Ginkgetin inhibits the growth of DU-145 prostate cancer cells through inhibition of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 activity

Biflavonoids: Preliminary Reports on Their Role in Prostate and Breast Cancer Therapy

Dimeric flavonoids, also called biflavonoids, are bioactive compounds that exhibit various activities described in the literature, including antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, vasorelaxant, and anticancer properties. This work focuses on the anticancer action of naturally occurring dimeric flavonoids against prostate and breast cancer, as well as on the mechanisms of action involved in their activity and presents the most current information on this subject in the literature. In the present review, we summarize the latest findings on the antiproliferative activity of 33 dimeric flavonoid-based compounds selected from recently published studies. The tests conducted were in silico and in vitro and demonstrated the cytotoxic activity potential of biflavonoids against prostate and breast tumor cells. Biflavonoids were capable of interfering with the migration and replication of cancer cells and their mechanism of action is related to cell death pathways, especially apoptosis, necrosis, and ferroptosis. These compounds decreased mitochondrial membrane potential and significantly increased intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Additionally, they significantly upregulated the expression of p21, Bax, and cleaved caspase-3, while downregulating Bcl-2 and caspase-3 levels, indicating their cell death mechanism of action is through the Bcl-2/Bax/cleaved caspase-3 pathway and cell cycle arrest. The biflavonoids here related have shown promising anticancer activity and are considered potential drug candidates for prostate and breast cancer treatment.

Recent advances in flavonoid compounds for the treatment of prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is a malignant epithelial tumor of the prostate gland and is the most common malignant tumor of the male genitourinary system. Pharmacological therapies, including chemotherapy and androgen deprivation therapy, play a key role in the treatment of prostate cancer. However, drug resistance and side effects limit the use of these drugs and so there is a need for new drug therapies for prostate cancer patients. Flavonoids, with their wide range of sources and diverse biological activities, have attracted much attention in the field of anti-tumor drug screening. In 2016, at least 58 flavonoids were reported to have anti-prostate cancer activity. In recent years, six additional flavonoid compounds have been found to have anti-prostate cancer potential. In this review, we have collected a large amount of evidence on the anti-prostate cancer effects of these six flavonoids, including a large number of cellular experiments and a small number of preclinical animal experiments. In addition, we predicted their drug-forming properties using Schrödinger's QikProp software and ADMETlab due to the lack of in vivo pharmacokinetic data for the six compounds. In conclusion, this review has fully confirmed the anti-prostate cancer effects of these six flavonoids, summarized their mechanisms of action and predicted their druggability. It provides a reference for the further development of these compounds into anti-prostate cancer drugs.

The role of Ginkgo Folium on antitumor: Bioactive constituents and the potential mechanism

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ginkgo biloba L. is a well-known and highly regarded resource in Chinese traditional medicine due to its effectiveness and safety. Ginkgo Folium, the leaf of Ginkgo biloba L., contains biologically active constituents with diverse pharmacological activities. Recent studies have shown promising antitumor effects of the bioactive constituents found in Ginkgo Folium against various types of cancer cells, highlighting its potential as a natural source of antitumor agents. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and optimize its therapeutic potential.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

To provide a detailed understanding of the pharmacological activities of Ginkgo Folium and its potential therapeutic benefits for cancer patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, we conducted a thorough and systematic search of multiple online databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, using relevant keywords such as "Ginkgo Folium," "flavonoids," "terpenoids," "Ginkgo Folium extracts," and "antitumor" to cover a broad range of studies that could inform our review. Additionally, we followed a rigorous selection process to ensure that the studies included in our review met the predetermined inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

The active constituents of Ginkgo Folium primarily consist of flavonoids and terpenoids, with quercetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, ginkgolides, and bilobalide being the major compounds. These active constituents exert their antitumor effects through crucial biological events such as apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, autophagy, and inhibition of invasion and metastasis via modulating diverse signaling pathways. During the process of apoptosis, active constituents primarily exert their effects by modulating the caspase-8 mediated death receptor pathway and caspase-9 mediated mitochondrial pathway via regulating specific signaling pathways. Furthermore, by modulating multiple signaling pathways, active constituents effectively induce G1, G0/G1, G2, and G2/M phase arrest. Among these, the pathways associated with G2/M phase arrest are particularly extensive, with the cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) being most involved. Moreover, active constituents primarily mediate autophagy by modulating certain inflammatory factors and stressors, facilitating the fusion stage between autophagosomes and lysosomes. Additionally, through the modulation of specific chemokines and matrix metalloproteinases, active constituents effectively inhibit the processes of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and angiogenesis, exerting a significant impact on cellular invasion and migration. Synergistic effects are observed among the active constituents, particularly quercetin and kaempferol.

CONCLUSION

Active components derived from Ginkgo Folium demonstrate a comprehensive antitumor effect across various levels and pathways, presenting compelling evidence for their potential in new drug development. However, in order to facilitate their broad and adaptable clinical application, further extensive experimental investigations are required to thoroughly explore their efficacy, safety, and underlying mechanisms of action.

The efficacy of natural bioactive compounds against prostate cancer: Molecular targets and synergistic activities

Globally, prostate cancer (PCa) is regarded as a challenging health issue, and the number of PCa patients continues to rise despite the availability of effective treatments in recent decades. The current therapy with chemotherapeutic drugs has been largely ineffective due to multidrug resistance and the conventional treatment has restricted drug accessibility to malignant tissues, necessitating a higher dosage resulting in increased cytotoxicity. Plant-derived bioactive compounds have recently attracted a great deal of attention in the field of PCa treatment due to their potent effects on several molecular targets and synergistic effects with anti-PCa drugs. This review emphasizes the molecular mechanism of phytochemicals on PCa cells, the synergistic effects of compound-drug interactions, and stem cell targeting for PCa treatment. Some potential compounds, such as curcumin, phenethyl-isothiocyanate, fisetin, baicalein, berberine, lutein, and many others, exert an anti-PCa effect via inhibiting proliferation, metastasis, cell cycle progression, and normal apoptosis pathways. In addition, multiple studies have demonstrated that the isolated natural compounds: d-limonene, paeonol, lanreotide, artesunate, and bicalutamide have potential synergistic effects. Further, a significant number of natural compounds effectively target PCa stem cells. However, further high-quality studies are needed to firmly establish the clinical efficacy of these phytochemicals against PCa.

Cell Membrane Sialome: Sialic Acids as Therapeutic Targets and Regulators of Drug Resistance in Human Cancer Management

A cellular sialome is a physiologically active and dynamically changing component of the cell membrane. Sialylation plays a crucial role in tumor progression, and alterations in cellular sialylation patterns have been described as modulators of chemotherapy effectiveness. However, the precise mechanisms through which altered sialylation contributes to drug resistance in cancer are not yet fully understood. This review focuses on the intricate interplay between sialylation and cancer treatment. It presents the role of sialic acids in modulating cell-cell interactions, the extracellular matrix (ECM), and the immunosuppressive processes within the context of cancer. The issue of drug resistance is also discussed, and the mechanisms that involve transporters, the tumor microenvironment, and metabolism are analyzed. The review explores drugs and therapeutic approaches that may induce modifications in sialylation processes with a primary focus on their impact on sialyltransferases or sialidases. Despite advancements in cellular glycobiology and glycoengineering, an interdisciplinary effort is required to decipher and comprehend the biological characteristics and consequences of altered sialylation. Additionally, understanding the modulatory role of sialoglycans in drug sensitivity is crucial to applying this knowledge in clinical practice for the benefit of cancer patients.

Ginkgetin suppresses ovarian cancer growth through inhibition of JAK2/STAT3 and MAPKs signaling pathways

BACKGROUND

Ginkgo biloba L., a kind of traditional Chinese medicine, is always used to treat various diseases. Ginkgetin is an active biflavonoid isolated from leaves of Ginkgo biloba L., which exhibits diverse biological activities, including anti-tumor, anti-microbial, anti-cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, and anti-inflammatory effects. However, there are few reports on the effects of ginkgetin on ovarian cancer (OC).

HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE

OC is one of the most common cancers with high mortality in women. The purpose of this study was to find out how ginkgetin inhibited OC and which signal transduction pathways was involved to suppress OC.

METHODS

The OC cell lines, A2780, SK-OV-3 and CP70, were used for in vitro experiments. MTT assay, colony formation, apoptosis assay, scratch wound assay and cell invasion assay were used to determine the inhibitory effect of ginkgetin. BALB/c nude female mice were injected with A2780 cells subcutaneously, then treated with ginkgetin by intragastric administration. Western blot experiment was used to verify the inhibitory mechanism of OC in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

We found that ginkgetin inhibited the proliferation and induced apoptosis in OC cells. In addition, ginkgetin reduced migration and invasion of OC cells. In vivo study showed that ginkgetin significantly reduced tumor volume in the xenograft mouse model. Furthermore, the anti-tumor effects of ginkgetin were associated with a down regulation of p-STAT3, p-ERK and SIRT1 both in vitro and in vivo.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that ginkgetin exhibits anti-tumor activity in OC cells via inhibiting the JAK2/STAT3 and MAPK pathways and SIRT1 protein. Ginkgetin could be a potential candidate for the treatment of OC.

Neuroprotective Potential of Biflavone Ginkgetin: A Review

Neurological disorders are becoming more common, and there is an intense search for molecules that can help treat them. Several natural components, especially those from the flavonoid group, have shown promising results. Ginkgetin is the first known biflavonoid, a flavonoid dimer isolated from ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba L.). Later, its occurrence was discovered in more than 20 different plant species, most of which are known for their use in traditional medicine. Herein we have summarized the data on the neuroprotective potential of ginkgetin. There is evidence of protection against neuronal damage caused by ischemic strokes, neurotumors, Alzheimer's disease (AD), and Parkinson's disease (PD). Beneficial effects in ischemic strokes have been demonstrated in animal studies in which injection of ginkgetin before or after onset of the stoke showed protection from neuronal damage. AD protection has been the most studied to date. Possible mechanisms include inhibition of reactive oxygen species, inhibition of β-secretase, inhibition of Aβ fibril formation, amelioration of inflammation, and antimicrobial activity. Ginkgetin has also shown positive effects on the relief of PD symptoms in animal studies. Most of the available data are from in vitro or in vivo animal studies, where ginkgetin showed promising results, and further clinical studies should be conducted.

STAT3 signaling in prostate cancer progression and therapy resistance: An oncogenic pathway with diverse functions

The categorization of cancers demonstrates that prostate cancer is the most common malignancy in men and it causes high death annually. Prostate cancer patients are diagnosed mainly via biomarkers such as PSA test and patients show poor prognosis. Prostate cancer cells rapidly diffuse into different parts of body and their metastasis is also a reason for death. Current therapies for prostate cancer patients include chemotherapy, surgery and radiotherapy as well as targeted therapy. The progression of prostate cancer cells is regulated by different factors that STAT3 signaling is among them. Growth factors and cytokines such as IL-6 can induce STAT3 signaling and it shows carcinogenic impact. Activation of STAT3 signaling occurs in prostate cancer and it promotes malignant behavior of tumor cells. Induction of STAT3 signaling increases glycolysis and proliferation of prostate cancer cells and prevents apoptosis. Furthermore, STAT3 signaling induces EMT mechanism in increasing cancer metastasis. Activation of STAT3 signaling stimulates drug resistance and the limitation of current works is lack of experiment related to role of STAT3 signaling in radio-resistance in prostate tumor. Calcitriol, capsazepine and β-elemonic are among the compounds capable of targeting STAT3 signaling and its inhibition in prostate cancer therapy. In addition to natural products, small molecules targeting STAT3 signaling have been developed in prostate cancer therapy.

Modulation of Bleomycin-induced Oxidative Stress and Pulmonary Fibrosis by Ginkgetin in Mice via AMPK

BACKGROUND

Ginkgetin, a flavonoid extracted from Ginkgo biloba, has been shown to exhibit broad anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antioxidative bioactivity. Moreover, the extract of Ginkgo folium has been reported on attenuating bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis, but the anti-fibrotic effects of ginkgetin are still unclear. This study was intended to investigate the protective effects of ginkgetin against experimental pulmonary fibrosis and its underlying mechanism.

METHODS

In vivo, bleomycin (5 mg/kg) in 50 μL saline was administrated intratracheally in mice. One week after bleomycin administration, ginkgetin (25 or 50 mg/kg) or nintedanib (40 mg/kg) was administrated intragastrically daily for 14 consecutive days. In vitro, the AMPK-siRNA transfection in primary lung fibroblasts further verified the regulatory effect of ginkgetin on AMPK.

RESULTS

Administration of bleomycin caused characteristic histopathology structural changes with elevated lipid peroxidation, pulmonary fibrosis indexes, and inflammatory mediators. The bleomycin- induced alteration was normalized by ginkgetin intervention. Moreover, this protective effect of ginkgetin (20 mg/kg) was equivalent to that of nintedanib (40 mg/kg). AMPK-siRNA transfection in primary lung fibroblasts markedly blocked TGF-β1-induced myofibroblasts transdifferentiation and abolished oxidative stress.

CONCLUSION

All these results suggested that ginkgetin exerted ameliorative effects on bleomycininduced oxidative stress and lung fibrosis mainly through an AMPK-dependent manner.

Integrating network pharmacology prediction and experimental investigation to verify ginkgetin anti-invasion and metastasis of human lung adenocarcinoma cells via the Akt/GSK-3β/Snail and Wnt/β-catenin pathway

Introduction: Lung cancer, one of the most frequent malignancies, has a high death rate and an increased number of new cases globally. Ginkgo biloba has been used for many years in the treatment of lung cancer. Ginkgetin is the key active ingredient extracted from Ginkgo biloba. However, the mechanism by which ginkgetin inhibits the invasive metastasis of lung cancer is unclear. Methods: We used a network pharmacology approach to obtain the molecular mechanism by which ginkgetin inhibits lung cancer metastasis. Then we analyzed potential target proteins between ginkgetin and lung cancer. Finally, we validated with molecular docking and experimental validation. Results: By analyzing the intersecting genes of lung cancer and ginkgetin, there were 79 intersecting genes, which were mainly involved in the positive regulation of cell migration, with the cancer pathway being one of the most enriched pathways. The results of in vitro experiments showed that GK had a large inhibitory effect on cell invasion and metastasis of A549 and H1299. In vivo animals GK had a great inhibitory effect on metastasis of LLC. Conclusion: This study identified the potential related GK molecular targets and signaling pathways in treating human lung cancer using network pharmacological approaches. Experiments confirmed that GK inhibits the Akt/GSK-3β/Snail and Wnt/β-catenin cascade initiation in A549, H1299 and LLC cells, preventing metastasis. This study's results align with the hypotheses derived from the network pharmacology analysis.

Ciclopirox drives growth arrest and autophagic cell death through STAT3 in gastric cancer cells

Ciclopirox (CPX), an antifungal drug, has recently been identified as a promising agent for cancer treatment. However, the effects and underlying mechanism of CPX as an antitumor agent of gastric cancer (GC) remain largely unknown. Here, we found that CPX dramatically suppresses GC xenograft growth in vitro via inhibiting proliferation and stimulating autophagic cell death rather than apoptosis. Moreover, CPX (20 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) substantially inhibits GC xenograft tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, CPX promotes growth arrest and autophagic cell death through suppressing the phosphorylation of signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3) at tyrosine 705 (Tyr705) and serine 727 (Ser727) sites, respectively. Additionally, CPX induces STAT3 ubiquitination, which subsequently leads to a decrease in the p-STAT3 (Ser727) level. On the other hand, CPX represses the p-STAT3 (Tyr705) level via p-Src (Tyr416) inhibition. Collectively, our findings unmask a novel mechanism by which CPX regulates growth and autophagic cell death in GC cells via regulating the phosphorylation of STAT3 both at Tyr705 and Ser727 residues, and suggest that CPX may be a potential treatment for GC.

Inhibiting STAT3 signaling pathway by natural products for cancer prevention and therapy: In vitro and in vivo activity and mechanisms of action

Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) plays a critical role in signal transmission from the plasma membrane to the nucleus, regulating the expression of genes involved in essential cell functions and controlling the processes of cell cycle progression and apoptosis. Thus, STAT3 has been elucidated as a promising target for developing anticancer drugs. Many natural products have been reported to inhibit the STAT3 signaling pathway during the past two decades and have exhibited significant anticancer activities in vitro and in vivo. However, there is no FDA-approved STAT3 inhibitor yet. The major mechanisms of these natural product inhibitors of the STAT3 signaling pathway include targeting the upstream regulators of STAT3, directly binding to the STAT3 SH2 domain and inhibiting its activation, inhibiting STAT3 phosphorylation and/or dimerization, and others. In the present review, we have systematically discussed the development of these natural product inhibitors of STAT3 signaling pathway as well as their in vitro and in vivo anticancer activity and mechanisms of action. Outlooks and perspectives on the associated challenges are provided as well.

Integration of Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking Technology Reveals the Mechanism of the Therapeutic Effect of Xixin Decoction on Alzheimer's Disease

BACKGROUND

So far, only a few researchers have systematically analyzed the constituents of the traditional Chinese medicine prescription Xixin Decoction (XXD) and its potential mechanism of action in treating Alzheimer's disease (AD). This study aimed to explore the potential mechanism of XXD in the treatment of AD using network pharmacology and molecular docking.

METHODS

The compounds of XXD were searched within the Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology Database (TCMSP) and the Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Database (TCMID) databases. Overlapping AD-related targets obtained from the two databases and the predicted targets of XXD obtained from SwissTargetPrediction platform were imported into the STRING database to build PPI networks including hub targets; Cytoscape software was used to construct the herb-compound-target network while its plug-in CytoNCA was used to screen the main active compounds of XXD. Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses explored the core biological mechanism and pathways via the Metascape platform. In addition, we used AutoDock Vina and PyMOL software to investigate the molecular docking of main compounds to hub targets.

RESULTS

We determined 114 active compounds, 973 drug targets, and 973 disease targets. However, intersection analysis screened out 208 shared targets.Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network identified 9 hub targets. The hub targets were found to be majorly enriched in several biological processes (positive regulation of kinase activity, positive regulation of cell death, regulation of MAPK cascade, trans-synaptic signaling, synaptic signaling, etc.) and the relevant pathways of Alzheimer's disease, including neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, dopaminergic synapse, serotonergic synapse, and the MAPK signaling pathway, etc. The pathway-target-compound network of XXD for treating AD was then constructed. 8 hub targets exhibited good binding activity with 9 main active compounds of XXD in molecular docking.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we found multi-compound-multi-target-multi-pathway regulation to reveal the mechanism of XXD for treating AD based on network pharmacology and molecular docking. XXD may play a therapeutic role through regulating the Alzheimer's disease pathway, its downstream PI3K/Akt signaling pathway or the MAPK signaling pathway, thereby treating AD. This provides new insights for further experiments on the pharmacological effects of XXD.

Role of Plant-Derived Active Constituents in Cancer Treatment and Their Mechanisms of Action

Despite significant technological advancements in conventional therapies, cancer remains one of the main causes of death worldwide. Although substantial progress has been made in the control and treatment of cancer, several limitations still exist, and there is scope for further advancements. Several adverse effects are associated with modern chemotherapy that hinder cancer treatment and lead to other critical disorders. Since ancient times, plant-based medicines have been employed in clinical practice and have yielded good results with few side effects. The modern research system and advanced screening techniques for plants’ bioactive constituents have enabled phytochemical discovery for the prevention and treatment of challenging diseases such as cancer. Phytochemicals such as vincristine, vinblastine, paclitaxel, curcumin, colchicine, and lycopene have shown promising anticancer effects. Discovery of more plant-derived bioactive compounds should be encouraged via the exploitation of advanced and innovative research techniques, to prevent and treat advanced-stage cancers without causing significant adverse effects. This review highlights numerous plant-derived bioactive molecules that have shown potential as anticancer agents and their probable mechanisms of action and provides an overview of in vitro, in vivo and clinical trial studies on anticancer phytochemicals.

Anti-tumor effect of ginkgetin on human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines by inducing cell cycle arrest and promoting cell apoptosis

This study explored the anti-tumor effect of ginkgetin, an extract from ginkgo biloba, on human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines and the underlying mechanisms. Cell viability was measured by MTT assay. Apoptotic cell morphology was observed under an inverted microscope after Hoechst 33,258 staining, and the ratio of apoptotic and necrotic cells was examined by flow cytometry after FITC/PI staining. Cell cycle changes were analyzed using flow cytometry. Cytochrome c release and caspase 3 and 8 activities were monitored using the relevant reagent kits. The levels of cell cycle-related proteins were detected by Western blot. MTT results indicated that ginkgetin significantly reduced HepG2 cell viability in a dose-dependent manner. Cellular morphology observation revealed that ginkgetin induced typical apoptotic morphological features of HepG2 cells, such as increased apoptotic bodies and cell shrinkage. Cell cycle analysis showed that ginkgetin increased the proportion of cells in the S phase. S-phase cell accumulation could be attributed to the decreased expression of cell cycle regulatory factors. Similarly, ginkgetin also induced the apoptosis and S phase cell accumulation of another human HCC cell line SK-HEP-1. Furthermore, ginkgetin treatment increased caspase-3 activity and cytochrome c release but not caspase-8 activity, implying that ginkgetin might mediate cell apoptosis through the mitochondrial pathway. In addition, the tumor formation experiment in nude mice showed that ginkgetin administration inhibited tumor growth. These results suggest that ginkgetin could be a cell apoptosis stimulator by affecting the balance between cell proliferation and apoptosis, suggesting that ginkgetin might be suitable for human HCC treatment.

Molecular Basis of Prostate Cancer and Natural Products as Potential Chemotherapeutic and Chemopreventive Agents

Prostate cancer is the second most common malignant cancer in males. It involves a complex process driven by diverse molecular pathways that closely related to the survival, apoptosis, metabolic and metastatic characteristics of aggressive cancer. Prostate cancer can be categorized into androgen dependent prostate cancer and castration-resistant prostate cancer and cure remains elusive due to the developed resistance of the disease. Natural compounds represent an extraordinary resource of structural scaffolds with high diversity that can offer promising chemical agents for making prostate cancer less devastating and curable. Herein, those natural compounds of different origins and structures with potential cytotoxicity and/or in vivo anti-tumor activities against prostate cancer are critically reviewed and summarized according to the cellular signaling pathways they interfere. Moreover, the anti-prostate cancer efficacy of many nutrients, medicinal plant extracts and Chinese medical formulations were presented, and the future prospects for the application of these compounds and extracts were discussed. Although the failure of conventional chemotherapy as well as involved serious side effects makes natural products ideal candidates for the treatment of prostate cancer, more investigations of preclinical and even clinical studies are necessary to make use of these medical substances reasonably. Therefore, the elucidation of structure-activity relationship and precise mechanism of action, identification of novel potential molecular targets, and optimization of drug combination are essential in natural medicine research and development.

Pharmacological Effects of Polyphenol Phytochemicals on the JAK-STAT Signaling Pathway

The JAK-STAT signaling pathway is a common pathway of many cytokine signal transductions, closely related to cell proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, and inflammatory response. It is essential for inhibiting the inflammatory response, initiating innate immunity, and coordinating adaptive immune mechanisms. Owing to the nature of this pathway and its potential cross-epitopes with multiple alternative pathways, the long-term efficacy of monotherapy-based adaptive targeting therapy is limited, and the majority of drugs targeting STATs are still in the preclinical phase. Meanwhile, curcumin, quercetin, and several kinds of plant polyphenol chemicals play roles in multiple sites of the JAK-STAT pathway to suppress abnormal activation. Polyphenol compounds have shown remarkable effects by acting on the JAK-STAT pathway in anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and cardiovascular disease control. This review summarizes the pharmacological effects of more than 20 kinds of phytochemicals on JAK-STAT signaling pathway according to the chemical structure of polyphenolic phytochemicals.

A Brief Updated Review of Advances to Enhance Resveratrol's Bioavailability

Resveratrol (RES) has a low bioavailability. This limitation was addressed in an earlier review and several recommendations were offered. A literature search was conducted in order to determine the extent of the research that was conducted in line with these recommendations, along with new developments in this field. Most of the identified studies were pre-clinical and confirmed the heightened activity of RES analogues compared to their parent compound. Although this has provided additional scientific kudos for these compounds and has strengthened their potential to be developed into phytopharmaceutical products, clinical trials designed to confirm this increased activity remain lacking and are warranted.

Natural Phytochemicals in Bladder Cancer Prevention and Therapy

Phytochemicals are natural small-molecule compounds derived from plants that have attracted attention for their anticancer activities. Some phytochemicals have been developed as first-line anticancer drugs, such as paclitaxel and vincristine. In addition, several phytochemicals show good tumor suppression functions in various cancer types. Bladder cancer is a malignant tumor of the urinary system. To date, few specific phytochemicals have been used for bladder cancer therapy, although many have been studied in bladder cancer cells and mouse models. Therefore, it is important to collate and summarize the available information on the role of phytochemicals in the prevention and treatment of bladder cancer. In this review, we summarize the effects of several phytochemicals including flavonoids, steroids, nitrogen compounds, and aromatic substances with anticancer properties and classify the mechanism of action of phytochemicals in bladder cancer. This review will contribute to facilitating the development of new anticancer drugs and strategies for the treatment of bladder cancer using phytochemicals.

Bioactivity of natural biflavonoids in metabolism-related disease and cancer therapies

Natural biflavonoids, such as amentoflavone, bilobetin, ginkgetin, isoginkgetin, taiwaniaflavone, morelloflavone, delicaflavone, hinokiflavone, and other derivatives (~ 40 biflavonoids), are isolated from Selaginella sp., Ginkgo biloba, Garcinia sp., and several other species of plants. They are able to exert therapeutic benefits by regulating several proteins/enzymes (PPAR-γ, CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α [C/EBPα], STAT5, pancreatic lipase, PTP1B, fatty acid synthase, α-glucosidase [AG]) and insulin signaling pathways (via PI3K-AKT), which are linked to metabolism, cell growth, and cell survival mechanisms. Deregulated insulin signaling can cause complications of obesity and diabetes, which can lead to cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and dementia; therefore, the therapeutic benefits of these biflavones in these areas are highlighted. Since biflavonoids have shown potential to regulate metabolism, growth- and survival-related protein/enzymes, their relation to tumor growth and metastasis of cancer associated with angiogenesis are highlighted. The translational role of biflavones in cancer with respect to the inhibition of metabolism-related processes/pathways, enzymes, or proteins, such as STAT3/SHP-1/PTEN, kinesins, tissue kallikreins, aromatase, estrogen, protein modifiers, antioxidant, autophagy, and apoptosis induction mechanisms, are discussed. Finally, considering their observed bioactivity potential, oral bioavailability studies of biflavones and related clinical trials are outlined.

Status and Challenges of Plant-Anticancer Compounds in Cancer Treatment

Nowadays, cancer is one of the deadliest diseases in the world, which has been estimated to cause 9.9 million deaths in 2020. Conventional treatments for cancer commonly involve mono-chemotherapy or a combination of radiotherapy and mono-chemotherapy. However, the negative side effects of these approaches have been extensively reported and have prompted the search of new therapeutic drugs. In this context, scientific community started to look for innovative sources of anticancer compounds in natural sources, including traditional plants. Currently, numerous studies have evaluated the anticancer properties of natural compounds derived from plants, both in vitro and in vivo. In pre-clinical stages, some promising compounds could be mentioned, such as the sulforaphane or different phenolic compounds. On the other hand, some phytochemicals obtained positive results in clinical stages and were further approved for cancer treatment, such as vinca alkaloids or the paclitaxel. Nevertheless, these compounds are not exempt of limitations, such as low solubility, restricted effect on their own, negative side-effects, etc. This review aims to compile the information about the current phytochemicals used for cancer treatment and also promising candidates, main action mechanisms and also reported limitations. In this sense, some strategies to face the limitations have been considered, such as nano-based formulations to improve solubility or chemical modification to reduce toxicity. In conclusion, although more research is still necessary to develop more efficient and safe phytochemical drugs, more of these compounds might be used in future cancer therapies.

Synergy of Ginkgetin and Resveratrol in Suppressing VEGF-Induced Angiogenesis: A Therapy in Treating Colorectal Cancer

Ginkgetin, a biflavone from Ginkgo biloba leaf, and resveratrol, a polyphenol found in grape and wine, are two phytochemicals being identified for its binding to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF): the binding, therefore, resulted in the alteration of the physiological roles of VEGF-mediated angiogenesis. The bindings of ginkgetin and resveratrol were proposed on different sites of VEGF, but both of them suppressed the angiogenic properties of VEGF. The suppressive activities of ginkgetin and resveratrol in VEGF-mediated angiogenesis were supported by several lines of evidence including (i) inhibiting the formation of sub-intestinal vessel in zebrafish embryos and microvascular sprouting in rat aortic ring; and (ii) suppressing the phosphorylations of VEGFR2, Akt, eNOS, and Erk as well as expressions of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), MMP-2, and MMP-9 in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Here, we showed the synergy of ginkgetin and resveratrol in suppressing the VEGF-induced endothelial cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and tube formation. The synergy of ginkgetin and resveratrol was further illustrated in HT-29 colon cancer xenograft nude mice. Ginkgetin and resveratrol, when applied together, exerted a synergistic anti-tumor effect of 5-fluorouracil with decreasing microvessel density of tumors. In parallel, the combination of ginkgetin and resveratrol synergistically relieved the 5-fluorouracil-induced inflammatory response by suppressing expressions of COX-2 and inflammatory cytokines. Thus, the anti-angiogenic roles of ginkgetin and/or resveratrol could provide effective therapeutic strategy in cancer, similar to that of Avastin, in suppressing the VEGF-mediated angiogenesis during cancer development.

Morelloflavone as a novel inhibitor of mitotic kinesin Eg5

Among 40 plant-derived biflavonoids with inhibitory potential against Eg5, morelloflavone from Garcinia dulcis leaves was selected for further testing based on in silico analysis of binding modes, molecular interactions, binding energies and functional groups that interact with Eg5. Computational models predicted that morelloflavone binds the putative allosteric pocket of Eg5, within the cavity surrounded by amino acid residues of Ile-136, Glu-116, Glu-118, Trp-127, Gly-117, Ala-133, Glu-215, Leu-214 and Tyr-211. Binding energy was -8.4 kcal/mol, with a single hydrogen bond formed between morelloflavone and Tyr-211. The binding configuration was comparable to that of a reference inhibitor, S-trityl-L-cysteine. Subsequent biochemical analysis in vitro confirmed that morelloflavone inhibited both the basal and microtubule-activated ATPase activity of Eg5 in a manner that does not compete with ATP binding. Morelloflavone also suppressed Eg5 gliding along microtubules. These results suggest that morelloflavone binds the allosteric binding site in Eg5 and thereby inhibits ATPase activity and motor function of Eg5.

Ginkgetin attenuates cerebral ischemia-reperfusion induced autophagy and cell death via modulation of the NF-κB/p53 signaling pathway

Background: Cerebral ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury is the key to fatality in cerebrovascular accident, hence further endeavor is warranted to delineate the mechanism underlying its lethal aggravation procedure. In the present study, we aimed to elucidate the anti-autophagy and anti-apoptosis effects of ginkgetin via nuclear factor κB (NF-κB)/p53 pathway in cerebral I/R rats.

Methods: Rats were administrated 2-h occlusion of right middle cerebral artery before the 24-h reperfusion followed. There were three doses of ginkgetin (25, 50, 100 mg/kg) given intraperitoneally (i.p.) after the 2-h ischemia, and Pifithrin-α (PFT-α, p53 inhibitor), SN50 (NF-κB inhibitor) and 3-methyladenine (3-MA, autophagy inhibitor) was administered 20 min before the ischemia, respectively.

Results: The neurological deficits decreased significantly with the administration of ginkgetin. The concentrations of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3-II and p53 were significantly decreased by PFT-α, 3-MA and ginkgetin. The concentrations of Beclin 1, damage-regulated autophagy modulator, cathepsin B and cathepsin D were significantly decreased due to the administration of PFT-α, ginkgetin and SN50. Furthermore, the concentrations of Bax and p53-upregulated modulator of apoptosis were significantly decreased with that of Bcl-2 being significantly increased by administration of SN50, PFT-α and ginkgetin.

Conclusion: Ginkgetin can alleviate cerebral ischemia/reperfusion induced autophagy and apoptosis by inhibiting the NF-κB/p53 signaling pathway.

Phytochemicals in Prostate Cancer: From Bioactive Molecules to Upcoming Therapeutic Agents

Prostate cancer is a heterogeneous disease, the second deadliest malignancy in men and the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men. Traditional plants have been applied to handle various diseases and to develop new drugs. Medicinal plants are potential sources of natural bioactive compounds that include alkaloids, phenolic compounds, terpenes, and steroids. Many of these naturally-occurring bioactive constituents possess promising chemopreventive properties. In this sense, the aim of the present review is to provide a detailed overview of the role of plant-derived phytochemicals in prostate cancers, including the contribution of plant extracts and its corresponding isolated compounds.

Ginkgo biloba induces different gene expression signatures and oncogenic pathways in malignant and non-malignant cells of the liver

Ginkgo biloba (EGb761) is a widely used botanical drug. Several reports indicate that EGb761 confers preventive as well as anti-tumorigenic properties in a variety of tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We here evaluate functional effects and molecular alterations induced by EGb761 in hepatoma cells and non-malignant hepatocytes. Hepatoma cell lines, primary human HCC cells and immortalized human hepatocytes (IH) were exposed to various concentrations (0–1000 μg/ml) of EGb761. Apoptosis and proliferation were evaluated after 72h of EGb761 exposure. Response to oxidative stress, tumorigenic properties and molecular changes were further investigated. While anti-oxidant effects were detected in all cell lines, EGb761 promoted anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects mainly in hepatoma cells. Consistently, EGb761 treatment caused a significant reduction in colony and sphere forming ability in hepatoma cells and no mentionable changes in IH. Transcriptomic changes involved oxidative stress response as well as key oncogenic pathways resembling Nrf2- and mTOR signaling pathway. Taken together, EGb761 induces differential effects in non-transformed and cancer cells. While treatment confers protective effects in non-malignant cells, EGb761 significantly impairs tumorigenic properties in cancer cells by affecting key oncogenic pathways. Results provide the rational for clinical testing of EGb761 in preventive and therapeutic strategies in human liver diseases.

Differential Modulation of Transcription Factors and Cytoskeletal Proteins in Prostate Carcinoma Cells by a Bacterial Lactone

The present study tested the effect of a bacterial lactone N-(3-oxododecanoyl)-homoserine lactone (C12-HSL) on the cytoskeletal and transcriptional genes and proteins in prostate adenocarcinoma (PA) cells (DU145 and LNCaP) and prostate small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (SCNC) PC3 cells including their cellular viability and apoptosis. Our data indicate that cell migration and colony formation were affected in the presence of C12-HSL. C12-HSL induced apoptosis and altered viability of both PA and SCNC cells in a concentration dependent manner as measured by fluorescence and chemiluminescence assays. Compared to PCa cells, noncancerous prostate epithelial cells (RWPE1) were resistant to modification by C12-HSL. Further, the viability of PC3 cells in 3D matrix was suppressed by C12-HSL treatment as detected using calcein AM fluorescence in situ. C12-HSL treatment induced cytoskeletal associated protein expression of vinculin and RhoC, which may have implications in cancer cell motility, adhesion, and metastasis. IQGAP protein expression was reduced in DU145 and RWPE1 cells in the presence of C12-HSL. C12-HSL decreased STAT3 phosphorylation in DU145 cells but increased STAT1 protein phosphorylation in PC3 and LNCaP cells. Overall, these studies indicate that C12-HSL can trigger changes in transcription factors and cytoskeletal proteins and thereby modulate growth and migration properties of PCa cells.

Integration of phytochemicals and phytotherapy into cancer precision medicine

Concepts of individualized therapy in the 1970s and 1980s attempted to develop predictive in vitro tests for individual drug responsiveness without reaching clinical routine. Precision medicine attempts to device novel individual cancer therapy strategies. Using bioinformatics, relevant knowledge is extracted from huge data amounts. However, tumor heterogeneity challenges chemotherapy due to genetically and phenotypically different cell subpopulations, which may lead to refractory tumors. Natural products always served as vital resources for cancer therapy (e.g., Vinca alkaloids, camptothecin, paclitaxel, etc.) and are also sources for novel drugs. Targeted drugs developed to specifically address tumor-related proteins represent the basis of precision medicine. Natural products from plants represent excellent resource for targeted therapies. Phytochemicals and herbal mixtures act multi-specifically, i.e. they attack multiple targets at the same time. Network pharmacology facilitates the identification of the complexity of pharmacogenomic networks and new signaling networks that are distorted in tumors. In the present review, we give a conceptual overview, how the problem of drug resistance may be approached by integrating phytochemicals and phytotherapy into academic western medicine. Modern technology platforms (e.g. “-omics” technologies, DNA/RNA sequencing, and network pharmacology) can be applied for diverse treatment modalities such as cytotoxic and targeted chemotherapy as well as phytochemicals and phytotherapy. Thereby, these technologies represent an integrative momentum to merge the best of two worlds: clinical oncology and traditional medicine. In conclusion, the integration of phytochemicals and phytotherapy into cancer precision medicine represents a valuable asset to chemically synthesized chemicals and therapeutic antibodies.

Ginkgetin inhibits proliferation of human leukemia cells via the TNF-α signaling pathway

Ginkgetin is known to be an anticancer agent in many studies. However, its effectiveness in treating chronic myeloid leukemia [corrected] remains unknown. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of ginkgetin on the growth of the K562 cell line. The MTT assay was employed to examine the proliferation of K562, and a terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining was conducted to detect the apoptotic rates. Furthermore, changes of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were detected by Western blot analysis. Ginkgetin inhibited the proliferation of K562 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Concentrations of ginkgetin required to induce 50% death of K562 at 24, 48 and 72 h were 38.9, 31.3 and 19.2 μM, respectively. Moreover, treatment of ginkgetin increased K562 apoptosis in vitro along with increased levels of TNF-α. Interestingly, anti-TNF-α antibody prevented ginkgetin-induced K562 cell apoptosis and growth inhibition via deactivation of caspase-8, caspase-9 and caspase-3. Concomitantly, downregulation of TNF-α by etanercept in vivo attenuated ginkgetin-induced inhibitory effects on the tumor growth in an xenograft mouse model. Our results indicate that ginkgetin effectively inhibits K562 cell proliferation, and TNF-α plays a key role in ginkgetin-induced cell apoptosis.

Ginkgetin induces autophagic cell death through p62/SQSTM1-mediated autolysosome formation and redox setting in non-small cell lung cancer

Promoting cell death by autophagy could be a novel treatment for cancer. The major player in autophagy, p62, serves as a good therapeutic target. Ginkgetin, a biflavonoid from Ginkgo biloba leaves, exhibited promising anticancer activity in non-small cell lung cancer cell lines, with an IC50 lower than that of cisplatin. This anticancer effect of ginkgetin was illustrated in a xenograft nude mouse model. Ginkgetin induced autophagic cell death in A549 cells, and this effect was markedly reversed by chemical and genetic approaches. Ginkgetin showed potential binding affinity to p62. Upregulation of p62 through chemical and genetic means decreased cell death, lysosome acidification, and autophagosome formation, which consequently disrupted autolysosome formation. In addition, the decreased autophagy induced by p62 overexpression increased Nrf2/ARE activity and the oxygen consumption rate and decreased on formation of reactive oxygen species. These phenomena were exhibited in a reciprocal manner when p62 was knocked down. Thus, p62 may be a potential target in ginkgetin-induced autophagic cell death, and ginkgetin could be developed as a novel anticancer drug.

Ginkgetin inhibits growth of breast carcinoma via regulating MAPKs pathway

The purpose of present study was to investigate anti-tumor activity of Ginkgetin (GK) and its mechanism of action in breast cancer. The effects of GK on growth of human breast cancer cell lines MDA-MB-231, BT-474 and MCF-7 were examined by MTT assay. Cells apoptosis in MCF-7 cells were analyzed by TUNEL staining and annexin-V and propidium iodide double staining. The effects of GK on expression of apoptotic associated proteins and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) were determined by western blotting. The results showed that GK significantly inhibited proliferation of MDA-MB-231, BT-474 and MCF-7 cells in vitro with time and dose dependent manners and induced apoptosis in MCF-7 cells. GK treatment obviously induced the tumor cells apoptosis and inhibited tumor growth in the MCF-7 xenograft nude mice. GK increased expression of Bax, cleaved-caspase-3, cleaved-caspase-8, cleaved-caspase-9, cleaved-PARP, and decreased the levels of Bcl-2 and survivin in MCF-7 cells. Moreover, GK treatment up-regulated expression of phospho extracellular-related kinase (p-ERK), p-p38 and phospho Jun-amino-terminal kinase (p-JNK) in MCF-7 cells in vitro, and increased numbers of p-p38, p-JNK and p-ERK positive cells in the tumor tissue in vivo. Strikingly, treatment of p38 inhibitor (or JNK inhibitor; ERK inhibitor) significantly prevented GK induced growth inhibition and apoptosis in MCF-7 cells. Collectively, our data exhibit GK exerts well anticancer effects in breast cancer cells, which at least in part, is via activation of the MAPKs. Our results provide a new approach for the treatment of breast cancer.

Ginkgetin induces G2-phase arrest in HCT116 colon cancer cells through the modulation of b‑Myb and miRNA34a expression

Ginkgetin has been reported to display antitumor activity. However, the relevant pathway integrating cell cycle regulation and signaling pathways involved in growth inhibition in CRC cells remains to be identified. In this study, ginkgetin-treated HCT116 CRC cells exhibited significant dose-dependent growth inhibition with a GI50 value of 4.0 µM for 48-h treatment, together with apoptosis, via G2-phase cell cycle arrest. When HCT116 cells were treated with 10 µM ginkgetin for 48 h, the percentage of cells in G2/M phase increased by 2.2-fold (43.25%) versus the untreated control (19.69%). Ginkgetin regulated the expression of genes that are critically involved in G2 phase arrest cells, such as b‑Myb, CDC2 and cyclin B1. Furthermore, we found that the suppression of b‑Myb expression by ginkgetin was rescued ~5.1-fold by treatment with a miR-34a inhibitor (500 nM) and b‑Myb was downregulated by >80% by 100 nM miR‑34a mimic. These data suggest that the miRNA34a/b‑Myb/cyclin B1 cascade plays a critical role in ginkgetin-induced G2 cell cycle arrest, as well as in the inhibition of HCT116 cell proliferation. Moreover, the administration of ginkgetin (10 mg/kg) reduced tumor volumes by 36.5% and tumor weight by 37.6% in the mice xenografted with HCT116 cells relative to their vehicle-treated counterparts. Therefore, ginkgetin is the first compound shown to regulate b‑Myb by modulating miR-34a, and we suggest the use of ginkgetin as an inducer of G2 arrest for the treatment of CRC.

Ginkgetin induces cell death in breast cancer cells via downregulation of the estrogen receptor

Ginkgetin is a natural biflavonoid isolated from the leaves of Ginkgo biloba, and is characterized by its anti-inflammatory and anti-viral activities. Although numerous studies state that it has also antitumor activity, the anti-proliferative effect of ginkgetin and the underlying mechanism in breast cancer cells have not yet been investigated. In the present study, ginkgetin inhibited the cell viability of MCF-7 and T-47D cells dose-dependently, and suppressed the expression of the estrogen receptor (ER) at the mRNA and protein levels. Among the targets of the ER, 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase 3 (PFKFB3), cyclin D1 and survivin were also downregulated by ginkgetin treatment. The anti-proliferative effects of ginkgetin were sufficient to suppress the growth by estradiol stimulation. However, ginkgetin did not significantly affect the viability of MDA-MB-231 cells, which are ER-negative cells. Furthermore, the knockdown of the ER and an inhibitor of PFKFB3 significantly sensitized MCF-7 and T-47D cells to ginkgetin. These findings suggest that ginkgetin induces cell death in ER-positive breast cancer cells via the inhibition of ER expression and that it is a promising agent for breast cancer treatment.

Ginkgetin induces apoptosis in 786-O cell line via suppression of JAK2-STAT3 pathway

OBJECTIVES

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is insensitive to conventional chemotherapy. Ginkgetin effectively treats several carcinoma cells. However, little is known about effects of Ginkgetin on RCC. In the present study, using 786-O cells, we evaluate whether Ginkgetin exerts anticancer effects against RCC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

786-O cells suspended in the medium containing Ginkgetin were cultured for 24 hr to 72 hr, and then MTT assay was used to study cytotoxic effect of Ginkgetin. Apoptosis in 786-O was measured by an FITC Annexin apoptosis detection kit. Protein expression was detected by Western blotting. 786-O cells with active Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)-Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) were prepared by stimulant of interleukin-6 (IL-6), whereas 786-O cells with deactivated STAT3 were produced by small interfering RNA (siRNA) STAT3.

RESULTS

Ginkgetin suppressed the growth of 786-O in dose and time-dependent manners with IC₅₀ values of 7.23 μM. Ginkgetin induced apoptosis of 786-O cells and increased the levels of caspase-8, caspase-9, and caspase-3. Additionally, Ginkgetin treated 786-O cells showed decreased levels of JAK2 and phosphorylated-STAT3 whether or not IL-6 was pretreated. Interestingly, pretreatment of siRNA STAT3 exerted inhibitory effects on the growth of 786-O cells, and the observation could be further reinforced after the Ginkgetin treatment.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate Ginkgetin possesses obvious inhibitory effects on the proliferation of 786-O, and this effect is probably due to its inhibition of JAK2/STAT3 pathway. Our findings imply Ginkgetin is a potential therapeutic medicine for RCC.

Ginkgetin Blocks Constitutive STAT3 Activation and Induces Apoptosis through Induction of SHP-1 and PTEN Tyrosine Phosphatases

Ginkgetin, a biflavone from Ginkgo biloba leaves, is known to exhibit antiinflammatory, antifungal, neuroprotective, and antitumor activities, but its precise mechanism of action has not been fully elucidated. Because the aberrant activation of STAT3 has been linked with regulation of inflammation, proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of tumors, we hypothesized that ginkgetin modulates the activation of STAT3 in tumor cells. We found that ginkgetin clearly suppressed constitutive phosphorylation of STAT3 through inhibition of the activation of upstream JAK1 and c-Src kinases and nuclear translocation of STAT3 on both A549 and FaDu cells. Treatment with sodium pervanadate reversed the ginkgetin-induced down-modulation of STAT3, thereby indicating a critical role for a PTP. We also found that ginkgetin strongly induced the expression of the SHP-1 and PTEN proteins and its mRNAs. Further, deletion of SHP-1 and PTEN genes by siRNA suppressed the induction of SHP-1 and PTEN, and reversed the inhibition of STAT3 activation. Ginkgetin induced apoptosis as characterized by an increased accumulation of cells in subG1 phase, positive Annexin V binding, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, down-regulation of STAT3-regulated gene products, and cleavage of PARP. Overall, ginkgetin abrogates STAT3 signaling pathway through induction of SHP-1 and PTEN proteins, thus attenuating STAT3 phosphorylation and tumorigenesis.

Inhibition of STAT3 reduces proliferation and invasion in salivary gland adenoid cystic carcinoma

In this study, we accessed the expression and correlation of p-STAT3 with Survivin, Cyclin D1, CD147, Slug and Ki67 by immunohistochemical staining of human tissue microarray which contains 72 adenoid cystic carcinoma (AdCC), 12 pleomorphic adenoma (PMA) and 18 normal salivary gland (NSG) using digital pathological scanner and scoring system. We found that the expression of p-STAT3, Survivin, Slug, Cyclin D1 and CD147 was significantly increased in AdCC as compared with PMA and (or) NSG (p<0.05). While, the level of p-STAT3 and expression of Cyclin D1 and CD147 was not associated with pathological type of human AdCC (p>0.05). Correlation analysis of these proteins revealed that p-STAT3 up-regulates the expression of Survivin, Slug, Cyclin D1 and CD147 (p<0.05). Moreover, the activation of STAT3 was associated with proliferation marker Ki-67 (p<0.05). Selective inhibition of STAT3 by a small molecule S3I-201 significantly reduced human SACC-83 and SACC-LM cells proliferation, migration and invasion with the corresponding decrease in expression of Survivin, Slug, Cyclin D1 and CD147. These findings indicate that high phosphorylation level of STAT3 in AdCC is related to Survivin, Slug, Cyclin D1 and CD147. We suggest that the inhibition of STAT3 may be a novel strategy for neoadjuvant chemotherapeutic treatment of AdCC.