Biology of glucose metabolization in cancer cells

Metal-Free Carbon Co-Catalysts for Up-Conversion Photo-Induced Catalytic Cancer Therapy

Near-infrared (NIR)-responsive metal-free carbon co-catalysts that convert glucose into H2O2 to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) are developed from phosphorus-doped carbon nitride (P-C3N4) and graphene quantum dots (GQD) composites, for enhanced photocatalytic cancer therapy by light exposure in the targeted tumor microenvironment. Upon irradiation, the NIR light is converted by GQD with up-conversion function into visible light to excite P-C3N4 for photocatalytic conversion of glucose into H2O2, which subsequently decomposes into ROS. ROS thus generated exhibits an excellent anticancer efficacy for efficient cancer therapy with minimal side effects, as evidenced by both in vitro and in vivo studies. This study demonstrates, for the first time, a cancer therapeutic of GQD/P-C3N4 composite that utilizes a two-step cascade effect using initially NIR-triggered GQD nanoparticles to activate P-C3N4 to photocatalytically generate ROS for effective and targeted cancer therapy.

Emerging trends on the uptake of fluorescent probes based on glucose analogs by cancer cells: From basic studies to therapeutics

The cancer cell metabolism, notably characterized by the Warburg effect, has been the focus of intense investigation regarding the mechanisms of the uptake of glucose analogs, opening up perspectives for diagnosis and treatment of cancer disease. In this review, we delve into the ever-evolving landscape of cancer research, centering on fluorescent probes based on glucose analogs. These analogs, resulting from modifications in the carbohydrate structure with functional groups, have stood out as versatile molecules in applications ranging from disease comprehension to therapeutic innovation, especially when combined with fluorescent compounds. Fluorescence-based assays have provided valuable contributions to the revelation of complex biological mechanisms in life sciences. This review presents selected studies from about the past six years up to 2024 related to the use of glucose-based fluorescent probes, for the investigation of their uptake profile as well as for therapeutic purposes. We believe that these investigations offer insights into the intricate interaction between glucose analogs and cancer cell metabolism, guiding future research and clinical applications in this field.

Functionalizing Thiosemicarbazones for Covalent Conjugation

Thiosemicarbazones (TSCs) with their modular character (thiosemicarbazides + carbonyl compound) allow broad variation of up to four substituents on the main R1R2C=N(1)-NH-C(S)-N(4)R3R4 core and are thus interesting tools for the formation of conjugates or the functionalization of nanoparticles (NPs). In this work, di-2-pyridyl ketone was introduced for the coordination of metals and 9-anthraldehyde for luminescence as R1 and R2 to TSCs. R3 and R4 substituents were varied for the formation of conjugates. Amino acids were introduced at the N4 position to produce [R1R2TSC-spacer-amino acid] conjugates. Further, functions such as phosphonic acid (R-P(O)(OH)2), D-glucose, o-hydroquinone, OH, and thiol (SH) were introduced at the N4 position producing [R1R2TSC-spacer-anchor group] conjugates for direct NP anchoring. Phenyl, cyclohexyl, benzyl, ethyl and methyl were used as spacer units. Both phenyl phosphonic acid TSC derivatives were bound on TiO2 NPs as a first example of direct NP anchoring. [R1R2TSC-spacer-end group] conjugates including OH, S-Bn (Bn = benzyl), NH-Boc (Boc = tert-butyloxycarbonyl), COOtBu, C≡CH, or N3 end groups were synthesized for potential covalent binding to functional molecules or functionalized NPs through amide, ester, or triazole functions. The synthesis of the thiosemicarbazides H2NNH-C(S)-NR3R4 starting from amines, including amino acids, SCCl2 or CS2, and hydrazine and their condensation with dipyridyl ketone and anthraldehyde led to 34 new TSC derivatives. They were synthesized in up to six steps with overall yields ranging from 10 to 85% and were characterized by a combination of nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. UV-vis absorption and photoluminescence spectroscopy allowed us to easily trace the dipyridyl imine and anthracene chromophores.

The multifaceted role of quercetin derived from its mitochondrial mechanism

Quercetin is a flavonoid with promising therapeutic applications; nonetheless, the phenotype exerted in some diseases is contradictory. For instance, anticancer properties may be explained by a cytotoxic mechanism, whereas antioxidant-related neuroprotection is a pro-survival process. According to the available literature, quercetin exerts a redox interaction with the electron transport chain (ETC) in the mitochondrion, affecting its membrane potential. It also affects ATP generation by oxidative phosphorylation, where ATP deprivation could partly explain its cytotoxic effect. Moreover, quercetin may support the generation of free radicals through redox reactions, causing a prooxidant effect. The nutrimental stress and prooxidant effect induced by quercetin might promote pro-survival properties such as antioxidant processes. Thus, in this review, we discuss the evidence supporting that quercetin redox interaction with the ETC could explain its beneficial and toxic properties.

Cytotoxic effects and comparative analysis of Ni ion uptake by osteoarthritic and physiological osteoblasts

Nickel(Ni)-containing materials have been widely used in a wide range of medical applications, including orthopaedics. Despite their excellent properties, there is still a problem with the release of nickel ions into the patient's body, which can cause changes in the behaviour of surrounding cells and tissues. This study aims to evaluate the effects of Ni on bone cells with an emphasis on the determination of Ni localization in cellular compartments in time. For these purposes, one of the most suitable models for studying the effects induced by metal implants was used-the patient's osteoarthritic cells. Thanks to this it was possible to simulate the pathophysiological conditions in the patient's body, as well as to evaluate the response of the cells which come into direct contact with the material after the implantation of the joint replacement. The largest differences in cell viability, proliferation and cell cycle changes occurred between Ni 0.5 mM and 1 mM concentrations. Time-dependent localization of Ni in cells showed that there is a continuous transport of Ni ions between the nucleus and the cytoplasm, as well as between the cell and the environment. Moreover, osteoarthritic osteoblasts showed faster changes in concentration and ability to accumulate more Ni, especially in the nucleus, than physiological osteoblasts. The differences in Ni accumulation process explains the higher sensitivity of patient osteoblasts to Ni and may be crucial in further studies of implant-derived cytotoxic effects.

The function and mechanism of circRNAs in 5-fluorouracil resistance in tumors: Biological mechanisms and future potential

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a well-known chemotherapy drug extensively used in the treatment of breast cancer. It works by inhibiting cancer cell proliferation and inducing cell death through direct incorporation into DNA and RNA via thymidylate synthase (TS). Circular RNAs (circRNAs), a novel family of endogenous non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) with limited protein-coding potential, contribute to 5-FU resistance. Their identification and targeting are crucial for enhancing chemosensitivity. CircRNAs can regulate tumor formation and invasion by adhering to microRNAs (miRNAs) and interacting with RNA-binding proteins, regulating transcription and translation. MiRNAs can influence enzymes responsible for 5-FU metabolism in cancer cells, affecting their sensitivity or resistance to the drug. In the context of 5-FU resistance, circRNAs can target miRNAs and regulate biological processes such as cell proliferation, cell death, glucose metabolism, hypoxia, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and drug efflux. This review focuses on the function of circRNAs in 5-FU resistance, discussing the underlying molecular pathways and biological mechanisms. It also presents recent circRNA/miRNA-targeted cancer therapeutic strategies for future clinical application.

Merkel cell polyomavirus pan-T antigen knockdown reduces cancer cell stemness and promotes neural differentiation independent of RB1

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a highly aggressive skin cancer associated with integration of Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV). MCPyV-encoded T-antigens (TAs) are pivotal for sustaining MCC's oncogenic phenotype, i.e., repression of TAs results in reactivation of the RB pathway and subsequent cell cycle arrest. However, the MCC cell line LoKe, characterized by a homozygous loss of the RB1 gene, exhibits uninterrupted cell cycle progression after shRNA-mediated TA repression. This unique feature allows an in-depth analysis of the effects of TAs beyond inhibition of the RB pathway, revealing the decrease in expression of stem cell-related genes upon panTA-knockdown. Analysis of gene regulatory networks identified members of the E2F family (E2F1, E2F8, TFDP1) as key transcriptional regulators that maintain stem cell properties in TA-expressing MCC cells. Furthermore, minichromosome maintenance (MCM) genes, which encodes DNA-binding licensing proteins essential for stem cell maintenance, were suppressed upon panTA-knockdown. The decline in stemness occurred simultaneously with neural differentiation, marked by the increased expression of neurogenesis-related genes such as neurexins, BTG2, and MYT1L. This upregulation can be attributed to heightened activity of PBX1 and BPTF, crucial regulators of neurogenesis pathways. The observations in LoKe were confirmed in an additional MCPyV-positive MCC cell line in which RB1 was silenced before panTA-knockdown. Moreover, spatially resolved transcriptomics demonstrated reduced TA expression in situ in a part of a MCC tumor characterized by neural differentiation. In summary, TAs are critical for maintaining stemness of MCC cells and suppressing neural differentiation, irrespective of their impact on the RB-signaling pathway.

Prodigiosin regulates cancer metabolism through interaction with GLUT1

In contrast to normal cells, cancer cells predominantly utilise glycolysis for ATP generation under aerobic conditions, facilitating proliferation and metastasis. Targeting glycolysis is effective for cancer treatment. Prodigiosin (PDG) is a natural compound with various bioactivities, including anticancer effects. However, the precise action mechanisms and molecular targets of PDG, which has demonstrated efficacy in regulating glucose metabolism in cancer cells, remain elusive. Here, we aimed to investigate the anti-cancer activity of PDG and mechanism in cancer metabolism. PDG regulated cancer metabolism by suppressing intracellular ATP production rate and levels. It inhibited glycolysis and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, impeding ATP production dependent on both glycolysis and mitochondrial respiration. Moreover, it inhibited cellular glucose uptake by directly interacting with glucose transporter 1 without affecting its mRNA or protein levels in HCT116 cells. We provide insights into the anti-cancer effects of PDG mediated via cancer metabolism regulation, suggesting its therapeutic potential for cancer.

The small tumor antigen of Merkel cell polyomavirus accomplishes cellular transformation by uniquely localizing to the nucleus despite the absence of a known nuclear localization signal

BACKGROUND

Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive skin cancer that is three times deadlier than melanoma. In 2008, it was found that 80% of MCC cases are caused by the genomic integration of a novel polyomavirus, Merkel Cell Polyomavirus (MCPyV), and the expression of its small and truncated large tumor antigens (ST and LT-t, respectively). MCPyV belongs to a family of human polyomaviruses; however, it is the only one with a clear association to cancer.

METHODS

To investigate the role and mechanisms of various polyomavirus tumor antigens in cellular transformation, Rat-2 and 293A cells were transduced with pLENTI MCPyV LT-t, MCPyV ST, TSPyV ST, HPyV7 ST, or empty pLENTI and assessed through multiple transformation assays, and subcellular fractionations. One-way ANOVA tests were used to assess statistical significance.

RESULTS

Soft agar, proliferation, doubling time, glucose uptake, and serum dependence assays confirmed ST to be the dominant transforming protein of MCPyV. Furthermore, it was found that MCPyV ST is uniquely transforming, as the ST antigens of other non-oncogenic human polyomaviruses such as Trichodysplasia Spinulosa-Associated Polyomavirus (TSPyV) and Human Polyomavirus 7 (HPyV7) were not transforming when similarly assessed. Identification of structural dissimilarities between transforming and non-transforming tumor antigens revealed that the uniquely transforming domain(s) of MCPyV ST are likely located within the structurally dissimilar loops of the MCPyV ST unique region. Of all known MCPyV ST cellular interactors, 62% are exclusively or transiently nuclear, suggesting that MCPyV ST localizes to the nucleus despite the absence of a canonical nuclear localization signal. Indeed, subcellular fractionations confirmed that MCPyV ST could achieve nuclear localization through a currently unknown, regulated mechanism independent of its small size, as HPyV7 and TSPyV ST proteins were incapable of nuclear translocation. Although nuclear localization was found to be important for several transforming properties of MCPyV ST, some properties were also performed by a cytoplasmic sequestered MCPyV ST, suggesting that MCPyV ST may perform different transforming functions in individual subcellular compartments.

CONCLUSIONS

Together, these data further elucidate the unique differences between MCPyV ST and other polyomavirus ST proteins necessary to understand MCPyV as the only known human oncogenic polyomavirus.

The Histone Deacetylase Family: Structural Features and Application of Combined Computational Methods

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are crucial in gene transcription, removing acetyl groups from histones. They also influence the deacetylation of non-histone proteins, contributing to the regulation of various biological processes. Thus, HDACs play pivotal roles in various diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and inflammatory conditions, highlighting their potential as therapeutic targets. This paper reviews the structure and function of the four classes of human HDACs. While four HDAC inhibitors are currently available for treating hematological malignancies, numerous others are undergoing clinical trials. However, their non-selective toxicity necessitates ongoing research into safer and more efficient class-selective or isoform-selective inhibitors. Computational methods have aided the discovery of HDAC inhibitors with the desired potency and/or selectivity. These methods include ligand-based approaches, such as scaffold hopping, pharmacophore modeling, three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationships, and structure-based virtual screening (molecular docking). Moreover, recent developments in the field of molecular dynamics simulations, combined with Poisson-Boltzmann/molecular mechanics generalized Born surface area techniques, have improved the prediction of ligand binding affinity. In this review, we delve into the ways in which these methods have contributed to designing and identifying HDAC inhibitors.

Regulating Protein-RNA Interactions: Advances in Targeting the LIN28/Let-7 Pathway

Originally discovered in C. elegans, LIN28 is an evolutionarily conserved zinc finger RNA-binding protein (RBP) that post-transcriptionally regulates genes involved in developmental timing, stem cell programming, and oncogenesis. LIN28 acts via two distinct mechanisms. It blocks the biogenesis of the lethal-7 (let-7) microRNA (miRNA) family, and also directly binds messenger RNA (mRNA) targets, such as IGF-2 mRNA, and alters downstream splicing and translation events. This review focuses on the molecular mechanism of LIN28 repression of let-7 and current strategies to overcome this blockade for the purpose of cancer therapy. We highlight the value of the LIN28/let-7 pathway as a drug target, as multiple oncogenic proteins that the pathway regulates are considered undruggable due to their inaccessible cellular location and lack of cavities for small molecule binding.

Manganese(III) Phthalocyanine Complex Nanoparticle-Loaded Glucose Oxidase to Enhance Tumor Inhibition through Energy Metabolism and Macrophage Polarization

Elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) have demonstrated efficacy in eliminating tumor cells by modifying the tumor microenvironment and inducing the polarization of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Nevertheless, the transient nature and limited diffusion distance inherent in ROS present significant challenges in cancer treatment. In response to these limitations, we have developed a nanoparticle (MnClPc-HSA@GOx) that not only inhibits tumor energy metabolism but also facilitates the transition of TAMs from the M2 type (anti-inflammatory type) to the M1 type (proinflammatory type). MnClPc-HSA@GOx comprises a manganese phthalocyanine complex (MnClPc) enveloped in human serum albumin (HSA), with glucose oxidase (GOx) loaded onto MnClPc@HSA nanoparticles. GOx was employed to catalyze the decomposition of glucose to produce H2O2 and gluconic acid. Additionally, in the presence of MnClPc, it catalyzes the conversion of H2O2 into •O2- and 1O2. Results indicate that the nanoparticle effectively impedes the glucose supply to tumor cells and suppresses their energy metabolism. Simultaneously, the ROS-mediated polarization of TAMs induces a shift from M2 to M1 macrophages, resulting in a potent inhibitory effect on tumors. This dual-action strategy holds promising clinical inhibition applications in the treatment of cancer.

Gut microbiome-derived bacterial extracellular vesicles in patients with solid tumours

INTRODUCTION

Gut microbiome-derived nanoparticles, known as bacterial extracellular vesicles (bEVs), have garnered interest as promising tools for studying the link between the gut microbiome and human health. The diverse composition of bEVs, including their proteins, mRNAs, metabolites, and lipids, makes them useful for investigating diseases such as cancer. However, conventional approaches for studying gut microbiome composition alone may not be accurate in deciphering host-gut microbiome communication. In clinical microbiome research, there is a gap in the knowledge on the role of bEVs in solid tumor patients.

OBJECTIVES

Analyzing the functionality of bEVs using (meta)genomics and proteomics could highlight the unique aspects of host-gut microbiome interactions in solid tumor patients. Therefore, we performed a comparative analysis of the proteome and microbiota composition of gut microbiome-derived bEVs isolated from patients with solid tumors and healthy controls.

METHODS

After isolating bEVs from the feces of solid tumor patients and healthy controls, we performed spectrometry analysis of their proteomes and next-generation sequencing (NGS) of the 16S gene. We also investigated the gut microbiomes of feces from patients and controls using 16S sequencing and used machine learning to classify the samples into patients and controls based on their bEVs and fecal microbiomes.

RESULTS

Solid tumor patients showed decreased microbiota richness and diversity in both the bEVs and feces. However, the bEV proteomes were more diverse in patients than in the controls and were enriched with proteins associated with the metabolism of amino acids and carbohydrates, nucleotide binding, and oxidoreductase activity. Metadata classification of samples was more accurate using fecal bEVs (100%) compared with fecal samples (93%).

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that bEVs are unique functional entities. There is a need to explore bEVs together with conventional gut microbiome analysis in functional cancer research to decipher the potential of bEVs as cancer diagnostic or therapeutic biomarkers.

Targeting JAK2/STAT3 for the treatment of cancer: A review on recent advancements in molecular development using structural analysis and SAR investigations

Cancer is indeed considered a hazardous and potentially life-threatening disorder. The JAK/STAT pathway is an important intracellular signaling cascade essential for many physiological functions, such as immune response, cell proliferation, and differentiation. Dysregulation of this pathway aids in the progression and development of cancer. The downstream JAK2/STAT3 signaling cascades are legitimate targets against which newer anticancer drugs can be developed to prevent and treat cancer. Understanding the mechanisms behind JAK2/STAT3 participation in cancer has paved the way for developing innovative targeted medicines with the potential to improve cancer treatment outcomes. This article provides information on the current scenario and recent advancements in the design and development of anticancer drugs targeting JAK2/STAT3, including structural analysis and SAR investigations of synthesized molecules. Numerous preclinical and clinical trials are ongoing on these inhibitors, which are highlighted to gain more insight into the broader development prospects of inhibitors of JAK2/STAT3.

The Small Tumor Antigen of Merkel Cell Polyomavirus Accomplishes Cellular Transformation by Uniquely Localizing to the Nucleus Despite the Absence of a Known Nuclear Localization Signal

Background

Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive skin cancer that is three times deadlier than melanoma. In 2008, it was found that 80% of MCC cases are caused by the genomic integration of a novel polyomavirus, Merkel Cell Polyomavirus (MCPyV), and the expression of its small and truncated large tumor antigens (ST and LT-t, respectively). MCPyV belongs to a family of human polyomaviruses; however, it is the only one with a clear association to cancer.

Methods

To investigate the role and mechanisms of various polyomavirus tumor antigens in cellular transformation, Rat-2, 293A, and human foreskin fibroblasts were transduced with pLENTI MCPyV LT-t, MCPyV ST, TSPyV ST, HPyV7 ST, or empty pLENTI and assessed through multiple transformation assays, and subcellular fractionations. One-way ANOVA tests were used to assess statistical significance.

Results

Soft agar, proliferation, doubling time, glucose uptake, and serum dependence assays confirmed ST to be the dominant transforming protein of MCPyV. Furthermore, it was found that MCPyV ST is uniquely transforming, as the ST antigens of other non-oncogenic human polyomaviruses such as Trichodysplasia Spinulosa Polyomavirus (TSPyV) and Human Polyomavirus 7 (HPyV7) were not transforming when similarly assessed. Identification of structural dissimilarities between transforming and non-transforming tumor antigens revealed that the uniquely transforming domain(s) of MCPyV ST are likely located within the structurally dissimilar loops of the MCPyV ST unique region. Of all known MCPyV ST cellular interactors, 62% are exclusively or transiently nuclear, suggesting that MCPyV ST localizes to the nucleus despite the absence of a canonical nuclear localization signal. Indeed, subcellular fractionations confirmed that MCPyV ST could achieve nuclear localization through a currently unknown, regulated mechanism independent of its small size, as HPyV7 and TSPyV ST proteins were incapable of nuclear translocation. Although nuclear localization was found to be important for several transforming properties of MCPyV ST, some properties were also performed by a cytoplasmic sequestered MCPyV ST, suggesting that MCPyV ST may perform different transforming functions in individual subcellular compartments.

Conclusions

Together, these data further elucidate the unique differences between MCPyV ST and other polyomavirus ST proteins necessary to understand MCPyV as the only known human oncogenic polyomavirus.

Prognostic significance and expression pattern of glucose related genes in breast cancer: A comprehensive computational biology approach

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common type of malignancy globally and the main reason why women die from tumours. The Warburg effect, a characteristic of tumor, describes how most solid tumour cells acclimatize to their diverse surroundings by relying heavily on aerobic glycolysis for production of energy. In addition to producing key metabolic intermediates that are crucial for the production of macromolecules, which enable cancer cell division, invasiveness, and drug resistance, the transformed energy metabolism also supplies tumor cells with ATP for cellular energy. Here, we evaluated the expression profile, prognostic significance, and clinical relevance of glucose-related genes in BC using a bioinformatic approach. To clarify the significance of glucose-related genes in the development of breast tumours, we also performed a functional enrichment investigation of deregulated genes using the STRING and KEGG portal. The study depicted that of the 61 genes examined, 8 genes had a fold change Collapse

Key Words

• Bioinformatics
• Breast cancer
• Deregulation
• Glucose metabolism
• Prognosis
• Survival analysis
• Warburg effect

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MESH Headings Collapse

Grants Collapse

Affiliation(s)

Bader Alshehri Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Almajmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia

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Combination of metformin/efavirenz/fluoxetine exhibits profound anticancer activity via a cancer cell-specific ROS amplification

The possible anticancer activity of combination (M + E + F) of metformin (M), efavirenz (E), and fluoxetine (F) was investigated in normal HDF cells and HCT116 human colon cancer cells. Metformin increased cellular FOXO3a, p-FOXO3a, AMPK, p-AMPK, and MnSOD levels in HDFs but not in HCT116 cells. Cellular ATP level was decreased only in HDFs by metformin. Metformin increased ROS level only in HCT116 cells. Transfection of si-FOXO3a into HCT116 reversed the metformin-induced cellular ROS induction, indicating that FOXO3a/MnSOD is the key regulator for cellular ROS level. Viability readout with M, E, and F alone decreased slightly, but the combination of three drugs dramatically decreased cell survival in HCT116, A549, and SK-Hep-1 cancer cells but not in HDF cells. ROS levels in HCT116 cells were massively increased by M + E + F combination, but not in HDF cells. Cell cycle analysis showed that of M + E + F combination caused cell death only in HCT116 cells. The combination of M + E + F reduced synergistically mitochondrial membrane potential and mitochondrial electron transport chain complex I and III activities in HCT116 cells when compared with individual treatments. Western blot analysis indicated that DNA damage, apoptosis, autophagy, and necroptosis-realated factors increased in M + E + F-treated HCT116 cells. Oral administration with M + E + F combination for 3 weeks caused dramatic reductions in tumor volume and weight in HCT116 xenograft model of nude mice when compared with untreated ones. Our results suggest that M + E + F have profound anticancer activity both in vitro and in vivo via a cancer cell-specific ROS amplification (CASRA) through ROS-induced DNA damage, apoptosis, autophagy, and necroptosis.

Special Issue: "Molecular Imaging in Oncology: Radiopharmaceuticals for PET and SPECT 2022"

Molecular imaging is partly defined as in vivo imaging of biological or biochemical processes using various markers [...].

A fluorescent glyconanoprobe based on quantum dots and thiolated glucose: Applications in monolayers and spheroids of cancer cells

The differential energy metabolism of cancer cells has stimulated the development of tools that can be applied to better understand the complex biological interaction involved in the uptake of glucose analogs at the cellular level in this disease. Herein, we explored the outstanding optical properties of quantum dots (QDs) to develop a new fluorescent glyconanoprobe using the 1-thio-β-d-glucose (Glc). Then, monolayers and spheroids of HeLa cells were applied to probe the biological interaction with the conjugate through fluorescence techniques. Spheroids have been gaining prominence for better mimicking the tumor microenvironment. The Glc-QDs conjugate was prepared by a facile and direct procedure based on the affinity of the Glc thiol group by the QD semiconductor surface. The conjugation was evaluated and confirmed by Zeta potential (ζ) measurements, FTIR spectroscopy, and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS). Moreover, a biological assay using Candida albicans yeasts coated with concanavalin A, by exploring the lectin-carbohydrate affinity, was also developed to further confirm the conjugation, which corroborated the previous analyses. The hanging drop method was used to prepare the spheroids. The fluorescence microscopy analyses indicated an intracellular labeling by the glyconanoprobe, in both cell culture models. Flow cytometry assays revealed effective uptake of the conjugate (above ca. 76%), even by cells cultivated as spheroids, applying short incubation time. Therefore, a new fluorescent glyconanoprobe was developed, which showed potential to be applied for investigating mechanisms involved in the uptake of glucose analogs, both by simpler and complex cancer biological models, as monolayers and spheroids.

AXL transcriptionally up-regulates TMEM14A expression to mediate cell proliferation in non-small-cell lung cancer cells

In non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the receptor tyrosine kinase AXL has been identified as a potent activator of tumor progression and resistance to therapies. However, the molecular mechanisms behind AXL-mediated oncogenesis remain elusive. Current study thus aimed to uncover potential downstream genes regulated by AXL in NSCLC. Through transcriptomic RNA sequencing of AXL-silenced NSCLC cells, TMEM14A was identified as a significantly up-regulated gene. Clinical evaluations using GEPIA2 revealed that TMEM14A mRNA expression was notably higher in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) tumor tissues compared to normal tissues. Further, significantly increased TMEM14A levels were associated with poorer overall survival in LUAD patients. Experimentally, silencing TMEM14A in NSCLC cells led to reduced cellular proliferation and ATP levels, highlighting a key role of TMEM14A in NSCLC progression. Moreover, our promoter analysis demonstrated that AXL-mediated regulation of TMEM14A transcription could involve binding of transcription factors STAT and NF-κB to 5'-promoter of TMEM14A. Collectively, current study unveils TMEM14A as a novel downstream target of AXL, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target to counteract resistance in future NSCLC patients undergoing AXL-targeted therapies.

Phytochemicals Target Multiple Metabolic Pathways in Cancer

Cancer metabolic reprogramming is a complex process that provides malignant cells with selective advantages to grow and propagate in the hostile environment created by the immune surveillance of the human organism. This process underpins cancer proliferation, invasion, antioxidant defense, and resistance to anticancer immunity and therapeutics. Perhaps not surprisingly, metabolic rewiring is considered to be one of the "Hallmarks of cancer". Notably, this process often comprises various complementary and overlapping pathways. Today, it is well known that highly selective inhibition of only one of the pathways in a tumor cell often leads to a limited response and, subsequently, to the emergence of resistance. Therefore, to increase the overall effectiveness of antitumor drugs, it is advisable to use multitarget agents that can simultaneously suppress several key processes in the tumor cell. This review is focused on a group of plant-derived natural compounds that simultaneously target different pathways of cancer-associated metabolism, including aerobic glycolysis, respiration, glutaminolysis, one-carbon metabolism, de novo lipogenesis, and β-oxidation of fatty acids. We discuss only those compounds that display inhibitory activity against several metabolic pathways as well as a number of important signaling pathways in cancer. Information about their pharmacokinetics in animals and humans is also presented. Taken together, a number of known plant-derived compounds may target multiple metabolic and signaling pathways in various malignancies, something that bears great potential for the further improvement of antineoplastic therapy.

Untargeted Metabolomic Study of Lung Cancer Patients after Surgery with Curative Intent

Lung cancer (LC) is a leading cause of mortality, claiming more than 1.8 million deaths per year worldwide. Surgery is one of the most effective treatments when the disease is in its early stages. The study of metabolic alterations after surgical intervention with curative intent could be used to assess the response to treatment or the detection of cancer recurrence. In this study, we have evaluated the metabolomic profile of serum samples (n = 110) from preoperative (PRE) and postoperative (POST) LC patients collected at two different time points (1 month, A; 3-6 months, B) with respect to healthy people. An untargeted metabolomic platform based on reversed phase (RP) and hydrophilic interaction chromatography (HILIC), using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) and mass spectrometry (MS), was applied (MassIVE ID MSV000092213). Twenty-two altered metabolites were annotated by comparing all the different studied groups. DG(14,0/22:1), stearamide, proline, and E,e-carotene-3,3'-dione were found altered in PRE, and their levels returned to those of a baseline control group 3-6 months after surgery. Furthermore, 3-galactosyllactose levels remained altered after intervention in some patients. This study provides unique insights into the metabolic profiles of LC patients after surgery at two different time points by combining complementary analytical methods.

Optimal control strategies for SGLT2 inhibitors as a novel anti-tumor agent and their effect on human breast cancer cells with the effect of time delay and hyperglycemia

Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer in the world, and it continues to have a significant impact on the total number of cancer deaths. Recently, oncology findings hint at the role of excessive glucose in cancer progression and immune cells' suppression. Sequel to this revelation is ongoing researches on possible inhibition of glucose flow into the tumor micro-environment as therapeutics for malignant treatment. In this study, the effect of glucose blockage therapeutics such as SGLT-2 inhibitors drug on the dynamics of normal, tumors and immune cells interaction is mathematically studied. The asymptomatic nature of the breast cancer is factored into the model using time delay. We first investigate the boundedness and non-negativity of the solution. The condition for existence of critical equilibrium point is determined, and its global stability conditions are derived using Lyapunov function. This revealed that a timely administration of the SGLT-2 inhibitors drug can eliminate tumor cells. Secondly, we determine the sufficient and necessary conditions for optimal control strategy of SGLT-2 inhibitors so as to avert side effects on normal cells using a Pontryagin's Minimum Principle. The results showed that if the ingestion rate of the inhibitor drug is equal to the digestion rate, the tumor cells can be completely eliminated within 9 months without side effects. The analytical results were numerically verified and the qualitative views of interacting cells dynamics is showcased.

The role of endoplasmic reticulum stress in promoting aerobic glycolysis in cancer cells: An overview

Aerobic glycolysis, also known as the Warburg effect, is a metabolic phenomenon frequently observed in cancer cells, characterized by the preferential utilization of glucose through glycolysis, even under normal oxygen conditions. This metabolic shift provides cancer cells with a proliferative advantage and supports their survival and growth. While the Warburg effect has been extensively studied, the underlying mechanisms driving this metabolic adaptation in cancer cells remain incompletely understood. In recent years, emerging evidence has suggested a potential link between endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and the promotion of aerobic glycolysis in cancer cells. The ER is a vital organelle involved in protein folding, calcium homeostasis, and lipid synthesis. Various cellular stresses, such as hypoxia, nutrient deprivation, and accumulation of misfolded proteins, can lead to ER stress. In response, cells activate the unfolded protein response (UPR) to restore ER homeostasis. However, prolonged or severe ER stress can activate alternative signaling pathways that modulate cellular metabolism, including the promotion of aerobic glycolysis. This review aims to provide an overview of the current understanding regarding the influence of ER stress on aerobic glycolysis in cancer cells to shed light on the complex interplay between ER stress and metabolic alterations in cancer cells. Understanding the intricate relationship between ER stress and the promotion of aerobic glycolysis in cancer cells may provide valuable insights for developing novel therapeutic strategies targeting metabolic vulnerabilities in cancer.

Increasing Chemotherapeutic Efficacy Using pH-Modulating and Doxorubicin-Releasing Injectable Chitosan-Poly(ethylene glycol) Hydrogels

Modulation of pH is crucial to maintaining the chemical homeostasis of biological environments. The irregular metabolic pathways exhibited by cancer cells result in the production of acidic byproducts that are excreted and accumulate in the extracellular tumor microenvironment, reducing the pH. As a consequence of the lower pH in tumors, cancer cells increase the expression of metastatic phenotypes and chemotherapeutic resistance. A significant limitation in current cancer therapies is the inability to locally deliver chemotherapeutics, leading to significant damage to healthy cells in systemic administration. To overcome these challenges, we present an injectable chitosan-poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogel that is dual-loaded with doxorubicin and sodium bicarbonate providing alkaline buffering of extracellular acidity and simultaneous chemotherapeutic delivery to increase chemotherapeutic efficacy. We conducted in vitro studies of weak base chemotherapeutic and alkaline buffer release from the hydrogel. The release of doxorubicin from hydrogels increased in a low-pH environment and was dependent on the encapsulated sodium bicarbonate concentration. We investigated the influence of pH on the doxorubicin efficacy and viability of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines. The results show a 2- to 3-fold increase in IC50 values from neutral pH to low pH, showing decreased cancer cell viability at neutral pH as compared to acidic pH. The IC50 results were shown to correlate with a decrease in intracellular uptake of doxorubicin at low pH. The proposed hydrogels were confirmed to be nontoxic to healthy MCF-10A mammary epithelial cells. Rheological studies were performed to verify that the dual-loaded hydrogels were injectable. The mechanical and release properties of the hydrogels were maintained after extended storage. The chemotherapeutic activity of doxorubicin was evaluated in the presence of the proposed pH-regulating hydrogels. The findings suggest a promising nontoxic, biodegradable hydrogel buffer delivery system that can achieve two simultaneous important goals of local acidosis neutralization and chemotherapeutic release.

Antitumor effect of trimetazidine in a model of solid Ehrlich carcinoma is mediated by inhibition of glycolytic pathway and AKT signaling

Disturbance in glucose metabolism was proposed to be a pathogenetic mechanism of breast cancer. Trimetazidine (TMZ) inhibits β-oxidation of fatty acids through blocking the activity of 3-ketoacylCoA thiolase enzyme, leading to enhancement of glucose oxidation and metabolic respiration. The present study aimed to examine the cytotoxic effect of TMZ in both in vivo and in vitro models of breast cancer, focusing on its impact on the expression of some glycolytic enzymes and AKT signaling. The cytotoxic effect of TMZ was screened against breast (MCF-7) cancer cell line at different concentrations [0.01-100 μM]. In vivo, graded doses (10, 20, 30 mg/kg) of TMZ were tested against solid Ehrlich carcinoma (SEC) in mice. Tumor tissues were isolated for assessment of the expression of glucose transporter-1 (GLUT-1) and glycolytic enzymes by quantitative PCR. The protein expression of AKT and cellular myelocytomatosis (c-Myc) was determined by western blotting, while p53 expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Molecular docking study of TMZ effect on AKT and c-Myc was performed using Auto-Dock Vina docking program. TMZ showed a cytotoxic action against MCF-7 cells, having IC50 value of 2.95 μM. In vivo, TMZ reduced tumor weight, downregulated the expression of glycolytic enzymes, suppressed AKT signaling, but increased p53 expression. Molecular docking and in silico studies proposed that TMZ is an AKT and c-Myc selective inhibitor. In conclusion, TMZ demonstrated a viable approach to suppress tumor proliferation in biological models of breast cancer.

Glycolytic stress deteriorates 229E virulence to improve host defense response

Viral infection treatment is a difficult task due to its complex structure and metabolism. Additionally, viruses can alter the metabolism of host cells, mutate, and readily adjust to harsh environments. Coronavirus stimulates glycolysis, weakens mitochondrial activity, and impairs infected cells. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of 2-DG in inhibiting coronavirus-induced metabolic processes and antiviral host defense systems, which have not been explored so far. 2-Deoxy-d-glucose (2-DG), a molecule restricting substrate availability, has recently gained attention as a potential antiviral drug. The results revealed that 229E human coronavirus promoted glycolysis, producing a significant increase in the concentration of fluorescent 2-NBDG, a glucose analog, particularly in the infected host cells. The addition of 2-DG decreased its viral replication and suppressed infection-induced cell death and cytopathic effects, thereby improving the antiviral host defense response. It was also observed that administration of low doses of 2-DG inhibited glucose uptake, indicating that 2-DG consumption in virus-infected host cells was mediated by high-affinity glucose transporters, whose levels were amplified upon coronavirus infection. Our findings indicated that 2-DG could be a potential drug to improve the host defense system in coronavirus-infected cells.

Nano-based techniques: A revolutionary approach to prevent covid-19 and enhancing human awareness

In every century of history, there are many new diseases emerged, which are not even cured by many developed countries. Today, despite of scientific development, new deadly pandemic diseases are caused by microorganisms. Hygiene is considered to be one of the best methods of avoiding such communicable diseases, especially viral diseases. Illness caused by SARS-CoV-2 was termed COVID-19 by the WHO, the acronym derived from "coronavirus disease 2019. The globe is living in the worst epidemic era, with the highest infection and mortality rate owing to COVID-19 reaching 6.89% (data up to March 2023). In recent years, nano biotechnology has become a promising and visible field of nanotechnology. Interestingly, nanotechnology is being used to cure many ailments and it has revolutionized many aspects of our lives. Several COVID-19 diagnostic approaches based on nanomaterial have been developed. The various metal NPs, it is highly anticipated that could be viable and economical alternatives for treating drug resistant in many deadly pandemic diseases in near future. This review focuses on an overview of nanotechnology's increasing involvement in the diagnosis, prevention, and therapy of COVID-19, also this review provides readers with an awareness and knowledge of importance of hygiene.

Bifunctionalized Betulinic Acid Conjugates with C-3-Monodesmoside and C-28-Triphenylphosphonium Moieties with Increased Cancer Cell Targetability

A convenient synthesis is presented for a new class of bioactive bifunctionalized conjugates of lupane-type triterpenoids with triphenylphosphonium (TPP) and glycopyranosyl targeting moieties. The main synthesis steps include glycosylation of haloalkyl esters of the triterpene acid at the C-3 position by the imidate derivatives of glycopyranose followed by the product modification at the C-28 position with triphenylphosphine. The conjugates of betulinic acid (BetA) with TPP and d-glucose, l-rhamnose, or d-mannose moieties were thus synthesized as potential next-generation BetA-derived anticancer compounds. LC-MS/MS analysis in glucose-free physiological solution indicated that the glycosides showed better accumulation in PC-3 prostate cancer cells than both BetA and TPP-BetA conjugate, while the transporting effect of monosaccharide residues increased as follows: d-mannose < l-rhamnose ≈ d-glucose. At saturated concentrations, the glycosides caused a disturbing effect on mitochondria with a more drastic drop in transmembrane potential but weaker overproduction of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) compared to TPP-BetA conjugate. Cytotoxicity of the glycosides in culture medium was comparable with or higher than that of the nonglycosylated conjugate, depending on the cancer cell line, whereas the compounds were less active toward primary fibroblasts. Glycosylation tended to increase pro-apoptotic and decrease pro-autophagic activities of the BetA derivatives. Cytotoxicity of the synthesized glycosides was considered in comparison with the summarized data on the natural and modified BetA glycosides. The results obtained are important for the development of bifunctionalized conjugates of triterpenoids with an increased cancer cell targetability.

Assessing the Link between Diabetic Metabolic Dysregulation and Breast Cancer Progression

Diabetes mellitus is a burdensome disease that affects various cellular functions through altered glucose metabolism. Several reports have linked diabetes to cancer development; however, the exact molecular mechanism of how diabetes-related traits contribute to cancer progression is not fully understood. The current study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism underlying the potential effect of hyperglycemia combined with hyperinsulinemia on the progression of breast cancer cells. To this end, gene dysregulation induced by the exposure of MCF7 breast cancer cells to hyperglycemia (HG), or a combination of hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia (HGI), was analyzed using a microarray gene expression assay. Hyperglycemia combined with hyperinsulinemia induced differential expression of 45 genes (greater than or equal to two-fold), which were not shared by other treatments. On the other hand, in silico analysis performed using a publicly available dataset (GEO: GSE150586) revealed differential upregulation of 15 genes in the breast tumor tissues of diabetic patients with breast cancer when compared with breast cancer patients with no diabetes. SLC26A11, ALDH1A3, MED20, PABPC4 and SCP2 were among the top upregulated genes in both microarray data and the in silico analysis. In conclusion, hyperglycemia combined with hyperinsulinemia caused a likely unique signature that contributes to acquiring more carcinogenic traits. Indeed, these findings might potentially add emphasis on how monitoring diabetes-related metabolic alteration as an adjunct to diabetes therapy is important in improving breast cancer outcomes. However, further detailed studies are required to decipher the role of the highlighted genes, in this study, in the pathogenesis of breast cancer in patients with a different glycemic index.

Early Detection of Pre-Cancerous and Cancerous Cells Using Raman Spectroscopy-Based Machine Learning

Cancer is the most common and fatal disease around the globe, with an estimated 19 million newly diagnosed patients and approximately 10 million deaths annually. Patients with cancer struggle daily due to difficult treatments, pain, and financial and social difficulties. Detecting the disease in its early stages is critical in increasing the likelihood of recovery and reducing the financial burden on the patient and society. Currently used methods for the diagnosis of cancer are time-consuming, producing discomfort and anxiety for patients and significant medical waste. The main goal of this study is to evaluate the potential of Raman spectroscopy-based machine learning for the identification and characterization of precancerous and cancerous cells. As a representative model, normal mouse primary fibroblast cells (NFC) as healthy cells; a mouse fibroblast cell line (NIH/3T3), as precancerous cells; and fully malignant mouse fibroblasts (MBM-T) as cancerous cells were used. Raman spectra were measured from three different sites of each of the 457 investigated cells and analyzed by principal component analysis (PCA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA). Our results showed that it was possible to distinguish between the normal and abnormal (precancerous and cancerous) cells with a success rate of 93.1%; this value was 93.7% when distinguishing between normal and precancerous cells and 80.2% between precancerous and cancerous cells. Moreover, there was no influence of the measurement site on the differentiation between the different examined biological systems.

Dual targeting of wild-type p53 and gut microbiota by Magnolol represses key metabolic process and kills CRC cells

Cancer cells consume considerable glucose quantities and majorly employ glycolysis for ATP generation. This metabolic signature (the Warburg effect) allows cancer cells to channel glucose to biosynthesis to support and maintain their dramatic growth along with proliferation. Currently, our understanding of the metabolic and mechanistic implications of the Warburg effect along with its relationship with biosynthesis remains unclear. Herein, we illustrate that the tumor repressor p53 mediate Magnolol (MAG) triggers colon cancer cell apoptosis. And MAG regulates the glycolytic and oxidative phosphorylation steps through transcriptional modulation of its downstream genes TP53-induced glycolysis modulator and biosynthesis of cytochrome c oxidase, attenuating cell proliferation and tumor growth in vivo and in vitro. Meanwhile, we show that MAG cooperates with its own intestinal microflora characteristic metabolites to repress tumors, especially remarkably declined kynurenine (Kyn)/tryptophan (Trp) ratio. Besides, strong relationships of MAG influenced genes, microbiota, as well as metabolites, were explored. Therefore, we established that p53-microbiota-metabolites function as a mechanism, which enable therapy approaches against metabolism-implicated colorectal cancer, in particular MAG as a prospective candidate for treating colorectal cancer.

Design, Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel MDH Inhibitors Targeting Tumor Microenvironment

MDH1 and MDH2 enzymes play an important role in the survival of lung cancer. In this study, a novel series of dual MDH1/2 inhibitors for lung cancer was rationally designed and synthesized, and their SAR was carefully investigated. Among the tested compounds, compound 50 containing a piperidine ring displayed an improved growth inhibition of A549 and H460 lung cancer cell lines compared with LW1497. Compound 50 reduced the total ATP content in A549 cells in a dose-dependent manner; it also significantly suppressed the accumulation of hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) and the expression of HIF-1α target genes such as GLUT1 and pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 1 (PDK1) in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, compound 50 inhibited HIF-1α-regulated CD73 expression under hypoxia in A549 lung cancer cells. Collectively, these results indicate that compound 50 may pave the way for the development of next-generation dual MDH1/2 inhibitors to target lung cancer.

Cannabis sativa L. modulates altered metabolic pathways involved in key metabolisms in human breast cancer (MCF-7) cells: A metabolomics study

The present study investigated the ability of Cannabis sativa leaves infusion (CSI) to modulate major metabolisms implicated in cancer cells survival, as well as to induce cell death in human breast cancer (MCF-7) cells. MCF-7 cell lines were treated with CSI for 48 h, doxorubicin served as the standard anticancer drug, while untreated MCF-7 cells served as the control. CSI caused 21.2% inhibition of cell growth at the highest dose. Liquid chromatography-mass spectroscopy (LC-MS) profiling of the control cells revealed the presence of carbohydrate, vitamins, oxidative, lipids, nucleotides, and amino acids metabolites. Treatment with CSI caused a 91% depletion of these metabolites, while concomitantly generating selenomethionine, l-cystine, deoxyadenosine triphosphate, cyclic AMP, selenocystathionine, inosine triphosphate, adenosine phosphosulfate, 5'-methylthioadenosine, uric acid, malonic semialdehyde, 2-methylguanosine, ganglioside GD2 and malonic acid. Metabolomics analysis via pathway enrichment of the metabolites revealed the activation of key metabolic pathways relevant to glucose, lipid, amino acid, vitamin, and nucleotide metabolisms. CSI caused a total inactivation of glucose, vitamin, and nucleotide metabolisms, while inactivating key lipid and amino acid metabolic pathways linked to cancer cell survival. Flow cytometry analysis revealed an induction of apoptosis and necrosis in MCF-7 cells treated with CSI. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of CSI revealed the presence of cannabidiol, rutin, cinnamic acid, and ferulic. These results portray the antiproliferative potentials of CSI as an alternative therapy for the treatment and management of breast cancer as depicted by its modulation of glucose, lipid, amino acid, vitamin, and nucleotide metabolisms, while concomitantly inducing cell death in MCF-7 cells.

In Response to Precision Medicine: Current Subcellular Targeting Strategies for Cancer Therapy

Emerging as a potent anticancer treatment, subcellular targeted cancer therapy has drawn increasing attention, bringing great opportunities for clinical application. Here, two targeting strategies for four main subcellular organelles (mitochondria, lysosome, endoplasmic reticulum, and nucleus), including molecule- and nanomaterial (inorganic nanoparticles, micelles, organic polymers, and others)-based targeted delivery or therapeutic strategies, are summarized. Phototherapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and "all-in-one" combination therapy are among the strategies covered in detail. Such materials are constructed based on the specific properties and relevant mechanisms of organelles, enabling the elimination of tumors by inducing dysfunction in the corresponding organelles or destroying specific structures. The challenges faced by organelle-targeting cancer therapies are also summarized. Looking forward, a paradigm for organelle-targeting therapy with enhanced therapeutic efficacy compared to current clinical approaches is envisioned.

Transition Metal-Decorated B12N12-X (X = Au, Cu, Ni, Os, Pt, and Zn) Nanoclusters as Biosensors for Carboplatin

Theoretical studies on the adsorption, sensibility, and reactivity of a boron nitride nanocage decorated with Au, Cu, Ni, Os, Pt, and Zn metals as a biosensor material were carried out for the adsorption of carboplatin by applying the density functional theory computation at the B3LYP-GD3BJ/def2svp level of theory. All the optimized structures, as well as the calculations as regards the studied objective including electronic properties, geometry optimization parameters, adsorption energy studies, natural bond orbital analysis, topology studies, sensor mechanistic parameters, and thermodynamic properties (ΔG and ΔH), were investigated herein. As a result, the noticeable change in the energy gap of the studied surfaces when interacting with carboplatin accounted for the surfaces' reactivity, stability, conductivity, work function, and overall adsorption ability, implying that the studied decorated surfaces are good sensor materials for sensing carboplatin. Furthermore, the negative adsorption energies obtained for interacting surfaces decorated with Cu, Ni, Os, and Zn suggest that the surface has a superior ability to sense carboplatin as chemisorption was seen. Substantially, the geometric short adsorption bond length after adsorption, thermodynamically spontaneous reactions, and acceptable sensor mechanism results demonstrate that the investigated surfaces have strong sensing characteristics for sensing carboplatin.

pH-Responsive Water-Soluble Chitosan Amphiphilic Core–Shell Nanoparticles: Radiation-Assisted Green Synthesis and Drug-Controlled Release Studies

This work aims to apply water radiolysis-mediated green synthesis of amphiphilic core–shell water-soluble chitosan nanoparticles (WCS NPs) via free radical graft copolymerization in an aqueous solution using irradiation. Robust grafting poly(ethylene glycol) monomethacrylate (PEGMA) comb-like brushes were established onto WCS NPs modified with hydrophobic deoxycholic acid (DC) using two aqueous solution systems, i.e., pure water and water/ethanol. The degree of grafting (DG) of the robust grafted poly(PEGMA) segments was varied from 0 to ~250% by varying radiation-absorbed doses from 0 to 30 kGy. Using reactive WCS NPs as a water-soluble polymeric template, a high amount of DC conjugation and a high degree of poly(PEGMA) grafted segments brought about high moieties of hydrophobic DC and a high DG of the poly(PEGMA) hydrophilic functions; meanwhile, the water solubility and NP dispersion were also markedly improved. The DC-WCS-PG building block was excellently self-assembled into the core–shell nanoarchitecture. The DC-WCS-PG NPs efficiently encapsulated water-insoluble anticancer and antifungal drugs, i.e., paclitaxel (PTX) and berberine (BBR) (~360 mg/g). The DC-WCS-PG NPs met the role of controlled release with a pH-responsive function due to WCS compartments, and they showed a steady state for maintaining drugs for up to >10 days. The DC-WCS-PG NPs prolonged the inhibition capacity of BBR against the growth of S. ampelinum for 30 days. In vitro cytotoxicity results of the PTX-loaded DC-WCS-PG NPs with human breast cancer cells and human skin fibroblast cells proved the role of the DC-WCS-PG NPs as a promising nanoplatform for controlling drug release and reducing the side effects of the drugs on normal cells.

2-Deoxy-D-Glucose: A Novel Pharmacological Agent for Killing Hypoxic Tumor Cells, Oxygen Dependence-Lowering in Covid-19, and Other Pharmacological Activities

The nonmetabolizable glucose analog 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-DG) has shown promising pharmacological activities, including inhibition of cancerous cell growth and N-glycosylation. It has been used as a glycolysis inhibitor and as a potential energy restriction mimetic agent, inhibiting pathogen-associated molecular patterns. Radioisotope derivatives of 2-DG have applications as tracers. Recently, 2-DG has been used as an anti-COVID-19 drug to lower the need for supplemental oxygen. In the present review, various pharmaceutical properties of 2-DG are discussed.

An emerging master inducer and regulator for epithelial-mesenchymal transition and tumor metastasis: extracellular and intracellular ATP and its molecular functions and therapeutic potential

Despite the rapid development of therapeutic strategies in cancer treatment, metastasis remains the major cause of cancer-related death and scientific challenge. Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) plays a crucial role in cancer invasion and progression, a process by which tumor cells lose cell-cell adhesion and acquire increased invasiveness and metastatic activity. Recent work has uncovered some crucial roles of extracellular adenosine 5'- triphosphate (eATP), a major component of the tumor microenvironment (TME), in promoting tumor growth and metastasis. Intratumoral extracellular ATP (eATP), at levels of 100-700 µM, is 10³-10⁴ times higher than in normal tissues. In the current literature, eATP's function in promoting metastasis has been relatively poorly understood as compared with intracellular ATP (iATP). Recent evidence has shown that cancer cells internalize eATP via macropinocytosis in vitro and in vivo, promoting cell growth and survival, drug resistance, and metastasis. Furthermore, ATP acts as a messenger molecule that activates P2 purinergic receptors expressed on both tumor and host cells, stimulating downstream signaling pathways to enhance the invasive and metastatic properties of tumor cells. Here, we review recent progress in understanding eATP's role in each step of the metastatic cascade, including initiating invasion, inducing EMT, overcoming anoikis, facilitating intravasation, circulation, and extravasation, and eventually establishing metastatic colonization. Collectively, these studies reveal eATP's important functions in many steps of metastasis and identify new opportunities for developing more effective therapeutic strategies to target ATP-associated processes in cancer.

Mushroom-Derived Compounds as Metabolic Modulators in Cancer

Cancer is responsible for lifelong disability and decreased quality of life. Cancer-associated changes in metabolism, in particular carbohydrate, lipid, and protein, offer a new paradigm of metabolic hits. Hence, targeting the latter, as well as related cross-linked signalling pathways, can reverse the malignant phenotype of transformed cells. The systemic toxicity and pharmacokinetic limitations of existing drugs prompt the discovery of multi-targeted and safe compounds from natural products. Mushrooms possess biological activities relevant to disease-fighting and to the prevention of cancer. They have a long-standing tradition of use in ethnomedicine and have been included as an adjunct therapy during and after oncological care. Mushroom-derived compounds have also been reported to target the key signature of cancer cells in in vitro and in vivo studies. The identification of metabolic pathways whose inhibition selectively affects cancer cells appears as an interesting approach to halting cell proliferation. For instance, panepoxydone exerted protective mechanisms against breast cancer initiation and progression by suppressing lactate dehydrogenase A expression levels and reinducing lactate dehydrogenase B expression levels. This further led to the accumulation of pyruvate, the activation of the electron transport chain, and increased levels of reactive oxygen species, which eventually triggered mitochondrial apoptosis in the breast cancer cells. Furthermore, the inhibition of hexokinase 2 by neoalbaconol induced selective cytotoxicity against nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell lines, and these effects were also observed in mouse models. Finally, GL22 inhibited hepatic tumour growth by downregulating the mRNA levels of fatty acid-binding proteins and blocking fatty acid transport and impairing cardiolipin biosynthesis. The present review, therefore, will highlight how the metabolites isolated from mushrooms can target potential biomarkers in metabolic reprogramming.

Possible mechanism of metabolic and drug resistance with L-asparaginase therapy in childhood leukaemia

L-asparaginase, which hydrolyzes asparagine into aspartic acid and ammonia, is frequently used to treat acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in children. When combined with other chemotherapy drugs, the event-free survival rate is 90%. Due to immunogenicity and drug resistance, however, not all patients benefit from it, restricting the use of L-asparaginase therapy in other haematological cancers. To solve the problem of immunogenicity, several L-ASNase variants have emerged, such as Erwinia-ASNase and PEG-ASNase. However, even when Erwinia-ASNase is used as a substitute for E. coli-ASNase or PEG-ASNase, allergic reactions occur in 3%-33% of patients. All of these factors contributed to the development of novel L-ASNases. Additionally, L-ASNase resistance mechanisms, such as the methylation status of ASNS promoters and activation of autophagy, have further emphasized the importance of personalized treatment for paediatric haematological neoplasms. In this review, we discussed the metabolic effects of L-ASNase, mechanisms of drug resistance, applications in non-ALL leukaemia, and the development of novel L-ASNase.

Role of Mitochondrial Transporters on Metabolic Rewiring of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma: A Comprehensive Review

Pancreatic cancer is among the deadliest cancers worldwide and commonly presents as pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Metabolic reprogramming is a hallmark of PDAC. Glucose and glutamine metabolism are extensively rewired in order to fulfil both energetic and synthetic demands of this aggressive tumour and maintain favorable redox homeostasis. The mitochondrial pyruvate carrier (MPC), the glutamine carrier (SLC1A5_Var), the glutamate carrier (GC), the aspartate/glutamate carrier (AGC), and the uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) have all been shown to influence PDAC cell growth and progression. The expression of MPC is downregulated in PDAC and its overexpression reduces cell growth rate, whereas the other four transporters are usually overexpressed and the loss of one or more of them renders PDAC cells unable to grow and proliferate by altering the levels of crucial metabolites such as aspartate. The aim of this review is to comprehensively evaluate the current experimental evidence about the function of these carriers in PDAC metabolic rewiring. Dissecting the precise role of these transporters in the context of the tumour microenvironment is necessary for targeted drug development.

Assessing Polysaccharides/Aloe Vera-Based Hydrogels for Tumor Spheroid Formation

In vitro tumor spheroids have proven to be useful 3D tumor culture models for drug testing, and determining the molecular mechanism of tumor progression and cellular interactions. Therefore, there is a continuous search for their industrial scalability and routine preparation. Considering that hydrogels are promising systems that can favor the formation of tumor spheroids, our study aimed to investigate and develop less expensive and easy-to-use amorphous and crosslinked hydrogels, based on natural compounds such as sodium alginate (NaAlg), aloe vera (AV) gel powder, and chitosan (CS) for tumor spheroid formation. The ability of the developed hydrogels to be a potential spheroid-forming system was evaluated using MDA-MB-231 and U87MG cancer cells. Spheroid abilities were influenced by pH, viscosity, and crosslinking of the hydrogel. Addition of either AV or chitosan to sodium alginate increased the viscosity at pH 5, resulting in amorphous hydrogels with a strong gel texture, as shown by rheologic analysis. Only the chitosan-based gel allowed formation of spheroids at pH 5. Among the variants of AV-based amorphous hydrogels tested, only hydrogels at pH 12 and with low viscosity promoted the formation of spheroids. The crosslinked NaAlg/AV, NaAlg/AV/glucose, and NaAlg/CS hydrogel variants favored more efficient spheroid formation. Additional studies would be needed to use AV in other physical forms and other formulations of hydrogels, as the current study is an initiation, in evaluating the potential use of AV gel in tumor spheroid formation systems.

Exosomal circular RNAs: New player in breast cancer progression and therapeutic targets

Breast cancer is the most prevalent type of malignancy among women. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles of cell membrane origin that are released via exocytosis. Their cargo contains lipids, proteins, DNA, and different forms of RNA, including circular RNAs. Circular RNAs are new class of non-coding RNAs with a closed-loop shape involved in several types of cancer, including breast cancer. Exosomes contained a lot of circRNAs which are called exosomal circRNAs. By interfering with several biological pathways, exosomal circRNAs can have either a proliferative or suppressive role in cancer. The involvement of exosomal circRNAs in breast cancer has been studied with consideration to tumor development and progression as well as its effects on therapeutic resistance. However, its exact mechanism is still unclear, and there have not been available clinical implications of exo-circRNAs in breast cancer. Here, we highlight the role of exosomal circRNAs in breast cancer progression and to highlight the most recent development and potential of circRNAas therapeutic targets and diagnostics for breast cancer.

Nanoliposome-Loaded Phenolics from Nasturtium officinale Improves Health Parameters in a Colorectal Cancer Mouse Model

Nasturtium officinale contains high amounts of phytochemical compounds that work against oxidative damages leading to improved health conditions in animals as well as humans. The study was performed to investigate the health benefits of nonencapsulated and nanoliposome-encapsulated phenolic rich fractions obtained from Nasturtium officinale on mice induced colorectal cancer. The experiment focused on encapsulation efficiency in improving the effectiveness of plant bioactive compounds. Phenolic rich fractions (PRF) were successfully loaded in the nanoliposome structure, a nanometer in size, of spherical shape and with homogeneous dispersion. Induction of colorectal cancer in mice impaired weight gain and feed intake, liver function and structural characteristics of ileum, while the dietary administration of nanoliposome-encapsulated PRF regulated the expression of Caspase 3, Bax, Bcl2, iNOS and SOD genes in the tumor tissue. The addition of nonencapsulated PRF and nanoliposome encapsulated PRF at the concentration of 100 mg TPC/kg BW/day improved the genes expression, although the nanoliposome-encapsulated PRF revealed better health outcomes compared to nonencapsulated PRF. Furthermore, both PRF improved intestinal morphology when the mice were challenged with colorectal cancer. The higher health promoting activity of nanoliposome-encapsulated PRF could be associated with its enhanced intestinal absorption, bioavailability, bioaccessibility and bioactivity. Consequently, the nanoliposome-encapsulated PRF could be considered as a promising anticancer agent against colorectal cancer.

A dynamical model of combination therapy applied to glioma

Glioma is a human brain tumor that is very difficult to treat at an advanced stage. Studies of glioma biomarkers have shown that some markers are released into the bloodstream, so data from these markers indicate a decrease in the concentration of blood glucose and serum glucose in patients with glioma; these suggest an association between glucose and glioma. This decrease mechanism in glucose concentration can be described by the coupled ordinary differential equations of the early-stage glioma growth and interactions between glioma cells, immune cells, and glucose concentration. In this paper, we propose developing a new mathematical model to explain how glioma cells evolve and survive combination therapy between chemotherapy and oncolytic virotherapy, as an alternative to glioma treatment. In this study, three therapies were applied for analysis, that is, (1) chemotherapy, (2) virotherapy, and (3) a combination of chemotherapy and virotherapy. Virotherapy uses specialist viruses that only attack tumor cells. Based on the simulation results of the therapy carried out, we conclude that combination therapy can reduce the glioma cells significantly compared to the other two therapies. The simulation results of this combination therapy can be an alternative to glioma therapy.

The promising therapeutic effects of metformin on metabolic reprogramming of cancer-associated fibroblasts in solid tumors

Tumor-infiltrated lymphocytes are exposed to many toxic metabolites and molecules in the tumor microenvironment (TME) that suppress their anti-tumor activity. Toxic metabolites, such as lactate and ketone bodies, are produced mainly by catabolic cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) to feed anabolic cancer cells. These catabolic and anabolic cells make a metabolic compartment through which high-energy metabolites like lactate can be transferred via the monocarboxylate transporter channel 4. Moreover, a decrease in molecules, including caveolin-1, has been reported to cause deep metabolic changes in normal fibroblasts toward myofibroblast differentiation. In this context, metformin is a promising drug in cancer therapy due to its effect on oncogenic signal transduction pathways, leading to the inhibition of tumor proliferation and downregulation of key oncometabolites like lactate and succinate. The cross-feeding and metabolic coupling of CAFs and tumor cells are also affected by metformin. Therefore, the importance of metabolic reprogramming of stromal cells and also the pivotal effects of metformin on TME and oncometabolites signaling pathways have been reviewed in this study.