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Xia Q, Liang T, Zhou Y, Liu J, Tang Y, Liu F. Recent Advances in Biomedical Nanotechnology Related to Natural Products. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2024; 25:944-961. [PMID: 37605408 DOI: 10.2174/1389201024666230821090222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Natural product processing via nanotechnology has opened the door to innovative and significant applications in medical fields. On one hand, plants-derived bioactive ingredients such as phenols, pentacyclic triterpenes and flavonoids exhibit significant pharmacological activities, on another hand, most of them are hydrophobic in nature, posing challenges to their use. To overcome this issue, nanoencapsulation technology is employed to encapsulate these lipophilic compounds and enhance their bioavailability. In this regard, various nano-sized vehicles, including degradable functional polymer organic compounds, mesoporous silicon or carbon materials, offer superior stability and retention for bioactive ingredients against decomposition and loss during delivery as well as sustained release. On the other hand, some naturally occurring polymers, lipids and even microorganisms, which constitute a significant portion of Earth's biomass, show promising potential for biomedical applications as well. Through nano-processing, these natural products can be developed into nano-delivery systems with desirable characteristics for encapsulation a wide range of bioactive components and therapeutic agents, facilitating in vivo drug transport. Beyond the presentation of the most recent nanoencapsulation and nano-processing advancements with formulations mainly based on natural products, this review emphasizes the importance of their physicochemical properties at the nanoscale and their potential in disease therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Xia
- School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing, China
| | - Tingting Liang
- School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing, China
| | - Yue Zhou
- School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing, China
| | - Jun Liu
- School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing, China
| | - Yue Tang
- School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing, China
| | - Feila Liu
- School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing, China
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Miatmoko A, Mianing EA, Sari R, Hendradi E. Nanoparticles use for Delivering Ursolic Acid in Cancer Therapy: A Scoping Review. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:787226. [PMID: 35002719 PMCID: PMC8740088 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.787226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ursolic acid is a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid that exerts a potent anticancer effect. Furthermore, it is classified as a BCS class IV compound possessing low permeability and water solubility, consequently demonstrating limited bioavailability in addition to low therapeutic effectiveness. Nanoparticles are developed to modify the physical characteristics of drug and can often be produced in the range of 30–200 nm, providing highly effective cancer therapy due to the Enhanced Permeation and Retention (EPR) Effect. This study aims to provide a review of the efficacy and safety of various types of Ursolic Acid-loading nanoparticles within the setting of preclinical and clinical anticancer studies. This literature study used scoping review method, where the extracted data must comply with the journal inclusion criteria of within years of 2010–2020. The identification stage produced 237 suitable articles. Duplicate screening was then conducted followed by the initial selection of 18 articles that had been reviewed and extracted for data analysis. Based on this review, the use of nanoparticles can be seen to increase the anticancer efficacy of Ursolic Acid in terms of several parameters including pharmacokinetic data, survival rates and inhibition rates, as well as the absence of serious toxicity in preclinical and clinical trials in terms of several parameters including body weight, blood clinical chemistry, and organ histipathology. Based on this review, the use of nanoparticles has been able to increase the anticancer efficacy of Ursolic Acid, as well as show the absence of serious toxicity in preclinical and clinical trials. Evenmore, the liposome carrier provides development data that has reached the clinical trial phase I. The use of nanoparticle provides high potential for Ursolic Acid delivery in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andang Miatmoko
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia.,Stem Cell Research and Development Center, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Ester Adelia Mianing
- Study Program of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Retno Sari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Esti Hendradi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
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3
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Biswas S, Kar A, Sharma N, Haldar PK, Mukherjee PK. Synergistic effect of ursolic acid and piperine in CCl 4 induced hepatotoxicity. Ann Med 2021; 53:2009-2017. [PMID: 34751064 PMCID: PMC8583772 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2021.1995625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ursolic acid (UA) is a potent plant-based hepatoprotective agent having poor bioavailability, which hampers its therapeutic efficacy. The present study tries to overcome this limitation by combining it with piperine (PIP), a proven bioenhancer and hepatoprotective agent. METHODS The type of interaction (synergism, addition, or antagonism) resulting between UA and PIP was analyzed and quantified by isobologram and combination index analysis. The hepatoprotective activity of UA and PIP was evaluated by measuring the level of hepatic marker enzymes. Pharmacokinetic analysis was carried out to ascertain the improvement of bioavailability. RESULTS The combinations significantly decrease the enzyme levels, which indicate better hepatoprotective activity compared to single drugs. The relative oral bioavailability of UA was increased about tenfold (from AUC0-t =12.78 ± 2.59 µg/h/ml to 125.15 ± 1.84 µg/h/ml) along with the improvement of plasma concentration and elimination half-life. CONCLUSIONS The findings indicated that the combination of PIP and UA is an effective strategy in enhancing the bioavailability and hepatoprotective potential of UA.KEY MESSAGESUrsolic acid in a combination with piperine provides a synergistic hepatoprotective effect in carbon tetrachloride induced liver damage in rats.Piperine improves the pharmacokinetic properties of ursolic acid when given in combination.Piperine improves the relative oral bioavailability of ursolic acid by tenfold when combined together.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayan Biswas
- School of Natural Product Studies, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, India
| | - Amit Kar
- School of Natural Product Studies, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, India
| | - Nanaocha Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development, Imphal, India
| | - Pallab K. Haldar
- School of Natural Product Studies, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, India
| | - Pulok K. Mukherjee
- School of Natural Product Studies, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, India
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development, Imphal, India
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Brahma MK, Gilglioni EH, Zhou L, Trépo E, Chen P, Gurzov EN. Oxidative stress in obesity-associated hepatocellular carcinoma: sources, signaling and therapeutic challenges. Oncogene 2021; 40:5155-5167. [PMID: 34290399 PMCID: PMC9277657 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-01950-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Obesity affects more than 650 million individuals worldwide and is a well-established risk factor for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Oxidative stress can be considered as a bona fide tumor promoter, contributing to the initiation and progression of liver cancer. Indeed, one of the key events involved in HCC progression is excessive levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) resulting from the fatty acid influx and chronic inflammation. This review provides insights into the different intracellular sources of obesity-induced ROS and molecular mechanisms responsible for hepatic tumorigenesis. In addition, we highlight recent findings pointing to the role of the dysregulated activity of BCL-2 proteins and protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) in the generation of hepatic oxidative stress and ROS-mediated dysfunctional signaling, respectively. Finally, we discuss the potential and challenges of novel nanotechnology strategies to prevent ROS formation in obesity-associated HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoja K Brahma
- Signal Transduction and Metabolism Laboratory, Laboratoire de Gastroentérologie Expérimental et Endotools, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Eduardo H Gilglioni
- Signal Transduction and Metabolism Laboratory, Laboratoire de Gastroentérologie Expérimental et Endotools, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lang Zhou
- Materials Research and Education Center, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, United States
| | - Eric Trépo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatopancreatology and Digestive Oncology, C.U.B. Hôpital Erasme, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Laboratory of Experimental Gastroenterology, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pengyu Chen
- Materials Research and Education Center, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, United States
| | - Esteban N Gurzov
- Signal Transduction and Metabolism Laboratory, Laboratoire de Gastroentérologie Expérimental et Endotools, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.
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Wang L, Yin Q, Liu C, Tang Y, Sun C, Zhuang J. Nanoformulations of Ursolic Acid: A Modern Natural Anticancer Molecule. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:706121. [PMID: 34295253 PMCID: PMC8289884 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.706121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Ursolic acid (UA) is a natural pentacyclic triterpene derived from fruit, herb, and other plants. UA can act on molecular targets of various signaling pathways, inhibit the growth of cancer cells, promote cycle stagnation, and induce apoptosis, thereby exerting anticancer activity. However, its poor water-solubility, low intestinal mucosal absorption, and low bioavailability restrict its clinical application. In order to overcome these deficiencies, nanotechnology, has been applied to the pharmacological study of UA. Objective: In this review, we focused on the absorption, distribution, and elimination pharmacokinetics of UA in vivo, as well as on the research progress in various UA nanoformulations, in the hope of providing reference information for the research on the anticancer activity of UA. Methods: Relevant research articles on Pubmed and Web of Science in recent years were searched selectively by using the keywords and subheadings, and were summarized systematically. Key finding: The improvement of the antitumor ability of the UA nanoformulations is mainly due to the improvement of the bioavailability and the enhancement of the targeting ability of the UA molecules. UA nanoformulations can even be combined with computational imaging technology for monitoring or diagnosis. Conclusion: Currently, a variety of UA nanoformulations, such as micelles, liposomes, and nanoparticles, which can increase the solubility and bioactivity of UA, while promoting the accumulation of UA in tumor tissues, have been prepared. Although the research of UA in the nanofield has made great progress, there is still a long way to go before the clinical application of UA nanoformulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longyun Wang
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Qianqian Yin
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Cun Liu
- College of First Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Ying Tang
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Changgang Sun
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, China.,Qingdao Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qingdao, China
| | - Jing Zhuang
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, China
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Nanoformulations for Delivery of Pentacyclic Triterpenoids in Anticancer Therapies. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26061764. [PMID: 33801096 PMCID: PMC8004206 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26061764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The search for safe and effective anticancer therapies is one of the major challenges of the 21st century. The ineffective treatment of cancers, classified as civilization diseases, contributes to a decreased quality of life, health loss, and premature mortality in oncological patients. Many natural phytochemicals have anticancer potential. Pentacyclic triterpenoids, characterized by six- and five-membered ring structures, are one of the largest class of natural metabolites sourced from the plant kingdom. Among the known natural triterpenoids, we can distinguish lupane-, oleanane-, and ursane-types. Pentacyclic triterpenoids are known to have many biological activities, e.g., anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Unfortunately, they are also characterized by poor water solubility and, hence, low bioavailability. These pharmacological properties may be improved by both introducing some modifications to their native structures and developing novel delivery systems based on the latest nanotechnological achievements. The development of nanocarrier-delivery systems is aimed at increasing the transport capacity of bioactive compounds by enhancing their solubility, bioavailability, stability in vivo and ensuring tumor-targeting while their toxicity and risk of side effects are significantly reduced. Nanocarriers may vary in sizes, constituents, shapes, and surface properties, all of which affect the ultimate efficacy and safety of a given anticancer therapy, as presented in this review. The presented results demonstrate the high antitumor potential of systems for delivery of pentacyclic triterpenoids.
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Ursolic Acid Inhibits Collective Cell Migration and Promotes JNK-Dependent Lysosomal Associated Cell Death in Glioblastoma Multiforme Cells. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14020091. [PMID: 33530486 PMCID: PMC7911358 DOI: 10.3390/ph14020091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ursolic acid (UA) is a bioactive compound which has demonstrated therapeutic efficacy in a variety of cancer cell lines. UA activates various signalling pathways in Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and offers a promising starting point in drug discovery; however, understanding the relationship between cell death and migration has yet to be elucidated. UA induces a dose dependent cytotoxic response demonstrated by flow cytometry and biochemical cytotoxicity assays. Inhibitor and fluorescent probe studies demonstrate that UA induces a caspase independent, JNK dependent, mechanism of cell death. Migration studies established that UA inhibits GBM collective cell migration in a time dependent manner that is independent of the JNK signalling pathway. Cytotoxicity induced by UA results in the formation of acidic vesicle organelles (AVOs), speculating the activation of autophagy. However, inhibitor and spectrophotometric analysis demonstrated that autophagy was not responsible for the formation of the AVOs. Confocal microscopy and isosurface visualisation determined co-localisation of lysosomes with the previously identified AVOs, thus providing evidence that lysosomes are likely to be playing a role in UA induced cell death. Collectively, our data identify that UA rapidly induces a lysosomal associated mechanism of cell death in addition to UA acting as an inhibitor of GBM collective cell migration.
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Shao J, Fang Y, Zhao R, Chen F, Yang M, Jiang J, Chen Z, Yuan X, Jia L. Evolution from small molecule to nano-drug delivery systems: An emerging approach for cancer therapy of ursolic acid. Asian J Pharm Sci 2020; 15:685-700. [PMID: 33363625 PMCID: PMC7750806 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajps.2020.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2019] [Revised: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 03/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ursolic acid (UA), a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid, possesses widespread biological and pharmacological activities. However, drawbacks such as low bioavailability, poor targeting and rapid metabolism greatly hinder its further clinical application. Recently, with the development of nanotechnology, various UA nanosystems have emerged as promising strategies for effective cancer therapy. This article reviews various types of UA-based nano-delivery systems, primarily with emphasis placed on novel UA-based carrier-free nano-drugs, which are considered to be innovative methods for cancer therapy. Moreover, this review presents carrier-free nano-drugs that co-assembled of UA and photosensitizers that displayed synergistic antitumor performance. Finally, the article also describes the development and challenges of UA nanosystems for future research in this field. Overall, the information presented in this review will provide new insight into the rational utilization of nano-drugs in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwei Shao
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China.,Marine Drug R&D Center, Institute of Oceanography, Minjiang University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Yifan Fang
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China
| | - Ruirui Zhao
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China
| | - Fangmin Chen
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China
| | - Mingyue Yang
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China
| | - Jiali Jiang
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China
| | - Zixuan Chen
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China
| | - Xiaotian Yuan
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China
| | - Lee Jia
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China.,Marine Drug R&D Center, Institute of Oceanography, Minjiang University, Fuzhou 350108, China
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Ghazizadeh Darband S, Saboory E, Sadighparvar S, Kaviani M, Mobaraki K, Jabbari N, Majidinia M. The modulatory effects of exercise on the inflammatory and apoptotic markers in rats with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced colorectal cancer. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2019; 98:147-155. [PMID: 31614098 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2019-0329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the underlying mechanisms in anti-tumorigenesis effects of exercise through evaluation of inflammation and apoptosis. Twenty-four Wistar rats were divided into control, exercise, 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH), and DMH + exercise. After a week, rats in the DMH group were given DMH twice a week for 2 weeks. Animals in the exercise groups performed exercise on a treadmill 5 days/week for 8 weeks. After 8 weeks of training, levels of COX-2, PCNA, Bax, Bcl-2, and procaspase-3/cleaved caspase-3 were assessed. Histological changes, number of aberrant crypt foci (ACF), and serum levels of TNF-α and IL-6 were also analyzed. ACF number was significantly decreased following the exercise program. Protein levels of COX-2 and PCNA and serum levels of IL-6 and TNF-α were significantly elevated in the rats receiving DMH and downregulated after performing the exercise program (P < 0.05). Exercise upregulated apoptosis, which was evident from the increased Bax/Bcl2 ratio, and enhanced the expression levels of activated caspase-3 as compared to the DMH group. The colonic architecture was improved in DMH + exercise. Exercise can effectively attenuate DMH-induced increase of inflammatory markers. Exercise induces apoptosis at the downstream of the inflammatory response. Therefore, exercise may play a role as a moderator of inflammation to exert protective effects against colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ehsan Saboory
- Zanjan Metabolic Diseases Research Center, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Shirin Sadighparvar
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Kaviani
- School of Nutrition and Dietetics, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS B4P 2R6, Canada
| | - Kazhal Mobaraki
- Solid Tumor Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Nasrollah Jabbari
- Solid Tumor Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Maryam Majidinia
- Solid Tumor Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
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Zhou M, Yi Y, Liu L, Lin Y, Li J, Ruan J, Zhong Z. Polymeric micelles loading with ursolic acid enhancing anti-tumor effect on hepatocellular carcinoma. J Cancer 2019; 10:5820-5831. [PMID: 31737119 PMCID: PMC6843872 DOI: 10.7150/jca.30865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Ursolic acid (UA) is widely found in many dietary plants, which has been proved to be effective in cancer therapy. But unfortunately its hydrophobic property limits its clinical application. Polymer micelles (PMs) are constructed from amphiphilic block copolymers that tend to self-assemble and form the unique core-shell structure consisting of a hydrophilic corona outside and a hydrophobic inner core. PMs could entrap the hydrophobic substance into its hydrophobic inner core for solubilizing these poorly water-soluble drugs and it is widely applied as a novel nano-sized drug delivery system. This study aimed to develop the drug delivery system of UA-loaded polymer micelles (UA-PMs) to overcome the disadvantages of UA in clinical application thus enhancing antitumor effect on hepatocellular carcinoma. UA-PMs was prepared and characterized for the physicochemical properties. It was investigated the cell-growth inhibition effect of UA-PMs against the human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HepG2 and human normal liver cell line L-02. UA-PMs was evaluated about the in vivo toxicity and the antitumor activity. We took a diblock copolymer of methoxy poly (ethylene glycol)-poly(L-lactic acid) (mPEG-PLA) as carrier material to prepare UA-PMs by the thin-film dispersion method. MTT assay and wound-healing assay were investigated to assess the inhibition effect of UA-PMs against HepG2 cells on cell-growth and cell-migration. Further, we chose KM mice for the acute toxicity experiment and assessed the antitumor effect of UA-PMs on the H22 tumor xenograft. UA-PMs could markedly inhibit the proliferation and migration of HepG2 cells. In vivo study showed that UA-PMs could significantly inhibit the growth of H22 xenograft and prolong the survival time of tumor-bearing mice. It demonstrated that UA-PMs possess great potential in liver cancer therapy and may enlarge the application of UA in clinical therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiling Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Youping Yi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Yan Lin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Jinghua Ruan
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Guiyang University of Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550001, China
| | - Zhirong Zhong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education, Institute of Cardiovascular Research of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
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Zhang J, Xu HY, Wu YJ, Zhang X, Zhang LQ, Li YM. Neutrophil elastase inhibitory effects of pentacyclic triterpenoids from Eriobotrya japonica (loquat leaves). JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2019; 242:111713. [PMID: 30703491 PMCID: PMC7127461 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.01.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2019] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Eriobotrya japonica, a traditional herbal medicine in China and Japan, has long been used to treat chronic bronchitis and coughs. AIM OF THE STUDY Pentacyclic triterpenoids (PTs), especially ursolic acid (UA), have been found as reversibly and competitively human neutrophil elastase (HNE) inhibitors. However, the limited solubility and poor bioavailability of PTs hinder their clinical use. Crude plant extracts may have a greater activity than isolated constituents of the equivalent dosage. In this study, an Eriobotrya japonica (loquat leaves) extract (triterpenoid composition of loquat leaves, TCLL) with enriched PTs such as UA was prepared. The study aims to compare the HNE inhibitory (HNEI) effect in vitro and the therapeutic effect on acute lung injury (ALI) in vivo between TCLL and UA. MATERIALS AND METHODS An HNEI activity bioassay was performed with Sivelestat sodium hydrate as a positive control. A lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced lung inflammatory model was established to evaluate TCLL's therapeutic effect on ALI in vivo. The absorption of UA in TCLL and in UA alone was determined using a Caco-2 cell uptake model and LC-MS. RESULTS The IC50 values of TCLL and UA for the HNEI effect were 3.26 ± 0.56 μg/mL and 8.49 ± 0.42 μg/mL (P < 0.01), respectively. TCLL significantly improved the inflammatory cells and inflammatory cytokine production in mice compared with the LPS group (P < 0.05). Additionally, it performed better than the UA alone group (P < 0.05). Moreover, the uptake by Caco-2 cells of UA in TCLL was higher than that in UA alone (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION TCLL has a significant HNEI effect in vitro and a therapeutic effect on LPS-induced inflammation in a mouse model. Both the effects are more efficient than UA. Improved absorption of PTs in TCLL may be one explanation for these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Hao-Yang Xu
- International Education College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Yu-Juan Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Xing Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Liu-Qiang Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Yi-Ming Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
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12
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Cyclooxygenase-2 mediated synergistic effect of ursolic acid in combination with paclitaxel against human gastric carcinoma. Oncotarget 2017; 8:92770-92777. [PMID: 29190954 PMCID: PMC5696220 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.21576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Ursolic acid (UA) induces apoptosis in gastric cancer cells by inhibiting cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Paclitaxel (PTX) is an important chemotherapy agent used to treat solid tumors. We evaluated the in vitro antitumor activity of UA in combination with PTX against gastric cancer cells and investigated the mechanisms underlying the combined effects. A cytotoxicity test and flow cytometry were utilized to study the effects of UA and PTX on proliferation and apoptosis, respectively. To further elucidate the mechanism, Western blot analysis was used to assess changes in the expression of a series of related proteins, including COX-2, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), Bcl-2, and Bax. UA and PTX dose- and time-dependently inhibited BGC-823 and SGC-7901 gastric cancer cell proliferation. Combined delivery of UA and PTX synergistically reduced cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in these cells by lowering COX-2, PCNA, and Bcl-2 expression and by increasing Bax expression. These results indicate that the synergistic inhibition of proliferation and induction of apoptosis by UA and PTX may be induced by reducing COX-2 expression in gastric cancer cells.
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Han Z, Yan Q, Ge W, Liu ZG, Gurunathan S, De Felici M, Shen W, Zhang XF. Cytotoxic effects of ZnO nanoparticles on mouse testicular cells. Int J Nanomedicine 2016; 11:5187-5203. [PMID: 27785022 PMCID: PMC5066861 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s111447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Nanoscience and nanotechnology are developing rapidly, and the applications of nanoparticles (NPs) have been found in several fields. At present, NPs are widely used in traditional consumer and industrial products, however, the properties and safety of NPs are still unclear and there are concerns about their potential environmental and health effects. The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential toxicity of ZnO NPs on testicular cells using both in vitro and in vivo systems in a mouse experimental model. Methods ZnO NPs with a crystalline size of 70 nm were characterized with various analytical techniques, including ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. The cytotoxicity of the ZnO NPs was examined in vitro on Leydig cell and Sertoli cell lines, and in vivo on the testes of CD1 mice injected with single doses of ZnO NPs. Results ZnO NPs were internalized by Leydig cells and Sertoli cells, and this resulted in cytotoxicity in a time- and dose-dependent manner through the induction of apoptosis. Apoptosis likely occurred as a consequence of DNA damage (detected as γ-H2AX and RAD51 foci) caused by increase in reactive oxygen species associated with loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. In addition, injection of ZnO NPs in male mice caused structural alterations in the seminiferous epithelium and sperm abnormalities. Conclusion These results demonstrate that ZnO NPs have the potential to induce apoptosis in testicular cells likely through DNA damage caused by reactive oxygen species, with possible adverse consequences for spermatogenesis and therefore, male fertility. This suggests that evaluating the potential impacts of engineered NPs is essential prior to their mass production, to address both the environmental and human health concerns and also to develop sustainable and safer nanomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Han
- College of Biological and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Yan
- College of Biological and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Ge
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Guo Liu
- College of Biological and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Sangiliyandi Gurunathan
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Massimo De Felici
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Wei Shen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, People's Republic of China
| | - Xi-Feng Zhang
- College of Biological and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
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Nahak P, Karmakar G, Chettri P, Roy B, Guha P, Besra SE, Soren A, Bykov AG, Akentiev AV, Noskov BA, Panda AK. Influence of Lipid Core Material on Physicochemical Characteristics of an Ursolic Acid-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carrier: An Attempt To Enhance Anticancer Activity. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2016; 32:9816-25. [PMID: 27588340 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.6b02402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The impact of saturation and unsaturation in the fatty acyl hydrocarbon chain on the physicochemical properties of nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) was investigated to develop novel delivery systems loaded with an anticancer drug, ursolic acid (UA). Aqueous NLC dispersions were prepared by a high-pressure homogenization-ultrasonication technique with Tween 80 as a stabilizer. Mutual miscibility of the components at the air-water interface was assessed by surface pressure-area measurements, where attractive interactions were recorded between the lipid mixtures and UA, irrespective of the extent of saturation or unsaturation in fatty acyl chains. NLCs were characterized by combined dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), differential scanning calorimetry, drug encapsulation efficiency, drug payload, in vitro drug release, and in vitro cytotoxicity studies. The saturated lipid-based NLCs were larger than unsaturated lipids. TEM and AFM images revealed the spherical and smooth surface morphology of NLCs. The encapsulation efficiency and drug payload were higher for unsaturated lipid blends. In vitro release studies indicate that the nature of the lipid matrix affects both the rate and release pattern. All UA-loaded formulations exhibited superior anticancer activity compared to that of free UA against human leukemic cell line K562 and melanoma cell line B16.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prasant Nahak
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Bengal , Darjeeling 734 013, West Bengal, India
| | - Gourab Karmakar
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Bengal , Darjeeling 734 013, West Bengal, India
| | - Priyam Chettri
- Department of Biotechnology, University of North Bengal , Darjeeling 734 013, West Bengal, India
| | - Biplab Roy
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Bengal , Darjeeling 734 013, West Bengal, India
| | - Pritam Guha
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Bengal , Darjeeling 734 013, West Bengal, India
| | - Shila Elizabeth Besra
- Cancer Biology and Inflammatory Disorder Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology , 4, Raja S. C. Mullick Road, Kolkata 700032,West Bengal, India
| | - Anjana Soren
- Cancer Biology and Inflammatory Disorder Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology , 4, Raja S. C. Mullick Road, Kolkata 700032,West Bengal, India
| | - Alexey G Bykov
- Department of Colloid Chemistry, St. Petersburg State University , Universitetsky pr. 26, 198504 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Alexander V Akentiev
- Department of Colloid Chemistry, St. Petersburg State University , Universitetsky pr. 26, 198504 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Boris A Noskov
- Department of Colloid Chemistry, St. Petersburg State University , Universitetsky pr. 26, 198504 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Amiya Kumar Panda
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Vidyasagar University , Midnapore 721 102, West Bengal, India
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Yealland G, Battaglia G, Bandmann O, Mortiboys H. Rescue of mitochondrial function in parkin-mutant fibroblasts using drug loaded PMPC-PDPA polymersomes and tubular polymersomes. Neurosci Lett 2016; 630:23-29. [PMID: 27412236 PMCID: PMC5010038 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2016.06.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Revised: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Mutations in parkin cause autosomal recessive Parkinsonism and mitochondrial defects. A recent drug screen identified a class of steroid-like hydrophobic compounds able to rescue mitochondrial function in parkin-mutant fibroblasts. Whilst these possess therapeutic potential, the size and high hydrophobicity of some may limit their ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier from systemic circulation, something that could be improved by novel drug formulations. In the present study, the steroid-like compounds Ursolic Acid (UA) and Ursocholanic Acid (UCA) were successfully encapsulated within nanoscopic polymersomes formed by poly(2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl phosphorylcholine)-poly(2-di-isopropylamino)ethyl methacrylate) (PMPC-PDPA) and separated into spherical and tubular morphologies to assess the effects of nanoparticle mediated delivery on drug efficacy. Following incubation with either morphology, parkin-mutant fibroblasts demonstrated time and concentration dependent increases in intracellular ATP levels, resembling those resulting from treatment with nascent UA and UCA formulated in 0.1% DMSO, as used in the original drug screen. Empty PMPC-PDPA polymersomes did not alter physiological measures related to mitochondrial function or induce cytotoxicity. In combination with other techniques such as ligand functionalisation, PMPC-PDPA nanoparticles of well-defined morphology may prove a promising platform for tailoring the pharmacokinetic profile and organ specific bio-distribution of highly hydrophobic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Yealland
- Biomedical Sciences, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, United Kingdom; SITraN, Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, 385a Glossop Road, Sheffield S10 2HQ, United Kingdom
| | - G Battaglia
- Department of Chemistry, UCL, 20 Gordon Street, London WC1 H 0AJ, United Kingdom
| | - O Bandmann
- SITraN, Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, 385a Glossop Road, Sheffield S10 2HQ, United Kingdom
| | - H Mortiboys
- SITraN, Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, 385a Glossop Road, Sheffield S10 2HQ, United Kingdom.
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Yang LJ, Tang Q, Wu J, Chen Y, Zheng F, Dai Z, Hann SS. Inter-regulation of IGFBP1 and FOXO3a unveils novel mechanism in ursolic acid-inhibited growth of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2016; 35:59. [PMID: 27036874 PMCID: PMC4815122 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-016-0330-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ursolic acid (UA), a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid, exerts anti-tumor effects in various cancer types including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this remain largely unknown. METHODS Cell viability and cell cycle were examined by MTT and Flow cytometry assays. Western blot analysis was performed to measure the phosphorylation and protein expression of p38 MAPK, insulin-like growth factor (IGF) binding protein 1 (IGFBP1) and forkhead box O3A (FOXO3a). Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to examine the mRNA levels of IGFBP1 gene. Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) method was used to knockdown IGFBP1 gene. Exogenous expressions of IGFBP1 and FOXO3a were carried out by transient transfection assays. IGFBP1 promoter activity was measured by Secrete-Pair™ Dual Luminescence Assay Kit . In vivo nude mice xenograft model and bioluminescent imaging system were used to confirm the findings in vitro. RESULTS We showed that UA stimulated phosphorylation of p38 MAPK. In addition, UA increased the protein, mRNA levels, and promoter activity of IGFBP1, which was abrogated by the specific inhibitor of p38 MAPK (SB203580). Intriguingly, we showed that UA increased the expression of FOXO3a and that overexpressed FOXO3a enhanced phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, all of which were not observed in cells silencing of endogenous IGFBP1 gene. Moreover, exogenous expressed IGFBP1 strengthened UA-induced phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and FOXO3a protein expression, and more importantly, restored the effect of UA-inhibited growth in cells silencing of endogenous IGFBP1 gene. Consistent with these, UA suppressed tumor growth and increased phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, protein expressions of IGFBP1 and FOXO3a in vivo. CONCLUSION Collectively, our results show that UA inhibits growth of HCC cells through p38 MAPK-mediated induction of IGFBP1 and FOXO3a expression. The interactions between IGFBP1 and FOXO3a, and feedback regulatory loop of p38 MAPK by IGFBP1 and FOXO3a resulting in reciprocal pathways, contribute to the overall effects of UA. This in vitro and in vivo study corroborates a potential novel mechanism by which UA controls HCC growth and implies that the rational targeting IGFBP1 and FOXO3a can be potential for the therapeutic strategy against HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Jun Yang
- />Laboratory of Tumor Biology and Target Therapy, The Second Clinical Medical Collage, University of Guangzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510120 China
| | - Qing Tang
- />Laboratory of Tumor Biology and Target Therapy, The Second Clinical Medical Collage, University of Guangzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510120 China
| | - Jingjing Wu
- />Laboratory of Tumor Biology and Target Therapy, The Second Clinical Medical Collage, University of Guangzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510120 China
| | - Yuqing Chen
- />Laboratory of Tumor Biology and Target Therapy, The Second Clinical Medical Collage, University of Guangzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510120 China
| | - Fang Zheng
- />Laboratory of Tumor Biology and Target Therapy, The Second Clinical Medical Collage, University of Guangzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510120 China
| | - Zhenhui Dai
- />Department of Radiation Therapy, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, The Second Clinical Medical Collage, University of Guangzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510120 China
| | - Swei Sunny Hann
- />Laboratory of Tumor Biology and Target Therapy, The Second Clinical Medical Collage, University of Guangzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510120 China
- />No. 55, Neihuan West Road, Higher Education Mega Center, Panyu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510006 P. R. China
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