Acetyl-11-Keto-β-Boswellic Acid Exerts the Anti-Cancer Effects via Cell Cycle Arrest, Apoptosis Induction and Autophagy Suppression in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells

Transcriptomic profiling and risk assessment in bladder cancer: Insights from copper death-related genes

BACKGROUND

The study aimed to investigate the role of copper death-related genes (CRGs) in bladder cancer (BC) for improved prognosis assessment.

METHODS

Multi-omics techniques were utilized to analyze CRG expression in BC tissues from TCGA and GEO databases. Consensus clustering categorized patients into molecular subtypes based on clinical characteristics and immune cell infiltration.

RESULTS

An innovative risk assessment model identified eight critical genes associated with BC risk. In vitro and in vivo experiments validated LIPT1's significant impact on copper-induced cell death, proliferation, migration, and invasion in BC.

CONCLUSION

This multi-omics analysis elucidates the pivotal role of CRGs in BC progression, suggesting enhanced risk assessment through molecular subtype categorization and identification of key genes like LIPT1. Insights into these mechanisms offer the potential for improved diagnosis and treatment strategies for BC patients.

Antimicrobial topical polymeric films loaded with Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA), boswellic acid and silver nanoparticles: Optimization, characterization, and biological activity

The study examined the antimicrobial and antioxidant potential of pure Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA), boswellic acid (70%) and AKBA loaded nanoparticles as topical polymeric films. The optimized concentration (0.05 % w/v) of pure AKBA, boswellic acid (BA), and AKBA loaded silver nanoparticles were used to study its impact on film characteristics. Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), sodium alginate (SA), and gelatin (Ge) composite films were prepared in this study. The polymeric films were evaluated for their biological (antioxidant and antimicrobial activities) and mechanical characteristics such as tensile strength (TS) and elongation (%). Moreover, other parameters including water barrier properties and color attributes of the film were also evaluated. Furthermore, assessments were conducted using analytical techniques like FTIR, XRD, and SEM. Surface analysis revealed that AgNP precipitation led to a few particles in the film structure. Overall, the results indicate a relatively consistent microstructure. Moreover, due to the addition of AKBA, BA, and AgNPs, a significant decrease in TS, moisture content, water solubility, and water vapor permeation was observed. The films transparency also showed a decreasing trend, and the color analysis revealed decreasing yellowness (b*) of the films. Importantly, a significant increase in antioxidant activity against DPPH free radicals and ABTS cations was observed in the CSG films. Additionally, the AgNP-AKBA loaded films displayed significant antifungal activity against C. albicans. Moreover, the molecular docking analysis revealed the inter-molecular interactions between the AKBA, AgNPs, and composite films. The docking results indicate good binding of AKBA and silver nanoparticles with gelatin and carboxymethyl cellulosemolecules. In conclusion, these polymeric films have potential as novel materials with significant antioxidant and antifungal activities.

Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid inhibits cell proliferation and growth of oral squamous cell carcinoma via RAB7B-mediated autophagy

Natural products can overcome the limitations of conventional chemotherapy. Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA) as a natural product extracted from frankincense, exhibited chemotherapeutic activities in different cancers. However, whether AKBA exerts inhibiting effect of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells growth and the mechanism need to be explored. We attempted to investigate the therapeutic effects of AKBA against OSCC and explore the mechanism involved. Here we attempt to disclose the cell-killing effect of AKBA on OSCC cell lines and try to figure out the specifical pathway. The presence of increase autophagosome and the production of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species were confirmed after the application of AKBA on OSCC cells, and RAB7B inhibition enhanced autophagosome accumulation. Though the increase autophagosome was detected induced by AKBA, autophagic flux was inhibited as the failure fusion of autophagosome and lysosome. Cal27 xenografts were established to verify the role of anti-OSCC cells of AKBA in vivo. Based above findings, we speculate that natural product AKBA suppresses OSCC cells growth via RAB7B-mediated autophagy and may serve as a promising strategy for the therapy of OSCC.

The performance of hypochlorous acid modified Ag nanoparticle-based assay in the determination of total antioxidant capacity of Boswellia Serrata and Aronia

In this study, the SNPAC method was developed by using hypochlorous (ClO-) at pH 9.3. Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) was used as a stabilizer. The existence of HOCl enables to formation stronger and more stable yellow emission which gives sensitivity. As a result, lower LOD and LOQ values were achieved by the AgNP-HOCl method. The obtaining lower values was attributed to the reoxidation of silver atoms with ClO- ions in the presence of PVP. The newly modified method was applied to the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) measurement of Boswellia Serrata, Aronia Melanocarpa tea, and juice. The results were compared with the results obtained by application of CUPRAC (Cupric ion Reducing Antioxidant Capacity) and FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power) assays. The TAC values of Boswellia Serrata, Aronia Melanocarpa tea, and juice were found as 6.18, 137.98, and 12.08 mmol TEAC/kg, respectively.

Network Pharmacology Analysis on the Mechanism of Xihuangwan in Treating Rectal Cancer and Radiation Enteritis

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have shown that XihuangWan (XHW) is a kind of Chinese medicine with significant anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory activities. However, its mechanism for preventing and treating radiation proctitis in rectal cancer patients during radiotherapy remains unclear.

METHODS

This study employed the network pharmacology to establish a "drug-active ingredient-target genedisease" network via using TCMSP, SymMap, GeneCard, and OMIM databases. The PPI network was conducted by the String tool. The core targets of XHW in the treatment of rectal cancer and radiation enteritis were identified by topological analysis, and the functional annotation analysis and pathway enrichment analysis were performed.

RESULTS

A total of 61 active ingredients of XHW ingredients, 4607 rectal cancer-related genes, 5803 radiation enteritis-related genes, and 68 common targets of XHW in the treatment of rectal cancer and radiation enteritis were obtained. PTGS1 and NR3C2, as identified potential targets, were significantly associated with OS of colorectal cancer patients. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis showed that bioinformatics annotation of these common genes was mainly involved in DNA-binding transcription factor, PI3K/Akt, TNF, HIF-1 signaling pathway, and colorectal cancer pathway.

CONCLUSION

The active ingredients of XHW, mainly including Quercetin, Ellagic acid, and Stigmasterol, might act on common targets of rectal cancer and radiation enteritis, such as PTGS1, NR3C2, IL-6, EGFR, HIF-1A, CASP3, BCL2, ESR1, MYC, and PPARG, and regulate multiple signaling pathways like PI3K-Akt, TNF, and HIF-1 to inhibit tumor proliferation, tumor angiogenesis, inflammatory responses, and oxidative stress, thereby achieving prevention and treatment of radiation enteritis in rectal cancer patients during radiotherapy. It provided an important reference for further elucidating the anti-inflammation and anti-tumor mechanism and clinical application of XHW.

Anti-cancer properties of boswellic acids: mechanism of action as anti-cancerous agent

With the advent of highly effective plant-based medications with few or no side effects, the use of phytomedicines against complex diseases such as cancer is becoming more widespread. The broadly recognized pentacyclic triterpenes known as boswellic acids (BAs) are derived from the oleogum resin, or frankincense, extracted from the plant species of the genus Boswellia. The frankincense mixture contains various BA types, each having a different potential and helping treat certain cancers. This review focuses on details regarding the traits of the BAs, their roles as anti-cancer agents, the mechanism underlying their activities, and the function of their semi-synthetic derivatives in managing and treating certain cancers. The review also explores the biological sources of BAs, how they are conserved, and how biotechnology might help preserve and improve in vitro BA production. The review concludes that the BAs and their semi-synthetic derivatives are effective against a broad spectrum of cancer cell lines. The detailed information in the review can be helpful for researchers to gain more information about BAs and BA-based medications for efficient and cost-effective cancer treatments.

Antiproliferative and cell cycle arrest potentials of 3-O-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid against MCF-7 cells in vitro

INTRODUCTION

Cancer is a major issue in medical science with increasing death cases every year worldwide. Therefore, searching for alternatives and nonorthodox methods of treatments with high efficiency, selectivity and less toxicity is the main goal in fighting cancer. Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA), is a derivative pentacyclic triterpenoid that exhibited various biological activities with potential anti-tumoral agents. In this research, AKBA was utilized to examine the potential cytotoxic activity against MCF-7 cells in vitro and monitor the cellular and morphological changes with a prospective impact on apoptosis induction.

METHODS

The cytotoxic activity of AKBA was measured by 3(4,5dimethylthiazole- 2-yl)-2,5 diphyneltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. A dose-dependent inhibition in MCF-7 cell viability was detected. The clonogenicity of MCF-7 cells was significantly suppressed by AKBA increment in comparison with untreated cells.

RESULT

Morphologically, exposure of MCF-7 cells to high AKBA concentrations caused changes in cell nuclear morphology which was indicated by increasing in nuclear size and cell permeability intensity. The mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) was reduced by increasing AKBA concentration with a significant release of cytochrome c. Acridine orange/ethidium bromide dual staining experiment confirmed that MCF-7 cells treated with AKBA (IC50 concentration) displayed a late stage of apoptosis indicated by intense and bright reddish colour.

CONCLUSION

A significant increase in reactive oxygen species formation was observed. Caspase 8 and caspase 9 activities were estimated and AKBA activated the production of caspase 8 and caspase 9 in a dose-dependent pattern. Finally, the cell phase distribution analysis was conducted, and flow cytometric analysis showed that AKBA at 200 μg mL-1 significantly arrest MCF-7 cells at the G1 phase and triggered apoptosis.

The Protective Effect of 11-Keto-β-Boswellic Acid against Diabetic Cardiomyopathy in Rats Entails Activation of AMPK

This study examined the protective effect of 11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA) against streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic cardiomyopathy (DC) in rats and examined the possible mechanisms of action. Male rats were divided into 5 groups (n = 8/each): (1) control, AKBA (10 mg/kg, orally), STZ (65 mg/kg, i.p.), STZ + AKBA (10 mg/kg, orally), and STZ + AKBA + compound C (CC/an AMPK inhibitor, 0.2 mg/kg, i.p.). AKBA improved the structure and the systolic and diastolic functions of the left ventricles (LVs) of STZ rats. It also attenuated the increase in plasma glucose, plasma insulin, and serum and hepatic levels of triglycerides (TGs), cholesterol (CHOL), and free fatty acids (FFAs) in these diabetic rats. AKBA stimulated the ventricular activities of phosphofructokinase (PFK), pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH), and acetyl CoA carboxylase (ACC); increased levels of malonyl CoA; and reduced levels of carnitine palmitoyltransferase I (CPT1), indicating improvement in glucose and FA oxidation. It also reduced levels of malondialdehyde (MDA); increased mitochondria efficiency and ATP production; stimulated mRNA, total, and nuclear levels of Nrf2; increased levels of glutathione (GSH), heme oxygenase (HO-1), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT); but reduced the expression and nuclear translocation of NF-κB and levels of tumor-necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). These effects were concomitant with increased activities of AMPK in the LVs of the control and STZ-diabetic rats. Treatment with CC abolished all these protective effects of AKBA. In conclusion, AKBA protects against DC in rats, mainly by activating the AMPK-dependent control of insulin release, cardiac metabolism, and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

AKBA inhibits radiotherapy resistance in lung cancer by inhibiting maspin methylation and regulating the AKT/FOXO1/p21 axis

Acetyl-keto-b-boswellic acid (AKBA) functions in combating human malignant tumors, including lung cancer. However, the function of AKBA in regulating the radioresistance of lung cancer and its underlying mechanism still need to be elucidated. Radiation-resistant lung cancer cells (RA549) were established. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (QRT-PCR) and Western blot were employed to examine the messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expressions. After being treated with AKBA and different doses of X-ray, cell proliferation and survival were examined using colony formation assay and cell-counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. The cellular localization of Forkhead box 1 (FOXO1) was measured by immunofluorescence (IF). Flow cytometry was employed to analyze cell cycle and apoptosis. In addition, in vivo experiment was performed to determine the effect of AKBA on the sensitivity of tumors to radiation. Herein, we found that AKBA could enhance the radiosensitivity in RA549, suppress cell proliferation, induce cell apoptosis and arrest cell cycle. It was observed that maspin was lowly expressed and hypermethylated in RA549 cells compared to that in A549 cells, while these changes were all eliminated by AKBA treatment. Maspin knockdown could reverse the regulatory effects of AKBA on radioresistance and cellular behaviors of RA549 cells. In addition, we found that AKBA treatment could repress the phosphorylation of Serine/Threonine Kinase (AKT), and FOXO1, increase the translocation of FOXO1 and p21 level in RA549 cells, which was abolished by maspin knockdown. Moreover, results of tumor xenograft displayed that AKBA could enhance the sensitivity of tumor to radiation through the maspin/AKT/FOXO1/p21 axis. We discovered that AKBA enhanced the radiosensitivity of radiation-resistant lung cancer cells by regulating maspin-mediated AKT/FOXO1/p21 axis.

Boswellic acid coated zinc nanoparticles attenuate NF-κB-mediated inflammation in DSS-induced ulcerative colitis in rats

INTRODUCTION

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic non-specific inflammatory bowel disease, and until now therapeutic agents for UC still cannot exert satisfied effects. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the ameliorative effect of boswellic acid coated zinc nanoparticles (BAs-ZnNPs) on dextran sodium sulphate (DSS) induced-UC in rats.

METHODS

Rats were divided into five groups; control, BAs-ZnNPs, DSS, DSS+BAs, and DSS + BAs-ZnNPs. The activity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was determined colorimetrically, while the concentration of IgM, IgG, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-8 were measured by ELISA. Levels of gene expression of NF-κB and COX-2 genes were evaluated by RT-qPCR, while the expression of protein levels of PI3K and STAT-3 were done by western blotting. Finally, histopathological examination of colon tissues of different groups of rats was done.

RESULTS

The depicted ball-like structure of the BAs-ZnNPs in the TEM images ranging in size from 50 to 100 nm in diameter while their formation was confirmed by UV-visible spectroscopy with a sharp peak of maximum absorbance at 266 nm. Our results revealed that BAs-ZnNPs exerted an anti-inflammatory effect in the experimental model of colitis, demonstrated histologically and biochemically as shown by the improvement of ALP, IgM, IgG, and the gene expression levels of NF-κB and COX-2. Also, this beneficial effect was associated with the reduction in the expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-8, PI3K, and STAT-3. Thus, this effect improves the altered immune response associated with the colonic inflammation.

CONCLUSION

BAs-ZnNPs can be proposed as a therapeutic candidate to attenuate UC. The potential underlying mechanism includes suppression of ALP, IgM, IgG, IL-1β, and IL-8 levels via regulation of NF-κB and COX-2 gene expression and STAT-3 and PI3K protein expression in a UC rat model.

Frankincense essential oil nanoemulsion specifically induces lung cancer apoptosis and inhibits survival pathways

Background

The volatile fraction of frankincense (Boswellia sacra) oleogum was extracted, formulated in nanoemulsion and tested against lung cancer A549 cell line. First, the gum was hydro-distilled to isolate the volatile fraction (essential oil), which was analyzed via gas chromatography to identify its major volatile constituents. Then, the oil was formulated in two water-based nanoemulsions which differ from one another in the presence of propylene glycol (PG), which is used in the formulation step as a co-surfactant. The pure essential oil as well as its major volatile compound (α-pinene), its two nanoemulsions and a reference drug (Doxorubicin) were evaluated against lung cancer A549 cell lines and WI-38 normal lung cells. The evaluation included cytotoxicity (MTT and IC50), apoptosis (flow cytometric analysis) in addition to genetic assessments for some intrinsic and extrinsic genes relevant to apoptosis and survival pathways.

Results

Chromatographic analysis of frankincense essential oil revealed that α-pinene is the major volatile compound which constituent about 60% of that oil. Emulsification of the oil using the low energy technique gave nanoemulsions having major intense particles population (85–90%) with z-average diameter below 20.0 nm. Frankincense oil nanoemulsion fabricated with (PG) showed the best cytotoxic activity toward lung cancer A549 cell compared to PG-free nanoemulsion, α-pinene and the reference drug doxorubicin, along different incubation periods. Flow cytometric analysis also indicated that PG-containing nanoemulsion can induce cancer cells toward apoptosis better than the other formula and the pure oils. The same nanoemulsion was found to upregulate the pro-apoptotic genes [DR5, FAAD, Caspase 8 (Cas8), p53, and Bax] and downregulate the anti-apoptotic and reoccurrence genes (Bcl-2, NF-kB, and STAT-3). Most importantly, the PG-containing nanoemulsion had the least cytotoxic effect on the normal WI-38 lung cells.

Conclusions

These results point out to the potentials of frankincense essential oil (rich in α-pinene) and its PG-nanoemulsion as a promising adjuvant from plant-source to potentiate the activity of the systematic anti-lung cancer drugs.

Potential complementary and/or synergistic effects of curcumin and boswellic acids for management of osteoarthritis

For several thousand years (~4000) Boswellia serrata and Curcuma longa have been used in Aryuvedic medicine for treatment of various illnesses, including asthma, peptic ulcers, and rheumatoid arthritis, all of which are mediated through pathways associated with inflammation and pain. Although the in vivo pharmacology of both these natural ingredients is difficult to study because of poor bioavailability, in vitro data suggest that both influence gene expression mediated through nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). Therefore, the activity of pathways associated with inflammation (including NF-κB and lipoxygenase- and cyclooxygenase-mediated reduction in leukotrienes/prostaglandins) and those involved in matrix degradation and apoptosis are reduced, resulting in a reduction in pain. Additive activity of boswellic acids and curcumin was observed in preclinical models and synergism was suggested in clinical trials for the management of osteoarthritis (OA) pain. Overall, studies of these natural ingredients, alone or in combination, revealed that these extracts relieved pain from OA and other inflammatory conditions. This may present an opportunity to improve patient care by offering alternatives for patients and physicians, and potentially reducing nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory or other pharmacologic agent use. Additional research is needed on the effects of curcumin on the microbiome and the influence of intestinal metabolism on the activity of curcuminoids to further enhance formulations to ensure sufficient anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activity. This narrative review includes evidence from in vitro and preclinical studies, and clinical trials that have evaluated the mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of curcumin and boswellic acids individually and in combination for the management of OA pain.

β-Boswellic Acid Suppresses Breast Precancerous Lesions via GLUT1 Targeting-Mediated Glycolysis Inhibition and AMPK Pathway Activation

Breast carcinoma is a multistep progressive disease. Precancerous prevention seems to be crucial. β-Boswellic acid (β-BA), the main component of the folk medicine Boswellia serrata (B. serrata), has been reported to be effective in various diseases including tumors. In this work, we demonstrated that β-BA could inhibit breast precancerous lesions in rat disease models. Consistently, β-BA could suppress proliferation and induce apoptosis on MCF-10AT without significantly influencing MCF-10A. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis suggested that β-BA may interfere with the metabolic pathway. Metabolism-related assays showed that β-BA suppressed glycolysis and reduced ATP production, which then activated the AMPK pathway and inhibited the mTOR pathway to limit MCF-10AT proliferation. Further molecular docking analysis suggested that GLUT1 might be the target of β-BA. Forced expression of GLUT1 could rescue the glycolysis suppression and survival limitation induced by β-BA on MCF-10AT. Taken together, β-BA could relieve precancerous lesions in vivo and in vitro through GLUT1 targeting-induced glycolysis suppression and AMPK/mTOR pathway alterations. Here, we offered a molecular basis for β-BA to be developed as a promising drug candidate for the prevention of breast precancerous lesions.

Bioactive Evaluation of Ursane-Type Pentacyclic Triterpenoids: β-Boswellic Acid Interferes with the Glycosylation and Transport of Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 in Human Lung Adenocarcinoma A549 Cells

Ursane-type pentacyclic triterpenoids exert various biological effects, including anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities. We previously reported that ursolic acid, corosolic acid, and asiatic acid interfered with the intracellular trafficking and glycosylation of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) in human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells stimulated with the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1α. However, the structure–activity relationship of ursane-type pentacyclic triterpenoids remains unclear. In the present study, the biological activities of seven ursane-type pentacyclic triterpenoids (β-boswellic acid, uvaol, madecassic acid, 3-O-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid, ursolic acid, corosolic acid, and asiatic acid) were investigated. We revealed that the inhibitory activities of ursane-type pentacyclic triterpenoids on the cell surface expression and glycosylation of ICAM-1 and α-glucosidase activity were influenced by the number of hydroxy groups and/or the presence and position of a carboxyl group. We also showed that β-boswellic acid interfered with ICAM-1 glycosylation in a different manner from other ursane-type pentacyclic triterpenoids.

Synthesis of 3-O-Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic Acid (AKBA)-Derived Amides and Their Mitochondria-Targeted Antitumor Activities

In this study, we synthesized a series of amide and mitochondria-targeted derivatives with 3-O-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA) as the parent structure and an ethylenediamine moiety as the link chain. Compound 5e, a mitochondrial-targeting potential derivative, showed significantly stronger antitumor activity than that of AKBA, and it could induce vacuolization of A549 cells and stimulate the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. The antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) could inhibit the ROS level but could not suppress vacuolization and cell death induced by 5e. Further studies demonstrated that 5e caused abnormal opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pore (MPTP) and a decrease of mitochondrial membrane potential; additionally, it caused cell cycle arrest in G₀/G₁ but did not induce apoptosis. 5e represented a compound with improved antiproliferative effects for cancer therapy working through new mechanisms.

Molecular evidences on anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and memory-boosting effects of frankincense

Chemical diversity of natural products with drug-like features has attracted much attention from medicine to develop more safe and effective drugs. Their anti-inflammatory, antitumor, analgesic, and other therapeutic properties are sometimes more successful than chemical drugs in controlling disease due to fewer drug resistance and side effects and being more tolerable in a long time. Frankincense, the oleo gum resin extracted from the Boswellia species, contains some of these chemicals. The anti-inflammatory effect of its main ingredient, boswellic acid, has been traditionally used to treat many diseases, mainly those target memory functions. In this review, we have accumulated research evidence from the beneficial effect of Frankincense consumption in memory improvement and the prevention of inflammation and cancer. Besides, we have discussed the molecular pathways mediating the therapeutic effects of this natural supplement.

Boswellia serrata Extract as an Antibiofilm Agent against Candida spp

The use of antibiotics or antifungals to control infections caused by pathogenic microorganisms is currently insufficiently effective because of their emerging resistance. Thanks to the ability of microorganisms to form a biofilm and thus increase their resistance to administered drugs even more, modern medicine faces the task of finding novel substances to combat infections caused by them. In this regard, the effects of essential oils or plant extracts are often studied. Among the relatively neglected plants is Boswellia serrata, which has a high content of biologically active boswellic acids. In this study, we focused on one of the most common nosocomial infections, which are caused by Candida species. The most common representative is C. albicans, although the number of infections caused by non-albicans species has recently been increasing. We focused on the antifungal activity of Boswellia serrata extract Bioswellix against planktonic and adhering cells of Candida albicans, Candida parapsilosis and Candida krusei. The antifungal activity against adhering cells was further explored by determining the metabolic activity of cells (MTT) and determining the total amount of biofilm using crystal violet. Boswellic acid-containing plant extract was shown to suppress the growth of a suspension population of all tested Candida species. Boswellia serrata extract Bioswellix was most effective in inhibiting C. albicans biofilm formation.

Mechanisms exploration of Xiaojin Pills on lung cancer based on metabolomics and network pharmacology

OBJECTIVES

This study was designed to evaluate the pharmacological activity and therapeutic mechanism of Xiaojin Pills (XJW) on lung cancer.

METHODS

Mice were orally administered with Xiaojin Pills for 21 days. Tumour samples were collected to evaluate the antilung cancer effect, and blood samples were collected to identify differential metabolites with metabolomics. Through the analysis of network pharmacology, the active ingredients and targets related to XJW therapy for lung cancer were filtered.

KEY FINDINGS

Different expression of seven metabolites related to seven pathways, including Arachidonic acid metabolism, Citrate cycle, tryptophan metabolism, glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism, arginine and proline metabolism, primary bile acid biosynthesis and nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism, were demonstrated to explain the efficacy of XJW in the treatment of lung cancer. Furthermore, a total of 19 active ingredients (ursolic acid, α-thujone, pelargonidin, succinic acid, boswellic acid, muscone, daidzein, xanthorrhizol, isoeugenol, oleic acid, β-caryophyllene, vanillin, β-sitosterol, lupeol, palmitic acid, eugenol, methylbutenol, β-elemene and quercetin) acted directly on 9 targets (CAT, PTGS2, PTGS1, CTH, ABTA, ALT1, ME2, AGXT and AGXT 2) and regulated 3 out of 7 metabolites (3-Hydroxyanthranilic acid, Pyruvate and Prostaglandin G2).

CONCLUSIONS

Through metabolomics and network pharmacology analyses, this study demonstrated that the major metabolites of XJW in treating lung cancer were regulated by multitarget and multicomponent interaction network.

A link between chemical structure and biological activity in triterpenoids

BACKGROUND

Plants with triterpenoid compounds in nature have various biological activities and are reported in many scientific works of literature. Triterpenoids are compounds that draw the attention of scientists because of their wide source, wide variety, high medicinal value, and anti-tumor properties. However, a lack of approach to understand their chemical structures has limited the fundamental comprehension of these compounds in cancer cell therapy.

OBJECTIVE

To seek anti-cancer activity of the structures of triterpenoid compounds and their derivatives, we summarized a number of plants and their derivatives that are a source of potential novel therapeutic anti-cancer agents.

METHODS

This work focuses on relevant 1036 patents and references that detail the structure of organic compounds and derivatives for the treatment of tumors.

RESULT

Compared to tetracyclic triterpenoid, pentacyclic triterpenoid has contributed more to improve the autophagic signaling pathways of cancer cells.

CONCLUSION

The heterogenous skeleton structure of triterpenoids impaired the programmed cell death signaling pathway in various cancers.

Analysis of boswellic acids in dietary supplements containing Indian frankincense (Boswellia serrata) by Supercritical Fluid Chromatography

Boswellic acids, a class of triterpenes, are the bioactive constituents in Indian frankincense, an herbal drug with pronounced anti-inflammatory activity. In this study their separation and quantification in B. serrata extracts is reported for the first time by using Supercritical Fluid Chromatography. Under optimized conditions, i.e. a Viridis HSS C18 SB column and carbon dioxide, methanol, acetonitrile and ammonium hydroxide as mobile phase, six boswellic acids could be separated in under 6 min. The assay fulfilled all validation criteria with coefficients of determination higher than 0.999, a wide linear range (30-1000 μg/mL), recovery rates from 97.1-103.0 %, excellent precision, and detection limits typical for SFC with UV-detection (≤ 5.5 μg/mL). The method could easily be hyphenated to mass spectrometry, which was helpful to tentatively assign further compounds (mainly derivatives of tirucallic acid) and to increase the assay's sensitivity. Its practical applicability was confirmed by analyzing several commercial products, which mainly contained β-boswellic acid as dominant triterpene, yet in extremely variable amounts ranging from 0.9 to 16.9 %.

Biosynthetic diversity in triterpene cyclization within the Boswellia genus

This review is not intended to describe the triterpenes isolated from the Boswellia genus, since this information has been covered elsewhere. Instead, the aim is to provide insights into the biosynthesis of triterpenes in Boswellia. This genus, which has 24 species, displays fascinating structural diversity and produces a number of medicinally important triterpenes, particularly boswellic acids. Over 300 volatile components have been reported in the essential oil of Boswellia, and more than 100 diterpenes and triterpenes have been isolated from this genus. Given that no triterpene biosynthetic enzymes have yet been isolated from any members of the Boswellia genus, this review will cover the likely biosynthetic pathways as inferred from structures in nature and the probable types of biosynthetic enzymes based on knowledge of triterpene biosynthesis in other plant species. It highlights the importance of frankincense and the factors and threats affecting its production. It covers triterpene biosynthesis in the genus Boswellia, including dammaranes, tirucallic acids, lupanes, oleananes, ursanes and boswellic acids. Strategies for elucidating triterpene biosynthetic pathways in Boswellia are considered. Furthermore, the possible mechanisms behind wound-induced resin synthesis by the tree and related gene expression profiling are covered. In addition, the influence of the environment and the genotype on the biosynthesis of resin and on variations in the compositions and types of resins will also be reviewed.

Plant-Derived Natural Products in Cancer Research: Extraction, Mechanism of Action, and Drug Formulation

Cancer is one of the main causes of death globally and considered as a major challenge for the public health system. The high toxicity and the lack of selectivity of conventional anticancer therapies make the search for alternative treatments a priority. In this review, we describe the main plant-derived natural products used as anticancer agents. Natural sources, extraction methods, anticancer mechanisms, clinical studies, and pharmaceutical formulation are discussed in this review. Studies covered by this review should provide a solid foundation for researchers and physicians to enhance basic and clinical research on developing alternative anticancer therapies.

Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid enhances the cisplatin sensitivity of non-small cell lung cancer cells through cell cycle arrest, apoptosis induction, and autophagy suppression via p21-dependent signaling pathway

Cisplatin-based therapy is a widely used chemotherapeutic regimen for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC); however, drug resistance limits its efficacy. Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA), a bioactive compound from frankincense, has been shown to exert anti-cancer effects. The aim of this study is to explore the potential of AKBA in combination with cisplatin as a new regimen for NSCLC. CCK8 assay and clone formation assay were used to determine the effects of AKBA in combination with cisplatin on cell viability of NSCLC cell lines. A three-dimensional spherification assay was used to simulate in vivo tumor formation. Flow cytometry was performed to examine cell cycle distribution and the percentages of apoptotic cells. The associated proteins and mRNA of cell cycle, apoptosis, and autophagy were measured by western blotting and real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR. Immunofluorescence assay was used to test apoptotic nuclei and autolysosome. Small interfering RNA experiments were used to silence the expression of p21. Combination treatment of AKBA and cisplatin inhibited cell viability, clone formation, and three-dimensional spherification, enhanced G₀/G₁ phase arrest, increased the percentages of apoptotic cells, and decreased the ratio of positive autolysosomes, compared with cisplatin alone. AKBA in combination with cisplatin suppressed the protein expressions of cyclin A2, cyclin E1, p-cdc2, CDK4, Bcl-xl, Atg5, and LC3A/B, and upregulated p27 and p21 mRNA levels in A549 cells. Downregulation of p21 decreased G₀/G₁ phase arrest and the percentages of apoptotic cells, and promoted autophagy in NSCLC A549 cells. Our study demonstrates that AKBA enhances the cisplatin sensitivity of NSCLC cells and that the mechanisms involve G₀/G₁ phase arrest, apoptosis induction, and autophagy suppression via targeting p21-dependent signaling pathway.

Propofol suppresses the progression of non‑small cell lung cancer via downregulation of the miR‑21‑5p/MAPK10 axis

Non‑small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for >80% of lung cancer cases and is the leading cause of cancer‑associated mortality worldwide. Propofol is an anesthetic drug frequently used during tumor resection. It is also known to exert inhibitory effects on cancer. Although the role of propofol in NSCLC has been reported, its underlying mechanisms remain unknown. The present study aimed therefore to investigate the mechanisms of propofol action on NSCLC. Starbase V3.0 project was used to analyze the expression levels of microRNA‑21‑5p (miR‑21‑5p) and mitogen‑activated protein kinase 10 (MAPK10) in NSCLC and adjacent normal tissues from patients with NSCLC and the association between miR‑21‑5p and MAPK10 expression level in NSCLC tissues. The correlation between MAPK10 expression and disease‑free survival (DFS) in patients with NSCLC was analyzed using GEPIA software version 1.0. miR‑21‑5p and MAPK10 expression in tumor and adjacent normal tissues from patients with NSCLC was evaluated by reverse transcription‑quantitative (RT‑q) PCR and western blotting. Cell viability and apoptosis were assessed by using Cell Counting Kit‑8 assay and flow cytometry, respectively. The interaction between miR‑21‑5p and MAPK10 was predicted by TargetScan/miRanda and verified by dual luciferase assay. The regulatory effect of propofol on miR‑21‑5p and MAPK10 expression in NSCLC cell lines was examined by RT‑qPCR and western blotting. Starbase V3.0 project and the results of the present study indicated that tumor tissues presented a significantly lower MAPK10 level and a higher miR‑21‑5p level compared with the normal samples, and that miR‑21‑5p expression was negatively correlated with MAPK10 expression in the tumor tissues of patients with NSCLC. Furthermore, miR‑21‑5p targeted the 3'‑untranslated region of MAPK10. In addition, compared with BEAS‑2B cells, a higher miR‑21‑5p and a lower MAPK10 expression was observed in the NSCLC cell lines A549 and H1299, which was reversed by propofol. The overexpression of miR‑21‑5p abrogated the effects of propofol on A549 and H1299 cell viability and apoptosis by targeting MAPK10. Taken together, these findings demonstrated that propofol inhibited the viability and promoted the apoptosis of NSCLC cells by downregulating the miR‑21‑5p/MAPK10 axis.