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Lv D, Liu Y, Tang R, Fu S, Kong S, Liao Q, Li H, Lin L. Analysis of Clinical Trials Using Anti-Tumor Traditional Chinese Medicine Monomers. Drug Des Devel Ther 2024; 18:1997-2020. [PMID: 38855536 PMCID: PMC11162644 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s454774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The potential anti-cancer effect of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) monomers has been widely studied due to their advantages of well-defined structure, clear therapeutic effects, and easy quality control during the manufacturing process. However, clinical trial information on these monomers is scarce, resulting in a lack of knowledge regarding the research progress, efficacy, and adverse reactions at the clinical stage. Therefore, this study systematically reviewed the clinical trials on the anti-cancer effect of TCM monomers registered in the Clinicaltrials.gov website before 2023.4.30, paying special attention to the trials on tumors, aiming to explore the research results and development prospects in this field. A total of 1982 trials were started using 69 of the 131 TCM monomers. The number of clinical trials performed each year showed an overall upward trend. However, only 26 monomers entered into 519 interventional anti-tumor trials, with vinblastine (194, 37.38%) and camptothecin (146, 28.13%) being the most used. A total of 45 tumors were studied in these 519 trials, with lymphoma (112, 21.58%) being the most frequently studied. Clinical trials are also unevenly distributed across locations and sponsors/collaborators. The location and the sponsor/collaborator with the highest number of performed trials were the United States (651,32.85%) and NIH (77). Therefore, China and its institutions still have large room for progress in promoting TCM monomers in anti-tumor clinical trials. In the next step, priority should be given to the improvement of the research and development ability of domestic enterprises, universities and other institutions, using modern scientific and technological means to solve the problems of poor water solubility and strong toxic and side effects of monomers, so as to promote the clinical research of TCM monomers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Lv
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuling Liu
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruying Tang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, People's Republic of China
| | - Sai Fu
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, People's Republic of China
| | - Shasha Kong
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Liao
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Li
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine Health Industry, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Jiangxi, 330006, People's Republic of China
| | - Longfei Lin
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, People's Republic of China
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Liu Y, Liang Y, Yuhong J, Xin P, Han JL, Du Y, Yu X, Zhu R, Zhang M, Chen W, Ma Y. Advances in Nanotechnology for Enhancing the Solubility and Bioavailability of Poorly Soluble Drugs. Drug Des Devel Ther 2024; 18:1469-1495. [PMID: 38707615 PMCID: PMC11070169 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s447496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
This manuscript offers a comprehensive overview of nanotechnology's impact on the solubility and bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs, with a focus on BCS Class II and IV drugs. We explore various nanoscale drug delivery systems (NDDSs), including lipid-based, polymer-based, nanoemulsions, nanogels, and inorganic carriers. These systems offer improved drug efficacy, targeting, and reduced side effects. Emphasizing the crucial role of nanoparticle size and surface modifications, the review discusses the advancements in NDDSs for enhanced therapeutic outcomes. Challenges such as production cost and safety are acknowledged, yet the potential of NDDSs in transforming drug delivery methods is highlighted. This contribution underscores the importance of nanotechnology in pharmaceutical engineering, suggesting it as a significant advancement for medical applications and patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Liu
- School of Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yushan Liang
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jing Yuhong
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Peng Xin
- School of Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jia Li Han
- School of Health Sciences, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yongle Du
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xinru Yu
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Runhe Zhu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mingxun Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wen Chen
- First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yingjie Ma
- First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
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Huang Y, Wan XW, Du YT, Feng Y, Yang LS, Liu YB, Chen T, Zhu Z, Xu YT, Wang CC. Norcantharidin Enhances the Antitumor Effect of 5-Fluorouracil by Inducing Apoptosis of Cervical Cancer Cells: Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and Experimental Validation. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:3906-3918. [PMID: 38785510 PMCID: PMC11120450 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46050242] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The high recurrence rate of cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths in women. 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is an antitumor drug used to treat many types of cancer, but its diminishing effectiveness and side effects limit its use. Norcantharidin (NCTD), a demethylated derivative of cantharidin, exhibits various biological activities. Here, we investigated whether NCTD could potentiate 5-FU to induce cervical cancer cell death. To assess the cell viability and synergistic effects of the drugs, cell counting kit-8 and colony formation assays were performed using HR-HPV-positive cervical cancer cell lines. Annexin V-FITC/PI staining and TUNEL assays were performed to confirm the induction of apoptosis. The synergistic effect of NCTD on the antitumor activity of 5-FU was analyzed using network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations. Apoptosis-related proteins were examined using immunoblotting. The combination of NCTD and 5-FU was synergistic in cervical cancer cell lines. Network pharmacological analysis identified 10 common targets of NCTD and 5-FU for cervical cancer treatment. Molecular docking showed the strong binding affinity of both compounds with CA12, CASP9, and PTGS1. Molecular dynamics simulations showed that the complex system of both drugs with caspase-9 could be in a stable state. NCTD enhanced 5-FU-mediated cytotoxicity by activating apoptosis-related proteins. NCTD acts synergistically with 5-FU to inhibit cervical cancer cell proliferation. NCTD enhances 5-FU-induced apoptosis in cervical cancer cell lines via the caspase-dependent pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Cheng-Cheng Wang
- GuiZhou University Medical College, Guiyang 550025, China; (Y.H.); (X.-W.W.); (Y.-T.D.); (Y.F.); (L.-S.Y.); (Y.-B.L.); (T.C.); (Z.Z.); (Y.-T.X.)
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4
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Xiong L, Zhang Y, Wang J, Yu M, Huang L, Hou Y, Li G, Wang L, Li Y. Novel small molecule inhibitors targeting renal cell carcinoma: Status, challenges, future directions. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 267:116158. [PMID: 38278080 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116158] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common renal malignancy with a rapidly increasing morbidity and mortality rate gradually. RCC has a high mortality rate and an extremely poor prognosis. Despite numerous treatment strategies, RCC is resistant to conventional radiotherapy and chemotherapy. In addition, the limited clinical efficacy and inevitable resistance of multiple agents suggest an unmet clinical need. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop novel anti-RCC candidates. Nowadays many promising results have been achieved with the development of novel small molecule inhibitors against RCC. This paper reviews the recent research progress of novel small molecule inhibitors targeting RCC. It is focusing on the structural optimization process and conformational relationships of small molecule inhibitors, as well as the potential mechanisms and anticancer activities for the treatment of RCC. To provide a theoretical basis for promoting the clinical translation of novel small molecule inhibitors, we discussed their application prospects and future development directions. It could be capable of improving the clinical efficacy of RCC and improving the therapy resistance for RCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Xiong
- Department of Nephrology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Clinical Immunology Translational Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan, China
| | - Ya Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiaxing Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, 38163, Tennessee, United States
| | - Min Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Clinical Immunology Translational Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan, China
| | - Liming Huang
- Department of Nephrology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Clinical Immunology Translational Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan, China
| | - Yanpei Hou
- Department of Nephrology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Clinical Immunology Translational Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan, China
| | - Guisen Li
- Department of Nephrology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Clinical Immunology Translational Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Clinical Immunology Translational Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Nephrology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Clinical Immunology Translational Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan, China.
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Zeng B, Chen X, Zhang L, Gao X, Gui Y. Norcantharidin in cancer therapy - a new approach to overcoming therapeutic resistance: A review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e37394. [PMID: 38428865 PMCID: PMC10906652 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000037394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic resistance in cancer remains a dilemma that scientists and oncologists are eager to solve. Despite several preclinical and clinical studies dedicated to overcoming therapeutic resistance, they often do not yield the expected outcomes. This is primarily due to the multifactorial phenomenon of therapeutic resistance. Norcantharidin (NCTD) is an artificial compound derived from cantharidin that has significant anticancer efficacy without incurring serious side effects. Intriguingly, extensive research suggests that NCTD is essential for boosting anticancer efficacy and reversing treatment resistance. This review article presents a full description of how NCTD can effectively overcome cancer resistance to standard treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy. We also discuss the potential prospects and challenges associated with using NCTD as a therapeutic strategy for reversing resistance to cancer therapy. We anticipate that our review will serve as a valuable reference for researchers and clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beilei Zeng
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan, China
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Wang X, Zhuang Y, Wang Y, Jiang M, Yao L. The recent developments of camptothecin and its derivatives as potential anti-tumor agents. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 260:115710. [PMID: 37595544 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
This review article focuses on the research progress made in the structural modifications of camptothecin (CPT), a potent cytotoxic natural alkaloid. CPT possesses a unique 5-fused ring structure and exhibits various beneficial activities such as anti-proliferative, anti-fungal, insecticidal, and anti-SARS-CoV-2 properties. CPT and its analogs, including Topotecan and Irinotecan, have been successfully developed and marketed as topoisomerase I inhibitors. To enhance the therapeutic potential of CPT, researchers have undertaken structural modifications primarily on the A, B, and E rings of the CPT core structure. These modifications aim to improve the efficacy, selectivity, and pharmacokinetic properties of CPT derivatives. The article reviews the advancements in hybridizing CPT with other bioactive compounds, the synthesis of novel CPT analogs, and their associated biological activities. Moreover, the structure-activity relationship (SAR) of these modified CPT derivatives is summarized to gain insights into their structure-function correlations. In addition to discussing the modifications and biological activities of CPT derivatives, the article also touches upon the mechanism of parent drug release. Many CPT derivatives are prodrugs, meaning they require metabolic activation to generate the active form of the drug. It is a resource for researchers interested in developing novel anti-tumor agents based on CPT, addressing the limitations associated with the parent drug, and exploring various aspects of CPT modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianzhang Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Yantai University, Yantai, 264005, China
| | - Yumeng Zhuang
- School of Pharmacy, Yantai University, Yantai, 264005, China
| | - Yuankun Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Yantai University, Yantai, 264005, China
| | - Maokai Jiang
- School of Pharmacy, Yantai University, Yantai, 264005, China
| | - Lei Yao
- School of Pharmacy, Yantai University, Yantai, 264005, China.
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Ding Z, Xu B, Zhang H, Wang Z, Sun L, Tang M, Ding M, Zhang T, Shi S. Norcantharidin-Encapsulated C60-Modified Nanomicelles: A Potential Approach to Mitigate Cytotoxicity in Renal Cells and Simultaneously Enhance Anti-Tumor Activity in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells. Molecules 2023; 28:7609. [PMID: 38005331 PMCID: PMC10673410 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28227609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to examine the preparation process of DSPE-PEG-C60/NCTD micelles and assess the impact of fullerenol (C60)-modified micelles on the nephrotoxicity and antitumor activity of NCTD. METHOD The micelles containing NCTD were prepared using the ultrasonic method and subsequently optimized and characterized. The cytotoxicity of micelles loaded with NCTD was assessed using the CCK-8 method on human hepatoma cell lines HepG2 and BEL-7402, as well as normal cell lines HK-2 and L02. Acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) double staining and flow cytometry were employed to assess the impact of NCTD-loaded micelles on the apoptosis of the HK-2 cells and the HepG2 cells. Additionally, JC-1 fluorescence was utilized to quantify the alterations in mitochondrial membrane potential. The generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) following micelle treatment was determined through 2',7'-dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFDA) staining. RESULTS The particle size distribution of the DSPE-PEG-C60/NCTD micelles was determined to be 91.57 nm (PDI = 0.231). The zeta potential of the micelles was found to be -13.8 mV. The encapsulation efficiency was measured to be 91.9%. The in vitro release behavior of the micelles followed the Higuchi equation. Cellular experiments demonstrated a notable decrease in the toxicity of the C60-modified micelles against the HK-2 cells, accompanied by an augmented inhibitory effect on cancer cells. Compared to the free NCTD group, the DSPE-PEG-C60 micelles exhibited a decreased apoptosis rate (12%) for the HK-2 cell line, lower than the apoptosis rate observed in the NCTD group (36%) at an NCTD concentration of 75 μM. The rate of apoptosis in the HepG2 cells exhibited a significant increase (49%), surpassing the apoptosis rate observed in the NCTD group (24%) at a concentration of 150 μM NCTD. The HK-2 cells exhibited a reduction in intracellular ROS and an increase in mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔψM) upon exposure to C60-modified micelles compared to the NCTD group. CONCLUSIONS The DSPE-PEG-C60/NCTD micelles, as prepared in this study, demonstrated the ability to decrease cytotoxicity and ROS levels in normal renal cells (HK-2) in vitro. Additionally, these micelles showed an enhanced antitumor activity against human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2, BEL-7402).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Senlin Shi
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 311400, China; (Z.D.); (B.X.); (H.Z.); (Z.W.); (L.S.); (M.T.); (M.D.); (T.Z.)
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8
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Lin H, Dong W, Zhao C, Wang X. Synthesis of 3- and 5-β-anhydroicaritine norcantharidin conjugates. Nat Prod Res 2023:1-8. [PMID: 37950667 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2023.2269466] [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: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023]
Abstract
Using molecular hybridisation to develop conjugates of natural antitumor drugs is one of the research hotspots in recent drug development. In this study, β-anhydroicaritine with anticancer activity was conjugated to norcantharidine selectively to develop new antitumor lead candidates. In the condition of EDCI/DMAP/DCM, the C-3 and C-5 hydroxyl groups of β-anhydroicaritine was coupled with norcantharidin monoacid ester respectively, and the inhibitory activity of the synthesised conjugates against HepG2, MCF-7 and L-02 cells were tested by CCK-8 method. Most of these conjugates showed a better activity against HepG2 and MCF-7 cell lines compared to parent compound icaritin, but weaker than another parent compound norcantharidin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Lin
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi City, Xin Pu New District, China
| | - Weiwei Dong
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi City, Xin Pu New District, China
| | - Changkuo Zhao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi City, Xin Pu New District, China
| | - Xianheng Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi City, Xin Pu New District, China
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Yousef EH, El-Magd NFA, El Gayar AM. Norcantharidin potentiates sorafenib antitumor activity in hepatocellular carcinoma rat model through inhibiting IL-6/STAT3 pathway. Transl Res 2023; 260:69-82. [PMID: 37257560 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2023.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), sorafenib (Sora) efficacy is limited by primary and/or acquired resistance. Emerging evidence shows that the inflammatory factor interleukin 6 (IL-6) plays a role in Sora resistance. Norcantharidin (NCTD), a derivative of cantharidine, was identified as a potent IL-6 inhibitor. Thus, in this study, we evaluated NCTD ability to improve the Sora efficacy in HCC and its underlying molecular mechanisms. Male Sprague Dawely rats were administered NCTD (0.1 mg/kg/day; orally) or Sora (10 mg/kg day; orally) or combination for 6 weeks after HCC induction using thioacetamide (200 mg/kg; ip; 2 times/wk) for 16 weeks. Our results showed that NCTD greatly enhanced Sora activity against HCC and potentiated Sora-induced oxidative stress. NCTD enhanced Sora-induced tumor immunity reactivation by decreasing both fibrinogen-like protein 1 level and increasing both tumor necrosis factor-α gene expression along with CD8+ T cells number. Also, NCTD augmented Sora attenuation activity against TAA-induced angiogenesis and metastasis by decreasing VEGFA, HIF-1α, serum lactate dehydrogenase enzyme, and vimentin levels. The combined use of NCTD/Sora suppressed drug resistance and stemness by downregulating ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 2, neurogenic locus notch homolog protein, spalt-like transcription factor 4, and CD133. NCTD boosted Sora antiproliferative and apoptotic activities by decreasing Ccnd1 and BCL2 expressions along with increasing BAX and caspase-3 expressions. To our knowledge, this study represents the first study providing evidence for the potential novel therapeutic use of NCTD/Sora combination for HCC. Moreover, no previous studies have reported the effect of NCTD on FGL1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman H Yousef
- Biochemistry department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt; Biochemistry department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Horus University-Egypt, Damietta, Egypt.
| | - Nada F Abo El-Magd
- Biochemistry department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Amal M El Gayar
- Biochemistry department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt.
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Bokhari SMZ, Hamar P. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-D (VEGF-D): An Angiogenesis Bypass in Malignant Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13317. [PMID: 37686121 PMCID: PMC10487419 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) are the key regulators of vasculogenesis in normal and oncological development. VEGF-A is the most studied angiogenic factor secreted by malignant tumor cells under hypoxic and inflammatory stress, which made VEGF-A a rational target for anticancer therapy. However, inhibition of VEGF-A by monoclonal antibody drugs led to the upregulation of VEGF-D. VEGF-D was primarily described as a lymphangiogenic factor; however, VEGF-D's blood angiogenic potential comparable to VEGF-A has already been demonstrated in glioblastoma and colorectal carcinoma. These findings suggested a role for VEGF-D in facilitating malignant tumor growth by bypassing the anti-VEGF-A antiangiogenic therapy. Owing to its high mitogenic ability, higher affinity for VEGFR-2, and higher expression in cancer, VEGF-D might even be a stronger angiogenic driver and, hence, a better therapeutic target than VEGF-A. In this review, we summarized the angiogenic role of VEGF-D in blood vasculogenesis and its targetability as an antiangiogenic therapy in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter Hamar
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary;
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Li TZ, Yang XT, Ma WJ, Ma YB, Li FJ, Wang YC, Chen JJ. Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of artemyrianolide H derivatives as potential antihepatoma agents. Bioorg Chem 2023; 137:106617. [PMID: 37267793 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Artemyrianolide H (AH) is a germacrene-type sesquiterpenolid isolated from Artemisia myriantha, and showed potent cytotoxicity against three human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines HepG2, Huh7, and SK-Hep-1 with IC50 values of 10.9, 7.2, and 11.9 µM, respectively. To reveal structure-activity relationship, 51 artemyrianolide H derivatives including 19 dimeric analogs were designed, synthesized, and assayed for their cytotoxicity against three human hepatoma cell lines. Among them, 34 compounds were more active than artemyrianolide H and sorafenib on the three cell lines. Especially, compound 25 exhibited the most promising activity with IC50 values of 0.7 (HepG2), 0.6 (Huh7), and 1.3 µM (SK-Hep-1), which were 15.5, 12.0, and 9.2-fold higher than that of AH and 16.4, 16.3 and 17.5-fold higher than that of sorafenib. Cytotoxicity evaluation on normal human liver cell lines (THLE-2) demonstrated good safety profile of compound 25 with SI of 1.9 (HepG2), 2.2 (Huh 7) and 1.0 (SK-Hep1). Further studies revealed that compound 25 dose-dependently arrested cells at G2/M phase which was correlated with the up-regulation of both cyclin B1 and p-CDK1, and induced apoptosis through the activation of mitochondrial pathways in HepG2 cells. In addition, the migratory and invasive abilities in HepG2 cells after treatment with 1.5 μM of compound 25 were decreased by 89% and 86% with the increase of E-cadherin expression accompanied by the decrease of N-cadherin, vimentin expression. Bioinformatics analysis based on machine learning predicted that PDGFRA and MAP2K2 might be acting targets of compound 25, and SPR assays demonstrated compound 25 were bound with PDGFRA and MAP2K2 with KD value of 0.168 nM, and 8.49 µM, respectively. This investigation proposed that compound 25 might be considered as a promising lead compound for the development of antihepatoma candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Ze Li
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, PR China
| | - Xiao-Tong Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, PR China
| | - Wen-Jing Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Yun-Bao Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, PR China
| | - Feng-Jiao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Yong-Cui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, PR China
| | - Ji-Jun Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China.
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Martínez-Razo G, Pires PC, Domínguez-López ML, Veiga F, Vega-López A, Paiva-Santos AC. Norcantharidin Nanoemulsion Development, Characterization, and In Vitro Antiproliferation Effect on B16F1 Melanoma Cells. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16040501. [PMID: 37111258 PMCID: PMC10143330 DOI: 10.3390/ph16040501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is a highly lethal type of cancer that has had an increase in incidence in the last decades. Nevertheless, current therapies lack effectiveness and have highly disabling side effects, which calls for new therapeutic strategies. Norcantharidin (NCTD) is an acid derivative with potential antitumor activity isolated from natural blister beetles. However, its solubility limitations restrict its use. To address this issue, we developed an oil-in-water nanoemulsion using commonly available cosmetic ingredients, which increased NCTD solubility 10-fold compared to water. The developed nanoemulsion showed a good droplet size and homogeneity, with adequate pH and viscosity for skin application. In vitro drug release studies showed a sustained release profile, ideal for prolonged therapeutic effects. Accelerated stability studies proved that the formulation was reasonably stable under stress conditions, with particle separation fingerprints, instability index, particle size, and sedimentation velocity analyses being conducted. To assess the therapeutic potential of the developed formulation, in vitro studies were conducted on melanoma B16F1 cells; results showed an IC50 of 1.026 +/− 0.370 mg/kg, and the cells’ metabolic activity decreased after exposure to the NCTD nanoemulsion. Hence, a new “easy-to-make” nanoformulation with therapeutic potential on melanoma cells was developed, as a possible adjuvant for future melanoma treatment.
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Ma L, Sun X, Ji W, Zhang B, Li J, Fu W, Zhang X, Qian W, Sheng E, Zhu D. Supramolecular self-assembled AIE molecules are used in the search for target proteins in norcantharidin. Anal Chim Acta 2023; 1239:340642. [PMID: 36628744 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2022.340642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Norcantharidin (NCTD), a demethylated derivative of cantharidin, is an anticancer active component in traditional Chinese medicine. At present, the main methods for finding its target proteins are pharmacological methods and biophysical screening, which cannot achieve the purpose of efficient and accurate screening. Here we established a new analytical method for specific fishing and assisted imaging for norcantharidin target proteins. For the AIE supramolecule probe, the benzophenone azide (BPA) fluorescent nanoparticles with strong AIE properties were encapsulated in biocompatible DSPE-PEG that covalently coupled with NCTD (named BPA@NCTD NPs). The target proteins of NCTD can be captured by BPA@NCTD NPs, and then be detected to investigate the potential signaling pathways. The screened differential proteins were analysed through the protein and signaling pathway database, and multiple signaling pathways were obtained and verified. The mechanism of norcantharidin in inhibiting the migration and invasion of A549 cells through the P53 signaling pathway was confirmed by Western blot experiments. Our research showed that AIE supramolecule probe BPA@NCTD NPs has the dual functions of specific screening of A549 cells target proteins and biological imaging, which not only offers a good anti-fluorescence quenching ability for the dynamic imaging process of NCTD, but also provides a novel and efficient specific method for efficient analysis of target proteins and signal pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijuan Ma
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuetong Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenwen Ji
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Bei Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianting Li
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenjuan Fu
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangying Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenhui Qian
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Enze Sheng
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China.
| | - Dong Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China.
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Martínez-Razo G, Domínguez-López ML, de la Rosa JM, Fabila-Bustos DA, Reyes-Maldonado E, Conde-Vázquez E, Vega-López A. Norcantharidin toxicity profile: an in vivo murine study. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2023; 396:99-108. [PMID: 36184699 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-022-02299-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Norcantharidin (NCTD) is the demethylated analog of cantharidin, with allegedly reduced toxicity. However, there is still limited information regarding its posology and potential risk in its use in cancer treatment. Healthy BDF1 mice were intraperitoneally administered with norcantharidin (0, 3, 6, 12, and 25 mg/kg) every 24 h for 6 days. Survivor mice were euthanized, and the brain, lungs, kidneys, spleen, and liver were procured for enzymatic and histopathological analysis in the liver and kidney. DL50 were 8.86 mg/kg for females and 11.77 mg/kg for males. The treatments with 3.0 mg/kg and 6.0 mg/kg significantly modified the phosphorylase, alanine transaminase, and γ-glutamyl transferase activities; however, an organ-specific response was detected. A significant dose-dependent decrease was observed in the kidney for ROS, while the liver had the opposite effect. Histopathological analysis revealed a significant elevation in hepatocytes' nuclei average size and total area (3 mg/kg), as well as centrilobular vein and adjacent sinusoidal capillaries showed a significant difference. The portal triad presented a significant difference in veins and capillarity count in 6 mg/kg. Renal samples showed cortex convoluted tubules' average size significantly augmented in both doses' groups, and tubule count was found augmented in 6 mg/kg. These physiological effects of NCTD can be exploited as treatment strategies if able to operate in an established posology and proper testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Martínez-Razo
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Laboratorio de Toxicología Ambiental, Unidad Profesional Zacatenco, Av. Wilfrido Massieu s/n, CP 07738, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - María Lilia Domínguez-López
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Laboratorio de Inmunoquímica I, Casco de Santo Tomás, Carpio y Plan de Ayala S/N, Mexico City, CP, 11340, México
| | - José M de la Rosa
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Escuela Superior de Ingeniería Mecánica Y Eléctrica (ESIME) Unidad Zacatenco, Unidad Profesional Zacatenco, CP 07738, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Diego A Fabila-Bustos
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Unidad Profesional Interdisciplinaria de Ingeniería, Campus Hidalgo (UPIIH), Carretera Pachuca - Actopan Kilómetro 1+500 Ciudad del Conocimiento y la Cultura Educación, 42162, Hidalgo, México
| | - Elba Reyes-Maldonado
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Laboratorio de Hemopatología, Carpio y Plan de Ayala S/N, Casco de Santo Tomás, Mexico City, CP 11340, México
| | - Eliezer Conde-Vázquez
- Hospital Bicentenario de La Independencia del Instituto de Salud de Trabajadores del Estado ISSSTE, Ciruelos 4, Lázaro Cárdenas, Tultitlán de Mariano Escobedo, Tultitlan Estado de México, CP 54916, México
| | - Armando Vega-López
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Laboratorio de Toxicología Ambiental, Unidad Profesional Zacatenco, Av. Wilfrido Massieu s/n, CP 07738, Mexico City, Mexico.
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Wang M, Li L, Fan T, Cao L, Zhang J, Li S, Liu C, Liu X. Semisynthetic aurones A14 protects against T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia via suppressing proliferation and inducing cell cycle arrest with apoptosis. Chin Med 2022; 17:137. [PMID: 36510253 PMCID: PMC9743678 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-022-00693-6] [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: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is an aggressive neoplasm and seriously threatens human health. A14 is one kind of semisynthetic aurone that exhibits the capability to inhibit prostate cancer, but little is known about the role of A14 on T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. METHODS Firstly, the effects of A14 on the ability of leukemia cells to proliferate were measured by Vi-cell counter. Then, we detected the cell cycle and apoptosis by flow cytometry and characterized the related protein expression using immunoblotting. In addition, we constructed stable luciferase expressing cell lines for use in a cell derived xenograft mouse model to measure the effect of A14 on T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. RESULTS Results exhibited that A14 markedly suppressed cell proliferation and induced G2/M phase arrest along with cell cycles regulating proteins changes. A14 led to apoptosis in leukemia cells, at least partly, through the cytochrome c signaling pathway. Experiments in cell derived xenograft mouse model also showed that A14 markedly ameliorated the survival rate. CONCLUSIONS The present study revealed that semisynthetic aurones A14 can effectively protect against T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia progression both in vitro and in vivo, indicating the capability of A14 as a promising drug for the treatment of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- grid.256884.50000 0004 0605 1239Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Hebei Anti-Tumor Molecular Target Technology Innovation Center, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Lisi Li
- grid.256884.50000 0004 0605 1239Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Hebei Anti-Tumor Molecular Target Technology Innovation Center, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Tengyun Fan
- grid.256884.50000 0004 0605 1239Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Hebei Anti-Tumor Molecular Target Technology Innovation Center, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Lixue Cao
- grid.256884.50000 0004 0605 1239Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Hebei Anti-Tumor Molecular Target Technology Innovation Center, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Jiayi Zhang
- grid.256884.50000 0004 0605 1239Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Hebei Anti-Tumor Molecular Target Technology Innovation Center, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Shuang Li
- grid.256884.50000 0004 0605 1239Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Hebei Anti-Tumor Molecular Target Technology Innovation Center, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Chunming Liu
- grid.266539.d0000 0004 1936 8438Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY USA
| | - Xifu Liu
- grid.256884.50000 0004 0605 1239Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Hebei Anti-Tumor Molecular Target Technology Innovation Center, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China ,Jianyuan Science & Technology (Zhangjiakou) Co., Ltd., Zhangjiakou, China
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Zhai BT, Sun J, Shi YJ, Zhang XF, Zou JB, Cheng JX, Fan Y, Guo DY, Tian H. Review targeted drug delivery systems for norcantharidin in cancer therapy. J Nanobiotechnology 2022; 20:509. [DOI: 10.1186/s12951-022-01703-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractNorcantharidin (NCTD) is a demethylated derivative of cantharidin (CTD), the main anticancer active ingredient isolated from traditional Chinese medicine Mylabris. NCTD has been approved by the State Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of various solid tumors, especially liver cancer. Although NCTD greatly reduces the toxicity of CTD, there is still a certain degree of urinary toxicity and organ toxicity, and the poor solubility, short half-life, fast metabolism, as well as high venous irritation and weak tumor targeting ability limit its widespread application in the clinic. To reduce its toxicity and improve its efficacy, design of targeted drug delivery systems based on biomaterials and nanomaterials is one of the most feasible strategies. Therefore, this review focused on the studies of targeted drug delivery systems combined with NCTD in recent years, including passive and active targeted drug delivery systems, and physicochemical targeted drug delivery systems for improving drug bioavailability and enhancing its efficacy, as well as increasing drug targeting ability and reducing its adverse effects.
Graphical Abstract
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Calvo-Martín G, Plano D, Martínez-Sáez N, Aydillo C, Moreno E, Espuelas S, Sanmartín C. Norbornene and Related Structures as Scaffolds in the Search for New Cancer Treatments. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15121465. [PMID: 36558915 PMCID: PMC9780886 DOI: 10.3390/ph15121465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The norbornene scaffold has arisen as a promising structure in medicinal chemistry due to its possible therapeutic application in cancer treatment. The development of norbornene-based derivatives as potential chemotherapeutic agents is attracting significant attention. Here, we report an unprecedented review on the recent advances of investigations into the antitumoral efficacy of different compounds, including the abovementioned bicyclic scaffold in their structure, in combination with chemotherapeutic agents or forming metal complexes. The impact that structural modifications to these bicyclic compounds have on the antitumoral properties and the mechanisms by which these norbornene derivatives act are discussed in this review. In addition, the use of norbornene, and its related compounds, encapsulation in nanosystems for its use in cancer therapies is here detailed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gorka Calvo-Martín
- Departamento de Tecnología y Química Farmacéuticas, Universidad de Navarra, Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Irunlarrea, 3, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Daniel Plano
- Departamento de Tecnología y Química Farmacéuticas, Universidad de Navarra, Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Irunlarrea, 3, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Salud Tropical, Universidad de Navarra, Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Correspondence: (D.P.); (C.A.); Tel.: +34-948425600 (ext. 806358) (D.P.); +34-948425600 (ext. 803183) (C.A.)
| | - Nuria Martínez-Sáez
- Departamento de Tecnología y Química Farmacéuticas, Universidad de Navarra, Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Irunlarrea, 3, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Carlos Aydillo
- Departamento de Tecnología y Química Farmacéuticas, Universidad de Navarra, Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Irunlarrea, 3, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Salud Tropical, Universidad de Navarra, Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Correspondence: (D.P.); (C.A.); Tel.: +34-948425600 (ext. 806358) (D.P.); +34-948425600 (ext. 803183) (C.A.)
| | - Esther Moreno
- Departamento de Tecnología y Química Farmacéuticas, Universidad de Navarra, Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Irunlarrea, 3, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Salud Tropical, Universidad de Navarra, Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Socorro Espuelas
- Departamento de Tecnología y Química Farmacéuticas, Universidad de Navarra, Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Irunlarrea, 3, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Salud Tropical, Universidad de Navarra, Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Carmen Sanmartín
- Departamento de Tecnología y Química Farmacéuticas, Universidad de Navarra, Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Irunlarrea, 3, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Salud Tropical, Universidad de Navarra, Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
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Strategies for Solubility and Bioavailability Enhancement and Toxicity Reduction of Norcantharidin. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27227740. [PMID: 36431851 PMCID: PMC9693198 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27227740] [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: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cantharidin (CTD) is the main active ingredient isolated from Mylabris, and norcantharidin (NCTD) is a demethylated derivative of CTD, which has similar antitumor activity to CTD and lower toxicity than CTD. However, the clinical use of NCTD is limited due to its poor solubility, low bioavailability, and toxic effects on normal cells. To overcome these shortcomings, researchers have explored a number of strategies, such as chemical structural modifications, microsphere dispersion systems, and nanodrug delivery systems. This review summarizes the structure-activity relationship of NCTD and novel strategies to improve the solubility and bioavailability of NCTD as well as reduce the toxicity. This review can provide evidence for further research of NCTD.
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Norcantharidin liposome emulsion hybrid delivery system enhances PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy by agonizing the non-canonical NF-κB pathway. Int J Pharm 2022; 628:122361. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2022.122361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Ronk H, Rosenblum JS, Kung T, Zhuang Z. Targeting PP2A for cancer therapeutic modulation. Cancer Biol Med 2022; 19:1428-1439. [PMID: 36342229 PMCID: PMC9630519 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2022.0330] [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: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein phosphatases play essential roles as negative regulators of kinases and signaling cascades involved in cytoskeletal organization. Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) is highly conserved and is the predominant serine/threonine phosphatase in the nervous system, constituting more than 70% of all neuronal phosphatases. PP2A is involved in diverse regulatory functions, including cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and DNA repair. Although PP2A has historically been identified as a tumor suppressor, inhibition of PP2A has paradoxically demonstrated potential as a therapeutic target for various cancers. LB100, a water-soluble, small-molecule competitive inhibitor of PP2A, has shown particular promise as a chemo- and radio-sensitizing agent. Preclinical success has led to a profusion of clinical trials on LB100 adjuvant therapies, including a phase I trial in extensive-stage small-cell lung cancer, a phase I/II trial in myelodysplastic syndrome, a phase II trial in recurrent glioblastoma, and a completed phase I trial assessing the safety of LB100 and docetaxel in various relapsed solid tumors. Herein, we review the development of LB100, the role of PP2A in cancer biology, and recent advances in targeting PP2A inhibition in immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halle Ronk
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jared S. Rosenblum
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Timothy Kung
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Zhengping Zhuang
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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Chien HW, Chen YS, Wang K, Chiou HL, Yang SF, Hsieh YH. Norcantharidin attenuates epidermal growth factor-induced proliferation, EMT and motility in ARPE-19 cells by modulating the AKT/snail/E-cadherin axis. Life Sci 2022; 311:121157. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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22
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Mo C, Zhao J, Liang J, Wang H, Chen Y, Huang G. Exosomes: A novel insight into traditional Chinese medicine. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:844782. [PMID: 36105201 PMCID: PMC9465299 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.844782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles and play an essential role in the mediation of intercellular communication both in health and disease. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has historically been used to maintain human health and treat various diseases up till today. The interplay between exosomes and TCM has attracted researchers’ growing attention. By integrating the available evidence, TCM formulas and compounds isolated from TCM as exosome modulators have beneficial effects on multiple disorders, such as tumors, kidney diseases, and hepatic disease, which may associate with inhibiting cells proliferation, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, and attenuating fibrosis. Exosomes, a natural delivery system, are essential in delivering compounds isolated from TCM to target cells or tissues. Moreover, exosomes may be the potential biomarkers for TCM syndromes, providing strategies for TCM treatment. These findings may provide a novel insight into TCM from exosomes and serve as evidence for better understanding and development of TCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Mo
- Graduate School, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Jie Zhao
- Graduate School, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Jingyan Liang
- Graduate School, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Huiling Wang
- Graduate School, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Graduate School, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Guodong Huang
- Department of Nephrology, Guangxi International Zhuang Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
- *Correspondence: Guodong Huang,
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23
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Yu C, Li Y, Chen G, Wu C, Wang X, Zhang Y. Bioactive constituents of animal-derived traditional Chinese medicinal materials for breast cancer: opportunities and challenges. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2022; 23:547-563. [PMID: 35794685 PMCID: PMC9264107 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b2101019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer is globally the most common invasive cancer in women and remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. Surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and endocrine therapy are currently the main treatments for this cancer type. However, some breast cancer patients are prone to drug resistance related to chemotherapy or immunotherapy, resulting in limited treatment efficacy. Consequently, traditional Chinese medicinal materials (TCMMs) as natural products have become an attractive source of novel drugs. In this review, we summarized the current knowledge on the active components of animal-derived TCMMs, including Ophiocordycepssinensis-derived cordycepin, the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of O.sinensis, norcantharidin (NCTD), Chansu, bee venom, deer antlers, Ostreagigas, and scorpion venom, with reference to marked anti-breast cancer effects due to regulating cell cycle arrest, proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, and drug resistance. In future studies, the underlying mechanisms for the antitumor effects of these components need to be further investigated by utilizing multi-omics technologies. Furthermore, large-scale clinical trials are necessary to validate the efficacy of bioactive constituents alone or in combination with chemotherapeutic drugs for breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaochao Yu
- Department of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Guopeng Chen
- Department of Hematology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Chaoyan Wu
- Department of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Xiuping Wang
- Department of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yingwen Zhang
- Department of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China.
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Norcantharidin Nanostructured Lipid Carrier (NCTD-NLC) Suppresses the Viability of Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma HepG2 Cells and Accelerates the Apoptosis. J Immunol Res 2022; 2022:3851604. [PMID: 35497873 PMCID: PMC9045966 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3851604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant tumors have become the main cause of harm to human life and health. Development for new antitumor drugs and the exploration to drug carriers are becoming the concerned focus. In this study, we exploited our experiments to explore the effect of NCTD-NLC on liver cancer cells: the HepG2 cells cultured in vitro were given with NCTD-NLC administration; then, the estimation on cellular proliferation and apoptosis was accomplished through MTT and flow cytometry. Six hours after the administration, we performed the High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) detection to estimate the NCTD content in the heart, liver, spleen, lung, kidney and plasma of rats. Then, our outcomes showed that NCTD-NLC had a notable inhibitory effect on HepG2 cells, leading to a gradually decreased cellular viability. Cell viability was negatively correlated with NCTD-NLC concentration. Along with the concentration increasing, significantly increasing cellular apoptosis and gradually decreasing cellular viability were observed. The apoptosis rate was positively correlated with the concentration of NCTD-NLC. On the basis of the data we obtained, we found that the group with NCTD-NLC tail vein injection had an obvious advantage in drug delivery when compared with other groups. Through the tumorigenesis test to nude mice, we found that the tumor inhibition rate of the NCTD-NLC tail vein injection group had a 27.48% elevation in contrast to the NCTD gavage group, and it was also the group with the best tumor inhibition efficiency. In conclusion, the NCTD-NLC prepared in this study had a mighty inhibitory effect towards HepG2 cellular viability and an accelerating work on apoptosis. Tail vein injection of NCTD-NLC has the best drug delivery effect.
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Liu Z, Zhao L, Tan X, Wu Z, Zhou N, Dong N, Zhang Y, Yin T, He H, Gou J, Tang X, Gao S. Preclinical evaluations of Norcantharidin liposome and emulsion hybrid delivery system with improved encapsulation efficiency and enhanced antitumor activity. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2022; 19:451-464. [PMID: 35385376 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2022.2063834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Norcantharidin (NCTD) has a certain degree of hydrophilicity and poor lipophilicity, and has some side-effects, including short t1/2, vascular irritation, cardiotoxicity and nephrotoxicity, which bring difficulties for formulation research. In this study, we aim to develop a novel nanocarrier to improve encapsulation efficiency, increase sterilization stability and enhance antitumor activity. METHODS Phospholipid complexes methods were used for increasing the lipophilicity of norcantharidin (NCTD), then NCTD phospholipid complexes were not only loaded in the oil phase and oil-water interface surface, but also encapsulated in phospholipid bilayers to obtain NCTD liposome-emulsion hybrid (NLEH) delivery system. The in vitro cytotoxicity and apoptosis, in vivo tissue distribution, tumor penetration, heterotopic and orthotopic antitumor studies were conducted to evaluate therapeutic effect. RESULTS NLEH exhibited an improved encapsulation efficiency (89.3%) and a better sterilization stability, compared to NCTD liposomes and NCTD emulsions. NLEH can achieve a better antitumor activity by promoting absorption (1.93-fold), prolonging blood circulation (2.08-fold), enhancing tumor-targeting accumulation (1.19 times), improving tumor penetration, and increasing antitumor immunity. CONCLUSIONS The liposome-emulsion hybrid (LEH) delivery system was potential carrier for NCTD delivery, and LEH could open opportunities for delivery of poorly soluble anticancer drugs, especially drugs that are more hydrophilicity than lipophilicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixu Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutics Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110116, China
| | - Linxuan Zhao
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Xinyi Tan
- Department of Pharmaceutics Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110116, China
| | - Zixuan Wu
- Department of Pharmaceutics Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110116, China
| | - Ning Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutics Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110116, China
| | - Nan Dong
- Department of Pharmaceutics Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110116, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110116, China
| | - Tian Yin
- Department of Functional Food and Wine, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110116, China
| | - Haibing He
- Department of Pharmaceutics Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110116, China
| | - Jingxin Gou
- Department of Pharmaceutics Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110116, China
| | - Xing Tang
- Department of Pharmaceutics Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110116, China
| | - Song Gao
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
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Wang J, Huang X, Li H, Yan D, Huang W. Two Zn(II) coordination polymers with anticancer drug norcantharidin as ligands for cancer chemotherapy. Dalton Trans 2022; 51:5624-5634. [PMID: 35319055 DOI: 10.1039/d2dt00300g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Here two Zn(II) coordination polymers [Zn20(DMCA)12]O12 (DMCA = demethylcantharic acid, DMCA-Zn1) and [Zn(DMCA)](H2O)2 (DMCA-Zn2) are synthesized from a broad-spectrum anticancer drug norcantharidin (NCTD) and Zn(NO3)2·6H2O under solvothermal conditions. By mechanical grinding with a biocompatible polymeric surfactant F127, ultrasonic treatment and filtration, DMCA-Zn1 and DMCA-Zn2 can be transformed into stable nanoparticles (DMCA-Zn1 NPs and DMCA-Zn2 NPs) suspended in water with average diameters of around 190 nm and 162 nm for drug delivery. The in vitro evaluation indicates that DMCA-Zn1 NPs and DMCA-Zn2 NPs can enter into HepG2 and Hep3B cancer cells via endocytosis and inhibit their proliferation. Meanwhile they exhibit relatively low toxicity to L927 normal cells. The in vivo evaluation confirms that DMCA-Zn1 NPs and DMCA-Zn2 NPs can more effectively inhibit the growth of Hep3B tumors with relatively few side effects compared with free NCTD. This approach can be extended to other anticancer drugs to construct nanodrug delivery systems for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Wang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, P. R. China.
| | - Xiange Huang
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
| | - Hegen Li
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
| | - Deyue Yan
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, P. R. China.
| | - Wei Huang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, P. R. China.
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Chen X, Cai X, Zheng D, Huang X, Chen Y, Deng T, Mo L, Li H, Li J, Chen S. Norcantharidin counteracts acquired everolimus resistance in renal cell carcinoma by dual inhibition of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 and complex 2 pathways in Vitro. Anticancer Drugs 2022; 33:e94-e102. [PMID: 34261913 DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000001147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Everolimus, an oral mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) inhibitor, presents a therapeutic option in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients who were intolerant to, or previously failed, immune- and vascular endothelial growth factor-targeted therapies. However, the onset of drug resistance limits its clinical use. One possible mechanism underpinning the resistance is that inhibiting mTORC1 by everolimus results in mTORC2-dependent activation of v-Akt murine thymoma viral oncogene (AKT) and upregulation of hypoxia-inducible transcription factors (HIF). Norcantharidin (NCTD) is a demethylated derivative of cantharidin with antitumor properties which is an active ingredient of the traditional Chinese medicine Mylabris. In this study, everolimus-resistant RCC cells (786-O-R) obtained by chronic everolimus treatment revealed higher level of HIF2α and over-activated mTORC2 pathway and NCTD inhibits cell proliferation in both everolimus-resistant and -sensitive RCC cells by arresting cell cycle in G0/G1 phase and reducing cell cycle-related proteins of C-Myc and cyclin D. Furthermore, NCTD shows synergistic anticancer effects combined with everolimus in everolimus-resistant 786-O-R cells. Mechanically, NCTD repressed both mTORC1 and mTORC2 signaling pathways as well as downstream molecular signaling pathways, such as p-4EBP1, p-AKT, HIF1α and HIF2α. Our findings provide sound evidence that combination of NCTD and everolimus is a potential therapeutic strategy for treating RCC and overcoming everolimus resistance by dual inhibition of mTORC1 and mTORC2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinglu Chen
- Department of Urology
- Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou
| | - Xiangsheng Cai
- Center for Medical Experiments, University of Chinese Academy of Science-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong
| | - Dianpeng Zheng
- Institute of Genetic, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang
| | | | | | | | - Lijun Mo
- Institute of Biotherapy, School of Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hongwei Li
- Institute of Genetic, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang
| | - Jinlong Li
- Institute of Biotherapy, School of Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Zhou Y, Zhang J, Wang X, Wu C, Zhao C. Synthesis of l-ascorbic acid-amino acid-norcantharidin conjugates and their biological activity evaluation in vitro. Nat Prod Res 2021; 36:5455-5461. [PMID: 34965811 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2021.2013840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Three components of L-ascorbic acid, amino acid and functionalized norcantharidins were constructed together in several steps to form 42 norcantharidin derivatives in a high yield. The structure of these synthesized l-ascorbic acid-amino acid-norcantharidin conjugates are determined by 1HNMR, 13CNMR and MS spectrum. The results showed that compounds 6e, 6g, 6j, 6l, 6m, 6b, 6e, 6i, and 6n showed high cytotoxicity to HepG2 and compounds 6b, 6e-g, 6l, 6n, 7b, 7d, 7h, 7i, 7n, 8g, 8i exhibited high cytotoxicity to SW480; Meanwhile, besides 6b, 6e, 6g, and 6k, the other compounds showed less toxic to LO2 at a concentration of 50 μg/mg after 72 h. Compound 6g can induce Mφ-type macrophages derived from mouse bone marrow to polarize to M1-type macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqi Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi City, China
| | - Jidong Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi City, China.,School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi City, China
| | - Xianheng Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi City, China
| | - Caoyuan Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi City, China
| | - Changkuo Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi City, China
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Antitumor potential of the protein phosphatase inhibitor, cantharidin, and selected derivatives. Bioorg Med Chem 2021; 32:116012. [PMID: 33454654 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2021.116012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cantharidin is a potent natural protein phosphatase monoterpene anhydride inhibitor secreted by several species of blister beetle, with its demethylated anhydride analogue, (S)-palasonin, occurring as a constituent of the higher plant Butea frondosa. Cantharidin shows both potent protein phosphatase inhibitory and cancer cell cytotoxic activities, but possible preclinical development of this anhydride has been limited thus far by its toxicity. Thus, several synthetic derivatives of cantharidin have been prepared, of which some compounds exhibit improved antitumor potential and may have use as lead compounds. In the present review, the potential antitumor activity, structure-activity relationships, and development of cantharidin-based anticancer drug conjugates are summarized, with protein phosphatase-related and other types of mechanisms of action discussed. Protein phosphatases play a key role in the tumor microenvironment, and thus described herein is also the potential for developing new tumor microenvironment-targeted cancer chemotherapeutic agents, based on cantharidin and its naturally occurring analogues and synthetic derivatives.
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