1
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Zhang B, Zhao J, Kang D, Wang Z, Xu L, Zheng R, Liu A. Flubendazole suppresses VEGF-induced angiogenesis in HUVECs and exerts antitumor effects in PC-3 cells. Chem Biol Drug Des 2024; 103:e14503. [PMID: 38480495 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.14503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Flubendazole, an FDA-approved anthelmintic, has been predicted to show strong VEGFR2 inhibitory activity in silico screening combined with in vitro experimental validation, and it has shown anti-cancer effects on some human cancer cell lines, but little is known about the anti-angiogenesis effects and anti-prostate cancer effects. In this study, we analyzed the binding modes and kinetic analysis of flubendazole with VEGFR2 and first demonstrated that flubendazole suppressed VEGF-stimulated cell proliferation, wound-healing migration, cell invasion and tube formation of HUVEC cells, and decreased the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase and serine/threonine kinase Akt, which are the downstream proteins of VEGFR2 that are important for cell growth. What's more, our results showed that flubendazole decreased PC-3 cell viability and proliferation ability, and suppressed PC-3 cell wound healing migration and invasion across a Matrigel-coated Transwell membrane in a concentration-dependent manner. The antiproliferative effects of flubendazole were due to induction of G2-M phase cell cycle arrest in PC-3 cells with decreasing expression of the Cyclin D1 and induction of cell apoptosis with the number of apoptotic cells increased after flubendazole treatment. These results indicated that flubendazole could exert anti-angiogenic and anticancer effects by inhibiting cell cycle and inducing cell apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoyue Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Jun Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - De Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Lvjie Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - RuiFang Zheng
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Uighur Medicines, Xinjiang Institute of Materia Medica, Urumchi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Ailin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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2
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Matsuo H, Inagami A, Ito Y, Ito N, Iyoda S, Harata Y, Higashitani M, Shoji K, Tanaka M, Noura M, Mikami T, Kato I, Takita J, Nakahata T, Adachi S. Parbendazole as a promising drug for inducing differentiation of acute myeloid leukemia cells with various subtypes. Commun Biol 2024; 7:123. [PMID: 38267545 PMCID: PMC10808455 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-05811-8] [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: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a malignancy characterized by differentiation arrest of hematopoietic precursor cells. Differentiation therapy is effective for patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia; however, only a few effective differentiation therapies have been established for patients with other AML subtypes. In this study, seven benzimidazole anthelmintics were examined to determine the effects of differentiation on AML cells. The expression of monocyte markers (CD11b and CD14) was elevated after treatment with most benzimidazole anthelmintics. Among these drugs, parbendazole (PBZ) induced AML cell differentiation at low concentration. PBZ induced the monocyte marker expression, KLF4/DPYSL2A gene expression, and apoptosis for 21 AML cell lines with various subtypes and a primary AML sample. Finally, an in vivo analysis using an AML patient-derived xenograft mouse model showed a significant decrease in the chimerism level and prolonged survival in PBZ-treated mice. These findings could lead to a more effective differentiation therapy for AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidemasa Matsuo
- Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Aina Inagami
- Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuri Ito
- Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Nana Ito
- Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shinju Iyoda
- Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yutarou Harata
- Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Moe Higashitani
- Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kota Shoji
- Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Miu Tanaka
- Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Mina Noura
- Department of Integrated Health Sciences, Division of Cellular and Genetic Sciences, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Takashi Mikami
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Itaru Kato
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Junko Takita
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tatsutoshi Nakahata
- Department of Fundamental Cell Technology, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Souichi Adachi
- Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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3
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Anichina K, Mavrova A, Vuchev D, Popova-Daskalova G, Bassi G, Rossi A, Montesi M, Panseri S, Fratev F, Naydenova E. Benzimidazoles Containing Piperazine Skeleton at C-2 Position as Promising Tubulin Modulators with Anthelmintic and Antineoplastic Activity. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1518. [PMID: 38004384 PMCID: PMC10675210 DOI: 10.3390/ph16111518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Benzimidazole anthelmintic drugs hold promise for repurposing as cancer treatments due to their interference with tubulin polymerization and depolymerization, manifesting anticancer properties. We explored the potential of benzimidazole compounds with a piperazine fragment at C-2 as tubulin-targeting agents. In particular, we assessed their anthelmintic activity against isolated Trichinella spiralis muscle larvae and their effects on glioblastoma (U-87 MG) and breast cancer (MDA-MB-231) cell lines. Compound 7c demonstrated exceptional anthelmintic efficacy, achieving a 92.7% reduction in parasite activity at 100 μg/mL after 48 hours. In vitro cytotoxicity analysis of MDA-MB 231 and U87 MG cell lines showed that derivatives 7b, 7d, and 7c displayed lower IC50 values compared to albendazole (ABZ), the control. These piperazine benzimidazoles effectively reduced cell migration in both cell lines, with compound 7c exhibiting the most significant reduction, making it a promising candidate for further study. The binding mode of the most promising compound 7c, was determined using the induced fit docking-molecular dynamics (IFD-MD) approach. Regular docking and IFD were also employed for comparison. The IFD-MD analysis revealed that 7c binds to tubulin in a unique binding cavity near that of ABZ, but the benzimidazole ring was fitted much deeper into the binding pocket. Finally, the absolute free energy of perturbation technique was applied to evaluate the 7c binding affinity, further confirming the observed binding mode.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kameliya Anichina
- Department of Organic Synthesis, University of Chemical Technology and Metallurgy, 8 Kliment Ohridski Blvd., 1756 Sofia, Bulgaria;
| | - Anelia Mavrova
- Department of Organic Synthesis, University of Chemical Technology and Metallurgy, 8 Kliment Ohridski Blvd., 1756 Sofia, Bulgaria;
| | - Dimitar Vuchev
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, Medical University, 15A Vasil Aprilov Blvd., 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (D.V.); (G.P.-D.)
| | - Galya Popova-Daskalova
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, Medical University, 15A Vasil Aprilov Blvd., 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (D.V.); (G.P.-D.)
| | - Giada Bassi
- Institute of Science, Technology and Sustainability for Ceramics, National Research Council of Italy, Via Granarolo 64, 48018 Faenza, Italy; (G.B.); (A.R.); (M.M.); (S.P.)
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University of G. D’Annunzio, Via Luigi Polacchi, 11, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Arianna Rossi
- Institute of Science, Technology and Sustainability for Ceramics, National Research Council of Italy, Via Granarolo 64, 48018 Faenza, Italy; (G.B.); (A.R.); (M.M.); (S.P.)
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres, 31, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Monica Montesi
- Institute of Science, Technology and Sustainability for Ceramics, National Research Council of Italy, Via Granarolo 64, 48018 Faenza, Italy; (G.B.); (A.R.); (M.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Silvia Panseri
- Institute of Science, Technology and Sustainability for Ceramics, National Research Council of Italy, Via Granarolo 64, 48018 Faenza, Italy; (G.B.); (A.R.); (M.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Filip Fratev
- Micar Innovation (Micar 21) Ltd., 34B Persenk Str., 1407 Sofia, Bulgaria;
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at El Paso, 1101 N Campbell St., El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Emilia Naydenova
- Department of Organic Chemistry, University of Chemical Technology and Metallurgy, 8 Kliment Ohridski Blvd., 1756 Sofia, Bulgaria;
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4
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Zhou Y, Liao M, Li Z, Ye J, Wu L, Mou Y, Fu L, Zhen Y. Flubendazole Enhances the Inhibitory Effect of Paclitaxel via HIF1α/PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathways in Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15121. [PMID: 37894802 PMCID: PMC10606573 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Paclitaxel, a natural anticancer drug, is widely recognized and extensively utilized in the treatment of breast cancer (BC). However, it may lead to certain side effects or drug resistance. Fortunately, combination therapy with another anti-tumor agent has been explored as an option to improve the efficacy of paclitaxel in the treatment of BC. Herein, we first evaluated the synergistic effects of paclitaxel and flubendazole through combination index (CI) calculations. Secondly, flubendazole was demonstrated to synergize paclitaxel-mediated BC cell killing in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, we discovered that flubendazole could reverse the drug resistance of paclitaxel-resistant BC cells. Mechanistically, flubendazole was demonstrated to enhance the inhibitory effect of paclitaxel via HIF1α/PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. Collectively, our findings demonstrate the effectiveness of flubendazole in combination with paclitaxel for treating BC, providing an insight into exploiting more novel combination therapies for BC in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Zhou
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (Y.Z.); (M.L.); (J.Y.); (L.W.); (Y.M.)
| | - Minru Liao
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (Y.Z.); (M.L.); (J.Y.); (L.W.); (Y.M.)
| | - Zixiang Li
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China;
| | - Jing Ye
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (Y.Z.); (M.L.); (J.Y.); (L.W.); (Y.M.)
| | - Lifeng Wu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (Y.Z.); (M.L.); (J.Y.); (L.W.); (Y.M.)
| | - Yi Mou
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (Y.Z.); (M.L.); (J.Y.); (L.W.); (Y.M.)
| | - Leilei Fu
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China;
| | - Yongqi Zhen
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (Y.Z.); (M.L.); (J.Y.); (L.W.); (Y.M.)
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5
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Chalkappa PKB, Aralihalli S, Sudileti M, Aithal SJ, Praveen BM, Birjadar K. The medicinal panorama of benzimidazoles and their scaffolds as anticancer and antithrombotic agents: A review. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2023; 356:e2300206. [PMID: 37440107 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.202300206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Nitrogen-containing heterocyclic scaffolds have become a prospective pharmacophore with therapeutic importance due to their biological similarities with natural and synthetic drugs. Among all nitrogen heterocyclic compounds, benzimidazoles and their derivatives are privileged molecules structurally akin to naturally available nucleotides, enabling them to intercommunicate with numerous biopolymers in biological systems. This reason enlightens modern researchers worldwide to assess their potential significance in the context of synthetic and biological chemistry. Therefore, it is crucial to merge the latest data with the prior documentation to apprehend the ongoing situation of the benzimidazole moiety in various therapeutic zones of research. The current work displays that the benzimidazole center is a versatile nucleus that offers the necessary data of synthetic alterations for pre-existing compounds to provide new scaffolds to resist numerous therapeutic sectors, including those associated with anticancer and antithrombosis. Due to the potential significance of benzimidazoles, this review aims to emphasize the latest innovations in synthesizing several other notable benzimidazole substrates and their significant pharmacological prospects for the future, including anticancer and antithrombosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sudhakara Aralihalli
- Department of Chemistry, RajaRajeswari College of Engineering, Banglore, Karnataka, India
| | - Murali Sudileti
- Department of Chemistry, Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | | | | | - Kedarnath Birjadar
- Department of Chemistry, Srinivas University, Mangaluru, Karnataka, India
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6
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Miyagi MYS, de Oliveira Faria R, de Souza GB, Lameu C, Tagami T, Ozeki T, Bezzon VDN, Yukuyama MN, Bou-Chacra NA, de Araujo GLB. Optimizing adjuvant inhaled chemotherapy: Synergistic enhancement in paclitaxel cytotoxicity by flubendazole nanocrystals in a cycle model approach. Int J Pharm 2023; 644:123324. [PMID: 37591475 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death. In addition to new innovative approaches, practical strategies that improve the efficacy of already available drugs are urgently needed. In this study, an inhalable dry powder formulation is used to repurpose flubendazole, a poorly soluble anthelmintic drug with potential against a variety of cancer lineages. Flubendazole nanocrystals were obtained through nanoprecipitation, and dry powder was produced by spray drying. Through fractional factorial design, the spray drying parameters were optimized and the impact of formulation on aerolization properties was clarified. The loading limitations were clarified through response surface methodology, and a 15% flubendazole loading was feasible through the addition of 20% L-leucine, leading to a flubendazole particle size of 388.6 nm, median mass aerodynamic diameter of 2.9 μm, 50.3% FPF, emitted dose of 83.2% and triple the initial solubility. Although the cytotoxicity of this formulation in A549 cells was limited, the formulation showed a synergistic effect when associated with paclitaxel, leading to a surprising 1000-fold reduction in the IC50. Compared to 3 cycles of paclitaxel alone, a 3-cycle model combined treatment increased the threshold of cytotoxicity by 25% for the same dose. Our study suggests, for the first time, that orally inhaled flubendazole nanocrystals show high potential as adjuvants to increase cytotoxic agents' potency and reduce adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Yasue Saito Miyagi
- Departamento de Farmácia, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade de São Paulo, 580, Prof. Lineu Prestes Avenue, 05508-900 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Rafael de Oliveira Faria
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, 748, Prof. Lineu Prestes Avenue, 05508-900 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Batista de Souza
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, 748, Prof. Lineu Prestes Avenue, 05508-900 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Claudiana Lameu
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, 748, Prof. Lineu Prestes Avenue, 05508-900 São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Tatsuaki Tagami
- Drug Delivery and Nano Pharmaceutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, 3-1 Tanabe-dori, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8603, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Ozeki
- Drug Delivery and Nano Pharmaceutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, 3-1 Tanabe-dori, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8603, Japan
| | - Vinícius Danilo Nonato Bezzon
- Departamento de Física, Instituto de Ciências Exatas e Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, 786, Quatro Road, 35402-136 Ouro Preto, MG, Brazil
| | - Megumi Nishitani Yukuyama
- Departamento de Farmácia, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade de São Paulo, 580, Prof. Lineu Prestes Avenue, 05508-900 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Nadia Araci Bou-Chacra
- Departamento de Farmácia, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade de São Paulo, 580, Prof. Lineu Prestes Avenue, 05508-900 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Lima Barros de Araujo
- Departamento de Farmácia, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade de São Paulo, 580, Prof. Lineu Prestes Avenue, 05508-900 São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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7
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O'Meara CH, Jafri Z, Khachigian LM. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors, Small-Molecule Immunotherapies and the Emerging Role of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in Therapeutic Strategies for Head and Neck Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11695. [PMID: 37511453 PMCID: PMC10380483 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has revolutionized the treatment of many cancer types, including head and neck cancers (HNC). When checkpoint and partner proteins bind, these send an "off" signal to T cells, which prevents the immune system from destroying tumor cells. However, in HNC, and indeed many other cancers, more people do not respond and/or suffer from toxic effects than those who do respond. Hence, newer, more effective approaches are needed. The challenge to durable therapy lies in a deeper understanding of the complex interactions between immune cells, tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment. This will help develop therapies that promote lasting tumorlysis by overcoming T-cell exhaustion. Here we explore the strengths and limitations of current ICI therapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). We also review emerging small-molecule immunotherapies and the growing promise of neutrophil extracellular traps in controlling tumor progression and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor H O'Meara
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia
| | - Zuhayr Jafri
- Vascular Biology and Translational Research, School of Biomedical Sciences, UNSW Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Levon M Khachigian
- Vascular Biology and Translational Research, School of Biomedical Sciences, UNSW Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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8
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Li Y, Wu B, Hossain MJ, Quagliata L, O'Meara C, Wilkins MR, Corley S, Khachigian LM. Flubendazole inhibits PD-1 and suppresses melanoma growth in immunocompetent mice. J Transl Med 2023; 21:467. [PMID: 37452307 PMCID: PMC10349441 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04289-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy has revolutionized the clinical management of a diverse range of cancer types, including advanced cutaneous melanoma. While immunotherapy targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 system has become standard of care, overall response rates remain unsatisfactory for most patients and there are no approved small molecule inhibitors of the PD-1/PD-L1 system. Flubendazole (FLU) is an anthelmintic that has been used to treat worm infections in humans and animals for decades. METHODS Here we tested the anti-cancer activity of systemically delivered FLU with suppression of PD-1 in immunocompetent mice. RESULTS In C57BL/6J mice bearing subcutaneous B16F10 melanoma, FLU reduced both tumor growth and PD-1 protein levels without affecting levels of PD-L1. FLU's suppression of PD-1 was accompanied by increased CD3+ T cell infiltration. Western blotting with extracts from human Jurkat T cells showed that FLU inhibited PD-1 protein expression, findings confirmed by flow cytometry. To gain mechanistic insights on FLU's ability to suppress PD-1 protein levels, we performed bulk RNA sequencing on extracts of Jurkat T cells exposed to the benzimidazole for 4 h. From a pool of 14,475 genes there were 1218 differentially-expressed genes; 687 with increased expression and 531 with decreased expression. Among the genes induced by FLU was the AP-1 family member, JUN and surprisingly, pdcd1. KEGG pathway analysis showed FLU up-regulated genes over-represented in multiple pathways (p < 0.01), the top hit being amoebiasis. FLU also affected the expression of genes in cancer-associated pathways, both through down-regulation and up-regulation. Gene set enrichment analysis revealed a large number of immunological signature gene sets correlated with FLU treatment, including gene sets associated with T cell differentiation, proliferation and function. The AP-1 inhibitor T5224 rescued PD-1 protein expression from inhibition by FLU. CONCLUSION This study is the first to show that FLU can inhibit melanoma growth with PD-1 suppression in immunocompetent mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Li
- Vascular Biology and Translational Research, Department of Pathology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Ben Wu
- Vascular Biology and Translational Research, Department of Pathology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Md Jakir Hossain
- Vascular Biology and Translational Research, Department of Pathology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Lily Quagliata
- Vascular Biology and Translational Research, Department of Pathology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Connor O'Meara
- Vascular Biology and Translational Research, Department of Pathology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia
| | - Marc R Wilkins
- Systems Biology Initiative, Ramaciotti Centre for Genomics, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Susan Corley
- Systems Biology Initiative, Ramaciotti Centre for Genomics, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Levon M Khachigian
- Vascular Biology and Translational Research, Department of Pathology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
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9
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Graff BT, Palanivel C, Jenkins CB, Baranowska-Kortylewicz J, Yan Y. Benzimidazole carbamate induces cytotoxicity in breast cancer cells via two distinct cell death mechanisms. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:162. [PMID: 37179350 PMCID: PMC10183037 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01454-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastatic breast cancer (mBC) is responsible for >90% of breast cancer-related deaths. Microtubule-targeting agents (MTAs) are the front-line treatment for mBC. However, the effectiveness of MTAs is frequently limited by the primary or acquired resistance. Furthermore, recurrent mBC derived from cancer cells that survived MTA treatment are typically more chemoresistant. The overall response rates for the second- and third-line MTAs in mBC patients previously treated with MTAs are 12-35%. Thus, there is an ongoing search for novel MTAs with a distinct mode of action that can circumvent chemoresistance mechanisms. Our results show that methyl N-(6-benzoyl-1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)carbamate (BCar), a microtubule-disrupting anthelmintic that binds to the colchicine binding site separate from the binding sites of clinically used MTAs, has the potential to treat MTA-resistant mBC. We have comprehensively evaluated the cellular effects of BCar in a panel of human breast cancer (BC) cell lines and normal breast cells. BCar effects on the clonogenic survival, cell cycle, apoptosis, autophagy, senescence, and mitotic catastrophe were measured. Approximately 25% of BCs harbor mutant p53. For this reason, the p53 status was included as a variable. The results show that BC cells are >10x more sensitive to BCar than normal mammary epithelial cells (HME). p53-mutant BC cells are significantly more sensitive to BCar treatment than p53 wild-type BC cells. Furthermore, BCar appears to kill BC cells primarily via either p53-dependent apoptosis or p53-independent mitotic catastrophe. When compared to docetaxel and vincristine, two clinical MTAs, BCar is fairly innocuous in HME cells, providing a much wider therapeutic window than docetaxel and vincristine. Together, the results strongly support the notion that BCar-based therapeutics may serve as a new line of MTAs for mBC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan T Graff
- Department of Radiation Oncology, College of Medicine University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Chitra Palanivel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, College of Medicine University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Christopher B Jenkins
- Department of Radiation Oncology, College of Medicine University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Janina Baranowska-Kortylewicz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska, USA.
| | - Ying Yan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, College of Medicine University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska, USA.
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10
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Vítovcová B, Skarková V, Havelek R, Soukup J, Pande A, Caltová K, Rudolf E. Flubendazole exhibits anti-glioblastoma effect by inhibiting STAT3 and promoting cell cycle arrest. Sci Rep 2023; 13:5993. [PMID: 37045903 PMCID: PMC10097688 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33047-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) belongs to most aggressive and invasive primary brain tumor in adults whose prognosis and survival remains poor. Potential new treatment modalities include targeting the cytoskeleton. In our study, we demonstrated that repurposed drug flubendazole (FLU) significantly inhibits proliferation and survival of GBM cells. FLU exerted its effect by affecting microtubule structure and our results also suggest that FLU influences tubulins expression to a certain degree. Moreover, FLU effects decreased activation of STAT3 and also partially inhibited its expression, leading to upregulation of p53 signaling pathway and subsequent cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase as well as caspase-dependent cell death in GBM cells. These results suggest FLU as a promising agent to be used in GBM treatment and prompting further testing of its effects on GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbora Vítovcová
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Šimkova 870, 500 03, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic.
| | - Veronika Skarková
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Šimkova 870, 500 03, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Radim Havelek
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Šimkova 870, 500 03, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Soukup
- The Fingerland Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Sokolská 581, 500 05, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Ananya Pande
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Šimkova 870, 500 03, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Kateřina Caltová
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Šimkova 870, 500 03, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Emil Rudolf
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Šimkova 870, 500 03, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
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11
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Shin YB, Choi JY, Shin DH, Lee JW. Anticancer Evaluation of Methoxy Poly(Ethylene Glycol)- b-Poly(Caprolactone) Polymeric Micelles Encapsulating Fenbendazole and Rapamycin in Ovarian Cancer. Int J Nanomedicine 2023; 18:2209-2223. [PMID: 37152471 PMCID: PMC10162106 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s394712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose We aimed to inhibit ovarian cancer (OC) development by interfering with microtubule polymerization and inhibiting mTOR signaling. To achieve this, previously developed micelles containing fenbendazole and rapamycin were applied. Methods Herein, we prepared micelles for drug delivery using fenbendazole and rapamycin at a 1:2 molar ratio and methoxy poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(caprolactone)(mPEG-b-PCL) via freeze-drying. We revealed their long-term storage capacity of up to 120 days. Furthermore, a cytotoxicity test was performed on the OC cell line HeyA8, and an orthotopic model was established for evaluating in vivo antitumor efficacy. Results Fenbendazole/rapamycin-loaded mPEG-b-PCL micelle (M-FR) had an average particle size of 37.2 ± 1.10 nm, a zeta potential of -0.07 ± 0.09 mV, and a polydispersity index of 0.20 ± 0.02. Additionally, the average encapsulation efficiency of fenbendazole was 75.7 ± 4.61% and that of rapamycin was 98.0 ± 1.97%. In the clonogenic assay, M-FR was 6.9 times more effective than that free fenbendazole/rapamycin. The in vitro drug release profile showed slower release in the combination formulation than in the single formulation. Conclusion There was no toxicity, and tumor growth was suppressed substantially by our formulation compared with that seen with the control. The findings of our study lay a foundation for using fenbendazole and rapamycin for OC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Been Shin
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju-Yeon Choi
- Research Institute for Future Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Dae Hwan Shin
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, 28160, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: Dae Hwan Shin, College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Osongsaengmyeong 1-ro, Osong-eup, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju, 28160, Republic of Korea, Tel +82 43 261 2820, Fax +82 43 268 2732, Email
| | - Jeong-Won Lee
- Research Institute for Future Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Jeong-Won Lee, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81, Irwon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06351, South Korea, Tel +82-2-3410-1382, Fax +82-2-3410-0630, Email
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12
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Padilla-Martínez II, Cruz A, García-Báez EV, Rosales-Hernández MC, Mendieta Wejebe JE. N-substitution Reactions of 2-Aminobenzimidazoles to Access Pharmacophores. Curr Org Synth 2023; 20:177-219. [PMID: 35272598 DOI: 10.2174/1570179419666220310124223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Benzimidazole (BI) and its derivatives are interesting molecules in medicinal chemistry because several of these compounds have a diversity of biological activities and some of them are even used in clinical applications. In view of the importance of these compounds, synthetic chemists are still interested in finding new procedures for the synthesis of these classes of compounds. Astemizole (antihistaminic), Omeprazole (antiulcerative), and Rabendazole (fungicide) are important examples of compounds used in medicinal chemistry containing BI nuclei. It is interesting to observe that several of these compounds contain 2-aminobenzimidazole (2ABI) as the base nucleus. The structures of 2ABI derivatives are interesting because they have a planar delocalized structure with a cyclic guanidine group, which have three nitrogen atoms with free lone pairs and labile hydrogen atoms. The 10-π electron system of the aromatic BI ring conjugated with the nitrogen lone pair of the hexocyclic amino group, making these heterocycles to have an amphoteric character. Synthetic chemists have used 2ABI as a building block to produce BI derivatives as medicinally important molecules. In view of the importance of the BIs, and because no review was found in the literature about this topic, we reviewed and summarized the procedures related to the recent methodologies used in the N-substitution reactions of 2ABIs by using aliphatic and aromatic halogenides, dihalogenides, acid chlorides, alkylsulfonic chlorides, carboxylic acids, esters, ethyl chloroformates, anhydrides, SMe-isothioureas, alcohols, alkyl cyanates, thiocyanates, carbon disulfide and aldehydes or ketones to form Schiff bases. The use of diazotized 2ABI as intermediate to obtain 2-diazoBIs was included to produce Nsubstituted 2ABIs of pharmacological interest. Some commentaries about their biological activity were included.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itzia I Padilla-Martínez
- Laboratorio de Química Supramolecular y Nanociencias, Instituto Politécnico Nacional UPIBI, Av. Acueducto s/n, Barrio la Laguna Ticomán, Ciudad de México, 07340, Mexico
| | - Alejandro Cruz
- Laboratorio de Química Supramolecular y Nanociencias, Instituto Politécnico Nacional UPIBI, Av. Acueducto s/n, Barrio la Laguna Ticomán, Ciudad de México, 07340, Mexico
| | - Efrén V García-Báez
- Laboratorio de Química Supramolecular y Nanociencias, Instituto Politécnico Nacional UPIBI, Av. Acueducto s/n, Barrio la Laguna Ticomán, Ciudad de México, 07340, Mexico
| | - Martha C Rosales-Hernández
- Laboratorio de Biofísica y Biocatálisis, Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Salvador Díaz Mirón s/n, Casco de Santo Tomás, Distrito Federal 11340, México
| | - Jessica E Mendieta Wejebe
- Laboratorio de Biofísica y Biocatálisis, Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Salvador Díaz Mirón s/n, Casco de Santo Tomás, Distrito Federal 11340, México
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13
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Issa NT, Byers SW, Dakshanamurthy S. ES-Screen: A Novel Electrostatics-Driven Method for Drug Discovery Virtual Screening. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314830. [PMID: 36499162 PMCID: PMC9736079 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Electrostatic interactions drive biomolecular interactions and associations. Computational modeling of electrostatics in biomolecular systems, such as protein-ligand, protein-protein, and protein-DNA, has provided atomistic insights into the binding process. In drug discovery, finding biologically plausible ligand-protein target interactions is challenging as current virtual screening and adjuvant techniques such as docking methods do not provide optimal treatment of electrostatic interactions. This study describes a novel electrostatics-driven virtual screening method called 'ES-Screen' that performs well across diverse protein target systems. ES-Screen provides a unique treatment of electrostatic interaction energies independent of total electrostatic free energy, typically employed by current software. Importantly, ES-Screen uses initial ligand pose input obtained from a receptor-based pharmacophore, thus independent of molecular docking. ES-Screen integrates individual polar and nonpolar replacement energies, which are the energy costs of replacing the cognate ligand for a target with a query ligand from the screening. This uniquely optimizes thermodynamic stability in electrostatic and nonpolar interactions relative to an experimentally determined stable binding state. ES-Screen also integrates chemometrics through shape and other physicochemical properties to prioritize query ligands with the greatest physicochemical similarities to the cognate ligand. The applicability of ES-Screen is demonstrated with in vitro experiments by identifying novel targets for many drugs. The present version includes a combination of many other descriptor components that, in a future version, will be purely based on electrostatics. Therefore, ES-Screen is a first-in-class unique electrostatics-driven virtual screening method with a unique implementation of replacement electrostatic interaction energies with broad applicability in drug discovery.
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14
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Molecular Characterization of the Dual Effect of the GPER Agonist G-1 in Glioblastoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214309. [PMID: 36430793 PMCID: PMC9695951 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary brain tumor in adults. Despite conventional treatment, consisting of a chirurgical resection followed by concomitant radio-chemotherapy, the 5-year survival rate is less than 5%. Few risk factors are clearly identified, but women are 1.4-fold less affected than men, suggesting that hormone and particularly estrogen signaling could have protective properties. Indeed, a high GPER1 (G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor) expression is associated with better survival, especially in women who produce a greater amount of estrogen. Therefore, we addressed the anti-tumor effect of the GPER agonist G-1 in vivo and characterized its molecular mechanism of action in vitro. First, the antiproliferative effect of G-1 was confirmed in a model of xenografted nude mice. A transcriptome analysis of GBM cells exposed to G-1 was performed, followed by functional analysis of the differentially expressed genes. Lipid and steroid synthesis pathways as well as cell division processes were both affected by G-1, depending on the dose and duration of the treatment. ANGPTL4, the first marker of G-1 exposure in GBM, was identified and validated in primary GBM cells and patient samples. These data strongly support the potential of G-1 as a promising chemotherapeutic compound for the treatment of GBM.
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15
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Hedna R, Kovacic H, Pagano A, Peyrot V, Robin M, Devred F, Breuzard G. Tau Protein as Therapeutic Target for Cancer? Focus on Glioblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:5386. [PMID: 36358803 PMCID: PMC9653627 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14215386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite being extensively studied for several decades, the microtubule-associated protein Tau has not finished revealing its secrets. For long, Tau has been known for its ability to promote microtubule assembly. A less known feature of Tau is its capability to bind to cancer-related protein kinases, suggesting a possible role of Tau in modulating microtubule-independent cellular pathways that are associated with oncogenesis. With the intention of finding new therapeutic targets for cancer, it appears essential to examine the interaction of Tau with these kinases and their consequences. This review aims at collecting the literature data supporting the relationship between Tau and cancer with a particular focus on glioblastoma tumors in which the pathological significance of Tau remains largely unexplored. We will first treat this subject from a mechanistic point of view showing the pivotal role of Tau in oncogenic processes. Then, we will discuss the involvement of Tau in dysregulating critical pathways in glioblastoma. Finally, we will outline promising strategies to target Tau protein for the therapy of glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rayane Hedna
- Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, Institut de Neurophysiopathologie (INP), UMR 7051, CNRS, Aix Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Hervé Kovacic
- Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, Institut de Neurophysiopathologie (INP), UMR 7051, CNRS, Aix Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Alessandra Pagano
- Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, Institut de Neurophysiopathologie (INP), UMR 7051, CNRS, Aix Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Vincent Peyrot
- Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, Institut de Neurophysiopathologie (INP), UMR 7051, CNRS, Aix Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Maxime Robin
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Institut Méditerranéen de Biodiversité et Ecologie marine et continentale (IMBE), UMR 7263, CNRS, IRD 237, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - François Devred
- Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, Institut de Neurophysiopathologie (INP), UMR 7051, CNRS, Aix Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Gilles Breuzard
- Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, Institut de Neurophysiopathologie (INP), UMR 7051, CNRS, Aix Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
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16
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Sultana T, Jan U, Lee H, Lee H, Lee JI. Exceptional Repositioning of Dog Dewormer: Fenbendazole Fever. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2022; 44:4977-4986. [PMID: 36286053 PMCID: PMC9600184 DOI: 10.3390/cimb44100338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Fenbendazole (FZ) is a benzimidazole carbamate drug with broad-spectrum antiparasitic activity in humans and animals. The mechanism of action of FZ is associated with microtubular polymerization inhibition and glucose uptake blockade resulting in reduced glycogen stores and decreased ATP formation in the adult stages of susceptible parasites. A completely cured case of lung cancer became known globally and greatly influenced the cancer community in South Korea. Desperate Korean patients with cancer began self-administering FZ without their physician’s knowledge, which interfered with the outcome of the cancer treatment planned by their oncologists. On the basis of presented evidence, this review provides valuable information from PubMed, Naver, Google Scholar, and Social Network Services (SNS) on the effects of FZ in a broad range of preclinical studies on cancer. In addition, we suggest investigating the self-administration of products, including supplements, herbs, or bioactive compounds, by patients to circumvent waiting for long and costly FZ clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Sultana
- Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, Center for Stem Cell Research, Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, Institute of Biomedical Science and Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
| | - Umair Jan
- Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, Center for Stem Cell Research, Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, Institute of Biomedical Science and Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
| | - Hyunsu Lee
- Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, Center for Stem Cell Research, Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, Institute of Biomedical Science and Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
| | - Hyejin Lee
- Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, Center for Stem Cell Research, Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, Institute of Biomedical Science and Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
| | - Jeong Ik Lee
- Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, Center for Stem Cell Research, Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, Institute of Biomedical Science and Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
- Department of Veterinary Obstetrics and Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-2049-6234
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17
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Song B, Park EY, Kim KJ, Ki SH. Repurposing of Benzimidazole Anthelmintic Drugs as Cancer Therapeutics. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194601. [PMID: 36230527 PMCID: PMC9559625 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Although non-prescription anthelmintics are often used for cancer treatment, there is a lack of information regarding their anti-cancer effects in clinical settings. The aims of our review are to describe the possibilities and limitations of the anti-cancer effects of benzimidazole anthelmintics and to suggest ways to overcome these limitations. The results of the current review illustrate the potential development of anthelmintics as a useful strategy for cancer treatment based on much preclinical evidence. Furthermore, they suggest that more rigorous studies on whole anti-cancer pathways and development strategies, including formulations, could result in significantly enhanced anti-cancer effects of benzimidazoles as a repurposed cancer therapy in clinical settings. Abstract Benzimidazoles have shown significant promise for repurposing as a cancer therapy. The aims of this review are to investigate the possibilities and limitations of the anti-cancer effects of benzimidazole anthelmintics and to suggest ways to overcome these limitations. This review included studies on the anti-cancer effects of 11 benzimidazoles. Largely divided into three parts, i.e., preclinical anti-cancer effects, clinical anti-cancer effects, and pharmacokinetic properties, we examine the characteristics of each benzimidazole and attempt to elucidate its key properties. Although many studies have demonstrated the anti-cancer effects of benzimidazoles, there is limited evidence regarding their effects in clinical settings. This might be because the clinical trials conducted using benzimidazoles failed to restrict their participants with specific criteria including cancer entities, cancer stages, and genetic characteristics of the participants. In addition, these drugs have limitations including low bioavailability, which results in insufficient plasma concentration levels. Additional studies on whole anti-cancer pathways and development strategies, including formulations, could result significant enhancements of the anti-cancer effects of benzimidazoles in clinical situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bomi Song
- Graduate School of Clinical Pharmacy, Chosun University, Gwangju 61452, Korea
| | - Eun Young Park
- College of Pharmacy, Mokpo National University, Mokpo 58554, Korea
| | - Kwang Joon Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Mokpo National University, Mokpo 58554, Korea
- Correspondence: (K.J.K.); (S.H.K.); Tel.: +82-61-450-2334 (K.J.K.); +82-62-230-6639 (S.H.K.)
| | - Sung Hwan Ki
- Graduate School of Clinical Pharmacy, Chosun University, Gwangju 61452, Korea
- Correspondence: (K.J.K.); (S.H.K.); Tel.: +82-61-450-2334 (K.J.K.); +82-62-230-6639 (S.H.K.)
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Abstract
Fenbendazole remains the drug of choice to treat pinworm infection in laboratory rodents. When fenbendazole was last reviewed (15 y ago), the literature supported the drug's lack of toxic effects at therapeutic levels, yet various demonstrated physiologic effects have the potential to alter research outcomes. Although more recent reports continue to reflect an overall discordancy of results, several studies support the premise that fenbendazole affects the bone marrow and the immune system. No effects on reproduction were reported in an extensive study that assessed common treatment protocols in mice, and food intake was unchanged in rats. Behavioral studies are sparse, with only a single report of a subtle change in a rotarod performance in mice. Notably, unexpected results in tumor models during facility treatment with fenbendazole have prompted preclinical and clinical studies of the potential roles of benzimidazoles in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Cray
- Division of Comparative Pathology and,Corresponding author.
| | - Norman H Altman
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
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Vlachou I, Parsonidis P, Mamagkaki A, Bouris I, Papasotiriou I. Teaching an old dog new tricks: The case of Fenbendazole. Cancer Treat Res Commun 2022; 32:100601. [PMID: 35780728 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctarc.2022.100601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study is the assessment of the cytotoxic effect of fenbendazole and its commercially available formulation, which is used for its antihelmintic properties. The formulation was tested for its efficacy as well as the determination of the ingredients with proliferation assays and analytical techniques. HPLC, LC-MS and NMR confirmed the stated amount of active ingredient on the label. Dissolution studies were performed to simulate the ability of fenbendazole to dissolve adequately in the fluids of the Gastrointestinal tract, be absorbed in the circulation and reach certain areas of the human body. However, dissolution studies showed that both brands possess issues in their distribution. The in vitro drug screening exhibited potential cytotoxic effect in different types of human cancer cell lines and MDA-MB-231 human breast adenocarcinoma cells appeared to be the most sensitive with IC50 value lower than 10 μM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Vlachou
- Research Genetic Cancer Centre S.A., Industrial Area of Florina 53100, Greece
| | | | - Alexandra Mamagkaki
- Research Genetic Cancer Centre S.A., Industrial Area of Florina 53100, Greece
| | - Ioannis Bouris
- Research Genetic Cancer Centre S.A., Industrial Area of Florina 53100, Greece
| | - Ioannis Papasotiriou
- Research Genetic Cancer Centre International GmbH Headquarters, Baarerstrasse 95, Zug 6300, Switzerland.
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20
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Ferreira de Lima N, de Andrade Picanço G, Costa TL, Vinaud MC. In vitro metabolic stress induced by nitazoxanide and flubendazole combination in Taenia crassiceps cysticerci. Exp Parasitol 2022; 238:108265. [PMID: 35525309 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2022.108265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Taenia crassiceps is often used as experimental model for T. solium cysticercosis studies. Currently cysticercosis antiparasitic treatment is based on albendazole and praziquantel which may present side effects and parasitic resistance. The search for other antiparasitic drugs is necessary. Nitazoxanide (NTZ) and flubendazole (FLB) are broad spectrum antiparasitic drugs that present anti-cysticercosis effect. Metabolic analyses help to determine the impact of these drugs on parasites. The aim of this study was to determine the impact on the production and excretion of organic metabolites in T. crassiceps cysticerci after in vitro exposure to NTZ and FLB, isolated or in combination. T. crassiceps cysticerci were culture in RPMI medium and exposed to 10μg/mL of NTZ, 10μg/mL of FLB or 10μg/mL of NTZ +10μg/mL of FLB. 24h after exposure, the parasites were chromatographic analyzed to determine the impact of these drugs on glycolysis, homolactic fermentation, tricarboxylic acid cycle, fatty acids oxidation and proteins catabolism. It was possible to determine that the drugs combination induced greater metabolic impact on cysticerci in comparison to the isolated drugs exposure. The drugs combination induced gluconeogenesis, metabolic acidosis, increase in tricarboxylic acid cycle and in proteins catabolism. While the NTZ isolated exposure induced metabolic acidosis and protein catabolism and the FLB isolate exposure induced gluconeogenesis and protein catabolism. These results show that the combination of drugs with different modes of action increase the antiparasitic effect and may be indicated as alternative cysticercosis treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayana Ferreira de Lima
- Laboratory of Studies of the Host-parasite Relationship, Tropical Pathology and Public Health Institute, Federal University of Goias, Brazil
| | - Guaraciara de Andrade Picanço
- Laboratory of Studies of the Host-parasite Relationship, Tropical Pathology and Public Health Institute, Federal University of Goias, Brazil
| | - Tatiane Luiza Costa
- Laboratory of Studies of the Host-parasite Relationship, Tropical Pathology and Public Health Institute, Federal University of Goias, Brazil
| | - Marina Clare Vinaud
- Laboratory of Studies of the Host-parasite Relationship, Tropical Pathology and Public Health Institute, Federal University of Goias, Brazil.
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21
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Surov AO, Volkova TV. Solubility/distribution thermodynamics and permeability of two anthelmintics in biologically relevant solvents. J Mol Liq 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molliq.2022.118835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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22
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Sultana T, Jan U, Lee JI. Double Repositioning: Veterinary Antiparasitic to Human Anticancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084315. [PMID: 35457127 PMCID: PMC9029030 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug repositioning, the approach of discovering different uses for existing drugs, has gained enormous popularity in recent years in the anticancer drug discovery field due to the increasing demand for anticancer drugs. Additionally, the repurposing of veterinary antiparasitic drugs for the treatment of cancer is gaining traction, as supported by existing literature. A prominent example is the proposal to implement the use of veterinary antiparasitics such as benzimidazole carbamates and halogenated salicylanilides as novel anticancer drugs. These agents have revealed pronounced anti-tumor activities and gained special attention for “double repositioning”, as they are repurposed for different species and diseases simultaneously, acting via different mechanisms depending on their target. As anticancer agents, these compounds employ several mechanisms, including the inhibition of oncogenic signal transduction pathways of mitochondrial respiration and the inhibition of cellular stress responses. In this review, we summarize and provide valuable information about the experimental, preclinical, and clinical trials of veterinary antiparasitic drugs available for the treatment of various cancers in humans. This review suggests the possibility of new treatment options that could improve the quality of life and outcomes for cancer patients in comparison to the currently used treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Sultana
- Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, Center for Stem Cell Research, Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, Institute of Biomedical Science and Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (T.S.); (U.J.)
| | - Umair Jan
- Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, Center for Stem Cell Research, Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, Institute of Biomedical Science and Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (T.S.); (U.J.)
| | - Jeong Ik Lee
- Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, Center for Stem Cell Research, Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, Institute of Biomedical Science and Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (T.S.); (U.J.)
- Department of Veterinary Obstetrics and Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-2049-6234
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23
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Singhal S, Maheshwari P, Krishnamurthy PT, Patil VM. Drug Repurposing Strategies for Non-Cancer to Cancer Therapeutics. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2022; 22:2726-2756. [PMID: 35301945 DOI: 10.2174/1871520622666220317140557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Global efforts invested for the prevention and treatment of cancer need to be repositioned to develop safe, effective, and economic anticancer therapeutics by adopting rational approaches of drug discovery. Drug repurposing is one of the established approaches to reposition old, clinically approved off patent noncancer drugs with known targets into newer indications. The literature review suggests key role of drug repurposing in the development of drugs intended for cancer as well as noncancer therapeutics. A wide category of noncancer drugs namely, drugs acting on CNS, anthelmintics, cardiovascular drugs, antimalarial drugs, anti-inflammatory drugs have come out with interesting outcomes during preclinical and clinical phases. In the present article a comprehensive overview of the current scenario of drug repurposing for the treatment of cancer has been focused. The details of some successful studies along with examples have been included followed by associated challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shipra Singhal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry KIET School of Pharmacy, KIET Group of Institutions, Delhi-NCR, Ghaziabad, India
| | - Priyal Maheshwari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry KIET School of Pharmacy, KIET Group of Institutions, Delhi-NCR, Ghaziabad, India
| | | | - Vaishali M Patil
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry KIET School of Pharmacy, KIET Group of Institutions, Delhi-NCR, Ghaziabad, India
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24
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Revisiting Flubendazole Through Nanocrystal Technology: Statistical Design, Characterization and Its Potential Inhibitory Effect on Xenografted Lung Tumor Progression in Mice. J CLUST SCI 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10876-022-02220-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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25
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Chen C, Ding Y, Liu H, Sun M, Wang H, Wu D. Flubendazole Plays an Important Anti-Tumor Role in Different Types of Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23010519. [PMID: 35008943 PMCID: PMC8745596 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Flubendazole, belonging to benzimidazole, is a broad-spectrum insect repellent and has been repurposed as a promising anticancer drug. In recent years, many studies have shown that flubendazole plays an anti-tumor role in different types of cancers, including breast cancer, melanoma, prostate cancer, colorectal cancer, and lung cancer. Although the anti-tumor mechanism of flubendazole has been studied, it has not been fully understood. In this review, we summarized the recent studies regarding the anti-tumor effects of flubendazole in different types of cancers and analyzed the related mechanisms, in order to provide the theoretical reference for further studies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoran Chen
- Institute of Nursing and Health, School of Nursing and Health, Henan University, Jinming Avenue, Kaifeng 475004, China; (C.C.); (Y.D.)
| | - Yueming Ding
- Institute of Nursing and Health, School of Nursing and Health, Henan University, Jinming Avenue, Kaifeng 475004, China; (C.C.); (Y.D.)
| | - Huiyang Liu
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China;
| | - Mengyao Sun
- School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China;
| | - Honggang Wang
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China;
- Correspondence: (H.W.); (D.W.)
| | - Dongdong Wu
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China;
- School of Stomatology, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
- Correspondence: (H.W.); (D.W.)
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26
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Khachigian LM. Emerging insights on functions of the anthelmintic flubendazole as a repurposed anticancer agent. Cancer Lett 2021; 522:57-62. [PMID: 34520820 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
While flubendazole has been used as a macrofilaricide in humans and animals for some 40 years, work in vitro and in preclinical models over the last decade has suggested its potential use as an anticancer agent. This article reviews recent studies in a range of tumor types indicating novel functions for flubendazole in its control of processes associated with tumor growth, spread and renewal including ferroptosis, autophagy, cancer stem-like cell killing and suppression of intratumoral myeloid-derived suppressor cell accumulation and programmed cell death protein 1. Flubendazole's potential use in clinical oncology will require further understanding of its mechanistic roles, range of inhibition of cancer types, capacity for adjunctive therapy and possible reformulation for enhanced solubility, bioavailability and potency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Levon M Khachigian
- Vascular Biology and Translational Research, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
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27
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Yukuyama MN, Ishida K, de Araujo GLB, Spadari CDC, de Souza A, Löbenberg R, Henostroza MAB, Folchini BR, Peroni CM, Peters MCC, de Oliveira IF, Miyagi MYS, Bou-Chacra NA. Rational design of oral flubendazole-loaded nanoemulsion for brain delivery in cryptococcosis. Colloids Surf A Physicochem Eng Asp 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfa.2021.127631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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28
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Xie X, Cai X, Tang Y, Jiang C, Zhou F, Yang L, Liu Z, Wang L, Zhao H, Zhao C, Huang X. Flubendazole Elicits Antitumor Effects by Inhibiting STAT3 and Activating Autophagy in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:680600. [PMID: 34513827 PMCID: PMC8427440 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.680600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) is a major neoplastic disease with a high mortality worldwide; however, effective treatment of this disease remains a challenge. Flubendazole, a traditional anthelmintic drug, possesses potent antitumor properties; however, the detailed molecular mechanism of flubendazole activity in NSCLC needs to be further explored. In the present study, flubendazole was found to exhibit valid antitumor activity in vitro as well as in vivo. Flubendazole blocked phosphorylation of STAT3 in a dose- and time-dependent manner and regulated the transcription of STAT3 target genes encoding apoptotic proteins. Further, flubendazole inhibited STAT3 activation by inhibiting its phosphorylation and nuclear localization induced by interleukin-6 (IL-6). Notably, the autophagic flux of NSCLC cell lines was increased after flubendazole treatment. Furthermore, flubendazole downregulated the expression of BCL2, P62, and phosphorylated-mTOR, but it upregulated LC3-I/II and Beclin-1 expression, which are the main genes associated with autophagy. Collectively, these data contribute to elucidating the efficacy of flubendazole as an anticancer drug, demonstrating its potential as a therapeutic agent via its suppression of STAT3 activity and the activation of autophagy in NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaona Xie
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xueding Cai
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yemeng Tang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Chunhui Jiang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Feng Zhou
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Lehe Yang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhiguo Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Liangxing Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Haiyang Zhao
- The Institute of Life Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Chengguang Zhao
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaoying Huang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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29
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Alterations in Taenia crassiceps cysticerci cytoskeleton induced by nitazoxanide and flubendazole. Acta Trop 2021; 221:106027. [PMID: 34216560 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.106027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Cysticercosis is the presence of Taenia solium larval stage in tissues such as central nervous system, skin, muscles and eye globe. The current treatment is based on albendazole and praziquantel which already present resistance reports. Therefore, the search for alternative treatments is paramount. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of flubendazole and nitazoxanide on cytoskeleton proteins from Taenia crassiceps cysticerci, an experimental model for cysticercosis. Cysticerci were cultured in RPMI supplemented medium containing nitazoxanide and/or flubendazole. 24 h after the exposure the cysticerci were processed for scanning and transmission electron microscopy and for protein analysis of the cytoskeleton. The proteins were detected through 1D electrophoresis and identified through Western Blot. Nitazoxanide exposure increased tubulin and actin quantifications in T. crassiceps cysticerci. While flubendazole alone and the drugs combinations induced an increase in α-tubulin and actin and decreased β-tubulin quantifications in the parasite. Morphological changes such as swelling and rupture of vesicle, stiff membrane, decrease in movements were observed when the cysticerci were incubated with the different compounds. In conclusion the drugs induced significative impact in the parasite`s cytoskeleton and may be considered as alternative treatments for cysticercosis.
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30
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Huang L, Zhao L, Zhang J, He F, Wang H, Liu Q, Shi D, Ni N, Wagstaff W, Chen C, Reid RR, Haydon RC, Luu HH, Shen L, He TC, Tang L. Antiparasitic mebendazole (MBZ) effectively overcomes cisplatin resistance in human ovarian cancer cells by inhibiting multiple cancer-associated signaling pathways. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:17407-17427. [PMID: 34232919 PMCID: PMC8312413 DOI: 10.18632/aging.203232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the third most common cancer and the second most common cause of gynecologic cancer death in women. Its routine clinical management includes surgical resection and systemic therapy with chemotherapeutics. While the first-line systemic therapy requires the combined use of platinum-based agents and paclitaxel, many ovarian cancer patients have recurrence and eventually succumb to chemoresistance. Thus, it is imperative to develop new strategies to overcome recurrence and chemoresistance of ovarian cancer. Repurposing previously-approved drugs is a cost-effective strategy for cancer drug discovery. The antiparasitic drug mebendazole (MBZ) is one of the most promising drugs with repurposing potential. Here, we investigate whether MBZ can overcome cisplatin resistance and sensitize chemoresistant ovarian cancer cells to cisplatin. We first established and characterized two stable and robust cisplatin-resistant (CR) human ovarian cancer lines and demonstrated that MBZ markedly inhibited cell proliferation, suppressed cell wounding healing/migration, and induced apoptosis in both parental and CR cells at low micromole range. Mechanistically, MBZ was revealed to inhibit multiple cancer-related signal pathways including ELK/SRF, NFKB, MYC/MAX, and E2F/DP1 in cisplatin-resistant ovarian cancer cells. We further showed that MBZ synergized with cisplatin to suppress cell proliferation, induce cell apoptosis, and blunt tumor growth in xenograft tumor model of human cisplatin-resistant ovarian cancer cells. Collectively, our findings suggest that MBZ may be repurposed as a synergistic sensitizer of cisplatin in treating chemoresistant human ovarian cancer, which warrants further clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linjuan Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Ling Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Fang He
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Medicine/Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine, and the School of Laboratory Diagnostic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qing Liu
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Spine Surgery, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, China
| | - Deyao Shi
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Union Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Na Ni
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine, and the School of Laboratory Diagnostic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - William Wagstaff
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Connie Chen
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Russell R. Reid
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Surgery Section of Plastic Surgery, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Rex C. Haydon
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Hue H. Luu
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Le Shen
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Surgery, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Tong-Chuan He
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Surgery, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Liangdan Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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31
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Allegra A, Imbesi C, Bitto A, Ettari R. Drug Repositioning for the Treatment of Hematologic Disease: Limits, Challenges and Future Perspectives. Curr Med Chem 2021; 28:2195-2217. [PMID: 33138750 DOI: 10.2174/0929867327999200817102154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Drug repositioning is a strategy to identify new uses for approved or investigational drugs that are used off-label outside the scope of the original medical indication. In this review, we report the most relevant studies about drug repositioning in hematology, reporting the signalling pathways and molecular targets of these drugs, and describing the biological mechanisms which are responsible for their anticancer effects. Although the majority of studies on drug repositioning in hematology concern acute myeloid leukemia and multiple myeloma, numerous studies are present in the literature on the possibility of using these drugs also in other hematological diseases, such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia, chronic myeloid leukemia, and lymphomas. Numerous anti-infectious drugs and chemical entities used for the therapy of neurological or endocrine diseases, oral antidiabetics, statins and medications used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure, bisphosphonate and natural substance such as artemisin and curcumin, have found a place in the treatment of hematological diseases. Moreover, several molecules drastically reversed the resistance of the tumor cells to the chemotherapeutic drugs both in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Allegra
- Department of Human Pathology in Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Chiara Imbesi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Alessandra Bitto
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Roberta Ettari
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Chemistry, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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32
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Florio R, Carradori S, Veschi S, Brocco D, Di Genni T, Cirilli R, Casulli A, Cama A, De Lellis L. Screening of Benzimidazole-Based Anthelmintics and Their Enantiomers as Repurposed Drug Candidates in Cancer Therapy. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14040372. [PMID: 33920661 PMCID: PMC8072969 DOI: 10.3390/ph14040372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Repurposing of approved non-antitumor drugs represents a promising and affordable strategy that may help to increase the repertoire of effective anticancer drugs. Benzimidazole-based anthelmintics are antiparasitic drugs commonly employed both in human and veterinary medicine. Benzimidazole compounds are being considered for drug repurposing due to antitumor activities displayed by some members of the family. In this study, we explored the effects of a large series of benzimidazole-based anthelmintics (and some enantiomerically pure forms of those containing a stereogenic center) on the viability of different tumor cell lines derived from paraganglioma, pancreatic and colorectal cancer. Flubendazole, parbendazole, oxibendazole, mebendazole, albendazole and fenbendazole showed the most consistent antiproliferative effects, displaying IC50 values in the low micromolar range, or even in the nanomolar range. In silico evaluation of their physicochemical, pharmacokinetics and medicinal chemistry properties also provided useful information related to the chemical structures and potential of these compounds. Furthermore, in view of the potential repurposing of these drugs in cancer therapy and considering that pharmaceutically active compounds may have different mechanisms of action, we performed an in silico target prediction to assess the polypharmacology of these benzimidazoles, which highlighted previously unknown cancer-relevant molecular targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalba Florio
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.F.); (S.V.); (D.B.); (T.D.G.); (L.D.L.)
| | - Simone Carradori
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.F.); (S.V.); (D.B.); (T.D.G.); (L.D.L.)
- Correspondence: (S.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Serena Veschi
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.F.); (S.V.); (D.B.); (T.D.G.); (L.D.L.)
| | - Davide Brocco
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.F.); (S.V.); (D.B.); (T.D.G.); (L.D.L.)
| | - Teresa Di Genni
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.F.); (S.V.); (D.B.); (T.D.G.); (L.D.L.)
| | - Roberto Cirilli
- Centro Nazionale per il Controllo e la Valutazione dei Farmaci, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Adriano Casulli
- WHO Collaborating Centre for the Epidemiology, Detection and Control of Cystic and Alveolar Echinococcosis (in Animals and Humans), Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy;
- European Union Reference Laboratory for Parasites, Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Cama
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.F.); (S.V.); (D.B.); (T.D.G.); (L.D.L.)
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Correspondence: (S.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Laura De Lellis
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.F.); (S.V.); (D.B.); (T.D.G.); (L.D.L.)
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33
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Dong T, Lu Z, Li J, Liu Y, Wen J. [Flubendazole Inhibits the Proliferation of A549 and H460 Cells and Promotes Autophagy]. ZHONGGUO FEI AI ZA ZHI = CHINESE JOURNAL OF LUNG CANCER 2021; 23:306-313. [PMID: 32429634 PMCID: PMC7260388 DOI: 10.3779/j.issn.1009-3419.2020.104.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
背景与目的 氟苯达唑是一种苯并咪唑类驱虫药, 既往研究发现其对结肠癌、乳腺癌细胞增殖具有抑制作用。本研究旨在探讨氟苯达唑对非小细胞肺癌A549、H460细胞增殖的影响及机制。 方法 通过CCK-8(Cell Counting Kit-8)法检测不同浓度的氟苯达唑对A549、H460细胞活力的影响; Western blot法检测氟苯达唑处理后细胞自噬相关蛋白p62、LC3的表达水平; 自噬双标腺病毒(mRFP-GFP-LC3)转染细胞, 分析细胞内自噬流变化。 结果 氟苯达唑抑制A549、H460细胞增殖, 并呈剂量依赖关系(P < 0.001)。2 μmol/L氟苯达唑处理A549、H460细胞24 h、48 h后p62减少, LC3 II/I比值升高(P < 0.005)。mRFP-GFP-LC3转染细胞显示氟苯达唑处理组红色荧光增加, 提示自噬流增强。 结论 氟苯达唑可以抑制A549、H460细胞增殖并促进自噬。
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingjun Dong
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, China.,Tumor Diagnosis and Treatment Center, The Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Zejun Lu
- Tumor Diagnosis and Treatment Center, The Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Jingjiao Li
- Tumor Diagnosis and Treatment Center, The Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Yongzhen Liu
- Tumor Diagnosis and Treatment Center, The Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Juyi Wen
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, China.,Tumor Diagnosis and Treatment Center, The Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
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Zhou X, Zou L, Chen W, Yang T, Luo J, Wu K, Shu F, Tan X, Yang Y, Cen S, Li C, Mao X. Flubendazole, FDA-approved anthelmintic, elicits valid antitumor effects by targeting P53 and promoting ferroptosis in castration-resistant prostate cancer. Pharmacol Res 2021; 164:105305. [PMID: 33197601 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
On account of incurable castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) inevitably developing after treating with androgen deprivation therapy, it is an urgent need to find new therapeutic strategies. Flubendazole is a well-known anti-malarial drug that is recently reported to be a potential anti-tumor agent in various types of human cancer cells. However, whether flubendazole could inhibit the castration-resistant prostate cancer has not been well charified. Thus, the aim of the present study was to characterize the precise mechanism of action of flubendazole on the CRPC. In this study, we investigated the potential effect of flubendazole on cell proliferation, cell cycle and cell death in CRPC cells (PC3 and DU145). We found that flubendazole inhibited cell proliferation, caused cell cycle arrest in G2/M phase and promoted cell death in vitro, and suppressed growth of CRPC tumor in xenograft models. In addition, we reported that flubendazole induced the expression of P53, which partly accounted for the G2/M phase arrest and led to inhibition of the transcription of SLC7A11, and then downregulated the GPX4, which is a major ferroptosis-related gene. Furthermore, flubendazole exhibited synergistic effect with 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu) in chemotherapy of CRPC. This study provides biological evidence that flubendazole is a novel P53 inducer which exerts anti-proliferation and pro-apoptosis effects in CRPC through hindering the cell cycle and activating the ferroptosis, and indicates that a novel utilization of flubendazole in neoadjuvant chemotherapy of CRPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xumin Zhou
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, PR China; Department of Pathogen Biology and Experimental Teaching Center of Preventive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, PR China
| | - Libin Zou
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, PR China
| | - Wenbin Chen
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, PR China
| | - Taowei Yang
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, PR China
| | - Junqi Luo
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, PR China
| | - Kaihui Wu
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, PR China
| | - Fangpeng Shu
- Department of Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, PR China
| | - Xiao Tan
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, PR China
| | - Yu Yang
- Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518036, PR China
| | - Shengren Cen
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, PR China
| | - Chuanyin Li
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, PR China.
| | - Xiangming Mao
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, PR China.
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Elayapillai S, Ramraj S, Benbrook DM, Bieniasz M, Wang L, Pathuri G, Isingizwe ZR, Kennedy AL, Zhao YD, Lightfoot S, Hunsucker LA, Gunderson CC. Potential and mechanism of mebendazole for treatment and maintenance of ovarian cancer. Gynecol Oncol 2020; 160:302-311. [PMID: 33131904 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2020.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Mebendazole and other anti-parasitic drugs are being used off-prescription based on social media and unofficial accounts of their anti-cancer activity. The purpose of this study was to conduct a controlled evaluation of mebendazole's therapeutic efficacy in cell culture and in vivo models of ovarian cancer. The majority of ovarian cancers harbor p53 null or missense mutations, therefore the effects of p53 mutations and a mutant p53 reactivator, PRIMA-1MET (APR246) on mebendazole activity were evaluated. METHODS Mebendazole was evaluated in cisplatin-resistant high grade serous stage 3C ovarian cancer patient derived xenograft (PDX) models: PDX-0003 (p53 null) and PDX-0030 (p53 positive), and on ovarian cancer cell lines: MES-OV (p53 R282W), ES2 (p53 S241F), A2780 (p53 wild type), SKOV3 parental (p53 null) and isogenic sublines, SKOV3 R273H p53 and SKOV3 R248W p53. Drug synergy and mechanisms were evaluated in cell cultures using isobolograms, clonogenic assays and western blots. Prevention of tumor establishment was studied in a MES-OV orthotopic model. RESULTS Mebendazole inhibited growth of ovarian cancer cell cultures at nanomolar concentrations and PDXs at doses up to 50 mg/kg, and reduced orthotopic tumor establishment at 50 mg/kg. The mechanism of mebendazole was associated with p53-independent induction of p21 and tubule depolymerization. PRIMA-1MET also inhibited tumor establishment and worked synergistically with mebendazole in cell culture to inhibit growth and induce intrinsic apoptosis through a p53- and tubule destabilization-independent mechanism. CONCLUSION This work demonstrates the therapeutic potential of repurposing mebendazole and supports clinical development of mebendazole for ovarian cancer therapy and maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suganthapriya Elayapillai
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73104, OK, USA
| | - Satishkumar Ramraj
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73104, OK, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Section of Gynecologic Oncology, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73104, OK, USA
| | - Doris Mangiaracina Benbrook
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73104, OK, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Section of Gynecologic Oncology, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73104, OK, USA; Center for Cancer Prevention and Drug Development, Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73104, OK, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oklahoma City 73117, OK, USA; Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Oklahoma City 73104, OK, USA
| | - Magdalena Bieniasz
- Patient-Derived Xenograft and Preclinical Therapeutics Core facility, Aging and Metabolism Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Lin Wang
- Patient-Derived Xenograft and Preclinical Therapeutics Core facility, Aging and Metabolism Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Gopal Pathuri
- Center for Cancer Prevention and Drug Development, Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73104, OK, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oklahoma City 73117, OK, USA
| | - Zitha Redempta Isingizwe
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73104, OK, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oklahoma City 73117, OK, USA
| | - Amy L Kennedy
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73104, OK, USA; Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Oklahoma City 73104, OK, USA
| | - Yan D Zhao
- Biostatistics & Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73104, OK, USA
| | - Stanley Lightfoot
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73104, OK, USA; Center for Cancer Prevention and Drug Development, Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73104, OK, USA
| | - Lauri A Hunsucker
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73104, OK, USA
| | - Camille C Gunderson
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73104, OK, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Section of Gynecologic Oncology, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73104, OK, USA.
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Goessens T, Baere SD, Troyer ND, Deknock A, Goethals P, Lens L, Pasmans F, Croubels S. Highly sensitive multi-residue analysis of veterinary drugs including coccidiostats and anthelmintics in pond water using UHPLC-MS/MS: application to freshwater ponds in Flanders, Belgium. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2020; 22:2117-2131. [PMID: 32969449 DOI: 10.1039/d0em00215a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Veterinary drugs, such as coccidiostats and anthelmintics are routinely administered in extensive animal husbandry, finding their way into the aquatic environment through urine and/or feces of treated animals kept outdoors or by the application of contaminated liquid manure on agricultural fields and subsequent mechanisms of surface run-off, leaching and drift. Several of these compounds are known to exert acute and chronic toxicity effects on aquatic organisms, and can lead to changes in biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. The overall objective of this research was to develop, validate and apply a highly sensitive, multi-residue SPE-UHPLC-MS/MS method for the determination of 12 coccidiostats, registered as a feed supplement or veterinary medicine in Europe and three regularly used anthelmintics, in pond water, often functioning as amphibian habitat. Sample extraction was optimized using a fractional factorial resolution design. Pond water filtration efficiency (i.e. 80-118%, ≤25% RSD) and matrix effects (i.e. 72-119%, ≤39% RSD) were evaluated using water from respectively 3 and 20 different ponds in Flanders. By incorporating internal standards, overall results improved and adequate precision values (i.e.≤15%) were obtained according to the EMA guidelines. Acceptable within-run and between-run apparent recoveries, satisfactory precision as well as good linearity were demonstrated according to the CD 2002/657/EC, SANTE/12682/2019 and VICH 49 guidelines, except for robenidine for which the between-day precision was between 21.0 and 34.5%. Sample storage stability studies indicated that storage at 4 °C and analysis performed within 96 hours after sampling was sufficient to avoid loss by degradation for all compounds, excluding robenidine. Values for the limit of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) were in nanograms per liter, which was essential for the environmental application of this novel method. The method was successfully applied on grab water samples from the water surface of 18 different ponds across Flanders, Belgium, detecting amprolium and levamisole at concentrations below the LOQ of 2.5 ng L-1 and at 250.0 ng L-1 or below the LOQ of 250.0 ng L-1, respectively. In conclusion, our newly developed method may provide insights about the contamination status of amphibian breeding ponds.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Goessens
- Ghent University, Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Biochemistry, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820, Merelbeke, Belgium.
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Nath J, Paul R, Ghosh SK, Paul J, Singha B, Debnath N. Drug repurposing and relabeling for cancer therapy: Emerging benzimidazole antihelminthics with potent anticancer effects. Life Sci 2020; 258:118189. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Son DS, Lee ES, Adunyah SE. The Antitumor Potentials of Benzimidazole Anthelmintics as Repurposing Drugs. Immune Netw 2020; 20:e29. [PMID: 32895616 PMCID: PMC7458798 DOI: 10.4110/in.2020.20.e29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of refractory tumor cells limits therapeutic efficacy in cancer by activating mechanisms that promote cellular proliferation, migration, invasion, metastasis, and survival. Benzimidazole anthelmintics have broad-spectrum action to remove parasites both in human and veterinary medicine. In addition to being antiparasitic agents, benzimidazole anthelmintics are known to exert anticancer activities, such as the disruption of microtubule polymerization, the induction of apoptosis, cell cycle (G2/M) arrest, anti-angiogenesis, and blockage of glucose transport. These antitumorigenic effects even extend to cancer cells resistant to approved therapies and when in combination with conventional therapeutics, enhance anticancer efficacy and hold promise as adjuvants. Above all, these anthelmintics may offer a broad, safe spectrum to treat cancer, as demonstrated by their long history of use as antiparasitic agents. The present review summarizes central literature regarding the anticancer effects of benzimidazole anthelmintics, including albendazole, parbendazole, fenbendazole, mebendazole, oxibendazole, oxfendazole, ricobendazole, and flubendazole in cancer cell lines, animal tumor models, and clinical trials. This review provides valuable information on how to improve the quality of life in patients with cancers by increasing the treatment options and decreasing side effects from conventional therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deok-Soo Son
- Department of Biochemistry, Cancer Biology, Neurosciences and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN 37208, USA
| | - Eun-Sook Lee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32301, USA
| | - Samuel E Adunyah
- Department of Biochemistry, Cancer Biology, Neurosciences and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN 37208, USA
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Zhen Y, Zhao R, Wang M, Jiang X, Gao F, Fu L, Zhang L, Zhou XL. Flubendazole elicits anti-cancer effects via targeting EVA1A-modulated autophagy and apoptosis in Triple-negative Breast Cancer. Am J Cancer Res 2020; 10:8080-8097. [PMID: 32724459 PMCID: PMC7381743 DOI: 10.7150/thno.43473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the most prevalent neoplastic diseases worldwide, but efficacious treatments for this pathological condition are still challenging. The lack of an effective targeted therapy also leads to a poor prognosis for patients affected by TNBC. In the present study, we repurposed the distinctive inhibitory effects of flubendazole, a traditional anthelmintic drug, towards the putative modulation of proliferation and migration of TNBC in vitro and in vivo. Methods: According to a series of experimental approaches, including immunofluorescence (IF), immunoblotting (IB), siRNA and GFP-mRFP-LC3 plasmid transfection, respectively, we have found that flubendazole is capable of inducing autophagic cell death and apoptosis, thus exerting some anti-proliferative and anti-migration activity in TNBC cells. The therapeutic effects of flubendazole were evaluated by xenograft mouse models, followed by immunohistochemistry (IHC), IF and IB. Changes in the gene expression profiles of flubendazole-treated TNBC cells were analyzed by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and validated by IB. The potential binding mode of flubendazole and EVA1A was predicted by molecular docking and demonstrated by site-directed mutagenesis. Results: We have presently found that flubendazole exhibits a considerable anti-proliferative activity in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, the induction of autophagic cell death appears to be pivotal for flubendazole-mediated growth inhibition of TNBC cells, whereas blocking autophagy was able to improve the survival rate and migration ability of flubendazole-treated TNBC cells. Specifically, RNA-seq analysis showed that flubendazole treatment could promote the up-regulation of EVA1A. Flubendazole may regulate autophagy and apoptosis by targeting EVA1A, thus affecting the mechanisms of TNBC proliferation and migration. Furthermore, Thr113 may be the key amino acid residues for the binding of flubendazole to EVA1A. Conclusion: Our results provide novel insights towards the putative anti-cancer efficacy of flubendazole. Furthermore, here we show that flubendazole could serve as a potential therapeutic drug in TNBC. Altogether, this study highlights the possibility of this repurposed autophagic inducer for future cancer treatments.
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Valli D, Gruszka AM, Alcalay M. Has Drug Repurposing Fulfilled its Promise in Acute Myeloid Leukaemia? J Clin Med 2020; 9:E1892. [PMID: 32560371 PMCID: PMC7356362 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9061892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug repurposing is a method of drug discovery that consists of finding a new therapeutic context for an old drug. Compound identification arises from screening of large libraries of active compounds, through interrogating databases of cell line gene expression response upon treatment or by merging several types of information concerning disease-drug relationships. Although, there is a general consensus on the potential and advantages of this drug discovery modality, at the practical level to-date no non-anti-cancer repurposed compounds have been introduced into standard acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) management, albeit that preclinical validation yielded several candidates. The review presents the state-of-the-art drug repurposing approach in AML and poses the question of what has to be done in order to take a full advantage of it, both at the stage of screening design and later when progressing from the preclinical to the clinical phases of drug development. We argue that improvements are needed to model and read-out systems as well as to screening technologies, but also to more funding and trust in drug repurposing strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debora Valli
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia IRCCS, Via Adamello 16, 20 139 Milan, Italy; (D.V.); (M.A.)
| | - Alicja M. Gruszka
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia IRCCS, Via Adamello 16, 20 139 Milan, Italy; (D.V.); (M.A.)
| | - Myriam Alcalay
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia IRCCS, Via Adamello 16, 20 139 Milan, Italy; (D.V.); (M.A.)
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Via Festa del Perdono 7, 20 122 Milan, Italy
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Albendazole-Induced SIRT3 Upregulation Protects Human Leukemia K562 Cells from the Cytotoxicity of MCL1 Suppression. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113907. [PMID: 32486166 PMCID: PMC7312678 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that MCL1 stabilization confers cancer cells resistance to microtubule targeting agents (MTAs) and functionally extends the lifespan of MTA-triggered mitotically arrested cells. Albendazole (ABZ), a benzimidazole anthelmintic, shows microtubule-destabilizing activity and has been repositioned for cancer therapies. To clarify the role of MCL1 in ABZ-induced apoptosis, we investigated the cytotoxicity of ABZ on human leukemia K562 cells. Treatment with ABZ for 24 h did not appreciably induce apoptosis or mitochondrial depolarization in K562 cells, though it caused the mitotic arrest of K562 cells. ABZ-evoked p38 MAPK activation concurrently suppressed Sp1-mediated MCL1 expression and increased SIRT3 mRNA stability and protein expression. ABZ and A-1210477 (an MCL1 inhibitor) enhanced the cytotoxicity of ABT-263 (a BCL2/BCL2L1 inhibitor) to their effect on MCL1 suppression. Unlike ABZ, A-1210477 did not affect SIRT3 expression and reduced the survival of K562 cells. Overexpression of SIRT3 attenuated the A-1210477 cytotoxicity on K562 cells. ABZ treatment elicited marked apoptosis and ΔΨm loss in ABT-263-resistant K562 (K562/R) cells, but did not alter SIRT3 expression. Ectopic expression of SIRT3 alleviated the cytotoxicity of ABZ on K562/R cells. Collectively, our data demonstrate that ABZ-induced SIRT3 upregulation delays the apoptosis-inducing effect of MCL1 suppression on apoptosis induction in K562 cells.
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Čermák V, Dostál V, Jelínek M, Libusová L, Kovář J, Rösel D, Brábek J. Microtubule-targeting agents and their impact on cancer treatment. Eur J Cell Biol 2020; 99:151075. [PMID: 32414588 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2020.151075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Microtubule-targeting agents (MTAs) constitute a diverse group of chemical compounds that bind to microtubules and affect their properties and function. Disruption of microtubules induces various cellular responses often leading to cell cycle arrest or cell death, the most common effect of MTAs. MTAs have found a plethora of practical applications in weed control, as fungicides and antiparasitics, and particularly in cancer treatment. Here we summarize the current knowledge of MTAs, the mechanisms of action and their role in cancer treatment. We further outline the potential use of MTAs in anti-metastatic therapy based on inhibition of cancer cell migration and invasiveness. The two main problems associated with cancer therapy by MTAs are high systemic toxicity and development of resistance. Toxic side effects of MTAs can be, at least partly, eliminated by conjugation of the drugs with various carriers. Moreover, some of the novel MTAs overcome the resistance mediated by both multidrug resistance transporters as well as overexpression of specific β-tubulin types. In anti-metastatic therapy, MTAs should be combined with other drugs to target all modes of cancer cell invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimír Čermák
- Department of Cell Biology, Charles University, Viničná 7, 12843 Prague, Czech Republic; Biotechnology and Biomedicine Centre of the Academy of Sciences and Charles University (BIOCEV), Průmyslová 595, 25242 Vestec u Prahy, Czech Republic
| | - Vojtěch Dostál
- Department of Cell Biology, Charles University, Viničná 7, 12843 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Michael Jelínek
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology & Center for Research of Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lenka Libusová
- Department of Cell Biology, Charles University, Viničná 7, 12843 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Kovář
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology & Center for Research of Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Daniel Rösel
- Department of Cell Biology, Charles University, Viničná 7, 12843 Prague, Czech Republic; Biotechnology and Biomedicine Centre of the Academy of Sciences and Charles University (BIOCEV), Průmyslová 595, 25242 Vestec u Prahy, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Brábek
- Department of Cell Biology, Charles University, Viničná 7, 12843 Prague, Czech Republic; Biotechnology and Biomedicine Centre of the Academy of Sciences and Charles University (BIOCEV), Průmyslová 595, 25242 Vestec u Prahy, Czech Republic.
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Armando RG, Gómez DLM, Gomez DE. New drugs are not enough‑drug repositioning in oncology: An update. Int J Oncol 2020; 56:651-684. [PMID: 32124955 PMCID: PMC7010222 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2020.4966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug repositioning refers to the concept of discovering novel clinical benefits of drugs that are already known for use treating other diseases. The advantages of this are that several important drug characteristics are already established (including efficacy, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and toxicity), making the process of research for a putative drug quicker and less costly. Drug repositioning in oncology has received extensive focus. The present review summarizes the most prominent examples of drug repositioning for the treatment of cancer, taking into consideration their primary use, proposed anticancer mechanisms and current development status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romina Gabriela Armando
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Science and Technology Department, National University of Quilmes, Bernal B1876, Argentina
| | - Diego Luis Mengual Gómez
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Science and Technology Department, National University of Quilmes, Bernal B1876, Argentina
| | - Daniel Eduardo Gomez
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Science and Technology Department, National University of Quilmes, Bernal B1876, Argentina
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Liu W, Stachura P, Xu HC, Umesh Ganesh N, Cox F, Wang R, Lang KS, Gopalakrishnan J, Häussinger D, Homey B, Lang PA, Pandyra AA. Repurposing the serotonin agonist Tegaserod as an anticancer agent in melanoma: molecular mechanisms and clinical implications. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2020; 39:38. [PMID: 32085796 PMCID: PMC7035645 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-020-1539-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND New therapies are urgently needed in melanoma particularly in late-stage patients not responsive to immunotherapies and kinase inhibitors. METHODS Drug screening, IC50 determinations as well as synergy assays were detected by the MTT assay. Apoptosis using Annexin V and 7AAD staining was assessed using flow cytometry. TUNEL staining was performed using immunocytochemistry. Changes in phosphorylation of key molecules in PI3K/Akt/mTOR and other relevant pathways were detected by western blot as well as immunocytochemistry. To assess in vivo anti-tumor activity of Tegaserod, syngeneic intravenous and subcutaneous melanoma xenografts were used. Immunocytochemical staining was performed to detect expression of active Caspase-3, cleaved Caspase 8 and p-S6 in tumors. Evaluation of immune infiltrates was carried out by flow cytometry. RESULTS Using a screen of 770 pharmacologically active and/or FDA approved drugs, we identified Tegaserod (Zelnorm, Zelmac) as a compound with novel anti-cancer activity which induced apoptosis in murine and human malignant melanoma cell lines. Tegaserod (TM) is a serotonin receptor 4 agonist (HTR4) used in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). TM's anti-melanoma apoptosis-inducing effects were uncoupled from serotonin signaling and attributed to PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling inhibition. Specifically, TM blunted S6 phosphorylation in both BRAFV600E and BRAF wildtype (WT) melanoma cell lines. TM decreased tumor growth and metastases as well as increased survival in an in vivo syngeneic immune-competent model. In vivo, TM also caused tumor cell apoptosis, blunted PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling and decreased S6 phosphorylation. Furthermore TM decreased the infiltration of immune suppressive regulatory CD4+CD25+ T cells and FOXP3 and ROR-γt positive CD4+ T cells. Importantly, TM synergized with Vemurafenib, the standard of care drug used in patients with late stage disease harboring the BRAFV600E mutation and could be additively or synergistically combined with Cobimetinib in both BRAFV600E and BRAF WT melanoma cell lines in inducing anti-cancer effects. CONCLUSION Taken together, we have identified a drug with anti-melanoma activity in vitro and in vivo that has the potential to be combined with the standard of care agent Vemurafenib and Cobimetinib in both BRAFV600E and BRAF WT melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liu
- Department of Molecular Medicine II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Paweł Stachura
- Department of Molecular Medicine II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Haifeng C Xu
- Department of Molecular Medicine II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.,Institute of Immunology, Medical Faculty, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Nikkitha Umesh Ganesh
- Department of Molecular Medicine II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Fiona Cox
- Department of Molecular Medicine II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Ruifeng Wang
- Department of Molecular Medicine II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Karl S Lang
- Institute of Immunology, Medical Faculty, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Jay Gopalakrishnan
- Institute of Human Genetics, Heinrich-Heine-University, Universitätsstrasse 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Dieter Häussinger
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Heinrich-Heine-University, Moorenstrasse 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Bernhard Homey
- Department of Dermatology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Philipp A Lang
- Department of Molecular Medicine II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Aleksandra A Pandyra
- Department of Molecular Medicine II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany. .,Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Heinrich-Heine-University, Moorenstrasse 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.
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45
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Khachigian LM. Repurposing Drugs for Skin Cancer. Curr Med Chem 2019; 27:7214-7221. [PMID: 31858902 DOI: 10.2174/0929867327666191220103901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Drug repurposing is the process of developing existing or abandoned drugs for a different disease. Repurposing can circumvent higher costs and times associated with conventional drug discovery strategies because toxicity and pharmacokinetics profiles are typically already established. This brief review focuses on efforts to repurpose drugs for skin cancer and includes reuse of antihypertensives, anthelmintics and antifungals among a range of other medicines. Repurposing not only ushers promising known drugs for new indications, the process of repurposing can uncover new mechanistic insights in the pathogenesis of disease and uncover new opportunities for pharmaceutical intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Levon M Khachigian
- Vascular Biology and Translational Research, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney NSW 2052, Australia
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46
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Florio R, Veschi S, di Giacomo V, Pagotto S, Carradori S, Verginelli F, Cirilli R, Casulli A, Grassadonia A, Tinari N, Cataldi A, Amoroso R, Cama A, De Lellis L. The Benzimidazole-Based Anthelmintic Parbendazole: A Repurposed Drug Candidate That Synergizes with Gemcitabine in Pancreatic Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11122042. [PMID: 31861153 PMCID: PMC6966614 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11122042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most lethal, chemoresistant malignancies and it is of paramount importance to find more effective therapeutic agents. Repurposing of non-anticancer drugs may expand the repertoire of effective molecules. Studies on repurposing of benzimidazole-based anthelmintics in PC and on their interaction with agents approved for PC therapy are lacking. We analyzed the effects of four Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved benzimidazoles on AsPC-1 and Capan-2 pancreatic cancer cell line viability. Notably, parbendazole was the most potent benzimidazole affecting PC cell viability, with half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values in the nanomolar range. The drug markedly inhibited proliferation, clonogenicity and migration of PC cell lines through mechanisms involving alteration of microtubule organization and formation of irregular mitotic spindles. Moreover, parbendazole interfered with cell cycle progression promoting G2/M arrest, followed by the emergence of enlarged, polyploid cells. These abnormalities, suggesting a mitotic catastrophe, culminated in PC cell apoptosis, are also associated with DNA damage in PC cell lines. Remarkably, combinations of parbendazole with gemcitabine, a drug employed as first-line treatment in PC, synergistically decreased PC cell viability. In conclusion, this is the first study providing evidence that parbendazole as a single agent, or in combination with gemcitabine, is a repurposing candidate in the currently dismal PC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalba Florio
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.F.); (S.V.); (V.d.G.); (F.V.); (A.C.); (R.A.); (L.D.L.)
| | - Serena Veschi
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.F.); (S.V.); (V.d.G.); (F.V.); (A.C.); (R.A.); (L.D.L.)
| | - Viviana di Giacomo
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.F.); (S.V.); (V.d.G.); (F.V.); (A.C.); (R.A.); (L.D.L.)
| | - Sara Pagotto
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (S.P.); (A.G.); (N.T.)
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Simone Carradori
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.F.); (S.V.); (V.d.G.); (F.V.); (A.C.); (R.A.); (L.D.L.)
- Correspondence: (S.C.); (A.C.); Tel.: +39-0871-3554583 (S.C.); +39-0871-3554559 (A.C.)
| | - Fabio Verginelli
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.F.); (S.V.); (V.d.G.); (F.V.); (A.C.); (R.A.); (L.D.L.)
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Roberto Cirilli
- Centro nazionale per il controllo e la valutazione dei farmaci, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Adriano Casulli
- WHO Collaborating Centre for the Epidemiology, Detection and Control of Cystic and Alveolar Echinococcosis (in Animals and Humans), Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), 00161 Rome, Italy;
- European Union Reference Laboratory for Parasites, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonino Grassadonia
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (S.P.); (A.G.); (N.T.)
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Nicola Tinari
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (S.P.); (A.G.); (N.T.)
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Amelia Cataldi
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.F.); (S.V.); (V.d.G.); (F.V.); (A.C.); (R.A.); (L.D.L.)
| | - Rosa Amoroso
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.F.); (S.V.); (V.d.G.); (F.V.); (A.C.); (R.A.); (L.D.L.)
| | - Alessandro Cama
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.F.); (S.V.); (V.d.G.); (F.V.); (A.C.); (R.A.); (L.D.L.)
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Correspondence: (S.C.); (A.C.); Tel.: +39-0871-3554583 (S.C.); +39-0871-3554559 (A.C.)
| | - Laura De Lellis
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.F.); (S.V.); (V.d.G.); (F.V.); (A.C.); (R.A.); (L.D.L.)
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Mebendazole elicits potent antimyeloma activity by inhibiting the USP5/c-Maf axis. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2019; 40:1568-1577. [PMID: 31197245 PMCID: PMC7468578 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-019-0249-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
c-Maf is a critical oncogenic transcription factor that contributes to myelomagenesis. Our previous studies demonstrated that the deubiquitinase USP5 stabilizes c-Maf and promotes myeloma cell proliferation and survival; therefore, the USP5/c-Maf axis could be a potential target for myeloma therapy. As a concept of principle, the present study established a USP5/c-Maf-based luciferase system that was used to screen an FDA-approved drug library. It was found that mebendazole, a typical anthelmintic drug, preferentially induced apoptosis in c-Maf-expressing myeloma cells. Moreover, oral administration of mebendazole delayed the growth of human myeloma xenografts in nude mice but did not show overt toxicity. Further studies showed that the selective antimyeloma activity of mebendazole was associated with the inhibition of the USP5/c-Maf axis. Mebendazole downregulated USP5 expression and disrupted the interaction between USP5 and c-Maf, thus leading to increased levels of c-Maf ubiquitination and subsequent c-Maf degradation. Mebendazole inhibited c-Maf transcriptional activity, as confirmed by both luciferase assays and expression measurements of c-Maf downstream genes. In summary, this study identified mebendazole as a USP5/c-Maf inhibitor that could be developed as a novel antimyeloma agent.
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Bernacki DT, Bryce SM, Bemis JC, Dertinger SD. Aneugen Molecular Mechanism Assay: Proof-of-Concept With 27 Reference Chemicals. Toxicol Sci 2019; 170:382-393. [PMID: 31132080 PMCID: PMC6657583 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfz123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A tiered bioassay and data analysis scheme is described for elucidating the most common molecular targets responsible for chemical-induced in vitro aneugenicity: tubulin destabilization, tubulin stabilization, and inhibition of mitotic kinase(s). To evaluate this strategy, TK6 cells were first exposed to each of 27 presumed aneugens over a range of concentrations. After 4 and 24 h of treatment, γH2AX, p53, phospho-histone H3 (p-H3), and polyploidization biomarkers were evaluated using the MultiFlow DNA Damage Assay Kit. The assay identified 27 of 27 chemicals as genotoxic, with 25 exhibiting aneugenic signatures, 1 aneugenic and clastogenic, and 1 clastogenic. Subsequently, a newly described follow-up assay was employed to investigate the aneugenic agents' molecular targets. For these experiments, TK6 cells were exposed to each of 26 chemicals in the presence of 488 Taxol. After 4 h, cells were lysed and the liberated nuclei and mitotic chromosomes were stained with a nucleic acid dye and labeled with fluorescent antibodies against p-H3 and Ki-67. Flow cytometric analyses revealed that alterations to 488 Taxol-associated fluorescence were only observed with tubulin binders-increases in the case of tubulin stabilizers, decreases with destabilizers. Mitotic kinase inhibitors with known Aurora kinase B inhibiting activity were the only aneugens that dramatically decreased the ratio of p-H3-positive to Ki-67-positive nuclei. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering based on 488 Taxol fluorescence and p-H3: Ki-67 ratios clearly distinguished compounds with these disparate molecular mechanisms. Furthermore, a classification algorithm based on an artificial neural network was found to effectively predict molecular target, as leave-one-out cross-validation resulted in 25/26 agreement with a priori expectations. These results are encouraging, as they suggest that an adequate number of training set chemicals, in conjunction with a machine learning algorithm based on 488 Taxol, p-H3, and Ki-67 responses, can reliably elucidate the most commonly encountered aneugenic molecular targets.
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49
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Lin S, Yang L, Yao Y, Xu L, Xiang Y, Zhao H, Wang L, Zuo Z, Huang X, Zhao C. Flubendazole demonstrates valid antitumor effects by inhibiting STAT3 and activating autophagy. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2019; 38:293. [PMID: 31287013 PMCID: PMC6615228 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-019-1303-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is an oncogene, which upregulates in approximately 70% of human cancers. Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved process which maintains cellular homeostasis and eliminates damaged cellular components. Moreover, the STAT3 signaling pathway, which may be triggered by cancer cells, has been implicated in the autophagic process. Methods In this study, we found that the anthelmintic flubendazole exerts potent antitumor activity in three human colorectal cancer (CRC) cell lines and in the nude mouse model. The inhibition of cell proliferation in vitro by flubendazole was evaluated using a clonogenic assay and the MTT assay. Western blot analysis, flow cytometry analysis, siRNA growth experiment and cytoplasmic and nuclear protein extraction were used to investigate the mechanisms of inhibiting STAT3 signaling and activation of autophagy induced by flubendazole. Additionally, the expression of STAT3 and mTOR was analyzed in paired colorectal cancer and normal tissues collected from clinical patients. Results Flubendazole blocked the IL6-induced nuclear translocation of STAT3, which led to inhibition of the transcription of STAT3 target genes, such as MCL1, VEGF and BIRC5. In addition, flubendazole also reduced the expression of P-mTOR, P62, BCL2, and upregulated Beclin1 and LC3-I/II, which are major autophagy-related genes. These processes induced potent cell apoptosis in CRC cells. In addition, flubendazole displayed a synergistic effect with the chemotherapeutic agent 5-fluorouracil in the treatment of CRC. Conclusions Taken together, these results indicate that flubendazole exerts antitumor activities by blocking STAT3 signaling and inevitably affects the autophagy pathway. Flubendazole maybe a novel anticancer drug and offers a distinctive therapeutic strategy in neoadjuvant chemotherapy of CRC. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13046-019-1303-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shichong Lin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325035, People's Republic of China.,The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Lehe Yang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325035, People's Republic of China.,The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yulei Yao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325035, People's Republic of China.,The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingyuan Xu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325035, People's Republic of China.,The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Youqun Xiang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Haiyang Zhao
- The Institute of Life Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325035, People's Republic of China
| | - Liangxing Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhigui Zuo
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaoying Huang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Chengguang Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325035, People's Republic of China.
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50
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Kubíček V, Skálová L, Skarka A, Králová V, Holubová J, Štěpánková J, Šubrt Z, Szotáková B. Carbonyl Reduction of Flubendazole in the Human Liver: Strict Stereospecificity, Sex Difference, Low Risk of Drug Interactions. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:600. [PMID: 31191322 PMCID: PMC6546852 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Flubendazole (FLU), an anthelmintic drug of benzimidazole type, is now considered a promising anti-cancer agent due to its tubulin binding ability and low system toxicity. The present study was aimed at determining more information about FLU reduction in human liver, because this information has been insufficient until now. Subcellular fractions from the liver of 12 human patients (6 male and 6 female patients) were used to study the stereospecificity, cellular localization, coenzyme preference, enzyme kinetics, and possible inter-individual or sex differences in FLU reduction. In addition, the risk of FLU interaction with other drugs was evaluated. Our study showed that FLU is predominantly reduced in cytosol, and the reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) coenzyme is preferred. The strict stereospecificity of FLU carbonyl reduction was proven, and carbonyl reductase 1 was identified as the main enzyme of FLU reduction in the human liver. A higher reduction of FLU and a higher level of carbonyl reductase 1 protein were found in male patients than in female patients, but overall inter-individual variability was relatively low. Hepatic intrinsic clearance of FLU is very low, and FLU had no effect on doxorubicin carbonyl reduction in the liver and in cancer cells. All these results fill the gaps in the knowledge of FLU metabolism in human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimír Kubíček
- Department of Biophysics and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Hradec Králové, Czechia
| | - Lenka Skálová
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Hradec Králové, Czechia
| | - Adam Skarka
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Králové, Hradec Králové, Czechia
| | - Věra Králová
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Hradec Králové, Czechia
| | - Jana Holubová
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Hradec Králové, Czechia
| | - Jana Štěpánková
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Hradec Králové, Czechia
| | - Zdeněk Šubrt
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Hradec Králové, Czechia.,Department of Surgery, University Hospital Hradec Králové, Hradec Králové, Czechia
| | - Barbora Szotáková
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Hradec Králové, Czechia
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