Apoptosis induced by the methanol extract of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge in non-small cell lung cancer through PTEN-mediated inhibition of PI3K/Akt pathway

Salvia miltiorrhiza inhibited lung cancer through aerobic glycolysis suppression

Lung cancer causes the most cancer deaths and needs new treatment strategies urgently. Salvia miltiorrhiza is a classical Chinese herb and a strong candidate for tumor treatment. The study found that the aqueous extract of Salvia miltiorrhiza (DSAE), ethanol extract of Salvia miltiorrhiza (DSEE), and its active components danshensu (DSS) and dihydrotanshinone I (DHI), exhibited antineoplastic effects in vivo and in vitro. Meanwhile, DSAE, DSEE, DSS, and DHI reduced glycolysis metabolites (ATP, lactate, and pyruvate contents) production, decreased aerobic glycolysis enzymes, and inhibited Seahorse indexes (OCR and ECAR) in Lewis lung cancer cells (LLC). Data suggests that aerobic glycolysis could be inhibited by Salvia miltiorrhiza and its components. The administration of DSS and DHI further reduced the level of HKII in lung cancer cell lines that had been inhibited with HK-II antagonists (2-deoxyglucose, 2-DG; 3-bromo-pyruvate, 3-BP) or knocked down with siRNA, thereby exerting an anti-lung cancer effect. Although DSS and DHI decreased the level of HKII in HKII-Knock-In lung cancer cell line, their anti-lung cancer efficacy remained limited due to the persistent overexpression of HKII in these cells. Reiterating the main points, we have discovered that the anti-lung cancer effects of Salvia miltiorrhiza may be attributed to its ability to regulate HKII expression levels, thereby inhibiting aerobic glycolysis. This study not only provides a new research paradigm for the treatment of cancer by Salvia miltiorrhiza, but also highlights the important link between glucose metabolism and the effect of Salvia Miltiorrhiza.

Molecular Mechanism of Salvia miltiorrhiza in the Treatment of Colorectal Cancer Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking Technology

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the effect of Salvia miltiorrhiza on colorectal cancer, as well as the mechanisms involved.

Methods

The active compounds of Salvia miltiorrhiza and the associated genes in colorectal cancer were sourced from publicly available databases. Targets associated with colorectal cancer were identified by searching the GeneCards and OMIM databases. Subsequently, the Cytoscape 3.6.0 software was employed to create a regulatory network that illustrates the relationships among active ingredients, colorectal cancer, and their corresponding targets. The String database was utilized to generate a PPI network. Molecular docking studies, conducted with AutoDock Vina, verified the binding capabilities of these active components to core targets. The findings from network pharmacology analysis were corroborated through in vitro experiments.

Results

In this study, we identified 39 active components derived from Salvia miltiorrhiza that are predicted to target 544 genes associated with colorectal cancer through network pharmacology. Through a combined analysis of network pharmacology, we isolated three key targets: SRC, IL6, and INS. Molecular docking results convincingly demonstrated Salvia miltiorrhiza's strong binding affinity to these targets. Additionally, in vitro experiments confirmed that Salvia miltiorrhiza effectively inhibited the progression of colorectal cancer via regulating the INS/SRC/IL6 pathway.

Conclusion

Salvia miltiorrhiza emerges as a compelling herbal intervention for colorectal cancer. This study lays the foundation for potential future clinical trials assessing the efficacy of Salvia miltiorrhiza in the management of colorectal cancer.

The mechanism and application of traditional Chinese medicine extracts in the treatment of lung cancer and other lung-related diseases

Lung cancer stands as one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide, bearing the highest morbidity and mortality rates among all malignant tumors. The treatment of lung cancer primarily encompasses surgical procedures, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, which are fraught with significant side effects, unfavorable prognoses, and a heightened risk of metastasis and relapse. Although targeted therapy and immunotherapy have gradually gained prominence in lung cancer treatment, diversifying the array of available methods, the overall recovery and survival rates for lung cancer patients remain suboptimal. Presently, with a holistic approach and a focus on syndrome differentiation and treatment, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has emerged as a pivotal player in the prognosis of cancer patients. TCM possesses characteristics such as targeting multiple aspects, addressing a wide range of concerns, and minimizing toxic side effects. Research demonstrates that Traditional Chinese Medicine can significantly contribute to the treatment or serve as an adjunct to chemotherapy for lung cancer and other lung-related diseases. This is achieved through mechanisms like inhibiting tumor cell proliferation, inducing tumor cell apoptosis, suppressing tumor angiogenesis, influencing the cellular microenvironment, regulating immune system function, impacting signal transduction pathways, and reversing multidrug resistance in tumor cells. In this article, we offer an overview of the advancements in research concerning Traditional Chinese Medicine extracts for the treatment or adjunctive chemotherapy of lung cancer and other lung-related conditions. Furthermore, we delve into the challenges that Traditional Chinese Medicine extracts face in lung cancer treatment, laying the foundation for the development of diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic targets.

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.

A real-world study and network pharmacology analysis of EGFR-TKIs combined with ZLJT to delay drug resistance in advanced lung adenocarcinoma

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the efficacy and safety of combining epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) with ZiLongJin Tablet (ZLJT) in delaying acquired resistance in advanced EGFR-mutant lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients. Furthermore, we employed network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques to investigate the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

A retrospective comparative study was conducted on stage IIIc/IV LUAD patients treated with EGFR-TKIs alone or in combination with ZLJT at the Second Affiliated Hospital of the Air Force Medical University between January 1, 2017, and May 1, 2023. The study evaluated the onset of TKI resistance, adverse reaction rates, safety indicators (such as aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and creatinine), and inflammatory markers (neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio) to investigate the impact of EGFR-TKI combined with ZLJT on acquired resistance and prognostic indicators. Additionally, we utilized the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform, the Bioinformatics Analysis Tool for Molecular Mechanism of Traditional Chinese Medicine, PubChem, UniProt, and Swiss Target Prediction databases to identify the active ingredients and targets of ZLJT. We obtained differentially expressed genes related to EGFR-TKI sensitivity and resistance from the Gene Expression Omnibus database using the GSE34228 dataset, which included sensitive (n = 26) and resistant (n = 26) PC9 cell lines. The "limma" package in R software was employed to detect DEGs. Based on this, we constructed a protein‒protein interaction network, performed gene ontology and KEGG enrichment analyses, and conducted pathway network analysis to elucidate the correlation between the active ingredients in ZLJT and signaling pathways. Finally, molecular docking was performed using AutoDockVina, PYMOL 2.2.0, and Discovery Studio Client v19.1.0 software to simulate spatial and energy matching during the recognition process between predicted targets and their corresponding compounds.

RESULTS

(1) A total of 89 patients were included, with 40 patients in the EGFR-TKI combined with ZLJT group (combination group) and 49 patients in the EGFR-TKI alone group (monotherapy group). The baseline characteristics of the two groups were comparable. There was a significant difference in the onset of resistance between the combination group and the monotherapy group (P < 0.01). Compared to the monotherapy group, the combination group showed a prolongation of 3.27 months in delayed acquired resistance. There was also a statistically significant difference in the onset of resistance to first-generation TKIs between the two groups (P < 0.05). (2) In terms of safety analysis, the incidence of adverse reactions related to EGFR-TKIs was 12.5% in the combination group and 14.3% in the monotherapy group, but this difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in serum AST, ALT, CREA, TBIL, ALB and BUN levels between the two groups after medication (P > 0.05). (3) Regarding inflammatory markers, there were no statistically significant differences in the changes in neutrophil-to-lymphocyte Ratio(NLR) and Platelet-to-lymphocyte Ratio(PLR) values before and after treatment between the two groups (P > 0.05). (4) Network pharmacology analysis identified 112 active ingredients and 290 target genes for ZLJT. From the GEO database, 2035 differentially expressed genes related to resistant LUAD were selected, and 39 target genes were obtained by taking the intersection. A "ZLJT-compound-target-disease" network was successfully constructed using Cytoscape 3.7.0. GO enrichment analysis revealed that ZLJT mainly affected biological processes such as adenylate cyclase-modulating G protein-coupled receptor. In terms of cellular components, ZLJT was associated with the cell projection membrane. The molecular function primarily focused on protein heterodimerization activity. KEGG enrichment analysis indicated that ZLJT exerted its antitumor and anti-drug resistance effects through pathways such as the PI3K-Akt pathway. Molecular docking showed that luteolin had good binding activity with FOS (-9.8 kJ/mol), as did tanshinone IIA with FOS (-9.8 kJ/mol) and quercetin with FOS (-8.7 kJ/mol).

CONCLUSION

ZLJT has potential antitumor progression effects. For patients with EGFR gene-mutated non-small cell LUAD, combining ZLJT with EGFR-TKI treatment can delay the occurrence of acquired resistance. The underlying mechanisms may involve altering signal transduction pathways, blocking the tumor cell cycle, inhibiting tumor activity, enhancing cellular vitality, and improving the bioavailability of combination therapy. The combination of EGFR-TKI and ZLJT represents an effective approach for the treatment of tumors using both Chinese and Western medicine.

Recent Advances in Doxorubicin Formulation to Enhance Pharmacokinetics and Tumor Targeting

Doxorubicin (DOX), a widely used drug in cancer chemotherapy, induces cell death via multiple intracellular interactions, generating reactive oxygen species and DNA-adducted configurations that induce apoptosis, topoisomerase II inhibition, and histone eviction. Despite its wide therapeutic efficacy in solid tumors, DOX often induces drug resistance and cardiotoxicity. It shows limited intestinal absorption because of low paracellular permeability and P-glycoprotein (P-gp)-mediated efflux. We reviewed various parenteral DOX formulations, such as liposomes, polymeric micelles, polymeric nanoparticles, and polymer-drug conjugates, under clinical use or trials to increase its therapeutic efficacy. To improve the bioavailability of DOX in intravenous and oral cancer treatment, studies have proposed a pH- or redox-sensitive and receptor-targeted system for overcoming DOX resistance and increasing therapeutic efficacy without causing DOX-induced toxicity. Multifunctional formulations of DOX with mucoadhesiveness and increased intestinal permeability through tight-junction modulation and P-gp inhibition have also been used as orally bioavailable DOX in the preclinical stage. The increasing trends of developing oral formulations from intravenous formulations, the application of mucoadhesive technology, permeation-enhancing technology, and pharmacokinetic modulation with functional excipients might facilitate the further development of oral DOX.

Zengshengping improves lung cancer by regulating the intestinal barrier and intestinal microbiota

Lung cancer is a common malignant tumor in clinical practice, and its morbidity and mortality are in the forefront of malignant tumors. Radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgical treatment play an important role in the treatment of lung cancer, however, radiotherapy has many complications and even causes partial loss of function, the recurrence rate after surgical resection is high, and the toxic and side effects of chemotherapy drugs are strong. Traditional Chinese medicine has played a huge role in the prognosis and improvement of lung cancer, among them, Zengshengping (ZSP) has the effect of preventing and treating lung cancer. Based on the “gut-lung axis” and from the perspective of “treating the lung from the intestine”, the purpose of this study was to research the effect of Zengshengping on the intestinal physical, biological, and immune barriers, and explore its role in the prevention and treatment of lung cancer. The Lewis lung cancer and urethane-induced lung cancer models were established in C57BL/6 mice. The tumor, spleen, and thymus were weighed, and the inhibition rate, splenic and thymus indexes analyzed. Inflammatory factors and immunological indexes were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Collecting lung and colon tissues, hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed on lung, colon tissues to observe histopathological damage. Immunohistochemistry and Western blotting were carried out to detect tight junction protein expression in colon tissues and expression of Ki67 and p53 proteins in tumor tissues. Finally, the feces of mice were collected to investigate the changes in intestinal microbiota using 16SrDNA high-throughput sequencing technology. ZSP significantly reduced tumor weight and increased the splenic and thymus indexes. It decreased expression of Ki67 protein and increased expression of p53 protein. Compared with Model group, ZSP group reduced the serum levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and ZSP group increased the concentration of secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) in the colon and the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). ZSPH significantly increased the level of tight junction proteins such as ZO-1, Occludin and Claudin-1. Model group significantly reduced the relative abundance of Akkermansia (p &lt; 0.05) and significantly promoted the amount of norank_f_Muribaculaceae, norank_f_Lachnospiraceae (p &lt; 0.05) compared with that in the Normal group. However, ZSP groups increased in probiotic strains (Akkermansia) and decreased in pathogens (norank_f_Muribaculaceae, norank_f_Lachnospiraceae). Compared with the urethane-induced lung cancer mice, the results showed that ZSP significantly increased the diversity and richness of the intestinal microbiota in the Lewis lung cancer mice. ZSP played an important role in the prevention and treatment of lung cancer by enhancing immunity, protecting the intestinal mucosa and regulating the intestinal microbiota.

Salviae miltiorrhiza against human lung cancer: A review of its mechanism (Review)

Lung cancer is one of the commonest malignant tumors in the world today, causing millions of mortalities every year. New methods to treat lung cancer are urgently needed. Salviae miltiorrhiza Bunge is a common Chinese medicine, often used for promoting blood circulation. In the past 20 years, Salviae miltiorrhiza has made significant progress in the treatment of lung cancer and is considered to be one of the most promising methods to fight against the disease. A great amount of research has shown that the mechanism of Salviae miltiorrhiza against human lung cancer mainly includes inhibiting the proliferation of lung cancer cells, promoting lung cancer cell apoptosis, inducing cell autophagy, regulating immunity and resisting angiogenesis. Research has shown that Salviae miltiorrhiza has certain effects on the resistance to chemotherapy drugs. The present review discussed the status and prospects of Salviae miltiorrhiza against human lung cancer.

Exploring the Antiovarian Cancer Mechanisms of Salvia Miltiorrhiza Bunge by Network Pharmacological Analysis and Molecular Docking

Background

Ovarian cancer was one of the gynecological malignant tumors. Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (SMB) was a kind of herbal medicine with an antitumor effect. However, the inhibitory effect of SMB on ovarian cancer and its potential mechanism were still unclear.

Objective

The antitumor effect of SMB on ovarian cancer was studied by network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques, and its possible molecular mechanisms were analyzed.

Method

The active ingredients of SMB and the target data of ovarian cancer were obtained from the Traditional Chinese Medicines for Systems Pharmacology Database (TCMSP) and the GeneCards database. The relationship between active ingredients of SMB and ovarian cancer targets was analyzed by String database, David 6.8 online database, and Cytoscape 3.7.2 software, and then potential pathways were screened out. In addition, molecular docking technology was used to verify further the binding effect of antiovarian cancer pathway targets with active ingredients of SMB. Finally, survival analysis was performed for all potential targets.

Results

We analyzed 71 SMB-ovarian cancer common targets, and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis showed that the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway might be an essential pathway for SMB to inhibit ovarian cancer. Luteolin, Tanshinone IIA, and Cryptotanshinone in SMB might play an important role. HSP90AA1, CDK2, and PIK3CG might be potential targets of SMB in inhibiting ovarian cancer.

Conclusion

Through network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis, we found that SMB might partially inhibit ovarian cancer by the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. We believe that SMB might be a potential therapeutic agent for ovarian cancer patients.

Schizandrin A enhances killing effect of oxaliplatin on colorectal cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Schizandrin A (SchA) has anticancer and multidrug resistance-reversing effects in a variety of tumors, but its effect on oxaliplatin (L-OHP) in colorectal cancer cells is not clear.

AIM

To investigate whether SchA can enhance the killing effect of L-OHP on colorectal cancer cells, and to analyze the possible mechanism involved.

METHODS

Colorectal cancer cells were divided into control group, SchA treatment group, L-OHP treatment group, and SchA + L-OHP treatment group. Cell viability was detected by MTT assay. Cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. The contents of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells was detected using a ROS probe. Mitochondrial membrane potential was evaluated by using the 1,1',3,3'-tetraethyl-5,5',6,6'-tetrachloroimidacarbocyanine iodide (JC-1) probe. Western blot was used to detect the expression of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2 associated X protein (Bax), cytochrome c (Cyt c), and cleaved cysteine proteinase-3 (caspase-3) in the cells.

RESULTS

Compared with the L-OHP treatment group, the viability of colorectal cancer cells in the SchA + L-OHP treatment group was significantly decreased, while apoptosis was significantly increased. SchA could enhance ROS accumulation, Bax and cleaved caspase-3 expression, and mitochondrial Cyt c release, and decrease Bcl-2 expression in colorectal cancer cells induced by L-OHP.

CONCLUSION

SchA enhances the killing effect of L-OHP on colorectal cancer cells, and the mechanism may be related to the enhancement of intracellular ROS accumulation and the expression of apoptosis-related proteins.

Research Status of Mouse Models for Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) and Antitumor Therapy of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in Mouse Models

Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is known as one of the most lethal cancers, causing more than 1 million deaths annually worldwide. Therefore, the development of novel therapeutic drugs for NSCLC has become an urgent need. Herein, various mouse models provide great convenience not only for researchers but also for the development of antitumor drug. Meanwhile, TCM, as a valuable and largely untapped resource pool for modern medicine, provides research resources for the treatment of various diseases. Until now, cell-derived xenograft (CDX) model, patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model, syngeneic model, orthotopic model, humanized mouse model (HIS), and genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) have been reported in TCM evaluation. This review shows the role and current status of kinds of mouse models in antitumor research and summarizes the application progress of TCM including extracts, formulas, and isolated single molecules for NSCLC therapy in various mouse models; more importantly, it provides a theoretical exploration of what kind of mouse models is ideal for TCM efficacy evaluation in future. However, there are still huge challenges and limitations in the development of mouse models specifically for the TCM research, and none of the available models are perfectly matching the characteristics of TCM, which suppress the tumor growth through various mechanisms, especially by regulating immune function. Nevertheless, with fully functional immune system existing in syngeneic model and humanized mouse model (HIS), it is still suggested that these two models are more suitable for development of TCM especially for TCM extracts or formulas. Moreover, continued efforts are needed to generate more reliable mouse models to test TCM formulas in future research.

Salvia miltiorrhiza in cancer: Potential role in regulating MicroRNAs and epigenetic enzymes

MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that play important roles in gene regulation by influencing the translation and longevity of various target mRNAs and the expression of various target genes as well as by modifying histones and DNA methylation of promoter sites. Consequently, when dysregulated, microRNAs are involved in the development and progression of a variety of diseases, including cancer, by affecting cell growth, proliferation, differentiation, migration, and apoptosis. Preparations from the dried root and rhizome of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bge (Lamiaceae), also known as red sage or danshen, are widely used for treating cardiovascular diseases. Accumulating data suggest that certain bioactive constituents of this plant, particularly tanshinones, have broad antitumor effects by interfering with microRNAs and epigenetic enzymes. This paper reviews the evidence for the antineoplastic activities of S. miltiorrhiza constituents by causing or promoting cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, autophagy, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, and epigenetic changes to provide an outlook on their future roles in the treatment of cancer, both alone and in combination with other modalities.

Molecular Mechanism of Tanshinone against Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most common malignant tumor of the male urinary system in Europe and America. According to the data in the World Cancer Report 2020, the incidence rate of PCa ranks second in the prevalence of male malignant tumors and varies worldwide between regions and population groups. Although early PCa can achieve good therapeutic results after surgical treatment, due to advanced PCa, it can adapt and tolerate androgen castration-related drugs through a variety of mechanisms. For this reason, it is often difficult to achieve effective therapeutic results in the treatment of advanced PCa. Tanshinone is a new fat-soluble phenanthraquinone compound derived from Salvia miltiorrhiza that can play a therapeutic role in different cancers, including PCa. Several studies have shown that Tanshinone can target various molecular pathways of PCa, including the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway, androgen receptor (AR) pathway, phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, which will affect the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and affect cell proliferation, apoptosis, tumor metabolism, genomic stability, and tumor drug resistance. Thus, the occurrence and development of PCa cells are inhibited. In this review, we summarized the in vivo and in vitro evidence of Tanshinone against prostate cancer and discussed the effect of Tanshinone on nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), AR, and mTOR. At the same time, we conducted a network pharmacology analysis on the four main components of Tanshinone to further screen the possible targets of Tanshinone against prostate cancer and provide ideas for future research.

Tanshinone IIA improves diabetes‐induced renal fibrosis by regulating the miR ‐34‐5p/Notch1 axis

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the improvement of tanshinone in renal fibrosis in vitro and in vivo study. It used streptozotocin to model diabetic nephropathy (DN) mice, and treated with different Tanshinone IIA concentrations. The pathology of kidney tissues was evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson's staining; the ultrastructure and apoptosis cell number of kidney tissues were evaluated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and TUNEL assay. Relative gene and protein expression was evaluated by reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR), immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis, or western blot (WB) assay. In vitro study, using high‐glucose stimulated HK‐2 cell to model DN cell model, measuring cell proliferation, apoptosis rate, relative gene and protein expression, and LC 3B and P62 proteins expression by Cell Counting Kit‐8 (CCK‐8), flow cytometry, RT‐qPCR, WB, and cell immunofluorescence. Analysis correlation between Notch1 and miRNA‐34a‐5p was carried out by dual‐luciferase reporter. Fibrosis area and apoptosis cell rate were significantly up‐regulated (p < .001), with Tanshinone IIA supplement. The fibrosis area and apoptosis cell rate were also significantly improved in a dose‐dependent manner (p < .05). With si‐miRNA‐34a‐5p transfection, the Tanshinone IIA's treatment effects were significantly depressed. By dual‐luciferase reporter, miRNA‐34a‐5p could target Notch1 in the HK‐2 cell line. Tanshinone IIA improved DN‐induced renal fibrosis by regulating miRNA‐34a‐5p in vitro and in vivo study.

CircMYC promotes proliferation, migration, invasion and inhibits apoptosis of small cell lung cancer by targeting miR-145/ Matrix Metallopeptidase 2 axis

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in the carcinogenesis of lung cancer. Human MYC gene is highly expressed in melanoma, multiple myeloma, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma. We aimed to investigate the role of circMYC in small cell lung cancer (SCLC). The expression of cirMYC in SCLC tissues and cells were examined. Functional studies were performed to evaluate the roles of circMYC in SCLC cells. Luciferase reporter gene assay, RNA pull-down assay, and rescue experiments were performed to evaluate the regulatory relationship between circMYC and miR-145, and MiR-145 and MMP2 mRNA. We found that CirMYC was highly expressed in SCLC tissues and cells. Knockdown of circMYC could inhibit cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and induce apoptosis. CircMYC targeted miR-145 and miR-145 targeted MMP2 (Matrix Metallopeptidase 2) mRNA. Our data indicated that circMYC upregulates the expression of MMP-2 by inhibiting miR-145, which functions to promote the proliferation, migration, and invasion and inhibit the apoptosis of SCLC. These findings suggest that targeting circMYC/miR-145/MMP-2 could serve as a potential therapeutic strategy for SCLC treatment.

Juniperus communis extract induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of colorectal adenocarcinoma in vitro and in vivo

Juniperus communis (JCo) is a well-known traditional Chinese medicinal plant that has been used to treat wounds, fever, swelling, and rheumatism. However, the mechanism underlying the anticancer effect of JCo extract on colorectal cancer (CRC) has not yet been elucidated. This study investigated the anticancer effects of JCo extract in vitro and in vivo as well as the precise molecular mechanisms. Cell viability was evaluated using the MTT assay. Cell cycle distribution was examined by flow cytometry analysis, and cell apoptosis was determined by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. Protein expression was analyzed using western blotting. The in vivo activity of the JCo extract was evaluated using a xenograft BALB/c mouse model. The tumors and organs were examined through hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and immunohistochemistry. The results showed that JCo extract exhibited higher cytotoxicity against CRC cells than against normal cells and showed synergistic effects when combined with 5-fluorouracil. JCo extract induced cell cycle arrest at the G₀/G₁ phase via regulation of p53/p21 and CDK4/cyclin D1 and induced cell apoptosis via the extrinsic (FasL/Fas/caspase-8) and intrinsic (Bax/Bcl-2/caspase-9) apoptotic pathways. In vivo studies revealed that JCo extract suppressed tumor growth through the inhibition of proliferation and induction of apoptosis. In addition, there was no obvious change in body weight or histological morphology of normal organs after treatment. JCo extract suppressed CRC progression by inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in vitro and in vivo, suggesting the potential application of JCo extract in the treatment of CRC.

A network-based method for mechanistic investigation and neuroprotective effect on treatment of tanshinone Ⅰ against ischemic stroke in mouse

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Tanshinone-Ⅰ (TSNⅠ), a member of the mainly active components of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Dan Shen), which is widely used for the treatment for modern clinical diseases including cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, has been reported to show the properties of anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, neuroprotection and other pharmacological actions. However, whether TSNⅠ can improve neuron survival and neurological function against transient focal cerebral ischemia (tMCAO) in mice is still a blank field.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aims to investigate the neuroprotective effects of TSNⅠ on ischemic stroke (IS) induced by tMCAO in mice and explore the potential mechanism of TSNⅠ against IS by combining network pharmacology approach and experimental verification.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, the pivotal candidate targets of TSNⅠ against IS were screened by network pharmacology firstly. Enrichment analysis and molecular docking of those targets were performed to identify the possible mechanism of TSNⅠ against IS. Afterwards, experiments were carried out to further verify the mechanism of TSNⅠ against IS. The infarct volume and neurological deficit were evaluated by 2, 3, 5-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining and Longa respectively. Immunohistochemistry was used to observe neuronal death in the hippocampus and cortical regions by detecting the change of NeuN. The predicting pathways of signaling-related proteins were assessed by Western blot in vitro and in vivo experiments.

RESULTS

In vivo, TSNⅠ was found to dose-dependently decrease mice's cerebral infarct volume induced by tMCAO. In vitro, pretreatment with TSNⅠ could increase cell viability of HT-22 cell following oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD/R). Moreover, the results showed that 125 candidate targets were identified, Protein kinase B (AKT) signaling pathway was significantly enriched by Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis and mitogen-activated protein kinases 1 (MAPK1) and AKT1 could be bound to TSNⅠ more firmly by molecular docking analysis, which implies that TSNⅠ may play a role in neuroprotection through activating AKT and MAPK signaling pathways. Meanwhile, TSNⅠ was confirmed to significantly protect neurons from injury induced by IS through activating AKT and MAPK signaling pathways.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, our study clarifies that the mechanism of TSNⅠ against IS might be related to AKT and MAPK signaling pathways, which may provide the basic evidence for further development and utilization of TSNⅠ.

Perspectives and controversies regarding the use of natural products for the treatment of lung cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer‐related mortality both in men and women and accounts for 18.4% of all cancer‐related deaths. Although advanced therapy methods have been developed, the prognosis of lung cancer patients remains extremely poor. Over the past few decades, clinicians and researchers have found that chemical compounds extracted from natural products may be useful for treating lung cancer. Drug formulations derived from natural compounds, such as paclitaxel, doxorubicin, and camptothecin, have been successfully used as chemotherapeutics for lung cancer. In recent years, hundreds of new natural compounds that can be used to treat lung cancer have been found through basic and sub‐clinical research. However, there has not been a corresponding increase in the number of drugs that have been used in a clinical setting. The probable reasons may include low solubility, limited absorption, unfavorable metabolism, and severe side effects. In this review, we present a summary of the natural compounds that have been proven to be effective for the treatment of lung cancer, as well as an understanding of the mechanisms underlying their pharmacological effects. We have also highlighted current controversies and have attempted to provide solutions for the clinical translation of these compounds.

Foeniculum vulgare seed extract induces apoptosis in lung cancer cells partly through the down-regulation of Bcl-2

The factors behind the pathogenesis of lung cancer are not clear, and treatment failure is generally caused by drug resistance, recurrence, and metastasis. Development of new therapeutic agents to overcome drug-resistance remains a challenge clinically. Various extracts of Foeniculum vulgare have shown promising anticancer activity; however, effects on lung cancer and the underlying molecular mechanisms of action are not clear. In the present study, we found that the ethanol extract of Foeniculum vulgare seeds (EEFS) significantly reduced lung cancer cell growth in vitro and in vivo. EEFS decreased the viability of and triggered apoptosis in the lung cancer cell lines NCI-H446 and NCI-H661. EEFS induced apoptosis mainly through inhibition of Bcl-2 protein expression, reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential, and release of Cytochrome C. Moreover, EEFS significantly inhibited colony formation and cell migration in lung cancer cells. EEFS also effectively inhibited the growth of xenograft tumors derived from NCI-446 cells by reducing Bcl-2 protein expression and inducing apoptosis. Taken together, these findings suggest that EEFS exerts anti-lung cancer activity by targeting the Bcl-2 protein and may have potential as a therapeutic drug for lung cancer.

Traditional Chinese medicine and lung cancer--From theory to practice

With the continuous breakthroughs in molecular biology and biochemistry, we have constantly made great progress in the treatment of lung cancer. There is no doubt that standard treatment (such as surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy) has greatly improved the prognosis of lung cancer populations. In particular, the immunotherapy has brought more and more good news to countless lung cancer patients. In contrast to these standard treatments, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) rarely has a profound and comprehensive overview in the field of lung cancer. This article will summarize the latest progress of TCM in lung cancer which is mainly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) from theory to clinical practice, which would carry forward the sophisticated TCM and promote the development of modern medicine.

Comprehensive live-cell imaging analysis of cryptotanshinone and synergistic drug-screening effects in various human and canine cancer cell lines

Background

Several studies have highlighted both the extreme anticancer effects of Cryptotanshinone (CT), a Stat3 crippling component from Salvia miltiorrhiza, as well as other STAT3 inhibitors to fight cancer.

Methods

Data presented in this experiment incorporates 2 years of in vitro studies applying a comprehensive live-cell drug-screening analysis of human and canine cancer cells exposed to CT at 20 μM concentration, as well as to other drug combinations. As previously observed in other studies, dogs are natural cancer models, given to their similarity in cancer genetics, epidemiology and disease progression compared to humans.

Results

Results obtained from several types of human and canine cancer cells exposed to CT and varied drug combinations, verified CT efficacy at combating cancer by achieving an extremely high percentage of apoptosis within 24 hours of drug exposure.

Conclusions

CT anticancer efficacy in various human and canine cancer cell lines denotes its ability to interact across different biological processes and cancer regulatory cell networks, driving inhibition of cancer cell survival.

Challenges and strategies in progress of drug delivery system for traditional Chinese medicine Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (Danshen)

Traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs), with a history of thousands of years, are widely used clinically with effective treatment. However, the drug delivery systems (DDSs) for TCMs remains major challenges due to the characteristics of multi-components including alkaloids, flavones, anthraquinones, glycosides, proteins, volatile oils and other types. Therefore, the novel preparations and technology of modern pharmaceutics is introduced to improve TCM therapeutic effects due to instability and low bioavailability of active ingredients. Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma, the radix and rhizomes of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen in Chinese), is a well known Chinese herbal medicine for protecting the cardiovascular system, with active ingredients mainly including lipophilic tanshinones and hydrophilic salvianolic acids. In this review, this drug is taken as an example to present challenges and strategies in progress of DDSs for TCMs. This review would also summary the characteristics of active ingredients in it including physicochemical properties and pharmacological effects. The purpose of this review is to provide inspirations and ideas for the DDSs designed from TCMs by summarizing the advances on DDSs for both single- and multi-component from Danshen.

Network pharmacology exploration reveals a common mechanism in the treatment of cardio-cerebrovascular disease with Salvia miltiorrhiza Burge. and Carthamus tinctorius L

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to identify the key genes and KEGG pathways in Carthamus tinctorius L. (Safflower) and Salvia miltiorrhiza Burge. (Salvia) for the treatment of cardio-cerebrovascular disease, and to explore their potential molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

Compounds and targets in Safflower and Salvia were retrieved from Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP). We obtained targets of myocardial infarction (MI) and cerebral infarction (CI) data from Therapeutic Target Database (TTD), Drugbank and DisGeNET datasets. The network of Safflower, Salvia, CI and MI was established and then executing, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO) analyses of the functional characteristics were performed. The Chinese herbal prescription and target for CI and MI were obtained by searching in the database. Finally, the main pathways of Salvia and Safflower in Chinese patent medicines were analyzed. The MCAO model was established in rats, and compatibility of salvia with safflower was experimentally verified.

RESULTS

We obtained a total of 247 genes targeted by 52 compounds from Safflower and 119 genes targeted by 48 compounds from Salvia. In total, we identified 299 known therapeutic targets for the treatment of CI and 960 targets for the treatment MI. There are 23 common targets for Salvia, Safflower, MI, and CI. A total of 85 KEGG pathways were also enriched and intersected with the pathway of proprietary Chinese medicine to yield 25 main pathways. Safflower and Salvia have the best therapeutic effect in MCAO.

CONCLUSION

We identified gene lists for Safflower and Salvia in CI and MI. Bioinformatics and interaction analyses may provide new insight into the treatment of cardio-cerebrovascular diseases with Safflower and Salvia.

An In Vitro Evaluation of the Molecular Mechanisms of Action of Medical Plants from the Lamiaceae Family as Effective Sources of Active Compounds against Human Cancer Cell Lines

It is predicted that 1.8 million new cancer cases will be diagnosed worldwide in 2020; of these, the incidence of lung, colon, breast, and prostate cancers will be 22%, 9%, 7%, and 5%, respectively according to the National Cancer Institute. As the global medical cost of cancer in 2020 will exceed about $150 billion, new approaches and novel alternative chemoprevention molecules are needed. Research indicates that the plants of the Lamiaceae family may offer such potential. The present study reviews selected species from the Lamiaceae and their active compounds that may have the potential to inhibit the growth of lung, breast, prostate, and colon cancer cells; it examines the effects of whole extracts, individual compounds, and essential oils, and it discusses their underlying molecular mechanisms of action. The studied members of the Lamiaceae are sources of crucial phytochemicals that may be important modulators of cancer-related molecular targets and can be used as effective factors to support anti-tumor treatment.

Overview of Salvia miltiorrhiza as a Potential Therapeutic Agent for Various Diseases: An Update on Efficacy and Mechanisms of Action

Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (S. miltiorrhiza) is a medicinal herb that has been used for the treatment for various diseases such as cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases in East Asia including Korea. Considering its extensive usage as a therapeutic agent for multiple diseases, there is a need to review previous research regarding its therapeutic benefits and their mechanisms. Therefore, we searched PubMed and PubMed Central for articles reporting its therapeutic effects on certain disease groups including cancers, cardiovascular, liver, and nervous system diseases. This review provides an overview of therapeutic benefits and targets of S. miltiorrhiza, including inflammation, fibrosis, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. The findings on multi-functional properties of S. miltiorrhiza discussed in this article support the efficacy of S. miltiorrhiza extract on various diseases, but also call for further research on the multiple mechanisms that mediate its therapeutic effects.

Health-Promoting Effects of Thymus Phenolic-Rich Extracts: Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory and Antitumoral Properties

Thymus genus comprises numerous species that are particularly abundant in the West Mediterranean region. A growing body of evidence suggests that many of these species are a rich source of bioactive compounds, including phenolic compounds such as rosmarinic acid, salvianolic acids and luteolin glycosides, able to render them potential applications in a range of industrial fields. This review collects the most relevant studies focused on the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer of phenolic-rich extracts from Thymus plants, highlighting correlations made by the authors with respect to the main phenolic players in such activities.

Dihydrotanshinone I inhibits ovarian cancer cell proliferation and migration by transcriptional repression of PIK3CA gene

Dihydrotanshinone I (DHTS), extracted from Salvia miltiorrhiza, was found to be the most effective compound of tanshen extracts against cancer cells in our previous studies. However, the therapeutic benefits and underlying mechanisms of DHTS on ovarian cancer remain uncertain. In this study, we demonstrated the cytocidal effects of DHTS on chemosensitive ovarian cancer cells with or without platinum-based chemotherapy. DHTS was able to inhibit proliferation and migration of ovarian cancer cells in vitro and in vivo through modulation of the PI3K/AKT signalling pathways. Combinatorial treatment of DHTS and cisplatin exhibited enhanced DNA damage in ovarian cancer cells. Overall, these findings suggest that DHTS induces ovarian cancer cells death via induction of DNA damage and inhibits ovarian cancer cell proliferation and migration.

Sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate: A review of pharmacological activity and pharmacokinetics

Sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate (STS) is a water-soluble derivate of tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA) which is an active lipophilic constitute of Chinese Materia Medica Salvia miltiorrhiza Bge. (Danshen). STS presents multiple pharmacological activities, including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammation and anti-apoptosis, and has been approved for treatment of cardiovascular diseases by China State Food and Drug Administration (CFDA). In this review, we comprehensively summarized the pharmacological activities and pharmacokinetics of STS, which could support the further application and development of STS. In the recent decades, numerous experimental and clinical studies have been conducted to investigate the potential treatment effects of STS in various diseases, such as heart diseases, brain diseases, pulmonary diseases, cancers, sepsis and so on. The underlying mechanisms were most related to anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects of STS via regulating various transcription factors, such as NF-κB, Nrf2, Stat1/3, Smad2/3, Hif-1α and β-catenin. Iron channels, including Ca²⁺, K⁺ and Cl^- channels, were also the important targets of STS. Additionally, we emphasized the differences between STS and Tan IIA despite the interchangeable use of Tan IIA and STS in many previous studies. It is promising to improve the efficacy and reduce side effects of chemotherapeutic drug by the combination use of STS in canner treatment. The application of STS in pregnancy needs to be seriously considered. Moreover, the drug-drug interactions between STS and other drugs needs to be further studied as well as the complications of STS.

Angiogenesis and bone regeneration by mesenchymal stem cell transplantation with danshen in a rabbit model of avascular necrotic femoral head

The present study aimed to explore the potential of combined treatment with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and danshen for angiogenesis and bone regeneration in a rabbit model of avascular necrosis of femoral head (ANFH). A rabbit model of ANFH was established using the Shwartzman reaction with methylprednisolone and Escherichia coli endotoxin injection. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and histopathological examination were used to evaluate the rabbit model of ANFH. The rabbits were randomly divided into the danshen group, the MSCs group, the danshen combined with MSCs group and the model group (treated with physiological saline). The expression level of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) were determined by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The expression level of bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were detected by immunofluorescence and the mRNA expression of BMP-2 and VEGF were detected by RT-PCR. Typical osteonecrosis occurred in the rabbit model of ANFH, which indicated that the model was successfully established. MCP-1 and SDF-1 were significantly increased in the model group compared with the normal group (P<0.05). Following the administration of MSCs and Salvia miltiorrhiza (danshen), MSCs labeled with 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine were observed to be gathered in the necrotic area. The increased migration of MSCs to the necrotic area may be due to the upregulated expression of the chemokines MCP-1 and SDF-1. ANFH treated with danshen combined with MSCs may promote revascularization by increasing the expression of VEGF and BMP-2 in the femoral head, promoting re-ossification and revascularization. Danshen combined with the transplantation of MSCs may be regarded as a novel therapy for the treatment of ANFH in a clinical setting.

Tanshinones, Critical Pharmacological Components in Salvia miltiorrhiza

Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, a member of the Lamiaceae family, is valued in traditional Chinese Medicine. Its dried root (named Danshen) has been used for hundreds of years, primarily for the treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Tanshinones are the main active ingredients in S. miltiorrhiza and exhibit significant pharmacological activities, such as antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory activity, cardiovascular effects, and antitumor activity. Danshen dripping pill of Tianshili is an effective drug widely used in the clinical treatment of cardiovascular diseases. With the increasing demand for clinical drugs, the traditional method for extracting and separating tanshinones from medicinal plants is insufficient. Therefore, in combination with synthetic biological methods and strategies, it is necessary to analyze the biosynthetic pathway of tanshinones and construct high-yield functional bacteria to obtain tanshinones. Moreover, the biosynthesis of tanshinones has been studied for more than two decades but remains to be completely elucidated. This review will systematically present the composition, extraction and separation, pharmacological activities and biosynthesis of tanshinones from S. miltiorrhiza, with the intent to provide references for studies on other terpenoid bioactive components of traditional Chinese medicines and to provide new research strategies for the sustainable development of traditional Chinese medicine resources.

The combination of Nutlin-3 and Tanshinone IIA promotes synergistic cytotoxicity in acute leukemic cells expressing wild-type p53 by co-regulating MDM2-P53 and the AKT/mTOR pathway

P53 dysfunction has been associated with various malignant tumors, including acute leukemia. The overexpression of mouse double minute 2 (MDM2) causes the inactivation of p53 in acute leukemia. MDM2 inhibitors that activate p53 and induce apoptosis are currently being developed for potential treatment of acute leukemia. However, MDM2 inhibitors alone have limited efficacy in acute leukemia therapeutics. Combining other drugs to enhance the efficacy of MDM2 inhibitors is the thus considered as a potential treatment scheme. Here, we report that the combination of Nutlin-3 and Tanshinone IIA synergistically induces cytotoxicity, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and autophagic cell death, thereby imparting anti-leukemia effect in an acute leukemia cell line with wild-type p53 by effectively activating p53, inhibiting the AKT/mTOR pathway, and activating the RAF/MEK pathway. Using primary samples from acute leukemia patients, we show that the combination of Nutlin-3 plus Tanshinone IIA synergistically induces cytotoxicity by activating p53 and inhibiting the AKT/mTOR pathway. This specific combination of Nutlin-3 and Tanshinone IIA is also effective in preventing the recurrence of refractory leukemia, such as Ph+ ALL with the ABL kinase T315I mutation and AML with the FLT3-ITD mutation. Taken together, the results of this study demonstrate that the Nutlin-3 plus Tanshinone IIA combination exerts synergistic anti-leukemia effects by regulating the p53 and AKT/mTOR pathways, although further investigation is warranted. Small-molecule MDM2 antagonists plus Tanshinone IIA may thus be a promising strategy for the treatment of acute leukemia.

Cryptotanshinone Induces Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis of NSCLC Cells through the PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β Pathway

Cryptotanshinone (CTT) is a natural product and a quinoid diterpene isolated from the root of the Asian medicinal plant, Salvia miltiorrhizabunge. Notably, CTT has a variety of anti-cancer actions, including the activation of apoptosis, anti-proliferation, and reduction in angiogenesis. We further investigated the anti-cancer effects of CTT using MTS, LDH, and Annexin V assay, DAPI staining, cell cycle arrest, and Western blot analysis in NSCLC cell lines. NSCLC cells treated with CTT reduced cell growth through PI3K/Akt/GSK3β pathway inhibition, G0/G1 cell cycle arrest, and the activation of apoptosis. CTT induced an increase of caspase-3, caspase-9, poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP), and Bax, as well as inhibition of Bcl-2, survivin, and cellular-inhibitor of apoptosis protein 1 and 2 (cIAP-1 and -2). It also induced G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest by decreasing the expression of the cyclin A, cyclin D, cyclin E, Cdk 2, and Cdk 4. These results highlight anti-proliferation the latent of CTT as natural therapeutic agent for NSCLC. Therefore, we investigated the possibility of CTT as an anti-cancer agent by comparing with GF, which is a representative anti-cancer drug.

miRNA-23a has effects to improve lung injury induced by sepsis in vitro and vivo study

AIM

The aim of this study is to explain the effects and mechanism of miRNA-23a in lung injury which were induced by sepsis in vitro and vivo.

METHODS

In the vitro study, The BEAS-2B cells were divided into 4 groups: NC, MC, miRNA and miRNA + PTEN agonist groups. The cell proliferation and apoptosis of difference groups were measured by MTT and flow cytometry, the relative proteins expression of difference groups were measured by WB assay. In the vivo study, the rats were also divided into 4 groups: NC, MC, miRNA and miRNA + PTEN agonist groups. The miRNA-23a expression of difference groups were evaluated by ISH in lung tissues of rats. The cell apoptosis of difference groups were evaluated by TUNEL assay in lung tissues; the relative proteins expression of difference groups were evaluated by IHC assay.

RESULTS

Compared with NC group, the cell apoptosis rate of MC groups were significantly increased in vitro and vivo studies (P ＜ 0.05, respectively). The relative proteins (PTEN, PI3K, AKT and P53) expressions of MC group were significantly differences (P ＜ 0.05, respectively) compared with those of NC groups in vitro and vivo studies. However, with miRNA-23a infection, the cell apoptosis of miRNA group were significantly suppressed compared with MC groups, and the relative proteins (PTEN, PI3K, AKT and P53) of miRNA group were also significantly differences compared with MC groups in vitro and vivo studies (P ＜ 0.05, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The miRNA-23a has improved lung injury induced by sepsis via PTEN/PI3K/AKT/P53 pathway in vitro and vivo studies.

Oxymatrine protects against DSS-induced colitis via inhibiting the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

Oxymatrine (OMT), an alkaloid derived from the root of the Sophora flavescens, has been reported to possess a significant effect on relieving UC owing to its anti-inflammatory property. But the other therapeutic mechanism of OMT remains unclear. Recent studies have found, PI3K/AKT signaling pathway is involved in the pathogenesis of UC by pro-inflammatory effects and activating T cells. Moreover, PI3K/AKT pathway is one of the most important pathways for regulating cell apoptosis. Thus, we aim to explore whether OMT protects against UC by targeting PI3K/AKT pathway. We established the UC mice models, using LY294002 (a specific inhibitor of PI3K/AKT) as a positive control, to observe the effect of low, medium and high dose of OMT on UC and its influence on PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Our data indicated that OMT can significantly ameliorate UC through anti-inflammatory, pro-apoptotic, down-regulating the differentiation of Th1 and Th17 cells via PI3K/AKT pathway. This study reveals that PI3K/AKT signaling pathway is a potential mechanism of OMT-induced UC remission and suggests that OMT is a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of UC.

Total saponins of Albiziae Cortex show anti-hepatoma carcinoma effects by inducing S phase arrest and mitochondrial apoptosis pathway activation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Albiziae Cortex (AC) is a widely used traditional medicine in China. It is possess various properties to treat insomnia, traumatic injuries, diuresis, sthenia, and confusion. Total saponins of Albiziae Cortex (TSAC) are the most abundant bioactive components of AC, which were reported to show significant anti-tumor effects in vivo and in vitro. But the underlying mechanism of TSAC remained to be revealed.

AIM OF STUDY

In this study, we investigated the anti-hepatoma carcinoma effects and the potential mechanism of TSAC in vivo and in vitro.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We first purified TSAC from crude extracts and characterized the major bioactive compounds by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Effects of TSAC on viability of various hepatoma carcinoma cell lines were measured by MTT. Inhibition on cell proliferation was analysed using colony formation assay. Cell cycle distribution was revealed by flow cytometry. The apoptotic cells were observed by Hoechst 33258 staining and acridine orange (AO)/ethidium bromide (EB) double staining. Microstructures of apoptotic cells were examined by Transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The mitochondrial membrane potential were determined by JC-1 staining. Western blot was used to investigate the effects of TSAC on apoptosis-related proteins, B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) and Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), and S-phase related protein cyclin A, cyclin E and cyclin-dependent kinases 2 (CDK2). Effects on tumor growth was assessed by H22-bearing ICR mice.

RESULTS

TSAC significantly decreased the hepatoma carcinoma cell viability and inhibited HepG2 cell colony formation in a concentration-dependent manner. We also found that TSAC inhibited HepG2 cell growth via induction of S phase arrest. Further study showed that TSAC significantly down-regulated the expressions of cyclin A, cyclin E and CDK2 in HepG2 cells. Meanwhile, TSAC could effectively induce mitochondria-dependent caspase apoptosis pathway activation. Furthermore, TSAC increased the expression of pro-apoptotic protein Bax and decreased the expression of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2. In vivo assay showed that the anti-tumor effects of TSAC were significantly augmented without increasing toxicity in H22-bearing ICR mice.

CONCLUSION

TSAC could inhibit cell proliferation through inducing S phase arrest and activate cell apoptosis via mitochondria-dependent apoptosis pathway. Therefore, TSAC could be a promising agent in clinical trials for anti-hepatoma carcinoma treatment.

Tanshinone IIA regulates colorectal cancer apoptosis via attenuation of Parkin‑mediated mitophagy by suppressing AMPK/Skp2 pathways

Mitophagy is important for cancer development. Notably, the role of Parkin‑mediated mitophagy in colorectal cancer (CRC) mortality has not been fully determined. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of Parkin‑mediated mitophagy on CRC apoptosis. In addition, the present study investigated the therapeutic effects of Tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA) on the regulation of CRC cell death via mitophagy. Cellular apoptosis was measured following Tan IIA treatment. In addition, mitophagy activity was evaluated by immunofluorescence and western blotting. The results of the present study revealed that Tan IIA may enhance CRC cell death. In addition, the results demonstrated that Tan IIA enhanced mitochondrial apoptosis, as demonstrated by reduced mitochondrial membrane potential, elevated mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening, and increased oxidative stress, mitochondrial energy disorder and proapoptotic factor expression. Furthermore, the results of the present study demonstrated that Tan IIA induced mitochondrial apoptosis via inhibition of mitophagy. In addition, it was revealed that mitophagy could suppress mitochondrial apoptosis. Functional assays revealed that Tan IIA suppressed the adenosine monophosphate‑activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway, resulting in the inactivation of S‑phase kinase associated protein 2 (Skp2). Furthermore, reduced levels of Skp2 failed to activate Parkin, thus resulting in inhibition of mitophagy. Conversely, reactivation of AMPK and overexpression of Skp2 rescued mitophagy activity and thus attenuated the Tan IIA‑induced apoptosis of CRC cells. In conclusion, the results of the present study demonstrated the beneficial role of mitophagy in CRC cell survival and suggested that Tan IIA may be an effective therapeutic agent, which suppresses mitophagy activity and enhances CRC apoptosis.

The melatonin-MT1 receptor axis modulates tumor growth in PTEN-mutated gliomas

More than 40% of glioma patients have tumors that harbor PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted on chromosome ten) mutations; this disease is associated with poor therapeutic resistance and outcome. Such mutations are linked to increased cell survival and growth, decreased apoptosis, and drug resistance; thus, new therapeutic strategies focusing on inhibiting glioma tumorigenesis and progression are urgently needed. Melatonin, an indolamine produced and secreted predominantly by the pineal gland, mediates a variety of physiological functions and possesses antioxidant and antitumor properties. Here, we analyzed the relationship between PTEN and the inhibitory effect of melatonin in primary human glioma cells and cultured glioma cell lines. The results showed that melatonin can inhibit glioma cell growth both in culture and in vivo. This inhibition was associated with PTEN levels, which significantly correlated with the expression level of MT1 in patients. In fact, c-fos-mediated MT1 was shown to be a key modulator of the effect of melatonin on gliomas that harbor wild type PTEN. Taken together, these data suggest that melatonin-MT1 receptor complexes represent a potential target for the treatment of glioma.

Anticancer effects of ginsenoside Rk3 on non-small cell lung cancer cells: in vitro and in vivo

Ginsenoside Rk3 (Rk3) is present in the roots of processed Panax notoginseng herbs and it exerts anti-platelet aggregation, pro-immunogenic and cardioprotective effects. However, little is known regarding the anticancer activities of this compound, especially in lung cancer. This study was designed to investigate the anticancer effects of Rk3 on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells and in an H460 xenograft tumor model. Our results showed that Rk3 reduced cell viability, inhibited both cell proliferation and colony formation, and induced G1 phase cell cycle arrest by downregulating the expression of cyclin D1 and CDK4 and upregulating the expression of P21. Rk3 also induced apoptosis in a concentration-dependent manner in H460 and A549 cells by Annexin V/PI staining, TUNEL assay and JC-1 staining, resulting in a change in the nuclear morphology. Moreover, Rk3 induced the activation of caspase-8, -9, and -3, promoted changes in mitochondrial membrane potential, decreased the expression of Bcl-2, increased the expression of Bax, and caused the release of cytochrome c, which indicated that the apoptosis-inducing effects of Rk3 were triggered via death receptor-mediated mitochondria-dependent pathways. Furthermore, Rk3 significantly inhibited the growth of H460 xenograft tumors without an obvious effect on the body weight of the treated mice. Histological analysis indicated that Rk3 inhibited tumor growth by altering the proliferation and morphology of tumor cells. In addition, we confirmed that Rk3 inhibited angiogenesis via CD34 staining and chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay in vivo. Taken together, our findings revealed not only the anticancer effect of Rk3 on NSCLC cells but also a new promising therapeutic agent for human NSCLC.

Cassaine diterpenoids from the seeds of Erythrophleum fordii and their cytotoxic activities

Six new cassaine diterpenoids (1, 3-7), along with three known ones (2, 8-9) were isolated from the seeds of Erythrophleum fordii. Their structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic methods and acid hydrolysis. Compound 2 was tested to be the most potent one and showed more sensitive activities on MCF-7 and A549 cancer cells with IC₅₀ values of 3.66 ± 1.20 and 2.87 ± 0.46 μM, respectively. Furthermore, compound 2 reduced the number of cell colonies significantly in a dose-dependent manner in the colony formation assay and triggered apoptosis of MCF-7 cell.

Nutlin-3 plus tanshinone IIA exhibits synergetic anti-leukemia effect with imatinib by reactivating p53 and inhibiting the AKT/mTOR pathway in Ph+ ALL

Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL) is triggered by BCR/ABL kinase. Recent efforts focused on the development of more potent tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) that also inhibit mutant tyrosine kinases such as nilotinib and dasatinib. Although major advances in the treatment of this aggressive disease with potent inhibitors of the BCR/ABL kinases, patients in remission frequently relapse due to drug resistance possibly mediated, at least in part, by compensatory activation of growth-signaling pathways and protective feedback signaling of leukemia cells in response to TKI treatment. Continuous activation of AKT/mTOR signaling and inactivation of p53 pathway were two mechanisms of TKI resistance. Here, we reported that nutlin-3 plus tanshinone IIA significantly potentiated the cytotoxic and apoptotic induction effects of imatinib by down-regulation of the AKT/mTOR pathway and reactivating the p53 pathway deeply in Ph+ ALL cell line. In primary samples from Ph+ ALL patients, nutlin-3 plus tanshinone IIA also exhibited synergetic cytotoxic effects with imatinib. Of note, three samples from Ph+ ALL patients harboring T315I mutation also showed sensitivity to the combined treatment of imatinib, nutlin-3 plus tanshinone IIA. In Ph+ ALL mouse models, imatinib combined with nutlin-3 plus tanshinone IIA also exhibited synergetic effects on reduction in leukemia burden. These results demonstrated that nutlin-3 plus tanshinone IIA combined TKI might be a promising treatment strategy for Ph+ ALL patients.

Danshen attenuates cartilage injuries in osteoarthritis in vivo and in vitro by activating JAK2/STAT3 and AKT pathways

Articular cartilage degradation is a main feature of osteoarthritis (OA). The effects of Danshen, a traditional Chinese herb, in mitigating cartilage damage have been reported before. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of Danshen on cartilage injuries in OA. Rabbit OA models were established by surgical destabilization of the medial meniscus and the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments in the left knee joint. Injection of Danshen into the articular cavity attenuated OA cartilage destruction in vivo. The levels of phosphorylated Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) and phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) were decreased in osteoarthritic cartilage, while they were rescued upon Danshen treatment. Furthermore, chondrocytes isolated from normal rabbit cartilage were exposed to 2 mM sodium nitroprusside (SNP) to establish an OA model in vitro. We found that the oxidative stress and chondrocyte apoptosis induced by SNP were suppressed by Danshen. The phosphorylation levels of JAK2 and STAT3 were decreased in response to SNP treatment, whereas they were rescued by Danshen. Additionally, AG490, a specific JAK2 inhibitor, counteracted the anti-apoptotic effect of Danshen. The phosphorylation level of protein kinase B (AKT) was also altered in response to SNP and reversed by Danshen. The anti-apoptotic effect of Danshen was counteracted by AKT pathway inhibitor LY194002. Taken together, Danshen attenuates OA cartilage destruction by regulating the JAK2/STAT3 and AKT signaling pathways.