Effect of garlic on lipid peroxidation and antioxidation enzymes in DMBA-induced skin carcinoma

Usnic acid induced changes in biomolecules and their association with apoptosis in squamous carcinoma (A-431) cells: A flow cytometry, FTIR and DLS spectroscopic study

Many natural products induce apoptotic cell death in cancer cells, though studies on their interactions with macromolecules are limited. For the first time, this study demonstrated the cytotoxic potential of usnic acid (UA) against squamous carcinoma (A-431) cells and the associated changes in cell surface proteins, lipids and DNA by attenuated total reflection- fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) spectroscopic studies. The IC₅₀ for UA was 98.9 µM after treatment of A-431 cells for 48 h, while the IC₅₀ reduced to 39.2 µM after 72 h of incubation time. UA induced oxidative stress in treated cells as confirmed by DCFHDA flow cytometry assay, depletion in reduced glutathione and increase in lipid peroxidation. The oxidative stress resulted in conformation change in amide I, amide II protein bands and DNA as observed by ATR-FTIR in UA treated A-431 cells. Shift in secondary structures of proteins from α helix to β sheets and structural changes in DNA was observed in UA treated A-431 cells. An increase in the band intensity of phospholipids, increased distribution of lipid and change in membrane potential was noted in UA treated cells, which was confirmed by externalization of phosphatidylserine to the outer membrane by annexin V-FITC/PI assay. Increase in mitochondrial membrane potential, cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase by flow cytometry and activation of caspase-3/7 dependent proteins confirmed the UA induced apoptosis in treated A-431 cells. FTIR and DLS spectroscopy confirmed the changes in biomolecules after UA treatment, which were associated with apoptosis, as observed by flow cytometry.

The effect of garlic (Allium sativum) supplementation on the lipid parameters and blood pressure levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A randomized controlled trial

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent female endocrine-related disorder in reproductive ages. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of garlic on the lipid parameters and blood pressure levels in women with PCOS. The present study was a randomized, double-blinded control trial, conducted on 80 PCOS patients. Participants were taught to intake either a total 800 mg/day garlic supplement or an identical placebo (starch) after lunch for 8 weeks. Physical activity, diet intake, anthropometric measures, and blood pressure were evaluated at baseline and end of the study. The blood sample was also taken to assess the change in outcomes of interest at the pre- and post-intervention. Garlic supplementation significantly reduced serum total cholesterol (change mean difference: -8.05, 95% CI: -15.47, -0.62) and LDL-C (change mean difference: -7.67, 95%CI: -14.64, -0.70) levels in comparison to the control group. In addition, a trend to a significant decrease was found in serum triglyceride levels and Systolic blood pressure; however, no significant difference was observed between two groups in HDL-C and diastolic blood pressure levels. The present study suggested that garlic supplementation might be effective on lipid markers improvement. Further studies are needed to confirm our findings.

Garlic constituents for cancer prevention and therapy: From phytochemistry to novel formulations

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is one of the oldest plants cultivated for its dietary and medicinal values. This incredible plant is endowed with various pharmacological attributes, such as antimicrobial, antiarthritic, antithrombotic, antitumor, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic activities. Among the various beneficial pharmacological effects of garlic, the anticancer activity is presumably the most studied. The consumption of garlic provides strong protection against cancer risk. Taking into account the multi-targeted actions and absence of considerable toxicity, a few active metabolites of garlic are probably to play crucial roles in the killing of cancerous cells. Garlic contains several bioactive molecules with anticancer actions and these include diallyl trisulfide, allicin, diallyl disulfide, diallyl sulfide, and allyl mercaptan. The effects of various garlic-derived products, their phytoconstituents and nanoformulations have been evaluated against skin, prostate, ovarian, breast, gastric, colorectal, oral, liver, and pancreatic cancers. Garlic extract, its phytocompounds and their nanoformulations have been shown to inhibit the different stages of cancer, including initiation, promotion, and progression. Besides, these bioactive metabolites alter the peroxidation of lipid, activity of nitric oxide synthetase, nuclear factor-κB, epidermal growth factor receptor, and protein kinase C, cell cycle, and survival signaling. The current comprehensive review portrays the functions of garlic, its bioactive constituents and nanoformulations against several types of cancers and explores the possibility of developing these agents as anticancer pharmaceuticals.

Antitumor Effect of Inula viscosa Extracts on DMBA-Induced Skin Carcinoma Are Mediated by Proteasome Inhibition

The aim of this work is to evaluate the antitumor effect mediated by the proteasome inhibitors of Inula viscosa extracts on skin carcinogenesis. Female Swiss albino mice were divided into five groups depending on the combination of skin cancer-inducing 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) and extract of Inula viscosa treatments. Histology of the affected skin and measurement of proteasome activity were performed to demonstrate the effect of Inula viscosa on mice. The identification of the molecules responsible for this inhibitory activity was carried out through the docking studies. The results showed that Inula viscosa extracts inhibit the development of papilloma in mice. Therefore, the best chemopreventive action of Inula viscosa was observed on mice in which extract treatment was performed before and after the induction of skin carcinogenesis. It was revealed that the ingestion of extracts Inula viscosa delays the formation of skin papillomas in animals and simultaneously decreases the size and number of papillomas, which is also reflected on the skin histology of the mice treated. Structure-activity relationship information obtained from component of Inula viscosa particularly tomentosin, inuviscolide, and isocosticacid demonstrated that distinct bonding modes in β ₁, β ₂, and β ₅ subunits determine its selectivity and potent inhibition for β ₅ subunit.

Zingiber mioga Extract Improves Moisturization and Depigmentation of Skin and Reduces Wrinkle Formation in UVB-Irradiated HRM-2 Hairless Mice

Here, we investigated the effects of Zingiber mioga extracts (FSH-ZM) on the moisturization and depigmentation of skin as well as wrinkle formation in UVB-irradiated HRM-2 hairless mice. The mice were divided into six groups as follows: normal control (NC), UVB-irradiated control (C), positive control 1 (PC1, L-ascorbic acid 200 mg/kg b.w.), positive control 2 (PC2, Arbutin 200 mg/kg b.w.), Z100 (FSH-ZM 100 mg/kg b.w.), and Z200 (FSH-ZM 200 mg/kg b.w.). The experiment spanned a period of 6 weeks. We found that FSH-ZM led to an increase in the expression of hyaluronan synthase 2, fibrillin-1, and elastin mRNAs, and showed improved skin hydration in HRM-2 hairless mice compared to that in the UVB-irradiated control group. Furthermore, FSH-ZM also inhibited the expression of inflammatory cytokines and wrinkle forming factors generated by UVB and reduced the formation of wrinkles in the test group relative to that in the control group by increasing collagen synthesis. Moreover, we found that FSH-ZM decreased the expression of melanogenesis factors, which improved depigmentation in UVB-irradiated hairless mice. These results suggest that Zingiber mioga can potentially be utilized to develop products aimed at improving skin moisturization and depigmentation and reducing wrinkle formation.

Anticancer potential of garlic and its bioactive constituents: A systematic and comprehensive review

Vegetables of the Allium genus, such as garlic (Allium sativum L.), onions, shallots, leaks, and chives, have been used for many years for food consumption and for medicinal purposes. Historical medical texts have indicated the therapeutic applications of garlic as an antitumor, laxative, diuretic, antibacterial and antifungal agent. Specifically, garlic's antitumor abilities have been traced back 3500 years as a chemotherapeutic agent used in Egypt. Other beneficial effects of garlic consumption include lowering blood pressure, blood cholesterol, sugar and lipids. The processing and aging of garlic result in the production of non-toxic organosulfur by-products. These sulfur-containing compounds, such as allicin, diallyl sulfide, diallyl disulfide, diallyl trisulfide, alliin, S-allylcysteine, and S-allylmercaptocysteine, impact various stages of carcinogenesis. The anticancer mechanisms of action of these garlic-derived phytochemicals include altering mitochondrial permeability, inhibiting angiogenesis, enhancing antioxidative and proapoptotic properties, and regulating cell proliferation. All these effects of garlic's sulfur-compounds have been demonstrated in various human cancers. The intent of this literature research is to explore the potential of garlic-derived products and bioactive organosulfur compounds as cancer chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agents. This investigation employs criteria for systematic review and critically analyzes published in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies. Concerns and limitations that have arisen in past studies regarding standards of measurement, bioavailability, and method of delivery are addressed. Overall, it is hoped that through this systematic and comprehensive review, future researchers can be acquainted with the updated data assembled on anticancer properties of garlic and its phytoconstituents.

Rosiglitazone affects the progression of surgically‑induced endometriosis in a rat model

Endometriosis is closely associated with inflammatory reactions and angiogenesis. Whether PPARγ is a target for the treatment of endometriosis remains unknown. The present study was designed to investigate the impact of a PPARγ agonist (rosiglitazone, RSG) on endometriosis in a rat model and to identify the underlying mechanism. The endometriosis model was established in rats. The pathological state of the endometrium was examined using hematoxylin‑eosin staining. The microstructures of interest were visualized using electron microscopy. Western blot analysis and reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction were used to detect PPARγ and MAT2A expression. VEGF and caspase‑3 expression were investigated using immunohistochemistry. Pathological analysis revealed transparent and red nodules in the model group, and that vasoganglions were present all over the nodules. Endometrial epithelial hyperplasia was observed in the model group, and the shape was columnar. Increased interstitial cell numbers, with compact structure and abundant blood supply, were detected in the model group. Compared with the model group, incomplete epithelial structures with sparse interstitial cells and loose structure were observed in the pathological images from RSG treatment groups. Numerous inflammatory cells and poor blood supply were observed in the endometrial tissues, and the gland was filled mostly with vacuolar cells. Electron microscopy revealed that the tissue structure was integrated. Many vacuoles were formed within the endometrial tissue and the classical morphological changes of apoptotic cells were observed in RSG‑treated groups. Caspase‑3 and PPARγ expression increased and expression of VEGF and MAT2A decreased in RSG‑treated groups. Taken together, these results revealed that RSG impacts the development and progression of endometriosis likely by inhibiting angiogenesis and inducing apoptosis.

Auriculatone Sulfate Effectively Protects Mice Against Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury

Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose is very common worldwide and has been widely recognized as the leading cause of drug-induced liver injury in the Western world. In our previous investigation, auriculatone, a natural product firstly obtained from Aster auriculatus, has demonstrated a potent protective effect against APAP-induced hepatotoxicity in HL-7702 cells. However, the poor water solubility and low bioavailability restrict its application. Auriculatone sulfate (AS) is a sulfated derivative of auriculatone with highly improved water-solubility. Hepatoprotective effects against APAP-induced liver injury (AILI) showed that intragastric pretreatment with AS at 50 mg/kg almost completely prevented mice against APAP-induced increases of serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase and ATPase. Histological results showed that AS could protect the liver tissue damage. In addition, AS pretreatment not only significantly retained hepatic malondialdehyde and the activities of glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase at normal levels, but also markedly suppressed the increase of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels in mouse liver caused by overdose APAP. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that AS obviously attenuated the expression of CD45 and HNE in liver tissue. Further mechanisms of action investigation showed that inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A11 (CYP 3A11) and CYP2E1 enzymatic activities (but not that of CYP1A2) was responsible for APAP bioactivation. In conclusion, AS showed a hepatoprotective effect against AILI through alleviating oxidative stress and inflammation and inhibiting CYP-mediated APAP bioactivation. It may be an effective hepatoprotective agent for AILI and other forms of human liver disease.

Chemomodulatory Potential of Bartogenic Acid Against DMBA/Croton Oil Induced Two-Step Skin Carcinogenesis in Mice

Barringtonia racemosa fruits are believed to be useful in cancer treatment in Ayurveda, the Indian system of medicine. In present study, bartogenic acid (BA), a triterpenoid constituent of Barringtonia fruits was evaluated for its cytotoxicity property using the human skin carcinoma cell line (SCC-13) and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). The chemopreventive efficacy of BA was evaluated against the DMBA/Croton oil-induced skin carcinogenesis in mice.BA was orally administered at the doses of 1, 2 or 4 mg/kg/day or applied topically every day for 12 weeks following DMBA application. The in vitro data from cell lines revealed that BA induces cytotoxicity against the SCC-13 cells (IC₅₀=7.5 µM). It was found 4.05 times more selective to exert cytotoxicity against SCC-13 as compared to the PBMC (IC₅₀=30.4 µM). The in vivo datacollected from mice model of DMBA/Croton oil-induced skin carcinogenesis revealed that BA administered orally or applied topically, both reduced the precancerous skin lesions andthe incidence of tumor bearing. The oral doses of BA (2 and 4 mg/kg) and topical treatment significantly reduced the incidence and number of skin papillomas. At these doses, BA also increased the activities of catalase and superoxide dismutase and induced an increase in glutathionecontent and inhibited lipid peroxidation in the skin. These findings reveal the chemopreventive efficacy of BA and also demonstrate that it contributes to the cytotoxic and antioxidative effects of Barringtonia racemosa fruits. The study also validates the traditional claims of Barringtonia fruits and provides a scientific basis of its chemopreventive property.

Evaluation of chemopreventive potentials of ethanolic extract of Ruta graveolens against A375 skin melanoma cells in vitro and induced skin cancer in mice in vivo

OBJECTIVE

Chemopreventive approach with natural products, particularly plants and plant-derived ones, is receiving increasing attention for their effective role against cancer without any palpable side effects. In this study, efficacy of ethanolic extract of Ruta graveolens (RG) on skin melanoma cells (A375) in vitro and on 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)-induced skin cancer in vivo has been tested in Swiss albino mice.

METHODS

Studies on cell viability, apoptosis and autophagy induction were conducted in vitro. To check apoptosis, assays like alteration in mitochondrial membrane potential, annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide assay and immunoblot were performed. Fluorescence microscopic and immunoblot assays were performed to confirm autophagy induction. The effects of RG were determined by evaluating body weight, tumor incidence, tumor volume and tumor burden in mice. Enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant status was assessed. The role of some relevant signaling proteins was also analyzed.

RESULTS

RG caused death of A375 cells through induction of caspase 3-mediated apoptosis and Beclin-1-associated autophagy. Moreover, RG administration (75 mg/kg body weight) which showed no acute or chronic toxicity, showed significant reduction in the skin tumor burden of DMBA-painted mice. RG also demonstrated potent anti-lipid peroxidative and antioxidant functions during the course of skin cancer induction by DMBA.

CONCLUSION

Chemopreventive potential of RG was demonstrated from overall results of this study, indicating its possible use in therapeutic formulation of an effective drug to treat skin cancer.

Quercetin attenuates the development of 7, 12-dimethyl benz (a) anthracene (DMBA) and croton oil-induced skin cancer in mice

To evaluate the chemopreventive potential of quercetin in an experimental skin carcinogenesis mouse model. Skin tumor was induced by topical application of 7, 12-dimethyl Benz (a) anthracene (DMBA) and Croton oil in Swiss albino mouse. Quercetin was orally administered at a concentration of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg body weight daily for 16 weeks in mouse to evaluate chemopreventive potential. Skin cancer was assessed by histopathological analysis. We found that quercetin reduced the tumor size and the cumulative number of papillomas. The mean latent period was significantly increased as compared to carcinogen treated controls. Quercetin significantly decreased the serum levels of glutamate oxalate transaminase, glutamate pyruvate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin. It significantly increased the levels of glutathione, superoxide dismutase and catalase. The elevated level of lipid peroxides in the control group was significantly inhibited by quercetin. Futhermore, DNA damage was significantly decreased in quercetin treated mice as compared to DMBA and croton oil treated mice. The results suggest that quercetin exerts chemopreventive effect on DMBA and croton oil induced skin cancer in mice by increasing antioxidant activities.

Long-Term Treatment with Aqueous Garlic and/or Tomato Suspensions Decreases Ehrlich Ascites Tumors

We evaluated the preventive and therapeutic effects of aqueous suspensions of garlic, tomato, and garlic + tomato in the development of experimental Ehrlich tumors in mice. The aqueous suspensions (2%) were administered over a short term for 30 days before tumor inoculation and 12 days afterward, and suspensions at 6% were administered for 180 days before inoculation and for 12 days afterward. The volume, number, and characteristics of the tumor cells and AgNOR counts were determined to compare the different treatments. Aqueous 6% suspensions of garlic, tomato, and garlic + tomato given over the long term significantly reduced tumor growth but when given over the short term, they did not alter tumor growth.

Plants used to treat skin diseases

Skin diseases are numerous and a frequently occurring health problem affecting all ages from the neonates to the elderly and cause harm in number of ways. Maintaining healthy skin is important for a healthy body. Many people may develop skin diseases that affect the skin, including cancer, herpes and cellulitis. Some wild plants and their parts are frequently used to treat these diseases. The use of plants is as old as the mankind. Natural treatment is cheap and claimed to be safe. It is also suitable raw material for production of new synthetic agents. A review of some plants for the treatment of skin diseases is provided that summarizes the recent technical advancements that have taken place in this area during the past 17 years.

Allitridin reduces I Kr current by disrupting the trafficking of human ether-à-go-go-related gene channels

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effects of allitridin on human ether-à-go-go-related gene (hERG) channels.

METHODS

We used whole-cell patch clamping and laser confocal scanning microscopy to evaluate the effects of allitridin on hERG currents and the membrane expression of the hERG protein expressed in HEK 293 cells.

RESULTS

The amplitude of IKr showed a concentration-dependent decrease with increasing allitridin concentration. Additionally, alterations in the gating properties of hERG channels were also confirmed. Allitridin does not alter the voltage- and time-dependent activation of hERG channels, the gating properties of hERG channel inactivation over time or the recovery from inactivation, but allitridin does cause alterations in the steady-state inactivation and the deactivation of hERG channels. We further evaluated the influence of allitridin on membrane expression of the hERG protein. Images of allitridin-treated cells showed a reduction in hERG protein on the membrane and retention in the cytoplasm.

CONCLUSIONS

To the best of our knowledge this is the first study to show that allitridin reduces the IKr current by impairing the trafficking of hERG channels. The results may demonstrate that allitridin could be a promising candidate for the prevention and treatment of arrhythmia-related diseases.

Extraction optimization of Tinospora cordifolia and assessment of the anticancer activity of its alkaloid palmatine

OBJECTIVE

To optimize the conditions for the extraction of alkaloid palmatine from Tinospora cordifolia by using response surface methodology (RSM) and study its anticancerous property against 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) induced skin carcinogenesis in Swiss albino mice.

METHODS

The effect of three independent variables, namely, extraction temperature, time, and cycles was investigated by using central composite design. A single topical application of DMBA (100 μg/100 μL of acetone), followed 2 weeks later by repeated application of croton oil (1% in acetone three times a week) for 16 weeks, exhibited 100 percent tumor incidence (Group 2).

RESULTS

The highest yield of alkaloid from Tinospora cordifolia could be achieved at 16 hours of extraction time under 40°C with 4 extraction cycles. Alkaloid administration significantly decreases tumor size, number, and the activity of serum enzyme when compared with the control (Group 2). In addition, depleted levels of reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase and increased DNA damage were restored in palmatine treated groups.

CONCLUSION

The data of the present study clearly indicate the anticancer potential of palmatine alkaloid in DMBA induced skin cancer model in mice.

Molecular mechanisms of garlic-derived allyl sulfides in the inhibition of skin cancer progression

Skin cancer is a serious concern whose incidence is increasing at an alarming rate. Allyl sulfides—i.e., sulfur metabolites in garlic oil—have been demonstrated to have anticancer activity against several cancer types, although the mechanisms underlying these effects remain enigmatic. Our previous study showed that diallyl trisulfide (DATS) is more potent than mono- and disulfides against skin cancer. DATS inhibits cell growth of human melanoma A375 cells and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) cells by increasing the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and DNA damage and by inducing G2/M arrest, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and mitochondria-mediated apoptosis, including the caspase-dependent and -independent pathways. This short review focuses on the molecular mechanisms of garlic-derived allyl sulfides on skin cancer prevention.

Physical stability, antioxidative properties, and photoprotective effects of a functionalized formulation containing black garlic extract

When garlic is fermented, certain aspects of its bioactivity are changed. Black garlic is a type of fermented garlic used as a food ingredient in Asian cuisine. Black garlic's popularity has spread around the world as it has become a sought-after ingredient used in high-end cuisine. The formulations containing 10% black garlic extract or 10% normal garlic extract showed stable pH, color, precipitation, and organoleptic features, although these characteristics changed slightly. The 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging activities of the black garlic formulation were significantly (p<0.05) higher compared to those of the base formulation and normal garlic formulation. Mice treated with the black garlic formulation (119.63 μM/g) had significant (p<0.05) decreases in thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) levels by lipid peroxidation compared to ultraviolet B (UVB)-control mice (142.37 μM/g). Moreover, significant (p<0.05) prevention of glutathione reduced form (GSH) depletion was observed in the black garlic formulation treated mice (vehicle: 3.46 mM/g vs. black garlic: 5.60mM/g). The formulation containing 10% black garlic extract retained physical stability and had high anti-radical efficiencies. Furthermore, it is possible to suggest that this formulation may be effective in protecting skin from UVB photodamage.

Antioxidative effects of the spice cardamom against non-melanoma skin cancer by modulating nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 and NF-κB signalling pathways

The role of dietary factors in inhibiting or delaying the development of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) has been investigated for many years. Cardamom, which is a dietary phytoproduct, has been commonly used in cuisines for flavour and has numerous health benefits, such as improving digestion and stimulating metabolism and having antitumorigenic effects. We have investigated the efficacy of dietary cardamom against 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-induced skin papillomatogenesis in Swiss albino mice that closely resembles human NMSC. Mice were grouped into normal wild type (untreated), vehicle-treated (acetone), carcinogen-treated (DMBA), and DMBA and cardamom-treated (DMBA+CARD) to delineate the role of cardamom against DMBA-induced papillomatogenesis. Oral administration of cardamom to DMBA-treated mice up-regulated the phase II detoxification enzymes, such as glutathione-S-transferase and glutathione peroxidase, probably via activation of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 transcription factor in 'DMBA+CARD' mice. Furthermore, reduced glutathione, glutathione reductase, superoxide dismutase and catalase were also up-regulated by cardamom in the same 'DMBA+CARD' group of mice compared with DMBA-treated mice. Cardamom ingestion in DMBA-treated mice blocked NF-κB activation and down-regulated cyclo-oxygenase-2 expression. As a consequence, both the size and the number of skin papillomas generated on the skin due to the DMBA treatment were reduced in the 'DMBA+CARD' group. Thus, the results from the present study suggest that cardamom has a potential to become a pivotal chemopreventive agent to prevent papillomagenesis on the skin.

Efficacy of allicin in decreasing lead (Pb) accumulation in selected tissues of lead-exposed common carp (Cyprinus carpio)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of allicin, the main biologically active component of garlic clove extracts, on lead levels in different common carp tissues including liver, kidney, brain, bone, and blood following experimental lead poisoning. Fish were divided randomly into five groups depending on the combination of lead acetate and allicin treatments. Lead acetate exposure (7.0 mgL(-1), 10 days) caused a significant increase in mean Pb concentrations in all examined tissues in comparison to control unexposed fish (p < 0. 001). The results showed that allicin supplementation is effective in decreasing lead accumulation in all examined tissues of common carp. The promising ameliorative effects of allicin on tissue lead levels of common carp make it a good candidate for therapeutic intervention of lead poisoning. However, more studies are required to elucidate the pharmacokinetic effects of allicin and also molecular basis of the ameliorative properties of allicin in lead poisoning.

Enhancement of cyclophosphamide-induced antitumor effect by a novel polysaccharide from Ganoderma atrum in sarcoma 180-bearing mice

The aim of this study was to investigate the enhancement of Ganoderma atrum polysaccharide (PSG-1) on cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced antitumor effect in sarcoma 180 (S-180)-bearing mice. Results showed that both CTX and PSG-1 delayed tumor growth and resulted in tumor apoptosis. The combined regimen was superior to either modality alone. Moreover, the combined treatment-induced apoptosis was mediated via mitochondrial pathway, as evidenced by alterations of Bcl-2 family proteins, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψ(m)), cytochrome c release, and caspases activation. Our results also showed that thymus and spleen indexes, lymphocytes proliferation, and concentrations of cytokine in the CTX group were decreased, which were alleviated by PSG-1. Additionally, the combined treatment ameliorated oxidative stress as compared with CTX alone. Taken together, we conclude that PSG-1 improved the antitumor effect of CTX, possibly in part mediated by enhancing the induction of apoptosis via mitochondrial pathways, activating host immune function, and modifying the redox system in S-180-bearing mice.

Structure and function relationship study of allium organosulfur compounds on upregulating the pi class of glutathione S-transferase expression

Allium organosulfides are potential chemopreventive compounds due to their effectiveness on the induction of phase II detoxification enzyme expression. In this study, we examined the structure and function relationship among various alk(en)yl sulfides on the expression of the pi class of glutathione S-transferase (GSTP) in rat Clone 9 cells, and what mechanism is involved. Cells were treated with 300 μM dipropyl sulfide (DPS), dipropyl disulfide (DPDS), propyl methyl sulfide (PMS), and propyl methyl disulfide (PMDS) for 48 h. DPDS and PMDS displayed more potency on GSTP protein and mRNA induction than that of DPS and PMS. Next, we compared the effectiveness of DPDS, PMDS, and diallyl disulfide (DADS), which have the same number of sulfur atoms but differ in the side alk(en)yl groups. The maximum increases on protein expression, mRNA level, and enzyme activity were noted in cells treated with DADS, followed by DPDS and PMDS. A reporter assay showed that three disulfides increased GSTP enhancer I (GPE I) activity (P < 0.05) in the order DADS > DPDS ≥ PMDS. Electromobility gel shift assays showed that the DNA binding of GPE I to nuclear proteins reached a maximum at 1 to 3 h after alk(en)yl disulfide treatment. Supershift assay revealed that c-jun bound to GPE I. Silencing of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 2 expression inhibited c-jun activation and GSTP induction. Results suggest that both the type of alk(en)yl groups and number of sulfur atoms are determining factors of allium organosulfides on inducing GSTP expression, and it is likely related to the ERK-c-Jun-GPE I pathway.

Redox regulation in cancer: a double-edged sword with therapeutic potential

Oxidative stress, implicated in the etiology of cancer, results from an imbalance in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cell’s own antioxidant defenses. ROS deregulate the redox homeostasis and promote tumor formation by initiating an aberrant induction of signaling networks that cause tumorigenesis. Ultraviolet (UV) exposures, γ-radiation and other environmental carcinogens generate ROS in the cells, which can exert apoptosis in the tumors, thereby killing the malignant cells or induce the progression of the cancer growth by blocking cellular defense system. Cancer stem cells take the advantage of the aberrant redox system and spontaneously proliferate. Oxidative stress and gene-environment interactions play a significant role in the development of breast, prostate, pancreatic and colon cancer. Prolonged lifetime exposure to estrogen is associated with several kinds of DNA damage. Oxidative stress and estrogen receptor-associated proliferative changes are suggested to play important roles in estrogen-induced breast carcinogenesis. BRCA1, a tumor suppressor against hormone responsive cancers such as breast and prostate cancer, plays a significant role in inhibiting ROS and estrogen mediated DNA damage; thereby regulate the redox homeostasis of the cells. Several transcription factors and tumor suppressors are involved during stress response such as Nrf2, NFκB and BRCA1. A promising strategy for targeting redox status of the cells is to use readily available natural substances from vegetables, fruits, herbs and spices. Many of the phytochemicals have already been identified to have chemopreventive potential, capable of intervening in carcinogenesis.

Saffron suppresses oxidative stress in DMBA-induced skin carcinoma: A histopathological study

Cancer chemoprevention is the use of natural, synthetic or biological substances to reverse or prevent the development of cancer. Saffron is a naturally derived plant product that acts as an antispasmodic, diaphoretic, carminative, emmenagogic and sedative. Our aim in this study was to investigate the chemopreventive effect of aqueous saffron on chemically induced skin carcinogenesis using a histopathological approach. Mice were divided into five groups: carcinogen control (CC), normal control (NC) and saffron-treated Groups A, B and C. Groups A, B, C and CC mice received three topical applications of 7,12 dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) followed by croton oil on shaven dorsal skin for 8 weeks. NC mice received topical skin applications of the vehicle, acetone, only. Saffron infusion was fed orally to three groups of mice either before (Group A) or after (Group C) or both before and after (Group B) DMBA applications. The activities of antioxidant enzymes glutathione-S transferase (GST), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in liver tissue samples taken at 0, 6, 10 and 12 weeks from all groups were assessed. Standard histological examination of skin demonstrated a beneficial action of saffron in mice where saffron treatments were given both before and after the induction of skin carcinogenesis. Saffron ingestion inhibited the formation of skin papillomas in animals and simultaneously reduced their size. In conclusion, saffron inhibits DMBA-induced skin carcinoma in mice when treated early. This may be due, at least in part, to the induction of cellular defense systems.