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Lei HY, Pi GL, He T, Xiong R, Lv JR, Liu JL, Wu DQ, Li MZ, Shi K, Li SH, Yu NN, Gao Y, Yu HL, Wei LY, Wang X, Zhou QZ, Zou PL, Zhou JY, Liu YZ, Shen NT, Yang J, Ke D, Wang Q, Liu GP, Yang XF, Wang JZ, Yang Y. Targeting vulnerable microcircuits in the ventral hippocampus of male transgenic mice to rescue Alzheimer-like social memory loss. Mil Med Res 2024; 11:16. [PMID: 38462603 PMCID: PMC10926584 DOI: 10.1186/s40779-024-00512-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Episodic memory loss is a prominent clinical manifestation of Alzheimer's disease (AD), which is closely related to tau pathology and hippocampal impairment. Due to the heterogeneity of brain neurons, the specific roles of different brain neurons in terms of their sensitivity to tau accumulation and their contribution to AD-like social memory loss remain unclear. Therefore, further investigation is necessary. METHODS We investigated the effects of AD-like tau pathology by Tandem mass tag proteomic and phosphoproteomic analysis, social behavioural tests, hippocampal electrophysiology, immunofluorescence staining and in vivo optical fibre recording of GCaMP6f and iGABASnFR. Additionally, we utilized optogenetics and administered ursolic acid (UA) via oral gavage to examine the effects of these agents on social memory in mice. RESULTS The results of proteomic and phosphoproteomic analyses revealed the characteristics of ventral hippocampal CA1 (vCA1) under both physiological conditions and AD-like tau pathology. As tau progressively accumulated, vCA1, especially its excitatory and parvalbumin (PV) neurons, were fully filled with mislocated and phosphorylated tau (p-Tau). This finding was not observed for dorsal hippocampal CA1 (dCA1). The overexpression of human tau (hTau) in excitatory and PV neurons mimicked AD-like tau accumulation, significantly inhibited neuronal excitability and suppressed distinct discrimination-associated firings of these neurons within vCA1. Photoactivating excitatory and PV neurons in vCA1 at specific rhythms and time windows efficiently ameliorated tau-impaired social memory. Notably, 1 month of UA administration efficiently decreased tau accumulation via autophagy in a transcription factor EB (TFEB)-dependent manner and restored the vCA1 microcircuit to ameliorate tau-impaired social memory. CONCLUSION This study elucidated distinct protein and phosphoprotein networks between dCA1 and vCA1 and highlighted the susceptibility of the vCA1 microcircuit to AD-like tau accumulation. Notably, our novel findings regarding the efficacy of UA in reducing tau load and targeting the vCA1 microcircuit may provide a promising strategy for treating AD in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Yang Lei
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Gui-Lin Pi
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430014, China
| | - Ting He
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Rui Xiong
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jing-Ru Lv
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jia-Le Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Dong-Qin Wu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Meng-Zhu Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Kun Shi
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Shi-Hong Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Na-Na Yu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yang Gao
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Hui-Ling Yu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Lin-Yu Wei
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Qiu-Zhi Zhou
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Pei-Lin Zou
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jia-Yang Zhou
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Ying-Zhou Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Nai-Ting Shen
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Dan Ke
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Qun Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Gong-Ping Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Xi-Fei Yang
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Shenzhen, Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian-Zhi Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
- Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, 226000, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry of China/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Liu SJ, Guo BD, Gao QH, Deng YJ, Yan B, Zeng Y, Zhao M, Ren K, Wang F, Guo J. Ursolic acid alleviates chronic prostatitis via regulating NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated Caspase-1/GSDMD pyroptosis pathway. Phytother Res 2024; 38:82-97. [PMID: 37807970 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Ursolic acid (UA) is a naturally occurring pentacyclic triterpenoid widely found in fruits and vegetables. It has been reported that UA has anti-inflammatory effects. However, its efficacy and mechanism of action in the treatment of chronic prostatitis (CP) remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of UA treatment in CP and further explore the underlying mechanism. CP rat and pyroptosis cell models were established in vivo and in vitro, respectively. The efficacy of UA in inhibiting CP was evaluated via haematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and measurement of inflammatory cytokines. RNA sequencing and molecular docking were used to predict the therapeutic targets of UA in CP. The expression of pyroptosis-related proteins was examined using various techniques, including immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry. UA significantly ameliorated pathological damage and reduced the levels of proinflammatory cytokines in the CP model rats. RNA sequencing analysis and molecular docking suggested that NLRP3, Caspase-1, and GSDMD may be key targets. We also found that UA decreased ROS levels, alleviated oxidative stress, and inhibited p-NF-κB protein expression both in vivo and in vitro. UA improved pyroptosis morphology as indicated by electron microscope and inhibited the expression of the pyroptosis-related proteins NLRP3, Caspase-1, ASC, and GSDMD, reversed the levels of IL-1β, IL-18, and lactate dehydrogenase in vivo and in vitro. UA can mitigate CP by regulating the NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated Caspase-1/GSDMD pathway. Therefore, UA may be a potential for the treatment of CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Jing Liu
- Department of Andrology, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bo-da Guo
- Department of Urology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Qing-He Gao
- Department of Andrology, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ying-Jun Deng
- Department of Andrology, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Yan
- Department of Andrology, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yin Zeng
- Department of Andrology, Beijing Chinese Medicine Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Zhao
- Department of Andrology, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Kai Ren
- Department of Andrology, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fu Wang
- Department of Andrology, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Guo
- Department of Andrology, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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Koh CH, Lee S, Kwak M, Kim BS, Chung Y. CD8 T-cell subsets: heterogeneity, functions, and therapeutic potential. Exp Mol Med 2023; 55:2287-2299. [PMID: 37907738 PMCID: PMC10689838 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-01105-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
CD8 T cells play crucial roles in immune surveillance and defense against infections and cancer. After encountering antigenic stimulation, naïve CD8 T cells differentiate and acquire effector functions, enabling them to eliminate infected or malignant cells. Traditionally, cytotoxic T cells, characterized by their ability to produce effector cytokines and release cytotoxic granules to directly kill target cells, have been recognized as the constituents of the predominant effector T-cell subset. However, emerging evidence suggests distinct subsets of effector CD8 T cells that each exhibit unique effector functions and therapeutic potential. This review highlights recent advancements in our understanding of CD8 T-cell subsets and the contributions of these cells to various disease pathologies. Understanding the diverse roles and functions of effector CD8 T-cell subsets is crucial to discern the complex dynamics of immune responses in different disease settings. Furthermore, the development of immunotherapeutic approaches that specifically target and regulate the function of distinct CD8 T-cell subsets holds great promise for precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Choong-Hyun Koh
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Suyoung Lee
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Plus Program, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Minkyeong Kwak
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Plus Program, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Seok Kim
- Division of Life Sciences, College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon, 22012, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeonseok Chung
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
- BK21 Plus Program, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
- Wide River Institute of Immunology, Seoul National University, Hongcheon, Gangwon, 25159, Republic of Korea.
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Lei P, Li Z, Hua Q, Song P, Gao L, Zhou L, Cai Q. Ursolic Acid Alleviates Neuroinflammation after Intracerebral Hemorrhage by Mediating Microglial Pyroptosis via the NF-κB/NLRP3/GSDMD Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14771. [PMID: 37834220 PMCID: PMC10572659 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The neuroinflammatory response after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) causes a large amount of neuronal loss, and inhibiting the inflammatory response can improve the prognosis. In previous laboratory studies and clinical trials, ursolic acid (UA) inhibited the inflammatory response, but whether it can be administered to inhibit the neuroinflammatory response after cerebral hemorrhage is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ursolic acid after cerebral hemorrhage. Online databases were used to obtain potential therapeutic targets of ursolic acid for the treatment of cerebral hemorrhage, and possible mechanisms were analyzed by KEGG, GO, and molecular docking. A rat model of cerebral hemorrhage was established using collagenase, and an in vitro cerebral hemorrhage model was constructed by adding hemin to BV2 cell culture medium. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), Western blotting (WB), immunofluorescence, TUNEL staining, and calcein/PI staining were used to investigate the degree of microglial M1 polarization, changes in the levels of inflammatory factors, activation of the NF-κB pathway, and changes in the indicators of cellular death after ursolic acid treatment. In addition, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) was used to activate the NF-κB pathway to verify that ursolic acid exerts its anti-neuroinflammatory effects by regulating the NF-κB/NLRP3/GSDMD pathway. Network pharmacology and bioinformatics analyses revealed that ursolic acid may exert its therapeutic effects on cerebral hemorrhage through multiple pathways. Together, in vivo and in vitro experiments showed that ursolic acid inhibited microglial M1 polarization and significantly reduced the levels of p-NF-κB, GSDMD-N, cleaved caspase-1, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, which were significantly inhibited by the use of PMA. Ursolic acid inhibits microglial pyroptosis via the NF-κB/NLRP3/GSDMD pathway to alleviate neuroinflammatory responses after cerebral hemorrhage.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Long Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China; (P.L.); (Z.L.); (Q.H.); (P.S.); (L.G.)
| | - Qiang Cai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China; (P.L.); (Z.L.); (Q.H.); (P.S.); (L.G.)
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Kornel A, Nadile M, Retsidou MI, Sakellakis M, Gioti K, Beloukas A, Sze NSK, Klentrou P, Tsiani E. Ursolic Acid against Prostate and Urogenital Cancers: A Review of In Vitro and In Vivo Studies. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087414. [PMID: 37108576 PMCID: PMC10138876 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the second most diagnosed form of cancer in men worldwide and accounted for roughly 1.3 million cases and 359,000 deaths globally in 2018, despite all the available treatment strategies including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Finding novel approaches to prevent and treat prostate and other urogenital cancers effectively is of major importance. Chemicals derived from plants, such as docetaxel and paclitaxel, have been used in cancer treatment, and in recent years, research interest has focused on finding other plant-derived chemicals that can be used in the fight against cancer. Ursolic acid, found in high concentrations in cranberries, is a pentacyclic triterpenoid compound demonstrated to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. In the present review, we summarize the research studies examining the effects of ursolic acid and its derivatives against prostate and other urogenital cancers. Collectively, the existing data indicate that ursolic acid inhibits human prostate, renal, bladder, and testicular cancer cell proliferation and induces apoptosis. A limited number of studies have shown significant reduction in tumor volume in animals xenografted with human prostate cancer cells and treated with ursolic acid. More animal studies and human clinical studies are required to examine the potential of ursolic acid to inhibit prostate and other urogenital cancers in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Kornel
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - Matteo Nadile
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - Maria Ilektra Retsidou
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - Minas Sakellakis
- Department of Medical Oncology, Metropolitan Hospital, 18547 Athens, Greece
| | - Katerina Gioti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Apostolos Beloukas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
- National AIDS Reference Centre of Southern Greece, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Newman Siu Kwan Sze
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - Panagiota Klentrou
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
- Centre for Bone and Muscle Health, Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - Evangelia Tsiani
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
- Centre for Bone and Muscle Health, Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
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Du YX, Mamun AA, Lyu AP, Zhang HJ. Natural Compounds Targeting the Autophagy Pathway in the Treatment of Colorectal Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087310. [PMID: 37108476 PMCID: PMC10138367 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a highly conserved intracellular degradation pathway by which misfolded proteins or damaged organelles are delivered in a double-membrane vacuolar vesicle and finally degraded by lysosomes. The risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) is high, and there is growing evidence that autophagy plays a critical role in regulating the initiation and metastasis of CRC; however, whether autophagy promotes or suppresses tumor progression is still controversial. Many natural compounds have been reported to exert anticancer effects or enhance current clinical therapies by modulating autophagy. Here, we discuss recent advancements in the molecular mechanisms of autophagy in regulating CRC. We also highlight the research on natural compounds that are particularly promising autophagy modulators for CRC treatment with clinical evidence. Overall, this review illustrates the importance of autophagy in CRC and provides perspectives for these natural autophagy regulators as new therapeutic candidates for CRC drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-Xiao Du
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, 7 Baptist University Road, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Abdullah Al Mamun
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, 7 Baptist University Road, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ai-Ping Lyu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, 7 Baptist University Road, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hong-Jie Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, 7 Baptist University Road, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Stitou M, Toufik H, Akabli T, Lamchouri F. Virtual screening of PEBP1 inhibitors by combining 2D/3D-QSAR analysis, hologram QSAR, homology modeling, molecular docking analysis, and molecular dynamic simulations. J Mol Model 2022; 28:145. [PMID: 35545728 DOI: 10.1007/s00894-022-05143-6] [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: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Human phosphatidylethanolamine binding protein 1 (hPEBP1) is a novel target affecting many cellular signaling pathways involved in the formation of metastases. It can be used in the treatment of many cases of cancer. For these reasons, pharmaceutical companies use computational approaches, including multi-QSAR (2D, 3D, and hologram QSAR) analysis, homology modeling, molecular docking analysis, and molecular dynamic simulations, to speed up the drug discovery process. In this paper, QSAR modeling was conducted using two quantum chemistry optimization methods (AM1 and DFT levels). As per PLS results, we found that the DFT/B3LYP method presents high predictability according to 2D-QSAR, CoMFA, CoMSIA, and hologram QSAR studies, with Q2 of 0.81, 0.67, 0.79, and 0.67, and external power with R2pred of 0.78, 0.58, 0.66, and 0.56, respectively. This result has been validated by CoMFA/CoMSIA graphics, which suggests that electrostatic fields combined with hydrogen bond donor/acceptor fields are beneficial to the antiproliferative activity. While the hologram QSAR models show the contributions of each fragment in improving the activity. The results from QSAR analyses revealed that ursolic acids with heterocyclic rings could improve the activities. Ramachandran plot validated the modeled PEBP1 protein. Molecular docking and MD simulations revealed that the hydrophobic and hydrogen bond interactions are dominant in the PEBP1's pocket. These results were used to predict in silico structures of three new compounds with potential anticancer activity. Similar molecular docking stability studies and molecular dynamics simulations were conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mourad Stitou
- Laboratory of Natural Substances, Pharmacology, Environment, Modeling, Health & Quality of Life (SNAMOPEQ), Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taza, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University of Fez, Taza Gare, B.P 1223, Taza, Morocco
| | - Hamid Toufik
- Laboratory of Natural Substances, Pharmacology, Environment, Modeling, Health & Quality of Life (SNAMOPEQ), Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taza, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University of Fez, Taza Gare, B.P 1223, Taza, Morocco.
| | - Taoufik Akabli
- Laboratory of Natural Substances, Pharmacology, Environment, Modeling, Health & Quality of Life (SNAMOPEQ), Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taza, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University of Fez, Taza Gare, B.P 1223, Taza, Morocco
| | - Fatima Lamchouri
- Laboratory of Natural Substances, Pharmacology, Environment, Modeling, Health & Quality of Life (SNAMOPEQ), Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taza, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University of Fez, Taza Gare, B.P 1223, Taza, Morocco
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Miatmoko A, Mianing EA, Sari R, Hendradi E. Nanoparticles use for Delivering Ursolic Acid in Cancer Therapy: A Scoping Review. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:787226. [PMID: 35002719 PMCID: PMC8740088 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.787226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ursolic acid is a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid that exerts a potent anticancer effect. Furthermore, it is classified as a BCS class IV compound possessing low permeability and water solubility, consequently demonstrating limited bioavailability in addition to low therapeutic effectiveness. Nanoparticles are developed to modify the physical characteristics of drug and can often be produced in the range of 30–200 nm, providing highly effective cancer therapy due to the Enhanced Permeation and Retention (EPR) Effect. This study aims to provide a review of the efficacy and safety of various types of Ursolic Acid-loading nanoparticles within the setting of preclinical and clinical anticancer studies. This literature study used scoping review method, where the extracted data must comply with the journal inclusion criteria of within years of 2010–2020. The identification stage produced 237 suitable articles. Duplicate screening was then conducted followed by the initial selection of 18 articles that had been reviewed and extracted for data analysis. Based on this review, the use of nanoparticles can be seen to increase the anticancer efficacy of Ursolic Acid in terms of several parameters including pharmacokinetic data, survival rates and inhibition rates, as well as the absence of serious toxicity in preclinical and clinical trials in terms of several parameters including body weight, blood clinical chemistry, and organ histipathology. Based on this review, the use of nanoparticles has been able to increase the anticancer efficacy of Ursolic Acid, as well as show the absence of serious toxicity in preclinical and clinical trials. Evenmore, the liposome carrier provides development data that has reached the clinical trial phase I. The use of nanoparticle provides high potential for Ursolic Acid delivery in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andang Miatmoko
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia.,Stem Cell Research and Development Center, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Ester Adelia Mianing
- Study Program of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Retno Sari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Esti Hendradi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
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Peter K, Kar SK, Gothalwal R, Gandhi P. Curcumin in Combination with Other Adjunct Therapies for Brain Tumor Treatment: Existing Knowledge and Blueprint for Future Research. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR MEDICINE 2022; 10:163-181. [PMID: 35178355 PMCID: PMC8800460 DOI: 10.22088/ijmcm.bums.10.3.163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Malignant brain tumors proliferate aggressively and have a debilitating outcome. Surgery followed by chemo-radiotherapy has been the standard procedure of care since 2005 but issues of therapeutic toxicity and relapse still remain unaddressed. Repurposing of drugs to develop novel combinations that can augment existing treatment regimens for brain tumors is the need of the hour. Herein, we discuss studies documenting the use of curcumin as an adjuvant to conventional and alternative therapies for brain tumors. Comprehensive analysis of data suggests that curcumin together with available therapies can generate a synergistic action achieved through multiple molecular targeting, which results in simultaneous inhibition of tumor growth, and reduced treatment-induced toxicity as well as resistance. The review also highlights approaches to increase bioavailability and bioaccumulation of drugs when co-delivered with curcumin using nano-cargos. Despite substantial preclinical work on radio-chemo sensitizing effects of curcumin, to date, there is only a single clinical report on brain tumors. Based on available lab evidence, it is proposed that antibody-conjugated nano-curcumin in combination with sub-toxic doses of conventional or repurposed therapeutics should be designed and tested in clinical studies. This will increase tumor targeting, the bioavailability of the drug combination, reduce therapy resistance, and tumor recurrence through modulation of aberrant signaling cascades; thus improving clinical outcomes in brain malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavita Peter
- Department of Biotechnology, Barkatullah University, Bhopal, M.P, India
| | | | - Ragini Gothalwal
- Department of Biotechnology, Barkatullah University, Bhopal, M.P, India
| | - Puneet Gandhi
- Department of Research, Bhopal Memorial Hospital and Research Centre, Bhopal, M.P, India
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10
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Ren Y, Elkington BG, Henkin JM, Sydara K, Kinghorn AD, Soejarto DD. Bioactive small-molecule constituents of Lao plants. JOURNAL OF MEDICINAL PLANT RESEARCH 2021; 15:540-559. [PMID: 35178192 PMCID: PMC8849567 DOI: 10.5897/jmpr2021.7137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Laos has a rich plant diversity, and medicinal plants are used extensively in Lao traditional medicine for the treatment of a variety of human diseases. However, only a relatively small number of these plants have been investigated for their major components with potential antitumor, anti-infective, and other types of bioactivities. These species include Asparagus cochinchinensis, Diospyros quaesita, Gongronema napalense, Marsypopetalum modestum, Nauclea orientalis, Rourea minor, Stemona pierrei, and Stemona tuberosa. Thus far, the bioactive compounds isolated from these Lao plants include alkaloids, glycerol esters, phenolic compounds such as lignans and stilbenoids, steroids, and triterpenoids. Of these, the norlignan, nyasol (1b), the triterpenes, pyracrenic acid [3β-O-trans-caffeoylbetulinic acid (3)] and betulinic acid (3b), and the dimeric thiopyridine, dipyrithione (5), were found to show both cancer cell cytotoxicity and anti-infective activity. The present review focuses on examples of promising lead compounds isolated from Lao plants, with their possible development as potential therapeutic agents being discussed. It is hoped that this contribution will provide useful information on higher plants growing in Laos to help stimulate future discoveries of potential agents for the treatment of cancer, infections, and other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulin Ren
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - Bethany G. Elkington
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
- Science and Education, Field Museum, Chicago, IL 60605, United States
| | - Joshua M. Henkin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
- Science and Education, Field Museum, Chicago, IL 60605, United States
| | - Kongmany Sydara
- Institute of Traditional Medicine, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - A. Douglas Kinghorn
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - Djaja D. Soejarto
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
- Science and Education, Field Museum, Chicago, IL 60605, United States
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11
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Miatmoko A, Safitri SA, Aquila F, Cahyani DM, Hariawan BS, Hendrianto E, Hendradi E, Sari R. Characterization and distribution of niosomes containing ursolic acid coated with chitosan layer. Res Pharm Sci 2021; 16:660-673. [PMID: 34760014 PMCID: PMC8562406 DOI: 10.4103/1735-5362.327512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and purpose Ursolic acid (UA) exhibits anti-hepatocarcinoma and hepatoprotective activities, thus promising as an effective oral cancer therapy. However, its poor solubility and permeability lead to low oral bioavailability. In this study, we evaluated the effect of different ratios of Span® 60-cholesterol-UA and also chitosan addition on physical characteristics and stability of niosomes to improve oral biodistribution. Experimental approach UA niosomes (Nio-UA) were composed of Span® 60-cholesterol-UA at different molar ratios and prepared by using thin layer hydration method, and then chitosan solution was added into the Nio-UA to prepare Nio-CS-UA. Findings/Results The results showed that increasing the UA amount increased the particle size of Nio-UA. However, the higher the UA amount added to niosomes, the lower the encapsulation efficiency. The highest physical stability was achieved by preparing niosomes at a molar ratio of 3:2:10 for Span® 60, cholesterol, and UA, respectively, with a zeta-potential value of -41.99 mV. The addition of chitosan increased the particle size from 255 nm to 439 nm, as well as the zeta-potential value which increased from -46 mV to -21 mV. Moreover, Nio-UA-CS had relatively higher drug release in PBS pH 6.8 and 7.4 than Nio-UA. In the in vivo study, the addition of chitosan produced higher intensities of coumarin-6-labeled Nio-UA-CS in the liver than Nio-UA. Conclusion and implications It can be concluded that the ratio of Span® 60-cholesterol-UA highly affected niosomes physical properties. Moreover, the addition of chitosan improved the stability and drug release as well as oral biodistribution of Nio-UA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andang Miatmoko
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Nanizar Zaman Joenoes Building, Campus C Mulyorejo, Surabaya, 60115, Indonesia.,Stem Cell Research and Development Center, Universitas Airlangga, Institute of Tropical Disease Center Building, Campus C Mulyorejo, Surabaya, 60115, Indonesia
| | - Shofi Ameliah Safitri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Nanizar Zaman Joenoes Building, Campus C Mulyorejo, Surabaya, 60115, Indonesia
| | - Fayruz Aquila
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Nanizar Zaman Joenoes Building, Campus C Mulyorejo, Surabaya, 60115, Indonesia
| | - Devy Maulidya Cahyani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Nanizar Zaman Joenoes Building, Campus C Mulyorejo, Surabaya, 60115, Indonesia
| | - Berlian Sarasitha Hariawan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Nanizar Zaman Joenoes Building, Campus C Mulyorejo, Surabaya, 60115, Indonesia
| | - Eryk Hendrianto
- Stem Cell Research and Development Center, Universitas Airlangga, Institute of Tropical Disease Center Building, Campus C Mulyorejo, Surabaya, 60115, Indonesia
| | - Esti Hendradi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Nanizar Zaman Joenoes Building, Campus C Mulyorejo, Surabaya, 60115, Indonesia
| | - Retno Sari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Nanizar Zaman Joenoes Building, Campus C Mulyorejo, Surabaya, 60115, Indonesia
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12
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Alam M, Ali S, Ahmed S, Elasbali AM, Adnan M, Islam A, Hassan MI, Yadav DK. Therapeutic Potential of Ursolic Acid in Cancer and Diabetic Neuropathy Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12162. [PMID: 34830043 PMCID: PMC8621142 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ursolic acid (UA) is a pentacyclic triterpenoid frequently found in medicinal herbs and plants, having numerous pharmacological effects. UA and its analogs treat multiple diseases, including cancer, diabetic neuropathy, and inflammatory diseases. UA inhibits cancer proliferation, metastasis, angiogenesis, and induced cell death, scavenging free radicals and triggering numerous anti- and pro-apoptotic proteins. The biochemistry of UA has been examined broadly based on the literature, with alterations frequently having been prepared on positions C-3 (hydroxyl), C12-C13 (double bonds), and C-28 (carboxylic acid), leading to several UA derivatives with increased potency, bioavailability and water solubility. UA could be used as a protective agent to counter neural dysfunction via anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It is a potential therapeutic drug implicated in the treatment of cancer and diabetic complications diseases provide novel machinery to the anti-inflammatory properties of UA. The pharmacological efficiency of UA is exhibited by the therapeutic theory of one-drug → several targets → one/multiple diseases. Hence, UA shows promising therapeutic potential for cancer and diabetic neuropathy diseases. This review aims to discuss mechanistic insights into promising beneficial effects of UA. We further explained the pharmacological aspects, clinical trials, and potential limitations of UA for the management of cancer and diabetic neuropathy diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manzar Alam
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India; (M.A.); (S.A.); (A.I.); (M.I.H.)
| | - Sabeeha Ali
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India; (M.A.); (S.A.); (A.I.); (M.I.H.)
| | - Sarfraz Ahmed
- Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India;
| | - Abdelbaset Mohamed Elasbali
- Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Applied Medical Sciences-Qurayyat, Jouf University, Sakaka P.O. Box 2014, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohd Adnan
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Hail, Hail P.O. Box 2440, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Asimul Islam
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India; (M.A.); (S.A.); (A.I.); (M.I.H.)
| | - Md. Imtaiyaz Hassan
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India; (M.A.); (S.A.); (A.I.); (M.I.H.)
| | - Dharmendra Kumar Yadav
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University of Medicine and Science, Hambakmoeiro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21924, Korea
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Erdmann J, Kujaciński M, Wiciński M. Beneficial Effects of Ursolic Acid and Its Derivatives-Focus on Potential Biochemical Mechanisms in Cardiovascular Conditions. Nutrients 2021; 13:3900. [PMID: 34836155 PMCID: PMC8622438 DOI: 10.3390/nu13113900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ursolic acid (UA) is a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid found in a number of plants such as apples, thyme, oregano, hawthorn and others. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have presented its anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties. The inhibition of NF-κB-mediated inflammatory pathways and the increased scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in numerous ways seem to be the most beneficial effects of UA. In mice and rats, administration of UA appears to slow down the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), especially atherosclerosis and cardiac fibrosis. Upregulation of endothelial-type nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and cystathionine-λ-lyase (CSE) by UA may suggest its vasorelaxant property. Inhibition of metalloproteinases activity by UA may contribute to better outcomes in aneurysms management. UA influence on lipid and glucose metabolism remains inconsistent, and additional studies are essential to verify its efficacy. Furthermore, UA derivatives appear to have a beneficial impact on the cardiovascular system. This review aims to summarize recent findings on beneficial effects of UA that may make it a promising candidate for clinical trials for the management of CVDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Erdmann
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University, M. Curie 9, 85-090 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (M.K.); (M.W.)
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14
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Dubey VK, Madan S, Rajput SK, Singh AT, Jaggi M, Mittal AK. Single and repeated dose (28 days) intravenous toxicity assessment of bartogenic acid (an active pentacyclic triterpenoid) isolated from Barringtonia racemosa (L.) fruits in mice. Curr Res Toxicol 2021; 3:100057. [PMID: 36504921 PMCID: PMC9731886 DOI: 10.1016/j.crtox.2021.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Revised: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Bartogenic acid (BA), an active pentacyclic triterpenoid, has been reported for anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, anti-cancer, and anti-tumor activity. However, toxicity profiling of BA has not been reported till date. Hence, this study is designed to evaluate the single dose (12.5, 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg) and repeated dose (1.5, 6, and 24 mg/kg) intravenous toxicity of BA in BALB/c mice. Control group received vehicle. In single dose toxicity study, two mortalities were observed at 100 mg/kg of BA whereas lower doses were well tolerated. In repeated dose toxicity study, no mortality was observed. 1.5 mg/kg of BA was well tolerated in mice of both sexes. At 6 mg/kg of BA, female mice showed significant reduction in the body weight as compared to the control group however no significant change was observed in male mice. 24 mg/kg of BA showed significant reduction in the body weight in mice of both sexes. Further, these mice showed significant change in the relative organ weight. However, no toxicologically relevant changes were observed in hematology, biochemistry, and histopathology. Based on the findings, No-Observed-Adverse-Effect-Level (NOAEL) for BA were found to be<24 mg/kg for male mice and<6 mg/kg for female mice.
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Key Words
- AAALAC, Association For Assessment And Accreditation Of Laboratory Animal Care
- ALP, Alkaline Phosphatase
- ALT, Alanine Aminotransferase
- AST, Aspartate Aminotransferase
- Acute
- BA, Bartogenic Acid
- BUN, Blood Urea Nitrogen
- Barringtonia racemosa
- Bartogenic acid
- FDA, Food And Drug Administration
- GLP, Good Laboratory Practice
- H&E, Hematoxylin–Eosin
- HCT, Hematocrit
- LC/MS, Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry
- MCH, Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin
- MCHC, Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration
- MCV, Mean Corpuscular Volume
- Mice
- NMR, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
- NOAEL
- NOAEL, No Observed Adverse Effect Level
- OA, Oleanolic Acid
- OECD, Organization For Economic Co-Operation And Development
- RBC, Red Blood Cells Count
- RDW-CV, Red Cell Distribution Width - Coefficient Of Variation
- SEM, Standard Error Of The Mean
- TLC, Total Leukocyte Count
- Toxicity
- UA, Ursolic Acid
- UHPLC, Ultra High Performance Liquid Chromatography
- VLDL, Very Low Density Lipoprotein
- b.wt., Body Weight
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishal Kumar Dubey
- Dabur Research Foundation, 22, Site IV, Sahibabad, Ghaziabad 201010, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Sector-125, Noida 201313, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Corresponding author at: Dabur Research Foundation, 22, Site IV, Sahibabad, Ghaziabad 201010, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Swati Madan
- Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Sector-125, Noida 201313, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Satyendra K. Rajput
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gurukula Kangri Vishwavidyalaya, Jagjeetpur, Haridwar 249404, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Anu T Singh
- Dabur Research Foundation, 22, Site IV, Sahibabad, Ghaziabad 201010, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Manu Jaggi
- Dabur Research Foundation, 22, Site IV, Sahibabad, Ghaziabad 201010, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Amit Kumar Mittal
- Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 322230 India
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15
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Wang S, Chang X, Zhang J, Li J, Wang N, Yang B, Pan B, Zheng Y, Wang X, Ou H, Wang Z. Ursolic Acid Inhibits Breast Cancer Metastasis by Suppressing Glycolytic Metabolism via Activating SP1/Caveolin-1 Signaling. Front Oncol 2021; 11:745584. [PMID: 34568078 PMCID: PMC8457520 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.745584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer remains the most common malignancy and the leading causality of cancer-associated mortality among women worldwide. With proven efficacy, Oldenlandia diffusa has been extensively applied in breast cancer treatment in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for thousands of years. However, the bioactive compounds of Oldenlandia diffusa accounting for its anti-breast cancer activity and the underlying biological mechanisms remain to be uncovered. Herein, bioactivity-guided fractionation suggested ursolic acid as the strongest anti-breast cancer compound in Oldenlandia diffusa. Ursolic acid treatment dramatically suppressed the proliferation and promoted mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis in breast cancer cells while brought little cytotoxicities in nonmalignant mammary epithelial cells in vitro. Meanwhile, ursolic acid dramatically impaired both the glycolytic metabolism and mitochondrial respiration function of breast cancer cells. Further investigations demonstrated that ursolic acid may impair the glycolytic metabolism of breast cancer cells by activating Caveolin-1 (Cav-1) signaling, as Cav-1 knockdown could partially abrogate the suppressive effect of ursolic acid on that. Mechanistically, ursolic acid could activate SP1-mediated CAV1 transcription by promoting SP1 expression as well as its binding with CAV1 promoter region. More meaningfully, ursolic acid administration could dramatically suppress the growth and metastasis of breast cancer in both the zebrafish and mouse xenotransplantation models of breast cancer in vivo without any detectable hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity or hematotoxicity. This study not only provides preclinical evidence supporting the application of ursolic acid as a promising candidate drug for breast cancer treatment but also sheds novel light on Cav-1 as a druggable target for glycolytic modulation of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengqi Wang
- Section of Science and Technology, Guangxi International Zhuang Medicine Hospital, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Department of Mammary Disease, Panyu Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xu Chang
- Department of Mammary Disease, Panyu Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Juping Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Neng Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,The Research Center for Integrative Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bowen Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bo Pan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yifeng Zheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuan Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hesheng Ou
- Section of Science and Technology, Guangxi International Zhuang Medicine Hospital, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Zhiyu Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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16
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Kramberger K, Kenig S, Jenko Pražnikar Z, Kočevar Glavač N, Barlič-Maganja D. A Review and Evaluation of the Data Supporting Internal Use of Helichrysum italicum. PLANTS 2021; 10:plants10081738. [PMID: 34451781 PMCID: PMC8399527 DOI: 10.3390/plants10081738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Helichrysum italicum is a Mediterranean plant with various pharmacological activities. Despite extensive reports on the bioactivity of the plant, its clinically studied applications have not yet been reviewed. The aim of our study was to gather information on the internal use of H. italicum and its bioactive constituents to determine its efficacy and safety for human use. We reviewed research articles that have not been previously presented in this context and analyzed relevant clinical studies with H. italicum. Cochranelibrary.com revealed six eligible clinical trials with H. italicum that examined indications for pain management, cough, and mental exhaustion. Although the efficacy of H. italicum has been demonstrated both in in vitro tests and in humans, it is difficult to attribute results from clinical trials to H. italicum alone, as it has usually not been tested as the sole component. On the other hand, clinical trials provide positive information on the safety profile since no adverse effects have been reported. We conclude that H. italicum is safe to use internally, while new clinical studies with H. italicum as a single component are needed to prove its efficacy. Based on the recent trend in H. italicum research, further studies are to be expected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Kramberger
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Primorska, 6310 Izola, Slovenia; (K.K.); (S.K.); (Z.J.P.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Saša Kenig
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Primorska, 6310 Izola, Slovenia; (K.K.); (S.K.); (Z.J.P.)
| | - Zala Jenko Pražnikar
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Primorska, 6310 Izola, Slovenia; (K.K.); (S.K.); (Z.J.P.)
| | | | - Darja Barlič-Maganja
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Primorska, 6310 Izola, Slovenia; (K.K.); (S.K.); (Z.J.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +386-5-662-6467
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17
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Wang L, Yin Q, Liu C, Tang Y, Sun C, Zhuang J. Nanoformulations of Ursolic Acid: A Modern Natural Anticancer Molecule. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:706121. [PMID: 34295253 PMCID: PMC8289884 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.706121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Ursolic acid (UA) is a natural pentacyclic triterpene derived from fruit, herb, and other plants. UA can act on molecular targets of various signaling pathways, inhibit the growth of cancer cells, promote cycle stagnation, and induce apoptosis, thereby exerting anticancer activity. However, its poor water-solubility, low intestinal mucosal absorption, and low bioavailability restrict its clinical application. In order to overcome these deficiencies, nanotechnology, has been applied to the pharmacological study of UA. Objective: In this review, we focused on the absorption, distribution, and elimination pharmacokinetics of UA in vivo, as well as on the research progress in various UA nanoformulations, in the hope of providing reference information for the research on the anticancer activity of UA. Methods: Relevant research articles on Pubmed and Web of Science in recent years were searched selectively by using the keywords and subheadings, and were summarized systematically. Key finding: The improvement of the antitumor ability of the UA nanoformulations is mainly due to the improvement of the bioavailability and the enhancement of the targeting ability of the UA molecules. UA nanoformulations can even be combined with computational imaging technology for monitoring or diagnosis. Conclusion: Currently, a variety of UA nanoformulations, such as micelles, liposomes, and nanoparticles, which can increase the solubility and bioactivity of UA, while promoting the accumulation of UA in tumor tissues, have been prepared. Although the research of UA in the nanofield has made great progress, there is still a long way to go before the clinical application of UA nanoformulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longyun Wang
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Qianqian Yin
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Cun Liu
- College of First Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Ying Tang
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Changgang Sun
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, China.,Qingdao Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qingdao, China
| | - Jing Zhuang
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, China
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Targeting the crosstalk between canonical Wnt/β-catenin and inflammatory signaling cascades: A novel strategy for cancer prevention and therapy. Pharmacol Ther 2021; 227:107876. [PMID: 33930452 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.107876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Emerging scientific evidence indicates that inflammation is a critical component of tumor promotion and progression. Most cancers originate from sites of chronic irritation, infections and inflammation, underscoring that the tumor microenvironment is largely orchestrated by inflammatory cells and pro-inflammatory molecules. These inflammatory components are intimately involved in neoplastic processes which foster proliferation, survival, invasion, and migration, making inflammation the primary target for cancer prevention and treatment. The influence of inflammation and the immune system on the progression and development of cancer has recently gained immense interest. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, an evolutionarily conserved signaling strategy, has a critical role in regulating tissue development. It has been implicated as a major player in cancer development and progression with its regulatory role on inflammatory cascades. Many naturally-occurring and small synthetic molecules endowed with inherent anti-inflammatory properties inhibit this aberrant signaling pathway, making them a promising class of compounds in the fight against inflammatory cancers. This article analyzes available scientific evidence and suggests a crosslink between Wnt/β-catenin signaling and inflammatory pathways in inflammatory cancers, especially breast, gastrointestinal, endometrial, and ovarian cancer. We also highlight emerging experimental findings that numerous anti-inflammatory synthetic and natural compounds target the crosslink between Wnt/β-catenin pathway and inflammatory cascades to achieve cancer prevention and intervention. Current challenges, limitations, and future directions of research are also discussed.
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19
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The Most Competent Plant-Derived Natural Products for Targeting Apoptosis in Cancer Therapy. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11040534. [PMID: 33916780 PMCID: PMC8066452 DOI: 10.3390/biom11040534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a challenging problem for the global health community, and its increasing burden necessitates seeking novel and alternative therapies. Most cancers share six basic characteristics known as "cancer hallmarks", including uncontrolled proliferation, refractoriness to proliferation blockers, escaping apoptosis, unlimited proliferation, enhanced angiogenesis, and metastatic spread. Apoptosis, as one of the best-known programmed cell death processes, is generally promoted through two signaling pathways, including the intrinsic and extrinsic cascades. These pathways comprise several components that their alterations can render an apoptosis-resistance phenotype to the cell. Therefore, targeting more than one molecule in apoptotic pathways can be a novel and efficient approach for both identifying new anticancer therapeutics and preventing resistance to therapy. The main purpose of this review is to summarize data showing that various plant extracts and plant-derived molecules can activate both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis pathways in human cancer cells, making them attractive candidates in cancer treatment.
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20
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Yang M, Hu C, Cao Y, Liang W, Yang X, Xiao T. Ursolic Acid Regulates Cell Cycle and Proliferation in Colon Adenocarcinoma by Suppressing Cyclin B1. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:622212. [PMID: 33628185 PMCID: PMC7898669 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.622212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Aims: The biological functions of cyclin B1 (CCNB1) in colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) will be explored in this study. Furthermore, the therapeutic effects and potential molecular mechanisms of ursolic acid (UA) in COAD cells will also be investigated in vitro. Methods: COAD data were obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were determined with differential analysis. The biological functions of CCNB1 were analyzed through the GeneCards, the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING), and the Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) databases. Therapeutic effects of UA on COAD cell lines HCT-116 and SW-480 were analyzed by CCK-8 and high-content screening (HCS) imaging assay. Flow cytometry was utilized to detect cell cycle changes of SW-480 and HCT-116 cells. Levels of mRNA and expression proteins of HCT-116, SW-480, and normal colon epithelial cells NCM-460 were determined by qRT-PCR and western blot. Results: CCNB1 was highly expressed and acted as an oncogene in COAD patients. CCNB1 and its interacting genes were significantly enriched in the cell cycle pathway. UA effectively inhibited the proliferation and injured COAD cells. In addition, UA arrested cell cycle of COAD cells in S phase. With regard to the molecular mechanisms of UA, we demonstrated that UA can significantly downregulate CCNB1 and its interacting genes and proteins, including CDK1, CDC20, CCND1, and CCNA2, which contributed to cell cycle blocking and COAD treatment. Conclusion: Results from this study revealed that UA possesses therapeutic effects on COAD. The anti-COAD activities of UA are tightly related to suppression of CCNB1 and its interacting targets, which is crucial in abnormal cell cycle process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minhui Yang
- College of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Changxiao Hu
- College of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Yibo Cao
- Colorectal and Anal Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China.,Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Chengdu Anorectal Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Wanling Liang
- Colorectal and Anal Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Xiangdong Yang
- Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Chengdu Anorectal Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Tianbao Xiao
- Colorectal and Anal Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
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21
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Khwaza V, Oyedeji OO, Aderibigbe BA. Ursolic Acid-Based Derivatives as Potential Anti-Cancer Agents: An Update. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E5920. [PMID: 32824664 PMCID: PMC7460570 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ursolic acid is a pharmacologically active pentacyclic triterpenoid derived from medicinal plants, fruit, and vegetables. The pharmacological activities of ursolic acid have been extensively studied over the past few years and various reports have revealed that ursolic acid has multiple biological activities, which include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer, etc. In terms of cancer treatment, ursolic acid interacts with a number of molecular targets that play an essential role in many cell signaling pathways. It suppresses transformation, inhibits proliferation, and induces apoptosis of tumor cells. Although ursolic acid has many benefits, its therapeutic applications in clinical medicine are limited by its poor bioavailability and absorption. To overcome such disadvantages, researchers around the globe have designed and developed synthetic ursolic acid derivatives with enhanced therapeutic effects by structurally modifying the parent skeleton of ursolic acid. These structurally modified compounds display enhanced therapeutic effects when compared to ursolic acid. This present review summarizes various synthesized derivatives of ursolic acid with anti-cancer activity which were reported from 2015 to date.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Blessing A. Aderibigbe
- Department of Chemistry, University of Fort Hare, Alice Campus, Alice 5700, Eastern Cape, South Africa; (V.K.); (O.O.O.)
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22
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Zhang Y, Li X, Ciric B, Curtis MT, Chen WJ, Rostami A, Zhang GX. A dual effect of ursolic acid to the treatment of multiple sclerosis through both immunomodulation and direct remyelination. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:9082-9093. [PMID: 32253301 PMCID: PMC7183235 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2000208117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Current multiple sclerosis (MS) medications are mainly immunomodulatory, having little or no effect on neuroregeneration of damaged central nervous system (CNS) tissue; they are thus primarily effective at the acute stage of disease, but much less so at the chronic stage. An MS therapy that has both immunomodulatory and neuroregenerative effects would be highly beneficial. Using multiple in vivo and in vitro strategies, in the present study we demonstrate that ursolic acid (UA), an antiinflammatory natural triterpenoid, also directly promotes oligodendrocyte maturation and CNS myelin repair. Oral treatment with UA significantly decreased disease severity and CNS inflammation and demyelination in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of MS. Importantly, remyelination and neural repair in the CNS were observed even after UA treatment was started on day 60 post immunization when EAE mice had full-blown demyelination and axonal damage. UA treatment also enhanced remyelination in a cuprizone-induced demyelination model in vivo and brain organotypic slice cultures ex vivo and promoted oligodendrocyte maturation in vitro, indicating a direct myelinating capacity. Mechanistically, UA induced promyelinating neurotrophic factor CNTF in astrocytes by peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ(PPARγ)/CREB signaling, as well as by up-regulation of myelin-related gene expression during oligodendrocyte maturation via PPARγ activation. Together, our findings demonstrate that UA has significant potential as an oral antiinflammatory and neural repair agent for MS, especially at the chronic-progressive stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Medicinal Resources and Natural Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Xing Li
- Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Medicinal Resources and Natural Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Bogoljub Ciric
- Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107
| | - Mark T Curtis
- Department of Pathology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107
| | - Wan-Jun Chen
- Mucosal Immunology Section, Oral and Pharyngeal Cancer Branch, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | | | - Guang-Xian Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107;
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23
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Shao J, Fang Y, Zhao R, Chen F, Yang M, Jiang J, Chen Z, Yuan X, Jia L. Evolution from small molecule to nano-drug delivery systems: An emerging approach for cancer therapy of ursolic acid. Asian J Pharm Sci 2020; 15:685-700. [PMID: 33363625 PMCID: PMC7750806 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajps.2020.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2019] [Revised: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 03/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ursolic acid (UA), a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid, possesses widespread biological and pharmacological activities. However, drawbacks such as low bioavailability, poor targeting and rapid metabolism greatly hinder its further clinical application. Recently, with the development of nanotechnology, various UA nanosystems have emerged as promising strategies for effective cancer therapy. This article reviews various types of UA-based nano-delivery systems, primarily with emphasis placed on novel UA-based carrier-free nano-drugs, which are considered to be innovative methods for cancer therapy. Moreover, this review presents carrier-free nano-drugs that co-assembled of UA and photosensitizers that displayed synergistic antitumor performance. Finally, the article also describes the development and challenges of UA nanosystems for future research in this field. Overall, the information presented in this review will provide new insight into the rational utilization of nano-drugs in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwei Shao
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China.,Marine Drug R&D Center, Institute of Oceanography, Minjiang University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Yifan Fang
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China
| | - Ruirui Zhao
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China
| | - Fangmin Chen
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China
| | - Mingyue Yang
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China
| | - Jiali Jiang
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China
| | - Zixuan Chen
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China
| | - Xiaotian Yuan
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China
| | - Lee Jia
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China.,Marine Drug R&D Center, Institute of Oceanography, Minjiang University, Fuzhou 350108, China
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24
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Jin C, Wang K, Oppong-Gyebi A, Hu J. Application of Nanotechnology in Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy - A Mini-Review. Int J Med Sci 2020; 17:2964-2973. [PMID: 33173417 PMCID: PMC7646098 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.49801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a leading cause of death and poor quality of life globally. Even though several strategies are devised to reduce deaths, reduce chronic pain and improve the quality of life, there remains a shortfall in the adequacies of these cancer therapies. Among the cardinal steps towards ensuring optimal cancer treatment are early detection of cancer cells and drug application with high specificity to reduce toxicities. Due to increased systemic toxicities and refractoriness with conventional cancer diagnostic and therapeutic tools, other strategies including nanotechnology are being employed to improve diagnosis and mitigate disease severity. Over the years, immunotherapeutic agents based on nanotechnology have been used for several cancer types to reduce the invasiveness of cancerous cells while sparing healthy cells at the target site. Nanomaterials including carbon nanotubes, polymeric micelles and liposomes have been used in cancer drug design where they have shown considerable pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic benefits in cancer diagnosis and treatment. In this review, we outline the commonly used nanomaterials which are employed in cancer diagnosis and therapy. We have highlighted the suitability of these nanomaterials for cancer management based on their physicochemical and biological properties. We further reviewed the challenges that are associated with the various nanomaterials which limit their uses and hamper their translatability into the clinical setting in certain cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cancan Jin
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Dongyang People's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Dongyang, Zhejiang 322100,China
| | - Kankai Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China
| | - Anthony Oppong-Gyebi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas 76107, USA
| | - Jiangnan Hu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas 76107, USA
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25
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Liposome Delivery of Natural STAT3 Inhibitors for the Treatment of Cancer. PHARMACEUTICAL FRONTIERS 2019; 1. [PMID: 31886474 DOI: 10.20900/pf20190007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
In the tumor microenvironment, cytokines, growth factors, and oncogenes mediate constitutive activation of the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in both cancer cells and infiltrating immune cells. STAT3 activation in cancer cells drives tumorigenic changes that allow for increased survival, proliferation, and resistance to apoptosis. The modulation of immune cells is more complicated and conflicting. STAT3 signaling drives the myeloid cell phenotype towards an immune suppressive state, which mediates T cell inhibition. On the other hand, STAT3 signaling in T cells leads to proliferation and T cell activity required for an anti-tumor response. Targeted delivery of STAT3 inhibitors to cancer cells and myeloid cells could therefore improve therapeutic outcomes. Many compounds that inhibit the STAT3 pathways for cancer treatment include peptide drugs, small molecule inhibitors, and natural compounds. However, natural compounds that inhibit STAT3 are often hydrophobic, which reduces their bioavailability and leads to unfavorable pharmacokinetics. This review focuses specifically on liposome-encapsulated natural STAT3 inhibitors and their ability to target cancer cells and myeloid cells to reduce tumor growth and decrease STAT3-mediated immune suppression. Many of these liposome formulations have led to profound tumor reduction and examples of combination formulations have been shown to eliminate tumors through immune modulation.
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26
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Ren Y, Kinghorn AD. Natural Product Triterpenoids and Their Semi-Synthetic Derivatives with Potential Anticancer Activity. PLANTA MEDICA 2019; 85:802-814. [PMID: 30658371 PMCID: PMC6639164 DOI: 10.1055/a-0832-2383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Triterpenoids are distributed widely in higher plants and are of interest because of their structural diversity and broad range of bioactivities. In particular, there is a very large literature on the propensity of a variety of triterpenoids to act as potential anticancer agents. In the present review, the anticancer potential is summarized for naturally occurring triterpenoids and their semi-synthetic derivatives, including examples of lupane-, oleanane-, ursane-, and cucurbitane-type pentacyclic triterpenoids, along with dammarane-type tetracyclic triterpenes including ginsenosides and their sapogenins and dichapetalins, which have been characterized as antitumor leads from higher plants. Preliminary structure-activity relationships and reported mechanisms of the antineoplastic-related activity are included. Prior studies for triterpenoids of plant origin are supportive of additional work being conducted on the more detailed biological and mechanistic evaluation for the progression of this type of natural products as possible cancer chemotherapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulin Ren
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - A Douglas Kinghorn
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
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27
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Lin L, Hou G, Han D, Kang J, Wang Q. Ursolic Acid Protected Lung of Rats From Damage Induced by Cigarette Smoke Extract. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:700. [PMID: 31281258 PMCID: PMC6595172 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00700] [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: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: We found previously that ursolic acid (UA) administration could alleviate cigarette smoke-induced emphysema in rats partly through the unfolded protein response (UPR) PERK-CHOP and Nrf2 pathways, thus alleviating endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS)-associated oxidative stress and cell apoptosis. We hypothesized that other UPR pathways may play similar roles in cigarette smoke extract (CSE)-induced emphysema. So, we sought to investigate the dynamic changes and effects of UPR and the downstream apoptotic pathways. Further, we investigated whether UA could alleviate CSE-induced emphysema and airway remodelling in rats, whether and when it exerts its effects through UPR pathways as well as Smads pathways. Methods: One hundred eight Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into three groups: Sham group, CSE group, and UA group, and each group was further divided into three subgroups, administered CSE (vehicle) for 2, 3, or 4 weeks; each subgroup had 12 rats. We examined pathological changes, analyzed the three UPR signaling pathways and subsequent ERS, intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathway indicators, as well as activation of Smad2,3 molecules in rat lungs. Results: Exposure to CSE for 3 or 4 weeks could apparently induce emphysema and airway remodeling in rats, including gross and microscopic changes, alteration of mean alveolar number (MAN), mean linear intercept (MLI), and mean airway thickness in lung tissue sections. UA intervention could significantly alleviate CSE-induced emphysema and airway remodeling in rats. UA exerted its effects through ameliorating apoptosis by down regulating UPR signalling pathways and subsequent apoptosis pathways, as well as, downregulating p-Smad2 and p-Smad3 molecules. Conclusions: UA attenuated CSE-induced emphysema and airway remodeling, exerting its effects partly through regulation of three UPR pathways, amelioration downstream apoptotic pathways, and alleviating activation of Smad2 and Smad3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Lin
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Disease, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Gang Hou
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Disease, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Dan Han
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Disease, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jian Kang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Disease, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Qiuyue Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Disease, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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28
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Staats S, Wagner AE, Lüersen K, Künstner A, Meyer T, Kahns AK, Derer S, Graspeuntner S, Rupp J, Busch H, Sina C, Ipharraguerre IR, Rimbach G. Dietary ursolic acid improves health span and life span in male Drosophila melanogaster. Biofactors 2019; 45:169-186. [PMID: 30496629 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The health and life span of Drosophila melanogaster are partly determined by intestinal barrier integrity, metabolic rate as well as stress response and the expression of longevity-associated genes, depending on genetic and dietary factors. Ursolic acid (UA) is a naturally occurring triterpenoid exhibiting potential antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antiobesity activity and counteracting age-related deficits in muscle strength. In this study, UA was dietarily administered to w1118 D. melanogaster which significantly elongated the health and life span of males. Spargel (srl) is the Drosophila orthologue of mammalian peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator 1 α(PGC1α), an important regulator of energy homeostasis and mitochondrial function. Our results indicate that the health-promoting effect of UA, demonstrated by a significant increase in climbing activity, occurs via an upregulation of srl expression leading to a metabolic shift in the fly without reducing fecundity or gut integrity. Moreover, UA affected the flies' microbiota in a manner that contributed to life span extension. Srl expression and microbiota both seem to be affected by UA, as we determined by using srl-mutant and axenic flies. © 2018 BioFactors, 45(2):169-186, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Staats
- Institute of Human Nutrition and Food Science, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Anika E Wagner
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Kai Lüersen
- Institute of Human Nutrition and Food Science, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Axel Künstner
- Group for Medical Systems Biology, Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- Institute for Cardiogenetics, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Timo Meyer
- Institute of Human Nutrition and Food Science, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Anna K Kahns
- Institute of Human Nutrition and Food Science, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Stefanie Derer
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Simon Graspeuntner
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Jan Rupp
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Hauke Busch
- Group for Medical Systems Biology, Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- Institute for Cardiogenetics, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Christian Sina
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | | | - Gerald Rimbach
- Institute of Human Nutrition and Food Science, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
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29
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Tremmel L, Rho O, Slaga TJ, DiGiovanni J. Inhibition of skin tumor promotion by TPA using a combination of topically applied ursolic acid and curcumin. Mol Carcinog 2019; 58:185-195. [PMID: 30346064 DOI: 10.1002/mc.22918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 09/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Prevention remains an important strategy to reduce the burden of cancer. One approach to prevent cancer is the use of phytochemicals in various combinations as safe and effective cancer preventative agents. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of the combination of ursolic acid (UA) and curcumin (Curc) for potential combinatorial inhibition of skin tumor promotion using the mouse two-stage skin carcinogenesis model. In short-term experiments, the combination of UA + Curc given topically prior to 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) significantly inhibited activation of epidermal EGFR, p70S6K, NF-κB p50, Src, c-Jun, Rb, and IκBα. Levels of c-Fos, c-Jun, and Cox-2 were also significantly reduced by the combination compared to the TPA treated group. The alterations in these signaling pathways by the combination of UA + Curc were associated with decreased epidermal proliferation as assessed by measuring BrdU incorporation. Significant effects were also seen with the combination on epidermal inflammatory gene expression and dermal inflammation, with the greatest effects on expression of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-22, and CXCL2. Furthermore, results from skin tumor experiments demonstrated that the combination of UA + Curc given topically significantly inhibited mouse skin tumor promotion by TPA to a greater extent than the individual compounds given alone. The greatest effects were seen on tumor free survival, tumor size, and tumor weight, although tumor incidence and multiplicity were also further reduced by the combination. These results demonstrate the potential cancer chemopreventive activity and mechanism(s) for the combination of UA + Curc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Tremmel
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
| | - Okkyung Rho
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
| | - Thomas J Slaga
- Department of Pharmacology, UT Health Science Center San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - John DiGiovanni
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
- Department of Pediatrics, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
- Center for Molecular Carcinogenesis and Toxicology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
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Iqbal J, Abbasi BA, Ahmad R, Mahmood T, Kanwal S, Ali B, Khalil AT, Shah SA, Alam MM, Badshah H. Ursolic acid a promising candidate in the therapeutics of breast cancer: Current status and future implications. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 108:752-756. [PMID: 30248543 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.09.096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 09/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer [BC] is the deadliest neoplasm in women globally and the second leading cause of cancer associated deaths. Current treatment methods include chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, radiation therapy and surgery. However, BC has shown resistance to these therapies and are often associated with side effects, multidrug resistance, recurrence are the major issues in BC treatment. Currently, dietary phytocompounds have emerged as beneficial agents for the prevention and treatment of cancer because of their safe and cost effective nature. Ursolic acid [UA] is widely spread in fruits and vegetables having the ability to inhibit BC proliferation, angiogenesis and metastasis, arrest cell cycle, induced apoptosis, scavenge free radicals and regulate several anti-apoptotic and pro-apoptotic proteins. UA has also shown potential anticancer, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities in several human BC cells. This review paper encompasses the role of UA against BC and their mechanism of action in vitro and in vivo studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javed Iqbal
- Department of Plant Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan.
| | - Banzeer Ahsan Abbasi
- Department of Plant Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Riaz Ahmad
- College of life sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xian, 710119, China
| | - Tariq Mahmood
- Department of Plant Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Sobia Kanwal
- Department of Zoology, University of Gujrat, Sub-Campus Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Barkat Ali
- Department of Plant Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Ali Talha Khalil
- UNESCO UNISA Africa chair in nanoscience and nanotechnology, College of Graduate Studies, University of South Africa, Pretoria, 0002, South Africa; Nanosciences African Network (NANOAFNET), iThemba LABS-National Research Foundation Somerset West, Western Cape, 7129, South Africa; Department of Eastern Medicine and Surgery, Qarshi University, Lahore, 56000, Pakistan
| | - Sayed Afzal Shah
- Department of Plant Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | | | - Hussain Badshah
- Department of Plant Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
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Wang Y, Li L, Deng S, Liu F, He Z. Ursolic Acid Ameliorates Inflammation in Cerebral Ischemia and Reperfusion Injury Possibly via High Mobility Group Box 1/Toll-Like Receptor 4/NFκB Pathway. Front Neurol 2018; 9:253. [PMID: 29867706 PMCID: PMC5968106 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.00253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play key roles in cerebral ischemia and reperfusion injury by inducing the production of inflammatory mediators, such as interleukins (ILs) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). According to recent studies, ursolic acid (UA) regulates TLR signaling and exhibits notable anti-inflammatory properties. In the present study, we explored the mechanism by which UA regulates inflammation in the rat middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion (MCAO/R) model. The MCAO/R model was induced in male Sprague–Dawley rats (MCAO for 2 h, followed by reperfusion for 48 h). UA was administered intragastrically at 0.5, 24, and 47 h after reperfusion. The direct high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) inhibitor glycyrrhizin (GL) was injected intravenously after 0.5 h of ischemia as a positive control. The degree of brain damage was estimated using the neurological deficit score, infarct volume, histopathological changes, and neuronal apoptosis. We assessed IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels to evaluate post-ischemic inflammation. HMGB1 and TLR4 expression and phosphorylation of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell (NFκB) were also examined to explore the underlying mechanism. UA (10 and 20 mg/kg) treatment significantly decreased the neurological deficit scores, infarct volume, apoptotic cells, and IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 concentrations. The infarct area ratio was reduced by (33.07 ± 1.74), (27.05 ± 1.13), (27.49 ± 1.87), and (39.74 ± 2.14)% in the 10 and 20 mg/kg UA, GL, and control groups, respectively. Furthermore, UA (10 and 20 mg/kg) treatment significantly decreased HMGB1 release and the TLR4 level and inactivated NFκB signaling. Thus, the effects of intragastric administration of 20 mg/kg of UA and 10 mg/kg of GL were similar. We provide novel evidence that UA reduces inflammatory cytokine production to protect the brain from cerebral ischemia and reperfusion injury possibly through the HMGB1/TLR4/NFκB signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanzhe Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shumin Deng
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Fang Liu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhiyi He
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Yoshimasu Y, Ikeda T, Sakai N, Yagi A, Hirayama S, Morinaga Y, Furukawa S, Nakao R. Rapid Bactericidal Action of Propolis against Porphyromonas gingivalis. J Dent Res 2018; 97:928-936. [PMID: 29494308 DOI: 10.1177/0022034518758034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Propolis, a resinous substance produced by bees, is used as a folk medicine for treatment of periodontal diseases. However, its mode of the action and the compounds responsible for its activities remain obscure. In the present study, we comprehensively investigated the antibacterial activities of ethanol-extracted propolis (EEP) and EEP-derived compounds toward Porphyromonas gingivalis, a keystone pathogen for periodontal diseases. Broth microdilution and agar dilution assays were used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations of EEP against a range of oral bacterial species, of which P. gingivalis showed a higher level of sensitivity than oral commensals such as streptococci. Its antibacterial activity toward P. gingivalis was maintained even after extensive heat treatment, demonstrating a high level of thermostability. EEP also induced death of P. gingivalis cells by increasing membrane permeability within 30 min. Spatiotemporal analysis based on high-speed atomic force microscopy revealed that EEP immediately triggered development of aberrant membrane blebs, followed by bleb fusion events on the bacterial surface. Furthermore, we isolated artepillin C, baccharin, and ursolic acid from EEP as antibacterial compounds against P. gingivalis. Of those, artepillin C and baccharin showed bacteriostatic activities with membrane blebbing, while ursolic acid showed bactericidal activity with membrane rupture. In particular, ursolic acid demonstrated a greater ability to affect bacterial membrane potential with increased membrane permeability, probably because of its highly lipophilic nature as compared with other compounds. Taken together, these findings provide mechanistic insight into the antibacterial activities of EEP and its exquisite membrane-targeting antibacterial compounds and imply the applicability of narrow-spectrum therapeutics with EEP for treatment of periodontitis. In addition, the advanced technology utilized in the present study to visualize the nanometer-scale dynamics of microorganisms will contribute to expanding our understanding of the activities of antimicrobials and the mechanism of drug resistance in bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Yoshimasu
- 1 Department of Bacteriology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan.,2 Department of Food Bioscience and Biotechnology, College of Bioresource Science, Nihon University, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - T Ikeda
- 3 Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sojo University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - N Sakai
- 4 Division of Medical Elemental Technology Development, Department of Micro System Technology, Olympus Corporation, Tokyo, Japan
| | - A Yagi
- 4 Division of Medical Elemental Technology Development, Department of Micro System Technology, Olympus Corporation, Tokyo, Japan
| | - S Hirayama
- 1 Department of Bacteriology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan.,5 Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Y Morinaga
- 2 Department of Food Bioscience and Biotechnology, College of Bioresource Science, Nihon University, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - S Furukawa
- 2 Department of Food Bioscience and Biotechnology, College of Bioresource Science, Nihon University, Kanagawa, Japan.,Deceased
| | - R Nakao
- 1 Department of Bacteriology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
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Yin J, Liu C, Shen Y, Zhang H, Cao J. Efficacy of ursolic acid against Echinococcus granulosus in vitro and in a murine infection model. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:58. [PMID: 29368624 PMCID: PMC5784668 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2628-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2017] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cystic echinococcosis is a global public health problem; however, the drugs (albendazole and mebendazole) currently recommended by WHO for its treatment, have limited efficacy. Therefore, novel drugs are required to provide more choices for the treatment of this disease. METHODS The anthelmintic effects of ursolic acid (UA) were tested on Echinococcus granulosus protoscoleces, germinal cells and metacestodes in vitro. The in vivo efficacy of UA was investigated in mice following secondary infection with E. granulosus. Furthermore, the corresponding ultrastructural damage induced by UA was evaluated by electron microscopy. RESULTS In vitro, 45.95 ± 5.30% of protoscoleces were killed by UA at 40 μg/ml, while the growth of more than 90% of germinal cells was inhibited by UA at 10 to 40 μg/ml. The same effect was observed in metacestodes 7 days after treatment with UA at 10, 20 and 40 μg/ml, and more than 50% of metacestodes showed loss of integrity at the end of the experiment. In vivo, metacestode weight was significantly reduced following oral administration of UA at 200 and 100 mg/kg (39.5 and 38.3%, respectively). Additionally, ultrastructural damage, such as alternations in germinal cell morphology and formation of vacuoles and lipid granules were observed in parasites treated with UA in vitro, while detachment of the germinal layer from the laminated layer was also seen in metacestodes in vivo. CONCLUSIONS UA was demonstrated to exert parasiticidal activity against E. granulosus in vitro and in vivo, thus implicating UA as a potential anti-echinococcosis agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhai Yin
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, 200025 China
- Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, MOH, Shanghai, 200025 China
- National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, 200025 China
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, 200025 China
| | - Congshan Liu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, 200025 China
- Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, MOH, Shanghai, 200025 China
- National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, 200025 China
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, 200025 China
| | - Yujuan Shen
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, 200025 China
- Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, MOH, Shanghai, 200025 China
- National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, 200025 China
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, 200025 China
| | - Haobing Zhang
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, 200025 China
- Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, MOH, Shanghai, 200025 China
- National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, 200025 China
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, 200025 China
| | - Jianping Cao
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, 200025 China
- Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, MOH, Shanghai, 200025 China
- National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, 200025 China
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, 200025 China
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Catteau L, Reichmann NT, Olson J, Pinho MG, Nizet V, Van Bambeke F, Quetin-Leclercq J. Synergy between Ursolic and Oleanolic Acids from Vitellaria paradoxa Leaf Extract and β-Lactams against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus: In Vitro and In Vivo Activity and Underlying Mechanisms. Molecules 2017; 22:E2245. [PMID: 29258194 PMCID: PMC6149719 DOI: 10.3390/molecules22122245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Revised: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Combining antibiotics with resistance reversing agents is a key strategy to overcome bacterial resistance. Upon screening antimicrobial activities of plants used in traditional medicine, we found that a leaf dichloromethane extract from the shea butter tree (Vitellaria paradoxa) had antimicrobial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) with further evidence of synergy when combined with β-lactams. Using HPLC-MS, we identified ursolic (UA) and oleanolic acids (OA) in leaves and twigs of this species, and quantified them by HPLC-UV as the major constituents in leaf extracts (21% and 6% respectively). Both pure triterpenic acids showed antimicrobial activity against reference and clinical strains of MRSA, with MICs ranging from 8-16 mg/L for UA to 32-128 mg/L for OA. They were highly synergistic with β-lactams (ampicillin and oxacillin) at subMIC concentrations. Reversion of MRSA phenotype was attributed to their capacity to delocalize PBP2 from the septal division site, as observed by fluorescence microscopy, and to disturb thereby peptidoglycan synthesis. Moreover, both compounds also inhibited β-lactamases activity of living bacteria (as assessed by inhibition of nitrocefin hydrolysis), but not in bacterial lysates, suggesting an indirect mechanism for this inhibition. In a murine model of subcutaneous MRSA infection, local administration of UA was synergistic with nafcillin to reduce lesion size and inflammatory cytokine (IL-1β) production. Thus, these data highlight the potential interest of triterpenic acids as resistance reversing agents in combination with β-lactams against MRSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Catteau
- Pharmacognosy Research Group, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium.
- Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology Research Group, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Nathalie T Reichmann
- Bacterial Cell Biology Laboratory, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal.
| | - Joshua Olson
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0760, USA.
| | - Mariana G Pinho
- Bacterial Cell Biology Laboratory, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal.
| | - Victor Nizet
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0760, USA.
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0760, USA.
| | - Françoise Van Bambeke
- Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology Research Group, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Joëlle Quetin-Leclercq
- Pharmacognosy Research Group, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium.
- MASSMET Platform, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium.
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Ramos-Hryb AB, Pazini FL, Kaster MP, Rodrigues ALS. Therapeutic Potential of Ursolic Acid to Manage Neurodegenerative and Psychiatric Diseases. CNS Drugs 2017; 31:1029-1041. [PMID: 29098660 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-017-0474-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Ursolic acid is a pentacyclic triterpenoid found in several plants. Despite its initial use as a pharmacologically inactive emulsifier in pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries, several biological activities have been reported for this compound so far, including anti-tumoural, anti-diabetic, cardioprotective and hepatoprotective properties. The biological effects of ursolic acid have been evaluated in vitro, in different cell types and against several toxic insults (i.e. 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine, amyloid-β peptides, kainic acid and others); in animal models of brain-related disorders (Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, depression, traumatic brain injury) and ageing; and in clinical studies with cancer patients and for muscle atrophy. Most of the protective effects of ursolic acid are related to its ability to prevent oxidative damage and excessive inflammation, common mechanisms associated with multiple brain disorders. Additionally, ursolic acid is capable of modulating the monoaminergic system, an effect that might be involved in its ability to prevent mood and cognitive dysfunctions associated with neurodegenerative and psychiatric conditions. This review presents and discusses the available evidence of the possible beneficial effects of ursolic acid for the management of neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. We also discuss the chemical features, major sources and potential limitations of the use of ursolic acid as a pharmacological treatment for brain-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana B Ramos-Hryb
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Francis L Pazini
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Manuella P Kaster
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Ana Lúcia S Rodrigues
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, 88040-900, Brazil.
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Zhang C, Wang C, Li W, Wu R, Guo Y, Cheng D, Yang Y, Androulakis IP, Kong AN. Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of the Triterpenoid Ursolic Acid in Regulating the Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, and Epigenetic Gene Responses in Rat Leukocytes. Mol Pharm 2017; 14:3709-3717. [PMID: 29035547 PMCID: PMC5697757 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.7b00469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The triterpenoid ursolic acid (UA) has been proposed as a potential cancer chemopreventive agent in many preclinical and clinical studies. In the present work, we aimed to characterize the pharmacokinetics (PK) of UA and to quantitatively assess the antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects of UA, which are potentially linked to its chemopreventive efficacy. UA was administered intravenously (i.v., 20 mg/kg) or by oral gavage (100 mg/kg) to male Sprague-Dawley rats, and blood samples were collected at a series of designated time points. The plasma concentration of UA was determined using a validated liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) approach. A biexponential decline in the UA plasma concentration was observed after i.v. dosing and was fitted to a two-compartmental model. The expression levels of phase II drug metabolism (DM)/antioxidant genes and the inflammatory iNos gene in corresponding treatment arms were measured using qPCR as a pharmacodynamic (PD) marker. The expression of phase II DM/antioxidant genes increased and peaked approximately 3 h after 20 mg/kg UA treatment. In a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute inflammation model, UA inhibited LPS-stimulated iNos expression and that of the epigenetic markers the DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs) in leukocytes. A PK-PD model using Jusko's indirect response model (IDR) with transition compartments (TC) was established to describe the time delay and magnitude of the gene expression elicited by UA. The PK-PD model provided reasonable fitting linking the plasma concentration of UA simultaneously with the PD response based on leukocyte mRNA expression. Overall, our results indicate that UA is effective at inducing various phase II DM/antioxidant genes and inhibiting pro-inflammatory genes in vivo. This PK-PD modeling approach may provide a conceptual framework for the future clinical evaluation of dietary chemopreventive agents in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengyue Zhang
- Center for Phytochemical Epigenome Studies, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Chao Wang
- Center for Phytochemical Epigenome Studies, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Wenji Li
- Center for Phytochemical Epigenome Studies, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Renyi Wu
- Center for Phytochemical Epigenome Studies, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Yue Guo
- Center for Phytochemical Epigenome Studies, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - David Cheng
- Center for Phytochemical Epigenome Studies, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Yuqing Yang
- Center for Phytochemical Epigenome Studies, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Ioannis P. Androulakis
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Ah-Ng Kong
- Center for Phytochemical Epigenome Studies, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
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Hamzawy MA, Abo-youssef AM, Salem HF, Mohammed SA. Antitumor activity of intratracheal inhalation of temozolomide (TMZ) loaded into gold nanoparticles and/or liposomes against urethane-induced lung cancer in BALB/c mice. Drug Deliv 2017; 24:599-607. [PMID: 28240047 PMCID: PMC8240981 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2016.1247924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Revised: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 10/10/2016] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The current study aimed to develop gold nanoparticles (GNPs) and liposome-embedded gold nanoparticles (LGNPs) as drug carriers for temozolomide (TMZ) and investigate the possible therapeutic effects of intratracheal inhalation of nanoformulation of TMZ-loaded gold nanoparticles (TGNPs) and liposome-embedded TGNPs (LTGNPs) against urethane-induced lung cancer in BALB/c mice. Physicochemical characters and zeta potential studies for gold nanoparticles (GNPs) and liposome-embedded gold nanoparticles (LGNPs) were performed. The current study was conducted by inducing lung cancer chemically via repeated exposure to urethane in BALB/C mice. GNPs and LGNPs were exhibited in uniform spherical shape with adequate dispersion stability. GNPs and LGNPs showed no significant changes in comparison to control group with high safety profile, while TGNPs and LTGNPs succeed to improve all biochemical data and histological patterns. GNPs and LGNPs are promising drug carriers and succeeded in the delivery of small and efficient dose of temozolomide in treatment lung cancer. Antitumor activity was pronounced in animal-treated LTGNPs, these effects may be due to synergistic effects resulted from combination of temozolomide and gold nanoparticles and liposomes that may improve the drug distribution and penetration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A. Hamzawy
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, College of Pharmacy, Misr University for Science and Technology, 6th October City, Egypt
| | | | - Heba F. Salem
- Pharmaceutics Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
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Wang H, Sim MK, Loke WK, Chinnathambi A, Alharbi SA, Tang FR, Sethi G. Potential Protective Effects of Ursolic Acid against Gamma Irradiation-Induced Damage Are Mediated through the Modulation of Diverse Inflammatory Mediators. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:352. [PMID: 28670276 PMCID: PMC5472704 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
This study was aimed to evaluate the possible protective effects of ursolic acid (UA) against gamma radiation induced damage both in vitro as well as in vivo. It was observed that the exposure to gamma radiation dose- and time-dependently caused a significant decrease in the cell viability, while the treatment of UA attenuated this cytotoxicity. The production of free radicals including reactive oxygen species (ROS) and NO increased significantly post-irradiation and further induced lipid peroxidation and oxidative DNA damage in cells. These deleterious effects could also be effectively blocked by UA treatment. In addition, UA also reversed gamma irradiation induced inflammatory responses, as indicated by the decreased production of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. NF-κB signaling pathway has been reported to be a key mediator involved in gamma radiation-induced cellular damage. Our results further demonstrated that gamma radiation dose- and time-dependently enhanced NF-κB DNA binding activity, which was significantly attenuated upon UA treatment. The post-irradiation increase in the expression of both phospho-p65, and phospho-IκBα was also blocked by UA. Moreover, the treatment of UA was found to significantly prolong overall survival in mice exposed to whole body gamma irradiation, and reduce the excessive inflammatory responses. Given its radioprotective efficacy as described here, UA as an antioxidant and NF-κB pathway blocker, may function as an important pharmacological agent in protecting against gamma irradiation-induced injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of SingaporeSingapore, Singapore
- Singapore Nuclear Research and Safety Initiative, National University of SingaporeSingapore, Singapore
| | - Meng-Kwoon Sim
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of SingaporeSingapore, Singapore
| | - Weng Keong Loke
- Agent Diagnostic and Therapeutic Laboratory, Defence and Environmental Research Institute, DSO National LaboratoriesSingapore, Singapore
| | - Arunachalam Chinnathambi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud UniversityRiyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sulaiman Ali Alharbi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud UniversityRiyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Feng Ru Tang
- Singapore Nuclear Research and Safety Initiative, National University of SingaporeSingapore, Singapore
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of SingaporeSingapore, Singapore
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud UniversityRiyadh, Saudi Arabia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, PerthWA, Australia
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Jiang Q, Han Y, Gao H, Tian R, Li P, Wang C. Ursolic acid induced anti-proliferation effects in rat primary vascular smooth muscle cells is associated with inhibition of microRNA-21 and subsequent PTEN/PI3K. Eur J Pharmacol 2016; 781:69-75. [PMID: 27085898 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2016.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2015] [Revised: 03/20/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
This study focused on the anti-proliferation effects of ursolic acid (UA) in rat primary vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and investigated underlying molecular mechanism of action. Rat primary VSMCs were pretreated with UA (10, 20 or 30μM) or amino guanidine (AG, 50μM) for 12h or with PI3K inhibitor LY294002 for 30min or with Akt inhibitor MK2206 for 24h, then 10% fetal bovine serum was used to induce proliferation. CCK-8 was used to assess cell proliferation. To explore the mechanism, cells were treated with UA (10, 20 or 30μM), LY294002 or MK2206, or transient transfected to inhibit miRNA-21 (miRNA-21) or to overexpress PTEN, then quantitative real-time PCR was used to assess the mRNA levels of miRNA-21 and phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) for cells treated with UA or miRNA-21 inhibitor; western blotting was used to measure the protein levels of PTEN and PI3K. UA exerted significant anti-proliferation effects in rat primary VSMCs. Furthermore, UA inhibited the expression of miRNA-21 and subsequently enhanced the expression of PTEN. PTEN was found to inhibit the expression of PI3K. In conclusion, UA exerts anti-proliferation effects in rat primary VSMCs, which is associated with the inhibition of miRNA-21 expression and modulation of PTEN/PI3K signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qixiao Jiang
- Qingdao University Medical College, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Yantao Han
- Qingdao University Medical College, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Hui Gao
- Qingdao University Medical College, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Rong Tian
- Qingdao University Medical College, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Ping Li
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Chunbo Wang
- Qingdao University Medical College, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao, Shandong, China.
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Wang Y, He Z, Deng S. Ursolic acid reduces the metalloprotease/anti-metalloprotease imbalance in cerebral ischemia and reperfusion injury. Drug Des Devel Ther 2016; 10:1663-74. [PMID: 27274199 PMCID: PMC4876798 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s103829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [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] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Activators of PPARs, particularly PPARγ, may be effective neuroprotective drugs against inflammatory responses in cerebral ischemia and reperfusion injury. Ursolic acid (UA) may act as a PPARγ agonist and serve as an anti-inflammatory agent. In this study, we used a rat middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion model to examine how UA acts as a neuroprotective agent to modulate the metalloprotease/anti-metalloprotease balance. METHODS The middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion model (occlusion for 2 hours followed by reperfusion for 48 hours) was induced in male Sprague Dawley rats. UA was administered intragastrically 0.5, 24, and 47 hours after reperfusion. Bisphenol A diglycidyl ether (a PPARγ antagonist) was intraperitoneally administered 1, 24.5, and 47.5 hours after reperfusion. Forty-eight hours after reperfusion, neurological deficits and infarct volume were estimated. The PPARγ level and the metalloprotease/anti-metalloprotease balance were examined by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. The activation of MAPK signaling pathways was also assessed. RESULTS UA-treated (5, 10, or 20 mg/kg) rats showed significant improvement in neurological deficit score, infarct volume, and the number of intact neurons compared with control rats (P<0.01). Both the PPARγ protein level and the percentage of PPARγ-positive cells were increased in the UA-treated groups (P<0.01). Compared with the control group, the UA-treated groups exhibited reduced protein levels of MMP2, MMP9, and activated MAPKs (P<0.01) but an increased level of TIMP1 (P<0.01). UA exerted its protective effects in a dose-dependent manner. Co-treatment with UA and bisphenol A diglycidyl ether completely abolished the UA-induced changes in PPARγ expression; however UA continued to exert a significant but partial neuroprotective effect. CONCLUSION UA can act as a PPARγ agonist to improve the metalloprotease/anti-metalloprotease balance, possibly by inhibiting the activation of the MAPK signaling pathway, thereby attenuating cerebral ischemia and reperfusion injury. Therefore, UA may serve as a novel neuroprotective therapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanzhe Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhiyi He
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shumin Deng
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, People’s Republic of China
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Silva FSG, Oliveira PJ, Duarte MF. Oleanolic, Ursolic, and Betulinic Acids as Food Supplements or Pharmaceutical Agents for Type 2 Diabetes: Promise or Illusion? JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2016; 64:2991-3008. [PMID: 27012451 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.5b06021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Oleanolic (OA), ursolic (UA), and betulinic (BA) acids are three triterpenic acids (TAs) with potential effects for treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Mechanistic studies showed that these TAs act as hypoglycemic and antiobesity agents mainly through (i) reducing the absorption of glucose; (ii) decreasing endogenous glucose production; (iii) increasing insulin sensitivity; (iv) improving lipid homeostasis; and (v) promoting body weight regulation. Besides these promising beneficial effects, it is believed that OA, UA, and BA protect against diabetes-related comorbidities due to their antiatherogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. We also highlight the protective effect of OA, UA, and BA against oxidative damage, which may be very relevant for the treatment and/or prevention of T2DM. In the present review, we provide an integrative description of the antidiabetic properties of OA, UA, and BA, evaluating the potential use of these TAs as food supplements or pharmaceutical agents to prevent and/or treat T2DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filomena S G Silva
- Centro de Biotecnologia Agrı́cola e Agro-Alimentar do Alentejo (CEBAL)/Instituto Politécnico de Beja (IPBeja) , Apartado 6158, 7801-908 Beja, Portugal
| | - Paulo J Oliveira
- CNC, Center for Neuroscience and Cellular Biology, UC-Biotech Building, Biocant Park, University of Coimbra , 3060-107 Cantanhede, Portugal
| | - Maria F Duarte
- Centro de Biotecnologia Agrı́cola e Agro-Alimentar do Alentejo (CEBAL)/Instituto Politécnico de Beja (IPBeja) , Apartado 6158, 7801-908 Beja, Portugal
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Woźniak Ł, Skąpska S, Marszałek K. Ursolic Acid--A Pentacyclic Triterpenoid with a Wide Spectrum of Pharmacological Activities. Molecules 2015; 20:20614-41. [PMID: 26610440 PMCID: PMC6332387 DOI: 10.3390/molecules201119721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 216] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2015] [Revised: 08/21/2015] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ursolic acid (UA) is a natural terpene compound exhibiting many pharmaceutical properties. In this review the current state of knowledge about the health-promoting properties of this widespread, biologically active compound, as well as information about its occurrence and biosynthesis are presented. Particular attention has been paid to the application of ursolic acid as an anti-cancer agent; it is worth noticing that clinical tests suggesting the possibility of practical use of UA have already been conducted. Amongst other pharmacological properties of UA one can mention protective effect on lungs, kidneys, liver and brain, anti-inflammatory properties, anabolic effects on skeletal muscles and the ability to suppress bone density loss leading to osteoporosis. Ursolic acid also exhibits anti-microbial features against numerous strains of bacteria, HIV and HCV viruses and Plasmodium protozoa causing malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Łukasz Woźniak
- Department of Fruit and Vegetable Product Technology, Institute of Agricultural and Food Biotechnology, 36 Rakowiecka Street, 02-532 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Sylwia Skąpska
- Department of Fruit and Vegetable Product Technology, Institute of Agricultural and Food Biotechnology, 36 Rakowiecka Street, 02-532 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Krystian Marszałek
- Department of Fruit and Vegetable Product Technology, Institute of Agricultural and Food Biotechnology, 36 Rakowiecka Street, 02-532 Warsaw, Poland.
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