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Shaik GM, Khan MS. Betulinic Acid Potentiates Mast Cell Degranulation by Compromising Cell Membrane Integrity and Without Involving Fcεri Receptors. Immunol Invest 2024; 53:695-711. [PMID: 38504489 DOI: 10.1080/08820139.2024.2329990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Mast cells play important role in acquired and natural immunity making these favorable therapeutic targets in various inflammatory diseases. Here we observed that, pentacyclic tri terpenoid betulinic acid (BA) treatment resulted in a significantly high number (9%) of cells positive for Hoechst and negative for annexin-V indicating that BA could interfere with plasma membrane integrity. The degranulation of both activated and non-activated mast cells was enhanced upon treatment with BA. The pre-treatment of BA had remarkable effect on calcium response in activated mast cells which showed increased calcium influx relative compared to untreated cells. The results also showed potentially less migration of BA treated mast cells signifying the possible effect of BA on cell membrane. BA treatment resulted in a significant increase in mRNA levels of IL-13 while as mRNA levels of other target cytokines, IL-6 and TNF-α seem to be not affected. Moreover, there was global Increase in phosphorylation of signaling proteins and no significant change in phosphorylation of FcεRI receptors indicating that the effect of BA was independent of signaling cascade or FcεRI receptor mediated mast cell aggregation. Overall, these results portray BA potentiates mast cell effector functions by compromising the membrane integrity and independent of FcεRI involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gouse M Shaik
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohd Shahnawaz Khan
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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2
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Fordjour E, Manful CF, Javed R, Galagedara LW, Cuss CW, Cheema M, Thomas R. Chaga mushroom: a super-fungus with countless facets and untapped potential. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1273786. [PMID: 38116085 PMCID: PMC10728660 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1273786] [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: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Inonotus obliquus (Chaga mushroom) is an inexpensive fungus with a broad range of traditional and medicinal applications. These applications include therapy for breast, cervix, and skin cancers, as well as treating diabetes. However, its benefits are virtually untapped due to a limited understanding of its mycochemical composition and bioactivities. In this article, we explore the ethnobotany, mycochemistry, pharmacology, traditional therapeutic, cosmetic, and prospective agricultural uses. The review establishes that several secondary metabolites, such as steroids, terpenoids, and other compounds exist in chaga. Findings on its bioactivity have demonstrated its ability as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antitumor agent. The study also demonstrates that Chaga powder has a long history of traditional use for medicinal purposes, pipe smoking rituals, and mystical future forecasts. The study further reveals that the applications of Chaga powder can be extended to industries such as pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, and agriculture. However numerous publications focused on the pharmaceutical benefits of Chaga with few publications on other applications. Overall, chaga is a promising natural resource with a wide range of potential applications and therefore the diverse array of therapeutic compounds makes it an attractive candidate for various applications such as plant biofertilizers and active ingredients in cosmetics and pharmaceutical products. Thus, further exploration of Chaga's potential benefits in agriculture and other industries could lead to exciting new developments and innovations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Fordjour
- Biotron Experimental Climate Change Research Centre, Department of Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Charles F. Manful
- School of Science and the Environment, Grenfell Campus, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Corner Brook, NL, Canada
| | - Rabia Javed
- School of Science and the Environment, Grenfell Campus, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Corner Brook, NL, Canada
| | - Lakshman W. Galagedara
- School of Science and the Environment, Grenfell Campus, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Corner Brook, NL, Canada
| | - Chad W. Cuss
- School of Science and the Environment, Grenfell Campus, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Corner Brook, NL, Canada
| | - Mumtaz Cheema
- Biotron Experimental Climate Change Research Centre, Department of Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Raymond Thomas
- Biotron Experimental Climate Change Research Centre, Department of Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
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3
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Demurtas OC, Nicolia A, Diretto G. Terpenoid Transport in Plants: How Far from the Final Picture? PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:634. [PMID: 36771716 PMCID: PMC9919377 DOI: 10.3390/plants12030634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Contrary to the biosynthetic pathways of many terpenoids, which are well characterized and elucidated, their transport inside subcellular compartments and the secretion of reaction intermediates and final products at the short- (cell-to-cell), medium- (tissue-to-tissue), and long-distance (organ-to-organ) levels are still poorly understood, with some limited exceptions. In this review, we aim to describe the state of the art of the transport of several terpene classes that have important physiological and ecological roles or that represent high-value bioactive molecules. Among the tens of thousands of terpenoids identified in the plant kingdom, only less than 20 have been characterized from the point of view of their transport and localization. Most terpenoids are secreted in the apoplast or stored in the vacuoles by the action of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters. However, little information is available regarding the movement of terpenoid biosynthetic intermediates from plastids and the endoplasmic reticulum to the cytosol. Through a description of the transport mechanisms of cytosol- or plastid-synthesized terpenes, we attempt to provide some hypotheses, suggestions, and general schemes about the trafficking of different substrates, intermediates, and final products, which might help develop novel strategies and approaches to allow for the future identification of terpenoid transporters that are still uncharacterized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Costantina Demurtas
- Biotechnology and Agro-Industry Division, Biotechnology Laboratory, Casaccia Research Center, ENEA—Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, 00123 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Nicolia
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Research Centre for Vegetable and Ornamental Crops, via Cavalleggeri 25, 84098 Pontecagnano Faiano, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Diretto
- Biotechnology and Agro-Industry Division, Biotechnology Laboratory, Casaccia Research Center, ENEA—Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, 00123 Rome, Italy
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4
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Farooqi AA, Turgambayeva A, Tashenova G, Tulebayeva A, Bazarbayeva A, Kapanova G, Abzaliyeva S. Multifunctional Roles of Betulinic Acid in Cancer Chemoprevention: Spotlight on JAK/STAT, VEGF, EGF/EGFR, TRAIL/TRAIL-R, AKT/mTOR and Non-Coding RNAs in the Inhibition of Carcinogenesis and Metastasis. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 28:molecules28010067. [PMID: 36615262 PMCID: PMC9822120 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28010067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The pursual of novel anticancer molecules from natural sources has gained worthwhile appreciation, and a significant fraction of conceptual knowledge has revolutionized our understanding about heterogeneous nature of cancer. Betulinic acid has fascinated interdisciplinary researchers due to its tremendous pharmacological properties. Ground-breaking discoveries have unraveled previously unprecedented empirical proof-of-concept about momentous chemopreventive role of betulinic acid against carcinogenesis and metastasis. Deregulation of cell signaling pathways has been reported to play a linchpin role in cancer progression and colonization of metastatically competent cancer cells to the distant organs for the development of secondary tumors. Importantly, betulinic acid has demonstrated unique properties to mechanistically modulate oncogenic transduction cascades. In this mini-review, we have attempted to provide a sophisticated compendium of regulatory role of betulinic acid in cancer chemoprevention. We have partitioned this multi-component review into different sections in which we summarized landmark research-works which highlighted betulinic acid mediated regulation of JAK/STAT, VEGF, EGF/EGFR, TRAIL/TRAIL-R, AKT/mTOR and ubiquitination pathways in the inhibition of cancer. In parallel, betulinic acid mediated regulation of signaling cascades and non-coding RNAs will be critically analyzed in cell culture and animal model studies. Better comprehension of the pharmaceutical features of betulinic acid and mapping of the existing knowledge gaps will be valuable in the translatability of preclinical studies into rationally designed clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ammad Ahmad Farooqi
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute of Biomedical and Genetic Engineering (IBGE), Islamabad 54000, Pakistan
- Correspondence:
| | - Assiya Turgambayeva
- Department of Public Health and Management, NJSC “Astana Medical University”, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Gulnara Tashenova
- Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty 050040, Kazakhstan
- Scientific Center of Pediatrics and Pediatric Surgery, Almaty 050060, Kazakhstan
| | - Aigul Tulebayeva
- Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty 050040, Kazakhstan
- Scientific Center of Pediatrics and Pediatric Surgery, Almaty 050060, Kazakhstan
| | - Aigul Bazarbayeva
- Scientific Center of Pediatrics and Pediatric Surgery, Almaty 050060, Kazakhstan
| | - Gulnara Kapanova
- Scientific Center of Anti-Infectious Drugs, 75 al-Faraby Ave, Almaty 050040, Kazakhstan
- Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, 71 al-Farabi Ave, Almaty 050040, Kazakhstan
| | - Symbat Abzaliyeva
- Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, 71 al-Farabi Ave, Almaty 050040, Kazakhstan
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The C30-Modulation of Betulinic Acid Using 1,2,4-Triazole: A Promising Strategy for Increasing Its Antimelanoma Cytotoxic Potential. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27227807. [PMID: 36431906 PMCID: PMC9697306 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27227807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cancer, in all its types and manifestations, remains one of the most frequent causes of death worldwide; an important number of anticancer drugs have been developed from plants, fungi and animals, starting with natural compounds that were later derivatized in order to achieve an optimized pharmacokinetic/pharmacological profile. Betulinic acid is a pentacyclic triterpenic compound that was identified as an anticancer agent whose main advantage consists in its selective activity, which ensures the almost total lack of cytotoxic side effects. Conjugates of betulinic acid with substituted triazoles, scaffolds with significant pharmacological properties, were synthesized and tested as anticancer agents in order to achieve new therapeutic alternatives. The current paper aims to obtain a C30-1,2,4-triazole derivative of betulinic acid simultaneously acetylated at C3 whose biological activity was tested against RPMI melanoma cells. The compound revealed significant cytotoxic effects at the tested concentrations (2, 10 and 50 μΜ) by significantly decreasing the cell viability to 88.3%, 54.7% and 24.5%, respectively, as compared to the control. The compound's testing in normal HaCaT cells showed a lack of toxicity, which indicates its selective dose-dependent anticancer activity. The investigation of its underlying molecular mechanism revealed an apoptotic effect induced at the mitochondrial level, which was validated through high-resolution respirometry studies.
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Ngwenya S, Lunga W, van Eeden ES. Learning from past and current food security efforts and challenges in Zimbabwe: The years 1430-2020. JAMBA (POTCHEFSTROOM, SOUTH AFRICA) 2022; 14:1210. [PMID: 36263157 PMCID: PMC9575349 DOI: 10.4102/jamba.v14i1.1210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Zimbabwe has been experiencing food insecurity for many centuries. This study sought to explore and learn from Zimbabwe's past and current food security (FS) efforts and challenges, through three historical periods, namely the precolonial, colonial and postcolonial, from about 1430 to 2020. The year 1430 marks the establishment of the Monomotapa state, one of the starting points for Zimbabwe's own national reconstruction. Adopting a qualitative paradigm, data were obtained using document review and interviewing 85 purposively selected key informants, some of whom were found using snowballing. The study found that the adopted FS strategies during the precolonial, colonial and postcolonial periods were dynamic and mainly derived by new political agendas and crises. The food production and storage aspects of the colonial period were built around agricultural extension services and Grain Marketing Board strategies. The postcolonial period FS initiatives pivoted on humanitarian and development programs. Zimbabwe's FS initiatives across the three historical periods remain susceptible to various challenges (droughts, political antagonism, bureaucracy, partisanship, corruption, incapacitation and weak support systems). As such, Zimbabwe's food insecurity levels remain far away from being a reality, unless the identified challenges are taken head-on by all stakeholders. Therefore, the study recommends that informed local wisdom be given space in finding a lasting solution to food insecurity. Meanwhile, multistakeholder inclusivity, knowledge development and management should be made the crux of FS-related initiatives. This could foster new partnerships and encourage the ethic of working together and participation towards ensuring FS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sifelani Ngwenya
- Africa Centre Disaster Studies, Faculty of Natural Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Wilfred Lunga
- Human Sciences Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa,Centre for Disaster Studies, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Elize S. van Eeden
- School of Social Sciences, Faculty of Social Sciences, North-West University, Vanderbijlpark, South Africa
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Recent Advances Regarding the Molecular Mechanisms of Triterpenic Acids: A Review (Part II). Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23168896. [PMID: 36012159 PMCID: PMC9408012 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23168896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Triterpenic acids are a widespread class of phytocompounds which have been found to possess valuable therapeutic properties such as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, lipolytic, antiviral, and antiparasitic effects. They are a subclass of triterpenes bearing a characteristic lipophilic structure that imprints unfavorable in vivo properties which subsequently limit their applications. The early investigation of the mechanism of action (MOA) of a drug candidate can provide valuable information regarding the possible side effects and drug interactions that may occur after administration. The current paper aimed to summarize the most recent (last 5 years) studies regarding the MOA of betulinic acid, boswellic acid, glycyrrhetinic acid, madecassic acid, moronic acid, and pomolic acid in order to provide scientists with updated and accessible material on the topic that could contribute to the development of future studies; the paper stands as the sequel of our previously published paper regarding the MOA of triterpenic acids with therapeutic value. The recent literature published on the topic has highlighted the role of triterpenic acids in several signaling pathways including PI3/AKT/mTOR, TNF-alpha/NF-kappa B, JNK-p38, HIF-α/AMPK, and Grb2/Sos/Ras/MAPK, which trigger their various biological activities.
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8
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Phytochemicals for the Prevention and Treatment of Renal Cell Carcinoma: Preclinical and Clinical Evidence and Molecular Mechanisms. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14133278. [PMID: 35805049 PMCID: PMC9265746 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14133278] [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: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most frequently diagnosed kidney cancer. Once RCC metastasizes, successful treatment is difficult to achieve. There is an apparent need for novel approaches to prevent and treat RCC. Phytochemicals are naturally derived compounds gaining increasing scientific interest due to their cancer preventive and chemotherapeutic properties. These phytochemicals have been shown to exhibit a multitude of anticancer effects against RCC. In this systematic review, we critically evaluate the potential these natural compounds possess for the prevention and treatment of RCC and discuss the future implications this may have in the fight against kidney cancer. Abstract Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is associated with about 90% of renal malignancies, and its incidence is increasing globally. Plant-derived compounds have gained significant attention in the scientific community for their preventative and therapeutic effects on cancer. To evaluate the anticancer potential of phytocompounds for RCC, we compiled a comprehensive and systematic review of the available literature. Our work was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses criteria. The literature search was performed using scholarly databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect and keywords such as renal cell carcinoma, phytochemicals, cancer, tumor, proliferation, apoptosis, prevention, treatment, in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies. Based on in vitro results, various phytochemicals, such as phenolics, terpenoids, alkaloids, and sulfur-containing compounds, suppressed cell viability, proliferation and growth, showed cytotoxic activity, inhibited invasion and migration, and enhanced the efficacy of chemotherapeutic drugs in RCC. In various animal tumor models, phytochemicals suppressed renal tumor growth, reduced tumor size, and hindered angiogenesis and metastasis. The relevant antineoplastic mechanisms involved upregulation of caspases, reduction in cyclin activity, induction of cell cycle arrest and apoptosis via modulation of a plethora of cell signaling pathways. Clinical studies demonstrated a reduced risk for the development of kidney cancer and enhancement of the efficacy of chemotherapeutic drugs. Both preclinical and clinical studies displayed significant promise of utilizing phytochemicals for the prevention and treatment of RCC. Further research, confirming the mechanisms and regulatory pathways, along with randomized controlled trials, are needed to establish the use of phytochemicals in clinical practice.
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Adewole K, Ishola A, Olaoye I. In silico profiling of histone deacetylase inhibitory activity of compounds isolated from Cajanus cajan. BENI-SUEF UNIVERSITY JOURNAL OF BASIC AND APPLIED SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s43088-021-00191-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Cancer is responsible for high morbidity and mortality globally. Because the overexpression of histone deacetylases (HDACs) is one of the molecular mechanisms associated with the development and progression of some diseases such as cancer, studies are now considering inhibition of HDAC as a strategy for the treatment of cancer. In this study, a receptor-based in silico screening was exploited to identify potential HDAC inhibitors among the compounds isolated from Cajanus cajan, since reports have earlier confirmed the antiproliferative properties of compounds isolated from this plant.
Results
Cajanus cajan-derived phytochemicals were docked with selected HDACs, with givinostat as the reference HDAC inhibitor, using AutodockVina and Discovery Studio Visualizer, BIOVIA, 2020. Furthermore, absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME) drug-likeness analysis was done using the Swiss online ADME web tool. From the results obtained, 4 compounds; betulinic acid, genistin, orientin and vitexin, were identified as potential inhibitors of the selected HDACs, while only 3 compounds (betulinic acid, genistin and vitexin) passed the filter of drug-likeness. The molecular dynamic result revealed the best level of flexibility on HDAC1 and HDAC3 compared to the wild-type HDACs and moderate flexibility of HDAC7 and HDAC8.
Conclusions
The results of molecular docking, pharmacokinetics and molecular dynamics revealed that betulinic acid might be a suitable HDAC inhibitor worthy of further investigation in order to be used for regulating conditions associated with overexpression of HDACs. This knowledge can be used to guide experimental investigation on Cajanus cajan-derived compounds as potential HDAC inhibitors.
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Prodea A, Mioc A, Banciu C, Trandafirescu C, Milan A, Racoviceanu R, Ghiulai R, Mioc M, Soica C. The Role of Cyclodextrins in the Design and Development of Triterpene-Based Therapeutic Agents. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23020736. [PMID: 35054925 PMCID: PMC8775686 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Triterpenic compounds stand as a widely investigated class of natural compounds due to their remarkable therapeutic potential. However, their use is currently being hampered by their low solubility and, subsequently, bioavailability. In order to overcome this drawback and increase the therapeutic use of triterpenes, cyclodextrins have been introduced as water solubility enhancers; cyclodextrins are starch derivatives that possess hydrophobic internal cavities that can incorporate lipophilic molecules and exterior surfaces that can be subjected to various derivatizations in order to improve their biological behavior. This review aims to summarize the most recent achievements in terms of triterpene:cyclodextrin inclusion complexes and bioconjugates, emphasizing their practical applications including the development of new isolation and bioproduction protocols, the elucidation of their underlying mechanism of action, the optimization of triterpenes’ therapeutic effects and the development of new topical formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Prodea
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.P.); (A.M.); (R.R.); (R.G.); (M.M.); (C.S.)
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Alexandra Mioc
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, Pathophysiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Christian Banciu
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Faculty of Medicine, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (C.B.); (C.T.); Tel.: +40-256-494-604 (C.B. & C.T.)
| | - Cristina Trandafirescu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.P.); (A.M.); (R.R.); (R.G.); (M.M.); (C.S.)
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Correspondence: (C.B.); (C.T.); Tel.: +40-256-494-604 (C.B. & C.T.)
| | - Andreea Milan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.P.); (A.M.); (R.R.); (R.G.); (M.M.); (C.S.)
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Roxana Racoviceanu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.P.); (A.M.); (R.R.); (R.G.); (M.M.); (C.S.)
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Roxana Ghiulai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.P.); (A.M.); (R.R.); (R.G.); (M.M.); (C.S.)
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Marius Mioc
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.P.); (A.M.); (R.R.); (R.G.); (M.M.); (C.S.)
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Codruta Soica
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.P.); (A.M.); (R.R.); (R.G.); (M.M.); (C.S.)
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
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Yurasakpong L, Nantasenamat C, Nobsathian S, Chaithirayanon K, Apisawetakan S. Betulinic Acid Modulates the Expression of HSPA and Activates Apoptosis in Two Cell Lines of Human Colorectal Cancer. Molecules 2021; 26:6377. [PMID: 34770786 PMCID: PMC8588033 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26216377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 07/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Betulinic acid (BA) is a pentacyclic triterpene usually isolated from botanical sources. Numerous studies have reported the inhibitory effect of BA against human colorectal cancer cells (CRC). However, its effect on the expression of the molecular chaperone HSPA is unclear. The aim of this research is to investigate the anti-cancer activities of BA purified from Piper retrofractum and study its effect on the expression of HSPA in colorectal cancer HCT116 and SW480 cells. The viability of both cancer cells was reduced after they were treated with an increasing dosage of BA. Flow cytometry assay revealed that levels of cell apoptosis significantly increased after incubation with BA in both cancer cells. Pro-apoptotic markers including Bax, cleaved-caspase-3 and cleaved-caspase-9 were increased while anti-apoptotic marker Bcl-2 was decreased after BA treatment. Western blot also showed that the expression of HSPA fluctuated upon BA treatment, whereby HSPA was increased at lower BA concentrations while at higher BA concentrations HSPA expression was decreased. Preliminary molecular docking assay showed that BA can bind to the nucleotide binding domain of the HSP70 at its ADP-bound state of the HSP70. Although further research is needed to comprehend the BA-HSPA interaction, our findings indicate that BA can be considered as potential candidate for the development of new treatment for colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laphatrada Yurasakpong
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Rama VI Road, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (L.Y.); (K.C.)
| | - Chanin Nantasenamat
- Center of Data Mining and Biomedical Informatics, Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10700, Thailand;
| | | | - Kulathida Chaithirayanon
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Rama VI Road, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (L.Y.); (K.C.)
| | - Somjai Apisawetakan
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Srinakharinwirot University, Wattana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
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Huang P, Zhou W, Chen H, Zhou H, Duan S, Wan H, He Y. Optimized separation of anhydrosafflor yellow B from safflower by high-speed counter-current chromatography and evaluation of its cardio-protective effect. Food Funct 2021; 12:9360-9371. [PMID: 34606545 DOI: 10.1039/d1fo01767e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Anhydrosafflor yellow B (AHSYB) is a major active water-soluble pigment in Safflower, but it has not received enough attention yet. In this study, high-speed counter-current chromatography (HSCCC) was used to prepare AHSYB from safflower. The parameters of the separation process were optimized by response surface methodology for the first time. The entropy weight method (EWM) was applied to calculate the information entropy and the weight of five indexes, and then figure out a comprehensive index of the HSCCC separation effect. Under the optimized separation conditions, a HSCCC apparatus speed of 850 rpm, a flow rate of 2 mL min-1 for the mobile phase and a separation temperature of 40 °C for AHSYB were achieved with a purity of 98%. Furthermore, AHSYB was found to have cardio-protective effects by inhibiting apoptosis via the mitochondrial-mediated pathway in oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation-induced H9c2 cells. This research provides good method guides for the rapid and efficient separation of active compounds from food-grade Chinese herb medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Huang
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Wenjun Zhou
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Haiyang Chen
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Huifen Zhou
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Shaobo Duan
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Haitong Wan
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Yu He
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, China.
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13
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GSH/ROS Dual-Responsive Supramolecular Nanoparticles Based on Pillar[6]arene and Betulinic Acid Prodrug for Chemo-Chemodynamic Combination Therapy. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26195900. [PMID: 34641443 PMCID: PMC8512399 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26195900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemodynamic therapy (CDT) based on intracellular Fenton reactions is attracting increasing interest in cancer treatment. A simple and novel method to regulate the tumor microenvironment for improved CDT with satisfactory effectiveness is urgently needed. Therefore, glutathione (GSH)/ROS (reactive oxygen species) dual-responsive supramolecular nanoparticles (GOx@BNPs) for chemo–chemodynamic combination therapy were constructed via host–guest complexation between water-soluble pillar[6]arene and the ferrocene-modified natural anticancer product betulinic acid (BA) prodrug, followed by encapsulation of glucose oxidase (GOx) in the nanoparticles. The novel supramolecular nanoparticles could be activated by the overexpressed GSH and ROS in the tumor microenvironment (TME), not only accelerating the dissociation of nanoparticles—and, thus, improving the BA recovery and release capability in tumors—but also showing the high-efficiency conversion of glucose into hydroxyl radicals (·OH) in succession through intracellular Fenton reactions. Investigation of antitumor activity and mechanisms revealed that the dramatic suppression of cancer cell growth induced by GOx@BNPs was derived from the elevation of ROS, decrease in ATP and mitochondrial transmembrane potential (MTP) and, finally, cell apoptosis. This work presents a novel method for the regulation of the tumor microenvironment for improved CDT, and the preparation of novel GSH/ROS dual-responsive supramolecular nanoparticles, which could exert significant cytotoxicity against cancer cells through the synergistic interaction of chemodynamic therapy, starvation therapy, and chemotherapy (CDT/ST/CT).
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14
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Sultani HN, Morgan I, Hussain H, Roos AH, Haeri HH, Kaluđerović GN, Hinderberger D, Westermann B. Access to New Cytotoxic Triterpene and Steroidal Acid-TEMPO Conjugates by Ugi Multicomponent-Reactions. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22137125. [PMID: 34281176 PMCID: PMC8268079 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22137125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Multicomponent reactions, especially the Ugi-four component reaction (U-4CR), provide powerful protocols to efficiently access compounds having potent biological and pharmacological effects. Thus, a diverse library of betulinic acid (BA), fusidic acid (FA), cholic acid (CA) conjugates with TEMPO (nitroxide) have been prepared using this approach, which also makes them applicable in electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. Moreover, convertible amide modified spin-labelled fusidic acid derivatives were selected for post-Ugi modification utilizing a wide range of reaction conditions which kept the paramagnetic center intact. The nitroxide labelled betulinic acid analogue 6 possesses cytotoxic effects towards two investigated cell lines: prostate cancer PC3 (IC50 7.4 ± 0.7 μM) and colon cancer HT29 (IC50 9.0 ± 0.4 μM). Notably, spin-labelled fusidic acid derivative 8 acts strongly against these two cancer cell lines (PC3: IC50 6.0 ± 1.1 μM; HT29: IC50 7.4 ± 0.6 μM). Additionally, another fusidic acid analogue 9 was also found to be active towards HT29 with IC50 7.0 ± 0.3 μM (CV). Studies on the mode of action revealed that compound 8 increased the level of caspase-3 significantly which clearly indicates induction of apoptosis by activation of the caspase pathway. Furthermore, the exclusive mitochondria targeting of compound 18 was successfully achieved, since mitochondria are the major source of ROS generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haider N. Sultani
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Leibniz-Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Weinberg 3, 06120 Halle, Germany; (H.N.S.); (I.M.); (H.H.); (G.N.K.)
| | - Ibrahim Morgan
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Leibniz-Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Weinberg 3, 06120 Halle, Germany; (H.N.S.); (I.M.); (H.H.); (G.N.K.)
| | - Hidayat Hussain
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Leibniz-Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Weinberg 3, 06120 Halle, Germany; (H.N.S.); (I.M.); (H.H.); (G.N.K.)
| | - Andreas H. Roos
- Physical Chemistry—Complex Self-Organizing Systems, Institute of Chemistry, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, von-Danckelmann-Platz 4, 06120 Halle, Germany; (A.H.R.); (H.H.H.); (D.H.)
| | - Haleh H. Haeri
- Physical Chemistry—Complex Self-Organizing Systems, Institute of Chemistry, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, von-Danckelmann-Platz 4, 06120 Halle, Germany; (A.H.R.); (H.H.H.); (D.H.)
| | - Goran N. Kaluđerović
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Leibniz-Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Weinberg 3, 06120 Halle, Germany; (H.N.S.); (I.M.); (H.H.); (G.N.K.)
- Department of Engineering and Natural Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Merseburg, Eberhard-Leibnitz-Strasse 2, 06217 Merseburg, Germany
| | - Dariush Hinderberger
- Physical Chemistry—Complex Self-Organizing Systems, Institute of Chemistry, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, von-Danckelmann-Platz 4, 06120 Halle, Germany; (A.H.R.); (H.H.H.); (D.H.)
| | - Bernhard Westermann
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Leibniz-Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Weinberg 3, 06120 Halle, Germany; (H.N.S.); (I.M.); (H.H.); (G.N.K.)
- Organic Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Strasse 2, 06120 Halle, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-345-5582-1340; Fax: +49-345-5582-1309
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15
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Sun CY, Cao D, Ren QN, Zhang SS, Zhou NN, Mai SJ, Feng B, Wang HY. Combination Treatment With Inhibitors of ERK and Autophagy Enhances Antitumor Activity of Betulinic Acid in Non-small-Cell Lung Cancer In Vivo and In Vitro. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:684243. [PMID: 34267658 PMCID: PMC8275840 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.684243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of the Ras-ERK signaling pathway drives many important cancer phenotypes, and several inhibitors targeting such pathways are under investigation and/or approved by the FDA as single- or multi-agent therapy for patients with melanoma and non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Here, we show that betulinic acid (BA), a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid, inhibits cell proliferation, and induces apoptosis and protective autophagy in NSCLC cells. Thus, the cancer cell killing activity of BA is enhanced by autophagy inhibition. Mitogen-activated protein kinases, and especially ERK that facilitates cancer cell survival, are also activated by BA treatment. As such, in the presence of ERK inhibitors (ERKi), lung cancer cells are much more sensitive to BA. However, the dual treatment of BA and ERKi results in increased protective autophagy and AKT phosphorylation. Accordingly, inhibition of AKT has a highly synergistic anticancer effect with co-treatment of BA and ERKi. Notably, autophagy inhibition by hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) increases the response of lung cancer cells to BA in combination with ERKi. In vivo, the three-drug combination (BA, ERKi, and HCQ), resulted in superior therapeutic efficacy than single or dual treatments in the xenograft mouse model. Thus, our study provides a combined therapy strategy that is a highly effective treatment for patients with NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Yue Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Di Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qian-Nan Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shan-Shan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ning-Ning Zhou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shi-Juan Mai
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bing Feng
- Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui-Yun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
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16
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Kim SH, Baek KH. Regulation of Cancer Metabolism by Deubiquitinating Enzymes: The Warburg Effect. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126173. [PMID: 34201062 PMCID: PMC8226939 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a disorder of cell growth and proliferation, characterized by different metabolic pathways within normal cells. The Warburg effect is a major metabolic process in cancer cells that affects the cellular responses, such as proliferation and apoptosis. Various signaling factors down/upregulate factors of the glycolysis pathway in cancer cells, and these signaling factors are ubiquitinated/deubiquitinated via the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). Depending on the target protein, DUBs act as both an oncoprotein and a tumor suppressor. Since the degradation of tumor suppressors and stabilization of oncoproteins by either negative regulation by E3 ligases or positive regulation of DUBs, respectively, promote tumorigenesis, it is necessary to suppress these DUBs by applying appropriate inhibitors or small molecules. Therefore, we propose that the DUBs and their inhibitors related to the Warburg effect are potential anticancer targets.
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17
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Fru PN, Nweke EE, Mthimkhulu N, Mvango S, Nel M, Pilcher LA, Balogun M. Anti-Cancer and Immunomodulatory Activity of a Polyethylene Glycol-Betulinic Acid Conjugate on Pancreatic Cancer Cells. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:462. [PMID: 34063891 PMCID: PMC8223974 DOI: 10.3390/life11060462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug delivery systems involving polymer therapeutics enhance drug potency by improved solubility and specificity and may assist in circumventing chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer (PC). We compared the effectiveness of the naturally occurring drug, betulinic acid (BA), alone and in a polymer conjugate construct of polyethylene glycol (PEG), (PEG-BA), on PC cells (MIA PaCa-2), a normal cell line (Vero) and on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). PEG-BA, was tested for its effect on cell death, immunomodulation and chemoresistance-linked signalling pathways. The conjugate was significantly more toxic to PC cells (p < 0.001, IC50 of 1.35 ± 0.11 µM) compared to BA (IC50 of 12.70 ± 0.34 µM), with a selectivity index (SI) of 7.28 compared to 1.4 in Vero cells. Cytotoxicity was confirmed by increased apoptotic cell death. PEG-BA inhibited the production of IL-6 by 4-5.5 fold compared to BA-treated cells. Furthermore, PEG-BA treatment of MIA PaCa-2 cells resulted in the dysregulation of crucial chemoresistance genes such as WNT3A, TXNRD1, SLC2A1 and GATA3. The dysregulation of chemoresistance-associated genes and the inhibition of cytokines such as IL-6 by the model polymer construct, PEG-BA, holds promise for further exploration in PC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascaline Nanga Fru
- Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa; (E.E.N.); (N.M.); (M.N.)
| | - Ekene Emmanuel Nweke
- Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa; (E.E.N.); (N.M.); (M.N.)
| | - Nompumelelo Mthimkhulu
- Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa; (E.E.N.); (N.M.); (M.N.)
| | - Sindisiwe Mvango
- Biopolymer Modification and Therapeutics Laboratory, Chemicals Cluster, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Meiring Naude Road, Brummeria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (S.M.); (M.B.)
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa;
| | - Marietha Nel
- Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa; (E.E.N.); (N.M.); (M.N.)
| | | | - Mohammed Balogun
- Biopolymer Modification and Therapeutics Laboratory, Chemicals Cluster, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Meiring Naude Road, Brummeria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (S.M.); (M.B.)
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18
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Mitochondrial abnormalities: a hub in metabolic syndrome-related cardiac dysfunction caused by oxidative stress. Heart Fail Rev 2021; 27:1387-1394. [PMID: 33950478 PMCID: PMC9197868 DOI: 10.1007/s10741-021-10109-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) refers to a group of cardiovascular risk elements comprising insulin resistance, obesity, dyslipidemia, increased glucose intolerance, and increased blood pressure. Individually, all the MetS components can lead to cardiac dysfunction, while their combination generates additional risks of morbidity and mortality. Growing evidence suggests that oxidative stress, a dominant event in cellular damage and impairment, plays an indispensable role in cardiac dysfunction in MetS. Oxidative stress can not only disrupt mitochondrial activity through inducing oxidative damage to mitochondrial DNA, RNA, lipids, and proteins but can also impair cardiomyocyte contractile function via mitochondria-related oxidative modifications of proteins central to excitation-contraction coupling. Furthermore, excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation can lead to the activation of several mitochondria apoptotic signaling pathways, release of cytochrome c, and eventual induction of myocardial apoptosis. This review will focus on such processes of mitochondrial abnormalities in oxidative stress induced cardiac dysfunction in MetS.
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19
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Coricovac D, Dehelean CA, Pinzaru I, Mioc A, Aburel OM, Macasoi I, Draghici GA, Petean C, Soica C, Boruga M, Vlaicu B, Muntean MD. Assessment of Betulinic Acid Cytotoxicity and Mitochondrial Metabolism Impairment in a Human Melanoma Cell Line. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094870. [PMID: 34064489 PMCID: PMC8125295 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma represents one of the most aggressive and drug resistant skin cancers with poor prognosis in its advanced stages. Despite the increasing number of targeted therapies, novel approaches are needed to counteract both therapeutic resistance and the side effects of classic therapy. Betulinic acid (BA) is a bioactive phytocompound that has been reported to induce apoptosis in several types of cancers including melanomas; however, its effects on mitochondrial bioenergetics are less investigated. The present study performed in A375 human melanoma cells was aimed to characterize the effects of BA on mitochondrial bioenergetics and cellular behavior. BA demonstrated a dose-dependent inhibitory effect in both mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis in A375 melanoma cells and at sub-toxic concentrations (10 μM) induced mitochondrial dysfunction by eliciting a decrease in the mitochondrial membrane potential and changes in mitochondria morphology and localization. In addition, BA triggered a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect characterized by apoptotic features: morphological alterations (nuclear fragmentation, apoptotic bodies) and the upregulation of pro-apoptotic markers mRNA expression (Bax, Bad and Bak). BA represents a viable therapeutic option via a complex modulatory effect on mitochondrial metabolism that might be useful in advanced melanoma or as reliable strategy to counteract resistance to standard therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorina Coricovac
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (D.C.); (C.A.D.); (I.M.); (G.A.D.); (C.P.); (C.S.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Cristina Adriana Dehelean
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (D.C.); (C.A.D.); (I.M.); (G.A.D.); (C.P.); (C.S.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Iulia Pinzaru
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (D.C.); (C.A.D.); (I.M.); (G.A.D.); (C.P.); (C.S.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (I.P.); (A.M.); Tel.: +40-256-494-604
| | - Alexandra Mioc
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (D.C.); (C.A.D.); (I.M.); (G.A.D.); (C.P.); (C.S.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (I.P.); (A.M.); Tel.: +40-256-494-604
| | - Oana-Maria Aburel
- Faculty of Medicine “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (O.-M.A.); (M.B.); (B.V.); (M.D.M.)
- Center for Translational Research and Systems Medicine, Faculty of Medicine,” Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Ioana Macasoi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (D.C.); (C.A.D.); (I.M.); (G.A.D.); (C.P.); (C.S.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - George Andrei Draghici
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (D.C.); (C.A.D.); (I.M.); (G.A.D.); (C.P.); (C.S.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Crina Petean
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (D.C.); (C.A.D.); (I.M.); (G.A.D.); (C.P.); (C.S.)
| | - Codruta Soica
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (D.C.); (C.A.D.); (I.M.); (G.A.D.); (C.P.); (C.S.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Madalina Boruga
- Faculty of Medicine “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (O.-M.A.); (M.B.); (B.V.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Brigitha Vlaicu
- Faculty of Medicine “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (O.-M.A.); (M.B.); (B.V.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Mirela Danina Muntean
- Faculty of Medicine “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (O.-M.A.); (M.B.); (B.V.); (M.D.M.)
- Center for Translational Research and Systems Medicine, Faculty of Medicine,” Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania
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Park C, Jeong JW, Han MH, Lee H, Kim GY, Jin S, Park JH, Kwon HJ, Kim BW, Choi YH. The anti-cancer effect of betulinic acid in u937 human leukemia cells is mediated through ROS-dependent cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Anim Cells Syst (Seoul) 2021; 25:119-127. [PMID: 34234893 PMCID: PMC8118407 DOI: 10.1080/19768354.2021.1915380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Although previous studies have shown anti-cancer activity of betulinic acid (BA), a pentacyclic triterpenoid, against various cancer lines, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not well elucidated. In this study, we evaluated the mechanisms involved in the anti-cancer efficacy of BA in U937 human myeloid leukemia cells. BA exerted a significant cytotoxic effect on U937 cells through blocking cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase and inducing apoptosis, and that the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels increased after treatment with BA. The down-regulation of cyclin A and cyclin B1, and up-regulation of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21WAF1/CIP1 revealed the G2/M phase arrest mechanism of BA. In addition, BA induced the cytosolic release of cytochrome c by reducing the mitochondrial membrane potential with an increasing Bax/Bcl-2 expression ratio. BA also increased the activity of caspase-9 and -3, and subsequent degradation of the poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase. However, quenching of ROS by N-acetyl-cysteine, an ROS scavenger, markedly abolished BA-induced G2/M arrest and apoptosis, indicating that the generation of ROS plays a key role in inhibiting the proliferation of U937 cells by BA treatment. Taken together, our results provide a mechanistic rationale that BA exhibits anti-cancer properties in U937 leukemia cells through ROS-dependent induction of cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase and apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheol Park
- College of Liberal Studies, Dong-Eui University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Woo Jeong
- Nakdonggang National Institute of Biological Resources, Sangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Ho Han
- National Marine Biodiversity Institute of Korea, Seocheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyesook Lee
- Anti-Aging Research Center, Dong-eui University, Busan, Republic of Korea.,Department of Biochemistry, Dong-eui University College of Korean Medicine, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi-Young Kim
- Department of Marine Life Sciences, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Soojung Jin
- Core-Facility Center for Tissue Regeneration, Dong Eui University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Ha Park
- Core-Facility Center for Tissue Regeneration, Dong Eui University, Busan, Republic of Korea.,Biopharmaceutical Engineering Major, Dong-eui University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Ju Kwon
- Core-Facility Center for Tissue Regeneration, Dong Eui University, Busan, Republic of Korea.,Biopharmaceutical Engineering Major, Dong-eui University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung Woo Kim
- Biopharmaceutical Engineering Major, Dong-eui University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Yung Hyun Choi
- Anti-Aging Research Center, Dong-eui University, Busan, Republic of Korea.,Department of Biochemistry, Dong-eui University College of Korean Medicine, Busan, Republic of Korea.,Core-Facility Center for Tissue Regeneration, Dong Eui University, Busan, Republic of Korea
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21
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Aswathy M, Banik K, Parama D, Sasikumar P, Harsha C, Joseph AG, Sherin DR, Thanathu MK, Kunnumakkara AB, Vasu RK. Exploring the Cytotoxic Effects of the Extracts and Bioactive Triterpenoids from Dillenia indica against Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Scientific Interpretation and Validation of Indigenous Knowledge. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2021; 4:834-847. [PMID: 33860206 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.1c00011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Triterpenoids are ubiquitously distributed secondary metabolites, primarily scrutinized as a source of medication and preventive measures for various chronic diseases. The ease of isolation and excellent pharmacological properties of triterpenoids are notable reasons behind the exponential rise of extensive research on the bioactive triterpenoids over the past few decades. Herein, we attempted to explore the anticancer potential of the fruit extract of the ethnomedicinal plant Dillenia indica against oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and have exclusively attributed the efficacy of the extracts to the presence of two triterpenoids, namely, betulinic acid (BA) and koetjapic acid (KA). Preliminary in vitro screening of both BA and KA unveiled that the entities could impart cytotoxicity and induce apoptosis in OSCC cell lines, which were further well-supported by virtual screening based on ligand binding affinity and molecular dynamic simulations. Additionally, the aforementioned metabolites could significantly modulate the critical players such as Akt/mTOR, NF-κB, and JAK/STAT3 signaling pathways involved in the regulation of important hallmarks of cancer like cell survival, proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis, and metastasis. The present findings provide insight and immense scientific support and integrity to a piece of indigenous knowledge. However, in vivo validation is a requisite for moving to clinical trials and developing it as a commercial drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maniyamma Aswathy
- Chemical Sciences and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST), Thiruvananthapuram 695019, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Kishore Banik
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati 781 039, Assam, India
| | - Dey Parama
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati 781 039, Assam, India
| | - Parameswaran Sasikumar
- Chemical Sciences and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST), Thiruvananthapuram 695019, India
| | - Choudhary Harsha
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati 781 039, Assam, India
| | - Anuja Gracy Joseph
- Chemical Sciences and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST), Thiruvananthapuram 695019, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Daisy R Sherin
- Centre for Computational Modeling and Data Engineering, Indian Institute of Information Technology and Management-Kerala (IIITM-K), Thiruvananthapuram 695581, India
| | - Manojkumar K Thanathu
- Centre for Computational Modeling and Data Engineering, Indian Institute of Information Technology and Management-Kerala (IIITM-K), Thiruvananthapuram 695581, India
| | - Ajaikumar B Kunnumakkara
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati 781 039, Assam, India
| | - Radhakrishnan Kokkuvayil Vasu
- Chemical Sciences and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST), Thiruvananthapuram 695019, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
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22
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Betulinic Acid Restricts Human Bladder Cancer Cell Proliferation In Vitro by Inducing Caspase-Dependent Cell Death and Cell Cycle Arrest, and Decreasing Metastatic Potential. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26051381. [PMID: 33806566 PMCID: PMC7961550 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26051381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Betulinic acid (BA) is a naturally occurring pentacyclic triterpenoid and generally found in the bark of birch trees (Betula sp.). Although several studies have been reported that BA has diverse biological activities, including anti-tumor effects, the underlying anti-cancer mechanism in bladder cancer cells is still lacking. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the anti-proliferative effect of BA in human bladder cancer cell lines T-24, UMUC-3, and 5637, and identify the underlying mechanism. Our results showed that BA induced cell death in bladder cancer cells and that are accompanied by apoptosis, necrosis, and cell cycle arrest. Furthermore, BA decreased the expression of cell cycle regulators, such as cyclin B1, cyclin A, cyclin-dependent kinase (Cdk) 2, cell division cycle (Cdc) 2, and Cdc25c. In addition, BA-induced apoptosis was associated with mitochondrial dysfunction that is caused by loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, which led to the activation of mitochondrial-mediated intrinsic pathway. BA up-regulated the expression of Bcl-2-accociated X protein (Bax) and cleaved poly-ADP ribose polymerase (PARP), and subsequently activated caspase-3, -8, and -9. However, pre-treatment of pan-caspase inhibitor markedly suppressed BA-induced apoptosis. Meanwhile, BA did not affect the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), indicating BA-mediated apoptosis was ROS-independent. Furthermore, we found that BA suppressed the wound healing and invasion ability, and decreased the expression of Snail and Slug in T24 and 5637 cells, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 in UMUC-3 cells. Taken together, this is the first study showing that BA suppresses the proliferation of human bladder cancer cells, which is due to induction of apoptosis, necrosis, and cell cycle arrest, and decrease of migration and invasion. Furthermore, BA-induced apoptosis is regulated by caspase-dependent and ROS-independent pathways, and these results provide the underlying anti-proliferative molecular mechanism of BA in human bladder cancer cells.
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23
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Plant-Derived Anticancer Compounds as New Perspectives in Drug Discovery and Alternative Therapy. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26041109. [PMID: 33669817 PMCID: PMC7922180 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26041109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the recent advances in the field of chemically synthetized pharmaceutical agents, nature remains the main supplier of bioactive molecules. The research of natural products is a valuable approach for the discovery and development of novel biologically active compounds possessing unique structures and mechanisms of action. Although their use belongs to the traditional treatment regimes, plant-derived compounds still cover a large portion of the current-day pharmaceutical agents. Their medical importance is well recognized in the field of oncology, especially as an alternative to the limitations of conventional chemotherapy (severe side effects and inefficacy due to the occurrence of multi-drug resistance). This review offers a comprehensive perspective of the first blockbuster chemotherapeutic agents of natural origin’s (e.g. taxol, vincristine, doxorubicin) mechanism of action using 3D representation. In addition is portrayed the step-by-step evolution from preclinical to clinical evaluation of the most recently studied natural compounds with potent antitumor activity (e.g. resveratrol, curcumin, betulinic acid, etc.) in terms of anticancer mechanisms of action and the possible indications as chemotherapeutic or chemopreventive agents and sensitizers. Finally, this review describes several efficient platforms for the encapsulation and targeted delivery of natural compounds in cancer treatment
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24
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Zhang L, Wang L, Xiao H, Gan H, Chen H, Zheng S, Jian D, Zhai X, Jiang N, Jing Z, Liang P. Tyrosine kinase Fyn promotes apoptosis after intracerebral hemorrhage in rats by activating Drp1 signaling. J Mol Med (Berl) 2021; 99:359-371. [PMID: 33409551 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-020-02022-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Tyrosine kinase Fyn is a member of the Src kinase family, which is involved in neuroinflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress. Its role in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is not fully understood. In this study, we found that Fyn was significantly elevated in human brain tissue after ICH. Accordingly, we investigated the role of Fyn in a rat ICH model, which was constructed by injecting blood into the right basal ganglia. In this model, Fyn expression was significantly upregulated in brain tissue adjacent to the hematoma. SiRNA-induced Fyn knockdown was neuroprotective for secondary cerebral damage, as demonstrated by reduced brain edema, suppression of the modified neurological severity score, and mitigation of blood-brain barrier permeability and neuronal damage. Fyn downregulation reduced apoptosis following ICH, as indicated by downregulation of apoptosis-related proteins AIF, Cyt.c, caspase 3, and Bax; upregulation of anti-apoptosis-related protein Bcl-2; and decreased tunnel staining. Mdivi-1, a Drp1 inhibitor, reversed Fyn overexpression induced pro-apoptosis. However, Fyn did not significantly affect inflammation-related proteins NF-κB, TNF-α, caspase 1, MPO, IL-1β, or IL-18 after ICH. Fyn activated Drp1 signaling by phosphorylating Drp1 at serine 616, which increased apoptosis after ICH in rats. This study clarifies the relationship between Fyn, apoptosis, and inflammation following ICH and provides a new strategy for exploring the prevention and treatment of ICH. KEY MESSAGES: ICH induced an increase in Fyn expression in human and rat cerebral tissues. Knockdown of Fyn prevented cerebral damage following ICH. Inhibition of Fyn had no significant effects on inflammatory responses. However, the downregulation of Fyn exerted neuroprotective effects on apoptosis. Fyn perturbed ICH-induced cell apoptosis by interacting with and phosphorylating (Ser616) Drp1 in a rat ICH model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China.,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.,National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.,China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China.,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.,National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.,China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Xiao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China.,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.,National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.,China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Gan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China.,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.,National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.,China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China.,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.,National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.,China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuyue Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China.,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.,National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.,China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Jian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China.,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.,National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.,China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuan Zhai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China. .,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China. .,China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ning Jiang
- Institute of Neuroscience, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhao Jing
- Institute of Neuroscience, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, People's Republic of China
| | - Ping Liang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China.,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.,National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.,China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
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25
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Huang M, Myers CR, Wang Y, You M. Mitochondria as a Novel Target for Cancer Chemoprevention: Emergence of Mitochondrial-targeting Agents. Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 2020; 14:285-306. [PMID: 33303695 DOI: 10.1158/1940-6207.capr-20-0425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cancer chemoprevention is the most effective approach to control cancer in the population. Despite significant progress, chemoprevention has not been widely adopted because agents that are safe tend to be less effective and those that are highly effective tend to be toxic. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop novel and effective chemopreventive agents, such as mitochondria-targeted agents, that can prevent cancer and prolong survival. Mitochondria, the central site for cellular energy production, have important functions in cell survival and death. Several studies have revealed a significant role for mitochondrial metabolism in promoting cancer development and progression, making mitochondria a promising new target for cancer prevention. Conjugating delocalized lipophilic cations, such as triphenylphosphonium cation (TPP+), to compounds of interest is an effective approach for mitochondrial targeting. The hyperpolarized tumor cell membrane and mitochondrial membrane potential allow for selective accumulation of TPP+ conjugates in tumor cell mitochondria versus those in normal cells. This could enhance direct killing of precancerous, dysplastic, and tumor cells while minimizing potential toxicities to normal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mofei Huang
- Center for Disease Prevention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.,Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Charles R Myers
- Center for Disease Prevention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.,Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Yian Wang
- Center for Disease Prevention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.,Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Ming You
- Center for Disease Prevention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. .,Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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26
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Jin X, Yang Q, Cai N, Zhang Z. A cocktail of betulinic acid, parthenolide, honokiol and ginsenoside Rh2 in liposome systems for lung cancer treatment. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2020; 15:41-54. [PMID: 31868113 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2018-0479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Lung cancer has a very high incidence rate, and thus, there is an urgent need for novel and effective therapies. Materials & methods: In this study, we proposed a potential treatment option by combining four natural products in liposome systems. Results: In vitro studies indicated that the combination of betulinic acid, parthenolide, honokiol and ginsenoside Rh2 exhibited a synergistic action. When these four natural products were loaded into liposome systems, we observed an increased effect. The relative action was also observed in vivo. The cisplatin group presented obvious kidney damage, whereas both cocktail therapy and cocktail liposome therapy were safer. Conclusion: Therefore, we propose cocktail liposome systems may provide a more efficient and safer treatment for lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Jin
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Suqian Branch Jiangsu Province Hospital, 120 Suzhilu, Suqian, 223800, PR China
| | - Qing Yang
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Suqian Branch Jiangsu Province Hospital, 120 Suzhilu, Suqian, 223800, PR China
| | - Ning Cai
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Suqian Branch Jiangsu Province Hospital, 120 Suzhilu, Suqian, 223800, PR China
| | - Zhenhai Zhang
- Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 100 Shizijie, Nanjing, 210000, PR China
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27
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Farcas CG, Dehelean C, Pinzaru IA, Mioc M, Socoliuc V, Moaca EA, Avram S, Ghiulai R, Coricovac D, Pavel I, Alla PK, Cretu OM, Soica C, Loghin F. Thermosensitive Betulinic Acid-Loaded Magnetoliposomes: A Promising Antitumor Potential for Highly Aggressive Human Breast Adenocarcinoma Cells Under Hyperthermic Conditions. Int J Nanomedicine 2020; 15:8175-8200. [PMID: 33122905 PMCID: PMC7591238 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s269630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Breast cancer presents one of the highest rates of prevalence around the world. Despite this, the current breast cancer therapy is characterized by significant side effects and high risk of recurrence. The present work aimed to develop a new therapeutic strategy that may improve the current breast cancer therapy by developing a heat-sensitive liposomal nano-platform suitable to incorporate both anti-tumor betulinic acid (BA) compound and magnetic iron nanoparticles (MIONPs), in order to address both remote drug release and hyperthermia-inducing features. To address the above-mentioned biomedical purposes, the nanocarrier must possess specific features such as specific phase transition temperature, diameter below 200 nm, superparamagnetic properties and heating capacity. Moreover, the anti-tumor activity of the developed nanocarrier should significantly affect human breast adenocarcinoma cells. METHODS BA-loaded magnetoliposomes and corresponding controls (BA-free liposomes and liposomes containing no magnetic payload) were obtained through the thin-layer hydration method. The quality and stability of the multifunctional platforms were physico-chemically analysed by the means of RAMAN, scanning electron microscopy-EDAX, dynamic light scattering, zeta potential and DSC analysis. Besides this, the magnetic characterization of magnetoliposomes was performed in terms of superparamagnetic behaviour and heating capacity. The biological profile of the platforms and controls was screened through multiple in vitro methods, such as MTT, LDH and scratch assays, together with immunofluorescence staining. In addition, CAM assay was performed in order to assess a possible anti-angiogenic activity induced by the test samples. RESULTS The physico-chemical analysis revealed that BA-loaded magnetoliposomes present suitable characteristics for the purpose of this study, showing biocompatible phase transition temperature, a diameter of 198 nm, superparamagnetic features and heating capacity. In vitro results showed that hyperthermia induces enhanced anti-tumor activity when breast adenocarcinoma MDA-MB-231 cells were exposed to BA-loaded magnetoliposomes, while a low cytotoxic rate was exhibited by the non-tumorigenic breast epithelial MCF 10A cells. Moreover, the in ovo angiogenesis assay endorsed the efficacy of this multifunctional platform as a good strategy for breast cancer therapy, under hyperthermal conditions. Regarding the possible mechanism of action of this multifunctional nano-platform, the immunocytochemistry of the MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 breast carcinoma cells revealed a microtubule assembly modulatory activity, under hyperthermal conditions. CONCLUSION Collectively, these findings indicate that BA-loaded magnetoliposomes, under hyperthermal conditions, might serve as a promising strategy for breast adenocarcinoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Geanina Farcas
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Toxicology, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj Napoca, Cluj Napoca, Romania
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristina Dehelean
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Iulia Andreea Pinzaru
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Marius Mioc
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Vlad Socoliuc
- Laboratory of Magnetic Fluids, Center for Fundamental and Advanced Technical Research, Romanian Academy – Timisoara Branch, Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Complex Fluids Systems Engineering, Politehnica University of Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Elena-Alina Moaca
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Stefana Avram
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Roxana Ghiulai
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Dorina Coricovac
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ioana Pavel
- Department of Chemistry, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, USA
| | | | - Octavian Marius Cretu
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Codruta Soica
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Felicia Loghin
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Toxicology, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj Napoca, Cluj Napoca, Romania
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28
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Bose S, Banerjee S, Mondal A, Chakraborty U, Pumarol J, Croley CR, Bishayee A. Targeting the JAK/STAT Signaling Pathway Using Phytocompounds for Cancer Prevention and Therapy. Cells 2020; 9:E1451. [PMID: 32545187 PMCID: PMC7348822 DOI: 10.3390/cells9061451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a prevalent cause of mortality around the world. Aberrated activation of Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) signaling pathway promotes tumorigenesis. Natural agents, including phytochemicals, exhibit potent anticancer activities via various mechanisms. However, the therapeutic potency of phytoconstituents as inhibitors of JAK/STAT signaling against cancer has only come into focus in recent days. The current review highlights phytochemicals that can suppress the JAK/STAT pathway in order to impede cancer cell growth. Various databases, such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, SpringerLink, Scopus, and Google Scholar, were searched using relevant keywords. Once the authors were in agreement regarding the suitability of a study, a full-length form of the relevant article was obtained, and the information was gathered and cited. All the complete articles that were incorporated after the literature collection rejection criteria were applied were perused in-depth and material was extracted based on the importance, relevance, and advancement of the apprehending of the JAK/STAT pathway and their relation to phytochemicals. Based on the critical and comprehensive analysis of literature presented in this review, phytochemicals from diverse plant origins exert therapeutic and cancer preventive effects, at least in part, through regulation of the JAK/STAT pathway. Nevertheless, more preclinical and clinical research is necessary to completely comprehend the capability of modulating JAK/STAT signaling to achieve efficient cancer control and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sankhadip Bose
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Bengal School of Technology, Chuchura 712 102, India;
| | - Sabyasachi Banerjee
- Department of Phytochemistry, Gupta College of Technological Sciences, Asansol 713 301, India; (S.B.); (U.C.)
| | - Arijit Mondal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Bengal College of Pharmaceutical Technology, Dubrajpur 731 123, India
| | - Utsab Chakraborty
- Department of Phytochemistry, Gupta College of Technological Sciences, Asansol 713 301, India; (S.B.); (U.C.)
| | - Joshua Pumarol
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL 34211, USA; (J.P.); (C.R.C.)
| | - Courtney R. Croley
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL 34211, USA; (J.P.); (C.R.C.)
| | - Anupam Bishayee
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL 34211, USA; (J.P.); (C.R.C.)
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29
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Cárdenas PD, Almeida A, Bak S. Evolution of Structural Diversity of Triterpenoids. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2019; 10:1523. [PMID: 31921225 PMCID: PMC6929605 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2019.01523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Plants have evolved to produce a blend of specialized metabolites that serve functional roles in plant adaptation. Among them, triterpenoids are one of the largest subclasses of such specialized metabolites, with more than 14,000 known structures. They play a role in plant defense and development and have potential applications within food and pharma. Triterpenoids are cyclized from oxidized squalene precursors by oxidosqualene cyclases, creating more than 100 different cyclical triterpene scaffolds. This limited number of scaffolds is the first step towards creating the vast structural diversity of triterpenoids followed by extensive diversification, in particular, by oxygenation and glycosylation. Gene duplication, divergence, and selection are major forces that drive triterpenoid structural diversification. The triterpenoid biosynthetic genes can be organized in non-homologous gene clusters, such as in Avena spp., Cucurbitaceae and Solanum spp., or scattered along plant chromosomes as in Barbarea vulgaris. Paralogous genes organized as tandem repeats reflect the extended gene duplication activities in the evolutionary history of the triterpenoid saponin pathways, as seen in B. vulgaris. We review and discuss examples of convergent and divergent evolution in triterpenoid biosynthesis, and the apparent mechanisms occurring in plants that drive their increasing structural diversity within and across species. Using B. vulgaris' saponins as examples, we discuss the impact a single structural modification can have on the structure of a triterpenoid and how this affect its biological properties. These examples provide insight into how plants continuously evolve their specialized metabolome, opening the way to study uncharacterized triterpenoid biosynthetic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Søren Bak
- Department of Plant and Environmental Science, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
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30
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Wu J, Yang C, Liu J, Chen J, Huang C, Wang J, Liang Z, Wen L, Yi JE, Yuan Z. Betulinic Acid Attenuates T-2-Toxin-Induced Testis Oxidative Damage Through Regulation of the JAK2/STAT3 Signaling Pathway in Mice. Biomolecules 2019; 9:biom9120787. [PMID: 31779213 PMCID: PMC6995557 DOI: 10.3390/biom9120787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
T-2 toxin is one of the most toxic type A trichothecene mycotoxins in nature, and it exhibits reproductive toxicity. Betulinic acid (BA) is a natural pentacyclic triterpene compound found in species of Betula, and it has been reported to have antioxidant activity. The aim of the present study was to investigate the protective effect of BA on T-2-toxin-induced testicular injury in mice and explore its molecular mechanism. Sixty adult male mice were randomly divided into groups. The mice were pretreated orally with BA (0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 mg/kg) daily for 14 days, and the T-2 toxin (4 mg/kg body weight) was administered via intraperitoneal injection to induce oxidative stress after the last administration of BA. BA pretreatment significantly increased the secreted levels of testosterone and sperm motility. Moreover, BA pretreatment significantly increased the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), the activity of SOD and CAT, and the content of GSH, and it reduced the content of MDA. Furthermore, BA relieved testicular injury and reduced the number of apoptotic cells, and it significantly decreased the protein expression of Janus kinase 2 (JAK2), signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3), caspsae-3, and Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax). BA also increased the expression of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2). We suggest that BA reduced the oxidative damage induced by T-2 toxin, and that these protective effects may be partially mediated by the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China (C.Y.); (J.L.); (J.C.); (C.H.); (L.W.)
| | - Chenglin Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China (C.Y.); (J.L.); (J.C.); (C.H.); (L.W.)
| | - Juan Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China (C.Y.); (J.L.); (J.C.); (C.H.); (L.W.)
| | - Jiaxin Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China (C.Y.); (J.L.); (J.C.); (C.H.); (L.W.)
| | - Chao Huang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China (C.Y.); (J.L.); (J.C.); (C.H.); (L.W.)
| | - Ji Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China (C.Y.); (J.L.); (J.C.); (C.H.); (L.W.)
| | - Zengenni Liang
- Department of Hunan Agricultural Product Processing Institute, Changsha 410128, China;
| | - Lixin Wen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China (C.Y.); (J.L.); (J.C.); (C.H.); (L.W.)
| | - Jin-e Yi
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China (C.Y.); (J.L.); (J.C.); (C.H.); (L.W.)
- Correspondence: (J.-e.Y.); (Z.Y.)
| | - Zhihang Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China (C.Y.); (J.L.); (J.C.); (C.H.); (L.W.)
- Correspondence: (J.-e.Y.); (Z.Y.)
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31
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Shu Q, Wu J, Chen Q. Synthesis, Characterization of Liposomes Modified with Biosurfactant MEL-A Loading Betulinic Acid and Its Anticancer Effect in HepG2 Cell. Molecules 2019; 24:E3939. [PMID: 31683639 PMCID: PMC6864557 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24213939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2019] [Revised: 10/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
As a novel natural compound delivery system, liposomes are capable of incorporating lipophilic bioactive compounds with enhanced compound solubility, stability and bioavailability, and have been successfully translated into real-time clinical applications. To construct the soy phosphatidylcholine (SPC)-cholesterol (Chol) liposome system, the optimal formulation was investigated as 3:1 of SPC to Chol, 10% mannosylerythritol lipid-A (MEL-A) and 1% betulinic acid. Results show that liposomes with or without betulinic acid or MEL-A are able to inhibit the proliferation of HepG2 cells with a dose-effect relation remarkably. In addition, the modification of MEL-A in liposomes can significantly promote cell apoptosis and strengthen the destruction of mitochondrial membrane potential in HepG2 cells. Liposomes containing MEL-A and betulinic acid have exhibited excellent anticancer activity, which provide factual basis for the development of MEL-A in the anti-cancer applications. These results provide a design thought to develop delivery liposome systems carrying betulinic acid with enhanced functional and pharmaceutical attributes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Shu
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Jianan Wu
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Qihe Chen
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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32
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Rosiglitazone in the thawing medium improves mitochondrial function in stallion spermatozoa through regulating Akt phosphorylation and reduction of caspase 3. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0211994. [PMID: 31276504 PMCID: PMC6611560 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0211994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The population of stallion spermatozoa that survive thawing experience compromised mitochondrial functionality and accelerated senescence, among other changes. It is known that stallion spermatozoa show very active oxidative phosphorylation that may accelerate sperm senescence through increased production of reactive oxygen species. Rosiglitazone has been proven to enhance the glycolytic capability of stallion spermatozoa maintained at ambient temperature. OBJECTIVES Thus, we hypothesized that thawed sperm may also benefit from rosiglitazone supplementation. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thawed sperm were washed and resuspended in Tyrodes media, and the samples were divided and supplemented with 0 or 75 μM rosiglitazone. After one and two hours of incubation, mitochondrial functionality, Akt phosphorylation and caspase 3 activity were evaluated. Additional samples were incubated in the presence of an Akt1/2 inhibitor, compound C (an AMPK inhibitor) or GW9662 (an antagonist of the PPARγ receptor). RESULTS Rosiglitazone maintained Akt phosphorylation and reduced caspase 3 activation (p<0.01), both of which were prevented by incubation in the presence of the three inhibitors. Rosiglitazone also enhanced mitochondrial functionality (P<0.01). CONCLUSION We provide the first evidence that the functionality of frozen stallion spermatozoa can be potentially improved after thawing through the activation of pro survival pathways, providing new clues for improving current sperm biotechnology.
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33
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Amiri S, Dastghaib S, Ahmadi M, Mehrbod P, Khadem F, Behrouj H, Aghanoori MR, Machaj F, Ghamsari M, Rosik J, Hudecki A, Afkhami A, Hashemi M, Los MJ, Mokarram P, Madrakian T, Ghavami S. Betulin and its derivatives as novel compounds with different pharmacological effects. Biotechnol Adv 2019; 38:107409. [PMID: 31220568 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2019.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Betulin (B) and Betulinic acid (BA) are natural pentacyclic lupane-structure triterpenoids which possess a wide range of pharmacological activities. Recent evidence indicates that B and BA have several properties useful for the treatment of metabolic disorders, infectious diseases, cardiovascular disorders, and neurological disorders. In the current review, we discuss B and BA structures and derivatives and then comprehensively explain their pharmacological effects in relation to various diseases. We also explain antiviral, antibacterial and anti-cancer effects of B and BA. Finally, we discuss the delivery methods, in which these compounds most effectively target different systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shayan Amiri
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Rady College of Medicine, Max Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Sanaz Dastghaib
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mazaher Ahmadi
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Parvaneh Mehrbod
- Influenza and Respiratory Viruses Department, Pasteur Institute of IRAN, Tehran, Iran
| | - Forough Khadem
- Department of Immunology, Rady College of Medicine, Max Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Hamid Behrouj
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohamad-Reza Aghanoori
- Division of Neurodegenerative Disorders, St Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Filip Machaj
- Department of Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, ul. Unii Lubelskiej 1, 71-344 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Mahdi Ghamsari
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Jakub Rosik
- Department of Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, ul. Unii Lubelskiej 1, 71-344 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Andrzej Hudecki
- Institue of Non-Ferrous Metals, ul. Sowińskiego 5, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
| | - Abbas Afkhami
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hashemi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Zahedan University of Medical Science, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Marek J Los
- Biotechnology Center, Silesian University of Technology, ul Bolesława Krzywoustego 8, Gliwice, Poland; Linkocare Life Sciences AB, Teknikringen 10, Plan 3, 583 30 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Pooneh Mokarram
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Tayyebeh Madrakian
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Saeid Ghavami
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Rady College of Medicine, Max Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Biology of Breathing Theme, Children Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Health Policy Research Center, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Research Institute of Oncology and Hematology, CancerCare Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
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34
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Induction of apoptosis by in vitro and in vivo plant extracts derived from Menyanthes trifoliata L. in human cancer cells. Cytotechnology 2019; 71:165-180. [PMID: 30610508 PMCID: PMC6368494 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-018-0274-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Menyanthes trifoliata L. has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It exists in Asia, Europe, North America and in Morocco and is exploited as a remedy for anemia and lack of appetite. This plant shows many pharmacological properties, but its most interesting one is its anti-cancer potential. The present study examines the induction of apoptosis in grade IV glioma cells after treatment with the extracts from aerial part and root of M. trifoliata plants derived from in vitro (MtAPV and MtRV, respectively) and from soil (MtAPS and MtRS, respectively) and presents the first comparison of the biological effects of four different extracts of M. trifoliata against glioblastoma cells. The root extracts of M. trifoliata plants were found to exhibit cytotoxic effects against grade IV glioma cells, but not normal human astrocytes. HPLC analysis demonstrated the presence of various polyphenolic compounds, including sinapinic acid, ferulic acid, syringic acid and vanilic acid. Higher amount of pentacyclic triterpene (betulinic acid) was also found in MtRV extract. The growth inhibition of human grade IV glioma cells mediated by MtRV extract appears to be associated with apoptosis and G2/M phase cell cycle arrest, and altered expression of the pro- and anti-apoptotic genes (Bax, Bcl-2, Cas-3 and TP53) and proteins (Bax, Bcl-2, Cas-3 and p53), as well as decreased mitochondrial membrane potential. Our results indicate that M. trifoliata gives promising results as an anti-cancer agent for human glioblastoma cell lines. However, further research is necessary in view of its therapeutic use.
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