The flavonol isorhamnetin exhibits cytotoxic effects on human colon cancer cells

The experimental significance of isorhamnetin as an effective therapeutic option for cancer: A comprehensive analysis

Isorhamnetin (C16H12O7), a 3'-O-methylated derivative of quercetin from the class of flavonoids, is predominantly present in the leaves and fruits of several plants, many of which have traditionally been employed as remedies due to its diverse therapeutic activities. The objective of this in-depth analysis is to concentrate on Isorhamnetin by addressing its molecular insights as an effective anticancer compound and its synergistic activity with other anticancer drugs. The main contributors to Isorhamnetin's anti-malignant activities at the molecular level have been identified as alterations of a variety of signal transduction processes and transcriptional agents. These include ROS-mediated cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, inhibition of mTOR and P13K pathway, suppression of MEK1, PI3K, NF-κB, and Akt/ERK pathways, and inhibition of Hypoxia Inducible Factor (HIF)-1α expression. A significant number of in vitro and in vivo research studies have confirmed that it destroys cancerous cells by arresting cell cycle at the G2/M phase and S-phase, down-regulating COX-2 protein expression, PI3K, Akt, mTOR, MEK1, ERKs, and PI3K signaling pathways, and up-regulating apoptosis-induced genes (Casp3, Casp9, and Apaf1), Bax, Caspase-3, P53 gene expression and mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis pathway. Its ability to suppress malignant cells, evidence of synergistic effects, and design of drugs based on nanomedicine are also well supported to treat cancer patients effectively. Together, our findings establish a crucial foundation for understanding Isorhamnetin's underlying anti-cancer mechanism in cancer cells and reinforce the case for the requirement to assess more exact molecular signaling pathways relating to specific cancer and in vivo anti-cancer activities.

Isorhamnetin: what is the in vitro evidence for its antitumor potential and beyond?

Isorhamnetin (ISO) is a phenolic compound belonging to flavonoid family, showcasing important in vitro pharmacological activities such as antitumor, anti-inflammation, and organ protection. ISO is predominantly extracted from Hippophae rhamnoides L. This plant is well-known in China and abroad because of its "medicinal and food homologous" characteristics. As a noteworthy natural drug candidate, ISO has received considerable attention in recent years owing to its low cost, wide availability, high efficacy, low toxicity, and minimal side effects. To comprehensively elucidate the multiple biological functions of ISO, particularly its antitumor activities and other pharmacological potentials, a literature search was conducted using electronic databases including Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus. This review primarily focuses on ISO's ethnopharmacology. By synthesizing the advancements made in existing research, it is found that the general effects of ISO involve a series of in vitro potentials, such as antitumor, protection of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular, anti-inflammation, antioxidant, and more. This review illustrates ISO's antitumor and other pharmacological potentials, providing a theoretical basis for further research and new drug development of ISO.

Assessment of the effect of drying on Brassica greens via a multiplex approach based on LC-QTOF-MS/MS, molecular networking, and chemometrics along with their antioxidant and anticancer activities

Turnip (Brassica rapa var rapa L.) leaves are a rich source of versatile bioactive phytochemicals with great potential in the food and herbal industries. However, the effect of drying on its constituents has never been studied before. Hereto, three drying techniques were compared, namely, lyophilization (LY), vacuum oven (VO), and shade drying (SD). Chemical profiling utilizing liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS/MS) combined with chemometrics showed the different impacts of the drying methods on the phytochemical composition of the alcoholic leaf extracts. Unsupervised principal component analysis (PCA) and supervised partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) of the LC-QTOF-MS/MS data showed distinct distant clustering across the three drying techniques. Loading plots and VIP scores demonstrated that sinapic acid, isorhamnetin glycosides, and sinapoyl malate were key markers for LY samples. Meanwhile, oxygenated and polyunsaturated fatty acids were characteristic for SD samples and oxygenated polyunsaturated fatty acids and verbascoside were characteristic for VO samples. LY resulted in the highest total phenolics (TP) and total flavonoid (TF) contents followed by SD and VO. LY and SD samples had much higher antioxidant activity than VO measured by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), and iron metal chelation assays. According to the anticancer activity, the drying methods were ranked in descending order as SD > LY ≫ VO when tested against colon, breast, liver, and lung cancer cell lines. Among the identified compounds, flavonoids and omega-3 fatty acids were key metabolites responsible for the anticancer activity as revealed by partial least squares (PLS) regression and correlation analyses. In conclusion, compared to LY, SD projected out as a cost-effective drying method without compromising the phytochemical and biological activities of Brassica greens. The current findings lay the foundation for further studies concerned with the valorization of Brassica greens.

Phytochemical Profile and In Vitro Bioactivities of Wild Asparagus stipularis

In this study, Asparagus stipularis was characterized concerning its phytochemical composition, antioxidant potential, cytotoxicity, and pancreatic lipase inhibitory activities. Twenty-seven compounds were identified and quantified by HPLC-DAD-MS in the leaf, stem, pericarp, and rhizome of ethanolic extracts. Seven steroidal saponins were detected, and the highest content was quantified in rhizome and pericap. A. stipularis also contained significant amounts of flavonoids in the aerial part. Isorhamnetin tetra-glycoside, quercetin-3-glucosyl-rutinoside, and rutin were the main flavonoid derivatives in leaf, stem, and pericarp extracts, respectively. In addition, eleven phenolic acids were also detected; among them, caffeic acid, protocatechuic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, and ferulic acid were the predominant phenolics, with these having the highest amounts quantified in the rhizome extracts. All the tested extracts possessed antioxidant capacities, with pericarp and rhizome extracts exhibiting the highest activity in DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. The extracts from pericarp and rhizome were revealed to also be the strongest inhibitors of pancreatic lipase. The rhizome extracts exhibited potent cytotoxic activity against HCT-116 and HepG2 with IC50 values of 30 and 54 µg/mL after 48 h of treatment. The present study demonstrated that A. stipularis can be used as a new source of natural antioxidants and potential anticancer and antiobesity compounds.

Targeting colorectal cancer using dietary flavonols

Colorectal cancer is among the well-known forms of cancer and a prominent cause of cancer demises worldwide. In vitro experiments reinforced by animal studies, as well as epidemiological studies of human colorectal cancer propose that the growth of this disease can be moderated by eating aspects. Dietary intake including green vegetables and fruits may result in the reduction of colon cancer chances. The finding suggests that the combinations of dietary nutrients may deliver additive or synergistic effects and might be a powerful method to avoid or eradicate colon cancer beginning and/or development. Flavonols are one of the most widespread dietary nutrients of the polyphenols-flavonoids and major constituent of Allium and Brassicaceae vegetables. Flavonols present in vegetables of Allium and Brassicaceae family are kaempferol, myricetin, quercetin, and isorhamnetin. These flavonols are claimed to have antiproliferative activity in vivo and in vitro against colorectal cancer. The objective of this review is to summarize the role of flavonols obtained from dietary sources in the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer.

Evening primrose oil: a comprehensive review of its bioactives, extraction, analysis, oil quality, therapeutic merits, and safety

Oil crops have become increasingly farmed worldwide because of their numerous functions in foods and health. In particular, oil derived from the seeds of evening primrose (Oenothera biennis) (EPO) comprises essential fatty acids of the omega-6 (ω-6) series. It is well recognized to promote immune cells with a healthy balance and management of female ailments. The nutrients of interest in this oil are linoleic acid (LA, 70-74%) and γ-linolenic acid (GLA, 8-10%), which are polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) that account for EPO's popularity as a dietary supplement. Various other chemicals in EPO function together to supply the body with PUFA, elevate normal ω-6 essential fatty acid levels, and support general health and well-being. The inclusive EPO biochemical analysis further succeeded in identifying several other components, i.e., triterpenes, phenolic acids, tocopherols, and phytosterols of potential health benefits. This comprehensive review capitalizes on EPO, the superior product of O. biennis, highlighting the interrelationship between various methods of cultivation, extraction, holistic chemical composition, sensory characters, and medicinal value. Besides the literature review, this study restates the numerous health advantages of primrose oil and possible drug-EPO interactions since a wide spectrum of drugs are administered concomitantly with EPO. Modern techniques to evaluate EPO chemical composition are addressed with emphasis on the missing gaps and future perspectives to ensure best oil quality and nutraceutical benefits.

Isorhamnetin Influences the Viability, Superoxide Production and Interleukin-8 Biosynthesis of Human Colorectal Adenocarcinoma HT-29 Cells In Vitro

Isorhamnetin has gained research interest for its anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative and chemoprotective properties. In this study, human colon adenocarcinoma cells were cultured in the presence or absence of different isorhamnetin concentrations (5-150 μM) for 24 h or 48 h of cultivation to explore the impact on several parameters of viability/proliferation (mitochondrial function using an MTT test, metabolic activity, cell membrane integrity and lysosomal activity using a triple test). The intracellular generation of superoxide radicals using an NBT test and ELISA analysis was performed to observe the biosynthesis of interleukin 8 (IL-8) in cells stimulated with zymosan, as well as in basal conditions. The antiproliferative activity of isorhamnetin was demonstrated by significantly reduced values of mitochondrial and metabolic activity, integrity of cell membranes and lysosomal activity. Its high prooxidant potential was reflected by the significantly elevated generation of superoxides even in cells with low viability status. The anti-inflammatory effect of isorhamnetin was evident due to decreased IL-8 production, and the most significant decline in IL-8 concentration was observed after 24 h treatment in cells with induced inflammation. We demonstrated that isorhamnetin can suppress the proliferation of HT-29 cells, and this effect was correlated with pro-oxidative and anti-inflammatory activity of isorhamnetin.

Investigation of target genes and potential mechanisms related to compound Xiao-ai-fei honey ointment based on network pharmacology and bioinformatics analysis

BACKGROUND

Compound Xiao-ai-fei honey ointment (CXHO) is an anticancer preparation with a long history in Uyghur folk medicine in China and has been used for the treatment of gastric cancer (GC) in Xinjiang, China. Nevertheless, the mechanism of its anticancer effect remains to be investigated.

METHODS

Bioactive ingredients of CXHO were retrieved from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform database. Target genes of ingredients were acquired via the PubChem and Swiss target prediction database. Gene expression profiling of GC was obtained from GSE54129 in the GEO database and analyzed using the limma package in R. The hub genes associated with CXHO in GC were validated using the TIMER2.0 database, GEPIA2 database and Auto Dock tools. The effect of CXHO on migration of GC cells was detected by Transwell chamber assay and Wound healing assay. The effect of CXHO on expression levels of MMP2/MMP9 and NF-κb, PI3K/AKT signaling pathway was detected by Western blot assay.

RESULTS

Forty-five bioactive ingredients and their 819 related genes were found. A total of 462 differentially expressed genes were identified between GC patients and healthy controls. Seventeen common target genes were identified as hub genes CXHO against GC. Among them, MMP2 and MMP9 were significantly associated with tumor immune infiltrates and had good binding affinity with effective ingredients. Moreover, we validated the mRNA and protein expression levels and prognostic value of MMP2 and MMP9 by different databases. In addition, Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes and gene ontology analyses showed that the 17 common target genes were mainly involved in steroid hormone biosynthesis and cancer-related pathways. Experimental results showed that CXHO inhibited migration of GC cells and down regulated the expression levels of MMP2/MMP9, NF-κb. In addition, CXHO can inhibited PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

We identified and experimental validated 2 pivotal target genes of CXHO against GC and preliminarily analyzed the potential mechanisms by which CXHO inhibits the development of GC. All these findings support CXHO as a promising drug for the treatment of GC.

Sustainable valorization of co-products from asparagus cultivation by obtaining bioactive compounds

Asparagus cultivation generates every year a significant amount of by-products that consist of root and frond. Leaving these residues on the fields after harvesting negatively affects the following asparagus crops, since they release autotoxic (allelopathic) substances into the soil, whose accumulation causes that asparagus yields gradually decrease over the years, becoming an unprofitable crop in a period of about 10 to 15 years. This phenomenon is known as decay and forces the entire asparagus plantation to be lifted (abandoned). On the other hand, once a certain plantation has been lifted, it is not profitable to immediately re-plant new asparagus plants, since the yields that are achieved are never more than half of normal ones. It is necessary to wait an average of 4 or 5 years before replanting asparagus in these lands. This phenomenon is known as the replanting problem, and causes the need to continually search for new land for growing asparagus. Another added problem for farmers is that the elimination of those plant residues from asparagus cultivation entails significant economic costs. For all these reasons, it is essential to seek alternatives for the management of that waste that improve the sustainability of the crop within the scope of the circular economy. In this context, this work proposes the valorization of asparagus by-products by obtaining bioactive compounds. Main objectives of the present work include: i) phytochemical analyses of asparagus fronds and roots; ii) obtaining bioactive extracts, with distinct technological and nutritional functionalities, by using an environmentally sustainable extraction process, easy to implement in the practice of a food industry and with methods compatible with food use. Characterization of asparagus by-products shown that fronds had an average flavonoid content of 2.637 ± 0.014 g/Kg fresh weight, which is up to 5-6 times higher than that of the spears; and roots contained up to 10 times more saponins (2.25 g/Kg fresh weight), which were accompanied by lower quantities of phenolic acids (368 mg/Kg fresh weight). Statistical analysis revealed that those phytochemical contents were mainly determined by location and phase of the vegetative cycle, whereas genetic factors did not significantly influence them. Based on the results of the present work, the proposal for the recovery and valorization of asparagus by-products is based on obtaining two bioactive extracts, the first being an antioxidant extract enriched in flavonoids, with an average yield of 10.7 g/Kg fresh frond and a flavonoid richness of 17%; and the second, a saponins extract with an average yield of 10.3 g/Kg fresh root and a richness of 51%. These natural extracts have great techno-functional potential in the agri-food industry and some of them are already being tested as additives in the preparation of soups, breads and meat products.

Toxic effects of the cylindrospermopsin and chlorpyrifos combination on the differentiated SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cell line

Due to climate change and anthropogenic activities, the levels of pollution of aquatic and terrestrial environments have increased in the last decades. In this sense, the rise of cyanobacterial blooms, which release secondary metabolites with toxic properties, and the global use of pesticides for agricultural purposes have a negative impact on ecosystems. Thus, it would be interesting to study the concomitance of both types of toxicants in the same sample, since it is possible that they appear together. The aim of the present work was to state the effects of the interaction between the cyanotoxin cylindrospermopsin and the pesticide chlorpyrifos in differentiated SH-SY5Y neuronal cells to assess how they could affect the nervous system. To this end, cytotoxicity, morphological, and acetylcholinesterase activity studies were performed during 24 and 48 h. The results revealed a concentration-dependent decrease in viability and interaction between both toxicants, together with clear signs of apoptosis and necrosis induction. In this sense, different stages on the differentiation process would lead to differences in the toxicity exerted by the compounds both isolated as in combination, which it is not observed in non-differentiated cells. Additionally, the acetylcholinesterase activity appeared not to be affected, which is a clear difference compared to non-differentiated cells. These results show the importance of studying not only the toxicants themselves, but also in combination, to assess their possible effects in a more realistic scenario.

Thymoquinone-treated mouse mesenchymal stem cells-derived conditioned medium inhibits human breast cancer cells in vitro

Breast cancer is now the most prevalent cancer in females, therefore, it is essential to identify factors affecting its initiation and progression. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have received considerable attention in stem cell-based therapies and drug delivery applications. Because the therapeutic potential of MSCs is primarily achieved by their paracrine effects, thus identifying and employing bioactive molecules that promote the paracrine activity of MSCs is crucial for their efficient use in cancer treatment. Thymoquinone (TQ) has many biomedical properties, including anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-aging, anti-cancer, etc. In addition, it has been found that TQ affects the self-renewal and immunomodulatory properties of MSCs. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of TQ-treated mouse bone marrow-derived MSCs conditioned medium (TQ-MSC-CM) on the biological characteristics of breast cancer cell line MCF7. MSCs were cultured and treated with TQ for 24 h. The TQ-MSC-CM and MSC-CM were collected, and their effects were investigated on ROS production, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), cell death, cell cycle, and migration of MCF7 cells by DCFDA-cellular ROS assay, Rhodamine-123 MMP assay, Annexin-PI staining and Caspase-3/7 activity assays, PI-staining and flow-cytometry, and in vitro wound healing assay, respectively. Moreover, the effects of TQ-MSC-CM and MSC-CM were studied on Cdk4, Sox2, c-Met, and Bcl2 gene expression by real-time PCR. Results demonstrated that MSC-CM and TQ-MSC-CM did not have a significant effect on the apoptosis induction in MCF7 cells; however, they significantly stimulated necrosis in the cells. Although TQ-MSC-CM promoted ROS production in MCF7 cells, it decreased the MMP of the cells. TQ-MSC-CM also induced Bcl2 anti-apoptosis gene expression and Casp-3/7 activity in cells. In addition, although MSC-CM induced MCF7 cells to enter the cell cycle, TQ-MSC-CM inhibited its progression. TQ-MSC-CM also downregulated the Cdk4 and Sox2 gene expression. Furthermore, TQ-MSC-CM induced the migration potential of MCF7 in a c-Met-independent manner. Altogether, we conclude that TQ may induce programmed necrosis and inhibits the proliferation and migration of the breast cancer cells by affecting the paracrine activity of MSCs.

Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Properties of Wild Rocket (Diplotaxis Tenuifolia L.) Grown under Different Plastic Films and with Different UV-B Radiation Postharvest Treatments

Rocket species are rich in nutrients with well-known bioactive activity, but their content depends on several factors, such as plant-UV radiation interaction. In this work, we measured the production of nutritional elements in wild rocket (Diplotaxis tenuifolia L.) leaves as a function of exposure to UV-B radiation by adopting a combined approach. The wild rocket plants were grown under three greenhouse cover films (A, B, and C) having different transmittivity to UV-B and the fresh-cut leaves were exposed to UV-B in postharvest for 45, 150, 330, and 660 s. The content of chlorophyll, carotenoids, phenolic compounds, ascorbic acid, and the antioxidant activity were determined. Chlorophyll, carotenoids, and total phenolic content were significantly increased by the combination of Film C and treatment with UV-B for 45 s. The predominant phenolic compounds were kaempferol, isorhamnetin, and quercetin. Film C also elicited an increase in ascorbic acid (the most abundant antioxidant compound in the range 374-1199 per 100 g of dry matter) and antioxidant activity. These findings highlighted an increase in bioactive compound content in the wild rocket when it was cultivated under Film C (diffused light film with a tailored UV-B transmission dose) and treated with UV-B radiation for 45 s postharvest, corresponding to an energy dose of 0.2 KJ m^-2.

Chemical compositions, antibacterial, antifungal and cytotoxic effects of Alhagi mannifera five extracts

OBJECTIVES

Plants were used as medicines thousands of years ago. Conventional medicine use is increasing and many of the currently used drugs are extracted from herbal sources. In Palestinian traditional medicine, the Alhagi mannifera plant is used for the treatment of cancer. Our study aimed to extract this plant using five solvent fractions, identifying their chemical compositions, and evaluating their antimicrobial and cytotoxic effects.

METHODS

The successive technique was used to extract five solvent fractions of A. mannifera. While the spectral analysis was used to characterize quantitatively and qualitatively the chemical components of these extracts. The antimicrobial activity of plant extracts was evaluated against seven microbial strains using a broth micro-dilution assay. The cytotoxic activity was assessed using a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium (MTS) assay against cervical cancer cell line (HeLa).

RESULTS

A total of 165 compounds were identified in A. mannifera different extracts. In the petroleum ether extract were found a total of 55 compounds. The major compounds were 2,5-cyclooctadien-1-ol (9.42%), 3-chloropropionic acid, heptyl ester (9.42%), carbonic acid, ethyl nonyl ester (9.42%) and chloroacetic acid. In methylene chloride extract a total of 11 compounds were found, and the major compounds were m-ainobenzenesulfonyl fluoride (14.35%), dodecane,2,6,10-trimethyl- (14.35%) and propanoic acid,2,2-dimethyl-,2-ethylexyl ester (14.35%). In chloroform extract, a total of 23 compounds were found. The major compounds were 5-ethyl-1-nonene (21.28%), and decanedioic acid, bis(2-ethylhexyl) ester (21.28%). In acetone extract were found a total of 47 compounds and the major compound was phenol,2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)- (5.22%). In methanol extract a total of 29 compounds were found and the major compounds were 3-o-methyl-d-glucose (10.79%), myo-inositol, 2-c-methyl- (10.79%), myo-inositol, 4-c-methyl- (10.79%), and scyllo-inositol,1C-methyl- (10.79%). All extracts showed antimicrobial activity. However, the petroleum ether extract showed the most potent antimicrobial effect against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumonia, MRSA, and Candida albicans with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 1.25, 1.25, 6.25, 0.325, 6.25, and 1.56 μg/mL, respectively. De facto, chloroform extract followed by ether extract displayed potential cytotoxic activity with IC₅₀ values of 0.2 and 1.2 mg/mL, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

A. mannifera was found to contain a variety of phytochemicals and its chloroform extract showed a potent cytotoxic effect on HeLa cancer cells. In addition, petroleum ether showed potent antimicrobial agents and these extracts look promising as drug candidates. Further in vivo investigations should be conducted to provide the basis for developing new cancer and microbial infections treatments.

Isorhamnetin Suppresses Human Gastric Cancer Cell Proliferation through Mitochondria-Dependent Apoptosis

Derivates of natural products have been wildly utilized in the treatment of malignant tumors. Isorhamnetin (ISO), a most important active ingredient derived from flavonoids, shows great potential in tumor therapy. However, the therapeutic effects of ISO on gastric cancer (GC) remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that ISO treatment dramatically inhibited the proliferation of two types of GC cells (AGS-1 and HGC-27) both in vitro and in vivo in time- and dose-dependent manners. These results are consistent with the transcriptomic analysis of ISO-treated GC cells, which yielded hundreds of differentially expressed genes that were enriched with cell growth and apoptosis. Mechanically, ISO treatment initiated the activation of caspase-3 cascade and elevated the expression of mitochondria-associated Bax/Bcl-2, cytosolic cytochrome c, followed by the activation of the cleavage of caspase-3 as well as poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP), resulting in the severe reduction of the mitochondrial potential and the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), while pre-treatment of the caspase-3 inhibitor could block the anti-tumor effect. Therefore, these results indicate that ISO treatment induces the apoptosis of GC cells through the mitochondria-dependent apoptotic pathway, providing a potential strategy for clinical GC therapy.

Volatile Compounds Analysis and Biomarkers Identification of Four Native Apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) Cultivars Grown in Xinjiang Region of China

Flavor (odor and taste) have a significant role in the consumer’s acceptance, and volatile compounds are responsible for the odor of apricots. In the present work, headspace solid-phase microextraction with gas chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS/MS) together with multivariate analysis, i.e., partial least square discrimination analysis (PLS-DA), were applied to construct the volatile fingerprints and biomarkers of apricots in Xinjiang, China. As a result, a total of 63 volatile substances were identified in the fruits of four apricot cultivars, seven of which were considered to serve as volatile biomarkers, which are damascenone for Dabaiyou apricots; acetophenone, myrcenol and 7-hexadecenal for Luopuhongdaike apricots; 2,4-dimethyl-cyclohexanol for You apricots; eucalyptol and salicylaldehyde for Xiaobai apricots. Moreover, Xiaobai apricots were richer in soluble sugars, organic acids and total phenolic and total flavonoid content than the other three apricot varieties. This work helps to characterize the volatile profiles and biomarkers of different apricot cultivars while providing theoretical guidance for developing apricot-flavored foods in practical production.

Hydrolyzed Flavonoids from Cyrtosperma johnstonii with Superior Antioxidant, Antiproliferative, and Anti-Inflammatory Potential for Cancer Prevention

Cyrtosperma johnstonii is one of the most interesting traditional medicines for cancer treatment. This study aimed to compare and combine the biological activities related to cancer prevention of the flavonoid glycosides rutin (RT) and isorhamnetin-3-o-rutinoside (IRR) and their hydrolysis products quercetin (QT) and isorhamnetin (IR) from C.johnstonii extract. ABTS and MTT assays were used to determine antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity against various cancer cells, as well as normal cells. Anti-inflammatory activities were measured by ELISA. The results showed that the antioxidant activities of the compounds decreased in the order of QT > IR > RT > IRR, while most leukemia cell lines were sensitive to QT and IR with low toxicity towards PBMCs. The reduction of IL-6 and IL-10 secretion by QT and IR was higher than that induced by RT and IRR. The combination of hydrolysis products (QT and IR) possessed a strong synergism in antioxidant, antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory effects, whereas the combination of flavonoid glycosides and their hydrolysis products revealed antagonism. These results suggest that the potential of the combination of hydrolyzed flavonoids from C. johnstonii can be considered as natural compounds for the prevention of cancer.

Effects of colonic fermentation on the stability of fresh and black onion bioactives

The health properties related to onion intake are attributed mainly to the presence of bioactive compounds, particularly phenolic and organosulfur compounds (OSCs). The aim of this study was to investigate, for the first time, the effect of an in vitro colonic fermentation on the stability of phenolic and OSCs of fresh and black onion by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry with a linear ion trap (UHPLC-LIT-MS). Throughout colonic fermentation, fresh onion showed an increase in the total phenolic content of 45%, mainly due to an increase in the content of the flavonoid family, while the OSCs remained stable along the fermentation. Black onion presented a different behaviour, showing significant decreases in total (poly)phenol and OSC content, 22 and 48%, respectively. The main compounds found after the in vitro colonic fermentation of fresh onion were isorhamnetin (141 μmol L^-1), quercetin (95 μmol L^-1), 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid (53 μmol L^-1), methionine sulfoxide (100 μmol L^-1) and S-allylcysteine (SAC) (21.7 μmol L^-1), whereas 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid (70 μmol L^-1), 4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid (68 μmol L^-1), methionine sulfoxide (82 μmol L^-1) and S-propylmercapto-L-cysteine (SPMC) (10.1 μmol L^-1) accounted for the highest concentrations of phenolics and OSCs in fermented black onion. These compounds, presumably present for their absorption and action at the colonic level, could be related to the health benefits of regular consumption of fresh and black onion.

Studies on Anemone nemorosa L. extracts; polyphenols profile, antioxidant activity, and effects on Caco-2 cells by in vitro and in silico studies

In this study, two polar extracts (aqueous and ethanolic) from the aerial part of Anemone nemorosa L. (dried plant) were assessed to reveal their polyphenols profile, antioxidant activity, cytotoxic, and antiproliferative activity on Caco-2 (ATCC-HTB-37) cell line. In silico studies on two key compounds, protoanemonin and anemonin, on four molecular targets – cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2, and human tankyrase 1 and human tankyrase 2 in relation to human colon cancer cell development have also been achieved. The results are as follows: caffeic acid esters and quercetin glycosides, including (iso)rhamnetin derivates, are the major polyphenol compounds in wood anemone polar extracts; the two polar extracts indicated very strong antioxidant activity in the interval from 0.1 to 5 µg [GAE] per 1 mL sample (IC50 < 0.290 µg GAE/mL), and in vitro studies on Caco-2 cells have revealed their simultaneous stimulatory and protective activity exactly in the concentration area with the strongest antioxidant activity. In silico studies have revealed moderate inhibitory activity of the two key compounds, anemonin and protoanemonin, on the four molecular targets studied; it was concluded having particular benefits of the wood anemone polar extracts in managing postoperative intestinal recovery, and generally in regenerative medicine.

Ginkgo biloba in the Aging Process: A Narrative Review

Neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease (CVD), hypertension, insulin resistance, cancer, and other degenerative processes commonly appear with aging. Ginkgo biloba (GB) is associated with several health benefits, including memory and cognitive improvement, in Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and cancer. Its antiapoptotic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory actions have effects on cognition and other conditions associated with aging-related processes, such as insulin resistance, hypertension, and cardiovascular conditions. The aim of this study was to perform a narrative review of the effects of GB in some age-related conditions, such as neurodegenerative diseases, CVD, and cancer. PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase databases were searched, and the PRISMA guidelines were applied. Fourteen clinical trials were selected; the studies showed that GB can improve memory, cognition, memory scores, psychopathology, and the quality of life of patients. Moreover, it can improve cerebral blood flow supply, executive function, attention/concentration, non-verbal memory, and mood, and decrease stress, fasting serum glucose, glycated hemoglobin, insulin levels, body mass index, waist circumference, biomarkers of oxidative stress, the stability and progression of atherosclerotic plaques, and inflammation. Therefore, it is possible to conclude that the use of GB can provide benefits in the prevention and treatment of aging-related conditions.

Cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, and gene expression changes induced by methanolic extract of Moringa stenopetala leaf with LC-qTOF-MS metabolic profile

Moringa stenopetala (Baker f.) Cuf.and other Moringa species have traditionally been used to treat various diseases. The purpose of this study was to determine the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of the methanolic extract of M. stenopetala leaf and its fractions on selected tumor cells. Cytotoxicity was determined by MTT assay. The comet assay was used toassess DNA damage, and gel electrophoresis was used to determine DNA fragmentation. Gene expression was analyzed by qPCR using two specific genes for each cancer cell line. Fractionation of the methanolic extract (E-1) on Diaion HP-20 yielded five fractions (Fr-2 to Fr-6); only Fr-4 and Fr-6 were cytotoxic to breast cancer cells (MCF-7; IC₅₀ = 58.3 ± 0.93 and 35.8 ± 2.44 μg/mL, respectively), human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2; IC₅₀ = 57.8 ± 1.57 and 39.3 ± 1.90 μg/mL, respectively), and Fr-4 was cytotoxic to human colon cancer cells (HCT-116; IC₅₀ = 94.2 ± 4.9 μg/mL). In addition, exposure of the cancer cells to Fr-4 and Fr-6 resulted in a high level of DNA damage. Moreover, relative expression of MTAP and CDKN2A in MCF-7 were increased, whereas expression of p21 and p53 in HCT-116, and APC and TERT in HepG2 were decreased, similar to that of doxorubicin. LC-qTOF-MS was used to identify metabolites in E-1, the majority of which were enriched in Fr-4. Two terpenes (loliolide and dihydroactinidiolide), the majority of the flavonoids, and niazirin were about two fold enriched in Fr-4, whereas the majority of the lipids were 4-10 fold enriched. However, Fr-6 hardly showed compounds other than the two terpenes that were enriched 1.5 and 7 fold. The findings suggest that Fr-4 and Fr-6 are promising sources of compounds possessing cytotoxic and genotoxic properties.

Quercetin-3-Glucoside Extracted from Apple Pomace Induces Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis by Increasing Intracellular ROS Levels

Cervical cancer is a life-threatening disease and the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide. Apple pomace is a multifunctional phenolic compound possessing effective biological activity against cervical cancer cells. This study aimed to investigate the anticancer effects of quercetin-3-glucoside (Q3G) extracted from apple pomace in HeLa cell lines and analyze its molecular mechanisms. High-performance liquid chromatography revealed that Q3G, coumaric acid, phloridzin, quercetin, and phloretin are the major polyphenolic compounds constituting apple pomace. Among them, Q3G possessed the greatest antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in vitro and exhibited significant cytotoxic effects in HeLa cells in a dose-and time-dependent manner. Flow cytometric analysis indicated that Q3G induced cell cycle arrest at the S phase in a time-dependent manner by altering cyclin-dependent kinase 2. Moreover, it induced apoptosis via chromosomal DNA degradation and increased reactive oxygen species generation. Furthermore, Q3G treatment altered the apoptosis-associated protein expression in the cells by activating caspase-9/-3, downregulating anti-apoptosis protein B-cell lymphoma (Bcl)-2 expressions and up regulating the pro-apoptotic Bcl-2-associated X protein. BH3-interacting domain death agonist cleavage occurred prior to the degradation of an anti-apoptotic Mu-2-related death-inducing gene involved in cell death signaling. Consequently, apple pomace Q3G holds promise as an anti-inflammatory and anticancer agent for treating cervical cancer.

Synthesis of 3'-O-Alkyl Homologues and a Biotin Probe of Isorhamnetin and Evaluation of Cytotoxic Efficacy on Cancer Cells

Isorhamnetin is a natural flavonoid which shows a variety of biological activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antitumor. In order to identify the cellular binding protein of isorhamnetin as potential anti-cancer target, we first synthesized 3'-O-substituted quercetin as isorhamnetin homologues and evaluated the growth inhibitory activity of these derivatives on breast, colon and prostate cancer cell lines. The preliminary results showed that the 3'-O modification did not affect the cytotoxic activity of the scaffold. Analysis of the co-crystal structure and the docking pose of isorhamnetin with reported binding protein of isorhamnetin or quercetin indicated the 3'-O-substitution groups located outside of the binding pocket, which is in accordance with activity of 3'-O derivatives. Then a biotin conjugate of isorhamnetin with a tetraethylene glycol (PEG)₄ linker at the 3' position was synthesized and the resulting probe retained the anti-proliferative activity on cancer cell lines, while the cellular fluorescence analysis showed the distribution of probe inside the cells which indicated the probe had limited cell permeability. Finally, pull down assay both in situ inside cells and in the cell lysates indicated the isorhamnetin biotin probe was capable of protein labeling in cell lysates. These findings provide the isorhamnetin 3'-O-biotin probe as a tool to reveal the target proteins of isorhamnetin.

Guava (Psidium guajava L.): a glorious plant with cancer preventive and therapeutic potential

Guava (Psidium guajava L.) tree (Myrtaceae family) bears fruit rich in vitamins, fiber, and other nutrients. While native to Latin America, guava is grown in many tropical and subtropical regions across the globe where it has long been used in traditional medicine to treat a myriad of ailments. Guava has been shown to exhibit a number of biological and pharmacological activities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and anticancer properties. Several parts of the plant, including the leaves, fruits, seeds, peels, pulp, bark, and oil, produce phytochemicals with medicinal properties. Emerging research has found that guava bioactive phytochemicals exert antitumorigenic effects against various human malignancies through multiple mechanisms. While there are numerous individual studies that document the anticancer effects of guava constituents, an up-to-date, comprehensive, and critical review of available research data has not been performed. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to present a complete analysis of the cancer preventive and anticancer therapeutic potential of guava-derived products and guava constituents, with a focus on the cellular and molecular mechanisms of action. The bioavailability, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity of guava as well as limitations, challenges, and future directions of research have also been discussed.

Performance of capecitabine in novel combination therapies in colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers throughout the world, and no definitive cure has ever been found. Perhaps a new insight into the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs could help better treat patients. Targeted therapies have significantly improved the median overall survival of colorectal cancer patients. One of the standard chemotherapy regimens used for colorectal cancer is capecitabine, which is important in monotherapy and combination therapies. Capecitabine, with other chemotherapeutic agents (irinotecan, oxaliplatin, perifosine, 17-allylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin, aspirin, celecoxib, statins, quinacrine, inositol hexaphosphate and inositol, cystine/theanine, curcumin, and isorhamnetin), and biological ones (antibodies) plays an important role in the inhibition of some signaling pathways, increasing survival, reducing tumor growth and side effects of capecitabine. However, some drugs, such as proton pump inhibitors, are negatively related to capecitabine; therefore, the purpose of this work is to review and discuss the performance of capecitabine combination therapies in colorectal cancer.

Isorhamnetin inhibited the proliferation and metastasis of androgen-independent prostate cancer cells by targeting the mitochondrion-dependent intrinsic apoptotic and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway

The present study investigated the effects of Isorhamnetin on two types of prostate cancer cells (androgen-independent and androgen-dependent) and explored its possible mechanisms underlying such effects. Treatment with Isorhamnetin significantly inhibited cell growth and induced lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release of androgen-independent DU145 and PC3 prostate cancer cells, but exhibited almost no toxicity effect on androgen-dependent LNCaP prostate cancer cell line or normal human prostate epithelial PrEC cells, which was achieved by the induction of apoptosis in a mitochondrion-dependent intrinsic apoptotic pathway. Furthermore, Isorhamnetin inhibited cell migration and invasion in concentration-dependent manners by enhancing mesenchymal−epithelial transition (MET) and inhibiting matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9 overexpression. In addition, Isorhamnetin also down-regulated the expression of phosphorylated PI3K (p-P13K), Akt (p-Akt), and mTOR (p-mTOR) proteins in both cancer cells, revealing Isorhamnetin to be a selective PI3K–Akt–mTOR pathway inhibitor. In summary, these findings propose that Isorhamnetin might be a novel therapeutic candidate for the treatment of androgen-independent prostate cancer.

Anticancer activity of flavonoids accompanied by redox state modulation and the potential for a chemotherapeutic strategy

Since researchers began studying the mechanism of flavonoids' anticancer activity, little attention has been focused on the modulation of redox state in cells as a potential chemotherapeutic strategy. However, recent studies have begun identifying that the anticancer effect of flavonoids occurs both in their antioxidative activity which scavenges ROS and their prooxidative activity which generates ROS. Against this backdrop, this study attempts to achieve a comprehensive analysis of the individual and separate study findings regarding flavonoids' modulation of redox state in cancer cells. It focuses on the mechanism behind the anticancer effect, and mostly on the modulation of redox potential by flavonoids such as quercetin, hesperetin, apigenin, genistein, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), luteolin and kaempferol in both in vitro and animal models. In addition, the clinical applications of and bioavailability of flavonoids were reviewed to help build a treatment strategy based on flavonoids' prooxidative potential.

Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells preconditioned with isorhamnetin: potential therapy for burn wounds

BACKGROUND

Impaired wound healing can be associated with different pathological states. Burn wounds are the most common and detrimental injuries and remain a major health issue worldwide. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess the ability to regenerate tissues by secreting factors involved in promoting cell migration, proliferation and differentiation, while suppressing immune reactions. Preconditioning of MSCs with small molecules having cytoprotective properties can enhance the potential of these cells for their use in cell-based therapeutics.

AIM

To enhance the therapeutic potential of MSCs by preconditioning them with isorhamnetin for second degree burn wounds in rats.

METHODS

Human umbilical cord MSCs (hU-MSCs) were isolated and characterized by surface markers, CD105, vimentin and CD90. For preconditioning, hU-MSCs were treated with isorhamnetin after selection of the optimized concentration (5 µmol/L) by cytotoxicity analysis. The migration potential of these MSCs was analyzed by the in vitro scratch assay. The healing potential of normal, and preconditioned hU-MSCs was compared by transplanting these MSCs in a rat model of a second degree burn wound. Normal, and preconditioned MSCs (IH + MSCs) were transplanted after 72 h of burn injury and observed for 2 wk. Histological and gene expression analyses were performed on day 7 and 14 after cell transplantation to determine complete wound healing.

RESULTS

The scratch assay analysis showed a significant reduction in the scratch area in the case of IH + MSCs compared to the normal untreated MSCs at 24 h, while complete closure of the scratch area was observed at 48 h. Histological analysis showed reduced inflammation, completely remodeled epidermis and dermis without scar formation and regeneration of hair follicles in the group that received IH + MSCs. Gene expression analysis was time dependent and more pronounced in the case of IH + MSCs. Interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and Bcl-2 associated X genes showed significant downregulation, while transforming growth factor β, vascular endothelial growth factor, Bcl-2 and matrix metallopeptidase 9 showed significant upregulation compared to the burn wound, showing increased angiogenesis and reduced inflammation and apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

Preconditioning of hU-MSCs with isorhamnetin decreases wound progression by reducing inflammation, and improving tissue architecture and wound healing. The study outcome is expected to lead to an improved cell-based therapeutic approach for burn wounds.

Investigation of sugars, organic acids, phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity and the aroma fingerprint of small white apricots grown in Xinjiang

Small white apricot is well known as a famous fresh fruit and even a folk medicine in Xinjiang. To investigate nutritive value, antioxidant activity, and flavor of small white apricot, sugars, organic acids, total flavonoids, phenolic compounds, antioxidant activities, and volatile compounds in five apricot cultivars were examined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS). The results showed that sucrose (32.94% to 42.49%), malic acid (69.21% to 76.75%), and quercetin-3-rutinoside (72.84% to 74.05%) were the dominant sugar, organic acid, and phenolic compounds in small white apricot, respectively. The antioxidant activity reached up to 61.72 to 135.52 mg TEs 100 g^-1 . Furthermore, the aroma fingerprint of the small white apricot consisted of 1-octen-3-ol, 1-dodecanol, pentanal, hexanal, (E)-2-hexenal, (E)-2-heptenal, 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-one, (E)-2-nonenal, 1-octen-3-one, β-myrcene, and linalool, providing clear green, grassy, and fatty notes. Apricots from different cultivars possessed a similar flavor, while linalool and (E)-2-hexenal had been identified as the characteristic aroma compounds in small white apricot. The results provide a complete chemical characterization of the taste, functional ingredients and aroma of the small white apricot. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The nutritive value, antioxidant activity and flavor of small white apricot were investigated in this study. The results will provide a theoretical basis for developing characteristic variety aroma, nutritive value, and medicinal value of small white apricot.

Analysis of Phenolic Components and Related Biological Activities of 35 Apple (Malus pumila Mill.) Cultivars

Apple (Malus pumila Mill.) is a popular fruit with high economic values and various biological activities that are beneficial to human health. In this study, 35 apple cultivars were collected and were evaluated for their basic quality indexes, phenolic compositions, antioxidant activity, anti-tumour, and anti-diabetic activities. The compositions of phenolics were detected by using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and high-resolution mass spectroscopy (HRMS) assays. The antioxidant activities of peel and pulp extracts from 35 apple cultivars were evaluated by using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging assay and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. Results showed that the contents of phenolic acids and proanthocyanidins showed significant correlations with the antioxidant activities. Phenolic-rich extracts significantly inhibited HepG2 cell proliferation, with the inhibition activity varied significantly between cultivars. ‘Gold Delicious’ pulp extract, ‘Xiboliyabaidian’ peel and pulp extracts showed protective effects on H₂O₂-induced injury of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). ‘Red Fuji’ peel extract, ‘Xiboliyabaidian’ peel and pulp extracts, as well as ‘Gold Delicious’ peel extract, significantly increased glucose consumption of HepG2 cells, in a dose-dependent manner. This research may provide theoretical guidance for further nutritional investigation of the apple resources.

Isorhamnetin: A review of pharmacological effects

Isorhamnetin is one of the most important active ingredients in the fruits of Hippophae rhamnoides L. and the leaves of Ginkgo biloba L., which possesses extensive pharmacological activities. At present, there have been numerous investigations on isorhamnetin, which has the effects of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular protection, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidation, organ protection, prevention of obesity, etc. The related mechanisms involve the regulation of PI3K/AKT/PKB, NF-κB, MAPK and other signaling pathways as well as the expression of related cytokines and kinases. Isorhamnetin has a high value of development and application. However, the investigations on its mechanism of action are limited and lack of detailed scientific validation. The manuscript reviewed the pharmacological effects of isorhamnetin and related mechanisms of action for the development of its medicinal properties further.

Isorhamnetin: A Nematocidal Flavonoid from Prosopis Laevigata Leaves Against Haemonchus Contortus Eggs and Larvae

Haemonchus contortus affect small ruminants all over the world. Anthelmintics cause resistance, contamination, and a risk of public health. Prosopis laevigata is a plant used as a home remedy against many diseases in Mexico. This study arose from a preliminary study where a P. laevigata hydroalcoholic extract (Pl-hae) showed anthelmintic activity (aa) against H. contortus. Searching for bioactive compounds (bac) with high aa, the Pl-hae was fractioned obtaining an aqueous (Aq-F) and an ethyl acetate fraction (EtAc-F), and a flavonoid with aa identified as isorhamnetin was obtained from EtAc-F. Both fractions were in vitro assessed by the egg hatch test (eht) and larval mortality (lm) assays. The bac obtained from EtAc-F were characterised by NMR analysis. The highest aa were recorded with EtAc-F, resulting in 100% eht and 80.45% lm at 0.75 and 30 mg/mL, respectively. Alterations in eggs and larvae attributed to isorhamnetin were recorded by environmental scanning electron microscopy, confocal laser scanning and by high-resolution digital-coupled camera. This flavonoid caused 100% eht at 0.07 mg/mL after 48 h and 100% lm at 7.5 mg/mL after 72 h exposure. Isorhamnetin has promising potential as an anthelmintic against sheep haemonchosis.

Isorhamnetin Has Potential for the Treatment of Escherichia coli-Induced Sepsis

Isorhamnetin is a flavonoid that is abundant in the fruit of Hippophae rhamnoides L. It is widely studied for its ability to modulate inflammatory responses. In this study, we evaluated the potential of isorhamnetin to prevent gram-negative sepsis. We investigated its efficacy using an Escherichia coli-induced sepsis model. Our study reveals that isorhamnetin treatment significantly enhances survival and reduces proinflammatory cytokine levels in the serum and lung tissue of E. coli-infected mice. Further, isorhamnetin treatment also significantly reduces the levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine amino transferase and blood urea nitrogen, suggesting that it can improve liver and kidney function in infected mice. Docking studies reveal that isorhamnetin binds deep in the hydrophobic binding pocket of MD-2 via extensive hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding with Tyr102, preventing TLR4/MD-2 dimerization. Notably, binding and secreted alkaline phosphatase reporter gene assays show that isorhamnetin can interact directly with the TLR4/MD-2 complex, thus inhibiting the TLR4 cascade, which eventually causes systemic inflammation, resulting in death due to cytokine storms. We therefore presume that isorhamnetin could be a suitable therapeutic candidate to treat bacterial sepsis.

Unusual isovalerylated flavonoids from the fruit of sea buckthorn (Elaeagnus rhamnoides) grown in Sokółka, Poland

Eight undescribed isorhamnetin glycosides, acylated with isovaleric acid were isolated from the fruit of sea buckthorn (Elaeagnus rhamnoides (L.) A. Nelson). Structures of the purified compounds were determined using one and two-dimensional NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and chemical methods. In addition, the cytotoxic activity of the phenolic-rich fraction of sea buckthorn fruit and its major flavonoids against colon cell lines, HT-29, HCT-116 and Caco-2, was determined. While the phenolic fraction was moderately active against HT-29 and HCT-116, all investigated purified flavonoids showed significantly weaker activity. This is most probably the first report about isorhamnetin glycosides acylated with isovaleric acid.

Dynamic changes of phenolic compounds during artificial aging of soybean seeds identified by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with transcript analysis

Phenolic compounds are important bioactive substances in plants, but study of their alteration during soybean seed aging is still limited. In this study, we conducted artificial aging on soybean seeds, detected the dynamic changes of phenolic compound concentrations using high-performance liquid chromatography, and analyzed the gene expression of key enzymes of phenolic metabolism. A detailed method for detection of 19 phenolic compounds during artificial aging of soybean seeds was constructed, and all of these phenols significantly changed in concentration. The content of protocatechuic acid, rutin, and morin decreased, whereas that of daidzein, glycitein, genistein, and baicalin increased. The concentration of caffeic acid, epicatechin, ferulic acid, daidzin, genistin, and resveratrol first rose and then declined, and the content of ferulic acid was highest after 2 days of artificial aging, with the other five phenolic compounds showing the highest content after 4 days of artificial aging. The total content of the 19 phenolic compounds reached a peak of 2357.43 μg g-1 dry weight at 2 days. Relative expression of PAL1, PAL2, PAL3, CHS7, CHS8, IFS1, IFS2, CHR1, 4CL2, C4H, and CHI2 was mostly downregulated as the duration of artificial aging increased. This study provides novel insights into the storage and use of soybean seed resources. Graphical abstract.

Flavonoids and Their Biological Secrets

Flavonoids are tricyclic polyphenolic compounds naturally occurring in plants. Being nature’s antioxidants flavonoids have been shown to reduce the damages induced by oxidative stress in cells. Besides being an antioxidant, flavonols are demonstrated to have anti-infective properties, i.e., antiviral, antifungal, anti-angiogenic, anti-tumorigenic, and immunomodulatory bioproperties. Plants use them as one of their defense mechanisms against radiation-induced DNA damage and also for fungal infections. The use of flavonols for fabrication of new drugs has been underway with objectives to develop safer and effective therapeutic agents. This review covers 15 flavonols for their structure, biological properties, role in plant metabolisms, and current research focused on computational drug design using flavonols for searching drug leads.

Differential Effects of Quercetin and Two of Its Derivatives, Isorhamnetin and Isorhamnetin-3-glucuronide, in Inhibiting the Proliferation of Human Breast-Cancer MCF-7 Cells

Quercetin (Que) has consistently been reported to be useful cytotoxic compound in vivo and in vitro, but little is known on its metabolites. Here, we examined and compared the cytotoxic effects of Que and its water-soluble metabolites, isorhamnetin (IS) and isorhamnetin-3-glucuronide (I3G), in human breast-cancer MCF-7 cells to uncover their tumor-inhibitory mechanisms and structure-function relationships. The results showed that Que, IS, and I3G could dose-dependently inhibit the growth of MCF-7 cells, and the cytotoxic effect was ranked as Que > IS > I3G. Furthermore, Que, IS, and I3G mediated cell-cycle arrest principally in S phase, followed by a decrease in the number of cells in G0/G1 and G2/M; moreover, 70.8, 68.9, and 49.8% of MCF-7 tumor cells entered early-phase apoptosis when treated with 100 μM Que, IS, and I3G for 48 h, respectively. Moreover, induction of apoptosis by Que, IS, and I3G was accompanied by the marginal generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). Given these results, Que, IS, and I3G possess strong cytotoxic effects through an ROS-dependent apoptosis pathway in MCF-7 cells.

Cytotoxicity of seputhecarpan D, thonningiol and 12 other phytochemicals from African flora towards human carcinoma cells

Background

Despite the remarkable progress in cancer therapy in recent years, this disease still remains a serious public health concern. The use of natural products has been and continues to be one of the most effective ways to fight malignancies. The cytotoxicity of 14 compounds from African medicinal plants was evaluated in four human carcinoma cell lines and normal fibroblasts. The tested samples included: β-spinasterol (1), friedelanone (2), 16β-hydroxylupeol (3), β-amyrin acetate (4), lupeol acetate (5), sequoyitol (6), rhamnitrin (7), europetin 3-O-rhamnoside (8), thonningiol (9), glyasperin F (10), seputhecarpan B (11), seputhecarpan C (12), seputhecarpan D (13) and rheediaxanthone A (14).

Methods

The neutral red uptake (NR) assay was used to evaluate the cytotoxicity of samples; caspase-Glo assay, flow cytometry for cell cycle analysis and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) as well as spectrophotometry to measure levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were performed to detect the mode of action of compounds 9 and 13 in MCF-7 breast adenocarcinoma cells.

Results

Compounds 3, 9–13 displayed cytotoxic effects against the four tested cancer cell lines with IC₅₀ values below 85 μM. Compounds 9 and 13 had IC₅₀ values below 10 μM in 4/4 and 3/4 tested cell lines respectively. The IC₅₀ values varied from 0.36 μM (against MCF7 cells) to 5.65 μM (towards colon carcinoma DLD-1 cells) for 9, from 9.78 μM (against MCF7 cells) to 67.68 μM (against HepG2 cells) for 13 and 0.18 μM (towards HepG2 cells) to 72 μM (towards Caco-2 cells) for the reference drug, doxorubicin. Compounds 9 and 13 induced cell cycle arrest in Go/G1 whilst doxorubicin induced arrest in G2/M. The two molecules (9 and 13) also induced apoptosis in MCF-7 cells through activation of caspases 3/7 and 9 as well as enhanced ROS production.

Conclusion

Compounds 9 and 13 are good cytotoxic phytochemicals that should be explored more in future to develop a cytotoxic drug to fight human carcinoma.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12906-018-2109-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Different antitumor effects of quercetin, quercetin-3′-sulfate and quercetin-3-glucuronide in human breast cancer MCF-7 cells

This study was designed to investigate the tumor-inhibitory effects of quercetin (Que) and its water-soluble metabolites, quercetin-3′-sulfate (Q3′S) and quercetin-3-glucuronide (Q3G), as well as to make the molecular mechanism and structure-antitumor relationship clear.

New insights for the use of quercetin analogs in cancer treatment

AIM

Quercetin (Q1) is a flavonoid widely present in plants and endowed with several pharmacological properties mostly due to its antioxidant potential. Q1 shows anticancer activity and could be useful in cancer prevention. On the other hand, Q1 is poorly soluble in water and unstable in physiological systems, and its bioavailability is very low.

METHODS

A small set of Q1 derivatives (Q2-Q9) has been synthesized following opportunely modified chemical procedures previously reported. Anticancer activity has been evaluated by MTT assay. Human Topoisomerases inhibition has been performed by direct enzymatic assays. Apoptosis has been evaluated by TUNEL assay. ROS production and scavenging activity have been determined by immunofluorescence.

RESULTS

The anticancer profile of a small library of Q1 analogues, in which the OH groups were all or partially replaced with hydrophobic functional groups, has been evaluated. Two of the studied compounds demonstrated an interesting cytotoxic profile in two breast cancer models showing the capability to inhibit human Topoisomerases.

CONCLUSION

The studied compounds represent suitable leads for the development of innovative anticancer drugs. [Formula: see text].

Secondary metabolites from endophytic fungus Chaetomium sp. induce colon cancer cell apoptotic death

A rare depsipeptide, chaetomiamide A (1), together with two known diketopiperazines (2, 3) were isolated from the cultures of endophytic fungus Chaetomium sp., which was isolated from the root of Cymbidium goeringii. Compound 1 represents a rare skeleton with a 13-membered ring system. It structure was established on the basis of spectroscopic data interpretation. The configuration of 1 was determined by NOESY and Marfey's analysis. These isolates were evaluated for anticancer activity and 3 displayed more potent cytotoxicity than the positive control cisplatin associated with G2/M cell cycle arrest. In addition, 3 induced apoptosis via caspase-3 induction and PARP cleavage, concomitantly with the increase of Bax and decrease of Bcl-2.

The impact of obesity and adiponectin signaling in patients with renal cell carcinoma: A potential mechanism for the "obesity paradox"

Although obesity increases the risk of renal cell carcinoma (RCC), obese patients with RCC experience longer survival than non-obese patients. However, the mechanism of this "obesity paradox" is unknown. We examined the impact of preoperative BMI, serum total adiponectin (sAd) level, total adiponectin secretion from perinephric adipose tissue, and intratumoral expression of adiponectin receptors on RCC aggressiveness and survival. We also investigated the mechanism underlying enhanced cancer aggressiveness in RCC cells stimulated with exogenous adiponectin. Overweight and obese patients had significantly lower grade cancers than normal patients in all patients and in those without metastasis (p = 0.003 and p = 0.027, respectively). Cancer-specific survival was significantly longer in overweight and obese patients than in normal patients in all patients (p = 0.035). There was a weak inverse correlation between sAd level and BMI in RCC patients (r = -0.344, p = 0.002). Tumor size was slightly correlated with sAd level, and high sAd was significantly associated with poor overall survival rates in patients with non-metastatic RCC (p = 0.035). Adiponectin levels in perinephric adipose tissue and intratumoral AdipoR1/R2 expression were not correlated with RCC aggressiveness or survival. Proliferation significantly increased in 786-O and Caki-2 cells exposed to exogenous adiponectin, whereas cell invasion and migration were unaffected. In addition, exogenous adiponectin significantly inhibited starvation- and metformin-induced apoptosis, and up-regulated p-AMPK and Bcl-xL levels. In summary, low BMI and high adiponectin levels are associated with aggressive cell behaviors and poor survival in surgically-treated RCC patients. The effects of adiponectin on proliferation and apoptosis might underlie the "obesity paradox" of RCC.

Revisiting Greek Propolis: Chromatographic Analysis and Antioxidant Activity Study

Propolis is a bee product that has been extensively used in alternative medicine and recently has gained interest on a global scale as an essential ingredient of healthy foods and cosmetics. Propolis is also considered to improve human health and to prevent diseases such as inflammation, heart disease, diabetes and even cancer. However, the claimed effects are anticipated to be correlated to its chemical composition. Since propolis is a natural product, its composition is consequently expected to be variable depending on the local flora alignment. In this work, we present the development of a novel HPLC-PDA-ESI/MS targeted method, used to identify and quantify 59 phenolic compounds in Greek propolis hydroalcoholic extracts. Amongst them, nine phenolic compounds are herein reported for the first time in Greek propolis. Alongside GC-MS complementary analysis was employed, unveiling eight additional newly reported compounds. The antioxidant activity study of the propolis samples verified the potential of these extracts to effectively scavenge radicals, with the extract of Imathia region exhibiting comparable antioxidant activity to that of quercetin.

Tyrosol and its metabolites as antioxidative and anti-inflammatory molecules in human endothelial cells

Novel biological activities for tyrosol metabolites on human endothelial cells.

The Val158Met polymorphism in COMT gene and cancer risk: role of endogenous and exogenous catechols

Catechol-O-methyltransferase, COMT, is an important phase II enzyme catalyzing the transfer of a methyl-group from S-adenosylmethionine to a catechol-containing substrate molecule. A genetic variant Val158Met in the COMT gene leads to a several-fold decrease in the enzymatic activity giving rise to the accumulation of potentially carcinogenic endogenous catechol estrogens and their reactive intermediates and increasing thus the risk of tumorigenesis. However, numerous association studies between the COMT genotype and susceptibility to various malignancies have shown inconsistent and controversial findings indicating that additional gene-gene and gene-environment interactions might be crucial in modulating the physiological role of the COMT. In this review article, the important contribution of dietary catechol-containing flavonoids to modification of the relationships between the COMT genotype and cancer risk is discussed. Whereas, the diverse anticancer activities of common phytochemicals, such as green tea polyphenols, quercetin, fisetin or luteolin, can be markedly changed (both decreased or increased) by the COMT-mediated O-methylation of these exogenous substrates, flavonoids can also behave as potent inhibitors of the COMT enzyme slowing detoxification of endogenous catechol estrogens. Such a many-featured functioning of the COMT and its complex regulation by several different genetic and environmental factors, including plant-based food ingredients, emphasizes the necessity to further stratify the association studies between the COMT genotype and tumor risk by consumption of catechol-containing dietary flavonoids. Currently, it can be only speculated that some of the possible associations might be masked by the regular intake of specific food polyphenols, taking effect in certain communities or populations.

Isorhamnetin inhibits cell proliferation and induces apoptosis in breast cancer via Akt and mitogen‑activated protein kinase kinase signaling pathways

Breast cancer is the most common cause of female cancer-associated mortality. Although treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery have led to a decline in the mortality rates associated with breast cancer, drug resistance remains one of the predominant causes for poor prognosis and high recurrence rates. The present study investigated the potential effects of the natural product, isorhamnetin on breast cancer, and examined the effects of isorhamnetin on the Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/MAPK kinase (MEK) signaling cascades, which are two important signaling pathways for endocrine therapy resistance in breast cancer. The results of the present study indicate that isorhamnetin inhibits cell proliferation and induces cell apoptosis. In addition, isorhamnetin was observed to inhibit the Akt/mTOR and the MEK/extracellular signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation cascades. The inhibition of these two signaling pathways was attenuated by the two Akt and MEK1 inhibitors, but not by the nuclear factor-κB inhibitor. Furthermore, epidermal growth factor inhibited the effects of isorhamnetin via activation of the Akt and MEK signaling pathways. These results indicate that isorhamnetin exhibits antitumor effects in breast cancer, which are mediated by the Akt and MEK signaling pathways.

Inhibitory effects and molecular mechanisms of tetrahydrocurcumin against human breast cancer MCF-7 cells

BACKGROUND

Tetrahydrocurcumin (THC), an active metabolite of curcumin, has been reported to have similar biological effects to curcumin, but the mechanism of the antitumor activity of THC is still unclear.

METHODS

The present study was to investigate the antitumor effects and mechanism of THC in human breast cancer MCF-7 cells using the methods of MTT assay, LDH assay, flow cytometry analysis, and western blot assay.

RESULTS

THC was found to have markedly cytotoxic effect and antiproliferative activity against MCF-7 cells in a dose-dependent manner with the IC50 for 24 h of 107.8 μM. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that THC mediated the cell-cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase, and 32.8% of MCF-7 cells entered the early phase of apoptosis at 100 μM for 24 h. THC also dose-dependently led to apoptosis in MCF-7 cells via the mitochondrial pathway, as evidenced by the activation of caspase-3 and caspase-9, the elevation of intracellular ROS, a decrease in Bcl-2 and PARP expression, and an increase in Bax expression. Meanwhile, cytochrome C was released to cytosol and the loss of mitochondria membrane potential (Δψm) was observed after THC treatment.

CONCLUSION

THC is an excellent source of chemopreventive agents in the treatment of breast cancer and has excellent potential to be explored as antitumor precursor compound.