Thymoquinone attenuates phosphorylation of AKT to inhibit kidney cancer cell proliferation

Thymoquinone: An Effective Natural Compound for Kidney Protection

Kidney disease is a common health problem worldwide. Acute or chronic injuries may interfere with kidney functions, eventually resulting in irreversible kidney damage. A number of recent studies have shown that the plant-derived natural products have an extensive potential for renal protection. Thymoquinone (TQ) is an essential compound derived from Nigella Sativa (NS), which is widely applied in the Middle East as a folk medicine. Previous experiments have demonstrated that TQ has a variety of potential pharmacological effects, including anti-oxidant, antibacterial, antitumor, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective activities. In particular, the prominent renal protective efficacy of TQ has been demonstrated in both in vivo and in vitro experiments. TQ can prevent acute kidney injuries from various xenobiotics through anti-oxidation, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptosis effects. In addition, TQ exhibited significant pharmacological effects on renal cell carcinoma, renal fibrosis, and urinary calculi. The essential mechanisms involve scavenging ROS and increasing anti-oxidant activity, decreasing inflammatory mediators, inducing apoptosis, and inhibiting migration and invasion. The purpose of this review is to conclude the pharmacological effects and the potential mechanisms of TQ in renal protection, shedding new light on the exploration of medicinal phyto-protective agents targeting kidneys.

High-throughput screening and in vitro evaluation of CSB-0914; a novel small molecule NF-κB inhibitor attenuating inflammatory responses through NF-κB, Nrf2 and HO-1 cross-talk

Unpleasant side effects of standard inflammatory drugs urges search for novel therapeutic candidates. This study aims in identifying novel anti-inflammatory NF-κB inhibitor by high-throughput computational and in-vitro pre-clinical approaches. Lead candidate selection was conducted by the use of computational docking molecular-dynamic simulations. The RBL-2H3 cell line, derived from rat basophils, was used to evaluate the release of cytokines and degranulation. The study focused on the study of neutrophil elastase and its role in cellular motility. Flow cytometry was utilized to evaluate the activation of basophils and the expression of critical signaling proteins. High throughput screening identified CSB-0914 to stably bind NF-κB-p50 subunit. Dose based loss in T NF-α and IL-2 release were observed in RBL-2H3 cells in addition to degranulation inhibition by CSB-0914. The compound demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing basophil activation assay induced by FcεRI receptors, with an IC50 value of 98.41 nM.. A dose dependent decrease in neutrophil migration and elastase were observed when treated with CSB- 0914. The compound was effective in decreasing. Upon stimulation, RBL-2H3 cells exhibited phosphorylation of NF-κB p-65 as well as upregulation of the Nrf2 and HO-1 signaling pathways. Collectively, our study has successfully identified a novel inhibitor called CSB-0914 that effectively regulates inflammatory responses. These reactions are primarily mediated by the interplay between NF-κB, Nrf2, and HO-1. The findings of this study provide support for the need to conduct more research on CSB-0914 with the aim of its development as a pharmaceutical agent for anti-inflammatory purposes.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Natural Compounds Derived from Plants on Prevention and Treatment of Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Literature Review

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) accounts for roughly 85% of all malignant kidney cancer. Therapeutic options for RCC have expanded rapidly over the past decade. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy have ushered in a new era of the treatment of RCC, which has facilitated the outcomes of RCC. However, the related adverse effects and drug resistance remain an urgent issue. Natural compounds are optional strategies to reduce mobility. Natural compounds are favored by clinicians and researchers due to their good tolerance and low economic burden. Many studies have explored the anti-RCC activity of natural products and revealed relevant mechanisms. In this article, the chemoprevention and therapeutic potential of natural compounds is reviewed and the mechanisms regarding natural compounds are explored.

Effects of Sorafenib and Quercetin Alone or in Combination in Treating Hepatocellular Carcinoma: In Vitro and In Vivo Approaches

Sorafenib is the first drug approved to treat advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and continues as the gold-standard therapy against HCC. However, acquired drug resistance represents a main concern about sorafenib therapy. The flavanol quercetin found in plants has shown great anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. In this work, quercetin was used as a therapeutic agent alone or in combination with a sorafenib chemotherapy drug to improve the routine HCC treatment with sorafenib. The in vitro and in vivo results presented here confirm that quercetin alone or in combination with sorafenib significantly inhibited HCC growth, induced cell cycle arrest and induced apoptosis and necrosis. Further molecular data shown in this report demonstrate that quercetin alone or combined with sorafenib downregulated key inflammatory, proliferative and angiogenesis-related genes (TNF-α, VEGF, P53 and NF-κB). Combined quercetin/sorafenib treatment markedly improved the morphology of the induced liver damage and showed significant antioxidant and anti-tumor effects. The advantage of combined treatment efficacy reported here can be attributed to quercetin's prominent effects in modulating cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, oxidative stress and inflammation.

Chemopreventive Efficacy of Thymoquinone in Chemically Induced Urinary Bladder Carcinogenesis in Rat

The effects of thymoquinone (TQ) in a carcinogen-based models of urinary bladder cancer were evaluated, using 45 male rats in five groups. In negative control ( $n=10$ ), only tap water was given. In positive control ( $n=10$ ), the rats received 0.05% N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl)-nitrosamine (BBN) in drinking water for 9 weeks. In preventive groups with 25 mg/kg ( $n=10$ ) and 50 mg/kg ( $n=10$ ), oral TQ was concurrently given with 0.05% BBN for 9 weeks and continued for one more week after cessation of BBN. Preventive-treatment group ( $n=5$ ) received 50 mg/kg TQ orally for 20 weeks. Five rats from each group were sequentially sacrificed in two phases: the induction phase at 12th week (except the last group) and the rest in postinduction phase at 20th week. The bladders were examined macroscopically for lesion formation, and the masses were submitted for histopathological evaluation. Markers for total oxidant status (TOS), inflammation (nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB)), and angiogenesis (vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)) were also assessed. There was a reduced number of bladder lesions in the TQ groups versus the carcinogen group at both phases. Histopathological findings demonstrated a significant improvement in the abnormal morphological changes in the urothelium of the TQ-treated groups. Thymoquinone exerted a significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect by a decrease in serum level of TOS and NF-κB at week 12 which was maintained low in phase two at week 20. The serum level of VEGF was also alleviated in the induction phase at week 12 and maintained low in postinduction period. In TQ preventive-treatment approach, a nonsignificant elevation of serum level of TOS and NF-κB and slight reduction in VEGF were observed at the end of the experiment. These data suggest that TQ may be effective in preventing bladder carcinogenesis, and the suggested mechanisms might be related to antioxidant, prooxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties of TQ.

Therapeutic Effects of Crocin Alone or in Combination with Sorafenib against Hepatocellular Carcinoma: In Vivo & In Vitro Insights

This study investigated the therapeutic effects of the phytochemical crocin alone or in combination with sorafenib both in rats chemically induced with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and in human liver cancer cell line (HepG2). Male rats were randomly divided into five groups, namely, control group, HCC induced group, and groups treated with sorafenib, crocin or both crocin and sorafenib. HCC was induced in rats with a single intraperitoneal injection of diethylnitrosamine (DEN), then 2-acetylaminofluorene (2-AAF). The HCC-induced rats showed a significant decrease in body weight compared to animals treated with either or both examined drugs. Serum inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein (CRP); interleukin-6 (IL-6); lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and oxidative stress markers were significantly increased in the HCC group and were restored upon treatment with either or both of therapeutic molecules. Morphologically, the HCC-induced rats manifested most histopathological features of liver cancer. Treatment with either or both of crocin and sorafenib successfully restored normal liver architecture. The expression of key genes involved in carcinogenesis (TNFα, p53, VEGF and NF-κB) was highly augmented upon HCC induction and was attenuated post-treatment with either or both examined drugs. Treatment with both crocin and sorafenib improved the histopathological and inflammation parameters as compared to single treatments. The in vivo anti-cancer effects of crocin and/or sorafenib were supported by their respective cytotoxicity on HepG2 cells. Crocin and sorafenib displayed an anti-tumor synergetic effect on HepG2 cells. The present findings demonstrated that a treatment regimen with crocin and sorafenib reduced liver toxicity, impeded HCC development, and improved the liver functions.

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.

FNF-12, a novel benzylidene-chromanone derivative, attenuates inflammatory response in in vitro and in vivo asthma models mediated by M2-related Th2 cytokines via MAPK and NF-kB signaling

BACKGROUND AND AIM

This study evaluates a novel benzylidene-chromanone derivative, FNF-12, for efficacy in in vitro and in vivo asthma models.

METHODS

Rat basophilic leukemia (RBL-2H3) and acute monocytic leukemia (THP-1)-derived M2 macrophages were used. Human whole blood-derived neutrophils and basophils were employed. Flow cytometry was used for studying key signalling proteins. Platelet activation factor (PAF)-induced asthma model in guinea pigs was used for in vivo studies.

RESULTS

The chemical structure of FNF-12 was confirmed with proton-nuclear mass resonance (NMR) and mass spectroscopy. FNF-12 controlled degranulation in RBL-2H3 cells with an IC₅₀ value of 123.7 nM and inhibited TNF-α release from these cells in a dose-responsive way. The compound effectively controlled the migration and elastase release in activated neutrophils. IC₅₀ value in the FcεRI-basophil activation assay was found to be 205 nM. FNF-12 controlled the release of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced interleukin-10, I-309/CCL1 and MDC/CCL22 in THP-1 derived M2 macrophages. The compound suppressed LPS-induced mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK)-p-p38 and nuclear factor kappa B(NF-kB)-p-p65 expression in these cells. A dose-dependent decrease in the accumulation of total leucocytes, eosinophils, neutrophils and macrophages was observed in PAF-induced animal models.

CONCLUSION

FNF-12 was able to control the inflammatory responses in in vitro and in vivo asthma models, which may be driven by controlling M2-related Th2 cytokines via MAPK and NF-kB signaling.

Protective Effects of Black Cumin (Nigella sativa) and Its Bioactive Constituent, Thymoquinone against Kidney Injury: An Aspect on Pharmacological Insights

The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasing worldwide, and a close association between acute kidney injury (AKI) and CKD has recently been identified. Black cumin (Nigella sativa) has been shown to be effective in treating various kidney diseases. Accumulating evidence shows that black cumin and its vital compound, thymoquinone (TQ), can protect against kidney injury caused by various xenobiotics, namely chemotherapeutic agents, heavy metals, pesticides, and other environmental chemicals. Black cumin can also protect the kidneys from ischemic shock. The mechanisms underlying the kidney protective potential of black cumin and TQ include antioxidation, anti-inflammation, anti-apoptosis, and antifibrosis which are manifested in their regulatory role in the antioxidant defense system, NF-κB signaling, caspase pathways, and TGF-β signaling. In clinical trials, black seed oil was shown to normalize blood and urine parameters and improve disease outcomes in advanced CKD patients. While black cumin and its products have shown promising kidney protective effects, information on nanoparticle-guided targeted delivery into kidney is still lacking. Moreover, the clinical evidence on this natural product is not sufficient to recommend it to CKD patients. This review provides insightful information on the pharmacological benefits of black cumin and TQ against kidney damage.

Synergistic efficacies of thymoquinone and standard antibiotics against multi-drug resistant isolates

Objectives:

To explore the antibacterial activity of thymoquinone (TQ), a quinone extracted from Nigella sativa.

Methods:

This study was conducted from May 2019 to March 2020 at the Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia. The antimicrobial activity, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of TQ were determined using an agar well diffusion method and broth microdilution assays, and the synergistic effect was evaluated using antibiotics in parallel. The disruptive effect of TQ on bacterial cell membranes was determined using scanning electron microscopy. The antivirulence properties of TQ, which include adherence and biofilm formation, were also investigated using adherence and biofilm formation assays, respectively.

Results:

Thymoquinone demonstrated bactericidal efficacy against 4/14 bacterial strains, with MIC range of 1.04-8.3 µg/mL and and MBC range of 10.41–66.66 µg/mL. Thymoquinone showed synergism against Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus epidermidis (American Type Culture Collection 12228), Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus epidermidis in combination with the tested antibiotics. Thymoquinone inhibited bacterial adhesion by 39%-54%, 48%-68%, and 61%-81% at 0.5 × MIC, 1 × MIC, and 2 × MIC, respectively. The tested bacterial strains significantly inhibited biofilm formation after treatment with various concentrations of TQ for 24 and 48 hours.

Conclusion:

The combinatory effect of TQ with antimicrobials should be considered when developing new antimicrobial therapy regimens to overcome multidrug-resistant.

Targeting PRAS40: a novel therapeutic strategy for human diseases

Proline-rich Akt substrate of 40 kD (PRAS40) is not only the substrate of protein kinase B (PKB/Akt), but also the binding protein of 14-3-3 protein. PRAS40 is expressed in a variety of tissues in vivo and has multiple phosphorylation sites, which its activity is closely related to phosphorylation. Studies have shown that PRAS40 is involved in regulating cell growth, cell apoptosis, oxidative stress, autophagy and angiogenesis, as well as various of signalling pathways such as mammalian target of mammalian target rapamycin (mTOR), protein kinase B (PKB/Akt), nuclear factor kappa-B(NF-κB), proto-oncogene serine/threonine-protein kinase PIM-1(PIM1) and pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2). The interactive roles between PRAS40 and these signal proteins were analysed by bioinformatics in this paper. Moreover, it is of great necessity for analyse the important roles of PRAS40 in some human diseases including cardiovascular disease, ischaemia-reperfusion injury, neurodegenerative disease, cancer, diabetes and other metabolic diseases. Finally, the effects of miRNA on the regulation of PRAS40 function and the occurrence and development of PRAS40-related diseases are also discussed. Overall, PRAS40 is expected to be a drug target and provide a new treatment strategy for human diseases.

Biological Role of AKT and Regulation of AKT Signaling Pathway by Thymoquinone: Perspectives in Cancer Therapeutics

BACKGROUND

AKT/PKB is an important enzyme with numerous biological functions, and its overexpression is related to carcinogenesis. AKT stimulates different signaling pathways that are downstream of activated tyrosine kinases and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, hence functions as an important target for anti-cancer drugs.

OBJECTIVE

In this review article, we have interpreted the role of AKT signaling pathway in cancer and the natural inhibitory effect of Thymoquinone (TQ) in AKT and its possible mechanisms.

METHOD

We have collected the updated information and data on AKT, its role in cancer and the inhibitory effect of TQ in AKT signaling pathway from Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, Elsevier, Scopus, and many more.

RESULTS

Many drugs are already developed, which can target AKT, but very few among them have passed clinical trials. TQ is a natural compound, mainly found in black cumin, which has been found to have potential anti-cancer activities. TQ targets numerous signaling pathways, including AKT, in different cancers. In fact, many studies revealed that AKT is one of the major targets of TQ. The preclinical success of TQ suggests its clinical studies on cancer.

CONCLUSION

This review article summarizes the role of AKT in carcinogenesis, its potent inhibitors in clinical trials, and how TQ acts as an inhibitor of AKT and TQ's future as a cancer therapeutic drug.

Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.): A Comprehensive Review on Phytochemistry, Health Benefits, Molecular Pharmacology, and Safety

Mounting evidence support the potential benefits of functional foods or nutraceuticals for human health and diseases. Black cumin (Nigella sativa L.), a highly valued nutraceutical herb with a wide array of health benefits, has attracted growing interest from health-conscious individuals, the scientific community, and pharmaceutical industries. The pleiotropic pharmacological effects of black cumin, and its main bioactive component thymoquinone (TQ), have been manifested by their ability to attenuate oxidative stress and inflammation, and to promote immunity, cell survival, and energy metabolism, which underlie diverse health benefits, including protection against metabolic, cardiovascular, digestive, hepatic, renal, respiratory, reproductive, and neurological disorders, cancer, and so on. Furthermore, black cumin acts as an antidote, mitigating various toxicities and drug-induced side effects. Despite significant advances in pharmacological benefits, this miracle herb and its active components are still far from their clinical application. This review begins with highlighting the research trends in black cumin and revisiting phytochemical profiles. Subsequently, pharmacological attributes and health benefits of black cumin and TQ are critically reviewed. We overview molecular pharmacology to gain insight into the underlying mechanism of health benefits. Issues related to pharmacokinetic herb-drug interactions, drug delivery, and safety are also addressed. Identifying knowledge gaps, our current effort will direct future research to advance potential applications of black cumin and TQ in health and diseases.

Recent Findings on Thymoquinone and Its Applications as a Nanocarrier for the Treatment of Cancer and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Cancer causes a considerable amount of mortality in the world, while arthritis is an immunological dysregulation with multifactorial pathogenesis including genetic and environmental defects. Both conditions have inflammation as a part of their pathogenesis. Resistance to anticancer and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) happens frequently through the generation of energy-dependent transporters, which lead to the expulsion of cellular drug contents. Thymoquinone (TQ) is a bioactive molecule with anticancer as well as anti-inflammatory activities via the downregulation of several chemokines and cytokines. Nevertheless, the pharmacological importance and therapeutic feasibility of thymoquinone are underutilized due to intrinsic pharmacokinetics, including short half-life, inadequate biological stability, poor aqueous solubility, and low bioavailability. Owing to these pharmacokinetic limitations of TQ, nanoformulations have gained remarkable attention in recent years. Therefore, this compilation intends to critically analyze recent advancements in rheumatoid arthritis and cancer delivery of TQ. This literature search revealed that nanocarriers exhibit potential results in achieving targetability, maximizing drug internalization, as well as enhancing the anti-inflammatory and anticancer efficacy of TQ. Additionally, TQ-NPs (thymoquinone nanoparticles) as a therapeutic payload modulated autophagy as well as enhanced the potential of other drugs when given in combination. Moreover, nanoformulations improved pharmacokinetics, drug deposition, using EPR (enhanced permeability and retention) and receptor-mediated delivery, and enhanced anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. TQ's potential to reduce metal toxicity, its clinical trials and patents have also been discussed.

Thymoquinone: A Tie-Breaker in SARS-CoV2-Infected Cancer Patients?

Since the beginning of the SARS-CoV-2(severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2) pandemic, arace to develop a vaccine has been initiated, considering the massive and rather significant economic and healthcare hits that this virus has caused. The pathophysiology occurring following COVID-19(coronavirus disease-2019) infection has givenhints regarding the supportive and symptomatic treatments to establish for patients, as no specific anti-SARS-CoV-2 is available yet. Patient symptoms vary greatly and range from mild symptoms to severe fatal complications. Supportive treatments include antipyretics, antiviral therapies, different combinations of broad-spectrum antibiotics, hydroxychloroquine and plasma transfusion. Unfortunately, cancer patients are at higher risk of viral infection and more likely to develop serious complications due to their immunocompromised state, the fact that they are already administering multiple medications, as well as combined comorbidity compared to the general population. It may seem impossible to find a drug that possesses both potent antiviral and anticancer effects specifically against COVID-19 infection and its complications and the existing malignancy, respectively. Thymoquinone (TQ) is the most pharmacologically active ingredient in Nigella sativa seeds (black seeds); it is reported to have anticancer, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in various settings. In this review, we will discuss the multiple effects of TQ specifically against COVID-19, its beneficial effects against COVID-19 pathophysiology and multiple-organ complications, its use as an adjuvant for supportive COVID-19 therapy and cancer therapy, and finally, its anticancer effects.

Thymoquinone inhibits IL-7-induced tumor progression and metastatic invasion in prostate cancer cells by attenuating matrix metalloproteinase activity and Akt/NF-κB signaling

Interleukin (IL)-7 acts via the IL-7 receptor in metastatic tumor progression in prostate cancer (PC). The current study aimed to evaluate thymoquinone (Tq), an active constituent from Nigella sativa against IL-7-driven tumor progression and metastatic invasion in PC cells. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to assess the proliferation of PC cells. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to detect the expression of IL-7 and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Tumor-cell transendothelial, scratch wound and cell scatter assays were performed to mimic metastasis. Western immunoblotting was used to measure the level of proteins. Tq effectively controlled the proliferation of DU-145, PC-3, and LNCaP cells with GI₅₀ of 10.18, 12.40, and 16.78 µM, respectively. IL-7 and IL-7R were natively expressed in all PC types, while maximal expression was detected in DU-145. IL-7 promoted metastatic events, such as transendothelial migration, cell scatter, and cell invasion of DU-145 cells in a dose-dependent manner that was inhibited by Tq. Furthermore, Tq also downregulated p-Akt and NF-κB in DU-145 cells induced by IL-7 antibody and reduced the levels of MMP-3 and MMP-7 in these cells in a dose-dependent manner. Collectively, Tq has excellent efficacy in controlling tumor progression, migration, and invasion of DU-145 cells that were driven by the activation of MMPs through IL-7/Akt/NF-κB signaling.

Chemopreventive and Anticancer Effects of Thymoquinone: Cellular and Molecular Targets

Thymoquinone (TQ) is a bioactive component derived from the seeds of Nigella sativa that are commonly as black cumin. Evidences indicate that the medicinal properties of TQ have been recognized for more than 2000 years. TQ has been shown to possess potent chemopreventive properties that include anti-inflammatory and anti-neoplastic activities. Recent studies have unraveled the multiple mechanisms through which TQ exerts its chemopreventive and anticancer activity in different cancer cells in a contextual manner. The present review aims to provide a brief compendium on the molecular mechanisms through which TQ inhibits signaling pathways underlying cancer genesis, progression, and metastasis.

Secondary Metabolites of Saussurea costus Leaf Extract Induce Apoptosis in Breast, Liver, and Colon Cancer Cells by Caspase-3-Dependent Intrinsic Pathway

Background

Apoptosis, a major form of programmed cell death, plays a vital role in regulating tissue development and maintenance of homeostasis in eukaryotes. Apoptosis can occur via a death receptor-dependent extrinsic or a mitochondrial-dependent intrinsic pathway and can be induced by various chemotherapeutic agents. In this study, the anticancer activity of Saussurea costus and its mode of intervention in human cancer cells of breast, colon, and liver were investigated.

Results

In this study, the bioactives of S. costus leaves were extensively extracted in five solvents of different polarity. The cytotoxicity and anticancer effect of the extracted secondary metabolites were investigated against breast (MCF-7), liver (HepG2), and colon (HCT116) cancer cell lines using a Sulphorhodamine B (SRB) assay. Secondary metabolites extracted using hexane, methanol, ethyl acetate, and chloroform had the highest cytotoxicity and thus the greatest anticancer effect on all the cancer cell lines tested (IC₅₀; ranging from 0.25 to 2.5 μg/ml), while butanol was comparatively less active (IC₅₀; ranging from 23.2 to 25.5 μg/ml). Further investigation using DNA flow cytometry and fluorescent microscopy revealed that the extract arrested the cells in the G₁ phase of cell cycle and induced apoptosis. Furthermore, the elevated expression level of proapoptotic proteins and decreased expression level of antiapoptotic proteins confirmed that the intrinsic (mitochondrial) pathway was involved in mediating the apoptosis of cancer cells upon treatment with S. costus extract. These results altogether suggest that S. costus could be a potential anticancer agent.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the S. costus extract is the potential source of the secondary metabolites that could be used as anticancer agent to treat diverse cancers of breast, colon, and liver.

Thymoquinone (Tq) protects necroptosis induced by autophagy/mitophagy-dependent oxidative stress in human bronchial epithelial cells exposed to cigarette smoke extract (CSE)

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by cigarette smoke-induced emphysema. Herein, we demonstrate protective effects of Thymoquinone (Tq), an active constituent from Nigella sativa, against cigarette smoke extract (CSE)-induced abnormalities in bronchial epithelial cells. Dose-dependent reduction in cell viability was observed in BEAS-2B cells when exposed to different CSE concentrations, which was significantly reversed by Tq evident by LDH release. Levels of SOD, CAT, G_R , GSH, and mitochondrial membrane ATPases were significantly reduced upon CSE exposure, an event, again, antagonized in presence of Tq. Similarly, Tq treatment significantly blocked CSE-induced 4HNE elevations. Further, Tq-improved mitochondrial dysfunction caused by CSE and significantly decreased autophagy/mitophagy markers like LC3II and p-Drp. Tq also reduced necroptosis markers such as p-MLKL, RIP-1, and RIP-3, by stabilizing PINK-1 levels. In summary, Tq possesses protective properties against human bronchial epithelial cell autophagy/mitophagy-dependent necroptosis caused by CSE, which warrants considerable attention for further preclinical evaluations. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: This study demonstrates Thymoquinone (Tq), a natural plant extract to possess protective properties against human bronchial epithelial cell autophagy/mitophagy-dependent necroptosis caused by cigarette smoke extract. The demonstrated efficacy of Tq will throw light for further preclinical evaluation of this molecule in CSE-mediated complications. A detailed in vivo research is recommended.

Indirubin-3-monoxime and thymoquinone exhibit synergistic efficacy as therapeutic combination in in-vitro and in-vivo models of Lung cancer

In this study, we report the combination of indirubin-3-monoxime (I3M) and thymoquinone (Tq) to have excellent therapeutic efficacy in models of Lung cancer (LC). Preliminary screening was done with A549 cells. Cell cycle, apoptosis and NFκB phosphorylation were determined by flow cytometry, while apoptotic proteins, Akt and mTOR were assessed by western blotting. Mouse xenograft model was used to assess the therapeutic efficacy in-vivo. Synergistic reduction in cell viability was observed with I3M + Tq combinations, which were non-toxic to normal HFL-1 cells. Cell cycle analysis indicated G₁ phase reduction with subsequent accumulation of sub G₀ contents. Annexin V assay revealed higher apoptotic cells with combinations compared to individual treatments with a decrease in Bcl-2/Bax ratio. The combinations exhibited anti-metastasis activity in cell migration in the scratch, scatter and tumour cell migration assays and effectively reduced the tumour growth in mouse xenograft model. Expression levels of p-AKT, p-mTOR, Caspase-3, p-53 and NFκB were significantly reduced in the combination treated mice compared to individual treatments. Results of current study demonstrate clear efficacy of I3M + Tq combinations in LC models mediated by suppressing Akt/mTOR/NFκB signalling. Further research is recommended to transform these findings into novel therapeutic combinations against LC.

Thymus vulgaris Attenuates Myleran-induced Reproductive Damage by Decreasing Oxidative Stress and Lipid Peroxidation in Male Rats

Context:

Thymus vulgaris is an herbal with potent antioxidant and it has been shown to have beneficial effects during short-term administration. Myleran (MYL) is used for treatment of certain types of tumors. MYL produces free radicals and induces disturbance in sperm parameters.

Aims:

This study is designed to assess the effects of T. vulgaris against damage to the male rats' reproductive features induced by MYL.

Subjects and Methods:

Sixty-four male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into eight groups: control group; MYL (10 mg/kg) group; T. vulgaris groups (4.5, 9, and 18 mg/kg); and MYL (10 mg/kg) + T. vulgaris groups (4.5, 9, and 18 mg/kg; separately). Treatments were administered daily intraperitoneal injection for 60 days. Total antioxidant capacity, sperm factors, malondialdehyde (MDA), testosterone, and germinal layer height were analyzed.

Results:

Whole variables of MYL group decreased signifcantly compared to the control group (P < 0.05) except MDA level (which increased). The T. vulgaris and T. vulgaris + MYL treatments in all doses increased all parameters significantly except MDA level (which decreased) compared to the MYL group (P < 0.05). No significant modifications were observed in all T. vulgaris groups compared to the control group (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:

T. vulgaris reduces the poisonous properties of MYL on male reproductive factors.

Thymoquinone attenuates IgE-mediated allergic response via pi3k-Akt-NFκB pathway and upregulation of the Nrf2-HO1 axis

IgE-dependent reactions mediate the majority of allergic diseases. This study explores the effects of thymoquinone (Tq) on IgE-mediated allergic response in activated mast cells, basophils, and neutrophils. Tq treatment resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in levels of TNF-α and IL-4 in activated RBL-2H3 cells. Tq inhibited the degranulation of these cells with an IC₅₀ value of 56.37 µM. Moreover, the compound suppressed basophil activation induced through FcεRI receptors with an IC₅₀ value of 45.76 µM in heparinized human whole blood. Likewise, neutrophil migration and elastase activity were dose-dependently reduced. While Tq decreased the phosphorylation of Akt and NFκB in activated RBL-2H3 cells, it increased nuclear Nrf2 and HO-1 antioxidant proteins. Our results indicate that Tq possesses demonstrable activity in cellular models of IgE-mediated allergic reactions. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The current study sheds light on the mechanistic pathways of Tq on IgE-based response in activated mast cells, basophils, and neutrophils. The output of this preclinical in vitro study may be translated into better chemotherapeutic applications of Tq and its analogs in the treatment of allergic inflammation. However, a detailed investigation of in vivo models is recommended.

Thymoquinone induces apoptosis of human renal carcinoma Caki-1 cells by inhibiting JAK2/STAT3 through pro-oxidant effect

Currently, there are limited effective treatment options for renal cell carcinoma (RCC), due to its poor responses to conventional therapies. Instead of using extrinsic anti-cancer drugs, cancer cell-intrinsic reactive oxygen species (ROS) can be a weapon of RCC treatment. In the present study, we found that the phytochemical thymoquinone (TQ), a bioactive natural product obtained from the black cumin seeds of Nigella sativa, generates intracellular ROS in human renal cancer Caki-1 cells. Treatment of Caki-1 cells with high concentration of TQ up-regulated pro-apoptotic p53 and Bax expression, while downregulated anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl expression. Simultaneously, TQ suppressed the pro-oncogenic JAK2/STAT3 pathway, resulting in decreased expression of Bcl-2, Bcl-xl, cyclin D1, cyclin D2, and survivin. Thus, TQ can integrate between apoptosis and the pro-survival JAK2/STAT3 pathway through the Bcl family members, collectively magnifying Caki-1 cell apoptosis. However, treatment with the ROS scavenger N-acetyl cysteine significantly blocked TQ-induced apoptosis as well as incorporated signaling pathways, supporting that its pro-oxidant property is crucial for Caki-1 cell apoptosis. Moreover, TQ reduced the tumor xenograft growth of Caki-1 cells in nude mice. Taken together, these data suggest that TQ is a prominent anti-cancer drug to treat human RCC by enhancing apoptosis through its pro-oxidant nature.

Thymoquinone attenuates oxidative stress of kidney mitochondria and exerts nephroprotective effects in oxonic acid-induced hyperuricemia rats

BACKGROUND

Recent studies indicate hyperuricemia as an aggravating factor for kidney diseases progression. Basic research for novel agents to reduce hyperuricemia and kidney abnormalities will be highly rewarding. Herein, we report Thymoquinone (Tq) as an active constituent of Nigella sativa to have renal protective effective against oxonic acid (OA)-induced hyperuricemia, hypertension, and renal oxidative stress in rat models.

METHODS

OA 750 mg/kg BW for 12 weeks was used to induce uricemia in Sprague dawley rats. Tq at 10 and 20 mg/kg BW were administered along with OA for treatment groups. Plasma uric acid concentration and systolic blood pressure were measured. Oxidative stress markers, total ATP content, and membrane bound ATPases were measured in renal mitochondria. Anti-oxidant enzymes were analyzed in the renal tissues. Apoptosis in renal tissue was detected. Key signaling proteins for apoptosis, oxidative stress, and lipid oxidation pathways were determined.

RESULTS

OA induced both circulating uric acid levels and hypertension in the control group which was brought down on Tq treatments. Tq effectively prevented accumulation of uric acid and oxidative stress in the renal tissues. Tq also proved to increase the total ATP content of the renal mitochondria and prevented the apoptosis induced by OA. Tq increased the expressions of phosphorylated Akt, Nrf2, and HO-1 proteins while decreasing the levels of cleaved caspase-3 in renal cells.

CONCLUSION

In summary, Tq exhibited protective effects on hyperuricemia-mediated renal oxidative stress and mitochondrial abnormalities which could be mediated by Nrf2/HO-1, Akt signaling pathways.

Thymoquinone and curcumin combination protects cisplatin-induced kidney injury, nephrotoxicity by attenuating NFκB, KIM-1 and ameliorating Nrf2/HO-1 signalling

This study evaluates the protective effects of Thymoquinone (Tq) and Curcumin (Cur) in models of cisplatin-induced renal toxicity. Proliferation studies were carried out in HEK-293 cells. Cisplatin(ip) 5 mg/kg BW was used to induce renal injury in Sprague-Dawley rats. 50 mg/kg BW Tq + 100 mg/kg BW Cur, with or without cisplatin-treatment were administered for 5 days. Tq + Cur combination synergistically reduced the proliferation inhibition of HEK-293 cells resulted from cisplatin treatment and brought down cisplatin-induced apoptosis in these cells. In vitro studies revealed serum levels of BUN, creatinine, CK and pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α, IL-6 and MRP-1 to be elevated in the cisplatin-treated group while reducing glomerular filtration rate. Tq + Cur treatment significantly improved these conditions. The antioxidant enzyme levels and mitochondrial ATPases were restored upon treatment, which were lessened in the cisplatin-treated group. Cisplatin induced the expression of KIM-1, which was brought down by the combination treatment. Tq + Cur treatment increased the expressions of phosphorylated Akt, Nrf2 and HO-1 proteins while decreasing the levels of cleaved caspase 3 and NFκB in kidney homogenates. In summary, Tq + Cur had protective effects on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and renal injury, which could be mediated by up-regulation of survival signals like Akt, Nrf2/HO-1 and attenuation of KIM-1, NFκB.