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Li D, Wang J, Tuo Z, Yoo KH, Yu Q, Miyamoto A, Zhang C, Ye X, Wei W, Wu R, Feng D. Natural products and derivatives in renal, urothelial and testicular cancers: Targeting signaling pathways and therapeutic potential. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 127:155503. [PMID: 38490077 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Natural products have demonstrated significant potential in cancer drug discovery, particularly in renal cancer (RCa), urothelial carcinoma (UC), and testicular cancer (TC). PURPOSE This review aims to examine the effects of natural products on RCa, UC and TC. STUDY DESIGN systematic review METHODS: PubMed and Web of Science databases were retrieved to search studies about the effects of natural products and derivatives on these cancers. Relevant publications in the reference list of enrolled studies were also checked. RESULTS This review highlighted their diverse impacts on key aspects such as cell growth, apoptosis, metastasis, therapy response, and the immune microenvironment. Natural products not only hold promise for novel drug development but also enhance the efficacy of existing chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Importantly, we exert their effects through modulation of critical pathways and target genes, including the PI3K/AKT pathway, NF-κB pathway, STAT pathway and MAPK pathway, among others in RCa, UC, and TC. CONCLUSION These mechanistic insights provide valuable guidance for researchers, facilitating the selection of promising natural products for cancer management and offering potential avenues for further gene regulation studies in the context of cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dengxiong Li
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Zhouting Tuo
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Koo Han Yoo
- Department of Urology, Kyung Hee University, South Korea
| | - Qingxin Yu
- Department of pathology, Ningbo Clinical Pathology Diagnosis Center, Ningbo City, Zhejiang Province, 315211, China
| | - Akira Miyamoto
- Department of Rehabilitation, West Kyushu University, Japan
| | - Chi Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, PR China
| | - Xing Ye
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Wuran Wei
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Ruicheng Wu
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Dechao Feng
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; Department of Rehabilitation, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, PR China.
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Khan F, Pandey P, Verma M, Upadhyay TK. Terpenoid-Mediated Targeting of STAT3 Signaling in Cancer: An Overview of Preclinical Studies. Biomolecules 2024; 14:200. [PMID: 38397437 PMCID: PMC10886526 DOI: 10.3390/biom14020200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer has become one of the most multifaceted and widespread illnesses affecting human health, causing substantial mortality at an alarming rate. After cardiovascular problems, the condition has a high occurrence rate and ranks second in terms of mortality. The development of new drugs has been facilitated by increased research and a deeper understanding of the mechanisms behind the emergence and advancement of the disease. Numerous preclinical and clinical studies have repeatedly demonstrated the protective effects of natural terpenoids against a range of malignancies. Numerous potential bioactive terpenoids have been investigated in natural sources for their chemopreventive and chemoprotective properties. In practically all body cells, the signaling molecule referred to as signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is widely expressed. Numerous studies have demonstrated that STAT3 regulates its downstream target genes, including Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, cyclin D1, c-Myc, and survivin, to promote the growth of cells, differentiation, cell cycle progression, angiogenesis, and immune suppression in addition to chemotherapy resistance. Researchers viewed STAT3 as a primary target for cancer therapy because of its crucial involvement in cancer formation. This therapy primarily focuses on directly and indirectly preventing the expression of STAT3 in tumor cells. By explicitly targeting STAT3 in both in vitro and in vivo settings, it has been possible to explain the protective effect of terpenoids against malignant cells. In this study, we provide a complete overview of STAT3 signal transduction processes, the involvement of STAT3 in carcinogenesis, and mechanisms related to STAT3 persistent activation. The article also thoroughly summarizes the inhibition of STAT3 signaling by certain terpenoid phytochemicals, which have demonstrated strong efficacy in several preclinical cancer models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahad Khan
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai 602105, India;
| | - Pratibha Pandey
- University Centre for Research and Development, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali 140413, India
| | - Meenakshi Verma
- University Centre for Research and Development, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali 140413, India
- Department of Chemistry, University Institute of Sciences, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali 140413, India
| | - Tarun Kumar Upadhyay
- Department of Biotechnology, Parul Institute of Applied Sciences and Research and Development Cell, Parul University, Vadodara 391760, India;
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Li Y, Li Y, Yao Y, Li H, Gao C, Sun C, Zhuang J. Potential of cucurbitacin as an anticancer drug. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 168:115707. [PMID: 37862969 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
In Chinese medicine, the Cucurbitaceae family contains many compounds known as cucurbitacins, which have been categorized into 12 classes ranging from A to T and more than 200 derivatives. Cucurbitacins are a class of highly oxidized tetracyclic triterpenoids with potent anticancer properties. The eight components of cucurbitacins with the strongest anticancer activity are cucurbitacins B, D, E, I, IIa, L-glucoside, Q, and R. Cucurbitacins have also been reported to suppress JAK-STAT 3, mTOR, VEGFR, Wnt/β-catenin, and MAPK signaling pathways, all of which are crucial for the survival and demise of cancer cells. In this paper, we review the progress in research on cucurbitacin-induced apoptosis, autophagy, cytoskeleton disruption, cell cycle arrest, inhibition of cell proliferation, inhibition of invasion and migration, inhibition of angiogenesis, epigenetic alterations, and synergistic anticancer effects in tumor cells. Recent studies have identified cucurbitacins as promising molecules for therapeutic innovation with broad versatility in immune response. Thus, cucurbitacin is a promising class of anticancer agents that can be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy and radiotherapy for the treatment of many types of cancer.Therefore, based on the research reports in the past five years at home and abroad, we further summarize and review the structural characteristics, chemical and biological activities, and studies of cucurbitacins based on the previous studies to provide a reference for further development and utilization of cucurbitacins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- College of Chinese Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Yingrui Li
- College of Chinese Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Yan Yao
- College of First Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250022, China
| | - Huayao Li
- College of Chinese Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Chundi Gao
- College of Chinese Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Changgang Sun
- College of Chinese Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China; Department of Oncology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang 261000, China
| | - Jing Zhuang
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang 261000, China.
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4
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Nguyen TT, Pham TNM, Nguyen CTN, Truong TN, Bishop C, Doan NQH, Le THV. Phytochemistry and Cytotoxic Activity of Aquilaria crassna Pericarp on MDA-MB-468 Cell Lines. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:42356-42366. [PMID: 38024711 PMCID: PMC10652264 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c04656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
The extracts of Aquilaria crassna pericarp were investigated on the MDA-MB-468, a breast cancer cell line, at desired concentration (1-50 μg/mL). The results showed that the dichloromethane (DCM) extract exhibited the strongest toxicity and was carried out subsequently. A total of nine compounds were isolated from the DCM extract using column chromatography and recrystallization, of which their structures were determined. Intriguingly, in addition to the previously reported compounds, neocucurbitacin A, a cucurbitacin triterpenoid aglycone with a lactone in ring A, was reported for the first time in the Aquilaria genus. Among the isolated compounds, cucurbitacin E highly inhibited MDA-MB-468 cell growth in a dose-dependent manner. Owing to binding abilities with the SH2 domain in the molecular docking study, cucurbitacin E, neocucurbitan A, neocucurbitan B, and cucurbitacin E 2-O-β-d-glucopyranoside act as STAT3 inhibitors and are suitable for further research. This study suggests thatAquilaria crassnafruits could serve as a promising source of natural compounds with potential anticancer effects, particularly against breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thao Thi
Thu Nguyen
- Faculty
of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and
Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, 41 Dinh Tien Hoang, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam
| | - Thu Nguyen Minh Pham
- Faculty
of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and
Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, 41 Dinh Tien Hoang, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam
| | - Chi Thi Ngoc Nguyen
- Faculty
of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and
Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, 41 Dinh Tien Hoang, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam
| | - Tuyen N. Truong
- Faculty
of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and
Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, 41 Dinh Tien Hoang, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam
| | - Cleo Bishop
- Center
of Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Blizard Institute, Barts and
The London Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, U.K.
| | - Nam Q. H. Doan
- Faculty
of Pharmacy, Van Lang University, 69/68 Dang Thuy Tram Street, Ward
13, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam
| | - Thi Hong Van Le
- Faculty
of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and
Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, 41 Dinh Tien Hoang, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam
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5
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Hsu HL, Lin BJ, Lin YC, Tu CC, Nguyen NL, Wang CC, Chen MC, Chen CH. Cucurbitacin E Exerts Anti-Proliferative Activity via Promoting p62-Dependent Apoptosis in Human Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer A549 Cells. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:8138-8151. [PMID: 37886957 PMCID: PMC10605876 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45100514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are the first-line treatment for advanced EGFR-mutated non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, NSCLC patients with wild-type EGFR and KRAS mutation are ineligible for EGFR-TKIs. Therefore, the discovery of new therapeutic agents is urgently needed for NSCLC patients who cannot receive targeted therapies. Natural products possess tremendous chemical diversity and have been extensively investigated for their anticancer activity. In this study, we found that Cucurbitacin E (Cu E), a triterpene of cucurbitacins widely presented in the edible plants of the Cucurbitaceae family, significantly inhibits the viability and proliferation of A549 cells that harbor wild-type EGFR and KRAS mutation. Our results revealed that Cu E increases cell-cycle arrest at G2/M and subG1 phase. Mechanistically, Cu E significantly inhibits the phosphorylation and protein levels of regulatory proteins and hinders G2/M cell-cycle progression. Meanwhile, the treatment of Cu E resulted in DNA damage response and apoptosis. For the first time, we observed that Cu E induces incomplete autophagy as evidenced by increased LC3B-II expression and p62-accumulation. Knockdown of p62 rescued the cells from Cu E-mediated anti-proliferative effect, apoptosis, DNA damage, and ROS production. These findings suggest that Cu E is a promising drug candidate for NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han-Lin Hsu
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 116, Taiwan
- Pulmonary Research Center, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 116, Taiwan
- School of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Bo-Jyun Lin
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chen Lin
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Chieh Tu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Nham-Linh Nguyen
- Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, HCMC University of Technology and Education, Ho Chi Minh 70000, Vietnam
| | - Ching-Chiung Wang
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Traditional Herbal Medicine Research, Center of Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program in Clinical Drug Development of Herbal Medicine, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Pharmacognosy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Chuan Chen
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Traditional Herbal Medicine Research, Center of Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program in Clinical Drug Development of Herbal Medicine, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Han Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Cell Physiology and Molecular Image Research Center, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 116, Taiwan
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6
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Tuli HS, Rath P, Chauhan A, Ranjan A, Ramniwas S, Sak K, Aggarwal D, Kumar M, Dhama K, Lee EHC, Yap KCY, Capinpin SM, Kumar AP. Cucurbitacins as Potent Chemo-Preventive Agents: Mechanistic Insight and Recent Trends. Biomolecules 2022; 13:biom13010057. [PMID: 36671442 PMCID: PMC9855938 DOI: 10.3390/biom13010057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cucurbitacins constitute a group of cucumber-derived dietary lipids, highly oxidized tetracyclic triterpenoids, with potential medical uses. These compounds are known to interact with a variety of recognized cellular targets to impede the growth of cancer cells. Accumulating evidence has suggested that inhibition of tumor cell growth via induction of apoptosis, cell-cycle arrest, anti-metastasis and anti-angiogenesis are major promising chemo-preventive actions of cucurbitacins. Cucurbitacins may be a potential choice for investigations of synergism with other drugs to reverse cancer cells' treatment resistance. The detailed molecular mechanisms underlying these effects include interactions between cucurbitacins and numerous cellular targets (Bcl-2/Bax, caspases, STAT3, cyclins, NF-κB, COX-2, MMP-9, VEGF/R, etc.) as well as control of a variety of intracellular signal transduction pathways. The current study is focused on the efforts undertaken to find possible molecular targets for cucurbitacins in suppressing diverse malignant processes. The review is distinctive since it presents all potential molecular targets of cucurbitacins in cancer on one common podium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hardeep Singh Tuli
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Markandeshwar Engineering College, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana-Ambala 133207, India
- Correspondence: (H.S.T.); (A.P.K.)
| | - Prangya Rath
- Amity Institute of Environmental Sciences, Amity University, Noida 201303, India
| | - Abhishek Chauhan
- Amity Institute of Environmental Toxicology, Safety and Management, Amity University, Noida 201303, India
| | - Anuj Ranjan
- Academy of Biology and Biotechnology, Southern Federal University, 344090 Rostov-on-Don, Russia
| | - Seema Ramniwas
- University Centre for Research and Development, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chandigarh University, Mohali 140413, India
| | | | - Diwakar Aggarwal
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Markandeshwar Engineering College, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana-Ambala 133207, India
| | - Manoj Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, Maharishi Markandeshwar University Sadopur, Ambala 134007, India
| | - Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly 243122, India
| | - E Hui Clarissa Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077, Singapore
| | - Kenneth Chun-Yong Yap
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077, Singapore
| | - Sharah Mae Capinpin
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077, Singapore
| | - Alan Prem Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077, Singapore
- Correspondence: (H.S.T.); (A.P.K.)
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7
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Delgado-Tiburcio EE, Cadena-Iñiguez J, Santiago-Osorio E, Ruiz-Posadas LDM, Castillo-Juárez I, Aguiñiga-Sánchez I, Soto-Hernández M. Pharmacokinetics and Biological Activity of Cucurbitacins. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:1325. [PMID: 36355498 PMCID: PMC9696414 DOI: 10.3390/ph15111325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cucurbitacins are a class of secondary metabolites initially isolated from the Cucurbitaceae family. They are important for their analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, and anticancer biological actions. This review addresses pharmacokinetic parameters recently reported, including absorption, metabolism, distribution, and elimination phases of cucurbitacins. It includes recent studies of the molecular mechanisms of the biological activity of the most studied cucurbitacins and some derivatives, especially their anticancer capacity, to propose the integration of the pharmacokinetic profiles of cucurbitacins and the possibilities of their use. The main botanical genera and species of American origin that have been studied, and others whose chemo taxonomy makes them essential sources for the extraction of these metabolites, are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jorge Cadena-Iñiguez
- Innovation in Natural Resource Management, Postgraduate College, Campus San Luis Potosí, Salinas de Hidalgo, San Luis Potosí 78622, Mexico
| | - Edelmiro Santiago-Osorio
- Hematopoiesis and Leukemia Laboratory, Research Unit on Cell Differentiation and Cancer, FES Zaragoza, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City 09230, Mexico
| | - Lucero del Mar Ruiz-Posadas
- Botany Department, Postgraduate College, Campus Montecillo, km 36.5 Carretera México-Texcoco, Texcoco 56230, Mexico
| | - Israel Castillo-Juárez
- Botany Department, Postgraduate College, Campus Montecillo, km 36.5 Carretera México-Texcoco, Texcoco 56230, Mexico
| | - Itzen Aguiñiga-Sánchez
- Hematopoiesis and Leukemia Laboratory, Research Unit on Cell Differentiation and Cancer, FES Zaragoza, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City 09230, Mexico
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, FES Zaragoza, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City 09230, Mexico
| | - Marcos Soto-Hernández
- Botany Department, Postgraduate College, Campus Montecillo, km 36.5 Carretera México-Texcoco, Texcoco 56230, Mexico
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8
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The Role of Natural Products as Inhibitors of JAK/STAT Signaling Pathways in Glioblastoma Treatment. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:7838583. [PMID: 36193062 PMCID: PMC9526628 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7838583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The permeability of glioblastoma, as well as its escaping the immune system, makes them one of the most deadly human malignancies. By avoiding programmed cell death (apoptosis), unlimited cell growth and metastatic ability could dramatically affect the immune system. Genetic mutations, epigenetic changes, and overexpression of oncogenes can cause this process. On the other hand, the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and intratumor heterogeneity are important factors causing resistance to therapy. Several signaling pathways have been identified in this field, including the Janus tyrosine kinase (JAK) converter and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) activator pathways, which are closely related. In addition, the JAK/STAT signaling pathway contributes to a wide array of tumorigenesis functions, including replication, anti-apoptosis, angiogenesis, and immune suppression. Introducing this pathway as the main tumorigenesis and treatment resistance center can give a better understanding of how it operates. In light of this, it is an important goal in treating many disorders, particularly cancer. The inhibition of this signaling pathway is being considered an approach to the treatment of glioblastoma. The use of natural products alternatively to conventional therapies is another area of research interest among researchers. Some natural products that originate from plants or natural sources can interfere with JAK/STAT signaling in human malignant cells, also by stopping the progression and phosphorylation of JAK/STAT, inducing apoptosis, and stopping the cell cycle. Natural products are a viable alternative to conventional chemotherapy because of their cost-effectiveness, wide availability, and almost no side effects.
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9
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Wang H, Ma G, Wang H, Li L, Dong A, Liu H, Huo X, Si J, Wang J. Novel Triterpenoid Alkaloids With Their Potential Cytotoxic Activity From the Roots of Siraitia grosvenorii. Front Chem 2022; 10:885487. [PMID: 35572103 PMCID: PMC9099095 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2022.885487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Four novel triterpenoid alkaloids, siragrosvenins A–D (1–4), and two new cucurbitane-type triterpenoids, siragrosvenins E–F (5, 6), together with eight known analogs (7−14), were isolated from the roots of Siraitia grosvenorii. Compounds 1−4 possessed a rare cucurbitane-type triterpenoid scaffold, featuring an extra pyrazine unit via the Strecker reaction in the cucurbitane framework. Compound 5 displayed a 6/6/6/5/6/5-fused polycyclic ring system, with an uncommon fused furan and pyran ring in the side chain. All the structures were characterized by extensive spectroscopic analysis, including HRESIMS, NMR, and X-ray crystallographic data. It is worth noting that the DP4+ analysis method was applied for the first time to determine the absolute configurations of the trihydroxybutyl moiety in the side chain of compounds 1–4. In vitro cytotoxicity screening found that compounds 4, 8, 9, 13, and 14 exhibited remarkable cytotoxic activities against three cell lines with IC50 values ranging from 1.44 to 9.99 μM. Siragrosvenin D shows remarkable cytotoxic activity on MCF-7 cells. As a result, it inhibited the proliferation of MCF-7 cells and reduced their viability via the induction of G2/M phase arrest and significantly induced apoptosis in MCF-7 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jianyong Si
- *Correspondence: Jianyong Si, ; Junchi Wang,
| | - Junchi Wang
- *Correspondence: Jianyong Si, ; Junchi Wang,
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10
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Shih PC. The role of the STAT3 signaling transduction pathways in radioresistance. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 234:108118. [PMID: 35085605 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The efficacy of radiotherapy has long known to be limited by the emergence of resistance. The four Rs of radiotherapy (DNA damage repair, reoxygenation, redistribution of the cell cycle, and repopulation) are generally accepted concepts in radiobioolgy. Recent studies have strongly linked signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) to the regulation of cancer stemness and radioresistance. In particular, a STAT3 pathway inhibitor napabucasin, claimed to be the first cancer stemness antagonist in clinical trials, strengthens the link. However, no reviews connect STAT3 with the four Rs of radiotherapy. Herein, the evidence-based role of STAT3 in radioresistance is discussed in relation to the four Rs of radiotherapy. The proposed mechanisms include upstream and downstream effector proteins of STAT3, including FOXM1, MELK, NEK2, AKT, EZH2, and HIF1α. Downstream transcriptional products of the mechanistically-related proteins are involved in cancer stemness, anti-apoptosis, and the four Rs of radiotherapy. Utilizing selective inhibitors of the mechanistically-related proteins has shown promising antagonism of radioresistance, suggesting that the expression levels of these proteins may be biomarkers for the prediction of radiotherapeutic outcomes, and that this molecular mechanism may provide a rational axis through which to treat radioresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Po-Chang Shih
- UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29-39 Brunswick Square, Bloomsbury, London WC1N 1AX, UK; Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan.
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11
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Keeratichamroen S, Lirdprapamongkol K, Thongnest S, Boonsombat J, Chawengrum P, Sornprachum T, Sirirak J, Verathamjamras C, Ornnork N, Ruchirawat S, Svasti J. JAK2/STAT3‑mediated dose‑dependent cytostatic and cytotoxic effects of sesquiterpene lactones from Gymnanthemum extensum on A549 human lung carcinoma cells. Oncol Rep 2021; 47:6. [PMID: 34738622 PMCID: PMC8600427 DOI: 10.3892/or.2021.8217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to drug resistance and disease recurrence, lung cancer remains one of the primary cancer-related causes of death in both men and women worldwide. In addition, lung cancer is clinically silent and thus most patients are at an advanced stage at the time of diagnosis. The limited efficiency of current conventional chemotherapies necessitates the search for novel effective anticancer agents. The present study demonstrated the anti-proliferative effect and apoptosis-inducing activity of three sesquiterpene lactones isolated from Gymnanthemum extensum, vernodalin (VDa), vernolepin (VLe) and vernolide (VLi), on A549 human lung cancer cells. Treatment with sub-cytotoxic doses (cell viability remaining >75%) of VDa, VLe and VLi, arrested progression of the A549 cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase, while cytotoxic doses of the three compounds induced G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis. Mechanistic studies revealed that VDa, VLe and VLi may exert their anti-tumor activity through the JAK2/STAT3 pathway. Molecular docking analysis confirmed that VDa, VLe and VLi formed hydrogen bonds with the FERM domain of JAK2 protein. Overall, the present study highlighted the potential therapeutic value of VDa, VLe and VLi to be further developed as anticancer agents for the treatment of lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sanit Thongnest
- Laboratory of Natural Products, Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok 10210, Thailand
| | - Jutatip Boonsombat
- Laboratory of Natural Products, Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok 10210, Thailand
| | - Pornsuda Chawengrum
- Program in Chemical Sciences, Chulabhorn Graduate Institute, Chulabhorn Royal Academy, Bangkok 10210, Thailand
| | - Thiwaree Sornprachum
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok 10210, Thailand
| | - Jitnapa Sirirak
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Silpakorn University, Nakhon Pathom 73000, Thailand
| | - Chris Verathamjamras
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok 10210, Thailand
| | - Narittira Ornnork
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok 10210, Thailand
| | - Somsak Ruchirawat
- Center of Excellence on Environmental Health and Toxicology, Ministry of Education, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Jisnuson Svasti
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok 10210, Thailand
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12
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Haque A, Brazeau D, Amin AR. Perspectives on natural compounds in chemoprevention and treatment of cancer: an update with new promising compounds. Eur J Cancer 2021; 149:165-183. [PMID: 33865202 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2021.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is the second deadliest disease worldwide. Although recent advances applying precision treatments with targeted (molecular and immune) agents are promising, the histological and molecular heterogeneity of cancer cells and huge mutational burdens (intrinsic or acquired after therapy) leading to drug resistance and treatment failure are posing continuous challenges. These recent advances do not negate the need for alternative approaches such as chemoprevention, the pharmacological approach to reverse, suppress or prevent the initial phases of carcinogenesis or the progression of premalignant cells to invasive disease by using non-toxic agents. Although data are limited, the success of several clinical trials in preventing cancer in high-risk populations suggests that chemoprevention is a rational, appealing and viable strategy to prevent carcinogenesis. Particularly among higher-risk groups, the use of safe, non-toxic agents is the utmost consideration because these individuals have not yet developed invasive disease. Natural dietary compounds present in fruits, vegetables and spices are especially attractive for chemoprevention and treatment because of their easy availability, high margin of safety, relatively low cost and widespread human consumption. Hundreds of such compounds have been widely investigated for chemoprevention and treatment in the last few decades. Previously, we reviewed the most widely studied natural compounds and their molecular mechanisms, which were highly exploited by the cancer research community. In the time since our initial review, many promising new compounds have been identified. In this review, we critically review these promising new natural compounds, their molecular targets and mechanisms of anticancer activity that may create novel opportunities for further design and conduct of preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abedul Haque
- Department of Hematopathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Daniel Brazeau
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Administration and Research, School of Pharmacy, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, 25701, USA
| | - Arm R Amin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, School of Pharmacy, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, 25701, USA.
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13
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Yang P, Liu W, Fu R, Ding GB, Amin S, Li Z. Cucurbitacin E Chemosensitizes Colorectal Cancer Cells via Mitigating TFAP4/Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2020; 68:14148-14160. [PMID: 33205649 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.0c05551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Chemoresistance and toxicity are the main obstacles that limit the efficacy of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in colorectal cancer (CRC) therapy. Hence, it is urgent to identify new adjuvants that can sensitize CRC cells to conventional chemotherapeutic approaches. Cucurbitacin E (CE) is a natural triterpenoid, widely distributed in dietary plants, and shows antitumor effects. Here, we report that CE enhances the sensitivity of CRC cells to chemotherapy via attenuating the expression of adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-binding cassette transporters ABCC1 and MDR1. Combined with CE-functionalized magnetite nanoparticles and gene ontology analysis, we found that CE-binding proteins may involve Wnt/β-catenin signaling. To validate the findings, β-catenin was upregulated in drug-resistant cell lines, and the synergistic effects of CE and chemotherapeutics were accompanied by the downregulation of β-catenin. Moreover, TFAP4 was identified as an intracellular target of CE. Remarkably, the combination of CE and 5-FU treatment attenuated β-catenin, MDR1, and ABCC1 expressions, while TFAP4 overexpression reversed their expressions by 2.68 ± 0.46-, 0.72 ± 0.44-, and 0.93 ± 0.21-fold, respectively. Thus, our results indicate that CE sensitizes CRC cells to chemotherapy by decreasing the TFAP4/Wnt/β-catenin signaling, suggesting that the dietary compound CE can be used as a chemosensitizing adjuvant for CRC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Yang
- Institute of Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of National Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Wen Liu
- Institute of Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of National Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Rong Fu
- Institute of Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of National Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Guo-Bin Ding
- Institute of Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of National Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Sajid Amin
- Institute of Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of National Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Zhuoyu Li
- Institute of Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of National Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
- College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
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14
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Ramezani M, Hasani M, Ramezani F, Karimi Abdolmaleki M. Cucurbitacins: A Focus on Cucurbitacin E As A Natural Product and Their Biological Activities. PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES 2020. [DOI: 10.34172/ps.2020.66] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
For the last years, different types of cucurbitacins have been extracted from various species of Cucurbitaceae family. For this review, all related papers were accumulated by searching electronic databases in the English language, including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The keywords of cucurbitacin, cucumber anticancer therapy, cytotoxic effects, chemotherapy, and inhibitor effect were searched until February 2020. According to the result of this review, cucurbitacin E as a tetracyclic triterpenes compound, has been exhibited cell cycle arrest, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities. It showed tumor proliferation prevention, induction of apoptosis or synergistically acts with other established antitumor compounds and cytokines throughout many molecular mechanisms. In a function-structure association manner, cucurbitacin E can inhibit Janus kinas2 (JAK2) phosphorylation, the signal transducer activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and subsequently block these pathways, which seems to be the main mechanism of its activity. Future studies could target its detection in uninvestigated sources, subsequently its derivatives to improve their anticancer activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fatemeh Ramezani
- Physiology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
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15
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Kwa YC, Tan YF, Foo YY, Leo BF, Chung I, Kiew LV, Imae T, Yusa SI, Chung LY. Improved delivery and antimetastatic effects of Stattic by self-assembled amphiphilic pendant-dendron copolymer micelles in breast cancer cell lines. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2020.101905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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16
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Song H, Sui H, Zhang Q, Wang P, Wang F. Cucurbitacin E Induces Autophagy-Involved Apoptosis in Intestinal Epithelial Cells. Front Physiol 2020; 11:1020. [PMID: 32982778 PMCID: PMC7479753 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.01020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis plays a crucial role in maintaining the structural and functional integrity of the intestinal epithelial barrier. Autophagy mediates injury to and repair of the intestinal epithelial barrier through multiple pathways in pathophysiological conditions. Our earlier study has found that cucurbitacin E (CuE) regulates the proliferation, migration, and permeability of human intestinal epithelial cells (IECs); however, its effects and mechanisms on apoptosis and autophagy are still unclear. This study reported CuE induced apoptosis and promoted autophagy of IECs in a concentration-dependent manner. The results showed that CuE could inhibit the expression of apoptosis-related protein Bcl-2 and drove activation of caspase-3 and cleavage of its substrate poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase. CuE also facilitated the expression of endoplasmic reticulum stress-related proteins, CHOP and Grp78, and autophagy-related proteins, Beclin1 and LC3, while inhibiting the phosphorylation of AKT and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). An autophagy inhibitor, 3-methyladenine, reduced CuE-induced apoptosis. These results suggest that CuE may induce apoptosis and autophagy in IECs via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway and that autophagy following endoplasmic reticulum stress participates in the pro-apoptotic process induced by CuE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huapei Song
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Hehuan Sui
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Central Hospital of Nanchong, The Second Clinical School of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China.,Nanchong Key Laboratory of Individualized Drug Therapy, Nanchong, China
| | - Qiong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Pei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Fengjun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
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17
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In vitro antitumor effect of cucurbitacin E on human lung cancer cell line and its molecular mechanism. Chin J Nat Med 2020; 18:483-490. [DOI: 10.1016/s1875-5364(20)30058-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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18
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Bose S, Banerjee S, Mondal A, Chakraborty U, Pumarol J, Croley CR, Bishayee A. Targeting the JAK/STAT Signaling Pathway Using Phytocompounds for Cancer Prevention and Therapy. Cells 2020; 9:E1451. [PMID: 32545187 PMCID: PMC7348822 DOI: 10.3390/cells9061451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a prevalent cause of mortality around the world. Aberrated activation of Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) signaling pathway promotes tumorigenesis. Natural agents, including phytochemicals, exhibit potent anticancer activities via various mechanisms. However, the therapeutic potency of phytoconstituents as inhibitors of JAK/STAT signaling against cancer has only come into focus in recent days. The current review highlights phytochemicals that can suppress the JAK/STAT pathway in order to impede cancer cell growth. Various databases, such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, SpringerLink, Scopus, and Google Scholar, were searched using relevant keywords. Once the authors were in agreement regarding the suitability of a study, a full-length form of the relevant article was obtained, and the information was gathered and cited. All the complete articles that were incorporated after the literature collection rejection criteria were applied were perused in-depth and material was extracted based on the importance, relevance, and advancement of the apprehending of the JAK/STAT pathway and their relation to phytochemicals. Based on the critical and comprehensive analysis of literature presented in this review, phytochemicals from diverse plant origins exert therapeutic and cancer preventive effects, at least in part, through regulation of the JAK/STAT pathway. Nevertheless, more preclinical and clinical research is necessary to completely comprehend the capability of modulating JAK/STAT signaling to achieve efficient cancer control and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sankhadip Bose
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Bengal School of Technology, Chuchura 712 102, India;
| | - Sabyasachi Banerjee
- Department of Phytochemistry, Gupta College of Technological Sciences, Asansol 713 301, India; (S.B.); (U.C.)
| | - Arijit Mondal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Bengal College of Pharmaceutical Technology, Dubrajpur 731 123, India
| | - Utsab Chakraborty
- Department of Phytochemistry, Gupta College of Technological Sciences, Asansol 713 301, India; (S.B.); (U.C.)
| | - Joshua Pumarol
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL 34211, USA; (J.P.); (C.R.C.)
| | - Courtney R. Croley
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL 34211, USA; (J.P.); (C.R.C.)
| | - Anupam Bishayee
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL 34211, USA; (J.P.); (C.R.C.)
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19
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Saeed MEM, Boulos JC, Elhaboub G, Rigano D, Saab A, Loizzo MR, Hassan LEA, Sugimoto Y, Piacente S, Tundis R, Yagi S, Khalid H, Efferth T. Cytotoxicity of cucurbitacin E from Citrullus colocynthis against multidrug-resistant cancer cells. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2019; 62:152945. [PMID: 31132750 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2019.152945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cucurbitacin E (CuE) is an oxygenated tetracyclic triterpenoid isolated from the fruits of Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad. PURPOSE This study outlines CuE's cytotoxic activity against drug-resistant tumor cell lines. Three members of ABC transporters superfamily, P-glycoprotein (P-gp), breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) and ABCB5 were investigated, whose overexpression in tumors is tightly linked to multidrug resistance. Further factors of drug resistance studied were the tumor suppressor TP53 and the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). METHODS Cytotoxicity assays (resazurin assays) were used to investigate the activity of Citrullus colocynthis and CuE towards multidrug resistant cancer cells. Molecular docking (In silico) has been carried out to explore the CuE's mode of binding to ABC transporters (P-gp, BCRP and ABCB5). The visualization of doxorubicin uptake was done by a Spinning Disc Confocal Microscope. The assessment of proteins expression was done by western blotting analysis. COMPARE and hierarchical cluster analyses were applied to identify, which genes correlate with sensitivity or resistance to cucurbitacins (CuA, CuB, CuE, CuD, CuI, and CuK). RESULTS Multidrug-resistant cells overexpressing P-gp or BCRP were cross-resistant to CuE. By contrast, TP53 knock-out cells were sensitive to CuE. Remarkably, resistant cells transfected with oncogenic ΔEGFR or ABCB5 were hypersensitive (collateral sensitive) to CuE. In silico analyses demonstrated that CuE is a substrate for P-gp and BCRP. Immunoblot analyses highlighted that CuE targeted EGFR and silenced its downstream signaling cascades. The most striking result that emerged from the doxorubicin uptake by ABCB5 overexpressing cells is that CuE is an effective inhibitor for ABCB5 transporter when compared with verapamil. The COMPARE analyses of transcriptome-wide expression profiles of tumor cell lines of the NCI identified common genes involved in cell cycle regulation, cellular adhesion and intracellular communication for different cucurbitacins. CONCLUSION CuE represents a potential therapeutic candidate for the treatment of certain types of refractory tumors. To best of our knowledge, this is the first time to identify CuE and verapamil as inhibitors for ABCB5 transporter.
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MESH Headings
- ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily B/metabolism
- ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily B, Member 1/chemistry
- ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily B, Member 1/metabolism
- ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily G, Member 2/genetics
- ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily G, Member 2/metabolism
- Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic/chemistry
- Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic/pharmacology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Citrullus colocynthis/chemistry
- Doxorubicin/pharmacology
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm/drug effects
- ErbB Receptors/genetics
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/drug effects
- Gene Knockout Techniques
- Humans
- Leukemia/drug therapy
- Leukemia/metabolism
- Leukemia/pathology
- Molecular Docking Simulation
- Neoplasm Proteins/genetics
- Neoplasm Proteins/metabolism
- Triterpenes/chemistry
- Triterpenes/metabolism
- Triterpenes/pharmacology
- Tumor Suppressor Protein p53/genetics
- Tumor Suppressor Protein p53/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed E M Saeed
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Joelle C Boulos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Gihan Elhaboub
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Daniela Rigano
- Department of Pharmacy, University Federico II of Naples, via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Antoine Saab
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science II and Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Monica R Loizzo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende (Cosenza), Italy
| | - Loiy E A Hassan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, 11800, Malaysia
| | - Yoshikazu Sugimoto
- Division of Chemotherapy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sonia Piacente
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II n. 132, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Rosa Tundis
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende (Cosenza), Italy
| | - Sakina Yagi
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Hassan Khalid
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Thomas Efferth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany.
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20
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Theochares B, Vohnoutka R, Boumil E, Shea TB. Beneficial and Deleterious Impact of a Nutritional Supplementation for Inhibition of Proliferation of Neuroblastoma in Culture. Nutr Cancer 2019; 71:1345-1354. [PMID: 31058554 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2019.1604006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Neuroblastoma, a cancer of the sympathetic nervous system, primarily affects infants and children ≤10 yr of age. High-risk neuroblastoma is associated with low survival rates and increased risks of treatment-related side-effects. Therefore, effective treatments that increase survival and reduce adverse side-effects are crucial. Cucurbitacin E (CucE), a nutritional supplement shown to have potential as an alternative to chemotherapy, was investigated for potential impact on neuroblastoma alone and in combination with the standard chemotherapeutic agent, paclitaxel, (PAC). CucE and PAC each inhibited proliferation of murine neuroblastoma cells in culture. Combined treatment with CucE and PAC also induced morphological differentiation. However, both differentiation and antiproliferative effects were reversible. Consequently, while nutritional supplementation represents a potential therapeutic approach toward treatment of cancer, certain nutritional/chemotherapeutic combinations may induce transient rather than permanent effects. Transient inhibition of proliferation by nutritional supplementation could inadvertently protect carcinogenic cells from toxicity otherwise induced by a chemotherapeutic agent. Combinatorial treatments involving nutritional supplements should therefore be utilized with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany Theochares
- Laboratory for Neuroscience, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Lowell , One University Avenue , Lowell , Massachusetts , USA
| | - Rishel Vohnoutka
- Laboratory for Neuroscience, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Lowell , One University Avenue , Lowell , Massachusetts , USA
| | - Edward Boumil
- Laboratory for Neuroscience, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Lowell , One University Avenue , Lowell , Massachusetts , USA
| | - Thomas B Shea
- Laboratory for Neuroscience, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Lowell , One University Avenue , Lowell , Massachusetts , USA
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21
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Cheng AC, Hsu YC, Tsai CC. The effects of cucurbitacin E on GADD45β-trigger G2/M arrest and JNK-independent pathway in brain cancer cells. J Cell Mol Med 2019; 23:3512-3519. [PMID: 30912292 PMCID: PMC6484297 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Revised: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cucurbitacin E (CuE), an active compound of the cucurbitacin family, possesses a variety of pharmacological functions and chemotherapy potential. Cucurbitacin E exhibits inhibitory effects in several types of cancer; however, its anticancer effects on brain cancer remain obscure and require further interpretation. In this study, efforts were initiated to inspect whether CuE can contribute to anti-proliferation in human brain malignant glioma GBM 8401 cells and glioblastoma-astrocytoma U-87-MG cells. An MTT assay measured CuE's inhibitory effect on the growth of glioblastomas (GBMs). A flow cytometry approach was used for the assessment of DNA content and cell cycle analysis. DNA damage 45β (GADD45β) gene expression and CDC2/cyclin-B1 disassociation were investigated by quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot analysis. Based on our results, CuE showed growth-inhibiting effects on GBM 8401 and U-87-MG cells. Moreover, GADD45β caused the accumulation of CuE-treated G2/M-phase cells. The disassociation of the CDC2/cyclin-B1 complex demonstrated the known effects of CuE against GBM 8401 and U-87-MG cancer cells. Additionally, CuE may also exert antitumour activities in established brain cancer cells. In conclusion, CuE inhibited cell proliferation and induced mitosis delay in cancer cells, suggesting its potential applicability as an antitumour agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- An-Chin Cheng
- Department of Nutrition and Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chiang Hsu
- Department of Medical Sciences Industry, College of Health Sciences, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chiang-Chin Tsai
- Department of General Surgery, Tainan Sin Lau Hospital, The Presbyterian Church in Taiwan, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Health Care Administration, College of Health Sciences, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan, Taiwan
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22
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Ge W, Chen X, Han F, Liu Z, Wang T, Wang M, Chen Y, Ding Y, Zhang Q. Synthesis of Cucurbitacin B Derivatives as Potential Anti-Hepatocellular Carcinoma Agents. Molecules 2018; 23:E3345. [PMID: 30567327 PMCID: PMC6321601 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23123345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Revised: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Cucurbitacin B shows potent activity against tumor cells, but its high toxicity limits its application in the clinic. A series of cucurbitacin B derivatives was synthesized and evaluated for their anti-hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) activities against the HepG-2 cell line. These compounds were also tested for their toxicity against the L-O2 normal cell line. The compound with the most potential, 10b, exhibited potent activity against the HepG-2 cell line with an IC50 value of 0.63 μM. Moreover, compound 10b showed the highest TI value (4.71), which is a 14.7-fold improvement compared to its parent compound cucurbitacin B. A preliminary molecular mechanism study of 10b indicated that 10b could inhibit P-STAT3 to induce the activation of mitochondrial apoptotic pathways. An in vivo acute toxicity study indicated that the compound 10b has preferable safety and tolerability compared with cucurbitacin B. These findings indicate that compound 10b might be considered as a lead compound for exploring effective anti-HCC drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weizhi Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300353, China.
| | - Xinyi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300353, China.
| | - Fangzhi Han
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300353, China.
| | - Zhongquan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300353, China.
| | - Tianpeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300353, China.
| | | | - Yue Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300353, China.
| | - Yahui Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300353, China.
| | - Quan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300353, China.
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Su CH, Kuo CL, Lu KW, Yu FS, Ma YS, Yang JL, Chu YL, Chueh FS, Liu KC, Chung JG. Fisetin-induced apoptosis of human oral cancer SCC-4 cells through reactive oxygen species production, endoplasmic reticulum stress, caspase-, and mitochondria-dependent signaling pathways. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2017; 32:1725-1741. [PMID: 28181380 DOI: 10.1002/tox.22396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2016] [Revised: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Oral cancer is one of the cancer-related diseases in human populations and its incidence rates are rising worldwide. Fisetin, a flavonoid from natural products, has been shown to exhibit anticancer activities in many human cancer cell lines but the molecular mechanism of fisetin-induced apoptosis in human oral cancer cells is still unclear; thus, in this study, we investigated fisetin-induced cell death and associated signal pathways on human oral cancer SCC-4 cells in vitro. We examined cell morphological changes, total viable cells, and cell cycle distribution by phase contrast microscopy and flow cytometry assays. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), Ca2+ , mitochondria membrane potential (ΔΨm ), and caspase-8, -9, and -3 activities were also measured by flow cytometer. Results indicate that fisetin induced cell death through the cell morphological changes, caused G2/M phase arrest, induction of apoptosis, promoted ROS and Ca2+ production, and decreased the level of ΔΨm and increased caspase-3, -8, and -9 activities in SCC-4 cells. DAPI staining and DNA gel electrophoresis were also used to confirm fisetin-induced cell apoptosis in SCC-4 cells. Western blotting also found out that Fisetin increased the proapoptotic proteins such as Bax and Bid and decreased the antiapoptotic proteins such as Bcl-2. Furthermore, results also showed that Fisetin increased the cytochrome c, AIF, and Endo G release from mitochondria in SCC-4 cells. We also used ATF-6α, ATF-6β, GADD153, and GRP78 which indicated that fisetin induced cell death through ER stress. Based on those observations, we suggest that fisetin induced cell apoptosis through ER stress, mitochondria-, and caspase-dependent pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Hsuan Su
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Lin Kuo
- Department of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine Resources, China Medical University, Taichung, 404, Taiwan
| | - Kung-Wen Lu
- College of Chinese Medicine, School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, 404, Taiwan
| | - Fu-Shun Yu
- School of Dentistry, China Medical University, Taichung, 404, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Shih Ma
- School of Chinese Medicine for Post-Baccalaureate, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, 84001, Taiwan
- Department of Chinese Medicine, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung, 82445, Taiwan
| | - Jiun-Long Yang
- Department of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine Resources, China Medical University, Taichung, 404, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Lin Chu
- International Master's Degree Program in Food Science, International College, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, 91201, Taiwan
| | - Fu-Shin Chueh
- Department of Health and Nutrition Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung, 413, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Ching Liu
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jing-Gung Chung
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Biotechnology, Asia University, Wufeng, Taichung, Taiwan
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He X, Gao Q, Qiang Y, Guo W, Ma Y. Cucurbitacin E induces apoptosis of human prostate cancer cells via cofilin-1 and mTORC1. Oncol Lett 2017; 13:4905-4910. [PMID: 28599494 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2017.6086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2015] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cucurbitacin E is an important member of the cucurbitacin family and exhibits inhibitory effects in various types of cancer. Cucurbitacin is a potential antineoplastic drug; however, its anticancer effect in human prostate cancer (PC) remains unknown. The aim of the present study was to determine whether the effect of cucurbitacin E on the cell viability and apoptosis of the human PC cell line, LNCaP, was mediated by cofilin-1- and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). The results of the present study demonstrated that cucurbitacin E significantly exhibited cytotoxicity, suppressed cell viability (P<0.0001) and induced apoptosis (P=0.0082) in LNCaP cells. In addition, it was demonstrated that treatment with cucurbitacin E significantly induced cofilin-1 (P=0.0031), p-mTOR (P=0.0022), AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK; P=0.0048), cellular tumor antigen p53 (p53; P=0.0018) and caspase-9 (P=0.0026) protein expression in LNCaP cells, suggesting that cucurbitacin E exerts its effects on LNCaP cells through cofilin-1, mTOR, AMPK, p53 and caspase-9 signaling. These results suggested that cucurbitacin E maybe used as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of human PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong He
- Department of Urology, Yan'an University Affiliated Hospital, Yan'an, Shaanxi 716000, P.R. China
| | - Qi Gao
- Department of Urology, Yan'an University Affiliated Hospital, Yan'an, Shaanxi 716000, P.R. China
| | - Yayong Qiang
- Department of Urology, Yan'an University Affiliated Hospital, Yan'an, Shaanxi 716000, P.R. China
| | - Wei Guo
- Department of Urology, Yan'an University Affiliated Hospital, Yan'an, Shaanxi 716000, P.R. China
| | - Yadong Ma
- Department of Urology, Yan'an University Affiliated Hospital, Yan'an, Shaanxi 716000, P.R. China
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Wu YL, Zhang YJ, Yao YL, Li ZM, Han X, Lian LH, Zhao YQ, Nan JX. Cucurbitacin E ameliorates hepatic fibrosis in vivo and in vitro through activation of AMPK and blocking mTOR-dependent signaling pathway. Toxicol Lett 2016; 258:147-158. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2016.06.2102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2016] [Revised: 06/18/2016] [Accepted: 06/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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26
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Jevtić B, Djedović N, Stanisavljević S, Despotović J, Miljković D, Timotijević G. Cucurbitacin E Potently Modulates the Activity of Encephalitogenic Cells. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2016; 64:4900-7. [PMID: 27225664 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.6b00951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Cucurbitacin E (CucE) is a highly oxidized steroid consisting of a tetracyclic triterpene. It is a member of a Cucurbitacin family of biomolecules that are predominantly found in Cucurbitaceae plants. CucE has already been identified as a potent anti-inflammatory compound. Here, its effects on CD4(+) T helper (Th) cells and macrophages, as the major encephalitogenic cells in the autoimmunity of the central nervous system, were investigated. Production of major pathogenic Th cell cytokines: interferon-gamma and interleukin-17 were inhibited under the influence of CucE. The effects of CucE on CD4(+) T cells were mediated through the modulation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor, STAT3, NFκB, p38 MAPK, and miR-146 signaling. Further, production of nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species, as well as phagocytic ability, were inhibited in macrophages treated with CucE. These results imply that CucE possesses powerful antiencephalitogenic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bojan Jevtić
- Department of Immunology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković", University of Belgrade , Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Neda Djedović
- Department of Immunology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković", University of Belgrade , Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Suzana Stanisavljević
- Department of Immunology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković", University of Belgrade , Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jovana Despotović
- Laboratory for Molecular Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade , Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Djordje Miljković
- Department of Immunology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković", University of Belgrade , Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Gordana Timotijević
- Laboratory for Plant Molecular Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade , Belgrade, Serbia
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Cucurbitacin E induces caspase-dependent apoptosis and protective autophagy mediated by ROS in lung cancer cells. Chem Biol Interact 2016; 253:1-9. [PMID: 27106530 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2016.04.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2015] [Revised: 03/21/2016] [Accepted: 04/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Cucurbitacin E (CuE) is a triterpenoid with potent anticancer activities while the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. In the present study, the anticancer effects of CuE on 95D lung cancer cells were investigated. CuE decreased cell viability, inhibited colony formation, and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) in a concentration-dependent manner, which were reversed by N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC). CuE induced apoptosis as determined by JC-1 staining, expression of Bcl-2 family proteins, cleavage of caspases, and TUNEL staining. NAC and Ac-DEVD-CHO partially reversed CuE-induced cleavage of caspase-3, caspase-7, and PARP. Furthermore, CuE caused accumulation of autophagic vacuoles and concentration- and time-dependent expression of LC3II protein. Autophagy inhibitors chloroquine and bafilomycin A1 enhanced CuE-induced LC3II expression and cell death. CuE-triggered protein expression of p-AKT, p-mTOR, Beclin-1, and p-ULK1 was partially reversed by NAC pretreatment. In addition, CuE treatment damaged F-actin without affecting β-tubulin as confirmed by immunofluorescence. In conclusion, CuE induced ROS-dependent apoptosis through Bcl-2 family and caspases in 95D lung cancer cells. Furthermore, CuE induced protective autophagy mediated by ROS through AKT/mTOR pathway. This study provides novel roles of ROS in the anticancer effect of CuE.
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Chen Z, Li F, Yang W, Liang Y, Tang H, Li Z, Wu J, Liang H, Ma Z. Effect of rTsP53 on the M1/M2 activation of bone-marrow derived macrophage in vitro. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL PATHOLOGY 2015; 8:13661-13676. [PMID: 26722594 PMCID: PMC4680539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2015] [Accepted: 09/22/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
We investigated that if rTsP53 could be used to activate bone-marrow derived macrophage (BMDM) into M2 macrophage and stop M1 macrophage activation. After 72 h incubation in blank culture medium, cells with PE-CCR7 (-) and FITC-CD206 (-) was extracted and its mean proportion was 92.30 ± 0.22%. With the stimulation of 20 μg/ml IFN-γ for 72 h, cells with PE-CCR7 (+) was extracted and its mean proportion was 16.24 ± 0.82%. With the stimulation of IL-3/IL-14 (both 10 μg/ml) for 72 h, cells with FICT-CD206 (+) was extracted and its mean proportion was 87.32 ± 4.29%. Co-incubation with different dose of rTsP53 (0.001 μg/ml, 0.01 μg/ml, 0.1 μg/ml, 1 μg/ml, 2 μg/ml, 5 μg/ml, 10 μg/ml, respectively) for 72 h, FITC-CD206 (+) macrophage was extracted. The mean proportion in each group was 1.09 ± 0.22%, 2.13 ± 0.13%, 4.91 ± 0.07%, 5.48 ± 0.29%, 9.81 ± 0.06%, 12.83 ± 0.55%, 17.87 ± 0.02%, respectively. The dose of rTsP53 was significantly positive correlated to the proportion of FITC-CD206 (+) macrophage. Co-incubation with 20 μg/ml IFN-γ and 5 μg/ml rTsP53 for 72 h, cells with PE-CCR7 (+) was extracted and its mean proportion was 10.60 ± 0.19%. Compared to that of mere co-incubation with IFN-γ, there was significant difference between the two groups. ELISA showed that Th1 cytokines' (IFN-γ, IL-6 and TNF-α) level decreased in the culture medium supernatant of BMDM co-incubated with rTsP53. There was negative correlation between the Th1 cytokines' level and the dose of rTsP53. Both Th2 cytokines (IL-4 and IL-13) and regulatory cytokines in the culture medium increased. There was positive correlation between the Th2 cytokines' level and the dose of rTsP53. There was also positive correlation between the regulatory cytokines' level and the dose of rTsP53. Compared to that of BMDM co-incubated with IFN-γ, levels of TNF-α and IL-6 were significant lower than that of BMDM co-incubated with both IFN-γ and rTsP53 (both P < 0.05), while the levels of IL-4 and TGF-β were significant higher (both P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the levels of IL-13 and IL-10 between the two groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhibin Chen
- Department of General Internal Medicine, The 1st Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yet-sen UniversityGuangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Fan Li
- Department of General Internal Medicine, The 1st Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yet-sen UniversityGuangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Wen Yang
- Department of General Internal Medicine, The 1st Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yet-sen UniversityGuangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanbing Liang
- Department of General Internal Medicine, The 1st Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yet-sen UniversityGuangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Hao Tang
- Department of General Internal Medicine, The 1st Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yet-sen UniversityGuangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhenyu Li
- Department of General Internal Medicine, The 1st Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yet-sen UniversityGuangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Jingguo Wu
- Department of General Internal Medicine, The 1st Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yet-sen UniversityGuangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Huaping Liang
- The 3rd Military Medical UniversityChongqing 400038, China
| | - Zhongfu Ma
- Department of General Internal Medicine, The 1st Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yet-sen UniversityGuangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China
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Marostica LL, Silva IT, Kratz JM, Persich L, Geller FC, Lang KL, Caro MSB, Durán FJ, Schenkel EP, Simões CMO. Synergistic Antiproliferative Effects of a New Cucurbitacin B Derivative and Chemotherapy Drugs on Lung Cancer Cell Line A549. Chem Res Toxicol 2015; 28:1949-60. [PMID: 26372186 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.5b00153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) represents an important cause of mortality worldwide due to its aggressiveness and growing resistance to currently available therapy. Cucurbitacins have emerged as novel potential anticancer agents showing strong antiproliferative effects and can be promising candidates for combined treatments with clinically used anticancer agents. This study investigates the synergistic antiproliferative effects of a new semisynthetic derivative of cucurbitacin B (DACE) with three chemotherapy drugs: cisplatin (CIS), irinotecan (IRI), and paclitaxel (PAC) on A549 cells. The most effective combinations were selected for studies of the mechanism of action. Using an in silico tool, DACE seems to act by a different mechanism of action when compared with that of different classes of drugs already used in clinical settings. DACE also showed potent synergic effects with drugs, and the most potent combinations induced G2/M cell cycle arrest by modulating survivin and p53 expression, disruption of F-actin cytoskeleton, and cell death by apoptosis. These treatments completely inhibited the clonogenic potential and did not reduce the proliferation of nontumoral lung cells (MRC-5). DACE also showed relevant antimigratory and anti-invasive effects, and combined treatments modulated cell migration signaling pathways evolved with metastasis progression. The effects of DACE associated with drugs was potentiated by the oxidant agent l-buthionine-sulfoximine (BSO), and attenuated by N-acetilcysteine (NAC), an antioxidant agent. The antiproliferative effects induced by combined treatments were attenuated by a pan-caspase inhibitor, indicating that the effects of these treatments are dependent on caspase activity. Our data highlight the therapeutic potential of DACE used in combination with known chemotherapy drugs and offer important insights for the development of more effective and selective therapies against lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Lourenço Marostica
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina , Campus Trindade, CEP 88040-900, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Izabella Thaís Silva
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina , Campus Trindade, CEP 88040-900, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Jadel Müller Kratz
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina , Campus Trindade, CEP 88040-900, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Lara Persich
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina , Campus Trindade, CEP 88040-900, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Cristina Geller
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina , Campus Trindade, CEP 88040-900, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Karen Luise Lang
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina , Campus Trindade, CEP 88040-900, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Miguel Soriano Balparda Caro
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina , Campus Trindade, CEP 88040-900, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Fernando Javier Durán
- UMYMFOR-CONICET, Departamento de Química Orgánica, Universidad de Buenos Aires , Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Eloir Paulo Schenkel
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina , Campus Trindade, CEP 88040-900, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Cláudia Maria Oliveira Simões
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina , Campus Trindade, CEP 88040-900, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
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Cucurbitacin E has neuroprotective properties and autophagic modulating activities on dopaminergic neurons. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2014; 2014:425496. [PMID: 25574337 PMCID: PMC4276330 DOI: 10.1155/2014/425496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2014] [Revised: 11/14/2014] [Accepted: 11/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Natural molecules are under intensive study for their potential as preventive and/or adjuvant therapies for neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease (PD). We evaluated the neuroprotective potential of cucurbitacin E (CuE), a tetracyclic triterpenoid phytosterol extracted from the Ecballium elaterium (Cucurbitaceae), using a known cellular model of PD, NGF-differentiated PC12. In our postmitotic experimental paradigm, neuronal cells were treated with the parkinsonian toxin 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+) to provoke significant cellular damage and apoptosis or with the potent N,N-diethyldithiocarbamate (DDC) to induce superoxide (O2•−) production, and CuE was administered prior to and during the neurotoxic treatment. We measured cellular death and reactive oxygen species to evaluate the antioxidant and antiapoptotic properties of CuE. In addition, we analyzed cellular macroautophagy, a bulk degradation process involving the lysosomal pathway. CuE showed neuroprotective effects on MPP+-induced cell death. However, CuE failed to rescue neuronal cells from oxidative stress induced by MPP+ or DDC. Microscopy and western blot data show an intriguing involvement of CuE in maintaining lysosomal distribution and decreasing autophagy flux. Altogether, these data indicate that CuE decreases neuronal death and autophagic flux in a postmitotic cellular model of PD.
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31
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Liao CL, Hsu SC, Yu CC, Yang JS, Tang NY, Wood WG, Lin JG, Chung JG. The crude extract of Corni Fructus induces apoptotic cell death through reactive oxygen species-modulated pathways in U-2 OS human osteosarcoma cells. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2014; 29:1020-1031. [PMID: 23239598 DOI: 10.1002/tox.21832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2012] [Revised: 10/24/2012] [Accepted: 11/02/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Crude extract of Corni Fructus (CECF) has been used in Traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of different diseases for hundreds of years. The purpose of this study was to investigate the cytotoxic effects of CECF on U-2 OS human osteosarcoma cells. Flow cytometry was used for measuring the percentage of viable cells, cell-cycle distribution, apoptotic cells in sub-G1 phase, reactive oxygen species (ROS), Ca(2+) levels, and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm ). Comet assay and 4'-6-diamidino-2-phenylindole staining were used for examining DNA damage and condensation. Western blotting was used to examine apoptosis-associated protein levels in U-2 OS cells after exposed to CECF. Immunostaining and confocal laser system microscope were used to examine protein translocation after CECF incubation. CECF decreased the percentage of viability, induced DNA damage and DNA condensation, G₀/G₁ arrest, and apoptosis in U-2 OS cells. CECF-stimulated activities of caspase-8, caspase-9, and caspase-3, ROS, and Ca(2+) production, decreased ΔΨm levels of in U-2 OS cells. CECF increased protein levels of caspase-3, caspase-9, Bax, cytochrome c, GRP78, AIF, ATF-6α, Fas, TRAIL, p21, p27, and p16 which were associated with cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis. These findings suggest that CECF triggers apoptosis in U-2 OS cells via ROS-modulated caspase-dependent and -independent pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Lung Liao
- Graduate Institute of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan, Republic of China
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32
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Kong Y, Chen J, Zhou Z, Xia H, Qiu MH, Chen C. Cucurbitacin E induces cell cycle G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis in triple negative breast cancer. PLoS One 2014; 9:e103760. [PMID: 25072848 PMCID: PMC4114842 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0103760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive form of breast cancer resistant to many common treatments. In this study, we compared the effects of 12 phytochemical drugs on four cancer cell lines, and noticed that Cucurbitacin E (CuE) significantly inhibited TNBC cell growth by inducing cell cycle G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis. CuE reduced expression of Cyclin D1, Survivin, XIAP, Bcl2, and Mcl-1 in MDA-MB-468 and SW527, and within MDA-MB-468, CuE significantly increased activation of JNK and inhibited activation of AKT and ERK. Collectively, these results suggest that CuE may be a viable compound for developing novel TNBC therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanjie Kong
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences and Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jianchao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Science, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Zhongmei Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences and Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Houjun Xia
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences and Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Ming-Hua Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Science, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- * E-mail: (MHQ) (MQ); (CC) (CC)
| | - Ceshi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences and Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- * E-mail: (MHQ) (MQ); (CC) (CC)
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Hsu YC, Huang TY, Chen MJ. Therapeutic ROS targeting of GADD45γ in the induction of G2/M arrest in primary human colorectal cancer cell lines by cucurbitacin E. Cell Death Dis 2014; 5:e1198. [PMID: 24763055 PMCID: PMC4001305 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2014.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2014] [Revised: 02/21/2014] [Accepted: 03/10/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cucurbitacin E (CuE) or α-elaterin is a natural compound previously shown to be an antifeedant as well as a potent chemopreventive agent against several types of cancer. The present study investigated the anticancer effects of CuE on colorectal cancer (CRC) using primary cell lines isolated from five CRC patients in Taiwan, Specifically, we explored the anti-proliferation and cell cycle G2/M arrest induced by CuE in CRC cells. MPM-2 flow cytometry tests show that CuE-treated cells accumulated in metaphase (CuE 2.5-7.5 μM). Results further indicate that CuE produced G2/M arrest as well as the downregulation of CDC2 and cyclin B1 expression and dissociation. Both effects increased proportionally with the dose of CuE; however, the inhibition of proliferation, arrest of mitosis, production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) were found to be dependent on the quantity of CuE used to treat the cancer cells. In addition, cell cycle arrest in treated cells coincided with the activation of the gene GADD45(α, β, γ). Incubation with CuE resulted in the binding of GADD45γ to CDC2, which suggests that the delay in CuE-induced mitosis is regulated by the overexpression of GADD45γ. Our findings suggest that, in addition to the known effects on cancer prevention, CuE may have antitumor activities in established CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y-C Hsu
- Graduate Institute of Medical Science, College of Health Sciences, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Innovative Research Center of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - T-Y Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tainan Sin-Lau Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - M-J Chen
- Division of Traumatology, Department of Surgery, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Sports Management, College of Leisure and Recreation Management, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan, Taiwan
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Inducement of mitosis delay by cucurbitacin E, a novel tetracyclic triterpene from climbing stem of Cucumis melo L., through GADD45γ in human brain malignant glioma (GBM) 8401 cells. Cell Death Dis 2014; 5:e1087. [PMID: 24577085 PMCID: PMC3944240 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2014.22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2013] [Revised: 01/02/2014] [Accepted: 01/07/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Cucurbitacin E (CuE) is a natural compound previously shown to have anti-feedant, antioxidant and antitumor activities as well as a potent chemo-preventive action against cancer. The present study investigates its anti-proliferative property using MTT assay; CuE demonstrated cytotoxic activity against malignant glioma GBM 8401 cells and induced cell cycle G2/M arrest in these cells. CuE-treated cells accumulated in metaphase (CuE 2.5–10 μM) as determined using MPM-2 by flow cytometry. We attempted to characterize the molecular pathways responsible for cytotoxic effects of CuE in GBM 8401 cells. We studied the genome-wide gene expression profile on microarrays and molecular networks by using pathway analysis tools of bioinformatics. The CuE reduced the expression of 558 genes and elevated the levels of 1354 genes, suggesting an existence of the common pathways involved in induction of G2/M arrest. We identified the RB (GADD45β and GADD45γ) and the p53 (GADD45α) signaling pathways as the common pathways, serving as key molecules that regulate cell cycle. Results indicate that CuE produced G2/M arrest as well as the upregulation of GADD45 γ and binding with CDC2. Both effects increased proportionally with the dose of CuE, suggesting that the CuE-induced mitosis delay is regulated by GADD45γ overexpression. Our findings suggest that, in addition to the known effects on cancer prevention, CuE may have antitumor activity in glioma therapy.
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Therapeutic modulators of STAT signalling for human diseases. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2013; 12:611-29. [PMID: 23903221 DOI: 10.1038/nrd4088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 321] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) proteins have important roles in biological processes. The abnormal activation of STAT signalling pathways is also implicated in many human diseases, including cancer, autoimmune diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma and diabetes. Over a decade has passed since the first inhibitor of a STAT protein was reported and efforts to discover modulators of STAT signalling as therapeutics continue. This Review discusses the outcomes of the ongoing drug discovery research endeavours against STAT proteins, provides perspectives on new directions for accelerating the discovery of drug candidates, and highlights the noteworthy candidate therapeutics that have progressed to clinical trials.
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Role of STAT3 in cancer metastasis and translational advances. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2013; 2013:421821. [PMID: 24199193 PMCID: PMC3807846 DOI: 10.1155/2013/421821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 275] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2013] [Revised: 08/25/2013] [Accepted: 08/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a latent cytoplasmic transcription factor, originally discovered as a transducer of signal from cell surface receptors to the nucleus. It is activated by tyrosine phosphorylation at position 705 leading to its dimerization, nuclear translocation, DNA binding, and activation of gene transcription. Under normal physiological conditions, STAT3 activation is tightly regulated. However, compelling evidence suggests that STAT3 is constitutively activated in many cancers and plays a pivotal role in tumor growth and metastasis. It regulates cellular proliferation, invasion, migration, and angiogenesis that are critical for cancer metastasis. In this paper, we first describe the mechanism of STAT3 regulation followed by how STAT3 is involved in cancer metastasis, then we summarize the various small molecule inhibitors that inhibit STAT3 signaling.
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Cucurbitacin E as inducer of cell death and apoptosis in human oral squamous cell carcinoma cell line SAS. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:17147-56. [PMID: 23965977 PMCID: PMC3759956 DOI: 10.3390/ijms140817147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2013] [Revised: 08/02/2013] [Accepted: 08/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a common form of malignant cancer, for which radiotherapy or chemotherapy are the main treatment methods. Cucurbitacin E (CuE) is a natural compound previously shown to be an antifeedant as well as a potent chemopreventive agent against several types of cancer. The present study investigates anti-proliferation (using MTT assay, CuE demonstrated cytotoxic activity against SAS cell with IC50 values at 3.69 µM) and induced apoptosis of human oral squamous cell carcinoma SAS cells after 24 h treatment with CuE. Mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and caspase activity were studied and our results indicate that CuE inhibits cell proliferation as well as the activation of apoptois in SAS cells. Both effects increased in proportion to the dosage of CuE and apoptosis was induced via mitochondria- and caspase-dependent pathways. CuE can induce cell death by a mechanism that is not dependent on apoptosis induction, and thus represents a promising anticancer agent for prevention and treatment of OSCC.
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Cucurbitacin IIa induces caspase-3-dependent apoptosis and enhances autophagy in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Int Immunopharmacol 2013; 16:27-34. [PMID: 23541744 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2013.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2012] [Revised: 01/19/2013] [Accepted: 03/13/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Cucurbitacin IIa (CuIIa), a member of cucurbitacin family, is isolated from the root of Hemsleya amabilis which has been used as an ancient remedy for bacillary dysentery and gastroenteritis. The anti-inflammatory properties of CuIIa have long been recognized but the underlying mechanism is largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effect of CuIIa on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. The results showed that CuIIa inhibited the proliferation and migration of RAW 264.7 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Whereas CuIIa did not cause apoptosis in unstimulated RAW 264.7 cells, it did induce a significant apoptosis in LPS-stimulated cells, which was caspase-3-dependent and associated with downregulation of survivin. Furthermore, LPS induced autophagy in RAW 264.7 cells and this effect was further enhanced by CuIIa as evidenced by increased levels of LC3-II conjugates and formation of LC3 puncta. In addition, CuIIa disrupted actin cytoskeleton via inducing actin aggregation. However, neither the synthesis of tumor necrosis factor-α, nor the activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinases and NF-κB pathways in LPS-stimulated cells was suppressed by CuIIa treatment. Collectively, these results suggested that induction of apoptosis and enhancement of autophagy contributed to the anti-inflammatory activity of CuIIa against inflammation-related diseases.
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Hung FM, Chen YL, Huang AC, Hsiao YP, Yang JS, Chung MT, Chueh FS, Lu HF, Chung JG. Triptolide induces S phase arrest via the inhibition of cyclin E and CDC25A and triggers apoptosis via caspase- and mitochondrial-dependent signaling pathways in A375.S2 human melanoma cells. Oncol Rep 2013; 29:1053-60. [PMID: 23314229 DOI: 10.3892/or.2013.2230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2012] [Accepted: 12/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Triptolide (TPL), a diterpene triepoxide compound, extracted from Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F. [a traditional Chinese medicinal herb (TCM)], has demonstrated great chemotherapeutic potential for the treatment of tumors. However, the anticancer mechanisms of action of TPL in human skin cancer remain to be further investigated. In this study, we used A375.S2 human melanoma skin cancer cells as a model to investigate the effect of TPL on cell death. A375.S2 cells were treated with various concentrations of TPL for different periods of time and investigated the effects on cell cycle distribution and apoptosis were investigated. The data showed that TPL induced cell morphological changes, decreased the percentage of viable cells, and induced S phase arrest and apoptosis in A375.S2 cells in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Furthermore, we used flow cytometry analysis and the data showed that TPL promoted reactive oxygen species, NO and Ca2+ production, decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and increased the activity of caspase-3, -8 and -9 in the A375.S2 cells. Western blot analysis showed that TPL promoted the expression of p21 and p27 but inhibited that of cyclin A and CDC25A, leading to S phase arrest. Furthermore, the data also showed that TPL promoted the expression of Fas and FasL and increased the activity of caspase-3, -8 and -9, cytochrome c, Bax, apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF) and endonuclease G (Endo G); however, the expression of Bax was decreased, leading to apoptosis. Based on these observations, TPL induces apoptosis in A375.S2 cells through Fas-, caspase- and mitochondrial-mediated pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang-Ming Hung
- Department of Surgical Intensive Care Unit, Far Eastern Memorial Ηospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
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LIU CHINYU, YANG JAISING, HUANG SHIHMING, CHIANG JOHUA, CHEN MINGHUA, HUANG LIJIAU, HA HOYU, FUSHIYA SHINJI, KUO SHENGCHU. Smh-3 induces G2/M arrest and apoptosis through calcium-mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondrial signaling in human hepatocellular carcinoma Hep3B cells. Oncol Rep 2012; 29:751-62. [DOI: 10.3892/or.2012.2166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2012] [Accepted: 11/02/2012] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Biological activities and potential molecular targets of cucurbitacins: a focus on cancer. Anticancer Drugs 2012; 23:777-87. [PMID: 22561419 DOI: 10.1097/cad.0b013e3283541384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Cucurbitacin and its derivatives (cucurbitacins) are a class of highly oxidized tetracyclic triterpenoids. They are widely distributed in the plant kingdom, where they act as heterologous chemical pheromones that protect plants from external biological insults. Their bioactivities first attracted attention in the 1960s. Documented data demonstrate that cucurbitacins possess strong pharmacological properties, such as antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective effects, etc. Several molecular targets for cucurbitacins have been discovered, such as fibrous-actin, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, cyclooxygenase-2, etc. The present study summarizes the achievements of the 50 years of research on cucurbitacins. The aim was to systematically analyze their bioactivities with an emphasis on their anticancer effects. Research and development has shed new insight into the beneficial properties of these compounds.
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