Quercetin induces p53-independent cancer cell death through lysosome activation by the transcription factor EB and Reactive Oxygen Species-dependent ferroptosis

Reshaping the gut microbiota: Tangliping decoction and its core blood-absorbed component quercetin improve diabetic cognitive impairment

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline, which can result in diabetic cognitive impairment (DCI). Recent studies have indicated that gut microbiota plays a significant role in the development of DCI. Tangliping Decoction (TLP), a traditional Chinese medicine compound, contains various active ingredients that have been shown to regulate the microecology of gut microbiota and potentially improve DCI. However, it remains unclear whether TLP can improve DCI by modulating gut microbiota, as well as which specific component is primarily responsible for these effects.

PURPOSE

Assess the impact of TLP on alleviating DCI and investigate the contribution of quercetin (QR), the core blood-absorbed component of TLP, in this process. and investigate the underlying mechanisms through which TLP and QR enhance DCI by modulating gut microbiota composition.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Initially, experiments such as morris water maze (MWM), morphological analysis, and 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) gene amplicon sequencing from DCI mice, were performed to validate the pharmacological efficacy of TLP in mitigating DCI. The results indicated that TLP possesses the capacity to modulate the composition and quantity of gut microbiota and safeguard the integrity of the gut barrier and brain barrier. Secondly, high performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS) combined with network pharmacology methods were used to screen for blood-absorbed components, suggesting that QR may be a potential core blood-absorbed component of TLP in the treatment of DCI. Subsequently, the pharmacological efficacy of QR in ameliorating DCI was confirmed, and the characteristics of gut microbiota as well as the permeability of the gut and brain barrier, were assessed. Finally, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) experiments were conducted, wherein fecal matter from TLP and QR-treated mice (donor mice) was transplanted into pseudo-sterile DCI mice with antibiotic-induced depletion of gut microbiota. This approach aimed to elucidate the specific mechanisms by which TLP and QR improve DCI through the modulation of the structure, composition, and abundance of gut microbiota.

RESULTS

TLP and QR have the potential to enhance learning and memory capabilities in DCI mice, as well as reduce homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and restore homeostasis model assessment-β function (HOMA- β), leading to increased fasting insulin (FIN) levels and decreased fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels. Simultaneously, the administration of FMT from donor mice to pseudo-sterile DCI mice has been shown to alter the composition and abundance of gut microbiota, leading to amelioration of pathological damage in the colon and hippocampal tissues. Ultimately, FMT utilizing fecal suspensions from donor mice treated with TLP and QR improved cognitive function in pseudo-sterile DCI mice, restore gut microbiota dysbiosis, and maintained the integrity of the gut and brain barriers.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study indicate that TLP and its core component, QR, which is absorbed into the bloodstream, improve DCI through a gut microbiota-dependent mechanism, providing further evidence for gut microbiota as a therapeutic target for DCI treatment.

Time Series Imaging the Mitochondrial Microenvironment and Its Interactions with Lysosomes during Ferroptosis

In the realm of cutting-edge scientific inquiry, the development and application of integrated optical molecular probes for the simultaneous detection and tracing of mitochondrial microenvironments during ferroptosis, as well as the visualization of their interactions with lysosomes, stands as a pivotal advancement. In this work, we developed a probe, IMT, that integrates viscosity sensing with mitochondrial targeting, and used it in conjunction with commercial lysosome green tracers (LGT) to investigate mitochondrial-lysosome interactions (MLIs). This approach avoids the uneven labeling caused by subcellular microenvironment differences when using single-molecule dual-targeting probes. Using the developed IMT, we observed an increase in mitochondrial viscosity during erastin-induced ferroptosis and a decrease during ferrostatin-1-inhibited ferroptosis. Moreover, the time series imaging of the mitochondrial profile lighted by the IMT showed that the mitochondrial area, perimeter, aspect ratio, and mitochondrial form factor changed significantly as ferroptosis progressed. In addition, combined with LGT, we visualized the dynamic process of first contact and then separation between lysosomes and mitochondria during ferroptosis, confirming the complexity and variability of MLIs. This work not only enhances our understanding of the complex biochemical processes underlying ferroptosis but also opens new avenues for therapeutic intervention in diseases characterized by this form of cell death.

Dual-modality immune nano-activator harnessing Mn2⁺ and quercetin to potentiate the cGAS-STING pathway for advanced cancer metalloimmunotherapy

Manganese ions (Mn2+) have emerged as promising activators of the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) pathway. However, their clinical application was hindered by low bioavailability and limited immune activation pathways, which impaired their ability to trigger robust immune responses and achieve significant antitumor effects. To address these challenges, we developed a dual-modality immune nano-activator by coordinating manganese ions with quercetin. This strategy was designed to enhance the cGAS-STING pathway activation and elicit the immunogenic cell death, thereby strengthening the antitumor immune response. The engineered nano-activator demonstrated superior tumor-targeting ability and efficient cellular internalization. Upon exposure to near-infrared irradiation, the system harnessed photothermal effects to induce apoptosis in tumor cells while simultaneously accelerating the release of manganese ions and quercetin. The released manganese ions facilitated the generation of reactive oxygen species, which in conjunction with quercetin-induced apoptosis, amplified photothermal-induced DNA damage. This DNA damage further promoted the release of cytosolic DNA, which in turn activated the cGAS-STING pathway, thereby intensifying immune activation. Notably, the nano-activator also triggered immunogenic cell death, which synergized with the cGAS-STING activation to promote dendritic cell maturation and activate antigen-specific T-cell, significantly enhancing the immune response against the tumor. Both in vitro and in vivo studies confirmed that this nano-activator effectively inhibited tumor growth, with particularly pronounced effects when combined with anti-CTLA-4 antibodies.

Insights into emerging mechanisms of ferroptosis: new regulators for cancer therapeutics

Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death characterized by the accumulation of iron-dependent lipid peroxides, which has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various diseases, and therapeutic agents targeting ferroptosis are emerging as promising tools for cancer treatment. Current research reveals that ferroptosis-targeted therapies can effectively inhibit tumor progression or delay cancer development. Notably, natural product-derived compounds-such as artemisinin, baicalin, puerarin, quercetin, kaempferol, and apigenin-have demonstrated the ability to modulate ferroptosis, offering potential anti-cancer benefits. Mechanistically, ferroptosis exhibits negative glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) regulation and demonstrates a positive correlation with plasma membrane polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) abundance. Moreover, the labile iron pool (LIP) serves as the redox engine of ferroptosis. This review systematically analyzes the hallmarks, signaling pathways, and molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis, with a focus on how natural product-derived small molecules regulate this process. It further evaluates their potential as ferroptosis inducers or inhibitors in anti-tumor therapy, providing a foundation for future clinical translation.

Mechanism of Guishao Yigong decoction in treating colorectal cancer based on network pharmacology and experimental validation

OBJECTIVES

To explore the effective components of Guishao Yigong decoction (GYD) in the treatment of colorectal cancer and reveal its potential mechanism of action.

METHODS

Through network pharmacology, the main target and signaling pathway of GYD therapy for colorectal cancer (CRC) were found. Subsequently, the effect of GYD was verified by in vitro cell viability measurements, colony formation, and scratch healing tests. The effects of GYD on metabolic pathways in vivo were found through plasma metabolomics. Finally, flow cytometry and qPCR experiments were used to verify the cycle-blocking effect of GYD on CRC cells.

KEY FINDINGS

Based on the network pharmacological analysis and molecular docking technology, it was found that GYD could restrain the growth of CRC cells by affecting lipid metabolic pathways and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. A series of cell experiments showed that GYD could inhibit the proliferation, migration and clonogenic ability of CRC cells. Furthermore, the plasma metabolomics results showed that GYD could affect the production of unsaturated fatty acids in mice. Flow cytometry and qPCR experiments further proved that GYD blocked the CRC cells in the G1 phase and modulated the expression of cell cycle-related targets, such as AKT, TP53, CDKN1A, and CDK2.

CONCLUSIONS

All the results indicated that GYD could regulate the related metabolism of unsaturated fatty acids. Thus, the cell cycle was blocked and the expressions of the key proteins such as AKT and TP53 were regulated, which achieved the purpose of intervention in colorectal cancer.

Antimony-induced hippocampal neuronal impairment through ferroptosis activation from NCOA4-mediated ferritinophagy

Recently, our group identified antimony (Sb) as a novel nerve pollutant, can lead to neuronal injure. However, Sb-associated neurotoxicological mechanisms yet remain unclear. Herein, we found Sb induced hippocampal neuronal ferroptosis in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, ferroptosis inhibition using ferrostatin-1 effectively attenuated Sb-induced neuronal damage in PC12 cells and mice hippocampal regions. Furthermore, iron chelator deferoxamine (DFO) also effectively attenuated ferroptosis and cytotoxicity in PC12 cells. In vitro, Sb treatment reduced expression of the heavy (H)- and light (L)-chain subunits of ferritin (FTH1 and FTL). Moreover, Sb accelerated FTH1 and FTL protein degradation, while ferritin overexpression by plasmid or hippocampal AAV injections dramatically weaken Sb-induced ferroptosis. Sb exposure accelerated autophagic flux, and autophagy inhibition with beclin1 knockdown effectively reduced Sb-mediated ferroptosis. 3-methyladenine treatment in Sb-exposed mice prevented the decrease of FTH1 and FTL protein, resulting in recovery of Sb-induced hippocampal ferroptosis as well as neuronal loss, suggesting that Sb triggered hippocampal neuronal ferritinophagy. Finally, we found Sb upregulated NCOA4 protein expression, while NCOA4 knockdown significantly attenuated Sb-triggered ferroptosis. Collectively, our results proved that Sb triggers hippocampal neuronal ferroptosis through NCOA4-dependent ferritinophagy.

Antitumor components and mechanisms of Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim with medicine and food homology

Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim (Z. bungeanum) is a medicinal and edible plant commonly used to improve the flavor of Chinese cuisine due to its unique numbing taste. It is recognized for its medicinal properties, including bodywarming, relieving cold, promoting blood circulation, and alleviating pain. Additionally, Z. bungeanum has been extensively studied for its antitumor properties. In this study, various scientific databases and network pharmacology were used to search for information about Z. bungeanum and its components for the treatment of tumors. Numerous active components of Z. bungeanum have been identified, demonstrating antitumor properties. We discovered that Z. bungeanum can modulate multiple signaling pathways across various targets using network pharmacological predictions, highlighting its strong antitumor potential. The components of Z. bungeanum and the traditional Chinese medicine compound containing Z. bungeanum can promote apoptosis, arrest the cell cycle, inhibit cell invasion and metastasis, promote autophagy, and increase the sensitivity of chemotherapeutic drugs through P53, PI3K/AKT, Wnt/β-catenin and other signaling pathways, which are effective against various cancers, including hepatocellular cancer, gastric cancer, and breast cancer. Z. bungeanum and its extracts have demonstrated promising effects against various tumors, indicating their potential use in future cancer therapies and offering new strategies for tumor treatment. However, clinical studies evaluating the antitumor efficacy and toxicity of Z. bungeanum in humans are scarce. Therefore, well-designed clinical trials should be prioritized in the future to establish a solid foundation for its use in cancer treatment.

Hedyotis diffusa injection modulates the ferroptosis in bladder cancer via CAV1/JUN/VEGFA

Hedyotis diffusa Willd. (HDW), a traditional Chinese medicinal plant, exhibits a variety of pharmacological effects and has anticancer potential for a wide range of cancer types; Ferroptosis is a non-apoptosis-regulated cell death induced by iron accumulation and subsequent lipid peroxidation; and there is currently an increasing interest in the therapeutic role of ferroptosis in cancer. However, the effects of HDW on bladder cancer and its underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely unknown. In this study, a combination of in vivo and in vitro experiments, network pharmacology and data mining methods were used to investigate the effects of HDW on BLCA. The results showed that HDW exerted its anticancer activity by inducing ferroptosis in bladder cancer cells. Subsequently, we demonstrated for the first time that HDW induced ferroptosis in vitro and in vivo. To further explore the possible targets of HDW-induced ferroptosis in bladder cancer, we performed network pharmacological analyses, transcriptomic analyses, and single-cell analyses; through integrative analyses, we identified three key pivotal genes associated with iron death, CAV1, VEGFA, and JUN.Mechanistically, we showed that CAV1, VEGFA and JUN are key determinants of HDW-induced ferroptosis in BLCA. Knockdown of target genes altered the anticancer effects of HDW in 5637 and T24 cells. In conclusion, our data show for the first time that HDW exerts its anticancer effects on BLCA through CAV1, VEGFA and JUN gene-induced ferroptosis. This is expected to provide a promising compound for bladder cancer therapy.

Herbal drug‑based nanotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma: Quercetin‑contained nanocarrier as a multipurpose therapeutic agent against hepatocellular carcinoma (Review)

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounting for ~75% of all primary liver cancers and exhibiting a high incidence rate. Unfortunately, the response rate to chemotherapeutic agents for liver cancer is relatively low, primarily due to the development of drug resistance and the lack of targeted therapeutic agents. The present study focused on the anticancer mechanisms of quercetin and the development of innovative nanocarriers designed to enhance its efficacy against HCC while mitigating drug resistance. Quercetin demonstrates a diverse array of biological activities, making it a promising candidate for therapeutic applications. Its mechanisms include inhibition of tumor cell cycle, induction of apoptosis, modulation of reactive oxygen species and inhibition of chemotherapeutic resistance. Given these properties, extensive research has been conducted in pharmaceutical engineering to develop well-designed nanocarriers that incorporate quercetin. These nanocarriers aim to improve the bioavailability and targeting of quercetin, thereby enhancing its therapeutic efficacy against HCC and overcoming the challenges associated with anticancer drug resistance. Through this approach, quercetin could potentially play a pivotal role in the future of HCC treatment, providing a synergistic effect when combined with traditional chemotherapy leading to improved patient outcomes.

Quercetin alleviates endothelial dysfunction in preeclampsia by inhibiting ferroptosis and inflammation through EGFR binding

Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-specific complication and there remains no effective treatment. Given the limitations on medication use during pregnancy, exploring natural, safe, and effective drugs for PE is worthwhile. We investigate the causal relationship between ferroptosis, inflammation, and PE, and determine the protective effects of quercetin (QCT), a representative compound that is classified as a flavanol, against endothelial dysfunction. Then, the target of QCT is predicted and verified. The prophylactic addition of a low dose of QCT rescues endothelial dysfunction, aiding in endothelial repair. Furthermore, QCT alleviates PE-like maternal manifestations and endothelial dysfunction in the placenta of the selective reduced uteroplacental perfusion (sRUPP) rat model through binding to the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). The potential applications of QCT are expanded, offering the possibility of further development as a safe and effective preventive molecule for PE.

The Anticancer Perspective of Tangeretin: A Small Review

Cancer is an important disease that threatens human life and health. Many natural compounds from plants have been found to have a better inhibitory effect on cancer, and flavonoids are one of them. Tangeretin, a flavonoid, is widely present in a variety of citrus plants and has been shown to have a variety of biological activities that can inhibit tumor cells. Tangeretin can inhibit the growth, proliferation, and metastasis of cancer cells by acting on JAK/STAT (Janus Kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription) and caspase-3 signal transduction and by regulating the cell cycle of tumor cells. Tangeretin can also work with other chemotherapy drugs, such as cisplatin, to reduce the drug resistance of cancer cells and improve the therapeutic effect of chemotherapy drugs. This review summarizes the effects of tangeretin on various cancers.

Ferritin Hinders Ferroptosis in Non-Tumorous Diseases: Regulatory Mechanisms and Potential Consequences

Ferritin, as an iron storage protein, has the potential to inhibit ferroptosis by reducing excess intracellular free iron concentrations and lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS). An insufficient amount of ferritin is one of the conditions that can lead to ferroptosis through the Fenton reaction mediated by ferrous iron. Consequently, upregulation of ferritin at the transcriptional or posttranscriptional level may inhibit ferroptosis. In this review, we have discussed the essential role of ferritin in ferroptosis and the regulatory mechanism of ferroptosis in ferritin-deficient individuals. The description of the regulatory factors governing ferritin and its properties in regulating ferroptosis as underlying mechanisms for the pathologies of diseases will allow potential therapeutic approaches to be developed.

Quercetin and microRNA Interplay in Apoptosis Regulation: A New Therapeutic Strategy for Cancer?

Cancer is known as a global problem for the health and economy. Following cancer onset, apoptosis is the primary mechanism countering the tumor cells' growth. Most anticancer agents initiate apoptosis to remove tumor cells. Phytochemicals have appeared as a beneficial treatment option according to their less adverse effects. In recent decades, quercetin has been highlighted due to its high pharmacological benefits, and various literature has suggested it as a potential anti-proliferative agent against different kinds of cancers. The microRNAs (miRNAs) play key roles in cancer treatment, progression, and apoptosis. This review reviewed the effect of quercetin on miRNAs contributing to the induction or inhibition of apoptosis in cancers.

Pharmacodynamics and safety in relation to dose and response of plant flavonoids in treatment of cancers

Despite the recent advancements in developing bioactive nutraceuticals as anticancer modalities, their pharmacodynamics, safety profiles, and tolerability remain elusive, limiting their success in clinical trials. The failure of anticancer drugs in clinical trials can be attributed to the changes in drug clearance, absorption, and cellular responses, which alter the dose-response efficacy, causing adverse health effects. Flavonoids demonstrate a biphasic dose-response phenomenon exerting a stimulatory or inhibitory effect and often follow a U-shaped curve in different preclinical cancer models. A double-edged sword, bioflavonoids' antioxidant or prooxidant properties contribute to their hormetic behavior and facilitate redox homeostasis by regulating the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells. Emerging reports suggest a need to discuss the pharmacodynamic broad-spectrum of plant flavonoids to improve their therapeutic efficacy, primarily to determine the ideal dose for treating cancer. This review discusses the dose-response effects of a few common plant flavonoids against some types of cancers and assesses their safety and tolerability when administered to patients. Moreover, we have emphasized the role of dietary-rich plant flavonoids as nutraceuticals in cancer treatment and prevention.

Bee Pollen as a Source of Biopharmaceuticals for Neurodegeneration and Cancer Research: A Scoping Review and Translational Prospects

Bee Pollen (BP) has many advantageous properties relying on its multitargeting potential, a new tendency in managing many challenging illnesses. In cancer and neurodegeneration, the multiple effects of BP could be of unequaled importance and need further investigation. Although still limited, available data interestingly spotlights some floral sources with promising activities in line with this investigation. Adopting scoping review methodology, we have identified many crucial bioactivities that are widely recognized to individual BP compounds but remain completely untapped in this valuable bee cocktail. A wide range of these compounds have been recently found to be endowed with great potential in modulating pivotal processes in neurodegeneration and cancer pathophysiology. In addition, some ubiquitous BP compounds have only been recently isolated, while the number of studied BPs remains extremely limited compared to the endless pool of plant species worldwide. We have also elucidated that clinical profits from these promising perspectives are still impeded by challenging hurdles such as limited bioavailability of the studied phytocompounds, diversity and lack of phytochemical standardization of BP, and the difficulty of selective targeting in some pathophysiological mechanisms. We finally present interesting insights to guide future research and pave the way for urgently needed and simplified clinical investigations.

Advancing Anti-Biofilm Strategies: Innovations to Combat Biofilm-Related Challenges and Enhance Efficacy

Biofilms are complex communities of microorganisms that can cause significant challenges in various settings, including industrial processes, environmental systems, and human health. The protective nature of biofilms makes them resistant to traditional anti-biofilm strategies, such as chemical agents, mechanical interventions, and surface modifications. To address the limitations of conventional anti-biofilm methods, researchers have explored emerging strategies that encompass the use of natural compounds, nanotechnology-based methods, quorum-sensing inhibition, enzymatic degradation, and antimicrobial photodynamic/sonodynamic therapy. There is an increasing focus on combining multiple anti-biofilm strategies to combat resistance and enhance effectiveness. Researchers are continuously investigating the mechanisms of biofilm formation and developing innovative approaches to overcome the limitations of conventional anti-biofilm methods. These efforts aim to improve the management of biofilms and prevent infections while preserving the environment. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in anti-biofilm strategies. Given the dynamic nature of this field, exploring new approaches is essential to stimulate further research and development initiatives. The effective management of biofilms is crucial for maintaining the health of industrial processes, environmental systems, and human populations.

The Mechanism of Relieving Diarrheal Irritable Bowel Syndrome Using Polyphenols from Ribes nigrum L. Based on a Network Pharmacology Analysis and 16S rRNA Sequencing

Diarrheal irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) is a chronic bowel condition that leads to intestinal dysfunction and is typically accompanied by diarrhea, stomach pain, and abdominal distension. Ribes nigrum L. polyphenols (RNPs), which are natural plant polyphenols, are the subject of this study, which aims to assess their potential in improving IBS-D and to explore the underlying mechanisms through a network pharmacology analysis and 16S rRNA sequencing. Next, mice models of diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel were established, and the mice with IBS-D were treated with RNPs. The effect of RNPs was then evaluated in terms of body weight, abdominal withdrawal reflex (AWR), Bristol score, fecal water percentage, diluted fecal volume, total intestinal transit time, immune index, histopathological observation, and changes in inflammatory factors. Finally, 16S rRNA sequencing and reverse q-RTPCR were utilized to evaluate the components that mediate the impact of RNPs on IBS-D. It was found that when RNP treatment was administered to mice with IBS-D, they decreased the water content in their stools, raised their immunological scores, and decreased the amount of inflammatory substances in their bodies. Moreover, through 16S rRNA sequencing, it was shown that the RNP treatment increased the relative abundances of Bacteroides, Alloprevotella, and Alistipes, which led to the remodeling of gut microbiota. In summary, RNPs significantly improved the conditions of mice with IBS-D by inhibiting the FoxO pathway and enhancing gut microbiota. This study concludes that RNPs could significantly improve the symptoms of mice with IBS-D through these means.

Emerging mechanisms of lipid peroxidation in regulated cell death and its physiological implications

Regulated cell death (RCD) refers to the form of cell death that can be regulated by various biomacromolecules. Each cell death modalities have their distinct morphological changes and molecular mechanisms. However, intense evidences suggest that lipid peroxidation can be the common feature that initiates and propagates the cell death. Excessive lipid peroxidation alters the property of membrane and further damage the proteins and nucleic acids, which is implicated in various human pathologies. Here, we firstly review the classical chain process of lipid peroxidation, and further clarify the current understanding of the myriad roles and molecular mechanisms of lipid peroxidation in various RCD types. We also discuss how lipid peroxidation involves in diseases and how such intimate association between lipid peroxidation-driven cell death and diseases can be leveraged to develop rational therapeutic strategies.

Targeting lysosomal quality control as a therapeutic strategy against aging and diseases

Previously, lysosomes were primarily referred to as the digestive organelles and recycling centers within cells. Recent discoveries have expanded the lysosomal functional scope and revealed their critical roles in nutrient sensing, epigenetic regulation, plasma membrane repair, lipid transport, ion homeostasis, and cellular stress response. Lysosomal dysfunction is also found to be associated with aging and several diseases. Therefore, function of macroautophagy, a lysosome-dependent intracellular degradation system, has been identified as one of the updated twelve hallmarks of aging. In this review, we begin by introducing the concept of lysosomal quality control (LQC), which is a cellular machinery that maintains the number, morphology, and function of lysosomes through different processes such as lysosomal biogenesis, reformation, fission, fusion, turnover, lysophagy, exocytosis, and membrane permeabilization and repair. Next, we summarize the results from studies reporting the association between LQC dysregulation and aging/various disorders. Subsequently, we explore the emerging therapeutic strategies that target distinct aspects of LQC for treating diseases and combatting aging. Lastly, we underscore the existing knowledge gap and propose potential avenues for future research.

Targeting programmed cell death via active ingredients from natural plants: a promising approach to cancer therapy

Cancer is a serious public health problem in humans, and prevention and control strategies are still necessary. Therefore, the development of new therapeutic drugs is urgently needed. Targeting programmed cell death, particularly via the induction of cancer cell apoptosis, is one of the cancer treatment approaches employed. Recently, an increasing number of studies have shown that compounds from natural plants can target programmed cell death and kill cancer cells, laying the groundwork for use in future anticancer treatments. In this review, we focus on the latest research progress on the role and mechanism of natural plant active ingredients in different forms of programmed cell death, such as apoptosis, autophagy, necroptosis, ferroptosis, and pyroptosis, to provide a strong theoretical basis for the clinical development of antitumor drugs.

Effect of anti-inflammatory molecules from food on organoids derived from adenomatous polyps of FAP subjects

INTRODUCTION

Individuals with Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) or APC-associated polyposis, an autosomal dominant inherited condition, develop multiple adenomatous polyps and have an increased colorectal cancer (CRC) risk. A change in diet can help reduce cancer risk, and several dietary components have an antitumor effect. We aimed to evaluate the potential of the anti-inflammatory and anticancer substances quercetin (QER), epigallocatechin gallate (EGG) and fisetin (FIS) in decreasing the risk of CRC by reducing the growth of polyps in an organoid model.

METHODS

Patient-derived organoid (PDO) lines were generated from polyps obtained from patients with FAP undergoing prophylactic colectomy. PDOs were treated with QER, EGG, or FIS to determine their effect on cell growth. Changes in caspase 3/7 activity and expression of inflammation and apoptosis mediators were assessed by luminescent and colorimetric assays.

RESULTS

Three PDO lines with different inactivating pathogenic variants in the APC gene were developed using a combinatorial approach. FIS was the most active of the three substances tested, presenting the lowest IC50 in all PDO lines (range: 42.6-9.2 uM). The IC50 was defined as the concentration required to halve the number of cells after 72 hours. All molecules tested induced apoptosis through activation of caspases 3/7.

CONCLUSIONS

QER, EGG, and FIS can be easily taken from foods or dietary supplements, show toxicity on PDOs derived from adenomatous polyps, while they are known to be harmless on normal cells. Diets enriched with these substances could be potential supplemental treatments to reduce the risk of CRC in individuals with FAP.

Li-Fraumeni Syndrome: Narrative Review Through a Case Report with Ten Years of Primary Tumor Remission Associated with Sechium H387 07 Supplementation

There are hereditary mutations that predispose individuals to cancer development, such as pathogenic variants in the germ line of the tumor protein 53 (TP53) suppressor gene. This leads to a rare condition known as Li-Fraumeni syndrome (LFS), characterized by a high risk of developing multiple cancers throughout life by the precancerous niche that promotes the tumor microenvironment. LFS presents a significant challenge due to its limited therapeutic and chemoprophylactic options. Recently, protocols involving metformin as a prophylactic medication have been developed to target precancerous niches. However, this approach is still in the clinical phase, and no established therapeutic regimen is available. Therefore, new alternatives are needed to impact this disease effectively. Novel studies suggest that Sechium extract, rich in polyphenols, exhibits chemoprophylactic, antineoplastic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities, all involved in the tumor microenvironment of LFS. However, the specific role of Sechium extract in preventing recurrent neoplastic development in LFS remains unclear. We conducted this research through a case report of an LFS-diagnosed patient who has experienced multiple malignancies and cutaneous neoformations. This patient received a chemoprophylactic supplementation based on Sechium H387 07 extract over 11 years without reporting new primary malignancy events or recurrences, as evidenced by laboratory and positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) studies. An extensive literature review on the disease, precancerous niche, tumor microenvironment, and potential mechanisms of Sechium H387 07 extract components was conducted to explain cancer absence in LFS. This review promotes the research and use of polyphenols as powerful chemoprophylactic agents to prevent and treat proliferative diseases like LFS.

Enhancing the Efficacy of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients in Medicinal Plants through Nanoformulations: A Promising Field

This article explores the emerging field of nanomedicine as a drug delivery system, aimed at enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of active pharmaceutical ingredients in medicinal plants. The traditional methods of applying medicinal plants present several limitations, such as low bioavailability, poor solubility, challenges in accurately controlling drug dosage, and inadequate targeting. Nanoformulations represent an innovative approach in drug preparation that employs nanotechnology to produce nanoscale particles or carriers, which are designed to overcome these limitations. Nanoformulations offer distinct advantages, significantly enhancing the solubility and bioavailability of drugs, particularly for the poorly soluble components of medicinal plants. These formulations effectively enhance solubility, thereby facilitating better absorption and utilization by the human body, which in turn improves drug efficacy. Furthermore, nanomedicine enables targeted drug delivery, ensuring precise administration to the lesion site and minimizing side effects on healthy tissues. Additionally, nanoformulations can regulate drug release rates, extend the duration of therapeutic action, and enhance the stability of treatment effects. However, nanoformulations present certain limitations and potential risks; their stability and safety require further investigation, particularly regarding the potential toxicity with long-term use. Nevertheless, nanomaterials demonstrate substantial potential in augmenting the efficacy of active pharmaceutical ingredients in medicinal plants, offering novel approaches and methodologies for their development and application.

Mechanisms and therapeutic target of anti-tumour treatment-related Ferroptosis: How to improve cancer therapy?

Recently, increased attention has been focused on the regulatory mechanism and potential clinical application of ferroptosis in cancer cells, especially therapy-related ferroptosis. However, the mechanism of treatment-related ferroptosis and the application prospects and strategies for future treatment still require further clarification. This review highlights the molecular relationships between different clinical antitumour drugs, including commonly used chemotherapy drugs, radiation therapy and vitamins, and ferroptosis. This review also proposes strategies for future treatments that involve ferroptosis, with an aim to develop a new strategy for the transformative potential of the emerging field of ferroptosis to improve cancer therapy.

Plant‐Derived Phytochemicals and Their Nanoformulations for Inducing Programed Cell Death in Cancer

Phytochemicals are a diverse class of compounds found in various plant‐based foods and beverages that have displayed the capacity to exert powerful anticancer effects through the induction of programed cell death (PCD) in malignancies. PCD is a sophisticated process that maintains in upholding tissue homeostasis and eliminating injured or neoplastic cells. Phytochemicals have shown the potential to induce PCD in malignant cells through various mechanisms, including modulation of cell signaling pathways, regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and interaction with critical targets in cells such as DNA. Moreover, recent studies have suggested that nanomaterials loaded with phytochemicals may enhance cell death in tumors, which can also stimulate antitumor immunity. In this review, a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of the anticancer effects of phytochemicals and their potential as a promising approach to cancer therapy, is provided. The impacts of phytochemicals such as resveratrol, curcumin, apigenin, quercetin, and some approved plant‐derived drugs, such as taxanes on the regulation of some types of PCD, including apoptosis, pyroptosis, anoikis, autophagic cell death, ferroptosis, and necroptosis, are discussed. The underlying mechanisms and the potential of nanomaterials loaded with phytochemicals to enhance PCD in tumors are also explained.

Therapeutic Efficacy of Quercetin and Its Nanoformulation Both the Mono- or Combination Therapies in the Management of Cancer: An Update with Molecular Mechanisms

Quercetin, a major representative of the flavonol subclass found abundantly in almost all edible vegetables and fruits, showed remarkable therapeutic properties and was beneficial in numerous degenerative diseases by preventing lipid peroxidation. Quercetin is beneficial in different diseases, such as atherosclerosis and chronic inflammation. This study aims to find out the anticancer activities of quercetin and to determine different mechanisms and pathways which are responsible for the anticancer effect. It also revealed the biopharmaceutical, toxicological characteristics, and clinical utilization of quercetin to evaluate its suitability for further investigations as a reliable anticancer drug. All of the relevant data concerning this compound with cancer was collected using different scientific search engines, including PubMed, Springer Link, Wiley Online, Web of Science, SciFinder, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. This review demonstrated that quercetin showed strong anticancer properties, including apoptosis, inhibition of cell proliferation, autophagy, cell cycle arrest, inhibition of angiogenesis, and inhibition of invasion and migration against various types of cancer. Findings also revealed that quercetin could significantly moderate and regulate different pathways, including PI3K/AKT-mTORC1 pathway, JAK/STAT signaling system, MAPK signaling pathway, MMP signaling pathway, NF-κB pathway, and p-Camk2/p-DRP1 pathway. However, this study found that quercetin showed poor oral bioavailability due to reduced absorption; this limitation is overcome by applying nanotechnology (nanoformulation of quercetin). Moreover, different investigations revealed that quercetin expressed no toxic effect in the investigated subjects. Based on the view of these findings, it is demonstrated that quercetin might be considered a reliable chemotherapeutic drug candidate in the treatment of different cancers. However, more clinical studies are suggested to establish the proper therapeutic efficacy, safety, and human dose.

Effect of quercetin and chrysin and its association on viability and cell cycle progression in MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 human breast cancer cells

Pharmacological properties of flavonoids have been reported, with an anticancer role amongst them, however, its mechanisms are not fully elucidated. In this study, the activity of quercetin and chrysin towards MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells was investigated. Cellular viability was determined after treatment with the compounds in different concentrations for 24 h. Secondly, cells were treated with fixed concentration of chrysin and different concentrations of quercetin with preincubation for 1 h. Both compounds inhibited cellular proliferation in dose-dependent manner. The association showed improvement in their cytotoxicity, more expressively with preincubation of quercetin. Quercetin and chrysin association induced cell cycle arrest in sub-G0/G1 phase in MDA-MB-231 cells, modified the expression of caspases-3 and -8,-8, inducing late apoptosis cell death. Taken together, our results demonstrate that both flavonoids inhibited cells growth in a dose-dependent manner and the association of quercetin improved chrysin's toxic effect over the cell lines.

Research progress of ferroptosis and inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a non-specific chronic inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract, imposing significant burdens on both society and individuals. As a new type of regulated cell death (RCD), ferroptosis is different from classic RCDs such as apoptosis and necrosis in cell morphology, biochemistry and genetics. The main molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis include dysregulation of iron metabolism, impaired antioxidant capacity, mitochondrial dysfunction, accumulation of lipid-associated super-oxides, and membrane disruption. In recent years, increasing evidence has shown that ferroptosis is involved in the pathophysiology of inflammatory bowel disease. However, the exact roles and underlying molecular mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. This article reviews the mechanism of ferroptosis in the occurrence and development of inflammatory bowel disease, in order to provide new ideas for the pathophysiological research of inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, we discuss potential strategies for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory bowel disease by targeting ferroptosis.

Natural Products and Derivatives Targeting Metabolic Reprogramming in Colorectal Cancer: A Comprehensive Review

Metabolic reprogramming is a critical pathogenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC), referring to metabolic disorders that cancer cells make in response to the stimulating pressure. Metabolic reprogramming induces changes in genetic material and promotes CRC progression and has been proven to be an efficient target of CRC. As natural products have garnered interest due to notable pharmacological effects and potential in counteracting chemoresistance, an increasing body of research is delving into the impact of these natural products on the metabolic reprogramming associated with CRC. In this review, we collected published data from the Web of Science and PubMed, covering the period from January 1980 to October 2023. This article focuses on five central facets of metabolic alterations in cancer cells, glucose metabolism, mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), amino acid metabolism, fatty acid synthesis, and nucleotide metabolism, to provide an overview of recent advancements in natural product interventions targeting metabolic reprogramming in CRC. Our analysis underscores the potential of natural products in disrupting the metabolic pathways of CRC, suggesting promising therapeutic targets for CRC and expanding treatment options for metabolic-associated ailments.

Natural products targeting ferroptosis pathways in cancer therapy (Review)

Ferroptosis inducers (FIN) have a key role in cancer therapy and provide novel and innovative treatment strategies. Although many researchers have performed FIN screening of synthetic compounds, studies on the identification of FIN from natural products are limited, particularly in the field of drug development and combination therapy. In this review, this gap was addressed by comprehensively summarizing recent studies on ferroptosis. The causes of ferroptosis were categorized into driving and defensive factors, elucidating key pathways and targets. Next, through summarizing research on natural products that induce ferroptosis, the study elaborated in detail on the natural products that have FIN functions. Their discovery and development were also described and insight for clinical drug development was provided. In addition, the mechanisms of action were analyzed and potential combination therapies, resistance reversal and structural enhancements were presented. By highlighting the potential of natural products in inducing ferroptosis for cancer treatment, this review may serve as a reference for utilizing these compounds against cancer. It not only showed the significance of natural products but may also promote further investigation into their therapeutic effects, thus encouraging research in this field.

Sulfiredoxin-1 promotes the growth of hepatocellular carcinoma by inhibiting TFEB-mediated autophagy and lysosome biogenesis

Advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients have poor prognosis. As an endogenous antioxidant enzyme involved in a variety of bioprocesses, sulfiredoxin-1 (SRXN1) plays an irreplaceable role in promoting the development of tumors. However, the role and working mechanism of SRXN1 in HCC remain unclear. In this study, we confirmed that SRXN1 promoted the cell proliferation of HCC at genetic and pharmacological level, respectively. Transcriptome sequencing analysis revealed SRXN1 knockdown had a significant effect on the expression of lysosome biogenesis related genes. Further experiments validated that lysosome biogenesis and autophagic flux were enhanced after SRXN1 inhibition and reduced as SRXN1 overexpression. Mechanism study revealed that ROS accumulation induced TFEB nuclear translocation, followed by increased autophagy. Following this rationale, the combination of SRXN1 inhibitor and sorafenib demonstrated noticeable synergistic antitumor effect through the boost of ROS both in vivo and in vitro. Taken together, SRXN1 could be a potential therapeutic target for HCC therapy.

Adiponectin attenuates H2O2-induced apoptosis in chicken skeletal myoblasts through the lysosomal-mitochondrial axis

Adiponectin has previously been investigated for exerting its protective effect against myocardial injury through anti-apoptotic and anti-oxidative actions. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the nature and mechanism of adiponectin inhibition of H2O2-induced apoptosis in chicken skeletal myoblasts. Skeletal muscle satellite cells were differentiated and assigned into three groups. Group C was on the blank control group, group H was stimulated with the H2O2 (500 μmol/L, 4 h) alone group, group A + H was pre-treated with adiponectin (10 μg/mL, 24 h) and stimulated with the H2O2 (500 μmol/L, 4 h) group. Cytotoxicity inhibited by adiponectin was evaluated by the CCK-8 assay. The degree of apoptosis and oxidative damage was investigated by the TdT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) staining assays. Oxidative stress was assessed by evaluating lipid peroxidation, superoxide dismutase, and reduced glutathione. Acridine orange (AO) staining detected lysosomal membrane permeability. The changes in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were analyzed using 5,5,6,6'-tetrachloro-1,1,3,3-tetraethylimidacarbocyanine iodide (JC-1) dye under a fluorescence microscope. The lysosomal function, mitochondrial function, and apoptosis-related mRNA and protein expression levels were quantified by real-time quantitative PCR and western blot, respectively. The results suggested that adiponectin treatment attenuated H2O2-induced cytotoxicity and oxidative stress in skeletal myoblasts. Compared with H2O2 treatment, TUNEL and ROS staining demonstrated lower apoptosis upon adiponectin treatment. AO staining confirmed the amelioration of lysosomal membrane damage, and JC-1 staining revealed an increase in mitochondrial membrane potential after adiponectin treatment. At the molecular level, adiponectin treatment inhibited the expression of the lysosomal apoptotic factors cathepsin B, chymotrypsin B, and the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway cytochrome-c (cyt-c) and caspase-8; decreased the apoptotic marker gene Bax; and increased the expression of the anti-apoptotic marker gene Bcl-2. Adiponectin treatment attenuated H2O2-induced apoptosis in skeletal myoblasts, possibly by inhibiting oxidative stress and apoptosis through the lysosomal-mitochondrial axis.

Quercetin inhibits neuronal Ferroptosis and promotes immune response by targeting lipid metabolism-related gene PTGS2 to alleviate breast cancer-related depression

BACKGROUND

Quercetin, the key ingredient in Xiaoyao Kangai Jieyu Formula, has been previously found to relieve breast cancer-related depression (BCRD).

PURPOSE

We want to explore the potential mechanisms and therapeutic targets of quercetin alleviating BCRD.

METHODS

BALB/c mice were injected subcutaneously with 4T1 cells and corticosterone (CORT) to create a BCRD mice model. The primary hippocampal neurons were co-induced with 10 μg/ml lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and 200 μM CORT for 6 h to establish an in vitro model of BCRD. Quercetin was applied to explore its effect on disease symptoms, gut microbiota, and lipid metabolism of BCRD mice. Lipid metabolism-related genes were screened based on network pharmacology. Molecular docking was employed to prove whether quercetin bound to prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2). PTGS2 overexpression was carried out to explore the underlying mechanism of quercetin treatment on BCRD.

RESULTS

Quercetin treatment not only altered the composition and abundance of gut microbiota but also alleviated abnormal lipid metabolism in BCRD mice. In particular, quercetin down-regulated BCRD and lipid metabolism-related genes screened by network pharmacology, especially PTGS2. Further, molecular docking verified the stable binding between quercetin and PTGS2. In hippocampal neurons, quercetin promoted proliferation but reduced ferroptosis-related markers (total Fe, Fe2+, MDA, and ROS) levels by targeting PTGS2. In BCRD mice, quercetin reduced the high immobility time and increased the sucrose preference rate and serotonin (5-HT), dopamine (DA), and noradrenaline (NE) levels. Meanwhile, quercetin increased CD4+/CD8+ T cells ratio and IL-2 and IFN-γ levels but reduced CA153 and IL-10 levels to alleviate BCRD development. However, PTGS2 overexpression reversed these effects of quercetin on BCRD.

CONCLUSION

Quercetin inhibited neuronal ferroptosis and promoted immune responses in BCRD mice by targeting the lipid metabolism-related gene PTGS2. This provided a reference for quercetin in the treatment of BCRD.

Realistic Nanoplastics Induced Pulmonary Damage via the Crosstalk of Ferritinophagy and Mitochondrial Dysfunction

The smaller size fraction of plastics may be more substantially existing and detrimental than larger-sized particles. However, reports on nanoplastics (NPs), especially their airborne occurrences and potential health hazards to the respiratory system, are scarce. Previous studies limit the understanding of their real respiratory effects, since sphere-type polystyrene (PS) nanoparticles differ from NPs occurring in nature with respect to their physicochemical properties. Here, we employ a mechanical breakdown method, producing NPs directly from bulk plastic, preserving NP properties in nature. We report that among four relatively high abundance NP materials PS, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyethylene (PE) with a size of 100 nm, PVC induced slightly more severe lung toxicity profiles compared to the other plastics. The lung cytotoxicity of NPs is higher than that of commercial PS NPs and comparable to natural particles silicon dioxide (SiO2) and anatase titanium dioxide (TiO2). Mechanistically, BH3-interacting domain death agonist (Bid) transactivation-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction and nuclear receptor coactivator 4 (NCOA4)-mediated ferritinophagy or ferroptosis are likely common mechanisms of NPs regardless of their chemical composition. This study provides relatively comprehensive data for evaluating the risk of atmospheric NPs to lung health.

Naringenin enhances the efficacy of ferroptosis inducers by attenuating aerobic glycolysis by activating the AMPK-PGC1α signalling axis in liver cancer

Liver cancer is a heterogeneous disease characterized by poor responses to standard therapies and therefore unfavourable clinical outcomes. Understanding the characteristics of liver cancer and developing novel therapeutic strategies are imperative. Ferroptosis, a type of programmed cell death induced by lipid peroxidation, has emerged as a potential target for treatment. Naringenin, a natural compound that modulates lipid metabolism by targeting AMPK, shows promise in enhancing the efficacy of ferroptosis inducers. In this study, we utilized liver cancer cell lines and xenograft mice to explore the synergistic effects of naringenin in combination with ferroptosis inducers, examining both phenotypic outcomes and molecular mechanisms. Our study results indicate that the use of naringenin at non-toxic doses to hepatocytes can significantly enhance the anticancer effects of ferroptosis inducers (erastin, RSL3, and sorafenib). The combination index method confirmed a synergistic effect between naringenin and ferroptosis inducers. In comparison to naringenin or ferroptosis inducers alone, the combined therapy caused more robust lipid peroxidation and hence more severe ferroptotic damage to cancer cells. The inhibition of aerobic glycolysis mediated by the AMPK-PGC1α signalling axis is the key to naringenin's effect on reducing ferroptosis resistance in liver cancer, and the synergistic cytotoxic effect of naringenin and ferroptosis inducers on cancer cells was reversed after pretreatment with an AMPK inhibitor or a PGC1α inhibitor. Taken together, these findings suggest that naringenin could boost cancer cell sensitivity to ferroptosis inducers, which has potential clinical translational value.

Exosome-Mediated Communication in Thyroid Cancer: Implications for Prognosis and Therapeutic Targets

Thyroid cancer (THCA) is one of the most common malignancies of the endocrine system. Exosomes have significant value in performing molecular treatments, evaluating the diagnosis and determining tumor prognosis. Thus, the identification of exosome-related genes could be valuable for the diagnosis and potential treatment of THCA. In this study, we examined a set of exosome-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) (BIRC5, POSTN, TGFBR1, DUSP1, BID, and FGFR2) by taking the intersection between the DEGs of the TCGA-THCA and GeneCards datasets. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses of the exosome-related DEGs indicated that these genes were involved in certain biological functions and pathways. Protein‒protein interaction (PPI), mRNA‒miRNA, and mRNA-TF interaction networks were constructed using the 6 exosome-related DEGs as hub genes. Furthermore, we analyzed the correlation between the 6 exosome-related DEGs and immune infiltration. The Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer (GDSC), the Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE), and the CellMiner database were used to elucidate the relationship between the exosome-related DEGs and drug sensitivity. In addition, we verified that both POSTN and BID were upregulated in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) patients and that their expression was correlated with cancer progression. The POSTN and BID protein expression levels were further examined in THCA cell lines. These findings provide insights into exosome-related clinical trials and drug development.

International consensus guidelines for the definition, detection, and interpretation of autophagy-dependent ferroptosis

Macroautophagy/autophagy is a complex degradation process with a dual role in cell death that is influenced by the cell types that are involved and the stressors they are exposed to. Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent oxidative form of cell death characterized by unrestricted lipid peroxidation in the context of heterogeneous and plastic mechanisms. Recent studies have shed light on the involvement of specific types of autophagy (e.g. ferritinophagy, lipophagy, and clockophagy) in initiating or executing ferroptotic cell death through the selective degradation of anti-injury proteins or organelles. Conversely, other forms of selective autophagy (e.g. reticulophagy and lysophagy) enhance the cellular defense against ferroptotic damage. Dysregulated autophagy-dependent ferroptosis has implications for a diverse range of pathological conditions. This review aims to present an updated definition of autophagy-dependent ferroptosis, discuss influential substrates and receptors, outline experimental methods, and propose guidelines for interpreting the results.Abbreviation: 3-MA:3-methyladenine; 4HNE: 4-hydroxynonenal; ACD: accidentalcell death; ADF: autophagy-dependentferroptosis; ARE: antioxidant response element; BH2:dihydrobiopterin; BH4: tetrahydrobiopterin; BMDMs: bonemarrow-derived macrophages; CMA: chaperone-mediated autophagy; CQ:chloroquine; DAMPs: danger/damage-associated molecular patterns; EMT,epithelial-mesenchymal transition; EPR: electronparamagnetic resonance; ER, endoplasmic reticulum; FRET: Försterresonance energy transfer; GFP: green fluorescent protein;GSH: glutathione;IF: immunofluorescence; IHC: immunohistochemistry; IOP, intraocularpressure; IRI: ischemia-reperfusion injury; LAA: linoleamide alkyne;MDA: malondialdehyde; PGSK: Phen Green™ SK;RCD: regulatedcell death; PUFAs: polyunsaturated fatty acids; RFP: red fluorescentprotein;ROS: reactive oxygen species; TBA: thiobarbituricacid; TBARS: thiobarbituric acid reactive substances; TEM:transmission electron microscopy.

A novel circPIK3C2A/miR‐31‐5p/TFRC axis drives ferroptosis and accelerates myocardial injury

Iron overload is common in cardiovascular disease, it is also the factor that drives ferroptosis. Noncoding RNAs play an important role in heart disease; however, their regulatory role in iron overload-mediated ferroptosis remains much unknown. In our study, the iron overload model in mice was constructed through a high-iron diet, and ammonium iron citrate  treatment was used to mimic iron overload in vitro. We found iron overload induced ferroptosis in cardiomyocytes, which was dependent on the high expression of transferrin receptor (TFRC). MiR-31-5p was downregulated during iron overload; it inhibited cardiomyocyte ferroptosis by targeting TFRC. CircPIK3C2A, a highly expressed circRNA in the heart, was upregulated when iron was overloaded. CircPIK3C2A enhanced the expression of TFRC by sponging miR-31-5p and promoted ferroptosis during iron overload. Our results reveal a novel mechanistic insight into noncoding RNA-based ferroptosis and identify the circPIK3C2A/miR-31-5p/TFRC axis as a promising therapeutic target for myocardial damage.

Application of natural products in regulating ferroptosis in human diseases

BACKGROUND

Ferroptosis is a type of cell death caused by excessive iron-induced peroxidation. It has been found to be involved in a variety of diseases, and natural products can be used to target ferroptosis in treatments. Natural products are biologically active compounds extracted or synthesized from nature. It is an important resource for the discovery of skeletons with a high degree of structural diversity and a wide range of bioactivities, which can be developed directly or used as a starting point for the optimization of new drugs.

PURPOSE

In this review, we aim to discuss the interactions between natural products and ferroptosis in the treatment of human diseases.

METHODS

Literature was searched in Pubmed, Science Direct, and Web of Science databases for the 11-year period from 2012 to 2023 using the search terms "natural products", "ferroptosis", "human disease", "neurodegenerative disease", "cardiovascular disease", and "cancer".

RESULTS

In this research, the roles of natural products and ferroptosis were investigated. We suggest that natural products, such as terpenoids, flavonoids, polyphenols, alkaloids, and saponins, can be used in therapeutic applications for human diseases, as well as in ferroptosis. Additionally, the main mechanisms of ferroptosis were summarized and discussed. Furthermore, we propose that natural products can be utilized to enhance the sensitivity of cancer cells to ferroptosis, thus helping to overcome drug resistance and inhibit metastasis. Moreover, natural products have the potential to modulate the expression levels of ferroptosis-related factors. Finally, the future directions of this field were highlighted.

CONCLUSION

The potential of natural products which focus on ferroptosis to treat human illnesses, particularly cancer, is very encouraging for human wellbeing.

Discussion on the mechanism of Tiaoqi Xiaowei decoction in the treatment of chronic atrophic gastritis based on network pharmacology and molecular docking: An observational study

To explore the mechanism of Tiaoqi Xiaowei decoction in the treatment of chronic atrophic gastritis by network pharmacology and molecular docking. The main active components and targets of Tiaoqi Xiaowei decoction were obtained from TCMSP database. The databases of Disgenet, GeneCards, and OMIM were used to obtain chronic atrophic gastritis-related targets. The component-target-disease network was constructed by Cytoscape 3.7.1 software, and the protein-protein interaction network was constructed by String database. The core targets were screened by CytoNCA plug-in. Gene ontology analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genome pathway enrichment analysis were performed using the Metascape database. The core components and targets were subjected to molecular docking verification using AutoDock Tools 1.5.6 software, and the binding score was obtained. A total of 48 active components were identified, involving 82 action targets. Core active components such as quercetin, beta-sitosterol, kaempferol, luteolin, and naringenin, and core targets such as AKT1, TP53, VEGFA, TNF, IL6, and PTGS2 were obtained. A total of 188 signaling pathways were screened out, including cancer pathway, PI3K-Akt, IL-17, and TNF signaling pathway. Molecular docking results showed that the key components of Tiaoqi Xiaowei decoction had a favorable binding affinity with key targets. Tiaoqi Xiaowei decoction acts on multiple targets such as AKT1, TP53, VEGFA, TNF, IL6, PTGS2, and synergistically treats chronic atrophic gastritis by regulating inflammatory responses and tumor-related signaling pathways.

Network-based analysis identifies potential therapeutic ingredients of Chinese medicines and their mechanisms toward lung cancer

Lung cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors around the world, which has the highest mortality rate among all cancers. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has attracted increased attention in the field of lung cancer treatment. However, the abundance of ingredients in Chinese medicines presents a challenge in identifying promising ingredient candidates and exploring their mechanisms for lung cancer treatment. In this work, two network-based algorithms were combined to calculate the network relationships between ingredient targets and lung cancer targets in the human interactome. Based on the enrichment analysis of the constructed disease module, key targets of lung cancer were identified. In addition, molecular docking and enrichment analysis of the overlapping targets between lung cancer and ingredients were performed to investigate the potential mechanisms of ingredient candidates against lung cancer. Ten potential ingredients against lung cancer were identified and they may have similar effect on the development of lung cancer. The results obtained from this study offered valuable insights and provided potential avenues for the development of novel drugs aimed at treating lung cancer.

The development of nanocarriers for natural products

Natural bioactive compounds from plants exhibit substantial pharmacological potency and therapeutic value. However, the development of most plant bioactive compounds is hindered by low solubility and instability. Conventional pharmaceutical forms, such as tablets and capsules, only partially overcome these limitations, restricting their efficacy. With the recent development of nanotechnology, nanocarriers can enhance the bioavailability, stability, and precise intracellular transport of plant bioactive compounds. Researchers are increasingly integrating nanocarrier-based drug delivery systems (NDDS) into the development of natural plant compounds with significant success. Moreover, natural products benefit from nanotechnological enhancement and contribute to the innovation and optimization of nanocarriers via self-assembly, grafting modifications, and biomimetic designs. This review aims to elucidate the collaborative and reciprocal advancement achieved by integrating nanocarriers with botanical products, such as bioactive compounds, polysaccharides, proteins, and extracellular vesicles. This review underscores the salient challenges in nanomedicine, encompassing long-term safety evaluations of nanomedicine formulations, precise targeting mechanisms, biodistribution complexities, and hurdles in clinical translation. Further, this study provides new perspectives to leverage nanotechnology in promoting the development and optimization of natural plant products for nanomedical applications and guiding the progression of NDDS toward enhanced efficiency, precision, and safety. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology.

Ferroptosis targeting natural compounds as a promising approach for developing potent liver cancer agents

Liver cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. However, treatment options, including surgical resection, transplantation, and molecular drug therapies, are of limited effectiveness. Recent studies have demonstrated that suppressing ferroptosis might be a pivotal signal for liver cancer initiation, thus providing a new way to combat liver cancer. Ferroptosis is a distinct form of controlled cell death that differs from conventional cell death routes like apoptosis, necrosis, and pyroptosis. It results from intracellular iron overload, which raises iron-dependent reactive oxygen species. This, in turn, leads to the accumulation of lipid peroxides that further result in oxidative damage to cell membranes, disrupt normal functioning, and ultimately speed up the ferroptosis phenomenon. Ferroptosis regulation is intricately linked to cellular physiological processes, encompassing iron metabolism, lipid metabolism, and the equilibrium between oxygen-free radical reactions and lipid peroxidation. This review intends to summarize the natural compounds targeting ferroptosis in liver cancer to offer new therapeutic ideas for liver cancer. Furthermore, it serves as the foundation for identifying and applying chemical medicines and natural chemicals that target ferroptosis to treat liver cancer efficiently.

Selected Flavonols Targeting Cell Death Pathways in Cancer Therapy: The Latest Achievements in Research on Apoptosis, Autophagy, Necroptosis, Pyroptosis, Ferroptosis, and Cuproptosis

The complex and multi-stage processes of carcinogenesis are accompanied by a number of phenomena related to the potential involvement of various chemopreventive factors, which include, among others, compounds of natural origin such as flavonols. The use of flavonols is not only promising but also a recognized strategy for cancer treatment. The chemopreventive impact of flavonols on cancer arises from their ability to act as antioxidants, impede proliferation, promote cell death, inhibit angiogenesis, and regulate the immune system through involvement in diverse forms of cellular death. So far, the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of apoptosis, autophagy, necroptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and cuproptosis occurring with the participation of flavonols have remained incompletely elucidated, and the results of the studies carried out so far are ambiguous. For this reason, one of the therapeutic goals is to initiate the death of altered cells through the use of quercetin, kaempferol, myricetin, isorhamnetin, galangin, fisetin, and morin. This article offers an extensive overview of recent research on these compounds, focusing particularly on their role in combating cancer and elucidating the molecular mechanisms governing apoptosis, autophagy, necroptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and cuproptosis. Assessment of the mechanisms underlying the anticancer effects of compounds in therapy targeting various types of cell death pathways may prove useful in developing new therapeutic regimens and counteracting resistance to previously used treatments.

Pharmacological approaches for targeting lysosomes to induce ferroptotic cell death in cancer

Lysosomes are crucial organelles responsible for the degradation of cytosolic materials and bulky organelles, thereby facilitating nutrient recycling and cell survival. However, lysosome also acts as an executioner of cell death, including ferroptosis, a distinctive form of regulated cell death that hinges on iron-dependent phospholipid peroxidation. The initiation of ferroptosis necessitates three key components: substrates (membrane phospholipids enriched with polyunsaturated fatty acids), triggers (redox-active irons), and compromised defence mechanisms (GPX4-dependent and -independent antioxidant systems). Notably, iron assumes a pivotal role in ferroptotic cell death, particularly in the context of cancer, where iron and oncogenic signaling pathways reciprocally reinforce each other. Given the lysosomes' central role in iron metabolism, various strategies have been devised to harness lysosome-mediated iron metabolism to induce ferroptosis. These include the re-mobilization of iron from intracellular storage sites such as ferritin complex and mitochondria through ferritinophagy and mitophagy, respectively. Additionally, transcriptional regulation of lysosomal and autophagy genes by TFEB enhances lysosomal function. Moreover, the induction of lysosomal iron overload can lead to lysosomal membrane permeabilization and subsequent cell death. Extensive screening and individually studies have explored pharmacological interventions using clinically available drugs and phytochemical agents. Furthermore, a drug delivery system involving ferritin-coated nanoparticles has been specifically tailored to target cancer cells overexpressing TFRC. With the rapid advancements in understandings the mechanistic underpinnings of ferroptosis and iron metabolism, it is increasingly evident that lysosomes represent a promising target for inducing ferroptosis and combating cancer.

Tenovin 3 induces apoptosis and ferroptosis in EGFR 19del non small cell lung cancer cells

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) exon 19 deletion is a major driver for the drug resistance of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Identification small inhibitor capable of selectively inhibiting EGFR-19del NSCLC is a desirable strategy to overcome drug resistance in NSCLC. This study aims to screen an inhibitor for EGFR exon 19 deletion cells and explore its underlying mechanism. High through-put screen was conducted to identify an inhibitor for EGFR-19del NSCLC cells. And tenovin-3 was identified as a selective inhibitor of PC9 cells, an EGFR-19del NSCLC cells. Tenovin-3 showed particular inhibition effect on PC9 cells proliferation through inducing apoptosis and ferroptosis. Mechanistically, tenovin-3 might induce the apoptosis and ferroptosis of PC9 cells through mitochondrial pathway, as indicated by the change of VDAC1 and cytochrome c (cyt c). And bioinformatics analyses showed that the expression levels of SLC7A11 and CPX4 were correlated with NSCLC patient's survival. Our findings provide evidences for tenovin-3 to be developed into a novel candidate agent for NSCLC with EGFR exon 19 deletion. Our study also suggests that inducing ferroptosis may be a therapeutic strategy for NSCLC with EGFR exon 19 deletion.

Therapeutic effects and molecular mechanisms of quercetin in gynecological disorders

Quercetin is a representative flavonoid that is widely present in fruits, herbs, and vegetables. It is also an important active core component in traditional Chinese medicines. As an important flavonoid, quercetin has various properties and exerts antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective effects. The public interest in quercetin is increasing, and quercetin has been used to prevent or treat numerous of diseases, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), cancer, autoimmune diseases and chronic cardiovascular diseases, in clinical experiments and animal studies due to its powerful antioxidant properties and minimal side effects. Quercetin exerts marked pharmacological effects on gynecological disorders; however, there have been no reviews about the potential health benefits of quercetin in the context of gynecological disorders, including PCOS, premature ovary failure (POF), endometriosis (EM), ovarian cancer (OC), cervical cancer (CC) and endometrial carcinoma (EC). Thus, this review aimed to summarize the biological effects of quercetin on gynecological disorders and its mechanisms.

Ferroptosis and cuproptposis in kidney Diseases: dysfunction of cell metabolism

Metal ions play an important role in living organisms and are involved in essential physiological activities. However, the overload state of ions can cause excess free radicals, cell damage, and even cell death. Ferroptosis and cuproptosis are specific forms of cell death that are distinct from apoptosis, necroptosis, and other regulated cell death. These unique modalities of cell death, dependent on iron and copper, are regulated by multiple cellular metabolic pathways, including steady-state metal redox treatment mitochondrial activity of lipid, amino acid and glucose metabolism, and various signaling pathways associated with disease. Although the mechanisms of ferroptosis and cuproptosis are not yet fully understood, there is no doubt that ion overload plays a crucial act in these metal-dependent cell deaths. In this review, we discussed the core roles of ion overload in ferroptosis and cuproptosis, the association between metabolism imbalance and ferroptosis and cuproptosis, the extract the diseases caused by ion overload and current treatment modalities.

Induction of ferroptosis by natural phenols: A promising strategy for cancer therapy

In recent years, heightened interest surrounds the exploration of natural phenols as potential agents for cancer therapy, specifically by inducing ferroptosis, a unique form of regulated cell death characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation. This review delves into the roles of key natural phenols, flavonoids, phenolic acids, curcumin, and stilbenes, in modulating ferroptosis and their underlying mechanisms. Emphasizing the significance of amino acid, lipid, and iron metabolism, the study elucidates the diverse pathways through which these phenols regulate ferroptosis. Notably, curcumin, a well-known polyphenol, exhibits multifaceted interactions with cellular components involved in ferroptosis regulation, providing a distinctive therapeutic avenue. Stilbenes, another phenolic class, demonstrate promising potential in influencing lipid metabolism and iron-dependent processes, contributing to ferroptotic cell death. Understanding the intricate interplay between these natural phenols and ferroptosis not only illuminates complex cellular regulatory networks but also unveils potential avenues for novel cancer therapies. Exploring these compounds as inducers of ferroptosis presents a promising strategy for targeted cancer treatment, capitalizing on the delicate balance between cellular metabolism and regulated cell death mechanisms. This article synthesizes current knowledge, aiming to stimulate further research into the therapeutic potential of natural phenols in the context of ferroptosis-mediated cancer therapy.

Myricetin Induces Ferroptosis and Inhibits Gastric Cancer Progression by Targeting NOX4

Ferroptosis holds great potential as a therapeutic approach for gastric cancer (GC), a prevalent and deadly malignant tumor associated with high rates of incidence and mortality. Myricetin, well-known for its multifaceted biomedical attributes, particularly its anticancer properties, has yet to be thoroughly investigated regarding its involvement in ferroptosis. The aim of this research was to elucidate the impact of myricetin on ferroptosis in GC progression. The present study observed that myricetin could trigger ferroptosis in GC cells by enhancing malondialdehyde production and Fe2+ accumulation while suppressing glutathione levels. Mechanistically, myricetin directly interacted with NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4), influencing its stability by inhibiting its ubiquitin degradation. Moreover, myricetin regulated the inhibition of ferroptosis induced by Helicobacter pylori cytotoxin-associated gene A (CagA) through the NOX4/NRF2/GPX4 pathway. In vivo experiments demonstrated that myricetin treatment significantly inhibited the growth of subcutaneous tumors in BALB/c nude mice. It was accompanied by increased NOX4 expression in tumor tissue and suppression of the NRF2/GPX4 antioxidant pathway. Therefore, this research underscores myricetin as a novel inducer of ferroptosis in GC cells through its interaction with NOX4. It is a promising candidate for GC treatment.