Rationalizing the therapeutic potential of apigenin against cancer

Development of apigenin-loaded invasomes with anti-melanoma potential

Apigenin (APG), a plant-derived flavonoid, has attracted attention as an anti-melanoma agent because of its action on multiple cell signaling pathways and high selectivity for tumor cells. Despite this, extensive metabolism and slow oral absorption are found, which has motivated the development of topical delivery systems. In this context, invasomes were considered, for the first time, for flavonoid incorporation. Given that these vesicles have a more deformable structure than conventional liposomes, greater interaction with the skin is expected. In fact, ATR-FTIR analyses revealed more substantial changes in skin lipid domains with invasomes, which also were more stable to centrifugation and showed lower PDI values. Their reduced particle size (<200 nm), in turn, would allow reaching deeper tumor regions. The APG seems to interact with both polar and apolar domains of invasome lipids, which explains the high encapsulation efficiency (>99 %) and improved vesicle rigidity. Limonene, the terpene selected based on its already described anti-melanoma activity, was crucial for enhancing the retention of APG in the skin (an increase of more than 3.5x when compared to conventional liposomes) as well as vesicle stability. Cholesterol (CHOL) also slightly improved the permeation and retention of this flavonoid in the skin; however, it had a negative effect on the stability of APG-free invasomes. Taking into account the improved distribution of APG in the basal layer of the epidermis (the tumor site) and the advantages in terms of stability and membrane flexibility, invasomes can be considered promising colloidal carriers for the topical delivery of anti-melanoma drugs.

An Insight Review on Phytochemistry, Pharmacological Evidences, and Biosynthesis of Key Metabolites of Indian Himalayan Cherry (Prunus cerasoides Don.) with Emphasis on its Safety and Use in Tradtional Phytomedicine

Padmaka (Prunus cerasoides Don.), or wild Himalayan cherry, is a deciduous tree from the Rosaceaae family. The Prunus genus has 400-430 species, including shrubs and trees. It is widely distributed across the Himalayan region of India, China, Myanmar, Nepal, and Thailand. It is used in many classical formulations of various Asian traditional medicinal systems viz., Ayurveda, TCM (traditional Chineese Medicines) and TTM (Traditional Thai Medicines) for treating burning sensations, Blisters, blood disorders, dizziness, bleeding disorders, herps, and skin disorders. The present review covers the research updates on P. cerasoides from 1982 to 2023, accessible on scholars' platforms and databases. More than 200 phytomolecules have been investigated for their biological potential and the discovery of pharmacophores-inspired drugs. Padmaka instigated over fifty diverse phytochemicals, viz. flavones, isoflavones, chalcones, terpenoids, glycosides, and sterols. The phytochemical flux of P. cerasoides is dominant with phenylpropanoids, anthocyanins, carotenoids, and terpenoids. Several experimental shreds of evidence emphasized the biological significance of P. cerasoides extracts and their derived phytochemicals. Medicinal significance and its safety in clinical validation have been discussed efficiently. Moreover, the barrier in validated therapeutics is a lack of information on the bioavailability of specialized bioactive, standardization, safety, and toxicokinetic. This review also provides insight into discussions on the key specialized secondary metabolism in P. cerasoides responsible for pharmacological/therapeutic action.

Phytochemical insights into flavonoids in cancer: Mechanisms, therapeutic potential, and the case of quercetin

Quercetin, a flavonoid known for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, has gained attention in cancer therapy due to its ability to modulate key molecular pathways involved in tumor progression and immune evasion. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of quercetin's effects on pathways such as PI3K/Akt/mTOR, MAPK/ERK, NF-κB, and JAK/STAT, which are central to cancer cell survival, proliferation, and apoptosis. Through inhibition of PI3K/Akt/mTOR and MAPK/ERK signaling, quercetin promotes apoptosis and reduces proliferation specifically in cancer cells while sparing healthy cells. Additionally, quercetin downregulates NF-κB activity and modulates JAK/STAT signaling, enhancing immune recognition of cancer cells and decreasing inflammation in the tumor microenvironment. Emerging nanoformulation strategies are also discussed, highlighting how nanotechnology can improve quercetin's bioavailability and targeting capabilities. Unlike other reviews, this work uniquely integrates molecular insights with cutting-edge nanoformulations, showcasing quercetin's dual potential as a therapeutic agent and an immune modulator in the evolving landscape of cancer treatment. This review underscores quercetin's multifaceted role in cancer treatment and suggests future directions to optimize its clinical efficacy, particularly in combination with conventional therapies.

Potential of capsaicin as a combinatorial agent to overcome chemoresistance and to improve outcomes of cancer therapy

Capsaicin (CAPS), a bioactive alkaloid derived from chili peppers, has garnered significant interest for its potential role as a combinatorial and chemosensitizing agent in cancer therapy. Numerous preclinical studies have demonstrated that CAPS enhanced the efficacy of various anticancer agents by promoting apoptosis, modulating autophagy and inhibiting angiogenesis, tumor growth, and metastasis. Additionally, CAPS modulated critical regulators of chemoresistance, such as P-glycoprotein (P-gp), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway, and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway, thereby contributing to the reversal of multidrug resistance (MDR). Moreover, when administered in combination with chemotherapeutic agents, CAPS has been shown to improve treatment efficacy at lower drug concentrations. Given its multitargeted mechanism of action, CAPS represents a promising adjunct to conventional cancer therapies. However, due to its lipophilic nature, the development of optimized formulation strategies is essential to enhance its bioavailability and ensure consistent therapeutic outcomes. In conclusion, CAPS holds significant potential as a combinatorial and chemosensitizing agent, helping to overcome chemoresistance and enhance treatment outcomes across various malignancies. These promising findings warrant further preclinical and clinical investigations.

Innovations in cancer immunotherapy: A comprehensive overview of recent breakthroughs and future directions

A major advance in cancer treatment has been the development and refinement of cancer immunotherapy. The discovery of immunotherapies for a wide range of cancers has revolutionized cancer treatment paradigms. Despite relapse or refractory disease, immunotherapy approaches can prolong the life expectancy of metastatic cancer patients. Multiple therapeutic approaches and agents are currently being developed to manipulate various aspects of the immune system. Oncolytic viruses, cancer vaccines, adoptive cell therapies, monoclonal antibodies, cytokine therapies, and inhibitors of immune checkpoints have all proven successful in clinical trials. There are several types of immunotherapeutic approaches available for treating cancer, and others are being tested in preclinical and clinical settings. Immunotherapy has proven successful, and many agents and strategies have been developed to improve its effectiveness. The purpose of this article is to present a comprehensive overview of current immunotherapy approaches used to treat cancer. Cancer immunotherapy advancements, emerging patterns, constraints, and potential future breakthroughs are also discussed.

Regulating the regulators: long non-coding RNAs as autophagic controllers in chronic disease management

The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and their associated morbidities demands a deeper understanding of underlying mechanism and causative factors, with the hope of developing novel therapeutic strategies. Autophagy, a conserved biological process, involves the degradation of damaged organelles or protein aggregates to maintain cellular homeostasis. Disruption of this crucial process leads to increased genomic instability, accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), decreased mitochondrial functions, and suppression of ubiquitination, leading to overall decline in quality of intracellular components. Such deregulation has been implicated in a wide range of pathological conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular, inflammatory, and neurological disorders. This review explores the role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as modulators of transcriptional and post-transcriptional gene expression, regulating diverse physiological process like proliferation, development, immunity, and metabolism. Moreover, lncRNAs are known to sequester autophagy related microRNAs by functioning as competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs), thereby regulating this vital process. In the present review, we delineate the multitiered regulation of lncRNAs in the autophagic dysfunction of various pathological diseases. Moreover, by highlighting recent findings on the modulation of lncRNAs in different stages of autophagy, and the emerging clinical landscape that recognizes lncRNAs in disease diagnosis and therapy, this review highlights the potential of lncRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in clinical settings of different stages of autophagic process by regulating ATG and its target genes. This focus on lncRNAs could lead to breakthroughs in personalized medicine, offering new avenues for diagnosis and treatment of complex diseases.

Compare and Contrast of the Cellular Actions of Related Flavonoids, Apigenin and Chrysin

In this review, we provide an evidence-based approach to determine the cellular and systemic actions of two structurally similar flavonoids, apigenin and chrysin. We have clearly evaluated and charted the overlapping and diverging properties of these two sister flavonoids. Based on two separate Omics-based approaches by our group and independent reports from others, the cholesterol-lowering properties have been revealed. In addition, the prevention of uric acid biosynthesis and enhancement of ketogenesis have also been quite evident in these two flavonoids. Along with these overlapping functions, apigenin and chrysin have also demonstrated unique properties that allow them to stand out from each other. Chrysin has demonstrated abilities like downregulating alanine metabolism and pyrimidine synthesis, which could be helpful in metabolic diseases like cancer. In contrast, apigenin has demonstrated anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties by enhancing endogenous anti-inflammatory lipids and upregulating vasoprotective metabolites, which could be beneficial for cardiovascular, renal, and cerebrovascular complications. Further validation studies using in vivo and translational approaches could provide us with better clarity regarding the use of these agents therapeutically and to treat a combination or pool of metabolic diseases.

Potential Strategies for Overcoming Drug Resistance Pathways Using Propolis and Its Polyphenolic/Flavonoid Compounds in Combination with Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy

Conventional cancer treatments include surgical resection, chemotherapy, hyperthermia, immunotherapy, hormone therapy, and locally targeted therapies such as radiation therapy. Standard cancer therapies often require the use of multiple agents, which can activate nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) in tumor cells, leading to reduced cell death and increased drug resistance. Moreover, the use of multiple agents also contributes to added toxicity, resulting in poor treatment outcomes. Cancer cells gradually develop resistance to almost all chemotherapeutics through various mechanisms, such as drug efflux, alterations in drug metabolism and transport, changes in signal transduction pathways, enhanced DNA repair capacity, evasion of apoptosis, increased mutations, reactivation of drug targets, interaction with the cancer microenvironment, cancer cell-stroma interactions, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-mediated chemoresistance, epigenetic modifications, metabolic alterations, and the effect of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Developing new strategies to improve chemotherapy sensitivity while minimizing side effects is essential for achieving better therapeutic outcomes and enhancing patients' quality of life. One promising approach involves combining conventional cancer treatments with propolis and its flavonoids. These natural compounds may enhance tumor response to treatment while reducing toxicity. Propolis and its components can sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents, likely by inhibiting NF-κB activation, reprogramming tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs; an M2-like phenotype), and thereby reducing the release of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, cytokines, chemokines, and the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). By reducing TAMs, propolis and its components may also overcome EMT-mediated chemoresistance, disrupt the crosstalk between macrophages and CSCs, inhibit the maintenance of stemness, and reverse acquired immunosuppression, thus promoting an antitumor response mediated by cytotoxic T-cells. This review highlights the potential of flavonoids to modulate the responsiveness of cancer to conventional treatment modalities. The evidence suggests that novel therapeutic strategies incorporating flavonoids could be developed to improve treatment outcomes. The positive effects of combining propolis with chemotherapeutics include reduced cytotoxicity to peripheral blood leukocytes, liver, and kidney cells. Therefore, polyphenolic/flavonoid components may hold potential for use in combination with chemotherapeutic agents in the clinical treatment of various types of cancers.

Stachydrine, a pyrrole alkaloid with promising therapeutic potential against metabolic syndrome and associated organ dysfunction

Metabolic syndrome is a multifaceted condition marked by interconnected risk factors, significantly increasing the risk of serious diseases like cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and stroke. Effective management often demands new medications due to complexity of the conditions and limitations of current treatments. Natural compounds are increasingly recognized in drug discovery due to their vast chemical diversity, commercial availability, low cost, and minimal side effects. One such compound is stachydrine (STA), also known as proline betaine or N-dimethyl proline. This simple pyrrole alkaloid is a major constituent of the genus Leonurus and the family Lamiaceae, and it shows promise due to its potential therapeutic properties. A comprehensive review of the literature, sourced from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, SciFinder, and Google Scholar, has provided extensive information on the sources, chemistry, biosynthesis, derivatives, molecular targets, biological activities, bioavailability, and toxicity of STA. This review highlights numerous in vitro and in vivo studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of STA in various therapeutic areas, including anti-obesity, neuroprotective, nephroprotective, and cardiovascular protection, among others. The wide range of biological activities of STA is attributed to its influence on multiple molecular targets and signaling pathways, such as ACE/AngII/AT1R-TGFβ1, NF-κB, JAK/STAT, AKT/ERK, AMPK/CAMKKβ/LKB1, CaMKII/PLN, etc. which are critical in the development and progression of metabolic syndrome. Additionally, this review addresses limitations related to the pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of STA. Overall, the findings underscore the potential of STA as a therapeutic agent for metabolic syndrome and related disorders, suggesting that further clinical investigation is warranted to fully understand and utilize its benefits.

Unlocking the potential of Berberine: Advancing cancer therapy through chemosensitization and combination treatments

Despite considerable progress in cancer treatment options, resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs remains a significant challenge. This review focuses on Berberine (BBR), an isoquinoline alkaloid found in various medicinal plants, which has garnered attention in the field of oncology for its anticancer potential either alone or in combination with other compounds and its ability to modulate chemoresistance, acting as a natural chemosensitizer. BBR's ability to modulate chemoresistance is attributed to its diverse mechanisms of action, including inducing DNA breaks, inhibition of drug efflux pumps, modulation of apoptosis and necroptosis, downregulating multidrug resistance genes, enhancing immune response, suppressing angiogenesis and targeting multiple pathways within cancer cells, including protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (Akt/mTOR), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP1), janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK-STAT), Wnt/β-catenin etc. Moreover, BBR, in combination with other compounds, also offers a promising approach to cancer therapy, enforcing its broad-spectrum anticancer effects. Therefore, this review aims to elucidate the intricate mechanism of action of BBR in combinatorial therapy as a potential chemosensitizer to increase the efficiency of several drugs, including cisplatin, doxorubicin, lapatinib, tamoxifen, irinotecan, niraparib, etc. in various cancers. Additionally, this review briefly covers the origin and biological activities of BBR, exploring the specific actions underlying its anticancer effects. Further, pharmacokinetic properties of BBR are also discussed, providing insight into its therapeutic potential and optimization of its use in cancer treatment.

Apigenin inhibits tumor angiogenesis by hindering microvesicle biogenesis via ARHGEF1

Extracellular vesicles are essential for intercellular communication and are involved in tumor progression. Inhibiting the direct release of extracellular vesicles seems to be an effective strategy in inhibiting tumor progression, but lacks of investigation. Here, we report a natural flavonoid compound, apigenin, could significantly inhibit the growth of hepatocellular carcinoma by preventing microvesicle secretion. Mechanistically, apigenin primarily targets the guanine nucleotide exchange factor ARHGEF1, inhibiting the activity of small G protein Cdc42, which is essential in regulating the release of microvesicles from tumor cells. In turn, this inhibits tumor angiogenesis related to VEGF90K transported on microvesicles, ultimately impeding tumor progression. Collectively, these findings highlight the therapeutic potential of apigenin and shed light on its anticancer mechanisms through inhibiting microvesicle biogenesis, providing a solid foundation for the refinement and practical application of apigenin.

Nuclear receptors in ovarian cancer: changing paradigms in cancer therapeutics

Ovarian cancer (OVC) is one of the most common causes of cancer-related deaths in women worldwide. Despite advancements in detection and therapy, the prognosis of OVC remains poor due to late diagnosis and the lack of effective therapeutic options at advanced stages. Therefore, a better understanding of the biology underlying OVC is essential for the development of effective strategies for early detection and targeted therapies. Nuclear receptors (NRs) are a superfamily of 48 transcription factors that, upon binding to their specific ligand, play a vital role in regulating various cellular processes such as growth, development, metabolism, and homeostasis. Accumulating evidence from several studies has shown that their aberrant expression is associated with multiple human diseases. Numerous NRs have shown significant effects in the development of various cancers, including OVC. This review summarizes the recent findings on the role of NRs in OVC, as well as their potential as prognostic and therapeutic markers. Further, the basic structure and signaling mechanism of NRs have also been discussed briefly. Moreover, this review highlights their cellular and molecular mechanisms in chemoresistance and chemosensitization. Further, the clinical trials targeting NRs for the treatment of OVC have also been discussed.

Natural Prenylflavones from the Stem Bark of Artocarpus altilis: Promising Anticancer Agents for Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Targeting the Akt/mTOR/STAT-3 Signaling Pathway

Artonin E (AA2) and artobiloxanthone (AA3) were extracted and purified from the acetone extract of the stem bark of Artocarpus altilis (Parkinson) Fosberg. Preliminary investigations of both candidates revealed promising cytotoxic effects in oral cancer cells. Moreover, these candidates modulated the expression of pivotal proteins linked to oral cancer progression, eliciting apoptosis through caspase-3 and caspase-9 activation. Additionally, our results showed that AA2 and AA3 suppressed several proteins linked with oral cancer, such as Bcl-2, COX-2, VEGF, and MMP-9, and modulated the cell signaling pathways, such as Akt/mTOR and STAT-3, offering valuable insights into the underlying mechanism of action of these compounds. These findings were robustly validated in silico using molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulations. To our knowledge, these findings have not been previously reported, and the continued exploration and development of these natural products may offer a potential avenue for the effective management of this malignancy.

Therapeutic Potential of Natural Compounds in Subarachnoid Haemorrhage

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a common and fatal cerebrovascular disease with high morbidity, mortality and very poor prognosis worldwide. SAH can induce a complex series of pathophysiological processes, and the main factors affecting its prognosis are early brain injury (EBI) and delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI). The pathophysiological features of EBI mainly include intense neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, neuronal cell death, mitochondrial dysfunction and brain edema, while DCI is characterized by delayed onset ischemic neurological deficits and cerebral vasospasm (CVS). Despite much exploration in people to improve the prognostic outcome of SAH, effective treatment strategies are still lacking. In recent years, numerous studies have shown that natural compounds of plant origin have unique neuro- and vascular protective effects in EBI and DCI after SAH and long-term neurological deficits, which mainly include inhibition of inflammatory response, reduction of oxidative stress, anti-apoptosis, and improvement of blood-brain barrier and cerebral vasospasm. The aim of this paper is to systematically explore the processes of neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in SAH, and to summarize natural compounds as potential targets for improving the prognosis of SAH and their related mechanisms of action for future therapies.

Leveraging a Y. lipolytica naringenin chassis for biosynthesis of apigenin and associated glucoside

Flavonoids are a diverse set of natural products with promising bioactivities including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and neuroprotective properties. Previously, the oleaginous host Yarrowia lipolytica has been engineered to produce high titers of the base flavonoid naringenin. Here, we leverage this host along with a set of E. coli bioconversion strains to produce the flavone apigenin and its glycosylated derivative isovitexin, two potential nutraceutical and pharmaceutical candidates. Through downstream strain selection, co-culture optimization, media composition, and mutant isolation, we were able to produce168 mg/L of apigenin, representing a 46% conversion rate of 2-(R/S)-naringenin to apigenin. This apigenin platform was modularly extended to produce isovitexin by addition of a second bioconversion strain. Together, these results demonstrate the promise of microbial production and modular bioconversion to access diversified flavonoids.

Natural compounds targeting YAP/TAZ axis in cancer: Current state of art and challenges

Cancer has become a burgeoning global healthcare concern marked by its exponential growth and significant economic ramifications. Though advancements in the treatment modalities have increased the overall survival and quality of life, there are no definite treatments for the advanced stages of this malady. Hence, understanding the diseases etiologies and the underlying molecular complexities, will usher in the development of innovative therapeutics. Recently, YAP/TAZ transcriptional regulation has been of immense interest due to their role in development, tissue homeostasis and oncogenic transformations. YAP/TAZ axis functions as coactivators within the Hippo signaling cascade, exerting pivotal influence on processes such as proliferation, regeneration, development, and tissue renewal. In cancer, YAP is overexpressed in multiple tumor types and is associated with cancer stem cell attributes, chemoresistance, and metastasis. Activation of YAP/TAZ mirrors the cellular "social" behavior, encompassing factors such as cell adhesion and the mechanical signals transmitted to the cell from tissue structure and the surrounding extracellular matrix. Therefore, it presents a significant vulnerability in the clogs of tumors that could provide a wide window of therapeutic effectiveness. Natural compounds have been utilized extensively as successful interventions in the management of diverse chronic illnesses, including cancer. Owing to their capacity to influence multiple genes and pathways, natural compounds exhibit significant potential either as adjuvant therapy or in combination with conventional treatment options. In this review, we delineate the signaling nexus of YAP/TAZ axis, and present natural compounds as an alternate strategy to target cancer.

Anticancer Activity of Encapsulated Pearl Millet Polyphenol-Rich Extract against Proliferating and Non-Proliferating Breast Cancer Cells In Vitro

Plant-derived polyphenols are bioactive compounds with potential health-promoting properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activity. However, their beneficial effects and biomedical applications may be limited due to their low bioavailability. In the present study, we have considered a microencapsulation-based drug delivery system to investigate the anticancer effects of polyphenol-rich (apigenin, caffeic acid, and luteolin) fractions, extracted from a cereal crop pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum), using three phenotypically different cellular models of breast cancer in vitro, namely triple negative HCC1806, ER-positive HCC1428, and HER2-positive AU565 cells. Encapsulated polyphenolic extract induced apoptotic cell death in breast cancer cells with different receptor status, whereas it was ineffective against non-tumorigenic MCF10F cells. Encapsulated polyphenolic extract was also found to be cytotoxic against drug-resistant doxorubicin-induced senescent breast cancer cells that were accompanied by increased levels of apoptotic and necrotic markers, cell cycle inhibitor p21 and proinflammatory cytokine IL8. Furthermore, diverse responses to the stimulation with encapsulated polyphenolic extract in senescent breast cancer cells were observed, as in the encapsulated polyphenolic extract-treated non-proliferating AU565 cells, the autophagic pathway, here cytotoxic autophagy, was also induced, as judged by elevated levels of beclin-1 and LC3b. We show for the first time the anti-breast cancer activity of encapsulated polyphenolic extract of pearl millet and postulate that microencapsulation may be a useful approach for potentiating the anticancer effects of phytochemicals with limited bioavailability.

Therapeutic Effect of Natural Products and Dietary Supplements on Aflatoxin-Induced Nephropathy

Aflatoxins are harmful natural contaminants found in foods and are known to be hepatotoxic. However, recent studies have linked chronic consumption of aflatoxins to nephrotoxicity in both animals and humans. Here, we conducted a systematic review of active compounds, crude extracts, herbal formulations, and probiotics against aflatoxin-induced renal dysfunction, highlighting their mechanisms of action in both in vitro and in vivo studies. The natural products and dietary supplements discussed in this study alleviated aflatoxin-induced renal oxidative stress, inflammation, tissue damage, and markers of renal function, mostly in animal models. Therefore, the information provided in this review may improve the management of kidney disease associated with aflatoxin exposure and potentially aid in animal feed supplementation. However, future research is warranted to translate the outcomes of this study into clinical use in kidney patients.

Exploring the nexus of nuclear receptors in hematological malignancies

Hematological malignancies (HM) represent a subset of neoplasms affecting the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic systems, categorized primarily into leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. Their prognosis varies considerably, with a frequent risk of relapse despite ongoing treatments. While contemporary therapeutic strategies have extended overall patient survival, they do not offer cures for advanced stages and often lead to challenges such as acquisition of drug resistance, recurrence, and severe side effects. The need for innovative therapeutic targets is vital to elevate both survival rates and patients' quality of life. Recent research has pivoted towards nuclear receptors (NRs) due to their role in modulating tumor cell characteristics including uncontrolled proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis evasion, invasion and migration. Existing evidence emphasizes NRs' critical role in HM. The regulation of NR expression through agonists, antagonists, or selective modulators, contingent upon their levels, offers promising clinical implications in HM management. Moreover, several anticancer agents targeting NRs have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This review highlights the integral function of NRs in HM's pathophysiology and the potential benefits of therapeutically targeting these receptors, suggesting a prospective avenue for more efficient therapeutic interventions against HM.

Research progress of plant-derived natural products in thyroid carcinoma

Thyroid carcinoma (TC) is a prevalent malignancy of the endocrine system, with a notable rise in its detection rate in recent decades. The primary therapeutic approaches for TC now encompass thyroidectomy and radioactive iodine therapy, yielding favorable prognoses for the majority of patients. TC survivors may necessitate ongoing surveillance, remedial treatment, and thyroid hormone supplementation, while also enduring the adverse consequences of thyroid hormone fluctuations, surgical complications, or side effects linked to radioactive iodine administration, and encountering enduring physical, psychosocial, and economic hardships. In vitro and in vivo studies of natural products against TC are demonstrating the potential of these natural products as alternatives to the treatment of thyroid cancer. This therapy may offer greater convenience, affordability, and acceptability than traditional therapies. In the early screening of natural products, we mainly use a combination of database prediction and literature search. The pharmacological effects on TC of selected natural products (quercetin, genistein, apigenin, luteolin, chrysin, myricetin, resveratrol, curcumin and nobiletin), which hold promise for therapeutic applications in TC, are reviewed in detail in this article through most of the cell-level evidence, animal-level evidence, and a small amount of human-level evidence. In addition, this article explores possible issues, such as bioavailability, drug safety.

Modulatory Role of Phytochemicals/Natural Products in Cancer Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a newly emerging and effective approach to treating cancer. However, there are many challenges associated with using checkpoint inhibitors in this treatment strategy. The component of the tumor microenvironment plays a crucial role in antitumor immune response, regulating tumor immune surveillance and immunological evasion. Natural products/phytochemicals can modulate the tumor microenvironment and function as immunomodulatory agents. In clinical settings, there is a strong need to develop synergistic combination regimens using natural products that can effectively enhance the therapeutic benefits of immune checkpoint inhibitors relative to their effectiveness as single therapies. The review discusses immunotherapy, its side effects, and a summary of evidence suggesting the use of natural products to modulate immune checkpoint pathways.

Resources for Human Health from the Plant Kingdom: The Potential Role of the Flavonoid Apigenin in Cancer Counteraction

Apigenin is one of the most widespread flavonoids in the plant kingdom. For centuries, apigenin-containing plant preparations have been used in traditional medicines to treat diseases that have an inflammatory and/or degenerative component. In the 1980s, apigenin was proposed to interfere with the process of carcinogenesis. Since then, more and more evidence has demonstrated its anticancer efficacy, both in vitro and in vivo. Apigenin has been shown to target signaling pathways involved in the development and progression of cancer, such as PI3K/Akt/mTOR, MAPK/ERK, JAK/STAT, NF-κB, and Wnt/β-catenin pathways, and to modulate different hallmarks of cancer, such as cell proliferation, metastasis, apoptosis, invasion, and cell migration. Furthermore, apigenin modulates PD1/PD-L1 expression in cancer/T killer cells and regulates the percentage of T killer and T regulatory cells. Recently, apigenin has been studied for its synergic and additive effects when combined with chemotherapy, minimizing the side effects. Unfortunately, its low bioavailability and high permeability limit its therapeutic applications. Based on micro- and nanoformulations that enhance the physical stability and drug-loading capacity of apigenin and increase the bioavailability of apigenin, novel drug-delivery systems have been investigated to improve its solubility.

Dually Active Apigenin-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers for Cancer Treatment

Purpose

Cancer is one of the major causes of death worldwide affecting more than 19 million people. Traditional cancer therapies have many adverse effects and often result in unsatisfactory outcomes. Natural flavones, such as apigenin (APG), have demonstrated excellent antitumoral properties. However, they have a low aqueous solubility. To overcome this drawback, APG can be encapsulated in nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC). Therefore, we developed dual NLC encapsulating APG (APG-NLC) with a lipid matrix containing rosehip oil, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Methods

Optimisation, physicochemical characterisation, biopharmaceutical behaviour, and therapeutic efficacy of this novel nanostructured system were assessed.

Results

APG-NLC were optimized obtaining an average particle size below 200 nm, a surface charge of -20 mV, and an encapsulation efficiency over 99%. The APG-NLC released APG in a sustained manner, and the results showed that the formulation was stable for more than 10 months. In vitro studies showed that APG-NLC possess significant antiangiogenic activity in ovo and selective antiproliferative activity in several cancer cell lines without exhibiting toxicity in healthy cells.

Conclusion

APG-NLC containing rosehip oil were optimised. They exhibit suitable physicochemical parameters, storage stability for more than 10 months, and prolonged APG release. Moreover, APG-NLC were internalised inside tumour cells, showing the capacity to cause cytotoxicity in cancer cells without damaging healthy cells.

A comprehensive view on the apigenin impact on colorectal cancer: Focusing on cellular and molecular mechanisms

Colon cancer (CC) is one of the most common and deadly cancers worldwide. Oncologists are facing challenges such as development of drug resistance and lack of suitable drug options for CC treatment. Flavonoids are a group of natural compounds found in fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based foods. According to research, they have a potential role in the prevention and treatment of cancer. Apigenin is a flavonoid that is present in many fruits and vegetables. It has been used as a natural antioxidant for a long time and has been considered due to its anticancer effects and low toxicity. The results of this review study show that apigenin has potential anticancer effects on CC cells through various mechanisms. In this comprehensive review, we present the cellular targets and signaling pathways of apigenin indicated to date in in vivo and in vitro CC models. Among the most important modulated pathways, Wnt/β-catenin, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, MAPK/ERK, JNK, STAT3, Bcl-xL and Mcl-1, PKM2, and NF-kB have been described. Furthermore, apigenin suppresses the cell cycle in G2/M phase in CC cells. In CC cells, apigenin-induced apoptosis is increased by inhibiting the formation of autophagy. According to the results of this study, apigenin appears to have the potential to be a promising agent for CC therapy, but more research is required in the field of pharmacology and pharmacokinetics to establish the apigenin effects and its dosage for clinical studies.

Crosstalk between Non-Coding RNAs and Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling in Head and Neck Cancer: Identification of Novel Biomarkers and Therapeutic Agents

Head and neck cancers (HNC) encompass a broad spectrum of neoplastic disorders characterized by significant morbidity and mortality. While contemporary therapeutic interventions offer promise, challenges persist due to tumor recurrence and metastasis. Central to HNC pathogenesis is the aberration in numerous signaling cascades. Prominently, the Wnt signaling pathway has been critically implicated in the etiology of HNC, as supported by a plethora of research. Equally important, variations in the expression of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been identified to modulate key cancer phenotypes such as cellular proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, metastatic potential, recurrence, and treatment resistance. This review aims to provide an exhaustive insight into the multifaceted influence of ncRNAs on HNC, with specific emphasis on their interactions with the Wnt/β-catenin (WBC) signaling axis. We further delineate the effect of ncRNAs in either exacerbating or attenuating HNC progression via interference with WBC signaling. An overview of the mechanisms underlying the interplay between ncRNAs and WBC signaling is also presented. In addition, we described the potential of various ncRNAs in enhancing the efficacy of chemotherapeutic and radiotherapeutic modalities. In summary, this assessment posits the potential of ncRNAs as therapeutic agents targeting the WBC signaling pathway in HNC management.

The Antitumor Activity of Piplartine: A Review

Cancer is a worldwide health problem with high mortality in children and adults, making searching for novel bioactive compounds with potential use in cancer treatment essential. Piplartine, also known as piperlongumine, is an alkamide isolated from Piper longum Linn, with relevant therapeutic potential. Therefore, this review covered research on the antitumor activity of piplartine, and the studies reported herein confirm the antitumor properties of piplartine and highlight its possible application as an anticancer agent against various types of tumors. The evidence found serves as a reference for advancing mechanistic research on this metabolite and preparing synthetic derivatives or analogs with better antitumor activity in order to develop new drug candidates.

Synergism Antiproliferative Effects of Apigenin and Naringenin in NSCLC Cells

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the leading cancer killers. Apigenin (Api) and Naringenin (Nar) are natural bioactive substances obtained in various vegetables and fruits, possessing anti-tumor effects across multiple studies. This study investigated the latent synergistic antiproliferative functions of Api and Nar in A549 and H1299 NSCLC cells. Cell viability was determined after incubating with different concentrations of Api, Nar, or the combination of Api and Nar (CoAN) for 24 h. Analysis using the CompuSyn software revealed that the CI value of each combined dose was < 1, depicting that the two drugs had a synergistic inhibitory effect. The CoAN (A:N = 3:2) group with the lowest CI value was selected for subsequent experiments. The IC₅₀ of CoAN (A:N = 3:2) was used to determine the cell cycle, the expression ratio of Bax to Bcl2, Caspase 3 activity, and mitochondrial function to assess oxidative stress and apoptosis. The results established that CoAN treatment caused significant cytotoxicity with cell cycle arrest at G2/M phases. Furthermore, CoAN significantly enhanced mitochondria dysfunction, elevated oxidative stress, and activated the apoptotic pathway versus Api or Nar alone groups. Thus, the CoAN chemotherapy approach is promising and deserves further research.

Recent Advances in Molecular Mechanisms of Cancer Immunotherapy

Cancer is among the current leading causes of death worldwide, despite the novel advances that have been made toward its treatment, it is still considered a major public health concern. Considering both the serious impact of cancer on public health and the significant side effects and complications of conventional therapeutic options, the current strategies towards targeted cancer therapy must be enhanced to avoid undesired toxicity. Cancer immunotherapy has become preferable among researchers in recent years compared to conventional therapeutic options, such as chemotherapy, surgery, and radiotherapy. The understanding of how to control immune checkpoints, develop therapeutic cancer vaccines, genetically modify immune cells as well as enhance the activation of antitumor immune response led to the development of novel cancer treatments. In this review, we address recent advances in cancer immunotherapy molecular mechanisms. Different immunotherapeutic approaches are critically discussed, focusing on the challenges, potential risks, and prospects involving their use.

The Journey of Resveratrol from Vineyards to Clinics

With rising technological advancements, several factors influence the lifestyle of people and stimulate chronic inflammation that severely affects the human body. Chronic inflammation leads to a broad range of physical and pathophysiological distress. For many years, non-steroidal drugs and corticosteroids were most frequently used in treating inflammation and related ailments. However, long-term usage of these drugs aggravates the conditions of chronic diseases and is presented with morbid side effects, especially in old age. Hence, the quest for safe and less toxic anti-inflammatory compounds of high therapeutic potential with least adverse side effects has shifted researchers' attention to ancient medicinal system. Resveratrol (RSV) - 3,4,5^' trihydroxystilbene is one such naturally available polyphenolic stilbene derivative obtained from various plant sources. For over 2000 years, these plants have been used in Asian medicinal system for curing inflammation-associated disorders. There is a wealth of in vitro, in vivo and clinical evidence that shows RSV could induce anti-aging health benefits including, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, phytoesterogenic, and cardio protective properties. However, the issue of rapid elimination of RSV through the metabolic system and its low bio-availability is of paramount importance which is being studied extensively. Therefore, in this article, we scientifically reviewed the molecular targets, biological activities, beneficial and contradicting effects of RSV as evinced by clinical studies for the prevention and treatment of inflammation-mediated chronic disorders.

Potential Synergistic Supplementation of NAD+ Promoting Compounds as a Strategy for Increasing Healthspan

Disrupted biological function, manifesting through the hallmarks of aging, poses one of the largest threats to healthspan and risk of disease development, such as metabolic disorders, cardiovascular ailments, and neurodegeneration. In recent years, numerous geroprotectors, senolytics, and other nutraceuticals have emerged as potential disruptors of aging and may be viable interventions in the immediate state of human longevity science. In this review, we focus on the decrease in nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) with age and the supplementation of NAD+ precursors, such as nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) or nicotinamide riboside (NR), in combination with other geroprotective compounds, to restore NAD+ levels present in youth. Furthermore, these geroprotectors may enhance the efficacy of NMN supplementation while concurrently providing their own numerous health benefits. By analyzing the prevention of NAD+ degradation through the inhibition of CD38 or supporting protective downstream agents of SIRT1, we provide a potential framework of the CD38/NAD+/SIRT1 axis through which geroprotectors may enhance the efficacy of NAD+ precursor supplementation and reduce the risk of age-related diseases, thereby potentiating healthspan in humans.

Elevated serum uric acid is associated with the risk of advanced staging and vascular involvement in patients with hepatoblastoma: a 14-year retrospective study

Background

Uric acid is the end product of the purine metabolism pathway, and has been linked to cancer risks and prognosis, but its relationship with hepatoblastoma (HB) remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the association between serum uric acid (SUA) and the advanced tumor staging and unfavorable extra-parenchymal tumor characteristics in patients with HB.

Methods

This study enrolled pediatric patients from Xinhua Hospital between 2007 to 2021. A total of 101 participants with newly diagnosed HB were recruited in the study. PRETreatment EXTent of disease (PRETEXT)/PostTreatment Extent of disease (POSTTEXT) staging were evaluated at diagnosis and following neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). Adjusted smoothing spline plots, subgroup analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were conducted to estimate the association of different levels of SUA with the advanced tumor staging and present annotation factors.

Results

In accordance with SUA tertiles, those patients with higher pretreatment SUA levels showed increased percentages of PRETEXT group IV, vessel involvement and multifocality of tumors. After fully adjustment with the confounding factors, SUA was positively associated with advanced PRETEXT stage IV (OR: 1.72, 95%CI 1.15-2.57, p=0.0080), as well as vascular invasion (OR: 1.29, 95%CI 1.01-1.64, p=0.0396). Compared with the lowest SUA concentration tertile, the highest tertile were independently associated with vessel involvement of tumor in all of the adjusted models. Following NAC, SUA levels were significantly reduced in response to the downstaging of tumors. SUA remained positively associated with advanced POSTTEXT staging and vessel involvement in adjusted models. Patients with highest tertile of posttreatment SUA showed worse 5-year EFS and OS.

Conclusion

Elevated SUA were associated with an increased occurrence of advanced PRETEXT/POSTTEXT staging and unfavorable vessel involvement at diagnosis and following NAC in patients with HB. High posttreatment SUA reflected poor tumor responses to NAC. This study linked SUA, a non-invasive laboratory test, with tumor staging and risk prediction for HB.

Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms of Dietary Flavones: Tapping into Nature to Control Chronic Inflammation in Obesity and Cancer

Flavones are natural phytochemicals broadly distributed in our diet. Their anti-inflammatory properties provide unique opportunities to control the innate immune system and inflammation. Here, we review the role of flavones in chronic inflammation with an emphasis on their impact on the molecular mechanisms underlying inflammatory diseases including obesity and cancer. Flavones can influence the innate immune cell repertoire restoring the immune landscape. Flavones impinge on NF-κB, STAT, COX-2, or NLRP3 inflammasome pathways reestablishing immune homeostasis. Devoid of adverse side effects, flavones could present alternative opportunities for the treatment and prevention of chronic inflammation that contributes to obesity and cancer.

Flavones, Flavonols, Lignans, and Caffeic Acid Derivatives from Dracocephalum moldavica and Their In Vitro Effects on Multiple Myeloma and Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Phenolic plant constituents are well known for their health-promoting and cancer chemopreventive properties, and products containing such constituents are therefore readily consumed. In the present work, we isolated 13 phenolic constituents of four different compound classes from the aerial parts of the Moldavian dragonhead, an aromatic and medicinal plant with a high diversity on secondary metabolites. All compounds were tested for their apoptotic effect on myeloma (KMS-12-PE) and AML (Molm-13) cells, with the highest activity observed for the flavone and flavonol derivatives. While diosmetin (6) exhibited the most pronounced effects on the myeloma cell line, two polymethylated flavones, namely cirsimaritin (1) and xanthomicrol (3), were particularly active against AML cells and therefore subsequently investigated for their antiproliferative effects at lower concentrations. At a concentration of 2.5 µM, cirsimaritin (1) reduced proliferation of Molm-13 cells by 72% while xanthomicrol (3) even inhibited proliferation to the extent of 84% of control. In addition, both compounds were identified as potent FLT3 inhibitors and thus display promising lead structures for further drug development. Moreover, our results confirmed the chemopreventive properties of flavonoids in general, and in particular of polymethylated flavones, which have been intensively investigated especially over the last decade.

Encapsulation of Marjoram Phenolic Compounds Using Chitosan to Improve Its Colon Delivery

In this study, chitosan particles were used to encapsulate marjoram phenolic compounds as colon-specific drug-delivery systems. The microparticles were prepared by ionic gelation and spray-drying techniques and varying amounts of polymer and extract, along with different method conditions. The spray drying of microparticles (0.75% low molecular weight chitosan dissolved in 0.4% of acetic acid) presented the best encapsulation efficiency (near 75%), with size ranges from 1.55 to 1.68 µm that allowed the encapsulation of 1.25-1.88 mg/mL of extract. Release studies of individual marjoram phenolic compounds at pH 2 and 7.4 showed that most of the compounds remained encapsulated in the microparticles. Only arbutin and vicenin II presented a high initial burst release. As the polarity of the compounds was reduced, their initial release decreased. In addition, after gastrointestinal digestion, most of marjoram phenolic compounds remained encapsulated. These results prove that chitosan microparticlescould protect the marjoram phenolic compounds during gastrointestinal digestion, specifically those related to anticancer activity, which enables their application as colon-specific delivery systems.

The Analytical Strategy of “Ion Induction and Deduction Based on Net-Hubs” for the Comprehensive Characterization of Naringenin Metabolites In Vivo and In Vitro Using a UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap Mass Spectrometer

Naringenin (5,7,4′-trihydroxyflavanone), belonging to the flavanone subclass, is associated with beneficial effects such as anti-oxidation, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic effects. Drug metabolism plays an essential role in drug discovery and clinical safety. However, due to the interference of numerous endogenous substances in metabolic samples, the identification and efficient characterization of drug metabolites are difficult. Here, ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry was used to obtain mass spectral information of plasma (processed by three methods), urine, feces, liver tissue, and liver microsome samples. Moreover, a novel analytical strategy named “ion induction and deduction” was proposed to systematically screen and identify naringenin metabolites in vivo and in vitro. The analysis strategy was accomplished by the establishment of multiple “net-hubs” and the induction and deduction of fragmentation behavior. Finally, 78 naringenin metabolites were detected and identified from samples of rat plasma, urine, feces, liver tissue, and liver microsomes, of which 67 were detected in vivo and 13 were detected in vitro. Naringenin primarily underwent glucuronidation, sulfation, oxidation, methylation, ring fission, and conversion into phenolic acid and their composite reactions. The current study provides significant help in extracting target information from complex samples and sets the foundation for other pharmacology and toxicology research.

Unraveling the Potential Role of NEDD4-like E3 Ligases in Cancer

Cancer is a deadly disease worldwide, with an anticipated 19.3 million new cases and 10.0 million deaths occurring in 2020 according to GLOBOCAN 2020. It is well established that carcinogenesis and cancer development are strongly linked to genetic changes and post-translational modifications (PTMs). An important PTM process, ubiquitination, regulates every aspect of cellular activity, and the crucial enzymes in the ubiquitination process are E3 ubiquitin ligases (E3s) that affect substrate specificity and must therefore be carefully regulated. A surfeit of studies suggests that, among the E3 ubiquitin ligases, neuronal precursor cell-expressed developmentally downregulated 4 (NEDD4)/NEDD4-like E3 ligases show key functions in cellular processes by controlling subsequent protein degradation and substrate ubiquitination. In addition, it was demonstrated that NEDD4 mainly acts as an oncogene in various cancers, but also plays a tumor-suppressive role in some cancers. In this review, to comprehend the proper function of NEDD4 in cancer development, we summarize its function, both its tumor-suppressive and oncogenic role, in multiple types of malignancies. Moreover, we briefly explain the role of NEDD4 in carcinogenesis and progression, including cell survival, cell proliferation, autophagy, cell migration, invasion, metastasis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), chemoresistance, and multiple signaling pathways. In addition, we briefly explain the significance of NEDD4 as a possible target for cancer treatment. Therefore, we conclude that targeting NEDD4 as a therapeutic method for treating human tumors could be a practical possibility.

Betulinic acid: A natural promising anticancer drug, current situation, and future perspectives

Natural products serve as the single most productive source for the discovery of drugs and pharmaceutical leads. Among the various chemicals derived from microbes, plants, and animals, phytochemicals have emerged as potential candidates for the development of anticancer drugs due to their structural diversities, complexities, and pleiotropic effects. Herein, we discuss betulinic acid (BA), a ubiquitously distributed lupane structured pentacyclic triterpenoid, scrutinized as a promising natural agent for the prevention, suppression, and management of various human malignancies. Ease of availability, common occurrences, cell-specific cytotoxicity, and astonishing selectivity are the important factors that contribute to the development of BA as an anticancer agent. The current review delineates the mechanistic framework of BA-mediated cancer suppression through the modulation of multiple signaling pathways and also summarizes the key outcomes of BA in preclinical investigations.

Demystifying the Functional Role of Nuclear Receptors in Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal cancer (EC), an aggressive and poorly understood disease, is one of the top causes of cancer-related fatalities. GLOBOCAN 2020 reports that there are 544,076 deaths and 604,100 new cases expected worldwide. Even though there are various advancements in treatment procedures, this cancer has been reported as one of the most difficult cancers to cure, and to increase patient survival; treatment targets still need to be established. Nuclear receptors (NRs) are a type of transcription factor, which has a key role in several biological processes such as reproduction, development, cellular differentiation, stress response, immunity, metabolism, lipids, and drugs, and are essential regulators of several diseases, including cancer. Numerous studies have demonstrated the importance of NRs in tumor immunology and proved the well-known roles of multiple NRs in modulating proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. There are surplus of studies conducted on NRs and their implications in EC, but only a few studies have demonstrated the diagnostic and prognostic potential of NRs. Therefore, there is still a paucity of the role of NRs and different ways to target them in EC cells to stop them from spreading malignancy. This review emphasizes the significance of NRs in EC by discussing their diverse agonists as well as antagonists and their response to tumor progression. Additionally, we emphasize NRs’ potential to serve as a novel therapeutic target and their capacity to treat and prevent EC.

The Role of Natural Products as Inhibitors of JAK/STAT Signaling Pathways in Glioblastoma Treatment

The permeability of glioblastoma, as well as its escaping the immune system, makes them one of the most deadly human malignancies. By avoiding programmed cell death (apoptosis), unlimited cell growth and metastatic ability could dramatically affect the immune system. Genetic mutations, epigenetic changes, and overexpression of oncogenes can cause this process. On the other hand, the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and intratumor heterogeneity are important factors causing resistance to therapy. Several signaling pathways have been identified in this field, including the Janus tyrosine kinase (JAK) converter and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) activator pathways, which are closely related. In addition, the JAK/STAT signaling pathway contributes to a wide array of tumorigenesis functions, including replication, anti-apoptosis, angiogenesis, and immune suppression. Introducing this pathway as the main tumorigenesis and treatment resistance center can give a better understanding of how it operates. In light of this, it is an important goal in treating many disorders, particularly cancer. The inhibition of this signaling pathway is being considered an approach to the treatment of glioblastoma. The use of natural products alternatively to conventional therapies is another area of research interest among researchers. Some natural products that originate from plants or natural sources can interfere with JAK/STAT signaling in human malignant cells, also by stopping the progression and phosphorylation of JAK/STAT, inducing apoptosis, and stopping the cell cycle. Natural products are a viable alternative to conventional chemotherapy because of their cost-effectiveness, wide availability, and almost no side effects.

Apigenin Loaded Lipoid-PLGA-TPGS Nanoparticles for Colon Cancer Therapy: Characterization, Sustained Release, Cytotoxicity, and Apoptosis Pathways

Colon cancer (CC) is one of major causes of mortality and affects the socio-economic status world-wide. Therefore, developing a novel and efficient delivery system is needed for CC management. Thus, in the present study, lipid polymer hybrid nanoparticles of apigenin (LPHyNPs) was prepared and characterized on various parameters such as particle size (234.80 ± 12.28 nm), PDI (0.11 ± 0.04), zeta potential (−5.15 ± 0.70 mV), EE (55.18 ± 3.61%), etc. Additionally, the DSC, XRD, and FT-IR analysis determined drug entrapment and affinity with the selected excipient, demonstrating a promising drug affinity with the lipid polymer. Morphological analysis via SEM and TEM exhibited spherical NPs with a dark color core, which indicated drug entrapment inside the core. In vitro release study showed significant (p < 0.05) sustained release of AGN from LPHyNPs than AGN suspension. Further, the therapeutic efficacy in terms of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest of developed LPHyNPs against CC was estimated by performing flow cytometry and comparing its effectiveness with blank LPHyNPs and AGN suspension, which exhibited remarkable outcomes in favor of LPHyNPs. Moreover, the mechanism behind the anticancer attribute was further explored by estimating gene expression of various signaling molecules such as Bcl-2, BAX, NF-κB, and mTOR that were involved in carcinogenic pathways, which indicated significant (p < 0.05) results for LPHyNPs. Moreover, to strengthen the anticancer potential of LPHyNPs against chemoresistance, the expression of JNK and MDR-1 genes was estimated. Outcomes showed that their expression level reduced appreciably when compared to blank LPHyNPs and AGN suspension. Hence, it can be concluded that developed LPHyNPs could be an efficient therapeutic system for managing CC.

Oroxylin A: A Promising Flavonoid for Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases

There have been magnificent advancements in the understanding of molecular mechanisms of chronic diseases over the past several years, but these diseases continue to be a considerable cause of death worldwide. Most of the approved medications available for the prevention and treatment of these diseases target only a single gene/protein/pathway and are known to cause severe side effects and are less effective than they are anticipated. Consequently, the development of finer therapeutics that outshine the existing ones is far-reaching. Natural compounds have enormous applications in curbing several disastrous and fatal diseases. Oroxylin A (OA) is a flavonoid obtained from the plants Oroxylum indicum, Scutellaria baicalensis, and S. lateriflora, which have distinctive pharmacological properties. OA modulates the important signaling pathways, including NF-κB, MAPK, ERK1/2, Wnt/β-catenin, PTEN/PI3K/Akt, and signaling molecules, such as TNF-α, TGF-β, MMPs, VEGF, interleukins, Bcl-2, caspases, HIF-1α, EMT proteins, Nrf-2, etc., which play a pivotal role in the molecular mechanism of chronic diseases. Overwhelming pieces of evidence expound on the anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-cancer potentials of this flavonoid, which makes it an engrossing compound for research. Numerous preclinical and clinical studies also displayed the promising potential of OA against cancer, cardiovascular diseases, inflammation, neurological disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, etc. Therefore, the current review focuses on delineating the role of OA in combating different chronic diseases and highlighting the intrinsic molecular mechanisms of its action.

Apigenin in cancer therapy: From mechanism of action to nano-therapeutic agent

Apigenin (APG) is a flavonoid presence in beverages, vegetables, and fruits containing anti-diabetic, anti-oxidant, and anti-viral activities, as well as cancer management properties. There is growing evidence that APG presented extensive anti-cancer effects in several cancer types by modulating various cellular processes, including angiogenesis, apoptosis, metastasis, autophagy, cell cycle, and immune responses, through activation or inhibition of different cell signaling pathways and molecules. By emerging nanotechnology and its advent in the biomedicine field, cancer therapy has been changed based on nanotechnology-based delivery systems. APG nanoformulations have been used to target tumor cells specifically, improve cellular uptake of APG, and overcome limitations of the free form of APG, such as low solubility and poor bioavailability. In this review, the biotherapeutic activity of APG and its mechanisms, both in free form and nanoformulation, toward cancer cells are discussed to shed some light on APG anti-tumor activity in different cancers.

Apigenin Targets MicroRNA-155, Enhances SHIP-1 Expression, and Augments Anti-Tumor Responses in Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a deadly disease with a grim prognosis. Pancreatic tumor derived factors (TDF) contribute to the induction of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) that impedes the effectiveness of immunotherapy. PC-induced microRNA-155 (miRNA-155) represses expression of Src homology 2 (SH2) domain-containing Inositol 5'-phosphatase-1 (SHIP-1), a regulator of myeloid cell development and function, thus impacting anti-tumor immunity. We recently reported that the bioflavonoid apigenin (API) increased SHIP-1 expression which correlated with the expansion of tumoricidal macrophages (TAM) and improved anti-tumor immune responses in the TME of mice with PC. We now show that API transcriptionally regulates SHIP-1 expression via the suppression of miRNA-155, impacting anti-tumor immune responses in the bone marrow (BM) and TME of mice with PC. We discovered that API reduced miRNA-155 in the PC milieu, which induced SHIP-1 expression. This promoted the restoration of myelopoiesis and increased anti-tumor immune responses in the TME of heterotopic, orthotopic and transgenic SHIP-1 knockout preclinical mouse models of PC. Our results suggest that manipulating SHIP-1 through miR-155 may assist in augmenting anti-tumor immune responses and aid in the therapeutic intervention of PC.

Phytochemicals for the Prevention and Treatment of Renal Cell Carcinoma: Preclinical and Clinical Evidence and Molecular Mechanisms

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.

Ethnomedical, phytochemical and pharmacological insights on an Indian medicinal plant: The balloon vine (Cardiospermum halicacabum Linn.)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cardiospermum halicacabum Linn. (C. halicacabum) is one of the well-known leafy green vegetables in India. It is an herbaceous climber from the Sapindaceae family which is found in almost every Continent and Oceania. In the traditional Indian medicine systems, this plant is used for the treatment of rheumatism, abdominal pain, orchitis, dropsy, lumbago, skin diseases, cough, nervous disorders, and hyperthermia.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review presents the current information about ethnomedical uses and progress on geographical distribution, pharmacological activities, phytochemistry, micropropagation, and toxicity of C. halicacabum. Also, critically summarizes the relationship between the reported pharmacological activities and the traditional usages along with the future perspectives for research on this medicinal plant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The data on C. halicacabum were collected using multiple internet sources such as Google Scholar, Science Direct, Taylor & Francis, PubMed, Web of Science, Springer Link, Wiley online, and plant databases.

RESULTS

Chemical characterization using LC-MS/MS, HPLC, and NMR exposed the presence of chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, coumaric acid, luteolin-7-o-glucuronide, apigenin-7-o-glucuronide, and chrysoeriol in different parts of C. halicacabum. Based on the outcomes of this review, the main bioactive compounds found in C. halicacabum include phenols, phenolic acids, flavonoids, flavonoid glycosides, and flavonoid glucuronides. Besides the above-mentioned constituents, palmitic acid, oleic acid, stearic acid, linolenic acid, eicosenoic acid, and arachidic acid are the compounds that constitute the fatty acid profile of C. halicacabum seeds. Specifically, Cardiospermin, a bioactive compound isolated from the root extract of C. halicacabum has been recognized for its anxiolytic activity. Moreover, C. halicacabum showed a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, anti-diabetic, anxiolytic activity, antiulcer, apoptotic activity, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-diarrheal, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and nephroprotective properties. However, the bioactive compounds responsible for most of the above therapeutic properties have not been elucidated till now.

CONCLUSION

Phytochemicals from C. halicacabum showed noticeable pharmacological effects against plethora of health disorders. Some of the traditional applications were supported by modern scientific studies, however, more pharmacological evaluations should be conducted to validate other traditional uses of C. halicacabum. Despite C. halicacabum's vast pharmacological activity, additional human clinical trials are needed to determine the potent and safe dosages for the treatment of various health abnormalities. Besides, bioassay-guided isolation of active constituents, pharmacokinetic evaluations and identification of their mode of action are recommended for future investigations on C. halicacabum to unveil its therapeutic drug leads. Overall, this review suggests that C. halicacabum could be a new source of functional foods.

Thymoquinone-Enriched Naringenin-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carrier for Brain Delivery via Nasal Route: In Vitro Prospect and In Vivo Therapeutic Efficacy for the Treatment of Depression

In the current research, a thymoquinone-enriched naringenin (NGN)-loaded nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) was developed and delivered via the nasal route for depression. Thymoquinone (TQ) oil was used as the liquid lipid and provided synergistic effects. A TQ- and NGN-enriched NLC was developed via the ultrasonication technique and optimized using a central composite rotatable design (CCRD). The optimized NLC exhibited the following properties: droplet size, 84.17 to 86.71 nm; PDI, 0.258 to 0.271; zeta potential, −8.15 to −8.21 mV; and % EE, 87.58 to 88.21%. The in vitro drug release profile showed the supremacy of the TQ-NGN-NLC in comparison to the NGN suspension, with a cumulative drug release of 82.42 ± 1.88% from the NLC and 38.20 ± 0.82% from the drug suspension. Ex vivo permeation study displayed a 2.21-fold increase in nasal permeation of NGN from the NLC compared to the NGN suspension. DPPH study showed the better antioxidant potential of the TQ-NGN-NLC in comparison to NGN alone due to the synergistic effect of NGN and TQ oil. CLSM images revealed deeper permeation of the NGN-NLC (39.9 µm) through the nasal mucosa in comparison to the NGN suspension (20 µm). Pharmacodynamic studies, such as the forced swim test and the locomotor activity test, were assessed in the depressed rat model, which revealed the remarkable antidepressant effect of the TQ-NGN-NLC in comparison to the NGN suspension and the marketed formulation. The results signify the potential of the TQ-enriched NGN-NLC in enhancing brain delivery and the therapeutic effect of NGN for depression treatment.