem and pharmacological properties. Our data reveal that CYN not only inhibited the purified PKM2 activity but also decreased the cellular PKM2 expression in A549 cells. The inhibition of PKM2 leads to the upregulation of p53 and the downregulation of the DNA repair enzyme poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), and subsequently causes the cell cycle arrest. Additionally, CYN inhibits the interaction of PKM2 and Nrf2, resulting in the impairment of cellular antioxidant capacity, induction of oxidative stress, and mitochondrial damages. Overexpression of PKM2 attenuates the CYN-induced DNA damage, mitochondrial fission, and cell viability. Thus, targeting PKM2 provides an original mechanism for understanding the pharmacological impact of CYN and assists in the further development of CYN as an anticancer agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenjiang Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Junmin Xi
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Miao Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Fan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Huanhuan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Baoxin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Jianguo Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
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30
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Song ZL, Zhang J, Xu Q, Shi D, Yao X, Fang J. Structural Modification of Aminophenylarsenoxides Generates Candidates for Leukemia Treatment via Thioredoxin Reductase Inhibition. J Med Chem 2021; 64:16132-16146. [PMID: 34704769 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Upregulation of the selenoprotein thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) is of pathological significance in maintaining tumor phenotypes. Thus, TrxR inhibitors are promising cancer therapeutic agents. We prepared different amino-substituted phenylarsine oxides and evaluated their cytotoxicity and inhibition of TrxR. Compared with our reported p-substituted molecule (8), the o-substituted molecule (10) shows improved efficacy (nearly a fourfold increase) to kill leukemia HL-60 cells. Although the compounds 8 and 10 display similar potency to inhibit the purified TrxR, the o-substitution 10 exhibits higher potency than the p-substitution 8 to inhibit the cellular TrxR activity. Molecular docking results demonstrate the favorable weak interactions of the o-amino group with the TrxR C-terminal active site. Efficient inhibition of TrxR consequently induces the oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis of cancer cells. Silence of the TrxR expression sensitizes the cells to the arsenic compound treatment, further supporting the critical involvement of TrxR in the cellular actions of compound 10.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Long Song
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.,Botanical Agrochemicals Research & Development Center, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Junmin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.,State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau 999078, China
| | - Qianhe Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Danfeng Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xiaojun Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.,State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau 999078, China
| | - Jianguo Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
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31
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Targeting thioredoxin reductase by deoxyelephantopin from Elephantopus scaber triggers cancer cell apoptosis. Arch Biochem Biophys 2021; 711:109028. [PMID: 34509463 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2021.109028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Elevated expression of thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) is associated with the tumorigenesis and resistance to cancer chemoradiotherapy, highlighting the potential of TrxR inhibitors as anticancer drugs. Deoxyelephantopin (DET) is the major active ingredient of Elephantopus scaber and reveals potent anticancer activity. However, the potential mechanism of action and the cellular target of DET are still unknown. Here, we found that DET primarily targets the Sec residue of TrxR and irreversibly prohibits enzyme activity. Suppression of TrxR by DET leads to accumulation of reactive oxygen species and dysregulation in intracellular redox balance, eventually inducing cancer cell apoptosis mediated by oxidative stress. Noticeably, down-regulation of TrxR1 by shRNA increases cell sensitivity to DET. Collectively, targeting of TrxR1 by DET uncovers a novel mechanism of action in DET and deepens the understanding of developing DET as a potential chemotherapeutic agent for treating cancers.
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32
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Zhang J, Xu Q, Yang HY, Yang M, Fang J, Gao K. Inhibition of Thioredoxin Reductase by Santamarine Conferring Anticancer Effect in HeLa Cells. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:710676. [PMID: 34485384 PMCID: PMC8416462 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.710676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural products frequently have unique physiological activities and new action mechanisms due to their structural diversity and novelty, and are an important source for innovative drugs and lead compounds. We present herein that natural product santamarine targeted thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) to weaken its antioxidative function in cells, accompanied by accumulation of high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and finally induced a new mechanism of tumor cell oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis. TrxR knockdown or overexpression cell lines were employed to further evaluate the cytotoxicity of santamarine regulated by TrxR, demonstrated that TrxR played a key role in the physiological effect of santamarine on cells. Santamarine targeting TrxR reveals its previously unrecognized mechanism of antitumor and provides a basis for the further development of santamarine as a potential cancer therapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junmin Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Qianhe Xu
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Hong-Ying Yang
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Minghao Yang
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jianguo Fang
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Kun Gao
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
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33
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Sun S, Xu W, Zhang Y, Yang Y, Ma Q, Xu J. Menadione inhibits thioredoxin reductase 1 via arylation at the Sec 498 residue and enhances both NADPH oxidation and superoxide production in Sec 498 to Cys 498 substitution. Free Radic Biol Med 2021; 172:482-489. [PMID: 34186208 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The selenoprotein thioredoxin reductase 1 (TrxR1; TXNRD1) participates in multiple cellular processes and is regarded as a cellular target in anti-tumor drug discovery and development. TrxR1 has been reported to reduce menadione to menadiol and to produce superoxide anion radicals. However, the details of TrxR1-mediated menadione reduction have rarely been studied. In this study, we found that wild-type TrxR1 could reduce menadione in a less efficient way, but the U498C mutant variant supported high-efficiency menadione reduction in a Sec-independent manner. Meanwhile, the site-directed mutagenesis results showed that Cys64 mutant increased the Km values and decreased the catalytic efficiency, which was associated with a charge-transfer complex between FAD-Cys64. Mass spectrometry (MS) revealed that in NADPH pre-reduced TrxR1 but not oxidized TrxR1, the highly active Sec498 of wild-type TrxR1 was arylated by menadione and strongly impaired the DTNB reducing activity in a dose-dependent manner. TrxR1 reduced menadione more efficiently than glutathione reductase (GR), and interestingly menadione did not inhibit the GSSG reducing activity of GR. In summary, our results demonstrate that TrxR1 catalyzes the reduction of menadione in a Sec-independent manner, which highly depend on Cys498 instead of N-terminal redox motif, and the Sec498 of TrxR1 is the primary target of menadione. The interaction between menadione and TrxR1 revealed in this study may provide a valuable reference for the development of anticancer drugs targeting selenoprotein TrxR1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shibo Sun
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences (LPS) & Panjin Institute of Industrial Technology (PIIT), Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, China
| | - Weiping Xu
- School of Ocean Science and Technology (OST) & Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences (LPS) & Panjin Institute of Industrial Technology (PIIT), Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, China
| | - Yijia Yang
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences (LPS) & Panjin Institute of Industrial Technology (PIIT), Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, China
| | - Qiang Ma
- Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing 100176, China.
| | - Jianqiang Xu
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences (LPS) & Panjin Institute of Industrial Technology (PIIT), Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, China.
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Sang J, Li W, Diao HJ, Fan RZ, Huang JL, Gan L, Zou MF, Tang GH, Yin S. Jolkinolide B targets thioredoxin and glutathione systems to induce ROS-mediated paraptosis and apoptosis in bladder cancer cells. Cancer Lett 2021; 509:13-25. [PMID: 33836250 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.03.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Bladder cancer is a clinically heterogeneous disease with a poor prognosis. In the current study, anti-proliferation assay of a Euphorbiaceae diterpenoid library led to the identification of an anti-bladder cancer agent Jolkinolide B (JB). JB showed significant cytotoxicity against a panel of bladder cancer cell lines and suppressed the growth of cisplatin (CDDP)-resistant bladder cancer xenografts in single or combination treatments. Mechanistic study revealed that, besides inducing mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-related apoptosis, JB could trigger the paraptosis via activation of reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway. The excessive production of ROS could be induced by JB via inhibition of thioredoxin reductase 1 (TrxR1) and depletion of glutathione (GSH). Collectively, JB that targets thioredoxin and GSH systems to induce two distinct cell death modes may serve as a promising candidate in future anti-bladder cancer drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Sang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, China
| | - Wei Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, China
| | - Hong-Juan Diao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, China
| | - Run-Zhu Fan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, China
| | - Jia-Luo Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, China
| | - Lu Gan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, China
| | - Ming-Feng Zou
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, China
| | - Gui-Hua Tang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, China
| | - Sheng Yin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, China.
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Zhang J, Duan D, Osama A, Fang J. Natural Molecules Targeting Thioredoxin System and Their Therapeutic Potential. Antioxid Redox Signal 2021; 34:1083-1107. [PMID: 33115246 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2020.8213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Significance: Thioredoxin (Trx) and thioredoxin reductase are two core members of the Trx system. The system bridges the gap between the universal reducing equivalent NADPH and various biological molecules and plays an essential role in maintaining cellular redox homeostasis and regulating multiple cellular redox signaling pathways. Recent Advance: In recent years, the Trx system has been well documented as an important regulator of many diseases, especially tumorigenesis. Thus, the development of potential therapeutic molecules targeting the system is of great significance for disease treatment. Critical Issues: We herein first discuss the physiological functions of the Trx system and the role that the Trx system plays in various diseases. Then, we focus on the introduction of natural small molecules with potential therapeutic applications, especially the anticancer activity, and review their mechanisms of pharmacological actions via interfering with the Trx system. Finally, we further discuss several natural molecules that harbor therapeutic potential and have entered different clinical trials. Future Directions: Further studies on the functions of the Trx system in multiple diseases will not only improve our understanding of the pathogenesis of many human disorders but also help develop novel therapeutic strategies against these diseases. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 34, 1083-1107.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junmin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry, Baoji University of Arts and Sciences, Baoji, China
| | - Dongzhu Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry, Baoji University of Arts and Sciences, Baoji, China
| | - Alsiddig Osama
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry, Baoji University of Arts and Sciences, Baoji, China
| | - Jianguo Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry, Baoji University of Arts and Sciences, Baoji, China
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Huang H, Li P, Ye X, Zhang F, Lin Q, Wu K, Chen W. Isoalantolactone Increases the Sensitivity of Prostate Cancer Cells to Cisplatin Treatment by Inducing Oxidative Stress. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:632779. [PMID: 33959604 PMCID: PMC8093765 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.632779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the most common malignancy among men worldwide. Platinum (II)-based chemotherapy has been used to treat a number of malignancies including prostate cancer. However, the potential of cisplatin for treating prostate cancer is restricted owing to its limited efficacy and toxic side effects. Combination therapies have been proposed to increase the efficacy and reduce the toxic side effects. In the present study, we investigated how isoalantolactone (IATL), a sesquiterpene lactone extracted from the medicinal plant Inula helenium L., acts synergistically with cisplatin on human prostate cancer cells. We show that IATL significantly increased cisplatin-induced growth suppression and apoptosis in human prostate cancer cells. Mechanistically, the combined treatment resulted in an excessive accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), which leads to the activation of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and the JNK signaling pathway in human prostate cancer cells. Pretreatment of cells with the ROS scavenger N-acetylcysteine (NAC) significantly abrogated the combined treatment-induced ROS accumulation and cell apoptosis. In addition, the activation of ER stress and the JNK signaling pathway prompted by IATL and cisplatin was also reversed by NAC pretreatment. In vivo, we found that IATL combined with cisplatin showed the strongest antitumor effects compared with single agents. These results support the notion that IATL and cisplatin combinational treatment may be more effective for treating prostate cancer than cisplatin alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Huang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xueting Ye
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Fangyi Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qi Lin
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Keming Wu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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Villarini M, Acito M, di Vito R, Vannini S, Dominici L, Fatigoni C, Pagiotti R, Moretti M. Pro-Apoptotic Activity of Artichoke Leaf Extracts in Human HT-29 and RKO Colon Cancer Cells. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18084166. [PMID: 33920761 PMCID: PMC8071198 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18084166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
(1) Background: Cynara cardunculus L. subsp. scolymus (L.) Hegi, popularly known as artichoke, is an herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. Artichoke leaf extracts (ALEs) have been widely used in traditional medicine because of their hepatoprotective, cholagogic, hypoglycaemic, hypolipemic and antibacterial properties. ALEs are also recognized for their antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities. In this study, we evaluated the cytotoxic, genotoxic, and apoptotic activities, as well as effect on cell growth of ALEs on human colon cancer HT-29 and RKO cells. HT-29 and RKO cells exhibit a different p53 status: RKO cells express the wild-type protein, whereas HT-29 cells express a p53-R273H contact mutant. (2) Methods: Four different ALEs were obtained by sequential extraction of dried artichoke leaves; ALEs were characterized for their content in chlorogenic acid, cynaropicrin, and caffeoylquinic acids. HT-29 and RKO cells were used for in vitro testing (i.e., cytotoxicity and genotoxicity assessment, cell cycle analysis, apoptosis induction). (3) Results: Two out of the four tested ALEs showed marked effects on cell vitality toward HT-29 and RKO tumour cells. The effect was accompanied by a genotoxic activity exerted at a non-cytotoxic concentrations, by a significant perturbation of cell cycle (i.e., with increase of cells in the sub-G1 phase), and by the induction of apoptosis. (4) Conclusions: ALEs rich in cynaropicrin, caffeoylquinic acids, and chlorogenic acid showed to be capable of affecting HT-29 and RKO colon cancer cells by inducing favourable biological effects: cell cycle perturbation, activation of mitochondrial dependent pathway of apoptosis, and the induction of genotoxic effects probably mediated by the induction of apoptosis. Taken together, these results weigh in favour of a potential cancer chemotherapeutic activity of ALEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Villarini
- Unit of Public Health, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, via del Giochetto, 06122 Perugia, Italy; (M.V.); (M.A.); (R.d.V.); (S.V.); (L.D.); (C.F.)
| | - Mattia Acito
- Unit of Public Health, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, via del Giochetto, 06122 Perugia, Italy; (M.V.); (M.A.); (R.d.V.); (S.V.); (L.D.); (C.F.)
| | - Raffaella di Vito
- Unit of Public Health, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, via del Giochetto, 06122 Perugia, Italy; (M.V.); (M.A.); (R.d.V.); (S.V.); (L.D.); (C.F.)
| | - Samuele Vannini
- Unit of Public Health, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, via del Giochetto, 06122 Perugia, Italy; (M.V.); (M.A.); (R.d.V.); (S.V.); (L.D.); (C.F.)
| | - Luca Dominici
- Unit of Public Health, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, via del Giochetto, 06122 Perugia, Italy; (M.V.); (M.A.); (R.d.V.); (S.V.); (L.D.); (C.F.)
| | - Cristina Fatigoni
- Unit of Public Health, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, via del Giochetto, 06122 Perugia, Italy; (M.V.); (M.A.); (R.d.V.); (S.V.); (L.D.); (C.F.)
| | - Rita Pagiotti
- Unit of Plant Biology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, via del Giochetto, 06122 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Massimo Moretti
- Unit of Public Health, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, via del Giochetto, 06122 Perugia, Italy; (M.V.); (M.A.); (R.d.V.); (S.V.); (L.D.); (C.F.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-075-5857420
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Wei X, Zhong M, Wang S, Li L, Song ZL, Zhang J, Xu J, Fang J. Synthesis and biological evaluation of disulfides as anticancer agents with thioredoxin inhibition. Bioorg Chem 2021; 110:104814. [PMID: 33756234 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2021.104814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Altered redox homeostasis as a hallmark of cancer cells is exploited by cancer cells for growth and survival. The thioredoxin (Trx), an important regulator in maintaining the intracellular redox homeostasis, is cumulatively recognized as a promising target for the development of anticancer drugs. Herein, we synthesized 72 disulfides and evaluated theirinhibition for Trx and antitumor activity. First, we established an efficient and fast method to screen Trx inhibitors by using the probe NBL-SS that was developed by our group to detect Trx function in living cells. After an initial screening of the Trx inhibitory activity of these compounds, 8 compounds showed significant inhibition activity against Trx. We then evaluated the cytotoxicity of these 8 disulfides, compounds 68 and 69 displayed high cytotoxicity to HeLa cells, but less sensitive to normal cell lines. Next, we performed kinetic studies of both two disulfides, 68 had faster inhibition of Trx than 69. Further studies revealed that 68 led to the accumulation of reactive oxygen species and eventually induced apoptosis of Hela cells via inhibiting Trx. The establishment of a method for screening Trx inhibitors and the discovery of 68 with remarkable Trx inhibition provide support for the development of anticancer candidates with Trx inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangxu Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry & College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Miao Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry & College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Song Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry & College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Lexun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry & College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Zi-Long Song
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry & College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Junmin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry & College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.
| | - Jianqiang Xu
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences & Panjin Institute of Industrial Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, China
| | - Jianguo Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry & College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.
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Xia Y, Chen J, Yu Y, Wu F, Shen X, Qiu C, Zhang T, Hong L, Zheng P, Shao R, Xu C, Wu F, Chen W, Xie C, Cui R, Zou P. Compensatory combination of mTOR and TrxR inhibitors to cause oxidative stress and regression of tumors. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:4335-4350. [PMID: 33754064 PMCID: PMC7977446 DOI: 10.7150/thno.52077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. Extensive research over decades has led to the development of therapies that inhibit oncogenic signaling pathways. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway plays an important role in the development of many cancers. Several mTOR inhibitors are approved for the treatment of cancers. However, the anticancer efficacies of mTOR inhibitor monotherapy are still limited. Methods: Western blot was used to detect the expression of indicated molecules. Thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) activity in cells was determined by the endpoint insulin reduction assay. Immunofluorescence staining was used to analyze precise location and expression of target proteins. Nude mice were used for xenograft tumor models. Results: We identified a synergistic lethal interaction of mTOR and TrxR inhibitors and elucidated the underlying molecular mechanisms of this synergism. We demonstrated that mTOR and TrxR inhibitors cooperated to induce cell death by triggering oxidative stress, which led to activation of autophagy, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and c-Jun N-terminal Kinase (JNK) signaling pathway in cancer cells. Remarkably, we found that auranofin (AF) combined with everolimus significantly suppressed tumor growth in HCT116 and SGC-7901 xenograft models with no significant signs of toxicity. Conclusion: Our findings identify a promising therapeutic combination for cancer and has important implications for developing mTOR inhibitor-based combination treatments.
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Zhong Y, Liu J, Cheng X, Zhang H, Zhang C, Xia Z, Wu Z, Zhang L, Zheng Y, Gao Z, Jiang Z, Wang Z, Huang D, Lu Y, Jiang F. Design, synthesis and biological evaluations of diverse Michael acceptor-based phenazine hybrid molecules as TrxR1 inhibitors. Bioorg Chem 2021; 109:104736. [PMID: 33640630 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2021.104736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
A series of novel phenazine derivatives (1~27) containing the Michael acceptor scaffolds were designed and synthesized in this study. Some compounds exhibited selective cytotoxicity against Bel-7402 cancer cell line in vitro, in which compound 26 were found to have the best antiproliferative activity. Meanwhile, compound 26 showed no obvious cell toxicity against human normal liver epithelial L02 cells, which means this compound possessed a better safety potential. In the following research, compound 26 was verified to inhibit TrxR1 enzyme activity, ultimately resulting in cellular molecular mechanism events of apoptosis including growth of intracellular ROS level, depletion of reduced Trx1, liberation of ASK1 and up-regulation of p38, respectively. Together, all these evidences implicated that compound 26 acted as the TrxR1 inhibitor against Bel-7402 cells, and could activate apoptosis through the ROS-Trx-ASK1-p38 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yucheng Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jing Liu
- School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiangyu Cheng
- School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Chunhua Zhang
- School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zhuolu Xia
- School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zhongxi Wu
- School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yuting Zheng
- School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zhanyu Gao
- School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zhidong Jiang
- School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zhixiang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Dechun Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yuanyuan Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Feng Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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Sun S, Xu W, Zhou H, Zhang Y, Zhang J, Li X, Li B, Ma K, Xu J. Efficient purification of selenoprotein thioredoxin reductase 1 by using chelating reagents to protect the affinity resins and rescue the enzyme activities. Process Biochem 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.procbio.2020.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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42
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Zheng D, Zhu Y, Shen Y, Xiao S, Yang L, Xiang Y, Dai X, Hu W, Zhou B, Liu Z, Zhao H, Zhao C, Huang X, Wang L. Cynaropicrin Shows Antitumor Progression Potential in Colorectal Cancer Through Mediation of the LIFR/STATs Axis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 8:605184. [PMID: 33505963 PMCID: PMC7829511 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.605184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second deadliest malignant disease in the world and the leukemia inhibitory factor receptor/signal transducers and activators of transcriptions (LIFR/STATs) signaling axis plays an important role in the molecular biology of CRC. METHODS Cell function tests were performed to observe the inhibitory effect of cynaropicrin on human CRC cells (RKO, HCT116, and DLD-1). Expression levels of LIFR, P-STAT3, P-STAT4, and apoptotic proteins were detected by Western blotting. Immunoprecipitation confirmed the presence of LIFR/STAT3/STAT4 complex. Cell immunofluorescence assay was used to observe the subcellular localization of STAT3 and STAT4. In vivo efficacy of cynaropicrin was evaluated by a xenotransplantation model in nude mice. RESULTS Cynaropicrin significantly reduced the survival ability of human CRC cells and promoted apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. Western blotting results suggested that the antitumor effects of cynaropicrin might be mediated by inhibition of the LIFR/STATs axis. Cynaropicrin reduced the formation of STAT3/STAT4 heterodimers and blocked their entry into the nucleus. Cynaropicrin also suppressed tumor growth in the xenograft model. CONCLUSION The results showed that cynaropicrin exerted a strong inhibitory effect on CRC in vitro and in vivo. Our study concluded that cynaropicrin has potential application prospects in the field of anti-CRC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Zheng
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- The Institute of Life Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yu Zhu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- The Institute of Life Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yili Shen
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- The Institute of Life Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Sisi Xiao
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- The Institute of Life Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Lehe Yang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Youqun Xiang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xuanxuan Dai
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Wanle Hu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Bin Zhou
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhiguo Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Haiyang Zhao
- The Institute of Life Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Chengguang Zhao
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaoying Huang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Liangxing Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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Wang X, Qian J, Zhu P, Hua R, Liu J, Hang J, Meng C, Shan W, Miao J, Ling Y. Novel Phenylmethylenecyclohexenone Derivatives as Potent TrxR Inhibitors Display High Antiproliferative Activity and Induce ROS, Apoptosis, and DNA Damage. ChemMedChem 2020; 16:702-712. [PMID: 33085980 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202000660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The natural product piperlonguminine (PL) has been shown to exert potential anticancer activity against several types of cancer via elevation of reactive oxidative species (ROS). However, the application of PL has been limited due to its poor water solubility and moderate activity. To improve PL's potency, we designed and synthesized a series of 17 novel phenylmethylenecyclohexenone derivatives and evaluated their pharmacological properties. Most of them exerted antiproliferative activities against four cancer cell lines with IC50 values lower than PL. Among these, compound 10 e not only showed good water solubility and exerted the most potent antiproliferative activity against HGC27 cells (IC50 =0.76 μM), which was 10-fold lower than PL (IC50 =7.53 μM), but also exhibited lower cytotoxicity in human normal gastric epithelial cells GES-1 compared with HGC27 cells. Mechanistically, compound 10 e inhibited thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) activity, increased ROS levels, and diminished mitochondrial transmembrane potential (MTP) in HGC27 cells. Furthermore, 10 e also induced G2 /M cell-cycle arrest, and triggered cancer cell apoptosis through the regulation of apoptotic proteins. Finally, 10 e promoted DNA damage in HGC27 cells via the activation of the H2AX(S139ph) and p53 signaling. In conclusion, 10 e, with prominent tumor selectivity and water solubility, could be a promising candidate for the treatment of cancer and, as such, warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomei Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, The People's Hospital of Taizhou, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Taizhou, 225300, China.,School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Jianqiang Qian
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Peng Zhu
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Rong Hua
- Department of Pharmacy, The People's Hospital of Taizhou, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Taizhou, 225300, China
| | - Ji Liu
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Jiaying Hang
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Chi Meng
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Wenpei Shan
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Jiefei Miao
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Yong Ling
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
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Zhu P, Qian J, Xu Z, Meng C, Liu J, Shan W, Zhu W, Wang Y, Yang Y, Zhang W, Zhang Y, Ling Y. Piperlonguminine and Piperine Analogues as TrxR Inhibitors that Promote ROS and Autophagy and Regulate p38 and Akt/mTOR Signaling. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2020; 83:3041-3049. [PMID: 33026807 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.0c00599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The natural products piperlongumine and piperine have been shown to inhibit cancer cell proliferation through elevation of reactive oxidative species (ROS) and eventually cell death, but only have modest cytotoxic potencies. A series of 14 novel phenylallylidenecyclohexenone analogues based on piperlongumine and piperine therefore were designed and synthesized, and their pharmacological properties were evaluated. Most of the compounds produced antiproliferative activities against five human cancer cells with IC50 values lower than those of piperlongumine and piperine. Among these, compound 9m exerted the most potent antiproliferative activity against drug-resistant Bel-7402/5-FU human liver cancer 5-FU resistant cells (IC50 = 0.8 μM), which was approximately 10-fold lower than piperlongumine (IC50 = 8.4 μM). Further, 9m showed considerably lower cytotoxicity against LO2 human normal liver epithelial cells compared to Bel-7402/5-FU. Mechanistically, compound 9m inhibited thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) activity, increased ROS levels, reduced mitochondrial transmembrane potential (MTP), and induced autophagy in Bel-7402/5-FU cells via regulation of autophagy-related proteins LC3, p62, and beclin-1. Finally, 9m activated significantly the p38 signaling pathways and suppressed the Akt/mTOR signaling pathways. In conclusion, 9m could be a promising candidate for the treatment of drug-resistant cancer cells and, as such, warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zhu
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianqiang Qian
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhongyuan Xu
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Chi Meng
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Ji Liu
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenpei Shan
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Weizhong Zhu
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongjun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration, Ministry of Education and Jiangsu Province, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Jiangsu Clinical Medicine Center of Tissue Engineering and Nerve Injury Repair, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Yumin Yang
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration, Ministry of Education and Jiangsu Province, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Jiangsu Clinical Medicine Center of Tissue Engineering and Nerve Injury Repair, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanan Zhang
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Ling
- School of Pharmacy and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, People's Republic of China
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Qian J, Xu Z, Meng C, Liu J, Hsu PL, Li Y, Zhu W, Yang Y, Morris-Natschke SL, Lee KH, Zhang Y, Ling Y. Design and synthesis of benzylidenecyclohexenones as TrxR inhibitors displaying high anticancer activity and inducing ROS, apoptosis, and autophagy. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 204:112610. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Zhang J, Duan D, Song ZL, Liu T, Hou Y, Fang J. Small molecules regulating reactive oxygen species homeostasis for cancer therapy. Med Res Rev 2020; 41:342-394. [PMID: 32981100 DOI: 10.1002/med.21734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Elevated intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defense systems have been recognized as one of the hallmarks of cancer cells. Compared with normal cells, cancer cells exhibit increased ROS to maintain their malignant phenotypes and are more dependent on the "redox adaptation" mechanism. Thus, there are two apparently contradictory but virtually complementary therapeutic strategies for the regulation of ROS to prevent or treat cancer. The first strategy, that is, chemoprevention, is to prevent or reduce intracellular ROS either by suppressing ROS production pathways or by employing antioxidants to enhance ROS clearance, which protects normal cells from malignant transformation and inhibits the early stage of tumorigenesis. The second strategy is the ROS-mediated anticancer therapy, which stimulates intracellular ROS to a toxicity threshold to activate ROS-induced cell death pathways. Therefore, targeting the regulation of intracellular ROS-related pathways by small-molecule candidates is considered to be a promising treatment for tumors. We herein first briefly introduce the source and regulation of ROS, and then focus on small molecules that regulate ROS-related pathways and show efficacy in cancer therapy from the perspective of pharmacophores. Finally, we discuss several challenges in developing cancer therapeutic agents based on ROS regulation and propose the direction of future development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junmin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Dongzhu Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry, Baoji University of Arts and Sciences, Baoji, China
| | - Zi-Long Song
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Tianyu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yanan Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jianguo Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
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Yao J, Duan D, Song ZL, Zhang J, Fang J. Sanguinarine as a new chemical entity of thioredoxin reductase inhibitor to elicit oxidative stress and promote tumor cell apoptosis. Free Radic Biol Med 2020; 152:659-667. [PMID: 31931095 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2020.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The alteration of redox homeostasis is a hallmark of cancer cells. As a critical player in regulating cellular redox signaling, thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) enzymes are increasingly recognized as attractive targets for anticancer drug development. We reported herein the natural product sanguinarine (SAN) as a potent inhibitor of TrxR with a new chemical scaffold. Inhibition of TrxR leads to accumulation of the oxidized thioredoxin, elicits oxidative stress, and finally promotes apoptosis of cancer cells. Further synthesis of different model compounds of SAN demonstrated that the phenanthridinium unit is responsible for the TrxR inhibition. The core structure of SAN, e.g., the phenanthridinium moiety, is different from those of known TrxR inhibitors, and thus SAN is a new chemical entity of TrxR inhibitors and may serve a lead for further development. In addition, as the phenanthridinium scaffold is widely present in natural products, the disclosure of TrxR inhibition by such unit sheds light in understanding the pharmacological actions of these molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, China; School of Pharmacy, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, China
| | - Dongzhu Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, China; Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry, Baoji University of Arts and Sciences, Baoji, 721013, China
| | - Zi-Long Song
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, China
| | - Junmin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, China
| | - Jianguo Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, China.
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Applications of Sesquiterpene Lactones: A Review of Some Potential Success Cases. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/app10093001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Sesquiterpene lactones, a vast range of terpenoids isolated from Asteraceae species, exhibit a broad spectrum of biological effects and several of them are already commercially available, such as artemisinin. Here the most recent and impactful results of in vivo, preclinical and clinical studies involving a selection of ten sesquiterpene lactones (alantolactone, arglabin, costunolide, cynaropicrin, helenalin, inuviscolide, lactucin, parthenolide, thapsigargin and tomentosin) are presented and discussed, along with some of their derivatives. In the authors’ opinion, these compounds have been neglected compared to others, although they could be of great use in developing important new pharmaceutical products. The selected sesquiterpenes show promising anticancer and anti-inflammatory effects, acting on various targets. Moreover, they exhibit antifungal, anxiolytic, analgesic, and antitrypanosomal activities. Several studies discussed here clearly show the potential that some of them have in combination therapy, as sensitizing agents to facilitate and enhance the action of drugs in clinical use. The derivatives show greater pharmacological value since they have better pharmacokinetics, stability, potency, and/or selectivity. All these natural terpenoids and their derivatives exhibit properties that invite further research by the scientific community.
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Li X, Hou Y, Zhao J, Li J, Wang S, Fang J. Combination of chemotherapy and oxidative stress to enhance cancer cell apoptosis. Chem Sci 2020; 11:3215-3222. [PMID: 34122827 PMCID: PMC8157308 DOI: 10.1039/c9sc05997k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells are vulnerable to reactive oxygen species (ROS) due to their abnormal redox environment. Accordingly, combination of chemotherapy and oxidative stress has gained increasing interest for the treatment of cancer. We report a novel seleno-prodrug of gemcitabine (Gem), Se-Gem, and evaluated its activation and biological effects in cancer cells. Se-Gem was prepared by introducing a 1,2-diselenolane (a five-membered cyclic diselenide) moiety into the parent drug Gem via a carbamate linker. Se-Gem is preferably activated by glutathione (GSH) and displays a remarkably higher potency than Gem (up to a 6-fold increase) to a panel of cancer cell lines. The activation of Se-Gem by GSH releases Gem and a seleno-intermediate nearly quantitatively. Unlike the most ignored side products in prodrug activation, the seleno-intermediate further catalyzes a conversion of GSH and oxygen to GSSG (oxidized GSH) and ROS via redox cycling reactions. Thus Se-Gem may be considered as a suicide agent to deplete GSH and works by a combination of chemotherapy and oxidative stress. This is the first case that employs a cyclic diselenide in prodrug design, and the success of Se-Gem as well as its well-defined action mechanism demonstrates that the 1,2-diselenolane moiety may serve as a general scaffold to advance constructing novel therapeutic molecules with improved potency via a combination of chemotherapy and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinming Li
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University Lanzhou Gansu 730000 China
| | - Yanan Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University Lanzhou Gansu 730000 China
| | - Jintao Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University Lanzhou Gansu 730000 China
| | - Jin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University Lanzhou Gansu 730000 China
| | - Song Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University Lanzhou Gansu 730000 China
| | - Jianguo Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University Lanzhou Gansu 730000 China
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Wang Y, Zhang W, Dong J, Gao J. Design, synthesis and bioactivity evaluation of coumarin-chalcone hybrids as potential anticancer agents. Bioorg Chem 2019; 95:103530. [PMID: 31887477 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2019.103530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The selenoprotein thioredoxin reductases (TrxRs) have been extensively studied as a potential target for the development of anticancer drugs. Herein, we designed, synthesized, and evaluated a series of coumarin-chalcone hybrids as TrxR inhibitors. Most of them exhibited enhancing anticancer activity than Xanthohumol (Xn). The representative Xn-2 (IC50 = 3.6 μM) was a fluorescence agent, wherein drug uptake can be readily monitored in living cells by red fluorescence imaging. Xn-2 down-regulated the expression of TrxR, remarkedly induced ROS accumulation to activate mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. Furthermore, Xn-2 inhibited cancer cell metastasis and abolished the colony formation ability of cancer cells. Taken together, these results highlight that compound Xn-2 may be a promising theranostic TrxR inhibitor for human cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1, East Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, China
| | - Wenda Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1, East Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, China.
| | - Junqiang Dong
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1, East Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, China
| | - Jianbo Gao
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1, East Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, China.
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