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赵 娅, 邓 丽, 曹 玥, 马 步, 李 月, 徐 靖, 李 红, 黄 英. [Inhibitory Effect of Ginsenoside Rg3 Combined With 5-Fluorouracil on Tumor Angiogenesis and Tumor Growth of Colon Cancer in Mice: An Experimental Study]. SICHUAN DA XUE XUE BAO. YI XUE BAN = JOURNAL OF SICHUAN UNIVERSITY. MEDICAL SCIENCE EDITION 2024; 55:111-117. [PMID: 38322531 PMCID: PMC10839471 DOI: 10.12182/20240160506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the inhibitory effect of ginsenoside Rg3 combined with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) on tumor angiogenesis and tumor growth in colon cancer in mice. Methods CT26 mouse model of colon cancer was established and the mice were randomly assigned to the control group, the ginsenoside Rg3 group, the 5-FU group, and the Rg3 combined with 5-FU group. The 5-FU group was injected intraperitoneally at the dose of 20 mg/kg, 0.2 mL/animal, and once a day for 10 days. Treatment for the Rg3 group was given at the dose of 20 mg/kg, 0.2 mL/animal, and once a day for 21 days via gastric gavage. The dose and the mode of treatment for the Rg3+5-FU combination group were the same as those for the 5-FU and the Rg3 group. The control group was intraperitoneally injected with 0.2 mL/d of normal saline for 10 days. The expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and CD31 and the microvascular density (MVD) of the tumor tissues were examined by immunohistochemistry. The blood flow signals and tumor necrosis were examined by color Doppler flow imaging (CDFI). The quality of life, survival rate, tumor volume, tumor mass, and tumor inhibition rate of the mice were monitored. Results After 21 days of treatment, the tumor volume and the tumor mass of all treatment groups were significantly decreased compared with those the control group, with the combination treatment group exhibiting the most significant decrease. The tumor inhibition rates of the Rg3 group, the 5-FU group, and the combination group were 29.96%, 68.78%, and 73.42%, respectively. Rg3 treatment alone had inhibitory effect on tumor growth to a certain degree, while 5-FU treatment alone or 5-FU combined with Rg3 had a stronger inhibitory effect on tumor growth. The tumor inhibition rate of the combination group was higher than that of the 5-FU group, but the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). Color Doppler ultrasound showed that there were multiple localized and large tumor necrotic areas that were obvious and observable in the Rg3 group and the combination group, and that there were only small tumor necrotic areas in the 5-FU group and the control group. The tumor necrosis rate of the combination group was (55.63±3.12)%, which was significantly higher than those of the other groups (P<0.05). CDFI examination of the blood flow inside of the tumor of the mice showed that the blood flow signals in the combination group were mostly grade 0-Ⅰ, and that the blood flow signals in the control group were the most abundant, being mostly grade Ⅱ-Ⅲ. The abundance of the blood flow signals in the Rg3 and 5-FU groups were between those of the control group and the combination group. Compared with those of the control group, the expression levels of MVD and VEGF in the tumor tissues of the Rg3 group, the 5-FU group, and the combination group were significantly decreased, with the combination group showing the most significant decrease (P<0.05). HE staining results indicated that there was significant tumor necrosis in mice in the control group and that there were more blood vessels. In contrast, in the tumor of the Rg3 group and the 5-FU group, there were fewer blood vessels and necrotic gaps appeared within the tumors. In the combination group, the tumor tissues had the fewest blood vessels and rope-like necrosis was observed. The mice started dying on the 18th day after treatment started, and all the mice in the control group died on the 42nd day. By this time, there were 3, 5, and 7 mice still alive in the Rg3 group, the 5-FU group, and the combination group, respectively, presenting a survival rate of 30%, 50%, and 70%, respectively. All mice in all the groups died on day 60 after treatment started. Conclusion Ginsenoside Rg3 combined with 5-FU can significantly inhibit tumor angiogenesis and tumor growth of colon cancer in mice and improve the survival and quality of life of tumor-bearing mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- 娅菽 赵
- 四川大学华西基础医学与法医学院 病理生理学教研室 (成都 610041)Department of Pathophysiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - 丽聪 邓
- 四川大学华西基础医学与法医学院 病理生理学教研室 (成都 610041)Department of Pathophysiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - 玥 曹
- 四川大学华西基础医学与法医学院 病理生理学教研室 (成都 610041)Department of Pathophysiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - 步云 马
- 四川大学华西基础医学与法医学院 病理生理学教研室 (成都 610041)Department of Pathophysiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - 月 李
- 四川大学华西基础医学与法医学院 病理生理学教研室 (成都 610041)Department of Pathophysiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - 靖怡 徐
- 四川大学华西基础医学与法医学院 病理生理学教研室 (成都 610041)Department of Pathophysiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - 红 李
- 四川大学华西基础医学与法医学院 病理生理学教研室 (成都 610041)Department of Pathophysiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - 英 黄
- 四川大学华西基础医学与法医学院 病理生理学教研室 (成都 610041)Department of Pathophysiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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Senrung A, Tripathi T, Aggarwal N, Janjua D, Yadav J, Chaudhary A, Chhokar A, Joshi U, Bharti AC. Phytochemicals Showing Antiangiogenic Effect in Pre-clinical Models and their Potential as an Alternative to Existing Therapeutics. Curr Top Med Chem 2024; 24:259-300. [PMID: 37867279 DOI: 10.2174/0115680266264349231016094456] [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: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels from a pre-existing vascular network, is an important hallmark of several pathological conditions, such as tumor growth and metastasis, proliferative retinopathies, including proliferative diabetic retinopathy and retinopathy of prematurity, age-related macular degeneration, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and endometriosis. Putting a halt to pathology-driven angiogenesis is considered an important therapeutic strategy to slow down or reduce the severity of pathological disorders. Considering the attrition rate of synthetic antiangiogenic compounds from the lab to reaching the market due to severe side effects, several compounds of natural origin are being explored for their antiangiogenic properties. Employing pre-clinical models for the evaluation of novel antiangiogenic compounds is a promising strategy for rapid screening of antiangiogenic compounds. These studies use a spectrum of angiogenic model systems that include HUVEC two-dimensional culture, nude mice, chick chorioallantoic membrane, transgenic zebrafish, and dorsal aorta from rats and chicks, depending upon available resources. The present article emphasizes the antiangiogenic activity of the phytochemicals shown to exhibit antiangiogenic behavior in these well-defined existing angiogenic models and highlights key molecular targets. Different models help to get a quick understanding of the efficacy and therapeutics mechanism of emerging lead molecules. The inherent variability in assays and corresponding different phytochemicals tested in each study prevent their immediate utilization in clinical studies. This review will discuss phytochemicals discovered using suitable preclinical antiangiogenic models, along with a special mention of leads that have entered clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Senrung
- Department of Zoology, Molecular Oncology Laboratory, University of Delhi (North Campus), Delhi, 110007, India
- Neuropharmacology and Drug Delivery Laboratory, Daulat Ram College, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Tanya Tripathi
- Department of Zoology, Molecular Oncology Laboratory, University of Delhi (North Campus), Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Nikita Aggarwal
- Department of Zoology, Molecular Oncology Laboratory, University of Delhi (North Campus), Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Divya Janjua
- Department of Zoology, Molecular Oncology Laboratory, University of Delhi (North Campus), Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Joni Yadav
- Department of Zoology, Molecular Oncology Laboratory, University of Delhi (North Campus), Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Apoorva Chaudhary
- Department of Zoology, Molecular Oncology Laboratory, University of Delhi (North Campus), Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Arun Chhokar
- Department of Zoology, Molecular Oncology Laboratory, University of Delhi (North Campus), Delhi, 110007, India
- Deshbandhu College, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Udit Joshi
- Department of Zoology, Molecular Oncology Laboratory, University of Delhi (North Campus), Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Alok Chandra Bharti
- Department of Zoology, Molecular Oncology Laboratory, University of Delhi (North Campus), Delhi, 110007, India
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Zhou N, Mao F, Cheng S. Mechanism Research and Application for Ginsenosides in the Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 2023:7214037. [PMID: 38027042 PMCID: PMC10667047 DOI: 10.1155/2023/7214037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Ginsenosides, the main active pharmacological ingredients of ginseng, have been widely used for the treatment of numerous carcinomas. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is 3rd leading malignant tumor in terms of mortality worldwide. Accumulating evidence indicates that ginsenosides play a vital role in the prevention and treatment of HCC. Ginsenosides can significantly improve the symptoms of HCC, and their anticancer activity is mainly involved in inhibiting proliferation and migration, inducing cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase, promoting caspase-3 and 8-mediated apoptosis, regulating autophagy related to Atg5, Atg7, Atg12, LC3-II, and PI3K/Akt pathways, and lowering invasion and metastasis associated with decreased nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 and MMP-2/9, increasing IL-2 and IFN-γ levels to enhance immune function, as well as regulating the gut-liver axis. In addition, ginsenosides can be used as an adjuvant to conventional cancer therapies, enhancing sensitivity to chemotherapy drugs, and improving efficacy and/or reducing adverse reactions through synergistic effects. Therefore, the current manuscript discusses the mechanism and application of ginsenosides in HCC. It is hoped to provide theoretical basis for the treatment of HCC with ginsenosides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nian Zhou
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Feifei Mao
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Shuqun Cheng
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
- Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Navy Medical University, Shanghai 200438, China
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Li XL, Yin Q, Wang W, Ma RH, Ni ZJ, Thakur K, Zhang JG, Wei ZJ. Effect of ginsenoside CK combined with cisplatin on the proliferation and migration of human cervical cancer HeLa cells via Ras/ERK/MAPK pathway. J Funct Foods 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2023.105438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
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Ni B, Song X, Shi B, Wang J, Sun Q, Wang X, Xu M, Cao L, Zhu G, Li J. Research progress of ginseng in the treatment of gastrointestinal cancers. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1036498. [PMID: 36313365 PMCID: PMC9603756 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1036498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer has become one of the major causes of human death. Several anticancer drugs are available; howeve their use and efficacy are limited by the toxic side effects and drug resistance caused by their continuous application. Many natural products have antitumor effects with low toxicity and fewer adverse effects. Moreover, they play an important role in enhancing the cytotoxicity of chemotherapeutic agents, reducing toxic side effects, and reversing chemoresistance. Consequently, natural drugs are being applied as potential therapeutic options in the field of antitumor treatment. As natural medicinal plants, some components of ginseng have been shown to have excellent efficacy and a good safety profile for cancer treatment. The pharmacological activities and possible mechanisms of action of ginseng have been identified. Its broad range of pharmacological activities includes antitumor, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-stress, anti-fibrotic, central nervous system modulating, cardioprotective, and immune-enhancing effects. Numerous studies have also shown that throuth multiple pathways, ginseng and its active ingredients exert antitumor effects on gastrointestinal (GI) tract tumors, such as esophageal, gastric, colorectal, liver, and pancreatic cancers. Herein, we introduced the main components of ginseng, including ginsenosides, polysaccharides, and sterols, etc., and reviewed the mechanism of action and research progress of ginseng in the treatment of various GI tumors. Futhermore, the pathways of action of the main components of ginseng are discussed in depth to promote the clinical development and application of ginseng in the field of anti-GI tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoyi Ni
- Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaotong Song
- Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bolun Shi
- Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Wang
- Hongqi Hospital of Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, China
| | - Qianhui Sun
- Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xinmiao Wang
- Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Manman Xu
- Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Luchang Cao
- Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | | | - Jie Li
- Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Jie Li,
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Oh HM, Cho CK, Son CG. Experimental Evidence for the Anti-Metastatic Action of Ginsenoside Rg3: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169077. [PMID: 36012338 PMCID: PMC9409359 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer metastasis is the leading cause of death in cancer patients. Due to the limitations of conventional cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy, there is a need for novel therapeutics to prevent metastasis. Ginsenoside Rg3, a major active component of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer, inhibits tumor growth and has the potential to prevent tumor metastasis. Herein, we systematically reviewed the anti-metastatic effects of Rg3 from experimental studies. We searched for articles in three research databases, MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) through March 2022. In total, 14 studies (eight animal and six in vitro) provide data on the anti-metastatic effects of Rg3 and the relevant mechanisms. The major anti-metastatic mechanisms of Rg3 involve cancer stemness, epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) behavior, and angiogenesis. Taken together, Rg3 would be one of the herbal resources in anti-metastatic drug developments through further well-designed investigations and clinical studies. Our review provides valuable reference data for Rg3-derived studies targeting tumor metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon-Muk Oh
- College of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon 35235, Korea
| | - Chong-Kwan Cho
- College of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon 35235, Korea
- East-West Cancer Center, Daejeon Korean Medicine Hospital of Daejeon University, Daejeon 35235, Korea
| | - Chang-Gue Son
- College of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon 35235, Korea
- Liver and Immunology Research Center, Daejeon Korean Medicine Hospital of Daejeon University, Daejeon 35235, Korea
- Correspondence:
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Examination of Combined Treatment of Ginsenoside Rg3 and 5-Fluorouracil in Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2022; 2022:2813142. [PMID: 35799655 PMCID: PMC9256322 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2813142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Chemotherapy is a commonly used strategy for advanced lung cancer patients. However, its clinical application is restrained due to its toxicity and drug resistance. Ginsenoside Rg3 (Rg3) has a strong anticancer influence on colon cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, and other malignant tumors. However, it is still unclear whether Rg3 can cooperate with 5-FU to inhibit the tumor growth and angiogenesis of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). This study examined the combined treatment of Rg3 and 5-FU in LUAD. It was revealed that the combined treatment could notably enhance the suppression on proliferative, invasive, and migratory abilities and angiogenesis in LUAD cells A549 and SPC-A-1. On the other hand, we also discovered that Rg3 or 5-FU could suppress the activity of the NF-κB signaling pathway and downregulate VEGFA expression in LUAD cells. Collectively, this study suggested that Rg3 combined chemotherapy may perform a more powerful drug efficiency in LUAD cells.
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Li K, Xiao K, Zhu S, Wang Y, Wang W. Chinese Herbal Medicine for Primary Liver Cancer Therapy: Perspectives and Challenges. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:889799. [PMID: 35600861 PMCID: PMC9117702 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.889799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary liver cancer (PLC) is one of the most common solid malignancies. However, PLC drug development has been slow, and first-line treatments are still needed; thus, studies exploring and developing alternative strategies for effective PLC treatment are urgently needed. Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) has long been applied in the clinic due to its advantages of low toxicity and targeting of multiple factors and pathways, and it has great potential for the development of novel natural drugs against PLC. Purpose: This review aims to provide an update on the pharmacological mechanisms of Chinese patent medicines (CPMs) and the latest CHM-derived compounds for the treatment of PLC and relevant clinical evaluations. Materials and Methods: A systematic search of English literature databases, Chinese literature, the Clinical Trials Registry Platform, and the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry for studies of CHMs for PLC treatment was performed. Results: In this review, we summarize the clinical trials and mechanisms of CPMs for PLC treatment that have entered the clinic with the approval of the Chinese medicine regulatory authority. These CPMs included Huaier granules, Ganfule granules, Fufang Banmao capsules, Jinlong capsules, Brucea javanica oil emulsions, and compound kushen injections. We also summarize the latest in vivo, in vitro, and clinical studies of CHM-derived compounds against PLC: icaritin and ginsenoside Rg3. Dilemmas facing the development of CHMs, such as drug toxicity and low oral availability, and future developments are also discussed. Conclusion: This review provides a deeper the understanding of CHMs as PLC treatments and provides ideas for the development of new natural drugs against PLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Li
- Graduate School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Dongzhimen Hospital of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Kunmin Xiao
- Graduate School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Department of Oncology, Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shijie Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yong Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yong Wang, ; Wei Wang,
| | - Wei Wang
- Graduate School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Institute of Prescription and Syndrome, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provinvial Key Laboratory of TCM Pathogenesis and Prescriptions of Heart and Spleen Diseases, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yong Wang, ; Wei Wang,
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Wei Q, Ren Y, Zheng X, Yang S, Lu T, Ji H, Hua H, Shan K. Ginsenoside Rg3 and sorafenib combination therapy relieves the hepatocellular carcinomaprogression through regulating the HK2-mediated glycolysis and PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Bioengineered 2022; 13:13919-13928. [PMID: 35719058 PMCID: PMC9275937 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2022.2074616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common pathological type of primary hepatic carcinoma. This study investigated the effects of ginsenoside Rg3 (Rg3) and sorafenib (SFN) combination therapy on HCC progression. The HCC-related data were obtained from TCGA database, and the data of HK2 mRNA, clinicopathological features, and survival outcomes were extracted using R Programming 4.0. The human hepatoma cell lines HepG2 and Bel7404 were used. Cell viability was tested using the MTT assay. Glucose consumption and lactate levels of HCC cells were detected using the corresponding kits. Western blotting was used to determine the protein expression of HK2, PI3K, and Akt. HK2 was overexpressed in patients with HCC. Compared with patients with overexpressed HK2, those with low levels of HK2 achieved a longer survival time. In addition, the Rg3 and SFN combination therapy significantly reduced cell viability, glucose consumption, lactate levels, and protein expression of HK2, PI3K, and Akt in HCC cells. Additionally, the Rg3 and SFN combination therapy exhibited a better effect than the single drug group. Inhibition of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway or exogenous lactate intervention reversed the effects of Rg3 and SFN combination therapy in HCC cells. In conclusion, Rg3 has a synergistic effect on the sensitivity of HepG2 and Bel7404 hepatoma cells to SFN, which is related to HK2-mediated glycolysis and the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Wei
- Department of Oncology, Yancheng TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Yancheng, China
| | - Yuan Ren
- Department of Oncology, The Second People's Hospital of Kunshan, Suzhou, China
| | - Xia Zheng
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Sufang Yang
- Department of Oncology, The Second People's Hospital of Kunshan, Suzhou, China
| | - Tingting Lu
- Department of Oncology, The Second People's Hospital of Kunshan, Suzhou, China
| | - Hongyao Ji
- Department of Oncology, The Second People's Hospital of Kunshan, Suzhou, China
| | - Haiqing Hua
- Department of Oncology, NanJing JinLing Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Kuizhong Shan
- Department of Oncology, The Second People's Hospital of Kunshan, Suzhou, China
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Rodriguez S, Skeet K, Mehmetoglu-Gurbuz T, Goldfarb M, Karri S, Rocha J, Shahinian M, Yazadi A, Poudel S, Subramani R. Phytochemicals as an Alternative or Integrative Option, in Conjunction with Conventional Treatments for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13225753. [PMID: 34830907 PMCID: PMC8616323 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is globally ranked as the sixth most diagnosed cancer, and the second most deadly cancer. To worsen matters, there are only limited therapeutic options currently available; therefore, it is necessary to find a reservoir from which new HCC treatments may be acquired. The field of phytomedicine may be the solution to this problem, as it offers an abundance of plant-derived molecules, which show capabilities of being effective against HCC proliferation, invasion, migration, and metastasis. In our review, we collect and analyze current evidence regarding these promising phytochemical effects on HCC, and delve into their potential as future chemotherapies. Additionally, information on the signaling behind these numerous phytochemicals is provided, in an attempt to understand their mechanisms. This review makes accessible the current body of knowledge pertaining to phytochemicals as HCC treatments, in order to serve as a reference and inspiration for further research into this subject. Abstract Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most abundant form of liver cancer. It accounts for 75–85% of liver cancer cases and, though it ranks globally as the sixth most common cancer, it ranks second in cancer-related mortality. Deaths from HCC are usually due to metastatic spread of the cancer. Unfortunately, there are many challenges and limitations with the latest HCC therapies and medications, making it difficult for patients to receive life-prolonging care. As there is clearly a high demand for alternative therapy options for HCC, it is prudent to turn to plants for the solution, as their phytochemicals have long been used and revered for their many medicinal purposes. This review explores the promising phytochemical compounds identified from pre-clinical and clinical trials being used either independently or in conjunction with already existing cancer therapy treatments. The phytochemicals discussed in this review were classified into several categories: lipids, polyphenols, alkaloids, polysaccharides, whole extracts, and phytochemical combinations. Almost 80% of the compounds failed to progress into clinical studies due to lack of information regarding the toxicity to normal cells and bioavailability. Although large obstacles remain, phytochemicals can be used either as an alternative or integrative therapy in conjunction with existing HCC chemotherapies. In conclusion, phytochemicals have great potential as treatment options for hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheryl Rodriguez
- Center of Emphasis in Cancer Research, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA; (S.R.); (T.M.-G.); (S.P.)
| | - Kristy Skeet
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX 79905, USA; (K.S.); (J.R.); (M.S.); (A.Y.)
| | - Tugba Mehmetoglu-Gurbuz
- Center of Emphasis in Cancer Research, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA; (S.R.); (T.M.-G.); (S.P.)
| | - Madeline Goldfarb
- Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA; (M.G.); (S.K.)
| | - Shri Karri
- Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA; (M.G.); (S.K.)
| | - Jackelyn Rocha
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX 79905, USA; (K.S.); (J.R.); (M.S.); (A.Y.)
| | - Mark Shahinian
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX 79905, USA; (K.S.); (J.R.); (M.S.); (A.Y.)
| | - Abdallah Yazadi
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX 79905, USA; (K.S.); (J.R.); (M.S.); (A.Y.)
| | - Seeta Poudel
- Center of Emphasis in Cancer Research, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA; (S.R.); (T.M.-G.); (S.P.)
| | - Ramadevi Subramani
- Center of Emphasis in Cancer Research, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA; (S.R.); (T.M.-G.); (S.P.)
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX 79905, USA; (K.S.); (J.R.); (M.S.); (A.Y.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-915-215-6851
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11
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He S, Tian S, He X, Le X, Ning Y, Chen J, Chen H, Mu J, Xu K, Xiang Q, Wu Y, Chen J, Xiang T. Multiple targeted self-emulsifying compound RGO reveals obvious anti-tumor potential in hepatocellular carcinoma. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2021; 22:604-616. [PMID: 34589579 PMCID: PMC8449031 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2021.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly vascularized, inflammatory, and abnormally proliferating tumor. Monotherapy is often unable to effectively and comprehensively inhibit the progress of HCC. In present study, we selected ginsenoside Rg3, ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide (GLP), and oridonin as the combined therapy. These three plant monomers play important roles in anti-angiogenesis, immunological activation, and apoptosis promotion, respectively. However, the low solubility and poor bioavailability seriously hinder their clinical application. To resolve these problems, we constructed a new drug, Rg3, GLP, and oridonin self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (RGO-SMEDDS). We found that this drug effectively inhibits the progression of HCC by simultaneously targeting multiple signaling pathways. RGO-SMEDDS restored immune function by suppressing the production of immunosuppressive cytokine and M2-polarized macrophages, reduced angiogenesis by downregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor and its receptor, and retarded proliferation by inhibiting the epidermal growth factor receptor EGFR/AKT/epidermal growth factor receptor/protein kinase B/glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3) signaling pathway. In addition, RGO-SMEDDS showed considerable safety in acute toxicity tests. Results from this study show that RGO-SMEDDS is a promising therapy for the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanxiu He
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shaorong Tian
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoqian He
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xin Le
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yijiao Ning
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jialin Chen
- Chongqing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongyi Chen
- Chongqing College of Humanities, Science & Technology, Chongqing, China
| | - Junhao Mu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ke Xu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qin Xiang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yue Wu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiong Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Tingxiu Xiang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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12
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Zhang LY, Zhang JG, Yang X, Cai MH, Zhang CW, Hu ZM. Targeting Tumor Immunosuppressive Microenvironment for the Prevention of Hepatic Cancer: Applications of Traditional Chinese Medicines in Targeted Delivery. Curr Top Med Chem 2021; 20:2789-2800. [PMID: 33076809 DOI: 10.2174/1568026620666201019111524] [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: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is one of the ancient and most accepted alternative medicinal systems in the world for the treatment of health ailments. World Health Organization recognizes TCM as one of the primary healthcare practices followed across the globe. TCM utilizes a holistic approach for the diagnosis and treatment of cancers. The tumor microenvironment (TME) surrounds cancer cells and plays pivotal roles in tumor development, growth, progression, and therapy resistance. TME is a hypoxic and acidic environment that includes immune cells, pericytes, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, various cytokines, growth factors, and extracellular matrix components. Targeting TME using targeted drug delivery and nanoparticles is an attractive strategy for the treatment of solid tumors and recently has received significant research attention under precise medicine concept. TME plays a pivotal role in the overall survival and metastasis of a tumor by stimulating cell proliferation, preventing the tumor clearance by the immune cells, enhancing the oncogenic potential of the cancer cells, and promoting tumor invasion. Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is one of the major causes of cancer-associated deaths affecting millions of individuals worldwide each year. TCM herbs contain several bioactive phytoconstituents with a broad range of biological, physiological, and immunological effects on the system. Several TCM herbs and their monomers have shown inhibitory effects in HCC by controlling the TME. This study reviews the fundamentals and applications of targeting strategies for immunosuppressing TME to treat cancers. This study focuses on TME targeting strategies using TCM herbs and the molecular mechanisms of several TCM herbs and their monomers on controlling TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le-Yi Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Chun’an First People’s Hospital (Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital Chun’an
Branch), Hangzhou 311700, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
| | - Jun-Gang Zhang
- Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou 310014, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China,Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou 310014, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
| | - Xue Yang
- Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou 310014, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
| | - Mao-Hua Cai
- Department of General Surgery, Chun’an First People’s Hospital (Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital Chun’an
Branch), Hangzhou 311700, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
| | - Cheng-Wu Zhang
- Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou 310014, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China,Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou 310014, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Ming Hu
- Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou 310014, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China,Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou 310014, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
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Effect and Molecular Mechanisms of Jiedu Recipe on Hypoxia-Induced Angiogenesis after Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:6529376. [PMID: 33505496 PMCID: PMC7815394 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6529376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) is one of the effective treatment methods for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in middle and late phases. However, TACE-induced hypoxia may promote the angiogenesis and section of some cytokines, such as IL-8, and, thereby, lead to tumor metastasis. Therefore, we investigated the effect of Jiedu Recipe (JR), which has been demonstrated as an effective Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) recipe on HCC, on TACE-induced cytokines upregulation and hypoxia-induced angiogenesis. A total of 88 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients treated with TACE were enrolled and divided into a JR group or control group. TACE induced significant increases of neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet lymphocyte ratio (PLR), IL-1β, IL-2R, IL-6, and IL-8. JR treatment significantly inhibited the elevation of IL-8 compared with control. In vitro, JR significantly inhibited the hypoxia-induced overexpression of IL-8, HIF-1α, and VEGF mRNA in Huh 7 cells. ELISA assay demonstrated the effect of JR on IL-8 expression. Both hypoxia and IL-8 may promote angiogenesis which was suppressed by JR. Western blot showed that IL-8 upregulated the expression of phosphorylation of AKT, ERK, NF-κB, and VEGFR, which were inhibited by JR. On the other hand, effects of IL-8 on the increase of p-AKT and p-ERK were also blocked by LY294002 and U0126, respectively. In conclusion, our results indicated that JR may inhibit hypoxia-induced angiogenesis through suppressing IL-8/HIF-1α/PI3K and MAPK/ERK pathways after TACE in HCC patients.
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Anti-Angiogenic Properties of Ginsenoside Rg3. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25214905. [PMID: 33113992 PMCID: PMC7660320 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25214905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ginsenoside Rg3 (Rg3) is a member of the ginsenoside family of chemicals extracted from Panax ginseng. Like other ginsenosides, Rg3 has two epimers: 20(S)-ginsenoside Rg3 (SRg3) and 20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3 (RRg3). Rg3 is an intriguing molecule due to its anti-cancer properties. One facet of the anti-cancer properties of Rg3 is the anti-angiogenic action. This review describes the controversies on the effects and effective dose range of Rg3, summarizes the evidence on the efficacy of Rg3 on angiogenesis, and raises the possibility that Rg3 is a prodrug.
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