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Jiang XX, Zhang R, Wang HS. Neferine mitigates angiotensin II-induced atrial fibrillation and fibrosis via upregulation of Nrf2/HO-1 and inhibition of TGF-β/p-Smad2/3 pathways. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:8630-8644. [PMID: 38775722 PMCID: PMC11164477 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205829] [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: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) is often associated with atrial fibrosis and oxidative stress. Neferine, a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid, has been reported to exert an antiarrhythmic effect. However, its impact on Angiotensin II (Ang II) infusion-induced AF and the underlying mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether neferine alleviates Ang II-induced AF and explore the underlying mechanisms. METHODS Mice subjected to Ang II infusion to induce AF were concurrently treated with neferine or saline. AF incidence, myocardial cell size, fibrosis, and oxidative stress were then examined. RESULTS Neferine treatment inhibited Ang II-induced AF, atrial size augmentation, and atrial fibrosis. Additionally, we observed that Ang II increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, induced mitochondrial membrane potential depolarization, and reduced glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, which were reversed to some extent by neferine. Mechanistically, neferine activated the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway and inhibited TGF-β/p-Smad2/3 in Ang II-infused atria. Zinc Protoporphyrin (ZnPP), an HO-1 inhibitor, reduced the anti-oxidative effect of neferine to some extent and subsequently abolished the beneficial effect of neferine on Ang II-induced AF. CONCLUSIONS These findings provide hitherto undocumented evidence that the protective role of neferine in Ang II-induced AF is dependent on HO-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Xiao Jiang
- Department of Cardiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Ri Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Hui-Shan Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, General Hospital of Northern Command, Shenyang 110016, Liaoning, China
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2
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Zhong PC, Liu ZW, Xing QC, Chen J, Yang RP. Neferine inhibits the development of lung cancer cells by downregulating TGF-β to regulate MST1/ROS-induced pyroptosis. Kaohsiung J Med Sci 2023; 39:1106-1118. [PMID: 37698291 DOI: 10.1002/kjm2.12752] [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: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for ~85% of all lung cancer cases. Neferine is used as a traditional Chinese medicine with many pharmacological effects, including antitumor properties; however, it has not been reported whether neferine plays an anticancer role by causing pyroptosis in NSCLC cells. We used two typical lung cancer cell lines, A549 and H1299, and 42 lung cancer tissue samples to investigate the regulatory effects of neferine on TGF-β and MST1. We also treated lung cancer cells with different concentrations of neferine to study its effects on lung cancer cell survival, migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) as well as on pyroptosis. Lentivirus-mediated gain-of-function studies of TGF-β and MST1 were applied to validate the roles of TGF-β and MST1 in lung cancer. Next, we used murine transplanted tumor models to evaluate the effect of neferine treatment on the metastatic capacity of lung cancer tissues. With increasing neferine concentration, the viability, migration, invasion, and EMT capacity of A549 and H1299 cells decreased, whereas pyroptosis increased. Neferine repressed TGF-β expression to modulate the induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by MST1. Overexpression of TGF-β in either in vitro or mouse-transplanted A549 cells restored the inhibitory effect of neferine on tumor development. Overexpression of MST1 clearly enhanced pyroptosis. Neferine contributed to pyroptosis by regulating MST1 expression through downregulation of TGF-β to induce ROS formation. Therefore, our study shows that neferine can serve as an adjuvant therapy for NSCLC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Cheng Zhong
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Xiangtan Central Hospital, Xiangtan, China
| | - Zhi-Wen Liu
- Research Institute for Future Food, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Hong Kong, China
| | - Qi-Chang Xing
- Department of Pharmaceutical, Xiangtan Central Hospital, Xiangtan, China
| | - Jia Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical, Xiangtan Central Hospital, Xiangtan, China
| | - Rui-Pei Yang
- Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
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Xiao X, Luo F, Fu M, Jiang Y, Liu S, Liu B. Evaluating the therapeutic role of selected active compounds in Plumula Nelumbinis on pulmonary hypertension via network pharmacology and experimental analysis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:977921. [PMID: 36059960 PMCID: PMC9428143 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.977921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Excessive proliferation and migration of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) are critical factors leading to vascular remodeling in pulmonary hypertension (PH). This study aimed to explore the effect and potential mechanism of Plumula Nelumbinis on PH by using network pharmacology and experimental analysis. Network pharmacology and molecular docking results indicated that the potential active components of Plumula Nelumbinis against PH were mainly alkaloid compounds, including neferine, liensinine, and isoliensinine. Subsequently, by constructing a Su5416 plus hypoxia (SuHx)-induced PH rat model, we found that the total alkaloids of Plumula Nelumbinis (TAPN) can reduce the right ventricular systolic pressure, delay the process of pulmonary vascular and right ventricular remodeling, and improve the right heart function in PH rats. In addition, TAPN can effectively reverse the upregulation of collagen1, collagen3, MMP2, MMP9, PCNA, PIM1, and p-SRC protein expression in lung tissue of PH rats. Finally, by constructing a hypoxia-induced PASMCs proliferation and migration model, we further found that TAPN, neferine, liensinine, and isoliensinine could inhibit the proliferation and migration of PASMCs induced by hypoxia; reverse the upregulation of collagen1, collagen3, MMP2, MMP9, PCNA, PIM1 and p-SRC protein expression in PASMCs. Based on these observations, we conclude that the alkaloid compounds extracted from Plumula Nelumbinis (such as neferine, liensinine, and isoliensinine) can inhibit the abnormal proliferation and migration of PASMCs by regulating the expression of p-SRC and PIM1, thereby delaying the progression of PH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinghua Xiao
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Institute for Rational and Safe Medication Practices, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- The Hunan Institute of Pharmacy Practice and Clinical Research, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Fangmei Luo
- Department of Pharmacy, Hunan Children’s Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Minyi Fu
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Institute for Rational and Safe Medication Practices, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- The Hunan Institute of Pharmacy Practice and Clinical Research, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yueping Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Institute for Rational and Safe Medication Practices, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- The Hunan Institute of Pharmacy Practice and Clinical Research, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Shao Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Institute for Rational and Safe Medication Practices, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- The Hunan Institute of Pharmacy Practice and Clinical Research, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Institute for Rational and Safe Medication Practices, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- The Hunan Institute of Pharmacy Practice and Clinical Research, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Bin Liu,
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Wang Z, Li Y, Ma D, Zeng M, Wang Z, Qin F, Chen J, Christian M, He Z. Alkaloids from lotus ( Nelumbo nucifera): recent advances in biosynthesis, pharmacokinetics, bioactivity, safety, and industrial applications. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2021:1-34. [PMID: 34845950 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2021.2009436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Different parts of lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) including the seeds, rhizomes, leaves, and flowers, are used for medicinal purposes with health promoting and illness preventing benefits. The presence of active chemicals such as alkaloids, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and terpenoids (particularly alkaloids) may account for this plant's pharmacological effects. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview and summarize up-to-date research on the biosynthesis, pharmacokinetics, and bioactivity of lotus alkaloids as well as their safety. Moreover, the potential uses of lotus alkaloids in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic sectors are explored. Current evidence shows that alkaloids, mainly consisting of aporphines, 1-benzylisoquinolines, and bisbenzylisoquinolines, are present in different parts of lotus. The bioavailability of these alkaloids is relatively low in vivo but can be enhanced by technological modification using nanoliposomes, liposomes, microcapsules, and emulsions. Available data highlights their therapeutic and preventive effects on obesity, diabetes, neurodegeneration, cancer, cardiovascular disease, etc. Additionally, industrial applications of lotus alkaloids include their use as food, medical, and cosmetic ingredients in tea, other beverages, and healthcare products; as lipid-lowering, anticancer, and antipsychotic drugs; and in facial masks, toothpastes, and shower gels. However, their clinical efficacy and safety remains unclear; hence, larger and longer human trials are needed to achieve their safe and effective use with minimal side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China.,International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China.,International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dandan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China.,International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Maomao Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China.,International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhaojun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China.,International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fang Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China.,International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China.,International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mark Christian
- School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Clifton, Nottingham, UK
| | - Zhiyong He
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China.,International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
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Neferine suppresses vascular endothelial inflammation by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway. Arch Biochem Biophys 2020; 696:108595. [PMID: 33157101 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2020.108595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The vascular endothelium, as the interface between the blood and the surrounding tissues, plays a pivotal role in inflammation. Neferine, which was isolated from Lotus Plumule, has many biological roles, such as antifibrotic, antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antineoplastic activities. We demonstrated the role of neferine in the inhibition of pro-adhesion and pro-inflammatory responses of endothelial cells in vitro. We found that neferine could significantly inhibit the adhesion of Tohoku Hospital Pediatrics-1 (THP-1) cells to primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). At the molecular level, neferine could significantly alleviate the interleukin 1β (IL-1β)-induced mRNA and protein expression of intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM1). Our data showed that neferine suppressed nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) nuclear translocation and inhibited the NF-κB-p65-induced transcriptional activity of ICAM1 and VCAM1. Therefore, we concluded that neferine suppressed the inflammatory response in endothelial cells in vitro, which could be mainly due to inhibition of NF-κB signaling activation. Moreover, we found that neferine alleviated LPS-induced acute inflammation injury in vivo. Thus, neferine may serve as an effective regulator during the pathogenesis of vascular inflammatory diseases.
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6
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Wang J, Dong Y, Li Q. Neferine induces mitochondrial dysfunction to exert anti-proliferative and anti-invasive activities on retinoblastoma. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2020; 245:1385-1394. [PMID: 32460625 DOI: 10.1177/1535370220928933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinoblastoma is common primary intraocular malignancy of infants and childhood. Neferine is a major bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid derived from the lotus plumule in Nelumbo nucifera. This study evaluated the mitigation role of Neferine on retinoblastoma in vitro and in vivo. Xenotransplantation model was established by injecting WERI-Rb-1 cells subcutaneously. Upon induction of retinoblastoma , mice were intraperitoneally injected with Neferine (0, 0.5, 1, 2 mg/kg) or ethanol every 3 days for 30 days. Tumor weight and tumor volume were measured every three days and compared between four groups. Then, mice were sacrificed and immunohistochemical examination was performed to compare Ki67, VEGF content between groups. WERI-Rb-1 cells were used for in vitro experiments and the anti-angiogenic role of Neferine was assessed by analyzing nodes/HPF number. In WERI-Rb-1 xenotransplantation model, compared with control group, 1 mg/kg Neferine treatment significantly inhibited tumor weight (0.39 ± 0.04 g vs. 0.25 ± 0.03 g, P< 0.05) and tumor volume (2163 ± 165 mm3 vs. 1276 ± 108 mm3, P< 0.05) after 30 days. Compared with ethanol-injected mice, 2 μM Neferine treatment significantly enhanced apoptosis rate (2.1 ± 0.6% vs. 14.6 ± 2.6%, P< 0.05), accompany downregulation of Ki67 (0.09 ± 0.02% vs. 0.01 ± 0.004%, P< 0.05) and VEGF (0.28 ± 0.04% vs. 0.05 ± 0.03%, P< 0.05) expression. Additionally, 2 μM Neferine treatment significantly decreased JC-1 red/green percentage. High-dose Neferine could decrease retinoblastoma angiogenesis in association with a significant inhibition on tumor growth and invasion. These findings suggested that Neferine could be a new treatment or adjuvant against retinoblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
| | - Yanmin Dong
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
| | - Qiuming Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
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7
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Dasari S, Bakthavachalam V, Chinnapaka S, Venkatesan R, Samy ALPA, Munirathinam G. Neferine, an alkaloid from lotus seed embryo targets HeLa and SiHa cervical cancer cells via pro-oxidant anticancer mechanism. Phytother Res 2020; 34:2366-2384. [PMID: 32364634 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Apoptosis and autophagy are important processes that control cellular homeostasis and have been highlighted as promising targets for novel anticancer drugs. This study aims to investigate the inhibitory effects and mechanisms of Neferine (Nef), an alkaloid from the lotus seed embryos of Nelumbo nucifera (N. nucifera), as a dual inducer of apoptosis and autophagy through the reactive oxygen species (ROS) activation in cervical cancer cells. Nef and N. nucifera extract suppressed the cell viability of HeLa and SiHa cells in a dose-dependent manner. Importantly, Nef showed minimal toxicity to normal cells. Furthermore, Nef inhibited anchorage-independent growth, colony formation and migration ability of cervical cancer cells. Nef induces mitochondrial apoptosis by increasing pro-apoptotic protein bax, cytochrome-c, cleaved caspase-3 and caspase-9, poly-ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) cleavage, DNA damage (pH2 AX) while downregulating Bcl-2, procaspase-3 and procaspase-9, and TCTP. Of note, apoptotic effect by Nef was significantly attenuated in the presence of N-acetylcysteine (NAC), suggesting pro-oxidant activity of this compound. Nef also promoted autophagy induction through increasing beclin-1, atg-4, atg-5 and atg-12, LC-3 activation, and P 62/SQSTM1 as determined by western blot analysis. Collectively, these results demonstrate that Nef is a potent anticancer compound against cervical cancer cells through inducing apoptosis and autophagic pathway involving ROS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subramanyam Dasari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Illinois, Rockford, Illinois, USA
| | - Velavan Bakthavachalam
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Illinois, Rockford, Illinois, USA
| | - Somaiah Chinnapaka
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Illinois, Rockford, Illinois, USA
| | - Reshmii Venkatesan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Illinois, Rockford, Illinois, USA
| | - Angela L P A Samy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Illinois, Rockford, Illinois, USA
| | - Gnanasekar Munirathinam
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Illinois, Rockford, Illinois, USA
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Paramasivan P, Kumar JD, Baskaran R, Weng CF, Padma VV. Reversal of doxorubicin resistance in lung cancer cells by neferine is explained by nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-like 2 mediated lung resistance protein down regulation. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2020; 3:647-665. [PMID: 35582448 PMCID: PMC8992493 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2019.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Aim: Development of multi drug resistance and dose limiting cardiotoxicity are hindering the use of Doxorubicin (Dox) in clinical settings. Augmented dox efflux induced by lung resistance protein (LRP) over expression has been related to multi drug resistance phenotype in various cancers. An alkaloid from lotus, Neferine (Nef) shows both anticancer and cardioprotective effects. Here, we have investigated the interconnection between nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-like 2 (NRF2) and LRP in Dox resistance and how Nef can overcome Dox resistance in lung cancer cells by altering this signaling. Methods: Anti-proliferative and apoptotic-inducing effects of Nef and Dox combination in Parental and Dox resistant lung cancer cells were determined in monolayers and 3D spheroids. Intracellular Dox was analyzed using flow cytometry, siRNA knockdown and western blot analysis were used to elucidate NRF2-LRP crosstalk mechanism. Results: We observed that the Dox resistant lung cancer cells expressed higher levels of LRP, reduced glutathione (GSH) and NRF2. Combination of Dox and Nef induced apoptosis, leads to reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, GSH depletion and reduction in LRP levels contributing to higher intracellular and intranuclear Dox accumulation. The use of N-acetylcysteine and knockdown studies confirmed an important role of ROS and NRF2 in LRP down regulation. Presence of NRF2 binding sites in LRP is support of direct interaction between LRP and NRF2. Conclusion: Nef sensitizes lung cancer cells to Dox by increasing intracellular and/or intra nuclear Dox accumulation via LRP down regulation. This is mediated by redox regulating NRF2. This decoded crosstalk mechanism reinforces the role of NRF2 and LRP in Dox resistance and as an important anticancer target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poornima Paramasivan
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641046, India
- Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Life Sciences, National Dong Hwa University, Hualien 974, Taiwan
- Division of Science, School of Applied Sciences, University of Abertay Dundee, Dundee DD1 1HG, UK
| | - Jothi Dinesh Kumar
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L3 5TR, UK
| | - Rathinasamy Baskaran
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641046, India
- Department of Bioinformatics and Medical Engineering, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan
| | - Ching Feng Weng
- Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Life Sciences, National Dong Hwa University, Hualien 974, Taiwan
| | - Viswanadha Vijaya Padma
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641046, India
- Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Life Sciences, National Dong Hwa University, Hualien 974, Taiwan
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Manogaran P, Beeraka NM, Padma VV. The Cytoprotective and Anti-cancer Potential of Bisbenzylisoquinoline Alkaloids from Nelumbo nucifera. Curr Top Med Chem 2020; 19:2940-2957. [DOI: 10.2174/1568026619666191116160908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Revised: 10/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
:
Natural product therapy has been gaining therapeutic importance against various diseases,
including cancer. The failure of chemotherapy due to its associated adverse effects promoted adjunct
therapy with natural products. Phytochemicals exert anti-carcinogenic activities through the regulation
of various cell signaling pathways such as cell survival, inflammation, apoptosis, autophagy and metastasis.
The ‘small molecule-chemosensitizing agents’ from plants induce apoptosis in drug-resistant and
host-immune resistant cancer cells in in vitro as well as in vivo models. For example, alkaloids from Nelumbo
nucifera, liensinine, isoliensinine and neferine exert the anticancer activity through enhanced
ROS generation, activation of MAP kinases, followed by induction of autophagy and apoptotic cell
death. Likewise, these alkaloids also exert their cytoprotective action against cerebrovascular
stroke/ischemic stroke, diabetes, and chemotherapy-induced cytotoxicity. Therefore, the present review
elucidates the pharmacological activities of these bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloids which include the cytoprotective,
anticancer and chemosensitizing abilities against various diseases such as cardiovascular
diseases, neurological diseases and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prasath Manogaran
- Translational Research Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Narasimha Murthy Beeraka
- Translational Research Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Viswanadha Vijaya Padma
- Translational Research Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
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Liu Z, Zhang S, Wang T, Shao H, Gao J, Wang Y, Ge Y. Neferine inhibits MDA-MB-231 cells growth and metastasis by regulating miR-374a/FGFR-2. Chem Biol Interact 2019; 309:108716. [PMID: 31207222 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2019.06.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neferine (NEF) is a major bisbenzylisoquinline alkaloid mainly exists in the seed embryo of Nelumbo nucifera (Gaertn.) that possesses anti-tumor effects. Our study designed to check the effect of NEF on breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells and further explore the potential mechanism. METHODS MDA-MB-231 cells were administrated with various dosages of NEF for 24 h after which cell viability was measured. The effects of NEF on cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion were assessed by BrdU staining, flow cytometry assay and Transwell assay. Western blot was utilized to assess the accumulation of proteins related with proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, PI3K/AKT and MEK/ERK pathways. RESULTS Viability was efficiently reduced by NEF in a dose-dependent manner. NEF (8 μM) significantly suppressed cell proliferation, migration and invasion but enhanced apoptosis in MDA-MB-213 cells. Interestingly, NEF suppressed miR-374a expression and miR-374a mediated the inhibitory effect of NEF. Moreover, miR-374a positively regulated FGFR-2 expression and FGFR-2 overexpression impeded the effect of NEF on MDA-MB-213 cells. FGFR-2 overexpression abolished the suppressive effect of NEF on PI3K/AKT and MEK/ERK pathways. CONCLUSION We found that NEF possessed the anti-growth and anti-metastasis effect on MDA-MB-231 cells through regulating miR-374a/FGFR-2, which might provide new insight for breast cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhisheng Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Qingdao Hiser Hospital of Qingdao University (Qingdao Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Shenglin Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Qingdao Hiser Hospital of Qingdao University (Qingdao Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Tingting Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Qingdao Hiser Hospital of Qingdao University (Qingdao Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Hui Shao
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Qingdao Hiser Hospital of Qingdao University (Qingdao Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Junjie Gao
- Department of Healthcare Internal Medicine, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Ye Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Qingdao Hiser Hospital of Qingdao University (Qingdao Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Yunjie Ge
- Department of Healthcare Internal Medicine, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, 266071, China.
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Alkaloids from Nelumbinis Plumula (AFNP) ameliorate aortic remodeling via RhoA/ROCK pathway. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 112:108651. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.108651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
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Chen G, Zhu M, Guo M. Research advances in traditional and modern use of Nelumbo nucifera: phytochemicals, health promoting activities and beyond. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2019; 59:S189-S209. [DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2018.1553846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Guilin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Plant Germplasm Enhancement and Specialty Agriculture, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, PR China
- Sino-Africa Joint Research Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Mingzhi Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Plant Germplasm Enhancement and Specialty Agriculture, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Tea Science of Ministry of Education, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, PR China
| | - Mingquan Guo
- Key Laboratory of Plant Germplasm Enhancement and Specialty Agriculture, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, PR China
- Sino-Africa Joint Research Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, PR China
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Wu X, Guo Y, Min X, Pei L, Chen X. Neferine, a Bisbenzylisoquinoline Alkaloid, Ameliorates Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Ulcerative Colitis. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2018; 46:1263-1279. [PMID: 30149754 DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x18500660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Both the incidence and prevalence of ulcerative colitis (UC) are increasing throughout the world. Neferine, a natural alkaloid, demonstrated a variety of biological activities. In this study, the anti-inflammatory effect of neferine was investigated. Raw264.7 cells were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or LPS plus Z-VAD-fmk (Z-VAD). The inhibitory effect of neferine on secretion of nitrite, cytokines tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-[Formula: see text]) and interleukin 6 (IL-6), expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) was determined. The protective effect of neferine was investigated in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC mouse model. Neferine significantly inhibited LPS and LPS plus Z-VAD induced secretion of nitrite, cytokines, and expression of iNOS and COX-2. Oral administration of neferine (10[Formula: see text]mg/kg and 25[Formula: see text]mg/kg) significantly reduced DSS-induced mouse weight loss, decreased disease activity index (DAI) scores, improved colon pathological changes, and decreased plasma cytokines. In addition, neferine significantly inhibited the protein expression of iNOS, COX-2, receptor-interacting protein 1 (RIP1), RIP3, mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL), and increased the protein expression of caspase-8 in colon tissues. These data suggest that neferine was a potent anti-inflammatory agent against LPS and DSS induced inflammation both in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaxia Wu
- * State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, P. R. China
| | - Yanling Guo
- † Key Lab for Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Department of Pharmacology, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, P. R. China
| | - Xiangjing Min
- † Key Lab for Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Department of Pharmacology, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, P. R. China
| | - Lixia Pei
- ‡ Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Xiuping Chen
- * State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, P. R. China.,† Key Lab for Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Department of Pharmacology, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, P. R. China
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Marthandam Asokan S, Mariappan R, Muthusamy S, Velmurugan BK. Pharmacological benefits of neferine - A comprehensive review. Life Sci 2018; 199:60-70. [PMID: 29499283 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.02.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2018] [Revised: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 02/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This article recapitulates the existing in vitro and in vivo studies focusing on the effects of neferine-an alkaloid derivative of lotus plant, in various disease models and its effects on key signaling molecules. The review also compiles a large number of research studies that demonstrate methods for isolation and extraction, biosynthetic pathway, pharmacological activity and mode of action of neferine and their underlying mechanisms at cellular level. Neferine is a unique bis-benzylisoquinoline alkaloid that possesses a number of therapeutic effects such as anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-aging, anti-microbial, anti-thrombotic, anti-arrhythmic, anti-inflammatory and even anti-HIV. It also enhances the anti-cancer properties of other anti-cancer drugs like cisplatin, adriamycin, taxol, etc. It is also reported to reverse chemo-resistance and enhance sensitivity of the cancer cells towards anti-cancer drugs. The underlying mechanisms for its activities mainly include apoptosis, autophagy and G1 arrest. Neferine protects them against the effect of drugs like cisplatin. The therapeutic properties of neferine is widely diverse, while it shows toxicity to cancer it also shows cyto-protective effects against cardio-vascular diseases, pulmonary disease, and is also effective against Alzheimer's disease and elicits anti-oxidative effect in many cellular systems. This article thus is the first ever attempt to review the therapeutic activities of neferine established in in vitro and in vivo models and to compile all the fragmented data available on the omnipotent activities of neferine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ravichandran Mariappan
- Department of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Hyderabad 500 055, Telangana, India
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Isolation and identification of a tribenzylisoquinoline alkaloid from Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn, a novel potential smooth muscle relaxant. Fitoterapia 2018; 124:58-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2017.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Revised: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 10/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Abstract
Heme oxygenases are composed of two isozymes, Hmox1 and Hmox2, that catalyze the degradation of heme to carbon monoxide (CO), ferrous iron, and biliverdin, the latter of which is subsequently converted to bilirubin. While initially considered to be waste products, CO and biliverdin/bilirubin have been shown over the last 20 years to modulate key cellular processes, such as inflammation, cell proliferation, and apoptosis, as well as antioxidant defense. This shift in paradigm has led to the importance of heme oxygenases and their products in cell physiology now being well accepted. The identification of the two human cases thus far of heme oxygenase deficiency and the generation of mice deficient in Hmox1 or Hmox2 have reiterated a role for these enzymes in both normal cell function and disease pathogenesis, especially in the context of cardiovascular disease. This review covers the current knowledge on the function of both Hmox1 and Hmox2 at both a cellular and tissue level in the cardiovascular system. Initially, the roles of heme oxygenases in vascular health and the regulation of processes central to vascular diseases are outlined, followed by an evaluation of the role(s) of Hmox1 and Hmox2 in various diseases such as atherosclerosis, intimal hyperplasia, myocardial infarction, and angiogenesis. Finally, the therapeutic potential of heme oxygenases and their products are examined in a cardiovascular disease context, with a focus on how the knowledge we have gained on these enzymes may be capitalized in future clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Ayer
- Vascular Biology Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, Australia; and Nephrology Research and Training Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham Veterans Administration Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Abolfazl Zarjou
- Vascular Biology Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, Australia; and Nephrology Research and Training Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham Veterans Administration Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Anupam Agarwal
- Vascular Biology Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, Australia; and Nephrology Research and Training Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham Veterans Administration Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Roland Stocker
- Vascular Biology Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, Australia; and Nephrology Research and Training Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham Veterans Administration Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
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Sharma BR, Gautam LNS, Adhikari D, Karki R. A Comprehensive Review on Chemical Profiling ofNelumbo Nucifera: Potential for Drug Development. Phytother Res 2016; 31:3-26. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.5732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2016] [Revised: 08/28/2016] [Accepted: 09/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bhesh Raj Sharma
- Department of Oriental Medicine Resources, College of Natural Sciences; Mokpo National University; 61 Muan-gun Jeonnam 534-729 Korea
| | - Lekh Nath S. Gautam
- C. Eugene Bennett Department of Chemistry; West Virginia University; Morgantown WV 26506 USA
| | | | - Rajendra Karki
- Department of Oriental Medicine Resources, College of Natural Sciences; Mokpo National University; 61 Muan-gun Jeonnam 534-729 Korea
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Heiat M, Ranjbar R, Latifi AM, Rasaee MJ. Selection of a high-affinity and in vivo bioactive ssDNA aptamer against angiotensin II peptide. Peptides 2016; 82:101-108. [PMID: 27298205 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2016.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2016] [Revised: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 06/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Unique features of aptamers have attracted interests for a broad range of applications. Aptamers are able to specifically bind to targets and inhibit their functions. This study, aimed to isolate the high affinity ssDNA aptamers against bio-regulator peptide angiotensin II (Ang II) and investigate their bioactivity in cellular and animal models. To isolate ssDNA aptamers, 12 rounds of affinity chromatography SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by EXponential enrichment) procedure were carried out. The SPR (surface plasmon resonance) and ELONA (enzyme linked oligonucleotide assay) analysis were used to determine the affinity and specificity of aptamers. The ability of selected aptamers to inhibit the proliferative effect of Ang II on human aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (HA-VSMCs) and their performance on Wistar rat urinary system and serum electrolyte levels were investigated. Two full-length aptamers (FLC112 and FLC125) with high affinity of respectively 7.52±2.44E-10 and 5.87±1.3E-9M were isolated against Ang II. The core regions of these aptamers (CRC112 and CRC125) also showed affinity of 5.33±1.15E-9 and 4.11±1.09E-9M. In vitro analysis revealed that FLC112 and FLC125 can inhibit the proliferative effect of Ang II on HA-VSMCs (P<0.05). They also significantly reduced the serum sodium level and increased the urine volume (P<0.05). The core regions of aptamers did not show high inhibitory potential against Ang II. It can be a spotlight that ssDNA aptamers have high potential for blocking Ang II. In conclusion, it appears that the researches focusing on high affinity and bioactive aptamers may lead to excellent results in blocking Ang II activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Heiat
- Molecular Biology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Ranjbar
- Molecular Biology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Ali Mohammad Latifi
- Applied Biotechnology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Javad Rasaee
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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Lim S, Lee SY, Seo HH, Ham O, Lee C, Park JH, Lee J, Seung M, Yun I, Han SM, Lee S, Choi E, Hwang KC. Regulation of mitochondrial morphology by positive feedback interaction between PKCδ and Drp1 in vascular smooth muscle cell. J Cell Biochem 2016; 116:648-60. [PMID: 25399916 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.25016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2014] [Accepted: 10/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Dynamin-related protein-1 (Drp1) plays a critical role in mitochondrial fission which allows cell proliferation and Mdivi-1, a specific small molecule Drp1 inhibitor, is revealed to attenuate proliferation. However, few molecular mechanisms-related to Drp1 under stimulus for restenosis or atherosclerosis have been investigated in vascular smooth muscle cells (vSMCs). Therefore, we hypothesized that Drp1 inhibition can prevent vascular restenosis and investigated its regulatory mechanism. Angiotensin II (Ang II) or hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2 )-induced proliferation and migration in SMCs were attenuated by down-regulation of Drp1 Ser 616 phosphorylation, which was demonstrated by in vitro assays for migration and proliferation. Excessive amounts of ROS production and changes in mitochondrial membrane potential were prevented by Drp1 inhibition under Ang II and H2 O2 . Under the Ang II stimulation, activated Drp1 interacted with PKCδ and then activated MEK1/2-ERK1/2 signaling cascade and MMP2, but not MMP9. Furthermore, in ex vivo aortic ring assay, inhibition of the Drp1 had significant anti-proliferative and -migration effects for vSMCs. A formation of vascular neointima in response to a rat carotid artery balloon injury was prevented by Drp1 inhibition, which shows a beneficial effect of Drp1 regulation in the pathologic vascular condition. Drp1-mediated SMC proliferation and migration can be prevented by mitochondrial division inhibitor (Mdivi-1) in in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo, and these results suggest the possibility that Drp1 can be a new therapeutic target for restenosis or atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soyeon Lim
- Severance Integrative Research Institute for Cerebral & Cardiovascular Disease, Yonsei University Health System, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 120-752, Republic of Korea
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Phytochemical Profile and Biological Activity of Nelumbo nucifera. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2015; 2015:789124. [PMID: 27057194 PMCID: PMC4710907 DOI: 10.1155/2015/789124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Revised: 11/29/2015] [Accepted: 12/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. (Nymphaeaceae) is a potential aquatic crop grown and consumed throughout Asia. All parts of N. nucifera have been used for various medicinal purposes in various systems of medicine including folk medicines, Ayurveda, Chinese traditional medicine, and oriental medicine. Many chemical constituents have been isolated till the date. However, the bioactive constituents of lotus are mainly alkaloids and flavonoids. Traditionally, the whole plant of lotus was used as astringent, emollient, and diuretic. It was used in the treatment of diarrhea, tissue inflammation, and homeostasis. The rhizome extract was used as antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of asteroidal triterpenoid. Leaves were used as an effective drug for hematemesis, epistaxis, hemoptysis, hematuria, and metrorrhagia. Flowers were used to treat diarrhea, cholera, fever, and hyperdipsia. In traditional medicine practice, seeds are used in the treatment of tissue inflammation, cancer and skin diseases, leprosy, and poison antidote. Embryo of lotus seeds is used in traditional Chinese medicine as Lian Zi Xin, which primarily helps to overcome nervous disorders, insomnia, and cardiovascular diseases (hypertension and arrhythmia). Nutritional value of lotus is as important as pharmaceutical value. These days' different parts of lotus have been consumed as functional foods. Thus, lotus can be regarded as a potential nutraceutical source.
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Relaxant action of plumula nelumbinis extract on mouse airway smooth muscle. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2015; 2015:523640. [PMID: 25763092 PMCID: PMC4339714 DOI: 10.1155/2015/523640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2014] [Accepted: 12/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The traditional herb Plumula Nelumbinis is widely used in the world because it has many biological activities, such as anti-inflammation, antioxidant, antihypertension, and butyrylcholinesterase inhibition. However, the action of Plumula Nelumbinis on airway smooth muscle (ASM) relaxation has not been investigated. A chloroform extract of Plumula Nelumbinis (CEPN) was prepared, which completely inhibited precontraction induced by high K+ in a concentration-dependent manner in mouse tracheal rings, but it had no effect on resting tension. CEPN also blocked voltage-dependent L-type Ca2+ channel- (VDCC-) mediated currents. In addition, ACh-induced precontraction was also completely blocked by CEPN and partially inhibited by nifedipine or pyrazole 3. Besides, CEPN partially reduced ACh-activated nonselective cation channel (NSCC) currents. Taken together, our data demonstrate that CEPN blocked VDCC and NSCC to inhibit Ca2+ influx, resulting in relaxation of precontracted ASM. This finding indicates that CEPN would be a candidate of new potent bronchodilators.
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Demethylation of neferine in human liver microsomes and formation of quinone methide metabolites mediated by CYP3A4 accentuates its cytotoxicity. Chem Biol Interact 2014; 224:89-99. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2014.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2014] [Revised: 09/07/2014] [Accepted: 10/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Zheng L, Cao Y, Liu S, Peng Z, Zhang S. Neferine inhibits angiotensin II-induced rat aortic smooth muscle cell proliferation predominantly by downregulating fractalkine gene expression. Exp Ther Med 2014; 8:1545-1550. [PMID: 25289057 PMCID: PMC4186444 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2014.1952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2014] [Accepted: 06/19/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Neferine inhibits the angiotensin II (AngII)-induced proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs), but the underlying mechanism is unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the mechanism underlying the effect of neferine on the proliferation of vascular SMCs. Rat aortic SMCs (RASMCs) were used and fractalkine (Fkn) gene expression was measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis. The proliferation of RASMCs was analyzed by MTT assay and flow cytometry. It was revealed that AngII induced Fkn expression in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Fkn-knockdown with small interfering RNA attenuated the AngII-induced RASMC proliferation. Furthermore, neferine inhibited Fkn expression and attenuated the AngII-induced RASMC proliferation. These findings suggest that the Fkn gene may play an important role in AngII-induced RASMC proliferation and that neferine acts to attenuate AngII-induced RASMC proliferation by inhibiting Fkn expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Zheng
- Department of Cardiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Yongwen Cao
- Department of Cardiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Shao Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Zhenyu Peng
- Department of Emergency, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, P.R. China
| | - Saidan Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
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Li G, Xu H, Zhu S, Xu W, Qin S, Liu S, Tu G, Peng H, Qiu S, Yu S, Zhu Q, Fan B, Zheng C, Li G, Liang S. Effects of neferine on CCL5 and CCR5 expression in SCG of type 2 diabetic rats. Brain Res Bull 2012; 90:79-87. [PMID: 23063706 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2012.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2012] [Accepted: 10/01/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Chemokines and their receptors have the key role in inflammatory responses. The phenomenon of low grade inflammation is associated with the development of type 2 diabetes. Postprandial hyperglycemia increases the systemic inflammatory responses, which promotes the development of type 2 diabetic associating autonomic nervous injuries or cardiovascular disease. Neferine is a bisbenzylisoquinline alkaloid isolated from a Chinese medicinal herb. The objectives of this study will examine the CCL5 and CCR5 expression in the superior cervical ganglion (SCG) of type 2 diabetic rats. The effects of neferine on the expression of CCL5 and CCR5 mRNA and protein in the superior cervical ganglion (SCG) of type 2 diabetic rats will also be observed. The studies showed that in type 2 diabetic rats, body weight, blood pressure, heart rates, fasting blood glucose, insulin, total cholesterol and triglyceride were enhanced and high density lipoprotein was decreased, and CCL5 and CCR5 expression levels in the SCG of type 2 diabetic rats were up-regulated. In type 2 diabetic rats treated with neferine, body weight, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, insulin, total cholesterol and triglyceride were decreased and high density lipoprotein was increased. The elevated expressions of CCL5 and CCR5 in SCG were decreased after type 2 diabetic rats treated with neferine. The motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV) in diabetic rats treated with neferine group showed a significantly increment in comparison with that in type 2 diabetic group. Neferine can decrease the expression of CCL5 and CCR5 in the SCG and reduce the SCG neuronal signaling mediated by CCL5 and CCR5 in regulating diabetic cardiovascular autonomic complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilin Li
- Department of Physiology, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, PR China
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Torre A, Momier M, Mazoyer C, Selva J, Salle B, Lornage J. Validation of a new metabolic marker to assess the vascular viability of vitrified whole sheep ovaries. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:1811-21. [PMID: 22454460 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whole ovary cryopreservation has been suggested as a means to preserve fertility. In animal models, autologous cryopreserved ovary transplants frequently undergo thrombosis and a method to assess the vascular viability of cryopreserved ovaries would be valuable. We developed a staining method using methylthiazolyl blue tetrazolium (MTT, a metabolic marker) to assess the pedicle metabolism of whole ovaries vitrified using cryoprotectant called 'VS4'. METHODS Whole sheep ovaries were perfused with MTT (1 g/l). In one group, ovarian tissue lesions were induced by immersing the ovarian pedicle in medium at 53°C or 65°C or in liquid nitrogen prior to MTT perfusion. In the second group, several metabolic substrates (d-glucose, l-glucose and pyruvic acid) and inhibitors [2-deoxy-d-glucose for d-glucose metabolism, azide for mitochondrial respiration and diphenyleneiodonium (DPI) for NADPH oxidase (an effector of the pentose phosphate pathway)] were added to the MTT stain. The third group was subjected to VS4 ± vitrification/warming prior to MTT perfusion. Pedicle MTT staining was assessed qualitatively by histological examination of frozen sections or quantified at 564 nm after solubilization in alcohol. RESULTS MTT strongly and reproducibly stained the vascular smooth muscle. Heating at 53°C or 65°C or cooling in liquid nitrogen significantly diminished MTT staining by 48% (P = 0.001, n = 10), 94% (P = 0.0002, n = 10) and 94% (P = 0.0002, n = 10), respectively. MTT staining was affected by d-glucose metabolism: absence of d-glucose, substitution of unmetabolized l-glucose for d-glucose or addition of 2-deoxy-d-glucose significantly decreased MTT staining by 44% (P < 0.01, n = 10), 45% (P < 0.01, n = 10) and 29% (P < 0.01, n = 10), respectively. Pyruvic acid failed to correct the MTT staining decrease induced by d-glucose deprivation and azide did not decrease MTT staining, suggesting that MTT staining could be independent of mitochondrial metabolism. Adding DPI significantly inhibited MTT staining by 25% (P < 0.001, n = 10), suggesting involvement of the pentose phosphate pathway's effectors. Compared with controls, VS4-vitrified/warmed pedicles showed significantly less MTT staining (-30%, P < 0.005, n = 10), with unstained foci, whereas unvitrified VS4-exposed pedicles showed no difference. CONCLUSIONS MTT can serve as a qualitative and quantitative vascular viability marker.VS4 vitrification caused alterations in ovarian vascular metabolism. MTT staining should allow accurate comparisons of whole-organ cryoprotection protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Torre
- INSERM U846, Stem-cell and Brain Research Institute, Bron, France.
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Zhang X, Liu Z, Xu B, Sun Z, Gong Y, Shao C. Neferine, an alkaloid ingredient in lotus seed embryo, inhibits proliferation of human osteosarcoma cells by promoting p38 MAPK-mediated p21 stabilization. Eur J Pharmacol 2011; 677:47-54. [PMID: 22227330 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2011.12.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2011] [Revised: 12/12/2011] [Accepted: 12/18/2011] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Identification of natural products that have antitumor activity is invaluable to the chemoprevention and therapy of cancer. The embryos of lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) seeds are consumed in beverage in some parts of the world for their presumed health-benefiting effects. In this report we studied the effects of neferine, a major alkaloid component in lotus embryos, on human osteosarcoma cells and the underlying mechanisms. We found that neferine possessed a potent growth-inhibitory effect on human osteosarcoma cells, but not on non-neoplastic human osteoblast cells. The inhibitory effect of neferine on human osteosarcoma cells was largely attributed to cell cycle arrest at G1. The induction of G1 arrest was p21(WAF1/CIP1)-dependent, but was independent of p53 or RB (retinoblastoma-associated protein). The up-regulation of p21 by neferine was due to an increase in the half-life of p21 protein. We examined four kinases that are known to affect the stabilization of p21, and found that p38 MAPK and JNK were activated by neferine. However, only SB203580 (an inhibitor of p38), but not SP600125 (the inhibitor of JNK), can attenuate the up-regulation of p21 in response to neferine. Furthermore, the p21-stabilizing effect of neferine was abolished when p38 was silenced by RNA interference. Finally, we showed that neferine treatment led to an increased phosphorylation of p21 at Ser130 that was dependent on p38. Our results for the first time showed a direct antitumor effect of neferine, suggesting that consumption of neferine may have cancer-preventive and cancer-therapeutic benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
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