Proteolytic activities that mediate apoptosis

Niosomes loading N-acetyl-L-cysteine for cancer treatment in vivo study

Scientists are seeking to find an effective treatment for tumors that has no side effects. N-Acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) is a thiol compound extracted from garlic. Current study explores the potential of NAC-loaded niosomes (NAC-NIO) for tumor treatment in mice. NAC-loaded niosomes' efficiency, morphology, UV absorption, size distribution, zeta potential, release, and FTIR analysis were evaluated. For vivo study, 25 male BALB/c mice were divided to five groups: gp1 negative control (receive saline), gp2 positive control (tumor group), gp3 treated with NAC, gp4 treated with NAC-NIO at the same time of tumor injection, and gp5 treated with NAC-NIO after tumor growth (day 14). The impact of NAC-NIO on the tumor treatment was evaluated by measuring tumor size progress, comet assay, oxidative stress parameters (GSH, nitric oxide, MDA), western blot analysis, and histopathological investigation of tissues. NAC-NIO showed 72 ± 3% encapsulation efficiency and zeta potential - 5.95 mV with spherical shape. It was found that oral administration of NAC-NIO in a dose of 50 mg/kg provided significant protection against tumor cells. Our formulation decreases DNA injury significantly (P < 0.05). It was noticed that NAC-NIO can increase oxidative stress levels in tumor tissue. On the other hand, the caspase 3 and caspase 9 gene expression were upregulated significantly (P < 0.001) in mice administrated NAC-NIO compared with all other groups. Histological studies confirmed the protective effect of NAC-NIO against tumor especially for treatment during tumor growth protocol. The results suggested that oral delivery of NAC-NIO formulation improved antioxidant effect.

Strophanthidin Induces Apoptosis of Human Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells by Promoting TRAIL-DR5 Signaling

Strophanthidin (SPTD), one of the cardiac glycosides, is refined from traditional Chinese medicines such as Semen Lepidii and Antiaris toxicaria, and was initially used for the treatment of heart failure disease in clinic. Recently, SPTD has been shown to be a potential anticancer agent, but the underlying mechanism of action is poorly understood. Herein, we explored the molecular mechanism by which SPTD exerts anticancer effects in A549 human lung adenocarcinoma cells by means of mass spectrometry-based quantitative proteomics in combination with bioinformatics analysis. We revealed that SPTD promoted the expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand receptor 2 (TRAIL-R2, or DR5) in A549 cells to activate caspase 3/6/8, in particular caspase 3. Consequently, the activated caspases elevated the expression level of apoptotic chromatin condensation inducer in the nucleus (ACIN1) and prelamin-A/C (LMNA), ultimately inducing apoptosis via cooperation with the SPTD-induced overexpressed barrier-to-autointegration factor 1 (Banf1). Moreover, the SPTD-induced DEPs interacted with each other to downregulate the p38 MAPK/ERK signaling, contributing to the SPTD inhibition of the growth of A549 cells. Additionally, the downregulation of collagen COL1A5 by SPTD was another anticancer benefit of SPTD through the modulation of the cell microenvironment.

The impact of collateral status on cerebral vasospasm and delayed cerebral ischemia in subarachnoid hemorrhage

OBJECTIVE

Cerebral collateral circulation may affect subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) induced cerebral vasospasm and delayed cerebral ischemia. In this study our aim was to investigate the relationship between collateral status, vasospasm and delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) in both aneurysmal and nonaneurysmal SAH.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed as SAH with and without aneurysm were included and their data investigated retrospectively. After the patients diagnosed as SAH according to cerebral computed tomography (CT)/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), they underwent cerebral angiography to check for cerebral aneurysm. The diagnosis of DCI was made according to the neurological examination and control CT/MRI. All the patients had their control cerebral angiography on days 7 to 10 in order to assess vasospasm and also collateral circulation. The American Society of Interventional and Therapeutic Neuroradiology/Society of Interventional Radiology (ASITN/SIR) Collateral Flow Grading System was modified to measure collateral circulation.

RESULTS

A total of 59 patients data were analyzed. Patients with aneurysmal SAH had higher Fisher scores and DCI was more common. Although there was no statistically significant difference between the patients with and without DCI in terms of demographics and mortality, patients with DCI had worse collateral circulation and more severe vasospasm. These patients had higher Fisher scores and more cerebral aneurysm overall.

CONCLUSIONS

According to our data, patients with higher Fisher scores, more severe vasospasm, and poor cerebral collateral circulation may experience DCI more frequently. Additionally aneurysmal SAH had higher Fisher scores and DCI was seen more common. To improve the clinical results for SAH patients, we believe that physicians should be aware of the DCI risk factors.

Structural and functional properties of rBmTI-A: A Kunitz-BPTI serine protease inhibitor with therapeutical potential

Serine proteases are an important group of enzymes present in several organisms such as viruses, bacteria and eukaryotes involved in several physiological and pathological processes such as cancer, neurodegeneration, tissue inflammation and infections. Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitors have been studied as therapeutical targets with positive results in many of these diseases. rBmTI-A (recombinant B. microplus Trypsin Inhibitor A) is a Kunitz-BPTI type inhibitor based on the native protein BmTI-A. BmTI-A was extracted from tick larvae and presented inhibitory activity against trypsin, human plasma kallikrein (HuPK), human neutrophil elastase (HNE) and human plasmin. rBmTI-A presented the same inhibitory activities of the BmTI-A and its thermostability has already been demonstrated. In emphysema induced by porcine pancreatic elastase (PPE) and by cigarette smoke animal models, the treatment using rBmTI-A showed a protective effect against the development of pulmonary emphysema and prevented the increase of inflammatory cells. In chronic allergic animal model, rBmTI-A treatment resulted in attenuated bronchial hyperresponsiveness, inflammation, remodeling. These are important physiological results in emphysema and lung inflammatory animal models with rBmTI-A treatment confirming its therapeutical potential.

Bax/Bcl-2 Cascade Is Regulated by the EGFR Pathway: Therapeutic Targeting of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) comprises 80%-85% of lung cancer cases. EGFR is involved in several cancer developments, including NSCLC. The EGFR pathway regulates the Bax/Bcl-2 cascade in NSCLC. Increasing understanding of the molecular mechanisms of fundamental tumor progression has guided the development of numerous antitumor drugs. The development and improvement of rationally planned inhibitors and agents targeting particular cellular and biological pathways in cancer have been signified as a most important paradigm shift in the strategy to treat and manage lung cancer. Newer approaches and novel chemotherapeutic agents are required to accompany present cancer therapies for improving efficiency. Using natural products as a drug with an effective delivery system may benefit therapeutics. Naturally originated compounds such as phytochemicals provide crucial sources for novel agents/drugs and resources for tumor therapy. Applying the small-molecule inhibitors (SMIs)/phytochemicals has led to potent preclinical discoveries in various human tumor preclinical models, including lung cancer. In this review, we summarize recent information on the molecular mechanisms of the Bax/Bcl-2 cascade and EGFR pathway in NSCLC and target them for therapeutic implications. We further described the therapeutic potential of Bax/Bcl-2/EGFR SMIs, mainly those with more potent and selectivity, including gefitinib, EGCG, ABT-737, thymoquinone, quercetin, and venetoclax. In addition, we explained the targeting EGFR pathway and ongoing in vitro and in vivo and clinical investigations in NSCLC. Exploration of such inhibitors facilitates the future treatment and management of NSCLC.

Vitamin K2 Modulates Organelle Damage and Tauopathy Induced by Streptozotocin and Menadione in SH-SY5Y Cells

Vitamin K2, known for its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, can act as a potent neuroprotective molecule. Despite its action against mitochondrial dysfunction, the mechanism underlying the links between the protective effects of vitamin K2 and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress along with basal levels of total tau protein and amyloid-beta 42 (Aβ42) has not been elucidated yet. To understand the neuroprotective effect of vitamin K2 during metabolic complications, SH-SY5Y cells were treated with streptozotocin for 24 h and menadione for 2 h in a dose-dependent manner, followed by post-treatment of vitamin K2 for 5 h. The modulating effects of vitamin K2 on cell viability, lactate dehydrogenase release, reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential, ER stress marker (CHOP), an indicator of unfolded protein response (UPR), inositol requiring enzyme 1 (p-IRE1α), glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3α/β), total tau and Aβ42 were studied. Results showed that vitamin K2 significantly reduces neuronal cell death by inhibiting cytotoxicity and ROS levels and helps in the retainment of mitochondrial membrane potential. Moreover, vitamin K2 significantly decreased the expression of CHOP protein along with the levels and the nuclear localization of p-IRE1α, thus showing its significant role in inhibiting chronic ER stress-mediated UPR and eventually cell death. In addition, vitamin K2 significantly down-regulated the expression of GSK3α/β together with the levels of total tau protein, with a petite effect on secreted Aβ42 levels. These results suggested that vitamin K2 alleviated mitochondrial damage, ER stress and tauopathy-mediated neuronal cell death, which highlights its role as new antioxidative therapeutics targeting related cellular processes.

Genetic characterization of qSCN10 from an exotic soybean accession PI 567516C reveals a novel source conferring broad-spectrum resistance to soybean cyst nematode

KEY MESSAGE

The qSCN10 locus with broad-spectrum SCN resistance was fine-mapped to a 379-kb region on chromosome 10 in soybean accession PI 567516C. Candidate genes and potential application benefits of this locus were discussed. Soybean cyst nematode (SCN, Heterodera glycines Ichinohe) is one of the most devastating pests of soybean, causing significant yield losses worldwide every year. Genetic resistance has been the major strategy to control this pest. However, the overuse of the same genetic resistance derived primarily from PI 88788 has led to the genetic shifts in nematode populations and resulted in the reduced effectiveness in soybean resistance to SCN. Therefore, novel genetic resistance resources, especially those with broad-spectrum resistance, are needed to develop new resistant cultivars to cope with the genetic shifts in nematode populations. In this study, a quantitative trait locus (QTL) qSCN10 previously identified from a soybean landrace PI 567516C was confirmed to confer resistance to multiple SCN HG Types. This QTL was further fine-mapped to a 379-kb region. There are 51 genes in this region. Four of them are defense-related and were regulated by SCN infection, suggesting their potential role in mediating resistance to SCN. The phylogenetic and haplotype analyses of qSCN10 as well as other information indicate that this locus is different from other reported resistance QTL or genes. There was no yield drag or other unfavorable traits associated with this QTL when near-isogenic lines with and without qSCN10 were tested in a SCN-free field. Therefore, our study not only provides further insight into the genetic basis of soybean resistance to SCN, but also identifies a novel genetic resistance resource for breeding soybean for durable, broad-spectrum resistance to this pest.

Differential quantitative proteomics study of experimental Mannheimia haemolytica mastitis in sheep

Objective was the differential quantitative proteomics study of ovine mastitis induced by Mannheimia haemolytica; clinical, microbiological, cytological and histopathological methods were employed for confirmation and monitoring. Proteins were separated by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) for all samples and differentially abundant proteins were identified by mass spectrometry; comparisons were performed with pre- (blood, milk) and post- (milk of contralateral gland) inoculation findings. Animals developed mastitis, confirmed by isolation of challenge strain and increase of neutrophils in milk and by histopathological evidence. In blood plasma, 33 differentially abundant proteins (compared to findings before challenge) were identified: 6 with decrease, 13 with new appearance and 14 with varying abundance. In a post-challenge milk whey protein reference map, 65 proteins were identified; actin cytoplasmic-1, beta-lactoglobulin-1/B, cathelicidin-1 predominated. Further, 89 differentially abundant proteins (compared to findings before challenge) were identified: 18 with decrease, 53 with new appearance, 3 with increase and 15 with varying abundance; 15 proteins showed status changes in blood plasma and milk whey. Differential abundance from inoculated and contralateral glands revealed 74 proteins only from the inoculated gland. Most differentially abundant proteins in milk whey were involved in cell organisation and biogenesis (n = 17) or in inflammatory and defence response (n = 13). SIGNIFICANCE: The proteomes of blood and milk from ewes with experimental mastitis caused by Mannheimia haemolytica and the differential proteomics in sequential samples after challenge are presented for the first time. This is the first detailed proteomics study in M. haemolytica-associated mastitis in ewes. An experimental model fully simulating natural mastitis has been used. Use of experimentally induced mastitis minimised potential variations and allowed consistency of results. The study included evaluation of changes in blood plasma and milk whey. Protein patterns have been studied, indicating with great accuracy changes that had occurred as part of the disease process and development, during the acute phase of infection. Relevant protein-protein interactions were studied. The entirety of proteomics findings has suggested that affected ewes had mounted a defence response that had been regulated by many proteins (e.g., cathelicidins, haptoglobin, serum amyloid A) and through various pathways (e.g., acute phase response, binding and transporting significant ions and molecules); these were interdependent at various points. Potential biomarkers have been indicated for use in diagnostic assays of mastitis.

Cutting Out the Gaps Between Proteases and Programmed Cell Death

To date, many animal models for programmed cell death (PCD) have been extensively characterized and classified while such efforts in plant types of PCD still remain poorly understood. However, despite a wide range of functional differences between PCD types in animals and plants, it is certain that all of them are regulated through the recruitment of proteases. Most importantly, proteases are able to perform proteolysis that results in a gain or loss of protein function. This principle relies on the presence of proteolytic cascades where proteases are activated upon various upstream stimuli and which lead to repetitive cell death. While protease activation, proteolytic cascades and targeted substrates are described in detail mainly for nematode, human, and mice models of apoptosis, for plants, only fragmentary knowledge of protease involvement in PCD exists. However, recently, data on the regulation of general plant PCD and protease involvement have emerged which deepens our understanding of the molecular mechanisms responsible for PCD in plants. With this in mind, this article highlights major aspects of protease involvement in the execution of PCD in both animals and plants, addresses obstacles and advances in the field and proposes recommendations for further research of plant PCD.

Resveratrol suppresses human cervical carcinoma cell proliferation and elevates apoptosis via the mitochondrial and p53 signaling pathways

Numerous studies have demonstrated the apoptotic and anti-proliferative effects of resveratrol, a natural polyphenolic phytoalexin, on various cancer cell lines. However, the effects of resveratrol on the regulation of human cervical carcinoma, and the mechanisms underlying these effects, remain to be elucidated. In the present study, the potential mechanisms underlying the effects of resveratrol in HeLa cervical carcinoma cells were investigated. The results revealed that resveratrol inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis in HeLa human cervical cancer cells in a dose-dependent and time-dependent manner. Resveratrol induced cell shrinkage in HeLa cells and apoptosis accompanied by the activation of caspase-3 and -9. Furthermore, resveratrol upregulated the expression of the pro-apoptotic B-cell lymphoma (Bcl)-2-associated X protein and downregulated the expression of the anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and Bcl-extra large in HeLa cells. In addition, p53, a protein that is essential for cell survival and cell cycle progression, exhibited elevated expression levels in resveratrol-treated HeLa cells. Therefore, resveratrol may be a promising novel inhibitor of human cervical cancer.

Molecular mechanisms of ampelopsin from Ampelopsis megalophylla induces apoptosis in HeLa cells

Ampelopsin (AMP) is an active ingredient of flavonoid compounds that is extracted from Ampelopsis megalophylla Diels et Gilg. The present study aimed at investigating the antitumor activities of AMP and the possible underlying molecular mechanisms in HeLa cells. A total of three types of tumor cell were selected to screen antitumor activities for AMP using the MTT assay. Flow cytometry was used to analyze the cell apoptotic proportion and the cell cycle. Rhodamine 123 staining was used to determine changes in mitochondrial transmembrane potential. Western blot analysis was used to determine the expression of apoptosis-associated proteins. The results of the present study demonstrated that AMP may inhibit the viability of HeLa cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Changes in morphology were observed using fluorescence microscopy. In addition, Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide (PI) double staining revealed that AMP induced apoptosis in a concentration-dependent manner and PI staining indicated that HeLa cells were arrested in S phase. Furthermore, western blot analysis demonstrated that AMP treatment induced apoptosis through activation of caspases 9 and 3, which was validated by the increasing ratio of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)-associated X protein to Bcl-2. Additionally, the loss of mitochondrial transmembrane potential and the release of cytochrome c suggested that AMP-induced apoptosis was associated with the mitochondrial pathway. Taken together, these results indicate that AMP may induce apoptosis via the mitochondrial signaling pathway in HeLa cells.

Synthesis of microgel sensors for spatial and temporal monitoring of protease activity

Proteases are involved in almost every important cellular activity, from embryonic morphogenesis to apoptosis. To study protease activity in situ, hydrogels provide a synthetic mimic of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and have utility as a platform to study activity, such as those related to cell migration, in three-dimensions. While 3-dimensional visualization of protease activity could prove quite useful to elucidate the proteolytic interaction at the interface between cells and their surrounding environment, there has been no versatile tool to visualize local proteolytic activity in real time. Here, micron-sized gels were synthesized by inverse suspension polymerization using thiolene photo-click chemistry. The size distribution was selected to avoid cellular uptake and to lower cytotoxicity, while simultaneously allowing the integration of peptide-based FRET sensors of local cell activity. Proteolytic activity of collagenase was detected within an hour via changes in fluorescence of embedded microgels; incubation of microgel sensors with A375 melanoma cells showed upregulated MMP activity in the presence of soluble fibronectins in media. The microgel sensors were readily incorporated into both gelatin and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogels and used to successfully detect spatiotemporal proteolytic activity of A375 melanoma cells. Finally, a tumor model was constructed from a hydrogel microwell array that was used to aggregate A375 melanoma cells, and local variations in proteolytic activity were monitored as a function of distance from the cell aggregate center.

Clinical application: Restoration of immune homeostasis by autophagy as a potential therapeutic target in sepsis

Sepsis-induced lymphocyte and dendritic cell apoptosis contributes to immunosuppression, resulting in an inability to eradicate the primary infection and a propensity to acquire secondary infections. However, the inhibition of apoptosis may produce unexpected and undesirable consequences. Another cellular process, autophagy, is also activated in immune cells. There is increasing evidence to suggest that autophagy confers a protective effect in sepsis. The protective mechanisms underlying this effect include limiting apoptotic cell death and maintaining cellular homeostasis. Therefore, understanding the regulation of immune cell autophagy and apoptosis may provide insight into novel therapeutic strategies. The present review examined potential novel therapeutic strategies aimed at restoring immune homeostasis by inducing autophagy. The restoration of balance between apoptosis and autophagy may be a novel approach for improving sepsis-induced immunosuppression and decreasing susceptibility to sepsis.

Characterization of cell death in Escherichia coli mediated by XseA, a large subunit of exonuclease VII

Exonuclease VII (ExoVII) of Escherichia coli is a single strandspecific DNA nuclease composed of two different subunits: the large subunit, XseA, and the small subunit, XseB. In this study, we found that multicopy single-stranded DNAs (msDNAs), Ec83 and Ec78, are the in vivo substrates of ExoVII; the enzyme cuts the phosphodiester bond between the fourth and fifth nucleotides from the 5'end. We used this msDNA cleavage to assess ExoVII activity in vivo. Both subunits were required for enzyme activity. Expression of XseA without XseB caused cell death, even though no ExoVII activity was detected. The lethality caused by XseA was rescued by surplus XseB. In XseA-induced death, cells were elongated and multinucleated, and their chromosomes were fragmented and condensed; these are the morphological hallmarks of apoptotic cell death in bacteria. A putative caspase recognition sequence (FVAD) was found in XseA, and its hypothetical caspase product with 257 amino acids was as active as the intact protein in inducing cell death. We propose that under ordinary conditions, XseA protects chromosome as a component of the ExoVII enzyme, but in some conditions, the protein causes cell death; the destruction of cell is probably carried out by the amino terminal fragment derived from the cleavage of XseA by caspase-like enzyme.

Up regulation of Bax and down regulation of Bcl2 during 3-NC mediated apoptosis in human cancer cells

Background

Recently, we have reported the induction of apoptosis by 2-amino-4-(3-nitrophenyl)-3-cyano-7-(dimethylamino)-4H-chromene (3-NC) in HepG2, T47D and HCT116 cells with low nano molar IC50 values. In this study, anti-proliferative effects of modified 4-aryle-4H-chromenes derivatives; 2-amino-4-(3-bromophenyl)-3-cyano-7-(dimethylamino)-4H-chromene (3-BC), 2-amino-4-(3-trifluoromethylphenyl)-3-cyano-7-(dimethylamino)-4H-chromene (3-TFC) and 2-amino-4-(4,5-methylenedioxyphenyl)-3-cyano-7-(dimethylamino)-4H-chromene (4, 5-MC) were investigated in three human cancer cell lines. Compared to 3-NC none of the compounds displayed better anti-proliferative effect, although 3-BC appeared somewhat similar. Therefore 3-NC was selected for further studies.

Methods and results

Treatment of HepG2, T47D and HCT116 cells with this compound induced apoptosis as visualized by fluorescence microscopic study of Hoechst 33258 stained cells. Induction of apoptosis was quantified by Annexin V/PI staining using flow cytometry.

Western blot analysis also revealed that 3-NC down-regulated the expression of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl2 and up-regulated pro-apoptotic protein Bax, in all of the cell lines. Nonetheless, HepG2 cell line was the most responsive to 3-NC as Bax and Bcl2 showed the most dramatic up and down regulation.

Conclusion

Our previous finding that 3-NC down regulates Inhibitor of Apoptosis Proteins (IAPs) and the present observation that Bax is upregulated and Bcl2 is down regulated upon 3-NC treatment, this chromene derivative has the potential to overcome chemotherapy resistance caused by up regulation of these proteins.

D. candidum has in vitro anticancer effects in HCT-116 cancer cells and exerts in vivo anti-metastatic effects in mice

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

D. candidum is a traditional Chinese food or medicine widely used in Asia. There has been little research into the anticancer effects of D. candidum, particularly the effects in colon cancer cells. The aim of this study was to investigate the anticancer effects of D. candidum in vitro and in vivo.

MATERIALS/METHODS

The in vitro anti-cancer effects on HCT-116 colon cancer cells and in vivo anti-metastatic effects of DCME (Dendrobium canidum methanolic extract) were examined using the experimental methods of MTT assay, DAPI staining, flow cytometry analysis, RT-PCR, and Western blot analysis.

RESULTS

At a concentration of 1.0 mg/mL, DCME inhibited the growth of HCT-116 cells by 84%, which was higher than at concentrations of 0.5 and 0.25 mg/mL. Chromatin condensation and formation of apoptotic bodies were observed in cancer cells cultured with DCME as well. In addition, DCME induced significant apoptosis in cancer cells by upregulation of Bax, caspase 9, and caspase 3, and downregulation of Bcl-2. Expression of genes commonly associated with inflammation, NF-κB, iNOS, and COX-2, was significantly downregulated by DCME. DCME also exerted an anti-metastasis effect on cancer cells as demonstrated by decreased expression of MMP genes and increased expression of TIMPs, which was confirmed by the inhibition of induced tumor metastasis in colon 26-M3.1 cells in BALB/c mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrated that D. candidum had a potent in vitro anti-cancer effect, induced apoptosis, exhibited anti-inflammatory activities, and exerted in vivo anti-metastatic effects.

Cooked navy and black bean diets improve biomarkers of colon health and reduce inflammation during colitis

Common beans contain non-digestible fermentable components (SCFA precursors) and phenolic compounds (phenolic acids, flavonoids and anthocyanins) with demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. The objective of the present study was to assess the in vivo effect of cooked whole-bean flours, with differing phenolic compound levels and profiles, in a mouse model of acute colitis. C57BL/6 mice were fed a 20 % navy bean or black bean flour-containing diet or an isoenergetic basal diet (BD) for 2 weeks before the induction of experimental colitis via 7 d dextran sodium sulphate (DSS, 2 % (w/v) in the drinking-water) exposure. Compared with the BD, both bean diets increased caecal SCFA and faecal phenolic compound concentrations (P< 0·05), which coincided with both beneficial and adverse effects on colonic and systemic inflammation. On the one hand, bean diets reduced mRNA expression of colonic inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-9, IFN-γ and IL-17A) and increased anti-inflammatory IL-10 (P< 0·05), while systemically reduced circulating cytokines (IL-1β, TNFα, IFNγ, and IL-17A, P< 0·05) and DSS-induced oxidative stress. On the other hand, bean diets enhanced DSS-induced colonic damage as indicated by an increased histological injury score and apoptosis (cleaved caspase-3 and FasL mRNA expression) (P< 0·05). In conclusion, bean-containing diets exerted both beneficial and adverse effects during experimental colitis by reducing inflammatory biomarkers both locally and systemically while aggravating colonic mucosal damage. Further research is required to understand the mechanisms through which beans exert their effects on colonic inflammation and the impact on colitis severity in human subjects.

Increased preventive effect on colon carcinogenesis by use of resistant starch (RS3) as the carrier for polysaccharide of Larimichthys crocea swimming bladder

The preventive effect of polysaccharide of Larimichthys crocea swimming bladder (PLCSB) and the increase of this effect by use of resistant starch (RS3) as the carrier for PLCSB on azoxymethane (AOM) and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-inducing colon carcinogenesis in C57BL/6 mice has been studied. RS3 microspheres carrying PLCSB (RS3 + PLCSB) were produced and evaluated as a potentially improved colon carcinogenesis therapy for this study. The body weight, colon length, and colon weight of mice were determined, and colonic tissues were histologically observed. The serum levels of proinflammatory cytokines and the inflammation and apoptosis-related genes in colonic tissue were also tested. The PLCSB or RS3 + PLCSB significantly suppressed AOM and DSS-induced body weight loss, colon length shortening and decreased the colon weight to length ratio. PLCSB or RS3 + PLCSB reduced the levels of the serum pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-12, TNF-α, and IFN-γ to a greater extent compared with the control mice, and the levels of RS3 + PLCSB were more close to the normal mice than PLCSB treated mice. Histopathological examination of sections of colon tissues showed that the RS3 + PLCSB group recovered well from colon carcinogenesis; however, the tissue sections of the stachyose + starch could reduce the necrosis degree. PLCSB significantly induced apoptosis in tissues of mice (p < 0.05) by up-regulating Bax, caspase-3, and caspase-9, and down-regulating Bcl-2. The expression of genes associated with inflammation-related NF-κB, iNOS, and COX-2 genes, was significantly down-regulated, and IκB-α was up-regulated (p < 0.05). These results suggest that PLCSB is a potent preventive against in vivo colon carcinogenesis and that PLCSB with an RS3 carrier could increase the preventative effect in mice.

In vitro and in vivo anti-cancer activities of Kuding tea (Ilex kudingcha C.J. Tseng) against oral cancer

Kuding tea (Ilex kudingcha C.J. Tseng) is drunk widely in China. The in vitro anticancer effects of Kuding tea were evaluated in TCA8113 human tongue carcinoma cells using a 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. At a concentration of 200 μg/ml, Kuding tea exhibited an inhibitory effect of 75% in TCA8113 cells, which was higher than that observed at concentrations of 100 and 50 μg/ml (41 and 10% inhibition, respectively). Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blot analyses of the apoptosis, inflammation and metastasis genes and proteins in Kuding tea-treated cancer cells were performed. Kuding tea significantly induced apoptosis in TCA8113 cancer cells (P<0.05) by upregulating Bax, caspase-3 and caspase-9 expression, and downregulating Bcl-2 expression. Expression of the NF-κB, iNOS and COX-2 genes that are associated with inflammation was significantly downregulated by Kuding tea, which demonstrated its anti-inflammatory properties. Kuding tea also exerted an anti-metastatic effect on cancer cells. This was demonstrated by the decreased expression of matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) and the increased expression of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), and confirmed by the inhibition of the metastasis of U14 squamous cell carcinoma cells in imprinting control region (ICR) mice. The ICR mouse buccal mucosa cancer model was established by injecting the mice with U14 cells. Following injection, the wound at the injection site was topically treated with Kuding tea. It was observed that the tumor volumes for the group treated with Kuding tea were smaller than those from the control mice. Analysis of the sections of buccal mucosa cancer tissue demonstrated that the buccal mucosa cancer degrees of the Kuding tea-treated mice were weaker than that in the control mice. Similar results were observed in the lesion sections of the cervical lymph nodes. Based on these results, Kuding tea exhibited successful in vitro anticancer effects in TCA8113 cells and in vivo buccal mucosa cancer preventive activity.

Inhibitory effects of Dendrobium candidum Wall ex Lindl. on azoxymethane- and dextran sulfate sodium-induced colon carcinogenesis in C57BL/6 mice

Dendrobium candidum Wall ex Lindl. was purchased for the evaluation of azoxymethane (AOM)- and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colon carcinogenesis in C57BL/6 mice. The body weights of the AOM- and DSS-induced colon cancer control groups were lighter than those of the untreated mice. D. candidum increased the body weights of the mice compared with the control group, and reduced the levels of the serum proinflammatory cytokines, IL-6, IL-12, TNF-α and IFN-γ, compared with the colon cancer control group. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blot analyses of the apoptotic-related genes, bax, bcl-2, caspase-3 and caspase-9, were performed in the colon tissues. The high-concentration D. candidum group showed a significant increase in the mRNA and protein expression levels of bax, caspase-3 and caspase-9 and decreased expression levels of bcl-2 compared with the control group. These results indicate that D. candidum Wall ex Lindl. exhibits preventive effects against colon carcinogenesis in mice.

Synchronous quadruple primary tumors of thyroid, breast, pancreas, and stomach: a case report

Ilex kudingcha C.J. Tseng (Kudingcha) is a traditional Chinese drink consumed in East Asia. The present study evaluated the in vitro anticancer effects of Kudingcha in MCF-7 human breast adenocarcinoma cells using a 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. At a concentration of 200 μg/ml, Kudingcha inhibited the growth of the MCF-7 cells by 81%. This was a greater degree of inhibition than that observed at concentrations of 100 and 50 μg/ml (58 and 19%, respectively). To elucidate the inhibitory mechanisms underlying the anticancer effect of Kudingcha in cancer cells, the expression of genes associated with apoptosis and inflammation were measured using RT-PCR. Kudingcha significantly induced apoptosis, as determined by 4,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining, by upregulating Bax, caspase-3 and caspase-9, and downregulating Bcl-2. The expression of the NF-κB, iNOS and COX-2 genes associated with inflammation was significantly decreased (P<0.05) by Kudingcha, thus demonstrating its anti-inflammatory properties. Kudingcha has been reported to exhibit inhibitory effects of tumor metastasis induced in 26-M3.1 colon carcinoma cells in BALB/c mice. The results demonstrated that Kudingcha had potent in vitro anticancer effects; it induced apoptosis, had anti-inflammatory activities and exerted in vivo anti-metastatic effects. Additionally, the anticancer, anti-inflammatory and anti-metastatic effects of Kudingcha were stronger at high concentrations than at low concentrations.

Terazosin treatment induces caspase-3 expression in the rat ventral prostate

BACKGROUND

Quinazoline-based alpha1-adrenergic receptor antagonists may not act solely on smooth muscle contractility. We evaluated the in vivo effect of terazosin on the expression of caspase-3 in the rat ventral prostate.

METHODS

Fifteen Wistar rats were treated with terazosin (1.2 mg/kg body weight, given orally every second day) for 120 days. Another 15 control animals received the same amount of distilled water. The expression of caspase-3 was assessed immunohistochemically in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections.

RESULTS

Terazosin treatment did not affect prostate weight and histomorphology. In controls caspase-3 was expressed weakly and sporadically. In contrast, strong and weak expression was evident in 67% and 33% of the terazosin-treated specimens, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings implicate the induction of caspase-3 expression by terazosin as a potential molecular mechanism of its apoptotic action on prostate cells.

Cassia tora L. (Jue-ming-zi) has anticancer activity in TCA8113 cells in vitro and exerts anti-metastatic effects in vivo

Cassia tora L. (Jue-ming-zi) is a traditional Chinese medicine widely used in East Asia. The in vitro anticancer effects of Jue-ming-zi were evaluated in TCA8113 human tongue carcinoma cells using a 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. At a concentration of 1.0 mg/ml, Cassia tora L. inhibited the growth of TCA8113 cells by 72%; this inhibiton was greater than that by 0.5 and 0.25 mg/ml Cassia tora L. (43 and 16%, respectively). To elucidate the inhibitory mechanisms underlying the anticancer effect of Cassia tora L. in cancer cells, the expression of genes associated with apoptosis, inflammation and metastasis were measured using RT-PCR and western blot analysis. Cassia tora L. significantly induced apoptosis in cancer cells (P<0.05) by upregulating Bax, caspase-3 and caspase-9, and by downregulating Bcl-2. The expression of genes associated with inflammation, including NF-κB, iNOS and COX-2, was significantly downregulated (P<0.05) by Cassia tora L., demonstrating its anti-inflammatory properties. Cassia tora L. also exerted a significant anti-metastatic effect on cancer cells as demonstrated by decreased mRNA expression of matrix metalloprotease (MMP) genes and increased expression of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), and as confirmed by the inhibition of induced tumor metastasis induced in 26-M3.1 colon cells in BALB/c mice. Our results demonstrated that Cassia tora L. exhibited the most potent in vitro anticancer effects, induced apoptosis, had anti-inflammatory activities and exerted in vivo anti-metastatic effects. Additionally, the anticancer, anti-inflammatory and anti-metastatic effects of the higher Cassia tora L. concentrations were stronger compared with those of the lower Cassia tora L. concentrations tested.

Exocytosis of MTT formazan could exacerbate cell injury

MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] method is one of the most widely used methods to analyze cell proliferation and viability. It is taken up through endocytosis and is reduced by mitochondrial enzymes as well as endosomal/lysosomal compartments, then is transported to cell surfaces to form needle-like MTT formazans; however the effect of MTT itself still remains elusive. Our objective was to investigate the direct effects of MTT on in vitro SH-SY5Y cells. Results showed that the endocytosis of MTT did not cause obvious lesion and induce cell death, but the metabolism and exocytosis of MTT could dramatically damage cells. Our results also indicated that MTT could activate apoptosis related factors such as caspase-8, caspase-3 or accelerate the leakage of cell contents after the appearance of MTT formazan crystals. The present data suggest MTT method should be carefully chosen; otherwise the cell viability would be underestimated and incomparable.

Colchicine-induced apoptosis in human normal liver L-02 cells by mitochondrial mediated pathways

Colchicine is an alkaloid that has been widely used to treat gout. It also has a curative effect on cancer. Although many studies have shown that its effect on cell apoptosis was mediated by the activation of caspase-3, the pathways involved in the process remained obscure. Here we show some evidence regarding the missing information using human normal liver cells L-02 in our study. The effect of colchicine on apoptosis in L-02 cells and the apoptosis-associated signaling pathways were determined using different tests including cell viability assay, Annexin V and propidium idodide binding, PI staining, Hoechst 33342 staining, mitochondrial membrane potential assay, caspase activity assay and Western blot analysis. We found that colchicine-induced a dose-dependent drop of cell viability in L-02 cells; early apoptosis happened when cells were treated with 0.1μM of colchicine. The colchicine-induced loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, activation of caspase-3 and 9, up-regulation of Bax and down-regulation of Bcl-2 showed an evidence for the colchicine activity on apoptosis, at least, by acting via the intrinsic apoptotic pathway.

Cucurbitacin E Induces G(2)/M Phase Arrest through STAT3/p53/p21 Signaling and Provokes Apoptosis via Fas/CD95 and Mitochondria-Dependent Pathways in Human Bladder Cancer T24 Cells

Cucurbitacin E, a tetracyclic triterpenes compound extracted from cucurbitaceous plants, has been shown to exhibit anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities. The purpose of this study was to elucidate whether cucurbitacin E promotes cell cycle arrest and induces apoptosis in T24 cells and further to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. The effects of cucurbitacin E on T24 cell's growth and accompanied morphological changes were examined by MTT assay and a phase-contrast microscope. DNA content, mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨ_m) and annexin V/PI staining were determined by flow cytometry. The protein levels were measured by Western blotting. Our results demonstrated that cucurbitacin E-induced G₂/M arrest was associated with a marked increase in the levels of p53, p21 and a decrease in phospho-signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1) and cyclin B. Cucurbitacin E-triggered apoptosis was accompanied with up-regulation of Fas/CD95, truncated BID (t-BID) and a loss of ΔΨ_m, resulting in the releases of cytochrome c, apoptotic protease activating factor 1 (Apaf-1) and apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF), and sequential activation of caspase-8, caspase-9, and caspase-3. Our findings provided the first evidence that STAT3/p53/p21 signaling, Fas/CD95 and mitochondria-dependent pathways play critical roles in cucurbitacin E-induced G₂/M phase arrest and apoptosis of T24 cells.

Variable functions of bcl-2 in mediating bioreactor stress- induced apoptosis in hybridoma cells

It has been demonstrated that the cell lines used for production of biopharmaceuticals are highly susceptible to apoptosis, and that over-expression of the bcl-2 oncogene can protect cells from death. Stress associated with the deprivation of nutrients has been shown to be the main cause of apoptosis in culture. We have extended these studies by investigating the mechanism of cell death under conditions of sub-optimal pH, shear stress and hyperosmolarity, and the protective action of bcl-2 over-expression. At pH 6, there was no clear evidence of protection from cell death. However, at pH 8, the viability of the bcl-2 transfected cells was about 20% higher relative to the control cells. Cultivation of control cells in a flat bottomed bioreactor with a magnetic stirrer bar without a pivot ring resulted in exposure of the cells to a high attrition effect. As a result, cell growth was retarded and a high level of cell death by apoptosis was observed. Under the same conditions, the bcl-2 transfected cell line exhibited a nearly five fold increase in viable cell number. This finding indicates that under apoptosis-suppressed conditions, shear stress can stimulate cell growth. Batch cultivation of both control and bcl-2 transfected cells in 350 and 400 mOsm media resulted in suppression of cell growth, athough the effect was most marked in the control cell line. Adaptation of control cells to 400 mOsm proved to be impossible to achieve. However, the bcl-2 transfected cells exhibited resistance to the osmotic stress resulting in long term adaptation to a high salt environment. Specific productivity of bcl-2 transfected cells grown in high osmolarity medium was 100% higher than that produced by non- adapted bcl-2 transfected cells grown in normal osmolarity medium. These results demonstrate that bcl-2 has a beneficial effect on hybridoma cultivation under a wide range of culture stresses.

Supercritical carbon dioxide extraction of ethyl p-methoxycinnamate from Kaempferia galanga L. rhizome and its apoptotic induction in human HepG2 cells

In this study, supercritical carbon dioxide extraction of ethyl p-methoxycinnamate from Kaempferia galanga L. rhizome and its apoptotic induction in human HepG2 cells are reported for the first time. By using supercritical carbon dioxide extraction, the yield of ethyl p-methoxycinnamate identified by gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was as high as 2.5% with respect to the raw materials. In the anticancer assay, it was found that ethyl p-methoxycinnamate could inhibit the proliferation of the human hepatocellular liver carcinoma HepG2 cell line in a dose-dependent manner and induce the significant increase of the subG0 cell population. After treatment with ethyl p-methoxycinnamate, phosphatidylserine of HepG2 cells could significantly translocate to the surface of the membrane. The increase of an early apoptotic population was observed by both annexin-fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) and propidium iodide (PI) staining. It was concluded that ethyl p-methoxycinnamate not only induced cells to enter into apoptosis, but also affected the progress of the cell cycle.

Anti-proliferative effect of camellianin A in Adinandra nitida leaves and its apoptotic induction in human Hep G2 and MCF-7 cells

Leaves of Adinandra nitida constitute a kind of flavonoid-rich plant food. In this study, camellianin A, the main flavonoid in the leaves of Adinandra nitida,was prepared and identified by high performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array detector-electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HPLC-PDA-ESI/MS). In the anticancer assay, it was found camellianin A could inhibit the proliferation of the human hepatocellular liver carcinoma Hep G2 and human breast adenocarcinoma MCF-7 cell lines in a dose-dependent manner and induce the significant increase of the G0/G1 cell population. After treated by camellianin A, phosphatidylserine of Hep G2 and MCF-7 cells could translocate significantly to the surface of the membrane. The increase of an early apoptotic population of Hep G2 and MCF-7 cells was observed. It was concluded that camellianin A not only affected the progress of the cell cycle, but also induced cells to enter into apoptosis.

Synthesis of 4',7-diacetoxyapigenin and its apoptotic induction in human Hep G2 cells

In this study, 4',7-diacetoxyapigenin [4-(7-acetoxy-5-hydroxy-4-oxo-4H-chromen-2-yl) phenyl acetate] was synthesized for the first time. Its chemical structure was identified by UV, ESI-MS, (1)H and (13)C-NMR. It could inhibit the proliferation of Hep G2 cells in a dose-dependent manner and induce the significant increase of the G0/G1 cell population. After treatment by 4',7-diacetoxyapigenin, phosphatidylserine of Hep G2 cells could significantly translocate to the surface of the membrane. The increase of an early apoptotic population was observed by both annexin-FITC and PI staining. It was concluded that 4',7-diacetoxyapigenin not only induced cells to enter into apoptosis, but also affected the progress of the cell cycle.

Asiatic acid induces colon cancer cell growth inhibition and apoptosis through mitochondrial death cascade

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the world. The triterpenoid compound asiatic acid derived from the tropical medicinal plant Centella asiatica displays cytotoxic activity on fibroblast cells and several other kinds of cells. The present work studies asiatic acid-mediated growth inhibition of cancer cells and the underlying mechanism. Asiatic acid markedly inhibited cancer cell proliferation. Apoptosis of SW480 human colon cancer cells was induced by asiatic acid as shown by flow cytometry, DNA fragmentation and nuclear chromatin condensation experiments. Through increasing mitochondrial membrane permeability and cytochrome c release from mitochondria into cytosol, asiatic acid induced caspase-9 activity, which further activated caspase-3 and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage resulting in irreversible apoptotic death in the tumor cells. Taken together, these results suggest that mitochondrial death apoptosis cascade plays very important roles in asiatic acid-induced cancer apoptosis.

Synchronized expression of two caspase family genes, ice-2 and ice-5, in hydrogen peroxide-induced cells of the silkworm, Bombyx mori

Caspase family proteins play important roles in different stages of the apoptotic pathway. To date, however, functions of Bombyx mori L. (Lepidoptera: Bombycidae) caspase family genes are poorly known. This paper focuses on the morphology, mitochondrial membrane potential, and expression profiles of two novel B. mori caspase family genes (ice-2 and ice-5) in 3 microM hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) damaged B. mori cells, which were separated from the ovary of B. mori. In addition, comparisons were made between damage caused by H2O2 and by ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. The results showed that the potential change of the mitochondrial membrane occurred at 0.5 h after H2O2 stimulation, which was sooner than occurred in the UV treated model where the obvious decrease appeared at 6 h after stimulation. In addition, the total change in the potential of the mitochondrial membrane in H2O2 treated B. mori cells was larger than with UV treated cells during the whole process. Analysis of fluorescent quantitative real-time PCR demonstrated that ice-2 and ice-5 might be involved in both H2O2 and UV-induced apoptosis in B. mori cells. Notably, after exposure to H2O2, the expression patterns of ice-5 were remarkably higher than those of ice-2, while the result was the opposite after exposure to UV irradiation. The data indicate that apoptosis induced by H2O2 was directly related to the mitochondrial pathway. The two isoforms of B. mori ice may play different roles in the mitochondrion associated apoptotic pathway in B. mori cells, and the apoptotic pathway in H2O2 induced B. mori cells is different from the UV induced apoptotic pathway.

Development of cell death-based method for the selectivity screening of caspase-1 inhibitors

Caspase-1 selective inhibitors are novel therapeutic agents for inflammatory diseases. Selectivity assays for caspases can be initiated with purified enzyme, making these assays very costly and time consuming. Therefore, there is a need to develop a fast and reliable cell-based assay, which can be used for the selectivity screening of multiple caspases in a biologically relevant context in a single assay. In this study, we have developed an assay in which DNA fragmentation, a hallmark of apoptosis, of Jurkat cell line was examined post induction with etoposide in the presence or absence of inhibitors of caspases 1, 3, 8, 9 and pan-caspase inhibitors. We observed that caspases-3, -8, -9 and pan caspase inhibitors resulted in significant inhibition of etoposide-induced DNA fragmentation. However, caspase-1 specific inhibitor failed to prevent DNA fragmentation, suggesting that either caspases belonging to caspase-1 family (1, 4 and 5) are not present in the Jurkat cells or might not be involved in the etoposide-induced DNA fragmentation. Since the inhibition of caspases 3, 8 and 9 is accompanied by the down regulation of the activity of a cascade of caspases (caspases 2, 6, 7, 9 and 10), selectivity of caspase-I inhibitors can be ascertained for the above panel (caspases 2, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10) of caspases from this single assay.

Caspase activity mediates the differentiation of embryonic stem cells

Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are capable of indefinite self-renewal while retaining the ability to differentiate to any of the three germ layers that give rise to all somatic cell types. An emerging view is that a core set of transcription factors, including Oct4, Sox2, and Nanog, form a robust autoregulatory circuit that maintains ESCs in a self-renewing state. To accommodate the capacity of such cells to undergo germ layer-specific differentiation, we predicted a posttranslational mechanism that could negatively regulate these core self-renewal factors. Here we report caspase-induced cleavage of Nanog in differentiating ESCs. Stem cells lacking the Casp3 gene showed marked defects in differentiation, while forced expression of a caspase cleavage-resistant Nanog mutant in ESCs strongly promoted self-renewal. These results link a major component of the programmed cell-death pathway to the regulation of ESC development.

Anticancer oncolytic activity of respiratory syncytial virus

Oncolytic virotherapy is an emerging bio-therapeutic platform for cancer treatment, which is based on selective infection/killing of cancer cells by viruses. Herein we identify the human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) as an oncolytic virus. Using prostate cancer models, we show dramatic enhancement of RSV infectivity in vitro in the androgen-independent, highly metastatic PC-3 human prostate cancer cells compared to the non-tumorigenic RWPE-1 human prostate cells. The oncolytic efficiency of RSV was established in vivo using human prostate tumor xenografts in nude mice. Intra-tumoral and intra-peritoneal injections of RSV led to a significant regression of prostate tumors. Furthermore, enhanced viral burden in PC-3 cells led to selective destruction of PC-3 cancer cells in vitro and in xenograft tumors in vivo due to apoptosis triggered by the down-regulation of NF-κB activity (and the resulting loss of anti-apoptotic function of NF-κB) in RSV-infected PC-3 cells. The intrinsic (mitochondrial) pathway constitutes the major apoptotic pathway; however, the death-receptor-dependent extrinsic pathway, mediated by the paracrine/autocrine action of tumor necrosis factor-α produced from infected cells, also partly contributed to apoptosis. Thus, the oncolytic property of RSV can potentially be exploited to develop targeted therapeutics for the clinical management of prostate tumors.