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Guo M, Sun Y, Wei Y, Xu J, Zhang C. Advances in targeted therapy and biomarker research in thyroid cancer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1372553. [PMID: 38501105 PMCID: PMC10944873 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1372553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Driven by the intricacy of the illness and the need for individualized treatments, targeted therapy and biomarker research in thyroid cancer represent an important frontier in oncology. The variety of genetic changes associated with thyroid cancer demand more investigation to elucidate molecular details. This research is clinically significant since it can be used to develop customized treatment plans. A more focused approach is provided by targeted therapies, which target certain molecular targets such as mutant BRAF or RET proteins. This strategy minimizes collateral harm to healthy tissues and may also reduce adverse effects. Simultaneously, patient categorization based on molecular profiles is made possible by biomarker exploration, which allows for customized therapy regimens and maximizes therapeutic results. The benefits of targeted therapy and biomarker research go beyond their immediate clinical impact to encompass the whole cancer landscape. Comprehending the genetic underpinnings of thyroid cancer facilitates the creation of novel treatments that specifically target aberrant molecules. This advances the treatment of thyroid cancer and advances precision medicine, paving the way for the treatment of other cancers. Taken simply, more study on thyroid cancer is promising for better patient care. The concepts discovered during this investigation have the potential to completely transform the way that care is provided, bringing in a new era of personalized, precision medicine. This paradigm shift could improve the prognosis and quality of life for individuals with thyroid cancer and act as an inspiration for advances in other cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Guo
- School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuqi Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuyao Wei
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianxin Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Chun Zhang
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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2
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Zhang Q, Yuan Y, Cao S, Kang N, Qiu F. Withanolides: Promising candidates for cancer therapy. Phytother Res 2024; 38:1104-1158. [PMID: 38176694 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8090] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Natural products have played a significant role throughout history in the prevention and treatment of numerous diseases, particularly cancers. As a natural product primarily derived from various medicinal plants in the Withania genus, withanolides have been shown in several studies to exhibit potential activities in cancer treatment. Consequently, understanding the molecular mechanism of withanolides could herald the discovery of new anticancer agents. Withanolides have been studied widely, especially in the last 20 years, and attracted the attention of numerous researchers. Currently, over 1200 withanolides have been classified, with approximately a quarter of them having been reported in the literature to be able to modulate the survival and death of cancer cells through multiple avenues. To what extent, though, has the anticancer effects of these compounds been studied? How far are they from being developed into clinical drugs? What are their potential, characteristic features, and challenges? In this review, we elaborate on the current knowledge of natural compounds belonging to this class and provide an overview of their natural sources, anticancer activity, mechanism of action, molecular targets, and implications for anticancer drug research. In addition, direct targets and clinical research to guide the design and implementation of future preclinical and clinical studies to accelerate the application of withanolides have been highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Zhang
- School of Medical Technology, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - YongKang Yuan
- School of Medical Technology, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Shijie Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Substance of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Ning Kang
- School of Medical Technology, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Substance of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
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3
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Abeesh P, Guruvayoorappan C. The Therapeutic Effects of Withaferin A against Cancer: Overview and Updates. Curr Mol Med 2024; 24:404-418. [PMID: 37076466 DOI: 10.2174/1566524023666230418094708] [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: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is a rapidly rising health problem among the global population, and this burden causes a significant challenge for public health. Current chemotherapeutic agents have different limitations, including drug resistance and severe side effects, and it demands a robust approach to accessing promising anti-cancer therapeutics. The natural compounds have been extensively studied to identify improved therapeutic agents for cancer therapy. Withaferin A (WA) is a steroidal lactone found in Withania somnifera and possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-angiogenesis, and anticancer properties. Multiple studies have shown that WA treatment attenuated various cancer hallmarks by inducing apoptosis and reducing angiogenesis and metastasis with reduced side effects. WA is a promising agent for the treatment of various cancer, and it targets various signaling pathways. With recent updates, the current review highlights the therapeutic implications of WA and its molecular targets in different cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prathapan Abeesh
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Division of Cancer Research, Regional Cancer Centre, (Research Centre, University of Kerala), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Chandrasekaran Guruvayoorappan
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Division of Cancer Research, Regional Cancer Centre, (Research Centre, University of Kerala), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
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4
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Abeesh P, Bouvet P, Guruvayoorappan C. AS1411 aptamer tagged PEGylated liposomes as a smart nanocarrier for tumor-specific delivery of Withaferin A for mitigating pulmonary metastasis. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 154:213661. [PMID: 37879185 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Metastasis is the most challenging health problem contributing to about 90 % of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Metastatic tumors are highly aggressive and resistant to the most available therapeutic options. Hence, innovative therapeutic approaches are required to target metastatic tumors selectively. In this study, we prepared AS1411 functionalized Withaferin A loaded PEGylated nanoliposomes (ALW) and investigated its therapeutic effect in B16F10 induced in pulmonary metastasis mice models. The prepared formulations' size and morphological properties were evaluated using dynamic light scattering system and Transmission electron microscope. ALW had spherical-shaped nanosized particles with a size of 118 nm and an encapsulation efficacy of 82.5 %. TEM analysis data indicated that ALW has excellent dispersibility and uniform spherical nano-size particles. ALW inhibited cell viability, and induced cell apoptosis of B16F10. In vivo, the pulmonary metastasis study in C57BL/6 mice revealed that the ALW significantly (p < 0.01) improved the encapsulated WA anti-metastatic activity and survival rate compared to WA or LW treated groups. ALW significantly (p < 0.01) downregulated the levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β and significantly reduced the lung collagen hydroxyproline, hexosamine, and uronic acid content in metastatic tumor bearing animals compared to WA or LW. Gene expression levels of MMPs and NF-κB were downregulated in ALW treated metastatic pulmonary tumor-bearing mice. These findings demonstrate that the AS1411 functionalized Withaferin A loaded PEGylated nanoliposomes could be a promising nanoliposomal formulation for targeting metastatic tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prathapan Abeesh
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Division of Cancer Research, Regional Cancer Centre, Medical College post, Thiruvananthapuram 695011, Kerala, India (Recognized Research Centre, University of Kerala)
| | - Phillipe Bouvet
- Centre de Recherche en Cancerologie de Lyon, Universite de Lyon 1, Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR5286 Centre Leon Berard, CEDEX 08, F-69373 Lyon, France; Ecole Normale Superieur de Lyon, Universite de Lyon 1, F-69007 Lyon, France
| | - Chandrasekaran Guruvayoorappan
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Division of Cancer Research, Regional Cancer Centre, Medical College post, Thiruvananthapuram 695011, Kerala, India (Recognized Research Centre, University of Kerala).
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Zhang Z, Yang Y, Xu Y, Liu Y, Li H, Chen L. Molecular targets and mechanisms of anti-cancer effects of withanolides. Chem Biol Interact 2023; 384:110698. [PMID: 37690745 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2023.110698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Withanolides are a class of natural products with a steroidal lactone structure that exhibit a broad spectrum of anti-cancer effects. To date, several studies have shown that their possible mechanisms in cancer development and progression are associated with the regulation of cell proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, and angiogenesis. Withanolides can also attenuate inflammatory responses, as well as modulate the genomic instability and energy metabolism of cancer cells. In addition, they may improve the safety and efficacy of cancer treatments as adjuvants to traditional cancer therapeutics. Herein, we summarize the molecular targets and mechanisms of withanolides in different cancers, as well as their current clinical studies on them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiruo Zhang
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
| | - Yueying Yang
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
| | - Yang Xu
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
| | - Hua Li
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China; Institute of Structural Pharmacology & TCM Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China.
| | - Lixia Chen
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China.
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6
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Xing Z, Su A, Mi L, Zhang Y, He T, Qiu Y, Wei T, Li Z, Zhu J, Wu W. Withaferin A: A Dietary Supplement with Promising Potential as an Anti-Tumor Therapeutic for Cancer Treatment - Pharmacology and Mechanisms. Drug Des Devel Ther 2023; 17:2909-2929. [PMID: 37753228 PMCID: PMC10519218 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s422512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer, as the leading cause of death worldwide, poses a serious threat to human health, making the development of effective tumor treatments a significant challenge. Natural products continue to serve as crucial resources for drug discovery. Among them, Withaferin A (WA), the most active phytocompound extracted from the renowned dietary supplement Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, exhibits remarkable anti-tumor efficacy. In this manuscript, we aim to comprehensively summarize the pharmacological characteristics of WA as a potential anti-tumor drug candidate, with the objective of contributing to its further development and the discovery of prospective drugs. Through an extensive review of literature from PubMed, Science Direct, and Web of Science, we have gathered substantial evidence showcasing WA's significant anti-tumor effects against a wide range of cancers in both in vitro and in vivo studies. Mechanistically, WA exerts its anti-tumor influence by inducing cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, autophagy, and ferroptosis. Additionally, it inhibits cell proliferation, cancer stem cells, tumor metastasis, and also suppresses epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and angiogenesis. Several studies have identified direct target proteins of WA, such as vimentin, Hsp90, annexin II and mFAM72A, while BCR-ABL, Mortalin (mtHsp70), Nrf2, and c-MYB are potential targets of WA. Notwithstanding its remarkable anti-tumor efficacy, there are some limitations associated with WA, including potential toxicity and poor oral bioavailability, which need to be addressed when considering it as an anti-tumor candidate agent. Nevertheless, I given its promising anti-tumor attributes, WA remains an encouraging candidate for future drug development. Unveiling the exact target and comprehensive mechanism of WA's action represents a crucial research direction to pursue in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhichao Xing
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Anping Su
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Li Mi
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yujie Zhang
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ting He
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuxuan Qiu
- Department of Ultrasound, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tao Wei
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhihui Li
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jingqiang Zhu
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenshuang Wu
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
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7
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Pięta E. Nanoscale insight into biochemical changes in cervical cancer cells exposed to adaptogenic drug. Micron 2023; 170:103462. [PMID: 37087964 DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2023.103462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
This paper describes for the first time the application of atomic force microscopy-based infrared spectroscopy (AFM-IR) to evaluate cellular response to adaptogen, based on an in vitro model of cervical cancer. HeLa cervical cells were exposed to different concentrations of withaferin A, a very promising anti-cancer adaptogenic substance. AFM-IR approach was used to image single cells post-adaptogen treatment and to track subtle biochemical changes in cells at the nanoscale level. Partial least squares (PLS) regression was applied to build predictive models that allowed for the identification of spectral markers of adaptogen-induced alterations Spectroscopic studies were enriched with fluorescence staining to determine whether the adaptogen affects cell morphology. The results showed that with the increase in the concentration of adaptogen, changes in the cell nucleus and the actin cytoskeleton become more and more significant. It has been demonstrated that the AFM-IR technique can successfully study the cellular response to the anti-cancer agent at the single-cell level with nanoscale spatial resolution. On the basis of the promising findings presented in this paper, it is possible to conclude that withaferin A has great potential in inhibiting the proliferation of cervical cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner. It has been found that both the increase in the concentration of withaferin A and the increase in incubation time with the adaptogen resulted in a decrease in the intensity of the bands assigned to nucleic acids. This may be due to DNA condensation, internuclear cleavage, or degradation during apoptosis. The findings also suggest changes in the secondary structure of proteins that may be a consequence of disruption of the actin cytoskeleton, progressive apoptosis, or significant biochemical changes. Furthermore, noticeable changes were also observed in the bands originating from lipids vibrations, and an increased share of the band near 2920 cm-1, considered an important marker of apoptosis, was noted. The metabolism of carbohydrates in cells also changes under the influence of the adaptogen. AFM-IR provides nanoscale insight into the structural and morphological properties of cells after drug treatment and is an indisputable milestone in the development of new anti-cancer approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Pięta
- Institute of Nuclear Physics, Polish Academy of Sciences, PL-31342 Krakow, Poland.
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8
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Pięta E, Chrabąszcz K, Pogoda K, Suchy K, Paluszkiewicz C, Kwiatek WM. Adaptogenic activity of withaferin A on human cervical carcinoma cells using high-definition vibrational spectroscopic imaging. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166615. [PMID: 36481485 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2022.166615] [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: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Despite invaluable advances in cervical cancer therapy, treatment regimens for recurrent or persistent cancers and low-toxicity alternative treatment options are scarce. In recent years, substances classified as adaptogens have been identified as promising drug sources for preventing and treating cancer-based diseases on their ability to attack multiple molecular targets. This paper establishes the effectiveness of inhibition of the neoplastic process by a withaferin A (WFA), an adaptogenic substance, based on an in vitro model of cervical cancer. This study explores for the first time the potential of high-definition vibrational spectroscopy methods, i.e. Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) and Raman spectroscopic (RS) imaging at the single-cell level to evaluate the efficacy of the adaptogenic drug. HeLa cervical cancer cells were incubated with various concentrations of WFA at different incubation times. The multimodal spectroscopic approach combined with partial least squares (PLS) regression allowed the identification of molecular changes (e.g., lipids, protein secondary structures, or nucleic acids) induced by WFA at the cellular level. The results clearly illustrate the enormous potential of WFA in inhibiting the proliferation of cervical cancer cells. WFA inhibited the growth of the studied cancer cell line in a dose-dependent manner. Such studies provide comprehensive information on the sensitivity of cells to adaptogenic drugs. This is a fundamental step towards determining the rate and nature of adaptogen-induced changes in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Pięta
- Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences, PL-31342 Krakow, Poland.
| | - Karolina Chrabąszcz
- Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences, PL-31342 Krakow, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Pogoda
- Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences, PL-31342 Krakow, Poland
| | - Klaudia Suchy
- Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences, PL-31342 Krakow, Poland
| | | | - Wojciech M Kwiatek
- Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences, PL-31342 Krakow, Poland
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9
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Li Q, Tie Y, Alu A, Ma X, Shi H. Targeted therapy for head and neck cancer: signaling pathways and clinical studies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:31. [PMID: 36646686 PMCID: PMC9842704 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01297-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancer (HNC) is malignant, genetically complex and difficult to treat and is the sixth most frequent cancer, with tobacco, alcohol and human papillomavirus being major risk factors. Based on epigenetic data, HNC is remarkably heterogeneous, and treatment remains challenging. There is a lack of significant improvement in survival and quality of life in patients with HNC. Over half of HNC patients experience locoregional recurrence or distal metastasis despite the current multiple traditional therapeutic strategies and immunotherapy. In addition, resistance to chemotherapy, radiotherapy and some targeted therapies is common. Therefore, it is urgent to explore more effective and tolerable targeted therapies to improve the clinical outcomes of HNC patients. Recent targeted therapy studies have focused on identifying promising biomarkers and developing more effective targeted therapies. A well understanding of the pathogenesis of HNC contributes to learning more about its inner association, which provides novel insight into the development of small molecule inhibitors. In this review, we summarized the vital signaling pathways and discussed the current potential therapeutic targets against critical molecules in HNC, as well as presenting preclinical animal models and ongoing or completed clinical studies about targeted therapy, which may contribute to a more favorable prognosis of HNC. Targeted therapy in combination with other therapies and its limitations were also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingfang Li
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Tie
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Aqu Alu
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuelei Ma
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Huashan Shi
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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Zhao R, Xu Y, Wang X, Zhou X, Liu Y, Jiang S, Zhang L, Yu Z. Withaferin A Enhances Mitochondrial Biogenesis and BNIP3-Mediated Mitophagy to Promote Rapid Adaptation to Extreme Hypoxia. Cells 2022; 12:cells12010085. [PMID: 36611879 PMCID: PMC9818179 DOI: 10.3390/cells12010085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapid adaptation to extreme hypoxia is a challenging problem, and there is no effective scheme to achieve rapid adaptation to extreme hypoxia. In this study, we found that withaferin A (WA) can significantly reduce myocardial damage, maintain cardiac function, and improve survival in rats in extremely hypoxic environments. Mechanistically, WA protects against extreme hypoxia by affecting BCL2-interacting protein 3 (BNIP3)-mediated mitophagy and the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1α (PGC-1α)-mediated mitochondrial biogenesis pathway among mitochondrial quality control mechanisms. On the one hand, enhanced mitophagy eliminates hypoxia-damaged mitochondria and prevents the induction of apoptosis; on the other hand, enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis can supplement functional mitochondria and maintain mitochondrial respiration to ensure mitochondrial ATP production under acute extreme hypoxia. Our study shows that WA can be used as an effective drug to improve tolerance to extreme hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruzhou Zhao
- Department of Aerospace Physiology, Air Force Medical University, 169# Changle West Road, Xi’an 710032, China
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences (AMMS), Beijing 100071, China
| | - Yixin Xu
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences (AMMS), Beijing 100071, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Xiaobo Wang
- Department of Aerospace Physiology, Air Force Medical University, 169# Changle West Road, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Aerospace Physiology, Air Force Medical University, 169# Changle West Road, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Yanqi Liu
- Department of Aerospace Physiology, Air Force Medical University, 169# Changle West Road, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Shuai Jiang
- Department of Aerospace Physiology, Air Force Medical University, 169# Changle West Road, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Department of Aerospace Physiology, Air Force Medical University, 169# Changle West Road, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Zhibin Yu
- Department of Aerospace Physiology, Air Force Medical University, 169# Changle West Road, Xi’an 710032, China
- Correspondence:
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11
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Bayless RL, Sheats MK, Jones SL. Withaferin A Inhibits Neutrophil Adhesion, Migration, and Respiratory Burst and Promotes Timely Neutrophil Apoptosis. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:900453. [PMID: 35782542 PMCID: PMC9247543 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.900453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Neutrophils play a major role in many equine conditions, including equine asthma, laminitis, and intestinal ischemia and reperfusion injury, and therefore represent an attractive target for innovative therapeutic approaches. Novel strategies for reducing neutrophilic inflammation include modulation of neutrophil functions and lifespan. Withaferin A (WFA) is a phytochemical with well-established in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory properties, but its direct effects on neutrophils are largely unknown. We hypothesized that WFA would inhibit adhesion, migration, and respiratory burst by equine neutrophils and promote timely apoptosis of primed equine neutrophils. Consistent with this hypothesis, our data show that WFA causes a significant, concentration-dependent inhibition of equine neutrophil adhesion, migration, and respiratory burst in response to diverse stimuli. Further, WFA treatment increased apoptosis of equine neutrophils exposed to GM-CSF for 24 h. This pro-apoptotic effect of WFA was not observed in unprimed neutrophils, nor at the 2-h time point relevant to our functional neutrophil experiments. Our data demonstrate that WFA may reduce neutrophil-mediated inflammation through multiple mechanisms, including suppression of inflammatory responses and promotion of apoptosis. Additional research is needed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms for these effects and evaluate the potential clinical use of WFA in veterinary and human patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary L Bayless
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States.,Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - M Katie Sheats
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States.,Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Samuel L Jones
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States.,Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
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Kashyap VK, Peasah-Darkwah G, Dhasmana A, Jaggi M, Yallapu MM, Chauhan SC. Withania somnifera: Progress towards a Pharmaceutical Agent for Immunomodulation and Cancer Therapeutics. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14030611. [PMID: 35335986 PMCID: PMC8954542 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14030611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is one of the prime treatment options for cancer. However, the key issues with traditional chemotherapy are recurrence of cancer, development of resistance to chemotherapeutic agents, affordability, late-stage detection, serious health consequences, and inaccessibility. Hence, there is an urgent need to find innovative and cost-effective therapies that can target multiple gene products with minimal adverse reactions. Natural phytochemicals originating from plants constitute a significant proportion of the possible therapeutic agents. In this article, we reviewed the advances and the potential of Withania somnifera (WS) as an anticancer and immunomodulatory molecule. Several preclinical studies have shown the potential of WS to prevent or slow the progression of cancer originating from various organs such as the liver, cervix, breast, brain, colon, skin, lung, and prostate. WS extracts act via various pathways and provide optimum effectiveness against drug resistance in cancer. However, stability, bioavailability, and target specificity are major obstacles in combination therapy and have limited their application. The novel nanotechnology approaches enable solubility, stability, absorption, protection from premature degradation in the body, and increased circulation time and invariably results in a high differential uptake efficiency in the phytochemical’s target cells. The present review primarily emphasizes the insights of WS source, chemistry, and the molecular pathways involved in tumor regression, as well as developments achieved in the delivery of WS for cancer therapy using nanotechnology. This review substantiates WS as a potential immunomodulatory, anticancer, and chemopreventive agent and highlights its potential use in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek K. Kashyap
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA; (V.K.K.); (G.P.-D.); (A.D.); (M.J.)
- South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA
| | - Godwin Peasah-Darkwah
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA; (V.K.K.); (G.P.-D.); (A.D.); (M.J.)
- South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA
| | - Anupam Dhasmana
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA; (V.K.K.); (G.P.-D.); (A.D.); (M.J.)
- South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA
| | - Meena Jaggi
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA; (V.K.K.); (G.P.-D.); (A.D.); (M.J.)
- South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA
| | - Murali M. Yallapu
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA; (V.K.K.); (G.P.-D.); (A.D.); (M.J.)
- South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA
- Correspondence: (M.M.Y.); (S.C.C.); Tel.: +1-956-296-1734 (M.M.Y.); +1-956-296-5000 (S.C.C.)
| | - Subhash C. Chauhan
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA; (V.K.K.); (G.P.-D.); (A.D.); (M.J.)
- South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA
- Correspondence: (M.M.Y.); (S.C.C.); Tel.: +1-956-296-1734 (M.M.Y.); +1-956-296-5000 (S.C.C.)
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Sultana T, Okla MK, Ahmed M, Akhtar N, Al-Hashimi A, Abdelgawad H, Haq IU. Withaferin A: From Ancient Remedy to Potential Drug Candidate. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26247696. [PMID: 34946778 PMCID: PMC8705790 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26247696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Withaferin A (WA) is a pivotal withanolide that has conquered a conspicuous place in research, owning to its multidimensional biological properties. It is an abundant constituent in Withania somnifera Dunal. (Ashwagandha, WS) that is one of the prehistoric pivotal remedies in Ayurveda. This article reviews the literature about the pharmacological profile of WA with special emphasis on its anticancer aspect. We reviewed research publications concerning WA through four databases and provided a descriptive analysis of literature without statistical or qualitative analysis. WA has been found as an effective remedy with multifaceted mechanisms and a broad spectrum of pharmacological profiles. It has anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiherpetic, antifibrotic, antiplatelet, profibrinolytic, immunosuppressive, antipigmentation, antileishmanial, and healing potentials. Evidence for wide pharmacological actions of WA has been established by both in vivo and in vitro studies. Further, the scientific literature accentuates the role of WA harboring a variable therapeutic spectrum for integrative cancer chemoprevention and cure. WA is a modern drug from traditional medicine that is necessary to be advanced to clinical trials for advocating its utility as a commercial drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahira Sultana
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan;
| | - Mohammad K. Okla
- Botany and Microbiology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (M.K.O.); (A.A.-H.)
| | - Madiha Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan;
- Shifa College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
- Correspondence: (M.A.); (I.-u.-H.)
| | - Nosheen Akhtar
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Medical Sciences, Rawalpindi 43600, Pakistan;
| | - Abdulrahman Al-Hashimi
- Botany and Microbiology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (M.K.O.); (A.A.-H.)
| | - Hamada Abdelgawad
- Integrated Molecular Plant Physiology Research, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, 2020 Antwerpen, Belgium;
| | - Ihsan-ul- Haq
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan;
- Correspondence: (M.A.); (I.-u.-H.)
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Paul S, Chakraborty S, Anand U, Dey S, Nandy S, Ghorai M, Saha SC, Patil MT, Kandimalla R, Proćków J, Dey A. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Ashwagandha): A comprehensive review on ethnopharmacology, pharmacotherapeutics, biomedicinal and toxicological aspects. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 143:112175. [PMID: 34649336 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Solanaceae) has been used as a traditional Rasayana herb for a long time. Traditional uses of this plant indicate its ameliorative properties against a plethora of human medical conditions, viz. hypertension, stress, diabetes, asthma, cancer etc. This review presents a comprehensive summary of the geographical distribution, traditional use, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities of W. somnifera and its active constituents. In addition, it presents a detailed account of its presence as an active constituent in many commercial preparations with curative properties and health benefits. Clinical studies and toxicological considerations of its extracts and constituents are also elucidated. Comparative analysis of relevant in-vitro, in-vivo, and clinical investigations indicated potent bioactivity of W. somnifera extracts and phytochemicals as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, apoptotic, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective, hypoglycaemic, hypolipidemic, cardio-protective and spermatogenic agents. W. somnifera was found to be especially active against many neurological and psychological conditions like Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, ischemic stroke, sleep deprivation, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The probable mechanism of action that imparts the pharmacological potential has also been explored. However, in-depth studies are needed on the clinical use of W. somnifera against human diseases. Besides, detailed toxicological analysis is also to be performed for its safe and efficacious use in preclinical and clinical studies and as a health-promoting herb.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhabrata Paul
- School of Biotechnology, Presidency University (2nd Campus), Kolkata 700156, West Bengal, India
| | - Shreya Chakraborty
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, 86/1 College Street, Kolkata 700073, West Bengal, India
| | - Uttpal Anand
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Swarnali Dey
- Department of Botany, University of Calcutta, Kolkata 700019, West Bengal, India
| | - Samapika Nandy
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, 86/1 College Street, Kolkata 700073, West Bengal, India
| | - Mimosa Ghorai
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, 86/1 College Street, Kolkata 700073, West Bengal, India
| | - Suchismita Chatterjee Saha
- Department of Zoology, Nabadwip Vidyasagar College (Affiliated to the University of Kalyani), Nabadwip 741302, West Bengal, India
| | - Manoj Tukaram Patil
- Post Graduate Department of Botany, SNJB's KKHA Arts, SMGL Commerce and SPHJ Science College (Affiliated to Savitribai Phule Pune University), Chandwad, Nashik 423101, Maharashtra, India
| | - Ramesh Kandimalla
- CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Uppal Road, Tarnaka, Hyderabad 500007, Telangana, India; Department of Biochemistry, Kakatiya Medical College, Warangal-506007, Telangana, India
| | - Jarosław Proćków
- Department of Plant Biology, Institute of Environmental Biology, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Kożuchowska 5b, 51-631 Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Abhijit Dey
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, 86/1 College Street, Kolkata 700073, West Bengal, India.
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Sharifi-Rad J, Rajabi S, Martorell M, López MD, Toro MT, Barollo S, Armanini D, Fokou PVT, Zagotto G, Ribaudo G, Pezzani R. Plant natural products with anti-thyroid cancer activity. Fitoterapia 2020; 146:104640. [PMID: 32474055 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2020.104640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Thyroid cancer is the most frequent endocrine malignancy, with more than 500,000 cases per year worldwide. Differentiated thyroid cancers are the most common forms with best prognosis, while poorly/undifferentiated ones are rare (2% of all thyroid cancer), aggressive, frequently metastasize and have a worse prognosis. For aggressive, metastatic and advanced thyroid cancer novel antitumor molecules are urgently needed and phytochemical products can be a rational and extensive source, since secondary plant metabolites can guarantee the necessary biochemical variability for therapeutic purpose. Among bioactive molecules that present biological activity on thyroid cancer, resveratrol, curcumin, isoflavones, glucosinolates are the most common and used in experimental model. Most of them have been studied both in vitro and in vivo on this cancer, but rarely in clinical trial. This review summarizes phytochemicals, phytotherapeutics and plant derived compounds used in thyroid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javad Sharifi-Rad
- Phytochemistry Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sadegh Rajabi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Miquel Martorell
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Concepcion, Concepcion, Chile; Centre for Healthy Living, University of Concepción, Concepción, Chile; Unidad de Desarrollo Tecnológico, Universidad de Concepción UDT, Concepcion, Chile.
| | - Maria Dolores López
- Department of Plant Production, Faculty of Agronomy, Universidad de Concepción, Avenida Vicente Mendez, 595, Chillán 3812120, Chile
| | - María Trinidad Toro
- Department of Plant Production, Faculty of Agronomy, Universidad de Concepción, Avenida Vicente Mendez, 595, Chillán 3812120, Chile.
| | - Susi Barollo
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padova, via Ospedale 105, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Decio Armanini
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padova, via Ospedale 105, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Zagotto
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, via Marzolo 5, 35131 Padova, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Ribaudo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy.
| | - Raffaele Pezzani
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padova, via Ospedale 105, 35128 Padova, Italy; AIROB, Associazione Italiana per la Ricerca Oncologica di Base, Padova, Italy.
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Subramanian C, Grogan PT, Wang T, Bazzill J, Zuo A, White PT, Kalidindi A, Kuszynski D, Wang G, Blagg BSJ, Cohen MS. Novel C-terminal heat shock protein 90 inhibitors target breast cancer stem cells and block migration, self-renewal, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Mol Oncol 2020; 14:2058-2068. [PMID: 32255264 PMCID: PMC7463342 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.12686] [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] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
In patients with triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC), evidence suggests that tumor‐initiating cells (TIC) have stem cell‐like properties, leading to invasion and metastasis. HSP90 plays a critical role in the conformational maintenance of many client proteins in TIC development. Therefore, we hypothesize that the novel C‐terminal HSP90 inhibitors KU711 and KU758 can target TIC and represent a promising strategy for overcoming metastasis. Human breast cancer cells (MDA‐MB‐468LN, MDA‐MB‐231) treated with the HSP90 inhibitors KU711, KU758, and 17‐AAG showed a 50–80% decrease in TIC markers CD44 and aldehyde dehydrogenase (P < 0.01) as assessed by flow cytometry. A decrease in sphere formation, which was used to assess self‐renewal, was observed after the treatment of TNBC cells starting at 2.5 µm KU711 and 0.31 µm KU758. KU compounds also blocked the invasion and migration of TNBC cells in a dose‐dependent manner. The knockdown of HSP90 clients was observed without any change in prosurvival HSP70 levels. In vivo, in a murine orthotopic breast cancer model, treatment with KU758 and KU711 yielded an approximately twofold and a fourfold reduction in tumor volumes versus control, respectively, without demonstrated toxicity. In conclusion, C‐terminal HSP90 inhibitors are potent novel therapeutics against TNBC in vitro and in vivo as they target TICs and block invasion, EMT transition, and self‐renewal.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrick T Grogan
- Division of Hematology, Medical Oncology, and Palliative Care, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Ton Wang
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Joseph Bazzill
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Ang Zuo
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - Peter T White
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Dawn Kuszynski
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Grace Wang
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Brian S J Blagg
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - Mark S Cohen
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Hassannia B, Logie E, Vandenabeele P, Vanden Berghe T, Vanden Berghe W. Withaferin A: From ayurvedic folk medicine to preclinical anti-cancer drug. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 173:113602. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2019.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Jin Y, Liu M, Sa R, Fu H, Cheng L, Chen L. Mouse models of thyroid cancer: Bridging pathogenesis and novel therapeutics. Cancer Lett 2019; 469:35-53. [PMID: 31589905 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2019.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Due to a global increase in the incidence of thyroid cancer, numerous novel mouse models were established to reveal thyroid cancer pathogenesis and test promising therapeutic strategies, necessitating a comprehensive review of translational medicine that covers (i) the role of mouse models in the research of thyroid cancer pathogenesis, and (ii) preclinical testing of potential anti-thyroid cancer therapeutics. The present review article aims to: (i) describe the current approaches for mouse modeling of thyroid cancer, (ii) provide insight into the biology and genetics of thyroid cancers, and (iii) offer guidance on the use of mouse models for testing potential therapeutics in preclinical settings. Based on research with mouse models of thyroid cancer pathogenesis involving the RTK, RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, SRC, and JAK-STAT signaling pathways, inhibitors of VEGFR, MEK, mTOR, SRC, and STAT3 have been developed as anti-thyroid cancer drugs for "bench-to-bedside" translation. In the future, mouse models of thyroid cancer will be designed to be ''humanized" and "patient-like," offering opportunities to: (i) investigate the pathogenesis of thyroid cancer through target screening based on the CRISPR/Cas system, (ii) test drugs based on new mouse models, and (iii) explore the underlying mechanisms based on multi-omics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Jin
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, People's Republic of China.
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, People's Republic of China; Department of Nuclear Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Rd, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Ri Sa
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hao Fu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, People's Republic of China.
| | - Lin Cheng
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, People's Republic of China.
| | - Libo Chen
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, People's Republic of China.
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Bæk Møller N, Budolfsen C, Grimm D, Krüger M, Infanger M, Wehland M, E. Magnusson N. Drug-Induced Hypertension Caused by Multikinase Inhibitors (Sorafenib, Sunitinib, Lenvatinib and Axitinib) in Renal Cell Carcinoma Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20194712. [PMID: 31547602 PMCID: PMC6801695 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20194712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper reviews current treatments for renal cell carcinoma/cancer (RCC) with the multikinase inhibitors (MKIs) sorafenib, sunitinib, lenvatinib and axitinib. Furthermore, it compares these drugs regarding progression-free survival, overall survival and adverse effects (AE), with a focus on hypertension. Sorafenib and sunitinib, which are included in international clinical guidelines as first- and second-line therapy in metastatic RCC, are now being challenged by new-generation drugs like lenvatinib and axitinib. These drugs have shown significant clinical benefits for patients with RCC, but all four induce a variety of AEs. Hypertension is one of the most common AEs related to MKI treatment. Comparing sorafenib, sunitinib and lenvatinib revealed that sorafenib and sunitinib had the same efficacy, but sorafenib was safer to use. Lenvatinib showed better efficacy than sorafenib but worse safety. No trials have yet been completed that compare lenvatinib with sunitinib. Although axitinib promotes slightly higher hypertension rates compared to sunitinib, the overall discontinuation rate and cardiovascular complications are favourable. Although the mean rate of patients who develop hypertension is similar for each drug, some trials have shown large differences, which could indicate that lifestyle and/or genetic factors play an additional role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanna Bæk Møller
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Høegh-Guldbergsgade 10, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark; (N.B.M.); (C.B.)
| | - Cecilie Budolfsen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Høegh-Guldbergsgade 10, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark; (N.B.M.); (C.B.)
| | - Daniela Grimm
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Høegh-Guldbergsgade 10, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark; (N.B.M.); (C.B.)
- Gravitational Biology and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Mechanical Engineering, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany; (M.K.); (M.I.); (M.W.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +45-8716-7693
| | - Marcus Krüger
- Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany; (M.K.); (M.I.); (M.W.)
| | - Manfred Infanger
- Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany; (M.K.); (M.I.); (M.W.)
| | - Markus Wehland
- Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany; (M.K.); (M.I.); (M.W.)
| | - Nils E. Magnusson
- Medical Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Nørrebrogade 44, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark;
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Cong XF, Yang L, Chen C, Liu Z. KIF5B-RET fusion gene and its correlation with clinicopathological and prognostic features in lung cancer: a meta-analysis. Onco Targets Ther 2019; 12:4533-4542. [PMID: 31289444 PMCID: PMC6568188 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s186361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The KIF5B-RET fusion gene is a novel oncogene that has been observed in a subset of lung cancers in recent years. However, the results of related epidemiological studies remain unclear. Thus, a meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the correlation of KIF5B-RET expression based on RT-PCR detection with clinicopathological features and prognosis of lung cancer. Methods The PubMed, Google Scholar, Wiley Online, SpringerLink and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure databases were searched to identify the eligible studies. The association of the occurrence ofKIF5B-RETfusion gene in lung cancer with age, gender, smoking status, histology type, differentiation and TNM stage was analyzed. HR, overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were used to describe the prognosis of patients with lung cancer. The OR and 95% CI were calculated to assess the correlations. Random- and fixed-effects models were used to analyze the data. Results A total of 13 studies, which included 8,859 lung cancer patients, were included in the study based on the inclusion criteria. A total of 121 patients with positiveKIF5B-RETfusion gene status were detected, with a positive expression rate of 1.36%. KIF5B-RET fusion gene status was identified at significantly higher frequencies in female (OR=0.67, 95% CI=0.48-0.94) than male patients, and the same trend was found in young (<60 years) patients (OR=0.08, 95% CI=0.01-0.45) compared with old patients (≥60 years). No differences were found in the TNM stage, histology, differentiation and smoking. Based on the prognosis, no difference was found between the status of the positive and negativeKIF5B-RET fusion genes in OS and PFS of patients. Conclusion The KIF5B-RETfusion gene occurred predominantly in young female patients with lung cancer. However, the relationship between the expression of the fusion gene and the prognosis of lung patients remains unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Feng Cong
- Department of Oncology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, People's Republic of China,
| | - Lei Yang
- Department of Oncology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, People's Republic of China,
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Oncology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, People's Republic of China,
| | - Ziling Liu
- Department of Oncology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, People's Republic of China,
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21
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Pistollato F, Masias M, Agudo P, Giampieri F, Battino M. Effects of phytochemicals on thyroid function and their possible role in thyroid disease. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2018; 1443:3-19. [DOI: 10.1111/nyas.13980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2018] [Revised: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Pistollato
- Center for Nutrition & Health, CITICANUniversidad Europea del Atlántico, Parque Científico y Tecnológico de Cantabria Santander Spain
| | - Manuel Masias
- Center for Nutrition & Health, CITICANUniversidad Europea del Atlántico, Parque Científico y Tecnológico de Cantabria Santander Spain
- Área de Nutrición y SaludUniversidad Internacional Iberoamericana (UNINI) Campeche Mexico
| | - Pablo Agudo
- Center for Nutrition & Health, CITICANUniversidad Europea del Atlántico, Parque Científico y Tecnológico de Cantabria Santander Spain
| | - Francesca Giampieri
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche Specialistiche ed Odontostomatologiche, Sez, BiochimicaUniversità Politecnica delle Marche Ancona Italy
| | - Maurizio Battino
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche Specialistiche ed Odontostomatologiche, Sez, BiochimicaUniversità Politecnica delle Marche Ancona Italy
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Subramanian C, Grogan PT, Opipari VP, Timmermann BN, Cohen MS. Novel natural withanolides induce apoptosis and inhibit migration of neuroblastoma cells through down regulation of N-myc and suppression of Akt/mTOR/NF-κB activation. Oncotarget 2018; 9:14509-14523. [PMID: 29581860 PMCID: PMC5865686 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.24429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/04/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite recent advances in intensive chemotherapy treatments, long-term success is achieved in less than 30% of children with high-risk neuroblastoma (NB). Key regulatory pathways including the PI3K/Akt, mTOR and NF-κB are implicated in the pathogenesis of NB. Although drugs targeting these individual pathways are in clinical trials, they are not effective due to the activation of compensatory mechanisms. We have previously reported that natural novel withanolides from Physalis longifolia can potently inhibit these key regulatory pathways simultaneously. In the present study, we examined the efficacy and mechanisms through which novel withanolides and their acetate derivatives (WGA-TA and WGB-DA) from P.longifolia kill NB cells. The results from the study demonstrated that our novel acetate derivatives are highly effective in inhibiting the proliferation, shifting the cell cycle and inducing apoptosis in a dose dependent manner. Analysis of oncogenic pathway proteins targeted by withanolides indicated induction of heat shock response due to oxidative stress. Dose dependent decrease in clients of HSP90 chaperone function due to suppression of Akt, mTOR, and NF-κB pathways led to decrease in the expressions of target genes such as cyclin D1, N-myc and Survivin. Additionally, there was a dose dependent attenuation of the migration and invasion of NB cells. Furthermore, the lead compound WGA-TA showed significant reduction in tumor growth of NB xenografts. Taken together, these results suggest that withanolides are an effective therapeutic option against NBs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrick T Grogan
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Valerie P Opipari
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Mark S Cohen
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Natural Withanolides in the Treatment of Chronic Diseases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 928:329-373. [PMID: 27671823 PMCID: PMC7121644 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-41334-1_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Withanolides, and in particular extracts from Withania somnifera, have been used for over 3,000 years in traditional Ayurvedic and Unani Indian medical systems as well as within several other Asian countries. Traditionally, the extracts were ascribed a wide range of pharmacologic properties with corresponding medical uses, including adaptogenic, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, sedative/anxiolytic, cytotoxic, antitussive, and immunomodulatory. Since the discovery of the archetype withaferin A in 1965, approximately 900 of these naturally occurring, polyoxygenated steroidal lactones with 28-carbon ergostane skeletons have been discovered across 24 diverse structural types. Subsequently, extensive pharmacologic research has identified multiple mechanisms of action across key inflammatory pathways. In this chapter we identify and describe the major withanolides with anti-inflammatory properties, illustrate their role within essential and supportive inflammatory pathways (including NF-κB, JAK/STAT, AP-1, PPARγ, Hsp90 Nrf2, and HIF-1), and then discuss the clinical application of these withanolides in inflammation-mediated chronic diseases (including arthritis, autoimmune, cancer, neurodegenerative, and neurobehavioral). These naturally derived compounds exhibit remarkable biologic activity across these complex disease processes, while showing minimal adverse effects. As novel compounds and analogs continue to be discovered, characterized, and clinically evaluated, the interest in withanolides as a novel therapeutic only continues to grow.
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Molecular insights into cancer therapeutic effects of the dietary medicinal phytochemical withaferin A. Proc Nutr Soc 2017; 76:96-105. [PMID: 28162105 DOI: 10.1017/s0029665116002937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Despite the worldwide research efforts to combat cancer, it remains a leading cause of death. Although various specific kinase inhibitors already have been approved for clinical cancer treatment, occurrence of intrinsic or acquired resistance and intermittent response over longer periods limits long-term success of single kinase-targeted therapies. In this respect, there is a renewed interest in polypharmaceutical natural compounds, which simultaneously target various hyperactivated kinases involved in tumour-inflammation, angiogenesis, cell survival, proliferation, metastasis and angiogenesis. The dietary medicinal phytochemical withaferin A (WA), isolated from Withaferin somnifera (popular Indian name Ashwagandha), holds promise as a novel anti-cancer agent, which targets multiple cell survival kinase pathways, including IκB kinase/NF-κB, PI3 kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin and mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase amongst others. In this review, we propose a novel mechanism of WA-dependent kinase inhibition via electrophilic covalent targeting of cysteine residues in conserved kinase activation domains (kinase cysteinome), which could underlie its pleiotropic therapeutic effects in cancer signalling.
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Yin A, Wang C, Sun J, Gao J, Tao L, Du X, Zhao H, Yang J, Li Y. Overexpression of NDRG2 Increases Iodine Uptake and Inhibits Thyroid Carcinoma Cell Growth In Situ and In Vivo. Oncol Res 2016; 23:43-51. [PMID: 26802650 PMCID: PMC7842525 DOI: 10.3727/096504015x14452563486093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is an uncommon and highly aggressive tumor of the neuroendocrine system, which derives from the neuroendocrine C cells of the thyroid gland. Except for surgical resection, there are not very many effective systemic treatment options for MTC. N-Myc downstream-regulated gene 2 (NDRG2) had a significantly lower expression in MTC compared with normal thyroid tissue. However, the function of NDRG2 in MTC oncogenesis is largely unknown. In this study, we found that overexpression of NDRG2 inhibited the proliferation of TT cells (human medullary thyroid carcinoma cells) in vitro and suppressed the development of MTC in a nude mouse xenograft model. Further analysis revealed that NDRG2 arrested the cell cycle G0/G1 phase progression and induced TT cell apoptosis. Moreover, NDRG2 overexpression may mediate the antiproliferative effect by reducing cyclin D1 and cyclin E protein levels. We also found aberrant NDRG2-mitigated TT cell migration and invasion in vitro. Sodium/iodide symporter (NIS) mediates active I− transport into the thyroid follicular cells, and radionuclide treatment is a promising therapy for MTC. Our current data revealed that NDRG2 overexpression enhanced NIS level in TT cells and increased their iodine uptake in vitro. Furthermore, 99mTcO4− radionuclide imaging of the xenograft tumors indicated that NDRG2 could promote NIS-mediated radionuclide transport. In conclusion, the present study suggested that NDRG2 is a critical molecule in the regulation of MTC biological behavior and a potential promoter in radioactive iodine therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anqi Yin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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26
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Takaki M, Goto K, Kawahara I, Nabekura J. Activation of 5-HT4 receptors facilitates neurogenesis of injured enteric neurons at an anastomosis in the lower gut. J Smooth Muscle Res 2016; 51:82-94. [PMID: 26658112 PMCID: PMC5137308 DOI: 10.1540/jsmr.51.82] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Two-photon microscopy (2PM) can enable high-resolution deep imaging of thick tissue by
exciting a fluorescent dye and protein at anastomotic sites in the mouse small intestine
in vivo. We performed gut surgery and transplanted neural stem cells
(NSC) from the embryonic central nervous system after marking them with the fluorescent
cell linker, PKH26. We found that neurons differentiated from transplanted NSC (PKH [+])
and newborn enteric neurons differentiated from mobilized (host) NSC (YFP [+]) could be
localized within the granulation tissue of anastomoses. A 5-HT4-receptor
agonist, mosapride citrate (MOS), significantly increased the number of PKH (+) and YFP
(+) neurons by 2.5-fold (P<0.005). The distribution patterns of PKH
(+) neurons were similar to those of YFP (+) neurons. On the other hand, the
5-HT4-receptor antagonist, SB-207266 abolished these effects of MOS. These
results indicate that neurogenesis from transplanted NSC is facilitated by activation of
5-HT4-receptors. Thus, a combination of drug administration and cell
transplantation could be more beneficial than exclusive cell transplantation in treating
Hirschsprung's disease and related disorders including post rectal cancer surgery. The
underlying mechanisms for its action were explored using immunohistochemistry of the
longitudinal mouse ileum and rat rectal preparations including an anastomosis. MOS
significantly increased the number of new neurons, but not when co-administered with
either of a protein tyrosine kinase receptor, c-RET two inhibitors. The c-RET signaling
pathway contributes to enteric neurogenesis facilitated by MOS. In the future, we would
perform functional studies of new neurons over the thick granulation tissue at
anastomoses, using in vivo imaging with 2PM and double transgenic mice
expressing a calcium indicator such as GCaMP6 and channelrhodopsin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miyako Takaki
- Department of Physiology II, Nara Medical University, School of Medicine, Kashihara, Nara, Japan
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27
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Lee IC, Choi BY. Withaferin-A--A Natural Anticancer Agent with Pleitropic Mechanisms of Action. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:290. [PMID: 26959007 PMCID: PMC4813154 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17030290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2016] [Revised: 02/16/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer, being the second leading cause of mortality, exists as a formidable health challenge. In spite of our enormous efforts, the emerging complexities in the molecular nature of disease progression limit the real success in finding an effective cancer cure. It is now conceivable that cancer is, in fact, a progressive illness, and the morbidity and mortality from cancer can be reduced by interfering with various oncogenic signaling pathways. A wide variety of structurally diverse classes of bioactive phytochemicals have been shown to exert anticancer effects in a large number of preclinical studies. Multiple lines of evidence suggest that withaferin-A can prevent the development of cancers of various histotypes. Accumulating data from different rodent models and cell culture experiments have revealed that withaferin-A suppresses experimentally induced carcinogenesis, largely by virtue of its potent anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative and apoptosis-inducing properties. Moreover, withaferin-A sensitizes resistant cancer cells to existing chemotherapeutic agents. The purpose of this review is to highlight the mechanistic aspects underlying anticancer effects of withaferin-A.
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Affiliation(s)
- In-Chul Lee
- Department of Cosmetic science, Seowon University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 361-742, Korea.
| | - Bu Young Choi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science & Engineering, Seowon University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 361-742, Korea.
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28
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Palliyaguru DL, Singh SV, Kensler TW. Withania somnifera: From prevention to treatment of cancer. Mol Nutr Food Res 2016; 60:1342-53. [PMID: 26718910 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.201500756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Revised: 12/03/2015] [Accepted: 12/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The identification of bioactive molecules that have potential to interrupt carcinogenesis continues to garner research interest. In particular, molecules that have dietary origin are most attractive because of their safety, cost-effectiveness and feasibility of oral administration. Nutraceuticals have played an important role in the overall well-being of humans for many years, with or without rigorous evidence backing their health claims. Traditional medicine systems around the world have utilized plants that have medicinal properties for millennia, providing an opportunity for modern day researchers to assess their efficacies against ailments such as cancer. Withania somnifera (WS) is a plant that has been used in Ayurveda (an ancient form of medicine in Asia) and in the recent past, has been demonstrated to have anti-tumorigenic properties in experimental models. While scientific research performed on WS has exploded in the past decade, much regarding the mode of action and molecular targets involved remains unknown. In this review, we discuss the traditional uses of the plant, the experimental evidence supporting its chemopreventive potential as well as roadblocks that need to be overcome in order for WS to be evaluated as a chemopreventive agent in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dushani L Palliyaguru
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Shivendra V Singh
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Thomas W Kensler
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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29
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Gild ML, Bullock M, Pon CK, Robinson BG, Clifton-Bligh RJ. Destabilizing RET in targeted treatment of thyroid cancers. Endocr Connect 2016; 5:10-9. [PMID: 26574568 PMCID: PMC4674629 DOI: 10.1530/ec-15-0098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Metastatic differentiated thyroid cancers (DTC) are resistant to traditional chemotherapy. Kinase inhibitors have shown promise in patients with progressive DTC, but dose-limiting toxicity is commonplace. HSP90 regulates protein degradation of several growth-mediating kinases such as RET, and we hypothesized that HSP90 inhibitor (AUY922) could inhibit RET-mediated medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) as well as papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) cell growth and also radioactive iodine uptake by PTC cells. Studies utilized MTC cell lines TT (C634W) and MZ-CRC-1 (M918T) and the PTC cell line TPC-1 (RET/PTC1). Cell viability was assessed with MTS assays and apoptosis by flow cytometry. Signaling target expression was determined by western blot and radioiodine uptake measured with a gamma counter. Prolonged treatment of both MTC cell lines with AUY922 simultaneously inhibited both MAPK and mTOR pathways and significantly induced apoptosis (58.7 and 78.7% reduction in MZ-CRC-1 and TT live cells respectively, following 1 μM AUY922; P<0.02). Similarly in the PTC cell line, growth and signaling targets were inhibited, and also a 2.84-fold increase in radioiodine uptake was observed following AUY922 administration (P=0.015). AUY922 demonstrates in vitro activity against MTC and PTC cell lines. We observed a potent dose-dependent increase in apoptosis in MTC cell lines following drug administration confirming its anti-tumorigenic effects. Western blots confirm inhibition of pro-survival proteins including AKT suggesting this as the mechanism of cell death. In a functional study, we observed an increase in radioiodine uptake in the PTC cell line following AUY922 treatment. We believe HSP90 inhibition could be a viable alternative for treatment of RET-driven chemo-resistant thyroid cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Gild
- Cancer Genetics LaboratoryKolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, AustraliaDepartment of EndocrinologyRoyal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2065, Australia
| | - M Bullock
- Cancer Genetics LaboratoryKolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, AustraliaDepartment of EndocrinologyRoyal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2065, Australia
| | - C K Pon
- Cancer Genetics LaboratoryKolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, AustraliaDepartment of EndocrinologyRoyal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2065, Australia
| | - B G Robinson
- Cancer Genetics LaboratoryKolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, AustraliaDepartment of EndocrinologyRoyal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2065, Australia Cancer Genetics LaboratoryKolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, AustraliaDepartment of EndocrinologyRoyal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2065, Australia
| | - R J Clifton-Bligh
- Cancer Genetics LaboratoryKolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, AustraliaDepartment of EndocrinologyRoyal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2065, Australia Cancer Genetics LaboratoryKolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, AustraliaDepartment of EndocrinologyRoyal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2065, Australia
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Abstract
Plant-based Ayurvedic medicine has been practiced in India for thousands of years for the treatment of a variety of disorders. They are rich sources of bioactive compounds potentially useful for prevention and treatment of cancer. Withania somnifera (commonly known as Ashwagandha in Ayurvedic medicine) is a widely used medicinal plant whose anticancer value was recognized after isolation of steroidal compounds withanolides from the leaves of this shrub. Withaferin A is the first member of withanolides to be isolated, and it is the most abundant withanolide present in W. somnifera. Its cancer-protective role has now been established using chemically induced and oncogene-driven rodent cancer models. The present review summarizes the key preclinical studies demonstrating anticancer effects of withaferin along with its molecular targets and mechanisms related to its anticancer effects. Anticancer potential of other withanolides is also discussed.
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Goto K, Kawahara I, Kuniyasu H, Takaki M. A protein tyrosine kinase receptor, c-RET signaling pathway contributes to the enteric neurogenesis induced by a 5-HT4 receptor agonist at an anastomosis after transection of the gut in rodents. J Physiol Sci 2015; 65:377-83. [PMID: 25850922 PMCID: PMC10717718 DOI: 10.1007/s12576-015-0377-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2015] [Accepted: 03/19/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
We previously reported that a serotonin 4 (5-HT4) receptor agonist, mosapride citrate (MOS), increased the number of c-RET-positive cells and levels of c-RET mRNA in gel sponge implanted in the necks of rats. The 5-HT4 receptor is a G protein coupled receptor (GPCR) coupled to G protein Gs-cAMP cascades. We investigated the possibility that 5-HT4 receptor activation induced c-RET activation and/or PKA activation by elevating cAMP levels. Rodents were orally administered MOS by adding it to drinking water for 2 weeks after enteric nerve circuit insult via gut transection and anastomosis, together with the RET inhibitors withaferin A (WA) and RPI-1 or the PKA inhibitor H89. We then examined PGP9.5-positive cells in the newly formed granulation tissue at the anastomotic site. MOS significantly increased the number of new neurons, but not when co-administered with WA or RPI-1. Co-administration of H89 failed to alter MOS-induced increases in neurogenesis. In conclusion, the c-RET signaling pathway contributes to enteric neurogenesis facilitated by MOS, though the contribution of PKA activation seems unlikely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kei Goto
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara, Nara 634-8521 Japan
| | - Isao Kawahara
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara, Nara 634-8521 Japan
| | - Hiroki Kuniyasu
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara, Nara 634-8521 Japan
| | - Miyako Takaki
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara, Nara 634-8521 Japan
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Kakar SS, Ratajczak MZ, Powell KS, Moghadamfalahi M, Miller DM, Batra SK, Singh SK. Withaferin a alone and in combination with cisplatin suppresses growth and metastasis of ovarian cancer by targeting putative cancer stem cells. PLoS One 2014; 9:e107596. [PMID: 25264898 PMCID: PMC4180068 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0107596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2014] [Accepted: 08/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, the treatment for ovarian cancer entails cytoreductive surgery followed by chemotherapy, mainly, carboplatin combined with paclitaxel. Although this regimen is initially effective in a high percentage of cases, unfortunately within few months of initial treatment, tumor relapse occurs because of platinum-resistance. This is attributed to chemo-resistance of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Herein we show for the first time that withaferin A (WFA), a bioactive compound isolated from the plant Withania somnifera, when used alone or in combination with cisplatin (CIS) targets putative CSCs. Treatment of nude mice bearing orthotopic ovarian tumors generated by injecting human ovarian epithelial cancer cell line (A2780) with WFA and cisplatin (WFA) alone or in combination resulted in a 70 to 80% reduction in tumor growth and complete inhibition of metastasis to other organs compared to untreated controls. Histochemical and Western blot analysis of the tumors revealed that inclusion of WFA (2 mg/kg) resulted in a highly significant elimination of cells expressing CSC markers - CD44, CD24, CD34, CD117 and Oct4 and downregulation of Notch1, Hes1 and Hey1 genes. In contrast treatment of mice with CIS alone (6 mg/kg) had opposite effect on those cells. Increase in cells expressing CSC markers and Notch1 signaling pathway in tumors exposed to CIS may explain recurrence of cancer in patients treated with carboplatin and paclitaxel. Since, WFA alone or in combination with CIS eliminates putative CSCs, we conclude that WFA in combination with CIS may present more efficacious therapy for ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sham S. Kakar
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Mariusz Z. Ratajczak
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Karen S. Powell
- Research Resources Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Mana Moghadamfalahi
- Department of Pathology, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Donald M. Miller
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Surinder K. Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Sanjay K. Singh
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
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Fallahi P, Ferrari SM, Santini F, Corrado A, Materazzi G, Ulisse S, Miccoli P, Antonelli A. Sorafenib and thyroid cancer. BioDrugs 2014; 27:615-28. [PMID: 23818056 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-013-0049-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Sorafenib (Nexavar) is a multikinase inhibitor, which has demonstrated both anti-proliferative and anti-angiogenic properties in vitro and in vivo, inhibiting the activity of targets present in the tumor cell [c-RAF (proto-oncogene serine/threonine-protein kinase), BRAF, (V600E)BRAF, c-KIT, and FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3] and in tumor vessels (c-RAF, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3, and platelet-derived growth factor receptor β). For several years, sorafenib has been approved for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma and advanced renal cell carcinoma. After previous studies showing that sorafenib was able to inhibit oncogenic RET mutants, (V600E)BRAF, and angiogenesis and growth of orthotopic anaplastic thyroid cancer xenografts in nude mice, some clinical trials demonstrated the effectiveness of sorafenib in advanced thyroid cancer. Currently, the evaluation of the clinical safety and efficacy of sorafenib for the treatment of advanced thyroid cancer is ongoing. This article reviews the anti-neoplastic effect of sorafenib in thyroid cancer. Several completed (or ongoing) studies have evaluated the long-term efficacy and tolerability of sorafenib in patients with papillary and medullary aggressive thyroid cancer. The results suggest that sorafenib is a promising therapeutic option in patients with advanced thyroid cancer that is not responsive to traditional therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poupak Fallahi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Savi, 10, 56126, Pisa, Italy
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Subramanian C, Zhang H, Gallagher R, Hammer G, Timmermann B, Cohen M. Withanolides are Potent Novel Targeted Therapeutic Agents Against Adrenocortical Carcinomas. World J Surg 2014; 38:1343-52. [DOI: 10.1007/s00268-014-2532-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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35
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Grogan PT, Sarkaria JN, Timmermann BN, Cohen MS. Oxidative cytotoxic agent withaferin A resensitizes temozolomide-resistant glioblastomas via MGMT depletion and induces apoptosis through Akt/mTOR pathway inhibitory modulation. Invest New Drugs 2014; 32:604-17. [PMID: 24718901 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-014-0084-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2013] [Accepted: 03/03/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Temozolomide (TMZ) has remained the chemotherapy of choice in patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) primarily due to the lack of more effective drugs. Tumors, however, quickly develop resistance to this line of treatment creating a critical need for alternative approaches and strategies to resensitize the cells. Withaferin A (WA), a steroidal lactone derived from several genera of the Solanaceae plant family has previously demonstrated potent anti-cancer activity in multiple tumor models. Here, we examine the effects of WA against TMZ-resistant GBM cells as a monotherapy and in combination with TMZ. WA prevented GBM cell proliferation by dose-dependent G2/M cell cycle arrest and cell death through both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways. This effect correlated with depletion of principle proteins of the Akt/mTOR and MAPK survival and proliferation pathways with diminished phosphorylation of Akt, mTOR, and p70 S6K but compensatory activation of ERK1/2. Depletion of tyrosine kinase cell surface receptors c-Met, EGFR, and Her2 was also observed. WA demonstrated induction of N-acetyl-L-cysteine-repressible oxidative stress as measured directly and through a subsequent heat shock response with HSP32 and HSP70 upregulation and decreased HSF1. Finally, pretreatment of TMZ-resistant GBM cells with WA was associated with O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) depletion which potentiated TMZ-mediated MGMT degradation. Combination treatment with both WA and TMZ resulted in resensitization of MGMT-mediated TMZ-resistance but not resistance through mismatch repair mutations. These studies suggest great clinical potential for the utilization of WA in TMZ-resistant GBM as both a monotherapy and a resensitizer in combination with the standard chemotherapeutic agent TMZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick T Grogan
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Therapeutics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
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36
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Vyas AR, Singh SV. Molecular targets and mechanisms of cancer prevention and treatment by withaferin a, a naturally occurring steroidal lactone. AAPS JOURNAL 2013; 16:1-10. [PMID: 24046237 DOI: 10.1208/s12248-013-9531-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2013] [Accepted: 08/21/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The plants used in Ayurvedic medicine, which has been practiced in India for thousands of years for the treatment of a variety of disorders, are rich in chemicals potentially useful for prevention and treatment of cancer. Withania somnifera (commonly known as Ashwagandha in Ayurvedic medicine) is one such medicinal plant whose anticancer value was realized over four decades ago after isolation of a crystalline steroidal compound (withaferin A) from the leaves of this shrub. The root and leaf extracts of W. somnifera are shown to confer protection against chemically-induced cancers in experimental rodents, and retard tumor xenograft growth in athymic mice. Anticancer effect of W. somnifera is generally attributable to steroidal lactones collectively referred to as withanolides. Withaferin A (WA) appears most active against cancer among structurally divergent withanolides isolated from the root or leaf of W. somnifera. Cancer-protective role for WA has now been established using chemically-induced and oncogene-driven rodent cancer models. This review summarizes the key in vivo preclinical studies demonstrating anticancer effects of WA. Molecular targets and mechanisms likely contributing to the anticancer effects of WA are also discussed. Finally, challenges in clinical development of WA for the prevention and treatment of cancer are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avani R Vyas
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Rosen JE, Gardiner P, Lee SL. Complementary and Integrative Treatments. Otolaryngol Clin North Am 2013; 46:423-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.otc.2013.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Samadi AK, Bazzill J, Zhang X, Gallagher R, Zhang H, Gollapudi R, Kindscher K, Timmermann B, Cohen MS. Novel withanolides target medullary thyroid cancer through inhibition of both RET phosphorylation and the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway. Surgery 2013; 152:1238-47. [PMID: 23158190 DOI: 10.1016/j.surg.2012.08.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2012] [Accepted: 08/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite development of current targeted therapies for medullary thyroid cancer (MTC), long-term survival remains unchanged. Recently isolated novel withanolide compounds from Solanaceae physalis are highly potent against MTCs. We hypothesize that these withanolides uniquely inhibit RET phosphorylation and the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway in MTC cells as a mechanism of antiproliferation and apoptosis. METHODS MTC cells were treated with novel withanolides and MTC-targeted drugs. In vitro studies assessed cell viability and proliferation (MTS; trypan blue assays), apoptosis (flow cytometry with Annexin V/PI staining; confirmed by Western blot analysis), long-term cytotoxic effects (clonogenic assay), and suppression of key regulatory proteins such as RET, Akt, and mTOR (by Western blot analysis). RESULTS The novel withanolides potently reduced MTC cell viability (half maximal inhibitory concentration [IC(50)], 270-2,850 nmol/L; 250-1,380 nmol/L for vandetanib; 360-1,640 nmol/L for cabozantinib) with induction of apoptosis at <1,000 nmol/L of drug. Unique from other targeted therapies, withanolides suppressed RET and Akt phosphorylation and protein expression (in a concentration- and time-dependent manner) as well as mTOR activity and translational activity of 4E-BP1 and protein synthesis mediated by p70S6kinase activation at IC(50) concentrations. CONCLUSION Novel withanolides from Physalis selectively and potently inhibit MTC cells in vitro. Unlike other MTC-targeted therapies, these compounds uniquely inhibit both RET kinase activity and the Akt/mTOR prosurvival pathway. Further translational studies are warranted to evaluate their clinical potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbas K Samadi
- Department of Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
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Grogan PT, Sleder KD, Samadi AK, Zhang H, Timmermann BN, Cohen MS. Cytotoxicity of withaferin A in glioblastomas involves induction of an oxidative stress-mediated heat shock response while altering Akt/mTOR and MAPK signaling pathways. Invest New Drugs 2012; 31:545-57. [PMID: 23129310 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-012-9888-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2012] [Accepted: 09/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Withaferin A (WA), a steroidal lactone derived from the plant Vassobia breviflora, has been reported to have anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, and anti-angiogenic properties against cancer growth. In this study, we identified several key underlying mechanisms of anticancer action of WA in glioblastoma cells. WA was found to inhibit proliferation by inducing a dose-dependent G2/M cell cycle arrest and promoting cell death through both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways. This was accompanied by an inhibitory shift in the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway which included diminished expression and/or phosphorylation of Akt, mTOR, p70 S6K, and p85 S6K with increased activation of AMPKα and the tumor suppressor tuberin/TSC2. Alterations in proteins of the MAPK pathway and cell surface receptors like EGFR, Her2/ErbB2, and c-Met were also observed. WA induced an N-acetyl-L-cysteine-repressible enhancement in cellular oxidative potential/stress with subsequent induction of a heat shock stress response primarily through HSP70, HSP32, and HSP27 upregulation and HSF1 downregulation. Taken together, we suggest that WA may represent a promising chemotherapeutic candidate in glioblastoma therapy warranting further translational evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick T Grogan
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Therapeutics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas, KS 66160, USA
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Vanden Berghe W, Sabbe L, Kaileh M, Haegeman G, Heyninck K. Molecular insight in the multifunctional activities of Withaferin A. Biochem Pharmacol 2012; 84:1282-91. [PMID: 22981382 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2012.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2012] [Revised: 08/29/2012] [Accepted: 08/30/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Herbal medicine which involves the use of plants for their medicinal value, dates as far back as the origin of mankind and demonstrates an array of applications including cardiovascular protection and anti-cancer activities, via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and metabolic activities. Even today the popularity of medicinal herbs is still growing like in traditional medicines such as the Indian medicine, Ayurveda. One of the Ayurvedic medicinal plants is Withania somnifera Dunal, of which the important constituents are the withanolides. Among them, Withaferin A is one of the most bioactive compounds, exerting anti-inflammatory, pro-apoptotic but also anti-invasive and anti-angiogenic effects. In the context of modern pharmacology, a better insight in the underlying mechanism of the broad range of bioactivities exerted by Withaferin A is compulsory. Therefore, a lot of effort was made to explore the intracellular effects of Withaferin A and to characterize its target proteins. This review provides a decisive insight on the molecular basis of the health-promoting potential of Withaferin A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wim Vanden Berghe
- Laboratory of Eukaryotic Gene Expression and Signal Transduction (LEGEST), Department of Physiology, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
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Antonelli A, Fallahi P, Ferrari SM, Ruffilli I, Santini F, Minuto M, Galleri D, Miccoli P. New targeted therapies for thyroid cancer. Curr Genomics 2012; 12:626-31. [PMID: 22654562 PMCID: PMC3271315 DOI: 10.2174/138920211798120808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2011] [Revised: 07/18/2011] [Accepted: 07/25/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The increasing incidence of thyroid cancer is associated with a higher number of advanced disease characterized by the loss of cancer differentiation and metastatic spread. The knowledge of the molecular pathways involved in the pathogenesis of thyroid cancer has made possible the development of new therapeutic drugs able to blockade the oncogenic kinases (BRAF V600E, RET/PTC) or signaling kinases [vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR), platelet-derived growth factor receptors (PDGFR)] involved in cellular growth and proliferation. Some clinical trials have been conducted showing the ability of targeted therapies (sorafenib, sunitinib, axitinib, imanitib, vandetanib, pazopanib, gefitinib) in stabilizing the course of the disease. Until now, however, no consensus guidelines have been established for patient selection and more data on toxicities and side effects are needed to be collected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Antonelli
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Pisa School of Medicine, Pisa, Italy
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Abstract
The increasing incidence of thyroid cancer is associated with a higher number of advanced disease characterized by the loss of cancer differentiation and metastatic spread. The knowledge of the molecular pathways involved in the pathogenesis of thyroid cancer has made possible the development of new therapeutic drugs able to blockade the oncogenic kinases (RET/PTC) or signaling kinases (vascular endothelial growth factor receptor [VEGFR]) involved in cellular growth and proliferation. Some clinical trials have been conducted showing the ability of targeted therapies able to inhibit RET(sorafenib, imatinib, vandetanib) in stabilizing the course of the disease. The aim of the introduction of these targeted therapies is to extend life duration assuring a good quality of life; however, further studies are needed to reach these goals.
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Samadi AK, Cohen SM, Mukerji R, Chaguturu V, Zhang X, Timmermann BN, Cohen MS, Person EA. Natural withanolide withaferin A induces apoptosis in uveal melanoma cells by suppression of Akt and c-MET activation. Tumour Biol 2012; 33:1179-89. [DOI: 10.1007/s13277-012-0363-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2011] [Accepted: 02/13/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
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Bales SR, Chopra IJ. Targeted treatment of differentiated and medullary thyroid cancer. J Thyroid Res 2011; 2011:102636. [PMID: 21826256 PMCID: PMC3150151 DOI: 10.4061/2011/102636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2011] [Accepted: 06/14/2011] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of thyroid cancer is increasing, with a concomitant increase in the number of patients with advanced and metastatic disease. Discoveries regarding the pathogenesis of thyroid cancer have led to the recent development of new therapeutic agents that are beginning to appear on the market. Many of these new agents are targeted kinase inhibitors primarily affecting oncogenic kinases (BRAF V600E, RET/PTC) or signaling kinases (VEGFR, PDGFR). Some of these agents report significant partial response rates, while others attain stabilization of disease as their best response. Their impact on survival is unclear. While these agents target similar pathways, a wide variety of differences exist regarding efficacy and side effect profile. Current expert opinion advises that these agents be used only in a specific subset of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon R Bales
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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