Lotus leaf flavonoids induce apoptosis of human lung cancer A549 cells through the ROS/p38 MAPK pathway

Computational-Based Polyphenol Therapy for Nonsmall Cell Lung Cancer: Naringin Coamorphous Systems for Solubility and Bioavailability Enhancement

In this research, we utilized molecular simulations to create co-amorphous materials (CAMs) of ceritinib (CRT) with the objective of improving its solubility and bioavailability. We identified naringin (NRG) as a suitable co-former for CRT CAMs based on binding energy and intermolecular interactions through computational modeling. We used the solvent evaporation method to produce CAMs of CRT and NRG, expecting to enhance both solubility and bioavailability simultaneously. The solid-state characterization using techniques like differential scanning calorimeter, X-ray powder diffraction, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy affirmed the formation of a single amorphous phase and the presence of intermolecular interactions between CRT and NRG in the CAMs. These materials remained physically stable for up to six months under dry conditions at 40 °C. Moreover, the CAMs demonstrated significant improvements in the solubility and dissolution of CRT (specifically in the ratio CRT:NRG 1:2). This, in turn, led to an increase in cytotoxicity, apoptotic cells, and G0/G1 phase inhibition in A549 cells compared to CRT alone. Furthermore, CRT permeability is also improved twofold, as estimated by the everted gut sac method. The enhanced solubility of CAMs also positively affected the pharmacokinetic parameters. When compared to the physical mixture, the CAMs of CRT:NRG 2:1 exhibited a 2.1-fold increase in CRT exposure (AUC0-t) and a 2.4-fold increase in plasma concentration (Cmax).

Can thymosin beta 10 function both as a non-invasive biomarker and chemotherapeutic target in human colorectal cancer?

Thymosin beta 10 (TMSB10) overexpression is a general characteristic in human carcinogenesis. It is involved in the malignant process of generating multiple cancers. However, there are only a few reports about TMSB10 in colorectal cancer (CRC) and the mechanism of its carcinogenetic effect is still poorly understood. The present study intends to clarify the biological roles and carcinogenic mechanism of TMSB10 in CRC and to explore the possibility whether TMSB10 might be useful as a non-invasive serum tumor biomarker in detecting CRC. Immunohistochemical results showed that TMSB10 protein expression in CRC tissues was generally higher than that in adjacent tissues, and the TMSB10 contents in serum of CRC patients was significantly elevated compared to that of healthy controls. Knockdown-TMSB10 increased apoptosis and induced S-cell cycle arrest, and finally inhibited cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo. Transcriptome sequencing and western blotting analysis revealed that knockdown-TMSB10 increased phosphorylation of p38 and activated the p38 pathway that blocked cell cycle and promoted apoptosis. Taken together, our study indicated that TMSB10 could serve as a minimally invasive serum tumor marker in detecting CRC. At the same time it demonstrates an effective regulatory capacity of TMSB10 on cell proliferation of CRC, suggesting that TMSB10 and downstream effector molecules regulated by TMSB10 could further be applied as an appealing target in clinical post-surgery chemotherapy.

Ganweikang extract protects hepatocytes from oxidative injury by activating Nrf2/HO-1 and MAPKs pathways

Ganweikang tablet (GWK) is a traditional Chinese prescription and has been clinically used in treating liver diseases for decades. Although GWK has been shown to exert potential therapeutic effect for hepatotoxicity protection, the underlying biological mechanisms are still not well clarified. In the present study, the compositional analysis of GWK was performed by HPLC analysis, and the hepato-protective effects of GWK were assessed in H2O2-stimulated acute oxidative injured HL-7702 hepatocytes in vitro. As a result, 7 components in GWK were quantified to be 0.06 ± 0.01% (calycosin), 0.46 ± 0.02% (calycosin-7-glucoside), 0.13 ± 0.01% (liquiritin), 0.17 ± 0.02% (glycyrrhizic acid), 0.45 ± 0.02% (forsythoside A), 0.07 ± 0.01% (5-O-methylvisammioside) and 0.45 ± 0.02% (forsythin), respectively. Furthermore, GWK (100, 200 and 400 μg/mL, 24 h) dose-dependently alleviated HL-7702 hepatocytes from H2O2 (200 μM, 2 h)-induced cell apoptosis by decreasing the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and malondialdehyde (MDA) level, as well as the cellular aminotransferases (ALT and AST) activities. GWK increased the expressions of HO-1, NQO1 and Nrf2, while suppressing the expression of KEAP1 in H2O2-stimulated HL-7702 cells. A specific Nrf2 inhibitor, ML385, was further employed to investigate the regulation of Nrf2 in HL-7702 cells stimulated by H2O2. In addition, the activation of MAPKs (JUN, ERK and p38) was simultaneously detected in H2O2-stimulated HL-7702 cells. In conclusion, GWK exerted potential therapeutic effect to protect hepatocytes from acute oxidative injury through activating the Nrf2/HO-1 and MAPKs pathways.

The dichloromethane fraction from Calotropis gigantea (L.) dryand. Stem bark extract prevents liver cancer in SDT rats with insulin-independent diabetes mellitus

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Calotropis gigantea (L.) Dryand. (C. gigantea) is a traditional medicinal plant, recognized for its effectiveness in managing diabetes, along with its notable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. Type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by chronic metabolic disorders associated with an elevated risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) due to hyperglycemia and impaired insulin response. The scientific validation of C. gigantea's ethnopharmacological efficacy offers advantages in alleviating cancer progression in T2DM complications, enriching existing knowledge and potentially aiding future clinical cancer treatments.

AIM

This study aimed to investigate the preventive potential of the dichloromethane fraction of C. gigantea stem bark extract (CGDCM) against diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced HCC in T2DM rats, aiming to reduce cancer incidence associated with diabetes while validating C. gigantea's ethnopharmacological efficacy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Spontaneously Diabetic Torii (SDT) rats were administered DEN to induce HCC (SDT-DEN-VEH), followed by treatment with CGDCM. Metformin was used as a positive control (SDT-DEN-MET). All the treatments were administered for 10 weeks after the initial DEN injection. Diabetes-related parameters, including serum levels of glucose, insulin, and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), as well as liver function enzymes (aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase), were quantified. Serum inflammation biomarkers interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were evaluated. Liver tissue samples were analyzed for inflammation protein expression (IL-6, TNF-α, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA)). Histopathological evaluation was performed to assess hepatic necrosis, inflammation, and fibrosis. Liver cell proliferation was determined using immunohistochemistry for Ki-67 expression.

RESULTS

Rats with SDT-DEN-induced HCC treated with CGDCM exhibited reduced serum glucose levels, elevated insulin levels, and decreased HbA1c levels. CGDCM treatment also reduced elevated hepatic IL-6, TNF-α, TGF-β1, and α-SMA levels in SDT-DEN-VEH rats. Additionally, CGDCM treatment prevented hepatocyte damage, fibrosis, and cell proliferation. No adverse effects on normal organs were observed with CGDCM treatment, suggesting its safety for the treatment of HCC complications associated with diabetes. Additionally, the absence of adverse effects in SD rats treated with CGDCM at 2.5 mg/kg further supports the notion of its safe usage.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that C. gigantea stem bark extract exerts preventive effects against the development of HCC complications in patients with T2DM, expanding the potential benefits of its ethnopharmacological advantages.

Comprehensive evaluation and screening of phytochemical compounds and their hypolipidemic activities of lotus leaf based on HPLC-Q-TOF-MS and spectral-effect analysis

This study aimed to identify and quantify the primary components in lotus leaf and to explore the hypolipidemic components through spectral-effect relationships and chemometric methods. Utilizing a data-dependent acquisition-diagnostic fragment ion/characteristic neutral loss screening strategy (DFI-NLS), a reliable HPLC-Q-TOF-MS analysis was conducted, identifying 77 compounds, including 36 flavonoids, 21 alkaloids, 3 terpenoids, 11 organic acids, 4 phenols, 1 lignin and 1 unsaturated hydrocarbon. A straightforward HPLC-DAD method was developed for the simultaneous determination of seven major components in lotus leaf, and quercetin-3-O-glucuronide (Q3GA) was identified as the most abundant component. The HPLC fingerprints of 36 lotus leaf sample batches were assessed using chemometric approaches such as principal component analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis. The hypolipidemic effect of these samples was analyzed by measuring total cholesterol (TC) and total triglycerides (TG) levels in palmitic acid (PA) and oleic acid (OA)-induced lipid modeling in HepG-2 cells, employing partial least squares regression and grey relation analysis to investigate the spectral-effect relationship of the lotus leaf. The in vivo hypolipidemic effect of these compounds was assessed using an egg yolk powder-induced high-fat zebrafish model. The findings indicated that peak No.11 (Q3GA) in the chemical fingerprint was significantly associated with hypolipidemic activity, suggesting it as a potential hypolipidemic compound in lotus leaf. In summary, this study facilitates the exploration of the phytochemical compounds and their bioactive properties in the lotus leaf.

Benzimidazole-based structure optimization to discover novel anti-gastric cancer agents targeting ROS/MAPK pathway

Given the malignancy of gastric cancer, developing highly effective and low-toxic targeted drugs is essential to prolong patient survival and improve patient outcomes. In this study, we conducted structural optimizations based on the benzimidazole scaffold. Notably, compound 8 f presented the most potent antiproliferative activity in MGC803 cells and induced cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase. Further mechanistic studies demonstrated that compound 8 f caused the apoptosis of MGC803 cells by elevating intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and activating the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, accompanied by corresponding markers change. In vivo investigations additionally validated the inhibitory effect of compound 8 f on tumor growth in xenograft models bearing MGC803 cells without obvious toxicity. Our studies suggest that compound 8 f holds promise as a potential and safe lead compound for developing anti-gastric cancer agents.

Xenohormetic Phytochemicals Inhibit Neovascularization in Microphysiological Models of Vasculogenesis and Tumor Angiogenesis

Xenohormesis proposes that phytochemicals produced to combat stressors in the host plant exert biochemical effects in animal cells lacking cognate receptors. Xenohormetic phytochemicals such as flavonoids and phytoalexins modulate a range of human cell signaling mechanisms but functional correlations with human pathophysiology are lacking. Here, potent inhibitory effects of grapefruit-derived Naringenin (Nar) and soybean-derived Glyceollins (Gly) in human microphysiological models of bulk tissue vasculogenesis and tumor angiogenesis are reported. Despite this interference of vascular morphogenesis, Nar and Gly are not cytotoxic to endothelial cells and do not prevent cell cycle entry. The anti-vasculogenic effects of Glyceollin are significantly more potent in sex-matched female (XX) models. Nar and Gly do not decrease viability or expression of proangiogenic genes in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell spheroids, suggesting that inhibition of sprouting angiogenesis by Nar and Gly in a MPS model of the (TNBC) microenvironment are mediated via direct effects in endothelial cells. The study supports further research of Naringenin and Glyceollin as health-promoting agents with special attention to mechanisms of action in vascular endothelial cells and the role of biological sex, which can improve the understanding of dietary nutrition and the pharmacology of phytochemical preparations.

Unveiling the power of flavonoids: A dynamic exploration of their impact on cancer through matrix metalloproteinases regulation

Cancer stands as a significant contributor to global mortality rates, primarily driven by its progression and widespread dissemination. Despite notable strides in cancer therapy, the efficacy of current treatment strategies is compromised due to their inherent toxicity and the emergence of chemoresistance. Consequently, there is a critical need to evaluate alternative therapeutic approaches, with natural compounds emerging as promising candidates, showcasing demonstrated anticancer capabilities in various research models. This review manuscript presents a comprehensive examination of the regulatory mechanisms governing the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and delves into the potential therapeutic role of flavonoids as agents exhibiting specific anticancer activity against MMPs. The primary aim of this study is to elucidate the diverse functions associated with MMP production in cancer and to investigate the potential of flavonoids in modulating MMP expression to inhibit metastasis.

PTX3 mediates PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling to downregulate apoptosis and autophagy to attenuate myocardial injury in sepsis

Background

This study aimed to investigate the effect and mechanism of Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) on myocardial injury in sepsis.

Methods

Thirty male C57BL/6 mice were randomly assigned to Groups A, B, or C. Mice in Groups A and B were injected with unloaded lentivirus, while mice in Group C were injected with lentivirus encoding PTX3 overexpression. Seven days after injection, septic myocardial injury mouse models were constructed following intraperitoneal injection with LPS in Groups B and C, and mice in Group A were intraperitoneally injected with normal saline. Cardiac function was examined using echocardiography; pathological variation of myocardial cells was measured through HE staining, transmission electron microscopy, and TUNEL staining; and Western blot was used to measure the expression of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway-related, autophagy-related, and apoptosis-related proteins in mice myocardial cells.

Results

PTX3 significantly improved cardiac function and structure in sepsis-stricken mice, and PTX3 alleviated cardiac damage caused by sepsis. PTX3 reduced the relative protein expression of p-PI3K, p-AKT, mTOR, LC3I/II, Beclin, ATG5, Bax, Caspase-3, and Caspase-9 in septic mouse cardiomyocytes and increased the relative protein expression of Bcl-2.

Conclusion

PTX3 can attenuate myocardial injury in sepsis due to the down-regulation of apoptosis and autophagy induced by the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.

Hibiscus manihot L. flower extract induces anticancer activity through modulation of apoptosis and autophagy in A549 cells

Lung cancer is a major public health issue and heavy burden in China and worldwide due to its high incidence and mortality without effective treatment. It's imperative to develop new treatments to overcome drug resistance. Natural products from food source, given their wide-ranging and long-term benefits, have been increasingly used in tumor prevention and treatment. This study revealed that Hibiscus manihot L. flower extract (HML) suppressed the proliferation and migration of A549 cells in a dose and time dependent manner and disrupting cell cycle progression. HML markedly enhanced the accumulation of ROS, stimulated the dissipation of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and that facilitated mitophagy through the loss of mitochondrial function. In addition, HML induced apoptosis by activation of the PTEN-P53 pathway and inhibition of ATG5/7-dependent autophagy induced by PINK1-mediated mitophagy in A549 cells. Moreover, HML exert anticancer effects together with 5-FU through synergistic effect. Taken together, HML may serve as a potential tumor prevention and adjuvant treatment for its functional attributes.

Natural products targeting autophagy and apoptosis in NSCLC: a novel therapeutic strategy

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) being the predominant type. The roles of autophagy and apoptosis in NSCLC present a dual and intricate nature. Additionally, autophagy and apoptosis interconnect through diverse crosstalk molecules. Owing to their multitargeting nature, safety, and efficacy, natural products have emerged as principal sources for NSCLC therapeutic candidates. This review begins with an exploration of the mechanisms of autophagy and apoptosis, proceeds to examine the crosstalk molecules between these processes, and outlines their implications and interactions in NSCLC. Finally, the paper reviews natural products that have been intensively studied against NSCLC targeting autophagy and apoptosis, and summarizes in detail the four most retrieved representative drugs. This paper clarifies good therapeutic effects of natural products in NSCLC by targeting autophagy and apoptosis and aims to promote greater consideration by researchers of natural products as candidates for anti-NSCLC drug discovery.

Punicalagin Restricts Growth, Promotes Apoptosis, and Reduces Invasion in Human Gastric Cancer Cells

This research investigated the anticancer properties of punicalagin, a prominent bioactive polyphenol extracted from Punica granatum L, in human gastric cancer cell lines. Normal and gastric cancer cells were exposed to different doses of punicalagin for various durations. Punicalagin exhibited cytotoxic effects on gastric cancer cells in a dose- and time-dependent fashion, while sparing normal gastric epithelial cells. It is noteworthy that among the 3 gastric cancer cells, HGC-27 cells were more resistant to punicalagin than 23,132/87 and AGS cells. Furthermore, punicalagin triggered apoptosis in gastric cancer cells, evidenced by a rise in both early and late apoptotic cell percentages. Western blot analysis further revealed that punicalagin elevated the levels of activated caspase-3. Conversely, punicalagin curtailed cell invasion and reduced the expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, Snail, and Slug. From a mechanistic standpoint, Western blotting indicated that punicalagin might inhibit the Erk and NF-κB pathways, leading to apoptosis induction and the inhibition of cell invasion in gastric cancer cells. These results indicate that punicalagin promotes apoptosis and inhibits cell invasion in gastric cancer cells by activating caspase-3 and suppressing MMP-2, MMP-9, Snail, and Slug through the inhibition of the Erk and NF-κB pathways.

Alkaloids from Corydalis saxicola and their antiproliferative activity against cancer cells

Eight undescribed alkaloids named corydalisine D-K (1-7), including one isoquinoline benzopyranone alkaloid (1), one benzocyclopentanone alkaloid (2), four benzofuranone alkaloids (3, 4, and 5a/5b) and two protoberberine alkaloids (6 and 7), along with fourteen known ones, were isolated from the Corydalis saxicola. Their structures, including absolute configurations, were unambiguously identified using spectroscopic techniques, single-crystal X-ray diffraction and electron circular dichroism calculation. Compounds 2, 14 and 21 exhibit antiproliferative activity against five cancer cell lines. The aporphine alkaloid demethylsonodione (compound 14), which exhibited the best activity (IC50 = 3.68 ± 0.25 μM), was subjected to further investigation to determine its mechanism of action against the T24 cell line. The molecular mechanism was related to the arrest of cell cycle S-phase, inhibition of CDK2 expression, accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), induction of cell apoptosis, inhibition of cell migration, and activation of p38 MAPK signaling pathway. The results indicated that 14 could be used as a potential candidate agent for further development of anti-bladder transitional cell carcinoma.

Medicarpin suppresses lung cancer cell growth in vitro and in vivo by inducing cell apoptosis

Lung cancer (LC) is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Surgery, chemoradiotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy are considered dominant treatment strategies for LC in the clinic. However, drug resistance and meta-stasis are two major challenges in cancer therapies. Medicarpin (MED) is an isoflavone compound isolated from alfalfa, which is usually used in traditional medicine. This study was de sig ned to evaluate the anti-LC effect and reveal the underlying mechanisms of MED in vivo and in vitro. We found that MED could significantly inhibit proliferation, induce apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest of A549 and H157 cell lines. Basically, MED induced cell apoptosis of LC cells by upregu lating the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins BAX and Bak1, leading to the cleavage of caspase-3 (Casp3). Moreover, MED inhibited the proliferation of LC cells via downregulating the expression of proliferative protein Bid. Overall, MED inhibited LC cell growth in vitro and in vivo via suppressing cell proliferation and inducing cell apoptosis, suggesting the therapeutic potential of MED in treating LC.

Quality by design-assisted development of D-α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate-incorporated gefitinib-loaded cationic liposome(s)

Aim: Gefitinib-loaded D-α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS)-coated cationic liposomes (GEF-TPGS-LIPO+) were developed and optimized by the quality by design (QbD) approach for its potential anticancer effect. Methods/materials: Box-Behnken design (BBD) a systematic design of experiments was added to screen and optimize the formulation variables. Results: GEF-TPGS-LIPO+ shows vesicle size (210 ± 4.82 nm), polydispersity index (0.271 ± 0.002), zeta potential (22.2 ± 0.84 mV) and entrapment efficiency (82.3 ± 1.95). MTT result shows the enhanced cytotoxicity and higher intracellular drug uptake with highest and lowest levels of the reactive oxygen species and NF-κB expressions on A549 lung cancer cells, determined by fluorescence-activated cell sorting flow cytometry. Conclusion: Potential anticancer effect on A549 cells might be found due to cationic liposomal interaction with cancer cells.

An Update on Potential Molecular Biomarkers of Dietary Phytochemicals Targeting Lung Cancer Interception and Prevention

Since ancient times, dietary phytochemicals are known for their medicinal properties. They are broadly classified into polyphenols, terpenoids, alkaloids, phytosterols, and organosulfur compounds. Currently, there is considerable interest in their potential health effects against various diseases, including lung cancer. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths with an average of five-year survival rate of lung cancer patients limited to just 14%. Identifying potential early molecular biomarkers of pre-malignant lung cancer cells may provide a strong basis to develop early cancer detection and interception methods. In this review, we will discuss molecular changes, including genetic alterations, inflammation, signal transduction pathways, redox imbalance, epigenetic and proteomic signatures associated with initiation and progression of lung carcinoma. We will also highlight molecular targets of phytochemicals during lung cancer development. These targets mainly consist of cellular signaling pathways, epigenetic regulators and metabolic reprogramming. With growing interest in natural products research, translation of these compounds into new cancer prevention approaches to medical care will be urgently needed. In this context, we will also discuss the overall pharmacokinetic challenges of phytochemicals in translating to humans. Lastly, we will discuss clinical trials of phytochemicals in lung cancer patients.

Potential Implications of Hyperoside on Oxidative Stress-Induced Human Diseases: A Comprehensive Review

Hyperoside is a flavonol glycoside mainly found in plants of the genera Hypericum and Crataegus, and also detected in many plant species such as Abelmoschus manihot, Ribes nigrum, Rosa rugosa, Agrostis stolonifera, Apocynum venetum and Nelumbo nucifera. This compound exhibits a multitude of biological functions including anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, antioxidative, vascular protective effects and neuroprotective effects, etc. This review summarizes the quantification, original plant, chemical structure and property, structure-activity relationship, pharmacologic effect, pharmacokinetics, toxicity and clinical application of hyperoside, which will be significant for the exploitation for new drug and full utilization of this compound.

Taxonomy and anticancer potential of Streptomyces niphimycinicus sp. nov. against nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells

Streptomyces species are ubiquitous, Gram-positive, spore-forming bacteria with the ability to produce various clinically relevant compounds. The strain 4503 T was isolated from mangrove sediments, showing morphological and chemical properties which were consistent with those of members of the genus Streptomyces. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that the isolate was primarily identified as members of the genus Streptomyces, sharing more than 99% sequence identity to Streptomyces yatensis DSM 41771 T, S. antimycoticus NBRC 12839 T, and S. melanosporofaciens NBRC 13061 T. Average nucleotide identities (ANI) and digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) values between strain 4503 T and its close relatives were all below 95-96% and 75% of the novel species threshold, respectively. Results from phylogenetic, genomic, phenotypic, and chemotaxonomic characteristics analyses confirmed that the isolate represented a novel species of the genus Streptomyces, for which the name Streptomyces niphimycinicus sp. nov. 4503 T (= MCCC 1K04557T = JCM 34996 T) is proposed. The bioassay-guided fractionation of the extract of strain 4503 T resulted in the isolation of a known compound niphimycin C, which showed cytotoxic activity against nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) cell lines TW03 and 5-8F with half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 12.24 µg/mL and 9.44 µg/mL, respectively. Further experiments revealed that niphimycin C not only exhibited the capacity of anti-proliferation, anti-metastasis, induction of cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis, but was also able to increase the reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and regulate several signaling pathways in NPC cells. KEY POINTS: • Strain 4503 T was classified as a novel species of Streptomyces. • Niphimycin C correlates with the cytotoxic effect of strain 4503 T against NPC cells. • Niphimycin C induces apoptosis, autophagic flux disruption and cell cycle arrest.

Antimetastatic effect of fucoidan against non-small cell lung cancer by suppressing non-receptor tyrosine kinase and extracellular signal-related kinase pathway

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Fucoidan, a polysaccharide content in brown algae, has been reported to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. The present study aimed to investigate the suppression effects of fucoidan on A549 non-small cell lung cancer cells migration.

MATERIALS/METHODS

The anti-migratory activity of fucoidan in A549 cells was examined by wound healing assay and phalloidin-rhodamine staining in response to fucoidan (0-100 µg/mL) treatment for 48 h. Western blot analysis was performed to clarify the protein expressions relevant to migratory activity.

RESULTS

Fucoidan (25-100 µg/mL) significantly suppressed A549 cells migration together with reduced the intensity of phalloidin-rhodamine which detect filopodia and lamellipodia protrusions at 48 h of treatment. The protein expression indicated that fucoidan significantly suppressed the phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), Src, and extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK). In addition, the phosphorylation of p38 in A549 cells was found to be increased.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data conclude that fucoidan exhibits anti-migratory activities against lung cancer A549 cells mediated by inhibiting ERK1/2 and FAK-Src pathway.

Deciphering the Mysterious Relationship between the Cross-Pathogenetic Mechanisms of Neurodegenerative and Oncological Diseases

The relationship between oncological pathologies and neurodegenerative disorders is extremely complex and is a topic of concern among a growing number of researchers around the world. In recent years, convincing scientific evidence has accumulated that indicates the contribution of a number of etiological factors and pathophysiological processes to the pathogenesis of these two fundamentally different diseases, thus demonstrating an intriguing relationship between oncology and neurodegeneration. In this review, we establish the general links between three intersecting aspects of oncological pathologies and neurodegenerative disorders, i.e., oxidative stress, epigenetic dysregulation, and metabolic dysfunction, examining each process in detail to establish an unusual epidemiological relationship. We also focus on reviewing the current trends in the research and the clinical application of the most promising chemical structures and therapeutic platforms that have a modulating effect on the above processes. Thus, our comprehensive analysis of the set of molecular determinants that have obvious cross-functional pathways in the pathogenesis of oncological and neurodegenerative diseases can help in the creation of advanced diagnostic tools and in the development of innovative pharmacological strategies.

Extraction optimization and identification of four advanced glycation-end products inhibitors from lotus leaves and interaction mechanism analysis

Previous research indicated lotus leaves extract could effectively inhibit advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) formation, but the optimal extraction condition, bio-active compounds and interaction mechanism remain unclear. The current study was designed to optimize the extraction parameters of AGEs inhibitors from lotus leaves by bio-activity-guided approach. The bio-active compounds were enriched and identified, the interaction mechanisms of inhibitors with ovalbumin (OVA) were investigated by fluorescence spectroscopy and molecular docking. The optimum extraction parameters were solid-liquid ratio of 1:30, ethanol concentration of 70 %, ultrasonic time of 40 min, temperature of 50 °C, and power of 400 W. Isoquercitrin, hyperoside, astragalin, and trifolin were identified from the 80 % ethanol fraction of lotus leaves (80HY). Hyperoside and isoquercitrin were dominant AGEs inhibitors and accounted for 55.97 % of 80HY. Isoquercitrin, hyperoside, trifolin interacted with OVA via the same mechanism, hyperoside exhibited the strongest affinity, trifolin caused the most conformational changes.

Hyperoside as a UV Photoprotective or Photostimulating Compound-Evaluation of the Effect of UV Radiation with Selected UV-Absorbing Organic Compounds on Skin Cells

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a non-ionizing radiation, which has a cytotoxic potential, and it is therefore necessary to protect against it. Human skin is exposed to the longer-wavelength components of UV radiation (UVA and UVB) from the sun. In the present paper, we focused on the study of eight organic UV-absorbing compounds: astragalin, beta-carotene, 2,4-dihydroxybenzophenone, 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, hyperoside, 3-(4-methylbenzylidene)camphor, pachypodol, and trans-urocanic acid, as possible protectives of skin cells against UVA and UVB radiation. Their protective effects on skin cell viability, ROS production, mitochondrial membrane potential, liposomal permeability, and DNA integrity were investigated. Only some of the compounds studied, such as trans-urocanic acid and hyperoside, had a significant effect on the examined hallmarks of UV-induced cell damage. This was also confirmed by an atomic force microscopy study of morphological changes in HaCaT cells or a study conducted on a 3D skin model. In conclusion, hyperoside was found to be a very effective UV-protective compound, especially against UVA radiation. Commonly used sunscreen compounds such as 2,4-dihydroxybenzophenone, 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, and 3-(4-methylbenzylidene)camphor turned out to be only physical UV filters, and pachypodol with a relatively high absorption in the UVA region was shown to be more phototoxic than photoprotective.

Evidence of Flavonoids on Disease Prevention

A growing body of evidence highlights the properties of flavonoids in natural foods for disease prevention. Due to their antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic activities, flavonoids have been revealed to benefit skeletal muscle, liver, pancreas, adipocytes, and neural cells. In this review, we introduced the basic classification, natural sources, and biochemical properties of flavonoids, then summarize the experimental results and underlying molecular mechanisms concerning the effects of flavonoid consumption on obesity, cancers, and neurogenerative diseases that greatly threaten public health. Especially, the dosage and duration of flavonoids intervening in these diseases are discussed, which might guide healthy dietary habits for people of different physical status.

Glycyrrhetinic acid protects against Multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii-induced lung epithelial cells injury by regulating inflammation and oxidative stress

Glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) is a bio-effective component of Licorice. The GA is a monomer and the ingredient is an Oleanane-type pentacyclic triterpenes that has been used as a remedy for years. Due to the abuse of antibiotics, people pay attention to the emergence of Multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (MDR-AB). As a conditional pathogen, MDR-AB causes severe infection, endangering human lives. Our previous studies found GA played an important role in Yinhua Pinggan, a Chinese medicine. However, whether GA could protect lung epithelium from MDR-AB-induced cell injury was elusive. Herein, we investigated the effects of GA on MDR-AB-infected A549 cells. The results showed GA had slightly antibacterial activity to MDR-AB in the GA (high concentration) but no impact on drug resistance genes. Notwithstanding, GA could reverse MDR-AB-induced cell apoptosis, hampered adhesion and invasion of MDR-AB to cells, and inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines expression of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF. Besides, MDR-AB-induced reactive oxygen species, pro-oxidative protein malonaldehyde, and myeloperoxidase of cells were decreased by GA, while antioxidative proteins were recovered, showing antioxidative capacity of GA might play a critical role. The expressions of toll-like receptor (TLRs) - 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, and 9 were increased by MDR-AB infection, while GA reversed the tendency. Interestingly, GA inhibited MDR-AB induced myeloiddifferentiationfactor88 expression (MYD88), one downstream con-factors of TLRs, but no affection on Interferon regulatory Factor 3 (IRF3), the other one, indicating GA inhibited MDR-AB induced cell injury by impact TLR/MYD88 pathway to attenuate inflammation. Altogether, our results demonstrated that GA protects against MDR-AB-induced cell injury through its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, which deserve further study in the future.

Protective effects of lycopene on TiO2 nanoparticle-induced damage in the liver of mice

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (nano-TiO₂ ) is one of the most widely used and produced nanomaterials. Studies have demonstrated that nano-TiO₂ could induce hepatotoxicity through oxidative stress, and lycopene has strong antioxidant capacity. The present study aimed to explore if lycopene protects the liver of mice from nano-TiO₂ damage. Ninety-six ICR mice were randomly divided into eight groups. They were control group, nano-TiO₂ -treated group (50 mg/kg BW), lycopene-treated groups (5, 20, and 40 mg/kg BW), and 50 mg/kg BW nano-TiO₂ - and lycopene-co-treated groups (nano-TiO₂  + 5 mg/kg BW of lycopene, nano-TiO₂  + 20 mg/kg BW of lycopene, nano-TiO₂  + 40 mg/kg BW of lycopene). After treated by gavage for 30 days, the histopathology of the liver was observed. Liver function was evaluated using changes in serum biochemical indicators of the liver (AST, ALT, ALP); and the level of ROS was indirectly reflected by the level of SOD, GSH-Px, MDA, GSH, and T-AOC. TUNEL assay was performed to examine the apoptosis of hepatocytes. Proteins of p53, cleaved-caspase 9, cleaved-caspase 3, Bcl-2, and Bax as well as p38 were detected. Results showed that lycopene alleviated the liver pathological damage and reduced the injury to liver function induced by nano-TiO₂ , as well as decreased nano-TiO₂ -induced ROS. Meanwhile, lycopene mitigated apoptosis resulting from nano-TiO₂ , accompanied by the reversed expression of apoptosis-related proteins. Furthermore, lycopene significantly reversed the upregulation of p-p38 induced by nano-TiO₂ . In conclusion, this study demonstrated that nano-TiO₂ resulted in hepatocyte apoptosis through ROS/ROS-p38 MAPK pathway and led to liver function injury. Lycopene protected mice liver against the hepatotoxicity of nano-TiO₂ through antioxidant property.

Effects of Maturity and Processing on the Volatile Components, Phytochemical Profiles and Antioxidant Activity of Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) Leaf

In this study, fresh lotus leaves at two maturity stages were processed to tea products by different methods (white-tea process, green-tea process and black-tea process). The volatile compounds, phytochemical profiles and antioxidant activities of lotus-leaf tea were investigated. A total of 81 volatile components were identified with HS-GC-IMS. The mature lotus-leaf tea showed more volatile compounds than the tender lotus-leaf tea. The lotus leaf treated with the white-tea process had more aroma components than other processing methods. In addition, six types of phenolic compounds, including luteolin, catechin, quercetin, orientin, hyperoside and rutin were identified in the lotus-leaf tea. The mature leaves treated with the green-tea process had the highest levels of TPC (49.97 mg gallic acid/g tea) and TFC (73.43 mg rutin/g tea). The aqueous extract of lotus-leaf tea showed positive scavenging capacities of DPPH and ABTS radicals, and ferric ion reducing power, whereas tender lotus leaf treated with the green-tea process exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity. What is more, the antioxidant activities had a significant positive correlation with the levels of TPC and TFC in lotus-leaf tea. Our results provide a theoretical basis for the manufacture of lotus-leaf-tea products with desirable flavor and health benefits.

Effects of shear emulsifying/ball milling/autoclave modification on structure, physicochemical properties, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant capacity of lotus (Nelumbo) leaves dietary fiber

Lotus (Nelumbo) leaves are rich in polyphenols and dietary fiber, which have the potential as a high-quality fiber material in functional food. However, lotus leaves exhibit dense structure and poor taste, it is vital to develop appropriate modification methods to improve the properties of lotus leaves dietary fiber. In this study, the effects of three modification methods with shear emulsifying (SE), ball milling (BM), and autoclave treatment (AT) on structure, physicochemical properties, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant capacity of lotus leave dietary fiber (LDF) were evaluated. SEM indicated that there were significant differences in the microstructure of modified LDFs. FT-IR spectra and X-ray diffraction pattern of modified LDFs revealed similar shapes, while the peak intensity and crystalline region changed by modification. SE showed the greatest effect on crystallization index. SE-LDF had the highest water holding capacity, water swelling capacity, and bound phenolic content in LDFs, which increased by 15.69, 12.02, and 31.81%, respectively, compared with the unmodified LDF. BM exhibited the most dramatic effect on particle size. BM-LDF had the highest free phenolic and total phenolic contents in LDFs, which increased by 32.20 and 29.05% respectively, compared with the unmodified LDF. Phenolic compounds in LDFs were mainly free phenolic, and modifications altered the concents of flavonoids. The BM-LDF and SE-LDF exhibited higher antioxidant capacity than that of AT-LDF. Overall, SE-LDF showed better physical properties, and BM-LDF showed better bioactive components. SE and BM were considered to be appropriate modification methods to enhance the properties of LDF with their own advantages.

Effect of Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation on Metabolites in Lotus Leaf Based on Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography–High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry

The lotus leaf is a raw material commonly used in slimming herbal products, but the deep processing technology is insufficient. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) fermentation is an effective method to improve the efficacy of plant materials. In this study, ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC–HR-MS) was used to explore the differential metabolites of a lotus leaf aqueous extract before and after fermentation. Information about the metabolites in the water extract of lotus leaves before and after fermentation was collected in positive- and negative-ion modes, and the metabolites identified before and after fermentation were screened by multivariate statistical analysis. A total of 91 different metabolites were obtained. They included flavonoids, alkaloids, phenylpropanoids, organic acids and derivatives, terpenoids, fatty acids and fatty acyls, phenols, amino acid derivatives and others. Compared with the metabolites’ levels before fermentation, the relative contents of 68 metabolites were upregulated after fermentation, and the relative contents of 23 metabolites were downregulated. A Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis identified 25 metabolic pathways, of which flavone and flavonol biosynthesis, citrate cycle and flavonoid biosynthesis were the main metabolic pathways. The results of this study can provide a basis for further research and the development of products containing lotus leaves fermented by LAB.

Research Advances in Lotus Leaf as Chinese Dietary Herbal Medicine

Lotus leaf (Heye), the dry foliage of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn, has been valuable as a dietary herbal medicine for thousands of years. Phytochemical studies indicated that alkaloids and flavonoids are the main components of Heye. Polysaccharides, terpenes, and amino acids are also active ingredients. The drug properties of Heye are mild and bitter. Meridian tropism is mainly distributed in the liver, spleen, and stomach meridian. In the Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theoretical system, it is in many formulas for the therapy of various symptoms, including wasting-thirst induced by summer heat, diarrhea caused by summer heat-dampness and spleen deficiency, hematochezia, flooding and spotting, among others. Nowadays, the extracts and active components of Heye demonstrate multiple bioactivities, for instance anti-obesity, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, cardiovascular protective, anticancer, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, antiviral, antimicrobial, as well as hemostatic activities. This review will provide an overview of Heye serving as a typical plant with functions of both medicine and food, including its practical applications in terms of TCM and healthy diet, phytochemistry, pharmacological activity, together with its toxicity. Besides, the new points and prospects of Heye in the overview are also outlined straightforwardly.

Antiproliferative and Proapoptotic Effects of Phenanthrene Derivatives Isolated from Bletilla striata on A549 Lung Cancer Cells

Lung cancer continues to be the world’s leading cause of cancer death and the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has attracted much attention. The tubers of Bletilla striata are regarded as “an excellent medicine for lung diseases” and as the first choice to treat several lung diseases. In this study, seventeen phenanthrene derivatives, including two new compounds (1 and 2), were isolated from the tubers of B. striata. Most compounds showed cytotoxicity against A549 cells. An EdU proliferation assay, a cell cycle assay, a wound healing assay, a transwell migration assay, a flow cytometry assay, and a western blot assay were performed to further investigate the effect of compound 1 on A549 cells. The results showed that compound 1 inhibited cell proliferation and migration and promoted cell apoptosis in A549 cells. The mechanisms might correlate with the regulation of the Akt, MEK/ERK, and Bcl-2/Bax signaling pathways. These results suggested that the phenanthrenes of B. striata might be important and effective substances in the treatment of NSCLC.