Modulatory effects of rutin on the expression of cytochrome P450s and antioxidant enzymes in human hepatoma cells

Anti-tumor Effects of Polyphenols via Targeting Cancer Driving Signaling Pathways: A Review

The use of drugs in chemotherapy poses numerous side effects. Hence the use of natural substances that can help in the prevention and cure of the disease is a dire necessity. Cancer is a deadly illness and combination of diseases, the menace of which is rising with every passing year. The research community and scientists from all over the world are working towards finding a cure of the disease. The use of polyphenols which are naturally derived from plants have a great potential to be used as anti-cancer drugs and also the use of fruits and vegetables which are rich in these polyphenols can also help in the prevention of diseases. The study aims to compile the available literature and research studies on the anti-cancer effects of polyphenols and the signaling pathways that are affected by them. To review the anti-cancer effects of polyphenols, Google Scholar, PubMed and ScienceDirect were used to study the literature available. The article that have been used for literature review were filtered using keywords including cancer, polyphenols and signaling pathways. Majorly articles from the last 10 years have been considered for the review but relevant articles from earlier than 10 years have also been considered. Almost 400 articles were studied for the review and 200 articles have been cited. The current review shows the potential of polyphenols as anti-cancer compounds and how the consumption of a diet rich in polyphenols can help in the prevention of cancer. Because of their capacity to affect a variety of oncogenic and oncosuppressive signaling pathways, phytochemicals derived from plants have been effectively introduced as an alternative anticarcinogenic medicines.

Graphical Abstract

Sophorin mitigates flutamide-induced hepatotoxicity in wistar rats

Flutamide is frequently used in the management of prostate cancer, hirsutism, and acne. It is a non-steroidal anti-androgenic drug and causes hepatotoxicity. The current study's objective is to evaluate sophorin's hepatoprotective effectiveness against flutamide-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats. Sophorin is a citrus flavonoid glycoside, also known as rutin, which is a low molecular weight polyphenolic compound with natural antioxidant properties and reported to have promising hepatoprotective efficacy. In this study, sophorin was used at a dose of 100 mg/kg body weight in purified water via oral route for 4 week daily whereas, flutamide was used at a dose of 100 mg kg/b.wt for 4 weeks daily in 0.5% carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC) through the oral route for the induction of hepatotoxicity. Flutamide administration leads to enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, an imbalance in redox homeostasis and peroxidation of lipid resulted in reduced natural antioxidant level in liver tissue. Our result demonstrated that sophorin significantly abrogate flutamide induced lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl (PC), and also significantly increasesed in enzymatic activity/level of tissue natural antioxidant such as reduced glutathione(GSH), glutathione reductase(GR), catalase, and superoxide dismutase(SOD). Additionally, sophorin reduced the activity of cytochrome P450 3A1 in liver tissue which was elevated due to flutamide treatment. Furthermore, sophorin treatment significantly decreased the pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) level. Immunohistochemical analysis for the expression of inflammatory proteins (iNOS and COX-2) in hepatic tissue was decreased after sophorin treatment against flutamide-induced hepatotoxicity. Moreover, sophorin suppressed the infiltration of mast cells in liver tissue which further showed anti-inflammatory potential of sophorin. Our histological investigation further demonstrated sophorin's hepatoprotective function by restoring the typical histology of the liver. Based on the aforementioned information, we are able to come to the conclusion that sophorin supplementation might benefit wistar rats with flutamide-induced hepatic damage by reducing oxidative stress and hepatocellular inflammation.

Encapsulation of rutin in protein nanoparticles by pH-driven method: impact of rutin solubility and mechanisms

BACKGROUND

The use of rutin in the food industry is limited by its poor solubility. Encapsulation can be used as an effective way to improve polyphenol solubility. Proteins with high safety, biocompatibility and multiple binding sites are known as the most promising encapsulating carriers. Therefore, the improvement of rutin solubility by pH-driven encapsulation of rutin in soy protein isolate (SPI) nanoparticles, as well as the form of rutin after encapsulation and rutin-protein binding index were investigated.

RESULTS

SPI had a high encapsulation efficiency (87.5%) and loading amount (10.6%) for rutin. When the mass ratio of protein to rutin was 5:1, the highest concentration of rutin in solution was 3.27 g L-1 , which was a 51.57-fold increase compared to the original rutin. At this situation, rutin transformed from crystalline to amorphous form. During the formation of nanoparticles, SPI was in a dynamic change of unfolding and refolding. Rutin deprotonated in alkaline conditions increasing its solubility and bound to protein to form nanoparticles during the process of returning to neutral. Hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding promoted the formation of the nanoparticles and there were at least 1-2 binding sites between rutin and each SPI molecule.

CONCLUSION

The results suggested that encapsulation of rutin in protein nanoparticles can effectively increase the solubility of rutin. This study may provide important information for the effective utilization of polyphenol functional foods. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Hepatoprotective Effects of Flavonoids against Benzo[a]Pyrene-Induced Oxidative Liver Damage along Its Metabolic Pathways

Benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P), a highly carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon primarily formed during incomplete organic matter combustion, undergoes a series of hepatic metabolic reactions once absorbed into the body. B[a]P contributes to liver damage, ranging from molecular DNA damage to the onset and progression of various diseases, including cancer. Specifically, B[a]P induces oxidative stress via reactive oxygen species generation within cells. Consequently, more research has focused on exploring the underlying mechanisms of B[a]P-induced oxidative stress and potential strategies to counter its hepatic toxicity. Flavonoids, natural compounds abundant in plants and renowned for their antioxidant properties, possess the ability to neutralize the adverse effects of free radicals effectively. Although extensive research has investigated the antioxidant effects of flavonoids, limited research has delved into their potential in regulating B[a]P metabolism to alleviate oxidative stress. This review aims to consolidate current knowledge on B[a]P-induced liver oxidative stress and examines the role of flavonoids in mitigating its toxicity.

Pharmacological bioactivity of Ceratonia siliqua pulp extract: in vitro screening and molecular docking analysis, implication of Keap-1/Nrf2/NF-ĸB pathway

Inflammation is interfaced with various metabolic disorders. Ceratonia siliqua (CS) has a higher pharmaceutical purpose. The research aimed to investigate the biofunction of CS pulp aqueous extract (CS-PAE) with an emphasis on its integrated computational approaches as opposed to different specific receptors contributing to inflammation. The extract was assessed for its chemical and phenolic components via GC-MS, LC-MS, HPLC, and total phenolic and flavonoid content. In vitro, bioactivities and molecular docking were analyzed. Findings indicate that CS-PAE demonstrated higher scavenging activities of nitric oxide, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical, superoxide anion, hydrogen peroxide, and anti-lipid peroxidation (IC₅₀ values were 5.29, 3.04, 0.63, 7.35 and 9.6 mg/dl, respectively). The extract revealed potent inhibition of RBCs hemolysis, acetylcholine esterase, monoamine oxidase-B, and α-glucosidase enzymes (IC₅₀ was 13.44, 9.31, 2.45, and 1.5 mg/dl, respectively). The extract exhibited a cytotoxic effect against prostate cancer Pc3, liver cancer HepG2, colon cancer Caco2, and lung cancer A549 cell lines. Moreover, CS-PAE owned higher antiviral activity against virus A and some bacteria. When contrasting data from molecular docking, it was reported that both apigenin-7-glucoside and rutin in CS-PAE have a good affinity toward the Keap-1/Nrf2/ NF-ĸB pathway. In conclusion, CS-PAE showed promise in therapeutic activity in metabolic conditions.

Genotoxicity and maternal-fetal safety of the dried extract of leaves of Azadirachta indica A. Juss (Meliaceae) in Wistar rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Azadirachta indica A. Juss (Meliaceae), popularly known as "neem", is used for the treatment of rheumatism, cancer, ulcers, diabetes, respiratory problems, among others. This species is present on six continents and contains more than 400 bioactive compounds. Practically all parts of the plant are used in the treatment of diseases. Although it is widely used, no study has evaluated the safety of this species throughout the gestational period in Wistar rats.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the genotoxicity and the effect of treatment with dried extract of leaves of Azadirachta indica on maternal toxicity and fetal development.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The dried extract of leaves of A. indica was obtained by spray drying after percolation of the plant material in 30% ethanol (w/w). The total flavonoids and rutin contents of the extract were determined by spectrophotometric method and HPLC-DAD, respectively. Pregnant Wistar rats (n = 40) were divided into four groups (n = 10/group): one control and three groups treated with dried extract of leaves of A. indica at doses of 300, 600 or 1200 mg/kg. Treatments were carried out from gestational day (GD) 0-20. During gestation, clinical signs of toxicity, weight gain, feed and water consumption of the dams were evaluated. On GD 21, rats were euthanized and cardiac blood was collected. Liver, kidneys, lung, heart, uterus, ovaries and bone marrow were collected. Reproductive performance parameters, histopathological analysis, biochemistry and genotoxicity were evaluated. Fetuses were evaluated for external morphology, skeletal and visceral changes.

RESULTS

The total flavonoid content of the extract ranged from 2.64 to 3.01%, and the rutin content was 1.07%. There was no change in body mass gain, food and water consumption between the evaluated groups. There was also no difference between the groups in terms of biochemical parameters, reproductive performance, histopathological analysis of the mother's organs and genotoxicity. Supernumerary ossification sites of the sternum were observed, and other skeletal and visceral alterations were not significant.

CONCLUSIONS

The treatment did not induce maternal toxicity, it was neither embryotoxic nor fetotoxic. The extract was not potentially genotoxic, and at a dose of 1200 mg/kg, it caused changes in the ossification of the sternum.

Critical Review in Designing Plant-Based Anticancer Nanoparticles against Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), accounting for 85% of liver cancer cases, continues to be the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Although various forms of chemotherapy and immunotherapy have been investigated in clinics, patients continue to suffer from high toxicity and undesirable side effects. Medicinal plants contain novel critical bioactives that can target multimodal oncogenic pathways; however, their clinical translation is often challenged due to poor aqueous solubility, low cellular uptake, and poor bioavailability. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery presents great opportunities in HCC therapy by increasing selectivity and transferring sufficient doses of bioactives to tumor areas with minimal damage to adjacent healthy cells. In fact, many phytochemicals encapsulated in FDA-approved nanocarriers have demonstrated the ability to modulate the tumor microenvironment. In this review, information about the mechanisms of promising plant bioactives against HCC is discussed and compared. Their benefits and risks as future nanotherapeutics are underscored. Nanocarriers that have been employed to encapsulate both pure bioactives and crude extracts for application in various HCC models are examined and compared. Finally, the current limitations in nanocarrier design, challenges related to the HCC microenvironment, and future opportunities are also discussed for the clinical translation of plant-based nanomedicines from bench to bedside.

An Update on Phytochemicals in Redox Homeostasis: “Virtuous or Evil” in Cancer Chemoprevention?

Redox homeostasis, a dynamic process ensuring a balance between cellular oxidizing and reducing reactions, is crucial for maintaining healthy cellular physiology and regulating many biological processes, requiring continuous monitoring and fine-tuning. Reactive species play a critical role in intra/intercellular signaling, and each cell has a specific system guarding cellular redox homeostasis. ROS signaling and oxidative stress are involved in cancer initiation and progression. However, the generation of reactive species beyond the threshold level inside the tumor microenvironment is considered one of the therapeutic approaches. Various studies have shown that some phytochemicals can target the redox homeostasis of the tumor microenvironment. Recent advances have focused on developing and introducing phytochemical interventions as favorable therapeutic options against cancer. However, studies have also suggested the “virtuous” and “evil” impacts of phytochemicals. Some phytochemicals enhance therapeutic efficacy by promoting intracellular oxidant accumulation. However, under certain conditions, some phytochemicals may harm the cellular microenvironment to promote cancer and tend to target different pathways for cancer initiation and development instead of targeting redox homeostasis. In this context, this review is focused on providing an overall understanding of redox homeostasis and intends to highlight the potential positive and negative impacts of phytochemicals in redox homeostasis and disease development. We also discuss the recent nanotechnology-based advancements in combating cancer development.

Secondary Metabolites with Biomedical Applications from Plants of the Sarraceniaceae Family

Carnivorous plants have fascinated researchers and hobbyists for centuries because of their mode of nutrition which is unlike that of other plants. They are able to produce bioactive compounds used to attract, capture and digest prey but also as a defense mechanism against microorganisms and free radicals. The main purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the secondary metabolites with significant biological activity found in the Sarraceniaceae family. The review also underlines the necessity of future studies for the biochemical characterization of the less investigated species. Darlingtonia, Heliamphora and Sarracenia plants are rich in compounds with potential pharmaceutical and medical uses. These belong to several classes such as flavonoids, with flavonol glycosides being the most abundant, monoterpenes, triterpenes, sesquiterpenes, fatty acids, alkaloids and others. Some of them are well characterized in terms of chemical properties and biological activity and have widespread commercial applications. The review also discusses biological activity of whole extracts and commercially available products derived from Sarraceniaceae plants. In conclusion, this review underscores that Sarraceniaceae species contain numerous substances with the potential to advance health. Future perspectives should focus on the discovery of new molecules and increasing the production of known compounds using biotechnological methods.

Prediction of early recurrence and response to adjuvant Sorafenib for hepatocellular carcinoma after resection

Background

Early recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major obstacle to improving the prognosis, and no widely accepted adjuvant therapy guideline for patients post-liver resection is available. Currently, all available methods and biomarkers are insufficient to accurately predict post-operation HCC patients’ risk of early recurrence and their response to adjuvant therapy.

Methods

In this study, we downloaded four gene expression datasets (GSE14520, GSE54236, GSE87630, and GSE109211) from the Gene Expression Omnibus database and identified 34 common differentially expressed genes associated with HCC dysregulation and response to adjuvant sorafenib. Then, we constructed a novel 11-messenger RNA predictive model by using ROC curves analysis, univariate Cox regression analysis, and LASSO Cox regression analysis. Furthermore, we validated the predictive values of the risk model in GSE14520 and TCGA-LIHC cohorts by using Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, multivariable Cox regression analysis, and decision curve analysis, respectively.

Results

The risk score model could identify patients with a high risk of HCC recurrence at the early stage and could predict the response of patients to adjuvant sorafenib. Patients with a high risk score had a worse recurrence rate in training cohorts (2-year: p < 0.0001, hazard ratio (HR): 4.658, confidence interval 95% CI [2.895–7.495]; 5-year: p < 0.0001, HR: 3.251, 95% CI [2.155–4.904]) and external validation cohorts (2-year: p < 0.001, HR: 3.65, 95% CI [2.001–6.658]; 5-year: p < 0.001, HR: 3.156, 95% CI [1.78–5.596]). The AUC values of the risk score model for predicting tumor early recurrence were 0.746 and 0.618, and that of the risk score model for predicting the response to adjuvant sorafenib were 0.722 and 0.708 in the different cohort, respectively. Multivariable Cox regression analysis and decision curve analysis also showed that the risk score model was superior to and independent of other clinicopathologic characteristics. Moreover, the risk score model had excellent abilities to predict the overall survival and HCC recurrence of patients with the same tumor stage category.

Conclusions

Our risk model is a reliable and superior predictive tool. With this model, we could optimize the risk stratification based on early tumor recurrence and could evaluate the response of patients to adjuvant sorafenib after liver resection.

Rutin (Bioflavonoid) as Cell Signaling Pathway Modulator: Prospects in Treatment and Chemoprevention

Cancer is a complex ailment orchestrated by numerous intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. Recent research has displayed a deep interest in developing plant-based cancer therapeutics for better management of the disease and limited side effects. A wide range of plant-derived compounds have been reported for their anticancer potential in the quest of finding an effective therapeutic approach. Rutin (vitamin P) is a low-molecular weight flavonoid glycoside (polyphenolic compound), abundantly present in various vegetables, fruits (especially berries and citrus fruits), and medicinal herbs. Numerous studies have delineated several pharmacological properties of rutin such as its antiprotozoal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antiviral, antiallergic, vasoactive, cytoprotective, antispasmodic, hypolipidemic, antihypertensive, and antiplatelet properties. Specifically, rutin-mediated anticancerous activities have been reported in several cancerous cell lines, but the most common scientific evidence, encompassing several molecular processes and interactions, including apoptosis pathway regulation, aberrant cell signaling pathways, and oncogenic genes, has not been thoroughly studied. In this direction, we attempted to project rutin-mediated oncogenic pathway regulation in various carcinomas. Additionally, we also incorporated advanced research that has uncovered the notable potential of rutin in the modulation of several key cellular functions via interaction with mRNAs, with major emphasis on elucidating direct miRNA targets of rutin as well as the process needed to transform these approaches for developing novel therapeutic interventions for the treatment of several cancers.

Rutin: A Flavonoid as an Effective Sensitizer for Anticancer Therapy; Insights into Multifaceted Mechanisms and Applicability for Combination Therapy

Rutin is a unique antioxidant flavonoid that is mainly found in fruit, vegetables, cereals, and many other plant-based human diets. This review aims to highlight the in vitro anticancer properties of rutin including combination therapeutic strategies. Literature resources were gathered through PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases that cover the period of 1995–2021. Rutin is demonstrated to inhibit the proliferation of breast, colon, lung, and prostate cancers and other tumors. Furthermore, rutin alone or in combination with other therapeutic agents has been shown to regulate several signalling pathways involving the Ras/Raf and PI3K/Akt, MAPK, and TGF-β2/Smad2/3Akt/PTEN, etc., which are related to the processes of carcinogenesis and induction of apoptosis. The combination of rutin with other chemotherapy drugs may benefit on prevention of tumor cells by decreasing drug resistance and chemotherapy side effects. Moreover, rutin induces apoptosis synergistically with the therapeutic agent. More in vivo and clinical data are however needed to evaluate the true potential of rutin as an anticancer agent as an adjuvant. The present review highlights the effects of rutin which can be a promising candidate in combination with other antitumor drugs or alone for cancer treatment in vitro. Also, rutin can lead to decrease in drug resistance and chemotherapeutic side effects.

Cancer Cell Preferential Penetration and pH-Responsive Drug Delivery of Oligorutin

We report herein a novel delivery system, derived from the facile enzymatic synthesis of oligorutin (OR), for cancer cell targeting and pH-responsive drug delivery. In this study, we demonstrate that OR could preferentially penetrate cancer cells via the lipid raft-mediated endocytosis pathway, and cell membrane cholesterol was critical to the internalization of OR. The accumulation of OR in the tumor region was further confirmed by an in vivo biodistribution study. Considering the tumor-targeting property of OR, a pH-responsive drug delivery system (OR-BTZ) was developed by covalent conjugation of the catechol groups on OR with antitumor drug bortezomib (BTZ) through a pH-sensitive borate ester bond. OR-BTZ exerted cytotoxicity as well as inhibition of the migration and invasion to hepatoma carcinoma cells and showed no apparent cytotoxicity with liver normal cells. The OR-BTZs also presented significant therapeutic efficacy and low systematic toxicity in the murine hepatocellular carcinoma model. To our knowledge, this study presents the first attempt to exploit the potential of oligoflavonoids for cancer cell-targeted drug delivery and will motivate the development of flavonoids and their derivatives as a new type of biomaterials for tumor-targeted therapy.

Protective Effect of Phoenix dactylifera L. Seeds against Paracetamol-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats: A Comparison with Vitamin C

Phoenix dactylifera L. (date palm) seeds have been mentioned in the Moroccan pharmacopoeia as efficient remedies against a wide range of diseases including hepatic and gastrointestinal disorders and countless infections. The current work was performed to assess the phenolic profile and hepatoprotective potential of two date seed varieties, locally known as Jihl and Majhoul, aqueous extracts against paracetamol- (PCM-) driven liver toxicity in 42 Wistar rats. The polyphenol profile was built by means of an HPLC analysis. Hepatic damage was provoked by exposing rats to PCM at a dose of 1.5 g/kg once a week. Besides PCM, Jihl and Majhoul date seed extracts (200 and 400 mg/kg) were administered orally in a day-to-day routine. Our findings showed that among the examined polyphenol compounds, p-coumaric acid, quercetin, caffeic acid, and rutin were the most abundant phytochemicals. Date pits significantly (p < 0.001) stabilized the PCM-driven alterations in liver function parameters (AST, ALT, ALP, LDH, total protein, direct bilirubin, and total bilirubin). Moreover, Phoenix dactylifera pits enhanced considerably (p < 0.001) the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GPx) as well as the level of reduced glutathione (GSH). The established hepatoprotective effect may be due to the date seeds antioxidant effect and their ability to trap free radicals. The main outcomes of the present study could validate the traditional use of these date seeds to manage various health conditions.

Rutin restrains the growth and metastasis of mouse breast cancer cells by regulating the microRNA-129-1-3p-mediated calcium signaling pathway

Breast cancer is a common malignancy that is highly lethal. Due to the poor prognosis, more effective and efficient treatment methods are urgently needed. Rutin (RUT) is a traditional Chinese medicine reported to have a variety of pharmacological properties, including anticancer properties. However, the effects of RUT on breast cancer and its underlying molecular mechanism of action remain unclear. In the present study, we observed a significant downregulation of microRNA (miR)-129-1-3p in mouse breast cancer cells (4T1) compared with the expression in mouse normal breast epithelial cells (HC11). We also found that RUT could increase the expression of miR-129-1-3p in 4T1 cells and suppress cell proliferation. To elucidate the molecular mechanism of action of RUT, miR-129-1-3p mimics and its inhibitor were transfected into 4T1 cells. miR-129-1-3p overexpression could inhibit the proliferation, invasion, migration, and calcium overload of mouse breast cancer cells and also enhance apoptosis, whereas miR-129-1-3p knockdown had the opposite effects. Taken together, cell-based experiments indicated that RUT restrains the growth of mouse breast cancer cells by regulating the miR-129-1-3p/Ca²⁺ signaling pathway. This study also revealed the inhibitory effect of RUT on breast cancer cells at the noncoding RNA level and provided a theoretical foundation for the application of RUT as a drug to inhibit tumor growth.

Potential Herb-Drug Interactions in the Management of Age-Related Cognitive Dysfunction

Late-life mild cognitive impairment and dementia represent a significant burden on healthcare systems and a unique challenge to medicine due to the currently limited treatment options. Plant phytochemicals have been considered in alternative, or complementary, prevention and treatment strategies. Herbals are consumed as such, or as food supplements, whose consumption has recently increased. However, these products are not exempt from adverse effects and pharmacological interactions, presenting a special risk in aged, polymedicated individuals. Understanding pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions is warranted to avoid undesirable adverse drug reactions, which may result in unwanted side-effects or therapeutic failure. The present study reviews the potential interactions between selected bioactive compounds (170) used by seniors for cognitive enhancement and representative drugs of 10 pharmacotherapeutic classes commonly prescribed to the middle-aged adults, often multimorbid and polymedicated, to anticipate and prevent risks arising from their co-administration. A literature review was conducted to identify mutual targets affected (inhibition/induction/substrate), the frequency of which was taken as a measure of potential interaction. Although a limited number of drugs were studied, from this work, interaction with other drugs affecting the same targets may be anticipated and prevented, constituting a valuable tool for healthcare professionals in clinical practice.

Investigation of supramolecular interaction of quercetin with N,N-dimethylamine-functionalized p-sulfonated calix[4,8]arenes using molecular modeling and their in vitro cytotoxic response towards selected cancer cells

Although quercetin is an effective bioactive compound preventing the progress of several human cancers, its impact is reduced due to low bioavailability.

The anticancer potential of the dietary polyphenol rutin: Current status, challenges, and perspectives

Rutin is one of the most common dietary polyphenols found in vegetables, fruits, and other plants. It is metabolized by the mammalian gut microbiota and absorbed from the intestines, and becomes bioavailable in the form of conjugated metabolites. Rutin exhibits a plethora of bioactive properties, making it an extremely promising phytochemical. Numerous studies demonstrate that rutin can act as a chemotherapeutic and chemopreventive agent, and its anticancer effects can be mediated through the suppression of cell proliferation, the induction of apoptosis or autophagy, and the hindering of angiogenesis and metastasis. Rutin has been found to modulate multiple molecular targets involved in carcinogenesis, such as cell cycle mediators, cellular kinases, inflammatory cytokines, transcription factors, drug transporters, and reactive oxygen species. This review summarizes the natural sources of rutin, its bioavailability, and in particular its potential use as an anticancer agent, with highlighting its anticancer mechanisms as well as molecular targets. Additionally, this review updates the anticancer potential of its analogs, nanoformulations, and metabolites, and discusses relevant safety issues. Overall, rutin is a promising natural dietary compound with promising anticancer potential and can be widely used in functional foods, dietary supplements, and pharmaceuticals for the prevention and management of cancer.

Thiazolidine based fluorescent chemosensors for aluminum ions and their applications in biological imaging

Utilization of fluorescent techniques in detection of various metal ions actively pursued allow ultrasensitive and selective detections of metal ions and prevent the adverse effect of cations such as aluminum (III) ions. In this study, two novel fluorescent chemosensors containing thiazole derivatives, ((E)-2-(4-hydroxy-3-(((2-hydroxyphenyl)imino)methyl)phenyl)-3-phenyl thiazolidin-4-one) AM1 and (2,3-bis(4-hydroxy-3-((E)-((2-hydroxyphenyl)imino) methyl) phenyl) thiazolidin-4-one) AM2, have been fabricated. The probes AM1 and AM2 were prepared using the condensation reaction between 2-hydroxy-5-(4-oxo-3-phenyl thiazolidin-2-yl) benzaldehyde and 2-aminophenol for the probe AM1 and 5,5'-(4-oxothiazolidine-2,3-diyl)bis(2-hydroxy benzaldehyde) and 2-aminophenol for the probe AM2. Afterwards, they were analyzed by various types of NMR and FT-IR spectroscopy, ESI-MS spectra, and elemental anayzer. As a second step, each fabricated chemosensor was able to use turn on fluorescence sensing for detecting of Al³⁺ ions in ACN/H₂O (v/v = 50/50, 10.0 μM, pH = 7.0) solution. Clear complexes formed between the probe AM1 and Al³⁺ ions and also the probe AM2 and Al³⁺ ions was determined by not only ¹H NMR titration study but also calculated by using the Job's plot. The limit of detection (LOD) value was found to be 0.11 μM (AM1) and 4.4 μM (AM2) for Al³⁺ ions. Likewise, cell imaging and in vitro cytotoxicity experiments of Al³⁺ ions in Human epithelium Lovo cells exhibited that prepared chemosensors had low cytotoxicity and blue fluorescence when they treated with of Al³⁺ ions in the cellular system.

Targeting Multiple Signaling Pathways in Cancer: The Rutin Therapeutic Approach

Multiple dysregulated signaling pathways are implicated in the pathogenesis of cancer. The conventional therapies used in cancer prevention/treatment suffer from low efficacy, considerable toxicity, and high cost. Hence, the discovery and development of novel multi-targeted agents to attenuate the dysregulated signaling in cancer is of great importance. In recent decades, phytochemicals from dietary and medicinal plants have been successfully introduced as alternative anticancer agents due to their ability to modulate numerous oncogenic and oncosuppressive signaling pathways. Rutin (also known as rutoside, quercetin-3-O-rutinoside and sophorin) is an active plant-derived flavonoid that is widely distributed in various vegetables, fruits, and medicinal plants, including asparagus, buckwheat, apricots, apples, cherries, grapes, grapefruit, plums, oranges, and tea. Rutin has been shown to target various inflammatory, apoptotic, autophagic, and angiogenic signaling mediators, including nuclear factor-κB, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukins, light chain 3/Beclin, B cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2 associated X protein, caspases, and vascular endothelial growth factor. A comprehensive and critical analysis of the anticancer potential of rutin and associated molecular targets amongst various cancer types has not been performed previously. Accordingly, the purpose of this review is to present an up-to-date and critical evaluation of multiple cellular and molecular mechanisms through which the anticancer effects of rutin are known to be exerted. The current challenges and limitations as well as future directions of research are also discussed.

Cordia lutea L. Flowers: A Promising Medicinal Plant as Chemopreventive in Induced Prostate Carcinogenesis in Rats

The objective of this study was to evaluate the chemopreventive effect of the ethanolic extract of Cordia lutea flowers (EECL) on N-methyl-N-nitrosourea- (MNU), cyproterone-, and testosterone-induced prostate cancer in rats. 40 Holtzman male rats were used and assigned to 5 groups (n = 8). In Group I, rats received normal saline (10 mL/Kg); Group II: rats were induced for prostate cancer with cyproterone, testosterone, and NMU; Groups III, IV, and V: rats received EECL daily, at doses of 50, 250, and 500 mg/kg body weight, respectively. After the period of treatment, animals were sacrificed by an overdose of pentobarbital and blood samples were collected for determination of prostate-specific antigen (PSA). The prostate was dissected and weighed accurately. The ventral lobe of the prostate was processed for histopathology analysis. The somatic prostate index decreased with EECL at dependent dose, from 0.34 ± 0.04 to 0.23 ± 0.05 (P < 0.05). The PSA levels also decreased significantly at doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg. Histopathological analysis showed a decrease in the number of prostatic layers with high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HG-PIN) and low-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (LG-PIN) at the dose of 500 mg/kg. The ethanolic extract of Cordia lutea flowers had a chemopreventive effect on induced prostate cancer in rats.

In Vitro Assessment of the Interaction Potential of Ocimum basilicum (L.) Extracts on CYP2B6, 3A4, and Rifampicin Metabolism

Ocimum basilicum L. or basilicum is a common culinary herb, used as a traditional medicine for various medical conditions including HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis, in Africa. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of methanol, ethanol, aqueous and ethyl acetate extracts of the dried leaves and inflorescence of O. basilicum, on the activity of cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs) CYP2B6 and 3A4, as well as esterase-mediated metabolism of rifampicin to 25-O-desacetyl rifampicin (25ODESRIF). Human liver microsomes (HLM) were used to evaluate inhibition and CYP2B6/3A4 mRNA expression HepG2 assays were used to measure induction. Furthermore, the phytoconstituents likely involved in causing the observed effect were analyzed using biochemical tests and LC-MS. The aqueous and methanolic extracts showed reversible and time-dependent inhibition (TDI) of CYP2B6 with TDI-IC₅₀s 33.35 μg/ml (IC₅₀ shift-fold >1.5) and 4.93 μg/ml (IC₅₀ shift-fold >7) respectively, while the methanolic and ethanolic extracts inhibited 25ODESRIF formation (IC₅₀s 31 μg/ml, 8.94 μg/ml). In HepG2 assays, the methanolic and ethanolic extracts moderately induced CYP2B6, 3A4 mRNA with 38%-, 28%-fold shift, and 22%-, 44%-fold shift respectively. LC-MS full scans identified phenols rosmarinic acid [m/z 359 (M-H)^-, approximately 2298 mg/L in aqueous extract] and caftaric acid along with flavones salvigenin [m/z 329 (M+H)⁺, approximately 1855 mg/L in ethanolic extract], eupatorin [m/z 345 (M+H)⁺, 668.772 mg/L in ethanolic extract], rutin [m/z 609 (M-H)^-] and isoquercetin [m/z 463 (M-H)^-] and other compounds—linalool [m/z 153 (M-H)^-], hydroxyjasmonic acid [m/z 225 (M-H)^-], eucommiol [m/z 187 (M-H)^-] and trihydroxy octadecenoic acid [m/z 329 (M-H)^-, 530 mg/L in ethanolic extract]. The putative gastrointestinal tract (GIT) concentration for all extracts was calculated as 2,400 μg/ml and hepatic circulation concentrations were estimated at 805.68 μg/ml for the aqueous extract, and 226.56 μg/ml for methanolic extract. Based on the putative GIT concentration, estimated hepatic circulation concentration [I] and inhibition constant K_i, the predicted percentile of inhibition in vivo was highest for the aqueous extract on CYP2B6 (96.7%). The observations indicated that O. basilicum extracts may have the potential to cause clinically relevant herb-drug interactions (HDI) with CYP2B6 and rifampicin metabolism in vivo, if sufficient hepatic concentrations are reached in humans.

Synthesis and cell imaging studies of an unusual “OFF–ON” fluorescent sensor containing a triazole unit for Al3+ detection via selective imine hydrolysis

A new fluorescent probe manipulated by the imine hydrolysis mechanism was engineered for monitoring Al³⁺ in cancerous and healthy cells.

A detailed image of rutin underlying intracellular signaling pathways in human SW480 colorectal cancer cells based on miRNAs-lncRNAs-mRNAs-TFs interactions

Natural dietary ingredients like flavonoids are important for body improvement against diseases. The flavonol rutin is widely found in fruits and vegetables and shows significant anticancer properties. However, the underlined signaling pathways have not been elucidated yet. In this study, the impacts of various doses of rutin (400-700 mM/ml) have been examined on human colon cancer SW480 cells metabolism, cell cycle, and apoptosis. The transcriptome was analyzed by bioinformatics tools and the interactions between rutin modulated microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), messenger RNAs (mRNAs), and transcription factors (TFs) were built, filtered and enriched. A dose of 600 mM of rutin significantly decreased cells metabolic activity, halved the population and arrested the cell cycle at the sub-G1 phase. The enrichment analysis of miRNAs-lncRNAs-mRNAs-TFs network showed that these effects were mediated through alteration of glucose, lipid, and protein metabolism, modulating endoplasmic reticulum stress responses, negative regulation of cell cycle process, and inducing the extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic signaling pathways. Additionally, the key parent nodes of each annotation were illustrated. These findings create a detailed image of rutin underlying intracellular signaling pathways in CRC and also help us to better understand the role of dietary natural compounds in cancer treatment.

Synthesis and evaluation of the antitumor activity of Calix[4]arene l-proline derivatives

The unique conformational properties, functionality, low toxicity, and low cost make calixarene-based compounds a valuable candidate against cancer. The aim of the present study is the synthesis of the upper rim and lower rim-functionalized l-proline-based calix[4]arene derivatives and evaluation of their cytotoxic potential for human cancerous cells as well as to determine the death mechanism. Synthesized calix[4]arene (3, 8a, 8b 13a, and 13b) derivatives were characterized by different spectroscopic techniques such as ¹HNMR, ¹³CNMR, and FTIR. In vitro effects of compounds 3, 8a, 8b, 13a and 13b were tested on human cancerous cells (HEPG2, PC-3, A-549, and DLD-1) as well as human healthy epithelium cell (PNT1A). Results show that compounds 3, 8a, 8b and 13b have cytotoxic potential on human colorectal carcinoma cells (DLD-1) with IC₅₀ values of 43 µM, 45.2 µM, 64.57 µM, and 29.35 µM respectively. Apoptosis ratios of cell death were investigated with flow cytometer using 7-AAD and Annexin-V as markers. Cytotoxic potential of 8a was found to be higher due to increased apoptosis, when compared with healthy cells the apoptotic cell death was significantly (p < 0.0001) increased up to 1.7-fold and 2.4-fold in DLD-1 and A549 cells, respectively. In conclusion, these l-proline derived calix[4]arenes with their selective cytotoxic potential on human cancerous cells may be a potential candidate for the treatment of human CRC and lung cancer.

Beneficial effects of troxerutin on metabolic disorders in non-obese model of metabolic syndrome

Background

Troxerutin (TRX) has a beneficial effect on blood viscosity and platelet aggregation, and is currently used for the treatment of chronic varicosity. Recently, TRX can improve lipid abnormalities, glucose intolerance and oxidative stress in high-fat diet-induced metabolic disorders. In this study, we tested the effect of TRX on metabolic syndrome-associated disorders using a non-obese model of metabolic syndrome–the Hereditary Hypertriglyceridaemic rats (HHTg).

Methods

Adult male HHTg rats were fed standard diet without or with TRX (150 mg/kg bwt/day for 4 weeks).

Results

Compared to untreated rats, TRX supplementation in HHTg rats decreased serum glucose (p<0.05) and insulin (p<0.05). Although blood lipids were not affected, TRX decreased hepatic cholesterol concentrations (p<0.01) and reduced gene expression of HMGCR, SREBP2 and SCD1 (p<0.01), involved in cholesterol synthesis and lipid homeostasis. TRX-treated rats exhibited decreased lipoperoxidation and increased activity of antioxidant enzymes SOD and GPx (p<0.05) in the liver. In addition, TRX supplementation increased insulin sensitivity in muscles and epididymal adipose tissue (p<0.05). Elevated serum adiponectin (p<0.05) and decreased muscle triglyceride (p<0.05) helped improve insulin sensitivity. Among the beneficial effects of TRX were changes to cytochrome P450 family enzymes. Hepatic gene expression of CYP4A1, CYP4A3 and CYP5A1 (p<0.01) decreased, while there was a marked elevation in gene expression of CYP1A1 (p<0.01).

Conclusion

Our results indicate that TRX improves hepatic lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues. As well as ameliorating oxidative stress, TRX can reduce ectopic lipid deposition, affect genes involved in lipid metabolism, and influence the activity of CYP family enzymes.

Synergetic Impact of Combined 5-Fluorouracil and Rutin on Apoptosis in PC3 Cancer Cells through the Modulation of P53 Gene Expression

Purpose: Prostate cancer is as far the most prevalent male cancer. Rutin (a glycoside from quercetin flavonoid) displays antioxidant activity leading to cell apoptosis. Combined effects of rutin with the widely used anti-cancer drug, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), on prostate cancer cell line (PC3) was investigated herein.

Methods: Different concentrations of combined 5-FU and rutin were applied to PC3 cells compared to separate treatment for 48 hours. Cell viability, as well p53 gene expression respectively were assessed by MTT assay and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Changes of Bcl-2 signal protein and apoptosis were determined using western blot and flow cytometry procedures, respectively. Clonogenic assay was used to colony counts assessment.

Results: 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of separate cell treatment with either rutin and 5-FU respectively were 900 μM and 3Mm, while combination index (CI) of combined 5-FU /rutin application reached a level of synergistic effects (0.33). Combination of 5-FU/rutin enhanced apoptosis and p53 gene expression in PC3 cells. PC3 cell colony counts and Bcl-2 signaling protein were decreased by 5-FU/rutin combination.

Conclusion: Synergistic effects of 5-FU/rutin combination on PC3 cells line enhanced apoptosis, p53 gene expression, and down-regulation of Bcl-2 protein, compared to control separate application. 5-FU/rutin combination does seem an interesting therapeutic pathway to be further investigated.

Myrtus Polyphenols, from Antioxidants to Anti-Inflammatory Molecules: Exploring a Network Involving Cytochromes P450 and Vitamin D

Inflammatory response represents one of the main mechanisms of healing and tissue function restoration. On the other hand, chronic inflammation leads to excessive secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines involved in the onset of several diseases. Oxidative stress condition may contribute in worsening inflammatory state fall, increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and cytokines release. Polyphenols can counteract inflammation and oxidative stress, modulating the release of toxic molecules and interacting with physiological defenses, such as cytochromes p450 enzymes. In this paper, we aimed at evaluating the anti-inflammatory properties of different concentrations of Myrtus communis L. pulp and seeds extracts, derived from liquor industrial production, on human fibroblasts. We determined ROS production after oxidative stress induction by H2O2 treatment, and the gene expression of different proinflammatory cytokines. We also analyzed the expression of CYP3A4 and CYP27B1 genes, in order to evaluate the capability of Myrtus polyphenols to influence the metabolic regulation of other molecules, including drugs, ROS, and vitamin D. Our results showed that Myrtus extracts exert a synergic effect with vitamin D in reducing inflammation and ROS production, protecting cells from oxidative stress damages. Moreover, the extracts modulate CYPs expression, preventing chronic inflammation and suggesting their use in development of new therapeutic formulations.

Postgenomic Properties of Natural Micronutrients

Modern medical approaches to the therapy of various diseases, including cancer, are based on the use of toxic drugs. The unfavorable side effects of traditional medicine could be counterbalanced by addition of natural bioactive substances to conventional therapy due to their mild action on cells combined with the multitargeted effects. To elucidate the real mechanisms of their biological activity, versatile approaches including a number of "omics" such as genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics are used. This review highlights inclusion of bioactive natural compounds into the therapy of chronic diseases from the viewpoint of modern omics-based nutritional biochemistry. The recently accumulated data argue for necessity to employ nutrigenetic and nutrimetabolomic analyses to prevent or diminish the risk of chronic diseases.

Induction of xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes in hepatocytes by beta-naphthoflavone: Time-dependent changes in activities, protein and mRNA levels

In the present study, time-dependency of the induction effect of a selective inducer on the activity, protein and mRNA levels of cytochromes P450 1A1/2 (CYP1A1/2), NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) and glutathione S-transferases (GSTA), in primary culture of rat hepatocytes was tested and evaluated. To show the differences in responses of tested enzymes, the common aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) ligand agonist, beta-naphthoflavone (BNF), was used. Induction of CYP1A1/2 by BNF was detected at all time intervals and at all levels (i.e., mRNA, protein, enzyme activity). Different responses of NQO1 and GSTA upon BNF treatment were observed. Our results demonstrate that the responses of different xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes to the inducer vary in time and depend on the measured parameter. For these reasons, an induction study featuring only one-time interval treatment and/ or one parameter testing could produce misleading information.