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Devabattula G, Panda B, Yadav R, Godugu C. The Potential Pharmacological Effects of Natural Product Withaferin A in Cancer: Opportunities and Challenges for Clinical Translation. PLANTA MEDICA 2024; 90:440-453. [PMID: 38588695 DOI: 10.1055/a-2289-9600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Cancer is one of the biggest health concerns with a complex pathophysiology. Currently, available chemotherapeutic drugs are showing deleterious side effects, and tumors often show resistance to treatment. Hence, extensive research is required to develop new treatment strategies to fight against cancer. Natural resources from plants are at the forefront of hunting novel drugs to treat various types of cancers. Withaferin A (WA) is a naturally occurring withanolide, a biologically active component obtained from the plant Ashwagandha. Various in vitro and in vivo oncological studies have reported that Withaferin A (WA) has shown protection from cancer. WA shows its activity by inhibiting the growth and proliferation of malignant cells, apoptosis, and inhibiting angiogenesis, metastasis, and cancer stem cells (CSCs). In addition, WA also showed chemo- and radio-sensitizing properties. Besides the beneficiary pharmacological activities of WA, a few aspects like pharmacokinetic properties, safety, and toxicity studies are still lacking, hindering this potent natural product from entering clinical development. In this review, we have summarized the various pharmacological mechanisms shown by WA in in vitro and in vivo cancer studies and the challenges that must be overcome for this potential natural product's clinical translation to be effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geetanjali Devabattula
- Pharamacology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Balanagar, India
| | - Biswajit Panda
- Pharamacology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Balanagar, India
| | - Rachana Yadav
- Pharamacology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Balanagar, India
| | - Chandraiah Godugu
- Pharamacology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Balanagar, India
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Tao HY, Zhao CY, Wang Y, Sheng WJ, Zhen YS. Targeting Telomere Dynamics as an Effective Approach for the Development of Cancer Therapeutics. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:3805-3825. [PMID: 38708177 PMCID: PMC11069074 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s448556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomere is a protective structure located at the end of chromosomes of eukaryotes, involved in maintaining the integrity and stability of the genome. Telomeres play an essential role in cancer progression; accordingly, targeting telomere dynamics emerges as an effective approach for the development of cancer therapeutics. Targeting telomere dynamics may work through multifaceted molecular mechanisms; those include the activation of anti-telomerase immune responses, shortening of telomere lengths, induction of telomere dysfunction and constitution of telomerase-responsive drug release systems. In this review, we summarize a wide variety of telomere dynamics-targeted agents in preclinical studies and clinical trials, and reveal their promising therapeutic potential in cancer therapy. As shown, telomere dynamics-active agents are effective as anti-cancer chemotherapeutics and immunotherapeutics. Notably, these agents may display efficacy against cancer stem cells, reducing cancer stem levels. Furthermore, these agents can be integrated with the capability of tumor-specific drug delivery by the constitution of related nanoparticles, antibody drug conjugates and HSA-based drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-yu Tao
- Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chun-yan Zhao
- Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ying Wang
- Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei-jin Sheng
- Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yong-su Zhen
- Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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Bartoszewska E, Molik K, Woźniak M, Choromańska A. Telomerase Inhibition in the Treatment of Leukemia: A Comprehensive Review. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:427. [PMID: 38671875 PMCID: PMC11047729 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13040427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Leukemia, characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation and differentiation blockage of myeloid or lymphoid precursor cells, presents significant therapeutic challenges despite current treatment modalities like chemotherapy and stem cell transplantation. Pursuing novel therapeutic strategies that selectively target leukemic cells is critical for improving patient outcomes. Natural products offer a promising avenue for developing effective chemotherapy and preventive measures against leukemia, providing a rich source of biologically active compounds. Telomerase, a key enzyme involved in chromosome stabilization and mainly active in cancer cells, presents an attractive target for intervention. In this review article, we focus on the anti-leukemic potential of natural substances, emphasizing vitamins (such as A, D, and E) and polyphenols (including curcumin and indole-3-carbinol), which, in combination with telomerase inhibition, demonstrate reduced cytotoxicity compared to conventional chemotherapies. We discuss the role of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT), particularly its mRNA expression, as a potential therapeutic target, highlighting the promise of natural compounds in leukemia treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elżbieta Bartoszewska
- Faculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, Mikulicza-Radeckiego 5, 50-345 Wroclaw, Poland; (E.B.); (K.M.)
| | - Klaudia Molik
- Faculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, Mikulicza-Radeckiego 5, 50-345 Wroclaw, Poland; (E.B.); (K.M.)
| | - Marta Woźniak
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Division of General and Experimental Pathology, Wroclaw Medical University, Marcinkowskiego 1, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Anna Choromańska
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 211A, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
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Kumar V, Dhanjal JK, Sari AN, Khurana M, Kaul SC, Wadhwa R, Sundar D. Effect of Withaferin-A, Withanone, and Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester on DNA Methyltransferases: Potential in Epigenetic Cancer Therapy. Curr Top Med Chem 2024; 24:379-391. [PMID: 37496252 DOI: 10.2174/1568026623666230726105017] [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: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) have been reported to be potential drug targets in various cancers. The major hurdle in inhibiting DNMTs is the lack of knowledge about different DNMTs and their role in the hypermethylation of gene promoters in cancer cells. Lack of information on specificity, stability, and higher toxicity of previously reported DNMT inhibitors is the major reason for inadequate epigenetic cancer therapy. DNMT1 and DNMT3A are the two DNMTs that are majorly overexpressed in cancers. OBJECTIVE In this study, we have presented computational and experimental analyses of the potential of some natural compounds, withaferin A (Wi-A), withanone (Wi-N), and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), as DNMT inhibitors, in comparison to sinefungin (SFG), a known dual inhibitor of DNMT1 and DNMT3A. METHODS We used classical simulation methods, such as molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations, to investigate the binding potential and properties of the test compounds with DNMT1 and DNMT3A. Cell culture-based assays were used to investigate the inactivation of DNMTs and the resulting hypomethylation of the p16INK4A promoter, a key tumour suppressor that is inactivated by hypermethylation in cancer cells, resulting in upregulation of its expression. RESULTS Among the three test compounds (Wi-A, Wi-N, and CAPE), Wi-A showed the highest binding affinity to both DNMT1 and DNMT3A; CAPE showed the highest affinity to DNMT3A, and Wi-N showed a moderate affinity interaction with both. The binding energies of Wi-A and CAPE were further compared with SFG. Expression analysis of DNMTs showed no difference between control and treated cells. Cell viability and p16INK4A expression analysis showed a dose-dependent decrease in viability, an increase in p16INK4A, and a stronger effect of Wi-A compared to Wi-N and CAPE. CONCLUSION The study demonstrated the differential binding ability of Wi-A, Wi-N, and CAPE to DNMT1 and DNMT3A, which was associated with their inactivation, leading to hypomethylation and desilencing of the p16INK4A tumour suppressor in cancer cells. The test compounds, particularly Wi-A, have the potential for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vipul Kumar
- Department of Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, 110016, India
| | - Jaspreet Kaur Dhanjal
- Department of Computational Biology, Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology Delhi, Okhla Industrial Estate, Phase III, New Delhi, 110020, India
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, 3058565, Japan
| | - Anissa Nofita Sari
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, 3058565, Japan
| | - Mallika Khurana
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, 3058565, Japan
| | - Sunil C Kaul
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, 3058565, Japan
| | - Renu Wadhwa
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, 3058565, Japan
| | - Durai Sundar
- Department of Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, 110016, India
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Kumar V, Sari AN, Gupta D, Ishida Y, Terao K, Kaul SC, Vrati S, Sundar D, Wadhwa R. Anti-COVID-19 Potential of Withaferin-A and Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester. Curr Top Med Chem 2024; 24:830-842. [PMID: 38279743 DOI: 10.2174/0115680266280720231221100004] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The recent COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic triggered research on the development of new vaccines/drugs, repurposing of clinically approved drugs, and assessment of natural anti-COVID-19 compounds. Based on the gender difference in the severity of the disease, such as a higher number of men hospitalized and in intense care units, variations in sex hormones have been predicted to play a role in disease susceptibility. Cell surface receptors (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2; ACE2 and a connected transmembrane protease serine 2- TMPSS2) are upregulated by androgens. Conversely, androgen antagonists have also been shown to lower ACE2 levels, implying their usefulness in COVID-19 management. OBJECTIVES In this study, we performed computational and cell-based assays to investigate the anti- COVID-19 potential of Withaferin-A and Caffeic acid phenethyl ester, natural compounds from Withania somnifera and honeybee propolis, respectively. METHODS Structure-based computational approach was adopted to predict binding stability, interactions, and dynamics of the two test compounds to three target proteins (androgen receptor, ACE2, and TMPRSS2). Further, in vitro, cell-based experimental approaches were used to investigate the effect of compounds on target protein expression and SARS-CoV-2 replication. RESULTS Computation and experimental analyses revealed that (i) CAPE, but not Wi-A, can act as androgen antagonist and hence inhibit the transcriptional activation function of androgen receptor, (ii) while both Wi-A and CAPE could interact with ACE2 and TMPRSS2, Wi-A showed higher binding affinity, and (iii) combination of Wi-A and CAPE (Wi-ACAPE) caused strong downregulation of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 expression and inhibition of virus infection. CONCLUSION Wi-A and CAPE possess multimodal anti-COVID-19 potential, and their combination (Wi-ACAPE) is expected to provide better activity and hence warrant further attention in the laboratory and clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vipul Kumar
- DAILAB, Department of Biochemical Engineering & Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, 110 016, India
| | - Anissa Nofita Sari
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, 305 8565, Japan
| | - Dharmender Gupta
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB), Faridabad, 121 001, India
| | - Yoshiyuki Ishida
- CycloChem Bio Co., Ltd., 7-4-5 Minatojima-minamimachi, Kobe, 6500047, Japan
| | - Keiji Terao
- CycloChem Bio Co., Ltd., 7-4-5 Minatojima-minamimachi, Kobe, 6500047, Japan
| | - Sunil C Kaul
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, 305 8565, Japan
| | - Sudhanshu Vrati
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB), Faridabad, 121 001, India
| | - Durai Sundar
- DAILAB, Department of Biochemical Engineering & Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, 110 016, India
| | - Renu Wadhwa
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, 305 8565, Japan
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Zhang H, Wang J, Prakash J, Zhang Z, Kaul SC, Wadhwa R. Three-Way Cell-Based Screening of Antistress Compounds: Identification, Validation, and Relevance to Old-Age-Related Pathologies. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2023; 78:1569-1577. [PMID: 37061830 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glad103] [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: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023] Open
Abstract
A variety of environmental stress stimuli have been linked to poor quality of life, tissue dysfunctions, and ailments including metabolic disorders, cognitive impairment, and accelerated aging. Oxidative, metal, and hypoxia stresses are largely associated with these phenotypes. Whereas drug development and disease therapeutics have advanced remarkably in last 3 decades, there are still limited options for stress management. Because the latter can effectively decrease the disease burden, we performed cell-based screening of antistress compounds by recruiting 3 chemical models of oxidative (paraquat), metal (cadmium nitrate), or hypoxia (cobalt chloride) stresses. The screening of 70 compounds for their ability to offer protection against oxidative, metal, and hypoxia stresses resulted in the selection of 5 compounds: Withaferin-A (Wi-A), methoxy Withaferin-A (mWi-A), Withanone (Wi-N), triethylene glycol (TEG), and Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) leaf M2-DMSO extract (M2DM). Molecular assays revealed that whereas stress caused increase in (a) apoptosis, (b) reactive oxygen species accumulation coupled with mitochondrial depolarization, (c) DNA double-strand breaks, and (d) protein aggregation, low nontoxic doses of the selected compounds caused considerable protection. Furthermore, Wi-N, TEG, and their mixture-treated normal human fibroblasts (at young, mature, and senescent stages representing progressively increasing accumulation of stress) showed increase in proliferation. Taken together, these results suggested 3-way (oxidative, metal, and hypoxia) antistress potential of Wi-N and TEG that may be useful for management of environmental and old-age-related pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huayue Zhang
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, Department of Life Science and Biotechnology, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Jia Wang
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, Department of Life Science and Biotechnology, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Jay Prakash
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, Department of Life Science and Biotechnology, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Zhenya Zhang
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Sunil C Kaul
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, Department of Life Science and Biotechnology, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Renu Wadhwa
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, Department of Life Science and Biotechnology, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan
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Li K, Sun S, Xiao L, Zhang Z. Bioactivity-guided fractionation of Helicteres angustifolia L. extract and its molecular evidence for tumor suppression. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1157172. [PMID: 37427379 PMCID: PMC10323433 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1157172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Helicteres angustifolia L. (Helicteres angustifolia) has been commonly used in folk medicine to treat cancer; however, its mechanisms of action remain obscure. In our earlier work, we reported that aqueous extract of H. angustifolia root (AQHAR) possesses attractive anticancer properties. In the present study, we isolated five ethanol fractions from AQHAR and investigated their therapeutic efficacy in human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. The results showed that among the five fractions, the 40% ethanol fraction (EF40) containing multiple bioactive compounds exhibited the best selective killing effect on NSCLC cells with no obvious toxicity to normal human fibroblasts. Mechanistically, EF40 reduced the expression of nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), which is constitutively expressed at high levels in many types of cancers. As a result, Nrf2-dependent cellular defense responses are suppressed, leading to the intracellular accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Extensive biochemical analyses revealed that EF40 caused cell cycle arrest and apoptosis through activation of the ROS-mediated DNA damage response. Furthermore, treatment with EF40 compromised NSCLC cell migration, as evidenced by the downregulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNP-K). In vivo studies using A549 xenografts in nude mice also revealed significant suppression of tumor growth and lung metastasis in the treated group. We propose that EF40 may serve as a potential natural anti-NSCLC drug that warrants further mechanistic and clinical attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kejuan Li
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu, China
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Shuang Sun
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Long Xiao
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Zhenya Zhang
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
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Telomerase: A prominent oncological target for development of chemotherapeutic agents. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 249:115121. [PMID: 36669398 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Telomerase is a ribonucleoprotein (RNP) responsible for the maintenance of chromosomal integrity by stabilizing telomere length. Telomerase is a widely expressed hallmark responsible for replicative immortality in 80-90% of malignant tumors. Cancer cells produce telomerase which prevents telomere shortening by adding telomeres sequences beyond Hayflick's limit; which enables them to divide uncontrollably. The activity of telomerase is relatively low in somatic cells and absent in normal cells, but the re-activation of this RNP in normal cells suppresses p53 activity which leads to the avoidance of senescence causing malignancy. Here, we have focused explicitly on various anti-telomerase therapies and telomerase-inhibiting molecules for the treatment of cancer. We have covered molecules that are reported in developmental, preclinical, and clinical trial stages as potent telomerase inhibitors. Apart from chemotherapy, we have also included details of immunotherapy, gene therapy, G-quadruplex stabilizers, and HSP-90 inhibitors. The purpose of this work is to discuss the challenges behind the development of novel telomerase inhibitors and to identify various perspectives for designing anti-telomerase compounds.
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Kumar S, Mathew SO, Aharwal RP, Tulli HS, Mohan CD, Sethi G, Ahn KS, Webber K, Sandhu SS, Bishayee A. Withaferin A: A Pleiotropic Anticancer Agent from the Indian Medicinal Plant Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:160. [PMID: 37259311 PMCID: PMC9966696 DOI: 10.3390/ph16020160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer represents the second most deadly disease and one of the most important public health concerns worldwide. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immune therapy are the major types of treatment strategies that have been implemented in cancer treatment. Unfortunately, these treatment options suffer from major limitations, such as drug-resistance and adverse effects, which may eventually result in disease recurrence. Many phytochemicals have been investigated for their antitumor efficacy in preclinical models and clinical studies to discover newer therapeutic agents with fewer adverse effects. Withaferin A, a natural bioactive molecule isolated from the Indian medicinal plant Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, has been reported to impart anticancer activities against various cancer cell lines and preclinical cancer models by modulating the expression and activity of different oncogenic proteins. In this article, we have comprehensively discussed the biosynthesis of withaferin A as well as its antineoplastic activities and mode-of-action in in vitro and in vivo settings. We have also reviewed the effect of withaferin A on the expression of miRNAs, its combinational effect with other cytotoxic agents, withaferin A-based formulations, safety and toxicity profiles, and its clinical potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suneel Kumar
- Bio-Design Innovation Centre, Rani Durgavati University, Jabalpur 482 001, India
| | - Stephen O. Mathew
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA
| | | | - Hardeep Singh Tulli
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Markandeshwar Engineering College, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana-Ambala 133 207, India
| | | | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
| | - Kwang-Seok Ahn
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Kassidy Webber
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL 34211, USA
| | - Sardul Singh Sandhu
- Bio-Design Innovation Centre, Rani Durgavati University, Jabalpur 482 001, India
| | - Anupam Bishayee
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL 34211, USA
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Tewari D, Chander V, Dhyani A, Sahu S, Gupta P, Patni P, Kalick LS, Bishayee A. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal: Phytochemistry, structure-activity relationship, and anticancer potential. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 98:153949. [PMID: 35151215 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.153949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ayurveda is a highly recognized, well-documented, and well-accepted traditional medicine system. This system utilizes many natural products in various forms for therapeutic purposes. Thousands of plants mentioned in the Ayurvedic system are useful in disease mitigation and health preservation. One potential plant of the Ayurvedic system is "Ashwagandha" [Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal], commonly regarded as Indian Ginseng. It possesses various therapeutic activities, such as neuroprotective, hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective, antiarthritic, and anticancer effects. PURPOSE Here we present a comprehensive insight on the anticancer effects of W. somnifera and mechanistic attributes of its bioactive phytocompounds. This review also provides updated information on the clinical studies pertaining to cancer, safety evaluation and opportunities for chemical modifications of withanolides, a group of specialized phytochemicals of W. somnifera. METHODS The present study was performed in accordance with the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systemic Reviews and Meta-Analysis. Various scientific databases, such as PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Google Scholar, were explored for related studies published up to May 2021. RESULTS An updated review on the anticancer potential and mechanisms of action of the major bioactive components of W. somnifera, including withanolides, withaferin A and withanone, is presented. Comprehensive information on clinical attributes of W. somnifera and its active components are presented with the structure-activity relationship (SAR) and toxicity evaluation. CONCLUSION The outcome of the work clearly indicates that W. somnifera has a significant potential for cancer therapy. The SAR revealed that various withanolides in general and withaferin A in particular have binding energies against various proteins and tremendous potential to serve as the lead for new chemical entities. Nevertheless, additional studies, particularly well-designed clinical trials are required before therapeutic application of withanolides for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devesh Tewari
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India.
| | - Vikas Chander
- Department of Pharmacy, Uttarakhand Technical University, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Archana Dhyani
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun 248001, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Sanjeev Sahu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India
| | - Pawan Gupta
- Shree SK Patel College of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ganpat University, Mehsana 384012, Gujarat, India
| | - Pooja Patni
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India
| | - Lindsay S Kalick
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL 34211, USA
| | - Anupam Bishayee
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL 34211, USA.
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Kashyap VK, Peasah-Darkwah G, Dhasmana A, Jaggi M, Yallapu MM, Chauhan SC. Withania somnifera: Progress towards a Pharmaceutical Agent for Immunomodulation and Cancer Therapeutics. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14030611. [PMID: 35335986 PMCID: PMC8954542 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14030611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is one of the prime treatment options for cancer. However, the key issues with traditional chemotherapy are recurrence of cancer, development of resistance to chemotherapeutic agents, affordability, late-stage detection, serious health consequences, and inaccessibility. Hence, there is an urgent need to find innovative and cost-effective therapies that can target multiple gene products with minimal adverse reactions. Natural phytochemicals originating from plants constitute a significant proportion of the possible therapeutic agents. In this article, we reviewed the advances and the potential of Withania somnifera (WS) as an anticancer and immunomodulatory molecule. Several preclinical studies have shown the potential of WS to prevent or slow the progression of cancer originating from various organs such as the liver, cervix, breast, brain, colon, skin, lung, and prostate. WS extracts act via various pathways and provide optimum effectiveness against drug resistance in cancer. However, stability, bioavailability, and target specificity are major obstacles in combination therapy and have limited their application. The novel nanotechnology approaches enable solubility, stability, absorption, protection from premature degradation in the body, and increased circulation time and invariably results in a high differential uptake efficiency in the phytochemical’s target cells. The present review primarily emphasizes the insights of WS source, chemistry, and the molecular pathways involved in tumor regression, as well as developments achieved in the delivery of WS for cancer therapy using nanotechnology. This review substantiates WS as a potential immunomodulatory, anticancer, and chemopreventive agent and highlights its potential use in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek K. Kashyap
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA; (V.K.K.); (G.P.-D.); (A.D.); (M.J.)
- South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA
| | - Godwin Peasah-Darkwah
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA; (V.K.K.); (G.P.-D.); (A.D.); (M.J.)
- South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA
| | - Anupam Dhasmana
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA; (V.K.K.); (G.P.-D.); (A.D.); (M.J.)
- South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA
| | - Meena Jaggi
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA; (V.K.K.); (G.P.-D.); (A.D.); (M.J.)
- South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA
| | - Murali M. Yallapu
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA; (V.K.K.); (G.P.-D.); (A.D.); (M.J.)
- South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA
- Correspondence: (M.M.Y.); (S.C.C.); Tel.: +1-956-296-1734 (M.M.Y.); +1-956-296-5000 (S.C.C.)
| | - Subhash C. Chauhan
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA; (V.K.K.); (G.P.-D.); (A.D.); (M.J.)
- South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA
- Correspondence: (M.M.Y.); (S.C.C.); Tel.: +1-956-296-1734 (M.M.Y.); +1-956-296-5000 (S.C.C.)
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Malik V, Radhakrishnan N, Kaul SC, Wadhwa R, Sundar D. Computational Identification of BCR-ABL Oncogenic Signaling as a Candidate Target of Withaferin A and Withanone. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12020212. [PMID: 35204712 PMCID: PMC8961606 DOI: 10.3390/biom12020212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Withaferin-A (Wi-A), a secondary metabolite extracted from Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), has been shown to possess anticancer activity. However, the molecular mechanism of its action and the signaling pathways have not yet been fully explored. We performed an inverse virtual screening to investigate its binding potential to the catalytic site of protein kinases and identified ABL as a strong candidate. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were undertaken to investigate the effects on BCR-ABL oncogenic signaling that is constitutively activated yielding uncontrolled proliferation and inhibition of apoptosis in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML). We found that Wi-A and its closely related withanolide, Withanone (Wi-N), interact at both catalytic and allosteric sites of the ABL. The calculated binding energies were higher in the case of Wi-A at catalytic site (−82.19 ± 5.48) and allosteric site (−67.00 ± 4.96) as compared to the clinically used drugs Imatinib (−78.11 ± 5.21) and Asciminib (−54.00 ± 6.45) respectively. Wi-N had a lesser binding energy (−42.11 ± 10.57) compared to Asciminib at the allosteric site. The interaction and conformational changes, subjected to ligand interaction, were found to be similar to the drugs Imatinib and Asciminib. The data suggested that Ashwagandha extracts containing withanolides, Wi-A and Wi-N may serve as natural drugs for the treatment of CML. Inhibition of ABL is suggested as one of the contributing factors of anti-cancer activity of Wi-A and Wi-N, warranting further in vitro and in vivo experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidhi Malik
- DAILAB, Department of Biochemical Engineering & Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110-016, India; (V.M.); (N.R.)
| | - Navaneethan Radhakrishnan
- DAILAB, Department of Biochemical Engineering & Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110-016, India; (V.M.); (N.R.)
| | - Sunil C. Kaul
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan; (S.C.K.); (R.W.)
| | - Renu Wadhwa
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan; (S.C.K.); (R.W.)
| | - Durai Sundar
- DAILAB, Department of Biochemical Engineering & Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110-016, India; (V.M.); (N.R.)
- School of Artificial Intelligence, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, New Delhi 110-016, India
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +91-11-2659-1066
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Potential of Withaferin-A, Withanone and Caffeic Acid Phenethyl ester as ATP-competitive inhibitors of BRAF: A bioinformatics study. Curr Res Struct Biol 2022; 3:301-311. [PMID: 35028596 PMCID: PMC8714769 DOI: 10.1016/j.crstbi.2021.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Serine/threonine-protein kinase B-raf (BRAF) plays a significant role in regulating cell division and proliferation through MAPK/ERK pathway. The constitutive expression of wild-type BRAF (BRAFWT) and its mutant forms, especially V600E (BRAFV600E), has been linked to multiple cancers. Various synthetic drugs have been approved and are in clinical trials, but most of them are reported to become ineffective within a short duration. Therefore, combinational therapy involving multiple drugs are often recruited for cancer treatment. However, they lead to toxicity and adverse side effects. In this computational study, we have investigated three natural compounds, namely Withaferin-A (Wi-A), Withanone (Wi-N) and Caffeic Acid Phenethyl ester (CAPE) for anti-BRAFWT and anti-BRAFV600E activity. We found that these compounds could bind stably at ATP-binding site in both BRAFWT and BRAFV600E proteins. In-depth analysis revealed that these compounds maintained the active conformation of wild-type BRAF protein by inducing αC-helix-In, DFG-In, extended activation segment and well-aligned R-spine residues similar to already known drugs Vemurafenib (VEM), BGB283 and Ponatinib. In terms of binding energy, among the natural compounds, CAPE showed better affinity towards both wild-type and V600E mutant proteins than the other two compounds. These data suggested that CAPE, Wi-A and Wi-N have potential to block constitutive autophosphorylation of BRAF and hence warrant in vitro and in vivo experimental validation. Out of all the human cancers approximately 8% involve BRAF mutations. The 40–50% of the commercialized drugs in the market are from the natural sources or inspired by it. Three natural compounds Withaferin-A , Withanone and Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) have been studied against BRAF. CAPE binds with higher binding affinity with BRAF wild type protein and BRAF V600E mutant protein than other natural compounds.
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Radhakrishnan N, Kaul SC, Wadhwa R, Sundar D. Phosphatidylserine Exposed Lipid Bilayer Models for Understanding Cancer Cell Selectivity of Natural Compounds: A Molecular Dynamics Simulation Study. MEMBRANES 2022; 12:64. [PMID: 35054590 PMCID: PMC8780679 DOI: 10.3390/membranes12010064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Development of drugs that are selectively toxic to cancer cells and safe to normal cells is crucial in cancer treatment. Evaluation of membrane permeability is a key metric for successful drug development. In this study, we have used in silico molecular models of lipid bilayers to explore the effect of phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure in cancer cells on membrane permeation of natural compounds Withaferin A (Wi-A), Withanone (Wi-N), Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester (CAPE) and Artepillin C (ARC). Molecular dynamics simulations were performed to compute permeability coefficients. The results indicated that the exposure of PS in cancer cell membranes facilitated the permeation of Wi-A, Wi-N and CAPE through a cancer cell membrane when compared to a normal cell membrane. In the case of ARC, PS exposure did not have a notable influence on its permeability coefficient. The presented data demonstrated the potential of PS exposure-based models for studying cancer cell selectivity of drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navaneethan Radhakrishnan
- DAILAB, Department of Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, New Delhi 110016, India;
| | - Sunil C. Kaul
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan;
| | - Renu Wadhwa
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan;
| | - Durai Sundar
- DAILAB, Department of Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, New Delhi 110016, India;
- School of Artificial Intelligence, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, New Delhi 110016, India
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Preparation, Characterization, and Pharmacological Investigation of Withaferin-A Loaded Nanosponges for Cancer Therapy; In Vitro, In Vivo and Molecular Docking Studies. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26226990. [PMID: 34834081 PMCID: PMC8623412 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26226990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The rapidly growing global burden of cancer poses a major challenge to public health and demands a robust approach to access promising anticancer therapeutics. In parallel, nanotechnology approaches with various pharmacological properties offer efficacious clinical outcomes. The use of new artificial variants of nanosponges (NS) as a transporter of chemotherapeutic drugs to target cells has emerged as a very promising tool. Therefore, in this research, ethylcellulose (EC) NS were prepared using the ultrasonication assisted-emulsion solvent evaporation technique. Withaferin-A (WFA), an active ingredient in Withania somnifera, has been implanted into the nanospongic framework with enhanced anticancer properties. Inside the polymeric structure, WFA was efficiently entrapped (85 ± 11%). The drug (WFA) was found to be stable within polymeric nanosponges, as demonstrated by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) studies. The WFA-NS had a diameter of 117 ± 4 nm and zeta potential of −39.02 ± 5.71 mV with a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.419 ± 0.073. In addition, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed the porous surface texture of WFA-NS. In vitro anticancer activity (SRB assay) results showed that WFA–NS exhibited almost twice the anticancer efficacy against MCF-7 cells (IC50 = 1.57 ± 0.091 µM), as quantified by flow cytometry and comet tests. Moreover, fluorescence microscopy with DAPI staining and analysis of DNA fragmentation revealed apoptosis as a mechanism of cancer cell death. The anticancer activity of WFA-NS was further determined in vivo and results were compared to cisplatin. The anticancer activity of WFA-NS was further investigated in vivo, and the data were consistent to those obtained with cisplatin. At Day 10, WFA-NS (10 mg/kg) significantly reduced tumour volume to 72 ± 6%, which was comparable to cisplatin (10 mg/kg), which reduced tumour volume to 78 ± 8%. Finally, the outcomes of molecular modeling (in silico) also suggested that WFA established a stable connection with nanosponges, generating persistent hydrophobic contacts (polar and nonpolar) and helping with the attractive delayed-release features of the formulation. Collectively, all the findings support the use of WFA in nanosponges as a prototype for cancer treatment, and opened up new avenues for increasing the efficacy of natural product-derived medications.
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Wang J, Zhang H, Kaul A, Li K, Priyandoko D, Kaul SC, Wadhwa R. Effect of Ashwagandha Withanolides on Muscle Cell Differentiation. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11101454. [PMID: 34680087 PMCID: PMC8533065 DOI: 10.3390/biom11101454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) is used in Indian traditional medicine, Ayurveda, and is believed to have a variety of health-promoting effects. The molecular mechanisms and pathways underlying these effects have not yet been sufficiently explored. In this study, we investigated the effect of Ashwagandha extracts and their major withanolides (withaferin A and withanone) on muscle cell differentiation using C2C12 myoblasts. We found that withaferin A and withanone and Ashwagandha extracts possessing different ratios of these active ingredients have different effects on the differentiation of C2C12. Withanone and withanone-rich extracts caused stronger differentiation of myoblasts to myotubes, deaggregation of heat- and metal-stress-induced aggregated proteins, and activation of hypoxia and autophagy pathways. Of note, the Parkinson’s disease model of Drosophila that possess a neuromuscular disorder showed improvement in their flight and climbing activity, suggesting the potential of Ashwagandha withanolides for the management of muscle repair and activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Wang
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 3058565, Japan; (J.W.); (H.Z.); (A.K.); (K.L.); (D.P.); (S.C.K.)
| | - Huayue Zhang
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 3058565, Japan; (J.W.); (H.Z.); (A.K.); (K.L.); (D.P.); (S.C.K.)
| | - Ashish Kaul
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 3058565, Japan; (J.W.); (H.Z.); (A.K.); (K.L.); (D.P.); (S.C.K.)
| | - Kejuan Li
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 3058565, Japan; (J.W.); (H.Z.); (A.K.); (K.L.); (D.P.); (S.C.K.)
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu 610066, China
| | - Didik Priyandoko
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 3058565, Japan; (J.W.); (H.Z.); (A.K.); (K.L.); (D.P.); (S.C.K.)
- Department of Biology, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Bangdung 40154, Indonesia
| | - Sunil C. Kaul
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 3058565, Japan; (J.W.); (H.Z.); (A.K.); (K.L.); (D.P.); (S.C.K.)
| | - Renu Wadhwa
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 3058565, Japan; (J.W.); (H.Z.); (A.K.); (K.L.); (D.P.); (S.C.K.)
- Correspondence:
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Functional characterization of miR-708 microRNA in telomerase positive and negative human cancer cells. Sci Rep 2021; 11:17052. [PMID: 34426596 PMCID: PMC8382839 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-96096-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Activation of a telomere length maintenance mechanism (TMM), including telomerase and alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT), is essential for replicative immortality of tumor cells, although its regulatory mechanisms are incompletely understood. We conducted a microRNA (miRNA) microarray analysis on isogenic telomerase positive (TEP) and ALT cancer cell lines. Amongst nine miRNAs that showed difference in their expression in TEP and ALT cancer cells in array analysis, miR-708 was selected for further analysis since it was consistently highly expressed in a large panel of ALT cells. miR-708 in TEP and ALT cancer cells was not correlated with C-circle levels, an established feature of ALT cells. Its overexpression induced suppression of cell migration, invasion, and angiogenesis in both TEP and ALT cells, although cell proliferation was inhibited only in TEP cells suggesting that ALT cells may have acquired the ability to escape inhibition of cell proliferation by sustained miR-708 overexpression. Further, cell proliferation regulation in TEP cells by miR708 appears to be through the CARF-p53 pathway. We demonstrate here that miR-708 (i) is the first miRNA shown to be differentially regulated in TEP and ALT cancer cells, (ii) possesses tumor suppressor function, and (iii) deregulates CARF and p21WAF1-mediated signaling to limit proliferation in TEP cells.
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Molecular mechanism of anti-SARS-CoV2 activity of Ashwagandha-derived withanolides. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 184:297-312. [PMID: 34118289 PMCID: PMC8188803 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 corona virus has become a global pandemic. In the absence of drugs and vaccine, and premises of time, efforts and cost required for their development, natural resources such as herbs are anticipated to provide some help and may also offer a promising resource for drug development. Here, we have investigated the therapeutic prospective of Ashwagandha for the COVID-19 pandemic. Nine withanolides were tested in silico for their potential to target and inhibit (i) cell surface receptor protein (TMPRSS2) that is required for entry of virus to host cells and (ii) viral protein (the main protease Mpro) that is essential for virus replication. We report that the withanolides possess capacity to inhibit the activity of TMPRSS2 and Mpro. Furthermore, withanolide-treated cells showed downregulation of TMPRSS2 expression and inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 replication in vitro, suggesting that Ashwagandha may provide a useful resource for COVID-19 treatment.
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Kalra RS, Kumar V, Dhanjal JK, Garg S, Li X, Kaul SC, Sundar D, Wadhwa R. COVID19-inhibitory activity of withanolides involves targeting of the host cell surface receptor ACE2: insights from computational and biochemical assays. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2021; 40:7885-7898. [PMID: 33797339 PMCID: PMC8022344 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2021.1902858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 outbreak in China in December 2019 and its spread as worldwide pandemic has been a major global health crisis. Extremely high infection and mortality rate has severely affected all sectors of life and derailed the global economy. While drug and vaccine development have been prioritized and have made significant progression, use of phytochemicals and herbal constituents is deemed as a low-cost, safer and readily available alternative. We investigated therapeutic efficacy of eight withanolides (derived from Ashwagandha) against the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) proteins, a target cell surface receptor for SARS-CoV-2 and report results on the (i) computational analyses including binding affinity and stable interactions with ACE2, occupancy of ACE2 residues in making polar and nonpolar interactions with different withanolides/ligands and (2) in vitro mRNA and protein analyses using human cancer (A549, MCF7 and HSC3) cells. We found that among all withanolides, Withaferin-A, Withanone, Withanoside-IV and Withanoside-V significantly inhibited the ACE2 expression. Analysis of withanolides-rich aqueous extracts derived from Ashwagandha leaves and stem showed a higher ACE2 inhibitory potency of stem-derived extracts. Taken together, we demonstrated the inhibitory potency of Ashwagandha withanolides and its aqueous extracts against ACE2. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajkumar Singh Kalra
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Japan
| | - Vipul Kumar
- DAILAB, Department of Biochemical Engineering & Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, India
| | - Jaspreet Kaur Dhanjal
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Japan
| | - Sukant Garg
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Japan
| | - Xiaoshuai Li
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Japan
| | - Sunil C Kaul
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Japan
| | - Durai Sundar
- DAILAB, Department of Biochemical Engineering & Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, India
| | - Renu Wadhwa
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Japan
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Miki K, Samura K, Takahashi K, Kawashima M. Treatment of skull metastasis from uterine leiomyosarcoma: A single-center experience with literature review. INTERDISCIPLINARY NEUROSURGERY 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.inat.2020.101004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
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Malik V, Kumar V, Kaul SC, Wadhwa R, Sundar D. Computational Insights into the Potential of Withaferin-A, Withanone and Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester for Treatment of Aberrant-EGFR Driven Lung Cancers. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11020160. [PMID: 33530424 PMCID: PMC7911128 DOI: 10.3390/biom11020160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The anticancer activities of Withaferin-A (Wi-A) and Withanone (Wi-N) from Ashwagandha and Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester (CAPE) from honeybee propolis have been well documented. Here, we examined the binding potential of these natural compounds to inhibit the constitutive phosphorylation of epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFRs). Exon 20 insertion mutants of EGFR, which show resistance to various FDA approved drugs and are linked to poor prognosis of lung cancer patients, were the primary focus of this study. Apart from exon 20 insertion mutants, the potential of natural compounds to serve as ATP competitive inhibitors of wildtype protein and other common mutants of EGFR, namely L858R and exon19del, were also examined. The potential of natural compounds was compared to the positive controls such as erlotinib, TAS6417 and poziotinib. Similar to known inhibitors, Wi-A and Wi-N could displace and binds at the ATP orthosteric site of exon19del, L858R and exon20, while CAPE was limited to wildtype EGFR and exon 20 insertion mutants only. Moreover, the binding free energy of the natural drugs against EGFRs was also comparable to the positive controls. This computational study suggests that Wi-A and Wi-N have potential against multiple mutated EGFRs, warranting further in vitro and in vivo experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidhi Malik
- DBT-AIST International Laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB), Department of Biochemical Engineering & Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110 016, India; (V.M.); (V.K.)
| | - Vipul Kumar
- DBT-AIST International Laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB), Department of Biochemical Engineering & Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110 016, India; (V.M.); (V.K.)
| | - Sunil C. Kaul
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan;
| | - Renu Wadhwa
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan;
- Correspondence: (R.W.); (D.S.); Tel.: +81-29-861-9464 (R.W.); +91-11-2659-1066 (D.S.)
| | - Durai Sundar
- DBT-AIST International Laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB), Department of Biochemical Engineering & Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110 016, India; (V.M.); (V.K.)
- Correspondence: (R.W.); (D.S.); Tel.: +81-29-861-9464 (R.W.); +91-11-2659-1066 (D.S.)
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Behl T, Sharma A, Sharma L, Sehgal A, Zengin G, Brata R, Fratila O, Bungau S. Exploring the Multifaceted Therapeutic Potential of Withaferin A and Its Derivatives. Biomedicines 2020; 8:E571. [PMID: 33291236 PMCID: PMC7762146 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8120571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Withaferin A (WA), a manifold studied, C28-steroidal lactone withanolide found in Withania somnifera. Given its unique beneficial effects, it has gathered attention in the era of modern science. Cancer, being considered a "hopeless case and the leading cause of death worldwide, and the available conventional therapies have many lacunae in the form of side effects. The poly pharmaceutical natural compound, WA treatment, displayed attenuation of various cancer hallmarks by altering oxidative stress, promoting apoptosis, and autophagy, inhibiting cell proliferation, reducing angiogenesis, and metastasis progression. The cellular proteins associated with antitumor pathways were also discussed. WA structural modifications attack multiple signal transduction pathways and enhance the therapeutic outcomes in various diseases. Moreover, it has shown validated pharmacological effects against multiple neurodegenerative diseases by inhibiting acetylcholesterinases and butyrylcholinesterases enzyme activity, antidiabetic activity by upregulating adiponectin and preventing the phosphorylation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARγ), cardioprotective activity by AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation and suppressing mitochondrial apoptosis. The current review is an extensive survey of various WA associated disease targets, its pharmacokinetics, synergistic combination, modifications, and biological activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tapan Behl
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India;
| | - Aditi Sharma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shoolini University, Solan, Himachal Pradesh 173229, India; (A.S.); (L.S.)
| | - Lalit Sharma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shoolini University, Solan, Himachal Pradesh 173229, India; (A.S.); (L.S.)
| | - Aayush Sehgal
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India;
| | - Gokhan Zengin
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Selcuk University Campus, Konya 42250, Turkey;
| | - Roxana Brata
- Department of Medical Disciplines, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania; (R.B.); (O.F.)
| | - Ovidiu Fratila
- Department of Medical Disciplines, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania; (R.B.); (O.F.)
| | - Simona Bungau
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410028 Oradea, Romania
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Yu Y, Yang X, Reghu S, Kaul SC, Wadhwa R, Miyako E. Photothermogenetic inhibition of cancer stemness by near-infrared-light-activatable nanocomplexes. Nat Commun 2020; 11:4117. [PMID: 32807785 PMCID: PMC7431860 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-17768-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Strategies for eradicating cancer stem cells (CSCs) are urgently required because CSCs are resistant to anticancer drugs and cause treatment failure, relapse and metastasis. Here, we show that photoactive functional nanocarbon complexes exhibit unique characteristics, such as homogeneous particle morphology, high water dispersibility, powerful photothermal conversion, rapid photoresponsivity and excellent photothermal stability. In addition, the present biologically permeable second near-infrared (NIR-II) light-induced nanocomplexes photo-thermally trigger calcium influx into target cells overexpressing the transient receptor potential vanilloid family type 2 (TRPV2). This combination of nanomaterial design and genetic engineering effectively eliminates cancer cells and suppresses stemness of cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Finally, in molecular analyses of mechanisms, we show that inhibition of cancer stemness involves calcium-mediated dysregulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway. The present technological concept may lead to innovative therapies to address the global issue of refractory cancers. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are known to induce chemotherapy resistance, and cause tumour relapse and metastasis. Here, the authors develop photoactive nanocarbon complexes with second near-infrared photothermal ability to target cancer cells overexpressing the receptor TRPV2 and show it to suppress CSCs through dysregulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yu
- Graduate School of Advanced Science and Technology, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, 1-1 Asahidai, Nomi, Ishikawa, 923-1292, Japan.,Biomedical Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Ikeda, 563-8577, Japan
| | - Xi Yang
- Graduate School of Advanced Science and Technology, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, 1-1 Asahidai, Nomi, Ishikawa, 923-1292, Japan
| | - Sheethal Reghu
- Graduate School of Advanced Science and Technology, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, 1-1 Asahidai, Nomi, Ishikawa, 923-1292, Japan
| | - Sunil C Kaul
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, AIST, Tsukuba, 305-8565, Japan
| | - Renu Wadhwa
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, AIST, Tsukuba, 305-8565, Japan
| | - Eijiro Miyako
- Graduate School of Advanced Science and Technology, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, 1-1 Asahidai, Nomi, Ishikawa, 923-1292, Japan.
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24
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Saggam A, Tillu G, Dixit S, Chavan-Gautam P, Borse S, Joshi K, Patwardhan B. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal: A potential therapeutic adjuvant in cancer. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 255:112759. [PMID: 32173425 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2020] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (WS) is one of the moststudied Rasayana botanicals used in Ayurveda practice for its immunomodulatory, anti-aging, adaptogenic, and rejuvenating effects. The botanical is being used for various clinical indications, including cancer. Several studies exploring molecular mechanisms of WS suggest its possible role in improving clinical outcomes in cancer management. Therefore, research on WS may offer new insights in rational development of therapeutic adjuvants for cancer. AIM OF THIS REVIEW The review aims at providing a detailed analysis of in silico, in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies related to WS and cancer. It suggests possible role of WS in regulating molecular mechanisms associated with carcinogenesis. The review discusses potential of WS in cancer management in terms of cancer prevention, anti-cancer activity, and enhancing efficacy of cancer therapeutics. MATERIAL AND METHODS The present narrative review offers a critical analysis of published literature on WS studies in cancer. The reported studies were analysed in the context of pathophysiology of cancer, commonly referred as 'cancer hallmarks'. The review attempts to bridge Ayurveda knowledge with biological insights into molecular mechanisms of cancer. RESULTS Critical analysisof the published literature suggests an anti-cancer potential of WS with a key role in cancer prevention. The possible mechanisms for these effects are associated with the modulation of apoptotic, proliferative, and metastatic markers in cancer. WS can attenuate inflammatory responses and enzymes involved in invasion and metastatic progression of cancer.The properties of WS are likely to be mediated through withanolides, which may activate tumor suppressor proteins to restrict proliferation of cancer cells. Withanolides also regulate the genomic instability, and energy metabolism of cancer cells. The reported studies indicate the need for deeper understanding of molecular mechanisms of WS in inhibiting angiogenesis and promoting immunosurveillance. Additionally, WS can augment efficacy and safety of cancer therapeutics. CONCLUSION The experimentally-supported evidence of immunomodulatory, anti-cancer, adaptogenic, and regenerative attributes of WS suggest its therapeutic adjuvant potential in cancer management. The adjuvant properties of withanolides can modulate multidrug resistance and reverse chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression. These mechanisms need to be further explored in systematically designed translational and clinical studies that will pave the way for integration of WS as a therapeutic adjuvant in cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akash Saggam
- AYUSH Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Girish Tillu
- AYUSH Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | | | - Preeti Chavan-Gautam
- AYUSH Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Swapnil Borse
- AYUSH Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Kalpana Joshi
- Department of Biotechnology, Sinhgad College of Engineering, Pune, India
| | - Bhushan Patwardhan
- AYUSH Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India.
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Sari AN, Bhargava P, Dhanjal JK, Putri JF, Radhakrishnan N, Shefrin S, Ishida Y, Terao K, Sundar D, Kaul SC, Wadhwa R. Combination of Withaferin-A and CAPE Provides Superior Anticancer Potency: Bioinformatics and Experimental Evidence to Their Molecular Targets and Mechanism of Action. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E1160. [PMID: 32380701 PMCID: PMC7281427 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12051160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We have earlier reported anticancer activity in Withaferin A (Wi-A), a withanolide derived from Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), an active compound from New Zealand honeybee propolis. Whereas Wi-A was cytotoxic to both cancer and normal cells, CAPE has been shown to cause selective death of cancer cells. In the present study, we investigated the efficacy of Wi-A, CAPE, and their combination to ovarian and cervical cancer cells. Both Wi-A and CAPE were seen to activate tumor suppressor protein p53 by downregulation of mortalin and abrogation of its interactions with p53. Downregulation of mortalin translated to compromised mitochondria integrity and function that affected poly ADP-ribose polymerase1 (PARP1); a key regulator of DNA repair and protein-target for Olaparib, drugs clinically used for treatment of breast, ovarian and cervical cancers)-mediated DNA repair yielding growth arrest or apoptosis. Furthermore, we also compared the docking capability of Wi-A and CAPE to PARP1 and found that both of these could bind to the catalytic domain of PARP1, similar to Olaparib. We provide experimental evidences that (i) Wi-A and CAPE cause inactivation of PARP1-mediated DNA repair leading to accumulation of DNA damage and activation of apoptosis signaling by multiple ways, and (ii) a combination of Wi-A and CAPE offers selective toxicity and better potency to cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anissa Nofita Sari
- DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan; (A.N.S.); (P.B.); (J.K.D.); (J.F.P.)
- School of Integrative and Global Majors, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8577, Japan
| | - Priyanshu Bhargava
- DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan; (A.N.S.); (P.B.); (J.K.D.); (J.F.P.)
| | - Jaspreet Kaur Dhanjal
- DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan; (A.N.S.); (P.B.); (J.K.D.); (J.F.P.)
- DAILAB, Department of Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110 016, India; (N.R.); (S.S.); (D.S.)
| | - Jayarani F. Putri
- DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan; (A.N.S.); (P.B.); (J.K.D.); (J.F.P.)
| | - Navaneethan Radhakrishnan
- DAILAB, Department of Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110 016, India; (N.R.); (S.S.); (D.S.)
| | - Seyad Shefrin
- DAILAB, Department of Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110 016, India; (N.R.); (S.S.); (D.S.)
| | - Yoshiyuki Ishida
- CycloChem Co. Ltd., 7-4-5 Minatojima-Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047, Japan; (Y.I.); (K.T.)
| | - Keiji Terao
- CycloChem Co. Ltd., 7-4-5 Minatojima-Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047, Japan; (Y.I.); (K.T.)
| | - Durai Sundar
- DAILAB, Department of Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110 016, India; (N.R.); (S.S.); (D.S.)
| | - Sunil C. Kaul
- DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan; (A.N.S.); (P.B.); (J.K.D.); (J.F.P.)
- School of Integrative and Global Majors, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8577, Japan
| | - Renu Wadhwa
- DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan; (A.N.S.); (P.B.); (J.K.D.); (J.F.P.)
- School of Integrative and Global Majors, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8577, Japan
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26
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Bickel D, Gohlke H. C-terminal modulators of heat shock protein of 90 kDa (HSP90): State of development and modes of action. Bioorg Med Chem 2019; 27:115080. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2019.115080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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27
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Dutta R, Khalil R, Green R, Mohapatra SS, Mohapatra S. Withania Somnifera (Ashwagandha) and Withaferin A: Potential in Integrative Oncology. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20215310. [PMID: 31731424 PMCID: PMC6862083 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20215310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera, WS), belonging to the family Solanaceae, is an Ayurvedic herb known worldwide for its numerous beneficial health activities since ancient times. This medicinal plant provides benefits against many human illnesses such as epilepsy, depression, arthritis, diabetes, and palliative effects such as analgesic, rejuvenating, regenerating, and growth-promoting effects. Several clinical trials of the different parts of the herb have demonstrated safety in patients suffering from these diseases. In the last two decades, an active component of Withaferin A (WFA) has shown tremendous cytotoxic activity suggesting its potential as an anti-carcinogenic agent in treatment of several cancers. In spite of enormous progress, a thorough elaboration of the proposed mechanism and mode of action is absent. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of the properties of WS extracts (WSE) containing complex mixtures of diverse components including WFA, which have shown inhibitory properties against many cancers, (breast, colon, prostate, colon, ovarian, lung, brain), along with their mechanism of actions and pathways involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rinku Dutta
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (R.D.); (R.K.); (R.G.)
- Center for Research and Education in Nanobioengineering, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
| | - Roukiah Khalil
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (R.D.); (R.K.); (R.G.)
- Center for Research and Education in Nanobioengineering, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
| | - Ryan Green
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (R.D.); (R.K.); (R.G.)
- Center for Research and Education in Nanobioengineering, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
| | - Shyam S Mohapatra
- Center for Research and Education in Nanobioengineering, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
- Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
- James A Haley VA Hospital, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Subhra Mohapatra
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (R.D.); (R.K.); (R.G.)
- Center for Research and Education in Nanobioengineering, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
- James A Haley VA Hospital, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-813-974-4127
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28
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Yu Y, Wang J, Kaul SC, Wadhwa R, Miyako E. Folic Acid Receptor-Mediated Targeting Enhances the Cytotoxicity, Efficacy, and Selectivity of Withania somnifera Leaf Extract: In vitro and in vivo Evidence. Front Oncol 2019; 9:602. [PMID: 31334122 PMCID: PMC6621239 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Nanomedicine holds great potential for drug delivery to achieve more effective and safer cancer treatment. Earlier, we reported that the alcoholic extract of Withania somnifera leaves (i-Extract) has selective cancer cell killing activity. Herein, we developed a folate receptor-targeting i-Extract nanocomplex (FRi-ExNC) that suspends well in water and possesses enhanced selective anticancer activity in both in vitro and in vivo assays. Comparative analyses of folate receptor (FR)-positive and -negative cells revealed that FRi-ExNC caused a stronger decrease in Cyclin D/Cdk4 and anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, as well as a higher increase in the growth arrest regulating protein p21WAF1 and pro-apoptotic protein PARP-1, in FR-enriched cancer cells. Our results demonstrate that FRi-ExNC could be a natural source-based nanomedicine for targeted cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yu
- Department of Materials and Chemistry, Nanomaterials Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Jia Wang
- DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), AIST, Tsukuba, Japan.,Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Sunil C Kaul
- DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), AIST, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Renu Wadhwa
- DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), AIST, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Eijiro Miyako
- Department of Materials and Chemistry, Nanomaterials Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Tsukuba, Japan
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29
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Sarkar A, Sen S. A Comparative Analysis of the Molecular Interaction Techniques for In Silico Drug Design. Int J Pept Res Ther 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-019-09830-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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30
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Innate endophytic fungus, Aspergillus terreus as biotic elicitor of withanolide A in root cell suspension cultures of Withania somnifera. Mol Biol Rep 2019; 46:1895-1908. [PMID: 30706360 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-019-04641-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, root cell suspension cultures of W. somnifera were elicited with mycelial extract (1% w/v) and culture filtrate (5% v/v) of their native endophytic fungus Aspergillus terreus 2aWF in shake flask. Culture filtrate of A. terreus 2aWF significantly elicits withanolide A at 6H (12.20 ± 0.52 µg/g FCB). However, with A. terreus 2aWF mycelial extract, withanolide A content was higher at 24H (10.29 µg/g FCB). Withanolide A content was maximum with salicylic acid (0.1 mM) treatment at 24H (8.3 ± 0.20 µg/g FCB). Further, expression analysis of withanolide pathway genes, hydrogen peroxide production, and lipid peroxidation was carried out after 48H of elicitation with 2aWF mycelial extract and culture filtrate. The expression levels of withanolides biosynthetic pathway genes, viz. HMGR, DXR, FPPS, SQS, SQE, CAS, SMT1, STE1 and CYP710A1 were quantified by real time PCR at 48H of elicitation. In all the treatments, the expression levels of key genes were significantly upregulated as compared to untreated suspension cells. Hydrogen peroxide was noticeably enhanced in SA, mycelia extract and culture filtrate, at 20% (115 ± 4.40 nM/g FCB), 42% (137.5 ± 3.62 nM/g FCB), and 27% (122.8 ± 1.25 nM/g FCB) respectively; however, lipid peroxidation was 0.288 ± 0.014, 0.305 ± 0.041 and 0.253 ± 0.007 (µM/gm FCB) respectively, higher than the control (0.201 ± 0.007 µM/gm FCB).
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31
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Oh E, Garg S, Liu Y, Afzal S, Gao R, Yun CO, Kaul SC, Wadhwa R. Identification and Functional Characterization of Anti-metastasis and Anti-angiogenic Activities of Triethylene Glycol Derivatives. Front Oncol 2018; 8:552. [PMID: 30547009 PMCID: PMC6279921 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
We had previously reported anticancer activity in the water extract (WEX) of Ashwagandha leaves, and identified Triethylene glycol (TEG) as an active tumor suppressor component. In this study, we investigated anti-migratory and anti-angiogenesis activities of WEX and TEG. We conducted in vitro and in vivo experiments using TEG, and its two derivatives, Triethyleneglycol dimethacrylate (TD-10), and Tetraethyleneglycol dimethacrylate (TD-11). The data revealed strong anticancer and anti-metastasis potentials in the derivatives. Non-toxic, anti-migratory doses of the derivatives showed inhibition of canonical Wnt/β-catenin axis and consequent downregulation of EMT-signaling proteins (Vimentin, MMPs and VEGF). These results endorse that the TD-10 and TD-11 have potential to safely put a check on the aggressiveness of the metastatic cells and therefore represent promising candidates for the treatment of metastatic cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eonju Oh
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sukant Garg
- DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology, Tsukuba, Japan.,School of Integrative and Global Majors, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Ye Liu
- DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Sajal Afzal
- DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology, Tsukuba, Japan.,School of Integrative and Global Majors, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Ran Gao
- DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Chae-Ok Yun
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sunil C Kaul
- DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Renu Wadhwa
- DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology, Tsukuba, Japan.,School of Integrative and Global Majors, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
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32
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Ediriweera MK, Tennekoon KH, Samarakoon SR. In vitro assays and techniques utilized in anticancer drug discovery. J Appl Toxicol 2018; 39:38-71. [DOI: 10.1002/jat.3658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Revised: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Meran Keshawa Ediriweera
- Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology; University of Colombo; Colombo 03 Sri Lanka
| | - Kamani Hemamala Tennekoon
- Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology; University of Colombo; Colombo 03 Sri Lanka
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33
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Garg S, Kaul SC, Wadhwa R. Anti-Stress and Glial Differentiation Effects of a Novel Combination of Cucurbitacin B and Withanone (CucWi-N): Experimental Evidence. Ann Neurosci 2018; 25:201-209. [PMID: 31000958 DOI: 10.1159/000490693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Natural extracts and compounds used in traditional home medicine are known for their safety and a variety of health promoting and therapeutic potentials. In contrast to the single molecule mediated targets, the combinational therapies are preferred for their multi-functional and limited toxic regimens and may be useful for disease therapeutics as well as to increase the quality of life during a variety of environmental stresses. Purpose We aimed to combine the active ingredients of Chinese (Helicteres angustifolia) and Indian (Withania somnifera) ginsengs to develop a natural, efficient, and welfare combinatorial mixture with high anti-stress and glial differentiation potentials. Methods Using cultured cells as a model system, we developed a combination of active ingredients of Chinese (Cucurbitacin B [Cuc]) and Indian (Withanone [Wi-N]) ginsengs. Eleven chemical models of environmental stresses were used. Cytotoxicity studies were performed using human skin fibroblast for anti-stress and rat glioma cells for glial differentiation effects. Results We demonstrate that the novel combination of Cuc and Wi-N, CucWi-N, was non-toxic to normal cells. It caused stress protection in assays using normal human fibroblasts subjected to a variety of stresses. Of note, cells showed remarkable protection against oxidative and UV stresses and marked by decrease in DNA damage and reactive oxygen species. We examined and found the glial differentiation potential of CucWi-N in rat glioblastoma cells. CucWi-N clearly induced differentiation phenotype, well-marked with upregulation of GAP43, MAP2, and GFAP, which have been shown to play a key role in glial differentiation. Conclusion These data demonstrate anti-stress and glial differentiation potential of CucWi-N (a novel combination of Cuc and Wi-N) that could be recruited in nutraceutical and pharmaceutical avenues and hence warrant further evaluation and mechanistic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukant Garg
- DBT-AIST International laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan.,School of Integrative and Global Majors, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Sunil C Kaul
- DBT-AIST International laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Renu Wadhwa
- DBT-AIST International laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan.,School of Integrative and Global Majors, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
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Yu Y, Nishikawa M, Liu M, Tei T, Kaul SC, Wadhawa R, Zhang M, Takahashi J, Miyako E. Self-assembled nanodiamond supraparticles for anticancer chemotherapy. NANOSCALE 2018; 10:8969-8978. [PMID: 29664104 DOI: 10.1039/c8nr00641e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
A nanodiamond (ND) is a promising material for drug delivery applications owing to its relatively low cost, amenability to large-scale synthesis, unique structure, and low toxicity. However, synthesizing drug-loaded ND conjugates with uniform and tunable sizes, high loading capacity, efficacy in drug delivery, and versatility in terms of surface functionalization has been challenging. Here, we show that perfluorooctanoic acid-functionalized NDs spontaneously transform into well-dispersed and biocompatible supraparticle (SP) nanoclusters. We demonstrate that the synthesized ND-based SPs (ND-SPs) exhibit high penetration through the cell membrane and are therefore superior as drug carriers for conventional nanomedicines such as polyethylene glycol and phospholipid-based nanocapsules and simple drug-loaded ND conjugates. We confirm the efficacy of ND-SPs in the eradication of cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Our results demonstrate that the synthesized ND-SPs are useful for targeted drug delivery in a variety of biological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yu
- Nanomaterials Research Institute (NMRI), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Central 5, 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8565, Japan.
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Bhargava P, Malik V, Liu Y, Ryu J, Kaul SC, Sundar D, Wadhwa R. Molecular Insights Into Withaferin-A-Induced Senescence: Bioinformatics and Experimental Evidence to the Role of NFκB and CARF. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2018; 74:183-191. [DOI: 10.1093/gerona/gly107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Priyanshu Bhargava
- DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Vidhi Malik
- DAILAB, Department of Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Delhi, India
| | - Ye Liu
- DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Jihoon Ryu
- DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Sunil C Kaul
- DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Durai Sundar
- DAILAB, Department of Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Delhi, India
| | - Renu Wadhwa
- DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan
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Kaur A, Singh B, Ohri P, Wang J, Wadhwa R, Kaul SC, Pati PK, Kaur A. Organic cultivation of Ashwagandha with improved biomass and high content of active Withanolides: Use of Vermicompost. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0194314. [PMID: 29659590 PMCID: PMC5901777 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0194314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2017] [Accepted: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) has recently been studied extensively for its health-supplementing and therapeutic activities against a variety of ailments. Several independent studies have experimentally demonstrated pharmaceutical potential of its active Withanolides, Withaferin A (Wi-A), Withanone (Wi-N) and Withanolide A (Wil-A). However, to promote its use in herbal industry, an environmentally sustainable cultivation and high yield are warranted. In modern agriculture strategies, there has been indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers to boost the crop-yield, however the practice largely ignored its adverse effect on the quality of soil and the environment. In view of these, we attempted to recruit Vermicompost (Vcom, 20-100%) as an organic fertilizer of choice during the sowing and growing phases of Ashwagandha plants. We report that (i) pre-soaking of seeds for 12 h in Vermicompost leachate (Vcom-L) and Vermicompost tea (Vcom-T) led to higher germination, (ii) binary combination of pre-soaking of seeds and cultivation in Vcom (up to 80%) resulted in further improvement both in germination and seedling growth, (iii) cultivated plants in the presence of Vcom+Vcom-L showed higher leaf and root mass, earlier onset of flowering and fruiting and (iv) leaves from the Vcom+Vcom-L cultivated plants showed higher level of active Withanolides, Withanone (Wi-N), Withanolide A (Wil-A) and Withaferin A (Wi-A) and showed anticancer activities in cell culture assays. Taken together, we report a simple and inexpensive method for improving the yield and pharmaceutical components of Ashwagandha leaves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amandeep Kaur
- Department of Zoology, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, India
| | - Baldev Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, India
| | - Puja Ohri
- Department of Zoology, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, India
| | - Jia Wang
- Drug Discovery and Assets Innovation Lab, DBT-AIST International Laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Renu Wadhwa
- Drug Discovery and Assets Innovation Lab, DBT-AIST International Laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Sunil C. Kaul
- Drug Discovery and Assets Innovation Lab, DBT-AIST International Laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan
- * E-mail: (AK); (PKP); (SCK)
| | - Pratap Kumar Pati
- Department of Biotechnology, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, India
- * E-mail: (AK); (PKP); (SCK)
| | - Arvinder Kaur
- Department of Zoology, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, India
- * E-mail: (AK); (PKP); (SCK)
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