Targeting BCL-2 regulated apoptosis in cancer

Integrating bulk RNA-seq and scRNA-seq data to explore diverse cell death patterns and develop a programmed cell death-related relapse prediction model in pediatric B-ALL

Acute B-lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) is a hematologic malignancy with diverse mechanisms of PCD influencing its progression. This study aimed to identify PCD-related biomarkers and develop a predictive model for relapse in pediatric B-ALL patients. Initially, we examined the activity of 16 PCD patterns in B-ALL patients using scRNA-seq. Following this, we employed both univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses to identify relapse-related PCD patterns and constructed a relapse prediction model comprising seven key PCD-related genes: Bcl-2-interacting killer (BIK), translocator protein (TSPO), BCL2L2, PIP4K2C, mixed-lineage kinase-like (MLKL), STAT2, and WW domain-containing oxidoreductase (WWOX). Based on the optimal cut-off value derived from the cell death index(CDI) model, patients were categorized into high-CDI and low-CDI groups. Additionally, we evaluated the association between CDI scores and immune cell infiltration, tumor microenvironment (TME) characteristics, and drug sensitivity. Nine PCD patterns, encompassing ferroptosis, autophagy, necroptosis, entotic cell death, alkaliptosis, apoptosis, netotic cell death, oxeiptosis, and NETosis, exhibited strong associations with relapse in B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). The CDI model, validated across multiple cohorts, demonstrated substantial predictive power for relapse-free survival (RFS) and was identified as an independent risk factor. This study offers a comprehensive analysis of PCD patterns in pediatric B-ALL, yielding valuable insights into potential novel therapeutic strategies and opportunities for personalized treatment approaches.

A novel 5'tRNA-derived fragment tRF-Tyr inhibits tumor progression by targeting hnRNPD in gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Transfer RNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), including tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs) and tRNA halves (tiRNAs), constitute a novel class of small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs). tsRNAs have been linked to tumorigenesis and the progression of carcinogenesis; however, the precise molecular mechanism through which tRFs act in gastric cancer (GC) remains unknown.

METHODS

tRF-Tyr is a potential GC tumor suppressor that was identified through high-throughput sequencing technology. The expression and subcellular localization of tRF-Tyr in GC were detected by via qRT‒PCR and FISH. RNA pull-down, mass spectrometry, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), dual-luciferase reporter and rescue assays were performed to explore the regulatory mechanisms through which tRF-Tyr acts in GC.

RESULTS

tRF-Tyr was significantly downregulated and the downregulation of its mainly concentrated in the nuclei of GC cells. Functionally, tRF-Tyr inhibited the proliferation, invasiveness and migration of GC cells and promoted GC cells apoptosis in vitro; meanwhile, tRF-Tyr inhibited tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, tRF-Tyr bound directly to the hnRNPD protein and competitively inhibited the binding of hnRNPD to the c-Myc 3'UTR, thereby, regulating the c-Myc/Bcl2/Bax pathway and ultimately inhibiting the progression of GC.

CONCLUSIONS

This study focused on a novel GC suppressor, tRF-Tyr, and revealed a previously undiscovered mechanism that tRF-Tyr inhibits tumor progression by targeting hnRNPD. These findings provide new insight into the involvement of tRFs in GC and suggest a novel target for GC treatment.

Shuang Bailian mixture enhanced the anti-cancer effect of cisplatin by regulating PI3K-Akt-Bcl 2 signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Esophageal cancer (EC) is a prevalent malignant tumor with the characteristics of poor prognosis and high mortality in the clinic. Cisplatin (CP), a first-line chemotherapeutic agent, faces the challenge of drug resistance, which hampers its clinical efficacy. In recent decades, traditional Chinese medicine has earned increasing attention for its potential as an adjunct to chemotherapy. Shuang Bailian mixture (SBLM) could significantly enhances the anti-cancer effect of CP in our clinical practices. However, the underlying mechanism of SBLM still needs further investigation.

AIM OF THIS STUDY

To investigate the underlying mechanisms that SBLM enhanced the anti-cancer effect of CP.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study used network pharmacology and molecular docking to obtain the potential active targets of SBLM. Moreover, CCK-8 assay, wound healing, colony formation assays, flow cytometry and Western blotting were used to evaluate the properties of SBLM enhancing the anti-cancer effect of CP. Furthermore, tumor xenograft in nude mice model was used to further determine the potential mechanism that SBLM enhanced the anti-cancer effect of CP.

RESULTS

Network pharmacology analysis showed that the PI3K-Akt-Bcl 2 signaling pathway served as the primary target of SBLM. Moreover, SBLM could significantly improve the anti-cancer effect of CP, including inhibited cell proliferation, suppressed colony formation and invasion, and induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Furthermore, SLBM + CP could significantly reduce the tumor sizes on tumor-bearing mice when compared to SBLM and CP treatment. Mechanistically, SLBM could enhance CP effect by inducing cancer cells apoptosis via PI3K-Akt-Bcl 2 signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

Our study revealed the underlying mechanisms that SBLM enhanced the anti-cancer effect of CP through inhibiting the PI3K/Akt/Bcl-2 signaling pathway to induce the cells apoptosis. These results suggest that SBLM could serve as a promising adjuvant in chemotherapeutic regimens for EC.

Understanding the Anticancer Effects of Phytochemicals: From Molecular Docking to Anticarcinogenic Signaling

As nontraditional nutrients, the biological activity of phytochemicals have been extensively studied for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and apoptosis-promoting effects in various diseases. The general anticancer benefits of phytochemicals have been demonstrated in both basic researches and clinical trials. However, researchers understanding of how phytochemicals target cancer-related signaling pathways is still in its infancy. Molecular docking simulation analyses have yielded a large amount of cellular target molecules of phytochemicals. Herein, we review the potential signaling pathways that may be involved in the phytochemical-driven cancer benefits. We expect these findings to help in the design of potential cancer treatments designed by manipulating the binding modes and sites of these plant chemicals.

Citrinin-Induced Cellular Damage: Insights from SH-SY5Y Cell Line Studies

Citrinin (CIT), a mycotoxin commonly found in cereals, is produced by fungi from the Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Monascus genera. While its nephrotoxic effects are well studied, its impact on neurons is less understood. This study investigates CIT-induced toxicity in human neuroblastoma cells (SH-SY5Y). The IC50 values for cells treated with CIT were 77.1 μM at 24 h and 74.7 μM at 48 h using MTT assay, and 101.0 μM at 24 h and 54.7 μM at 48 h using neutral red assay. CIT exposure caused G2/M phase arrest, with cells in this phase increasing from 11.83% (control) to 33.10% at 50 μM CIT. At 50 μM, the percentage of cells in the S phase also increased, which may suggest that cellular stress pathways were activated. Moreover, an increase in late apoptosis process was noted in cells exposed to CIT for 24 h, particularly at the highest concentrations (38.75 and 50 µM). Western blot analysis confirmed a rapid change in the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, but no significant changes in Bax. In conclusion, CIT induces apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in SH-SY5Y cells. However, further transcriptomic studies in specific proteins involved in different pathways described in this work are needed to gain a comprehensive understanding of the specific mechanisms underlying CIT's toxicity in SH-SY5Y cells.

Long non-coding RNA LINC01224 plays an oncogenic role in endometrial cancer via miR-4673/TPX2 axis and activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

Endometrial cancer (EC) is a prevalent gynecological malignancy with a rising incidence and poor prognosis in advanced cases. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been implicated in various cancers, including EC. This study explores the role of lncRNA Linc01224 in EC. Analyzing TCGA data, we found Linc01224 expression significantly elevated in EC tissues, correlating with poor prognosis. Clinical samples validated these findings, showing higher Linc01224 levels in tumor tissues. Knockdown of Linc01224 in EC cell lines (Hec-1-B and Ishikawa) inhibited proliferation, migration, and promoted apoptosis, alongside increased Bax and decreased BCL2 expression. Furthermore, Linc01224 knockdown notably reduced Wnt2/β-catenin pathway activation. We identified TPX2 as a target of miR-4673, which is regulated by Linc01224 through a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) mechanism. Dual-luciferase reporter assays confirmed miR-4673 binding to Linc01224 and TPX2. Rescue experiments revealed that TPX2 knockdown reversed Linc01224-induced proliferation and migration, highlighting TPX2's pivotal role in Linc01224's oncogenic function. In vivo, Linc01224 knockdown significantly impeded tumor growth and metastasis in a xenograft model, with decreased expression of c-Myc, Cyclin D1, and β-catenin. These findings reveal a novel ceRNA regulatory axis involving Linc01224, miR-4673, and TPX2, elucidating Linc01224's role in EC progression through the Wnt2/β-catenin pathway. Linc01224 emerges as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for EC prognosis and treatment.

Current status of nucleic acid therapy and its new progress in cancer treatment

Nucleic acid is an essential biopolymer in all living cells, performing the functions of storing and transmitting genetic information and synthesizing protein. In recent decades, with the progress of science and biotechnology and the continuous exploration of the functions performed by nucleic acid, more and more studies have confirmed that nucleic acid therapy for living organisms has great medical therapeutic potential. Nucleic acid drugs began to become independent therapeutic agents. As a new therapeutic method, nucleic acid therapy plays an important role in the treatment of genetic diseases, viral infections and cancers. There are currently 19 nucleic acid drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In the following review, we start from principles and advantages of nucleic acid therapy, and briefly describe development history of nucleic acid drugs. And then we give examples of various RNA therapeutic drugs, including antisense oligonucleotides (ASO), mRNA vaccines, small interfering RNA (siRNA) and microRNA (miRNA), aptamers, and small activating RNA (saRNA). In addition, we also focused on the current status of nucleic acid drugs used in cancer therapy and the breakthrough in recent years. Clinical trials of nucleic acid drugs for cancer treatment are under way, conventional radiotherapy and chemotherapy combined with the immunotherapies such as checkpoint inhibitors and nucleic acid drugs may be the main prospects for successful cancer treatment.

Bortezomib in cancer therapy: Mechanisms, side effects, and future proteasome inhibitors

The ubiquitin-proteasome pathway (UPP) regulates protein stability and normal cellular functions with the help of autocatalytic proteasome complex. Studies have linked aberrant proteasome activity to malignant cells and found that proteasome inhibitors play a significant role as therapeutic drugs for various types of cancer, specifically multiple myeloma and mantle cell lymphoma. Bortezomib, the first FDA-approved proteasome inhibitor for treating different stages of multiple myeloma, acts on cancer cells by inhibiting the 26S proteasome, modulating NF-κB, phosphorylating Bcl-2, upregulating of NOXA, blocking p53 degradation, activating caspase, generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), and inhibiting angiogenesis. However, its efficacy is limited due to side effects such as peripheral neuropathy (PN), thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA), and acute interstitial nephritis (AIN). Therefore, a better understanding of its precise mechanism of action may help mitigate these side effects. In this review, we have discussed the proposed mechanisms of action and off target effects of Bortezomib, along with the prospects of next generation potential proteasome inhibitor drugs in the treatment of cancer.

A new strategy for the treatment of intracerebral hemorrhage: Ferroptosis

Intracerebral hemorrhage, is a cerebrovascular disease with high morbidity, mortality, and disability. Due to the lack of effective clinical treatments, the development of new drugs to treat intracerebral hemorrhage is necessary. In recent years, ferroptosis has been found to play an important role in the pathophysiological process of intracerebral hemorrhage, which can be treated by inhibiting ferroptosis and thus intracerebral hemorrhage. This article aims to explain the mechanism of ferroptosis and its relationship to intracerebral hemorrhage. In the meantime, it briefly discusses the molecules identified to alleviate intracerebral hemorrhage by inhibiting ferroptosis, along with other clinical agents that are expected to treat intracerebral hemorrhage through this mechanism. In addition, a brief overview of the morphological alterations of different forms of cell death and their role in ICH is provided. Finally, the challenges that may arise in translating ferroptosis inhibitors from basic research to clinical use are presented. This article serves as a reference and provides insights to aid in the treatment of intracerebral hemorrhage in the clinic.

Anti-carcinogenic effects and mechanisms of actions of Citrus limon fruit peel hydroethanolic extract and limonene in diethylnitrosmine/2-acetylaminofluorene-induced hepatocellular carcinoma in Wistar rats

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third most common cause of cancer death and disability in the world. Citrus species and their constituents have many biological activities including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties. This study aimed to assess the anti-carcinogenic effects and postulate the possible mechanisms of action for Citrus limon fruit peel hydroethanolic extract (CLFPHE) and limonene in diethylnitrosamine (DEN)/2-acetylaminofluorene (2AAF)-induced HCC in male Wistar rats. For analysis and characterization of CLFPHE, gas chromatography-mass spectrum (GC-MS) and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) methods were applied. A HCC was elaborated by DEN intraperitoneal injection (150 mg/kg/week) for two weeks followed by oral delivery of 2AAF (20 mg/kg) four times a week for three weeks. The DEN/2AAF-administered rats were treated with CLFPHE (50 mg/kg) and limonene (20 mg/kg) by oral gavage every other day for 24 weeks. CLFPHE and limonene significantly attenuated the harmful effects of DEN on liver function. Histopathological analysis confirmed that both treatments inhibited DEN/2AAF-induced tumorigenesis in association with the suppression of serum tumor markers including AFP, CEA, and CA19.9 and liver proliferator indicator (Ki-67). Moreover, CLFPHE and limonene prevented the oxidative stress and enhanced the antioxidant defenses in DEN/2AAF-administered rats. These ameliorations were manifested by decreases in liver lipid peroxidation, increases in GSH, SOD and GPx levels and upregulation of Nrf2. The treatments also abated inflammation by suppressing TNF-α and IL-1β levels and IL-8 and NF-κB expression. CLFPHE and limonene substantially decreased hepatic BCL-2, IQGAP1, IQGAP3, HRAS, KRAS and Ki-67 while they elevated BAX, P53, PDCD5 and IQGAP2 expressions. Our findings suggest that CLFPHE and limonene may abate HCC development via enhancement of apoptotic, antioxidant, cell anti-proliferatory and anti-inflammatory effects.

Identification and Analysis of Anticancer Therapeutic Targets from the Polysaccharide Krestin (PSK) and Polysaccharopeptide (PSP) Using Inverse Docking

The natural compounds PSK and PSP have antitumor and immunostimulant properties. These pharmacological benefits have been documented in vitro and in vivo, although there is no information in silico which describes the action mechanisms at the molecular level. In this study, the inverse docking method was used to identify the interactions of PSK and PSP with two local databases: BPAT with 66 antitumor proteins, and BPSIC with 138 surfaces and intracellular proteins. This led to the identification interactions and similarities of PSK and the AB680 inhibitor in the active site of CD73. It was also found that PSK binds to CD59, interacting with the amino acids APS22 and PHE23, which coincide with the rlLYd4 internalization inhibitor. With the isoform of the K-RAS protein, PSK bonded to the TYR32 amino acid at switch 1, while with BAK it bonded to the region of the α1 helix, while PSP bonded to the activation site and the C-terminal and N-terminal ends of that helix. In Bcl-2, PSK interacted at the binding site of the Venetoclax inhibitor, showing similarities with the amino acids ASP111, VAL133, LEU137, MET115, PHE112, and TYR108, while PSP had similarities with THR132, VAL133, LEU137, GLN118, MET115, APS111, PHE112, and PHE104.

Unveiling the toxicological effects and risks of prometryn on red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii): Health assessments, ecological, and molecular insights

Prometryn is commonly used in agricultural and non-agricultural settings. However, possible harm to aquatic organisms remains a persistent concern. Prometryn was also the only one of the 26 triazine herbicides detected in this study. Numerous studies have assessed the harmful effects of prometryn in teleost fish and shrimp. There is a lack of information regarding the ecological and human health risks, as well as the toxic mechanisms affecting crayfish. In this study, human health risk assessment (THQ) and ecological risk assessment (RQ) were conducted on P. clarkii in the rice-crayfish co-culture (IRCC) farming model. The 96 h of exposure to 0.286 mg/L and 1.43 mg/L prometryn was conducted to investigate the potential effects and molecular mechanisms of hepatopancreatic resistance to prometryn in P. clarkii. The original sample analysis revealed that the THQ calculated from the prometryn levels in the muscle and hepatopancreas was below 0.1, suggesting no threat to human health. However, the calculated RQ values were >0.1, indicating a risk to P. clarkii. Histological analysis and biochemical index detection of the experimental samples revealed that the hepatopancreatic injury and oxidative damage in P. clarkii were caused by prometryn. Moreover, transcriptome analysis identified 2512 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) after 96 h of prometryn exposure. Prometryn exposure caused significant changes in metabolic pathways, including oxoacid metabolic processes and cytochrome P450-associated drug metabolism. Further hub gene analysis via PPI indicated that exposure to prometryn may inhibit lipid synthesis, storage, and amino acid transport and affect glucose metabolic pathways and hormone synthesis. Additionally, we hypothesized that prometryn-triggered cell death could be linked to the PI3K-Akt signaling cascade. This study's findings have significant meaning for the efficient and logical application of herbicides in IRCC, ultimately aiding in advancing a highly productive agricultural system.

Clinical Applications of Antisense Oligonucleotides in Cancer: A Focus on Glioblastoma

Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are promising drugs capable of modulating the protein expression of virtually any target with high specificity and high affinity through complementary base pairing. However, this requires a deep understanding of the target sequence and significant effort in designing the correct complementary drug. In addition, ASOs have been demonstrated to be well tolerated during their clinical use. Indeed, they are already used in many diseases due to pathogenic RNAs of known sequences and in several neurodegenerative diseases and metabolic diseases, for which they were given marketing authorizations (MAs) in Europe and the United States. Their use in oncology is gaining momentum with several identified targets, promising preclinical and clinical results, and recent market authorizations in the US. However, many challenges remain for their clinical use in cancer. It seems necessary to take a step back and review our knowledge of ASOs and their therapeutic uses in oncology. The objectives of this review are (i) to summarize the current state of the art of ASOs; (ii) to discuss the therapeutic use of ASOs in cancer; and (iii) to focus on ASO usage in glioblastoma, the challenges, and the perspective ahead.

STAT3: Key targets of growth-promoting receptor positive breast cancer

Breast cancer has become the malignant tumor with the first incidence and the second mortality among female cancers. Most female breast cancers belong to luminal-type breast cancer and HER2-positive breast cancer. These breast cancer cells all have different driving genes, which constantly promote the proliferation and metastasis of breast cancer cells. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is an important breast cancer-related gene, which can promote the progress of breast cancer. It has been proved in clinical and basic research that over-expressed and constitutively activated STAT3 is involved in the progress, proliferation, metastasis and chemotherapy resistance of breast cancer. STAT3 is an important key target in luminal-type breast cancer and HER2-positive cancer, which has an important impact on the curative effect of related treatments. In breast cancer, the activation of STAT3 will change the spatial position of STAT3 protein and cause different phenotypic changes of breast cancer cells. In the current basic research and clinical research, small molecule inhibitors activated by targeting STAT3 can effectively treat breast cancer, and enhance the efficacy level of related treatment methods for luminal-type and HER2-positive breast cancers.

Appraisal of postbiotics in cancer therapy

Cancer remains a multifactorial disease with an increased mortality rate around the world for the past several decades. Despite advancements in treatment strategies, lower survival rates, drug-associated side effects, and drug resistance create a need for novel anticancer agents. Ample evidence shows that imbalances in the gut microbiota are associated with the formation of cancer and its progression. Altering the gut microbiota via probiotics and their metabolites has gained attention among the research community as an alternative therapy to treat cancer. Probiotics exhibit health benefits as well as modulate the immunological and cellular responses in the host. Apart from probiotics, their secreted products like bacteriocins, exopolysaccharides, short-chain fatty acids, conjugated linoleic acid, peptidoglycan, and other metabolites are found to possess anticancer activity. The beneficiary role of these postbiotic compounds is widely studied for characterizing their mechanism and mode of action that reduces cancer growth. The present review mainly focuses on the postbiotic components that are employed against cancer with their reported mechanism of action. It also describes recent research works carried out so far with specific strain and anticancer activity of derived compounds both in vitro and in vivo, validating that the probiotic approach would pave an alternative way to reduce the burden of cancer.

Myco-Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles, Optimization, Characterization, and In Silico Anticancer Activities by Molecular Docking Approach against Hepatic and Breast Cancer

This study explored the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using the extracellular filtrate of Fusarium oxysporum as a reducing agent and evaluated their antitumor potential through in vitro and in silico approaches. The biosynthesis of AgNPs was monitored by visual observation of the color change and confirmed by UV-Vis spectroscopy, revealing a characteristic peak at 418 nm. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses showed spherical nanoparticles ranging from 6.53 to 21.84 nm in size, with stable colloidal behavior and a negative zeta potential of -15.5 mV. Selected area electron diffraction (SAED) confirmed the crystalline nature of the AgNPs, whereas energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) indicated the presence of elemental silver at 34.35%. A face-centered central composite design (FCCD) was employed to optimize the biosynthesis process, yielding a maximum AgNPs yield of 96.77 µg/mL under the optimized conditions. The antitumor efficacy of AgNPs against MCF-7 and HepG2 cancer cell lines was assessed, with IC50 values of 35.4 µg/mL and 7.6 µg/mL, respectively. Molecular docking revealed interactions between Ag metal and key amino acids of BCL-2 (B-cell lymphoma-2) and FGF19 (fibroblast growth factor 19), consistent with in vitro data. These findings highlight the potential of biologically derived AgNPs as promising therapeutic agents for cancer treatment and demonstrate the utility of these methods for understanding the reaction mechanisms and optimizing nanomaterial synthesis.

A novel lncRNA associated with the prognosis of patients with colorectal cancer resists apoptosis through the LYN/BCL-2 pathway

PURPOSE

We found a novel lncRNA named lncAC138150.2 related to the overall survival and staging of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) by bioinformatic analysis using data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), and the study aimed to elucidate the function of lncAC138150.2 and underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

Target molecules were knocked down by transfection with antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), siRNAs, or lentiviruses and overexpressed by transfection with plasmids. The function of lncAC138150.2 was determined using histological, cytological, and molecular biology methods. The underlying mechanism of lncAC138150.2 function was investigated using RNA-seq, bioinformatics analysis, and molecular biology methods.

RESULTS

The expression of lncAC138150.2 was increased in colorectal tissues compared with paired normal tissues. The lncAC138150.2 knockdown increased apoptosis but did not change the cell proliferation, cell cycle distribution, or cell migration ability of CRC cells, while lncAC138150.2 overexpression decreased CRC apoptosis. lncAC138150.2 was mainly located in the cell nucleus, and each lncAC138150.2 transcript knockdown increased CRC apoptosis. BCL-2 pathway was significantly altered in apoptosis induced by lncAC138150.2 knockdown, which was alleviated by BAX knockdown. The expression of LYN was significantly decreased with lncAC138150.2 knockdown, LYN knockdown increased CRC apoptosis, and its overexpression completely alleviated CRC apoptosis induced by lncAC138150.2 knockdown.

CONCLUSION

lncAC138150.2 significantly inhibited CRC apoptosis and affected the prognosis of patients with CRC, through the LYN/BCL-2 pathway.

Comprehensive Analysis of Berberis aristata DC. Bark Extracts: In Vitro and In Silico Evaluation of Bioaccessibility and Safety

Berberine (BER) is an alkaloid found, together with other protoberberinoids (PROTBERs), in several species used in medicines and food supplements. While some herbal preparations containing BER and PROTBERs, such as Berberis aristata DC. bark extracts, have shown promising potential for human health, their safety has not been fully assessed. Recently, the EFSA issued a call for data to deepen the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic understanding of products containing BER and PROTBERs and to comprehensively assess their safety, especially when used in food supplements. In this context, new data were collected in this work by assessing: (i) the phytochemical profile of 16 different commercial B. aristata dry extracts, which are among the most widely used preparations containing BER and PROTBERs in Europe; (ii) the In Vitro and In Silico investigation of the pharmacokinetic properties of BER and PROTBERs; (iii) the In Vitro cytotoxicity of selected extracts in different human cell lines, including tests on hepatic cells in the presence of CYP450 substrates; (iv) the effects of the extracts on cancer cell migration; and (v) the In Vitro molecular effects of extracts in non-cancer human cells. Results showed that commercial B. aristata extracts contain BER as the main constituent, with jatrorrhizine as main secondary PROTBER. BER and jatrorrhizine were found to have a good bioaccessibility rate, but they interact with P-gp. B. aristata extracts showed limited cytotoxicity and minimal interaction with CYP450 substrates. Furthermore, tested extracts demonstrated inhibition of cancer cell migration and were devoid of any pro-tumoral effects in normal cells. Overall, our work provides a valuable overview to better elucidate important concerns regarding botanicals containing BER and PROTBERs.

miRNAs that regulate apoptosis in breast cancer and cervical cancer

In today's world, one of the main problems is cancer, which still has a long way to go to cure it, and it brings a lot of financial and emotional costs to the people of society and governments. Breast cancer (BC) and cervical cancer (CC), two of the most common cancers, are caused by several genetic and environmental factors in women. These two cancers' involvement rate is higher than other cancers in women. microRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNA molecules with a length of 18 to 24 nucleotides, which play an important role in post-translational changes. miRNAs themselves are divided into two categories, oncomiRs and tumor suppressors. OncomiRs have a part in tumor expansion and tumor suppressors prevent tumor development and progress. miRNAs can control cellular processes by regulating various pathways including autophagy, apoptosis, and signaling. Apoptosis is a type of programmed cell death that includes intrinsic and extrinsic pathways and is different from other cell death pathways such as necrosis and ferroptosis. Apoptosis controls the growth, differentiation, and death of cells by regulating the death of damaged and old cells, and since miRNAs are one of the factors that regulate apoptosis, and divided into two categories: pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic. We decided in this study to investigate the relationship between miRNAs and apoptosis in the most common women's cancers, BC and CC.

A promising future of metal-N-heterocyclic carbene complexes in medicinal chemistry: The emerging bioorganometallic antitumor agents

Metal complexes based on N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands have emerged as promising broad-spectrum antitumor agents in bioorganometallic medicinal chemistry. In recent decades, studies on cytotoxic metal-NHC complexes have yielded numerous compounds exhibiting superior cytotoxicity compared to cisplatin. Although the molecular mechanisms of these anticancer complexes are not fully understood, some potential targets and modes of action have been identified. However, a comprehensive review of their biological mechanisms is currently absent. In general, apoptosis caused by metal-NHCs is common in tumor cells. They can cause a series of changes after entering cells, such as mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) variation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, cytochrome c (cyt c) release, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, lysosome damage, and caspase activation, ultimately leading to apoptosis. Therefore, a detailed understanding of the influence of metal-NHCs on cancer cell apoptosis is crucial. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of recent advances in metal-NHC complexes that trigger apoptotic cell death via different apoptosis-related targets or signaling pathways, including B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2 family), p53, cyt c, ER stress, lysosome damage, thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) inhibition, and so forth. We also discuss the challenges, limitations, and future directions of metal-NHC complexes to elucidate their emerging application in medicinal chemistry.

De novo drug design through gradient-based regularized search in information-theoretically controlled latent space

Over the last decade, automatic chemical design frameworks for discovering molecules with drug-like properties have significantly progressed. Among them, the variational autoencoder (VAE) is a cutting-edge approach that models the tractable latent space of the molecular space. In particular, the usage of a VAE along with a property estimator has attracted considerable interest because it enables gradient-based optimization of a given molecule. However, although successful results have been achieved experimentally, the theoretical background and prerequisites for the correct operation of this method have not yet been clarified. In view of the above, we theoretically analyze and rigorously reconstruct the entire framework. From the perspective of parameterized distribution and the information theory, we first describe how the previous model overcomes the limitations of the beta VAE in discovering molecules with the desired properties. Furthermore, we describe the prerequisites for training the above model. Next, from the log-likelihood perspective of each term, we reformulate the objectives for exploring latent space to generate drug-like molecules. The distributional constraints are defined in this study, which will break away from the invalid molecular search. We demonstrated that our model could discover a novel chemical compound for targeting BCL-2 family proteins in de novo approach. Through the theoretical analysis and practical implementation, the importance of the aforementioned prerequisites and constraints to operate the model was verified.

The Role of Bcl-2 Family Proteins and Sorafenib Resistance in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Liver cancer has been reported to be one of the most malignant diseases in the world. It is late diagnosis consequently leads to a difficult treatment, as the cancer reached an advanced stage. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the primary type of cancer diagnosed in the liver, with deadly characteristics and a poor prognosis. The first-in-line treatment for advanced HCC is sorafenib. Sorafenib acts by inhibiting cell proliferation and by inducing apoptosis as well as blocks receptors associated with these mechanisms. Due to its constant use, sorafenib resistance has been described, especially to proteins of the Bcl-2 family, and their overexpression of Bcl-XL and Mcl-1. This review focuses on the role of the Bcl-2 proteins in relation to sorafenib resistance as a consequence of first-in-line treatment in HCC.

Potential of Polar Lipids Isolated from the Marine Sponge Haliclona (Halichoclona) vansoesti against Melanoma

Marine sponges represent a good source of natural metabolites for biotechnological applications in the pharmacological, cosmeceutical, and nutraceutical fields. In the present work, we analyzed the biotechnological potential of the alien species Haliclona (Halichoclona) vansoesti de Weerdt, de Kluijver & Gomez, 1999, previously collected in the Mediterranean Sea (Faro Lake, Sicily). The bioactivity and chemical content of this species has never been investigated, and information in the literature on its Caribbean counterpart is scarce. We show that an enriched extract of H. vansoesti induced cell death in human melanoma cells with an IC50 value of 36.36 µg mL-1, by (i) triggering a pro-inflammatory response, (ii) activating extrinsic apoptosis mediated by tumor necrosis factor receptors triggering the mitochondrial apoptosis via the involvement of Bcl-2 proteins and caspase 9, and (iii) inducing a significant reduction in several proteins promoting human angiogenesis. Through orthogonal SPE fractionations, we identified two active sphingoid-based lipid classes, also characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry, as the main components of two active fractions. Overall, our findings provide the first evaluation of the anti-cancer potential of polar lipids isolated from the marine sponge H. (Halichoclona) vansoesti, which may lead to new lead compounds with biotechnological applications in the pharmaceutical field.

The Evolving Paradigm of Antibody-Drug Conjugates Targeting the ErbB/HER Family of Receptor Tyrosine Kinases

Current therapies targeting the human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) family, including monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), are limited by drug resistance and systemic toxicities. Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are one of the most rapidly expanding classes of anti-cancer therapeutics with 13 presently approved by the FDA. Importantly, ADCs represent a promising therapeutic option with the potential to overcome traditional HER-targeted therapy resistance by delivering highly potent cytotoxins specifically to HER-overexpressing cancer cells and exerting both mAb- and payload-mediated antitumor efficacy. The clinical utility of HER-targeted ADCs is exemplified by the immense success of HER2-targeted ADCs including trastuzumab emtansine and trastuzumab deruxtecan. Still, strategies to improve upon existing HER2-targeted ADCs as well as the development of ADCs against other HER family members, particularly EGFR and HER3, are of great interest. To date, no HER4-targeting ADCs have been reported. In this review, we extensively detail clinical-stage EGFR-, HER2-, and HER3-targeting monospecific ADCs as well as novel clinical and pre-clinical bispecific ADCs (bsADCs) directed against this receptor family. We close by discussing nascent trends in the development of HER-targeting ADCs, including novel ADC payloads and HER ligand-targeted ADCs.

Evaluation of Novel Spiro-pyrrolopyridazine Derivatives as Anticancer Compounds: In Vitro Selective Cytotoxicity, Induction of Apoptosis, EGFR Inhibitory Activity, and Molecular Docking Analysis

Cancer, characterized by uncontrolled cell proliferation, remains a global health challenge. Despite advancements in cancer treatment, drug resistance and adverse effects on normal cells remain challenging. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), a transmembrane tyrosine kinase protein, is crucial in controlling cell proliferation and is implicated in various cancers. Here, the cytotoxic and apoptotic potential of 21 newly synthesized spiro-pyrrolopyridazine (SPP) derivatives was investigated on breast (MCF-7), lung (H69AR), and prostate (PC-3) cancer cells. XTT assay was used for cytotoxicity assessment. Flow cytometry and western blot (WB) analyses were conducted for apoptosis detection. Additionally, the EGFR inhibitory potential of these derivatives was evaluated via a homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence (HTRF) assay, and WB and molecular docking studies were conducted to analyze the binding affinities of SPP10 with EGFR. SPPs, especially SPP10, exhibit significant cytotoxicity across MCF-7, H69AR, and PC-3 cancer cells with IC50 values of 2.31 ± 0.3, 3.16 ± 0.8, and 4.2 ± 0.2 μM, respectively. Notably, SPP10 demonstrates selective cytotoxicity against cancer cells with a low impact on nontumorigenic cells (IC50 value: 26.8 ± 0.4 μM). Flow cytometric analysis demonstrated the potent induction of apoptotic cell death by SPP10 in all of the tested cancer cells. Western blot analysis revealed the involvement of key apoptotic proteins, with SPP10 notably inhibiting antiapoptotic Bcl-2 while inducing pro-apoptotic Bax and cytochrome c. SPP10 exhibited significant EGFR kinase inhibitory activity, surpassing the efficacy of the reference drug erlotinib. Molecular docking studies support these findings, revealing strong binding affinities of SPP10 with both wild-type and mutated EGFR. The study underscores the significance of heterocyclic compounds, particularly spiro-class heterocyclic molecules, in advancing cancer research. Overall, SPP10 emerges as a promising candidate for further investigations in cancer treatment, combining potent cytotoxicity, apoptotic induction, and targeted EGFR inhibition.

Bioactive nutraceuticals as G4 stabilizers: potential cancer prevention and therapy-a critical review

G-quadruplexes (G4) are non-canonical, four-stranded, nucleic acid secondary structures formed in the guanine-rich sequences, where guanine nucleotides associate with each other via Hoogsteen hydrogen bonding. These structures are widely found near the functional regions of the mammalian genome, such as telomeres, oncogenic promoters, and replication origins, and play crucial regulatory roles in replication and transcription. Destabilization of G4 by various carcinogenic agents allows oncogene overexpression and extension of telomeric ends resulting in dysregulation of cellular growth-promoting oncogenesis. Therefore, targeting and stabilizing these G4 structures with potential ligands could aid cancer prevention and therapy. The field of G-quadruplex targeting is relatively nascent, although many articles have demonstrated the effect of G4 stabilization on oncogenic expressions; however, no previous study has provided a comprehensive analysis about the potency of a wide variety of nutraceuticals and some of their derivatives in targeting G4 and the lattice of oncogenic cell signaling cascade affected by them. In this review, we have discussed bioactive G4-stabilizing nutraceuticals, their sources, mode of action, and their influence on cellular signaling, and we believe our insight would bring new light to the current status of the field and motivate researchers to explore this relatively poorly studied arena.

PAQR4 oncogene: a novel target for cancer therapy

Despite decades of basic and clinical research and trials of promising new therapies, cancer remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality due to the emergence of drug resistance to anticancer drugs. These resistance events have a very well-understood underlying mechanism, and their therapeutic relevance has long been recognized. Thus, drug resistance continues to be a major obstacle to providing cancer patients with the intended "cure". PAQR4 (Progestin and AdipoQ Receptor Family Member 4) gene is a recently identified novel protein-coding gene associated with various human cancers and acts through different signaling pathways. PAQR4 has a significant influence on multiple proteins that may regulate various gene expressions and may develop chemoresistance. This review discusses the roles of PAQR4 in tumor immunity, carcinogenesis, and chemoresistance. This paper is the first review, discussing PAQR4 in the pathogenesis of cancer. The review further explores the PAQR4 as a potential target in various malignancies.

Protein-based bandpass filters for controlling cellular signaling with chemical inputs

Biological signal processing is vital for cellular function. Similar to electronic circuits, cells process signals via integrated mechanisms. In electronics, bandpass filters transmit frequencies with defined ranges, but protein-based counterparts for controlled responses are lacking in engineered biological systems. Here, we rationally design protein-based, chemically responsive bandpass filters (CBPs) showing OFF-ON-OFF patterns that respond to chemical concentrations within a specific range and reject concentrations outside that range. Employing structure-based strategies, we designed a heterodimeric construct that dimerizes in response to low concentrations of a small molecule (ON), and dissociates at high concentrations of the same molecule (OFF). The CBPs have a multidomain architecture in which we used known drug receptors, a computationally designed protein binder and small-molecule inhibitors. This modular system allows fine-tuning for optimal performance in terms of bandwidth, response, cutoff and fold changes. The CBPs were used to regulate cell surface receptor signaling pathways to control cellular activities in engineered cells.

Multitargeted molecular docking and dynamics simulation studies of flavonoids and volatile components from the peel of Citrus sinensis L. (Osbeck) against specific tumor protein markers

Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck (Rutaceae), commonly known as the sweet orange, is a popular and widely consumed fruit with several medicinal properties. The present study aimed to perform the in silico screening of 18 flavonoids and eight volatile components from the peel of C. sinensis against apoptotic and inflammatory proteins, metalloprotease, and tumor suppressor markers. Flavonoids obtained higher probabilities than volatile components against selected anti-cancer drug targets. Hence, the data from the binding energies against the essential apoptotic and cell proliferation proteins substantiate that they may be promising compounds in developing effective candidates to block cell growth, proliferation, and induced cell death by activating the apoptotic pathway. Further, the binding stability of the selected targets and the corresponding molecules were analyzed by 100 ns molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Chlorogenic acid has the most binding affinity against the important anti-cancer targets iNOS, MMP-9, and p53. The congruent binding mode to different drug targets focused on cancer shown by chlorogenic acid suggests that it may be a compound with significant therapeutic potential. Moreover, the binding energy predictions indicated that the compound had stable electrostatic and van der Waal energies. Thus, our data reinforce the medicinal importance of flavonoids from C. sinensis and expand the need for more studies, seeking to optimize results and amplify the impacts of further in vitro and in vivo studies. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Venetoclax Combination Treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukemia in Adolescents and Young Adult Patients

Over the past two decades, the prognosis in adolescents and young adults (AYAs) diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has significantly improved. The standard intensive cytotoxic treatment approach for AYAs with AML, consisting of induction chemotherapy with anthracycline/cytarabine combination followed by consolidation chemotherapy or stem cell transplantation, has lately been shifting toward novel targeted therapies, mostly in the fields of clinical trials. One of the most recent advances in treating AML is the combination of the B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) inhibitor venetoclax with hypomethylating agents, which has been studied in elderly populations and was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for patients over 75 years of age or patients excluded from intensive chemotherapy induction schemas due to comorbidities. Regarding the AYA population, venetoclax combination therapy could be a therapeutic option for patients with refractory/relapsed (R/R) AML, although data from real-world studies are currently limited. Venetoclax is frequently used by AYAs diagnosed with advanced hematologic malignancies, mainly acute lymphoblastic leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes, as a salvage therapeutic option with considerable efficacy and safety. Herein, we aim to summarize the evidence obtained from clinical trials and observational studies on venetoclax use in AYAs with AML. Based on the available evidence, venetoclax is a safe and effective therapeutic option for R/R AML AYA patients. However, further research in larger cohorts is needed to confirm these data, establishing the benefits of a venetoclax-based regimen for this special population.

Development and crystal structures of a potent second-generation dual degrader of BCL-2 and BCL-xL

Overexpression of BCL-xL and BCL-2 play key roles in tumorigenesis and cancer drug resistance. Advances in PROTAC technology facilitated recent development of the first BCL-xL/BCL-2 dual degrader, 753b, a VHL-based degrader with improved potency and reduced toxicity compared to previous small molecule inhibitors. Here, we determine crystal structures of VHL/753b/BCL-xL and VHL/753b/BCL-2 ternary complexes. The two ternary complexes exhibit markedly different architectures that are accompanied by distinct networks of interactions at the VHL/753b-linker/target interfaces. The importance of these interfacial contacts is validated via functional analysis and informed subsequent rational and structure-guided design focused on the 753b linker and BCL-2/BCL-xL warhead. This results in the design of a degrader, WH244, with enhanced potency to degrade BCL-xL/BCL-2 in cells. Using biophysical assays followed by in cell activities, we are able to explain the enhanced target degradation of BCL-xL/BCL-2 in cells. Most PROTACs are empirically designed and lack structural studies, making it challenging to understand their modes of action and specificity. Our work presents a streamlined approach that combines rational design and structure-based insights backed with cell-based studies to develop effective PROTAC-based cancer therapeutics.

Iterative nanoparticle bioengineering enabled by x-ray fluorescence imaging

Nanoparticles (NPs) are currently developed for drug delivery and molecular imaging. However, they often get intercepted before reaching their target, leading to low targeting efficacy and signal-to-noise ratio. They tend to accumulate in organs like lungs, liver, kidneys, and spleen. The remedy is to iteratively engineer NP surface properties and administration strategies, presently a time-consuming process that includes organ dissection at different time points. To improve this, we propose a rapid iterative approach using whole-animal x-ray fluorescence (XRF) imaging to systematically evaluate NP distribution in vivo. We applied this method to molybdenum-based NPs and clodronate liposomes for tumor targeting with transient macrophage depletion, leading to reduced accumulations in lungs and liver and eventual tumor detection. XRF computed tomography (XFCT) provided 3D insight into NP distribution within the tumor. We validated the results using a multiscale imaging approach with dye-doped NPs and gene expression analysis for nanotoxicological profiling. XRF imaging holds potential for advancing therapeutics and diagnostics in preclinical pharmacokinetic studies.

Induction of complementary immunogenic necroptosis and apoptosis cell death pathways inhibits cancer metastasis and relapse

Interactions of light-sensitive drugs and materials with Cerenkov radiation-emitting radiopharmaceuticals generate cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) to inhibit localized and disseminated cancer progression, but the cell death mechanisms underlying this radionuclide stimulated dynamic therapy (RaST) remain elusive. Using ROS-regenerative nanophotosensitizers coated with a tumor-targeting transferrin-titanocene complex (TiO2-TC-Tf) and radiolabeled 2-fluorodeoxyglucose (18FDG), we found that adherent dying cells maintained metabolic activity with increased membrane permeabilization. Mechanistic assessment of these cells revealed that RaST activated the expression of RIPK-1 and RIPK-3, which mediate necroptosis cell death. Subsequent recruitment of the nuclear factors kappa B and the executioner mixed lineage kinase domain-like pseudo kinase (MLKL) triggered plasma membrane permeabilization and pore formation, respectively, followed by the release of cytokines and immunogenic damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). In immune-deficient breast cancer models with adequate stroma and growth factors that recapitulate the human tumor microenvironment, RaST failed to inhibit tumor progression and the ensuing lung metastasis. A similar aggressive tumor model in immunocompetent mice responded to RaST, achieving a remarkable partial response (PR) and complete response (CR) with no evidence of lung metastasis, suggesting active immune system engagement. RaST recruited antitumor CD11b+, CD11c+, and CD8b+ effector immune cells after initiating dual immunogenic apoptosis and necroptosis cell death pathways in responding tumors in vivo. Over time, cancer cells upregulated the expression of negative immune regulating cytokine (TGF-β) and soluble immune checkpoints (sICP) to challenge RaST effect in the CR mice. Using a signal-amplifying cancer-imaging agent, LS301, we identified latent minimal residual disseminated tumors in the lymph nodes (LNs) of the CR group. Despite increased protumor immunogens in the CR mice, RaST prevented cancer relapse and metastasis through dynamic redistribution of ROS-regenerative TiO2 from bones at the early treatment stage to the spleen and LNs, maintaining active immunity against cancer progression and migration. This study reveals the immune-mechanistic underpinnings of RaST-mediated antitumor immune response and highlights immunogenic reprogramming of tumors in response to RaST. Overcoming apoptosis resistance through complementary necroptosis activation paves the way for strategic drug combinations to improve cancer treatment.

Illuminating the immunological landscape: mitochondrial gene defects in pancreatic cancer through a multiomics lens

This comprehensive review delves into the complex interplay between mitochondrial gene defects and pancreatic cancer pathogenesis through a multiomics approach. By amalgamating data from genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic studies, we dissected the mechanisms by which mitochondrial genetic variations dictate cancer progression. Emphasis has been placed on the roles of these genes in altering cellular metabolic processes, signal transduction pathways, and immune system interactions. We further explored how these findings could refine therapeutic interventions, with a particular focus on precision medicine applications. This analysis not only fills pivotal knowledge gaps about mitochondrial anomalies in pancreatic cancer but also paves the way for future investigations into personalized therapy options. This finding underscores the crucial nexus between mitochondrial genetics and oncological immunology, opening new avenues for targeted cancer treatment strategies.

Optimal strategies of oncolytic virus-bortezomib therapy via the apoptotic, necroptotic, and oncolysis signaling network

Bortezomib and oncolytic virotherapy are two emerging targeted cancer therapies. Bortezomib, a proteasome inhibitor, disrupts protein degradation in cells, leading to the accumulation of unfolded proteins that induce apoptosis. On the other hand, virotherapy uses genetically modified oncolytic viruses (OVs) to infect cancer cells, trigger cell lysis, and activate anti-tumor response. Despite progress in cancer treatment, identifying administration protocols for therapeutic agents remains a significant concern, aiming to strike a balance between efficacy, minimizing toxicity, and administrative costs. In this work, optimal control theory was employed to design a cost-effective and efficient co-administration protocols for bortezomib and OVs that could significantly diminish the population of cancer cells via the cell death program with the NF$ \kappa $B-BAX-RIP1 signaling network. Both linear and quadratic control strategies were explored to obtain practical treatment approaches by adapting necroptosis protocols to efficient cell death programs. Our findings demonstrated that a combination therapy commencing with the administration of OVs followed by bortezomib infusions yields an effective tumor-killing outcome. These results could provide valuable guidance for the development of clinical administration protocols in cancer treatment.

Package delivered: folate receptor-mediated transporters in cancer therapy and diagnosis

Neoplasias pose a significant threat to aging society, underscoring the urgent need to overcome the limitations of traditional chemotherapy through pioneering strategies. Targeted drug delivery is an evolving frontier in cancer therapy, aiming to enhance treatment efficacy while mitigating undesirable side effects. One promising avenue utilizes cell membrane receptors like the folate receptor to guide drug transporters precisely to malignant cells. Based on the cellular folate receptor as a cancer cell hallmark, targeted nanocarriers and small molecule-drug conjugates have been developed that comprise different (bio) chemistries and/or mechanical properties with individual advantages and challenges. Such modern folic acid-conjugated stimuli-responsive drug transporters provide systemic drug delivery and controlled release, enabling reduced dosages, circumvention of drug resistance, and diminished adverse effects. Since the drug transporters' structure-based de novo design is increasingly relevant for precision cancer remediation and diagnosis, this review seeks to collect and debate the recent approaches to deliver therapeutics or diagnostics based on folic acid conjugated Trojan Horses and to facilitate the understanding of the relevant chemistry and biochemical pathways. Focusing exemplarily on brain and breast cancer, recent advances spanning 2017 to 2023 in conjugated nanocarriers and small molecule drug conjugates were considered, evaluating the chemical and biological aspects in order to improve accessibility to the field and to bridge chemical and biomedical points of view ultimately guiding future research in FR-targeted cancer therapy and diagnosis.

Synthesis and Characterization of Graphene Oxide/Polyethylene Glycol/Folic Acid/Brucine Nanocomposites and Their Anticancer Activity on HepG2 Cells

Background

Liver cancer is the sixth most prevalent form of cancer and the second major cause of cancer-associated mortalities worldwide. Cancer nanotechnology has the ability to fundamentally alter cancer treatment, diagnosis, and detection.

Objective

In this study, we explained the development of graphene oxide/polyethylene glycol/folic acid/brucine nanocomposites (GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs) and evaluated their antimicrobial and anticancer effect on the liver cancer HepG2 cells.

Methodology

The GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs were prepared using the co-precipitation technique and characterized using various techniques. The cytotoxicity of the GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs was tested against both liver cancer HepG2 and non-malignant Vero cells using an MTT assay. The antimicrobial activity of the GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs was tested against several pathogens using the well diffusion technique. The effects of GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs on endogenous ROS accumulation, apoptosis, and MMP levels were examined using corresponding fluorescent staining assays, respectively. The apoptotic protein expressions, such as Bax, Bcl-2, and caspases, were studied using the corresponding kits.

Results

The findings of various characterization assays revealed the development of GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs with face-centered spherical morphology and an agglomerated appearance with an average size of 197.40 nm. The GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs treatment remarkably inhibited the growth of the tested pathogens. The findings of the MTT assay evidenced that the GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs effectively reduced the HepG2 cell growth while not showing toxicity to the Vero cells. The findings of the fluorescent assay proved that the GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs increased ROS generation, reduced MMP levels, and promoted apoptosis in the HepG2 cells. The levels of Bax, caspase-9, and -3 were increased, and Bcl-2 was reduced in the GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs-treated HepG2 cells.

Conclusion

The results of this work demonstrate that GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs suppress viability and induce apoptosis in HepG2 cells, indicating their potential as an anticancer candidate.

PLCD3 inhibits apoptosis and promotes proliferation, invasion and migration in gastric cancer

Gastric cancer (GC) is a heterogeneous disease whose development is accompanied by alterations in a variety of pathogenic genes. The phospholipase C Delta 3 enzyme is a member of the phospholipase C family, which controls substance transport between cells in the body. However, its role in gastric cancer has not been discovered. The purpose of this study was to investigate the expression and mechanism of action of PLCD3 in connection to gastric cancer. By Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry, PLCD3 mRNA and protein expression levels were measured, with high PLCD3 expression suggesting poor prognosis. In N87 and HGC-27 cells, the silencing of PLCD3 using small interfering RNA effectively induced apoptosis and inhibited tumor cell proliferation, invasion, and migration. Conversely, overexpression of PLCD3 using overexpressed plasmids inhibited apoptosis in AGS and BGC-823 cells and promoted proliferation, migration, and invasion. In order to investigate the underlying mechanisms, we conducted further analysis of PLCD3, which indicates that this protein is closely related to the cell cycle and EMT. Additionally, we found that overexpression of PLCD3 inhibits apoptosis and promotes the development of GC cells through JAK2/STAT3 signaling. In conclusion, PLCD3 inhibits apoptosis and promotes proliferation, invasion, and migration, which indicated that PLCD3 might serve as a therapeutic target for gastric cancer.

Developments and current status of cell-free DNA in the early detection and management of hepatocellular carcinoma

Nowadays, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still a major threat to human health globally, with a disappointing prognosis. Regular monitoring of patients at high risk, utilizing abdominal ultrasonography combined with alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) serum analysis, enables the early detection of potentially treatable tumors. However, the approach has limitations due to its lack of sensitivity. Meanwhile, the current standard procedure for obtaining a tumor biopsy in cases of HCC is invasive and lacks the ability to assess the dynamic progression of cancer or account for tumor heterogeneity. Hence, there is a pressing need to develop non-invasive, highly sensitive biomarkers for HCC which can improve the accuracy of early diagnosis, assess treatment response and accurately predict the prognosis. In contrast to the conventional method of tissue biopsy, liquid biopsy offers a non-invasive approach that can be readily repeated. As a liquid biopsy approach, the analysis of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) offers real-time insights that can accurately portray the tumor burden and provide a comprehensive depiction of the genetic profile associated with HCC. In this review, we present a comprehensive summary of the recent research findings pertaining to the significance and potential practicality of cfDNA analysis in the early detection and effective management of HCC.

Predictors of response to neoadjuvant therapy in urothelial cancer

Neoadjuvant cisplatin-based chemotherapy (NACC) followed by radical cystectomy is the standard treatment for localized muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). Patients who achieve a complete pathological response following NACC have better overall survival than those with residual disease. However, a subset of patients does not derive benefit from NACC while experiencing chemotherapy-related side effects that may delay cystectomy, which can be detrimental. There is a need for predictive and prognostic biomarkers to better stratify patients who will derive benefits from NACC. This review summarizes the currently available literature on various predictors of response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Covered predictors include clinical factors, treatment regimens (including chemotherapy and immunotherapy), histological predictors, and molecular predictors such as DNA repair genes, p53, FGFR3, ERBB2, Bcl-2, EMMPRIN, survivin, choline-phosphate cytidylyltransferase-α, epigenetic markers, immunological markers, other molecular predictors and gene expression profiling. Further, we elaborate on the potential role of neoadjuvant immunotherapy and the correlative biomarkers of response.

First-in-Human Study with Preclinical Data of BCL-2/BCL-xL Inhibitor Pelcitoclax in Locally Advanced or Metastatic Solid Tumors

PURPOSE

B-cell lymphoma-extra-large (BCL-xL) regulates apoptosis and is an attractive anticancer therapeutic target. However, BCL-xL inhibition also kills mature platelets, hampering clinical development. Using an innovative prodrug strategy, we have developed pelcitoclax (APG-1252), a potent, dual BCL-2 and BCL-xL inhibitor. Aims of this study were to characterize the antitumor activity and safety of pelcitoclax and explore its underlying mechanisms of action (MOA).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Cell line-derived xenograft and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models were tested to evaluate antitumor activity and elucidate MOA. Subjects (N = 50) with metastatic small-cell lung cancer and other solid tumors received intravenous pelcitoclax once or twice weekly. Primary outcome measures were safety and tolerability; preliminary efficacy (responses every 2 cycles per RECIST version 1.1) represented a secondary endpoint.

RESULTS

Pelcitoclax exhibited strong BAX/BAK‒dependent and caspase-mediated antiproliferative and apoptogenic activity in various cancer cell lines. Consistent with cell-based apoptogenic activity, pelcitoclax disrupted BCL-xL:BIM and BCL-xL:PUMA complexes in lung and gastric cancer PDX models. Levels of BCL-xL complexes correlated with tumor growth inhibition by pelcitoclax. Combined with taxanes, pelcitoclax enhanced antitumor activity by downregulating antiapoptotic protein myeloid cell leukemia-1 (MCL-1). Importantly, pelcitoclax was well tolerated and demonstrated preliminary therapeutic efficacy, with overall response and disease control rates of 6.5% and 30.4%, respectively. Most common treatment-related adverse events included transaminase elevations and reduced platelets that were less frequent with a once-weekly schedule.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data demonstrate that pelcitoclax has antitumor activity and is well tolerated, supporting its further clinical development for human solid tumors, particularly combined with agents that downregulate MCL-1.

Mucoadhesive Carrier-Mediated Oral Co-delivery of Bcl2 Inhibitors Improves Gastric Cancer Treatment

Gastric cancer treatment is challenging due to the lack of early-stage diagnostic technology and targeted delivery systems. Currently, the available treatments for gastric cancer are surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation. These strategies are either invasive or require systemic delivery, exerting toxicities within healthy tissues. By creation of a targeted delivery system to the stomach, gastric cancer can be treated in the early stages. Such an approach reduces the negative effects on the rest of the body by minimizing systemic absorbance and random localization. With this in mind, we developed a mucoadhesive vehicle composed of β-Glucan And Docosahexaenoic Acid (GADA) for controlled drug/gene delivery. In the current study, we investigated the therapeutic effect of codelivery Bcl2 inhibitors navitoclax (NAVI) and siRNA (Bcl2) via oral using GADA. The therapeutic efficacy of the GADA-mediated oral NAVI/siRNA was investigated in a gastric cancer mouse model. Higher Bcl2 inhibition efficacy was observed in Western blotting and TUNEL assay in mice treated with GADA/NAVI/siRNA compared to free NAVI, siRNA, and NAVI/siRNA. Histology (H&E) and immunohistochemistry (Ki67, TUNEL, and BCl2) analyses confirmed a significant reduction of the tumor region. Interaction between GADA and mucus resulted in retention for over 6 h and thereby sustained local payload release. The developed oral carrier GADA is an emerging vehicle that has promising potential in oral delivery of both small and large molecules, and their mucoadhesive property results in improved therapeutic efficacy with minimal side effects compared to conventional treatment. This study opens a new window for the effective delivery of oral medicine for the treatment of gastric cancer and other gastrointestinal diseases.

Immunogenicity of cancer cells: An overview

The immune system assumes a pivotal role in the organism's capacity to discern and obliterate malignant cells. The immunogenicity of a cancer cell pertains to its proficiency in inciting an immunological response. The prowess of immunogenicity stands as a pivotal determinant in the triumph of formulating immunotherapeutic methodologies. Immunotherapeutic strategies include immune checkpoint inhibitors, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, and on vaccines. Immunogenic cell death (ICD) epitomizes a form of cellular demise that incites an immune response against dying cells. ICD is characterized by the liberation of distinct specific molecules that activate the immune system, thereby leading to the identification and elimination of dying cells by immunocytes. One of the salient characteristics inherent to the ICD phenomenon resides in the vigorous liberation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) by cellular entities dedicated to embarking upon the process of programmed cell death, yet refraining from complete apoptotic demise. ICD is initiated by a sequence of molecular events that occur during cell death. These occurrences encompass the unveiling or discharge of molecules such as calreticulin, high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) from dying cells. These molecules act as "eat me" signals, which are recognized by immune cells, thereby prompting the engulfment and deterioration of expiring cells by phagocytes including various pathways such as Necroptosis, Apoptosis, and pyroptosis. Here, we review our current understanding of the pathophysiological importance of the immune responses against dying cells and the mechanisms underlying their activation. Overall, the ICD represents an important mechanism by which the immune system recognizes and eliminates dying cells, including cancer cells. Understanding the molecular events that underlie ICD bears the potential to engender innovative cancer therapeutics that harness the power of the immune system to combat cancer.

LncRNA FTH1P3: A New Biomarker for Cancer-Related Therapeutic Development

Cancer is a persistent and urgent health problem that affects the entire world. Not long ago, regulatory biomolecules referred to as long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) might have value for their innate abundance and stability. These single-stranded RNAs potentially interfere with several physiological and biochemical cellular processes involved in many human pathological situations, particularly cancer diseases. Ferritin heavy chain1 pseudogene 3 (FTH1P3), a lncRNA that is ubiquitously transcribed and belongs to the ferritin heavy chain (FHC) family, represents a novel class of lncRNAs primarily found in oral squamous cell carcinoma. Further research has shown that FTH1P3 is involved in other malignancies such as uveal melanoma, glioma, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, breast cancer, laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma, and cervical cancer. Accordingly, FTH1P3 significantly enhances cancer symptoms, including cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, chemoresistance, and inhibition of apoptosis through many specific mechanisms. Notably, the clinical data significantly demonstrated the association of FTH1P3 overexpression with poor prognosis and poor overall survival within the examined samples. Here, we summarize all the research published to date (13 articles) on FTH1P3, focusing on the biological function underlying the regulatory mechanism and its possible clinical relevance.

Ipatasertib, an oral AKT inhibitor, in combination with carboplatin exhibits anti-proliferative effects in uterine serous carcinoma

PURPOSE

Uterine serous carcinoma (USC) exhibits worse survival rates compared to the endometrioid subtype, and there is currently no effective treatment options for recurrence of this disease after platinum-based chemotherapy. Activation of PIK3CA/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway is a common biological feature in USC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ipatasertib (IPAT) is an investigational, orally administered, ATP-competitive, highly selective inhibitor of pan AKT that has demonstrated anti-proliferative activity in a variety of tumor cells and tumor models. In this study, we used IPAT, carboplatin and their combination to investigate the anti-tumor activity in SPEC-2 and ARK-1 cells.

RESULTS

Our results indicate that IPAT combined with carboplatin at low doses was more effective at reducing proliferation, inducing apoptosis and causing cellular stress than IPAT or carboplatin alone. In particular, inhibition of the PIK3CA/AKT/mTOR pathway and induction of DNA damage were involved in the synergistic inhibition by combination treatment of cell viability in USC cells treated with the combination. Furthermore, IPAT in combination with carboplatin significantly reduced cell adhesion and inhibited cell invasion.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that the combination of IPAT and carboplatin has potential clinical implications for developing new USC treatment strategies.

Design, synthesis, and antitumor screening of new thiazole, thiazolopyrimidine, and thiazolotriazine derivatives as potent inhibitors of VEGFR-2

New thiazole, thiazolopyrimidine, and thiazolotriazine derivatives 3-12 and 14a-f were synthesized. The newly synthesized analogs were tested for in vitro antitumor activity against HepG2, HCT-116, MCF-7, HeP-2, and Hela cancer cells. Results indicated that compound 5 displayed the highest potency toward the tested cancer cells. Compound 11b possessed enhanced effectiveness over MCF-7, HepG2, HCT-116, and Hela cancer cells. In addition, compounds 4 and 6 showed promising activity toward HCT-116, MCF-7, and Hela cancer cells and eminent activity against HepG2 and HeP-2 cells. Moreover, compounds 3-6 and 11b were tested for their capability to inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) activity. The obtained results showed that compound 5 displayed significant inhibitory activity against VEGFR-2 (half-maximal inhibitory concentration [IC50 ] = 0.044 μM) comparable to sunitinib (IC50  = 0.100 μM). Also, the synthesized compounds 3-6 and 11b were subjected to in vitro cytotoxicity tests over WI38 and WISH normal cells. It was found that the five tested compounds displayed significantly lower cytotoxicity than doxorubicin toward normal cell lines. Cell cycle analysis proved that compound 5 induces cell cycle arrest in the S phase for HCT-116 and Hela cancer cell lines and in the G2/M phase for the MCF-7 cancer cell line. Moreover, compound 5 induced cancer cell death through apoptosis accompanied by a high ratio of BAX/BCL-2 in the screened cancer cells. Furthermore, docking results revealed that compound 5 showed the essential interaction bonds with VEGFR-2, which agreed with in vitro enzyme assay results. In silico studies showed that most of the analyzed compounds complied with the requirements of good oral bioavailability with minimal toxicity threats in humans.

New era for myelofibrosis treatment with novel agents beyond Janus kinase-inhibitor monotherapy: Focus on clinical development of BCL-XL /BCL-2 inhibition with navitoclax

Myelofibrosis is a heterogeneous myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by chronic inflammation, progressive bone marrow failure, and hepatosplenic extramedullary hematopoiesis. Treatments like Janus kinase inhibitor monotherapy (e.g., ruxolitinib) provide significant spleen and symptom relief but demonstrate limited ability to lead to a durable disease modification. There is an urgent unmet medical need for treatments with a novel mechanism of action that can modify the underlying pathophysiology and affect the disease course of myelofibrosis. This review highlights the role of B-cell lymphoma (BCL) protein BCL-extra large (BCL-XL ) in disease pathogenesis and the potential role that navitoclax, a BCL-extra large/BCL-2 inhibitor, may have in myelofibrosis treatment.

Multiproperty Polyethylenimine-Caged Platinum Nanoclusters Promote Apoptosis of Osteosarcoma Cells via Regulating the BAX-Bcl-2/Caspase-3/PARP Axis

Osteosarcoma, a prevalent primary bone cancer in children, exhibits a poor prognosis due to the high prevalence of drug resistance. The objective of this study was to investigate the potential of fluorescent ultrafine polyethylenimine-coated caged platinum nanoclusters (PEI-Pt NCs) as an antitumor agent in osteosarcoma. The primary focus of this study involved the utilization of osteosarcoma cells (U2-OS and MG-63) and normal control cells (hBMSC) as the primary subjects of investigation. The capacity of PEI-Pt NCs to enter osteosarcoma cells was observed through the implementation of confocal microscopy. The impact of PEI-Pt NCs on migration and proliferation was assessed through the utilization of various methodologies, including the CCK8 assay, Ki-67 immunofluorescence, clone formation assay, transwell assay, and wound healing assay. Furthermore, the influence of PEI-Pt NCs on apoptosis and its underlying mechanism was explored through the implementation of flow cytometry and Western blotting techniques. The PEI-Pt NCs demonstrated the capability to enter osteosarcoma cells, including the nucleus, while also exhibiting fluorescent labeling properties. Furthermore, the PEI-Pt NCs effectively impeded the migration and proliferation of osteosarcoma cells. Additionally, the PEI-Pt NCs facilitated apoptosis by modulating the BAX-Bcl-2/Caspase 3/PARP axis. The novel nanomaterial PEI-Pt NCs possess diverse advantageous capabilities, including the ability to impede cell proliferation and migration, as well as the capacity to modulate the BAX-Bcl-2/Caspase 3/PARP axis, thereby promoting cell apoptosis. Consequently, this nanomaterial exhibits promising potential in addressing the issue of inadequate platinum-based treatment for osteosarcoma.

Recent developments in photodynamic therapy and its application against multidrug resistant cancers

Recently, photodynamic therapy (PDT) has received a lot of attention for its potential use in cancer treatment. It enables the therapy of a multifocal disease with the least amount of tissue damage. The most widely used prodrug is 5-aminolevulinic acid, which undergoes heme pathway conversion to protoporphyrin IX, which acts as a photosensitizer (PS). Additionally, hematoporphyrin, bacteriochlorin, and phthalocyanine are also studied for their therapeutic potential in cancer. Unfortunately, not every patient who receives PDT experiences a full recovery. Resistance to different anticancer treatments is commonly observed. A few of the resistance mechanisms by which cancer cells escape therapeutics are genetic factors, drug-drug interactions, impaired DNA repair pathways, mutations related to inhibition of apoptosis, epigenetic pathways, etc. Recently, much research has been conducted to develop a new generation of PS based on nanomaterials that could be used to overcome cancer cells' multidrug resistance (MDR). Various metal-based, polymeric, lipidic nanoparticles (NPs), dendrimers, etc, have been utilized in the PDT application against cancer. This article discusses the detailed mechanism by which cancer cells evolve towards MDR as well as recent advances in PDT-based NPs for use against multidrug-resistant cancers.

Naringin-Dextrin Nanocomposite Abates Diethylnitrosamine/Acetylaminofluorene-Induced Lung Carcinogenesis by Modulating Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, Apoptosis, and Cell Proliferation

Nanotechnology has proven advantageous in numerous scientific applications, one being to enhance the delivery of chemotherapeutic agents. This present study aims to evaluate the mechanisms underlying the chemopreventive action of naringin-dextrin nanocomposites (Nar-Dx-NCs) against diethylnitrosamine (DEN)/2-acetylaminofluorene (2AAF)-induced lung carcinogenesis in male Wistar rats. DEN was administered intraperitoneally (i.p.) (150 mg/kg/week) for two weeks, followed by the oral administration of 2AAF (20 mg/kg) four times a week for three weeks. Rats receiving DEN/2AAF were concurrently treated with naringin or Nar-Dx-NCs orally at a dose of 10 mg/kg every other day for 24 weeks. Naringin and Nar-Dx-NCs treatments prevented the formation of tumorigenic cells within the alveoli of rats exposed to DEN/2AAF. These findings were associated with a significant decrease in lipid peroxidation, upregulation of antioxidant enzyme (glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase) activity, and enhanced glutathione and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 expression in the lungs. Naringin and Nar-Dx-NCs exerted anti-inflammatory actions manifested by a decrease in lung protein expression of tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β and mRNA expression of interleukin-6, interferon-γ, nuclear factor-κB, and inducible nitric oxide synthase, with a concurrent increase in interleukin-10 expression. The anti-inflammatory effect of Nar-Dx-NCs was more potent than naringin. Regarding the effect on apoptosis, both naringin and Nar-Dx-NCs significantly reduced Bcl-2 and increased Bax and P53 expressions. Moreover, naringin or Nar-Dx-NCs induced a significant decrease in the expression of the proliferator marker, Ki-67, and the effect of Nar-Dx-NCs was more marked. In conclusion, Nar-Dx-NCs improved naringin's preventive action against DEN/2AAF-induced lung cancer and exerted anticarcinogenic effects by suppressing oxidative stress and inflammation and improving apoptotic signal induction and propagation.