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Marks MP, Giménez CA, Isaja L, Vera MB, Borzone FR, Pereyra-Bonnet F, Romorini L, Videla-Richardson GA, Chasseing NA, Calvo JC, Vellón L. Role of hydroxymethylglutharyl-coenzyme A reductase in the induction of stem-like states in breast cancer. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2024; 150:106. [PMID: 38418798 PMCID: PMC10902018 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-024-05607-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE De novo synthesis of cholesterol and its rate-limiting enzyme, 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutharyl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR), is deregulated in tumors and critical for tumor cell survival and proliferation. However, the role of HMGCR in the induction and maintenance of stem-like states in tumors remains unclear. METHODS A compiled public database from breast cancer (BC) patients was analyzed with the web application SurvExpress. Cell Miner was used for the analysis of HMGCR expression and statin sensitivity of the NCI-60 cell lines panel. A CRISPRon system was used to induce HMGCR overexpression in the luminal BC cell line MCF-7 and a lentiviral pLM-OSKM system for the reprogramming of MCF-7 cells. Comparisons were performed by two-tailed unpaired t-test for two groups and one- or two-way ANOVA. RESULTS Data from BC patients showed that high expression of several members of the cholesterol synthesis pathway were associated with lower recurrence-free survival, particularly in hormone-receptor-positive BC. In silico and in vitro analysis showed that HMGCR is expressed in several BC cancer cell lines, which exhibit a subtype-dependent response to statins in silico and in vitro. A stem-like phenotype was demonstrated upon HMGCR expression in MCF-7 cells, characterized by expression of the pluripotency markers NANOG, SOX2, increased CD44 +/CD24low/ -, CD133 + populations, and increased mammosphere formation ability. Pluripotent and cancer stem cell lines showed high expression of HMGCR, whereas cell reprogramming of MCF-7 cells did not increase HMGCR expression. CONCLUSION HMGCR induces a stem-like phenotype in BC cells of epithelial nature, thus affecting tumor initiation, progression and statin sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Paula Marks
- Laboratorio de Células Madre/Stem Cells Lab (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, CP 1428, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carla Alejandra Giménez
- Instituto de Ciencias Básicas y Medicina Experimental, Instituto Universitario del Hospital Italiano, Potosí 4265, C1199ACL, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CASPR Biotech, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CASPR Biotech, San Francisco, USA
| | - Luciana Isaja
- Laboratorio de Investigación Aplicada a Las Neurociencias (LIAN), Fundación Para La Lucha Contra Las Enfermedades Neurológicas de La Infancia (FLENI), Ruta 9, Km 53, B1625, Buenos Aires, Escobar, Argentina
| | - Mariana Belén Vera
- Laboratorio de Investigación Aplicada a Las Neurociencias (LIAN), Fundación Para La Lucha Contra Las Enfermedades Neurológicas de La Infancia (FLENI), Ruta 9, Km 53, B1625, Buenos Aires, Escobar, Argentina
| | - Francisco Raúl Borzone
- Laboratorio de Células Madre/Stem Cells Lab (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, CP 1428, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Federico Pereyra-Bonnet
- Instituto de Ciencias Básicas y Medicina Experimental, Instituto Universitario del Hospital Italiano, Potosí 4265, C1199ACL, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CASPR Biotech, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CASPR Biotech, San Francisco, USA
| | - Leonardo Romorini
- Laboratorio de Investigación Aplicada a Las Neurociencias (LIAN), Fundación Para La Lucha Contra Las Enfermedades Neurológicas de La Infancia (FLENI), Ruta 9, Km 53, B1625, Buenos Aires, Escobar, Argentina
| | - Guillermo Agustín Videla-Richardson
- Laboratorio de Investigación Aplicada a Las Neurociencias (LIAN), Fundación Para La Lucha Contra Las Enfermedades Neurológicas de La Infancia (FLENI), Ruta 9, Km 53, B1625, Buenos Aires, Escobar, Argentina
| | - Norma Alejandra Chasseing
- Laboratorio de Células Madre/Stem Cells Lab (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, CP 1428, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, CP 1428, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan Carlos Calvo
- Laboratorio de Células Madre/Stem Cells Lab (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, CP 1428, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Luciano Vellón
- Laboratorio de Células Madre/Stem Cells Lab (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, CP 1428, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Juárez-Mercado KE, Gómez-Hernández MA, Salinas-Trujano J, Córdova-Bahena L, Espitia C, Pérez-Tapia SM, Medina-Franco JL, Velasco-Velázquez MA. Identification of SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease Inhibitors Using Chemical Similarity Analysis Combined with Machine Learning. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:240. [PMID: 38399455 PMCID: PMC10892746 DOI: 10.3390/ph17020240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease (Mpro) is an enzyme that cleaves viral polyproteins translated from the viral genome, which is critical for viral replication. Mpro is a target for anti-SARS-CoV-2 drug development. Herein, we performed a large-scale virtual screening by comparing multiple structural descriptors of reference molecules with reported anti-coronavirus activity against a library with >17 million compounds. Further filtering, performed by applying two machine learning algorithms, identified eighteen computational hits as anti-SARS-CoV-2 compounds with high structural diversity and drug-like properties. The activities of twelve compounds on Mpro's enzymatic activity were evaluated by fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) assays. Compound 13 (ZINC13878776) significantly inhibited SARS-CoV-2 Mpro activity and was employed as a reference for an experimentally hit expansion. The structural analogues 13a (ZINC4248385), 13b (ZNC13523222), and 13c (ZINC4248365) were tested as Mpro inhibitors, reducing the enzymatic activity of recombinant Mpro with potency as follows: 13c > 13 > 13b > 13a. Then, their anti-SARS-CoV-2 activities were evaluated in plaque reduction assays using Vero CCL81 cells. Subtoxic concentrations of compounds 13a, 13c, and 13b displayed in vitro antiviral activity with IC50 in the mid micromolar range. Compounds 13a-c could become lead compounds for the development of new Mpro inhibitors with improved activity against anti-SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Milton Abraham Gómez-Hernández
- School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
| | - Juana Salinas-Trujano
- Research and Development in Biotherapeutics Unit (UDIBI), National School of Biological Sciences, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 11350, Mexico
- National Laboratory for Specialized Services of Investigation, Development and Innovation (I+D+i) for Pharma Chemicals and Biotechnological Products, LANSEIDI-FarBiotech-CONACHyT, Mexico City 11350, Mexico
| | - Luis Córdova-Bahena
- School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
- National Council of Humanities, Science and Technology (CONAHCYT), Mexico City 03940, Mexico
| | - Clara Espitia
- Immunology Department, Institute for Biomedical Research, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
| | - Sonia Mayra Pérez-Tapia
- Research and Development in Biotherapeutics Unit (UDIBI), National School of Biological Sciences, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 11350, Mexico
- National Laboratory for Specialized Services of Investigation, Development and Innovation (I+D+i) for Pharma Chemicals and Biotechnological Products, LANSEIDI-FarBiotech-CONACHyT, Mexico City 11350, Mexico
- Immunology Department, National School of Biological Sciences, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 11350, Mexico
| | - José L. Medina-Franco
- DIFACQUIM Research Group, School of Chemistry, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
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Qiao Y, Shen L, Zhang Y, Zhou M, Sun Z. Boldine promotes stemness of human urine-derived stem cells by activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Mol Cell Biochem 2024; 479:243-254. [PMID: 37036633 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-023-04721-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
Human urine-derived stem cells (hUSCs) process self-renewal and multilineage differentiation ability. Due to their non-invasive and easily available clinical source, hUSCs represent a promising alternative source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for application potential in cytotherapy. However, technical limitations, such as stemness property maintenance, have hindered hUSCs' clinical application. Certain some small molecules have been recognized with advantage in maintaining the stemness of stem cells. In this study, we identified stemness-regulated key targets of hUSCs based on the StemCellNet database, CMAP database and literature mining. Furthermore, we identified a small molecule compound, boldine, which may have the potential to promote the stemness of hUSCs. It promotes cell proliferation, multilineage differentiation and maintains stemness of hUSCs by cell viability assay, single-cell clone formation, osteogenic differentiation and stemness marker expression (OCT-4 and C-MYC). We identified that boldine may be a potential GSK-3β inhibitor by molecular docking and confirmed that it can upregulate the level of β-catenin and promote translocation of β-catenin into nucleus of hUSCs using Western blotting and immunofluorescence analysis. Our study indicates boldine activates the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in hUSCs and provides an effective strategy for MSCs research and application of small molecules in maintaining the stemness of hUSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinggu Qiao
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, China
| | - Liangliang Shen
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, China
| | - Yixue Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, China
| | - Ming Zhou
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, China
| | - Zhenxiao Sun
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, China.
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4
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Juarez D, Buono R, Matulis SM, Gupta VA, Duong M, Yudiono J, Paul M, Mallya S, Diep G, Hsin P, Lu A, Suh SM, Dong VM, Roberts AW, Leverson JD, Jalaluddin M, Liu Z, Bueno OF, Boise LH, Fruman DA. Statin-induced Mitochondrial Priming Sensitizes Multiple Myeloma Cells to BCL2 and MCL-1 Inhibitors. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2023; 3:2497-2509. [PMID: 37956312 PMCID: PMC10704957 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-23-0350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
The BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax promotes apoptosis in blood cancer cells and is approved for treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia and acute myeloid leukemia. However, multiple myeloma cells are frequently more dependent on MCL-1 for survival, conferring resistance to venetoclax. Here we report that mevalonate pathway inhibition with statins can overcome resistance to venetoclax in multiple myeloma cell lines and primary cells. In addition, statins sensitize to apoptosis induced by MCL-1 inhibitor, S63845. In retrospective analysis of venetoclax clinical studies in multiple myeloma, background statin use was associated with a significantly enhanced rate of stringent complete response and absence of progressive disease. Statins sensitize multiple myeloma cells to venetoclax by upregulating two proapoptotic proteins: PUMA via a p53-independent mechanism and NOXA via the integrated stress response. These findings provide rationale for prospective testing of statins with venetoclax regimens in multiple myeloma. SIGNIFICANCE BH3 mimetics including venetoclax hold promise for treatment of multiple myeloma but rational combinations are needed to broaden efficacy. This study presents mechanistic and clinical data to support addition of pitavastatin to venetoclax regimens in myeloma. The results open a new avenue for repurposing statins in blood cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Juarez
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Roberta Buono
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Shannon M. Matulis
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology and the Winship Cancer Institute at Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Vikas A. Gupta
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology and the Winship Cancer Institute at Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Madeleine Duong
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Jacob Yudiono
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Madhuri Paul
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Sharmila Mallya
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Grace Diep
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Peter Hsin
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Alexander Lu
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Sang Mi Suh
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Vy M. Dong
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Lawrence H. Boise
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology and the Winship Cancer Institute at Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - David A. Fruman
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, California
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5
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Doustmihan A, Fathi M, Mazloomi M, Salemi A, Hamblin MR, Jahanban-Esfahlan R. Molecular targets, therapeutic agents and multitasking nanoparticles to deal with cancer stem cells: A narrative review. J Control Release 2023; 363:57-83. [PMID: 37739017 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
There is increasing evidence that malignant tumors are initiated and maintained by a sub-population of tumor cells that have similar biological properties to normal adult stem cells. This very small population of Cancer Stem Cells (CSC) comprises tumor initiating cells responsible for cancer recurrence, drug resistance and metastasis. Conventional treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery, in addition to being potentially toxic and non-specific, may paradoxically increase the population, spread and survival of CSCs. Next-generation sequencing and omics technologies are increasing our understanding of the pathways and factors involved in the development of CSCs, and can help to discover new therapeutic targets against CSCs. In addition, recent advances in nanomedicine have provided hope for the development of optimal specific therapies to eradicate CSCs. Moreover, the use of artificial intelligence and nano-informatics can elucidate new drug targets, and help to design drugs and nanoparticles (NPs) to deal with CSCs. In this review, we first summarize the properties of CSCs and describe the signaling pathways and molecular characteristics responsible for the emergence and survival of CSCs. Also, the location of CSCs within the tumor and the effect of host factors on the creation and maintenance of CSCs are discussed. Newly discovered molecular targets involved in cancer stemness and some novel therapeutic compounds to combat CSCs are highlighted. The optimum properties of anti-CSC NPs, including blood circulation and stability, tumor accumulation and penetration, cellular internalization, drug release, endosomal escape, and aptamers designed for specific targeting of CSCs are covered. Finally, some recent smart NPs designed for therapeutic and theranostic purposes to overcome CSCs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abolfazl Doustmihan
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Fathi
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - MirAhmad Mazloomi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Aysan Salemi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Michael R Hamblin
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein, 2028, South Africa.
| | - Rana Jahanban-Esfahlan
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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6
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Zhou H, Liu H, Yu Y, Yuan X, Xiao L. Informatics on Drug Repurposing for Breast Cancer. Drug Des Devel Ther 2023; 17:1933-1943. [PMID: 37405253 PMCID: PMC10315146 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s417563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Moving a new drug from bench to bedside is a long and arduous process. The tactic of drug repurposing, which solves "new" diseases with "old" existing drugs, is more efficient and economical than conventional ab-initio way for drug development. Information technology has dramatically changed the paradigm of biomedical research in the new century, and drug repurposing studies have been significantly accelerated by implementing informatics techniques related to genomics, systems biology and biophysics during the past few years. A series of remarkable achievements in this field comes with the practical applications of in silico approaches including transcriptomic signature matching, gene-connection-based scanning, and simulated structure docking in repositioning drug therapies against breast cancer. In this review, we systematically curated these impressive accomplishments with summarization of the main findings on potentially repurposable drugs, and provide our insights into the current issues as well as future directions of the field. With the prospective improvement in reliability, the computer-assisted repurposing strategy will play a more critical role in drug research and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhou
- Department of Lymphoma and Hematology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Lymphoma and Hematology, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongdou Liu
- Department of Laboratory Diagnosis, Changsha Kingmed Center for Clinical Laboratory, Changsha, Hunan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan Yu
- Department of Laboratory Diagnosis, Changsha Kingmed Center for Clinical Laboratory, Changsha, Hunan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiao Yuan
- Department of Laboratory Diagnosis, Changsha Kingmed Center for Clinical Laboratory, Changsha, Hunan, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Laboratory Diagnosis, Guangzhou Kingmed Center for Clinical Laboratory, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ling Xiao
- Department of Histology and Embryology of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People’s Republic of China
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Guo C, Zhang L, Zhao M, Ai Y, Liao W, Wan L, Liu Q, Li S, Zeng J, Ma X, Tang J. Targeting lipid metabolism with natural products: A novel strategy for gastrointestinal cancer therapy. Phytother Res 2023; 37:2036-2050. [PMID: 36748953 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal cancer (GIC), including gastric cancer and colorectal cancer, is a common malignant tumor originating from gastrointestinal epithelial cells. Although the pathogenesis of GIC remains unclear, aberrant lipid metabolism has emerged as a hallmark of cancer. Several enzymes, proteins, and transcription factors are involved in lipid metabolism reprogramming in GIC, and their abnormal expression can promote lipid synthesis and accumulation of lipid droplets through numerous mechanisms, thereby affecting the growth, proliferation, and metastasis of GIC cells. Studies show that some natural compounds, including flavonoids, alkaloids, and saponins, can inhibit the de novo synthesis of lipids in GIC, reduce the level of lipid accumulation, and subsequently, inhibit the occurrence and development of GIC by regulating Sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP-1), adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR), phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/Akt and the mammalian target of rapamycin PI3K/Akt/mTOR, amongst other targets and pathways. Therefore, targeting tumor lipid metabolism is the focus of anti-gastrointestinal tumor therapy. Although most natural products require further high-quality studies to firmly establish their clinical efficacy, we review the potential of natural products in the treatment of GIC and summarize the application prospect of lipid metabolism as a new target for the treatment of GIC, hoping to provide a reference for drug development for gastrointestinal tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cui Guo
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Lanlan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory Basis of Xinjiang Indigenous Medicinal Plants Resource Utilization, Key Laboratory of Plant Resources and Chemistry in Arid Regions, Xinjiang Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Maoyuan Zhao
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yanling Ai
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenhao Liao
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Lina Wan
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Qingsong Liu
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Songtao Li
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jinhao Zeng
- Department of geriatrics, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China.,TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiao Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jianyuan Tang
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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Araújo D, Ribeiro E, Amorim I, Vale N. Repurposed Drugs in Gastric Cancer. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 28:molecules28010319. [PMID: 36615513 PMCID: PMC9822219 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28010319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the major causes of death worldwide, ranking as the fifth most incident cancer in 2020 and the fourth leading cause of cancer mortality. The majority of GC patients are in an advanced stage at the time of diagnosis, presenting a poor prognosis and outcome. Current GC treatment approaches involve endoscopic detection, gastrectomy and chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy in an adjuvant or neoadjuvant setting. Drug development approaches demand extreme effort to identify molecular mechanisms of action of new drug candidates. Drug repurposing is based on the research of new therapeutic indications of drugs approved for other pathologies. In this review, we explore GC and the different drugs repurposed for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Araújo
- OncoPharma Research Group, Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Rua Doutor Plácido da Costa, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto (UP), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Health (i3S), Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho, 45, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Eduarda Ribeiro
- OncoPharma Research Group, Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Rua Doutor Plácido da Costa, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto (UP), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Irina Amorim
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto (UP), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Health (i3S), Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho, 45, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno Vale
- OncoPharma Research Group, Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Rua Doutor Plácido da Costa, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
- CINTESIS@RISE, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Professor Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Community Medicine, Health Information and Decision (MEDCIDS), Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Rua Doutor Plácido da Costa, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-220426537
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9
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Koudijs KKM, Böhringer S, Guchelaar HJ. Validation of transcriptome signature reversion for drug repurposing in oncology. Brief Bioinform 2022; 24:6850563. [PMID: 36445193 PMCID: PMC9851289 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbac490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcriptome signature reversion (TSR) has been extensively proposed and used to discover new indications for existing drugs (i.e. drug repositioning, drug repurposing) for various cancer types. TSR relies on the assumption that a drug that can revert gene expression changes induced by a disease back to original, i.e. healthy, levels is likely to be therapeutically active in treating the disease. Here, we aimed to validate the concept of TSR using the PRISM repurposing data set, which is-as of writing-the largest pharmacogenomic data set. The predictive utility of the TSR approach as it has currently been used appears to be much lower than previously reported and is completely nullified after the drug gene expression signatures are adjusted for the general anti-proliferative downstream effects of drug-induced decreased cell viability. Therefore, TSR mainly relies on generic anti-proliferative drug effects rather than on targeting cancer pathways specifically upregulated in tumor types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karel K M Koudijs
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Toxicology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC); 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Stefan Böhringer
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Toxicology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC); 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands,Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC); 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Henk-Jan Guchelaar
- Corresponding author: Henk-Jan Guchelaar, Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Toxicology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands. Tel.: +31-71-526-4018; Fax: +31-71-526-6980; E-mail:
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10
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Wang SY, Hu QC, Wu T, Xia J, Tao XA, Cheng B. Abnormal lipid synthesis as a therapeutic target for cancer stem cells. World J Stem Cells 2022; 14:146-162. [PMID: 35432735 PMCID: PMC8963380 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v14.i2.146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) comprise a subpopulation of cancer cells with stem cell properties, which exhibit the characteristics of high tumorigenicity, self-renewal, and tumor initiation and are associated with the occurrence, metastasis, therapy resistance, and relapse of cancer. Compared with differentiated cells, CSCs have unique metabolic characteristics, and metabolic reprogramming contributes to the self-renewal and maintenance of stem cells. It has been reported that CSCs are highly dependent on lipid metabolism to maintain stemness and satisfy the requirements of biosynthesis and energy metabolism. In this review, we demonstrate that lipid anabolism alterations promote the survival of CSCs, including de novo lipogenesis, lipid desaturation, and cholesterol synthesis. In addition, we also emphasize the molecular mechanism underlying the relationship between lipid synthesis and stem cell survival, the signal trans-duction pathways involved, and the application prospect of lipid synthesis reprogramming in CSC therapy. It is demonstrated that the dependence on lipid synthesis makes targeting of lipid synthesis metabolism a promising therapeutic strategy for eliminating CSCs. Targeting key molecules in lipid synthesis will play an important role in anti-CSC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Yu Wang
- Department of Oral Medicine, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Qin-Chao Hu
- Department of Oral Medicine, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Tong Wu
- Department of Oral Medicine, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Juan Xia
- Department of Oral Medicine, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiao-An Tao
- Department of Oral Medicine, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Bin Cheng
- Department of Oral Medicine, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
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11
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Gastric cancer cell death analyzed by live cell imaging of spheroids. Sci Rep 2022; 12:1488. [PMID: 35087119 PMCID: PMC8795446 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-05426-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is the third cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide and is often diagnosed at advanced stages of the disease. This makes the development of more comprehensive models and efficient treatments crucial. One option is based on repurposing already marketed drugs as adjuvants to chemotherapy. Accordingly, we have previously developed the combination of docetaxel and the cholesterol-lowering drug, lovastatin, as a powerful trigger of HGT-1 human GC cells' apoptosis using 2D cultures. Because 3D models, known as spheroids, are getting recognized as possibly better suited than 2Ds in toxicological research, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of this drug combination with such a model. We established monocellular spheroids from two human (GC) cell lines, HGT-1 and AGS, and bicellular spheroids from these cells mixed with cancer-associated fibroblasts. With these, we surveyed drug-induced cytotoxicity with MTT assays. In addition, we used the Incucyte live imaging and analysis system to follow spheroid growth and apoptosis. Taken together, our results showed that the lovastatin + docetaxel combination was an efficient strategy to eliminate GC cells grown in 2D or 3D cultures, lending further support in favor of repurposing lovastatin as an adjuvant to taxane-based anticancer treatment.
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12
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Comprehensive Analysis of Differential Gene Expression Profile via RNA Sequencing in the Human Ovarian Cancer SKOV3 Cells Treated with Simvastatin. Chem Res Chin Univ 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40242-022-1325-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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13
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Hu J, Zhang L, Chen W, Shen L, Jiang J, Sun S, Chen Z. Role of Intra- and Extracellular Lipid Signals in Cancer Stemness and Potential Therapeutic Strategy. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:730751. [PMID: 34603046 PMCID: PMC8479196 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.730751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence showed that cancer stem cells (CSCs) play significant roles in cancer initiation, resistance to therapy, recurrence and metastasis. Cancer stem cells possess the ability of self-renewal and can initiate tumor growth and avoid lethal factors through flexible metabolic reprogramming. Abnormal lipid metabolism has been reported to be involved in the cancer stemness and promote the development of cancer. Lipid metabolism includes lipid uptake, lipolysis, fatty acid oxidation, de novo lipogenesis, and lipid desaturation. Abnormal lipid metabolism leads to ferroptosis of CSCs. In this review, we comprehensively summarized the role of intra- and extracellular lipid signals in cancer stemness, and explored the feasibility of using lipid metabolism-related treatment strategies for future cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianming Hu
- Department of Breast Surgery (Surgical Oncology), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immune Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Leyi Zhang
- Department of Breast Surgery (Surgical Oncology), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immune Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wuzhen Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery (Surgical Oncology), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immune Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lesang Shen
- Department of Breast Surgery (Surgical Oncology), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immune Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jingxin Jiang
- Department of Breast Surgery (Surgical Oncology), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immune Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shanshan Sun
- Department of Breast Surgery (Surgical Oncology), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immune Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhigang Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery (Surgical Oncology), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immune Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
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14
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Xie L, Zhu G, Shang J, Chen X, Zhang C, Ji X, Zhang Q, Wei Y. An overview on the biological activity and anti-cancer mechanism of lovastatin. Cell Signal 2021; 87:110122. [PMID: 34438015 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2021.110122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Lovastatin, a secondary metabolite isolated from fungi, is often used as a representative drug to reduce blood lipid concentration and treat hypercholesterolemia. Its structure is similar to that of HMG-CoA. Lovastatin inhibits the binding of the substrate to HMG-CoA reductase, and strongly competes with HMG-CoA reductase (HMGR), thereby exerting a hypolipidemic effect. Further, its safety has been confirmed in vivo and in vitro. Lovastatin also has anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and neuroprotective effects. Therefore, the biological activity of lovastatin, especially its anti-cancer effect, has garnered research attention. Several in vitro studies have confirmed that lovastatin has a significant inhibitory effect on cancer cell viability in a variety of cancers (such as breast, liver, cervical, lung, and colon cancer). At the same time, lovastatin can also increase the sensitivity of some types of cancer cells to chemotherapeutic drugs and strengthen their therapeutic effect. Lovastatin inhibits cell proliferation and regulates cancer cell signaling pathways, thereby inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. This article reviews the structure, biosynthetic pathways, and applications of lovastatin, focusing on the anti-cancer effects and mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liguo Xie
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China.
| | - Guodong Zhu
- Yunnan Minzu University, Library, Kunming 650500, China.
| | - Junjie Shang
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China.
| | - Xuemei Chen
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China.
| | - Chunting Zhang
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China.
| | - Xiuling Ji
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China.
| | - Qi Zhang
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China.
| | - Yunlin Wei
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China.
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15
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Salinas-Jazmín N, Rosas-Cruz A, Velasco-Velázquez M. Reporter gene systems for the identification and characterization of cancer stem cells. World J Stem Cells 2021; 13:861-876. [PMID: 34367481 PMCID: PMC8316869 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v13.i7.861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are tumor cells that share functional characteristics with normal and embryonic stem cells. CSCs have increased tumor-initiating capacity and metastatic potential and lower sensitivity to chemo- and radiotherapy, with important roles in tumor progression and the response to therapy. Thus, a current goal of cancer research is to eliminate CSCs, necessitating an adequate phenotypic and functional characterization of CSCs. Strategies have been developed to identify, enrich, and track CSCs, many of which distinguish CSCs by evaluating the expression of surface markers, the initiation of specific signaling pathways, and the activation of master transcription factors that control stemness in normal cells. We review and discuss the use of reporter gene systems for identifying CSCs. Reporters that are under the control of aldehyde dehydrogenase 1A1, CD133, Notch, Nanog homeobox, Sex-determining region Y-box 2, and POU class 5 homeobox can be used to identify CSCs in many tumor types, track cells in real time, and screen for drugs. Thus, reporter gene systems, in combination with in vitro and in vivo functional assays, can assess changes in the CSCs pool. We present relevant examples of these systems in the evaluation of experimental CSCs-targeting therapeutics, demonstrating their value in CSCs research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nohemí Salinas-Jazmín
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
| | - Arely Rosas-Cruz
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
| | - Marco Velasco-Velázquez
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico.
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16
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High-Efficacy α,β-Dehydromonacolin S Improves Hepatic Steatosis and Suppresses Gluconeogenesis Pathway in High-Fat Diet-Induced Obese Rats. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14040375. [PMID: 33920678 PMCID: PMC8073358 DOI: 10.3390/ph14040375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Isolated α,β-dehydromonacolin S (C5) from soil-derived fungus Aspergillus sclerotiorum PSU-RSPG178 was recently shown to exhibit an inhibitory effect against 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGR) activity in vitro. In this study, we investigated the effects of C5 on lipid-lowering, hepatic steatosis, and hepatic gluconeogenesis in vivo. The control rats received a daily dose of either vehicle or C5 at 10 mg/kg, while the high-fat diet-induced obese (HFD) rats were administered vehicle; 1, 3, or 10 mg/kg C5; or 10 mg/kg lovastatin (LO) for 6 weeks. C5 significantly improved dyslipidemia and diminished liver enzymes, HMGR activity, insulin resistance, and hepatic steatosis, comparable to LO without any hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in HFD rats. A higher efficacy of C5 in lipid-lowering activity and anti-hepatic steatosis was associated with a significant decrease in genes involved in lipid metabolism including sterol regulatory element binding protein (SREBP) 1c, SREBP2, liver X receptor alpha (LXRα), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) gamma (PPARγ) together with an increase in the PPAR alpha (PPARα). Correspondingly, C5 was able to down-regulate the lipid transporters cluster of differentiation 36 (CD36) and Niemann-Pick C1 Like 1 (NPC1L1), increase the antioxidant superoxide dismutase gene expression, and decrease the proinflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β). Impairment of hepatic gluconeogenesis and insulin resistance in HFD rats was restored by C5 through down-regulation of the gluconeogenic genes phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) and glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase), and the activation of AMP-dependent kinase serine (AMPK) and serine/threonine protein kinase B (Akt). Collectively, this novel C5 may be a therapeutic option for treating dyslipidemia, hepatic steatosis, and reducing potential risk for diabetes mellitus.
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17
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Liu DY, Liu JC, Liang S, Meng XH, Greenbaum J, Xiao HM, Tan LJ, Deng HW. Drug Repurposing for COVID-19 Treatment by Integrating Network Pharmacology and Transcriptomics. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:545. [PMID: 33919660 PMCID: PMC8069812 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13040545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Since coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a serious new worldwide public health crisis with significant morbidity and mortality, effective therapeutic treatments are urgently needed. Drug repurposing is an efficient and cost-effective strategy with minimum risk for identifying novel potential treatment options by repositioning therapies that were previously approved for other clinical outcomes. Here, we used an integrated network-based pharmacologic and transcriptomic approach to screen drug candidates novel for COVID-19 treatment. Network-based proximity scores were calculated to identify the drug-disease pharmacological effect between drug-target relationship modules and COVID-19 related genes. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was then performed to determine whether drug candidates influence the expression of COVID-19 related genes and examine the sensitivity of the repurposing drug treatment to peripheral immune cell types. Moreover, we used the complementary exposure model to recommend potential synergistic drug combinations. We identified 18 individual drug candidates including nicardipine, orantinib, tipifarnib and promethazine which have not previously been proposed as possible treatments for COVID-19. Additionally, 30 synergistic drug pairs were ultimately recommended including fostamatinib plus tretinoin and orantinib plus valproic acid. Differential expression genes of most repurposing drugs were enriched significantly in B cells. The findings may potentially accelerate the discovery and establishment of an effective therapeutic treatment plan for COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan-Yang Liu
- Laboratory of Molecular and Statistical Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410081, China;
| | - Jia-Chen Liu
- Center for System Biology, Data Sciences, and Reproductive Health, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China; (J.-C.L.); (S.L.); (X.-H.M.); (H.-M.X.)
| | - Shuang Liang
- Center for System Biology, Data Sciences, and Reproductive Health, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China; (J.-C.L.); (S.L.); (X.-H.M.); (H.-M.X.)
| | - Xiang-He Meng
- Center for System Biology, Data Sciences, and Reproductive Health, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China; (J.-C.L.); (S.L.); (X.-H.M.); (H.-M.X.)
| | - Jonathan Greenbaum
- Tulane Center of Biomedical Informatics and Genomics, Deming Department of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA;
| | - Hong-Mei Xiao
- Center for System Biology, Data Sciences, and Reproductive Health, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China; (J.-C.L.); (S.L.); (X.-H.M.); (H.-M.X.)
| | - Li-Jun Tan
- Laboratory of Molecular and Statistical Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410081, China;
| | - Hong-Wen Deng
- Laboratory of Molecular and Statistical Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410081, China;
- Center for System Biology, Data Sciences, and Reproductive Health, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China; (J.-C.L.); (S.L.); (X.-H.M.); (H.-M.X.)
- Tulane Center of Biomedical Informatics and Genomics, Deming Department of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA;
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18
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Thyroid Cancer Stem-Like Cells: From Microenvironmental Niches to Therapeutic Strategies. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10071455. [PMID: 33916320 PMCID: PMC8037626 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10071455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most common endocrine malignancy. Recent progress in thyroid cancer biology revealed a certain degree of intratumoral heterogeneity, highlighting the coexistence of cellular subpopulations with distinct proliferative capacities and differentiation abilities. Among those subpopulations, cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) are hypothesized to drive TC heterogeneity, contributing to its metastatic potential and therapy resistance. CSCs principally exist in tumor areas with specific microenvironmental conditions, the so-called stem cell niches. In particular, in thyroid cancer, CSCs' survival is enhanced in the hypoxic niche, the immune niche, and some areas with specific extracellular matrix composition. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about thyroid CSCs, the tumoral niches that allow their survival, and the implications for TC therapy.
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19
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Lv L, Shi Y, Wu J, Li G. Nanosized Drug Delivery Systems for Breast Cancer Stem Cell Targeting. Int J Nanomedicine 2021; 16:1487-1508. [PMID: 33654398 PMCID: PMC7914063 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s282110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs), also known as breast cancer initiating cells, are reported to be responsible for the initiation, progression, therapeutic resistance, and relapse of breast cancer. Conventional therapeutic agents mainly kill the bulk of breast tumor cells and fail to eliminate BCSCs, even enhancing the fraction of BCSCs in breast tumors sometimes. Therefore, it is essential to develop specific and effective methods of eliminating BCSCs that will enhance the efficacy of killing breast tumor cells and thereby, increase the survival rates and quality of life of breast cancer patients. Despite the availability of an increasing number of anti-BCSC agents, their clinical translations are hindered by many issues, such as instability, low bioavailability, and off-target effects. Nanosized drug delivery systems (NDDSs) have the potential to overcome the drawbacks of anti-BCSC agents by providing site-specific delivery and enhancing of the stability and bioavailability of the delivered agents. In this review, we first briefly introduce the strategies and agents used against BCSCs and then highlight the mechanism of action and therapeutic efficacy of several state-of-the-art NDDSs that can be used to treat breast cancer by eliminating BCSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Lv
- Department of Pharmacy, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yonghui Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.,Department of Pharmacy, Zengcheng District People's Hospital of Guangzhou, Guangzhou, 511300, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Junyan Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Guocheng Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
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20
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Velasco-Velazquez M. Meet Our Editorial Board Member. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2021. [DOI: 10.2174/187152062103201201123818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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21
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Juarez D, Fruman DA. Targeting the Mevalonate Pathway in Cancer. Trends Cancer 2021; 7:525-540. [PMID: 33358111 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2020.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The mevalonate synthesis inhibitors, statins, are mainstay therapeutics for cholesterol management and cardiovascular health. Thirty years of research have uncovered supportive roles for the mevalonate pathway in numerous cellular processes that support oncogenesis, most recently macropinocytosis. Central to the diverse mechanisms of statin sensitivity is an acquired dependence on one mevalonate pathway output, protein geranylgeranylation. New chemical prenylation probes and the discovery of a novel geranylgeranyl transferase hold promise to deepen our understanding of statin mechanisms of action. Further, insights into statin selection and the counterproductive role of dietary geranylgeraniol highlight how we should assess statins in the clinic. Lastly, rational combination strategies preview how statins will enter the oncology toolbox.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Juarez
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - David A Fruman
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
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22
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Kharkar PS. Cancer Stem Cell (CSC) Inhibitors in Oncology-A Promise for a Better Therapeutic Outcome: State of the Art and Future Perspectives. J Med Chem 2020; 63:15279-15307. [PMID: 33325699 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a subpopulation of cancer cells endowed with self-renewal, tumorigenicity, pluripotency, chemoresistance, differentiation, invasive ability, and plasticity, reside in specialized tumor niches and are responsible for tumor maintenance, metastasis, therapy resistance, and tumor relapse. The new-age "hierarchical or CSC" model of tumor heterogeneity is based on the concept of eradicating CSCs to prevent tumor relapse and therapy resistance. Small-molecular entities and biologics acting on various stemness signaling pathways, surface markers, efflux transporters, or components of complex tumor microenvironment are under intense investigation as potential anti-CSC agents. In addition, smart nanotherapeutic tools have proved their utility in achieving CSC targeting. Several CSC inhibitors in clinical development have shown promise, either as mono- or combination therapy, in refractory and difficult-to-treat cancers. Clinical investigations with CSC marker follow-up as a measure of clinical efficacy are needed to turn the "hype" into the "hope" these new-age oncology therapeutics have to offer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashant S Kharkar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Matunga, Mumbai 400 019, India
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23
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Liao AH, Lin WT, Chen HK, Shih CP, Wang CH, Chu YH. Synergistic effects of combined treatment with ultrasound-mediated cisplatin-loaded microbubbles and atorvastatin on head and neck cancer. Head Neck 2020; 43:15-26. [PMID: 32954561 DOI: 10.1002/hed.26445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previously, we used ultrasound (US)-mediated cisplatin (CDDP)-loaded microbubbles (CDDP-MBs) to increase intratumoral CDDP level while decreasing systemic cytotoxicity. Statins have shown antitumorigenic properties. Our study investigated the effects of atorvastatin with CDDP-MBs and US on head neck cancer. METHODS Cell viability analysis with CDDP-MBs and atorvastatin combined with US in FaDu cell line were tested. Cell proliferation and glutathione level were also evaluated. RESULTS Both CDDP and atorvastatin reduced cell's viability. Coadministration of CDDP and atorvastatin resulted in synergistic inhibitory effect. After US sonication, cell viability with atorvastatin and CDDP was significantly reduced for CDDP combined with MBs (65.98% to 49.13%) and for CDDP-MBs (86.17% to 50.15%). CDDP-MBs combined with atorvastatin and US inhibited the proliferation of cells: 19.61% for CDDP-MBs + atorvastatin + US, 36.28% for CDDP + atorvastatin, and 71.73% for atorvastatin alone. Also, CDDP-MBs + atorvastatin + US induced apoptosis by decreasing cellular level of glutathione. CONCLUSIONS Atorvastatin combined with MB-conjugated CDDP exerts synergistic inhibitory effect on head neck cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ai-Ho Liao
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Ting Lin
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hang-Kang Chen
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Ping Shih
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Hung Wang
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan.,Taichung Armed Forces General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yueng-Hsiang Chu
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
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Zhang Q, Dong J, Yu Z. Pleiotropic use of Statins as non-lipid-lowering drugs. Int J Biol Sci 2020; 16:2704-2711. [PMID: 33110390 PMCID: PMC7586431 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.42965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Statins, known as HMG-CoA reductase (HMGCR) inhibitors, have primarily been utilized for metabolic and angiographic medical applications because of their cholesterol-lowering effects. Similar to other drugs, statins may also induce a series of potential side effects. Statins inhibit the HMGCR (rate-limiting enzyme) activity in early stages of mevalonate pathway and then indirectly affect a number of intermediate products, including non-sterol isoprenoids (coenzyme Q10, dolichol etc.), which can result in impaired functions of body organs. Recently, scores of studies have uncovered additional functional mechanisms of statins in other diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, nervous system diseases, coronary heart disease, inflammation and cancers. This review aims to summarize the positive and adverse mechanisms of statin therapy. Statin care should be taken in the treatment of many diseases including cancers. Since the underlying mechanisms are not fully elucidated, future studies should spend more time and efforts on basic research to explore the mechanisms of statins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qijia Zhang
- Digestive internal medicine and Department of infectious diseases, Zhuhai Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhuhai, China
| | - Jianlong Dong
- College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Ze Yu
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou, China
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25
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Lara-Chacón B, Guerrero-Rodríguez SL, Ramírez-Hernández KJ, Robledo-Rivera AY, Velazquez MAV, Sánchez-Olea R, Calera MR. Gpn3 Is Essential for Cell Proliferation of Breast Cancer Cells Independent of Their Malignancy Degree. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2020; 18:1533033819870823. [PMID: 31431135 PMCID: PMC6704425 DOI: 10.1177/1533033819870823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful therapies for patients with breast cancer often lose their initial effectiveness. Thus, identifying new molecular targets is a constant goal in the fight against breast cancer. Gpn3 is a protein required for RNA polymerase II nuclear targeting in both yeast and human cells. We investigated here the effect of suppressing Gpn3 expression on cell proliferation in a progression series of isogenic cell lines derived from the nontumorigenic MCF-10A breast cells that recapitulate different stages of breast carcinogenesis. Gpn3 protein levels were comparable in all malignant derivatives of the nontumorigenic MCF-10A cells. shRNA-mediated inhibition of Gpn3 expression markedly decreased cell proliferation in all MCF-10A sublines. A fraction of the largest RNA polymerase II subunit Rpb1 was retained in the cytoplasm, but most Rpb1 remained nuclear after suppressing Gpn3 in all cell lines studied. Long-term proliferation experiments in cells with suppressed Gpn3 expression resulted in the eventual loss of all isogenic cell lines but MCF-10CA1d.cl1. In MCF-10CA1d.cl1 cells, Gpn3 knockdown reduced the proliferation of breast cancer stem cells as evaluated by mammosphere assays. After the identification that Gpn3 plays a key role in cell proliferation in mammary epithelial cells independent of the degree of transformation, we also analyzed the importance of Gpn3 in other human breast cancer cell lines from different subtypes. Gpn3 was also required for cell proliferation and nuclear translocation of RNA polymerase II in such cellular models. Altogether, our results show that Gpn3 is essential for breast cancer cell proliferation regardless of the transformation level, indicating that Gpn3 could be considered a molecular target for the development of new antiproliferative therapies. Importantly, our analysis of public data revealed that Gpn3 overexpression was associated with a significant decrease in overall survival in patients with estrogen receptor-positive and Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2+) breast cancer, supporting our proposal that targeting Gpn3 could potentially benefit patients with breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara Lara-Chacón
- 1 Instituto de Fisica Manuel Sandoval Vallarta, Universidad Autonoma de San Luis Potos, San Luis Potosi, Mexico
| | | | - Karla J Ramírez-Hernández
- 1 Instituto de Fisica Manuel Sandoval Vallarta, Universidad Autonoma de San Luis Potos, San Luis Potosi, Mexico
| | | | - Marco Antonio Velasco Velazquez
- 2 Departamento de Farmacología y Unidad Periférica de Investigación en Biomedicina Traslacional, México city, México.,3 Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Roberto Sánchez-Olea
- 1 Instituto de Fisica Manuel Sandoval Vallarta, Universidad Autonoma de San Luis Potos, San Luis Potosi, Mexico
| | - Mónica Raquel Calera
- 1 Instituto de Fisica Manuel Sandoval Vallarta, Universidad Autonoma de San Luis Potos, San Luis Potosi, Mexico
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Encapsulation of Lovastatin in Zein Nanoparticles Exhibits Enhanced Apoptotic Activity in HepG2 Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20225788. [PMID: 31752085 PMCID: PMC6888474 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20225788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Research on statins highlights their potent cytotoxicity against cancer cells and their potential for cancer prevention. The aim of the current study was to examine whether loading lovastatin (LVS) in zein (ZN) nanoparticles (NPs) would potentiate the anti-proliferative effects of LVS and enhance its proliferation-inhibiting activity in HepG2 cells. LVS-ZN NPs were prepared and showed excellent characteristics, with respect to their particle size, zeta potential, diffusion, and entrapment efficiency. In addition, they showed the most potent anti-proliferative activity against HepG2 cells. ZN alone showed an observable anti-proliferative that was significantly higher than that of raw LVS. Furthermore, LVS uptake by HepG2 cells was greatly enhanced by the formulation in ZN. A cell cycle analysis indicated that LVS induced a significant cell accumulation in the G2/M and pre-G phases. In this regard, the LVS-ZN NPs exhibited the highest potency. The accumulation in the pre-G phase indicated an enhanced pro-apoptotic activity of the prepared formula. The cells incubated with the LVS-ZN NPs showed the highest percentage of cells with annexin-V positive staining. In addition, the same incubations showed the highest content of caspase-3 enzyme in comparison to raw LVS or ZN. Thus, the loading of LVS in ZN nanoparticles enhances its anti-proliferative activity against HepG2 cells, which is attributed, at least partly, to the enhanced cellular uptake and the induction of apoptosis.
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