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Wang X, Meng F, Mao J. Progress of natural sesquiterpenoids in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1445222. [PMID: 39081717 PMCID: PMC11286475 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1445222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the common malignant tumors of digestive tract, which seriously threatens the life of patients due to its high incidence rate, strong invasion, metastasis, and prognosis. At present, the main methods for preventing and treating HCC include medication, surgery, and intervention, but patients frequently encounter with specific adverse reactions or side effects. Many Traditional Chinese medicine can improve liver function, reduce liver cancer recurrence and have unique advantages in the treatment of HCC because of their acting mode of multi-target, multi-pathway, multi-component, and multi-level. Sesquiterpenoids, a class of natural products which are widely present in nature and exhibit good anti-tumor activity, and many of them possess good potential for the treatment of HCC. This article reviewed the anti-tumor activities, natural resources, pharmacological mechanism of natural sesquiterpenoids against HCC, providing the theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of HCC and a comprehensive understanding of their potential for development of new clinical drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Wang
- Department of Medical Technology, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing, China
| | - Fancheng Meng
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jingxin Mao
- Department of Medical Technology, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing, China
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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2
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Guo W, Liu Y, Chen B, Fan L. Target prediction and potential application of dihydroartemisinin on hepatocarcinoma treatment. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03123-6. [PMID: 38713259 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03123-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
With high incidence of hepatocarcinoma and limited effective treatments, most patients suffer in pain. Antitumor drugs are single-targeted, toxicity, causing adverse side effects and resistance. Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) inhibits tumor through multiple mechanisms effectively. This study explores and evaluates safety and potential mechanism of DHA towards human hepatocarcinoma based on network pharmacology in a comprehensive way. Adsorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) properties of DHA were evaluated with pkCSM, SwissADME, and ADMETlab. Potential targets of DHA were obtained from SwissTargetPrediction, Drugbank, TargetNET, and PharmMapper. Target gene of hepatocarcinoma was obtained from OMIM, GeneCards, and DisGeNET. Overlapping targets and hub genes were identified and analyzed for Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and Reactome pathway. Molecular docking was utilized to investigate the interactions sites and hydrogen bonds. Cell counting kit-8 (CCK8), wound healing, invasion, and migration assays on HepG2 and SNU387 cell proved DHA inhibits malignant biological features of hepatocarcinoma cell. DHA is safe and desirable for clinical application. A total of 131 overlapping targets were identified. Biofunction analysis showed targets were involved in kinase activity, protein phosphorylation, intracellular reception, signal transduction, transcriptome dysregulation, PPAR pathway, and JAK-STAT signaling axis. Top 9 hub genes were obtained using MCC (Maximal Clique Centrality) algorithm, namely CDK1, CCNA2, CCNB1, CCNB2, KIF11, CHEK1, TYMS, AURKA, and TOP2A. Molecular docking suggests that all hub genes form a stable interaction with DHA for optimal binding energy were all less than - 5 kcal/mol. Dihydroartemisinin might be a potent and safe anticarcinogen based on its biological safety and effective therapeutic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjia Guo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Yu'e Liu
- Tongji University Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Bingdi Chen
- The Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Nano Science, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Lieying Fan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China.
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Marchesi E, Perrone D, Navacchia ML. Molecular Hybridization as a Strategy for Developing Artemisinin-Derived Anticancer Candidates. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2185. [PMID: 37765156 PMCID: PMC10536797 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15092185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Artemisinin is a natural compound extracted from Artemisia species belonging to the Asteraceae family. Currently, artemisinin and its derivatives are considered among the most significant small-molecule antimalarial drugs. Artemisinin and its derivatives have also been shown to possess selective anticancer properties, however, there are several limitations and gaps in knowledge that retard their repurposing as effective anticancer agents. Hybridization resulting from a covalent combination of artemisinin with one or more active pharmacophores has emerged as a promising approach to overcome several issues. The variety of hybridization partners allows improvement in artemisinin activity by tuning the ability of conjugated artemisinin to interact with various molecule targets involved in multiple biological pathways. This review highlights the current scenario of artemisinin-derived hybrids with potential anticancer activity. The synthetic approaches to achieve the corresponding hybrids and the structure-activity relationships are discussed to facilitate further rational design of more effective candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Marchesi
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Daniela Perrone
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Maria Luisa Navacchia
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), 40129 Bologna, Italy
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Inhibiting specificity protein 1 attenuated sevoflurane-induced mitochondrial stress and promoted autophagy in hippocampal neurons through PI3K/Akt/mTOR and α7-nAChR signaling. Neurosci Lett 2023; 794:136995. [PMID: 36464148 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2022.136995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Sevoflurane, a commonly used anesthetic in surgery, is considered as an inducer of neurodegenerative diseases and postoperative complications including postoperative cognitive dysfunction. Evidence showed that specificity protein 1 (SP1) participated in the regulation of various cellular processes. Also, SP1 was found to modulate sevoflurane-induced hippocampal inflammatory injury both in vitro and in vivo. Our study aimed to illustrate the role of SP1 in mediating mitochondrial stress and autophagy in neurons under sevoflurane exposure. SiRNA for SP1 was transfected in to hippocampus neurons for the loss-of-function assay before sevoflurane stimulation. Meanwhile, recilisib was utilized for PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling activation, GTS-21 and MLA (methylycaconitine citrate) were used to activate or inactivate alpha 7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7-nAChR), respectively. Sevoflurane induced SP1 upregulation and autophagy suppression. Interfering SP1 dramatically depressed the promoted oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction induced by sevoflurane. Additionally, SP1 silence blocked sevoflurane-induced activation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling and inhibition of α7-nAChR. Restoring PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling or depressing CAP significantly reversed the repressive effects of SP1 knockdown on mitochondrial stress and autophagy imbalance in hippocampal cells. In conclusions, our research indicated that SP1 regulated sevoflurane-induced oxidative stress dysregulation, mitochondrial function and cell autophagy in hippocampus via mediating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and α7-nAChR pathways. Therefore, it might provide a novel sight for sevoflurane-induced hippocampus injury and POCD therapy.
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Han DS, Lee HJ, Lee EO. Resveratrol suppresses serum-induced vasculogenic mimicry through impairing the EphA2/twist-VE-cadherin/AKT pathway in human prostate cancer PC-3 cells. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20125. [PMID: 36418859 PMCID: PMC9684476 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-24414-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) is closely related to cancer progression and metastasis, contributing to poor prognosis in patients with cancer. Resveratrol (RES) is well known to possess anti-cancer activity. This study explored the new role of RES in VM incidence in human prostate cancer (PCa) PC-3 cells. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, transwell invasion, and three-dimensional culture VM tube formation assays were performed to check the cell viability, invasive ability, and vessel-like networks formation, respectively. VM-related proteins were detected by Western blots. The activity of metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) was identified by gelatin zymography. Vascular endothelial cadherin (VE-cadherin) mRNA was assessed by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Nuclear twist expression was observed by immunofluorescence assay. RES reduced serum-induced invasion and VM formation. Serum-induced phosphorylation of erythropoiethin-producing hepatoceullular A2 (EphA2) and the expression of VE-cadherin at the protein and mRNA levels were decreased after RES treatment. RES inhibited serum-induced expression and nuclear localization of twist. Serum-activated AKT signaling pathway, including MMP-2 and laminin subunit 5 gamma-2, was impaired by RES. These results suggested that RES may have an anti-VM effect through suppressing the EphA2/twist-VE-cadherin/AKT signaling cascade in PCa PC-3 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deok-Soo Han
- grid.289247.20000 0001 2171 7818Department of Science in Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447 Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo-Jeong Lee
- grid.289247.20000 0001 2171 7818Department of Science in Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447 Republic of Korea ,grid.289247.20000 0001 2171 7818Department of Cancer Preventive Material Development, College of Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447 Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Ok Lee
- grid.289247.20000 0001 2171 7818Department of Science in Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447 Republic of Korea ,grid.289247.20000 0001 2171 7818Department of Cancer Preventive Material Development, College of Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447 Republic of Korea
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Rao Q, Li R, Yu H, Xiang L, He B, Wu F, Zhao G. Effects of dihydroartemisinin combined with cisplatin on proliferation, apoptosis and migration of HepG2 cells. Oncol Lett 2022; 24:275. [PMID: 35782905 PMCID: PMC9247656 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2022.13395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cisplatin (DDP) is a potent and widely applied chemotherapeutic agent. However, its clinical efficacy for the treatment of liver cancer is limited by adverse effects and the development of resistance. Combinatorial therapy may alleviate these issues. Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) is a first-generation derivative of artemisinin. The effects of DDP on liver cancer when applied in combination with DHA have not previously been studied. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effects of DHA combined with DDP on HepG2 cells and their potential underlying molecular mechanisms. HepG2 cells were treated with different concentrations of DHA and/or DDP. Cell Counting Kit-8 assay was used to assess the cell viability. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were quantified using flow cytometry, acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) fluorescent dual staining and the colony formation assay. Cell migration was quantified using the Transwell and wound healing assays. The HepG2 cell protein expression levels of Fas, Fas-associated death domain (FADD), procaspase-3, cleaved caspase-3, pro-caspase-8, cleaved caspase-8, Bax, Bcl-2, E-cadherin and N-cadherin, were detected via western blotting. Gelatin zymography was used to assess the levels of MMP-9 secreted by HepG2 cells into the supernatant. Following combined DHA and DDP treatment, the percentage of apoptotic cells was significantly increased, whereas cell proliferation and migration were significantly reduced, compared with cells treated with DDP only. DHA and DPP in combination significantly inhibited the expression of MMP-9, significantly increased the protein expression levels of Fas, FADD, Bax and E-cadherin, significantly increased the ratio of cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved caspase-8 to their precursor proteins and significantly decreased the protein expression levels of Bcl-2 and N-cadherin. The findings of the present study suggested that, DHA may confer synergistic effects with DDP in potentially promoting apoptosis and inhibiting the epithelial-mesenchymal transition for the treatment of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Rao
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430065, P.R. China
| | - Ruochan Li
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430065, P.R. China
| | - He Yu
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430065, P.R. China
| | - Lei Xiang
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430065, P.R. China
| | - Bin He
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430065, P.R. China
| | - Fenghua Wu
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430065, P.R. China
| | - Gang Zhao
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430065, P.R. China
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Artemisinin-Type Drugs in Tumor Cell Death: Mechanisms, Combination Treatment with Biologics and Nanoparticle Delivery. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14020395. [PMID: 35214127 PMCID: PMC8875250 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14020395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Artemisinin, the most famous anti-malaria drug initially extracted from Artemisia annua L., also exhibits anti-tumor properties in vivo and in vitro. To improve its solubility and bioavailability, multiple derivatives have been synthesized. However, to reveal the anti-tumor mechanism and improve the efficacy of these artemisinin-type drugs, studies have been conducted in recent years. In this review, we first provide an overview of the effect of artemisinin-type drugs on the regulated cell death pathways, which may uncover novel therapeutic approaches. Then, to overcome the shortcomings of artemisinin-type drugs, we summarize the recent advances in two different therapeutic approaches, namely the combination therapy with biologics influencing regulated cell death, and the use of nanocarriers as drug delivery systems. For the former approach, we discuss the superiority of combination treatments compared to monotherapy in tumor cells based on their effects on regulated cell death. For the latter approach, we give a systematic overview of nanocarrier design principles used to deliver artemisinin-type drugs, including inorganic-based nanoparticles, liposomes, micelles, polymer-based nanoparticles, carbon-based nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers and niosomes. Both approaches have yielded promising findings in vitro and in vivo, providing a strong scientific basis for further study and upcoming clinical trials.
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Han DS, Lee EO. Sp1 Plays a Key Role in Vasculogenic Mimicry of Human Prostate Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:1321. [PMID: 35163245 PMCID: PMC8835864 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Sp1 transcription factor regulates genes involved in various phenomena of tumor progression. Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) is the alternative neovascularization by aggressive tumor cells. However, there is no evidence of the relationship between Sp1 and VM. This study investigated whether and how Sp1 plays a crucial role in the process of VM in human prostate cancer (PCa) cell lines, PC-3 and DU145. A cell viability assay and three-dimensional culture VM tube formation assay were performed. Protein and mRNA expression levels were detected by Western blot and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, respectively. The nuclear twist expression was observed by immunofluorescence assay. A co-immunoprecipitation assay was performed. Mithramycin A (MiA) and Sp1 siRNA significantly decreased serum-induced VM, whereas Sp1 overexpression caused a significant induction of VM. Serum-upregulated vascular endothelial cadherin (VE-cadherin) protein and mRNA expression levels were decreased after MiA treatment or Sp1 silencing. The protein expression and the nuclear localization of twist were increased by serum, which was effectively inhibited after MiA treatment or Sp1 silencing. The interaction between Sp1 and twist was reduced by MiA. On the contrary, Sp1 overexpression enhanced VE-cadherin and twist expressions. Serum phosphorylated AKT and raised matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and laminin subunit 5 gamma-2 (LAMC2) expressions. MiA or Sp1 silencing impaired these effects. However, Sp1 overexpression upregulated phosphor-AKT, MMP-2 and LAMC2 expressions. Serum-upregulated Sp1 was significantly reduced by an AKT inhibitor, wortmannin. These results demonstrate that Sp1 mediates VM formation through interacting with the twist/VE-cadherin/AKT pathway in human PCa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deok-Soo Han
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Korea;
| | - Eun-Ok Lee
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Korea;
- Department of Cancer Preventive Material Development, Graduate School, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Korea
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An P, Zhang LJ, Peng W, Chen YY, Liu QP, Luan X, Zhang H. Natural products are an important source for proteasome regulating agents. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 93:153799. [PMID: 34715511 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2021.153799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Natural medicines have a long history in the prevention and treatment of various diseases in East Asian region, especially in China. Modern research has proved that the pharmacological effects of numerous natural medicines involve the participation of ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS). UPS can degrade the unwanted and damaged proteins widely distributed in the nucleus and cytoplasm of various eukaryotes. PURPOSE The objective of the present study was to review and discuss the regulatory effects of natural products and extracts on proteasome components, which may help to find new proteasome regulators for drug development and clinical applications. METHODS The related information was compiled using the major scientific databases, such as CNKI, Elsevier, ScienceDirect, PubMed, SpringerLink, Wiley Online, and GeenMedical. The keywords "natural product" and "proteasome" were applied to extract the literature. Nature derived extracts, compounds and their derivatives involved in proteasome regulation were included, and the publications related to synthetic proteasome agents were excluded. RESULTS The pharmacological effects of more than 80 natural products and extracts derived from phytomedicines related to the proteasome regulation were reviewed. These natural products were classified according to their chemical properties. We also summarized some laws of action of natural products as proteasome regulators in the treatment of diseases, and listed the action characteristics of the typical natural products. CONCLUSION Natural products derived from nature can induce the degradation of damaged proteins through UPS or act as regulators to directly regulate the activity of proteasome. But few proteasome modulators are applied clinically. Summary of known rules for proteasome modulators will contribute to discover, modify and synthesize more proteasome modulators for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei An
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200, Cailun Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Li-Jun Zhang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200, Cailun Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Wei Peng
- School of pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Yu-Ying Chen
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200, Cailun Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Qiu-Ping Liu
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200, Cailun Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xin Luan
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200, Cailun Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Hong Zhang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200, Cailun Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai 201203, China.
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Yu R, Jin G, Fujimoto M. Dihydroartemisinin: A Potential Drug for the Treatment of Malignancies and Inflammatory Diseases. Front Oncol 2021; 11:722331. [PMID: 34692496 PMCID: PMC8529146 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.722331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) has been globally recognized for its efficacy and safety in the clinical treatment of malaria for decades. Recently, it has been found that DHA inhibits malignant tumor growth and regulates immune system function in addition to anti-malaria. In parasites and tumors, DHA causes severe oxidative stress by inducing excessive reactive oxygen species production. DHA also kills tumor cells by inducing programmed cell death, blocking cell cycle and enhancing anti-tumor immunity. In addition, DHA inhibits inflammation by reducing the inflammatory cells infiltration and suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Further, genomics, proteomics, metabolomics and network pharmacology of DHA therapy provide the basis for elucidating the pharmacological effects of DHA. This review provides a summary of the recent research progress of DHA in anti-tumor, inhibition of inflammatory diseases and the relevant pharmacological mechanisms. With further research of DHA, it is likely that DHA will become an alternative therapy in the clinical treatment of malignant tumors and inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Yu
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Guihua Jin
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Manabu Fujimoto
- Department of Dermatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan.,Laboratory of Cutaneous Immunology, Osaka University Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka, Japan
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Zhang Q, Jin L, Jin Q, Wei Q, Sun M, Yue Q, Liu H, Li F, Li H, Ren X, Jin G. Inhibitory Effect of Dihydroartemisinin on the Proliferation and Migration of Melanoma Cells and Experimental Lung Metastasis From Melanoma in Mice. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:727275. [PMID: 34539408 PMCID: PMC8443781 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.727275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is aggressive and can metastasize in the early stage of tumor. It has been proved that dihydroartemisinin (DHA) positively affects the treatment of tumors and has no apparent toxic and side effects. Our previous research has shown that DHA can suppress the formation of melanoma. However, it remains poorly established how DHA impacts the invasion and metastasis of melanoma. In this study, B16F10 and A375 cell lines and metastatic tumor models will be used to investigate the effects of DHA. The present results demonstrated that DHA inhibited the proliferative capacity in A375 and B16F10 cells. As expected, the migration capacity of A375 and B16F10 cells was also reduced after DHA administration. DHA alleviated the severity and histopathological changes of melanoma in mice. DHA induced expansion of CD8+CTL in the tumor microenvironment. By contrast, DHA inhibited Treg cells infiltration into the tumor microenvironment. DHA enhanced apoptosis of melanoma by regulating FasL expression and Granzyme B secretion in CD8+CTLs. Moreover, DHA impacts STAT3-induced EMT and MMPS in tumor tissue. Furthermore, Metabolomics analysis indicated that PGD2 and EPA significantly increased after DHA administration. In conclusion, DHA inhibited the proliferation, migration and metastasis of melanoma in vitro and in vivo. These results have important implications for the potential use of DHA in the treatment of melanoma in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhang
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Linbo Jin
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Quanxin Jin
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Qiang Wei
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Mingyuan Sun
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Qi Yue
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Huan Liu
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Fangfang Li
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Honghua Li
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Xiangshan Ren
- Department of Pathology and Physiology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Guihua Jin
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
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Xiong Y, Huang J. Anti-malarial drug: the emerging role of artemisinin and its derivatives in liver disease treatment. Chin Med 2021; 16:80. [PMID: 34407830 PMCID: PMC8371597 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-021-00489-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Artemisinin and its derivatives belong to a family of drugs approved for the treatment of malaria with known clinical safety and efficacy. In addition to its anti-malarial effect, artemisinin displays anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer effects in vivo and in vitro. Recently, much attention has been paid to the therapeutic role of artemisinin in liver diseases. Several studies suggest that artemisinin and its derivatives can protect the liver through different mechanisms, such as those pertaining to inflammation, proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and induction of apoptosis and autophagy. In this review, we provide a comprehensive discussion of the underlying molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways of artemisinin and its derivatives in treating liver diseases. Further pharmacological research will aid in determining whether artemisinin and its derivatives may serve as promising medicines for the treatment of liver diseases in the future. ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Xiong
- The Department of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Jianrong Huang
- The Department of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
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13
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Meng Y, Ma N, Lyu H, Wong YK, Zhang X, Zhu Y, Gao P, Sun P, Song Y, Lin L, Wang J. Recent pharmacological advances in the repurposing of artemisinin drugs. Med Res Rev 2021; 41:3156-3181. [PMID: 34148245 DOI: 10.1002/med.21837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Artemisinins are a family of sesquiterpene lactones originally derived from the sweet wormwood (Artemisia annua). Beyond their well-characterized role as frontline antimalarial drugs, artemisinins have also received increased attention for other potential pharmaceutical effects, which include antiviral, antiparsitic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. With concerted efforts in further preclinical and clinical studies, artemisinin-based drugs have the potential to be viable treatments for a great variety of human diseases. Here, we provide a comprehensive update on recent reports of pharmacological actions and applications of artemisinins outside of their better-known antimalarial role and highlight their potential therapeutic viability for various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Meng
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Nan Ma
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Haining Lyu
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yin Kwan Wong
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xing Zhang
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yongping Zhu
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Gao
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Sun
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yali Song
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Dongguan Maternal And Child Health Care Hospital, Southern Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Lizhu Lin
- Oncology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jigang Wang
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,Oncology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Central People's Hospital of Zhanjiang, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
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14
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Li Y, Zhou X, Liu J, Yuan X, He Q. Therapeutic Potentials and Mechanisms of Artemisinin and its Derivatives for Tumorigenesis and Metastasis. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2021; 20:520-535. [PMID: 31958040 DOI: 10.2174/1871520620666200120100252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor recurrence and metastasis are still leading causes of cancer mortality worldwide. The influence of traditional treatment strategies against metastatic tumors may still be limited. To search for novel and powerful agents against tumors has become a major research focus. In this study, Artemisinin (ARM), a natural compound isolated from herbs, Artemisia annua L., proceeding from drug repurposing methods, attracts more attention due to its good efficacy and tolerance in antimalarial practices, as well as newly confirmed anticancer activity. METHODS We have searched and reviewed the literatures about ARM and its derivatives (ARMs) for cancer using keywords "artemisinin" until May 2019. RESULTS In preclinical studies, ARMs can induce cell cycle arrest and cell death by apoptosis etc., to inhibit the progression of tumors, and suppress EMT and angiogenesis to inhibit the metastasis of tumors. Notably, the complex relationships of ARMs and autophagy are worth exploring. Inspired by the limitations of its antimalarial applications and the mechanical studies of artemisinin and cancer, people are also committed to develop safer and more potent ARM-based modified compounds (ARMs) or combination therapy, such as artemisinin dimers/ trimers, artemisinin-derived hybrids. Some clinical trials support artemisinins as promising candidates for cancer therapy. CONCLUSION ARMs show potent therapeutic potentials against carcinoma including metastatic tumors. Novel compounds derived from artemisinin and relevant combination therapies are supposed to be promising treatment strategies for tumors, as the important future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratories, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhou
- Department of Clinical Laboratories, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Jiali Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratories, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Xiaohong Yuan
- Department of Clinical Laboratories, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Qian He
- Department of Clinical Laboratories, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
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15
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Dai X, Zhang X, Chen W, Chen Y, Zhang Q, Mo S, Lu J. Dihydroartemisinin: A Potential Natural Anticancer Drug. Int J Biol Sci 2021; 17:603-622. [PMID: 33613116 PMCID: PMC7893584 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.50364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) is an active metabolite of artemisinin and its derivatives (ARTs), and it is an effective clinical drug widely used to treat malaria. Recently, the anticancer activity of DHA has attracted increasing attention. Nevertheless, there is no systematic summary on the anticancer effects of DHA. Notably, studies have shown that DHA exerts anticancer effects through various molecular mechanisms, such as inhibiting proliferation, inducing apoptosis, inhibiting tumor metastasis and angiogenesis, promoting immune function, inducing autophagy and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. In this review, we comprehensively summarized the latest progress regarding the anticancer activities of DHA in cancer. Importantly, the underlying anticancer molecular mechanisms and pharmacological effects of DHA in vitro and in vivo are the focus of our attention. Interestingly, new methods to improve the solubility and bioavailability of DHA are discussed, which greatly enhance its anticancer efficacy. Remarkably, DHA has synergistic anti-tumor effects with a variety of clinical drugs, and preclinical and clinical studies provide stronger evidence of its anticancer potential. Moreover, this article also gives suggestions for further research on the anticancer effects of DHA. Thus, we hope to provide a strong theoretical support for DHA as an anticancer drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoshuo Dai
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China.,State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450052, PR China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China
| | - Yihuan Chen
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China
| | - Qiushuang Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China
| | - Saijun Mo
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China
| | - Jing Lu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China.,State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450052, PR China
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16
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Navacchia ML, Marchesi E, Perrone D. Bile Acid Conjugates with Anticancer Activity: Most Recent Research. Molecules 2020; 26:E25. [PMID: 33374573 PMCID: PMC7793148 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26010025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The advantages of a treatment modality that combines two or more therapeutic agents in cancer therapy encourages the study of hybrid functional compounds for pharmacological applications. In light of this, we reviewed recent works on hybrid molecules based on bile acids. Due to their biological properties, as well as their different chemical/biochemical reactive moieties, bile acids can be considered very interesting starting molecules for conjugation with natural or synthetic bioactive molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Luisa Navacchia
- Institute of Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity, National Research Council, Piero Gobetti 101, 40129 Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Marchesi
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Daniela Perrone
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
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17
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Yu R, Jin L, Li F, Fujimoto M, Wei Q, Lin Z, Ren X, Jin Q, Li H, Meng F, Jin G. Dihydroartemisinin inhibits melanoma by regulating CTL/Treg anti-tumor immunity and STAT3-mediated apoptosis via IL-10 dependent manner. J Dermatol Sci 2020; 99:193-202. [PMID: 32859456 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2020.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been shown that dihydroartemisinin (DHA) is effective in the treatment of malaria. Recently studies have demonstrated that DHA also regulates tumor cell growth, angiogenesis, T cell differentiation and generation. However, how DHA affects melanoma development remains poorly defined. OBJECTIVES To investigate the effects of DHA on the proliferation and migration of melanoma in vivo and in vitro, and to explore its possible mechanism. METHODS B16F10 cells and melanoma-bearing BALB/c mice were used to investigate the effects of DHA on melanoma. RESULTS DHA had inhibitory effect on melanoma proliferation in a time-and dose-dependent manner. Treatment of DHA attenuated melanoma severity and histopathological changes in BALB/c mice. DHA also inhibited melanoma invasion, migration, and community formation in a dose-dependent manner. Flow cytometry revealed a significant increase in IFN-γ+CD8+ T cells in the DHA groups. In tumor microenvironment and spleen, DHA induced expansion of CD8+CTL, while, CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells and IL-10+CD4+CD25+ T cells were normalized by DHA treatment. DHA diminished expression of IL-10 and IL-6, and increased the expression of IFN-γ in the tumor and spleen. Moreover, DHA administration significantly promoted the mitochondrial apoptosis of melanoma by regulating the STAT3 pathway. CONCLUSION DHA induces mitochondrial apoptosis and alters cytokines expression by inhibiting the phosphorylation of STAT3. DHA improves anti-tumor immunity in mice through controlling CD8+CTL function by counteracting IL-10-dependent Treg cells suppression, which promises to be an alternative drug for melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Yu
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Linbo Jin
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Fangfang Li
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Manabu Fujimoto
- Department of Dermatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Laboratory of Cutaneous Immunology, Osaka UniversityImmunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka, Japan
| | - Qiang Wei
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Zhenhua Lin
- Department of Pathology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Xiangshan Ren
- Department of Pathology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Quanxin Jin
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Honghua Li
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Fanping Meng
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Guihua Jin
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China.
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18
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Chen X, He LY, Lai S, He Y. Dihydroartemisinin inhibits the migration of esophageal cancer cells by inducing autophagy. Oncol Lett 2020; 20:94. [PMID: 32831913 PMCID: PMC7439151 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2020.11955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Esophageal cancer (EC) is a complex gastrointestinal malignancy and its global incidence rate ranks 7th among all cancer types. Due to its aggressive nature and the potential for early metastasis, the survival rates of patients with EC are poor. Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) is the primary active derivative of artemisinin, and, as well as its use as an anti-malarial, DHA has also exhibited antitumor activity in various cancer models, such as cholangiocarcinoma, head and neck carcinoma, and hepatocellular carcinoma cells. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the antitumor effect of DHA in the treatment of EC remains poorly understood. The results of the present study demonstrated that DHA significantly inhibited the migration of TE-1 and Eca-109 EC cells in a dose-dependent manner by activating autophagy. DHA treatment also significantly reversed epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) by downregulating the EMT-associated markers, N-cadherin and vimentin, and upregulating the expression of E-cadherin. Mechanistically, DHA treatment decreased Akt phosphorylation and inhibited the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway, leading to the activation of autophagy. The levels of the autophagy-associated proteins were suppressed and DHA-mediated inhibition of migration in EC cells was reversed when an active form of Akt was overexpressed. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated the potential value of DHA in the treatment of EC, and revealed the underlying mechanism by which FDHA inhibits cellular migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Chongqing Emergency Medical Center, Chongqing University Central Hospital, Chongqing 400014, P.R. China
| | - Lan-Ying He
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tumor Hospital Affiliated to Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, P.R. China
| | - Shu Lai
- Department of Pharmacy, Jiulongpo District People's Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing 400050, P.R. China
| | - Yao He
- Department of Pharmacy, Chongqing Emergency Medical Center, Chongqing University Central Hospital, Chongqing 400014, P.R. China
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19
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Yi R, Wang H, Deng C, Wang X, Yao L, Niu W, Fei M, Zhaba W. Dihydroartemisinin initiates ferroptosis in glioblastoma through GPX4 inhibition. Biosci Rep 2020; 40:BSR20193314. [PMID: 32452511 PMCID: PMC7313443 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20193314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been demonstrated from previous studies about the killing effect of dihydroartemisinin (DHA) on glioblastoma, which involves multiple aspects: cytotoxicity, cell cycle arrest and invasion inhibition. DHA has the advantages of low cytotoxicity to normal cells, selective killing effect and low drug resistance, making it one of the popular anti-tumor research directions. Ferroptosis is a newly discovered form of cell death characterized by iron dependence and lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. In the present study, we found differences in the expression of transferrin receptors in normal human astrocytes (NHA) and glioblastoma cells (U87 and A172), which may be one of the mechanisms of DHA selective killing effect. Through the determination of ferroptosis-related protein expression, we found that the significant decrease of GPX4, accompanied by the constant expression of xCT and ACSL4, suggesting GPX4 was a pivotal target for DHA-activated ferroptosis in glioblastoma. Total and lipid ROS levels were increased and all these results could be reversed by the ferroptosis inhibitor, ferrostatin-1. These findings demonstrated ferroptosis would be a critical component of cell death caused by DHA and GPX4 was the main target. All these results provide a novel treatment direction to glioblastoma. The association between ferroptosis and polyamines is also discussed, which will provide new research directions for ferroptosis caused by DHA in glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renxin Yi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Southeast University, School of Medicine, Nanjing 210002, P.R. China
| | - Handong Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University, School of Medicine, Nanjing 210002, P.R. China
| | - Chulei Deng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, South Medical University, School of Medicine, Nanjing 210002, P.R. China
| | - Xinyue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, Jiangsu Laboratory for Biomaterials and Devices, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210002, P.R. China
| | - Lei Yao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Southeast University, School of Medicine, Nanjing 210002, P.R. China
| | - Wenhao Niu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Southeast University, School of Medicine, Nanjing 210002, P.R. China
| | - Maoxing Fei
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, School of Medicine, Nanjing 210002, P.R. China
| | - Wangdui Zhaba
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University, School of Medicine, Nanjing 210002, P.R. China
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20
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Shen Y, Zhang B, Su Y, Badshah SA, Wang X, Li X, Xue Y, Xie L, Wang Z, Yang Z, Zhang G, Shang P. Iron Promotes Dihydroartemisinin Cytotoxicity via ROS Production and Blockade of Autophagic Flux via Lysosomal Damage in Osteosarcoma. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:444. [PMID: 32431605 PMCID: PMC7214747 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma cellular iron concentration is higher than that in normal bone cells and other cell types. High levels of cellular iron help catalyze the Fenton reaction to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), which promotes cancer cell proliferation. Dihydroartemisinin (DHA), a classic anti-malarial drug, kills plasmodium through iron-dependent ROS generation. In this research, we observed the anti-osteosarcoma effects and mechanisms of DHA. We found that DHA induced ROS production, caused mitochondrial damage, and activated autophagy via stimulation of the ROS/Erk1/2 pathway. As the storage site for a pool of ferrous iron, lysosomes are often the key organelles affected by drugs targeting iron. In this study, we observed that DHA induced lysosomal superoxide production, leading lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP), and autophagic flux blockage. By reducing or increasing cellular iron using deferoxamine (DFO) or ferric ammonium citrate (FAC), respectively, we found that DHA inhibited osteosarcoma in an iron-dependent manner. Therefore, iron may be a potential adjuvant for DHA in osteosarcoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Shen
- Research and Development Institute in Shenzhen, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Shenzhen, China.,School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, Institute of Special Environment Biophysics, School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- Research and Development Institute in Shenzhen, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Shenzhen, China.,School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, Institute of Special Environment Biophysics, School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yanwei Su
- Research and Development Institute in Shenzhen, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Shenzhen, China.,School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, Institute of Special Environment Biophysics, School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Shaikh Atik Badshah
- Research and Development Institute in Shenzhen, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Shenzhen, China.,Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, Institute of Special Environment Biophysics, School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaofei Wang
- Biomedical Experimental Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xin Li
- Research and Development Institute in Shenzhen, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Shenzhen, China.,School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, Institute of Special Environment Biophysics, School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yanru Xue
- Research and Development Institute in Shenzhen, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Shenzhen, China.,School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, Institute of Special Environment Biophysics, School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Li Xie
- School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, Institute of Special Environment Biophysics, School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, Institute of Special Environment Biophysics, School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhouqi Yang
- School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, Institute of Special Environment Biophysics, School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ge Zhang
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone & Joint Diseases (TMBJ), Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Peng Shang
- Research and Development Institute in Shenzhen, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Shenzhen, China.,Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, Institute of Special Environment Biophysics, School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
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21
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Li N, Guo W, Li Y, Zuo H, Zhang H, Wang Z, Zhao Y, Yang F, Ren G, Zhang S. Construction and anti-tumor activities of disulfide-linked docetaxel-dihydroartemisinin nanoconjugates. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2020; 191:111018. [PMID: 32304917 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2020.111018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Co-delivery of anti-tumor agents with outstanding stimulus-triggered drug release in tumor cells, especially with the aid of nanotechnology, provided the possibility to enhance delivery efficiency for targeting tumor cells and antitumor efficacy. In this paper, docetaxel-dihydroartemisinin nanoconjugates linked by disulfide bond were designed to increase co-delivery and anti-tumor efficacy. Docetaxel and dihydroartemisinin were synthesized using two-step reaction and furtherly assembled to nanoconjugates. Nanoprescription was optimized to evaluate its physicochemical properties. In vitro anti-tumor activities of nanoformulation were assessed by MTT. The flow cytometry was adopted to analyze cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. The wound healing assay was used to evaluate antimigratory-property. In vivo pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies were investigated in rats and 4T1 bearing Balb/c mice model after intravenous injection, respectively. The chemical structure of conjugate was confirmed. The prepared nanoparticles possessed uniform size distribution (172.10 ± 1.70 nm, PDI 0.05 ± 0.01), was stable during storage period, sustained release profiles and sensitive reduction responsiveness. MTT assay indicated that the toxicity of nanoconjugates was slightly weak. Flow cytometry studies showed that nanoconjugates could promote early apoptosis significantly and mainly arose from G0/G1 phase. The wound healing assay provided an obvious antimetastatic potential of nanoparticles in 4T1 cells. The result of pharmacokinetic study suggested that nanoconjugates exhibited higher exposure levels. In vivo pharmacodynamic research showed that mice treated with docetaxel-dihydroartemisinin nanoconjugates had lower systemic toxicity and higher survival ratio than those of control groups. This potential of nanoconjugates was developed as a novel nanoplateform to treat tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Wenju Guo
- School of Pharmacy, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Yujie Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Hengtong Zuo
- School of Pharmacy, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Huihui Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Zhaoyun Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Yongdan Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Fan Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Guolian Ren
- School of Pharmacy, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China.
| | - Shuqiu Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China.
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22
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Hou C, Guo D, Yu X, Wang S, Liu T. TMT-based proteomics analysis of the anti-hepatocellular carcinoma effect of combined dihydroartemisinin and sorafenib. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 126:109862. [PMID: 32120157 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.109862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), as the major primary liver cancer, is one of the most prevalent malignant diseases with a high mortality rate worldwide. Prior studies have demonstrated that dihydroartemisinin (DHA), the semisynthetic derivative of artemisinin, possesses anti-HCC activity. The multikinase inhibitor sorafenib has been approved for the treatment of HCC. However, the anti-HCC efficacy of DHA combined with sorafenib has not been reported. In this study, we confirmed the significantly enhanced anti-HCC efficacy of DHA in combination with sorafenib compared with that of each agent alone. Tandem Mass Tag (TMT) peptide labeling coupled with LC-MS/MS was used to quantify the proteins from the control, DHA, sorafenib, and DHA + sorafenib groups. In total, 532, 426, 628 differentially expressed proteins (fold change >1.20 or <0.83 and P-value <0.05) were determined by comparing DHA versus control, sorafenib versus control and DHA + sorafenib versus control groups, respectively. Moreover, optimized screening was performed, and 101 optimized differentially expressed proteins were identified. The results of functional analysis of the optimized differentially expressed proteins suggested that they were enriched in cell components such as membrane-bound vesicles, extracellular vesicles, and organelle lumens, and they were mainly involved in biological processes such as cellular component organization, response to stress, and response to chemicals; in addition, they were related to various molecular functions such as protein binding, chromatin binding and enzyme binding. KEGG pathway analysis showed that the optimized differentially expressed proteins were enriched in pyrimidine metabolism, RNA polymerase, base excision repair, and osteoclast differentiation. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks of some of the optimized upregulated proteins suggested that they might not only affect vitamin and fat digestion and absorption but may also be involved in tight junctions. In the PPI network, some of the optimized downregulated proteins were enriched in base excision repair, RNA polymerase, purine metabolism, pyrimidine metabolism and mucin type O-glycan biosynthesis. Overall, this research explored the anti-HCC efficacy of DHA combined with sorafenib by using the TMT-based quantitative proteomics technique and might facilitate the understanding of the related anti-HCC molecular mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunying Hou
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Dongqing Guo
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Xue Yu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Shuyan Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Tianhua Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China.
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23
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Zou J, Ma Q, Sun R, Cai J, Liao H, Xu L, Xia J, Huang G, Yao L, Cai Y, Zhong X, Guo X. Dihydroartemisinin inhibits HepG2.2.15 proliferation by inducing cellular senescence and autophagy. BMB Rep 2020. [PMID: 31383247 PMCID: PMC6726210 DOI: 10.5483/bmbrep.2019.52.8.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) has been reported to possess anti-cancer activity against many cancers. However, the pharmacologic effect of DHA on HBV-positive hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unknown. Thus, the objective of the present study was to determine whether DHA could inhibit the proliferation of HepG2.2.15 cells and uncover the underlying mechanisms involved in the effect of DHA on HepG2.2.15 cells. We found that DHA effectively inhibited HepG2.2.15 HCC cell proliferation both in vivo and in vitro. DHA also reduced the migration and tumorigenicity capacity of HepG2.2.15 cells. Regarding the underlying mechanisms, results showed that DHA induced cellular senescence by up-regulating expression levels of proteins such as p-ATM, p-ATR, γ-H2AX, P53, and P21 involved in DNA damage response. DHA also induced autophagy (green LC3 puncta gathered together and LC3II/LC3I ratio increased through AKT-mTOR pathway suppression). Results also revealed that DHA-induced autophagy was not linked to senescence or cell death. TPP1 (telomere shelterin) overexpression could not rescue DHA-induced anticancer activity (cell proliferation). Moreover, DHA down-regulated TPP1 expression. Gene knockdown of TPP1 caused similar phenotypes and mechanisms as DHA induced phenotypes and mechanisms in HepG2.2.15 cells. These results demonstrate that DHA might inhibit HepG2.2.15 cells proliferation through inducing cellular senescence and autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang Zou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College; Translational Medicine Research Center, North Sichuan Medical College; Department of Laboratory Medicine, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, P.R.China
| | - Qiang Ma
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College; Translational Medicine Research Center, North Sichuan Medical College; Department of Laboratory Medicine, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, P.R.China
| | - Ru Sun
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, North Sichuan Medical College; Department of Blood Transfusion, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, P.R.China
| | - Jiajing Cai
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College; Translational Medicine Research Center, North Sichuan Medical College; Department of Laboratory Medicine, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, P.R.China
| | - Hebin Liao
- Translational Medicine Research Center, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, P.R.China
| | - Lei Xu
- Translational Medicine Research Center, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, P.R.China
| | - Jingruo Xia
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College; Translational Medicine Research Center, North Sichuan Medical College; Department of Laboratory Medicine, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, P.R.China
| | - Guangcheng Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College; Translational Medicine Research Center, North Sichuan Medical College; Department of Laboratory Medicine, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, P.R.China
| | - Lihua Yao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College; Translational Medicine Research Center, North Sichuan Medical College; Department of Laboratory Medicine, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, P.R.China
| | - Yan Cai
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College; Translational Medicine Research Center, North Sichuan Medical College; Department of Laboratory Medicine, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, P.R.China
| | - Xiaowu Zhong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College; Translational Medicine Research Center, North Sichuan Medical College; Department of Laboratory Medicine, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, P.R.China
| | - Xiaolan Guo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College; Translational Medicine Research Center, North Sichuan Medical College; Department of Laboratory Medicine, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, P.R.China
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24
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Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate Suppresses Vasculogenic Mimicry through Inhibiting the Twist/VE-Cadherin/AKT Pathway in Human Prostate Cancer PC-3 Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21020439. [PMID: 31936664 PMCID: PMC7013924 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21020439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) is the alternative process of forming vessel-like networks by aggressive tumor cells, and it has an important role in tumor survival, growth, and metastasis. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is well known to have diverse bioactivities including anti-cancer effects. However, the efficacy of EGCG on VM is elusive. In this study, we explored whether and how EGCG affects VM in human prostate cancer (PCa) PC-3 cells. Cell viability was measured by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Invasive and VM formation abilities were assessed by an invasion assay and a three-dimensional (3D) culture VM tube formation assay, respectively. Western blots were carried out. An immunofluorescence assay was performed to detect nuclear twist expression. EGCG effectively inhibited the invasive ability, as well as tubular channel formation, without affecting cell viability. EGCG significantly downregulated the expression of vascular endothelial cadherin (VE-cadherin) and its transcription factor, twist, N-cadherin, vimentin, phosphor-AKT, and AKT, but not phospho-erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular receptor A2 (EphA2) and EphA2. In addition, EGCG diminished the nuclear localization of twist. Treatment with SC79, an AKT activator, effectively rescued EGCG-inhibited VM formation. These results demonstrated for the first time that EGCG causes marked suppression of VM through inhibiting the twist/VE-cadherin/AKT pathway in human PCa PC-3 cells.
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25
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Gao J, Ma F, Wang X, Li G. Combination of dihydroartemisinin and resveratrol effectively inhibits cancer cell migrationviaregulation of the DLC1/TCTP/Cdc42 pathway. Food Funct 2020; 11:9573-9584. [DOI: 10.1039/d0fo00996b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Mechanism of DHA combined with RES in inhibition of cancer cell migration by DLC1/TCTP/Cdc42 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junying Gao
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistant Biology
- School of Life Sciences
- Shandong Normal University
- Jinan
- China
| | - Fengqiu Ma
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistant Biology
- School of Life Sciences
- Shandong Normal University
- Jinan
- China
| | - Xingjie Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistant Biology
- School of Life Sciences
- Shandong Normal University
- Jinan
- China
| | - Guorong Li
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistant Biology
- School of Life Sciences
- Shandong Normal University
- Jinan
- China
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26
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Dihydroartemisinin Sensitizes Mutant p53 (R248Q)-Expressing Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells to Doxorubicin by Inhibiting P-gp Expression. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:8207056. [PMID: 31976328 PMCID: PMC6955115 DOI: 10.1155/2019/8207056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Mutant p53 (R248Q) induces doxorubicin (ADM) resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) can synergistically enhance anticancer effect of many chemotherapeutic agents. However, whether DHA could increase therapeutic efficacy of ADM in p53 (R248Q)-expressing HCC cells remains unknown. In the present study, we established mutant p53 (R248Q)-expressing Hep3B cells to study the effect and mechanism of DHA on ADM resistance and the synergistic effect of DHA with ADM. We found that P-gp was highly expressed in p53 (R248Q)-expressing Hep3B cells. As a result, cells expressing p53 (R248Q) displayed higher cell viability and lower cell apoptosis level upon ADM treatment. Meanwhile, phosphorylation levels of ERK1/2 and p65 were elevated in p53 (R248Q)-expressing Hep3B cells. However, combination of DHA and ADM treatment decreased cell viability and elevated cell apoptosis level in p53 (R248Q)-expressing Hep3B cells. Molecular dynamics simulations showed that DHA had the potential to bind with mutant p53 (R248Q) protein. Furthermore, DHA treatment decreased P-gp expression and inhibited phosphorylation levels of ERK1/2 and p65 in p53 (R248Q)-expressing Hep3B cells. Finally, DHA treatment could significantly reduce ADM efflux in p53 (R248Q)-expressing cells. Our results indicate that DHA could decrease P-gp expression via inhibiting the p53 (R248Q)-ERK1/2-NF-κB signaling pathway, which eventually confers sensitization of p53 (R248Q)-expressing HCC cells to ADM. Our study provides evidence for the potential application of DHA and ADM combination in treatment of mutant p53 (R248Q)-harbored HCC.
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27
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Lu BW, Xie LK. Potential applications of artemisinins in ocular diseases. Int J Ophthalmol 2019; 12:1793-1800. [PMID: 31741871 DOI: 10.18240/ijo.2019.11.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Artemisinin, also named qinghaosu, is a family of sesquiterpene trioxane lactone originally derived from the sweet wormwood plant (Artemisia annua), which is a traditional Chinese herb that has been universally used as anti-malarial agents for many years. Evidence has accumulated during the past few years which demonstrated the protective effects of artemisinin and its derivatives (artemisinins) in several other diseases beyond malaria, including cancers, autoimmune disorders, inflammatory diseases, viral and other parasite-related infections. Recently, this long-considered anti-malarial agent has been proved to possess anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and anti-excitotoxic properties, which make it a potential treatment option for the ocular environment. In this review, we first described the overview of artemisinins, highlighting the activity of artemisinins to other diseases beyond malaria and the mechanisms of these actions. We then emphasized the main points of published results of using artemisinins in targeting ocular disorders, including uveitis, retinoblastoma, retinal neurodegenerative diseases and ocular neovascularization. To conclude, we believe that artemisinins could also be used as a promising therapeutic drug for ocular diseases, especially retinal vascular diseases in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing-Wen Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100400, China
| | - Li-Ke Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100400, China
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28
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Luo H, Vong CT, Chen H, Gao Y, Lyu P, Qiu L, Zhao M, Liu Q, Cheng Z, Zou J, Yao P, Gao C, Wei J, Ung COL, Wang S, Zhong Z, Wang Y. Naturally occurring anti-cancer compounds: shining from Chinese herbal medicine. Chin Med 2019; 14:48. [PMID: 31719837 PMCID: PMC6836491 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-019-0270-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 265] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous natural products originated from Chinese herbal medicine exhibit anti-cancer activities, including anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, anti-metastatic, anti-angiogenic effects, as well as regulate autophagy, reverse multidrug resistance, balance immunity, and enhance chemotherapy in vitro and in vivo. To provide new insights into the critical path ahead, we systemically reviewed the most recent advances (reported since 2011) on the key compounds with anti-cancer effects derived from Chinese herbal medicine (curcumin, epigallocatechin gallate, berberine, artemisinin, ginsenoside Rg3, ursolic acid, silibinin, emodin, triptolide, cucurbitacin B, tanshinone I, oridonin, shikonin, gambogic acid, artesunate, wogonin, β-elemene, and cepharanthine) in scientific databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, Scopus, and Clinical Trials). With a broader perspective, we focused on their recently discovered and/or investigated pharmacological effects, novel mechanism of action, relevant clinical studies, and their innovative applications in combined therapy and immunomodulation. In addition, the present review has extended to describe other promising compounds including dihydroartemisinin, ginsenoside Rh2, compound K, cucurbitacins D, E, I, tanshinone IIA and cryptotanshinone in view of their potentials in cancer therapy. Up to now, the evidence about the immunomodulatory effects and clinical trials of natural anti-cancer compounds from Chinese herbal medicine is very limited, and further research is needed to monitor their immunoregulatory effects and explore their mechanisms of action as modulators of immune checkpoints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Luo
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Chi Teng Vong
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Hanbin Chen
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Yan Gao
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Peng Lyu
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Ling Qiu
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Mingming Zhao
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Qiao Liu
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Zehua Cheng
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Jian Zou
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Peifen Yao
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Caifang Gao
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Jinchao Wei
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Carolina Oi Lam Ung
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Shengpeng Wang
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Zhangfeng Zhong
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Yitao Wang
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
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29
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Yang J, Li H, Wang Z, Yu L, Liu Q, Niu X, Xu T, Wang Z. Dihydroartemisinin inhibits multiplication of Brucella suis vaccine strain 2 in murine microglia BV2 cells via stimulation of caspase‑dependent apoptosis. Mol Med Rep 2019; 20:4067-4072. [PMID: 31545433 PMCID: PMC6797990 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2019.10672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Brucellosis, caused by a facultative intracellular parasite Brucella species, is the most common bacterial zoonotic infection worldwide. Brucella can survive and proliferate in several phagocytic and non‑phagocytic cell types. Human brucellosis has similar clinical symptoms with systemic diseases, which may lead to delay of diagnosis and increasing of complications. Therefore, investigating the proliferation of Brucella in host cells is important to understand the pathogenesis of the disease. Dihydroartemisinin (DHA), a semi‑synthetic derivative of artemisinin, has been recommended by World Health Organization as an anti‑malarial drug. However, there have been few studies regarding its effectiveness against bacteria. In the present study, it was revealed that B. suis vaccine strain 2 (S2) grew in BV2 cells without significant cytotoxicity, and less than 20 µM DHA had no inhibitory effects on BV2 cells. Furthermore, DHA reduced B. suis S2 growth in BV2 cells, and increased the percentage of apoptosis and the expression of cleaved caspase‑3 in B. suis S2‑infected cells. Collectively, the present data indicated that DHA induced the caspase‑dependent apoptotic pathway to inhibit the intracellular B. suis S2 growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Yang
- Department of Neurology, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750004, P.R. China
| | - Haining Li
- Department of Neurology, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750004, P.R. China
| | - Zhao Wang
- Department of Neurology, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750004, P.R. China
| | - Liming Yu
- Department of Neurology, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750004, P.R. China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Department of Neurology, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750004, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoyan Niu
- Department of Neurology, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750004, P.R. China
| | - Ting Xu
- Department of Neurology, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750004, P.R. China
| | - Zhenhai Wang
- Department of Neurology, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750004, P.R. China
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30
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Jing W, Dong H, Min M, Runpeng Z, Xuewei X, Ru C, Yingru X, Shengfa N, Baoxian T, Jinbo Y, Weidong H, Rongbo Z. Dependence of artesunate on long noncoding RNA‐RP11 to inhibit epithelial‐mesenchymal transition of hepatocellular carcinoma. J Cell Biochem 2018; 120:6026-6034. [PMID: 30335897 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.27889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 09/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wu Jing
- Department of Medical Immunology Medical School, Anhui University of Science and Technology Huainan China
- Department of Biochemistry Medical School, Anhui University of Science and Technology Huainan China
| | - Hu Dong
- Department of Medical Immunology Medical School, Anhui University of Science and Technology Huainan China
| | - Mu Min
- Department of Medical Immunology Medical School, Anhui University of Science and Technology Huainan China
| | - Zhao Runpeng
- Department of Medical Immunology Medical School, Anhui University of Science and Technology Huainan China
| | - Xu Xuewei
- Department of Medical Immunology Medical School, Anhui University of Science and Technology Huainan China
| | - Cai Ru
- Department of Medical Immunology Medical School, Anhui University of Science and Technology Huainan China
| | - Xing Yingru
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Anhui University of Science and Technology Huainan China
| | - Ni Shengfa
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Anhui University of Science and Technology Huainan China
| | - Tie Baoxian
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Anhui University of Science and Technology Huainan China
| | - Yue Jinbo
- Department of Radiation Oncology Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong Cancer Hospital affiliated to Shandong University Jinan China
| | - Han Weidong
- Department of Medical Oncology Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University Hangzhou China
| | - Zhang Rongbo
- Department of Medical Immunology Medical School, Anhui University of Science and Technology Huainan China
- Department of Biochemistry Medical School, Anhui University of Science and Technology Huainan China
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31
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Thongchot S, Vidoni C, Ferraresi A, Loilome W, Yongvanit P, Namwat N, Isidoro C. Dihydroartemisinin induces apoptosis and autophagy-dependent cell death in cholangiocarcinoma through a DAPK1-BECLIN1 pathway. Mol Carcinog 2018; 57:1735-1750. [PMID: 30136419 DOI: 10.1002/mc.22893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Revised: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a very aggressive cancer arising from the malignant transformation of cholangiocytes. Intrahepatic CCA is associated with reactive inflammation and intense fibrosis of the hepatobiliary tract. Dihydroartemisinin (DHA), the active compound found in Artemisia annua, has been shown to possess anti-tumor activity in a variety of human cancers, including hepatoma. Here, we tested the ability of DHA to specifically kill CCA cells and have investigated the underlying mechanisms. DHA induced both apoptosis and autophagy-dependent caspase-independent cell death in many CCA cell lines, while being slightly toxic to immortalized cholangiocytes. DHA induced the expression of many apoptosis- and autophagy-related genes in CCA cells. In particular, it greatly induced the expression of DAPK1, and reduced the interaction of BECLIN1 with BCL-2 while promoting its interaction with PI3KC3. Genetic silencing of DAPK1 prevented DHA-induced autophagy. Pharmacologic and genetic inhibition of BECLIN1 function prevented autophagy and cell death induced by DHA in CCA cells. These data unravel a novel pathway of DHA cancer toxicity and open the possibility to introduce DHA in the therapeutic regimen for the treatment of CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suyanee Thongchot
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale "A. Avogadro", Novara, Italy.,Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Chiara Vidoni
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale "A. Avogadro", Novara, Italy
| | - Alessandra Ferraresi
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale "A. Avogadro", Novara, Italy
| | - Watcharin Loilome
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand.,Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Puangrat Yongvanit
- Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Nisana Namwat
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand.,Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Ciro Isidoro
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale "A. Avogadro", Novara, Italy
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32
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Im E, Yeo C, Lee EO. Luteolin induces caspase-dependent apoptosis via inhibiting the AKT/osteopontin pathway in human hepatocellular carcinoma SK-Hep-1 cells. Life Sci 2018; 209:259-266. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Revised: 08/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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