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Srinivasan MK, Premnath BJ, Parimelazhagan R, Namasivayam N. Synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of the anticancer properties of pH-responsive carvacrol-zinc oxide quantum dots on breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231). Cell Biochem Funct 2024; 42:e4062. [PMID: 38807490 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.4062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Since most solid tumors have a low pH value, a pH-responsive drug delivery system may offer a broad method for tumor-targeting treatment. The present study is used to analyze the anticancer activity of carvacrol-zinc oxide quantum dots (CVC-ZnO QDs) against breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231). CVC-ZnO QDs demonstrate pH responsive and are specifically released within the acidic pH tumor microenvironment. This property enables targeted drug delivery exclusively to cancer cells while minimizing the impact on normal cells. To the synthesized ZnO QDs, the CVC was loaded and then examined by X-ray diffraction, ultraviolet-visible, Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer, scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray, and transmission electron microscopy. For up to 20 h, CVC release was examined in different pH-buffered solutions. The results showed that carvacrol release was stable in an acidic pH solution. Further, cytotoxicity assay, antioxidant, and lipid peroxidation activity, reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial membrane potential, nuclear damage, and the ability of CVC-ZnO QDs to cause apoptosis were all examined. Apoptosis markers such as Bcl2, Bax, caspase-3, and caspase-9, were also studied. In conclusion, the CVC-ZnO QDs destabilized the MDA-MB-231cells under its acidic tumor microenvironment and regulated apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj Kumar Srinivasan
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Annamalai University, Chidambaram, India
| | - Briska Jifrina Premnath
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Annamalai University, Chidambaram, India
| | - Ramya Parimelazhagan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sri Lakshmi Narayana Institute of Medical Sciences (SLIMS), Puducherry, India
| | - Nalini Namasivayam
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Annamalai University, Chidambaram, India
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Emire Z, Yabalak E. Can Origanum be a hope for cancer treatment? A review on the potential of Origanum species in preventing and treating cancers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2023; 33:894-910. [PMID: 35414316 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2022.2064437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the potential of aromatic Origanum species belonging to Lamiaceae family to prevent and treat cancer was investigated. Since aromatic plants contain phytochemicals such as essential oils, phenolic acids, terpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, vitamins, enzymes and minerals with beneficial biological activities, they have become more interesting and important in medicine, pharmacy and industry. Publications/research between 1950 and 2022 were screened to investigate the effects of Origanum species on cancer, and the effects of their extracts and essential oils in cancer prevention and treatment. Essential phytochemicals found in plants provide efficacy in the prevention and treatment of many diseases. Besides, the essential oils found in these plant extracts are another reason that makes them important. Therefore, it is preferred in traditional medicine in the fight against many diseases as well as cancer. Essential oils of Origanum species mainly contain monoterpenes such as p-cymene, carvacrol, thymol and γ-terpinene. Since these compounds exhibit anticancer properties, Origanum species are becoming the plants of choice in the fight against cancer. In this context, Origanum majorana L. Origanum vulgare and Origanum munzurense are promising species, considering the composition of their extracts and essential oil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuhal Emire
- Faculty of Arts and Science, Department of Chemistry, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Erdal Yabalak
- Faculty of Arts and Science, Department of Chemistry, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
- Department of Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
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Swaminathan H, Saravanamurali K, Yadav SA. Extensive review on breast cancer its etiology, progression, prognostic markers, and treatment. Med Oncol 2023; 40:238. [PMID: 37442848 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02111-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
As the most frequent and vulnerable malignancy among women, breast cancer universally manifests a formidable healthcare challenge. From a biological and molecular perspective, it is a heterogenous disease and is stratified based on the etiological factors driving breast carcinogenesis. Notably, genetic predispositions and epigenetic impacts often constitute the heterogeneity of this disease. Typically, breast cancer is classified intrinsically into histological subtypes in clinical landscapes. These stratifications empower physicians to tailor precise treatments among the spectrum of breast cancer therapeutics. In this pursuit, numerous prognostic algorithms are extensively characterized, drastically changing how breast cancer is portrayed. Therefore, it is a basic requisite to comprehend the multidisciplinary rationales of breast cancer to assist the evolution of novel therapeutic strategies. This review aims at highlighting the molecular and genetic grounds of cancer additionally with therapeutic and phytotherapeutic context. Substantially, it also renders researchers with an insight into the breast cancer cell lines as a model paradigm for breast cancer research interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harshini Swaminathan
- Department of Biotechnology, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education, Coimbatore, 641021, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - K Saravanamurali
- Virus Research and Diagnostics Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Coimbatore Medical College, Coimbatore, India
| | - Sangilimuthu Alagar Yadav
- Department of Biotechnology, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education, Coimbatore, 641021, Tamil Nadu, India.
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Effect of carvacrol antioxidant capacity on oocyte maturation and embryo production in cattle. ZYGOTE 2023; 31:173-179. [PMID: 36804925 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199422000673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
Carvacrol (C10H14O), an efficient phenolic antioxidant substance for several cell types, may become a useful antioxidant for female germ cells and embryo culture. This study investigates the effects of carvacrol supplementation on bovine oocytes in in vitro maturation (IVM) and embryo production. In total, 1222 cumulus-oocyte complexes were cultured in TCM-199+ alone (control treatment) or supplemented with carvacrol at the concentrations of 3 µM (Carv-3), 12.5 µM (Carv-12.5), or 25 µM (Carv-25). After IVM, the oocytes were subjected to in vitro fertilization and embryo production, and the spent medium post-IVM was used for evaluating the levels of reactive oxygen species and the antioxidant capacity (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate and 2,2'-azinobis-3-ethyl-benzothiozoline-6-sulphonic acid quantification). A greater (P < 0.05) antioxidant potential was observed in the spent medium of all carvacrol-treated groups compared with the control medium. Moreover, the addition of carvacrol to the maturation medium did not affect (P > 0.05) blastocyst production on days 7 and 10 of culture; however, the total number of cells per blastocyst was reduced (P < 0.05) in two carvacrol-treated groups (Carv-3 and Carv-25). In conclusion, carvacrol demonstrated a high antioxidant capacity in the spent medium after oocyte maturation; however, although embryo production was not affected, in general, carvacrol addition to IVM medium reduced the total number of cells per blastocyst. Therefore, due to the high antioxidant capacity of carvacrol, new experiments are warranted to investigate the beneficial effects of lower concentrations of carvacrol on embryo production in cattle and other species.
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Yazdanshenas H, Tafrihi M. The biological and therapeutic potentials of Cyclotrichium genus: a systematic review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2022; 32:2589-2599. [PMID: 34528839 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2021.1977784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The genus Cyclotrichium includes nine species that are mainly distributed in Turkey, Lebanon, Iraq, and Iran, and are used in the kitchen, and also in complementary medicine to treat various diseases. During recent years, considerable progress has been made in analyzing their phytochemical composition in parallel with their antimicrobial properties and their therapeutic potentials. This study reviews the present knowledge about investigations on antimicrobial, insecticidal, and anticancer properties of the essential oils and any other purified chemical compounds of the Cyclotrichium species. Various phytochemicals have been isolated from the extracts of the plants of this genus having significant biological and therapeutic potentials. In conclusion, these gathered data strongly support the viewpoint that the species belonging to the genus Cyclotrichium have various biological and pharmaceutical activities to treat various diseases including cancer in addition to the remarkable antimicrobial and insecticidal potential with no or minimal health and environmental hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Homayoon Yazdanshenas
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Mazandaran, Iran
| | - Majid Tafrihi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Mazandaran, Iran
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6
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Souza RLD, Dantas AGB, Melo CDO, Felício IM, Oliveira EE. Nanotechnology as a tool to improve the biological activity of carvacrol: A review. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2022.103834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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7
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Qoorchi Moheb Seraj F, Heravi-Faz N, Soltani A, Ahmadi SS, Shahbeiki F, Talebpour A, Afshari AR, Ferns GA, Bahrami A. Thymol has anticancer effects in U-87 human malignant glioblastoma cells. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:9623-9632. [PMID: 35997850 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07867-3] [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: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thymol (2-isopropyl-5-methylphenol) is a colorless crystalline derivative of cymene, that possesses pleotropic pharmacological properties, including analgesic, antibacterial, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory activities. Thymol has also been recognized for its beneficial effect as an anti-tumor agent, but the precise mechanism for this has not been fully elucidated. We aimed to identifying whether thymol exerts anti-cancer activity in human U-87 malignant glioblastoma (GB) cells (U-87). METHODS AND RESULTS Cell viability and apoptosis was evaluated in U-87 cells treated with thymol at different concentrations. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, mRNA expressions of apoptosis-related genes and cell cycle characteristics were assessed. The cytotoxic activity of the co-exposure of thymol and temozolomide (TMZ) was also evaluated. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of thymol in the U-87 cells was 230 μM assessed at 24 h after exposure. Thymol did not exhibit any cytotoxic effects on normal L929 cells at this concentration. Thymol treatment increased the expression of Bax and p53, and also increased apoptotic cell death, and excessive generation of ROS. Moreover, the cytotoxic activity of thymol on the U-87 cells may be related to the arrest of the cell cycle at the G0/G1 interface. Combination therapy showed that the cytotoxic effects of thymol synergized with TMZ, and combined treatment had more cytotoxic potential compared to either of the agents alone. CONCLUSIONS Our data indicate the potential cytotoxic activities of thymol on U-87 cells. Further studies are required to evaluate the spectrum of the antitumor activity of thymol on GB cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farid Qoorchi Moheb Seraj
- Endovascular Section, Neurosurgical Department, Ghaem Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Niloofar Heravi-Faz
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Sciences, Neyshabour branch, Islamic Azad University, Neyshabour, Iran
| | - Arash Soltani
- Surgical Oncology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Sajad Ahmadi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Khatam Ol-Anbia Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Shahbeiki
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Mashhad branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amir Talebpour
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Amir R Afshari
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Gordon A Ferns
- Brighton & Sussex Medical School, Division of Medical Education, Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9PH, Sussex, UK
| | - Afsane Bahrami
- Clinical Research Development Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Imam Reza Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran. .,Clinical Research Development Unit of Akbar Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Investigating anticancer potency of in vitro propagated endemic Thymus cilicicus Boiss. & Bal. extract on human lung, breast, and prostate cancer cell lines. Biologia (Bratisl) 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11756-022-01168-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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9
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Origanum majorana L. Extract Attenuated Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Rat Model: Effect on Oxidative Stress, Apoptosis, and Proliferation. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11061149. [PMID: 35740046 PMCID: PMC9219805 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11061149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a widespread androgenic illness influencing elderly men. It is distinguished by prostatic epithelial and stromal muscle cell proliferation. Inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis have all been interrelated to the development of BPH. Marjoram (Origanum majorana L.) is a herb with reported antiproliferative, proapoptotic, and antioxidative properties, which have not yet been studied in relation to BPH. Consequently, in this work, an ethanolic extract of O. majorana was prepared in two doses (250 and 500 mg/kg/day) to be injected into castrated rats after induction of a testosterone-BPH model. Testosterone propionate (TP) was subcutaneously injected (0.5 mg/kg/day) for one week after castration to induce BPH. Forty adult Wistar male rats were randomly allocated into five groups: control, BPH model, high and low O. majorana doses (250, 500 mg/kg/day), and finasteride (FN) (0.8 mg/kg/day) as a positive control. Treatment was continued with drugs/normal saline for 28 days. Rat’s body and prostate were weighed, prostate index (PI) and % of prostate growth inhibition were calculated, serum dihydrotestosterone (DHT), prostatic content of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and malondialdehyde (MDA), DN damage, histopathological changes, immune expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), caspase-3, α-SMA, and TGF-β1 were assessed. In addition, molecular quantitative PCR and ELISA analyses were performed to identify the expression of mRNAs and related proteins of both caspase-3 and TGF-β1 in prostate tissue from O. majorana-treated and untreated groups. Rats with BPH had significantly higher prostate weights and PI, higher DHT, DNA damage (8-hydroxyguanine, 8-OH-dG), and MDA levels with prominent PCNA, α-SMA, and TGF-β expression, but lower SOD, CAT, and TAC activity and caspase-3 expression. O. majorana (250 and 500 mg/kg/day)-treated groups revealed a decrease in prostate weights and PI, lower levels of DHT, suppressed oxidative stress, reduced tissue proliferation and fibrosis, and restored antioxidant and proapoptotic activity. Additionally, quantitative PCR and ELISA analysis showed that treatment with O. majorana significantly upregulated the expression of caspase-3 and downregulated the expression of TGF-β in prostate tissues of BPH rats. The data were confirmed by the immunohistological reactivity of these targeted markers in the prostate tissues. These effects were more significant with O. majorana 500 mg/mL/rat. In conclusion, the current study indicates the efficient use of O. majorana in the treatment of testosterone-induced BPH through its antiproliferative, proapoptotic, and antioxidative mechanisms.
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Maleš I, Dragović-Uzelac V, Jerković I, Zorić Z, Pedisić S, Repajić M, Garofulić IE, Dobrinčić A. Non-Volatile and Volatile Bioactives of Salvia officinalis L., Thymus serpyllum L. and Laurus nobilis L. Extracts with Potential Use in the Development of Functional Beverages. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11061140. [PMID: 35740037 PMCID: PMC9220411 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11061140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Functional beverages based on herbal extracts are highly demanded products due to the presence of bioactives with promising health benefits and interesting and characteristic sensory properties. Mediterranean medicinal and aromatic herbs contain a wide range of bioactives (non-volatile polyphenols, volatile terpenes) that are important constituents of herbal extracts and essential oils. The antioxidant capacity and potential health benefits of these bioactives could be associated with their synergistic effects. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize the non-volatile and volatile bioactives of sage (Salvia officinalis L.), wild thyme (Thymus serpyllum L.) and laurel (Laurus nobilis L.) aqueous extracts and their two- and three-component mixtures as well as their antioxidant capacity. The content of total phenols, flavonoids, hydroxycinnamic acids and flavonols was determined spectrophotometrically. Individual polyphenols were analyzed by LC-MS/MS, the volatiles were analyzed by HS-SPME/GC-MS, and the antioxidant capacity was analyzed by ORAC and DPPH assays. The results showed that aqueous extracts of all examined herbs and their mixtures contained a high content of phenolic compounds ranging from 0.97 to 2.79 g L-1 of the sample, among which the most common were flavonols. At the same time, mono- and sesquiterpenes were the main volatiles. All extracts showed high antioxidant capacity, especially L. nobilis (781.62 ± 5.19 μmol TE mL-1 of the sample in the DPPH assay; 1896.10 ± 8.77 μmol TE mL-1 of the sample in the ORAC assay) and the two-component mixture of L. nobilis and T. serpyllum (679.12 ± 5.19 μmol TE mL-1 in the DPPH assay; 1913.38 ± 8.77 μmol TE mL-1 in the ORAC assay). Mixtures of herbal extracts have been shown to possess additive or synergistic effects, consequently contributing to higher antioxidant capacity. Therefore, two-component mixtures of herbal extracts showed promising potential for the production of functional beverages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivanka Maleš
- Department of Pharmacy, The School of Medicine, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia;
| | - Verica Dragović-Uzelac
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (Z.Z.); (S.P.); (M.R.); (I.E.G.)
- Correspondence: (V.D.-U.); (A.D.)
| | - Igor Jerković
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Technology, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia;
| | - Zoran Zorić
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (Z.Z.); (S.P.); (M.R.); (I.E.G.)
| | - Sandra Pedisić
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (Z.Z.); (S.P.); (M.R.); (I.E.G.)
| | - Maja Repajić
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (Z.Z.); (S.P.); (M.R.); (I.E.G.)
| | - Ivona Elez Garofulić
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (Z.Z.); (S.P.); (M.R.); (I.E.G.)
| | - Ana Dobrinčić
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (Z.Z.); (S.P.); (M.R.); (I.E.G.)
- Correspondence: (V.D.-U.); (A.D.)
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Gökalp F. Therapeutic effect of some natural active compounds for breast cancer. Med Oncol 2022; 39:115. [PMID: 35674845 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-022-01704-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The extracts obtained from plants have been used in the treatment of many diseases since the earliest times. Today, it is of great importance to investigate the effects of the active molecules in these plant extracts at the molecular level together with the analysis. The effect of certain active compounds found in some plants, widely used as medicinal plants, on breast cancer has been investigated using docking. As a result of the docking scores obtained, it can be understood that the active molecules used in this study can be quite effective in controlling breast cancer. Promyelocytic leukemia is an important checkpoint from the literature for breast cancer and the docking energy values of Thymoquinone, Piperine and Carvacrol, as the active molecules in the control of this pathway. This study is very important when evaluated in terms of directing experimental studies by determining the most suitable active substances by comparing the activities of molecules in a short time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faik Gökalp
- Department of Mathematics and Science Education, Science Education, Education Faculty, Kırıkkale University, Yahşihan, 71450, Kırıkkale, Turkey.
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A Narrative Review of the Antitumor Activity of Monoterpenes from Essential Oils: An Update. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:6317201. [PMID: 35655488 PMCID: PMC9155973 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6317201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Monoterpenes are a group of natural products that have been widely studied due to their therapeutic potential against various pathologies. These compounds are abundant in the chemical composition of essential oils. Cancer is a term that covers more than 100 different types of malignant diseases and is among the leading causes of death in the world. Therefore, the search for new pharmacotherapeutic options applicable to cancer is urgent. In this review, studies on the antitumor activity of monoterpenes found in essential oils were selected, and botanical, chemical, and pharmacological aspects were discussed. The most investigated monoterpenes were carvacrol and linalool with highly significant in vitro and in vivo tumor inhibition in several types of cancers. The action mechanisms of these natural products are also presented and are wildly varied being apoptosis the most prevalent followed by cell cycle impairment, ROS production, autophagy, necroptosis, and others. The studies reported here confirm the antitumor properties of monoterpenes and their anticancer potential against various types of tumors, as demonstrated in in vitro and in vivo studies using various types of cancer cells and tumors in animal models. The data described serve as a reference for the advancement in the mechanistic studies of these compounds and in the preparation of synthetic derivatives or analogues with a better antitumor profile.
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Screening and Validation of a Carvacrol-Targeting Viability-Regulating Protein, SLC6A3, in Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma. DISEASE MARKERS 2022; 2022:3736104. [PMID: 35401884 PMCID: PMC8986433 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3736104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background. Liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) is the second leading cause of tumor-related death in the world. Carvacrol was also found to inhibit multiple cancer types. Here, we proposed that Carvacrol inhibited LIHC. Methods. We used MTT assay to determine the inhibition of Carvacrol on LIHC cells. BATMAN-TCM was used to predict targets of Carvacrol. These targets were further screened by their survival association and expression in cancer using TCGA data. The bioinformatic screened candidates were further validated in in vitro experiments and clinical samples. Finally, docking models of the interaction of Carvacrol and target protein were conducted. Results. Carvacrol inhibited the viability of LIHC cell lines. 40 target genes of Carvacrol were predicted, 8 of them associated with survival. 4 genes were found differentially expressed in LIHC vs. normal liver. Among these genes, the expression of SLC6A3 and SCN4A was found affected by Carvacrol in LIHC cells, but only SLC6A3 correlated with the viability inhibition of Carvacrol on LIHC cell lines. A docking model of the interaction of Carvacrol and SLC6A3 was established with a good binding affinity. SLC6A3 knockdown and expression revealed that SLC6A3 promoted the viability of LIHC cells. Conclusion. Carvacrol inhibited the viability of LIHC cells by downregulating SLC6A3.
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Rathod NB, Kulawik P, Ozogul F, Regenstein JM, Ozogul Y. Biological activity of plant-based carvacrol and thymol and their impact on human health and food quality. Trends Food Sci Technol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tifs.2021.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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15
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Valizadeh A, Khaleghi AA, Roozitalab G, Osanloo M. High anticancer efficacy of solid lipid nanoparticles containing Zataria multiflora essential oil against breast cancer and melanoma cell lines. BMC Pharmacol Toxicol 2021; 22:52. [PMID: 34587996 PMCID: PMC8482686 DOI: 10.1186/s40360-021-00523-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The cancer burden is rising rapidly worldwide, and it annually causes about 8.8 million deaths worldwide. Due to chemical drugs’ side effects and the emergence of resistance, the development of new green drugs has received much attention. We aimed to investigate whether solid-lipid nanoparticles containing essential oil of Zataria multiflora (ZMSLN) enhanced the anticancer efficacy of the essential oil against breast cancer (MDA-MB-468) and melanoma (A-375) cells. Results ZMSLN was prepared by the high-pressure homogenizer method; particle size 176 ± 8 nm, polydispersity index 0.22 ± 0.1, entrapment efficiency 67 ± 5%. The essential oil showed a dose-dependent antiproliferative effect on MDA-MB-468 and A-375 cells at all examined concentrations (75, 150, 300, 600, and 1200 μg/mL). Interestingly, after treating both cells with 75 μg/mL of ZMSLN, their viabilities were reduced to under 13%. Conclusion The finding showed that ZMSLN had a distinct antiproliferative efficacy; it could thus be considered a green anticancer candidate for further in vivo and in vivo studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Valizadeh
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Asghar Khaleghi
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Ghazaal Roozitalab
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Osanloo
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran.
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Phytochemistry and Pharmacology of Thymus broussonetii Boiss. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:6350035. [PMID: 34527064 PMCID: PMC8437615 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6350035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Thymus broussonetii Boiss (T. broussonetii) is a rare medicinal and aromatic plant. It is widely used in traditional medicine to treat several diseases, including diarrhea, fever, cough, irritation, skin diseases, rheumatism, respiratory ailments, influenza, and digestion problems. In this review, we have critically summarized previous data on T. broussonetii about its phytochemistry, botanical and geographical distribution, toxicological investigation, and pharmacological properties. Using scientific research databases such as Wiley Online, SciFinder, ScienceDirect, PubMed, SpringerLink, Web of Science, Scopus Wiley Online, and Google Scholar, the data on T. broussonetii were collected and discussed. The presented data regrouped bioactive compounds and biological activities of T. broussonetii. The findings of this work showed that essential oils and extracts of T. broussonetii exhibited numerous pharmacological activities (in vitro and in vivo), particularly antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, insecticidal, antipyretic, antinociceptive, and immunological and behavioral effects. While toxicological studies of T. broussonetii essential oils and extracts are lacking, modern scientific tools revealed the presence of different classes of secondary metabolites such as terpenoids, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, coumarins, quinones, carotenoids, and steroids. T. broussonetii essential oils, especially from the aerial parts, exhibited potent antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant effects. An in-depth toxicological investigation is needed to validate the efficacy and safety of T. broussonetii extracts and essential oils and their secondary metabolites. However, further pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies should be performed to validate its bioavailability.
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Zhang S, He L, Shang J, Chen L, Xu Y, Chen X, Li X, Jiao Q, Jin S, Hu X, Liang W. Carvacrol Suppresses Human Osteosarcoma Cells via the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2021; 22:1714-1722. [PMID: 34488595 DOI: 10.2174/1871520621666210901111932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Carvacrol is a monoterpenic phenol extracted from traditional Chinese herbs, including oregano and thyme. Currently, carvacrol has been widely studied for its therapeutic role in central nervous system diseases, liver diseases and digestive system cancer. OBJECTIVE However, the role of carvacrol in osteosarcoma and its underlying molecular mechanism remain elusive. Here, we aimed to examine the anticancer effects of carvacrol on osteosarcoma. METHODS The effects of carvacrol on the osteosarcoma proliferation capacity were revealed by CCK-8 and colony formation assays. Flow cytometry and Hoechst assays were used to determine the effects of carvacrol on osteosarcoma cell apoptosis. The effect of carvacrol on migration and invasion of osteosarcoma cells was determined by wound healing and transwell tests. Protein expression was evaluated by WB assays. The suppressive effects of carvacrol on osteosarcoma in vivo were examined by a xenograft animal model, immunohistochemistry and HE staining. RESULTS We demonstrated that carvacrol treatment reduced viability and inhibited the colony formation of U2OS and 143B cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Apoptotic cell number increased after exposure to carvacrol. Meanwhile, the expression of Bax increased, and that of Bcl-2 decreased by carvacrol treatment. In addition, the MMP-9 expression and migration and invasion of 143B and U2OS cells were inhibited by carvacrol. We also found that these carvacrol-induced effects on osteosarcoma are associated with the regulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that carvacrol suppresses proliferation, migration, invasion and promotes apoptosis in osteosarcoma cells, in part by regulating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songou Zhang
- Shaoxing University School of Medicine, No.900 Chennan Avenue, Yuecheng District, Shaoxing 312000, Zhejiang. China
| | - Lei He
- Shaoxing People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Zhongxing North Road, Shaoxing 312000, Zhejiang. China
| | - Jinxiang Shang
- Shaoxing People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Zhongxing North Road, Shaoxing 312000, Zhejiang. China
| | - Long Chen
- Shaoxing People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Zhongxing North Road, Shaoxing 312000, Zhejiang. China
| | - Yifan Xu
- Shaoxing People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Zhongxing North Road, Shaoxing 312000, Zhejiang. China
| | - Xiaozhen Chen
- Shaoxing University School of Medicine, No.900 Chennan Avenue, Yuecheng District, Shaoxing 312000, Zhejiang. China
| | - Xinyu Li
- Shaoxing People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Zhongxing North Road, Shaoxing 312000, Zhejiang. China
| | - Qingchuan Jiao
- Shaoxing University School of Medicine, No.900 Chennan Avenue, Yuecheng District, Shaoxing 312000, Zhejiang. China
| | - Songtao Jin
- Shaoxing People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Zhongxing North Road, Shaoxing 312000, Zhejiang. China
| | - Xujun Hu
- Shaoxing People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Zhongxing North Road, Shaoxing 312000, Zhejiang. China
| | - Wenqing Liang
- Zhoushan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 355 Xinqiao Road, Dinghai District, Zhoushan 316000, Zhejiang Province. China
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Sampaio LA, Pina LTS, Serafini MR, Tavares DDS, Guimarães AG. Antitumor Effects of Carvacrol and Thymol: A Systematic Review. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:702487. [PMID: 34305611 PMCID: PMC8293693 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.702487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: It is estimated that one in five people worldwide faces a diagnosis of a malignant neoplasm during their lifetime. Carvacrol and its isomer, thymol, are natural compounds that act against several diseases, including cancer. Thus, this systematic review aimed to examine and synthesize the knowledge on the antitumor effects of carvacrol and thymol. Methods: A systematic literature search was carried out in the PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Lilacs databases in April 2020 (updated in March 2021) based on the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. The following combination of health descriptors, MeSH terms and their synonyms were used: carvacrol, thymol, antitumor, antineoplastic, anticancer, cytotoxicity, apoptosis, cell proliferation, in vitro and in vivo. To assess the risk of bias in in vivo studies, the SYRCLE Risk of Bias tool was used, and for in vitro studies, a modified version was used. Results: A total of 1,170 records were identified, with 77 meeting the established criteria. The studies were published between 2003 and 2021, with 69 being in vitro and 10 in vivo. Forty-three used carvacrol, 19 thymol, and 15 studies tested both monoterpenes. It was attested that carvacrol and thymol induced apoptosis, cytotoxicity, cell cycle arrest, antimetastatic activity, and also displayed different antiproliferative effects and inhibition of signaling pathways (MAPKs and PI3K/AKT/mTOR). Conclusions: Carvacrol and thymol exhibited antitumor and antiproliferative activity through several signaling pathways. In vitro, carvacrol appears to be more potent than thymol. However, further in vivo studies with robust methodology are required to define a standard and safe dose, determine their toxic or side effects, and clarify its exact mechanisms of action. This systematic review was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42020176736) and the protocol is available at https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=176736.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laeza Alves Sampaio
- Graduate Program of Applied Sciences to Health, Federal University of Sergipe, Lagarto, Brazil
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Bayoumi HM, Alkhatib MH, Al-Seeni MN. Carvacrol effect on topotecan cytotoxicity in various human cancer cells in vitro. PHARMACIA 2021. [DOI: 10.3897/pharmacia.68.e65878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To investigate the modulatory effect of the natural phytochemical, carvacrol, on Topotecan (TOPO) cytotoxicity and cellular uptake in different cancer cell lines.
Methods: The cytotoxicity of the carvacrol/TOPO combination therapy was determined in vitro using crystal violet assay. Coomassie blue and DAPI fluorescent stains were used for cellular morphology and molecular cell death assessments, respectively. Additionally, TOPO cellular uptake after carvacrol/TOPO combination therapy was determined.
Results: Treatment of HeLa and HCT116 with carvacrol/TOPO resulted in 7.70- and 5.71-fold reduction in TOPO half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50), respectively, relative to TOPO single treatment. On the other hand, treatment of MCF-7, HepG2, SKOV3, and A549 cancer cells with carvacrol/TOPO resulted in increasing the IC50 of TOPO by 1.49-, 1.33-, 1.50- and 1.26-fold, respectively, relative to TOPO single treatment.
Conclusion: Carvacrol had enhanced TOPO cytotoxicity and cellular uptake in HeLa and HCT116 cancer cells but might cause TOPO resistance in MCF-7, HepG2, SKOV3 and A549 cells.
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Bouyahya A, Chamkhi I, Benali T, Guaouguaou FE, Balahbib A, El Omari N, Taha D, Belmehdi O, Ghokhan Z, El Menyiy N. Traditional use, phytochemistry, toxicology, and pharmacology of Origanum majorana L. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 265:113318. [PMID: 32882360 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Origanum majorana L., is an aromatic and medicinal plant distributed in different parts of Mediterranean countries. This species is widely used in traditional medicine for the treatment of many diseases such as allergies, hypertension, respiratory infections, diabetes, stomach pain, and intestinal antispasmodic. AIM OF THE REVIEW This work reports previous studies on O. majorana concerning its taxonomy, botanical description, geographical distribution, traditional use, bioactive compounds, toxicology, and biological effects. MATERIALS AND METHODS Different scientific data bases such as Web of Science, Scopus, Wiley Online, SciFinder, Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and SpringerLink were consulted to collect data about O. majorana. The presented data emphasis bioactive compounds, traditional uses, toxicological investigations, and biological activities of O. majorana. RESULTS The findings of this work marked an important correlation between the traditional use of O. majorana as an anti-allergic, antihypertensive, anti-diabetic agent, and its biological effects. Indeed, pharmacological investigations showed that essential oils and extracts from O. majorana exhibit different biological properties, particularly; antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, antiparasitic, antidiabetic, anticancer, nephrotoxicity protective, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-pyretic, hepatoprotective, and antimutagenic effects. Toxicological evaluation confirmed the safety and innocuity of this species and supported its medicinal uses. Several bioactive compounds belonging to different chemical family such as terpenoids, flavonoids, and phenolic acids were also identified in O. majorana. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that the pharmacological properties of O. majorana confirm its traditional uses. Indeed, O. majorana essential oils showed remarkable antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, nephroprotective, and hepatoprotective activities. However, further investigations regarding the evaluation of molecular mechanisms of identified compounds against human cancer cell lines, inflammatory process, and microbial infections are needed to validate pharmacodynamic targets. The toxicological investigation of O. Majorana confirmed its safety and therefore encouraged pharmacokinetic evaluation tests to validate its bioavailability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelhakim Bouyahya
- Laboratory of Human Pathologies Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, And Genomic Center of Human Pathologies, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Morocco.
| | - Imane Chamkhi
- Microbiology and Molecular Biology Team, Center of Plant and Microbial Biotechnology, Biodiversity and Environment, Faculty of Sciences, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Morocco.
| | - Taoufiq Benali
- Laboratory of Natural Resources and Environment, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taza, SidiMohamed Ben Abdellah University of Fez, B.P.: 1223, Taza-Gare, Taza, Morocco.
| | - Fatima-Ezzahrae Guaouguaou
- Mohammed V University in Rabat, LPCMIO, Materials Science Center (MSC), Ecole Normale Supérieure, Rabat, Morocco.
| | - Abdelaali Balahbib
- Laboratory of Zoology and General Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Rabat, Morocco.
| | - Nasreddine El Omari
- Laboratory of Histology, Embryology, and Cytogenetic, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Morocco.
| | - Douae Taha
- Laboratoire de Spectroscopie, Modélisation Moléculaire, Matériaux, Nanomatériaux, Eau et Environnement, CERNE2D, Faculté des Sciences, Université Mohammed V, Rabat, Morocco.
| | - Omar Belmehdi
- Biology and Health Laboratory, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tetouan, Morocco.
| | - Zengin Ghokhan
- Biochemistry and Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Selcuk University, Campus, Konya, Turkey.
| | - Naoual El Menyiy
- Laboratory of Physiology, Pharmacology & Environmental Health, Faculty of Science, University Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, Fez, Morocco.
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21
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Gökalp F. The effective natural compounds for inhibiting Cervical cancer. Med Oncol 2021; 38:12. [DOI: 10.1007/s12032-021-01456-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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