PAWR-mediated suppression of BCL2 promotes switching of 3-azido withaferin A (3-AWA)-induced autophagy to apoptosis in prostate cancer cells

Iron Overloading Potentiates the Antitumor Activity of 5-Fluorouracil by Promoting Apoptosis and Ferroptosis in Colorectal Cancer Cells

Resistance to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) remains a significant challenge in colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment. Ferric ammonium citrate (FAC) is commonly used as an iron supplement due to its food-fortification properties; however, its potential role as a chemosensitizer in cancer therapy has not been studied. In this study, we explored the ability of FAC to sensitize CRC cells and increase their susceptibility to 5-FU-mediated anticancer effects. We assessed cell viability, cell cycle progression, apoptosis, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, ferroptosis, and iron metabolism-related protein expression using two CRC cell lines. Additionally, we conducted in silico analyses to compare iron markers in normal colon and CRC tumor tissues. Compared to controls, CRC cells pretreated with FAC and then treated with 5-FU exhibited significantly reduced growth and viability, along with increased ROS-mediated ferroptosis. Mechanistically, FAC-pretreated then 5-FU-treated CRC cells showed enhanced apoptosis, increased Bak/Bax expression, MMP depolarization, and decreased antiapoptotic protein levels (Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL). This combined treatment also led to G2/M cell cycle arrest, upregulation of p21 and p27, and downregulation of cyclin D1, c-Myc, survivin, and GPX4. Analysis of human colon tumor tissue revealed decreased expression of IRP-1, HMOX-1, and FTH1 but increased HAMP expression. In contrast, FAC-pretreated/5-FU-treated CRC cells exhibited a reverse pattern, suggesting that FAC-induced chemosensitization enhances 5-FU-mediated anticancer activity in CRC by disrupting iron homeostasis. These findings highlight the potential of iron overload as a chemosensitization strategy for improving CRC chemotherapy.

13-Oxyingenol-dodecanoate inhibits the growth of non-small cell lung cancer cells by targeting ULK1

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for 80-85% of all lung cancers. Euphorbia kansui yielded 13-oxyingenol-dodecanoate (13OD), an ingenane-type diterpenoid, which had a strong cytotoxic effect on NSCLC cells. The underlying mechanism and potential target, however, remained unknown. The study found that 13OD effectively inhibited the cell proliferation and colony formation of NSCLC cells (A549 and H460 cells), with less toxicity in normal human lung epithelial BEAS-2B cells. Moreover, 13OD can cause mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis in NSCLC cells. Mechanistically, the transcriptomics results showed that differential genes were mainly enriched in the mTOR and AMPK signaling pathways, which are closely related to cellular autophagy, the related indicators were subsequently validated. Additionally, bafilomycin A1 (Baf A1), an autophagy inhibitor, reversed the mitochondrial damage caused by 13OD. Furthermore, the Omics and Text-based Target Enrichment and Ranking (OTTER) method predicted ULK1 as a potential target of 13OD against NSCLC cells. This hypothesis was further confirmed using molecular docking, the cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA), and Western blot analysis. Remarkably, ULK1 siRNA inhibited 13OD's toxic activity in NSCLC cells. In line with these findings, 13OD was potent and non-toxic in the tumor xenograft model. Our findings suggested a possible mechanism for 13OD's role as a tumor suppressor and laid the groundwork for identifying targets for ingenane-type diterpenoids.

Identification of hub genes significantly linked to temporal lobe epilepsy and apoptosis via bioinformatics analysis

Background

Epilepsy stands as an intricate disorder of the central nervous system, subject to the influence of diverse risk factors and a significant genetic predisposition. Within the pathogenesis of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), the apoptosis of neurons and glial cells in the brain assumes pivotal importance. The identification of differentially expressed apoptosis-related genes (DEARGs) emerges as a critical imperative, providing essential guidance for informed treatment decisions.

Methods

We obtained datasets related to epilepsy, specifically GSE168375 and GSE186334. Utilizing differential expression analysis, we identified a set of 249 genes exhibiting significant variations. Subsequently, through an intersection with apoptosis-related genes, we pinpointed 16 genes designated as differentially expressed apoptosis-related genes (DEARGs). These DEARGs underwent a comprehensive array of analyses, including enrichment analyses, biomarker selection, disease classification modeling, immune infiltration analysis, prediction of miRNA and transcription factors, and molecular docking analysis.

Results

In the epilepsy datasets examined, we successfully identified 16 differentially expressed apoptosis-related genes (DEARGs). Subsequent validation in the external dataset GSE140393 revealed the diagnostic potential of five biomarkers (CD38, FAIM2, IL1B, PAWR, S100A8) with remarkable accuracy, exhibiting an impressive area under curve (AUC) (The overall AUC of the model constructed by the five key genes was 0.916, and the validation set was 0.722). Furthermore, a statistically significant variance (p < 0.05) was observed in T cell CD4 naive and eosinophil cells across different diagnostic groups. Exploring interaction networks uncovered intricate connections, including gene-miRNA interactions (164 interactions involving 148 miRNAs), gene-transcription factor (TF) interactions (22 interactions with 20 TFs), and gene-drug small molecule interactions (15 interactions involving 15 drugs). Notably, IL1B and S100A8 demonstrated interactions with specific drugs.

Conclusion

In the realm of TLE, we have successfully pinpointed noteworthy differentially expressed apoptosis-related genes (DEARGs), including CD38, FAIM2, IL1B, PAWR, and S100A8. A comprehensive understanding of the implications associated with these identified genes not only opens avenues for advancing our comprehension of the underlying pathophysiology but also bears considerable potential in guiding the development of innovative diagnostic methodologies and therapeutic interventions for the effective management of epilepsy in the future.

Withanolides: Promising candidates for cancer therapy

Natural products have played a significant role throughout history in the prevention and treatment of numerous diseases, particularly cancers. As a natural product primarily derived from various medicinal plants in the Withania genus, withanolides have been shown in several studies to exhibit potential activities in cancer treatment. Consequently, understanding the molecular mechanism of withanolides could herald the discovery of new anticancer agents. Withanolides have been studied widely, especially in the last 20 years, and attracted the attention of numerous researchers. Currently, over 1200 withanolides have been classified, with approximately a quarter of them having been reported in the literature to be able to modulate the survival and death of cancer cells through multiple avenues. To what extent, though, has the anticancer effects of these compounds been studied? How far are they from being developed into clinical drugs? What are their potential, characteristic features, and challenges? In this review, we elaborate on the current knowledge of natural compounds belonging to this class and provide an overview of their natural sources, anticancer activity, mechanism of action, molecular targets, and implications for anticancer drug research. In addition, direct targets and clinical research to guide the design and implementation of future preclinical and clinical studies to accelerate the application of withanolides have been highlighted.

Sclareol induces cell cycle arrest and ROS-mediated apoptosis and ferroptosis in lung adenocarcinoma cells

Sclareol (SC) has shown significant anticancer activity against breast and colon cancers among others. However, its ability to precipitate similar anticancer effects in lung cancer has yet to be investigated. To address this issue, SC-treated lung adenocarcinoma cells (A549) were assessed for viability and functional competence as well as the expression of genes related to apoptosis and cell cycling. Our results demonstrated that SC treatment inhibited A549 cell clonogenic features and reduced their migration and invasion potential in a dose-dependent manner. Mechanistically, SC treatment downregulated the expression of cyclin D1 and survivin and upregulated that of p21 and p16, which was associated with a significant increase in the percentage of SubG0 cells. SC treatment is also associated with the induction of both the extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways, as evidenced by the increased expression and splitting of PARP1 and procaspases 3 and 9 and the reduced expression of antiapoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL. Increased cell death in SC-treated cells is likely to have resulted from the induction of ferroptosis as suggested by the reduced expression of FPN and the inhibition of the anti-ferroptosis regulator GPX4. In conclusion, the data presented here suggest that SC can reduce lung carcinoma cell growth and metastasis and promote cell death.

Molecular Signatures Integral to Natural Reprogramming in the Pigment Epithelium Cells after Retinal Detachment in Pleurodeles waltl

The reprogramming of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells into retinal cells (transdifferentiation) lies in the bases of retinal regeneration in several Urodela. The identification of the key genes involved in this process helps with looking for approaches to the prevention and treatment of RPE-related degenerative diseases of the human retina. The purpose of our study was to examine the transcriptome changes at initial stages of RPE cell reprogramming in adult newt Pleurodeles waltl. RPE was isolated from the eye samples of day 0, 4, and 7 after experimental surgical detachment of the neural retina and was used for a de novo transcriptome assembly through the RNA-Seq method. A total of 1019 transcripts corresponding to the differently expressed genes have been revealed in silico: the 83 increased the expression at an early stage, and 168 increased the expression at a late stage of RPE reprogramming. We have identified up-regulation of classical early response genes, chaperones and co-chaperones, genes involved in the regulation of protein biosynthesis, suppressors of oncogenes, and EMT-related genes. We revealed the growth in the proportion of down-regulated ribosomal and translation-associated genes. Our findings contribute to revealing the molecular mechanism of RPE reprogramming in Urodela.

Tamarix articulata extract offers protection against toxicity induced by beauty products in Hs27 human skin fibroblasts

The current study evaluates the cytotoxicity, mode of cell death and chemical analysis of selected beauty products and evaluation of the protective effect of Tamarix articulata (TA) extract against toxicity induced by beauty products in skin fibroblasts (Hs27). MTT and Crystal violet (CV) assays were used to determine the dose-dependent cytotoxic effects of beauty products against Hs27 fibroblasts. DNA fragmentation assay and annexin-V staining were conducted to determine the mode of cell killing induced by evaluated beauty products. Quantification of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant enzyme levels were used to evaluate the oxidative stress. Chemical analysis and heavy metals were evaluated to determine beauty products. Pre-treatment with TA extract for different time points followed by time-dependent exposure with beauty products to assess the protective effect of TA extract in Hs27 cells was analyzed by MTT and CV assays. Owing to the presence of various harmful heavy metals such as arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), and lead (Pb) in beauty products, our results revealed that all beauty products induce significant cytotoxicity over time (1, 4 h) in a dose-dependent (125, 250, 500 μg/mL) manner. DNA fragmentation assay, quantification of apoptosis by annexin-V staining, determination of ROS and antioxidant enzymes (CAT, GSH-Px and SOD) revealed that the induced cytotoxicity was caused by oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis. However, pre-incubation with a safe dose (50 μg/mL) of TA for different times (24, 48 h) followed by exposure to various doses (62.5, 125, 250, 500 μg/mL) of beauty products for different times (1, 4 h) revealed significant (*p≤0.05, **p≤0.01) protection against beauty product-mediated cytotoxicity. The effect was more pronounced for 1 h exposure to beauty products compared to 4 h. Our study demonstrates that the due to the presence of heavy metals in synthetic beauty products exhibit marked toxicity to skin fibroblasts due to oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis. However, the presence of abundant bioactive polyphenols with promising antiscavenging activity in TA extracts significantly nullifies cytotoxicity promoted by examined beauty products in skin fibroblasts (Hs27).

Molecular targets and mechanisms of anti-cancer effects of withanolides

Withanolides are a class of natural products with a steroidal lactone structure that exhibit a broad spectrum of anti-cancer effects. To date, several studies have shown that their possible mechanisms in cancer development and progression are associated with the regulation of cell proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, and angiogenesis. Withanolides can also attenuate inflammatory responses, as well as modulate the genomic instability and energy metabolism of cancer cells. In addition, they may improve the safety and efficacy of cancer treatments as adjuvants to traditional cancer therapeutics. Herein, we summarize the molecular targets and mechanisms of withanolides in different cancers, as well as their current clinical studies on them.

Genome-wide mapping of cancer dependency genes and genetic modifiers of chemotherapy in high-risk hepatoblastoma

A lack of relevant genetic models and cell lines hampers our understanding of hepatoblastoma pathogenesis and the development of new therapies for this neoplasm. Here, we report an improved MYC-driven hepatoblastoma-like murine model that recapitulates the pathological features of embryonal type of hepatoblastoma, with transcriptomics resembling the high-risk gene signatures of the human disease. Single-cell RNA-sequencing and spatial transcriptomics identify distinct subpopulations of hepatoblastoma cells. After deriving cell lines from the mouse model, we map cancer dependency genes using CRISPR-Cas9 screening and identify druggable targets shared with human hepatoblastoma (e.g., CDK7, CDK9, PRMT1, PRMT5). Our screen also reveals oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes in hepatoblastoma that engage multiple, druggable cancer signaling pathways. Chemotherapy is critical for human hepatoblastoma treatment. A genetic mapping of doxorubicin response by CRISPR-Cas9 screening identifies modifiers whose loss-of-function synergizes with (e.g., PRKDC) or antagonizes (e.g., apoptosis genes) the effect of chemotherapy. The combination of PRKDC inhibition and doxorubicin-based chemotherapy greatly enhances therapeutic efficacy. These studies provide a set of resources including disease models suitable for identifying and validating potential therapeutic targets in human high-risk hepatoblastoma.

Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound Attenuates Periodontal Ligament Cells Apoptosis by Activating Yes-Associated Protein-Regulated Autophagy

OBJECTIVE

The goal of the work described here was to determine if low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) has an anti-inflammatory effect on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs). The mechanism underlying this effect remains to be explored and is likely related to PDLC apoptosis regulated by Yes-associated protein (YAP) and autophagy.

METHODS

To verify this hypothesis, we used a rat model of periodontitis and primary human PDLCs. We examined alveolar bone resorption in rats and apoptosis, autophagy and YAP activity in LPS-treated PDLCs with and without application of LIPUS by cellular immunofluorescence, transmission electron microscopy and Western blotting. Then, siRNA transfection was used to decrease YAP expression to confirm the regulatory role of YAP in the anti-apoptotic effect of LIPUS on PDLCs.

DISCUSSION

We found that LIPUS attenuated alveolar bone resorption in rats and this was accompanied by YAP activation. LIPUS inhibited hPDLC apoptosis by YAP activation, and promoted autophagic degradation to help autophagy completion. These effects were reversed after YAP expression was blocked.

CONCLUSION

LIPUS attenuates PDLC apoptosis by activating Yes-associated protein-regulated autophagy.

Withaferin A: A Pleiotropic Anticancer Agent from the Indian Medicinal Plant Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal

Cancer represents the second most deadly disease and one of the most important public health concerns worldwide. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immune therapy are the major types of treatment strategies that have been implemented in cancer treatment. Unfortunately, these treatment options suffer from major limitations, such as drug-resistance and adverse effects, which may eventually result in disease recurrence. Many phytochemicals have been investigated for their antitumor efficacy in preclinical models and clinical studies to discover newer therapeutic agents with fewer adverse effects. Withaferin A, a natural bioactive molecule isolated from the Indian medicinal plant Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, has been reported to impart anticancer activities against various cancer cell lines and preclinical cancer models by modulating the expression and activity of different oncogenic proteins. In this article, we have comprehensively discussed the biosynthesis of withaferin A as well as its antineoplastic activities and mode-of-action in in vitro and in vivo settings. We have also reviewed the effect of withaferin A on the expression of miRNAs, its combinational effect with other cytotoxic agents, withaferin A-based formulations, safety and toxicity profiles, and its clinical potential.

β-(4-fluorobenzyl) Arteannuin B induced interaction of ATF-4 and C/EBPβ mediates the transition of breast cancer cells from autophagy to senescence

ATF-4 is a master regulator of transcription of genes essential for cellular-adaptive function. In response to the quantum and duration of stress, ATF-4 diligently responds to both pro-apoptotic and pro-survival signals converging into either autophagy or apoptosis/senescence. Despite emerging cues implying a relationship between autophagy and senescence, how these two processes are controlled remains unknown. Herein, we demonstrate β-(4-fluorobenzyl) Arteannuin B (here after Arteannuin 09), a novel semisynthetic derivative of Arteannuin B, as a potent ER stress inducer leading to the consistent activation of ATF-4. Persistent ATF-4 expression at early time-points facilitates the autophagy program and consequently by upregulating p21 at later time-points, the signaling is shifted towards G2/M cell cycle arrest. As bZIP transcription factors including ATF-4 are obligate dimers, and because ATF-4 homodimers are not highly stable, we hypothesized that ATF-4 may induce p21 expression by physically interacting with another bZIP family member i.e., C/EBPβ. Our co-immunoprecipitation and co-localization studies demonstrated that ATF-4 is principally responsible for the autophagic potential of Arteannuin 09, while as, induction of both ATF-4 and C/EBPβ is indispensable for the p21 regulated-cell cycle arrest. Interestingly, inhibition of autophagy signaling switches the fate of Arteannuin 09 treated cells from senescence to apoptosis. Lastly, our data accomplished that Arteannuin 09 is a potent inhibitor of tumor growth and inducer of premature senescence in vivo.

Habb-e-Asgandh Suppresses Cell Proliferation and Induces Apoptosis through Mitochondria Dysfunction in Multiple Myeloma Cells (RPMI8226)

OBJECTIVE

This study was conducted to assess the anti-neoplastic properties of Habb-e-Asgandh in multiple myeloma cells (RPMI8226).

METHODS

Multiple myeloma cells (RPMI8226) were cultured according to the ATCC's instruction. The anti-proliferative effect of HeA was assessed by MTT assay and proliferating cellnuclear antigen (PCNA) activity. Cell cycle analysis, cellular apoptosis, and mitochondria membrane potential analysis was done by flow cytometry. Total antioxidants, migratory potential, angiogenesis and inflammatory biomarkers were also estimated after treatment of RPMI8226 with HeA.

RESULTS

LD30 and LD50 dose of HeA was 0.3mg/ml and 0.5mg/ml respectively determined by MTT assay and also confirmed by a reduced PCNA activity. Cell cycle analysis of RPMI8226 cells revealed that sub-G0/G1 phase increases upon treatment with HeA alone or in combination with lenalidomide. Annexin V-FITC/PI is used to detect early apoptosis, late apoptosis and necrotic cells and results showed that percentage of apoptotic cells increased in RPMI8226 cells after treatment with HeA. Also, HeA induces loss of mitochondria membrane potential (MMP) in MM cells in-vitro as measured by cationic JC1 dye staining. Upon treatment, the abnormal overexpression of oncogenic protein, AKT serine/threonine kinase has also been reduced. Furthermore, anti-oxidants level also increased while migratory potential, angiogenesis and inflammation decreased in multiple myeloma cell line upon treatment with HeA.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, our results demonstrated that integrative therapy of habb-e-asgandh efficiently eliminates the need to use higher dose of lenalidomide for multiple myeloma treatment.

Evaluating anticancer properties of Withaferin A—a potent phytochemical

Withaferin A is a C28 steroidal lactone derived from the plant Withania somnifera, commonly known as Ashwagandha. Withaferin A has received great attention for its anticancer properties noted in cancer cells of various origins. Extracts of Withania somnifera have been used in traditional Ayurvedic and Unani Indian medicine for their various pharmacological benefits. In recent years, Withania somnifera or Ashwagandha extract has become popularized as a health supplement marketed for its stress and anxiety reducing effects. Withaferin A is one of the most studied withanolides extracted from Withania somnifera that has gained great attention for its anticancer, anti-inflammatory, metabolic, and pro-apoptotic effects. Extensive in vivo and in vitro studies have depicted Withaferin A’s interactions with key role players in cancerous activity of the cell to exert its pro-apoptotic effects. Withaferin A interactions with NF-κB, STAT, Hsp90, ER-α, p53, and TGF-β have noted inhibition in cancer cell proliferation and cell cycle arrest in G2/M stage, ultimately leading to apoptosis or cell death. This review highlights pro-apoptotic properties of Withaferin A including generation of reactive oxidative species, Par-4 activation, endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER) induction, and p53 activation. Analysis of Withaferin A’s involvement in various oncogenic pathways leading to malignant neoplasm and its pharmacologic activity in conjunction with various cancer drugs provides promising evidence in therapeutic potential of Withaferin A as a cancer treatment.

Endogenous and exogenous hydrogen sulfide modulates urothelial bladder carcinoma development in human cell lines

The role of H₂S in urothelial carcinoma (UC) is still unclear. Here we have evaluated the expression of H₂S producing enzymes as well as the effect of endogenous and exogenous H₂S on human bladder UC cells. In human UC cells the expression of cystathionine β-synthase (CBS), cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE), and 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3-MST); is significantly lower as compared to healthy cells. A modulatory role for the H₂S pathway is supported by the finding that, the overexpression of CSE or CBS, but not 3-MST, inhibits cell proliferation and promotes apoptosis. A similar effect is obtained by using exogenous H₂S. Diallyl trisulfide (DATS), which is a fully characterized H₂S donor, inhibits the proliferation of UC cells in a time and concentration-dependent manner as well as promotes apoptosis. Moreover, DATS also induces autophagy, as determined by transcriptomic and western blot analysis. Finally, DATS inhibits mRNA expression levels of canonical markers of epithelial-mesenchymal transition by limiting migration and clonogenic ability of human UC cells in vitro. In conclusion, in urothelial carcinoma, there is an impairment of H₂S pathway that involves CSE and CBS- derived hydrogen sulfide. Thus, targeting H₂S signaling pathway in urothelial carcinoma could represent a novel therapeutic strategy.

Evaluation of the Cytotoxic, Anti-Inflammatory, and Immunomodulatory Effects of Withaferin A (WA) against Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-Induced Inflammation in Immune Cells Derived from BALB/c Mice

(1) Background: Inflammation is one of the primary responses of the immune system and plays a key role in the pathophysiology of various diseases. Recent reports suggest that various phytochemicals exhibit promising anti-inflammatory and immunomodulation activities with relatively few undesirable effects, thus offering a viable option to deal with inflammation and associated diseases. The current study evaluates the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects of withaferin A (WA) in immune cells extracted from BALB/c mice. (2) Methods: MTT assays were performed to assess the cell viability of splenocytes and anti-inflammatory doses of WA. Under aseptic conditions, the isolation of macrophages and splenocytes from BALB/c mice was performed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of WA. Analysis of the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and associated signaling mediators was performed using proinflammatory assay kits, real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and immunoblotting, while the quantification of B and T cells was performed by flow cytometry. (3) Results: Our results demonstrated that WA exhibits anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects in LPS-stimulated macrophages and splenocytes derived from BALB/c mice, respectively. Mechanistically, we found that WA promotes an anti-inflammatory effect on LPS-stimulated macrophages by attenuating the secretion and expression of proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and the inflammation modulator NO, both at the transcriptional and translational level, respectively. Further, WA inhibits LPS-stimulated inflammatory signaling by dephosphorylation of p-Akt-Ser473 and p-ERK1/2. This dephosphorylation does not allow IĸB-kinase activation to disrupt IĸB–NF-ĸB interaction. The consistent interaction of IĸB with NF-ĸB in WA-treated cells attenuates the activation of downstream inflammatory signaling mediators Cox-2 and iNOS expression, which play crucial roles in inflammatory signaling. Additionally, we observed significant immunomodulation of LPS-stimulated spleen-derived lymphocytes by suppression of B (CD19) and T (CD4⁺/CD8⁺) cell populations after treatment with WA. (4) Conclusion: WA exhibits anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activity by modulating Akt/ERK/NF-kB-mediated inflammatory signaling in macrophages and immunosuppression of B (CD19) and T cell (CD4⁺/CD8⁺) populations in splenocytes after LPS stimulation. These results suggest that WA could act as a potential anti-inflammatory/immunomodulatory molecule and support its use in the field of immunopharmacology to modulate immune system cells.

Withania somnifera: Progress towards a Pharmaceutical Agent for Immunomodulation and Cancer Therapeutics

Chemotherapy is one of the prime treatment options for cancer. However, the key issues with traditional chemotherapy are recurrence of cancer, development of resistance to chemotherapeutic agents, affordability, late-stage detection, serious health consequences, and inaccessibility. Hence, there is an urgent need to find innovative and cost-effective therapies that can target multiple gene products with minimal adverse reactions. Natural phytochemicals originating from plants constitute a significant proportion of the possible therapeutic agents. In this article, we reviewed the advances and the potential of Withania somnifera (WS) as an anticancer and immunomodulatory molecule. Several preclinical studies have shown the potential of WS to prevent or slow the progression of cancer originating from various organs such as the liver, cervix, breast, brain, colon, skin, lung, and prostate. WS extracts act via various pathways and provide optimum effectiveness against drug resistance in cancer. However, stability, bioavailability, and target specificity are major obstacles in combination therapy and have limited their application. The novel nanotechnology approaches enable solubility, stability, absorption, protection from premature degradation in the body, and increased circulation time and invariably results in a high differential uptake efficiency in the phytochemical’s target cells. The present review primarily emphasizes the insights of WS source, chemistry, and the molecular pathways involved in tumor regression, as well as developments achieved in the delivery of WS for cancer therapy using nanotechnology. This review substantiates WS as a potential immunomodulatory, anticancer, and chemopreventive agent and highlights its potential use in cancer treatment.

Deconvolution of the epigenetic age discloses distinct inter-personal variability in epigenetic aging patterns

BACKGROUND

The epigenetic age can now be extrapolated from one of several epigenetic clocks, which are based on age-related changes in DNA methylation levels at specific multiple CpG sites. Accelerated aging, calculated from the discrepancy between the chronological age and the epigenetic age, has shown to predict morbidity and mortality rate. We assumed that deconvolution of epigenetic age to its components could shed light on the diversity of epigenetic, and by inference, on inter-individual variability in the causes of biological aging.

RESULTS

Using the Horvath original epigenetic clock, we identified several CpG sites linked to distinct genes that quantitatively explain much of the inter-personal variability in epigenetic aging, with CpG sites related to secretagogin and malin being the most variable. We show that equal epigenetic age in different subjects can result from variable contribution size of the same CpG sites to the total epigenetic age. In a healthy cohort, the most variable CpG sites are responsible for accelerated and decelerated epigenetic aging, relative to chronological age.

CONCLUSIONS

Of the 353 CpG sites that form the basis for the Horvath epigenetic age, we have found the CpG sites that are responsible for accelerated and decelerated epigenetic aging in healthy subjects. However, the relative contribution of each site to aging varies between individuals, leading to variable personal aging patterns. Our findings pave the way to form personalized aging cards allowing the identification of specific genes related to CpG sites, as aging markers, and perhaps treatment of these targets in order to hinder undesirable age drifting.

Genetic comprehension of organophosphate flame retardants, an emerging threat to prostate cancer

In recent years, organophosphate ester flame retardants (OPFRs), which have been regarded as alternatives for brominated flame retardants (BFRs), have become widely used in building materials, textiles, and electric equipment. Elucidating the relationship between OPFRs and tumors holds great significance for the treatment and prevention of diseases. In this work, we found a new method for predicting the correlation between the interactive genes of OPFRs and tumors. Transcriptome profiles and OPFR information were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas and the Genotype-Tissue Expression, Comparative Toxicogenomics, and PharmMapper databases. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis showed that interactive genes were mainly enriched in prostate cancer, steroid metabolic process, and steroid hormone regulation. Furthermore, protein-protein interaction network analysis revealed 33 biological hub genes. The operating characteristic curves and survival analysis showed the role of key genes in predicting the prognosis of prostate cancer. Gene target prediction and gene set variation analysis proved that OPFRs and their metabolites exert potential effects on prostate cancer. Colony formation assay showed that the cells with AR, mTOR and DDIT3 knockdown could remarkably mitigate the cell proliferation ability in both PC-3 and LNCap cells. Transwell assay demonstrated that the silencing of AR, mTOR and DDIT3 could significantly inhibit the cell invasion capacity of prostate cells. Triphenyl phosphate (TPP) significantly increase the cell proliferation ability and promote cell invasion capacity. AR, mTOR and DDIT3 in the PC-3 and LNCap cells were significantly upregulated with 10-6 M TPP treated.

LncRNA TCONS_00041002 improves neurological outcomes in neonatal rats with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy by inhibiting apoptosis and promoting neuron survival

It has been reported that Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) could induce apoptosis in neonates and result in cognitive and sensory impairments, which are associated with poor developmental outcomes. Despite the improvement in neonatology, there is still no clinically effective treatment for HIE presently. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in cellular homeostasis. Nevertheless, their effects in developing rat brains with HI is little known. Here, we established HIE model in neonate rats and explored the expression and function of lncRNAs in HI, and found the expression of 19 lncRNAs was remarkably changed in the brains of HI rats, compared to the sham group. Among them, three lncRNAs (TCONS_00041002, TCONS_00070547, TCONS_00045572) were enriched in the apoptotic process via gene ontology (GO) and pathway analysis, which were selected for the further qRT-PCR verification. Through lentivirus-mediated overexpression of these three lncRNAs, we found that overexpression of TCONS_00041002 attenuated the cell apoptosis, and increased the vitality of neurons after oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD), therefore reduced the brain infarction and further promoted the neuron survival as well as improved the neurological disorders in the rats subjected to HIE. What's more, ceRNA network prediction and co-expression verification showed that the expression of TCONS_00041002 was positively associated with Foxe1, Pawr and Nfkbiz. Altogether, this study has exhibited that lncRNA TCONS_00041002 participates in the cell apoptosis and neuronal survival of HIE and represents a potential new target for the treatment of HIE.

Cryptotanshinone Inhibits the Growth of HCT116 Colorectal Cancer Cells Through Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Mediated Autophagy

Among cancers, colorectal cancer (CRC) has one of the highest annual incidence and death rates. Considering severe adverse reactions associated with classical chemotherapy medications, traditional Chinese medicines have become potential drug candidates. In the current study, the effects of cryptotanshinone (CPT), a major component of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen) on CRC and underlying mechanism were explored. First of all, data from in vitro experiments and in vivo zebrafish models indicated that CPT selectively inhibited the growth and proliferation of HCT116 and SW620 cells while had little effect on SW480 cells. Secondly, both ER stress and autophagy were associated with CRC viability regulation. Interestingly, ER stress inhibitor and autophagy inhibitor merely alleviated cytotoxic effects on HCT116 cells in response to CPT stimulation, while have little effect on SW620 cells. The significance of apoptosis, autophagy and ER stress were verified by clinical data from CRC patients. In summary, the current study has revealed the anti-cancer effects of CPT in CRC by activating autophagy signaling mediated by ER stress. CPT is a promising drug candidate for CRC treatment.

Tamarix articulata Inhibits Cell Proliferation, Promotes Cell Death Mechanisms and Triggers G0/G1 Cell Cycle Arrest in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells

RESEARCH BACKGROUND

From ancient times plants have been used for medicinal purposes against various ailments. In the modern era, plants are a major source of drugs and are an appealing drug candidate for the anticancer therapeutics against various molecular targets. Here we tested methanolic extract of dry leaves of Tamarix articulata for anticancer activity against a panel of hepatocellular carcinoma cells.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Cell viability of hepatocellular carcinoma cells was determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay after a dose-dependent treatment with the extract of T. articulata. Phase-contrast microscopy and 4՛,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining served to analyse cellular and nuclear morphology. Immunoblotting was performed to determine the expression of proteins associated with autophagy, apoptosis and cell cycle. However, flow cytometry was used for the quantification of apoptotic cells and the analysis of cells in different phases of the cycle after the treatment with various doses of T. articulata. Additionally, acridine orange staining and 2՛,7՛-dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) dye were used to analyse the quantification of autophagosomes and reactive oxygen species.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrate that T. articulata methanolic extract exhibits promising antiproliferative activity with IC50 values (271.1±4.4), (298.3±7.1) and (336.7±6.1) µg/mL against hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2, Huh7D12 and Hep3B cell lines, respectively. Mechanistically, we found that T. articulata methanolic extract induces cell death by activating apoptosis and autophagy pathways. First, T. articulata methanolic extract promoted autophagy, which was confirmed by acridine orange staining. The immunoblotting analysis further confirmed that the extract at higher doses consistently induced the conversion of LC3I to LC3II form with a gradual decrease in the expression of autophagy substrate protein p62. Second, T. articulata methanolic extract promoted reactive oxygen species production in hepatocellular carcinoma cells and activated reactive oxygen species-mediated apoptosis. Flow cytometry and immunoblotting analysis showed that the plant methanolic extract induced dose-dependent apoptosis and activated proapoptotic proteins caspase-3 and PARP1. Additionally, the extract triggered the arrest of the G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle and upregulated the protein expression of p27/Kip and p21/Cip, with a decrease in cyclin D1 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma cells.

NOVELTY AND SCIENTIFIC CONTRIBUTION

The current study demonstrates that T. articulata methanolic extract exhibits promising anticancer potential to kill tumour cells by programmed cell death type I and II mechanisms and could be explored for potential drug candidate molecules to curtail cancer in the future.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in prostate cancer: its implications in diagnostics and therapeutics

Prostate cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed malignancies in developed countries and approximately 248,530 new cases of prostate cancer are likely to be diagnosed in the United States in 2021. During the late 1990s and 2000s, the prostate cancer-related death rate has decreased by 4% per year on average because of advancements in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing. However, the non-specificity of PSA to distinguish between benign and malignant forms of cancer is a major concern in the management of prostate cancer. Despite other risk factors in the pathogenesis of prostate cancer, recent advancement in molecular genetics suggests that genetic heredity plays a crucial role in prostate carcinogenesis. Approximately, 60% of heritability and more than 100 well-recognized single-nucleotide-polymorphisms (SNPs) have been found to be associated with prostate cancer and constitute a major risk factor in the development of prostate cancer. Recent findings revealed that a low to moderate effect on the progression of prostate cancer of individual SNPs was observed compared to a strong progressive effect when SNPs were in combination. Here, in this review, we made an attempt to critically analyze the role of SNPs and associated genes in the development of prostate cancer and their implications in diagnostics and therapeutics. A better understanding of the role of SNPs in prostate cancer susceptibility may improve risk prediction, enhance fine-mapping, and furnish new insights into the underlying pathophysiology of prostate cancer.

Endoplasmic reticulum stress, cell death and tumor: Association between endoplasmic reticulum stress and the apoptosis pathway in tumors (Review)

External and internal stimuli are often involved in the pathogenesis of tumors, and the deterioration of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) function within cells is also an important etiological factor of tumorigenesis resulting in the impairment of the endoplasmic reticulum, which is termed ER stress. The ER is an organelle that serves a crucial role in the process of protein synthesis and maturation, and also acts as a reservoir of calcium to maintain intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis. ER stress has been revealed to serve a critical role in tumorigenesis. In the present review, the association between ER stress‑related pathways and tumor cell apoptosis is examined. Primarily, the role of ER stress in tumor cell apoptosis is discussed, and it is stipulated that ER stress, induced by drugs both directly and indirectly, promotes tumor cell apoptosis.

Circular RNA MTO1 inhibits gastric cancer progression by elevating PAWR via sponging miR-199a-3p

The effect of circular RNA MTO1 (circMTO1) signaling on the expression of miR-199a-3p in gastric carcinoma cells, and its effect on proliferation and apoptosis of gastric cancer cells were investigated in this study. RT-qPCR was performed to detect the expression levels of circMTO1 and miR-199a-3p in the cell lines and tissues of gastric cancer. The effect of circMTO1 and miR-199a-3p on the growth and apoptosis of tumor cells was detected by BrdU incorporation and Annexin V/PI staining. Target gene prediction and screening, and luciferase reporter assays were performed to validate downstream interested genes of circMTO1 and miR-199a-3p. The expression levels of miR-199a-3p target gene PAWR (named as PRKC apoptosis WT1 Regulator Protein) was measured by RT-qPCR and Western blotting. Tumor changes in mice were detected by transfecting circMTO1. The expression of circMTO1 was significantly downregulated in the cell lines and tissues of gastric cancer, and low expression levels of circMTO1 were closely associated with poor prognosis. Overexpression of circMTO1 inhibited tumor growth, enhanced apoptosis rate and decreased cell invasion and migration. There was a significant negative relationship between the expression levels of circMTO1 and miR-199a-3p in gastric cancer tissues. Inhibiting miR-199a-3p expression or overexpression of PAWR could decrease the promotive effects of knockdown of circMTO1 on the progression of gastric cancer, and a positive relationship was established between the expression of circMTO1 and PAWR. circMTO1 can regulate the growth of gastric cancer cells by regulating miR-199a-3p/PAWR axis, thus inhibiting the development and progression of gastric cancer. Abbreviation GC: Gastric cancer; circ RNA: Circular RNA; MTO1: mitochondrial translation optimized 1 homolog.

The disruption of protein-protein interactions as a therapeutic strategy for prostate cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common male-specific cancers worldwide, with high morbidity and mortality rates associated with advanced disease stages. The current treatment options of PCa are prostatectomy, hormonal therapy, chemotherapy or radiotherapy, the selection of which is usually dependent upon the stage of the disease. The development of PCa to a castration-resistant phenotype (CRPC) is associated with a more severe prognosis requiring the development of a new and effective therapy. Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) have been recognised as an emerging drug modality and targeting PPIs is a promising therapeutic approach for several diseases, including cancer. The efficacy of several compounds in which target PPIs and consequently impair disease progression were validated in phase I/II clinical trials for different types of cancer. In PCa, various small molecules and peptides proved successful in inhibiting important PPIs, mainly associated with the androgen receptor (AR), Bcl-2 family proteins, and kinases/phosphatases, thus impairing the growth of PCa cells in vitro. Moreover, a majority of these compounds require further validation in vivo and, preferably, in clinical trials. In addition, several other PPIs associated with PCa progression have been identified and now require experimental validation as potential therapeutic loci. In conclusion, we consider the disruption of PPIs to be a promising though challenging therapeutic strategy for PCa. Agents which modulate PPIs might be employed as a monotherapy or as an adjunct to classical chemotherapeutics to overcome drug resistance and improve efficacy. The discovery of new PPIs with important roles in disease progression, and of novel optimized strategies to target them are major challenges for the scientific and pharmacological communities.

Cytoprotective autophagy induction by withaferin A in prostate cancer cells involves GABARAPL1

Withaferin A (WA) is a naturally occurring steroidal lactone with proven cancer chemopreventive activity in preclinical models of different cancers including prostate adenocarcinoma. Previously we compared the RNA-seq data from control and WA-treated 22Rv1 human prostate cancer cells to identify mechanistic targets of this phytochemical. The Gene Ontology pathway analysis of the RNA-seq data revealed significant upregulation of genes associated with autophagy upon WA treatment in 22Rv1 cells. In this study, we extended these findings to investigate the mechanism underlying WA-induced autophagy. Initially, we confirmed autophagy induction by WA treatment by transmission electron microscopy using three prostate cancer cell lines (LNCaP, 22Rv1, and PC-3). Fourteen common genes altered by 8- and 16-hour exposure to WA were identified from human autophagy PCR array and these results were consistent with the RNA-seq data. Two key autophagy markers (LC3BII and SQSTM1) were robustly increased in WA-exposed LNCaP, 22Rv1, and PC-3 cells as determined by immunoblotting, and this effect was elevated in the presence of autophagy inhibitor bafilomycin A1 (BafA1). BafA1 treatment augmented WA's cytotoxicity and subsequently its proapoptotic potential. WA treatment induced GABARAPL1 (ATG8L) protein expression in all three cell lines and its knockdown by RNA interference attenuated WA-mediated apoptosis. WA-induced autophagy was not affected in the presence of an antioxidant (EUK134). Taken together, the present study reveals that WA-mediated autophagy is cytoprotective and mediated by GABARAPL1.

Potential Therapeutic Agents Against Par-4 Target for Cancer Treatment: Where Are We Going?

One of the greatest challenges of cancer therapeutics nowadays is to find selective targets successfully. Prostate apoptosis response-4 (Par-4) is a selective tumor suppressor protein with an interesting therapeutic potential due to its specificity on inducing apoptosis in cancer cells. Par-4 activity and levels can be downregulated in several tumors and cancer cell types, indicating poor prognosis and treatment resistance. Efforts to increase Par-4 expression levels have been studied, including its use as a therapeutic protein by transfection with adenoviral vectors or plasmids. However, gene therapy is very complex and still presents many hurdles to be overcome. We decided to review molecules and drugs with the capacity to upregulate Par-4 and, thereby, be an alternative to reach this druggable target. In addition, Par-4 localization and function are reviewed in some cancers, clarifying how it can be used as a therapeutic target.

Targeting micro-RNAs by natural products: a novel future therapeutic strategy to combat cancer

MicroRNAs are a class of short, non-coding RNAs that play a crucial role in normal physiology by attenuating translation or targeting messenger RNAs for degradation. Deregulation of miRNAs disturbs key molecular events in interconnected processes such as cell proliferation, tumor angiogenesis, self-renewal, apoptosis, metastasis and epithelial to mesenchymal transition. This process initiates, promotes and develops the pathophysiology of cancer. The modulation of miRNAs results in epigenetic changes in the genome, which eventually leads to cancer. Targeting deregulated miRNAs by natural products derived from plants is an ideal strategy to combat tumorigenesis. Owing to their fewer side effects, natural products have been used as chemotherapeutic agents against various cancers. These natural products modulate the dysregulated signaling pathways by downregulating the oncogenic miRNAs which play a crucial role in the development of tumorigenesis and maintain a fine balance of tumor suppressor miRNAs. This review article aims to highlight the key modifications of miRNAs which lead to tumorigenesis and the chemotherapeutic potential of natural products by targeting miRNAs and their possible mechanism of inhibition for developing an effective anti-cancer agent(s). They will have less damaging effects on normal cells for future chemotherapeutics.

Differential nitric oxide induced by Mycobacterium bovis and BCG leading to dendritic cells apoptosis in a caspase dependent manner

Dendritic cells (DCs) are critical for both innate and adaptive immunity. Meanwhile, nitric oxide (NO) is a member of reactive nitrogen species (RNS) generally considered to play a key role in the bactericidal process in innate immunity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex infection. The present study therefore investigated the mechanism of NO production in murine DCs induced by Mycobacterium bovis (M.bovis) and its attenuated strain Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) infection. The expression of genes Slc7A1, Slc7A2, iNOS, and ArgI essential to NO synthesis was up-regulated in M.bovis/BCG infected DCs. IFN-γ addition further increased, while the iNOS inhibitor L-NMMA significantly inhibited their expression. Accordingly, the end products of arginine metabolism, NO and urea, were found to be significantly increased. In addition, BCG induced significantly higher levels of apoptosis in DCs compared to M.bovis shown by higher levels of DNA fragmentation using flow cytometry and release of mitochondrial Cytochrome C, and up-regulation of the genes caspase-3, caspase-8, caspase-9 and dffa critical to apoptosis by qRT-PCR detection and western blot analysis. Furthermore, IFN-γ increased, but L-NMMA decreased apoptosis of M.bovis/BCG infected DCs. In addition, mycobacterial intracellular survival was significantly reduced by IFN-γ treatment in BCG infected DCs, while slightly increased by L-NMMA treatment. Taken altogether, our data show that NO synthesis was differentially increased and associated with apoptosis in M.bovis/BCG infected DCs. These findings may significantly contribute to elucidate the pathogenesis of M.bovis.

Comparative assessment of biological activities of different parts of halophytic plant Tamarix articulata (T. articulata) growing in Saudi Arabia

Owing to extremely high salinity and harsh environmental conditions, T. articulata is one of the most abundant wild plants growing in the deserts of Saudi Arabia. Such plants may contain novel compounds to display promising biological activities. Here, in this study, we evaluate the biological activities of methanolic extracts of fresh leaves, dry leaves, stem, and roots of T. articulata. The antioxidant activity was determined by 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and total phenolic and flavonoid content were determined using standard colorimetric methods. Whereas antimicrobial and ant-proliferative activities were determined by standard well-diffusion and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) methods, respectively. Our results demonstrate that all methanolic extracts of T. articulata showed antioxidant activity, however, the methanolic extract of dry leaves exhibits promising antioxidant effect with IC₅₀ value 49.08 ± 1.98, which was strongly supported by total phenolic (409.92 ± 6.03 mg GAE/g DW) and flavonoid (177.71 mg QE/g DW) content. Although, antimicrobial activity was also exhibited by all the methanolic extracts, however, methanolic extract of dry leaves exhibits promising antimicrobial activity in Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus epidemidis. Furthermore, MTT assay revealed that all methanolic extracts exhibit antiproliferative activity in MCF-7 (breast cancer) and RKO (colorectal cancer) cells with IC₅₀ values ranges from 219 ± 5.112 µg/ml to 253 ± 5.231 µg/ml and 220 ± 4.330 µg/ml to 325 ± 6.213 µg/ml, respectively. However, the most promising antiproliferative effect was displayed by methanolic extract of dry leaves with IC₅₀ values 219 ± 5.112 µg/ml and 220 ± 4.330 µg/ml, respectively. In summary, these findings provide evidence that T. articulata has promising biological activities and can be used for many pharmaceutical activities in the future.

Epoxide containing molecules: A good or a bad drug design approach

Functional group modification is one of the main strategies used in drug discovery and development. Despite the controversy of being identified for many years as a biologically hazardous functional group, the introduction of an epoxide function in a structural backbone is still one of the possible modifications being implemented in drug design. In this manner, it is our intention to prove with this work that epoxides can have significant interest in medicinal chemistry, not only as anticancer agents, but also as important drugs for other pathologies. Thus, this revision paper aims to highlight the biological activity and the proposed mechanisms of action of several epoxide-containing molecules either in preclinical studies or in clinical development or even in clinical use. An overview of the chemistry of epoxides is also reported. Some of the conclusions are that effectively most of the epoxide-containing molecules referred in this work were being studied or are in the market as anticancer drugs. However, some of them in preclinical studies, were also associated with other different activities such as anti-malarial, anti-arthritic, insecticidal, antithrombotic, and selective inhibitory activity of FXIII-A (a transglutaminase). As for the epoxide-containing molecules in clinical trials, some of them are being tested for obesity and schizophrenia. Finally, drugs containing epoxide groups already in the market are mostly used for the treatment of different types of cancer, such as breast cancer and multiple myeloma. Other diseases for which the referred drugs are being used include heart failure, infections and gastrointestinal disturbs. In summary, epoxides can be a suitable option in drug design, particularly in the design of anticancer agents, and deserve to be better explored. However, and despite the promising results, it is imperative to explore the mechanisms of action of these compounds in order to have a better picture of their efficiency and safety.

Long non-coding RNA ROR sponges miR-138 to aggravate hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis via upregulating Mst1

BACKGROUND

Hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury of cardiomyocytes causes an irreversible damage to heart and largely results in acute myocardial infarction. Study has indicated lncRNA ROR aggravates myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Also, lncRNA ROR sponges miR-138 to promote osteogenesis. MiR-138 involves in hypoxic pulmonary vascular remodelling by targeting Mst1. However, the interaction between lncRNA ROR, miR-138 and Mst1 involved in myocardial H/R injury is still unknown.

METHODS

H9C2 cells were used to establish H/R injury model. The expression levels of lncRNA ROR and miR-138 were modified by transfection with the miR-138 mimics or lncRNA ROR overexpression plasmid. MTT and flow cytometry analysis were performed to detect cell proliferation and apoptosis. Dual luciferase reporter assay was used to determine interaction between lncRNA ROR and miR-138 or miR-138 and Mst1. Expression levels of lncRNA ROR, miR-138, Mst1 and apoptosis-related markers were determined by qRT-PCR or western blotting.

RESULTS

LncRNA ROR was significantly up-regulated, while miR-138 was obviously down-regulated in H/R-induced injury of H9C2 cells. Furthermore, miR-138 overexpression alleviated cardiac cell apoptosis induced by H/R injury. Mst1 was revealed to be a target of miR-138 and negatively regulated by miR-138. Mst1 overexpression reversed the protective effects of miR-138 on H/R injury of H9C2 cells. LncRNA ROR was identified as a sponge for miR-138. MiR-138 could protect H9C2 cells form H/R injury induced by lncRNA ROR overexpression.

CONCLUSION

Our study provides that lncRNA ROR sponges miR-138 to aggravate H/R-induced myocardial cell injury by upregulating the expression of Mst1.

Autophagic dysfunction of β cell dysfunction in type 2 diabetes, a double-edged sword

Diabetes is an age-related disease, most of which is type 2 diabetes, and islet β cell dysfunction and insulin resistance are the main mechanisms of type 2 diabetes. Recent studies have revealed that autophagy plays an important role in maintaining the structure and function of islet beta cells and inhibiting insulin resistance and apoptosis induced by oxidative stress. In this review, we discussed the positive and negative effects of autophagy and its dysfunction on type 2 diabetes mellitus, which is the so-called double-edged sword, analysed its possible mechanism, and identified possible research hot spots.

Synergistic antitumor effect of 5-fluorouracil and withaferin-A induces endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated autophagy and apoptosis in colorectal cancer cells

The development of chemo-resistance against 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in tumor cells is one of the main debacles in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. A recent combination of 5-FU with oxaliplatin or cetuximab drastically improves the survival rate in CRC patients; however, the toxicity issue cannot be evaded completely. Thus, searching for novel drug combinations with high specificity and low toxicity is seemingly important. Owing to the less undesirable effects of natural products on normal cells, here we investigated the synergistic antitumor effect of withaferin-A (WA) in combination with 5-FU. Our results demonstrate that the combination of WA and 5-FU induces a significant antiproliferative effect and modulates endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in favor of cell death in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. Mechanistically, the combination upregulates the expression of ER stress sensors (BiP, PERK, CHOP, ATF-4, and eIF2α) and executes PERK axis mediated apoptosis in CRC cells. Additionally, the combined treatment of WA and 5-FU mediated ER stress induces autophagy and apoptosis, which were confirmed by immunoblotting, acridine orange (AO) staining and annexin-V FITC by flow cytometry. In contrast, inhibition of ER stress with salubrinal significantly decreases both autophagic and apoptotic cell populations. Moreover, pharmacological inhibition of either autophagy or apoptosis by their respective inhibitors 3-methyladenine (3-MA) or carbobenzoxy-valyl-alanyl-aspartyl-[O-methyl]-fluoro-methyl ketone (Z-VAD-FMK) decreases their respective population of cells but could not affect either of the population significantly. Finally, the combination attenuates the expression of β-catenin pathway associated proteins and arrests cell cycle at the G₂M phase in CRC cells. In summary, the combination of WA and 5-FU decreases cell viability by inducing ER stress-mediated induction of autophagy and apoptosis, inhibiting the β-catenin pathway and arresting the cell cycle at a G₂M phase in CRC cells.

Divergent Modulation of Proteostasis in Prostate Cancer

Proteostasis regulates key cellular processes such as cell proliferation, differentiation, transcription, and apoptosis. The mechanisms by which proteostasis is regulated are crucial and the deterioration of cellular proteostasis has been significantly associated with tumorigenesis since it specifically targets key oncoproteins and tumor suppressors. Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most common cause of cancer death in men worldwide. Androgens mediate one of the most central signaling pathways in all stages of PCa via the androgen receptor (AR). In addition to their regulation by hormones, PCa cells are also known to be highly secretory and are particularly prone to ER stress as proper ER function is essential. Alterations in various complex signaling pathways and cellular processes including cell cycle control, transcription, DNA repair, apoptosis, cell adhesion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and angiogenesis are critical factors influencing PCa development through key molecular changes mainly by posttranslational modifications in PCa-related proteins, including AR, NKX3.1, PTEN, p53, cyclin D1, and p27. Several ubiquitin ligases like MDM2, Siah2, RNF6, CHIP, and substrate-binding adaptor SPOP; deubiquitinases such as USP7, USP10, USP26, and USP12 are just some of the modifiers involved in the regulation of these key proteins via ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). Some ubiquitin-like modifiers, especially SUMOs, have been also closely associated with PCa. On the other hand, the proteotoxicity resulting from misfolded proteins and failure of ER adaptive capacity induce unfolded protein response (UPR) that is an indispensable signaling mechanism for PCa development. Lastly, ER-associated degradation (ERAD) also plays a crucial role in prostate tumorigenesis. In this section, the relationship between prostate cancer and proteostasis will be discussed in terms of UPS, UPR, SUMOylation, ERAD, and autophagy.

Withania Somnifera (Ashwagandha) and Withaferin A: Potential in Integrative Oncology

Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera, WS), belonging to the family Solanaceae, is an Ayurvedic herb known worldwide for its numerous beneficial health activities since ancient times. This medicinal plant provides benefits against many human illnesses such as epilepsy, depression, arthritis, diabetes, and palliative effects such as analgesic, rejuvenating, regenerating, and growth-promoting effects. Several clinical trials of the different parts of the herb have demonstrated safety in patients suffering from these diseases. In the last two decades, an active component of Withaferin A (WFA) has shown tremendous cytotoxic activity suggesting its potential as an anti-carcinogenic agent in treatment of several cancers. In spite of enormous progress, a thorough elaboration of the proposed mechanism and mode of action is absent. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of the properties of WS extracts (WSE) containing complex mixtures of diverse components including WFA, which have shown inhibitory properties against many cancers, (breast, colon, prostate, colon, ovarian, lung, brain), along with their mechanism of actions and pathways involved.

Phytochemicals Bridging Autophagy Induction and Alpha-Synuclein Degradation in Parkinsonism

Among nutraceuticals, phytochemical-rich compounds represent a source of naturally-derived bioactive principles, which are extensively studied for potential beneficial effects in a variety of disorders ranging from cardiovascular and metabolic diseases to cancer and neurodegeneration. In the brain, phytochemicals produce a number of biological effects such as modulation of neurotransmitter activity, growth factor induction, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, stem cell modulation/neurogenesis, regulation of mitochondrial homeostasis, and counteracting protein aggregation through modulation of protein-folding chaperones and the cell clearing systems autophagy and proteasome. In particular, the ability of phytochemicals in restoring proteostasis through autophagy induction took center stage in recent research on neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease (PD). Indeed, autophagy dysfunctions and α-syn aggregation represent two interdependent downstream biochemical events, which concur in the parkinsonian brain, and which are targeted by phytochemicals administration. Therefore, in the present review we discuss evidence about the autophagy-based neuroprotective effects of specific phytochemical-rich plants in experimental parkinsonism, with a special focus on their ability to counteract alpha-synuclein aggregation and toxicity. Although further studies are needed to confirm the autophagy-based effects of some phytochemicals in parkinsonism, the evidence discussed here suggests that rescuing autophagy through natural compounds may play a role in preserving dopamine (DA) neuron integrity by counteracting the aggregation, toxicity, and prion-like spreading of α-syn, which remains a hallmark of PD.

Varroa destructor parasitism has a greater effect on proteome changes than the deformed wing virus and activates TGF-β signaling pathways

Honeybee workers undergo metamorphosis in capped cells for approximately 13 days before adult emergence. During the same period, Varroa mites prick the defenseless host many times. We sought to identify proteome differences between emerging Varroa-parasitized and parasite-free honeybees showing the presence or absence of clinical signs of deformed wing virus (DWV) in the capped cells. A label-free proteomic analysis utilizing nanoLC coupled with an Orbitrap Fusion Tribrid mass spectrometer provided a quantitative comparison of 2316 protein hits. Redundancy analysis (RDA) showed that the combination of Varroa parasitism and DWV clinical signs caused proteome changes that occurred in the same direction as those of Varroa alone and were approximately two-fold higher. Furthermore, proteome changes associated with DWV signs alone were positioned above Varroa in the RDA. Multiple markers indicate that Varroa activates TGF-β-induced pathways to suppress wound healing and the immune response and that the collective action of stressors intensifies these effects. Furthermore, we indicate JAK/STAT hyperactivation, p53-BCL-6 feedback loop disruption, Wnt pathway activation, Wnt/Hippo crosstalk disruption, and NF-κB and JAK/STAT signaling conflict in the Varroa–honeybee–DWV interaction. These results illustrate the higher effect of Varroa than of DWV at the time of emergence. Markers for future research are provided.

Triptolide Induces Glioma Cell Autophagy and Apoptosis via Upregulating the ROS/JNK and Downregulating the Akt/mTOR Signaling Pathways

Apoptosis and autophagy are the two prominent forms of developmental cell death, and researches have shown that crosstalk exists between these two processes. A prior study demonstrated that triptolide inhibited the proliferation of malignant glioma cells. However, whether apoptosis and autophagy participate in the inhibitory effect of triptolide in glioma cells has not been clarified. In the present study, we demonstrated that triptolide potently inhibited the growth of glioma cells by inducing cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase. Additionally, the treatment with triptolide induced apoptosis and autophagy in various glioma cell lines. Triptolide-induced autophagy may have tumor-supporting effects. Autophagy and apoptosis could cross-inhibit each other in glioma cells treated with triptolide. Moreover, we found that triptolide induced ROS production and JNK activation and inhibited the activity of Akt and mTOR. Finally, we demonstrated that triptolide suppressed tumor growth in an orthotopic xenograft glioma model. Collectively, these data indicated that triptolide induced G2/M phase arrest, apoptosis, and autophagy via activating the ROS/JNK and blocking the Akt/mTOR signaling pathways in glioma cells. Triptolide may be a potential anti-tumor drug targeting gliomas.

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells suppress growth and promote the apoptosis of glioma U251 cells through downregulation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), with the capacity for self-renewal and differentiation into multiple cell types, exhibit the property of homing towards tumor sites and immunosuppression and have been used as tumor-tropic vectors for tumor therapy. However, few studies have investigated the underlying molecular mechanisms that link MSCs to targeted tumor cells. In this study, we elucidated the inhibitory effects and mechanisms of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) on human glioma U251 cells using a co-culture system in vitro. The anti-tumor activity of co-cultured hBMSCs was assessed by morphological changes, the MTT assay, and Hoechst 33258 staining. Cell apoptosis and cell cycle distribution were evaluated by flow cytometry. Cell migration and invasion were evaluated using a 24-well Transwell chamber. A proteomics approach was used to identify differentially expressed proteins after hBMSCs treatment in U251 cells, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to validate the results. Bioinformatics analyses were also implemented to better understand the identified proteins, and Western blotting analyses were used to analyze the associated proteins. The results showed that hBMSCs could inhibit cell proliferation and induce cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase, resulting in apoptosis of U251 cells. Transwell and Matrigel invasion assays showed that hBMSCs reduced the migration and invasion of U251 cells. Using proteomics, 11 differentially expressed proteins were identified and observed. Bioinformatics analyses indicated that the identified proteins participated in several biological processes and exhibited various molecular functions, mainly related to the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) pathway. Moreover, hBMSCs regulated changes in proteins linked to cell apoptosis and cell cycle progression and inhibited the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-like and PI3K/AKT pathway. Taken together, the findings in our study suggest that hBMSCs inhibit U251 cells proliferation and the EMT-like by downregulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, which indicates that hBMSCs have a potential antitumor characteristics and should be further explored in future glioma therapy.

Self-assembled organic nanoparticles of benzimidazole analogue exhibit enhanced uptake in 3D tumor spheroids and oxidative stress induced cytotoxicity in breast cancer

Organic nanoparticles (ONPs) possess great research interests for their promising effects in the enhancement of bioactivity including anticancer activity with less toxicity. The present study describes the preparation, characterization and biological evaluation of aqueous phase ONPs of potent 1,2-disubstituted benzimidazole derivative (BZ6) for anticancer activity. BZ6-ONPs were characterized through UV-absorption and fluorescence spectroscopic analysis for their photo-physical properties. DLS, TEM and SEM studies were carried out for morphological and structural analysis. Cytotoxicity determination on a panel of four different cancer cell lines (MCF-7, MiaPaca-2, HT-29 and HCT-116) revealed that the BZ6-ONPs show highest activity in human breast cancer MCF-7 cells. Surprisingly, the BZ6-ONPs were found to be non-toxic towards normal breast epithelial fR2 cells. Additionally, the FITC-ONPs showed enhanced uptake in 3D tumor spheroids of MCF-7 cells compared to the free FITC. BZ6-ONPs strongly halted cell proliferation and induced apoptosis, possibly through oxidative stress-mediated reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) in MCF-7 cells. Moreover, molecular mechanism-based studies revealed that BZ6-ONPs downregulated AKT/NF-κB/vimentin/survivin-mediated oncogenic signaling pathway promoting cell proliferation and malignancy. In a nutshell, BZ6-ONPs are therapeutically efficacious, which needs further development as a treatment option in human mammary gland carcinomas.

Trigonelline prevents high cholesterol and high fat diet induced hepatic lipid accumulation and lipo-toxicity in C57BL/6J mice, via restoration of hepatic autophagy

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is often linked with impaired hepatic autophagy. Here, we studied the alterations in hepatocellular autophagy by high cholesterol and high-fat diet (HC-HF) diet in C57BL/6J mice, and by palmitic acid (PA), in AML-12 and HepG2 cells. Further, we analysed role of Trigonelline (TG), a plant alkaloid, in preventing NAFLD, by modulating autophagy. For this, C57BL/6J mice were fed with Standard Chow (SC) or HC-HF diet, with and without TG for 16 weeks. In-vitro; AML-12 cells and HepG2 cells, were exposed to PA with and without TG, for 24 h. Cellular events related to autophagy, lipogenesis, and lipo-toxicity were studied. The HC-HF diet fed mice showed hepatic autophagy blockade, increased triglycerides and steatosis. PA exposure to AML-12 cells and HepG2 cells induced impaired autophagy, ER stress, resulting in lipotoxicity. TG treatment in HC-HF fed mice, restored hepatic autophagy, and prevented steatosis. TG treated AML-12, and HepG2 cells exposed to PA showed autophagy restoration, and reduced lipotoxicity, however, these effects were diminished in Atg7-/- HepG2 cells, and in the presence of chloroquine. This study shows that HC-HF diet-induced impaired autophagy, and steatosis is prevented by TG, which attributes to its novel mechanism in treating NAFLD.

Chaperone-Mediated Autophagy Promotes Beclin1 Degradation in Persistently Infected Hepatitis C Virus Cell Culture

Liver cirrhosis is an independent risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The mechanisms that contribute to HCC development in the cirrhotic microenvironment are unknown. We found that HCC grown in the highly stressed cirrhotic microenvironment undergoes autophagy switching from a protective state characterized by high macroautophagy with low chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA) to an HCC-promoting state characterized by low macroautophagy with high CMA. This study examined how the stress response executes oncogenic cell programming through autophagy switching using hepatitis C virus cell culture. Protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase expression increased to high levels in hepatitis C virus culture. Protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase-dependent activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) led to increased transcription of the cytoprotective genes: heat shock cognate 70 kDa protein and lysosome-associated membrane protein 2A (LAMP2A) and precipitated the induction of CMA. CMA selectively targeted beclin1 degradation, leading to accumulation of the autophagy flux protein p62 due to impaired autophagosome-endosome fusion. This impaired autophagosome-endosome fusion due to beclin1 degradation inhibited endocytosis and degradation of epidermal growth factor receptor. Silencing Nrf2 and LAMP2A reduced cell viability, suggesting that the stress response activates CMA as a compensatory mechanism of cell survival. We report a novel mechanism through which stress response triggers oncogenic Nrf2 signaling that promotes autophagy switching to favor cell survival.

Dual role of autophagy on docetaxel-sensitivity in prostate cancer cells

Prostate cancer (PC) is one of the leading causes of death in males. Available treatments often lead to the appearance of chemoresistant foci and metastases, with mechanisms still partially unknown. Within tumour mass, autophagy may promote cell survival by enhancing cancer cells tolerability to different cell stresses, like hypoxia, starvation or those triggered by chemotherapic agents. Because of its connection with the apoptotic pathways, autophagy has been differentially implicated, either as prodeath or prosurvival factor, in the appearance of more aggressive tumours. Here, in three PC cells (LNCaP, PC3, and DU145), we tested how different autophagy inducers modulate docetaxel-induced apoptosis. We selected the mTOR-independent disaccharide trehalose and the mTOR-dependent macrolide lactone rapamycin autophagy inducers. In castration-resistant PC (CRPC) PC3 cells, trehalose specifically prevented intrinsic apoptosis in docetaxel-treated cells. Trehalose reduced the release of cytochrome c triggered by docetaxel and the formation of aberrant mitochondria, possibly by enhancing the turnover of damaged mitochondria via autophagy (mitophagy). In fact, trehalose increased LC3 and p62 expression, LC3-II and p62 (p62 bodies) accumulation and the induction of LC3 puncta. In docetaxel-treated cells, trehalose, but not rapamycin, determined a perinuclear mitochondrial aggregation (mito-aggresomes), and mitochondria specifically colocalized with LC3 and p62-positive autophagosomes. In PC3 cells, rapamycin retained its ability to activate autophagy without evidences of mitophagy even in presence of docetaxel. Interestingly, these results were replicated in LNCaP cells, whereas trehalose and rapamycin did not modify the response to docetaxel in the ATG5-deficient (autophagy resistant) DU145 cells. Therefore, autophagy is involved to alter the response to chemotherapy in combination therapies and the response may be influenced by the different autophagic pathways utilized and by the type of cancer cells.

Synthesis of steroidal imidazolidinthiones as potential apoptotic agents: Investigation by theoretical and experimental studies

New steroidal imidazolidinthione derivatives (4-6) were synthesized from steroidal thiosemicarbazones and dichloroethane. The synthesized compounds were characterized using spectral data analysis. Theoretical DFT involving B3LYP/6-31G∗∗ level of theory was employed to gain insights into the molecular structure of the target compounds. MEPS and FMO analysis were carried out. HOMO-LUMO energy gap was determined which helped to evaluate various global descriptors like hardness, chemical potential, electronegativity, nucleophilicity and electrophilicity index, etc. The calculated properties established that the synthesized products are more or less similar in their reactivity behaviour. To explore their biological potential, interaction studies of compounds (4-6) with DNA were carried out using various biophysical techniques. The compounds bind DNA preferentially through electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions with K_b of 3.21 × 10³ M^-1, 2.79 × 10³ M^-1 and 2.26 × 10³ M^-1, respectively indicating the higher binding affinity of compound 4 towards DNA. Gel electrophoresis of compound 4 demonstrated strong interaction during the concentration dependent cleavage activity with pBR322 DNA. It was observed that these steroidal imidazolidinthiones are minor groove binders of DNA which was validated using molecular docking studies. An in vitro cytotoxicity screening using MTT assay revealed that the compounds (4-6) exhibit potential toxicity against different human cancer cells. Highest antiproliferative effect was observed on HeLa cells by compound 4. The results suggested that compounds 4-6 cause apoptotic cell death by cleaving apoptotic protein caspase-3 and suppress anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 in HeLa cancer cells.

Alkyne-azide cycloaddition analogues of dehydrozingerone as potential anti-prostate cancer inhibitors via the PI3K/Akt/NF-kB pathway

Herein, we report the isolation and synthetic modification of dehydrozingerone (DHZ, 1), a secondary metabolite present in the rhizome of Zingiber officinale. We synthesized O-propargylated dehydrozingerone, which was subsequently coupled by alkyne-azide cycloaddition (3-20) using click chemistry. The compounds (1-20) were evaluated for their in vitro cytotoxic activity in a panel of three cancer cell lines. Among all the DHZ derivatives, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 15 displayed potent cytotoxic potential with an IC50 value ranging from 1.8-3.0 μM in MCF-7, PC-3 and HCT-116 cell lines. Furthermore, compound 7 has proven to be the most potent cytotoxic compound in all the three distinct cancer cell lines and also demonstrated significant anti-invasive potential in prostate cancer. The mechanistic study of compound 7 showed that it not only suppressed the AKT/mTOR signalling which regulates nuclear transcription factor-NF-kB but also augmented the expression of anti-invasive markers E-cadherin and TIMP. Compound 7 significantly decreased the expression of pro-invasive markers vimentin, MMP-2 and MMP-9, respectively. This study underscores an efficient synthetic approach employed to evaluate the structure-activity relationship of dehydrozingerone (1) in search of potential new anticancer agents.