Quercetin Induces Necrosis and Apoptosis in SCC-9 Oral Cancer Cells

Targeting Cancer Hallmarks Using Selected Food Bioactive Compounds: Potentials for Preventive and Therapeutic Strategies

Cancer continues to be a prominent issue in healthcare systems, resulting in approximately 9.9 million fatalities in 2020. It is the second most common cause of death after cardiovascular diseases. Although there are difficulties in treating cancer at both the genetic and phenotypic levels, many cancer patients seek supplementary and alternative medicines to cope with their illness, relieve symptoms, and reduce the side effects of cytotoxic drug therapy. Consequently, there is an increasing emphasis on studying natural products that have the potential to prevent or treat cancer. Cancer cells depend on multiple hallmarks to secure survival. These hallmarks include sustained proliferation, apoptosis inactivation, stimulation of angiogenesis, immune evasion, and altered metabolism. Several natural products from food were reported to target multiple cancer hallmarks and can be used as adjuvant interventions to augment conventional therapies. This review summarizes the main active ingredients in food that have anticancer activities with a comprehensive discussion of the mechanisms of action. Thymoquinone, allicin, resveratrol, parthenolide, Epigallocatechin gallate, and piperine are promising anticancer bioactive ingredients in food. Natural products discussed in this review provide a solid ground for researchers to provide effective anticancer functional food.

Exploring the therapeutic potential of quercetin in cancer treatment: Targeting long non-coding RNAs

The escalating global incidence of cancer, which results in millions of fatalities annually, underscores the pressing need for effective pharmacological interventions across diverse cancer types. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), a class of RNA molecules that lack protein-coding capacity but profoundly impact gene expression regulation, have emerged as pivotal players in key cellular processes, including proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, cellular metabolism, and drug resistance. Among natural compounds, quercetin, a phenolic compound abundantly present in fruits and vegetables has garnered attention due to its significant anticancer properties. Quercetin demonstrates the ability to inhibit cancer cell growth and induce apoptosis-a process often impaired in malignant cells. In this comprehensive review, we delve into the therapeutic potential of quercetin in cancer treatment, with a specific focus on its intricate interactions with lncRNAs. We explore how quercetin modulates lncRNA expression and function to exert its anticancer effects. Notably, quercetin suppresses oncogenic lncRNAs that drive cancer development and progression while enhancing tumor-suppressive lncRNAs that impede cancer growth and dissemination. Additionally, we discuss quercetin's role as a chemopreventive agent, which plays a crucial role in mitigating cancer risk. We address research challenges and future directions, emphasizing the necessity for in-depth mechanistic studies and strategies to enhance quercetin's bioavailability and target specificity. By synthesizing existing knowledge, this review underscores quercetin's promising potential as a novel therapeutic strategy in the ongoing battle against cancer, offering fresh insights and avenues for further investigation in this critical field.

Anti-Inflammatory and Cancer-Preventive Potential of Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.): A Comprehensive In Silico and In Vitro Study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Chamomile tea, renowned for its exquisite taste, has been appreciated for centuries not only for its flavor but also for its myriad health benefits. In this study, we investigated the preventive potential of chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) towards cancer by focusing on its anti-inflammatory activity.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A virtual drug screening of 212 phytochemicals from chamomile revealed β-amyrin, β-eudesmol, β-sitosterol, apigenin, daucosterol, and myricetin as potent NF-κB inhibitors. The in silico results were verified through microscale thermophoresis, reporter cell line experiments, and flow cytometric determination of reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial membrane potential. An oncobiogram generated through comparison of 91 anticancer agents with known modes of action using the NCI tumor cell line panel revealed significant relationships of cytotoxic chamomile compounds, lupeol, and quercetin to microtubule inhibitors. This hypothesis was verified by confocal microscopy using α-tubulin-GFP-transfected U2OS cells and molecular docking of lupeol and quercetin to tubulins. Both compounds induced G2/M cell cycle arrest and necrosis rather than apoptosis. Interestingly, lupeol and quercetin were not involved in major mechanisms of resistance to established anticancer drugs (ABC transporters, TP53, or EGFR). Performing hierarchical cluster analyses of proteomic expression data of the NCI cell line panel identified two sets of 40 proteins determining sensitivity and resistance to lupeol and quercetin, further pointing to the multi-specific nature of chamomile compounds. Furthermore, lupeol, quercetin, and β-amyrin inhibited the mRNA expression of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL6 in NF-κB reporter cells (HEK-Blue Null1). Moreover, Kaplan-Meier-based survival analyses with NF-κB as the target protein of these compounds were performed by mining the TCGA-based KM-Plotter repository with 7489 cancer patients. Renal clear cell carcinomas (grade 3, low mutational rate, low neoantigen load) were significantly associated with shorter survival of patients, indicating that these subgroups of tumors might benefit from NF-κB inhibition by chamomile compounds.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed the potential of chamomile, positioning it as a promising preventive agent against inflammation and cancer. Further research and clinical studies are recommended.

Quercetin-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles exhibit antitumor activity and suppress the proliferation of triple-negative MDA-MB 231 breast cancer cells: implications for invasive breast cancer treatment

BACKGROUND

Quercetin (QC) is a naturally occurring flavonoid found in abundance in fruits and vegetables. Its anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties have been previously demonstrated, but its low bioavailability hampers its clinical use. Triple-negative breast cancer is a subtype of breast cancer with a poor response to chemotherapy. This study investigates the anti-cancer effects of quercetin-solid lipid nanoparticles (QC-SLN) on the triple-negative breast cancer cell line MDA-MB231.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MCF-7 and MDA-MB231 cells were treated with 18.9 µM of QC and QC-SLN for 48 h. Cell viability, apoptosis, colony formation assay, and the anti-angiogenic effects of the treatment were evaluated.

RESULTS

QC-SLN displayed optimal properties (particle size of 154 nm, zeta potential of -27.7 mV, encapsulation efficiency of 99.6%, and drug loading of 1.81%) and exhibited sustained release of QC over 72 h. Compared to the QC group, the QC-SLN group showed a significant decrease in cell viability, colony formation, angiogenesis, and a substantial increase in apoptosis through the modulation of Bax and Bcl-2 at both gene and protein levels. The augmentation in the proportion of cleaved-to-pro caspases 3 and 9, as well as poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), under the influence of QC-SLN, was conspicuously observed in both cancer cell lines.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showcases quercetin-solid lipid nanoparticles (QC-SLN) as a promising therapy for triple-negative breast cancer. The optimized QC-SLN formulation improved physicochemical properties and sustained quercetin release, resulting in reduced cell viability, colony formation, angiogenesis, and increased apoptosis in the MDA-MB231 cell line. These effects were driven by modulating Bax and Bcl-2 expression, activating caspases 3 and 9, and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). Further in vivo studies are needed to confirm QC-SLN's efficacy and safety.

Systematic computational toxicity analysis of the ozonolytic degraded compounds of azo dyes: Quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) and adverse outcome pathway (AOP) based approach

The present study identifies and analyses the degraded products of three azo dyes (Reactive Orange 16, Reactive Red 120, and Direct Red 80) and proffers their in silico toxicity predictions. In our previously published work, the synthetic dye effluents were degraded using an ozonolysis-based Advanced Oxidation Process. In the present study, the degraded products of the three dyes were analysed using GC-MS at endpoint strategy and further subjected to in silico toxicity analysis using Toxicity Estimation Software Tool (TEST), Prediction Of TOXicity of chemicals (ProTox-II), and Estimation Programs Interface Suite (EPI Suite). Several physiological toxicity endpoints, such as hepatotoxicity, carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, cellular and molecular interactions, were considered to assess the Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationships (QSAR) and adverse outcome pathways. The environmental fate of the by-products in terms of their biodegradability and possible bioaccumulation was also assessed. Results of ProTox-II suggested that the azo dye degradation products are carcinogenic, immunotoxic, and cytotoxic and displayed toxicity towards Androgen Receptor and Mitochondrial Membrane Potential. TEST results predicted LC50 and IGC50 values for three organisms Tetrahymena pyriformis, Daphnia magna, and Pimephales promelas. EPISUITE software via the BCFBAF module surmises that the degradation products' bioaccumulation (BAF) and bioconcentration factors (BCF) are high. The cumulative inference of the results suggests that most degradation by-products are toxic and need further remediation strategies. The study aims to complement existing tests to predict toxicity and prioritise the elimination/reduction of harmful degradation products of primary treatment procedures. The novelty of this study is that it streamlines in silico approaches to predict the nature of toxicity of degradation by-products of toxic industrial affluents like azo dyes. These approaches can assist the first phase of toxicology assessments for any pollutant for regulatory decision-making bodies to chalk out appropriate action plans for their remediation.

The Effect of Natural Substances Contained in Bee Products on Prostate Cancer in In Vitro Studies

Prostate cancer is a common cancer in men in older age groups. The WHO forecasts an increase in the incidence of prostate cancer in the coming years. Patients may not respond to treatment, and may not tolerate the side effects of chemotherapy. Compounds of natural origin have long been used in the prevention and treatment of cancer. Flavonoids obtained from natural products, e.g., propolis, are compounds with proven antibacterial and antiviral efficacy which modulate the immune response and may be useful as adjuvants in chemotherapy. The main aim of the present study was to evaluate the cytotoxic and pro-apoptotic properties of selected flavonoids on prostate cancer cells of the LNCaP line. The compounds used in this study were CAPE, curcumin (CUR), and quercetin (QUE). Mitochondrial and lysosome metabolism was assessed by the XTT-NR-SRB triple assay as well as by the fluorescent staining techniques. Staining for reactive oxygen species was performed as well. The experiment showed that each of the tested compounds has a cytotoxic effect on the LNCaP cell line. Different types of cell death were induced by the tested compounds. Apoptosis was induced by quercetin, while autophagy-specific changes were observed after using CAPE. Compounds obtained from other bee products have antiproliferative and cytotoxic activity against LNCaP prostate cancer cells.

Potentiation of Cisplatin Cytotoxicity in Resistant Ovarian Cancer SKOV3/Cisplatin Cells by Quercetin Pre-Treatment

Previously, we demonstrated that the overexpression of antioxidant enzymes (SOD-1, SOD-2, Gpx-1, CAT, and HO-1), transcription factor NFE2L2, and the signaling pathway (PI3K/Akt/mTOR) contribute to the cisplatin resistance of SKOV-3/CDDP ovarian cells, and treatment with quercetin (QU) alone has been shown to inhibit the expression of these genes. The aim of this study was to expand the previous data by examining the efficiency of reversing cisplatin resistance and investigating the underlying mechanism of pre-treatment with QU followed by cisplatin in the same ovarian cancer cells. The pre-incubation of SKOV-3/CDDP cells with quercetin at an optimum dose prior to treatment with cisplatin exhibited a significant cytotoxic effect. Furthermore, a long incubation with only QU for 48 h caused cell cycle arrest at the G1/S phase, while a QU pre-treatment induced sub-G1 phase cell accumulation (apoptosis) in a time-dependent manner. An in-depth study of the mechanism of the actions revealed that QU pre-treatment acted as a pro-oxidant that induced ROS production by inhibiting the thioredoxin antioxidant system Trx/TrxR. Moreover, QU pre-treatment showed activation of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway (cleaved caspases 9, 7, and 3 and cleaved PARP) through downregulation of the signaling pathway (mTOR/STAT3) in SKOV-3/CDDP cells. This study provides further new data for the mechanism by which the QU pre-treatment re-sensitizes SKOV-3/CDDP cells to cisplatin.

Quercetin modulates signal transductions and targets non-coding RNAs against cancer development

In recent decades, various investigations have indicated that natural compounds have great potential in the prevention and treatment of different chronic disorders including different types of cancer. As a bioactive flavonoid, Quercetin (Qu) is a dietary ingredient enjoying high pharmacological values and health-promoting effects due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characterization. Conclusive in vitro and in vivo evidence has revealed that Qu has great potential in cancer prevention and development. Qu exerts its anticancer influences by altering various cellular processes such as apoptosis, autophagy, angiogenesis, metastasis, cell cycle, and proliferation. In this way, Qu by targeting numerous signaling pathways as well as non-coding RNAs regulates several cellular mechanisms to suppress cancer occurrence and promotion. This review aimed to summarize the impact of Qu on the molecular pathways and non-coding RNAs in modulating various cancer-associated cellular mechanisms.

Oral microbiota in cancer: could the bad guy turn good with application of polyphenols?

The human oral cavity is comprised of dynamic and polynomial microbes which uniquely reside in the microenvironments of oral cavities. The cumulative functions of the symbiotic microbial communities maintain normal homeostasis; however, a shifted microbiota yields a dysbiosis state, which produces local and systemic diseases including dental caries, periodontitis, cancer, obesity and diabetes. Recent research reports claim that an association occurs between oral dysbiosis and the progression of different types of cancers including oral, gastric and pancreatic ones. Different mechanisms are proposed for the development of cancer, such as induction of inflammatory reactions, production of carcinogenic materials and alteration of the immune system. Medications are available to treat these associated diseases; however, the current strategies may further worsen the disease by unwanted side effects. Natural-derived polyphenol molecules significantly inhibit a wide range of systemic diseases with fewer side effects. In this review, we have displayed the functions of the oral microbes and we have extended the report regarding the role of polyphenols in oral microbiota to maintain healthy conditions and prevention of diseases with emphasis on the treatment of oral microbiota-associated cancer.

Targeting Thymidylate Synthase and tRNA-Derived Non-Coding RNAs Improves Therapeutic Sensitivity in Colorectal Cancer

Some colorectal cancer (CRC) patients are resistant to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), and high expression levels of thymidylate synthase (TS) contribute to this resistance. This study investigated whether quercetin, a representative polyphenol compound, could enhance the effect of 5-FU in CRC cells. Quercetin suppressed TS levels that were increased by 5-FU in CRC cells and promoted the expression of p53. Quercetin also induced intracellular and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and Ca2+ dysregulation in a 5-FU-independent pathway in CRC cells. Furthermore, quercetin decreased mitochondrial membrane potential in CRC cells and inhibited mitochondrial respiration. Moreover, quercetin regulated the expression of specific tiRNAs, including tiRNAHisGTG, and transfection of a tiRNAHisGTG mimic further enhanced the apoptotic effect of quercetin in CRC cells. An enhanced sensitivity to 5-FU was also confirmed in colitis-associated CRC mice treated with quercetin. The treatment of quercetin decreased survival rates of the CRC mouse model, with reductions in the number of tumors and in the disease activity index. Also, quercetin suppressed TS and PCNA protein expression in the distal colon tissue of CRC mice. These results suggest that quercetin has the potential to be used as an adjuvant with 5-FU for the treatment of CRC.

A Comprehensive Analysis and Anti-Cancer Activities of Quercetin in ROS-Mediated Cancer and Cancer Stem Cells

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) induce carcinogenesis by causing genetic mutations, activating oncogenes, and increasing oxidative stress, all of which affect cell proliferation, survival, and apoptosis. When compared to normal cells, cancer cells have higher levels of ROS, and they are responsible for the maintenance of the cancer phenotype; this unique feature in cancer cells may, therefore, be exploited for targeted therapy. Quercetin (QC), a plant-derived bioflavonoid, is known for its ROS scavenging properties and was recently discovered to have various antitumor properties in a variety of solid tumors. Adaptive stress responses may be induced by persistent ROS stress, allowing cancer cells to survive with high levels of ROS while maintaining cellular viability. However, large amounts of ROS make cancer cells extremely susceptible to quercetin, one of the most available dietary flavonoids. Because of the molecular and metabolic distinctions between malignant and normal cells, targeting ROS metabolism might help overcome medication resistance and achieve therapeutic selectivity while having little or no effect on normal cells. The powerful bioactivity and modulatory role of quercetin has prompted extensive research into the chemical, which has identified a number of pathways that potentially work together to prevent cancer, alongside, QC has a great number of evidences to use as a therapeutic agent in cancer stem cells. This current study has broadly demonstrated the function-mechanistic relationship of quercetin and how it regulates ROS generation to kill cancer and cancer stem cells. Here, we have revealed the regulation and production of ROS in normal cells and cancer cells with a certain signaling mechanism. We demonstrated the specific molecular mechanisms of quercetin including MAPK/ERK1/2, p53, JAK/STAT and TRAIL, AMPKα1/ASK1/p38, RAGE/PI3K/AKT/mTOR axis, HMGB1 and NF-κB, Nrf2-induced signaling pathways and certain cell cycle arrest in cancer cell death, and how they regulate the specific cancer signaling pathways as long-searched cancer therapeutics.

Application of Quercetin in the Treatment of Gastrointestinal Cancers

Many cellular signaling pathways contribute to the regulation of cell proliferation, division, motility, and apoptosis. Deregulation of these pathways contributes to tumor cell initiation and tumor progression. Lately, significant attention has been focused on the use of natural products as a promising strategy in cancer treatment. Quercetin is a natural flavonol compound widely present in commonly consumed foods. Quercetin has shown significant inhibitory effects on tumor progression via various mechanisms of action. These include stimulating cell cycle arrest or/and apoptosis as well as its antioxidant properties. Herein, we summarize the therapeutic effects of quercetin in gastrointestinal cancers (pancreatic, gastric, colorectal, esophageal, hepatocellular, and oral).

A Preliminary Study of the Effect of Quercetin on Cytotoxicity, Apoptosis, and Stress Responses in Glioblastoma Cell Lines

A growing body of evidence indicates that dietary polyphenols show protective effects against various cancers. However, little is known yet about their activity in brain tumors. Here we investigated the interaction of dietary flavonoid quercetin (QCT) with the human glioblastoma A172 and LBC3 cell lines. We demonstrated that QCT evoked cytotoxic effect in both tested cell lines. Microscopic observations, Annexin V-FITC/PI staining, and elevated expression and activity of caspase 3/7 showed that QCT caused predominantly apoptotic death of A172 cells. Further analyses confirmed enhanced ROS generation, deregulated expression of SOD1 and SOD2, depletion of ATP levels, and an overexpression of CHOP, suggesting the activation of oxidative stress and ER stress upon QCT exposure. Finally, elevated expression and activity of caspase 9, indicative of a mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis, was detected. Conversely, in LBC3 cells the pro-apoptotic effect was observed only after 24 h incubation with QCT, and a shift towards necrotic cell death was observed after 48 h of treatment. Altogether, our data indicate that exposure to QCT evoked cell death via activation of intrinsic pathway of apoptosis in A172 cells. These findings suggest that QCT is worth further investigation as a potential pharmacological agent in therapy of brain tumors.

Nanoencapsulation of Cordycepin Induces Switching from Necroptosis to Apoptosis in Human Oral Cancer Cells (HSC-4) Through Inhibition of Receptor-Interacting Serine/Threonine-Protein Kinase 3 (RIPK3) and Autophagy Modulation

Human oral squamous carcinoma is considered the most common oral cancer; it imposes multiple oral and dental consequences as a result of oral cancer treatment. We previously found that the nanoencapsulation of cordycepin (CS) could inhibit oral cancer cells. However, the mechanism of action was not understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the signaling pathway by which CS and encapsulated nanoparticles (NPs) activate the inhibition of cancer cell growth. We demonstrated that human oral cancer (HSC-4) cells underwent necroptosis when incubated with high concentrations of CS, but not when incubated with either low concentrations of CS or encapsulated CS NPs. High concentrations of CS-induced necroptosis of HSC-4 cells, demonstrated by a reduction in apoptotic ( BAX, Caspase-3, Caspase-8, and Caspase-9) and autophagic genes ( LC3, Atg5, and Atg12). However, low concentrations of CS significantly induced the expression of autophagic gene LC3. Interestingly, encapsulated CS NPs induced a significant increase in apoptotic genes ( P53, BAX, Caspase-3, Caspase-8, and Caspase-9), but a significant decrease in autophagic ( P62, Atg5, and Atg12) and necroptotic genes ( receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 3 [RIPK3]) . We also found that encapsulated CS NPs enhanced the accumulation of cellular protein and decreased secreted supernatant protein levels. Moreover, encapsulated CS NPs had higher efficacy in terms of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation-mediated inhibition of autophagy compared to nonencapsulated CS, suggesting that nanoencapsulation of CS can switch the program of HSC-4 cell death from necroptosis to apoptosis. In conclusion, HSC-4 cells have a defense strategy against CS-induced cell apoptosis, but this problem can be solved through the use of encapsulation combined with nanotechnology.

Synergistic growth-inhibition effect of quercetin and N-Acetyl-L-cysteine against HepG2 cells relying on the improvement of quercetin stability

In this study, N-Acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) as a widely-used antioxidant was first applied to improve the stability of Que in medium. The stability of Que in medium was analyzed, and the growth-inhibition effect of Que and NAC against HepG2 cells was estimated. The results showed NAC could significantly improve the stability of Que in medium (more than 80%), while Que alone in medium was totally degraded within 4 h. Besides, it was found that Que together with NAC could significantly enhance the growth-inhibition effect against HepG2 cells compared with Que alone, with the IC₅₀ value of 40 μM and 200 μM for Que together with NAC and Que alone. Moreover, NAC could inhibit the depletion of GSH induced by Que. The synergistic growth-inhibition effect of Que and NAC against HepG2 cells was attributed to NAC improving Que stability in medium accompanied by NAC inhibiting the depletion of GSH induced by Que. The results showed that NAC could improve the stability of Que and reduce the degradation rate of Que in culture medium. This study can provide a reference for the further study of the mechanism of NAC enhancing the stability of quercetin and the development of broad-spectrum stabilizers.

Quercetin and piperine enriched nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) to improve apoptosis in oral squamous cellular carcinoma (FaDu cells) with improved biodistribution profile

Oral squamous cellular carcinoma (OSCC) is considered a life-threatening disease with detection in late stages, which forces us to opt for dangerous treatment with a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Herbal components such as piperine and quercetin are derived from edible sources, proving their anticancer potential against oral cancer cells in vitro. Encapsulation into lipid matrix-mediated nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) can make both drugs bio-accessible. NLCs were synthesised using the high shear homogenisation method and characterised for their physicochemical properties, followed by in vitro cellular evaluation in FaDu oral cancer cells. NLCs showed negatively charged particles smaller than 180 nm with a polydispersity index (PDI) of <0.3. Both drugs were found to encapsulate sufficiently, with >85% entrapment efficiency and an improved drug release profile compared to their pristine counterparts. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) thermograms showed conversion into an amorphous matrix in lyophilized NLCs, which was supported by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The cytotoxicity assay showed the IC₅₀ concentration for dual drug-loaded NLCs, which was more effective than the pure drug solution. NLCs were found to be internalised in cells in a short time with an almost 95% co-localization rate. Dual drug-loaded NLCs showed maximum depolarisation of the mitochondrial membrane along with more apoptotic changes. Improved apoptosis was confirmed in NLCs using flow cytometry. The in vivo biodistribution of Coumarin-6 labelled NLCs in rats confirmed their efficient distribution in various parts of the oral cavity through oral administration. Optimised dual drug-loaded NLCs provide a better option for delivering both drugs through a single lipid matrix against oral cancer.

Quercetin and Its Nano-Scale Delivery Systems in Prostate Cancer Therapy: Paving the Way for Cancer Elimination and Reversing Chemoresistance

Prostate cancer is the second most leading and prevalent malignancy around the world, following lung cancer. Prostate cancer is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of cells in the prostate gland. Prostate cancer morbidity and mortality have grown drastically, and intensive prostate cancer care is unlikely to produce adequate outcomes. The synthetic drugs for the treatment of prostate cancer in clinical practice face several challenges. Quercetin is a natural flavonoid found in fruits and vegetables. Apart from its beneficial effects, its plays a key role as an anti-cancer agent. Quercetin has shown anticancer potential, both alone and in combination. Therefore, the current study was designed to collect information from the literature regarding its therapeutic significance in the treatment of prostate cancer. Studies performed both in vitro and in vivo have confirmed that quercetin effectively prevents prostate cancer through different underlying mechanisms. Promising findings have also been achieved in clinical trials regarding the pharmacokinetics and human applications of quercetin. In the meantime, epidemiological studies have shown a negative correlation between the consumption of quercetin and the incidence of prostate cancer, and have indicated a chemopreventive effect of quercetin on prostate cancer in animal models. The major issues associated with quercetin are its low bioavailability and rapid metabolism, and these require priority attention. Chemoresistance is another main negative feature concerning prostate cancer treatment. This review highlights the chemotherapeutic effect, chemo preventive effect, and chemoresistance elimination potential of quercetin in prostate cancer. The underlying mechanisms for elimination of prostate cancer and eradication of resistance, either alone or in combination with other agents, are also discussed. In addition, the nanoscale delivery of quercetin is underpinned along with possible directions for future study.

Anticancer Potential of Selected Flavonols: Fisetin, Kaempferol, and Quercetin on Head and Neck Cancers

Flavonols are ones of the most common phytochemicals found in diets rich in fruit and vegetables. Research suggests that molecular functions of flavonoids may bring a number of health benefits to people, including the following: decrease inflammation, change disease activity, and alleviate resistance to antibiotics as well as chemotherapeutics. Their antiproliferative, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antineoplastic activity has been proved. They may act as antioxidants, while preventing DNA damage by scavenging reactive oxygen radicals, reinforcing DNA repair, disrupting chemical damages by induction of phase II enzymes, and modifying signal transduction pathways. One of such research areas is a potential effect of flavonoids on the risk of developing cancer. The aim of our paper is to present a systematic review of antineoplastic activity of flavonols in general. Special attention was paid to selected flavonols: fisetin, kaempferol, and quercetin in preclinical and in vitro studies. Study results prove antiproliferative and proapoptotic properties of flavonols with regard to head and neck cancer. However, few study papers evaluate specific activities during various processes associated with cancer progression. Moreover, an attempt was made to collect the majority of substantive studies on bioactive potential of the selected flavonols, especially with regard to modulation of a range of signal transduction pathways that participate in cancer development.

Flavonoids Induce Migration Arrest and Apoptosis in Detroit 562 Oropharynx Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells

Despite advances in the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), the morbidity remains at a high level due to the resistance of SCC cells to chemotherapeutics. This study aimed to determine and compare the magnitude of the flavonoids’ effectiveness in activating apoptosis and migration arrest in HNSCC cells in vitro. Methods: Head and neck SCC cells of the Detroit 562 line were exposed to a range of concentrations (5–100 μM) of quercetin (Que), hesperidin (Hes) and rutin (Rut) for 24 and 48 h. The SCC cell viability and migration rate were investigated using cytotoxicity and migration inhibition assays. Muse Cell Analyzer flow cytometry was utilized to quantitatively assess the apoptosis rate of Detroit 562 cells exposed to Que, Hes and Rut. The morphology of the SCC cells was evaluated via hematoxylin-eosin staining. Results: The viability diminishment of the Detroit 562-line cells treated with Que, Hes and Rut for 48 h revealed a significant dose-dependent trend, relatively equal for three substances, whereas the most noticeable cytotoxic effect observed for Hes. Exposure to Hes and Rut exhibited a dose-dependent increased proportion of apoptotic SCC cells, at either necrosis or late apoptosis stage. Detroit 562 SCC migration rate and cells motility were halted for the 100 µM dose of Hes and Que. The comparative results elucidated that Hesperidin and Quercetin achieved a more potent reduction of Detroit 562 migration at 24 h. Conclusions: Hesperidin, rutin and quercetin are capable of inducing apoptosis and migration arrest in the Detroit 562 cell line to various extents, resulting in proapoptotic attenuating effects at different magnitudes.

The use of propolis in dentistry, oral health, and medicine: A review

BACKGROUND

Propolis is a resinous product that is collected from plants by bees to cover holes and crevices in their hives. Propolis has potent antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and anticancer properties. Propolis has been used therapeutically by humans for centuries, including the treatment of dental caries and mouth infections.

HIGHLIGHT

This review article attempts to analyze the potential use of propolis in general dentistry and oral health management.

CONCLUSION

Propolis is potentially useful in dentistry and oral health management based on available in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo studies, as well as human clinical trials.

Phenolic Compounds from Polygonum chinense Induce Growth Inhibition and Apoptosis of Cervical Cancer SiHa Cells

Cervical cancer is considered to be one of the most serious malignant tumors in women. Natural compounds have been considered as important sources in the search for new anticancer agents. Polygonum chinense (PC) has been used as herbal medicine and Chinese cool tea. By activity-guided of the extracts from PC, PC_water shows good growth inhibition on SiHa cell, then by chromatographic analysis (HPLC and HPLC-MS/MS), we found twelve components, seven were phenolic compounds (PHE), two PHE named ellagic acid and corilagin were found to show strong growth inhibition effects in SiHa cell dose-dependently, while the seven phenolic compounds showed low inhibition on the common human HcerEpic cell. Further research found ellagic acid and corilagin induced G2 phase cell cycle arrest by upregulating levels of P53, Bcl-2, caspase 3, and caspase 9, while the Bax was reduced. These results suggested that PHE from PC might have potential anticancer effects against SiHa cells by acting through the apoptosis pathway, PHE from PC might have the potential to be used as a nutraceutical for the prevention and treatment of ovarian cancer.

Compounds with Antiviral, Anti-Inflammatory and Anticancer Activity Identified in Wine from Hungary's Tokaj Region via High Resolution Mass Spectrometry and Bioinformatics Analyses

(1) Background: Wine contains a variety of molecules with potential beneficial effects on human health. Our aim was to examine the wine components with high-resolution mass spectrometry including high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry in two wine types made from grapes with or without the fungus Botrytis cinerea, or "noble rot". (2) For LC-MS/MS analysis, 12 wine samples (7 without and 5 with noble rotting) from 4 different wineries were used and wine components were identified and quantified. (3) Results: 288 molecules were identified in the wines and the amount of 169 molecules was statistically significantly different between the two wine types. A database search was carried out to find the molecules, which were examined in functional studies so far, with high emphasis on molecules with antiviral, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities. (4) Conclusions: A comprehensive functional dataset related to identified wine components is also provided highlighting the importance of components with potential health benefits.

Serum and salivary levels of lactate dehydrogenase in oral squamous cell carcinoma, oral lichen planus and oral lichenoid reaction

BACKGROUND

Increased levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) as a tumor marker have been reported in malignant and some premalignant oral lesions such as oral lichen planus (OLP) and oral lichenoid reactions (OLRs). This study aimed to assess the level of total LDH in the saliva and serum of patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), OLP and OLRs.

METHODS

In this case-control study, the participants were divided into four groups (n = 25) of healthy controls, OLP, OLRs, and OSCC. The serum and stimulated/unstimulated salivary levels of LDH were spectrophotometrically measured using standard LDH kits (Pars Azmoun). One-way ANOVA, Chi-square test, Pearson's correlation test, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis were applied to analyze the data.

RESULTS

The serum and salivary levels of LDH in OSCC patients were significantly higher than that the corresponding values in other groups (P = 0.0001). The serum level of LDH in OLR group was significantly higher than that in the control and OLP groups (P = 0.0001), but the difference in salivary level of LDH was not significant. The ROC analysis showed that both the serum and salivary levels of LDH had significant diagnostic ability for detection of OSCC and OLRs. Significant associations were noted between the serum and salivary levels of LDH.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with OSCC and OLRs had higher serum levels of LDH than OLP and control groups. Further prospective longitudinal studies are required to assess the tissue level of LDH and monitor the transformation of OLRs because they have low rate of malignant transformation compared with other oral premalignant lesions.

Drug delivery based pharmacological enhancement and current insights of quercetin with therapeutic potential against oral diseases

The heavy burden of oral diseases such as oral cancers, dental caries, periodontitis, etc. and their consequence on the patient's quality of life demonstrated an urgent demand for developing effective therapeutics. Quercetin as a natural derived flavonoid, could be utilized in the therapeutic formulation of various diseases such as diabetes, breast cancer and asthma, owing to its prominent pharmacological values. In the last decade, the applications of quercetin as a natural compound in oral treatment have attracted increasing interest due to its multifunction including antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antineoplastic activities. Besides, considering the low bioavailability of quercetin, great efforts have been made in its drug delivery systems to address the problem of limited application. Therefore, this review summarized the cutting-edge researches on versatile effects and enhanced bioavailability of quercetin resulting from innovative drug delivery systems, particularly focused on its potential against oral diseases. The application of quercetin would provide novel and promising therapeutic approach for clinical treatment, promoting the development of global dental public health.

Wine Consumption and Oral Cavity Cancer: Friend or Foe, Two Faces of Janus

The health benefits of moderate wine consumption have been extensively studied during the last few decades. Some studies have demonstrated protective associations between moderate drinking and several diseases including oral cavity cancer (OCC). However, due to the various adverse effects related to ethanol content, the recommendation of moderate wine consumption has been controversial. The polyphenolic components of wine contribute to its beneficial effects with different biological pathways, including antioxidant, lipid regulating and anti-inflammatory effects. On the other hand, in the oral cavity, ethanol is oxidized to form acetaldehyde, a metabolite with genotoxic properties. This review is a critical compilation of both the beneficial and the detrimental effects of wine consumption on OCC.

Quercetin Loaded Nanoparticles in Targeting Cancer: Recent Development

The spread of metastatic cancer cell is the main cause of death worldwide. Cellular and molecular basis of the action of phytochemicals in the modulation of metastatic cancer highlights the importance of fruits and vegetables. Quercetin is a natural bioflavonoid present in fruits, vegetables, seeds, berries, and tea. The cancer-preventive activity of quercetin is well documented due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative and anti-angiogenic activities. However, poor water solubility and delivery, chemical instability, short half-life, and low-bioavailability of quercetin limit its clinical application in cancer chemoprevention. A better understanding of the molecular mechanism of controlled and regulated drug delivery is essential for the development of novel and effective therapies. To overcome the limitations of accessibility by quercetin, it can be delivered as nanoconjugated quercetin. Nanoconjugated quercetin has attracted much attention due to its controlled drug release, long retention in tumor, enhanced anticancer potential, and promising clinical application. The pharmacological effect of quercetin conjugated nanoparticles typically depends on drug carriers used such as liposomes, silver nanoparticles, silica nanoparticles, PLGA (Poly lactic-co-glycolic acid), PLA (poly(D,L-lactic acid)) nanoparticles, polymeric micelles, chitosan nanoparticles, etc. In this review, we described various delivery systems of nanoconjugated quercetin like liposomes, silver nanoparticles, PLGA (Poly lactic-co-glycolic acid), and polymeric micelles including DOX conjugated micelles, metal conjugated micelles, nucleic acid conjugated micelles, and antibody-conjugated micelles on in vitro and in vivo tumor models; as well as validated their potential as promising onco-therapeutic agents in light of recent updates.

Dietary Polyphenols and Mitochondrial Function: Role in Health and Disease

Mitochondria are cytoplasmic double-membraned organelles that are involved in a myriad of key cellular regulatory processes. The loss of mitochondrial function is related to the pathogenesis of several human diseases. Over the last decades, an increasing number of studies have shown that dietary polyphenols can regulate mitochondrial redox status, and in some cases, prevent or delay disease progression. This paper aims to review the role of four dietary polyphenols - resveratrol, curcumin, epigallocatechin-3-gallate nd quercetin - in molecular pathways regulated by mitochondria and their potential impact on human health. Cumulative evidence showed that the aforementioned polyphenols improve mitochondrial functions in different in vitro and in vivo experiments. The mechanisms underlying the polyphenols' beneficial effects include, among others, the attenuation of oxidative stress, the regulation of mitochondrial metabolism and biogenesis and the modulation of cell-death signaling cascades, among other mitochondrial-independent effects. The understanding of the chemicalbiological interactions of dietary polyphenols, namely with mitochondria, may have a huge impact on the treatment of mitochondrial dysfunction-related disorders.

Sono and photo stimulated Chlorine E6 nanocomposite in tumor-bearing mice: upcoming cancer treatment

This study was directed at study the effectiveness of cancer targeted therapy using the activated Chlorine E6 nanocomposite (Nano-CE6). Study was applied on male Swiss albino mice, implanted with Ehrlich tumor (EAC) divided into six groups. Two energy sources were used; laser and Ultrasound. Results showed that Nano-CE6 is a potential sensitizer for photodynamic or sonodynamic treatment of tumor. Nano-CE6 plays an important role in tumor growth inhibition and cell death induction. Activated Nano-CE6 with both infrared laser and ultrasound has a potential antitumor effect. The results indicated that (FA–NGO–CE6) could be used as a unique nanocomposite for cancer targeted therapy SPDT.

Biochemical and biophysical study of chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic anti-tumor potential of some Egyptian plant extracts

the present study the was done to evaluate chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic anti-tumor potential of some Egyptian plant extract (moringa, graviola, ginger garden cress and artemisinin) against 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)-induced mammary carcinogenesis in Swiss albino mice. chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic evaluation was assessed by monitoring the tumor incidence and tumor volume as well as by analyzing the status of (a) biochemical markers (maspin, survivin, livin, caveolin-1, osteopontin and Fucosyltransferase 4 gene expressions), oxidative stress related profile including; total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione reductase (GR) activity, glutathione-s-transferase (GST) activity assay, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, catalase (CAT) activity and lipid peroxidation (MDA), renal and hepatic toxicity markers (urea, creatinine, alanine transaminase (alt) activity, aspartate aminotransferase (ast) activity, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) Activity and γ-Glutamyltransferase (GGT) activity also study of (b) biophysical markers (trace and heavy metals (lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), iron (Fe), selenium (Se), copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn)), dielectric properties and body water distribution) finally (c) histopathological examination oral administration of increasing dose of moringa, graviola, ginger garden cress and artemisinin extracts, respectively significantly prevented the tumor incidence and tumor volume as well as brought back the status of the above mentioned biochemical and biophysical variables. Histopathological changes also confirmed the formation of tumor tubules and neovascularization after the treatment. Overall, these results suggest that treatment with moringa, graviola, ginger garden cress and artemisinin extracts provided antioxidant defense with strong chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic activity against DMBA-induced mammary tumors.

Quercetin: a natural compound for ovarian cancer treatment

Ovarian cancer is the main cause of death among all reproductive cancers in females. In 2018, ovarian cancer was the seventh most common cancer of women entire the world. A wide variety of molecular and genetic alterations as well as different response to therapies in the different types of ovarian cancer lead to problems in design a common therapeutic strategy. Besides, ovarian cancer cells have tendency to acquire resistance to common cancer treatments through multiple mechanisms. Various factors, including cytokines, growth factors, proteases, adhesion molecules, coagulation factors, hormones and apoptotic agents have been examined to find effective cancer treatment. Phytochemicals have been indicated to have great potential anti-cancer properties against various types of cancers. Quercetin is one of the phytochemicals that exists extensively in daily foods. Wide evidences revealed that quercetin is able to inhibit various types of cancers including breast, lung, nasopharyngeal, kidney, colorectal, prostate, pancreatic, and ovarian cancer. Several in vitro and in vivo studied conducted to evaluate cytotoxic effects of quercetin on ovarian cancer. Since quercetin does not harm healthy cells and it is cytotoxic to cancer cells via various mechanisms, researchers suggest that it could be an ideal agent for ovarian cancer treatment or an adjuvant agent in combination with other anti-cancer drugs. Thus, in this review, we focused on chemo-preventive and curative attitude of quercetin for ovarian cancer and summarize some of the most recent findings which regard the possible molecular mechanisms by which this natural compound inhibits this cancer.

Increased Oxidative Stress Induced by Rubus Bioactive Compounds Induce Apoptotic Cell Death in Human Breast Cancer Cells

Bioactive compounds from plants represent good candidate drugs for the prevention and treatment of various forms of cancer. Berries are rich sources of bioactive compounds, and there has been an increasing interest in the study of therapeutic action of wild berries. Oxidants are generated continuously in biological system as a result of physiological process. When there is an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants, it leads to a condition called oxidative stress. Natural compounds as inducers of oxidative stress are able to modulate the physiological functions of cancer cells leading to cell death or survival. The aim of this study was to evaluate the induction of apoptosis by isolated bioactive compounds (1-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-4-methylpentan-1-one (C1) and 2-[(3-methylbutoxy) carbonyl] benzoic acid (C2)) from Rubus fairholmianus against MCF-7 breast cancer cells. The exposure of C1 and C2 reduced viability (IC₅₀ of C1: 4.69; C2: 8.36 μg/mL) and proliferation. Cytochrome c release from mitochondria and changes in mitochondrial membrane potential of treated cells supported the intrinsic apoptotic cell death. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production after treatment with C1 and C2 was found to be higher and induced nuclear damage. Expression of apoptotic proteins after the treatments was significantly upregulated as indicated using immunofluorescence (caspase 9, p53, and Bax), western blotting (p53, cleaved PARP, cytochrome c, and Bax), and ELISA (caspase 9) analysis. Overall, C1 was more cytotoxic, increased the ROS production in dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate assay, and induced apoptosis in breast cancer cells. These results illustrate that berry bioactive compounds have strong chemopreventive potential. In this article, we provide information on prooxidant and anticancer activities of Rubus bioactive compounds. Natural products have always demonstrated a significant contribution to the development of several cancer chemotherapeutic drugs. Most of these compounds are known to affect the redox state of the cell; and studies on these compounds have focused on their antioxidant property instead of prooxidant properties.

Effects of Quercetin-Loaded Nanoparticles on MCF-7 Human Breast Cancer Cells

Background and objectives: Previous studies have shown anti-tumor activity of quercetin (QT). However, the low bioavailability of QT has restricted its use. This study aimed to assess the toxic effect of QT encapsulated in solid lipid nanoparticles (QT-SLNs) on the growth of MCF-7 human breast cancer cells. Materials and Methods: MCF-7 and MCF-10A (non-tumorigenic cell line) cell lines treated with 25 µmol/mL of QT or QT-SLNs for 48 h. Cell viability, colony formation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis were evaluated to determine the toxic effects of the QT-SLNs. Results: The QT-SLNs with appropriate characteristics (particle size of 85.5 nm, a zeta potential of −22.5 and encapsulation efficiency of 97.6%) were prepared. The QT-SLNs showed sustained QT release until 48 h. Cytotoxicity assessments indicated that QT-SLNs inhibited MCF-7 cells growth with a low IC₅₀ (50% inhibitory concentration) value, compared to the free QT. QT-SLNs induced a significant decrease in the viability and proliferation of MCF-7 cells, compared to the free QT. QT-SLN significantly increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and MDA contents and significantly decreased antioxidant enzyme activity in the MCF-7 cells. Following QT-SLNs treatment, the expression of the Bcl-2 protein significantly decreased, whereas Bx expression showed a significant increase in comparison with free QT-treated cells. Furthermore, The QT-SLNs significantly increased apoptotic and necrotic indexes in MCF-7 cells. Viability, proliferation, oxidative stress and apoptosis of MCF-10A cells were not affected by QT or QT-SLNs. Conclusions: According to the results of this study, SLN significantly enhanced the toxic effect of QT against human breast cancer cells.

Chemical composition and cytotoxic screening of Musa cavendish green peels extract: Antiproliferative activity by activation of different cellular death types

Musa cavendish, commonly known as banana, is a fruit with nutritional and therapeutic properties. We investigated the chemical composition and in vitro cytotoxic effect of M. cavendish green peel extract (MHE) on cancer cells for the first time. The compounds characterization was performed by HPLC-UV/Vis and FIA-ESI-IT-MSⁿ. We investigated in vitro cytotoxic effect of Musa cavendish green peels extract (MHE) in HepG2, A-375, MCF-7 and Caco-2 cancer cells. We evaluated the effect of MHE on proliferation of different cell lines through apoptosis, necrosis, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) content determination. We identified 12 compounds from different classes in the extract, including derivatives of phenolic acids, aglycone flavonoids, glycoside flavonoids and catecholamines. Our results indicate that MHE exerts, after 48 h treatment, an accentuated antiproliferative effect from the dose of 100 μg/mL in all cell lines tested. In HepG2 cells, these effects were related to the induction of cell death, both necrotic and apoptotic, and remarkable changes in cell morphology. Depolarization of MMP and high ROS content were also observed in the cells in a dose-dependent manner. Our results show that MHE may be used as a source of new drugs with anticancer activity.

Abyssinone V-4' Methyl Ether Isolated from Erythrina droogmansiana (Leguminosae) Inhibits Cell Growth and Mammary Glands Hyperplasia Induced in Swiss Mice by the 7,12-Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene

There is a long standing interest in the identification of medicinal plants and derived natural products for developing cancer therapeutics. The present study was designed to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo antiproliferative effects of Abyssinone V-4' methyl ether (AVME) on breast tissue of mice. The cytotoxicity of AVME was evaluated using MTT assay in four cancer cell lines (DU145, PC3, HepG2, and MCF-7). Further, a protective effect of AVME was evaluated on 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene- (DMBA-) induced breast tumor in Swiss mice. Incidence, burden, volume, and histological analysis of mammary tumors were measured. As a result, AVME inhibits DU145, PC3, HepG2, and MCF-7 cells growth. In vivo, no tumor was detected in mice from the normal group as compared to those of DMBA group. Moreover, AVME inhibits the DMBA-induced mammary glands hyperplasia in mice at the dose of 10 mg/kg, evidenced by a decrease of tumor incidence, tumor weight, and volume as well as a protective effect against the lobular alveolar hyperplasia. Taken all together, these results suggest that Abyssinone V-4' methyl ether is endowed with antitumor properties and could be a source of traditional medicine which deserves to be more elucidated and explored in the foreseeable future.

Quercetin induced apoptosis of human oral cancer SAS cells through mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum mediated signaling pathways

Oral cancer is a cause of cancer-associated mortality worldwide and the treatment of oral cancer includes radiation, surgery and chemotherapy. Quercetin is a component from natural plant products and it has been demonstrated that quercetin is able to induce cytotoxic effects through induction of cell apoptosis in a number of human cancer cell lines. However, there is no available information to demonstrate that quercetin is able to induce apoptosis in human oral cancer cells. In the present study, the effect of quercetin on the cell death via the induction of apoptosis in human oral cancer SAS cells was investigated using flow cytometry, Annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) double staining, western blotting and confocal laser microscopy examination, to test for cytotoxic effects at 6–48 h after treatment with quercetin. The rate of cell death increased with the duration of quercetin treatment based on the results of a cell viability assay, increased Annexin V/PI staining, increased reactive oxygen species and Ca²⁺ production, decreased the levels of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨ_m), increased proportion of apoptotic cells and altered levels of apoptosis-associated protein expression in SAS cells. The results from western blotting revealed that quercetin increased Fas, Fas-Ligand, fas-associated protein with death domain and caspase-8, all of which associated with cell surface death receptor. Furthermore, quercetin increased the levels of activating transcription factor (ATF)-6α, ATF-6β and gastrin-releasing peptide-78 which indicated an increase in endoplasm reticulum stress, increased levels of the pro-apoptotic protein BH3 interacting-domain death antagonist, and decreased levels of anti-apoptotic proteins B-cell lymphoma (Bcl) 2 and Bcl-extra large which may have led to the decreases of ΔΨ_m. Additionally, confocal microscopy suggested that quercetin was able to increase the expression levels of cytochrome c, apoptosis-inducing factor and endonuclease G, which are associated with apoptotic pathways. Therefore, it is hypothesized that quercetin may potentially be used as a novel anti-cancer agent for the treatment of oral cancer in future.

Effects of Damnacanthal and Nordamnacanthal on Proliferation, Apoptosis, and Migration of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells

Cancer is one of the most common causes of death in the developed world, with one-third of people diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime. Oral cancer commonly occurs involving the buccal mucosa (cheeks), tongue, floor of the mouth and lip. It is one of the most devastating and disfiguring of malignancies. Morinda citrifolia L., commonly known as ‘noni’, belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is native to the Pacific islands, Hawaii, Caribbean, Asia and Australia. The plant displays broad curative effects in pharmacological studies. Damnacanthal (DAM) and Nordamnacanthal (NDAM), anthraquinone compounds isolated from the roots of Morinda citrifolia L., has been used for the treatment of several chronic diseases including cancer. The objectives of this study were to evaluate cytotoxicity, morphological changes, cell death mode (apoptosis/necrosis), and cell migration induced by DAM and NDAM on the most common type of oral cancer, oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC)cells. Anti-proliferative effects of these compounds against OSCC cell lines were determined by MTT assay. The mode of cell death was analysed by phase contrast and fluorescent microscopy as well as flow cytometry. In addition, cell migration was assessed. The results showed that DAM and NDAM exerted cytotoxicity against OSCC cells with IC₅₀ values of 1.9 to >30 μg/ml after 72 h treatment. Maximum growth inhibition among the tested cell lines for both compounds was observed in H400 cells, and thus it was selected for further study. The study demonstrated inhibition of H400 OSCC cell proliferation, marked apoptotic morphological changes, induction of early apoptosis, and inhibition of cell migration by DAM and NDAM. Therefore, this information suggests that these compounds from noni have potential for used as anti tumor agents for oral cancer therapy.

Tea (Camellia sinensis) infusions ameliorate cancer in 4TI metastatic breast cancer model

BACKGROUND

Tea (Camellia sinensis) infusions are widely consumed beverages with numerous health benefits. However, physiological and molecular responses mediating these activities are poorly understood.

METHOD

Three replicates of 4TI cancer cell suspension (2.0 × 105 cells/ml) were challenged in vitro with various concentrations of green, black and purple tea infusions to asseses their cytoxicity and associated differentially expressed genes in the cells. Inhibitory activity was tested by using serial dilutions of respective tea infusions in a 96 well ELISA plate.

RESULTS

Green tea had the highest inhibition on 4TI cells proliferation at a concentration of IC50 = 13.12 μg/ml. Further analysis of the 4TI cancer cell line treated with tea using 454 pyrosequencing generated 425,696 reads with an input mean length of 286.54. Trimmed sequences were imported on a CLC genomic workbench v7.03 and annotated on a reference mouse genome (Mus musculus strain C57BL/6 J). Results revealed a differential expression of apoptosis related genes in the transcriptome. Casp8, Casp9, Casp3, Casp6, Casp8AP2, Aifm1, Aifm2 and Apopt1 genes were significantly upregulated indicating the process of apoptosis was initiated and executed.

CONCLUSION

These findings on caspases offer valuable information on the mechanism of tea as an anticancer agent and will contribute to further research in future novel treatments.

Cell cycle arrest and mechanism of apoptosis induction in H400 oral cancer cells in response to Damnacanthal and Nordamnacanthal isolated from Morinda citrifolia

Oral cancer is the eleventh most prevalent cancer worldwide. The most prevalent oral cancer is oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Damnacanthal (DAM) and nordamnacanthal (NDAM), the anthraquinone compounds, are isolated from the root of Morinda citrifolia L. (Noni), which has been used for the treatment of several chronic diseases including cancer. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the cytotoxicity, cell death mode, cell cycle, and the molecular mechanism of apoptosis induced by DAM and NDAM on OSCC. The cytotoxic effects of these compounds against OSCC cell lines were determined by MTT assay. The cell death mode was analysed by DNA laddering and FITC-annexin V/PI flow cytometric assays. In addition, the mechanism of apoptosis induced by DAM and NDAM was detected using mitochondrial membrane potential, Cytochrome c, and caspases assays. Finally, the effect of DAM and NDAM on cell cycle phase distribution of OSCC cells was detected by flow cytometry. In the present study, DAM and NDAM showed cytotoxicity towards OSCC cell lines and the maximum growth inhibition for both compounds was observed in H400 cells with IC50 value of 1.9 and 6.8 μg/ml, respectively, after 72 h treatment. The results also demonstrated the inhibition of H400 OSCC cells proliferation, internucleosomal cleavage of DNA, activation of intrinsic apoptosis pathway, and cell cycle arrest caused by DAM and NDAM. Therefore, these findings suggest that DAM and NDAM can be potentially used as antitumor agents for oral cancer therapy.

Crateva adansonii DC, an African ethnomedicinal plant, exerts cytotoxicity in vitro and prevents experimental mammary tumorigenesis in vivo

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Crateva adansonii DC is a plant traditionally used in Cameroon to treat constipation, asthma, snakebites, postmenopausal complaints and cancers.

AIM

The anticancer potential of the dichloromethane/methanol extract of C. adansonii stem barks was investigated using human breast cancer cell and 7,12 dimethylbenz(a)anththracene (DMBA)-induced mammary tumorigenesis model in rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The cytotoxicity of C. adansonii extract was assessed in vitro towards breast carcinoma (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) and non-tumoral cell lines (NIH/3T3 and HUVEC) by Alamar Blue assay. Furthermore, in vivo studies were performed on female Wistar rats treated either with C. adansonii extract at a dose of 75 or 300mg/kg body weight or with tamoxifen (3.3mg/kg body weight), starting 1 week prior DMBA treatment and lasted 12 weeks. The investigation focused on tumour burden, tumour DNA fingerprint, morphological, histological, hematological, and biochemical parameters.

RESULTS

CC50 values for the in vitro assays were 289µg/mL against MCF-7 cells and >500µg/mL in others cells, leading to a selectivity index ≥1.73. C. adansonii extract significantly (p<0.001) revealed in vivo the reduction of the cumulative tumour yield (87.23%), total tumour burden (88.64%), average tumour weight (71.11%) and tumour volume (78.07%) at the dose of 75mg/kg as compared to DMBA control group. A weak effect was also observed at 300mg/kg. This extract showed a moderate hyperplasia at the dose of 75mg/kg while at 300mg/kg no significant change was noted as compared to DMBA group. It protected rats from the DNA alteration induced by DMBA and increased antioxydant enzymes activities in mammary gland tissue homogenates. In addition, Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography/ESI-QTOF-Mass Spectrometry analysis of C. adansonii extract detected structure-related of many well-known anticancer agents such as flavane gallate, flavonol, phenylpropanoïds, sesquiterpene derivatives, gallotannins and lignans. The LD50 of C. adansonii was estimated to be greater than 5000mg/kg.

CONCLUSIONS

These aforementioned results suggest that the C. adansonii extract may possess antitumor constituents, which could combat breast cancer and prevent chemically-induced breast cancer in rats.

Molecular mechanisms of action of quercetin in cancer: recent advances

In the last few decades, the scientific community has discovered an immense potential of natural compounds in the treatment of dreadful diseases such as cancer. Besides the availability of a variety of natural bioactive molecules, efficacious cancer therapy still needs to be developed. So, to design an efficacious cancer treatment strategy, it is essential to understand the interactions of natural molecules with their respective cellular targets. Quercetin (Quer) is a naturally occurring flavonol present in many commonly consumed food items. It governs numerous intracellular targets, including the proteins involved in apoptosis, cell cycle, detoxification, antioxidant replication, and angiogenesis. The weight of available synergistic studies vigorously fortifies the utilization of Quer as a chemoprevention drug. This extensive review covers various therapeutic interactions of Quer with their recognized cellular targets involved in cancer treatment.

Quercetin, a Natural Flavonoid Interacts with DNA, Arrests Cell Cycle and Causes Tumor Regression by Activating Mitochondrial Pathway of Apoptosis

Naturally occurring compounds are considered as attractive candidates for cancer treatment and prevention. Quercetin and ellagic acid are naturally occurring flavonoids abundantly seen in several fruits and vegetables. In the present study, we evaluate and compare antitumor efficacies of quercetin and ellagic acid in animal models and cancer cell lines in a comprehensive manner. We found that quercetin induced cytotoxicity in leukemic cells in a dose-dependent manner, while ellagic acid showed only limited toxicity. Besides leukemic cells, quercetin also induced cytotoxicity in breast cancer cells, however, its effect on normal cells was limited or none. Further, quercetin caused S phase arrest during cell cycle progression in tested cancer cells. Quercetin induced tumor regression in mice at a concentration 3-fold lower than ellagic acid. Importantly, administration of quercetin lead to ~5 fold increase in the life span in tumor bearing mice compared to that of untreated controls. Further, we found that quercetin interacts with DNA directly, and could be one of the mechanisms for inducing apoptosis in both, cancer cell lines and tumor tissues by activating the intrinsic pathway. Thus, our data suggests that quercetin can be further explored for its potential to be used in cancer therapeutics and combination therapy.

Flavonoids - Clinical effects and applications in dentistry: A review

Flavonoids include a huge group of naturally occurring organic compounds. It is found in a large variety of plants including fruits, seeds, grains, tea vegetables, nuts, and wine. Many studies have shown that there is a strong association between flavonoid intake and the long-term effects on mortality. It is widely used in dentistry and it has many clinical effects. This article summarizes the effects of flavonoids to humankind and its clinical applications in dentistry.

Evaluation of biocompatibility using in vitro methods: interpretation and limitations

The in vitro biocompatibility of novel materials has to be proven before a material can be used as component of a medical device. This must be done in cell culture tests according to internationally recognized standard protocols. Subsequently, preclinical and clinical tests must be performed to verify the safety of the new material and device. The present chapter focuses on the first step, the in vitro testing according to ISO 10993-5, and critically discusses its limited significance. Alternative strategies and a brief overview of activities to improve the current in vitro tests are presented in the concluding section.

Site-specific anticancer effects of dietary flavonoid quercetin

Food-derived flavonoid quercetin, widely distributed in onions, apples, and tea, is able to inhibit growth of various cancer cells indicating that this compound can be considered as a good candidate for anticancer therapy. Although the exact mechanism of this action is not thoroughly understood, behaving as antioxidant and/or prooxidant as well as modulating different intracellular signalling cascades may all play a certain role. Such inhibitory activity of quercetin has been shown to depend first of all on cell lines and cancer types; however, no comprehensive site-specific analysis of this effect has been published. In this review article, cytotoxicity constants of quercetin measured in various human malignant cell lines of different origin were compiled from literature and a clear cancer selective action was demonstrated. The most sensitive malignant sites for quercetin revealed to be cancers of blood, brain, lung, uterine, and salivary gland as well as melanoma whereas cytotoxic activity was higher in more aggressive cells compared to the slowly growing cells showing that the most harmful cells for the organism are probably targeted. More research is needed to overcome the issues of poor water solubility and relatively low bioavailability of quercetin as the major obstacles limiting its clinical use.