Isoorientin from Gypsophila elegans induces apoptosis in liver cancer cells via mitochondrial-mediated pathway

Synthesis, characterization, antioxidant and bacteriostasis in preservation of isoorientin loaded Zein/GA nanoparticles

Isoorientin (Iso) is a natural flavone with multiple activities. In the present study, the partial chemical properties and activities of Iso were improved by the nanoparticle loading technique. Zein/GA nanoparticles were successfully synthesized with the antisolvent precipitation method, and the structure and stability of the Zein/GA nanoparticles loaded with Iso (Zein/GA-Iso nanoparticles) were characterized by FTIR, UV-vis spectroscopy and zeta-sizer analysis. Results showed that Zein/GA-Iso nanoparticles possessed greater stability, light stability, hydrophilicity and antioxidant activity. Furthermore, Zein/GA-Iso nanoparticles exerted notable antibacterial activity against E. coli, S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa by destroying the permeability and integrity of cell membrane. On this basis, Zein/GA-Iso nanoparticles do have a bacteriostatic effect on pork. In conclusion, Zein/GA-Iso nanoparticles had better stability and pork preservation for applications in the food processing field as a new type of antiseptic and freshening agent.

The combined toxicity of polystyrene nano/micro-plastics and triphenyl phosphate (TPHP) on HepG2 cells

Combined toxicity is a critical concern during the risk assessment of environmental pollutants. Due to the characteristics of strong hydrophobicity and large specific surface area, microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) have become potential carriers of organic pollutants that may pose a health risk to humans. The co-occurrence of organic pollutants and MPs would cause adverse effects on aquatic organism, while the information about combined toxicity induced by organophosphorus flame retardants and MPs on human cells was limited. This study aimed to reveal the toxicity effects of co-exposure to triphenyl phosphate (TPHP) and polystyrene (PS) particles with micron-size/nano-size on HepG2 cell line. The adsorption behaviors of TPHP on PS particles was observed, with the PS-NP exhibiting a higher adsorption capacity. The reactive oxygen species generation, mitochondrial membrane potential depolarization, lactate dehydrogenase release and cell apoptosis proved that PS-NPs/MPs exacerbated TPHP-induced cytotoxicity. The particle size of PS would affect the toxicity to HepG2 cells that PS-NP (0.07 μm) exhibited more pronounced combined toxicity than PS-MP (1 μm) with equivalent concentrations of TPHP. This study provides fundamental insights into the co-toxicity of TPHP and PS micro/nanoplastics in HepG2 cells, which is crucial for validating the potential risk of combined toxicity in humans.

A novel photosensitizer DTPP-mediated photodynamic therapy induces oxidative stress and apoptosis through mitochondrial pathways in LA795 cells

OBJECTIVE

Investigation of the effects of 5-5- (4-N, N-diacetoxylphenyl)-10,15,20- tetraphenylporphyrin (DTPP)-mediated photodynamic therapy (PDT) on oxidative stress and mitochondrial apoptosis in LA795 lung cancer cells.

METHODS

Proteomics was used to identify differentially expressed proteins after PDT treatment. The apoptosis rate was determined by flow cytometry. Morphologic observation of apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, antioxidant indices, nitric oxide (NO) content, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and Caspase- 9 and Caspase-3 were determined by assays; apoptosis-related protein levels of Cytochrome (Cyto) c, Bcl- 2, Bax were determined by Western blot.

RESULTS

Typical apoptosis morphology of LA795 cells was observed after PDT. The cells were mainly in the apoptosis death pathway with high cell apoptosis rates. The proteomics study observed the apoptosis-associated proteins, oxidative stress proteins, antioxidant proteins, the cytoskeletal protein and mitochondrial dysfunction in LA 795 cells. Additional results indicated that PDT could increase levels of ROS, NO; decrease glutathione (GSH) content and MMP; upregulated Bax, Cyto c, and Caspase-3 protein expression, inhibited Bcl-2 protein expression, and further induced cell apoptosis. The effect of DTPP-PDT on lung cancer was: first, mitochondrial Cyto c is released into the cytoplasm, then Caspase- 9 / Caspase-3 was activated, Bcl-2 decreased/Bax increased, initiating cell apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

DTPP-PDT could induce oxidative stress and apoptosis via mitochondrial pathways in LA795 cells.

Lappaconitine sulfate inhibits proliferation and induces mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis via regulating PI3K/AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway in HeLa cells

Lappaconitine (LA), a diterpenoid alkaloid extracted from the root of Aconitum sinomontanum Nakai, exhibits broad pharmacological effects, including anti-tumor activity. The inhibitory effect of lappaconitine hydrochloride (LH) on HepG2 and HCT-116 cells and the toxicity of lappaconitine sulfate (LS) on HT-29, A549, and HepG2 cells have been described. But the mechanisms of LA against human cervical cancer HeLa cells still need to be clarified. This study was designed to investigate the effects and molecular mechanisms of lappaconitine sulfate (LS) on the growth inhibition and apoptosis in HeLa cells. The cell viability and proliferation were evaluated using the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and 5-ethynyl-2´-deoxyuridine (EdU) assay, respectively. The cell cycle distribution and apoptosis were detected by flow cytometry analysis and 4', 6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining. The mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) was determined through the 5, 5', 6, 6'-tetrachloro-1, 1', 3, 3'-tetraethylbenzimi-dazolyl carbocyanine iodide (JC-1) staining. The cell cycle arrest-, apoptosis-, and the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B/glycogen synthase kinase 3β (PI3K/AKT/GSK3β) pathway-related proteins were estimated by western blot analysis. LS markedly reduced the viability and suppressed the proliferation of HeLa cells. LS induced G0/G1 cell cycle arrest through the inhibition of Cyclin D1, p-Rb, and induction of p21 and p53. Furthermore, LS triggered apoptosis through the activation of mitochondrial-mediated pathway based on decrease of Bcl-2/Bax ratio and MMP and activation of caspase-9/7/3. Additionally, LS led to constitutive downregulation of the PI3K/AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway. Collectively, LS inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis through mitochondrial-mediated pathway by suppression of the PI3K/AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway in HeLa cells.

In Silico Studies of Four Compounds of Cecropia obtusifolia against Malaria Parasite

Malaria is a disease that affects many people in the world. In Mexico, malaria remains an active disease in certain regions, particularly in the states of Chiapas and Chihuahua. While antimalarial effects have been attributed to some species of Cecropia in various countries, no such studies have been conducted in Mexico. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the in silico antimalarial activity of some active compounds identified according to the literature in the species of Cecropia obtusifolia, belonging to the Cecropiaceae family, such as ursolic acid, α-amyrin, chrysin, and isoorientin. These compounds were evaluated with specific molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) studies using three different malarial targets with the PDB codes 1CET, 2BL9, and 4ZL4 as well as the prediction of their pharmacokinetic (Pk) properties. Docking analysis revealed the following best binding energies (kcal/mol): isoorientin-1CET (-9.1), isoorientin-2BL9 (-8.8), and chrysin-4ZL4 (-9.6). MD simulation validated the stability of the complexes. Pharmacokinetics analysis suggested that the compounds would generally perform well if administered. Therefore, these results suggest that these compounds may be used as potential drugs for the treatment of malaria.

Bifidobacterium-derived membrane vesicles inhibit triple-negative breast cancer growth by inducing tumor cell apoptosis

BACKGROUND

Bacterial outer membrane vesicles have gained increasing attention for its antitumor effect and application in drug delivery. However, the bacterial membrane vesicles (MVs) that are secreted by Gram-positive bacteria are rarely mentioned. Bifidobacterium has a certain anti-tumor effect, but there is a certain risk when injected into human body. Here we investigated the potential of Bifidobacterium-derived membrane vesicles (B-MVs) as therapeutic agents to treat triple-negative breast cancer.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Firstly, we discovered that Bifidobacterium can produce B-MVs and isolated them. In vivo, we found that B-MVs can inhibit tumor growth in mice and the mice were in good state. H&E staining displayed extensive apoptotic cells in tumor tissues. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry showed that B-MVs increased the expression of Bax, while decreased the expression of Bcl-2. These results suggested that B-MVs may induce apoptosis of tumor cells in vivo. Furthermore, to further confirm this phenomenon, we conducted experiments in vitro. Hoechst 33,258 staining assay, flow cytometry and western blotting also demonstrated B-MVs promoted cell apoptosis in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

We speculate B-MVs may inhibit tumor growth by inducing tumor cell apoptosis in triple-negative breast cancer, which provided a new direction in the treatment of TNBC.

Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects of Leaves and Sheath from Bamboo (Phyllostacys edulis J. Houz)

Bamboo (Phyllostacys edulis J. Houz) has become an emerging forest resource of economic and ecological significance with health benefits. Since the beneficial effects of the non-edible parts of bamboo have not been thoroughly explored, we characterized in this study bamboo leaf (BL) and sheath (BS) extracts. The total phenol and flavonoid content (TPC and TFC), antioxidant activity (ABTS, DPPH, FRAP and β-carotene bleaching test) and anti-inflammatory properties were determined. Leaves exhibited a TPC value of 73.92 mg equivalent (eq) gallic acid/g fresh weight (FW) and a TFC value of 56.75 mg eq quercetin/g FW. Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (UHPLC) coupled with photo diode array detector (PDA) analysis revealed evidence for the presence of protocatechuic acid, isoorientin, orientin and isovitexin in BL, whereas BS was rich in phenolic acids. Both samples demonstrated a significant ability to scavenge radicals against ABTS^·+, with an inhibitory concentration of 50% of 3.07 μg/mL for BL and 6.78 μg/mL for BS. At a concentration of 0.1 and 0.2 mg/mL, BS decreased reactive oxygen species production without hampering cell viability in HepG2 liver cells, while at the same concentrations, BL exhibited cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells. In addition, 0.1 and 0.2 mg/mL BS and BL reduced Interleukin-6 and Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 production in human lipopolysaccharide-stimulated THP-1 macrophages, without affecting cell viability. These findings highlight the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of BL and BS, corroborating their different potential applications in the nutraceutical, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.

Ethanolic Extract of Artemisia vulgaris Leaf Promotes Apoptotic Cell Death in Non-Small-Cell Lung Carcinoma A549 Cells through Inhibition of the Wnt Signaling Pathway

The Wnt signaling pathway is reported to be associated with lung cancer progression, metastasis and drug resistance, and thus it is an important therapeutic target for lung cancer. Plants have been shown as reservoirs of multiple potential anticancer agents. In the present investigation, the ethanolic leaf extract of Artemisia vulgaris (AvL-EtOH) was initially analyzed by means of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) to identify the important phytochemical constituents. The GC–MS analysis of AvL-EtOH exhibited 48 peaks of various secondary metabolites such as terpenoids, flavonoids, carbohydrates, coumarins, amino acids, steroids, proteins, phytosterols, and diterpenes. It was found that the treatment with increasing doses of AvL-EtOH suppressed the proliferation and migration of lung cancer cells. Furthermore, AvL-EtOH induced prominent nuclear alteration along with a reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential and increased ROS (reactive oxygen species) generation in lung cancer cells. Moreover, AvL-EtOH-treated cells exhibited increased apoptosis, demonstrated by the activation of caspase cascade. AvL-EtOH also induced downregulation of Wnt3 and β-catenin expression along with cell cycle protein cyclin D1. Thus, the results of our study elucidated the potential of bioactive components of Artemisia vulgaris in the therapeutic management of lung cancer cells.

A Mechanism of Isoorientin-Induced Apoptosis and Migration Inhibition in Gastric Cancer AGS Cells

Isoorientin (ISO) is a flavonoid compound containing a luteolin structure, which can induce autophagy in some tumor cells. This study investigated the impact of ISO in gastric cancer AGS cells, and performed an experimental analysis on the main signaling pathways and transduction pathways it regulates. CCK-8 assay results showed that ISO reduced the survival rate of gastric cancer AGS cells, but the toxicity to normal cells was minimal. Hoechst 33342/PI double staining assay results showed that ISO induced apoptosis in gastric cancer AGS cells. Further analysis by flow cytometry and Western blot showed that ISO induced apoptosis via a mitochondria-dependent pathway. In addition, the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in gastric cancer AGS cells also increased with the extension of the ISO treatment time. However, cell apoptosis was inhibited by preconditioning cells with N-acetylcysteine (NAC). Moreover, ISO arrested the cell cycle at the G2/M phase by increasing intracellular ROS levels. Cell migration assay results showed that ISO inhibited cell migration by inhibiting the expression of p-AKT, p-GSK-3β, and β-catenin and was also related to the accumulation of ROS. These results suggest that ISO-induced cell apoptosis by ROS-mediated MAPK/STAT3/NF-κB signaling pathways inhibited cell migration by regulating the AKT/GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling pathway in gastric cancer AGS cells.

Ethanolic Leaf Extract of C. angustifolia Instigates ROS Mediated Apoptosis within Glioblastoma C6 Cells

Glioblastoma multiforme or GBM is a destructive malignancy of the central nervous system and is accountable for leading cause of cancer related mortality. Inadequate success rate of surgical interventions and development of resistance towards the current therapeutical regime provides impetus for exploring novel therapeutical interventions against the disease. Recently, several epidemiological studies have explored the plausible utility of natural, dietary compounds in influencing the development, progression, and cancer metastasis. Recently, different phytoconstituents of Cassia angustifolia were found to be associated with anti-microbial, anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the anti-proliferative efficacy of ethanolic leaf extract of C. angustifolia (LCaEt-OH) against rat derived glioblastoma C6 cells. Briefly, the anti-proliferative potential of LCaEt-OH was assessed using MTT assay, quantitative estimation of ROS, and evaluation of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨ_m). Moreover, the activity of caspases involved in intrinsic apoptotic pathways was also investigated using colorimetric kit followed by quantitative RT-PCR evaluation of modulation in gene expressions triggered due to LCaEt-OH treatment. Treatment of LCaEt-OH on C6 cells elucidated substantial dose-dependent decline in cellular viability. Furthermore, LCaEt-OH showed its efficacy in substantially enhancing intracellular ROS. LCaEt-OH also incited apoptosis in C6 cells by instigating nuclear condensation and dissipation of ΔΨ_m. In addition, LCaEt-OH mediated instigation of apoptosis was directly influenced by increased activity of caspases indispensable for intrinsic apoptotic pathway. These conclusive evidences indicate towards anticancer efficacy of LCaEt-OH against C6 cells.

Ethanolic extract of Coleus aromaticus leaves impedes the proliferation and instigates apoptotic cell death in liver cancer HepG2 cells through repressing JAK/STAT cascade

Liver cancer or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has become a leading cause for cancer burden across the globe, and incidences have tripled since the last two decades. Poor diagnosis of primary liver cancer and limited treatment strategies aggravate the challenges. Researchers globally have shown a steep inclination toward the exploration of plant-based compounds for their nutraceutical and anticancer potential to fit into the role of novel chemotherapeutics. Coleus aromaticus is a well-known culinary herb that earlier has been reported for several medicinal attributes. The current investigation deals with exploring the anticancer potential of ethanolic leaf extract of C. aromaticus (CoL-EtOH) against hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cell line. The observations made it evident that CoL-EtOH extract impeded the viability of HepG2 at 400 μg/ml (p < .01). Additionally, the extract also succeeded in escalating ROS production (p < .01) which aided dissipation of mitochondrial membrane potential and disruption of nuclear morphology. CoL-EtOH further activated caspase-8, -9, and -3 which was reaffirmed by increase in apoptosis at 400 μg/ml (p < .01). Moreover, post treatment with CaLEt-OH extract significantly reduced the expression of JAK-1 & STAT-3 genes (p < .01) along with regulated expression of Mcl1, Bcl-2, cyclinD1, p21, and p27 within HepG2 cells. This evidence portrays the promising anticancer potential of CoL-EtOH projecting it as a novel chemotherapeutic agent against HCC. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The herb Coleus aromaticus belonging to Lamiaceae family and Coleus genus is known by various names in different regions of the world and several language-specific vernacular names. The herb has been used in therapeutic and medicinal applications as well as in culinary preparations. Various attributes of the nutritional strength and functional characteristics of the leaves in terms of carotenoids, minerals, phenols, dietary fiber, and antioxidant activity have been reported by several researchers. Carvacrol and thymol are majorly found in the plant, while chlorogenic acid and rosmarinic acid etc. as the phenolic components. The herb has been used in therapeutic and medicinal implications as well as in culinary preparations.

Characterization of chikusetsusaponin IV and V induced apoptosis in HepG2 cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Chikusetsusaponin IV and V (CsIV and CsV), two typical oleanolic acid saponins, are mainly derived from the rhizome of Panax japonicus C.A. Mey. To reveal the anti-cancer effect of CsIV and CsV on liver cancer cells, human hepatic cancer cell lines (HepG2) were exposed to these saponins, and various physiological responses of HepG2 were investigated.

METHODS AND RESULTS

HepG2 cells were treated with CsIV, CsV and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Cell proliferation was measured by CCK-8 assay. The cell cycle arrest, cell apoptosis and intracellular Ca²⁺ levels were respectively identified by flow cytometry. The mitochondrial membrane potential was detected by fluorescence microscopy. And, the levels of apoptosis-related proteins were analyzed by western blotting. Both CsIV and CsV were demonstrated to inhibit cell viability, and induce cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of HepG2 in a dose-dependent manner. They also enhanced the intracellular Ca²⁺ level and decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential in HepG2 cells. Furthermore, p53 and p21 were found up-regulated in HepG2 cells treated by CsIV and CsV. The apoptotic proteins, bax, cytochrome c, cleaved caspase-3/-9, were all found activated in HepG2 cells after CsIV and CsV treatment. The anti-apoptotic protein, bcl-2, was significantly down-regulated in all treated HepG2 cells.

CONCLUSION

Our data demonstrated that CsIV and CsV exerted significant cytotoxic effects on HepG2 cells without affecting normal liver cells. And, these chikusetsusaponins, especially for CsIV, showed a potent effect on promoting cell apoptosis in HepG2 cells, which was associated with the activation of p53-mediated apoptosis pathway.

Pharmacological Evaluation of Novel 1,2,4-triazine Derivatives Containing Thiazole Ring against Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Background:

New 6-hydroxy-5-(p-hydroxybenzylidene)-3-phenyl-2- [(5-pchlorophenyl)- 1,3-thiazol-2-yl]-1, 2, 4-triazine derivatives containing a thiazole ring were synthesised as potential antitumor agents.

Methods:

Cytotoxicity of compounds (3) and (4) was evaluated in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell lines (HepG2); compound (3) showed more cytotoxicity (IC50=9.0μg/ml) than compound (4) (IC50=18.40μg/ml) using doxorubicin as standard. The degree of toxicity of compound (3) was assessed by the LD50 with its anticancer performance by suppressing tumor angiogenesis against diethylnitrosamine (DENA) induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in male rat model.

Results :

Carcinogenic rats showed a significant increase in markers of angiogenesis, tumour growth, and liver function tests and malondialdehyde level coupled with reduced hepatic glutathione level and caspase-3 activity. The distribution of compound (3) to animals after the development of HCC improved biochemical alterations from a DENA chemical carcinogen that is confirmed by hepatic histopathology.

Conclusion:

Compound 3 perhaps utilized as a strong applicant for newly therapeutic protocols against hepatocarcinogenesis by controlling tumor angiogenesis and renovating the activity of hepatic marker enzymes in addition to reversing the oxidant-antioxidant imbalance in corporation with amelioration of histopathology. While the trial supports the use of compound 3 for improved HCC outcome and the toxicity and side effects should be considered.

Influence of the co-exposure of microplastics and tetrabromobisphenol A on human gut: Simulation in vitro with human cell Caco-2 and gut microbiota

Microplastics (MPs) pollution becomes an emergent threat to the ecosystem, and its joint effect with organic contaminants will cause more severe consequences. Recently, MPs has been observed in human feces, suggesting that we are exposed to an uncertain danger. In this study, the joint effect of polyethylene microplastics particles (PEMPs) and Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) on human gut was explored through the simulation experiment in vitro with human cell Caco-2 and gut microbiota. The toxicity of TBBPA and PEMPs on Caco-2 human cells was considered by physiological and biochemical indexes such as cell proliferation, cell cycle, reactive oxygen species, lactate dehydrogenase release, and mitochondrial membrane potential. Besides, microbial community diversity, community structure, and function changes of gut microbiota were investigated using Illumina 16S rRNA gene MiSeq sequencing to reveal the influence of TBBPA and PEMPs on human gut microbiota. The results indicated that both PEMPs and TBBPA would deteriorate the status of Caco-2 cells, and TBBPA played a major role in it; meanwhile, PEMPs affected Caco-2 cells at high concentrations. Particularly, TBBPA and PEMPs exhibited a joint effect on Caco-2 cells to a certain degree. TBBPA selectivity inhibited the growth of gram-positive bacteria such as Enterococcus and Lactobacillus, contributing to the thriving of gram-negative bacteria such as Escherichia and Bacteroides. The existence of PEMPs would enhance the proportion of Clostridium, Bacteroides, and Escherichia. Community composition changed dramatically with the interference of PEMPs and TBBPA; this was undesirable to the healthy homeostasis of the human gut. PICRUSt analysis determined both PEMPs and TBBPA interfered with the metabolism pathways of gut microbiota. Hence, the threat of MPs and TBBPA to humans should arouse vigilance.

Anticancer activities of TCM and their active components against tumor metastasis

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has the characteristics of multiple targets, slight side effects and good therapeutic effects. Good anti-tumor effects are shown by Traditional Chinese Medicine prescription, Chinese patent medicine, single Traditional Chinese Medicine and Traditional Chinese medicine monomer compound. Clinically, TCM prolonged the survival time of patients and improved the life quality of patients, due to less side effects. Cancer metastasis is a complex process involving numerous steps, multiple genes and their products. During the process of tumor metastasis, firstly, cancer cell increases its proliferative capacity by reducing autophagy and apoptosis, and then the cancer cell capacity is stimulated by increasing the ability of tumors to absorb nutrients from the outside through angiogenesis. Both of the two steps can increase tumor migration and invasion. Finally, the purpose of tumor metastasis is achieved. By inhibiting autophagy and apoptosis of tumor cells, angiogenesis and EMT outside the tumor can inhibit the invasion and migration of cancer, and consequently achieve the purpose of inhibiting tumor metastasis. This review explores the research achievements of Traditional Chinese Medicine on breast cancer, lung cancer, hepatic carcinoma, colorectal cancer, gastric cancer and other cancer metastasis in the past five years, summarizes the development direction of TCM on cancer metastasis research in the past five years and makes a prospect for the future.

Individual and mixture toxicity of chromium and copper in development, oxidative stress, lipid metabolism and apoptosis of Bufo gargarizans embryos

In natural ecosystems, living organisms are always subjected to a mixture of multiple heavy metals exposure, yet it is more common to study the effect of individual, rather than combined exposure. This study assessed the impacts of single or combined exposure to Cr and Cu on embryonic development, oxidative stress, lipid metabolism and apoptosis in the early development of Bufo gargarizans embryos. The total length, development stage and malformations of embryos were measured, and the mRNA expression of genes related to oxidative stress, lipid metabolism and apoptosis at Gs 18 and Gs 22 were determined by RT-qPCR. The results showed that all treatments significantly reduced the total length of embryos, delayed the stage of embryonic development and increased the proportion of malformed embryos. The Cr-Cu mixture treatment showed the greatest suppression of embryonic development and induced the highest rate of embryo malformation, compared to individual Cr and Cu treatments. In addition, the expression levels of oxidative stress genes (HSP90, SOD and GPx) and fatty acid β-oxidation-related genes (ACOXL, ECHS1 and SCP) showed an up-regulated trend in treatments compared to control groups. Conversely, the lipid synthesis-related mRNA gene expressions (KAR, TECR, ACSL3 and ACSL4) were down-regulated. Among them, the Cr-Cu mixture had the greatest impact on lipid metabolism gene expression. The treatments showed significant effects on the expression of apoptosis genes (Bcl-1 and Bax), with Bcl-1 mRNA expression increasing and Bax mRNA expression decreasing. These results indicated that exposure to individual Cr, Cu and a Cr-Cu mixture can lead to oxidative stress, disrupt lipid metabolism and promote apoptosis, and the Cr-Cu mixture could cause more serious negative effects on B. gargarizans embryos than Cr or Cu individually.

Isoorientin exerts a urate-lowering effect through inhibition of xanthine oxidase and regulation of the TLR4-NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway

Isoorientin (ISO), a natural flavonoid compound, has been identified in several plants and its biological activity is determined and the study on lowering uric acid has not been reported. In view of the current status of treatment of hyperuricemia, we evaluated the hypouricemic effects of ISO in vivo and in vitro, and explored the underlying mechanisms. Yeast extract-induced hyperuricemia animal model as well as hypoxanthine and xanthine oxidase (XOD) co-induced high uric acid L-O2 cell model and enzymatic experiments in vitro were selected. The XOD activity and uric acid (UA) level were inhibited after the treatment of ISO in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, serum creatinine (CRE) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels were also significantly reduced and liver damage was recovered in pathological histology after the ISO administration in hyperuricemia animal model. The results of mechanism illustrated that protein expressions such as XOD, toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), cathepsin B (CTSB), NLRP3, and its downstream caspase-1 as well as interleukin-18 (IL-18) were markedly downregulated by ISO intervention in vitro and in vivo. Our results suggest that ISO exerts a urate-lowering effect through inhibiting XOD activity and regulating TLR4-NLRP3 inflammasome signal pathway, thus representing a promising candidate therapeutic agent for hyperuricemia. Both animal models and in vitro experiments suggested that ISO may effectively lower uric acid produce. The mechanism might be the inhibition of XOD activity and NLRP3 inflammasome of upregulation.

Isoorientin, a GSK-3β inhibitor, rescues synaptic dysfunction, spatial memory deficits and attenuates pathological progression in APP/PS1 model mice

β-Amyloid (Aβ) elevation, tau hyperphosphorylation, and neuroinflammation are major hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) is a key protein kinase implicated in the pathogenesis of AD. Blockade of GSK-3β is an attractive therapeutic strategy for AD. Isoorientin, a 6-C-glycosylflavone, was previously shown to be a highly selective inhibitor of GSK-3β, while exerting neuroprotective effects in neuronal models of AD. In the present study, we evaluated the in vivo effects of isoorientin on GSK-3β, tau phosphorylation, Aβ deposition, neuroinflammatory response, long-term potentiation, and spatial memory in amyloid precursor protein/presenilin 1 (APP/PS1) transgenic mice using biochemical, electrophysiological, and behavioral tests. Chronic oral administration of isoorientin to APP/PS1 mice at 8 months of age attenuated multiple AD pathogenic hallmarks in the brains, including GSK-3β overactivation, tau hyperphosphorylation, Aβ deposition, and neuroinflammation. For neuroinflammation, isoorientin treatment reduced the number of activated microglia associated with Aβ-positive plaques, and in parallel reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory factors in the brains of APP/PS1 mice. Strikingly, isoorientin reversed deficits in synaptic long-term potentiation and spatial memory relevant to cognitive functions. Together, the findings suggest that isoorientin is a brain neuroprotector and may be a promising drug lead for treatment of AD and related neurodegenerative disorders.

Isoorientin induces the apoptosis and cell cycle arrest of A549 human lung cancer cells via the ROS‑regulated MAPK, STAT3 and NF‑κB signaling pathways

Isoorientin (ISO) is a naturally occurring C‑glycosyl flavone that has various pharmacological properties, such as anti‑bacterial and anti‑inflammatory effects. However, its underlying molecular mechanisms in human lung cancer cells remain unknown. In the present study, the effects of ISO on the induction of apoptosis and relative molecular mechanisms in A549 human lung cancer cells were investigated. The results of Cell Counting Kit‑8 assay (CCK‑8) indicated that ISO exerted significant cytotoxic effects on 3 lung cancer cell lines, but had no obvious side‑effects on normal cells. Moreover, flow cytometry and western blot analysis revealed that ISO induced mitochondrial‑dependent apoptosis by reducing mitochondrial membrane potential. ISO also increased the expression levels of Bax, cleaved‑caspase‑3 (cle‑cas‑3) and poly(ADP‑ribose) polymerase (PARP; cle‑PARP), and decreased the expression levels of Bcl‑2 in A549 cells. Furthermore, ISO induced G2/M cell cycle arrest by decreasing the expression levels of cyclin B1 and CDK1/2, and increasing the expression levels of p21 and p27 in A549 cells. As the duration of ISO treatment increased, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in A549 cells also increased. However, pre‑treatment of the cells with the ROS scavenger, N‑acetylcysteine (NAC), inhibited ISO‑induced apoptosis. In addition, ISO increased the expression levels of p‑p38, p‑JNK and IκB‑α; and decreased the expression levels of p‑extracellular signal‑regulated kinase (ERK), p‑signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)3, p‑nuclear factor (NF)‑κB, NF‑κB and p‑IκB; these effects were induced by mitogen‑activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitors and blocked by NAC. Taken together, the results of the present study indicate that ISO induces the apoptosis of A549 lung cancer cells via the ROS‑mediated MAPK/STAT3/NF‑κB signaling pathway, and thus may be a potential drug for use in the treatment of lung cancer.

Chemopreventive role of arabinoxylan rice bran, MGN-3/Biobran, on liver carcinogenesis in rats

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers in the world and one of the most lethal. MGN-3/Biobran is a natural product derived from rice bran hemicelluloses and has been reported to possess a potent anticancer effect in a clinical study of patients with HCC. The current study examines the mechanisms by which Biobran protects against chemically induced hepatocarcinogenesis in rats. The chemical carcinogen used in this study is N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) plus carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄). Rats were treated with this carcinogen, and the animals were pretreated or posttreated with Biobran via intraperitoneal injections until the end of the experiment. Treatment with Biobran resulted in: 1) significant alleviation of liver preneoplastic lesions towards normal hepatocellular architecture in association with inhibition of collagen fiber deposition; 2) arrest of cancer cells in the sub-G1 phase of the cell cycle; 3) increased DNA fragmentation in cancer cells; 4) down-regulated expression of Bcl-2 and up-regulated expression of p53, Bax, and caspase-3; and 5) protection against carcinogen-induced suppression of IkappaB-alpha (IκB-α) mRNA expression and inhibition of nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB/p65) expression. Additionally, the effect of Biobran treatment was found to be more significant when supplemented prior to carcinogen-induced hepatocarcinogenesis as compared to posttreatment. We conclude that Biobran inhibits hepatocarcinogenesis in rats by mechanisms that include induction of apoptosis, inhibition of inflammation, and suppression of cancer cell proliferation. Biobran may be a promising chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agent for liver carcinogenesis.

Isoorientin plays an important role in alleviating Cadmium-induced DNA damage and G0/G1 cell cycle arrest

Cadmium is a heavy metal pollutant that has been reported to cause oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy in cells, while the flavone isoorientin is a traditional Chinese medicine extract that has proven antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Accordingly, in this study we used the rat proximal tubular cell line NRK-52E and primary rat proximal tubular (rPT) cells as models to investigate the effects of isoorientin against Cadmium-induced cell injury and the mechanism of these effects. Comet assay, Western blot, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and transmission electron microscopy were used to evaluate cell damage and cell-cycle-related protein expression. Furthermore, real-time cell analysis, cell-counting kit-8, and ELISA were used to investigate the role of isoorientin in Cadmium-induced cell injury. The results revealed that treatment of rat renal tubular epithelial cells with 2.5 μM Cd for 12 h resulted in DNA damage and G0/G1 cell cycle arrest, while isoorientin attenuated this Cd-induced damage.

Isoorientin Decreases Cell Migration via Decreasing Functional Activity and Molecular Expression of Proton-Linked Monocarboxylate Transporters in Human Lung Cancer Cells

Aggressive tumor cells mainly rely on glycolysis, and further release vast amounts of lactate and protons by monocarboxylate transporter (MCT), which causes a higher intracellular pH (pH_i) and acidic extracellular pH. Isoorientin, a principle flavonoid compound extracted from several plant species, shows various pharmacological activities. However, effects of isoorientin on anticancer and MCT await to explore in human lung cancer cells. Human lung cancer tissues were obtained from cancer patients undergoing surgery, while the human lung adenocarcinoma cells (A549) were bought commercially. Change of pH_i was detected by microspectrofluorometry method with a pH-sensitive fluorescent dye, BCECF. MTT and wound-healing assay were used to detect the cell viability and migration, respectively. Western blot techniques and immunocytochemistry staining were used to detect the protein expression. Our results indicated that the expression of MCTs1/4 and CD147 were upregulated significantly in human lung tissues. In experiments of A549 cells, under HEPES-buffer, the resting pH_i was 7.47, and isoorientin (1-300μM) inhibited functional activity of MCT concentration-dependently (up to -42%). Pretreatment with isoorientin (3-100μM) for 24h, MCT activity and cell migration were significantly inhibited (-25% and -40%, respectively), while the cell viability was not affected. Moreover, the expression of MCTs1/4, CD147, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2/9 were significantly down regulated. In summary, MCTs1/4 and CD147 are significantly upregulated in human lung adenocarcinoma tissues, and isoorientin inhibits cells-migration by inhibiting activity/expression of MCTs1/4 and MMPs2/9 in human lung cancer cells. These novel findings suggest that isoorientin could be a promising pharmacological agent for lung cancer.

Methyl helicterate inhibits hepatic stellate cell activation through downregulating the ERK1/2 signaling pathway

The present study was to investigate the inhibitory effect of methyl helicterate (MH) on hepatic stellate cells (HSC-T6), primarily elucidating the underlying mechanism of MH against liver fibrosis. HSC-T6 cells were activated by platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) stimulation, and then the effects of MH on cell viability, cytomembrane integrity, colony, migration, apoptosis, and cell cycle were detected. Moreover, the regulative mechanism of MH on HSCs was investigated by detecting the activation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2) signaling pathway. The results showed that MH significantly inhibited HSC-T6 cell viability and proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner. It notably promoted the release of lactate dehydrogenase, destroying cell membrane integrity. MH also markedly inhibited HSC-T6 cell clonogenicity and migration. Moreover, MH treatment significantly induced cell apoptosis and arrested cell cycle at the G2 phase. The further study showed that MH inhibited the expression of ERK1, ERK2, c-fos, c-myc, and Ets-1, blocking the ERK1/2 pathway. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that MH significantly inhibits HSC activation and promotes cell apoptosis via downregulation of the ERK1/2 signaling pathway.

Methyl helicterilate ameliorates alcohol-induced hepatic fibrosis by modulating TGF-β1/Smads pathway and mitochondria-dependent pathway

This study aimed to investigate the effect and underlying mechanism of Methyl helicterilate from Helicteres angustifolia (MHHA) on alcohol-induced hepatic fibrosis. The results showed that MHHA treatment markedly alleviated alcohol-induced liver injury and notably reduced collagen deposition in liver tissue. It significantly enhanced the activity of alcohol dehydrogenase and aldehyde dehydrogenase. Moreover, MHHA treatment markedly decreased the content of inflammatory cytokines, alleviated collagen accumulation, and inhibited the expression of TGF-β1 and Smad2/3 in liver tissue. The experiments in cells showed that MHHA significantly inhibited HSC activation by blocking TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway. Additionally, it notably induced HSC apoptosis by modulating the mitochondria-dependent pathway. The present study demonstrates that MHHA treatment significantly ameliorates alcoholic hepatic fibrosis and the underlying mechanism may be ascribed to the inhibition of the TGF-β1/Smads pathway and regulation of the mitochondria-mediated apoptotic pathway.

Ferula pseudalliacea induces apoptosis in human colorectal cancer HCT-116 cells via mitochondria-dependent pathway

Ferula species have diverse biological functions. This study set out to investigate the anti-proliferative effects of methanolic extract of F. pseudalliacea against human colon cancer HCT-116 cell line. Cytotoxic effects of F. pseudalliacea on HCT-116 cells was estimated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium (MTT) assay. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Western blot were employed to analyze BAX and Bcl2 expression. Cell cycle analysis and apoptosis were conducted using flowcytometry and Annexin V/ propidium iodide (PI) staining. Rhodamine 123 staining and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) assay were employed to quantify the mitochondria membrane potential (MMP) and caspase 3 activity, respectively. F. pseudalliacea markedly decreased HCT-116 cells viability. The gene and protein expression of BAX were increased, whereas Bcl-2 was decreased in F. pseudalliacea treated cells. F. pseudalliacea induced apoptosis via promotion of cell cycle arrest, caspase 3 activation, and destruction of MMP. These results demonstrate that F. pseudalliacea extract is able to induce apoptosis in HCT-116 cells mainly by activation of the mitochondrial pathway.

Sanguinarine inhibits the proliferation of BGC-823 gastric cancer cells via regulating miR-96-5p/miR-29c-3p and the MAPK/JNK signaling pathway

Sanguinarine (SAN), a quaternary benzophenanthridine alkaloid extracted from the root of Papaveraceae plants, has shown antitumour effects in multiple cancer cells. However, the therapeutic effects and the underlying mechanisms of SAN in gastric cancer (GC) remain elusive. In this study, the in vitro proliferation inhibition effect of SAN in GC cells was determined using CCK-8 assay, the in vivo antitumor effect of SAN was evaluated in mice with xenotransplanted tumor. The mechanism underlying the antitumor activity of SAN was explored by gene microarray assay and bioinformatics analysis. The levels of differentially expressed miRNAs and target genes were verified by real-time RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. SAN inhibited the proliferation of BGC-823 cells in a concentration-dependent manner in vitro and in vivo. The miR-96-5p and miR-29c-3p were significantly upregulated in untreated BGC-823 cells and significantly downregulated in SAN treated cells. The mRNA and protein expression of their target gene MAP4K4 were upregulated in SAN treated xenotransplanted tumors, and pMEK4 and pJNK1 proteins in the MAPK/JNK signaling pathway were also upregulated by SAN. These indicate that SAN may inhibit the proliferation of BGC-823 cells through the inhibition of miR-96-5p and miR-29c-3p expression, and subsequent activation of the MAPK/JNK signaling pathway.

Preliminary phytochemical analysis and evaluation of in vitro antioxidant, antiproliferative, antidiabetic, and anticholinergics effects of endemic Gypsophila taxa from Turkey

The phenolic contents and antioxidant, anticancer, antidiabetic, and anticholinergic potentials of four endemic Gysophila taxa (G. pallida, G. arrosti, G. tuberculosa, and G. eriocalyx) were investigated. The HPLC analysis showed that methanol extracts of all the tested species were richer in phenolics than water extracts. 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, vanillin, syringic acid, and p-coumaric acid were detected in all extracts. In parallel to the phenolic contents, methanol extracts displayed comparatively higher antioxidant activity than water extracts. Additionally, all extracts exhibited dose-dependent antiproliferative activity on the cancer cell lines with lower IC₅₀ values changing from 0.170 to 1.805 mg/ml. Moreover, the extracts impressively inhibited the acetylcholinesterase (0.63-26.04), butyrylcholinesterase (3.66-10.73), and α-glycosidase (98.52-235.55) enzymes with very low IC₅₀ (mg/ml) values. Together, the present results indicate that Gysophila taxa have various biological activities together with higher phenolic contents. Hence, these species hold good potential for use in the pharmaceutical industry. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Gypsophila taxa having numerous biological activities have been used for different purpose in folk medicine as well as their use in the food industry. The obtained results of the current study indicated that the extracts of Gypsophila taxa are rich in phenolics and flavonoids with powerful antioxidant and antiproliferative activity against different type of cancer cell lines. In addition, the extracts obtained from these taxa showed notable antidiabetic and anticholinergics effects. Gypsophila taxa could be used as a natural material to develop anticancer, antidiabetic, and anticholinergic drugs.

Co-delivery doxorubicin and silybin for anti-hepatoma via enhanced oral hepatic-targeted efficiency

Background

To establish the combination of doxorubicin (DOX) and silybin (SLB) in oral hepatic-targeting liposomes with the goal of reducing cardiotoxic side effects and improve oral hepatoma treatment.

Methods

Distearoylphosphatidylethanolamine–polyethylene glycol–cholic acid-modified liposomes (CA-LP) were used to encapsulate DOX and SLB (CA-LP–DOX/SLB), and the hepatic targeting, efficacy against hepatoma and cardioprotective effects were evaluated by cell toxicity, scratch and apoptosis in vitro studies, and pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in vivo studies.

Results

In vitro cell studies showed that CA-LP–DOX/SLB inhibited HepG2 cell proliferation and HCC97H cell migration, and protected H9c2 cells. In vivo pharmacokinetics demonstrated that the CA-LP–DOX/SLB-treated group showed higher liver accumulation and lower heart accumulation of DOX relative to those in the CA-LP–DOX and LP–DOX-treated groups. In vivo pharmacodynamic studies showed that the CA-LP–DOX/SLB-treated group not only efficiently inhibited growth but also induced significantly less tissue damage than that observed in the CA-LP–DOX-treated group.

Conclusion

Concurrent administration of DOX and SLB via CA-LP provided a viable strategy to mitigate acute DOX-induced cardiotoxicity.

Methyl helicterte ameliorates liver fibrosis by regulating miR-21-mediated ERK and TGF-β1/Smads pathways

Methyl helicterate (MH) has been reported to have protective effects against CCl₄-induced hepatic injury and fibrosis in rats, but its protective mechanism, especially on hepatic stallete cells (HSCs), remains unclear. Recently, our pilot experiment showed that MH could inhibit miR-21 expression in HSC-T6 cells, suggesting that miR-21 may be one of the targets of MH to intervene liver fibrosis. To verify the hypothesis, the present study would focus on the regulatory effect of MH on the miR-21-mediated ERK and TGF-β1/Smads pathways. Briefly, rats were intraperitoneally injected with 0.5 ml porcine serum (PS) twice a week for 24 weeks to induce liver fibrosis, and meanwhile, the rats were treated with MH from weeks 16 to 24. In vitro experiment, miR-21 expression in HSC-T6 cells was up- or down-regulated using lentiviral transfection assay. Collagen accumulation, inflammatory cytokines, cell apoptosis, miR-21 expression, and activation of the ERK and TGF-β1/smad2/3 pathways were then assessed. The results showed that MH treatment markedly alleviated PS-induced liver injury, as evidenced by the attenuation of histopathological changes and the decrease in serum alanine and aspartate aminotransferases activity. MH significantly decreased the content of inflammatory cytokines and recruited the anti-oxidative defense system. Moreover, MH treatment significantly decreased miR-21 expression and inhibited the activation of the ERK and TGF-β1/smad2/3 pathways in liver tissues. In vitro experiments showed that MH strongly inhibited HSC-T6 cell activation and reduced collagen accumulation. Interestingly, miR-21 overexpression significantly promoted HSC-T6 cell proliferation, reduced HSC apoptosis, and increased collagenation, while these abnormal changes induced by miR-21overexpression were significantly reversed by MH treatment. Furthermore, miR-21 overexpression notably activated the ERK and TGF-β1/Smads pathways via repressing SPRY2 and Smad7 expression respectively, however, these effects were largely abolished by MH treatment. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that MH significantly alleviates PS-induced liver injury and fibrosis by inhibiting miR-21-mediated ERK and TGF-β1/Smads pathways.

The morphological changes and molecular biomarker responses in the liver of fluoride-exposed Bufo gargarizans larvae

The goal of the current study was to evaluate the negative influences of fluoride on liver of Bufo gargarizans larvae. B. gargarizans larvae were treated with 42.4mgF^-/L for 0, 24, 48 and 72h at Gosner stage 37. The morphological changes and responses of molecular biomarkers involved in lipid metabolism, oxidative stress and apoptosis were examined in liver. Disappearance of cell boundaries, degeneration of hepatic parenchyma cells and significant increase in the number of melanomacrophage centres and the quantity of lipid droplets were found in the liver treated with 42.4mgF^-/L for 72h. In addition, in the relative expression of acetyl CoA carboxylase 1 (ACC-1), fatty acid elongase 1 (FAE-1), sterol carrier protein 2 (SCP-2), and carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 (CPT-1), decrease was observed after 24, 48 and 72h of 42.4mgF^-/L exposure. Furthermore, the transcript levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were downregulated in tadpoles exposed for 24, 48 and 72h to 42.4mgF^-/L, while the transcript level of heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) was upregulated at 42.4mgF^-/L for 72h. Also, mRNA expression of Bcl-2-associated transcription factor 1(BCLAF1) and thyroid hormone receptors (TRα and TRβ) was significantly upregulated in tadpoles treated with 42.4mgF^-/L for 72h. Therefore, our results suggested that the liver injury induced by fluoride might result from disruption of lipid metabolism, oxidative damage and apoptosis.

Effects of Different Temperatures on the Chemical Structure and Antitumor Activities of Polysaccharides from Cordyceps militaris

The effects of different extraction temperatures (4 and 80 °C) on the physicochemical properties and antitumor activity of water soluble polysaccharides (CMPs-4 and CMPs-80) from Cordyceps militaris (C. militaris) were evaluated in this study. The results of gas chromatography (GC) and high-performance gel permeation chromatography (HPGPC) showed that a higher extraction temperature could degrade the polysaccharides with 188 kDa, mainly composed of glucose, and increase the dissolution rate of polysaccharides about 308 kDa, mainly consisting of rhamnose and galactose. In addition, the CMPs displayed the same sugar ring and category of glycosidic linkage based on Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis, however, their invisible structural difference occurred in the specific rotation and conformational characteristics according to the results of specific optical rotation measurement and Congo red test. In vitro antitumor experiments indicated that CMPs-4 possessed stronger inhibitory effects on human esophagus cancer Eca-109 cells by inducing cell apoptosis more than CMPs-80 did. These findings demonstrated that the polysaccharides extracted with cold water (4 °C) could be applied as a novel alternative chemotherapeutic agent or dietary supplement with its underlying antitumor property.

Chemical characterization with in vitro biological activities of Gypsophila species

Methanol-aqueous extracts from the aerial parts of Gypsophila glomerata (GGE), G. trichotoma (GTE) and G. perfoliata (GPE) were investigated for antioxidant potential using different in vitro models, as well as for phenolic and flavonoid contents. The possible anti-cholinesterase, anti-tyrosinase, anti-amylase and anti-glucosidase activities were also tested. The flavonoid variability was analyzed using ultra high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) coupled with hybrid quadrupole-Orbitrap high resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). Eleven C-glycosyl flavones and 4 O-glycosyl flavonoids, including 2"-O-pentosyl-6-C-hexosyl-apigenin/methylluteolin, as well as their mono(di)-acetyl derivatives were found in GGE. Both GGE and GTE shared 2"-pentosyl-6-C-hexosyl-luteolin together with the common saponarin, homoorientin, orientin, isovitexin and vitexin, while di C-glycosyl flavones were evidenced only in GPE. The highest radical scavenging in both ABTS and DPPH assays was noted in GPE, as well as ferric and cupric reducing abilities. However, GTE had the strongest metal chelating activity (17.44 ± 0.51 mg EDTAE/g extract). GPE and GGE were more potent as acetylcholinesterases inhibitors witnessed by 2.09 ± 0.02 mg GALAE/g extract and 1.59 ± 0.09 mgGALAE/g extract, respectively. All flavonoids were found in G. glomerata for the first time. Therefore, further isolation and structural elucidation of newly described acetylated flavonoids are needed in order to determine their relevance in the beneficial properties of the plant.

The Potential and Action Mechanism of Polyphenols in the Treatment of Liver Diseases

Liver disease, involving a wide range of liver pathologies from fatty liver, hepatitis, and fibrosis to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, is a serious health problem worldwide. In recent years, many natural foods and herbs with abundant phytochemicals have been proposed as health supplementation for patients with hepatic disorders. As an important category of phytochemicals, natural polyphenols have attracted increasing attention as potential agents for the prevention and treatment of liver diseases. The striking capacities in remitting oxidative stress, lipid metabolism, insulin resistance, and inflammation put polyphenols in the spotlight for the therapies of liver diseases. It has been reported that many polyphenols from a wide range of foods and herbs exert therapeutic effects on liver injuries via complicated mechanisms. Therefore, it is necessary to have a systematical review to sort out current researches to help better understand the potentials of polyphenols in liver diseases. In this review, we aim to summarize and update the existing evidence of natural polyphenols in the treatment of various liver diseases by in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies, while special attention is paid to the action mechanisms.

In vitro and in vivo antitumor potential of carvacrol nanoemulsion against human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells via mitochondrial mediated apoptosis

Carvacrol is present abundantly in the essential oils of many medicinal plants and well known for its numerous biological activities. Since partial solubility in water and physicochemical instability limits its industrial uses, the present study was performed to prepare a carvacrol nanoemulsion (CANE) using an ultrasonication technique and further evaluation of its anticancer potential against human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells. The nanoemulsion formulation was optimized by varying carvacrol and polysorbate 80 ratios and characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), which revealed a negative surface charge with a mean droplet size between 105.5 ± 3.4 to 169.8 ± 4.9 nm. The CANE induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in A549 cells, leading to activation of key regulators of apoptosis such as p-JNK, Bax and Bcl2 as well as release of cytochrome C, and activation of the caspase cascade. Suppression of mitochondrial ROS using Mito-TEMPO reversed the apoptotic potential of CANE signifying involvement of mitochondrial ROS in cell death. Beside, CANE displayed a strong antitumor potential in vivo using an athymic nude mice model. The results strongly support that CANE induced apoptosis in A549 cells by induction of ROS and could be a promising candidate for lung cancer therapy.

Gypsophila elegans isoorientin-2″-O-α-l-arabinopyranosyl ameliorates porcine serum-induced immune liver fibrosis by inhibiting NF-κB signaling pathway and suppressing HSC activation

The present study was to investigate the inhibitory effect of Gypsophila elegans isoorientin-2″-O-α-l-arabinopyranosyl (GEI) on hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), to reveal the underlying mechanism of GEI against hepatic fibrosis. Our study showed that GEI significantly alleviated liver injury induced by porcine serum (PS) in rats; it notably alleviated collagen accumulation as evidenced by a significant decrease in the levels of collagen biomarkers including hyaluronic acid, laminin, hydroxyproline and procollagen III N-terminal peptide. Moreover, GEI treatment markedly decreased the secretion of inflammatory cytokines by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway and significantly inhibited the generation of excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) components by restoring the balance between matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs). Additionally, the cell experiments in vitro showed that GEI strongly inhibited HSC proliferation, migration and clonogenicity and markedly induced HSC apoptosis. Moreover, GEI caused cell cycle arrest at G2 phase. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that GEI significantly alleviates PS-induced hepatic fibrosis by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway, restoring the balance between MMPs and TIMPs, and suppressing HSC activation.

Lariciresinol induces apoptosis in HepG2 cells via mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis pathway

Lariciresinol (LA) is one of the main active ingredients in many traditional medicinal plants such as Patrinia, and has the role of anti-liver cancer. However, the precise mechanisms are unclear. This study investigated the molecular mechanisms of LA against HepG2 cells. LA anti-tumor activity was assessed with the CCK-8, Ki-67, and immunofluorescence staining. Cells apoptotic ratio was evaluated by Annexin V/PI double-staining assay. A proteomic approach was used to identify differentially expressed proteins after LA treatment. JC-1 staining was carried out to detect the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), and the Western blot analysis was used to analyse the apoptosis-associated proteins. Our results suggested that LA significantly suppressed the viability of HepG2 cells. The CCK-8 and Ki-67 expression indicated dose-dependent decreases in cell proliferation. Flow cytometry analysis showed that LA exhibited a apoptosis-inducing effect. The proteomic study observed the presence of apoptosis-associated proteins and mitochondrial dysfunction in HepG2 cells after LA-treatment. Further analysis showed that LA could trigger the mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis pathway, based on a decrease in ΔΨm; deliver of cytochrome c; activation of caspase-9/-3 and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase; and decrease of the proportion of Bcl-2/Bax. Collectively, our studies found that LA exhibits significant cytotoxic effects by inhibiting cell proliferation, inducing apoptosis, possibly via activation of the mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis pathway.

Carnosic acid induces apoptosis of hepatocellular carcinoma cells via ROS-mediated mitochondrial pathway

Carnosic acid (CA), an important bioactive phenolic diterpene mainly found in labiate plants, exerts various biological functions, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and neuroprotective activities. In the present study, we proved the deleterious effects of CA against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in both in vitro and in vivo models. In vitro, CA significantly decreased cell viability, inhibited cell proliferation and migration, enhanced apoptosis, and increased caspase-3, -8, and -9 activities in HepG2 and SMMC-7721 cells. Specifically, CA led to a decreased mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and increases in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and apoptosis-related protein expression. Pre-incubation of HCC cells with N-Acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC), a ROS inhibitor, strongly suppressed CA-induced apoptotic phenomena, including reduced cell viability, excessive ROS levels, MMP decreases, and abnormal protein expression, suggesting an association of CA-induced apoptosis with oxidative stress-mediated mitochondrial pathways. In HepG2-and SMMC-7721-xenograft tumor mouse models, treatment with CA inhibited tumor growth and modulated apoptosis-related protein expression, confirming the anti-HCC effects of this chemical. Moreover, the CA-mediated anti-HCC effects associated with oxidative stress provide experimental evidence to support the potential use of CA as a drug therapy for HCC.