1
|
Fan Y, Chen L, Jing Q, Li X, Pan H, Fang C, Zhang J, Shi F. Covalent Binding of Reactive Anhydride of Cantharidin to Biological Amines. Drug Metab Dispos 2024; 52:775-784. [PMID: 38811155 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.123.001637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Cantharidin is a terpenoid from coleoptera beetles. Cantharidin has been used to treat molluscum contagiosum and some types of tumors. Cantharidin is highly toxic, and cantharidin poisoning and fatal cases have been reported worldwide. The mechanisms underlying cantharidin-induced toxicity remain unclear. Cantharidin contains anhydride, which may react with biologic amines. This study aimed to examine the chemical reactivity of cantharidin toward nucleophiles and characterize adducts of cantharidin with biologic amines in vitro and in mice. Here two types of conjugates were formed in the incubation of cantharidin under physiologic conditions with free amino acids, a mimic peptide, or amine-containing compounds, respectively. Amide-type conjugates were produced by the binding of cantharidin anhydride with the primary amino group of biologic amines. Imide-type conjugates were generated from the dehydration and cyclization of amide-type conjugates. The structure of the conjugates was characterized by using high-resolution mass spectrometry. We introduced the 14N/15N and 79Br/81Br isotope signatures to confirm the formation of conjugates using L-(ε)15N-lysine, L-lysine-15N2, and bromine-tagged hydrazine, respectively. The structure of imide conjugate was also confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance experiments. Furthermore, the amide and imide conjugates of cantharidin with amino acids or N-acetyl-lysine were detected in mouse liver and urine. Cantharidin was found to modify lysine residue proteins in mouse liver. Pan-cytochrome P450 inhibitor 1-aminobenzotriazole significantly increased the urine cantharidin-N-acetyl-lysine conjugates, whereas it decreased cantharidin metabolites. In summary, cantharidin anhydride can covalently bind to biologic amines nonenzymatically, which facilitates a better understanding of the role of nonenzymatic reactivity in cantharidin poisoning. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Anhydride moiety of cantharidin can covalently bind to the primary amino group of biological amines nonenzymatically. Amide and imide conjugates were generated after the covalent binding of cantharidin anhydride with the primary amino groups of amino acids, a mimic peptide, and protein lysine residues. The structure of conjugates was confirmed by 14N/15N and 79Br/81Br isotope signatures using isotope-tagged reagents and nuclear magnetic resonance experiments. This study will facilitate the understanding of the role of nonenzymatic reactivity in cantharidin poisoning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaya Fan
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education (Y.F., L.C., Q.J., X.L., H.P., C.F., F.S.), Department of Clinical Pharmacy (H.P.), and Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis (J.Z.), Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China; and Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China (C.F.)
| | - Lin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education (Y.F., L.C., Q.J., X.L., H.P., C.F., F.S.), Department of Clinical Pharmacy (H.P.), and Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis (J.Z.), Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China; and Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China (C.F.)
| | - Qiuyi Jing
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education (Y.F., L.C., Q.J., X.L., H.P., C.F., F.S.), Department of Clinical Pharmacy (H.P.), and Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis (J.Z.), Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China; and Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China (C.F.)
| | - Xiaoli Li
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education (Y.F., L.C., Q.J., X.L., H.P., C.F., F.S.), Department of Clinical Pharmacy (H.P.), and Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis (J.Z.), Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China; and Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China (C.F.)
| | - Hong Pan
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education (Y.F., L.C., Q.J., X.L., H.P., C.F., F.S.), Department of Clinical Pharmacy (H.P.), and Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis (J.Z.), Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China; and Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China (C.F.)
| | - Chao Fang
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education (Y.F., L.C., Q.J., X.L., H.P., C.F., F.S.), Department of Clinical Pharmacy (H.P.), and Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis (J.Z.), Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China; and Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China (C.F.)
| | - Jianyong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education (Y.F., L.C., Q.J., X.L., H.P., C.F., F.S.), Department of Clinical Pharmacy (H.P.), and Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis (J.Z.), Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China; and Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China (C.F.)
| | - Fuguo Shi
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education (Y.F., L.C., Q.J., X.L., H.P., C.F., F.S.), Department of Clinical Pharmacy (H.P.), and Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis (J.Z.), Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China; and Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China (C.F.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Liu R, Yang C, Yang X, Yu J, Tang W. Network toxicology, molecular docking technology, and experimental verification revealed the mechanism of cantharidin-induced testicular injury in mice. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2024; 486:116921. [PMID: 38582374 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2024.116921] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
As a protein kinase inhibitor, cantharidin (CTD) exhibits antitumor activities. However, CTD is highly toxic, thereby limiting clinical applications. Moreover, relatively few studies have investigated CTD-induced reproductive toxicity, thus the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In this study, the toxic effects of CTD on mouse testis were confirmed in vivo and the potential mechanism was predicted by network toxicology (NT) and molecular docking technology. Proteins involved in the signaling pathways and core targets were verified. The results showed that different concentrations of CTD induced weight loss increased the testicular coefficient, and caused obvious pathological damage to testicular cells. The NT results showed that the main targets of CTD-induced testicular injury (TI) included AKT1, Caspase 3, Bcl-2, and Bax. The results of pathway enrichment analysis showed that CTD-induced TI was closely related to apoptosis and the PI3K/AKT and HIF-1 signaling pathways. Molecular docking methods confirmed high affinity between CTD and key targets. Western blot analysis showed that CTD inhibited expression of PI3K, AKT, and the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, while promoting expression of the pro-apoptotic proteins Bax and Caspase 3. These results suggest that CTD-induced TI involves multiple targets and pathways, and the underlying mechanism was associated with inhibition of the apoptosis-related PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruxia Liu
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Changfu Yang
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Xin Yang
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Jia Yu
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Wenchao Tang
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Xiong L, Lin K, He T, Liu X, Yuan R, Li X, Zhang J. A novel approach combining network pharmacology and experimental validation to study the protective effect of ginsenoside Rb1 against cantharidin-induced hepatotoxicity in mice. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2024; 134:737-749. [PMID: 38477401 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.13999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Cantharidin (CTD) is a widely used anticancer compound, but its clinical use is mainly limited due to hepatotoxicity. Ginsenoside Rb1 (GRb1) shows potential hepatoprotective effects. Nonetheless, the protective effect and underlying mechanism of GRb1 against CTD-induced hepatotoxicity in mice have not been investigated. This study aims to elucidate the effect and mechanism of GRb1 on CTD-induced hepatotoxicity using network pharmacology and in vivo experiments. Network pharmacology studies have shown that 263 targets were the main mechanisms by which GRb1 alleviates CTD-induced hepatotoxicity. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that 75 hub genes were mainly enriched in TNF, IL-17 and apoptosis signalling pathways. Molecular docking analysis showed that GRb1 exhibited high affinity with Akt1, Tnf, Il6, Bcl2 and Caspase3. In addition, results from animal studies demonstrated that GRb1 could ameliorate CTD-induced hepatotoxicity by inhibiting protein expression of Caspase-3, Caspase-8, Bcl-2/Bax, GRP78, ATF6, ATF4, CHOP, IRE1α and PERK. This research revealed the mechanism of GRb1 against CTD-induced hepatotoxicity by inhibiting apoptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and it may provide a scientific rationale for the potential use of GRb1 in the treatment of hepatotoxicity induced by CTD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lijuan Xiong
- School of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology Ministry Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Kexin Lin
- School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Tianmu He
- School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Xingyan Liu
- School of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology Ministry Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Rui Yuan
- School of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology Ministry Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Xiaofei Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Jianyong Zhang
- School of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology Ministry Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Xu WL, Tang WJ, Yang WY, Sun LC, Zhang ZQ, Li W, Zang XX. Multiorgan dysfunction syndrome due to high-dose cantharidin poisoning: A case report. World J Clin Cases 2024; 12:2074-2078. [PMID: 38680272 PMCID: PMC11045515 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v12.i12.2074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This report delves into the diagnostic and therapeutic journey undertaken by a patient with high-dose cantharidin poisoning and multiorgan dysfunction syndrome (MODS). Particular emphasis is placed on the comprehensive elucidation of the clinical manifestations of high-dose cantharidin poisoning, the intricate path to diagnosis, and the exploration of potential underlying mechanisms. CASE SUMMARY A patient taking 10 g of cantharidin powder orally subsequently developed MODS. The patient was treated with supportive care, fluid hydration and antibiotics, and hemoperfusion and hemofiltration therapy for 24 h and successfully recovered 8 d after hospital admission. Cantharidin poisoning can cause life-threatening MODS and is rare clinically. This case underscores the challenge in diagnosis and highlights the need for early clinical differentiation to facilitate accurate assessment and prompt intervention. CONCLUSION This article has reported and analyzed the clinical data, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of a case of high-dose cantharidin poisoning resulting in MODS and reviewed the relevant literature to improve the clinical understanding of this rare condition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wan-Ling Xu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Wen-Jing Tang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Wei-Ying Yang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Li-Chao Sun
- Department of Emergency Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Ze-Qun Zhang
- Department of Chinese Traditional Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Emergency Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Xiu-Xian Zang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
He T, Duan C, Feng W, Ao J, Lu D, Li X, Zhang J. Bibliometric Analysis and Systemic Review of Cantharidin Research Worldwide. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2024; 25:1585-1601. [PMID: 39034837 DOI: 10.2174/0113892010244101231024111850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cantharidin (CTD), a natural toxic compound from blister beetle Mylabris, has been used for cancer treatment for millenary. CTD and its analogs have become mainstream adjuvant drugs with radiotherapy and chemotherapy in clinical applications. However, the detailed pharmacology mechanism of CTD was not fully elucidated. METHODS Publications of CTD were collected from the Web of Science Core Collection database from 1991 to 2023 using CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and Scimago Graphica software. RESULTS A total of 1,611 publications of CTD were mainly published in China and the United States. The University of Newcastle has published the most researches. Mcclusey, Adam, Sakoff, Jennette, and Zhang, Yalin had the most CTD publications with higher H. Notably, CTD researches were mainly published in Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters and the Journal of Biological Chemistry. Cluster profile results revealed that protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), human gallbladder carcinoma, Aidi injection, and cell apoptosis were the hotspots. Concentration on the pharmacology function of PP2A subunit regulation, hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and cardiotoxicity mechanism should be strengthened in the future. CONCLUSION Bibliometric analysis combined with a systemic review of CTD research first revealed that PP2A and CTD analogs were the knowledge base of CTD, and PP2A subunit regulation and toxic mechanism could be the frontiers of CTD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianmu He
- School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi medical University, Zunyi 550025, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 563000, Guizhou, China
| | - Cancan Duan
- School of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology Ministry Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine, Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, Guizhou, China
| | - Wenzhong Feng
- School of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology Ministry Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine, Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, Guizhou, China
| | - Jingwen Ao
- School of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology Ministry Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine, Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, Guizhou, China
| | - Dingyang Lu
- School of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology Ministry Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine, Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, Guizhou, China
| | - Xiaofei Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi medical University, Zunyi 550025, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 563000, Guizhou, China
| | - Jianyong Zhang
- School of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology Ministry Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine, Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, Guizhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Velut G, Grau M, Valois A, Holterbach L, François M, Le Gall P, Aigle L, Pommier de Santi V, Bologna MA. Blister Beetle Dermatitis Outbreaks in Mali. Mil Med 2023; 188:3066-3070. [PMID: 35446414 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usac101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Meloidae are distributed in temperate and arid regions but are also common in subtropical and tropical savannahs. These insects contain cantharidin, a vesicant substance that can cause poisoning by ingestion and dermatitis by direct contact. MATERIAL AND METHODS We describe recurrent Meloidae-related dermatitis outbreaks and their health impact by analyzing medical consultation records and meteorological data. RESULTS Between 2015 and 2019, dermatitis outbreaks took place at a French military base at the end of the rainy season, from July to August, with 100 cases reported in 2015, 74 in 2017, 100 in 2018, and 36 in 2019. In 2017, the incidence rate was 4.4% for the base's population. Initial medical consultations represented 31.5% of total medical care activity. Meloidae were identified as Cyaneolytta fryi. CONCLUSIONS These outbreaks of burn-like lesions, although clinically benign, can place a considerable burden on the medical activity of health care facilities. The diagnosis of Meloidae dermatitis is exclusively anamnestic and clinical and requires reported contact with the insect. The treatment protocol is that of standard burn care, and the best preventive measure is to avoid bright white lights. Military personnel, foreign workers, and travelers venturing into the Sahel should be warned of the risks associated with these beetles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Velut
- French Armed Forces Center for Epidemiology and Public Health (CESPA), Marseille 13568, France
| | - Martin Grau
- French Armed Forces Center for Epidemiology and Public Health (CESPA), Marseille 13568, France
| | - Aude Valois
- Sainte Anne Military Teaching Hospital, Toulon 83000, France
| | - Lise Holterbach
- French Armed Forces Center for Epidemiology and Public Health (CESPA), Marseille 13568, France
| | | | - Philippe Le Gall
- UMR EGCE (Evolution, Genomes, Comportement, Ecologie), CNRS IRD-Paris-Sud University, Gif-sur-Yvette 91198, France
| | - Luc Aigle
- French Military Health Service Academy, École du Val de Grâce, Paris 75230, France
| | - Vincent Pommier de Santi
- French Armed Forces Center for Epidemiology and Public Health (CESPA), Marseille 13568, France
- IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille 13005, France
- University Hospital Institute "Méditerranée Infection", Marseille 13005, France
| | - Marco A Bologna
- Department of Sciences, Roma Tre University, Roma 00146, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Jin D, Huang NN, Wei JX. Hepatotoxic mechanism of cantharidin: insights and strategies for therapeutic intervention. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1201404. [PMID: 37383714 PMCID: PMC10293652 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1201404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cantharidin (CTD), a natural compound derived from Mylabris, is widely used in traditional Oriental medicine for its potent anticancer properties. However, its clinical application is restricted due to its high toxicity, particularly towards the liver. This review provides a concise understanding of the hepatotoxic mechanisms of CTD and highlights novel therapeutic strategies to mitigate its toxicity while enhancing its anticancer efficacy. We systematically explore the molecular mechanisms underlying CTD-induced hepatotoxicity, focusing on the involvement of apoptotic and autophagic processes in hepatocyte injury. We further discuss the endogenous and exogenous pathways implicated in CTD-induced liver damage and potential therapeutic targets. This review also summarizes the structural modifications of CTD derivatives and their impact on anticancer activity. Additionally, we delve into the advancements in nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems that hold promise in overcoming the limitations of CTD derivatives. By offering valuable insights into the hepatotoxic mechanisms of CTD and outlining potential avenues for future research, this review contributes to the ongoing efforts to develop safer and more effective CTD-based therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dian Jin
- Department of Pharmacy, Sixth People’s Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu, China
| | - Na-Na Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jing-Xia Wei
- Department of Pharmacy, Sixth People’s Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Liu X, Zhang L, Tang W, Zhang T, Xiang P, Shen Q, Ye T, Xiao Y. Transcriptomic profiling and differential analysis reveal the renal toxicity mechanisms of mice under cantharidin exposure. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2023; 465:116450. [PMID: 36907384 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2023.116450] [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: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Cantharidin (CTD), extracted from the traditional Chinese medicine mylabris, has shown significant curative effects against a variety of tumors, but its clinical application is limited by its high toxicity. Studies have revealed that CTD can cause toxicity in the kidneys; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the toxic effects in mouse kidneys following CTD treatment by pathological and ultrastructure observations, biochemical index detection, and transcriptomics, and explored the underlying molecular mechanisms by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). The results showed that after CTD exposure, the kidneys had different degrees of pathological damage, altered uric acid and creatinine levels in serum, and the antioxidant indexes in tissues were significantly increased. These changes were more pronounced at medium and high doses of CTD. RNA-seq analysis revealed 674 differentially expressed genes compared with the control group, of which 131 were upregulated and 543 were downregulated. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses showed that many differentially expressed genes were closely related to the stress response, the CIDE protein family, and the transporter superfamily, as well as the MAPK, AMPK, and HIF-1 pathways. The reliability of the RNA-seq results was verified by qRT-PCR of the six target genes. These findings offer insight into the molecular mechanisms of renal toxicity caused by CTD and provide an important theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of CTD-induced nephrotoxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Liu
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Linghan Zhang
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Wenchao Tang
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China; Key Laboratory of Forensic Toxicology of Herbal Medicines, Guizhou Education Department, Guiyang, China.
| | - Tingting Zhang
- Chongqing university three gorges hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Ping Xiang
- Institute of Environmental Remediation and Human Health, School of Ecology and Environment, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming 650224, China
| | - Qin Shen
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Taotao Ye
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Yuanyuan Xiao
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
He T, Xiong L, Zhang Y, Yan R, Yu M, Liu M, Liu L, Duan C, Li X, Zhang J. Mice kidney biometabolic process analysis after cantharidin exposure using widely-targeted metabolomics combined with network pharmacology. Food Chem Toxicol 2022; 171:113541. [PMID: 36464109 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2022.113541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Cantharidin (CTD) is a principal bioactive component of traditional Chinese medicine Mylabris used in cancer treatment. However, CTD clinical application is limited due to nephrotoxicity, and the mechanism is unknown. The present study used widely-targeted metabolomics, network pharmacology, and cell experiments to investigate the nephrotoxicity mechanism after CTD exposure. In mice exposed to CTD, serum creatinine and urea nitrogen levels increased with renal injury. Then, 74 differential metabolites were detected, including 51 up-regulated and 23 down-regulated metabolites classified as amino acids, small peptides, fatty acyl, arachidonic acid metabolite, organic acid, and nucleotides. Sixteen metabolic pathways including tyrosine, sulfur, and pyrimidine metabolism were all disrupted in the kidney. Furthermore, network pharmacology revealed that 258 metabolic targets, and pathway enrichment indicated that CTD could activate oxidative phosphorylation and oxidative stress (OS). Subsequently, HK-2 cell experiments demonstrated that CTD could reduce superoxide dismutase while increasing malondialdehyde levels. In conclusion, after CTD exposure, biometabolic processes may be disrupted with renal injury in mice, resulting in oxidative phosphorylation and OS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianmu He
- School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China; School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Lijuan Xiong
- School of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology Ministry Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Yixin Zhang
- School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Rong Yan
- School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Ming Yu
- School of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology Ministry Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Meichen Liu
- School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Liu Liu
- School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Cancan Duan
- School of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology Ministry Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Xiaofei Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China; School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China.
| | - Jianyong Zhang
- School of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology Ministry Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
High-sensitivity detection for cantharidin by ratiometric fluorescent sensor based on molecularly imprinted nanoparticles of quantum dots. J IND ENG CHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jiec.2022.05.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
11
|
He T, Wang Q, Ao J, Chen K, Li X, Zhang J, Duan C. Endoplasmic reticulum stress contributes to autophagy and apoptosis in cantharidin-induced nephrotoxicity. Food Chem Toxicol 2022; 163:112986. [PMID: 35398186 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2022.112986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Mylabris, as a natural product of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), exhibiting typical antitumor activity, and cantharidin (CTD) is the major bioactive component. However, drug-induced nephrotoxicity (DIN) extremely limited its clinical application. In this study, we proved that activation of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-dependent PERK/CHOP pathway exerts a toxic role in rats and HK-2 cells through inducing autophagy and apoptosis. Results showed that CTD could cause renal function damage, cytotoxicity, and apoptosis. The ER dilatation and autolysosomes were observed after CTD treatment. Furthermore, the distribution of LC3, ATF4, and CHOP proteins was observed in the nucleus and cytoplasm. In addition, the mRNA levels of ER stress-regulated genes (PERK, eIF2α, CHOP, and ATF4) were increased, and the expression levels of GRP78, ATF4, CHOP, LC3, Beclin-1, Atg3, Atg7, Caspase 3, and Bax/Bcl-2 proteins were increased both in vitro and in vivo. Consistently, this upregulation could be inhibited by an ER stress inhibitor 4-Phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA), indicating that ER stress is partly responsible for activation of autophagy and apoptosis in CTD-induced DIN. In conclusion, CTD could induce DIN by triggering ER stress, further activating autophagy and apoptosis both in vivo and in vitro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianmu He
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Qiyi Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Jingwen Ao
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Kuan Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Xiaofei Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Jianyong Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China.
| | - Cancan Duan
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zhang Y, Yu Y, Zhang J, Guan C, Liu L, Ren L. Biomarkers of myocardial injury in rats after cantharidin poisoning: Application for postmortem diagnosis and estimation of postmortem interval. Sci Rep 2020; 10:12069. [PMID: 32694590 PMCID: PMC7374104 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-69118-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Postmortem diagnosis of cantharidin-induced myocardial injury and postmortem interval estimation (PMI) are the challenges in forensic science. Cardiac biomarkers play an important role in the prediction and diagnosis of myocardial injury and can be used to determine the PMI. Based on the evidence, we aimed to explore the biomarkers which may be used for the postmortem diagnosis of cantharidin-induced myocardial injury and PMI estimation using the study of the proteins expression of TN-T, VEGF and HIF-1α by ELISA. Results of this study suggested that postmortem pathological changes were difficult to identify due to the autolysis of myocardium 72 h after death in cantharidin poisoning group. The plasma levels of TN-T and HIF-1α/TN-T are cardiac biomarkers with higher diagnostic accuracy for postmortem diagnosis of cantharidin-induced myocardial injury, VEGF/HIF-1α promises to be a biomarker for PMI estimation. Further studies are needed to verify these biomarkers, based on population, for being a useful tool in postmortem diagnosis of cantharidin-induced myocardial injury and PMI estimation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youyou Zhang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yalei Yu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Chuhuai Guan
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Liang Liu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Liang Ren
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Yu Y, Zhang Y, Zhang J, Guan C, Liu L, Ren L. Cantharidin‐induced acute hepatotoxicity: the role of TNF‐α, IKK‐α, Bcl‐2, Bax and caspase3. J Appl Toxicol 2020; 40:1526-1533. [DOI: 10.1002/jat.4003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yalei Yu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Youyou Zhang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Chuhuai Guan
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Liang Liu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Liang Ren
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhang Y, Liu L, Ren L. RNA-sequencing-based transcriptome analysis of cantharidin-induced myocardial injury. J Appl Toxicol 2020; 40:1491-1497. [PMID: 32618016 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The cardiotoxicity of cantharidin has been well characterized, but the understanding of the underlying mechanism(s) is incomplete. To more fully understand the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in cantharidin-induced myocardial injury, Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to cantharidin (1.34 mg/kg or 2.67 mg/kg) for 24 h and then the heart was sampled for pathologic changes analysis and RNA-sequencing-based transcriptomic profiling. In addition, serum troponin T (TN-T) levels were also tested using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. The results showed that cantharidin could cause myocardial damage and elevated serum TN-T levels. The genes with a fold change ≥2 were considered as DEGs and we found 38 DEGs that were mainly enriched in eight pathways revealed by Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis. The cellular component of gene ontology analysis showed that the DEGs were mostly enriched in the extracellular matrix. In conclusion, our present study demonstrated that cantharidin induces myocardial injury by multiple modulatory mechanisms, which provide new insights for further study of the pathophysiologic mechanism of cantharidin-induced myocardial injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youyou Zhang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Liang Liu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Liang Ren
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Zhang Y, Liu L, Ren L. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) determination of cantharidin in biological specimens and application to postmortem interval estimation in cantharidin poisoning. Sci Rep 2020; 10:10438. [PMID: 32591575 PMCID: PMC7320148 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67278-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A rapid, sensitive liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated for the determination and quantification of cantharidin in rats liver and kidney. After grinding with methanol, the supernatant was determined by LC-MS/MS using an Thermo Accucore C18 column (100 mm×2.1 mm, 2.6 μm) with a gradient elution of 0.1% formic acid and 0.1% acetonitrile, and in the subsequent analysis using selected reaction monitoring mode, three ion transitions were monitored for analyte. The limit of detection (LOD) was 0.741 ng/ml and the limit of quantitation (LOQ) was 2.471 ng/ml. Good linearity (R2 = 0.9998) was observed for the analyte over the linear range (5–400 ng/ml). The LC-MS/MS method was applied to the analysis of rats liver and kidney in different postmortem intervals (6 h, 12 h, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h and 168 h after death) after a single dose (4 mg/kg) of cantharidin administration by gavage. At 72 h after death, the cantharidin concentration in livers and kidneys were significantly higher than that in other postmortem intervals. Linear regression equations between postmortem interval and lg postmortem cantharidin concentration in rats liver and kidney were Y = 0.007455*X + 1.332(R2 = 0.863) and Y = 0.002689*X + 1.433 (R2 = 0.115) respectively. The animal experiment demonstrated LC-MS/MS method can be used to determine the postmortem cantharidin concentration in rats liver and kidney and the determination of cantharidin in the rats liver after death has potential value for postmortem interval estimation in cantharidin poisoning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youyou Zhang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Liang Liu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Liang Ren
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Youyou Z, Yalei Y, Jie Z, Chuhuai G, Liang L, Liang R. Molecular biomarkers of cantharidin‐induced cardiotoxicity in Sprague‐Dawley rats: Troponin T, vascular endothelial growth factor and hypoxia inducible factor‐1α. J Appl Toxicol 2020; 40:1153-1161. [DOI: 10.1002/jat.3974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhang Youyou
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Yu Yalei
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Zhang Jie
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Guan Chuhuai
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Liu Liang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Ren Liang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Zhou L, Zou M, Zhu K, Ning S, Xia X. Development of 11-DGA-3- O-Gal-Modified Cantharidin Liposomes for Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24173080. [PMID: 31450608 PMCID: PMC6749572 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24173080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2019] [Revised: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Liver cancer is a common malignant tumor worldwide, and its morbidity and mortality increase each year. The disease has a short course and high mortality, making it a serious threat to human health. Purpose: The objective of this study was to create novel liver-targeting nanoliposomes to encapsulate cantharidin (CTD) as a potential treatment for hepatic carcinoma. Methods: 3-Galactosidase-30-stearyl deoxyglycyrrhetinic acid (11-DGA-3-O-Gal)-modified liposomes (11-DGA-3-O-Gal-CTD-lip) for the liver-targeted delivery of CTD were prepared via the film-dispersion method and characterized. In vitro analyses of the effects on cellular cytotoxicity, cell migration, cell cycle, and cell apoptosis were carried out and an in vivo pharmacokinetics study and tissue distribution analysis were performed. Results: Compared with unmodified liposomes (CTD-lip), 11-DGA-3-O-Gal-CTD-lip showed higher cytotoxicity and increased the inhibition of HepG2 cell migration, but they did not increase the apoptotic rate of cells. The inhibition mechanism of 11-DGA-3-O-Gal-CTD-lip on hepatocellular carcinoma was partly through cell cycle arrest at the S phase. Analysis of pharmacokinetic parameters indicated that 11-DGA-3-O-Gal-CTD-lip were eliminated more rapidly than CTD-lip. Regarding tissue distribution, the targeting efficiency of 11-DGA-3-O-Gal-CTD-lip to the liver was (41.15 ± 3.28)%, relative targeting efficiency was (1.53 ± 0.31)%, relative uptake rate was( 1.69 ± 0.37)%, and peak concentration ratio was (2.68 ± 0.12)%. Conclusion: 11-DGA-3-O-Gal-CTD-lip represent a promising nanocarrier for the liver-targeted delivery of antitumor drugs to treat hepatocellular carcinoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lili Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Manshu Zou
- School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Kun Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Shuangcheng Ning
- School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Xinhua Xia
- School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China.
| |
Collapse
|