Natural Products for the Management and Prevention of Breast Cancer

Docking and Molecular Dynamics Simulation Revealed the Potential Inhibitory Activity of Amygdalin in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Therapeutics Targeting the BRCT Domain of BARD1 Receptor

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), is diagnosed as the most lethal molecular subtype of breast cancer (BC) preceded by an extremely poor prognosis. For enabling effective TNBC therapy, the identification of novel druggable biomarkers is an earnest need. Multigene paneling and genomewide association studies identify multiple genes with high-to-moderate penetrance in TNBC. Modern computer-aided drug designing techniques, thus aim to design more cost-effective natural small molecule inhibitors for TNBC prevention and diagnosis. Here Amygdalin, a natural glycosidic inhibitor is docked and simulated against three such high-to-moderate penetrance genes identified in TNBC, BARD1, RAD51, and PALB2. The preliminary result of the analysis, reports a highest, intermediate, and least binding energy score of - 6.69 kcal/mol, - 5.09 kcal/mol, and - 4.89 kcal/mol in BARD1, RAD51, and PALB2, respectively. The best-docked protein-ligand complex (BARD1-Amygdalin) was then simulated and compared with an approved drug for TNBC treatment, Olaparib. A comparable binding energy score of - 8.53 kcal/mol was obtained by docking olaparib with BARD1. A 100 ns MD simulation revealed, Amygdalin forms more H-bonds, providing more stable and compact protein-ligand complex with BARD1 than compared to Olaparib. The result was also supported by calculation of solvent accessible surface area and analysis of radius of gyration. Thus, our findings suggest that role of Amygdalin can further be studied in details for TNBC therapeutics, which was found to target the BRCT domain of the BARD1 receptor in stable manner. Please check and confirm that the authors and their respective affiliations have been correctly identified and amend if necessary. Name and affiliations are correctly identified.

Role of beta-(1→3)(1→6)-D-glucan derived from yeast on natural killer (NK) cells and breast cancer cell lines in 2D and 3D cultures

BACKGROUND

Beta-(1,3)(1,6)-D-glucan is a complex polysaccharide, which is found in the cell wall of various fungi, yeasts, bacteria, algae, barley, and oats and has immunomodulatory, anticancer and antiviral effects. In the present study, we investigated the effect of beta-(1,3)(1,6)-D-glucan derived from yeast on the proliferation of primary NK cells and breast cancer cell lines in 2D and 3D models, and on the cytotoxicity of primary NK cells against breast cancer cell lines in 2D and 3D models.

METHODS

In this study, we investigated the effects of different concentrations of yeast-derived beta-(1→3)(1→6)-D-glucan on the proliferation and cytotoxicity of human NK cells and breast cancer cell lines in 2D and 3D models using the XTT cell proliferation assay and the CellTiter-Glo® 2.0 assay to determine the cytotoxicity of human NK cells on breast cancer cell lines in 2D and 3D models.

RESULTS

We found that the co-incubation of NK cells with beta-glucan in the absence of IL2 at 48 h significantly increased the proliferation of NK cells, whereas the co-incubation of NK cells with beta-glucan in the presence of IL2 (70 U/ml) increased the proliferation of NK cells but not significantly. Moreover, beta-glucan significantly inhibited the proliferation of breast cancer cell lines in 2D model and induced a weak, non-significant growth inhibitory effect on breast cancer multicellular tumor spheroids (3D). In addition, the cytotoxicity of NK cells against breast cancer cell lines was examined in 2D and 3D models, and beta-glucan significantly increased the cytotoxicity of NK cells against MCF-7 (in 2D).

CONCLUSIONS

Yeast derived beta-(1,3)(1,6)-D-glucan could contribute to the treatment of cancer by enhancing NK cell immune response as well as contributing to inhibition of breast cancer cell growth.

Caspase-driven cancer therapies: Navigating the bridge between lab discoveries and clinical applications

Apoptosis is the cell's natural intrinsic regulatory mechanism of normal cells for programmed cell death, which plays an important role in cancer as a classical mechanism of tumor cell death causing minimal inflammation without causing damage to other cells in the vicinity. Induction of apoptosis by activation of caspases is one of the primary targets for cancer treatment. Over the years, a diverse range of natural, synthetic, and semisynthetic compounds and their derivatives have been investigated for their caspase-mediated apoptosis-induced anticancer activities. The review aims to compile the preclinical evidence and highlight the critical mechanistic pathways related to caspase-induced cell apoptosis in cancer treatment. The focus is placed on the key components of the mechanisms, including their chemical nature, and specific attention is given to phytochemicals derived from natural sources and synthetic and semisynthetic compounds. 180+ compounds from the past two decades with potential as anticancer agents are discussed in this review article. By summarizing the current knowledge and advancements in this field, this review provides a comprehensive overview of potential therapeutic strategies targeting apoptosis in cancer cells. The findings presented herein contribute to the ongoing efforts to combat cancer and stimulate further research into the development of effective and targeted anticancer therapies.

Nanotechnology-mediated delivery of resveratrol as promising strategy to improve therapeutic efficacy in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC): progress and promises

INTRODUCTION

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) presents unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Resveratrol exhibits potential as a therapeutic intervention against TNBC by regulating various pathways such as the PI3K/AKT, RAS/RAF/ERK, PKCδ, and AMPK, leading to apoptosis through ROS-mediated CHOP activationand the expression of DR4 and DR5. However, the clinical efficacy of resveratrol is limited due to its poor biopharmaceutical characteristics and low bioavailability at the tumor site. Nanotechnology offers a promising approach to improving the biopharmaceutical characteristics of resveratrol to achieve clinical efficacy in different cancers. The small dimension (<200 nm) of nanotechnology-mediated drug delivery system is helpful to improve the bioavailability, internalization into the TNBC cell, ligand-specific targeted delivery of loaded resveratrol to tumor site including reversal of MDR (multi-drug resistance) condition.

AREAS COVERED

This manuscript provides a comprehensive discussion on the structure-activity relationship (SAR), underlying anticancer mechanism, evidence of anticancer activity in in-vitro/in-vivo investigations, and the significance of nanotechnology-mediated delivery of resveratrol in TNBC.

EXPERT OPINION

Advanced nano-formulations of resveratrol such as oxidized mesoporous carbon nanoparticles, macrophage-derived vesicular system, functionalized gold nanoparticles, etc. have increased the accumulation of loaded therapeutics at the tumor-site, and avoid off-target drug release. In conclusion, nano-resveratrol as a strategy may provide improved tumor-specific image-guided treatment options for TNBC utilizing theranostic approach.

Unveiling the potential anti-cancer activity of calycosin against multivarious cancers with molecular insights: A promising frontier in cancer research

BACKGROUND

Calycosin may be a potential candidate regarding chemotherapeutic agent, because already some studies against multivarious cancer have been made with this natural compound.

AIM

This review elucidated a brief overview of previous studies on calycosin potential effects on various cancers and its potential mechanism of action.

METHODOLOGY

Data retrieved by systematic searches of Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, and Scopus by using keywords including calycosin, cancer types, anti-cancer mechanism, synergistic, and pharmacokinetic and commonly used tools are BioRender, ChemDraw Professional 16.0, and ADMETlab 2.0.

RESULTS

Based on our review, calycosin is available in nature and effective against around 15 different types of cancer. Generally, the anti-cancer mechanism of this compound is mediated through a variety of processes, including regulation of apoptotic pathways, cell cycle, angiogenesis and metastasis, oncogenes, enzymatic pathways, and signal transduction process. These study conducted in various study models, including in silico, in vitro, preclinical and clinical models. The molecular framework behind the anti-cancer effect is targeting some oncogenic and therapeutic proteins and multiple signaling cascades. Therapies based on nano-formulated calycosin may make excellent nanocarriers for the delivery of this compound to targeted tissue as well as particular organ. This natural compound becomes very effective when combined with other natural compounds and some standard drugs. Moreover, proper use of this compound can reverse resistance to existing anti-cancer drugs through a variety of strategies. Calycosin showed better pharmacokinetic properties with less toxicity in human bodies.

CONCLUSION

Calycosin exhibits excellent potential as a therapeutic drug against several cancer types and should be consumed until standard chemotherapeutics are available in pharma markets.

Sinensetin suppresses breast cancer cell progression via Wnt/β-catenin pathway inhibition

Background

Although there are many treatments for breast cancer, such as surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, estrogen receptor antagonists, immune checkpoint inhibitors and so on. However, safer and more effective therapeutic drugs for breast cancer are needed. Sinensetin, a safer therapeutic drugs, come from citrus species and medicinal plants used in traditional medicine, while its role and underlying mechanism in breast cancer remain unclear. Our study aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of sinensetin in breast cancer.

Methods

Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) was used to determine the safe concentration of sinensetin in MCF-10A, MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 cells; 120 μM sinensetin was used in subsequent experiments. Real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), Western blotting, Terminal Deoxynucleotidyl Transferase mediated dUTP Nick-End Labeling (TUNEL) apoptosis assay, Transwell invasion assay and Clone formation assay were used in this study to determine cell viability, mRNA expression, protein levels, apoptosis, proliferation, invasion and so on.

Results

Herein, our results showed that 120 μM sinensetin suppressed the cell viability and promoted apoptosis of MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. Treatment with 120 µM sinensetin for 24 h showed no significant toxicity to normal mammary cells; 120 μM sinensetin decreased cell proliferation, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and downregulated β-catenin, lymphatic enhancing factor 1 (LEF1), T-cell factor (TCF) 1/TCF7, and TCF3/TCF7L1 expression in MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. The Wnt agonist SKL2001 reversed the inhibitory effect of sinensetin on cell survival, metastasis, and EMT. Sinensetin-induced downregulation of β-catenin, LEF1, and TCF1/TCF7 expression were upregulated by SKL2001 in MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 cells.

Conclusions

In summary, sinensetin suppressed the metastasis of breast cancer cell via inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin pathway and there were no adverse effects on normal breast cells. Our study confirmed the role of sinensetin in breast cancer cells and provided a better understanding of the underlying mechanism.

Phytometabolites as modulators of breast cancer: a comprehensive review of mechanistic insights

Breast cancer (BC) is a highly debilitating malignancy affecting females globally and imposing a substantial burden on healthcare systems in both developed and developing nations. Despite the application of conventional therapeutic modalities such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormonal intervention, BC frequently exhibits resistance, necessitating the urgent development of novel, cost-effective, and accessible treatment strategies. In this context, there is a growing scientific interest in exploring the pharmacological potential of chemical compounds derived from botanical sources, which often exhibit notable biological activity. Extensive in vitro and in vivo investigations have revealed the capacity of these compounds, referred to as phytochemicals, to attenuate the metastatic cascade and reduce the risk of cancer dissemination. These phytochemicals exert their effects through modulation of key molecular and metabolic processes, including regulation of the cell cycle, induction of apoptotic cell death, inhibition of angiogenesis, and suppression of metastatic progression. To shed light on the latest advancements in this field, a comprehensive review of the scientific literature has been conducted, focusing on secondary metabolite agents that have recently been investigated and have demonstrated promising anticancer properties. This review aims to delineate their underlying mechanisms of action and elucidate the associated signaling pathways, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding of their therapeutic potential in the context of BC management.

Esculetin unveiled: Decoding its anti-tumor potential through molecular mechanisms-A comprehensive review

BACKGROUND

The growing complexity of cancer has made it a significant concern in the medical community. Although cancer research has advanced, it is still challenging to create new effective medications due to the limitations and side effects of existing treatment strategies. These are enforcing the development of some alternative drugs from natural compounds with fewer drawbacks and side effects.

AIM

Therefore, this review aims to provide up-to-date, crucial, and all-encompassing data on esculetin's anticancer activity, including all relevant molecular and cellular processes based on in vivo and in vitro investigations.

RESULTS

According to the literature review, esculetin is available in nature and is effective against 16 different types of cancer. The general mechanism shown by esculetin is modulating signaling cascades and its related pathways, like cell proliferation, cell growth, autophagy, apoptosis, necrosis, inflammation, angiogenesis, metastasis, invasion, and DNA damage. Nanoformulation of esculetin improves this natural product's efficacy by improving water solubility. Esculetin's synergistic effects with both natural substances and conventional treatments have been shown, and this method aids in reversing resistance mechanisms by modulating resistance-related proteins. In addition, it has fewer side effects on humans than other phytochemicals and standard drugs with some good pharmacokinetic features.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, until standard chemotherapeutics are available in pharmaceutical markets, esculetin should be used as a therapeutic drug against various cancer types.

Novel Anti-tumor Strategy for Breast Cancer: Synergistic Role of Oleuropein with Paclitaxel Therapeutic in MCF-7 Cells

BACKGROUND

The side effects of conventional therapeutics pose a problem for cancer treatment. Recently, combination treatments with natural compounds have attracted attention regarding limiting the side effects of treatment. Oleuropein is a natural polyphenol in olives that has antioxidant and anticancer effects.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate the oxidative stress effect of a combination of Paclitaxel, a chemotherapeutic agent, and Oleuropein in the MCF-7 cell line.

METHODS

The xCELLigence RTCA method was used to determine the cytotoxic effects of Oleuropein and Paclitaxel in the MCF-7 cell line. The Total Oxidant and Total Antioxidant Status were analyzed using a kit. The Oxidative Stress Index was calculated by measuring Total Oxidant and Total Antioxidant states. The levels of superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione and malondialdehyde, which are oxidative stress markers, were also measured by ELISA assay kit.

RESULTS

As a result of the measurement, IC50 doses of Oleuropein and Paclitaxel were determined as 230 μM and 7.5 μM, respectively. Different percentages of combination ratios were generated from the obtained IC50 values. The effect of oxidative stress was investigated at the combination rates of 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40% which were determined to be synergistic. In terms of the combined use of Oleuropein and Paclitaxel on oxidative stress, antioxidant defense increased, and Oxidative Stress Index levels decreased.

CONCLUSION

These findings demonstrate that the doses administered to the Oleuropein+Paclitaxel combination group were lower than those administered to groups using one agent alone (e.g. Paclitaxel), the results of which reduce the possibility of administering toxic doses.

An Updated Insight into Phytomolecules and Novel Approaches used in the Management of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a widespread condition that kills more women from cancer-related causes than any other type of cancer globally. Women who have estrogen-dependent, initial metastatic breast cancer frequently receive treatment with surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. They may also get more specialized treatments like tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors (anastrozole or letrozole). The World Health Organisation reported in 2012 that by 2030, breast cancer will be more common worldwide. There are several phytochemicals, such as isoflavones, coumestans, lignans, and prenylflavonoides. Isoflavones have been shown in studies to prevent the spread of breast cancer and to trigger apoptosis. Targeting BCs in metastatic breast cancer may be made possible by combining well-formulated phytochemicals in nanoparticles or other novel drug delivery agents with currently accepted endocrine and/or conventional chemotherapies. Cell signaling, regulation of cell cycles, oxidative stress action, and inflammation could be positively impacted by phytoconstituents. They have the ability to alter non-coding RNAs, to prevent the proliferation and regeneration of cancer cells. The availability of novel approaches helps in disease targeting, safety, effectiveness and efficacy. The current literature helps to know the available drugs i.e. phytoconstituents or novel drug delivery like nanoparticle, microsphere, micelles, liposomes and neosomes. The literature has been taken from PubMed, Google Scholar, SciFinder, or other internet sites.

Insights into Zika Virus Pathogenesis and Potential Therapeutic Strategies

Zika virus (ZIKV) has emerged as a significant public health threat, reaching pandemic levels in 2016. Human infection with ZIKV can manifest as either asymptomatic or as an acute illness characterized by symptoms such as fever and headache. Moreover, it has been associated with severe neurological complications in adults, including Guillain-Barre syndrome, and devastating fetal abnormalities, like microcephaly. The primary mode of transmission is through Aedes spp. mosquitoes, and with half of the world's population residing in regions where Aedes aegypti, the principal vector, thrives, the reemergence of ZIKV remains a concern. This comprehensive review provides insights into the pathogenesis of ZIKV and highlights the key cellular pathways activated upon ZIKV infection. Additionally, we explore the potential of utilizing microRNAs (miRNAs) and phytocompounds as promising strategies to combat ZIKV infection.

Natural products derived from medicinal plants and microbes might act as a game-changer in breast cancer: a comprehensive review of preclinical and clinical studies

Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent neoplasm among women. Genetic and environmental factors lead to BC development and on this basis, several preventive - screening and therapeutic interventions have been developed. Hormones, both in the form of endogenous hormonal signaling or hormonal contraceptives, play an important role in BC pathogenesis and progression. On top of these, breast microbiota includes both species with an immunomodulatory activity enhancing the host's response against cancer cells and species producing proinflammatory cytokines associated with BC development. Identification of novel multitargeted therapeutic agents with poly-pharmacological potential is a dire need to combat advanced and metastatic BC. A growing body of research has emphasized the potential of natural compounds derived from medicinal plants and microbial species as complementary BC treatment regimens, including dietary supplements and probiotics. In particular, extracts from plants such as Artemisia monosperma Delile, Origanum dayi Post, Urtica membranacea Poir. ex Savigny, Krameria lappacea (Dombey) Burdet & B.B. Simpson and metabolites extracted from microbes such as Deinococcus radiodurans and Streptomycetes strains as well as probiotics like Bacillus coagulans and Lactobacillus brevis MK05 have exhibited antitumor effects in the form of antiproliferative and cytotoxic activity, increase in tumors' chemosensitivity, antioxidant activity and modulation of BC - associated molecular pathways. Further, bioactive compounds like 3,3'-diindolylmethane, epigallocatechin gallate, genistein, rutin, resveratrol, lycopene, sulforaphane, silibinin, rosmarinic acid, and shikonin are of special interest for the researchers and clinicians because these natural agents have multimodal action and act via multiple ways in managing the BC and most of these agents are regularly available in our food and fruit diets. Evidence from clinical trials suggests that such products had major potential in enhancing the effectiveness of conventional antitumor agents and decreasing their side effects. We here provide a comprehensive review of the therapeutic effects and mechanistic underpinnings of medicinal plants and microbial metabolites in BC management. The future perspectives on the translation of these findings to the personalized treatment of BC are provided and discussed.

Therapeutic Potential of 1,8-Dihydroanthraquinone Derivatives for Breast Cancer

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignancy among women worldwide. In recent years, significant progress has been made in BC therapy. However, serious side effects resulting from the use of standard chemotherapeutic drugs, as well as the phenomenon of multidrug resistance (MDR), limit the effectiveness of approved therapies. Advanced research in the BC area is necessary to create more effective and safer forms of therapy to improve the outlook for individuals diagnosed with this aggressive neoplasm. For decades, plants and natural products with anticancer properties have been successfully utilized in treating various medical conditions. Anthraquinone derivatives are tricyclic secondary metabolites of natural origin that have been identified in plants, lichens, and fungi. They represent a few botanical families, e.g., Rhamnaceae, Rubiaceae, Fabaceae, Polygonaceae, and others. The review comprehensively covers and analyzes the most recent advances in the anticancer activity of 1,8-dihydroanthraquinone derivatives (emodin, aloe-emodin, hypericin, chrysophanol, rhein, and physcion) applied both individually, or in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents, in in vitro and in vivo BC models. The application of nanoparticles for in vitro and in vivo evidence in the context of 1,8-dihydroanthraquinone derivatives was also described.

Effects of Origanum majorana on Breast Cancer Cells: An Alternative to Chemotherapy?

Recent studies have reported several beneficial effects of natural compounds on cancerous cells, highlighting their use for future treatments. These preliminary findings have encouraged experiments with natural substances, such as plant extracts, to examine both cytotoxic and mitogenic effects and find alternative treatments for diseases such as breast cancer. This study examines the effects of microwave-assisted and ethanol maceration of marjoram (Origanum majorana) on MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines and normal breast tissue cell lines used as controls. Marjoram extracts displayed a cytotoxic effect on the MCF-7 cell lines and a mitogenic effect on the control cell lines at the MTS test. The metabolic profiles of MCF-7 and control cell lines were also assessed using the Biolog Phenotype Mammalian Metabolic (PM-M) platform and revealed statistically significant differences in the utilization of energy sources, metabolic activity in the presence of certain ionic species, and responses to metabolic effectors, such as stimulant/catabolic compounds and steroid hormones. Exposure to marjoram extracts exerted positive effects on the MCF-7 cells on the abnormal utilization of energy sources and the responses to metabolic effectors, while no major effects were detected on control cells. These effects were compared to the metabolic impact of the chemotherapeutic agent doxorubicin, which showed profound cytotoxic effects on both cancerous and normal breast cells. In conclusion, our in vitro evidence indicates that marjoram extracts are a promising alternative to chemotherapy in breast cancer since they can successfully eliminate cancerous cells by affecting their metabolic capacity to proliferate without inducing noticeable adverse effects on normal breast tissue.

Unveiling the Anti-Cancer Potential of Onoceranoid Triterpenes from Lansium domesticum Corr. cv. kokosan: An In Silico Study against Estrogen Receptor Alpha

Breast cancer is a significant global concern, with tamoxifen, the standard treatment, raising long-term safety issues due to side effects. In this study, we evaluated the potential of five onoceranoid triterpenes from Lansium domesticum Corr. cv. kokosan against estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) using in silico techniques. Utilizing molecular docking, Lipinski's rule of five, in silico ADMET, and molecular dynamics simulations, we assessed the potency of five onoceranoid triterpenes against ERα. Molecular docking indicated competitive binding energies for these triterpenes relative to the active form of tamoxifen (4OHT) and estradiol, an ERα native ligand. Three triterpenes met drug-likeness criteria with favorable ADMET profiles. Notably, 2 demonstrated superior binding affinity in molecular dynamics simulations, outperforming estradiol, closely followed by 3 and 4. Hierarchical clustering on principal components (HCPC) and the spatial distribution of contact surface area (CSA) analyses suggest that these triterpenes, especially 2, may act as antagonist ligands akin to 4OHT. These findings highlight the potential of onoceranoid triterpenes in treating ERα-related breast cancer.

Glabridin plays dual action to intensify anti-metastatic potential of paclitaxel via impeding CYP2C8 in liver and CYP2J2/EETs in tumor of an orthotopic mouse model of breast cancer

In spite of unprecedented advances in modern cancer therapy, there is still a dearth of targeted therapy to circumvent triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Paclitaxel is the front-line therapy against TNBC, but the main constraints of its treatment are dose-related adverse effects and emerging chemoresistance. In this context, glabridin (phytoconstituent from Glycyrrhiza glabra) is reported to hit multiple signalling pathways at the in-vitro level, but hardly any information is known at the in-vivo level. We aimed here to elucidate glabridin potential with an underlying mechanism in combination with a low dose of paclitaxel using a highly aggressive mouse mammary carcinoma model. Glabridin potentiated the anti-metastatic efficacy of paclitaxel by substantially curtailing tumor burden and diminishing lung nodule formation. Moreover, glabridin remarkably attenuated epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) traits of hostile cancer cells via up-regulating (E-cadherin & occludin) and down-regulating (Vimentin & Zeb1) vital EMT markers. Besides, glabridin amplified apoptotic induction effect of paclitaxel in tumor tissue by declining or elevating pro-apoptotic (Procaspase-9 or Cleaved Caspase-9 & Bax) and reducing anti-apoptotic (Bcl-2) markers. Additionally, concomitant treatment of glabridin and paclitaxel predominantly lessened CYP2J2 expression with marked lowering of epoxyeicosatrienoic acid (EET)'s levels in tumor tissue to reinforce the anti-tumor impact. Simultaneous administration of glabridin with paclitaxel notably enhanced plasma exposure and delayed clearance of paclitaxel, which was mainly arbitrated by CYP2C8-mediated slowdown of paclitaxel metabolism in the liver. The fact of intense CYP2C8 inhibitory action of glabridin was also ascertained using human liver microsomes. Concisely, glabridin plays a dual role in boosting anti-metastatic activity by augmenting paclitaxel exposure via CYP2C8 inhibition-mediated delaying paclitaxel metabolism and limiting tumorigenesis via CYP2J2 inhibition-mediated restricting EETs level. Considering the safety, reported protective efficacy, and the current study results of boosted anti-metastatic effects, further investigations are warranted as a promising neoadjuvant therapy for crux paclitaxel chemoresistance and cancer recurrence.

Betulinic acid in the treatment of breast cancer: Application and mechanism progress

Betulinic acid (BA) is a pentacyclic triterpene compound, which can be obtained by separation, chemical synthesis and biotransformation. BA has excellent biological activities, especially its role in the treatment of breast cancer deserves attention. Its mechanisms mainly include inducing mitochondrial oxidative stress, regulating specific protein (Sp) transcription factors, inhibiting breast cancer metastasis, inhibiting glucose metabolism and NF-κB pathway. In addition, BA can also increase the sensitivity of breast cancer cells to other chemotherapy drugs such as paclitaxel and reduce its toxic side effects. This article reviews the application and possible mechanism of BA in the treatment of breast cancer.

Synergistic Effects of New Curcumin Analog (PAC) and Cisplatin on Oral Cancer Therapy

Oral cancer has traditionally been treated with surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these therapies. Although cisplatin, a chemotherapy drug, can effectively kill oral cancer cells by forming DNA adducts, its clinical use is limited due to adverse effects and chemo-resistance. Therefore, there is a need to develop new, targeted anticancer drugs to complement chemotherapy, allowing for reduced cisplatin doses and minimizing adverse effects. Recent studies have shown that 3,5-Bis (4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzylidene)-N-methyl-4-piperidine (PAC), a new curcumin analog, possesses anticancer properties and could be considered a complementary or alternative therapy. In this study, we aimed to assess the potential complementary effects of PAC in combination with cisplatin for treating oral cancer. We conducted experiments using oral cancer cell lines (Ca9-22) treated with different concentrations of cisplatin (ranging from 0.1 μM to 1 μM), either alone or in conjunction with PAC (2.5 and 5 μM). Cell growth was measured using the MTT assay, while cell cytotoxicity was evaluated using an LDH assay. Propidium iodide and annexin V staining were employed to examine the impact on cell apoptosis. Flow cytometry was used to investigate the effects of the PAC/cisplatin combination on cancer cell autophagy, oxidative stress, and DNA damage. Additionally, a Western Blot analysis was performed to assess the influence of this combination on pro-carcinogenic proteins involved in various signaling pathways. The results demonstrated that PAC enhanced the efficacy of cisplatin in a dose-dependent manner, leading to a significant inhibition of oral cancer cell proliferation. Importantly, treatment with PAC (5 μM) alongside different concentrations of cisplatin reduced the IC50 of cisplatin tenfold. Combining these two agents increased apoptosis by further inducing caspase activity. In addition, the concomitant use of PAC and cisplatin enhances oral cancer cell autophagy, ROS, and MitoSOX production. However, combined PAC with cisplatin inhibits the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), which is a marker for cell viability. Finally, this combination further enhances the inhibition of oral cancer cell migration via the inhibition of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition genes, such as E-cadherin. We demonstrated that the combination of PAC and cisplatin markedly enhanced oral cancer cell death by inducing apoptosis, autophagy, and oxidative stress. The data presented indicate that PAC has the potential to serve as a powerful complementary agent to cisplatin in the treatment of gingival squamous cell carcinomas.

Anti-proliferative, apoptosis inducing, and antioxidant potential of Callistemon lanceolatus bark extracts: an in vitro and in silico study

The present study reports anticancer and antioxidant activities of Callistemon lanceolatus bark extracts. Anticancer activity was studied against MDA-MB-231 cells. Antioxidant assessment of the chloroform and methanol extracts showed considerable free radical scavenging, metal ion chelating, and reducing power potential. Chloroform extract exhibited potent inhibition of cancer cell proliferation in MTT assay (IC₅₀ 9.6 μg/ml) and promoted programmed cell death. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondria membrane potential (MMP) disruption ability, and nuclear morphology changes were studied using H₂-DCFDA, JC-1, and Hoechst dyes, respectively, using confocal microscopy. Apoptotic cells exhibited fragmented nuclei, increased ROS generation, and altered MMP in dose- and time-dependent manner. Chloroform extract upregulated the BAX-1 and CASP3 mRNA expression coupled with downregulation of BCL-2 gene. Further, in silico docking of phytochemicals present in C. lanceolatus with anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein endorsed apoptosis by its inhibition and thus corroborated the experimental findings. Obatoclax, a known inhibitor of Bcl-2 was used as a reference compounds.

Anticancer Therapeutic Effects of Green Tea Catechins (GTCs) When Integrated with Antioxidant Natural Components

After decades of research and development concerning cancer treatment, cancer is still at large and very much a threat to the global human population. Cancer remedies have been sought from all possible directions, including chemicals, irradiation, nanomaterials, natural compounds, and the like. In this current review, we surveyed the milestones achieved by green tea catechins and what has been accomplished in cancer therapy. Specifically, we have assessed the synergistic anticarcinogenic effects when green tea catechins (GTCs) are combined with other antioxidant-rich natural compounds. Living in an age of inadequacies, combinatorial approaches are gaining momentum, and GTCs have progressed much, yet there are insufficiencies that can be improvised when combined with natural antioxidant compounds. This review highlights that there are not many reports in this specific area and encourages and recommends research attention in this direction. The antioxidant/prooxidant mechanisms of GTCs have also been highlighted. The current scenario and the future of such combinatorial approaches have been addressed, and the lacunae in this aspect have been discussed.

Effect of evernic acid on human breast cancer MCF-7 and MDA-MB-453 cell lines via thioredoxin reductase 1: A molecular approach

Thioredoxin reductase 1 (TrxR1) has emerged as an important target for anticancer drug development due to its overexpression in many human tumors including breast cancer. Due to the serious side effects of currently used commercial anticancer drugs, new natural compounds with very few side effects and high efficacy are of great importance in cancer treatment. Lichen secondary metabolites, known as natural compounds, have diverse biological properties, including antioxidant and anticancer activities. Herein, we aimed to determine the potential antiproliferative, antimigratory, and apoptotic effects of evernic acid, a lichen secondary metabolite, on breast cancer MCF-7 and MDA-MB-453 cell lines and afterward to investigate whether its anticancer effect is exerted by TrxR1-targeting. The cytotoxicity results indicated that evernic acid suppressed the proliferation of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-453 cells in a dose-dependent manner and the IC₅₀ values were calculated as 33.79 and 121.40 μg/mL, respectively. Migration assay results revealed the notable antimigratory ability of evernic acid against both cell types. The expression of apoptotic markers Bcl2 associated X, apoptosis regulator, Bcl2 apoptosis regulator, and tumor protein p53 by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis showed that evernic acid did not induce apoptosis in both cell lines, consistent with flow cytometry results. Evernic acid showed its anticancer effect via inhibiting TrxR1 enzyme activity rather than mRNA and protein expression levels in both cell lines. In conclusion, these findings suggest that evernic acid has the potential to be evaluated as a therapeutic agent in breast cancer treatment.

M, K M, Dey T, Zargar MI, Singh J. Recent advance of herbal medicines in cancer- a molecular approach

Bioactive compounds are crucial for an extensive range of therapeutic uses, and some exhibit anticancer activity. Scientists advocate that phytochemicals modulate autophagy and apoptosis, involved in the underlying pathobiology of cancer development and regulation. The pharmacological aiming of the autophagy-apoptosis signaling pathway using phytocompounds hence offers an auspicious method that is complementary to conventional cancer chemotherapy. The current review aims to explore the molecular level of the autophagic-apoptotic pathway to know its implication in the pathobiology of cancer and explore the essential cellular process as a druggable anticancer target and therapeutic emergence of naturally derived phytocompound-based anticancer agents. The data in the review were collected from scientific databases such as Google search, Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Medline, and Clinical Trials. With a broad outlook, we investigated their cutting-edge scientifically revealed and/or searched pharmacologic effects, a novel mechanism of action, and molecular signaling pathway of phytochemicals in cancer therapy. In this review, the evidence is focused on molecular pharmacology, specifically caspase, Nrf2, NF-kB, autophagic-apoptotic pathway, and several mechanisms to understand their role in cancer biology.

Exploration of the Use of Natural Compounds in Combination with Chemotherapy Drugs for Tumor Treatment

Currently, chemotherapy is the main treatment for tumors, but there are still problems such as unsatisfactory chemotherapy results, susceptibility to drug resistance, and serious adverse effects. Natural compounds have numerous pharmacological activities which are important sources of drug discovery for tumor treatment. The combination of chemotherapeutic drugs and natural compounds is gradually becoming an important strategy and development direction for tumor treatment. In this paper, we described the role of natural compounds in combination with chemotherapeutic drugs in synergizing, reducing drug resistance, mitigating adverse effects and related mechanisms, and providing new insights for future oncology research.

Molecular Aspects and Therapeutic Implications of Herbal Compounds Targeting Different Types of Cancer

Due to genetic changes in DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) sequences, cancer continues to be the second most prevalent cause of death. The traditional target-directed approach, which is confronted with the importance of target function in healthy cells, is one of the most significant challenges in anticancer research. Another problem with cancer cells is that they experience various mutations, changes in gene duplication, and chromosomal abnormalities, all of which have a direct influence on the potency of anticancer drugs at different developmental stages. All of these factors combine to make cancer medication development difficult, with low clinical licensure success rates when compared to other therapy categories. The current review focuses on the pathophysiology and molecular aspects of common cancer types. Currently, the available chemotherapeutic drugs, also known as combination chemotherapy, are associated with numerous adverse effects, resulting in the search for herbal-based alternatives that attenuate resistance due to cancer therapy and exert chemo-protective actions. To provide new insights, this review updated the list of key compounds that may enhance the efficacy of cancer treatment.

Targeting Estrogen Signaling in the Radiation-induced Neurodegeneration: A Possible Role of Phytoestrogens

Radiation for medical use is a well-established therapeutic method with an excellent prognosis rate for various cancer treatments. Unfortunately, a high dose of radiation therapy comes with its own share of side effects, causing radiation-induced non-specific cellular toxicity; consequently, a large percentage of treated patients suffer from chronic effects during the treatment and even after the post-treatment. Accumulating data evidenced that radiation exposure to the brain can alter the diverse cognitive-related signaling and cause progressive neurodegeneration in patients because of elevated oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and loss of neurogenesis. Epidemiological studies suggested the beneficial effect of hormonal therapy using estrogen in slowing down the progression of various neuropathologies. Despite its primary function as a sex hormone, estrogen is also renowned for its neuroprotective activity and could manage radiation-induced side effects as it regulates many hallmarks of neurodegenerations. Thus, treatment with estrogen and estrogen-like molecules or modulators, including phytoestrogens, might be a potential approach capable of neuroprotection in radiation-induced brain degeneration. This review summarized the molecular mechanisms of radiation effects and estrogen signaling in the manifestation of neurodegeneration and highlighted the current evidence on the phytoestrogen mediated protective effect against radiationinduced brain injury. This existing knowledge points towards a new area to expand to identify the possible alternative therapy that can be taken with radiation therapy as adjuvants to improve patients' quality of life with compromised cognitive function.

In Vitro Anticancer Activity of Methanolic Extract of Justicia adhatoda Leaves with Special Emphasis on Human Breast Cancer Cell Line

Natural products are being targeted as alternative anticancer agents due to their non-toxic and safe nature. The present study was conducted to explore the in vitro anticancer potential of Justicia adhatoda (J. adhatoda) leaf extract. The methanolic leaf extract was prepared, and the phytochemicals and antioxidant potential were determined by LCMS analysis and DPPH radical scavenging assay, respectively. A docking study performed with five major alkaloidal phytoconstituents showed that they had a good binding affinity towards the active site of NF-κB. Cell viability assay was carried out in five different cell lines, and the extract exhibited the highest cytotoxicity in MCF-7, a breast cancer cell line. Extract-treated cells showed a significant increase in nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species production. Cell cycle analysis showed an arrest in cell growth at the Sub-G0 phase. The extract successfully inhibited cell migration and colony formation and altered mitochondrial membrane potential. The activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione were also found to decrease in a dose-dependent manner. The percentage of apoptotic cells was found to increase in a dose-dependent manner in MCF-7 cells. The expressions of caspase-3, Bax, and cleaved-PARP were increased in extract-treated cells. An increase in the expression of NF-κB was found in the cytoplasm in extract-treated cells. J. adhatoda leaf extract showed a potential anticancer effect in MCF-7 cells.

In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation of the Effectiveness and Safety of Amygdalin as a Cancer Therapy

Cancer is one of the most important causes of death worldwide. Several studies have shown the efficacy of apricot kernel seed as a cancer therapy due to the presence of amygdalin. These studies have demonstrated amygdalin's cytotoxicity, antioxidant activity, and apoptosis in vitro using human cancer cell lines. However, no studies have demonstrated their cancer activity in vivo. The aim of this study is to develop an amygdalin-loaded niosomes (ALN) gel formulation as a drug delivery system in order to investigate the selectivity, efficacy, and toxicity of amygdalin as a cancer therapy in vivo using the 7,12-dimethylbenz (a) anthracene (DMBA) carcinoma rat model. Based on pre-formulation studies, the ALN formulation composed of Tween 60: cholesterol: dihexadecyl phosphate in a molar ratio of 1:2:0.1 was chosen as an optimum formulation because it has a percent of EE of 66.52% with a particle size of 269.3 nm and a reflux of 3.54 µg.cm^-2.h^-1. The ALN gel formulation was integrated into carbopol gel to be evaluated in vivo. Compared to DMBA control, treatment with ALN gel showed a reduction in the carcinoma volume and in the hyperplasia of the epidermis with no signs of edema. In conclusion, the ALN gel formulation could be an efficient cancer therapy.

Frankincense oil-loaded nanoemulsion formulation of paclitaxel and erucin: A synergistic combination for ameliorating drug resistance in breast cancer: In vitro and in vivo study

Nanoformulation-based combinational drug delivery systems are well known to overcome drug resistance in cancer management. Among them, nanoemulsions are well-known and thermodynamically stable drug delivery systems suitable for carrying hydrophobic drugs and phytoconstituents to tackle drug-resistant cancers. In the present study, we have investigated the effect of paclitaxel in combination with erucin (natural isothiocyanate isolated from the seeds of Eruca sativa) loaded in the frankincense oil-based nanoemulsion formulation. The choice of frankincense oil for the current study was based on reported research investigations stating its magnificient therapeutic potential against breast cancer. Optimized nanoemulsion of paclitaxel (PTX) and erucin (ER) combination (EPNE) provided sustained release and exhibited enhanced cytotoxicity towards human epithelial breast cancer cells (T-47D) as compared to individual ER and PTX. EPNE was further assessed for its antitumor activity in the 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)-induced breast cancer mice model. EPNE significantly decreased the levels of hepatic and renal parameters along with oxidative stress in breast cancer mice. Furthermore, EPNE also showed decreased levels of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6. Histopathological examinations revealed restoration of the tumorous breast to normal tissues in EPNE-treated breast cancer mice. Therefore, EPNE can act as a viable lead and therapeutic option for drug-resistant breast cancer.

Apoptosis-mediated anti-proliferative activity of Calligonum comosum against human breast cancer cells, and molecular docking of its major polyphenolics to Caspase-3

Due to poor diagnosis breast cancer in women has emerged as the most common cause of death disease in developing countries. Medicinal plants have been used for thousands of years and can be useful in healthcare, especially in developing countries. Ethanol extracts of leaves of fire bush or arta (Calligonum comosum; EECC), exhibited significant anticancer potencies against two breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7 and MDA 231. These in vitro effects of EECC indicated potential anticancer activities that were determined to be specific since minimal toxicity was recorded against MCF-12, a non-cancerous breast cell line used as a reference. EECC also induced cell cycle arrest in MCF-7 and MDA 231 as revealed by the increased proportions of sub-G1 cells. Fluorescence-activated cell sorter analysis (FACS), utilizing double staining by annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide, revealed that the observed cytotoxic effects were mediated via apoptosis and necrosis. FACS measurement of thegreater in fluorescence intensity, linked with oxidation of DCFH to DCF, revealed that apoptosis was attributable to production of free radicals. EECC-mediated apoptosis was further validated by observation of up-regulation in the “executioner” enzyme, caspase 3. The current findings reveal that EECC exhibits significant, selective cytotoxicity to breast cancer cells, that proceeds via the generation of ROS, which culminates in apoptosis. The anti-proliferative effects of EECC weres further verified by use of a structure-based, virtual screening between its major bioactive polyphenolic constituents and the apoptosis executioner marker enzyme, caspase-3. Based on their glide score values against the active site of caspase 3, some phyto-constituents present in EECC, such as DL-alpha-tocopherol and campesterol, exhibited distinctive, drug-like potential with no predicted toxicity to non-target cells. Taken together, the usefulness of natural phenolic and flavonoid compounds contained in Calligonum comosum were suggested to be potent anticancer agents.

Achillea fragrantissima (Forssk.) Sch.Bip Flower Dichloromethane Extract Exerts Anti-Proliferative and Pro-Apoptotic Properties in Human Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (MDA-MB-231) Cells: In Vitro and In Silico Studies

The aggressive triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a challenging disease due to the absence of tailored therapy. The search for new therapies involves intensive research focusing on natural sources. Achillea fragrantissima (A. fragrantissima) is a traditional medicine from the Middle East region. Various solvent extracts from different A. fragrantissima plant parts, including flowers, leaves, and roots, were tested on TNBC MDA-MB-231 cells. Using liquid chromatography, the fingerprinting revealed rich and diverse compositions for A. fragrantissima plant parts using polar to non-polar solvent extracts indicating possible differences in bioactivities. Using the CellTiter-Glo™ viability assay, the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) values were determined for each extract and ranged from 32.4 to 161.7 µg/mL. The A. fragrantissima flower dichloromethane extract had the lowest mean IC₅₀ value and was chosen for further investigation. Upon treatment with increasing A. fragrantissima flower dichloromethane extract concentrations, the MDA-MB-231 cells displayed, in a dose-dependent manner, enhanced morphological and biochemical hallmarks of apoptosis, including cell shrinkage, phosphatidylserine exposure, caspase activity, and mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization, assessed using phase-contrast microscopy, fluorescence-activated single-cell sorting analysis, Image-iT™ live caspase, and mitochondrial transition pore opening activity, respectively. Anticancer target prediction and molecular docking studies revealed the inhibitory activity of a few A. fragrantissima flower dichloromethane extract-derived metabolites against carbonic anhydrase IX, an enzyme reported for its anti-apoptotic properties. In conclusion, these findings suggest promising therapeutic values of the A. fragrantissima flower dichloromethane extract against TNBC development.

Optimized Apamin-Mediated Nano-Lipidic Carrier Potentially Enhances the Cytotoxicity of Ellagic Acid against Human Breast Cancer Cells

Ellagic acid has recently attracted increasing attention regarding its role in the prevention and treatment of cancer. Surface functionalized nanocarriers have been recently studied for enhancing cancer cells’ penetration and achieving better tumor-targeted delivery of active ingredients. Therefore, the present work aimed at investigating the potential of APA-functionalized emulsomes (EGA-EML-APA) for enhancing cytototoxic activity of EGA against human breast cancer cells. Phospholipon^® 90 G: cholesterol molar ratio (PC: CH; X₁, mole/mole), Phospholipon^® 90 G: Tristearin weight ratio (PC: TS; X₂, w/w) and apamin molar concentration (APA conc.; X₃, mM) were considered as independent variables, while vesicle size (VS, Y₁, nm) and zeta potential (ZP, Y₂, mV) were studied as responses. The optimized formulation with minimized vs. and maximized absolute ZP was predicted successfully utilizing a numerical technique. EGA-EML-APA exhibited a significant cytotoxic effect with an IC₅₀ value of 5.472 ± 0.21 µg/mL compared to the obtained value from the free drug 9.09 ± 0.34 µg/mL. Cell cycle profile showed that the optimized formulation arrested MCF-7 cells at G2/M and S phases. In addition, it showed a significant apoptotic activity against MCF-7 cells by upregulating the expression of p53, bax and casp3 and downregulating bcl2. Furthermore, NF-κB activity was abolished while the expression of TNfα was increased confirming the significant apoptotic effect of EGA-EML-APA. In conclusion, apamin-functionalized emulsomes have been successfully proposed as a potential anti-breast cancer formulation.

Herbal Ingredients in the Prevention of Breast Cancer: Comprehensive Review of Potential Molecular Targets and Role of Natural Products

Among various cancers, breast cancer is the most prevalent type in women throughout the world. Breast cancer treatment is challenging due to complex nature of the etiology of disease. Cell division cycle alterations are often encountered in a variety of cancer types including breast cancer. Common treatments include chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy, and hormonal therapy; however, adverse effects and multidrug resistance lead to complications and noncompliance. Accordingly, there is an increasing demand for natural products from medicinal plants and foods. This review summarizes molecular mechanisms of signaling pathways in breast cancer and identifies mechanisms by which natural compounds may exert their efficacy in the treatment of breast cancer.

Anticancer effects of carboxymethylated (1→3)(1→6)-β-D-glucan (botryosphaeran) on multicellular tumor spheroids of MCF-7 cells as a model of breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer worldwide among the female population. The fungal exopolysaccharide botryosphaeran is a (1→3)(1→6)-β-D-glucan with limited solubility in water that can be promoted through carboxymethylation. Thus, the aim of this study was to examine in-vitro anticancer effects of carboxymethylated-botryosphaeran (CM-BOT) on breast cancer MCF-7 cells cultivated in multicellular tumor spheroids (MCTS). CM-BOT (≥ 600 µ/ml) decreased the viability (resazurin assay) of MCF-7 grown in monolayers after 24 hr incubation. Although CM-BOT did not markedly alter viability of MCTS in the resazurin assay after 24, 48 or 72 hr, CM-BOT ≥ 600 µg/ml produced cell-death by apoptosis after 72 hr utilizing the triple staining assay and labeling dead cells with propidium iodide, which can also be visualized on the architecture of MCTS. CM-BOT (1000 µg/ml) inhibited cell proliferation, which resulted in MCTSs with smaller diameters than controls. CM-BOT at all concentrations examined decreased the ability of MCF-7 to form colonies and to migrate in the extracellular matrix. This is the first report using MCTS-architecture to study anti-tumor effects of β-glucans. Our findings are important in the search for compounds for use in breast cancer therapy, or as adjuvants in reducing the adverse effects of mammary tumor chemotherapy.

Mushroom Polysaccharide-Assisted Anticarcinogenic Mycotherapy: Reviewing Its Clinical Trials

Of the biologically active components, polysaccharides play a crucial role of high medical and pharmaceutical significance. Mushrooms have existed for a long time, dating back to the time of the Ancient Egypt and continue to be well explored globally and experimented with in research as well as in national and international cuisines. Mushroom polysaccharides have slowly become valuable sources of nutraceuticals which have been able to treat various diseases and disorders in humans. The application of mushroom polysaccharides for anticancer mycotherapy is what is being reviewed herein. The widespread health benefits of mushroom polysaccharides have been highlighted and the significant inputs of mushroom-based polysaccharides in anticancer clinical trials have been presented. The challenges and limitation of mushroom polysaccharides into this application and the gaps in the current application areas that could be the future direction have been discussed.

Hypolipidemic Activity of Olive Oil-Based Nanostructured Lipid Carrier Containing Atorvastatin

Currently, hyperlipidemia is a growing health issue that is considered a risk factor for obesity. Controlling body weight and modifying life style in most of cases are not adequate and the condition requires medical treatment. Statin drugs (mainly Atorvastatin (ATO)), have been used broadly and for long time as medications for handling higher levels of lipid, especially bad cholesterol, which accordingly controls the prevalence of obesity. Still, the obstacle that stands in front of any formulation is the poor solubility of the drug. Low solubility of ATO came up with poor absorption as well as poor bioavailability. This paved the way for the present study, which aimed to exploit nanotechnology and develop certain nanolipid carriers that could accommodate hydrophobic drugs, such as ATO. Nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) containing ATO was fabricated using olive oil. Olive oil is natural plant oil possessing confirmed hypolipidemic activity that would help in improving the efficacy of the formulation. Via applying the Quality by Design (QbD) approach, one NLC formula was selected to be optimized based on appropriate size and higher entrapment. Optimized ATO-NLC was scrutinized for zeta potential, in vitro study and kinetic profile. Moreover, stability testing and in vivo hypolipidemic behavior was conducted. The optimized NLC formulation seemed to show particle size (254.23 nm) with neutral zeta potential (−1.77 mV) and entrapment efficiency (69.56%). The formulation could be prolonged for 12 h and provided higher % of release (97.17%). Stability testing confirmed the role of modifying the surface of the formulation with PEG-DSPE in providing a highly stable formulation that could withstand three months storage in two altered conditions. Ultimately, optimized ATO-NLC could successfully lower total cholesterol level in rats induced with obesity and fed a high-fat diet. Remarkably, ATO-NLC prepared with olive oil, in addition to shielding its surface, would provide a stable formulation that holds up the synergistic action between olive oil and ATO.

Chemotherapeutics activities of dietary phytoestrogens against prostate cancer: From observational to clinical studies

Prostate cancer remains one of the most frequent and deadliest malignancies in males, where the rate of disease progression is closely associated with the type of dietary intake, specifically Western-style diet. Indeed intake of the Asian diet, which contains abundant phytoestrogens, is inversely correlated with a higher risk of prostate cancer, suggesting a chemoprotective effect of phytoestrogen against cancer progression. Although the role of phytoestrogens in cancer treatment was well documented, their impact on prostate cancer is not well understood. Therefore, the present review discusses the possible chemopreventive effect of phytoestrogens, emphasizing their efficacy at the different stages of carcinogenesis. Furthermore, phytoestrogens provide a cytoprotective effect in conventional chemotherapy and enhance chemosensitivity to tumor cells, which have also been discussed. This compilation provides a solid basis for future research on phytoestrogens as a promising avenue for anticancer drug development and also recommends these beneficiary compounds in the daily diet to manage and prevent prostate cancer.

A Review of Twenty Years of Research on the Regulation of Signaling Pathways by Natural Products in Breast Cancer

Breast cancer (BC) is the second leading cause of death among women, and it has become a global health issue due to the increasing number of cases. Different treatment options, including radiotherapy, surgery, chemotherapy and anti-estrogen therapy, aromatase inhibitors, anti-angiogenesis drugs, and anthracyclines, are available for BC treatment. However, due to its high occurrence and disease progression, effective therapeutic options for metastatic BC are still lacking. Considering this scenario, there is an urgent need for an effective therapeutic strategy to meet the current challenges of BC. Natural products have been screened as anticancer agents as they are cost-effective, possess low toxicity and fewer side effects, and are considered alternative therapeutic options for BC therapy. Natural products showed anticancer activities against BC through the inhibition of angiogenesis, cell migrations, proliferations, and tumor growth; cell cycle arrest by inducing apoptosis and cell death, the downstream regulation of signaling pathways (such as Notch, NF-κB, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, MAPK/ERK, and NFAT-MDM2), and the regulation of EMT processes. Natural products also acted synergistically to overcome the drug resistance issue, thus improving their efficacy as an emerging therapeutic option for BC therapy. This review focused on the emerging roles of novel natural products and derived bioactive compounds as therapeutic agents against BC. The present review also discussed the mechanism of action through signaling pathways and the synergistic approach of natural compounds to improve their efficacy. We discussed the recent in vivo and in vitro studies for exploring the overexpression of oncogenes in the case of BC and the current status of newly discovered natural products in clinical investigations.

Polyphenol Extract from "Greco" Grape Canes: Characterization, Antioxidant Capacity, and Antitumor Effects on Cal-33 and JHU-SCC-011 Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

In the current study, we determined the antioxidant properties of "Greco" grape cane extracts, a typical cultivar of southern Italy. We also explored the anticancer activity of the polyphenol-rich fraction of the extract on head and neck squamous carcinoma cells (HNSCC) and investigated the underlying mechanism. Aqueous extracts were prepared at different pHs and extraction times and the total phenolic and reducing sugar contents were estimated. Radical Scavenging Activity (RSA), Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP), and Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) of the extracts were measured. A polyphenol-rich fraction, accounting for 6.7% by weight and characterized mainly by procyanidins and stilbenoids, was prepared from the extract obtained at pH 7 for 60 min. We demonstrated that the extract exerted a cytotoxic effect on HNSCC cell lines by inducing cell cycle arrest via cyclin downregulation and p21 upregulation, and by triggering apoptosis through caspase cascade activation, PARP-1 cleavage, and an increase in the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. We furnished evidence that the polyphenol-rich fraction played the major role in the anticancer activity of the extract. These outcomes highlighted grape canes from the "Greco" cultivar as a valuable source of polyphenols that may represent good candidates for the design of innovative adjuvant therapies in the treatment of HNSCC.

In Vitro Cytotoxic Activity and Phytochemical Characterization (UPLC/T-TOF-MS/MS) of the Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) Rind Extract

Reusing food waste is becoming popular in pharmaceutical industries. Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) rind is commonly discarded as a major solid waste. Here, the in vitro cytotoxic potential of watermelon rind extracts was screened against a panel of human cancer cell lines. Cell cycle analysis was used to determine the induction of cell death, whereas annexin V-FITC binding, caspase-3, BAX, and BCL-2 mRNA expression levels were used to determine the degree of apoptosis. VEGF-promoting angiogenesis and cell migration were also evaluated. Moreover, the identification of phytoconstituents in the rind extract was achieved using UPLC/T-TOF-MS/MS, and a total of 45 bioactive compounds were detected, including phenolic acids, flavonoids aglycones, and their glycoside derivatives. The tested watermelon rind extracts suppressed cell proliferation in seven cancer cell lines in a concentration-dependent manner. The cytotoxicity of the rind aqueous extract (RAE) was higher compared with that of the other extracts. In addition to a substantial inhibitory effect on cell migration, the RAE triggered apoptosis in HCT116 and Hep2 cells by driving the accumulation of cells in the S phase and elevating the activity of caspase-3 and the BAX/BCL-2 ratio. Thus, a complete phytochemical and cytotoxic investigation of the Citrullus lanatus rind extract may identify its potential potency as an anticancer agent.

Synergistic Effect of Quercetin Magnetite Nanoparticles and Targeted Radiotherapy in Treatment of Breast Cancer

Quercetin is a potent cancer therapeutic agent present in fruits and vegetables. The pharmaceutical uses of quercetin are limited due to many problems associated with low solubility, bioavailability, permeability, and instability. In addition, the high doses of quercetin show toxic effects in clinical and experimental studies. Therefore, a new strategy is warranted to overcome these problems without the use of toxic doses. The iron oxide nanoparticles can be used as a drug delivery system. This study aimed to prepare quercetin-conjugated magnetite nanoparticles (QMNPs) using biological simple nanoprecipitation and mediated by fungus Aspergillus oryzae. Also, we initiated in vitro and in vivo studies to determine whether QMNPs might sensitize breast cancer to radiotherapy treatment. The structural, morphological, and magnetic properties of the prepared nanoparticles were studied. The results indicated that QMNPs were spherical in shape and 40 nm in diameter. The in vitro studies showed that the incubation of MCF-7, HePG-2, and A459 cancer cells with QMNPs for 24 h effectively inhibited the growth of cancer cell lines in a concentration-dependent manner with IC50 values of 11, 77.5, and104 nmol/mL, respectively. The combination of QMNPs with irradiation (IR) potently blocked MCF-7 cancer cell proliferation and showed significant changes in the morphology of these cells as observed by bright-field inverted light microscopy. Focusing on the long-term toxicity of QMNPs (20 ml/kg), the assessment of hematological, hepatic, and renal markers indicated no toxic effect. Besides, QMNPs inhibited tumor growth and potently enhanced the lateral radiotherapy treatment in N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU)-induced breast cancer in female white albino rats. These anticancer and radiosensitizing activities were ascribed to cytotoxicity, cell cycle arrest, immunomodulation, and efficiency through induction of apoptosis. In a conclusion, these observations suggest that the QMNPs combined with LRT could act as a potential targeted therapy in breast cancer.

Anticancer properties of medicinal plants and their bioactive compounds against breast cancer: a review on recent investigations

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common and recurring diseases and the second leading cause of death in women. Despite prevention, diagnostics, and therapeutic options such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, the number of occurrences increases every year. Therefore, novel therapeutic drugs targeting specifically different checkpoints should be developed against breast cancer. Among drugs that can be developed to treat breast cancer, natural products, such as plant-derived compounds, showed significant anti-breast cancer properties. These substances belong to different chemical classes such as flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolic acids, and alkaloids. They exert their in vitro and in vivo cytotoxic activities against breast cancer cell lines via different mechanisms, including the inhibition of extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways, the arrest of the cell cycle, and the activation of autophagy. Moreover, they also exhibit anti-angiogenesis and antimetastatic action. Moreover, chemoprevention effects of these bioactive compounds were signaled only for certain drugs. Therefore, the aim of this review is to highlight the pharmacological actions of medicinal plants and their bioactive compounds on breast cancer. Moreover, the role of these substances in breast cancer chemoprevention was also discussed.

Cancer Chemotherapy via Natural Bioactive Compounds

BACKGROUND

Cancer-induced mortality is increasingly prevalent globally which skyrocketed the necessity to discover new/novel safe and effective anticancer drugs. Cancer is characterized by the continuous multiplication of cells in the human which is unable to control. Scientific research is drawing its attention towards naturally-derived bioactive compounds as they have fewer side effects compared to the current synthetic drugs used for chemotherapy.

OBJECTIVE

Drugs isolated from natural sources and their role in the manipulation of epigenetic markers in cancer are discussed briefly in this review article.

METHODS

With advancing medicinal plant biotechnology and microbiology in the past century, several anticancer phytomedicines were developed. Modern pharmacopeia contains at least 25% herbal-based remedy including clinically used anticancer drugs. These drugs mainly include the podophyllotoxin derivatives vinca alkaloids, curcumin, mistletoe plant extracts, taxanes, camptothecin, combretastatin, and others including colchicine, artesunate, homoharringtonine, ellipticine, roscovitine, maytanasin, tapsigargin,andbruceantin.

RESULTS

Compounds (psammaplin, didemnin, dolastin, ecteinascidin,and halichondrin) isolated from marine sources and animals such as microalgae, cyanobacteria, heterotrophic bacteria, invertebrates. They have been evaluated for their anticancer activity on cells and experimental animal models and used chemotherapy.Drug induced manipulation of epigenetic markers plays an important role in the treatment of cancer.

CONCLUSION

The development of a new drug from isolated bioactive compounds of plant sources has been a feasible way to lower the toxicity and increase their effectiveness against cancer. Potential anticancer therapeutic leads obtained from various ethnomedicinal plants, foods, marine, and microorganisms are showing effective yet realistically safe pharmacological activity. This review will highlight important plant-based bioactive compounds like curcumin, stilbenes, terpenes, other polyphenolic phyto-compounds, and structurally related families that are used to prevent/ ameliorate cancer. However, a contribution from all possible fields of science is still a prerequisite for discovering safe and effective anticancer drugs.

Myricetin induces apoptosis through the MAPK pathway and regulates JNK‑mediated autophagy in SK‑BR‑3 cells

Myricetin, a flavonoid found in fruits and vegetables, is known to have antioxidant and anticancer effects. However, the anticancer effects of myricetin on SK-BR-3 human breast cancer cells have not been elucidated. In the present study, the anticancer effects of myricetin were confirmed in human breast cancer SK-BR-3 cells. As the concentration of myricetin increased, the cell viability decreased. DAPI (4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole) and Annexin V/PI staining also revealed a significant increase in apoptotic bodies and apoptosis. Western blot analysis was performed to confirm the myricetin-induced expression of apoptosis-related proteins. The levels of cleaved PARP and Bax proteins were increased, and that of Bcl-2 was decreased. The levels of proteins in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway were examined to confirm the mechanism of myricetin-induced apoptosis, and it was found that the expression levels of phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal kinase (p-JNK) and phosphorylated mitogen-activated protein kinases (p-p38) were increased, whereas that of phosphorylated extracellular-regulated kinase (p-ERK) was decreased. It was also demonstrated that myricetin induced autophagy by promoting autophagy-related proteins such as microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3 (LC 3) and beclin 1. In addition, 3-methyladenine (3-MA) was used to evaluate the association between cell viability and autophagy in cells treated with myricetin. The results showed that simultaneous treatment with 3-MA and myricetin promoted the apoptosis of breast cancer cells. Furthermore, treatment with a JNK inhibitor reduced cell viability, promoted Bax expression, and reduced the expression of p-JNK, Bcl-2, and LC 3-II/I. These results suggest that myricetin induces apoptosis via the MAPK pathway and regulates JNK-mediated autophagy in SK-BR-3 cells. In conclusion, myricetin shows potential as a natural anticancer agent in SK-BR-3 cells.

Genistein, a Potential Phytochemical against Breast Cancer Treatment-Insight into the Molecular Mechanisms

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common malignancies in women. Although widespread successful synthetic drugs are available, natural compounds can also be considered as significant anticancer agents for treating BC. Some natural compounds have similar effects as synthetic drugs with fewer side effects on normal cells. Therefore, we aimed to unravel and analyze several molecular mechanisms of genistein (GNT) against BC. GNT is a type of dietary phytoestrogen included in the flavonoid group with a similar structure to estrogen that might provide a strong alternative and complementary medicine to existing chemotherapeutic drugs. Previous research reported that GNT could target the estrogen receptor (ER) human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) and several signaling molecules against multiple BC cell lines and sensitize cancer cell lines to this compound when used at an optimal inhibitory concentration. More specifically, GNT mediates the anticancer mechanism through apoptosis induction, arresting the cell cycle, inhibiting angiogenesis and metastasis, mammosphere formation, and targeting and suppressing tumor growth factors. Furthermore, it acts via upregulating tumor suppressor genes and downregulating oncogenes in vitro and animal model studies. In addition, this phytochemical synergistically reverses the resistance mechanism of standard chemotherapeutic drugs, increasing their efficacy against BC. Overall, in this review, we discuss several molecular interactions of GNT with numerous cellular targets in the BC model and show its anticancer activities alone and synergistically. We conclude that GNT can have favorable therapeutic advantages when standard drugs are not available in the pharma markets.

Pharmacological Properties to Pharmacological Insight of Sesamin in Breast Cancer Treatment: A Literature-Based Review Study

The use of dietary phytochemical rather than conventional therapies to treat numerous cancers is now a well-known approach in medical science. Easily available and less toxic dietary phytochemicals present in plants should be introduced in the list of phytochemical-based treatment areas. Sesamin, a natural phytochemical, may be a promising chemopreventive agent aiming to manage breast cancer. In this study, we discussed the pharmacological properties of sesamin that determine its therapeutics opportunity to be used in breast cancer treatment and other diseases. Sesamin is available in medicinal plants, especially in Sesamum indicum, and is easily metabolized by the liver. To better understand the antibreast cancer consequence of sesamin, we postulate some putative pathways related to the antibreast cancer mechanism: (1) regulation of estrogen receptor (ER-α and ER-β) activities, (2) suppressing programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) overexpression, (3) growth factor receptor inhibition, and (4) some tyrosine kinase pathways. Targeting these pathways, sesamin can modulate cell proliferation, cell cycle arrest, cell growth and viability, metastasis, angiogenesis, apoptosis, and oncogene inactivation in various in vitro and animal models. Although the actual tumor intrinsic signaling mechanism targeted by sesamin in cancer treatment is still unknown, this review summarized that this phytoestrogen suppressed NF-κB, STAT, MAPK, and PIK/AKT signaling pathways and activated some tumor suppressor protein in numerous breast cancer models. Cotreatment with γ-tocotrienol, conventional drugs, and several drug carriers systems increased the anticancer potentiality of sesamin. Furthermore, sesamin exhibited promising pharmacokinetics properties with less toxicity in the bodies. Overall, the shreds of evidence highlight that sesamin can be a potent candidate to design drugs against breast cancer. So, like other phytochemicals, sesamin can be consumed for better therapeutic advantages due to having the ability to target a plethora of molecular pathways until clinically trialed standard drugs are not available in pharma markets.

Potential Therapeutic Action of Autophagy in Gastric Cancer Managements: Novel Treatment Strategies and Pharmacological Interventions

Gastric cancer (GC), second most leading cause of cancer-associated mortality globally, is the cancer of gastrointestinal tract in which malignant cells form in lining of the stomach, resulting in indigestion, pain, and stomach discomfort. Autophagy is an intracellular system in which misfolded, aggregated, and damaged proteins, as well as organelles, are degraded by the lysosomal pathway, and avoiding abnormal accumulation of huge quantities of harmful cellular constituents. However, the exact molecular mechanism of autophagy-mediated GC management has not been clearly elucidated. Here, we emphasized the role of autophagy in the modulation and development of GC transformation in addition to underlying the molecular mechanisms of autophagy-mediated regulation of GC. Accumulating evidences have revealed that targeting autophagy by small molecule activators or inhibitors has become one of the greatest auspicious approaches for GC managements. Particularly, it has been verified that phytochemicals play an important role in treatment as well as prevention of GC. However, use of combination therapies of autophagy modulators in order to overcome the drug resistance through GC treatment will provide novel opportunities to develop promising GC therapeutic approaches. In addition, investigations of the pathophysiological mechanism of GC with potential challenges are urgently needed, as well as limitations of the modulation of autophagy-mediated therapeutic strategies. Therefore, in this review, we would like to deliver an existing standard molecular treatment strategy focusing on the relationship between chemotherapeutic drugs and autophagy, which will help to improve the current treatments of GC patients.