beta-Sitosterol activates the sphingomyelin cycle and induces apoptosis in LNCaP human prostate cancer cells

Network pharmacology and experimental validation to explore the role and potential mechanism of Liuwei Dihuang Decoction in prostate cancer

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the anti-tumor effector of Liuwei Dihuang Decoction (LWDHD) in prostate cancer (PCa) and explore the potential mechanism using experimental validation, network pharmacology, bioinformatics analysis, and molecular docking.

METHODS

CCK test, Clone formation assay and wound-healing assays were used to determine the effect of LWDHD on prostate cancer growth and metastasis. The active ingredients and targets of LWDHD were obtained from the TCMSP database, and the relevant targets were selected by GeneCards, OMIM and DisGeNET databases for PCa. The cross-targets of drugs and disease were imported into the STRING database to construct protein interactions. The network was also visualized using Cytoscape software and core targets are screened using the Network Analyzer plug-in. The Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment were analyzed using R software. TCGA database was used to analyze the correlation of bioinformatics genes. AutoDock vina was used to predict the molecular docking and binding ability of active ingredients to key targets. Through WB and q-PCR experiments, the above gene targets were detected to verify the effect of LWDHD on PCa.

RESULTS

CCK and scratch tests confirmed that LWDHD could inhibit the proliferation, invasion and migration of prostate cancer cells. Clone formation experiments showed that LWDHD inhibited the long-term proliferative capacity of PC3 cells. LWDHD and PCa had a total of 99 common targets, establishing a "drug-ingredient-common target" network. Through GO and KEGG enrichment analysis, PI3K/AKT, MAPK, TP53 pathway, MYC, TNF pathway and other signaling pathways were found. Bioinformatics analysis showed that MYC gene was highly expressed and CCND1 and MAPK1 were low expressed in prostate cancer tissues. In addition, TP53, AKT1, MYC, TNF and CCND1 were positively correlated with MAPK1, among which AKT1 and CCND1 were most closely correlated with MAPK1. Molecular docking results showed that quercetin, kaempferol, β-sitosterol and other main active ingredients of LWDHD treatment for PCa were combined with core proteins MAPK1 and AKT1 well. WB and q-PCR results showed that LWDHD inhibited the expression of PI3K and AKT in PC3 cells.

CONCLUSION

The mechanism of LWDHD therapy for PCa is a multi-target and multi-pathway complex process, which may be related to the biological processes mediated by MAPK1 and AKT1 pathways, such as cell proliferation and inhibition of metastasis, and the regulation of signaling pathways. The PI3K/AKT signaling pathway may be a central pathway of LWDHD to inhibit prostate cancer proliferation.

Antiproliferative Effect of 7-Ketositosterol in Breast and Liver Cancer Cells: Possible Impact on Ceramide, Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinases, and Nuclear Factor Kappa B Signaling Pathways

Background: This study aimed to examine the effect of 7-Ketositosterol (7-KSS), on sphingomyelin/ceramide metabolites and apoptosis in human breast MCF-7 and human liver HepG2 cancer cells. Methods: Anti-proliferative effects of 7-KSS treatment were assessed at different concentrations and periods. Cell viability was assessed through MTT analysis, whereas the levels of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), sphingomyelins (SMs), and ceramides (CERs) were measured using LC-MS/MS. Phosphorylated 44/42 ERK1/2 and NF-κB p65 (Ser536) protein levels were measured by Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence staining. Apoptosis was evaluated by TUNEL staining and flow cytometric assessment of annexin-V and propidium iodide (PI) labeling. Results: Treatment with 7-KSS significantly decreased cell survival and S1P, p-44/42 ERK1/2, and p-NF-κB p65 protein levels in cancer cells compared to controls. A substantial rise was detected in intracellular amounts of C16-C24 CERs and apoptosis in cancer cells incubated with 7-KSS. Conclusions: 7-KSS stimulated ceramide accumulation and apoptosis while decreasing cell proliferation via downregulating S1P, p-44/42 ERK1/2, and p-NF-κB p65 protein levels.

Anticancer activity and other biomedical properties of β-sitosterol: Bridging phytochemistry and current pharmacological evidence for future translational approaches

Sterols, including β-sitosterol, are essential components of cellular membranes in both plant and animal cells. Despite being a major phytosterol in various plant materials, comprehensive scientific knowledge regarding the properties of β-sitosterol and its potential applications is essential for scholarly pursuits and utilization purposes. β-sitosterol shares similar chemical characteristics with cholesterol and exhibits several pharmacological activities without major toxicity. This study aims to bridge the gap between phytochemistry and current pharmacological evidence of β-sitosterol, focusing on its anticancer activity and other biomedical properties. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of β-sitosterol's potential for future translational approaches. A thorough examination of the literature was conducted to gather relevant information on the biological properties of β-sitosterol, particularly its anticancer therapeutic potential. Various databases were searched, including PubMed/MedLine, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science using appropriate keywords. Studies investigating the effects of β-sitosterol on different types of cancer were analyzed, focusing on mechanisms of action, pharmacological screening, and chemosensitizing properties. Modern pharmacological screening studies have revealed the potential anticancer therapeutic properties of β-sitosterol against various types of cancer, including leukemia, lung, stomach, breast, colon, ovarian, and prostate cancer. β-sitosterol has demonstrated chemosensitizing effects on cancer cells, interfering with multiple cell signaling pathways involved in proliferation, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, survival, metastasis invasion, angiogenesis, and inflammation. Structural derivatives of β-sitosterol have also shown anti-cancer effects. However, research in the field of drug delivery and the detailed mode of action of β-sitosterol-mediated anticancer activities remains limited. β-sitosterol, as a non-toxic compound with significant pharmacological potential, exhibits promising anticancer effects against various cancer types. Despite being relatively less potent than conventional cancer chemotherapeutics, β-sitosterol holds potential as a safe and effective nutraceutical against cancer. Further comprehensive studies are recommended to explore the biological properties of β-sitosterol, including its mode of action, and develop novel formulations for its potential use in cancer treatment. This review provides a foundation for future investigations and highlights the need for further research on β-sitosterol as a potent superfood in combating cancer.

Sterols in Inflammatory Diseases: Implications and Clinical Utility

The characteristic steroid skeleton, with its 4-ringed 17-carbon structure, is one of the most recognizable organic compounds in biochemistry. In the presence of a hydroxyl ion bound to the third carbon, this structure is defined as a "sterol" (chemical formula: C17H28O). The hydroxyl group provides a hydrophilic site for the otherwise hydrophobic molecule, yielding an amphipathic lipid, which is a vital property for cellular function. It is crucial to remark that the term "steroid" describes a larger group of compounds that often retain the hydroxyl group but are primarily characterized by methyl groups, double bonds in the rings, and an aliphatic side-chain extending from the 17th carbon. In addition to serving various structural roles in the cellular membrane, sterols and steroids contribute to cellular and systemic functions as messengers, hormones, and regulators of several critical metabolic pathways.Sterol nomenclature is often confusing, partly due to structural complexity and partly due to the sheer number of different compounds that fall under the definition. Fortunately, the foremost sterols of interest in biochemistry are much fewer, and therefore, these lipids have been defined and studied vigorously. With the renaissance of lipid research during the 1990s and 2000s, many different metabolites of sterols, and more specifically phytosterols, were found to be associated with various diseases and conditions, including cardiovascular disease, hypercholesterolemia, cancer, obesity, inflammation, diabetes, and inborn errors of metabolism; thus, it is evident that the ever-evolving research in this field has been, and will continue to be, exceedingly productive.With respect to inflammation and inflammatory diseases, plant-based sterols (i.e., phytosterols) have gained considerable fame due to their anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering effects demonstrated by experimental and clinical research. Besides, the exceptional pharmacological benefits of these sterols, which operate as antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-atherosclerotic agents, have been the subject of various investigations. While the underlying mechanisms necessitate further research, the possible function of phytosterols in improving health outcomes is an important topic to explore.In this regard, the current review aims to offer comprehensive information on the therapeutic potential of plant-based sterols in the context of human health, with a focus on preclinical effects, bioavailability, and clinical use.

Beta-Sitosterol Alters Collagen Distribution in Prostate Fibroblasts

Herbal supplements containing several types of plant sterols, vitamins, and minerals, are marketed for prostate health. In the majority of these supplements, the most abundant plant sterol is saw palmetto extract or its' principal component, beta-sitosterol. In terms of prostate health, previous work almost exclusively focused on the effects of beta-sitosterol on prostatic epithelium, with little attention paid to the effects on prostatic stroma. This omission is a concern, as the abnormal accumulation of collagen, or fibrosis, of the prostatic stroma has been identified as a factor contributing to lower urinary tract symptoms and dysfunction in aging men. To address whether beta-sitosterol may be promoting prostatic fibrosis, immortalized and primary prostate stromal fibroblasts were subjected to immunoblotting, immunofluorescence, qRT-PCR, ELISA, and image quantitation and analysis techniques to elucidate the effects of beta-sitosterol on cell viability and collagen expression and cellular localization. The results of these studies show that beta-sitosterol is nontoxic to prostatic fibroblasts and does not stimulate collagen production by these cells. However, beta-sitosterol alters collagen distribution and sequesters collagen within prostatic fibroblasts, likely in an age-dependent manner. This is a significant finding as prostate health supplements are used predominantly by middle aged and older men who may, then, be affected disproportionately by these effects.

β-Sitosterol as a Promising Anticancer Agent for Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy: Mechanisms of Action and Future Prospects

Cancer is one of the primary causes of death worldwide, and its incidence continues to increase yearly. Despite significant advances in research, the search for effective and nontoxic preventive and therapeutic agents remains greatly important. Cancer is a multimodal disease, where various mechanisms play significant roles in its occurrence and progression. This highlights the need for multitargeted approaches that are not only safe and inexpensive but also provide effective alternatives for current therapeutic regimens. β-Sitosterol (SIT), the most abundant phytosterol found in various plant foods, represents such an option. Preclinical evidence over the past few decades has overwhelmingly shown that SIT exhibits multiple anticancer activities against varied cancers, such as liver, cervical, colon, stomach, breast, lung, pancreatic, and prostate cancers, in addition to leukemia, multiple myeloma, melanoma, and fibrosarcoma. In this article, we present the latest advances and perspectives on SIT-systematically summarizing its antitumor mechanisms of action into 7 main sections and combining current challenges and prospects-for its use as a promising agent for cancer prevention and treatment. In particular, SIT plays a role in cancer prevention and treatment mainly by enhancing apoptosis, inducing cell cycle arrest, bidirectionally regulating oxidative stress, improving metabolic reprogramming, inhibiting invasion and metastasis, modulating immunity and inflammation, and combating drug resistance. Although SIT holds such great promise, the poor aqueous solubility and bioavailability coupled with low targeting efficacy limit its therapeutic efficacy and clinical application. Further research on novel drug delivery systems may improve these deficiencies. Overall, through complex and pleiotropic mechanisms, SIT has good potential for tumor chemoprevention and chemotherapy. However, no clinical trials have yet proven this potential. This review provides theoretical basis and rationality for the further design and conduct of clinical trials to confirm the anticancer activity of SIT.

The Lack of Standardization and Pharmacological Effect Limits the Potential Clinical Usefulness of Phytosterols in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

The prevalence of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) markedly increases with age. Phytotherapeutic approaches have been developed over time owing to the adverse side effects of conventional medications such as 5-reductase inhibitors and α1-adrenergic receptor antagonists. Therefore, dietary supplements (DS) containing active compounds that benefit BPH are widely available. Phytosterols (PSs) are well recognized for their role in maintaining blood cholesterol levels; however, their potential in BPH treatment remains unexplored. This review aims to provide a general overview of the available data regarding the clinical evidence and a good understanding of the detailed pharmacological roles of PSs-induced activities at a molecular level in BPH. Furthermore, we will explore the authenticity of PSs content in DS used by patients with BPH compared to the current legislation and appropriate analytical methods for tracking DS containing PSs. The results showed that PSs might be a useful pharmacological treatment option for men with mild to moderate BPH, but the lack of standardized extracts linked with the regulation of DS containing PSs and experimental evidence to elucidate the mechanisms of action limit the use of PSs in BPH. Moreover, the results suggest multiple research directions in this field.

The use of African medicinal plants in cancer management

Cancer is the third leading cause of premature death in sub-Saharan Africa. Cervical cancer has the highest number of incidences in sub-Saharan Africa due to high HIV prevalence (70% of global cases) in African countries which is linked to increasing the risk of developing cervical cancer, and the continuous high risk of being infected with Human papillomavirus In 2020, the risk of dying from cancer amongst women was higher in Eastern Africa (11%) than it was in Northern America (7.4%). Plants continue to provide unlimited pharmacological bioactive compounds that are used to manage various illnesses, including cancer. By reviewing the literature, we provide an inventory of African plants with reported anticancer activity and evidence supporting their use in cancer management. In this review, we report 23 plants that have been used for cancer management in Africa, where the anticancer extracts are usually prepared from barks, fruits, leaves, roots, and stems of these plants. Extensive information is reported about the bioactive compounds present in these plants as well as their potential activities against various forms of cancer. However, information on the anticancer properties of other African medicinal plants is insufficient. Therefore, there is a need to isolate and evaluate the anticancer potential of bioactive compounds from other African medicinal plants. Further studies on these plants will allow the elucidation of their anticancer mechanisms of action and allow the identification of phytochemicals that are responsible for their anticancer properties. Overall, this review provides consolidated and extensive information not only on diverse medicinal plants of Africa but on the different types of cancer that these plants are used to manage and the diverse mechanisms and pathways that are involved during cancer alleviation.

Assessing the Mechanism of Action of “Fructus Ligustri Lucidi-Cuscutae Semen” in Prostate Cancer Treatment Using Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking

Objective

To explore the mechanism of action of “Fructus Ligustri Lucidi-Cuscutae Semen” in the treatment of prostate cancer using network pharmacology and molecular docking.

Methods

The active ingredients and targets of “Fructus Ligustri Lucidi-Cuscutae Semen” were obtained by searching the TCMSP and DrugBank databases. These were matched and corrected using the UniProt platform. A drug “active ingredient-target” network map was constructed using Cytoscape 3.8.0. Prostate cancer-related targets were acquired from GeneCards, Disgenet, DrugBank, and other databases. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network between the drug and prostate cancer was constructed with BioGenet; the crossover network of the two targets was extracted derive the key targets of “Fructus Ligustri Lucidi-Cuscutae Semen” for prostate cancer treatment. We used the Metascape platform for GO and KEGG enrichment analysis of the key targets. AutoDockTools1.5.6 and PyMOL software were used to perform molecular docking.

Results

We obtained 13 active ingredients, 221 drug targets, 1511 prostate cancer targets (including 221 key targets), and 305 KEGG pathways from “Fructus Ligustri Lucidi-Cuscutae Semen.” Paclitaxel, quercetin, kaempferol, TP53, β-sitosterol, EGFR, and ESR1 in “Fructus Ligustri Lucidi-Cuscutae Semen” showed good docking activity.

Conclusion

“Fructus Ligustri Lucidi-Cuscutae Semen” is a valuable clinical guide for the treatment of prostate cancer with multicomponent, multitarget, and multipathway characteristics.

Cytotoxic Potential of the Marine Diatom Thalassiosira rotula: Insights into Bioactivity of 24-Methylene Cholesterol

Marine microalgae are receiving great interest as sustainable sources of bioactive metabolites for health, nutrition and personal care. In the present study, a bioassay-guided screening allowed identifying an enriched fraction from SPE separation of the methanolic extract of the marine diatom Thalassiosira rotula with a chemically heterogeneous composition of cytotoxic molecules, including PUFAs, the terpene phytol, the carotenoid fucoxanthin and the phytosterol 24-methylene cholesterol (24-MChol). In particular, this latter was the object of deep investigation aimed to gain insight into the mechanisms of action activated in two tumour cell models recognised as resistant to chemical treatments, the breast MCF7 and the lung A549 cell lines. The results of our studies revealed that 24-MChol, in line with the most studied β-sitosterol (β-SIT), showed cytotoxic activity in a 3–30 µM range of concentration involving the induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, although differences emerged between the two sterols and the two cancer systems when specific targets were investigated (caspase-3, caspase-9, FAS and TRAIL).

Permixon®, hexane-extracted Serenoa repens, inhibits human prostate and bladder smooth muscle contraction and exerts growth-related functions in human prostate stromal cells

AIMS

Recently, the European Association of Urology recommended hexane-extracted fruit of Serenoa repens (HESr) in their guidelines on management of non-neurogenic male lower urinary tracts symptoms (LUTS). Despite previously lacking recommendations, Permixon® is the most investigated HESr in clinical trials, where it proved effective for male LUTS. In contrast, underlying mechanisms were rarely addressed and are only marginally understood. We therefore investigated effects of Permixon® on human prostate and detrusor smooth muscle contraction and on growth-related functions in prostate stromal cells.

MAIN METHODS

Permixon® capsules were dissolved using n-hexane. Contractions of human prostate and detrusor tissues were induced in organ bath. Proliferation (EdU assay), growth (colony formation), apoptosis and cell death (flow cytometry), viability (CCK-8) and actin organization (phalloidin staining) were studied in cultured human prostate stromal cells (WPMY-1).

KEY FINDINGS

Permixon® inhibited α₁-adrenergic and thromboxane-induced contractions in prostate tissues, and methacholine-and thromboxane-induced contractions in detrusor tissues. Endothelin-1-induced contractions were not inhibited. Neurogenic contractions were inhibited in both tissues in a concentration-dependent manner. In WPMY-1 cells, Permixon® caused concentration-dependent breakdown of actin polymerization, inhibited colony formation, reduced cell viability, and proliferation, without showing cytotoxic or pro-apoptotic effects.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our results provide a novel basis that allows, for the first time, to fully explain the ubiquitous beneficial effects of HESr in clinical trials. HESr may inhibit at least neurogenic, α₁-adrenergic and thromboxane-induced smooth muscle contraction in the prostate and detrusor, and in parallel, prostate stromal cell growth. Together, this may explain symptom improvements by Permixon® in previous clinical trials.

Comparative Assessment of the Antioxidant and Anticancer Activities of Plicosepalus acacia and Plicosepalus curviflorus: Metabolomic Profiling and In Silico Studies

This study presents a comparison between two mistletoe plants—P. acacia and P. curviflorus—regarding their total phenolic contents and antioxidant and anticancer activities. P. curviflorus exhibited a higher total phenolics content (340.62 ± 19.46 mg GAE/g extract), and demonstrated higher DPPH free radical scavenging activity (IC₅₀ = 48.28 ± 3.41µg/mL), stronger reducing power (1.43 ± 0.54 mMol Fe⁺²/g) for ferric ions, and a greater total antioxidant capacity (41.89 ± 3.15 mg GAE/g) compared to P. acacia. The cytotoxic effects of P. acacia and P. curviflorus methanol extracts were examined on lung (A549), prostate (PC-3), ovarian (A2780) and breast (MDA-MB-231) cancer cells. The highest anticancer potential for the two extracts was observed on PC-3 prostate cancer cells, where P. curviflorus exhibited more pronounced antiproliferative activity (IC₅₀ = 25.83 μg/mL) than P. acacia (IC₅₀ = 34.12 μg/mL). In addition, both of the tested extracts arrested the cell cycle at the Pre-G1 and G1 phases, and induced apoptosis. However, P. curviflorus extract possessed the highest apoptotic effect, mediated by the upregulation of p53, Bax, and caspase-3, 8 and 9, and the downregulation of Bcl-2 expression. In the pursuit to link the chemical diversity of P. curviflorus with the exhibited bioactivities, its metabolomic profiling was achieved by the LC-ESI-TOF-MS/MS technique. This permitted the tentative identification of several phenolics—chiefly flavonoid derivatives, beside some triterpenes and sterols—in the P. curviflorus extract. Furthermore, all of the metabolites in P. curviflorus and P. acacia were inspected for their binding modes towards both CDK-2 and EGFR proteins using molecular docking studies in an attempt to understand the superiority of P. curviflorus over P. acacia regarding their antiproliferative effect on PC-3 cancer cells. Docking studies supported our experimental results; with all of this taken together, P. curviflorus could be regarded as a potential prospect for the development of chemotherapeutics for prostate cancer.

Antitumor Potential of Immunomodulatory Natural Products

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death globally. Anticancer drugs aim to block tumor growth by killing cancerous cells in order to prevent tumor progression and metastasis. Efficient anticancer drugs should also minimize general toxicity towards organs and healthy cells. Tumor growth can also be successfully restrained by targeting and modulating immune response. Cancer immunotherapy is assuming a growing relevance in the fight against cancer and has recently aroused much interest for its wider safety and the capability to complement conventional chemotherapeutic approaches. Natural products are a traditional source of molecules with relevant potential in the pharmacological field. The huge structural diversity of metabolites with low molecular weight (small molecules) from terrestrial and marine organisms has provided lead compounds for the discovery of many modern anticancer drugs. Many natural products combine chemo-protective and immunomodulant activity, thus offering the potential to be used alone or in association with conventional cancer therapy. In this review, we report the natural products known to possess antitumor properties by interaction with immune system, as well as discuss the possible immunomodulatory mechanisms of these molecules.

Characterization of the Biological Activity of the Ethanolic Extract from the Roots of Cannabis sativa L. Grown in Aeroponics

Cannabis sativa var. Kompolti, a variety routinely used for food production purposes, is characterized by a low concentration of psychoactive molecules, although containing many other biologically attractive metabolites in all parts of the plant, including the roots. In the present work, we evaluate the specific biological activities of the roots’ extract from plants cultivated through aeroponics, an affordable and reliable method facilitating the isolation and processing of roots, with the advantage of being suitable for industrial scale-up. Furthermore, aeroponics results in an increased net accumulation of the most biologically attractive constituents (β-sitosterol, friedelin and epi-friedelanol) found in the roots. The ethanolic extract of the aeroponic roots of C. sativa (APEX) and its separate components are studied to evaluate their anti-inflammatory (modulation of the expression level of specific markers upon LPS stimulation in U937 cells, such as IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, IkB-α, iNOS, IRAK-1 and miR-146a) and antioxidant (in either acellular or cellular settings) activities. The APEX anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacities are also functionally benchmarked using the wound-healing assay. On the whole, the data obtained show that APEX and its main components showed significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which may render the exploitation of roots as a source of natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents highly attractive, with the additional technical and economic advantages of aeroponics compared to soil cultivation.

Bioactive Compound Profiling of Olive Fruit: The Contribution of Genotype

The health, therapeutic, and organoleptic characteristics of olive oil depend on functional bioactive compounds, such as phenols, tocopherols, squalene, and sterols. Genotype plays a key role in the diversity and concentration of secondary compounds peculiar to olive. In this study, the most important bioactive compounds of olive fruit were studied in numerous international olive cultivars during two consecutive seasons. A large variability was measured for each studied metabolite in all 61 olive cultivars. Total phenol content varied on a scale of 1–10 (3831–39,252 mg kg−1) in the studied cultivars. Squalene values fluctuated over an even wider range (1–15), with values of 274 to 4351 mg kg−1. Total sterols ranged from 119 to 969 mg kg−1, and total tocopherols varied from 135 to 579 mg kg−1 in fruit pulp. In the present study, the linkage among the most important quality traits highlighted the scarcity of cultivars with high content of at least three traits together. This work provided sound information on the fruit metabolite profile of a wide range of cultivars, which will facilitate the studies on the genomic regulation of plant metabolites and development of new olive genotypes through genomics-assisted breeding.

Root Extract of a Micropropagated Prunus africana Medicinal Plant Induced Apoptosis in Human Prostate Cancer Cells (PC-3) via Caspase-3 Activation

Prostate cancer is one of the major causes of cancer-related deaths among men globally. Medicinal plants have been explored as alternative treatment options. Herein, we assessed the in vitro cytotoxic effects of 70% ethanolic root extracts of six-month-old micropropagated Prunus africana (PIR) on PC-3 prostate cancer cells as an alternative to the traditionally used P. africana stem-bark extract (PWS) treatment. In vitro assays on PC-3 cells included annexin-V and propidium iodide staining, DAPI staining, and caspase-3 activity analysis through western blotting. PC-3 cells were exposed to PWS and PIR at different concentrations, and dose-dependent antiprostate cancer effects were observed. PC-3 cell viability was determined using CCK-8 assay, which yielded IC50 values of 52.30 and 82.40 μg/mL for PWS and PIR, respectively. Annexin-V and PI staining showed dose-dependent apoptosis of PC-3 cells. Significant (p < 0.001) percent of DAPI-stained apoptotic PC-3 cells were observed in PWS, PIR, and doxorubicin treatment compared with the negative control. PWS treatment substantially elevated cleaved caspase-3 levels in PC-3 cells compared with the PIR treatment. These results provide evidence for the antiprostate cancer potential of PIR and sets a basis for further research to enhance future utilization of roots of young micropropagated P. africana for prostate cancer treatment as an alternative to stem bark. Moreover, micropropagation approach may help provide the required raw materials and hence reduce the demand for P. africana from endangered wild population.

Metabolities from Marine Sponges of the Genus Callyspongia: Occurrence, Biological Activity, and NMR Data

The genus Callyspongia (Callyspongiidae) encompasses a group of demosponges including 261 described species, of which approximately 180 have been accepted after taxonomic reviews. The marine organisms of Callyspongia are distributed in tropical ecosystems, especially in the central and western Pacific, but also in the regions of the Indian, the West Atlantic, and the East Pacific Oceans. The reason for the interest in the genus Callyspongia is related to its potential production of bioactive compounds. In this review, we group the chemical information about the metabolites isolated from the genus Callyspongia, as well as studies of the biological activity of these compounds. Through NMR data, 212 metabolites were identified from genus Callyspongia (15 species and Callyspongia sp.), belonging to classes such as polyacetylenes, terpenoids, steroids, alkaloids, polyketides, simple phenols, phenylpropanoids, nucleosides, cyclic peptides, and cyclic depsipeptides. A total of 109 molecules have been reported with bioactive activity, mainly cytotoxic and antimicrobial (antibacterial and antifungal) action. Thus, we conclude that polyacetylenes, terpenoids and steroids correspond to the largest classes of compounds of the genus, and that future research involving the anticancer action of the species' bioactive metabolites may become relevant.

Biological and pharmacological effects and nutritional impact of phytosterols: A comprehensive review

Phytosterols (PSs), classified into plant sterols and stanols, are bioactive compounds found in foods of plant origin. PSs have been proposed to exert a wide number of pharmacological properties, including the potential to reduce total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels and thereby decreasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Other health-promoting effects of PSs include anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. Also, anticancer effects have been strongly suggested, as phytosterol-rich diets may reduce the risk of cancer by 20%. The aim of this review is to provide a general overview of the available evidence regarding the beneficial physiological and pharmacological activities of PSs, with special emphasis on their therapeutic potential for human health and safety. Also, we will explore the factors that influence the physiologic response to PSs.

Yield, Characterization, and Possible Exploitation of Cannabis Sativa L. Roots Grown under Aeroponics Cultivation

Cannabis sativa L. has been used for a long time to obtain food, fiber, and as a medicinal and psychoactive plant. Today, the nutraceutical potential of C.sativa is being increasingly reappraised; however, C. sativa roots remain poorly studied, despite citations in the scientific literature. In this direction, we identified and quantified the presence of valuable bioactives (namely, β-sitosterol, stigmasterol, campesterol, friedelin, and epi-friedelanol) in the root extracts of C. sativa, a finding which might pave the way to the exploitation of the therapeutic potential of all parts of the C. sativa plant. To facilitate root harvesting and processing, aeroponic (AP) and aeroponic-elicited cultures (AEP) were established and compared to soil-cultivated plants (SP). Interestingly, considerably increased plant growth-particularly of the roots-and a significant increase (up to 20-fold in the case of β-sitosterol) in the total content of the aforementioned roots' bioactive molecules were observed in AP and AEP. In conclusion, aeroponics, an easy, standardized, contaminant-free cultivation technique, facilitates the harvesting/processing of roots along with a greater production of their secondary bioactive metabolites, which could be utilized in the formulation of health-promoting and health-care products.

Self-Assessed Benefits of a Prostate Health Formulation on Nocturia in Healthy Males With Mild Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: An Open Label Study

BACKGROUND

Nocturia is the most bothersome lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and can significantly reduce men's quality of life. It is often poorly managed with conventional treatments.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the self-assessed benefits of a prostate health dietary combination formulation on mild LUTS, especially nocturia in healthy males.

METHODS

In an open label clinical study, thirty healthy male subjects with mild LUTS took one daily capsule of the product for 60 days. The primary outcome was self-assessed severity of LUTS using the International Prostate Symptoms Score (IPSS) questionnaire at Day 1 (baseline), Day 30 and Day 60. Safety and compliance were also evaluated.

RESULTS

At Day 60, IPSS significantly decreased from baseline by 16.3% (3.6 ± 2.1 vs. 4.3 ± 1.5, p < 0.05). Although the reduction in IPSS did not reach statistical significance at Day 30, it was mostly driven by a 30.7% decrease (p < 0.05) in the nocturia sub-score compared with baseline. While 37% of subjects reported at baseline waking up 2‒3 times/night to void, none did so after taking the study product for 60 days. Compliance was very high throughout the study. No adverse events related to the study product were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

The study product might be a safe alternative for individuals willing to explore a non-conventional approach to manage their nocturia. A larger randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial is warranted to confirm these results. Clinical trial registry: Clinical Trials.gov. Registration number (September 1st, 2016): NCT02886832.

Deciphering Fatty Acid Synthase Inhibition-Triggered Metabolic Flexibility in Prostate Cancer Cells through Untargeted Metabolomics

Fatty acid synthase (FAS) is a key enzyme involved in de novo lipogenesis that produces lipids that are necessary for cell growth and signal transduction, and it is known to be overexpressed, especially in cancer cells. Although lipid metabolism alteration is an important metabolic phenotype in cancer cells, the development of drugs targeting FAS to block lipid synthesis is hampered by the characteristics of cancer cells with metabolic flexibility leading to rapid adaptation and resistance. Therefore, to confirm the metabolic alterations at the cellular level during FAS inhibition, we treated LNCaP-LN3 prostate cancer cells with FAS inhibitors (Fasnall, GSK2194069, and TVB-3166). With untargeted metabolomics, we observed significant changes in a total of 56 metabolites in the drug-treated groups. Among the altered metabolites, 28 metabolites were significantly changed in all of the drug-treated groups. To our surprise, despite the inhibition of FAS, which is involved in palmitate production, the cells increase their fatty acids and glycerophospholipids contents endogenously. Also, some of the notable changes in the metabolic pathways include polyamine metabolism and energy metabolism. This is the first study to compare and elucidate the effect of FAS inhibition on cellular metabolic flexibility using three different FAS inhibitors through metabolomics. We believe that our results may provide key data for the development of future FAS-targeting drugs.

Assessments of in vitro and in vivo antineoplastic potentials of β-sitosterol-loaded PEGylated niosomes against hepatocellular carcinoma

β-sitosterol (BS), a phytosterol, exhibits ameliorative effects on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) due to its antioxidant activities. However, its poor aqueous solubility and negotiated bioavailability and short elimination half-life is a huge limitation for its therapeutic applications. To overcome these two shortcomings, BS-loaded niosomes were made to via, film hydration method and process parameters were optimized using a three-factor Box-Behnken design. The optimized formulation (BSF) was further surface-modified with polyethylene glycol (PEG). The resulting niosomes (BSMF) have spherical shapes, particle sizes, 219.6 ± 1.98 nm with polydispersity index (PDI) and zeta potential of 0.078 ± 0.04 and -19.54 ± 0.19 mV, respectively. The drug loading, entrapment efficiency, and drug release at 24 h of the BSMF were found to be 16.72 ± 0.09%, 78.04 ± 0.92%, and 75.10 ± 3.06%, respectively. Moreover, BSMF showed significantly greater cytotoxic potentials on Hep G2 cells with an enhanced cellular uptake relative to pure BS and BSF. The BSMF also displayed potentially improved curative property of HCC in albino wistar rat. Thus, the BSMF could be one of the promising therapeutic modalities for HCC treatment in terms of targeting potential resulting in enhanced therapeutic efficacy.

Elucidation of the Chemopreventive Role of Stigmasterol Against Jab1 in Gall Bladder Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Plant sterols have proven a potent anti-proliferative and apoptosis inducing agent against several carcinomas including breast and prostate cancers. Jab1 has been reported to be involved in the progression of numerous carcinomas. However, antiproliferative effects of sterols against Jab1 in gall bladder cancer have not been explored yet.

OBJECTIVE

In the current study, we elucidated the mechanism of action of stigmasterol regarding apoptosis induction mediated via downregulation of Jab1 protein in human gall bladder cancer cells.

METHODS

In our study, we performed MTT and Trypan blue assay to assess the effect of stigmasterol on cell proliferation. In addition, RT-PCR and western blotting were performed to identify the effect of stigmasterol on Jab1 and p27 expression in human gall bladder cancer cells. We further performed cell cycle, Caspase-3, Hoechst and FITC-Annexin V analysis, to confirm the apoptosis induction in stigmasterol treated human gall bladder cancer cells.

RESULTS

Our results clearly indicated that stigmasterol has up-regulated the p27 expression and down-regulated Jab1 gene. These modulations of genes might occur via mitochondrial apoptosis signaling pathway. Caspase-3 gets activated with the apoptotic induction. Increase in apoptotic cells and DNA were confirmed through annexin V staining, Hoechst staining, and cell cycle analysis.

CONCLUSION

Thus, these results strongly suggest that stigmasterol has the potential to be considered as an anticancerous therapeutic agent against Jab1 in gall bladder cancer.

Phytosterols in Cancer: From Molecular Mechanisms to Preventive and Therapeutic Potentials

Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Compelling evidence supports the hypothesis that the manipulation of dietary components, including plant compounds termed as phytochemicals, demonstrates certain important health benefits in humans, including those in cancer. In fact, beyond their well-known cardiovascular applications, phytosterols may also possess anticancer properties, as has been demonstrated by several studies. Although the mechanism of action by which phytosterols (and derivatives) may prevent cancer development is still under investigation, data from multiple experimental studies support the hypothesis that they may modulate proliferation and apoptosis of tumor cells. Phytosterols are generally considered safe for human consumption and may also be added to a broad spectrum of food matrices; further, they could be used in primary and secondary prevention. However, few interventional studies have evaluated the relationship between the efficacy of different types and forms of phytosterols in cancer prevention. In this context, the purpose of this review was to revisit and update the current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms involved in the anticancer action of phytosterols and their potential in cancer prevention or treatment.

Use of saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) extract for benign prostatic hyperplasia

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a noncancerous growth of the prostate. BPH commonly occurs in elderly men. Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to BPH (LUTS/BPH) have significant impacts on their health. Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) extract (SPE) has been evaluated for its effectiveness in improvement of LUTS/BPH at preclinical and clinical levels. Potential mechanisms of actions include anti-androgenic, pro-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory effects. However, SPE efficacy was inconsistent, at least partly due to a lack of a standardized SPE formula. A hexane extract (free fatty acids, > 80%) provided more consistent results. Free fatty acids (lauric acid) were effective in inhibition of 5α-reductase, and phytosterol (β-sitosterol) reduced prostatic inflammation. Multiple actions derived from different constituents may contribute to SPE efficacy. Evaluation of the clinical relevance of these bioactive components is required for standardization of SPE, thereby enabling consistent efficacy and recommendations for the use in the prevention and treatment of BPH.

A phytosterol-enriched saw palmetto supercritical CO2 extract ameliorates testosterone-induced benign prostatic hyperplasia by regulating the inflammatory and apoptotic proteins in a rat model

BACKGROUND

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a pathological condition affecting older men. BPH complications often lead to deterioration in the quality of life. Serenoa repens (Saw Palmetto) is used for treating lower urinary tract infections in traditional medicine.

METHODS

This study was performed to compare the efficacy of β-sitosterol enriched saw palmetto oil (VISPO) and conventional saw palmetto oil (SPO) extracted using supercritical fluid extraction, in alleviating the BPH complications using testosterone-induced BPH model rats. The animals received testosterone (5 mg/kg s.c.) with or without SPO and VISPO (200 and 400 mg/kg b.w.) or Finasteride (1 mg/kg b.w.) p.o. for 28 days. At the end of the experiment, overnight fasted animals were euthanized, blood samples collected for serum analysis of testosterone. Prostate tissue histomorphology was examined by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Western blot analysis was performed using prostate tissue homogenates.

RESULTS

VISPO exhibited superior efficacy compared to SPO as evident from the significant decrease in prostate weight to body weight ratio, serum testosterone level and increase in growth inhibition of prostate tissue compared to BPH group (p < 0.001). Histological examination of prostate tissue samples showed that VISPO treatment was comparatively better than SPO in improving the hyperplastic patterns. Further, VISPO significantly regulated the expression of inflammatory and apoptotic marker proteins in BPH rats.

CONCLUSION

Our data provide experimental evidence that β-sitosterol enriched saw palmetto oil could be higher efficacious in treating the BPH complications compared to the conventional saw palmetto oil preparations.

Effects of β-Sitosterol from Corn Silk on TGF-β1-Induced Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Lung Alveolar Epithelial Cells

Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic lung disease characterized by abnormal accumulation of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Chronic damage of the alveolar epithelium leads to a process called "epithelial-mesenchymal transition" (EMT) and increases synthesis and deposition of ECM proteins. Therefore, inhibition of EMT might be a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis. β-Sitosterol is one of the most abundant phytosterols in the plant kingdom and the major constituent in corn silk, which is derived from the stigma and style of maize (Zea mays). In this study, we elucidated that β-sitosterol inhibited transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-induced EMT and consequently had an antifibrotic effect. β-Sitosterol (1-10 μg/mL) significantly downregulated the TGF-β1-induced fibrotic proteins, such as collagen, fibronectin, and α-smooth muscle actin in human alveolar epithelial cells (p < 0.01). After 24 h, relative wound density (RWD) was increased in TGF-β1 treated group (82.16 ± 5.70) compare to the control group (64.63 ± 2.21), but RWD was decreased in β-sitosterol cotreated group (10 μg/mL: 71.54 ± 7.39; 20 μg/mL: 65.69 ± 6.42). In addition, the changes of the TGF-β1-induced morphological shape and protein expression of EMT markers, N-cadherin, vimentin, and E-cadherin, were significantly blocked by β-sitosterol treatment (p < 0.01). The effects of β-sitosterol on EMT were found to be associated with the TGF-β1/Snail pathway, which is regulated by Smad and non-Smad signaling pathways. Taken together, these findings suggest that β-sitosterol can be used to attenuate pulmonary fibrosis through suppression of EMT by inhibiting the TGF-β1/Snail pathway.

The Protective Effect of Dietary Phytosterols on Cancer Risk: A Systematic Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUNDS/AIMS

Many studies have explored the association between dietary phytosterols and cancer risk, but the results have been inconsistent. We aimed to provide a synopsis of the current understanding of phytosterol intake for cancer risk through a systematic evaluation of the results from previous studies.

METHODS

We performed a literature search of PUBMED, EMBASE, CNKI, and Wanfang, and studies published before May 2019 focusing on dietary total phytosterols, β-sitosterol, campesterol, stigmasterol, β-sitostanol, and campestanol, as well as their relationships with cancer risk, were included in this meta-analysis. Summaries of the relative risks from 11 case-control and case-cohort studies were eventually estimated by randomized or fixed effects models.

RESULTS

The summary relative risk for the highest versus the lowest intake was 0.63 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.49-0.81) for total phytosterols, 0.74 (95% CI = 0.54-1.02) for β-sitosterol, 0.72 (95% CI = 0.51-1.00) for campesterol, 0.83 (95% CI = 0.60-1.16) for stigmasterol, 1.12 (95% CI = 0.96-1.32) for β-sitostanol, and 0.77 (95% CI = 0.65-0.90) for campestanol. In a dose-response analysis, the results suggested a linear association for campesterol and a nonlinear association for total phytosterol intake.

CONCLUSION

Our findings support the hypothesis that high phytosterol intake is inversely related to risk of cancer. Further studies with prospective designs that control for vital confounders and investigate the important anticancer effects of dietary phytosterols are warranted.

Phytosterols and Triterpenoids for Prevention and Treatment of Metabolic-related Liver Diseases and Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Background:

Liver ailments are among the leading causes of death; they originate from viral infections, chronic alcoholism, and autoimmune illnesses, which may chronically be precursors of cirrhosis; furthermore, metabolic syndrome may worsen those hepatopathies or cause Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) that may advance to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Cirrhosis is the late-stage liver disease and can proceed to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Pharmacological treatment options for liver diseases, cirrhosis, and HCC, are limited, expensive, and not wholly effective. The use of medicinal herbs and functional foods is growing around the world as natural resources of bioactive compounds that would set the basis for the development of new drugs.

Review and Conclusion:

Plant and food-derived sterols and triterpenoids (TTP) possess antioxidant, metabolic-regulating, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory activities, as well as they are recognized as anticancer agents, suggesting their application strongly as an alternative therapy in some chronic diseases. Thus, it is interesting to review current reports about them as hepatoprotective agents, but also because they structurally resemble cholesterol, sexual hormones, corticosteroids and bile acids due to the presence of the steroid nucleus, so they all can share pharmacological properties through activating nuclear and membrane receptors. Therefore, sterols and TTP appear as a feasible option for the prevention and treatment of chronic metabolic-related liver diseases, cirrhosis, and HCC.

Inhibition of mitochondrial respiration prevents BRAF-mutant melanoma brain metastasis

Melanoma patients carry a high risk of developing brain metastases, and improvements in survival are still measured in weeks or months. Durable disease control within the brain is impeded by poor drug penetration across the blood-brain barrier, as well as intrinsic and acquired drug resistance. Augmented mitochondrial respiration is a key resistance mechanism in BRAF-mutant melanomas but, as we show in this study, this dependence on mitochondrial respiration may also be exploited therapeutically. We first used high-throughput pharmacogenomic profiling to identify potentially repurposable compounds against BRAF-mutant melanoma brain metastases. One of the compounds identified was β-sitosterol, a well-tolerated and brain-penetrable phytosterol. Here we show that β-sitosterol attenuates melanoma cell growth in vitro and also inhibits brain metastasis formation in vivo. Functional analyses indicated that the therapeutic potential of β-sitosterol was linked to mitochondrial interference. Mechanistically, β-sitosterol effectively reduced mitochondrial respiratory capacity, mediated by an inhibition of mitochondrial complex I. The net result of this action was increased oxidative stress that led to apoptosis. This effect was only seen in tumor cells, and not in normal cells. Large-scale analyses of human melanoma brain metastases indicated a significant role of mitochondrial complex I compared to brain metastases from other cancers. Finally, we observed completely abrogated BRAF inhibitor resistance when vemurafenib was combined with either β-sitosterol or a functional knockdown of mitochondrial complex I. In conclusion, based on its favorable tolerability, excellent brain bioavailability, and capacity to inhibit mitochondrial respiration, β-sitosterol represents a promising adjuvant to BRAF inhibitor therapy in patients with, or at risk for, melanoma brain metastases.

Bioassay-guided isolation of cytotoxic compounds from Chrysophthalmum montanum (DC.) Boiss

Bioassay-guided isolation of the 80% methanol extract of the aerial parts of Chrysophthalmum montanum (DC.) Boiss. (Asteraceae) led to the isolation of four known guaianolide-type sesquiterpene lactones, 6α-acetoxy-4α-hydroxy-1βH-guaia-9.11(13)-dien-12.8α-olide (1), 6α-acetoxy-4α-hydroxy-9β.10β-epoxy-1βH-guaia-11(13)-en-12.8α-olide (2), 4α,6α-dihydroxy-1β,5α,7αH-guaia-9(10),11(13)-dien-12,8α-olide (3), and (4α,5α,8β,10β)-4,10-dihydroxy-1,11(13)-guaidien-12,8-olide (4), along a steroidal glycoside mixture (5a and 5b). The structures of the compounds were identified on the basis of spectroscopic data. Among them, 2, 4 and a steroidal glycoside mixture were obtained from C. montanum for the first time. All isolates were also first time assayed for in vitro cytotoxicities against four human cancer cell lines, i.e. breast (MCF-7, MDA-MB 231), colon (HT-29), and lung (PC3). Among the isolates, 1-3 showed significant inhibitory effect on the proliferation of cancer cells with viability ranging from 6.86 to 26.51%, while steroidal glycoside mixture showed no cytotoxicity, except against HT-29 (viability 61.99%). Compound 4 exhibited strong and selective cell growth inhibition against HT-29 with viability 20.99% and was identified as a promising compound with high selectivity between cancer cells and normal human lung cells (BEAS-2B), especially against HT-29 (IC₅₀ = 12.2 μg/mL) compared to that of cisplatin. These results suggested that 4 is worthy of further study to determine its cytotoxicity mechanisms.

Evaluation of β-Sitosterol Loaded PLGA and PEG-PLA Nanoparticles for Effective Treatment of Breast Cancer: Preparation, Physicochemical Characterization, and Antitumor Activity

β-Sitosterol (β-Sit) is a dietary phytosterol with demonstrated anticancer activity against a panel of cancers, but its poor solubility in water limits its bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. In this study, poly(lactide-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and block copolymers of poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(lactic acid) (PEG-PLA) were used to encapsulate β-Sit into nanoparticles with the aim of enhancing its in vitro anticancer activity. β-Sitosterol-loaded PLGA and PEG-PLA nanoparticles (β-Sit-PLGA and β-Sit-PEG-PLA) were prepared by using a simple emulsion-solvent evaporation technique. The nanoparticles were characterized for size, particle size distribution, surface charge, and encapsulation efficiency. Their cellular uptake and antiproliferative activity was evaluated against MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells using flow cytometry and MTT assays, respectively. β-Sit-PLGA and β-Sit-PEG-PLA nanoparticles were spherical in shape with average particle sizes of 215.0 ± 29.7 and 240.6 ± 23.3 nm, a zeta potential of -13.8 ± 1.61 and -23.5 ± 0.27 mV, respectively, and with narrow size distribution. The encapsulation efficiency of β-Sit was 62.89 ± 4.66 and 51.83 ± 19.72 % in PLGA and PEG-PLA nanoparticles, respectively. In vitro release in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and PBS/with 0.2% Tween 20 showed an initial burst release, followed by a sustained release for 408 h. β-Sit-PLGA nanoparticles were generally stable in a protein-rich medium, whereas β-Sit-PEG-PLA nanoparticles showed a tendency to aggregate. Flow cytometry analysis (FACS) indicated that β-Sit-PLGA nanoparticles were efficiently taken up by the cells in contrast to β-Sit-PEG-PLA nanoparticles. β-Sit-PLGA nanoparticles were therefore selected to evaluate antiproliferative activity. Cell viability was inhibited by up to 80% in a concentration range of 6.64⁻53.08 μg/mL compared to the untreated cells. Taken together, encapsulation of β-Sitosterol in PLGA nanoparticles is a promising strategy to enhance its anticancer activity against breast cancer cells.

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.): A Prospective Legume Crop to Offer Multiple Health Benefits Under Changing Climate

Peanut is a multipurpose oil-seed legume, which offer benefits in many ways. Apart from the peanut plant's beneficial effects on soil quality, peanut seeds are nutritious and medicinally and economically important. In this review, insights into peanut origin and its domestication are provided. Peanut is rich in bioactive components, including phenolics, flavonoids, polyphenols, and resveratrol. In addition, the involvement of peanut in biological nitrogen fixation is highly significant. Recent reports regarding peanut responses and N₂ fixation ability in response to abiotic stresses, including drought, salinity, heat stress, and iron deficiency on calcareous soils, have been incorporated. As a biotechnological note, recent advances in the development of transgenic peanut plants are also highlighted. In this context, regulation of transcriptional factors and gene transfer for the development of stress-tolerant peanut genotypes are of prime importance. Above all, this review signifies the importance of peanut cultivation and human consumption in view of the scenario of changing world climate in order to maintain food security.

Exploring the biophysical properties of phytosterols in the plasma membrane for novel cancer prevention strategies

Cancer is a global problem with no sign that incidences are reducing. The great costs associated with curing cancer, through developing novel treatments and applying patented therapies, is an increasing burden to developed and developing nations alike. These financial and societal problems will be alleviated by research efforts into prevention, or treatments that utilise off-patent or repurposed agents. Phytosterols are natural components of the diet found in an array of seeds, nuts and vegetables and have been added to several consumer food products for the management of cardio-vascular disease through their ability to lower LDL-cholesterol levels. In this review, we provide a connected view between the fields of structural biophysics and cellular and molecular biology to evaluate the growing evidence that phytosterols impair oncogenic pathways in a range of cancer types. The current state of understanding of how phytosterols alter the biophysical properties of plasma membrane is described, and the potential for phytosterols to be repurposed from cardio-vascular to oncology therapeutics. Through an overview of the types of biophysical and molecular biology experiments that have been performed to date, this review informs the reader of the molecular and biophysical mechanisms through which phytosterols could have anti-cancer properties via their interactions with the plasma cell membrane. We also outline emerging and under-explored areas such as computational modelling, improved biomimetic membranes and ex vivo tissue evaluation. Focus of future research in these areas should improve understanding, not just of phytosterols in cancer cell biology but also to give insights into the interaction between the plasma membrane and the genome. These fields are increasingly providing meaningful biological and clinical data but iterative experiments between molecular biology assays, biosynthetic membrane studies and computational membrane modelling improve and refine our understanding of the role of different sterol components of the plasma membrane.

Red Ginseng Oil Inhibits TPA-Induced Transformation of Skin Epidermal JB6 Cells

Red ginseng oil (RGO) has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective activity. In this study, we evaluated the inhibitory effect of RGO on 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-stimulated neoplastic transformation of JB6 P+ cells. RGO pretreatment abolished the transformation of JB6 P+ cells challenged by TPA. RGO suppressed the transactivation of activator protein-1 (AP-1) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) transcription factors as well as protein levels of cyclooxygenase-2, cyclin D1, cyclin E, and Bcl-2 in the TPA-treated cells. Additionally, TPA-induced phosphorylations of extracellular signal-regulated kinases, 90 kDa ribosomal S6 kinase 2, c-Jun N-terminal kinases, and glycogen synthase kinase 3β were downregulated in the presence of RGO. Furthermore, RGO induced the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-mediated antioxidant enzyme heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression, and effectively blocked the overproduction of TPA-induced reactive oxygen species. These results suggest that RGO exerts a potent chemopreventive activity in skin cell model.

Efficient synthesis of novel β-sitosterol scaffolds containing 1,2,3-triazole via copper(I)-catalyzed click reaction under microwave irradiation

In this work, new derivatives of the β-sitosterol scaffolds containing 1,2,3-triazole are prepared by the reaction of β-sitosterol with aromatic alkynes via copper(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition reactions under microwave irradiation. The reaction has several advantages including high yields, short reaction times, and a simple work-up procedure.

Chemopreventive Potential of Ethanolic Extracts of Luobuma Leaves (Apocynum venetum L.) in Androgen Insensitive Prostate Cancer

Luobuma (Apocynum venetum L. (AVL)) is a popular beverage in Asia and has been reportedly to be associated with the bioactivities such as cardiotonic, diuretic, antioxidative, and antihypertensive. However, its biofunction as chemoprevention activity is seldom addressed. Herein, we aimed to characterize the anti-androgen-insensitive-prostate-cancer (anti-AIPC) bioactive compounds of Luobuma, and to investigate the associated molecular mechanisms. Activity-guided-fractionation (antioxidative activity and cell survivability) of Luobuma ethanolic extracts was performed to isolate and characterize the major bioactive compounds using Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC), Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS), and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR). Plant sterols (lupeol, stigamasterol and β-sitosterol) and polyphenolics (isorhamnetin, kaempferol, and quercetin) were identified. Lupeol, a triterpene found in the fraction (F8) eluted by 10% ethyl acetate/90% hexane and accounted for 19.3% (w/w) of F8, inhibited the proliferation of PC3 cells. Both lupeol and F8 induced G2/M arrest, inhibition of β-catenin signaling, regulation of apoptotic signal molecules (cytochrome c, Bcl-2, P53, and caspase 3 and 8), and suppression DNA repair enzyme expression (Uracil-DNA glycosylase (UNG)). To our knowledge, our study is the first report that lupeol inhibited the expression of UNG to elicit the cytotoxicity against androgen-insensitive-prostate-cancer cells. Collectively, Luobuma, which contains several antitumor bioactive compounds, holds the potential to be a dietary chemopreventive agent for prostate cancer.

Improving In Vivo Efficacy of Bioactive Molecules: An Overview of Potentially Antitumor Phytochemicals and Currently Available Lipid-Based Delivery Systems

Cancer is among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Many of the chemotherapeutic agents used in cancer treatment exhibit cell toxicity and display teratogenic effect on nontumor cells. Therefore, the search for alternative compounds which are effective against tumor cells but reduce toxicity against nontumor ones is of great importance in the progress or development of cancer treatments. In this sense, scientific knowledge about relevant aspects of nutrition intimately involved in the development and progression of cancer progresses rapidly. Phytochemicals, considered as bioactive ingredients present in plant products, have shown promising effects as potential therapeutic/preventive agents on cancer in several in vitro and in vivo assays. However, despite their bioactive properties, phytochemicals are still not commonly used in clinical practice due to several reasons, mainly attributed to their poor bioavailability. In this sense, new formulation strategies are proposed as carriers to improve their bioefficacy, highlighting the use of lipid-based delivery systems. Here, we review the potential antitumoral activity of the bioactive compounds derived from plants and the current studies carried out in animal and human models. Furthermore, their association with lipids as a formulation strategy to enhance their efficacy in vivo is also reported. The development of high effective bioactive supplements for cancer treatment based on the improvement of their bioavailability goes through this association.

Clinacanthus Nutans Hexane Extracts Induce Apoptosis Through a Caspase-Dependent Pathway in Human Cancer Cell Lines

Background:

Clinacanthus nutans (C.nutans) is a plant consumed as a cancer treatment in tropical Asia. Despite the availability of numerous anecdotal reports, evaluation of active anticancer effects has remained elusive. Therefore we here examined antiproliferative, reactive oxygen species (ROS)-inducing and apoptosis mechanisms of whole plant extracts in different cancer cell lines.

Methods:

Antiproliferative actions of five solvent extracts (hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, methanol and water) of C.nutans were tested on non-small cell lung cancer (A549), nasopharygeal cancer (CNE1) and liver cancer (HepG2) cells using MTT assay. The most potent anticancer extract was then assessed by flow cytometry to study cell cycle changes. Intracellular levels of ROS were quantified by DCFH-DA assay. Involvement of the caspase pathway in induction of apoptosis was assessed using caspase assay kits. GC-MS analysis was performed to identify phytoconstituents in the extracts.

Results:

Hexane and chloroform extracts were antiproliferative against all three cell lines, while the ethyl acetate extract, at 300 µg/mL, was antiproliferative in the CNE1 but not A549 and HepG2 cases. Methanol and water extracts did not inhibit cancer cell proliferation. The most potent anticancer hexane extract was selected for further testing. It induced apoptosis in all three cell lines as shown by an increase in the percentage of cell in sub-G1 phase. Dose-dependent increase in ROS levels in all three cell lines indicated apoptosis to be possibly modulated by oxidative stress. At high concentrations (>100 µg/mL), hexane extracts upregulated caspases 8, 9 and 3/7 across all three cell lines. GC-MS analysis of the hexane extract revealed abundance of 31 compounds.

Conclusion:

Among the five extracts of C.nutans, that with hexane extract demonstrated the highest antiproliferative activity against all three cancer cell lines tested. Action appeared to be via ion of intracellular ROS, and induction of apoptosis via intrinsic and extrinsic caspase pathways.

A Review of the Potential of Phytochemicals from Prunus africana (Hook f.) Kalkman Stem Bark for Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer remains one of the major causes of death worldwide. In view of the limited treatment options for patients with prostate cancer, preventive and treatment approaches based on natural compounds can play an integral role in tackling this disease. Recent evidence supports the beneficial effects of plant-derived phytochemicals as chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agents for various cancers, including prostate cancer. Prunus africana has been used for generations in African traditional medicine to treat prostate cancer. This review examined the potential roles of the phytochemicals from P. africana, an endangered, sub-Saharan Africa plant in the chemoprevention and chemotherapy of prostate cancer. In vitro and in vivo studies have provided strong pharmacological evidence for antiprostate cancer activities of P. africana-derived phytochemicals. Through synergistic interactions between different effective phytochemicals, P. africana extracts have been shown to exhibit very strong antiandrogenic and antiangiogenic activities and have the ability to kill tumor cells via apoptotic pathways, prevent the proliferation of prostate cancer cells, and alter the signaling pathways required for the maintenance of prostate cancer cells. However, further preclinical and clinical studies ought to be done to advance and eventually use these promising phytochemicals for the prevention and chemotherapy of human prostate cancer.

Raphanus sativus Sprout Causes Selective Cytotoxic Effect on p53-Deficient Human Lung Cancer Cells in vitro

Raphanus sativus L. (Brassicaceae) is widely consumed in many different forms worldwide. Its sprouts, in particular, are commonly consumed as a health food. R. sativus sprout has recently been shown to have anti-tumor activity on human colon cancer cells, suggesting that it may have potential use in cancer prevention and treatment. The extent of this anti-tumor activity and its underlying mechanisms, however, remain to be investigated in other types of cancer cells. In this study, we showed that the MeOH extract from R. sativus sprout exhibits significant but variable cytotoxic effects on human lung adenocarcinoma cells depending on their p53 status. The MeOH extract decreased the viability of p53-deleted human lung cancer cells (H1299 and Calu-6) by inducing apoptosis; this effect, however, did not occur for wild-type p53 cancer cells (A549), for cells expressing a p53 mutant lacking the C terminus (H1264), or for non-tumor fibroblast cells (NIH3T3). Phytochemical analyses of the MeOH extract allowed us to identify and isolate β-sitosterol as a major component of the MeOH extract. Direct treatment with β-sitosterol significantly reduced the viability of Calu-6 cells, suggesting that it may, in part, contribute to R. sativus sprout's anti-tumor activity. This work provides experimental evidence for a novel biological application of R. sativus sprout in treating human lung cancer, and it identifies the main component involved in this effect, further supporting its potential use as a functional food for cancer management.

Critical Analysis on Characterization, Systemic Effect, and Therapeutic Potential of Beta-Sitosterol: A Plant-Derived Orphan Phytosterol

Beta-sitosterol (BS) is a phytosterol, widely distributed throughout the plant kingdom and known to be involved in the stabilization of cell membranes. To compile the sources, physical and chemical properties, spectral and chromatographic analytical methods, synthesis, systemic effects, pharmacokinetics, therapeutic potentials, toxicity, drug delivery and finally, to suggest future research with BS, classical as well as on-line literature were studied. Classical literature includes classical books on ethnomedicine and phytochemistry, and the electronic search included Pubmed, SciFinder, Scopus, the Web of Science, Google Scholar, and others. BS could be obtained from different plants, but the total biosynthetic pathway, as well as its exact physiological and structural function in plants, have not been fully understood. Different pharmacological effects have been studied, but most of the mechanisms of action have not been studied in detail. Clinical trials with BS have shown beneficial effects in different diseases, but long-term study results are not available. These have contributed to its current status as an "orphan phytosterol". Therefore, extensive research regarding its effect at cellular and molecular level in humans as well as addressing the claims made by commercial manufacturers such as the cholesterol lowering ability, immunological activity etc. are highly recommended.

Isolation, biological evaluation and validated HPTLC-quantification of the marker constituent of the edible Saudi plant Sisymbrium irio L

Phytochemical investigation and chromatographic purification of the n-hexane fraction of the aerial parts of the edible Saudi plant Sisymbrium irio led to the isolation of β-sitosterol (1), stigmasterol (2) and β-sitosterol-β-d-glucoside (3). The cytotoxic effects of the n-hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate and n-butanol fractions were tested against three cancer cell lines viz., MCF-7, HCT-116 and HepG2, using the crystal violet staining (CVS) method, while the antibacterial activity against a number of pathogenic bacterial strains, was also estimated using the broth microdilution assay. The n-hexane fraction showed potent cytotoxic activities against all tested human cancer cell lines (IC₅₀: 11.7–13.4 μg/mL), while the dichloromethane fraction was particularly potent against HCT-116 cells (IC₅₀: 5.42 μg/mL). On the other hand, the n-hexane and EtOAc fractions demonstrated significant inhibitory activities against the Gram positive bacteria S. pyogenes and C. perfringens; and the Gram negative bacterium S. enteritidis. Our results warrant the therapeutic potential of S. irio as nutritional supplement to reduce the risk of contemporary diseases. Additionally, a validated high performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) method was developed for the quantitative analysis of biomarker β-sitosterol glucoside (isolated in high quantity) from the n-hexane fraction. The system was found to furnish a compact, sharp, symmetrical and high resolution band for β-sitosterol glucoside (R_f = 0.43 ± 0.002). The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) for β-sitosterol glucoside was found to be 21.84 and 66.18 ng band⁻¹, respectively. β-sitosterol glucoside was found to be present only in n-hexane fraction (2.10 μg/mg of dried fraction) while it was absent in the other fractions of S. irio which validated the high cytotoxic and antibacterial activity of n-hexane fraction of S. irio.