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Zhao ZX, Li S, Liu LX. Thymoquinone affects hypoxia-inducible factor-1α expression in pancreatic cancer cells via HSP90 and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways. World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:2793-2816. [PMID: 38899332 PMCID: PMC11185293 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i21.2793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic cancer (PC) is associated with some of the worst prognoses of all major cancers. Thymoquinone (TQ) has a long history in traditional medical practice and is known for its anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrosis and antioxidant pharmacological activities. Recent studies on hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and PC have shown that HIF-1α affects the occurrence and development of PC in many aspects. In addition, TQ could inhibit the development of renal cancer by decreasing the expression of HIF-1α. Therefore, we speculate whether TQ affects HIF-1α expression in PC cells and explore the mechanism. AIM To elucidate the effect of TQ in PC cells and the regulatory mechanism of HIF-1α expression. METHODS Cell counting kit-8 assay, Transwell assay and flow cytometry were performed to detect the effects of TQ on the proliferative activity, migration and invasion ability and apoptosis of PANC-1 cells and normal pancreatic duct epithelial (hTERT-HPNE) cells. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot assay were performed to detect the expression of HIF-1α mRNA and protein in PC cells. The effects of TQ on the HIF-1α protein initial expression pathway and ubiquitination degradation in PANC-1 cells were examined by western blot assay and co-immunoprecipitation. RESULTS TQ significantly inhibited proliferative activity, migration, and invasion ability and promoted apoptosis of PANC-1 cells; however, no significant effects on hTERT-HPNE cells were observed. TQ significantly reduced the mRNA and protein expression levels of HIF-1α in PANC-1, AsPC-1, and BxPC-3 cells. TQ significantly inhibited the expression of the HIF-1α initial expression pathway (PI3K/AKT/mTOR) related proteins, and promoted the ubiquitination degradation of the HIF-1α protein in PANC-1 cells. TQ had no effect on the hydroxylation and von Hippel Lindau protein mediated ubiquitination degradation of the HIF-1α protein but affected the stability of the HIF-1α protein by inhibiting the interaction between HIF-1α and HSP90, thus promoting its ubiquitination degradation. CONCLUSION The regulatory mechanism of TQ on HIF-1α protein expression in PC cells was mainly to promote the ubiquitination degradation of the HIF-1α protein by inhibiting the interaction between HIF-1α and HSP90; Secondly, TQ reduced the initial expression of HIF-1α protein by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhan-Xue Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Qinghai Provincial People's Hospital, Xining 810007, Qinghai Province, China
| | - Shuai Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining 810001, Qinghai Province, China
| | - Lin-Xun Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Qinghai Provincial People's Hospital, Xining 810007, Qinghai Province, China
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Koch W, Wawruszak A, Kukula-Koch W, Zdziebło M, Helon P, Almarhoon ZM, Al-Omari B, Calina D, Sharifi-Rad J. Exploring the therapeutic efficacy of crocetin in oncology: an evidence-based review. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:1455-1476. [PMID: 37736836 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02714-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
With cancer being a leading cause of death globally, there is an urgent need to improve therapeutic strategies and identify effective chemotherapeutics. This study aims to highlight the potential of crocetin, a natural product derived from certain plants, as an anticancer agent. It was conducted an extensive review of the existing literature to gather and analyze the most recent data on the chemical properties of crocetin and its observed effects in various in vitro and in vivo studies. The study particularly focused on studies that examined crocetin's impact on cell cycle dynamics, apoptosis, caspases and antioxidant enzyme levels, tumor angiogenesis, inflammation, and overall tumor growth. Crocetin exhibited diverse anti-tumorigenic activities including inhibition of tumor cell proliferation, apoptosis induction, angiogenesis suppression, and potentiation of chemotherapy. Multiple cellular and molecular pathways such as the PI3K/Akt, MAPK and NF-κB were modulated by it. Crocetin demonstrates promising anti-cancer properties and offers potential as an adjunctive or alternative therapy in oncology. More large-scale, rigorously designed clinical trials are needed to establish therapeutic protocols and ascertain the comprehensive benefits and safety profile of crocetin in diverse cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wojciech Koch
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Medical University of Lublin, 4a Chodźki Str, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
| | - Anna Wawruszak
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, 1 Chodźki Str, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
| | - Wirginia Kukula-Koch
- Department of Pharmacognosy with Medicinal Plants Garden, Medical University of Lublin, 1 Chodźki Str, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
| | - Magdalena Zdziebło
- Branch in Sandomierz, Jan Kochanowski University in Kielce, Schinzla 13a Str, 27-600, Sandomierz, Poland
| | - Paweł Helon
- Branch in Sandomierz, Jan Kochanowski University in Kielce, Schinzla 13a Str, 27-600, Sandomierz, Poland
| | - Zainab M Almarhoon
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, P. O. Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Basem Al-Omari
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Daniela Calina
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349, Craiova, Romania.
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Mathur A, Meena A, Luqman S. Monoterpenoids: An upcoming class of therapeutic agents for modulating cancer metastasis. Phytother Res 2024; 38:939-969. [PMID: 38102850 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8081] [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: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Monoterpenoids, a sub-class of terpenoids, are secondary metabolites frequently extracted from the essential oils of aromatic plants. Their antitumor properties including antiproliferative, apoptotic, antiangiogenic, and antimetastatic effects along with other biological activities have been the subject of extensive study due to their diverse characteristics. In recent years, numerous investigations have been conducted to understand its potential anticancer impacts, specifically focusing on antiproliferative and apoptotic mechanisms. Metastasis, a malignancy hallmark, can exert either protective or destructive influences on tumor cells. Despite this, the potential antimetastatic and antiangiogenic attributes of monoterpenoids need further exploration. This review focuses on specific monoterpenoids, examining their effects on metastasis and relevant signaling pathways. The monoterpenoids exhibit a high level of complexity as natural products that regulate metastatic proteins through various signaling pathways, including phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin, mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase/jun N-terminal kinase, nuclear factor kappa B, vascular endothelial growth factor, and epithelial mesenchymal transition process. Additionally, this review delves into the biosynthesis and classification of monoterpenoids, their potential antitumor impacts on cell lines, the plant sources of monoterpenoids, and the current status of limited clinical trials investigating their efficacy against cancer. Moreover, monoterpenoids depict promising potential in preventing cancer metastasis, however, inadequate clinical trials limit their drug usage. State-of-the-art techniques and technologies are being employed to overcome the challenges of utilizing monoterpenoids as an anticancer agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anurag Mathur
- Bioprospection and Product Development Division, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Lucknow, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Abha Meena
- Bioprospection and Product Development Division, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Lucknow, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Suaib Luqman
- Bioprospection and Product Development Division, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Lucknow, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
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Rajaselvi ND, Jida MD, Ajeeshkumar KK, Nair SN, John P, Aziz Z, Nisha AR. Antineoplastic activity of plant-derived compounds mediated through inhibition of histone deacetylase: a review. Amino Acids 2023; 55:1803-1817. [PMID: 37389730 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-023-03298-x] [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: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
In the combat of treating cancer recent therapeutic approaches are focused towards enzymatic targets as they occupy a pivotal participation in the cascade of oncogenesis and malignancy. There are several enzymes that modulate the epigenetic pathways and chromatin structure related to cancer mutation. Among several epigenetic mechanisms such as methylation, phosphorylation, and sumoylation, acetylation status of histones is crucial and is governed by counteracting enzymes like histone acetyl transferase (HAT) and histone deacetylases (HDAC) which have contradictory effects on the histone acetylation. HDAC inhibition induces chromatin relaxation which forms euchromatin and thereby initiates the expression of certain transcription factors attributed with apoptosis, which are mostly correlated with the expression of the p21 gene and acetylation of H3 and H4 histones. Most of the synthetic and natural HDAC inhibitors elicit antineoplastic effect through activation of various apoptotic pathways and promoting cell cycle arrest at various phases. Due to their promising chemo preventive action and low cytotoxicity against normal host cells, bioactive substances like flavonoids, alkaloids, and polyphenolic compounds from plants have recently gained importance. Even though all bioactive compounds mentioned have an HDAC inhibitory action, some of them have a direct effect and others enhance the effects of the standard well known HDAC inhibitors. In this review, the action of plant derived compounds against histone deacetylases in a variety of in vitro cancer cell lines and in vivo animal models are articulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Divya Rajaselvi
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, Thrissur, 680 651, India
| | - M D Jida
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, Thrissur, 680 651, India
| | - K K Ajeeshkumar
- Tumor Biology Lab, ICMR-National Institute of Pathology, New Delhi, India
| | - Suresh N Nair
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, Thrissur, 680 651, India
| | - Preethy John
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Pookode, Wayanad, 673 576, India
| | - Zarina Aziz
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, Thrissur, 680 651, India
| | - A R Nisha
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, Thrissur, 680 651, India.
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Algaissi A, Tabassum H, Khan E, Dwivedi S, Lohani M, Khamjan NA, Farasani A, Ahmad IZ. HDAC inhibition by Nigella sativa L. sprouts extract in hepatocellular carcinoma: an approach to study anti-cancer potential. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023:1-19. [PMID: 37948309 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2279283] [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: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
A wide variety of natural products have been widely used in chemoprevention therapy because they have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activity. In the present study, we shed light on the 5th day germinated sprouts of N. sativa seeds and evaluated them against HDAC inhibition and antioxidant activity. The extract from the seed and sprout was extracted and characterised by LC-MS/MS, FTIR, and NMR to reveal its chemical composition, especially thymol (THY) and thymoquinone (TQ). Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a global health concern as it is a major lifestyle disease. Hence, incorporating herbal-based therapeutic compounds into everyday routines has become an attractive alternative for preventing hepatic diseases. Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibition (HDACi) is emerging as a promising therapeutic strategy for managing various carcinomas including HCC. Therefore, the 5th day of N. sativa can be used as a potential anticancer agent by inhibiting HDAC activity, as it is reported to have an important role in the management of oxidative stress. The bioactive compound of N. sativa, i.e. thymoquinone, also showed a good binding affinity with the HDAC protein (3MAX) with a stable interaction in an in silico study as compared to the standard drug (Trichostatin A) and thymol.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Algaissi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Heena Tabassum
- Dr. D.Y. Patil Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Institute, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Elhan Khan
- Natural Products Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Integral University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sonam Dwivedi
- Natural Products Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Integral University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Mohtashim Lohani
- Medical Research Centre, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nizar A Khamjan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Farasani
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Iffat Zareen Ahmad
- Natural Products Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Integral University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Park MN. Therapeutic Strategies for Pancreatic-Cancer-Related Type 2 Diabetes Centered around Natural Products. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15906. [PMID: 37958889 PMCID: PMC10648679 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115906] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a highly malignant neoplasm, is classified as one of the most severe and devastating types of cancer. PDAC is a notable malignancy that exhibits a discouraging prognosis and a rising occurrence. The interplay between diabetes and pancreatic cancer exhibits a reciprocal causation. The identified metabolic disorder has been observed to possess noteworthy consequences on health outcomes, resulting in elevated rates of morbidity. The principal mechanisms involve the suppression of the immune system, the activation of pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), and the onset of systemic metabolic disease caused by dysfunction of the islets. From this point forward, it is important to recognize that pancreatic-cancer-related diabetes (PCRD) has the ability to increase the likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer. This highlights the complex relationship that exists between these two physiological states. Therefore, we investigated into the complex domain of PSCs, elucidating their intricate signaling pathways and the profound influence of chemokines on their behavior and final outcome. In order to surmount the obstacle of drug resistance and eliminate PDAC, researchers have undertaken extensive efforts to explore and cultivate novel natural compounds of the next generation. Additional investigation is necessary in order to comprehensively comprehend the effect of PCRD-mediated apoptosis on the progression and onset of PDAC through the utilization of natural compounds. This study aims to examine the potential anticancer properties of natural compounds in individuals with diabetes who are undergoing chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. It is anticipated that these compounds will exhibit increased potency and possess enhanced pharmacological benefits. According to our research findings, it is indicated that naturally derived chemical compounds hold potential in the development of PDAC therapies that are both safe and efficacious.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moon Nyeo Park
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Hoegidong Dongdaemungu, Seoul 05253, Republic of Korea
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Jarmakiewicz-Czaja S, Zielińska M, Helma K, Sokal A, Filip R. Effect of Nigella sativa on Selected Gastrointestinal Diseases. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:3016-3034. [PMID: 37185722 PMCID: PMC10136991 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45040198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Nigella sativa L. (family Ranunculaceae), also known as black cumin, has been used in cuisine around the world for many years. Due to its health-promoting properties, it can be used not only in the food industry but also in medicine. The main bioactive compound contained in the black cumin extract is thymoquinone (TQ), which has a special therapeutic role. The results of research in recent years confirmed its hypoglycemic, hypolipemic, and hepatoprotective effects, among others. In addition, the results of laboratory tests also indicate its immunomodulatory and anticancer effects, although there is still a lack of data on the mechanisms of how they are involved in the fight against cancer. Including this plant material in one’s diet can be both an element of prophylaxis and therapy supporting the treatment process, including pharmacological treatment. However, attention should be paid to its potential interactions with drugs used in the treatment of chronic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Magdalena Zielińska
- Institute of Health Sciences, Medical College of Rzeszow University, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Kacper Helma
- Institute of Health Sciences, Medical College of Rzeszow University, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Aneta Sokal
- Institute of Health Sciences, Medical College of Rzeszow University, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Rafał Filip
- Institute of Medicine, Medical College of Rzeszow University, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland
- Department of Gastroenterology with IBD Unit, Clinical Hospital No. 2, 35-301 Rzeszow, Poland
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Zhao Z, Liu L, Li S, Hou X, Yang J. Advances in research on the relationship between thymoquinone and pancreatic cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 12:1092020. [PMID: 36686732 PMCID: PMC9846546 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1092020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer has one of the worst prognoses among the most common cancers in the world. Its characteristics include a high rate of metastasis and chemotherapeutic resistance, which present major challenges to the medical community. The potential anticancer effects of thymoquinone (TQ), which is the main bioactive compound of the black seeds of the Nigella sativa plant, have recently received widespread attention for their potential use in treating pancreatic cancer. TQ can inhibit cell proliferation, promote cancer cell apoptosis, inhibit cell invasion and metastasis, enhance chemotherapeutic sensitivity, inhibit angiogenesis, and exert anti-inflammatory effects. These anticancer effects predominantly involve the nuclear factor (NF)-κB, phosphoinositide 3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt, Notch, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways as well as the regulation of the cell cycle, matrix metallopeptidase (MMP)-9 expression, and pyruvate kinase isozyme type M2 (PKM2) activity. TQ regulates the occurrence and development of pancreatic cancer at multiple levels and through multiple targets that communicate with each other. In this review, we summarize and discuss the analogs and carriers of TQ that have been developed in recent years. Given its multilevel anticancer effects, TQ may become a new therapeutic drug for treating pancreatic cancer in the future. This review presents a brief introduction to the research that has been conducted on TQ in relation to pancreatic cancer to provide a theoretical basis for future studies on the topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhanxue Zhao
- Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China,Department of General Surgery, Qinghai Provincial People’s Hospital, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Linxun Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Qinghai Provincial People’s Hospital, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Shuai Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Xiaofan Hou
- Graduate school, Qinghai University, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Jinyu Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Qinghai Provincial People’s Hospital, Xining, Qinghai, China,*Correspondence: Jinyu Yang,
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Shanmukha KD, Paluvai H, Lomada SK, Gokara M, Kalangi SK. Histone deacetylase (HDACs) inhibitors: Clinical applications. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2023; 198:119-152. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2023.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
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Thymoquinone Suppresses Angiogenesis in DEN-Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Targeting miR-1-3p. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415904. [PMID: 36555545 PMCID: PMC9781440 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is characterized by its high vascularity and metastasis. Thymoquinone (TQ), the main bio-active constituent of Nigella sativa, has shown anticancer and hepatoprotective effects. TQ's anticancer effect is mediated through miRNA regulation. miR-1-3p plays a significant role in various cancers but its role in HCC invasiveness remains poorly understood. Bio-informatics analysis predicted that the 3'-UTR of TIMP3 is a target for miR-1-3p; Rats were equally divided into four groups: Group 1, the negative control; Group 2 received TQ; Group 3 received DEN; and Group 4 received DEN after pretreatment with TQ. The expression of TIMP3, MMP2, MMP9, and VEGF in rats' liver was determined immunohistochemically. RT-qPCR was used to measure the miR-1-3p level in rats' liver, and TIMP3, MMP2, MMP9, and VEGF in the HepG2 cells after being transfected with miR-1-3p mimic or inhibitor; In rats pretreated with TQ, a decreased expression of MMP2, MMP9 and VEGF, and increased expression levels of TIMP3 and miR-1-3p were detected. Treating the HepG2 cells with miR-1-3p mimic led to the upregulation of TIMP3 and downregulation of MMP2, MMP9, and VEGF, and showed a significant delay in wound healing; These results suggested that the anti-angiogenic effect of TQ in HCC may be mediated through the regulation of miR-1-3p.
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Chemopreventive Efficacy of Thymoquinone in Chemically Induced Urinary Bladder Carcinogenesis in Rat. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:6276768. [PMID: 36158887 PMCID: PMC9499785 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6276768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The effects of thymoquinone (TQ) in a carcinogen-based models of urinary bladder cancer were evaluated, using 45 male rats in five groups. In negative control (
), only tap water was given. In positive control (
), the rats received 0.05% N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl)-nitrosamine (BBN) in drinking water for 9 weeks. In preventive groups with 25 mg/kg (
) and 50 mg/kg (
), oral TQ was concurrently given with 0.05% BBN for 9 weeks and continued for one more week after cessation of BBN. Preventive-treatment group (
) received 50 mg/kg TQ orally for 20 weeks. Five rats from each group were sequentially sacrificed in two phases: the induction phase at 12th week (except the last group) and the rest in postinduction phase at 20th week. The bladders were examined macroscopically for lesion formation, and the masses were submitted for histopathological evaluation. Markers for total oxidant status (TOS), inflammation (nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB)), and angiogenesis (vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)) were also assessed. There was a reduced number of bladder lesions in the TQ groups versus the carcinogen group at both phases. Histopathological findings demonstrated a significant improvement in the abnormal morphological changes in the urothelium of the TQ-treated groups. Thymoquinone exerted a significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect by a decrease in serum level of TOS and NF-κB at week 12 which was maintained low in phase two at week 20. The serum level of VEGF was also alleviated in the induction phase at week 12 and maintained low in postinduction period. In TQ preventive-treatment approach, a nonsignificant elevation of serum level of TOS and NF-κB and slight reduction in VEGF were observed at the end of the experiment. These data suggest that TQ may be effective in preventing bladder carcinogenesis, and the suggested mechanisms might be related to antioxidant, prooxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties of TQ.
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Al-Rawashde FA, Al-wajeeh AS, Vishkaei MN, Saad HKM, Johan MF, Taib WRW, Ismail I, Al-Jamal HAN. Thymoquinone Inhibits JAK/STAT and PI3K/Akt/ mTOR Signaling Pathways in MV4-11 and K562 Myeloid Leukemia Cells. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15091123. [PMID: 36145344 PMCID: PMC9504933 DOI: 10.3390/ph15091123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Constitutive activation of Janus tyrosine kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) and Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/Akt/mTOR) signaling pathways plays a crucial role in the development of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Thymoquinone (TQ), one of the main constituents of Nigella sativa, has shown anti-cancer activities in several cancers. However, the inhibitory effect mechanism of TQ on leukemia has not been fully understood. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of TQ on JAK/STAT and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways in MV4-11 AML cells and K562 CML cells. FLT3-ITD positive MV4-11 cells and BCR-ABL positive K562 cells were treated with TQ. Cytotoxicity assay was assessed using WSTs-8 kit. The expression of the target genes was evaluated using RT-qPCR. The phosphorylation status and the levels of proteins involved in JAK/STAT and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways were investigated using Jess western analysis. TQ induced a dose and time dependent inhibition of K562 cells proliferation. TQ significantly downregulated PI3K, Akt, and mTOR and upregulated PTEN expression with a significant inhibition of JAK/STAT and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling. In conclusion, TQ reduces the expression of PI3K, Akt, and mTOR genes and enhances the expression of PTEN gene at the mRNA and protein levels. TQ also inhibits JAK/STAT and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways, and consequently inhibits proliferation of myeloid leukemia cells, suggesting that TQ has potential anti-leukemic effects on both AML and CML cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Futoon Abedrabbu Al-Rawashde
- School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), Terengganu 21300, Malaysia
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Mutah University, Al-Karak 61710, Jordan
| | | | | | - Hanan Kamel M. Saad
- School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), Terengganu 21300, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Farid Johan
- Department of Haematology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan 16150, Malaysia
| | - Wan Rohani Wan Taib
- School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), Terengganu 21300, Malaysia
| | - Imilia Ismail
- School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), Terengganu 21300, Malaysia
| | - Hamid Ali Nagi Al-Jamal
- School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), Terengganu 21300, Malaysia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +60-174729012
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Butnariu M, Quispe C, Herrera-Bravo J, Helon P, Kukula-Koch W, López V, Les F, Vergara CV, Alarcón-Zapata P, Alarcón-Zapata B, Martorell M, Pentea M, Dragunescu AA, Samfira I, Yessimsiitova Z, Daştan SD, Castillo CMS, Roberts TH, Sharifi-Rad J, Koch W, Cho WC. The effects of thymoquinone on pancreatic cancer: Evidence from preclinical studies. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 153:113364. [PMID: 35810693 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Thymoquinone (TQ) is a secondary metabolite found in abundance in very few plant species including Nigella sativa L., Monarda fistulosa L., Thymus vulgaris L. and Satureja montana L. Preclinical pharmacological studies have shown that TQ has many biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer. Both in vivo and in vitro experiments have shown that TQ acts as an antitumor agent by altering cell cycle progression, inhibiting cell proliferation, stimulating apoptosis, inhibiting angiogenesis, reducing metastasis and affecting autophagy. In this comprehensive study, the evidence on the pharmacological potential of TQ on pancreatic cancer is reviewed. The positive results of preclinical studies support the view that TQ can be considered as an additional therapeutic agent against pancreatic cancer. The possibilities of success for this compound in human medicine should be further explored through clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Butnariu
- Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine "King Michael I of Romania" from Timisoara, Romania.
| | - Cristina Quispe
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Arturo Prat, Avda. Arturo Prat 2120, Iquique 1110939, Chile.
| | - Jesús Herrera-Bravo
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Santo Tomas, Chile; Center of Molecular Biology and Pharmacogenetics, Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile.
| | - Paweł Helon
- Branch in Sandomierz, Jan Kochanowski University of Kielce, Schinzla 13a Str., 27-600, Sandomierz, Poland.
| | - Wirginia Kukula-Koch
- Department of Pharmacognosy with Medicinal Plants Garden, Medical University of Lublin, 1 Chodźki Str., 20-093, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Víctor López
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad San Jorge, 50830 Villanueva de Gállego, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), 50059 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Francisco Les
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad San Jorge, 50830 Villanueva de Gállego, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), 50059 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Cristian Valdés Vergara
- Centro de Investigación de Estudios Avanzados del Maule, Vicerrectoría de Investigación y Postgrado, Universidad Católica del Maule, Chile.
| | - Pedro Alarcón-Zapata
- Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Concepción, Concepción, VIII - Bio Bio Region, Chile; Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad San Sebastián, Lientur 1457, Concepción 4080871, Chile.
| | - Barbara Alarcón-Zapata
- Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Concepción, Concepción, VIII - Bio Bio Region, Chile.
| | - Miquel Martorell
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, and Centre for Healthy Living, University of Concepción, 4070386 Concepción, Chile; Universidad de Concepción, Unidad de Desarrollo Tecnológico, UDT, Concepción 4070386, Chile.
| | - Marius Pentea
- Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine "King Michael I of Romania" from Timisoara, Romania.
| | - Aneta Anca Dragunescu
- Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine "King Michael I of Romania" from Timisoara, Romania.
| | - Ionel Samfira
- Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine "King Michael I of Romania" from Timisoara, Romania.
| | - Zura Yessimsiitova
- Department of Biodiversity and Bioresource, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, 050040, Almaty, Kazakhstan.
| | - Sevgi Durna Daştan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Sivas Cumhuriyet University, 58140 Sivas, Turkey; Beekeeping Development Application and Research Center, Sivas Cumhuriyet University, 58140 Sivas, Turkey.
| | | | - Thomas H Roberts
- Plant Breeding Institute, Sydney Institute of Agriculture, University of Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia.
| | - Javad Sharifi-Rad
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad del Azuay, 14-008 Cuenca, Ecuador.
| | - Wojciech Koch
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Medical University of Lublin, 4a Chodźki Str., 20-093 Lublin, Poland.
| | - William C Cho
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
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HDAC4 promotes the growth and metastasis of gastric cancer via autophagic degradation of MEKK3. Br J Cancer 2022; 127:237-248. [PMID: 35637410 PMCID: PMC9296555 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-022-01805-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Histone deacetylases (HDACs) have been shown to be involved in tumorigenesis, but their precise role and molecular mechanisms in gastric cancer (GC) have not yet been fully elucidated. Methods Bioinformatics screening analysis, qRT-PCR, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were used to identify the expression of HDAC4 in GC. In vitro and in vivo functional assays illustrated the biological function of HDAC4. RNA-seq, GSEA pathway analysis, and western blot revealed that HDAC4 activated p38 MAPK signalling. Immunofluorescence, western blot, and IHC verified the effect of HDAC4 on autophagy. ChIP and dual-luciferase reporter assays demonstrated that the transcriptional regulation mechanism of HDAC4 and ATG4B. Results HDAC4 is upregulated in GC and correlates with poor prognosis. In vitro and in vivo assays showed that HDAC4 contributes to the malignant phenotype of GC cells. HDAC4 inhibited the MEF2A-driven transcription of ATG4B and prevented MEKK3 from p62-dependent autophagic degradation, thus activating p38 MAPK signalling. Reciprocally, the downstream transcription factor USF1 enhanced HDAC4 expression by regulating HDAC4 promoter activity, forming a positive feedback loop and continuously stimulating HDAC4 expression and p38 MAPK signalling activation. Conclusion HDAC4 plays an oncogenic role in GC, and HDAC4-based targeted therapy would represent a novel strategy for GC treatment.
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Narayanan P, Farghadani R, Nyamathulla S, Rajarajeswaran J, Thirugnanasampandan R, Bhuwaneswari G. Natural quinones induce ROS-mediated apoptosis and inhibit cell migration in PANC-1 human pancreatic cancer cell line. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2022; 36:e23008. [PMID: 35253318 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most devastating of all malignancies with poor prognosis and high mortality rates worldwide. Thymoquinone, plumbagin and juglone, which are naturally occurring quinones, have been reported for their promising anticancer effect on different cancer cells. However, their mechanism of action and antimetastatic effects are largely unknown against the human pancreatic cancer cell line (PANC-1). In this study, the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) cytotoxicity assay revealed a dose-dependent decrease of viability in quinone-treated PANC-1 cells. In addition, the assessment of changes in cells has demonstrated an occurrence of typical apoptotic morphology in treated PANC-1 cells compared with control. Besides this, the apoptosis induction was further quantitatively confirmed through flow cytometry analysis. Furthermore, thymoquinone, plumbagin and juglone were evaluated for their influence on reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation through 2,7-dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFDA) staining and they dramatically increased the intracellular ROS level in treated PANC-1 cells, suggesting the critical role of ROS in their apoptosis induction. This study also demonstrated the wound healing potential of these compounds and inhibited PANC-1 cell migration in a time-dependent manner compared with control. This inhibition was correlated with reduced expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in juglone-treated cells detected through gelatin zymography. In conclusion, thymoquinone, plumbagin and juglone significantly inhibited cell growth and induced ROS-mediated apoptosis in PANC-1 cells. In addition, they could be potent antimetastatic agents due to their anti-migratory effect against PANC-1 human pancreatic cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prasad Narayanan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Reyhaneh Farghadani
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Shaik Nyamathulla
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Centre for Natural Products Research and Drug Discovery (CENAR), Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Jayakumar Rajarajeswaran
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai, India
| | - R Thirugnanasampandan
- Postgraduate and Research Department of Botany, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Gunasekaran Bhuwaneswari
- Postgraduate and Research Department of Biotechnology, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
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16
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Homayoonfal M, Asemi Z, Yousefi B. Potential anticancer properties and mechanisms of thymoquinone in osteosarcoma and bone metastasis. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2022; 27:21. [PMID: 35236304 PMCID: PMC8903697 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-022-00320-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite great advances, therapeutic approaches of osteosarcoma, the most prevalent class of preliminary pediatric bone tumors, as well as bone-related malignancies, continue to demonstrate insufficient adequacy. In recent years, a growing trend toward applying natural bioactive compounds, particularly phytochemicals, as novel agents for cancer treatment has been observed. Bioactive phytochemicals exert their anticancer features through two main ways: they induce cytotoxic effects against cancerous cells without having any detrimental impact on normal cell macromolecules such as DNA and enzymes, while at the same time combating the oncogenic signaling axis activated in tumor cells. Thymoquinone (TQ), the most abundant bioactive compound of Nigella sativa, has received considerable attention in cancer treatment owing to its distinctive properties, including apoptosis induction, cell cycle arrest, angiogenesis and metastasis inhibition, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, along with inducing immune system responses and reducing side effects of traditional chemotherapeutic drugs. The present review is focused on the characteristics and mechanisms by which TQ exerts its cytotoxic effects on bone malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina Homayoonfal
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Zatollah Asemi
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Islamic Republic of Iran.
| | - Bahman Yousefi
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran. .,Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Periyasamy L, Muruganantham B, Park WY, Muthusami S. Phyto-targeting the CEMIP Expression as a Strategy to Prevent Pancreatic Cancer Metastasis. Curr Pharm Des 2022; 28:922-946. [PMID: 35236267 DOI: 10.2174/1381612828666220302153201] [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: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Metastasis of primary pancreatic cancer (PC) to adjacent or distant organs is responsible for the poor survival rate of affected individuals. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy are currently being prescribed to treat PC in addition to surgical resection. Surgical resection is the preferred treatment for PC that leads to 20% of 5-year survival, but only less than 20% of patients are eligible for surgical resection because of the poor prognosis. To improve the prognosis and clinical outcome, early diagnostic markers need to be identified, and targeting them would be of immense benefit to increase the efficiency of the treatment. Cell migration-inducing hyaluronan-binding protein (CEMIP) is identified as an important risk factor for the metastasis of various cancers, including PC. Emerging studies have pointed out the crucial role of CEMIP in the regulation of various signaling mechanisms, leading to enhanced migration and metastasis of PC. METHODS The published findings on PC metastasis, phytoconstituents, and CEMIP were retrieved from Pubmed, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Library. Computational tools, such as gene expression profiling interactive analysis (GEPIA) and Kaplan-Meier (KM) plotter, were used to study the relationship between CEMIP expression and survival of PC individuals. RESULTS Gene expression analysis using the GEPIA database identified a stupendous increase in the CEMIP transcript in PC compared to adjacent normal tissues. KM plotter analysis revealed the impact of CEMIP on the overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) among PC patients. Subsequently, several risk factors associated with PC development were screened, and their ability to regulate CEMIP gene expression was analyzed using computational tools. CONCLUSION The current review is focused on gathering information regarding the regulatory role of phytocomponents in PC migration and exploring their possible impact on the CEMIP expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loganayaki Periyasamy
- Department of Biochemistry, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641 021, India
| | - Bharathi Muruganantham
- Karpagam Cancer Research Centre, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641 021, India
| | - Woo-Yoon Park
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Chungbuk National University College of Medicine, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Sridhar Muthusami
- Department of Biochemistry, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641 021, India
- Karpagam Cancer Research Centre, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641 021, India
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Farooq J, Sultana R, Taj T, Asdaq SMB, Alsalman AJ, Mohaini MA, Al Hawaj MA, Kamal M, Alghamdi S, Imran M, Shahin H, Tabassum R. Insights into the Protective Effects of Thymoquinone against Toxicities Induced by Chemotherapeutic Agents. Molecules 2021; 27:molecules27010226. [PMID: 35011457 PMCID: PMC8746502 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27010226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The drugs used to treat cancer not only kill fast-growing cancer cells, but also kill or slow the growth of healthy cells, causing systemic toxicities that lead to altered functioning of normal cells. Most chemotherapeutic agents have serious toxicities associated with their use, necessitating extreme caution and attention. There is a growing interest in herbal remedies because of their pharmacological activities, minimal side effects, and low cost. Thymoquinone, a major component of the volatile oil of Nigella sativa Linn, also known as black cumin or black seeds, is commonly used in Middle Eastern countries as a condiment. It is also utilized for medicinal purposes and possesses antidiabetic, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, anti-microbial, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant properties. This review attempts to compile the published literature demonstrating thymoquinone's protective effect against chemotherapeutic drug-induced toxicities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juveriya Farooq
- Department of Pharmacology, Yenepoya Pharmacy College and Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore 575018, India; (J.F.); (T.T.); (H.S.); (R.T.)
| | - Rokeya Sultana
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Yenepoya Pharmacy College and Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore 575018, India
- Correspondence: or (R.S.); or (S.M.B.A.)
| | - Tahreen Taj
- Department of Pharmacology, Yenepoya Pharmacy College and Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore 575018, India; (J.F.); (T.T.); (H.S.); (R.T.)
| | - Syed Mohammed Basheeruddin Asdaq
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 13713, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: or (R.S.); or (S.M.B.A.)
| | - Abdulkhaliq J. Alsalman
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Northern Border University, Arar 91911, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Mohammed Al Mohaini
- Basic Sciences Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh 31982, Saudi Arabia;
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Thuwal 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maitham A. Al Hawaj
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Mehnaz Kamal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Saad Alghamdi
- Laboratory Medicine Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Mohd. Imran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Northern Border University, Arar 91911, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Haleema Shahin
- Department of Pharmacology, Yenepoya Pharmacy College and Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore 575018, India; (J.F.); (T.T.); (H.S.); (R.T.)
| | - Ruheena Tabassum
- Department of Pharmacology, Yenepoya Pharmacy College and Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore 575018, India; (J.F.); (T.T.); (H.S.); (R.T.)
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Thymoquinone Inhibits Growth of Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells through Reversal SHP-1 and SOCS-3 Hypermethylation: In Vitro and In Silico Evaluation. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14121287. [PMID: 34959687 PMCID: PMC8703481 DOI: 10.3390/ph14121287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic silencing of tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) plays an essential role in cancer pathogenesis, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML). All of SHP-1, SOCS-1, and SOCS-3 are TSGs that negatively regulate JAK/STAT signaling. Enhanced re-expression of TSGs through de-methylation represents a therapeutic target in several cancers. Thymoquinone (TQ) is a major component of Nigella sativa seeds with anticancer effects against several cancers. However, the effects of TQ on DNA methylation are not entirely understood. This study aimed to evaluate the ability of TQ to re-express SHP-1, SOCS-1, and SOCS-3 in MV4-11 AML cells through de-methylation. Cytotoxicity, apoptosis, and cell cycle assays were performed using WSTs-8 kit, Annexin V-FITC/PI apoptosis detection kit, and fluorometric-red cell cycle assay kit, respectively. The methylation of SHP-1, SOCS-1, and SOCS-3 was evaluated by pyrosequencing analysis. The expression of SHP-1, SOCS-1, SOCS-3, JAK2, STAT3, STAT5A, STAT5B, FLT3-ITD, DNMT1, DNMT3A, DNMT3B, TET2, and WT1 was assessed by RT-qPCR. The molecular docking of TQ to JAK2, STAT3, and STAT5 was evaluated. The results revealed that TQ significantly inhibited the growth of MV4-11 cells and induced apoptosis in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Interestingly, the results showed that TQ binds the active pocket of JAK2, STAT3, and STAT5 to inhibit their enzymatic activity and significantly enhances the re-expression of SHP-1 and SOCS-3 through de-methylation. In conclusion, TQ curbs MV4-11 cells by inhibiting the enzymatic activity of JAK/STAT signaling through hypomethylation and re-expression of JAK/STAT negative regulators and could be a promising therapeutic candidate for AML patients.
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Raut PK, Lee HS, Joo SH, Chun KS. Thymoquinone induces oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis through downregulation of Jak2/STAT3 signaling pathway in human melanoma cells. Food Chem Toxicol 2021; 157:112604. [PMID: 34627931 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2021.112604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Melanoma is a highly aggressive and treatment-resistant cancer, and the incidence and mortality rates are increasing worldwide. Thymoquinone (TQ) is the active component of Nigella sativa seed extracts and exerts anticancer effects in various cancer cells. However, the anticancer effects of TQ on melanoma and the underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive. In this study, TQ treatment induced apoptosis in SK-MEL-28 cells. Interestingly, constitutive phosphorylation of Janus kinase 2 (Jak2) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) was markedly decreased following TQ treatment. Furthermore, TQ treatment downregulated STAT3-dependent genes including cyclin D1, D2, and D3 and survivin. Moreover, inhibition of Jak2/STAT3 using AG490, an inhibitor of Jak2 or genetic ablation of STAT3, abrogated the expression of target genes. TQ increased the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), whereas pretreatment with N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), a ROS scavenger, prevented the suppressive effect of TQ on Jak2/STAT3 activation and protected SK-MEL-28 cells from TQ-induced apoptosis. TQ administration further attenuated the growth of SK-MEL-28 tumor xenografts. Taken together, TQ induced apoptosis of SK-MEL-28 by hindering the Jak2/STAT3 signaling pathway through ROS generation. Our results support further development of TQ as a potential anticancer therapeutic agent for treating melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawan Kumar Raut
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, Daegu, 42601, South Korea
| | - Hui Seong Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, Daegu, 42601, South Korea
| | - Sang Hoon Joo
- College of Pharmacy, Daegu Catholic University, Gyeongbuk, 38430, South Korea
| | - Kyung-Soo Chun
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, Daegu, 42601, South Korea.
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21
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Homayoonfal M, Asemi Z, Yousefi B. Targeting microRNAs with thymoquinone: a new approach for cancer therapy. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2021; 26:43. [PMID: 34627167 PMCID: PMC8502376 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-021-00286-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a global disease involving transformation of normal cells into tumor types via numerous mechanisms, with mortality among all generations, in spite of the breakthroughs in chemotherapy, radiotherapy and/or surgery for cancer treatment. Since one in six deaths is due to cancer, it is one of the overriding priorities of world health. Recently, bioactive natural compounds have been widely recognized due to their therapeutic effects for treatment of various chronic disorders, notably cancer. Thymoquinone (TQ), the most valuable constituent of black cumin seeds, has shown anti-cancer characteristics in a wide range of animal models. The revolutionary findings have revealed TQ's ability to regulate microRNA (miRNA) expression, offering a promising approach for cancer therapy. MiRNAs are small noncoding RNAs that modulate gene expression by means of variation in features of mRNA. MiRNAs manage several biological processes including gene expression and cellular signaling pathways. Accordingly, miRNAs can be considered as hallmarks for cancer diagnosis, prognosis and therapy. The purpose of this study was to review the various molecular mechanisms by which TQ exerts its potential as an anti-cancer agent through modulating miRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina Homayoonfal
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Zatollah Asemi
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Bahman Yousefi
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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22
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Junaid M, Akter Y, Afrose SS, Tania M, Khan MA. Biological Role of AKT and Regulation of AKT Signaling Pathway by Thymoquinone: Perspectives in Cancer Therapeutics. Mini Rev Med Chem 2021; 21:288-301. [PMID: 33019927 DOI: 10.2174/1389557520666201005143818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AKT/PKB is an important enzyme with numerous biological functions, and its overexpression is related to carcinogenesis. AKT stimulates different signaling pathways that are downstream of activated tyrosine kinases and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, hence functions as an important target for anti-cancer drugs. OBJECTIVE In this review article, we have interpreted the role of AKT signaling pathway in cancer and the natural inhibitory effect of Thymoquinone (TQ) in AKT and its possible mechanisms. METHOD We have collected the updated information and data on AKT, its role in cancer and the inhibitory effect of TQ in AKT signaling pathway from Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, Elsevier, Scopus, and many more. RESULTS Many drugs are already developed, which can target AKT, but very few among them have passed clinical trials. TQ is a natural compound, mainly found in black cumin, which has been found to have potential anti-cancer activities. TQ targets numerous signaling pathways, including AKT, in different cancers. In fact, many studies revealed that AKT is one of the major targets of TQ. The preclinical success of TQ suggests its clinical studies on cancer. CONCLUSION This review article summarizes the role of AKT in carcinogenesis, its potent inhibitors in clinical trials, and how TQ acts as an inhibitor of AKT and TQ's future as a cancer therapeutic drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Junaid
- Molecular Modeling Drug-design and Discovery Laboratory, Pharmacology Research Division, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | - Yeasmin Akter
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Noakhali Science & Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | | | - Mousumi Tania
- Division of Molecular Cancer, Red Green Research Center, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md Asaduzzaman Khan
- The research center for preclinical medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
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Sarkar C, Jamaddar S, Islam T, Mondal M, Islam MT, Mubarak MS. Therapeutic perspectives of the black cumin component thymoquinone: A review. Food Funct 2021; 12:6167-6213. [PMID: 34085672 DOI: 10.1039/d1fo00401h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The dietary phytochemical thymoquinone (TQ), belonging to the family of quinones, mainly obtained from the black and angular seeds of Nigella sativa, is one of the promising monoterpenoid hydrocarbons, which has been receiving massive attention for its therapeutic potential and pharmacological properties. It plays an important role as a chemopreventive and therapeutic agent in the treatment of various diseases and illnesses. The aim of this review is to present a summary of the most recent literature pertaining to the use of TQ for the prevention and treatment of various diseases along with possible mechanisms of action, and the potential use of this natural product as a complementary or alternative medicine. Research findings indicated that TQ exhibits numerous pharmacological activities including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, and anticancer, among others. Conclusions of this review on the therapeutic aspects of TQ highlight the medicinal and folk values of this compound against various diseases and ailments. In short, TQ could be a novel drug in clinical trials, as we hope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandan Sarkar
- Department of Pharmacy, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University, Gopalganj-8100, Bangladesh.
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Djamgoz MBA, Jentzsch V. Integrative Management of Pancreatic Cancer (PDAC): Emerging Complementary Agents and Modalities. Nutr Cancer 2021; 74:1139-1162. [PMID: 34085871 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2021.1934043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a devastating disease. The standard first-line treatment for PDAC is gemcitabine chemotherapy which, unfortunately, offers only limited chance of a lasting cure. This review further evaluates the hypothesis that the effectiveness of gemcitabine can be improved by combining it with evidence-based complementary measures. Previously, supported by clinical trial data, we suggested that a number of dietary factors and nutraceuticals can be integrated with gemcitabine therapy. Here, we evaluate a further 10 agents for which no clinical trials have (yet) been carried out but there are promising data from in vivo and/or in vitro studies including experiments involving combined treatments with gemcitabine. Two groups of complementary agents are considered: Dietary factors (resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate, vitamin B9, capsaicin, quercetin and sulforaphane) and nutraceutical agents (artemisinin, garcinol, thymoquinone and emodin). In addition, we identified seven promising agents for which there is currently only basic (mostly in vitro) data. Finally, as a special case of combination therapy, we highlighted synergistic drug combinations involving gemcitabine with "repurposed" aspirin or metformin. We conclude overall that integrated management of PDAC currently is likely to produce the best outcome for patients and for this a wide range of complementary measures is available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa B A Djamgoz
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Biotechnology Research Centre, Cyprus International University, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Valerie Jentzsch
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
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Hannan MA, Rahman MA, Sohag AAM, Uddin MJ, Dash R, Sikder MH, Rahman MS, Timalsina B, Munni YA, Sarker PP, Alam M, Mohibbullah M, Haque MN, Jahan I, Hossain MT, Afrin T, Rahman MM, Tahjib-Ul-Arif M, Mitra S, Oktaviani DF, Khan MK, Choi HJ, Moon IS, Kim B. Black Cumin ( Nigella sativa L.): A Comprehensive Review on Phytochemistry, Health Benefits, Molecular Pharmacology, and Safety. Nutrients 2021; 13:1784. [PMID: 34073784 PMCID: PMC8225153 DOI: 10.3390/nu13061784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mounting evidence support the potential benefits of functional foods or nutraceuticals for human health and diseases. Black cumin (Nigella sativa L.), a highly valued nutraceutical herb with a wide array of health benefits, has attracted growing interest from health-conscious individuals, the scientific community, and pharmaceutical industries. The pleiotropic pharmacological effects of black cumin, and its main bioactive component thymoquinone (TQ), have been manifested by their ability to attenuate oxidative stress and inflammation, and to promote immunity, cell survival, and energy metabolism, which underlie diverse health benefits, including protection against metabolic, cardiovascular, digestive, hepatic, renal, respiratory, reproductive, and neurological disorders, cancer, and so on. Furthermore, black cumin acts as an antidote, mitigating various toxicities and drug-induced side effects. Despite significant advances in pharmacological benefits, this miracle herb and its active components are still far from their clinical application. This review begins with highlighting the research trends in black cumin and revisiting phytochemical profiles. Subsequently, pharmacological attributes and health benefits of black cumin and TQ are critically reviewed. We overview molecular pharmacology to gain insight into the underlying mechanism of health benefits. Issues related to pharmacokinetic herb-drug interactions, drug delivery, and safety are also addressed. Identifying knowledge gaps, our current effort will direct future research to advance potential applications of black cumin and TQ in health and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Abdul Hannan
- Department of Anatomy, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju 38066, Korea; (M.A.H.); (R.D.); (B.T.); (Y.A.M.); (M.A.); (S.M.); (D.F.O.); (H.J.C.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh; (A.A.M.S.); (M.T.H.); (M.T.-U.-A.)
| | - Md. Ataur Rahman
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea;
- Korean Medicine-Based Drug Repositioning Cancer Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Abdullah Al Mamun Sohag
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh; (A.A.M.S.); (M.T.H.); (M.T.-U.-A.)
| | - Md. Jamal Uddin
- ABEx Bio-Research Center, East Azampur, Dhaka 1230, Bangladesh; (M.J.U.); (P.P.S.)
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Korea
| | - Raju Dash
- Department of Anatomy, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju 38066, Korea; (M.A.H.); (R.D.); (B.T.); (Y.A.M.); (M.A.); (S.M.); (D.F.O.); (H.J.C.)
| | - Mahmudul Hasan Sikder
- Department of Pharmacology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh;
| | - Md. Saidur Rahman
- Department of Animal Science & Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Gyeonggi-do, Anseong 17546, Korea;
| | - Binod Timalsina
- Department of Anatomy, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju 38066, Korea; (M.A.H.); (R.D.); (B.T.); (Y.A.M.); (M.A.); (S.M.); (D.F.O.); (H.J.C.)
| | - Yeasmin Akter Munni
- Department of Anatomy, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju 38066, Korea; (M.A.H.); (R.D.); (B.T.); (Y.A.M.); (M.A.); (S.M.); (D.F.O.); (H.J.C.)
| | - Partha Protim Sarker
- ABEx Bio-Research Center, East Azampur, Dhaka 1230, Bangladesh; (M.J.U.); (P.P.S.)
- Department of Biotechnology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh
| | - Mahboob Alam
- Department of Anatomy, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju 38066, Korea; (M.A.H.); (R.D.); (B.T.); (Y.A.M.); (M.A.); (S.M.); (D.F.O.); (H.J.C.)
- Division of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Dongguk University, Gyeongju 780-714, Korea
| | - Md. Mohibbullah
- Department of Fishing and Post Harvest Technology, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh;
| | - Md. Nazmul Haque
- Department of Fisheries Biology and Genetics, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Patuakhali 8602, Bangladesh;
| | - Israt Jahan
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Life and Earth Sciences, Jagannath University, Dhaka 1100, Bangladesh;
| | - Md. Tahmeed Hossain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh; (A.A.M.S.); (M.T.H.); (M.T.-U.-A.)
| | - Tania Afrin
- Interdisciplinary Institute for Food Security, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh;
| | - Md. Mahbubur Rahman
- Research and Development Center, KNOTUS Co., Ltd., Yeounsu-gu, Incheon 22014, Korea;
| | - Md. Tahjib-Ul-Arif
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh; (A.A.M.S.); (M.T.H.); (M.T.-U.-A.)
| | - Sarmistha Mitra
- Department of Anatomy, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju 38066, Korea; (M.A.H.); (R.D.); (B.T.); (Y.A.M.); (M.A.); (S.M.); (D.F.O.); (H.J.C.)
| | - Diyah Fatimah Oktaviani
- Department of Anatomy, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju 38066, Korea; (M.A.H.); (R.D.); (B.T.); (Y.A.M.); (M.A.); (S.M.); (D.F.O.); (H.J.C.)
| | - Md Kawsar Khan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet 3114, Bangladesh;
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Ho Jin Choi
- Department of Anatomy, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju 38066, Korea; (M.A.H.); (R.D.); (B.T.); (Y.A.M.); (M.A.); (S.M.); (D.F.O.); (H.J.C.)
| | - Il Soo Moon
- Department of Anatomy, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju 38066, Korea; (M.A.H.); (R.D.); (B.T.); (Y.A.M.); (M.A.); (S.M.); (D.F.O.); (H.J.C.)
| | - Bonglee Kim
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea;
- Korean Medicine-Based Drug Repositioning Cancer Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
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Abdullah O, Omran Z, Hosawi S, Hamiche A, Bronner C, Alhosin M. Thymoquinone Is a Multitarget Single Epidrug That Inhibits the UHRF1 Protein Complex. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12050622. [PMID: 33922029 PMCID: PMC8143546 DOI: 10.3390/genes12050622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Silencing of tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) through epigenetic mechanisms, mainly via abnormal promoter DNA methylation, is considered a main mechanism of tumorigenesis. The abnormal DNA methylation profiles are transmitted from the cancer mother cell to the daughter cells through the involvement of a macromolecular complex in which the ubiquitin-like containing plant homeodomain (PHD), and an interesting new gene (RING) finger domains 1 (UHRF1), play the role of conductor. Indeed, UHRF1 interacts with epigenetic writers, such as DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1), histone methyltransferase G9a, erasers like histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1), and functions as a hub protein. Thus, targeting UHRF1 and/or its partners is a promising strategy for epigenetic cancer therapy. The natural compound thymoquinone (TQ) exhibits anticancer activities by targeting several cellular signaling pathways, including those involving UHRF1. In this review, we highlight TQ as a potential multitarget single epidrug that functions by targeting the UHRF1/DNMT1/HDAC1/G9a complex. We also speculate on the possibility that TQ might specifically target UHRF1, with subsequent regulatory effects on other partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omeima Abdullah
- College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia; (O.A.); (Z.O.)
| | - Ziad Omran
- College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia; (O.A.); (Z.O.)
| | - Salman Hosawi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Cancer and Mutagenesis Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Ali Hamiche
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, CNRS UMR7104, INSERM U964, Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France; (A.H.); (C.B.)
| | - Christian Bronner
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, CNRS UMR7104, INSERM U964, Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France; (A.H.); (C.B.)
| | - Mahmoud Alhosin
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Cancer and Mutagenesis Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +966-597-959-354
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Thymoquinone, as a Novel Therapeutic Candidate of Cancers. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14040369. [PMID: 33923474 PMCID: PMC8074212 DOI: 10.3390/ph14040369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
To date, natural products are widely used as pharmaceutical agents for many human diseases and cancers. One of the most popular natural products that have been studied for anticancer properties is thymoquinone (TQ). As a bioactive compound of Nigella sativa, TQ has shown anticancer activities through the inhibition of cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. The anticancer efficacy of TQ is being investigated in several human cancers such as pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, colon cancer, hepatic cancer, cervical cancer, and leukemia. Even though TQ induces apoptosis by regulating the expression of pro- apoptotic and anti-apoptotic genes in many cancers, the TQ effect mechanism on such cancers is not yet fully understood. Therefore, the present review has highlighted the TQ effect mechanisms on several signaling pathways and expression of tumor suppressor genes (TSG). Data from relevant published experimental articles on TQ from 2015 to June 2020 were selected by using Google Scholar and PubMed search engines. The present study investigated the effectiveness of TQ alone or in combination with other anticancer therapeutic agents, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors on cancers, as a future anticancer therapy nominee by using nanotechnology.
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Zhang R, Wu T, Zheng P, Liu M, Xu G, Xi M, Yu J. Thymoquinone sensitizes human hepatocarcinoma cells to TRAIL-induced apoptosis via oxidative DNA damage. DNA Repair (Amst) 2021; 103:103117. [PMID: 33990030 DOI: 10.1016/j.dnarep.2021.103117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains one of the most predominant types of digestive system malignancies worldwide. TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is a biological cytokine with the mentioned specificity, but some tumor cells' resistance limits its use as a therapeutic approach. The present study aimed to investigate thymoquinone (TQ) and TRAIL's combined effect and the potential mechanisms in human hepatic HepG2 carcinoma cells. METHODS Cell viability and IC50 dose for TQ and TRAIL, alone and in combination, were determined using the MTT method. ELISA evaluated the expression levels of 8-Hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine. The apoptosis rate was assessed by flow cytometry, ELISA cell death assay, and caspase 8 activity assays. The mRNA and protein evaluation of candidate genes, including survivin, Bcl-2, XIAP, c-IAP1, c-IAP2, and c-FLIP, were accomplished before and after the treatment using qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis, respectively. RESULTS Our results showed that TQ synergistically increased TRAIL's cell toxic effects as follows: TQ plus TRAIL > TRAIL > TQ. TQ could sensitize the HepG2 cells against the TRAIL-induced apoptosis and amplify the caspase 8 activity. This outcome is achieved by decreasing the mRNA and protein expression levels of anti-apoptotic genes. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that TQ can sensitize the human HCC cell line HepG2 against TRAIL by inducing the death receptor pathway. Moreover, these agents' combinational therapy might promise a therapeutic regimen for improving the clinical efficacy of TRAIL-induced apoptosis in patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruikui Zhang
- Department of Special Emergency Surgery, Special Medical Center of Chinese People 's Armed Police Forces, Tianjin, 300162, China
| | - Tao Wu
- Department of Infectious Disease, Hainan General Hospital, Haikou, Hainan, 570311, China
| | - Peipei Zheng
- Department of General Surgery, the First Hospital Affiliated of Shandong First Medical University (Qianfoshan Hospital), Jinan, Shandong, 250014, China
| | - Ming Liu
- Department of Infectious Disease, Hainan General Hospital, Haikou, Hainan, 570311, China
| | - Guixiang Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Qingdao Fuwai Hospital Qingdao, Shandong, 266034, China
| | - Ming Xi
- Department of Urology, Huadu District People's Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510800, China
| | - Jian Yu
- Department of General Surgery, the First Hospital Affiliated of Shandong First Medical University (Qianfoshan Hospital), Jinan, Shandong, 250014, China.
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Rachamalla HK, Bhattacharya S, Ahmad A, Sridharan K, Madamsetty VS, Mondal SK, Wang E, Dutta SK, Jan BL, Jinka S, Chandra Sekhar Jaggarapu MM, Yakati V, Mukhopadhyay D, Alkharfy KM, Banerjee R. Enriched pharmacokinetic behavior and antitumor efficacy of thymoquinone by liposomal delivery. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2021; 16:641-656. [PMID: 33769068 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2020-0470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Thymoquinone (TQ) has potential anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and anticancer effects but its clinical use is limited by its low solubility, poor bioavailability and rapid clearance. Aim: To enhance systemic bioavailability and tumor-specific toxicity of TQ. Materials & methods: Cationic liposomal formulation of TQ (D1T) was prepared via ethanol injection method and their physicochemical properties, anticancer effects in orthotopic xenograft pancreatic tumor model and pharmacokinetic behavior of D1T relative to TQ were evaluated. Results: D1T showed prominent inhibition of pancreatic tumor progression, significantly greater in vivo absorption, approximately 1.5-fold higher plasma concentration, higher bioavailability, reduced volume of distribution and improved clearance relative to TQ. Conclusion: Encapsulation of TQ in cationic liposomal formulation enhanced its bioavailability and anticancer efficacy against xenograft pancreatic tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hari Krishnareddy Rachamalla
- Applied Biology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, Telangana 500007, India
| | - Santanu Bhattacharya
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine & Science, Jacksonville, FL, USA.,Department of Physiology & Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine & Science, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Ajaz Ahmad
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kathyayani Sridharan
- Applied Biology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, Telangana 500007, India
| | - Vijay Sagar Madamsetty
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine & Science, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Sujan Kumar Mondal
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.,UPMC Hilman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Enfeng Wang
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine & Science, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Shamit K Dutta
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine & Science, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Basit L Jan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sudhakar Jinka
- Applied Biology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, Telangana 500007, India
| | | | - Venu Yakati
- Applied Biology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, Telangana 500007, India
| | - Debabrata Mukhopadhyay
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine & Science, Jacksonville, FL, USA.,Department of Physiology & Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine & Science, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Khalid M Alkharfy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rajkumar Banerjee
- Applied Biology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, Telangana 500007, India
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Almajali B, Al-Jamal HAN, Wan Taib WR, Ismail I, Johan MF, Doolaanea AA, Ibrahim WN, Tajudin SA. Thymoquinone Suppresses Cell Proliferation and Enhances Apoptosis of HL60 Leukemia Cells through Re-Expression of JAK/STAT Negative Regulators. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2021; 22:879-885. [PMID: 33773553 PMCID: PMC8286695 DOI: 10.31557/apjcp.2021.22.3.879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The natural compound, thymoquinone (TQ) has demonstrated potential anticancer properties in inhibiting cell proliferation and promoting apoptosis in myeloid leukemia cells, breast cancer cells, and others. However, the effect mechanism of TQ on AML cells still not fully understood. In this study, the authors examined the effects of TQ on the expression of JAK/STAT-negative regulator genes SOCS-1, SOCS-3, and SHP-1, and their consequences on cell proliferation and apoptosis in HL60 leukemia cells. Methods: MTT and trypan blue exclusion tests were conducted to determine the 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) and cell proliferation. FITC Annexin and Guava® reagent were used to study the cell apoptosis and examine the cell cycle phases, respectively. The expression of JAK/STAT-negative regulator genes, SOCS-1, SOCS-3, and SHP-1, was investigated using reverse transcriptase- quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). Results: TQ demonstrated a potential inhibition of HL60 cell proliferation and a significant increase in apoptotic cells in dose and time-dependent manner. TQ significantly induced cycle arrest at G0-G1 phase (P < 0.001) and enhanced the re-expression of JAK/STAT-negative regulator genes. Conclusion: TQ potentially inhibited HL60 cell proliferation and significantly increased apoptosis with re-expression of JAK/STAT-negative regulator genes suggesting that TQ could be a new therapeutic candidate for leukemia therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belal Almajali
- School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), 20300 Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Hamid Ali Nagi Al-Jamal
- School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), 20300 Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Wan Rohani Wan Taib
- School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), 20300 Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Imilia Ismail
- School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), 20300 Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Farid Johan
- Department of Haematology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Abd Almonem Doolaanea
- Pharmaceutical Technology Department, Faculty of pharmacy, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan, Malaysia
| | - Wisam Nabeel Ibrahim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Collage of Health sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Syed Ahmad Tajudin
- Centralized Laboratory Management Centre, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, 22200 Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia
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Elgohary S, Elkhodiry AA, Amin NS, Stein U, El Tayebi HM. Thymoquinone: A Tie-Breaker in SARS-CoV2-Infected Cancer Patients? Cells 2021; 10:302. [PMID: 33540625 PMCID: PMC7912962 DOI: 10.3390/cells10020302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the beginning of the SARS-CoV-2(severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2) pandemic, arace to develop a vaccine has been initiated, considering the massive and rather significant economic and healthcare hits that this virus has caused. The pathophysiology occurring following COVID-19(coronavirus disease-2019) infection has givenhints regarding the supportive and symptomatic treatments to establish for patients, as no specific anti-SARS-CoV-2 is available yet. Patient symptoms vary greatly and range from mild symptoms to severe fatal complications. Supportive treatments include antipyretics, antiviral therapies, different combinations of broad-spectrum antibiotics, hydroxychloroquine and plasma transfusion. Unfortunately, cancer patients are at higher risk of viral infection and more likely to develop serious complications due to their immunocompromised state, the fact that they are already administering multiple medications, as well as combined comorbidity compared to the general population. It may seem impossible to find a drug that possesses both potent antiviral and anticancer effects specifically against COVID-19 infection and its complications and the existing malignancy, respectively. Thymoquinone (TQ) is the most pharmacologically active ingredient in Nigella sativa seeds (black seeds); it is reported to have anticancer, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in various settings. In this review, we will discuss the multiple effects of TQ specifically against COVID-19, its beneficial effects against COVID-19 pathophysiology and multiple-organ complications, its use as an adjuvant for supportive COVID-19 therapy and cancer therapy, and finally, its anticancer effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sawsan Elgohary
- Molecular Pharmacology Research Group, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, 11835 Cairo, Egypt; (S.E.); (A.A.E.); (N.S.A.)
| | - Aya A. Elkhodiry
- Molecular Pharmacology Research Group, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, 11835 Cairo, Egypt; (S.E.); (A.A.E.); (N.S.A.)
| | - Nada S. Amin
- Molecular Pharmacology Research Group, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, 11835 Cairo, Egypt; (S.E.); (A.A.E.); (N.S.A.)
| | - Ulrike Stein
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany;
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125 Berlin, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hend M. El Tayebi
- Molecular Pharmacology Research Group, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, 11835 Cairo, Egypt; (S.E.); (A.A.E.); (N.S.A.)
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Gomathinayagam R, Ha JH, Jayaraman M, Song YS, Isidoro C, Dhanasekaran DN. Chemopreventive and Anticancer Effects of Thymoquinone: Cellular and Molecular Targets. J Cancer Prev 2020; 25:136-151. [PMID: 33033708 PMCID: PMC7523033 DOI: 10.15430/jcp.2020.25.3.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Thymoquinone (TQ) is a bioactive component derived from the seeds of Nigella sativa that are commonly as black cumin. Evidences indicate that the medicinal properties of TQ have been recognized for more than 2000 years. TQ has been shown to possess potent chemopreventive properties that include anti-inflammatory and anti-neoplastic activities. Recent studies have unraveled the multiple mechanisms through which TQ exerts its chemopreventive and anticancer activity in different cancer cells in a contextual manner. The present review aims to provide a brief compendium on the molecular mechanisms through which TQ inhibits signaling pathways underlying cancer genesis, progression, and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohini Gomathinayagam
- Stephenson Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Ji Hee Ha
- Stephenson Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Muralidharan Jayaraman
- Stephenson Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Yong Sang Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Research Institute, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ciro Isidoro
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology and NanoBioImaging, Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Danny N Dhanasekaran
- Stephenson Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
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Almatroodi SA, Almatroudi A, Alsahli MA, Khan AA, Rahmani AH. Thymoquinone, an Active Compound of Nigella sativa: Role in Prevention and Treatment of Cancer. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2020; 21:1028-1041. [DOI: 10.2174/1389201021666200416092743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2019] [Revised: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Background:
Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide and the current mode of cancer
treatment causes side effects on normal cells and are still the key challenges in its’ treatment. However,
natural products or active compounds of medicinal plants have shown to be safe, affordable, and
effective in diseases cure.
Methods:
In this context, scientific studies evidence the health-promoting effects of natural products,
which work through its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer activity. Thymoquinone (TM),
a predominant active compound of Nigella sativa, has confirmed anti-neoplastic activity through its
ability to regulate various genetic pathways. In addition, thymoquinone has established anti-cancerous
effects through killing of various cancerous cells,and inhibiting the initiation, migration, invasion, and
progression of the cancer. The anti-cancer effects of TM are chiefly mediated via regulating various
cell signaling pathways such as VEGF, bcl2/bax ratio, p53, NF-kB, and oncogenes.
Results:
The anti-cancer drugs have limitations in efficacy and also causes adverse side effects on
normal cells. The combination of anti-cancer drugs and thymoquinone improves the efficacy of drugs
which is evident by decrease resistance to drugs and regulation of various cell signaling pathways.
Moreover, combination of anti-cancer drugs as well as thymoquinone shows synergistic effect on killing
of cancer cells and cells viability. Thus, TM, in combination with anti-cancer drugs, can be a good
strategy in the management of various types of cancer.
Conclusion:
In this review article, we deliver an outline of thymoquinone role in cancer inhibition and
prevention of cancer-based on in vivo and in vitro studies. Further studies on thymoquinone based on
clinical trials are highly required to explore the benefits of thymoquinone in cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saleh A. Almatroodi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad Almatroudi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed A. Alsahli
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amjad A. Khan
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arshad H. Rahmani
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
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Epigenetic role of thymoquinone: impact on cellular mechanism and cancer therapeutics. Drug Discov Today 2019; 24:2315-2322. [PMID: 31541714 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2019.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Thymoquinone is a natural product known for its anticancer activity. Preclinical studies indicated numerous mechanisms of action by which thymoquinone exerts its effects on cancer cells. Recent evidence has indicated that thymoquinone can modulate epigenetic machinery, like modifying histone acetylation and deacetylation, DNA methylation and demethylation, which are among the major epigenetic changes that can contribute to carcinogenesis. Moreover, thymoquinone can alter the genetic expression of various noncoding RNAs, such as miRNA and lncRNA, which are the key parts of cellular epigenetics. This review focuses on cellular epigenetic systems, epigenetic changes responsible for cancer and the counteraction of thymoquinone to target epigenetic challenges, which might be among the mechanisms of the thymoquinone effect in cancer cells.
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Mahmoud YK, Abdelrazek HMA. Cancer: Thymoquinone antioxidant/pro-oxidant effect as potential anticancer remedy. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 115:108783. [PMID: 31060003 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.108783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, there is growing interest in the natural bioactive components having anticancer activity. Thymoquinone (TQ), the principle active constituent of black seed (Nigella sativa), has promising properties including anticancer and chemosensitizing peculiarities. The anticancer power of TQ is accomplished by several aspects; including promotion of apoptosis, arrest of cell cycle and ROS generation. In addition, it boosts the immune system and lessens the side effects associated with traditional anticancer therapy. TQ also controls angiogenesis and cancer metastasis. This review focuses on the potential aspects and mechanisms by which TQ acquires its actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmina K Mahmoud
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt
| | - Heba M A Abdelrazek
- Physiology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt.
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Dissecting the roles of thymoquinone on the prevention and the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma: an overview on the current state of knowledge. Infect Agent Cancer 2019; 14:10. [PMID: 31015860 PMCID: PMC6469080 DOI: 10.1186/s13027-019-0226-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Thymoquinone (TQ) is the principal active monomer isolated from the seed of the medicinal plant Nigella sativa. This compound has antitumor effects against various types of cancer including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), mainly due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. Several pre-clinical studies showed that TQ, through the modulation of different molecular pathways, is able to induce anti-apoptotic and anti-proliferative effects in HCC, without signs of toxicity. Moreover, it has been suggested that TQ has hepatoprotective effects by enhancing the tolerability and effectivity of neoadjuvant therapy prior to liver surgery, although the underlying mechanisms are not completely understood. Based on these findings, is assumable that TQ could represent a valuable therapeutic option for patients suffering from HCC. In this review, we summarize the potential roles of TQ in the prevention and treatment of HCC, by revising the preclinical studies and by highlighting the potential applications of TQ as a therapeutic choice for HCC treatment into clinical practices.
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Qadi SA, Hassan MA, Sheikh RA, Baothman OA, Zamzami MA, Choudhry H, Al-Malki AL, Albukhari A, Alhosin M. Thymoquinone-Induced Reactivation of Tumor Suppressor Genes in Cancer Cells Involves Epigenetic Mechanisms. Epigenet Insights 2019; 12:2516865719839011. [PMID: 31058255 PMCID: PMC6452588 DOI: 10.1177/2516865719839011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The epigenetic silencing of tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) is a common finding in several solid and hematological tumors involving various epigenetic readers and writers leading to enhanced cell proliferation and defective apoptosis. Thymoquinone (TQ), the major biologically active compound of black seed oil, has demonstrated anticancer activities in various tumors by targeting several pathways. However, its effects on the epigenetic code of cancer cells are largely unknown. In the present study, we performed RNA sequencing to investigate the anticancer mechanisms of TQ-treated T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia cell line (Jurkat cells) and examined gene expression using different tools. We found that many key epigenetic players, including ubiquitin-like containing plant homeodomain (PHD) and really interesting new gene (RING) finger domains 1 (UHRF1), DNMT1,3A,3B, G9A, HDAC1,4,9, KDM1B, and KMT2A,B,C,D,E, were downregulated in TQ-treated Jurkat cells. Interestingly, several TSGs, such as DLC1, PPARG, ST7, FOXO6, TET2, CYP1B1, SALL4, and DDIT3, known to be epigenetically silenced in various tumors, including acute leukemia, were upregulated, along with the upregulation of several downstream pro-apoptotic genes, such as RASL11B, RASD1, GNG3, BAD, and BIK. Data obtained from RNA sequencing were confirmed using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) in Jurkat cells, as well as in a human breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-468 cells). We found that the decrease in cell proliferation and in the expression of UHRF1, DNMT1, G9a, and HDAC1 genes in both cancer cell (Jurkat cells and MDA-MB-468 cells) lines depends on the TQ dose. Our results indicate that the use of TQ as an epigenetic drug represents a promising strategy for epigenetic therapy for both solid and blood tumors by targeting both DNA methylation and histone post-translational modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahad A Qadi
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed A Hassan
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hadhramout University, Mukalla, Yemen
| | - Ryan A Sheikh
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Othman As Baothman
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mazin A Zamzami
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Cancer Metabolism and Epigenetic Unit, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Cancer and Mutagenesis Unit, King Fahd Center for Medical Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hani Choudhry
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Cancer Metabolism and Epigenetic Unit, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Cancer and Mutagenesis Unit, King Fahd Center for Medical Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Ashwag Albukhari
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Cancer and Mutagenesis Unit, King Fahd Center for Medical Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmoud Alhosin
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Cancer Metabolism and Epigenetic Unit, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Cancer and Mutagenesis Unit, King Fahd Center for Medical Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Kirsanov KI, Vlasova OA, Fetisov TI, Zenkov RG, Lesovaya EA, Belitsky GA, Gurova K, Yakubovskaya MG. Influence of DNA-binding compounds with cancer preventive activity on the mechanisms of gene expression regulation. ADVANCES IN MOLECULAR ONCOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.17650/2313-805x-2018-5-4-41-63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K. I. Kirsanov
- N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Ministry of Health of Russia; Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia
| | - O. A. Vlasova
- N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Ministry of Health of Russia
| | - T. I. Fetisov
- N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Ministry of Health of Russia
| | - R. G. Zenkov
- N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Ministry of Health of Russia
| | - E. A. Lesovaya
- N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Ministry of Health of Russia; I.P. Pavlov Ryazan State Medical University
| | - G. A. Belitsky
- N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Ministry of Health of Russia
| | | | - M. G. Yakubovskaya
- N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Ministry of Health of Russia
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Kim I, Choi YS, Song JH, Choi EA, Park S, Lee EJ, Rhee JK, Kim SC, Chang S. A drug-repositioning screen for primary pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells identifies 6-thioguanine as an effective therapeutic agent for TPMT-low cancer cells. Mol Oncol 2018; 12:1526-1539. [PMID: 30055072 PMCID: PMC6120251 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.12364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Revised: 06/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most difficult cancers to cure due to the lack of early diagnostic tools and effective therapeutic agents. In this study, we aimed to isolate new bioactive compounds that effectively kill pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells, but not untransformed, human pancreatic ductal epithelial (HPDE) cells. To this end, we established four primary PDAC cell lines and screened 4141 compounds from four bioactive-compound libraries. Initial screening yielded 113 primary hit compounds that caused over a 50% viability reduction in all tested PDAC cells. Subsequent triplicate, dose-dependent analysis revealed three compounds with a tumor cell-specific cytotoxic effect. We found that these three compounds fall into a single category of thiopurine biogenesis. Among them, 6-thioguanine (6-TG) showed an IC50 of 0.39-1.13 μm toward PDAC cells but had no effect on HPDE cells. We propose that this cancer selectivity is due to differences in thiopurine methyltransferase (TPMT) expression between normal and cancer cells. This enzyme is responsible for methylation of thiopurine, which reduces its cytotoxicity. We found that TPMT levels were lower in all four PDAC cell lines than in HPDE or Panc1 cells, and that knockdown of TPMT in HPDE or Panc1 cells sensitized them to 6-TG. Lastly, we used a patient-derived xenograft model to confirm that 6-TG has a significant antitumor effect in combination with gemcitabine. Overall, our study presents 6-TG as a strong candidate for use as a therapeutic agent against PDAC with low levels of TPMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inki Kim
- Convergence Medicine Research Center (CREDIT)/Biomedical Research Center, Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Convergence Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yeon-Sook Choi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae Hwi Song
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun A Choi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sojung Park
- Convergence Medicine Research Center (CREDIT)/Biomedical Research Center, Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun Ji Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Je-Keun Rhee
- Cancer Research Institute, Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Song Cheol Kim
- Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Suhwan Chang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Physiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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40
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Zidan AAA, El-Ashmawy NE, Khedr EG, Ebeid EZM, Salem ML, Mosalam EM. Loading of doxorubicin and thymoquinone with F2 gel nanofibers improves the antitumor activity and ameliorates doxorubicin-associated nephrotoxicity. Life Sci 2018; 207:461-470. [PMID: 29885348 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
AIMS This study aimed to elucidate the benefits of nanoformulation of doxorubicin (DOX) and thymoquinone (TQ) loaded with nanofibers of poly-N-acetyl glucosamine (pGlcNAc), which is known as F2 gel, over their conventional free forms. Moreover, evaluate the role of TQ in improving chemotherapeutic effect and ameliorating nephrotoxicity of DOX. MAIN METHODS The drugs were loaded into F2 gel followed by measurement of physicochemical characterization. Next, MCF-7 and HEPG2 cells were treated with the prepared formulations and assessed for apoptosis alongside with cellular proliferation. Furthermore, we experimentally induced Heps liver carcinoma in mice and at the end of the treatment, mice were sacrificed and serum samples were used to assess nephrotoxicity markers; blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine. Additionally, renal tissue was used for determination of oxidative markers and antioxidant enzymes; whereas, tumor tissue was utilized to measure nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and caspase 3. KEY FINDINGS Nanoformulation showed dramatic increase in apoptosis, caspase 3, and antioxidant enzymes; in contrast to, dramatic fall in cell viability, tumor volume, oxidative and nephrotoxicity markers, and NF-κB compared to corresponding free therapies. Combined therapy was superior in conserving the measured parameters compared to other treated groups. SIGNIFICANCE F2 gel loaded with DOX and TQ revealed enhanced antitumor activity with minimal toxicity. Moreover, using TQ as an adjuvant with DOX could augment its cytotoxicity and ameliorate nephrotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdel-Aziz A Zidan
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Damanhour University, Egypt; Center of Excellence in cancer Research (CECR), Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt.
| | | | - Eman G Khedr
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Egypt
| | - El-Zeiny M Ebeid
- Physical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Egypt
| | - Mohamed L Salem
- Immunology and Biotechnology Unit, Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Egypt
| | - Esraa M Mosalam
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Menoufia University, Egypt
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Fan X, Li L, Ye Z, Zhou Y, Tan WS. Regulation of osteogenesis of human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells by sodium butyrate. Cell Biol Int 2018; 42:457-469. [PMID: 29271554 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.10919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2017] [Accepted: 12/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Human amniotic membrane-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSCs) draw great interests for regenerative medicine due to convenient availability and low immunogenicity. However, suboptimal culture conditions limit their application. In recent years, small molecules have proven powerful in regulating stem cell fates and can be applied to stimulate their function. In the present study, the impacts of sodium butyrate (NaBu), a histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi), on hAMSCs were investigated. It was shown that NaBu at a low concentration inhibited cell proliferation by arresting cell cycle at G0/G1 rather than inducing apoptosis. When NaBu was supplemented at a concentration of <1.0 mM for 3 days during osteogenic induction, significantly more mineralized nodules were generated and the expression of osteogenesis-related genes (ALP, Runx2, Opn, and Ocn) and proteins (Col1a1, OPN, OCN, Runx2, and TAZ) were both significantly enhanced. However, a higher concentration (1.0 mM) and longer exposure time (14 days) of NaBu showed no such effects, which may be partially attributed to both the increased expression of histone deacetylase 8 (HDAC8) and reduced level of H3K9-Ace, thus leading to the transcriptional inhibition during osteogenesis. Further, it was indicated that ERK might be involved in the stimulatory effects of NaBu. These findings may be helpful to develop an efficient culture process for hAMSCs towards bone regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoting Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Mei-Long Road, P. O. Box 309#, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
| | - Lei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Mei-Long Road, P. O. Box 309#, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
| | - Zhaoyang Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Mei-Long Road, P. O. Box 309#, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
| | - Yan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Mei-Long Road, P. O. Box 309#, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
| | - Wen-Song Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Mei-Long Road, P. O. Box 309#, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
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Affiliation(s)
- Shagufta Kar
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University (LPU), Phagwara, Punjab (India) - 144411
| | - Pawan Gupta
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University (LPU), Phagwara, Punjab (India) - 144411
- Department of Research and Development, Lovely Professional University (LPU), Phagwara, Punjab (India) - 144411
| | - Jeena Gupta
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University (LPU), Phagwara, Punjab (India) - 144411
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