Molecular mechanisms of the chemopreventive effects of resveratrol and its analogs in colorectal cancer: key role of polyamines?

Molecular Understanding and Pharmacological Potency of Plant-Derived Compounds in Colorectal Cancer (CRC): A Critical Analysis and Future Perspectives

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the main driver of fatality and the 3rd most often determined malignancy. Despite advances in detection and therapy, colorectal cancer (CRC) endures as the largest driver of cancer-related morbidity, and mortality. Modern habits and dietary negligence might be one of the reasons that have enhanced cancer prevalence. Thus, changes in Dietary habits will have a better impact, and help in finding a better cure for CRC. Initially, CRC was explored as a genetic event and currently, the research is focused on the epigenetic modifications of chromatin and microRNA (miRNA) in CRC cells. Natural products such as Curcumin, Resveratrol, Flavonoids, and Ellagitannins are been explored as compounds from the perspective of genetic, epigenetic, and miRNA modifications which will have future therapeutic aspects. Also, the extracts of these key players and their analogs will intervene the signaling pathway activation that involves in cancer propagation, apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and epigenetic and miRNA modifications. Modulations of these miRNAs, and modification globally might have impact on CRC progression, and cancer tumor cell sensitivity.

Research on the signaling pathways related to the intervention of traditional Chinese medicine in Parkinson's disease:A literature review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the most common progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting more than 10 million people worldwide and is characterized by the progressive loss of Daergic (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. It has been reported that signaling pathways play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of PD, while the active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) have been found to possess a protective effect against PD. TCM has demonstrated significant potential in mitigating oxidative stress (OS), neuroinflammation, and apoptosis of DA neurons via the regulation of signaling pathways associated with PD.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This study discussed and analyzed the signaling pathways involved in the occurrence and development of PD and the mechanism of active ingredients of TCM regulating PD via signaling pathways, with the aim of providing a basis for the development and clinical application of therapeutic strategies for TCM in PD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

With "Parkinson's disease", "Idiopathic Parkinson's Disease", "Lewy Body Parkinson's Disease", "Parkinson's Disease, Idiopathic", "Parkinson Disease, Idiopathic", "Parkinson's disorders", "Parkinsonism syndrome", "Traditional Chinese medicine", "Chinese herbal medicine", "active ingredients", "medicinal plants" as the main keywords, PubMed, Web of Science and other online search engines were used for literature retrieval.

RESULTS

PD exhibits a close association with various signaling pathways, including but not limited to MAPKs, NF-κB, PI3K/Akt, Nrf2/ARE, Wnt/β-catenin, TLR/TRIF, NLRP3, Notch. The therapeutic potential of TCM lies in its ability to regulate these signaling pathways. In addition, the active ingredients of TCM have shown significant effects in improving OS, neuroinflammation, and DA neuron apoptosis in PD.

CONCLUSION

The active ingredients of TCM have unique advantages in regulating PD-related signaling pathways. It is suggested to combine network pharmacology and bioinformatics to study the specific targets of TCM. This not only provides a new way for the prevention and treatment of PD with the active ingredients of TCM, but also provides a scientific basis for the selection and development of TCM preparations.

Red Wine and Health: Approaches to Improve the Phenolic Content During Winemaking

There is ample evidence regarding the health benefits of red wine consumption due to its content of phenolic compounds, as an alternative to improve the state of health and prevent various diseases, being the implementation of procedures that allow a greater extraction and stability of phenolic compounds during the elaboration a key aspect. The first part of this review summarizes some studies, mostly at the preclinical level, on the mechanisms by which phenolic compounds act in the human organism, taking advantage of their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antithrombotic, antiatherogenic, antimicrobial, antiviral, and other activities. Although the migration of grape components into the must/wine occurs during the winemaking process, the application of new technologies may contribute to increasing the content of phenolic compounds in the finished wine. Some of these technologies have been evaluated on an industrial scale, and in some cases, they have been included in the International Code of Oenological Practice by the International Organization of Vine and Wine (OIV). In this sense, the second part of this review deals with the use of these novel technologies that can increase, or at least maintain, the polyphenol content. For example, in the pre-fermentative stage, phenolic extraction can be increased by treating the berries or must with high pressures, pulsed electric fields (PEF), ultrasound (US), e-beam radiation or ozone. At fermentative level, yeasts with high production of pyranoanthocyanins and/or their precursor molecules, low polyphenol absorption, and low anthocyanin-β-glucosidase activity can be used. Whereas, at the post-fermentative level, aging-on-lees (AOL) can contribute to maintaining polyphenol levels, and therefore transmitting health benefits to the consumer.

Improving the Condition of European Hare Through Nutrition

The objective of the article is to evaluate the effects of a newly designed granulated mixture enriched with Bohemian knotweed (Reynoutria x bohemica) on European hare (Lepus europaeus) kept at closed farms. The positive influence of knotweed on the microbiome in the digestive system and better usage of the fodder were proven based on biochemical and haematological analysis of blood. Lower manifestation of pathogenic organisms is also expected. Finally, the positive influence on higher weight gains in baby hares was proven, which improves their condition. The results can be used in practice at closed farms breeding European hare focused on releasing bred young hares into open hunting grounds where it is possible to obtain a monetary contribution for the releasing of hares from a grant of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Czech Republic in the field of hunting. Furthermore, the results can be used for feeding hares in open hunting grounds.

The Effect of Reynoutria × Bohemica on the Condition of Capreolus Capreolus and Cervus Elaphus

The objective of the work is to evaluate the effects of a granulated feeding mixture enriched with knotweed (Reynoutria × bohemica) on roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) bred at a closed farm and red deer (Cervus elaphus) bred at a farm. Based on both biochemical and haematological blood analysis, the knotweed is expected to have an influence on the microbiome in the digestive system as well as allowing better utilisation of fodder and lower manifestation of pathogenic organisms. The results are of practical use mainly on farms and in hobby breeding but also in deer parks. Furthermore, the results may be used for feeding deer in open hunting grounds.

Histone deacetylase activity and vitamin D-dependent gene expressions in relation to sulforaphane in human breast cancer cells

It is relatively unknown how dietary bioactive compound, sulforaphane, in partnership with active vitamin D3, 1,25(OH)2D3, regulates vitamin D-dependent gene expression in breast cancer (BC). It has been suggested that the combination of various bioactive components with vitamins is crucial for their potential anticancer activities.

METHODS

This study employed a combinatorial chemopreventive strategy to investigate the impact of dietary histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, that is, sulforaphane on chromatin remodeling in BC. To understand the epigenetics-mediated changes in gene expression, MCF-7 cells were exposed for 24 hr to 1,25(OH)2D3 (100nM) either alone or in combination with L-sulforaphane and TSA (20μM and 1μM, respectively) at 70% confluency. Changes in VDR, CYP24A1, CYP27B1, and TRPV6 gene expressions were quantified using real-time PCR-based assays. HDAC inhibitor activity was assessed using HDAC I/II assay that measured global changes in acetylation status. Cell viability was measured using ATP and MT assays. Clonogenic and migration assays were performed to analyze the ability of single cells to grow into colonies and % closure (migration ability) upon treatments, respectively. Results were expressed as ΔCT ± standard error of means (SEM) from One-way ANOVA analyses for mRNA expressions and mean ± SEM for all other assays.

RESULTS

In MCF-7 cells, treatment with 1,25(OH)2D3 tended to decrease VDR (13 ± 0.4) and CYP27B1 (12 ± 0.96), while significantly increased TRPV6 (p = .02, 14 ± 0.1) and CYP24A1 (p < .0001, 0.38 ± 0.12) expression. D alone and D + TSA group had the opposite effects on HDAC inhibition from SFN alone, D + SFN, and TSA alone. The clonogenic assay showed a significant decrease in colony formation with no colonies for D + TSA (p < .03) and TSA alone groups (p < .03). Cell viability tended to decrease with D alone and in combination with TSA.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that the effects of 1,25(OH)2D3 and sulforaphane are selective and gene-specific in MCF-7 cells.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Breast cancer (BC) affects a large number of the U.S. population each year. Like most cancers, nutrition does play a role in the prevention of BC. However, dietary advice that includes reducing alcohol intake, red meat, and saturated fat consumption, while increasing the intake of heart-healthy fats, dietary fiber, and lean protein, etc., is difficult to apply to all cancers from a preventative standpoint. Vitamin D has been implicated in BC, mostly as a protective factor, with mixed findings. This research focuses on the role of vitamin D as a protective intervention in human BC, along with a dietary bioactive compound-sulforaphane. The idea is to combine the known benefits of a micronutrient with potential benefits of the bioactive compound to establish a stronger intervention against BC progression, irrespective of the subtype.

Resveratrol shifts energy metabolism to increase lipid oxidation in healthy old mice

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this work was to determine the specific mechanisms by which resveratrol inhibits lipogenesis and stimulates lipolysis.

METHODS

Twelve male mice were individually introduced into a metabolic cage for 24 h to measure basal metabolic rate, prior to intervention. They were randomly divided into two groups, resveratrol (RSV) and control (C), and administered resveratrol intraperitoneally or vehicle, respectively, for two consecutive days. After 24 h, the metabolic energy expenditure was again determined for 24 h, before mice were sacrificed. Protein and gene expression of different enzymes related to metabolism in the hepatic tissue, adipose tissue and gastrocnemius of mice were analyzed by RT-PCR, western blot or ELISA.

RESULTS

We report that resveratrol lowers the respiratory quotient in old mice and that this may be due to the activation of fatty acid mobilization from white adipose tissue (because hormone-activated lipase expression is increased) and fatty acid transport into mitochondria and eventual oxidation in muscle and liver (because transport enzymes and beta oxidation enzymes are also increased). Indeed, we have observed that resveratrol in vivo causes an increase in the expression and phosphorylation of AMPKα in liver, muscle and adipose tissue and an increase in the expression of acyl-CoA synthetase, of carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1 and of carnitine acylcarnitine translocase, all enzymes involved in lipid catabolism. On the other hand, the levels of acetyl-CoA carboxylase as well as those its product, i.e. malonyl CoA, are decreased.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that a controlled dose of resveratrol activates fatty acid mobilization and degradation and inhibits fatty acid synthesis in old mice. This is the first time that these effects of resveratrol in lipid metabolism in healthy old (non-obese) animals are reported.

A Focused Multiple Reaction Monitoring (MRM) Quantitative Method for Bioactive Grapevine Stilbenes by Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Coupled to Triple-Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-QqQ)

Grapevine stilbenes are a family of polyphenols which derive from trans-resveratrol having antifungal and antimicrobial properties, thus being considered as phytoalexins. In addition to their diverse bioactive properties in animal models, they highlight a strong potential in human health maintenance and promotion. Due to this relevance, highly-specific qualitative and quantitative methods of analysis are necessary to accurately analyze stilbenes in different matrices derived from grapevine. Here, we developed a rapid, sensitive, and specific analysis method using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to triple-quadrupole mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QqQ) in MRM mode to detect and quantify five grapevine stilbenes, trans-resveratrol, trans-piceid, trans-piceatannol, trans-pterostilbene, and trans-ε-viniferin, whose interest in relation to human health is continuously growing. The method was optimized to minimize in-source fragmentation of piceid and to avoid co-elution of cis-piceid and trans-resveratrol, as both are detected with resveratrol transitions. The applicability of the developed method of stilbene analysis was tested successfully in different complex matrices including cellular extracts of Vitis vinifera cell cultures, reaction media of biotransformation assays, and red wine.

Resveratrol affects protein kinase C activity and promotes apoptosis in human colon carcinoma cells

BACKGROUND

Resveratrol has been reported to have potential chemopreventive and apoptosis-inducing properties in a variety of tumor cell lines.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, to investigate the effects of resveratrol on protein kinase C (PKC) activity and apoptosis in human colon carcinoma cells, we used HT-29 cells and examined the PKCα and ERK1/2 signaling pathways.

METHODS

To test the effects of resveratrol on the growth of HT- 29 cells, the cells were exposed to varying concentrations and assessed with the the MTT cell-viability assay. Fluorescence-activated cell sorter (FACS) analysis was applied to determine the effects of resveratrol on cell apoptosis. Western blotting was performed to determine the protein levels of PKCα and ERK1/2. In inhibition experiments, HT-29 cells were treated with Go?6976 or PD98059 for 30 min, followed by exposure to 200 μM resveratrol for 72 h.

RESULTS

Resveratrol had a significant inhibitory effect on HT-29 cell growth. FACS revealed that resveratrol induced apoptosis. Western blotting showed that e phosphorylation of PKCα and ERK1/2 was significantly increased in response to resveratrol treatment. Pre-treatment with PKCα and ERK1/2 inhibitors (Go?6976 and PD98059) promoted apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

Resveratrol has significant anti-proliferative effects on the colon cancer cell line HT-29. The PKC- ERK1/2 signaling pathway can partially mediate resveratrol-induced apoptosis of HT-29 cells.

Organ and tissue-dependent effect of resveratrol and exercise on antioxidant defenses of old mice

BACKGROUND

Oxidative stress has been considered one of the causes of aging. For this reason, treatments based on antioxidants or those capable of increasing endogenous antioxidant activity have been taken into consideration to delay aging or age-related disease progression.

AIM

In this paper, we determine if resveratrol and exercise have similar effect on the antioxidant capacity of different organs in old mice.

METHODS

Resveratrol (6 months) and/or exercise (1.5 months) was administered to old mice. Markers of oxidative stress (lipid peroxidation and glutathione) and activities and levels of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and transferase and thioredoxin reductases, NADH cytochrome B5-reductase and NAD(P)H-quinone acceptor oxidoreductase) were determined by spectrophotometry and Western blotting in different organs: liver, kidney, skeletal muscle, heart and brain.

RESULTS

Both interventions improved antioxidant activity in the major organs of the mice. This induction was accompanied by a decrease in the level of lipid peroxidation in the liver, heart and muscle of mice. Both resveratrol and exercise modulated several antioxidant activities and protein levels. However, the effect of resveratrol, exercise or their combination was organ dependent, indicating that different organs respond in different ways to the same stimulus.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that physical activity and resveratrol may be of great importance for the prevention of age-related diseases, but that their organ-dependent effect must be taken into consideration to design a better intervention.

IN-VITRO evidence for the protective properties of the main components of the Mediterranean diet against colorectal cancer: A systematic review

AIM

Epidemiological studies have shown that the incidence and mortality rates of colorectal cancer (CRC) vary over 10-fold worldwide where within Westernized societies lower rates are observed amongst populations living within the Mediterranean basin, suggesting a significant influence of environment and dietary style in CRC carcinogenesis. Interpretation of the data concerning the benefits of mediterranean (MD) diet is difficult in vivo because of the variability of alimentary regimens used, the differing compliance with dietary supplementation and because of the non-uniform duration of patient cohort observation. Therefore, the aim of this review is to evaluate the in-vitro effects on colorectal cancer cell lines.

METHODS

the literature concerning the in-vitro effects of 4 of the principal components symbolizing the MD such as olive oil (polyphenol), red chili (capsaicin), tomato (lycopene) and red grapes (resveratrol) have been systematically reviewed.

RESULTS

Several studies have demonstrated that polyphenols form olive oil, lycopene, resveratrol and capsaicin have multiple anticancer properties affecting several metabolic pathways involved in cancerogenesis, apoptosis, and metastasis in CRC cell lines.

CONCLUSION

This review summarizes some of the most recent data potentially supportive of the use of MD in CRC chemoprevention, analyzing the in vitro effects of individual components of the MD on CRC cell development, progression, metastasis and apoptosis.

Effects of a grape-supplemented diet on proliferation and Wnt signaling in the colonic mucosa are greatest for those over age 50 and with high arginine consumption

A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and a grape-derived compound, resveratrol, have been linked to a reduced incidence of colon cancer. In vitro and in vivo, resveratrol suppresses Wnt signaling, a pathway constitutively activated in over 85 % of colon cancers.

Thirty participants were placed on a low resveratrol diet and subsequently allocated to one of three groups ingesting 1/3-to-1 lb (0.15–0.45 kg) of grapes per day for 2 weeks. Dietary information was collected via 24-h recall. Colon biopsies for biomarker analysis were obtained pre- and post-grape and evaluated for the expression of Wnt pathway target genes and for markers of proliferation by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry.

Participants lost an average of 2 · 6 lb (1.2 kg, p = 0 · 0018) during the period of grape ingestion. The expression of CyclinD1 (p < 0 · 01), AXIN2, CD133 (p = 0 · 02) and Ki67 (p = 0 · 002) were all reduced after grape ingestion. Individuals over 50 years of age and those with high dietary arginine consumption had increased basal expression of CyclinD1, AXIN2, cMYC and CD133 (p value range 0 · 04 to <0 · 001) that, following grape ingestion, were reduced to levels seen in younger participants.

The reduction in Wnt signaling and mucosal proliferation seen following short-term ingestion of 1/3–1 lb (0.15–0.45 kg) of grapes per day may reduce the risk of mutational events that can facilitate colon carcinogenesis. The potential benefit is most marked for high-risk older individuals and individuals whose diet is high in arginine intake. Dietary grape supplementation may play a role in colon cancer prevention for high-risk individuals.

Polyamines in aging and disease

Polyamines are polycations that interact with negatively charged molecules such as DNA, RNA and proteins. They play multiple roles in cell growth, survival and proliferation. Changes in polyamine levels have been associated with aging and diseases. Their levels decline continuously with age and polyamine (spermidine or high-polyamine diet) supplementation increases life span in model organisms. Polyamines have also been involved in stress resistance. On the other hand, polyamines are increased in cancer cells and are a target for potential chemotherapeutic agents. In this review, we bring together these various results and draw a picture of the state of our knowledge on the roles of polyamines in aging, stress and diseases.

Resveratrol in combination with other dietary polyphenols concomitantly enhances antiproliferation and UGT1A1 induction in Caco-2 cells

AIMS

The only FDA approved medication for colorectal cancer (CRC) prevention is celecoxib. Its adverse effects underline the need for safer drugs. Polyphenols like resveratrol are in clinical trials for this purpose. This study aimed at examining effects of resveratrol alone and in combination with curcumin or chrysin on UGT induction in Caco-2 cells. Phytochemical combinations were selected using drug combination analyses of various anti-proliferation ratios of resveratrol+curcumin and resveratrol+chrysin.

MAIN METHODS

Cell proliferation and UGT1A1 induction assays were carried out with individual polyphenols and combinations. Cell viability was determined with AlamarBlue assays. UGT1A1 mRNA was quantified via real time RT-PCR. UGT activity was determined with 4-methylumbelliferone (4MU) glucuronidation.

KEY FINDINGS

Cell proliferation IC(50) estimates (± SE) for resveratrol, curcumin and chrysin were 20.8 ± 1.2, 20.1 ± 1.1 and 16.3 ± 1.3μM respectively. Combination of anti-proliferative effects showed additivity for resveratrol+chrysin and resveratrol+curcumin. Resveratrol at its IC(50) mediated a four-fold induction of UGT1A1 mRNA in a concentration independent manner. Chrysin at its IC(50) induced UGT1A1 expression seven-fold while Curcumin at its IC(90) mediated a two-fold induction. The 20 μM:40μ M resveratrol+curcumin and 20 μM :32 μM resveratrol+chrysin combinations mediated the greatest increases in mRNA expression (12 and 22 folds respectively). Significant increase in 4-MU glucuronidation was observed with combinations exhibiting maximal mRNA induction.

SIGNIFICANCE

Phytochemical combinations can offer greater chemoprevention than single agents. These chemicals might offer safer options than present synthetic therapeutics for CRC prevention.

Multifaceted approach to resveratrol bioactivity: Focus on antioxidant action, cell signaling and safety

Resveratrol (RVT) is a naturally occurring trihydroxy stilbene that displays a wide spectrum of physiological activity. Its ability to behave therapeutically as a component of red wine has attracted wide attention. The phenol acts as a protective agent involving various body constituents. Most attention has been given to beneficial effects in insults involving cancer, aging, cardiovascular system, inflammation and the central nervous system. One of the principal modes of action appears to be as antioxidant. Other mechanistic pathways entail cell signaling, apoptosis and gene expression. There is an intriguing dichotomy in relation to pro-oxidant property. Also discussed are metabolism, receptor binding, rationale for safety and suggestions for future work. This is the first comprehensive review of RVT based on a broad, unifying mechanism.

Isothiocyanate sulforaphane inhibits protooncogenic ornithine decarboxylase activity in colorectal cancer cells via induction of the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway

SCOPE

The objective of this study was to elucidate molecular mechanisms behind the antitumor activities of the isothiocyanate sulforaphane (SFN) in colorectal cancer cells.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Cell growth was determined by BrdU incorporation and crystal violet staining. Protein levels were examined by Western blot analysis. Ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) activity was assayed radiometrically. Reverse transcriptase-PCR was used for measuring mRNA expression. For reporter gene assays plasmids were transfected into cells via lipofection and luciferase activity was measured luminometrically. Acetyl-histone H3 and H4 chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays were performed followed by PCR with TGF-β-receptor II promoter specific primers. We could show that SFN-mediated cell growth inhibition closely correlates with a dose-dependent reduction of protein expression and enzymatic activity of ODC. This effect seems to be due to reduced protein levels and transactivation activity of transcription factor c-myc, a direct regulator of ODC expression, as a consequence of SFN-induced TGF-β/Smad signaling. The coherency of these results was further confirmed by using TGF-β receptor kinase inhibitor SB431542, which largely abolishes inhibitory effects of SFN on both, ODC activity and cell growth.

CONCLUSION

Since elevated ODC enzyme activity is associated with enhanced tumor development, SFN may be a dietary phytochemical with potential to prevent carcinogenesis.

Resveratrol bioavailability and toxicity in humans

Numerous data are now available on the beneficial properties of the polyphenolic compound resveratrol including its anti-inflammatory and antitumor effects. However, few studies have been performed with resveratrol in humans, and the results of these studies appear fragmentary and sometimes contradictory due to variations in conditions of administration, protocols and methods of assessment. This review article presents the results of recent studies investigating the pharmacokinetics, bioavailability, and toxicity of resveratrol in humans. Resveratrol is well absorbed, rapidly metabolized, mainly into sulfo and glucuronides conjugates which are eliminated in urine. Resveratrol seems to be well tolerated and no marked toxicity was reported. These data are important in the context of human efficacy studies, and they provide further support for the use of resveratrol as a pharmacological drug in human medicine.

Resveratrol increases iodide trapping in the rat thyroid cell line FRTL-5

BACKGROUND

Resveratrol, a polyphenol found in grapes, exhibits several beneficial health effects by its antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and chemopreventive properties. The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of resveratrol on iodide trapping and efflux as well as its mode of action using FRTL-5 cells, having in mind the pivotal role of the natrium iodide symporter (NIS) in the treatment of differentiated thyroid cancers.

METHODS

Cells were treated with resveratrol for various times and doses, in the presence or absence of thyrotropin (TSH). Iodide trapping, iodide efflux, rat NIS (rNIS) protein expression, and cyclic AMP (cAMP) production were evaluated.

RESULTS

Resveratrol increased iodide trapping in a time-dependent (optimal 6 hours) and dose-dependent (100 microM) way in the presence of TSH. It showed an additive effect when concomitantly added with an optimal dose of TSH. Resveratrol (50 microM) increased (threefold) rNIS protein expression. In TSH-deprived cells, resveratrol also provoked an increase in rNIS protein (>3-fold in 6 hours) with an optimum at 40 microM. Resveratrol did not inhibit iodide efflux from FRTL-5 cells. It neither increased intracellular cAMP nor induced the arborization of living cells, two TSH-induced effects. A non-cAMP mode of action is highly suspected.

CONCLUSIONS

Resveratrol increases iodide trapping in FRTL-5 cells, increasing iodide influx and rNIS protein level even in the absence of TSH. It has an additive effect with TSH. Consequently, resveratrol could be a promising molecule for radioiodide therapy in follicular and papillary differentiated thyroid carcinoma in association with recombinant human TSH.

Biogenic amine content in dry fermented sausages as influenced by a producer, spice mix, starter culture, sausage diameter and time of ripening

Sixteen types of dry fermented sausages were commercially produced as combinations of two producers (designated K and R), two starter cultures (Pediococcus pentosaceus, C; Lactobacillus curvatus+Staphylococcus carnosus, F), two spicing mixtures (H; P) and two casing diameters (4.5cm, T; 7cm, W), and were sampled at days zero, 14, 28 (end of ripening), 49, 70, 91 and 112 (samples were stored at 15°C and relative humidity of 70% between days 28 and 112). Tyramine and putrescine content (Y, mgkg(-1)) increased (P<0.01) with increasing time of ripening/storage (X, days): Y=52.0+5.19X-0.0275X(2) (R(2)=0.60) and Y=37.0+3.45X-0.0192X(2) (R(2)=0.23), respectively. Smaller diameter (T), spice mix containing red pepper (P) and starter culture C decreased (P<0.05) both tyramine and putrescine content in the sausages as compared to the W, H and F counterparts, respectively; content of both amines was lower (P<0.05) in the K-sausages than in the R-sausages. Tyramine content in the sausages at the time interval 28days of ripening+21days of storage was in the range from 170 (KHCU sausage combination) to 382 (RHFS) mgkg(-1).

Bioactivity and structure of biophenols as mediators of chronic diseases

Biophenols and their associated activity have generated intense interest. Current topics of debate are their bioavailability and bioactivity. It is generally assumed that their plasma concentrations are insufficient to produce the health benefits previously attributed to their consumption. However, data on localized in vivo concentrations are not available and many questions remain unanswered. Potential mechanisms by which they may exert significant bioactivity are discussed together with structure activity relationships. Biophenols are highly reactive species and they can react with a range of other compounds. Products of their reaction when functioning as antioxidants are examined.

Dietary patterns and ovarian cancer risk

BACKGROUND

Evidence for a role of individual foods and nutrients in the causation of ovarian cancer is inconclusive. To date, few studies have considered dietary patterns in relation to ovarian cancer risk.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a population-based case-control study in Australia to identify and analyze dietary patterns in relation to ovarian cancer risk.

DESIGN

Principal components analysis of 40 food groups was performed to identify eating patterns in 683 women with epithelial ovarian cancer and in 777 control women aged 18-79 y. Detailed information on risk factors was obtained through face-to-face interviews, whereas dietary information was obtained by administering a semiquantitative food-frequency questionnaire for subjects to complete themselves. Multivariable-adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for ovarian cancer risk were estimated with logistic regression modeling.

RESULTS

Three major eating patterns were identified: "snacks and alcohol," "fruit and vegetable," and "meat and fat." A significant inverse association between the snacks and alcohol pattern and ovarian cancer risk (highest compared with lowest group, multivariable-adjusted OR: 0.59; 95% CI: 0.43, 0.82; P for trend: 0.001) was attenuated after further adjustment for white or red wine intake. The fruit and vegetable pattern was not associated with risk. The meat and fat pattern was associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer (highest compared with lowest group, multivariable-adjusted OR: 2.49; 95% CI: 1.75, 3.55; P for trend < 0.0001). Further adjustment for body mass index strengthened this association.

CONCLUSIONS

A diet characterized by high meat and fat intake may increase the risk of epithelial ovarian cancer. A diet high in fruit and vegetables was not associated with reduced risk.

Long-term resveratrol administration reduces metabolic disturbances and lowers blood pressure in obese Zucker rats

Resveratrol is a natural polyphenolic stilbene derivative found in several human diet components that possess important and wide-ranging effects in biological systems including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, cardio-protective, and anti-ageing actions and beneficial properties against metabolic diseases. This study addresses the effects of long-term administration of resveratrol on several functional alterations arising from the metabolic syndrome experimental model of obese Zucker rats, and the possible mechanisms involved. The high plasma concentrations of triglycerides, total cholesterol, free fatty acids, insulin and leptin found in obese Zucker rats were reduced in obese rats that received resveratrol. Furthermore, the elevated hepatic lipid content was significantly lower in obese rats treated with resveratrol, an effect which was related to the increased phosphorylation of 5'-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) in the liver of these animals. Resveratrol treatment also improved the inflammatory status peculiar to this model, as it increased the concentration of adiponectin and lowered tumor necrosis factor-alpha production in the visceral adipose tissue (VAT) of obese Zucker rats. Moreover, chronic intake of resveratrol enhanced VAT eNOS expression among obese Zucker rats. These effects parallel the activation of AMPK and inhibition by phosphorylation of ACC in this tissue. The raised systolic blood pressure and reduced aortic eNOS expression found in obese Zucker rats were significantly improved in the resveratrol-treated obese rats. In conclusion, resveratrol improved dyslipidemia, hyperinsulinemia, hyperleptinemia and hypertension in obese Zucker rats, and produced anti-inflammatory effects in VAT, effects that seem to be mediated by AMPK activation.

Dietary resveratrol alters lipid metabolism-related gene expression of mice on an atherogenic diet

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Resveratrol, a polyphenolic activator of the silent information regulation 2 homolog 1 (SIRT1), is known to extend lifespan and improve metabolic disease. The aim of the present study is to test whether resveratrol protects against metabolic steatohepatitis through the modulation of lipid metabolism-related genes.

METHODS

We used a mouse model in which steatohepatitis can be induced by an atherogenic diet (Ath diet) to evaluate the effects of resveratrol on steatotic hepatitis and hepatic gene expression.

RESULTS

The Ath diet induced excessive weight gain, hepatomegaly, dyslipidemia, and steatohepatitis after 8 weeks. The addition of resveratrol protected against Ath diet-induced changes and also alleviated steatohepatitis. Whole-genome expression analysis revealed that an Ath diet altered the hepatic expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism, and the addition of resveratrol to the diet reversed that effect. Real-time PCR and Western blot analysis confirmed the Ath diet up-regulated the levels of genes related to lipogenesis and down-regulated genes involved in lipolysis. Resveratrol clearly suppressed the Ath diet-induced alterations of the expression of genes related to lipid metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS

Resveratrol ameliorated dyslipidemia and steatohepatitis induced by the Ath diet, and its beneficial effects were associated with the altered expression of hepatic genes involved in lipid metabolism.

Grapes and human health: a perspective

Grapes are a valuable source of numerous phytonutrients, including the intensively studied constituent, resveratrol. A question worth addressing is the potential of dietary grape consumption to positively modulate human health. Many studies have suggested cardiovascular benefits, and some work has indicated cancer chemopreventive activity. Data are particularly compelling in the area of skin cancer prevention. With financial support provided by the California Table Grape Commission, novel and exciting preliminary data are emerging from independent research suggesting beneficial activity against other less prevalent but devastating illnesses, such as Alzheimer's disease and urinary bladder dysfunction. It is further suggested that some of the copious amounts of data obtained with resveratrol may be relevant to grape consumption, especially responses that can be mediated by low concentrations of the substance. Whether future specific health claims will be sought from or allowed by regulatory authorities is not known, but based on existing data, it is clear that grapes should be considered an integral component of fruit and vegetable enriched diets that are recommended by health authorities and widely accepted as beneficial for human health and disease prevention.

A review of gene-drug interactions for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug use in preventing colorectal neoplasia

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been shown to be effective chemopreventive agents for colorectal neoplasia. Polymorphisms in NSAID targets or metabolizing enzymes may affect NSAID efficacy or toxicity. We conducted a literature review to summarize current evidence of gene-drug interactions between NSAID use and polymorphisms in COX1, COX2, ODC, UGT1A6 and CYP2C9 on risk of colorectal neoplasia by searching OVID and PubMed. Of 134 relevant search results, thirteen investigated an interaction. One study reported a significant interaction between NSAID use and the COX1 Pro17Leu polymorphism (P=0.03) whereby the risk reduction associated with NSAID use among homozygous wild-type genotypes was not observed among NSAID users with variant alleles. Recent pharmacodynamic data support the potential for gene-drug interactions for COX1 Pro17Leu. Statistically significant interactions have also been reported for ODC (315G>A), UGT1A6 (Thr181Ala+Arg184Ser or Arg184Ser alone), and CYP2C9 (*2/*3). No statistically significant interactions have been reported for polymorphisms in COX2; however, an interaction with COX2 -765G>C approached significance (P=0.07) in one study. Among seven remaining studies, reported interactions were not statistically significant for COX1, COX2 and ODC gene polymorphisms. Most studies were of limited sample size. Definitions of NSAID use differed substantially between studies. The literature on NSAID-gene interactions to date is limited. Reliable detection of gene-NSAID interactions will require greater sample sizes, consistent definitions of NSAID use and evaluation of clinical trial subjects of chemoprevention studies.

Resveratrol, a red wine polyphenol, attenuates ethanol-induced oxidative stress in rat liver

The involvement of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of alcoholic diseases in the liver has been repeatedly confirmed. Resveratrol, a natural phytoalexin present in grape skin and red wine possesses a variety of biological activities including antioxidant. This study was conducted to evaluate whether resveratrol has a preventive effect on the main indicators of hepatic oxidative status as an expression of the cellular damage caused by free radicals, and on antioxidant defence mechanism during chronic ethanol treatment. Wistar rats were treated daily with 35% ethanol solution (3 g/kg/day i.p.) during 6 weeks and fed basal diet or basal diet containing 5 g/kg resveratrol. Control rats were treated with i.p. saline and fed basal diet. Experimentally, chronic ethanol administration leads to hepatotoxicity as monitored by the increase in the level of hepatic marker enzymes and the appearance of fatty change, necrosis, fibrosis and inflammation in liver sections. Ethanol also enhanced the formation of MDA in the liver indicating an increase in lipid peroxidation, a major end-point of oxidative damage, and caused drastic alterations in antioxidant defence systems. Particularly the activities of hepatic superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) were found reduced by ethanol treatment while glutathione reductase (GR) activity was unchanged. Dietary supplementation with resveratrol during ethanol treatment inhibited hepatic lipid peroxidation and ameliorated SOD, GPx and CAT activities in the liver. Conclusively, we can suggest that resveratrol could have a beneficial effect in inhibiting the oxidative damage induced by chronic ethanol administration, which was proved by the experiments that we conducted on rats.

Detection and quantitation of resveratrol in tomato fruit (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.)

Resveratrol is a stilbene phytoalexin well-known for its presence in grape, wine, and peanut. As a result of its antioxidant and chemopreventative properties, it has gained much attention as a functional food ingredient. A gas chromatography-mass spectrometry method for the detection of resveratrol, its 3-glucopyranoside piceid, and the cis isomers of both compounds has been developed and used to quantitate the levels of these compounds in the skin of commercially available tomato fruit (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.). The resveratrol concentration remains relatively stable during fruit maturation, reaching a maximum concentration in the skin of 18.4 +/- 1.6 microg/g dry weight at 4 weeks postbreaker. No stilbenes were detected in the flesh of tomato fruit.

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma as a molecular target of resveratrol-induced modulation of polyamine metabolism

Previous results indicate that the polyphenol resveratrol inhibits cell growth of colon carcinoma cells via modulation of polyamine metabolic key enzymes. The aim of this work was to specify the underlying molecular mechanisms and to identify a possible role of transcription factor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma). Cell growth was determined by bromodeoxyuridine incorporation and crystal violet staining. Protein levels were examined by Western blot analysis. Spermine/spermidine acetyltransferase (SSAT) activity was determined by a radiochemical assay. PPARgamma ligand-dependent transcriptional activity was measured by a luciferase assay. A dominant-negative PPARgamma mutant was transfected in Caco-2 cells to suppress PPARgamma-mediated functions. Resveratrol inhibits cell growth of both Caco-2 and HCT-116 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner (P < 0.001). In contrast to Caco-2-wild type cells (P < 0.05), resveratrol failed to increase SSAT activity in dominant-negative PPARgamma cells. PPARgamma involvement was further confirmed via ligand-dependent activation (P < 0.01) as well as by induction of cytokeratin 20 (P < 0.001) after resveratrol treatment. Coincubation with SB203580 abolished SSAT activation significantly in Caco-2 (P < 0.05) and HCT-116 (P < 0.01) cells. The involvement of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) was further confirmed by a resveratrol-mediated phosphorylation of p38 protein in both cell lines. Resveratrol further increased the expression of PPARgamma coactivator PGC-1alpha (P < 0.05) as well as SIRT1 (P < 0.01) in a dose-dependent manner after 24 hours of incubation. Based on our findings, p38 MAPK and transcription factor PPARgamma can be considered as molecular targets of resveratrol in the regulation of cell proliferation and SSAT activity, respectively, in a cell culture model of colon cancer.

Resveratrol alleviates bleomycin-induced lung injury in rats

Antioxidant therapy may be useful in diseases with impaired oxidant-antioxidant balance such as pulmonary fibrosis. This study was designed to examine the effects of resveratrol, an antioxidant agents, against bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis and oxidative damage. Wistar albino rats were administered a single dose of bleomycin (5 mg/kg; via the tracheal cannula) followed by either saline or resveratrol (10 mg/kg; orally) for 14 days. The effect of resveratrol on pulmonary oxidative damage was studied by cell count and analysis of cytokine levels (TGF-beta, TNF-alpha, IL-1beta and IL-6) in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and biochemical measurements of malondialdehyde (MDA), an end product of lipid peroxidation; glutathione (GSH), a key antioxidant; and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, an index of neutrophil infiltration, in the lung tissue. Bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis was determined by lung collagen contents and also microscopically. Bleomycin caused a significant decrease in lung GSH, which was accompanied with significant increases in MDA level, MPO activity, and collagen contents of the lung tissue concomitant with increased levels of the pro-inflammatory mediators and cell count in BALF. On the other hand, resveratrol treatment reversed all these biochemical indices as well as histopathological alterations induced by bleomycin. The results demonstrate the role of oxidative mechanisms in bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis, and resveratrol, by its antioxidant properties, ameliorates oxidative injury and fibrosis due to bleomycin. Thus, an effective supplement with resveratrol as an adjuvant therapy may be a very promising agent in alleviating the side effects of bleomycin, an effective chemotherapeutic agent.

Gene expression of ornithine decarboxylase in lung cancers and its clinical significance

Lung cancer is one of the most lethal cancers in China because of its high incidence and high mortality. Ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), an important enzyme in polyamine biosynthesis, is increased in cancer cells. Some chemotherapeutic agents aimed at reducing ODC expression show inhibitory effects on cancer cell growth, so ODC can be useful in gene diagnosis and gene therapy of cancers. In this study, we examined the effect of antisense ODC on lung cancer cells. A-549 cells were infected with rAd-ODC/Ex3as, a recombinant adenovirus containing the cytomegalovirus promoter, green fluorescent protein gene and 120 bp antisense ODC. The cell cycle was evaluated by flow cytometry. A nude mouse xenograft model was used in the tumorigenicity test. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, Western blot and immunohistochemistry were used to study the expressions of ODC on lung cancers. It was found that the growth of cells infected with rAd-ODC/Ex3as was substantially inhibited and cells were arrested at G1 phase. Cells infected with rAd-ODC/Ex3as can suppress tumor formation in a nude mouse xenograft model. The expression of ODC mRNA and ODC protein levels in lung cancer tissues was significantly higher than that in normal tissues (P<0.05), which correlated significantly with the stage of lung cancer (P<0.05). This study suggested that rAd-ODC/Ex3as has antitumor activity in human lung cancer cells. The ODC gene might play an important role in lung cancer and the overexpression of ODC might be related to the occurrence and development of lung cancer.

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)-independent anticarcinogenic effects of selective COX-2 inhibitors

Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) appear to reduce the risk of developing cancer. One mechanism through which NSAIDs act to reduce carcinogenesis is to inhibit the activity of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), an enzyme that is overexpressed in various cancer tissues. Overexpression of COX-2 increases cell proliferation and inhibits apoptosis. However, selective COX-2 inhibitors can also act through COX-independent mechanisms. In this review, we describe the COX-2-independent molecular targets of these COX-2 inhibitors and discuss how these targets may be involved in the anticarcinogenic activities of these selective COX-2 inhibitors. We also compare the concentrations of these inhibitors used in in vitro and in vivo experiments and discuss the implications of the in vitro studies for clinical management of cancer with these drugs.

Effects of neonatal resveratrol exposure on adult male and female reproductive physiology and behavior

Resveratrol (RES) is a phytoestrogen that has the ability to bind to estrogen receptors (ERs) and evoke biological effects that parallel those exerted by endogenous and synthetic estrogens. We have shown in previous studies that adult female rats acutely exposed to RES exhibit estrous cycle irregularity, ovarian hypertrophy, and alterations in sociosexual behavior. The present experiment characterizes the prolonged effects of maternal RES exposure throughout the lactational period on subsequent behavior, reproductive tissues, and brain morphology of the adult offspring. During adulthood, female offspring exposed to RES throughout nursing exhibited reduced body weight and increased ovarian weight, but exhibited normal estrous cyclicity and sociosexual behavior, without changes in the volume of the sexually dimorphic nucleus of the preoptic area or the anteroventral periventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus. During adulthood, males exposed to RES throughout nursing exhibited decreased body weight and plasma testosterone concentration, increased testicular weight, and reduced sociosexual behavior. These males also had significantly smaller sexually dimorphic nucleus of the preoptic area volumes and larger anteroventral periventricular nucleus volumes compared to male controls. These data suggest that postnatal exposure to RES may affect estrogenic activity in specific peripheral tissues (e.g., the gonads), while inducing antiestrogenic effects in the brain. Thus, the present study supports recent in vitro and in vivo findings that RES differs from most other phytoestrogens by acting as a possible mixed ER agonist/antagonist, depending on the tissue-specific availability of ER subtypes that are preferentially localized in specific brain regions and throughout the reproductive tract. More importantly these data indicate that maternal consumption of phytoestrogens during lactation can have lasting effects on the offspring that may not become apparent until they reach adulthood.

Antitumor effect of antisense ornithine decarboxylase adenovirus on human lung cancer cells

Ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), the first enzyme of polyamine biosynthesis, was found to increase in cancer cells, especially lung cancer cells. Some chemotherapeutic agents aimed at decreasing ODC gene expression showed inhibitory effects on cancer cells. In this study, we examined the effects of adenoviral transduced antisense ODC on lung cancer cells. An adenovirus carrying antisense ODC (rAd-ODC/Ex3as) was used to infect lung cancer cell line A-549. The 3-(4,5-methylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide assay was used to analyze the effect on cell growth. Expression of ODC and concentration of polyamines in cells were determined by Western blot analysis and high performance liquid chromatography. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated biotin-dUTP nick-end labeling was used to analyze cell apoptosis. The expression of ODC in A-549 cells was reduced to 54%, and that of three polyamines was also decreased through the rAd-ODC/Ex3as treatment. Consequently, cell growth was substantially inhibited and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated biotin-dUTP nick-end labeling showed that rAd-ODC/Ex3as could lead to cell apoptosis, with apoptosis index of 46%. This study suggests that rAd-ODC/Ex3as has an antitumor effect on the human lung cancer cells.

The chemopreventive agent resveratrol stimulates cyclic AMP-dependent chloride secretion in vitro

Resveratrol and its analogs are promising cancer chemoprevention agents, currently under investigation in clinical trials. However, patients administered other plant polyphenols experienced severe diarrhea, likely due to an increase in intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP). Resveratrol itself raises intracellular cAMP levels in breast cancer cells in vitro. Its future use as a cancer chemopreventive agent could therefore be compromised by its severe side effects. The aim of the study was (a) to define the influence of resveratrol on intestinal Cl(-) secretion and (b) to elucidate possible intracellular transduction pathways involved. Resveratrol caused a dose- and time-dependent increase in DeltaIsc in T(84) cells. The specificity of resveratrol was confirmed by using piceatannol 100 mumol/L, the hydroxylated resveratrol analog, which did not alter DeltaIsc. A significant elevation of [cAMP](i) by resveratrol was assessed in T(84) cells. In mouse jejunum, resveratrol induced a time- and dose-dependent increase in DeltaIsc as well. In bilateral Cl(-)-free medium, as well as after inhibition of protein kinase A, resveratrol-induced DeltaIsc was reduced significantly. Preincubation of T(84) cells with butyrate 2 mmol/L (24 and 48 hours) significantly inhibited resveratrol as well as forskolin-induced Cl(-) secretion. In summary, the main mechanism of action of resveratrol in intestinal epithelia is cAMP-induced chloride secretion which can be suppressed by butyrate. It can therefore be suggested that in cancer chemoprevention, both agents should be combined to reduce an undesired side effect such as diarrhea and to benefit from the known agonistic effect of both agents on differentiation of colon cancer cells.

Antiproliferative activity of contragestazol (DL111-IT) in murine and human tumor models in vitro and in vivo

PURPOSES

To evaluate the antiproliferative activity of contragestazol (DL111-IT) in vitro and in vivo and to elucidate potential molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

Cell killing ability of DL111-IT was measured by MTT/Trypan blue exclusion method and murine and human tumor models; cell cycle was analyzed by flow cytometry; pRb, CDK4 and Cyclin D1 expressions were detected by western blotting.

RESULTS

DL111-IT exhibited high efficiency on cell growth inhibition of 12 cancer cell lines, the IC50 values were 4.1-19.7 microg/ml. In Sarcoma-180 (S180) and Hepatoma-22 (H22) tumor bearing mice models, the inhibition rates were 55.9 and 55.6%, respectively, at the doses of DL111-IT 12.5-50.0 mg/kg for 9 days consecutive administration. Human ovarian carcinoma (HO-8910) xenograft study showed that, nine administrations (within 15 days) of DL111-IT (12.5-50.0 mg/kg) significantly inhibited tumor growth with the inhibition rates ranging from 17.0 to 64.3%. DL111-IT induced G1 arrest and overexpression of pRb, CDK4 and Cyclin D1 were observed in HO-8910 cell line, suggesting that cell cycle regulation might contribute to the anticancer property of DL111-IT.

CONCLUSIONS

DL111-IT could inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo via a cell cycle regulation pathway.

Molecular mechanisms of the chemopreventive effects of resveratrol and its analogs in carcinogenesis

Resveratrol (3,4',5-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene), a phytoalexin found in grape skins, peanuts, and red wine, has been reported to exhibit a wide range of biological and pharmacological properties. It has been speculated that dietary resveratrol could be an explanation for the so-called 'French paradox' as it may act as an antioxidant, promote nitric oxide production, inhibit platelet aggregation, and increase high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and thereby serve as a cardioprotective agent. Recently, it has been demonstrated that resveratrol can function as a cancer chemopreventive agent, and there has been a great deal of experimental effort directed toward defining this effect. It has been shown that resveratrol and some of its analogs interfere with signal transduction pathways, modulate cell cycle-regulating proteins, and is a potent inducer of apoptosis in multiple carcinoma cell lines. This review summarizes the recent advances that have provided new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the promising properties of resveratrol.