Phytosomal Curcumin Elicits Anti-tumor Properties Through Suppression of Angiogenesis, Cell Proliferation and Induction of Oxidative Stress in Colorectal Cancer

Curcumin suppresses colorectal cancer by induction of ferroptosis via regulation of p53 and solute carrier family 7 member 11/glutathione/glutathione peroxidase 4 signaling axis

Driven by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, ferroptosis is regulated by p53 and solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11)/glutathione/glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) axis in colorectal cancer (CRC). This study aimed to investigate the influence of curcumin (CUR) on ferroptosis in CRC. The efficacies of CUR on the malignant phenotype of CRC cells were determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide, wound healing, and clonogenic assays. The effects of CUR on ferroptosis of CRC cells were evaluated by transmission electron microscopy, lactate dehydrogenase release assay, Fe2+ staining, and analyses of reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxide, malondialdehyde, and glutathione levels. CUR's targets in ferroptosis were predicted by network pharmacological study and molecular docking. With SW620 xenograft tumors, the efficacy of CUR on CRC was investigated, and the effects of CUR on ferroptosis were assessed by detection of Fe2+, malondialdehyde, and glutathione levels. The effects of CUR on expressions of p53, SLC7A11, and GPX4 in CRC cells and tumors were analyzed by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. CUR suppressed the proliferation, migration, and clonogenesis of CRC cells and xenograft tumor growth by causing ferroptosis, with enhanced lactate dehydrogenase release and Fe2+, reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxide, and malondialdehyde levels, but attenuated glutathione level in CRC. In silico study indicated that CUR may bind p53, SLC7A11, and GPX4, consolidated by that CUR heightened p53 but attenuated SLC7A11 and GPX4 mRNA and protein levels in CRC. CUR may exert an inhibitory effect on CRC by inducing ferroptosis via regulation of p53 and SLC7A11/glutathione/GPX4 axis.

In vitro anticancer study of novel curcumin derivatives via targeting PI3K/Akt/p53 signaling pathway

Four new series of curcumin derivatives bearing NO-donating moiety were synthesized via etherification, nucleophilic substitution, and Knoevenagel condensation etc. The cytotoxicity activity of curcumin derivatives against five human tumor cell lines (A549, Hela, HepG2, MCF-7 and HT-29) and two normal cell lines (LO-2 and HK-2) has been studied. The results showed that compound 6a could inhibit the proliferation of MCF-7 cells remarkably and exhibit low toxicity to normal cells. Also, the underlying mechanism in vitro of compound 6a on MCF-7 was investigated. It has been found that compound 6a induced G2/M arrest and apoptosis of MCF-7 in a dose-dependent manner. Compound 6a-induced the fluorescence changes of ROS in MCF-7 cells confirmed the occurrence of apoptosis. Western Blot suggested that compound 6a decreased the expression of PI3K, as well as increased the expression of p53, cleaved caspase-9 and cleaved caspase-3. Furthermore, molecular docking revealed that compound 6a could bind well at active site of PI3K (3zim) with total score 9.59. Together, compound 6a, a potential PI3K inhibitor, may inhibit the survival of MCF-7 cells via interfering with PI3K/Akt/p53 pathway.

The Nanotech Potential of Curcumin in Pharmaceuticals: An Overview

It is safe to use Curcumin as a cosmetic and therapeutic ingredient in pharmaceutical products. For the uses mentioned above and for fundamental research, it is essential to obtain pure Curcumin from plant sources. There is a requirement for effective extraction and purification techniques that adhere to green chemistry standards for efficiency improvement, process safety, and environmental friendliness. Several outstanding studies have looked into the extraction and purification of Curcumin. This review thoroughly covers the currently available curcumin extraction, synthesis, and transformation techniques. Additionally, Curcumin's poor solubility and low absorption in the human body have limited its potential for pharmaceutical use. However, recent developments in novel curcumin formulations utilizing nanotechnology delivery methods have provided new approaches to transport and maximize the human body's curcumin absorption efficiency. In this review, we explore the various curcumin nanoformulations and the potential medicinal uses of nano curcumin. Additionally, we review the necessary future research directions to recommend Curcumin as an excellent therapeutic candidate.

Curcumin affects apoptosis of colorectal cancer cells through ATF6-mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the main cause of cancer-associated death. Herein, we treated SW620 and HT-29 CRC cells with different curcumin concentrations, followed by treatment with the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) curcumin/endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) inhibitor 4-phenyl butyric acid (4-PBA)/activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6) interference plasmid (si-ATF6). We detected cell proliferation/apoptosis, ATF6 cellular localization/nuclear translocation, ion concentration, ATF6 protein/apoptotic protein (Bax/Bcl-2/Cleaved Caspase-3) levels, and ERS-related proteins (glucose-regulated protein 78 [Grp78]/C/EBP homologous protein [CHOP]). We discovered inhibited cell proliferation/growth, enhanced cell apoptosis/(Bax/Bcl-2) ratio/Cleaved Caspase-3 levels/Ca2+ concentration in the cytoplasm/ERS-related protein (Grp78/CHOP) levels, and activated ERS following treatment with IC50 curcumin. 4-PBA partially reversed the inhibitory effect of curcumin on SW620 cells by restraining ERS. Curcumin stimulated ATF6 expression and its nuclear translocation to activate ERS. ATF6 silencing partly annulled the inhibitory effect of curcumin on SW620 cells. Our study explored the molecular mechanism of curcumin affecting CRC cell apoptosis through ATF6.

Nanoliposomal Coencapsulation of Dorema aucheri Extract and Curcumin; Enhanced Cytotoxicity, Apoptosis Induction, and Inhibition of EGFR Gene Expression in Oral Cancer Cells OCC-02

Curcumin is one of the natural anticancer drugs but its efficiency is limited by low stability, insufficient bioavailability, poor solubility, and poor permeability. Dorema aucheri (Bilhar) is a herb with precious pharmaceutical properties. This study aimed to develop a nanoliposome-based curcumin and Bilhar extract codelivery system. The nanocompounds were synthesized using the lipid thin-film hydration method and characterized by transmission electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering techniques, and their cytotoxicity and apoptotic effect on the primary oral cancer cell line were evaluated via 2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide assay and flow cytometry. Moreover, the expression of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene in the treated cells was assessed using the real-time polymerase chain reaction technique. Based on the results, nanoliposomes had a size of 91 ± 10 nm with a polydispersity index of 0.13. Free curcumin, the extract, and the curcumin-extract combination showed dose-dependent toxicity against cancer cells; yet, the extract (IC50: 86 µg/ml) and curcumin-extract (IC50: 65 µg/ml) activities were much more than curcumin (IC50: 121 µg/ml). Also, the curcumin and extract loaded on liposomes showed a dose and time-dependent cytotoxicity. After loading the curcumin-extract compound on nanoliposomes, their IC50 decreased from 180 µg/ml (within 24 hr) to 43 µg/ml (within 72 hr), indicating their sustainable release and activity. Likewise, this compound induced the highest apoptosis percentage (95%) in cancerous cells and inhibited the expression of the EGFR gene in the cells by 81% ± 3%. These findings demonstrated the effectiveness of the Bilhar extract against oral cancer cells. Also, in combination with curcumin, it showed an additive activity that considerably improved after loading on nanoliposomes.

Insights into the involvement of long non-coding RNAs in doxorubicin resistance of cancer

Doxorubicin is one of the most classical chemotherapeutic drugs for the treatment of cancer. However, resistance to the cytotoxic effects of doxorubicin in tumor cells remains a major obstacle. Aberrant expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) has been associated with tumorigenesis and development via regulation of chromatin remodeling, transcription, and post-transcriptional processing. Emerging studies have also revealed that dysregulation of lncRNAs mediates the development of drug resistance through multiple molecules and pathways. In this review, we focus on the role and mechanism of lncRNAs in the progress of doxorubicin resistance in various cancers, which mainly include cellular drug transport, cell cycle disorder, anti-apoptosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cancer stem cells, autophagy, tumor microenvironment, metabolic reprogramming and signaling pathways. This review is aimed to provide potential therapeutic targets for future cancer therapy, especially for the reversal of chemoresistance.

Effects of N-acetylcysteine on CG8005 gene-mediated proliferation and apoptosis of Drosophila S2 embryonic cells

To investigate the effect of the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on the proliferation and apoptosis in CG8005 gene-interfering Drosophila S2 embryonic cells by scavenging intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). The interfering efficiency of CG8005 gene in Drosophila S2 embryonic cells was verified by real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR). Different concentrations of NAC and phosphate buffered saline (PBS) were used to affect the Drosophila S2 embryonic cells. The growth state of Drosophila S2 embryonic cells was observed by light microscope. Two probes dihydroethidium (DHE) and 2,7-dichlorodihydrofluorescein-acetoacetate (DCFH-DA) were used to observe the ROS production in each group after immunofluorescence staining. TUNEL staining and flow cytometry were used to investigate the apoptosis level of Drosophila S2 embryos, and CCK-8 (Cell Counting Kit-8) was used to detect the cell viability of Drosophila S2 embryos. The knockdown efficiency of siCG8005-2 fragment was high and stable, which was verified by interference efficiency (P < 0.05). There was no significant change in the growth of Drosophila S2 embryonic cells after the treatment of NAC as compared to PBS group. Moreover, knockdowning CG8005 gene resulted in an increase in ROS and apoptosis in Drosophila S2 embryonic cells (P < 0.05) and a decrease in proliferation activity (P < 0.05). In addition, the pretreatment of antioxidant NAC could inhibit ROS production in Drosophila S2 embryonic cells (P < 0.05), reduce cell apoptosis (P < 0.05), and improve cell survival (P < 0.05). The CG8005 gene in Drosophila S2 embryonic cells could regulate the proliferation and apoptosis of S2 embryonic cells by disrupting the redox homeostasis, and antioxidant NAC could inhibit cell apoptosis and promotes cell proliferation by scavenging ROS in Drosophila S2 embryonic cells, which is expected to provide novel insights for the pathogenesis of male infertility and spermatogenesis.

Auraptene-induced cytotoxic effects in acute myeloid leukemia cell lines

Acute myeloid leukemia is one of the most commonly identified hematological malignancies with poor prognosis. This research was planned to identify the cytotoxic effects of Auraptene on HL60 and U937 cell lines. The cytotoxic effects of Auraptene were measured by AlamarBlue assay (Resazurin) after 24- and 48-h treatments with different doses of Auraptene. The inductive effects of Auraptene on cellular oxidative stress were investigated by determining cellular ROS levels. The cell cycle progression and cell apoptosis were also evaluated by flow cytometry method. Our findings revealed that Auraptene decreased HL60 and U937 cellular proliferation by downregulation of Cyclin D1. Auraptene also induces cellular oxidative stress by upregulation of cellular ROS levels. Auraptene induces cell cycle arrest the early and late phases of apoptosis by upregulation of Bax and p53 proteins. Our data suggest that the anti-tumor function of Auraptene can be mediated by promoting apoptosis and cell cycle arrest and inducing cellular oxidative stress in HL60 and U937 cell lines. These results support that Auraptene may be used as a potent anti-tumor agent against hematologic malignancies in the further studies.

The potential role of plant secondary metabolites on antifungal and immunomodulatory effect

With the widespread use of antibiotic drugs worldwide and the global increase in the number of immunodeficient patients, fungal infections have become a serious threat to global public health security. Moreover, the evolution of fungal resistance to existing antifungal drugs is on the rise. To address these issues, the development of new antifungal drugs or fungal inhibitors needs to be targeted urgently. Plant secondary metabolites are characterized by a wide variety of chemical structures, low price, high availability, high antimicrobial activity, and few side effects. Therefore, plant secondary metabolites may be important resources for the identification and development of novel antifungal drugs. However, there are few studies to summarize those contents. In this review, the antifungal modes of action of plant secondary metabolites toward different types of fungi and fungal infections are covered, as well as highlighting immunomodulatory effects on the human body. This review of the literature should lay the foundation for research into new antifungal drugs and the discovery of new targets. KEY POINTS: • Immunocompromised patients who are infected the drug-resistant fungi are increasing. • Plant secondary metabolites toward various fungal targets are covered. • Plant secondary metabolites with immunomodulatory effect are verified in vivo.

Anti-tumor effects of Auraptene through induction of apoptosis and oxidative stress in a mouse model of colorectal cancer

The main strategy of cancer cells for survival is uncontrolled cell division and escape from apoptosis. The use of anticancer agents inducing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and controlling cell division might be a therapeutic approach to eradicate cancer cells. Herein, we examined the therapeutic effects of Auraptene on CT26 cells as well as on a mouse model of colorectal cancer (CRC). The spheroid assay was also conducted to analyze the anti-proliferative activity of Auraptene. We also assessed the in vitro analysis of ROS generation. The impact of Auraptene on oxidant/antioxidant markers, as well as the mRNA expression of Bax, Bcl-2, Nrf2, Cyclin D1, and Survivin genes, was evaluated by qPCR in tumor samples. As a result, Auraptene significantly reduced the size of CT26 spheroids at a dose of 200 µM. After 12 h, ROS levels were significantly elevated in CT26 cells. The administration of Auraptene induced apoptosis and the cell cycle arrest by modulating Bax, Bcl-2, Nrf2, Cyclin D1, and Survivin mRNA levels. Furthermore, our results demonstrated that Auraptene suppressed CAT, GSH (reduced Glutathione), and FRAP while increasing MDA in tissue homogenates which in turn could raise oxidative stress and stimulate apoptosis. Therefore, Auraptene may act as a powerful adjuvant therapy in CRC since it triggers apoptosis and cell cycle.

Exploring new therapeutic potentials of curcumin against post-surgical adhesion bands

BACKGROUND

Adhesion band formation is a common cause of morbidity for patients undergoing surgeries. Anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic properties of curcumin, a pharmacologically active component of Curcuma longa, have been investigated in several studies. The aim of this study is to explore the therapeutic potential of curcumin in attenuating post-operative adhesion band (PSAB) formation in both peritoneal and peritendinous surgeries in animal models.

METHODS

Bio-mechanical, histological and quantitative evaluation of inflammation, and total fibrosis scores were graded and measured in the presence and absence of phytosomal curcumin.

RESULTS

Results showed that phytosomal curcumin significantly decreased severity, length, density and tolerance of mobility of peritendinous adhesions as well as incidence and severity of abdominal fibrotic bands post-surgery. Curcumin may decrease inflammation by attenuating recruitment of inflammatory cells and regulating oxidant/anti-oxidant balance in post-operative tissue samples. Moreover, markedly lower fibrosis scores were obtained in the adhesive tissues of phytosomal curcumin-treated groups which correlated with a significant decrease in quantity, quality and grading of fibers, and collagen deposition in animal models.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that protective effects of phytosomal curcumin against PSAB formation is partially mediated by decreasing inflammation and fibrosis at site of surgery. Further studies are needed to investigate the therapeutic potential of this molecule in preventing PSAB.

Targeting Signaling Pathway by Curcumin in Osteosarcoma

The most prevalent primary bone malignancy among children and adolescents is osteosarcoma. The high mortality rate of osteosarcoma is due to lung metastasis. Despite the development of multi-agent chemotherapy and surgical resection, patients with osteosarcoma have a high metastasis rate and poor prognosis. Thus, it is necessary to identify novel therapeutic agents to improve the 5-year survival rate of these patients. Curcumin, a phytochemical compound derived from Curcuma longa, has been employed in treating several types of cancers through various mechanisms. Also, in vitro studies have demonstrated that curcumin could inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis in osteosarcoma cells. Development in identifying signaling pathways involved in the pathogenesis of osteosarcoma has provided insight into finding new therapeutic targets for the treatment of this cancer. Targeting MAPK/ERK, PI3k/AKT, Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, and MircoRNA by curcumin has been evaluated to improve outcomes in patients with osteosarcoma. Although curcumin is a potent anti-cancer compound, it has rarely been studied in clinical settings due to its congenital properties such as hydrophobicity and poor bioavailability. In this review, we recapitulate and describe the effect of curcumin in regulating signaling pathways involved in osteosarcoma.

The role of heat shock protein 40 in carcinogenesis and biology of colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide. Despite the enormous amount of effort in the diagnosis and treatment of CRC, the overall survival rate of patients remains low. The precise molecular and cellular basis underlying CRC has not been completely understood yet. Over time, new genes and molecular pathways involved in the pathogenesis of the disease are being identified. Accurate discovery of these genes and signaling pathways are important and urgent missions for the next generation of anticancer therapy research. Chaperone DnaJ, also known as Hsp40 (heat shock protein 40), has been of particular interest in CRC pathogenesis, as it is involved in the fundamental cell activities for maintaining cellular homeostasis. Evidence show that protein family members of DnaJ/Hsp40 play both roles; enhancing and reducing the growth of CRC cells. In the present review, we focus on the current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms responsible for the role of DnaJ/Hsp40 in CRC carcinogenesis and biology.

The regulation of hsacirc_004413 promotes proliferation and drug resistance of gastric cancer cells by acting as a competing endogenous RNA for miR-145-5p

Background

Whether circRAN, which acts as a microRNA sponge, plays a role in 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu) resistant gastric cancer has not been reported. In this study, a 5-Fu resistant cell line with an IC50 of 16.59 µM was constructed.

Methods

Using comparative analysis of circRNA in the transcriptomics of resistant and sensitive strains, 31 differentially expressed circRNAs were detected, and the microRNA interacting with them was predicted.

Results

Hsacirc_004413 was selected for verification in drug resistant and sensitive cells. By interfering with hsacirc_004413 using antisense RNA, the sensitivity of drug resistant cells to 5-Fu was significantly promoted, and the apoptosis and necrosis of the cells were significantly increased. In sensitive cells, inhibition by inhibitors enhanced the resistance of cells to 5-Fu. We hypothesize that hsacirc_004413 makes gastric cancer cells resistant to 5-Fu mainly through adsorption of miR-145-5p.

Hydrogen-rich water exerts anti-tumor effects comparable to 5-fluorouracil in a colorectal cancer xenograft model

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. Tumor removal remains the preferred frontline treatment; however, effective non-surgical interventions remain a high priority. 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) is a widely used chemotherapy agent, and molecular hydrogen (H2) has been recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, with research also suggesting its potential anti-tumor effects. Therefore, H2 dissolved in water [hydrogen-rich water (HRW)], with or without 5-FU, may present itself as a novel therapeutic for CRC.

AIM

To investigate the effects of HRW, with or without 5-FU, as a novel therapeutic for CRC.

METHODS

CRC was induced in the left flank of inbred Balb/c mice. A total of 24 mice bearing tumors were randomly divided into four groups (n = 6 per group) and treated as follows: (1) Control group; (2) 5-FU group that received intraperitoneal injection of 5-FU (5 mg/kg) every other day; (3) H2 group that received HRW, created and delivered via dissolving the H2-generating tablet in the animals' drinking water, with 200 μL also delivered by oral gavage; and (4) The combination group, H2 (administered in same way as for group three) combined with 5-FU administered same way as group two.

RESULTS

Administration of HRW + 5-FU significantly improved tumor weight, tumor size, collagen content and fibrosis as compared to the CRC control group. Specifically, HRW attenuated oxidative stress (OS) and potentiated antioxidant activity (AA), whereas 5-FU treatment exacerbated OS and blunted AA. The combination of HRW + 5-FU significantly reduced tumor weight and size, as well as reduced collagen deposition and the degree of fibrosis, while further increasing OS and decreasing AA compared to administration of 5-FU alone.

CONCLUSION

Administration of HRW, with or without 5-FU, may serve as a therapeutic for treating CRC.

Bioinformatics Analysis to Screen Key Targets of Curcumin against Colorectal Cancer and the Correlation with Tumor-Infiltrating Immune Cells

Purpose

Curcumin is a potential drug for the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC). Its mechanism of action has not been elucidated. This study aims to investigate the mechanism of action of curcumin in the treatment of CRC via bioinformatics methods such as network pharmacology and molecular docking.

Methods

The targets of curcumin and CRC were obtained from the public databases. The component-targets network of curcumin in the treatment of CRC was constructed by Cytoscape v3.7.2. Through protein-protein interaction (PPI), the Gene Ontology (GO), and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), important targets and signaling pathways related to CRC treatment were identified. Finally, the results were verified by molecular docking, and the correlation between the key targets and tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TICs) was analyzed.

Results

A total of 30 potential targets of curcumin for CRC treatment were collected. The GO function enrichment analysis showed 140 items, and the KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed 61 signaling pathways related to the regulation of protein kinase activity, negative regulation of apoptosis process, cancer signaling pathway, and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. The molecular docking results showed that curcumin could be combined with AKT1, EGFR, and STAT3 more stably, and AKT1 has the strongest binding to curcumin. Bioinformatics analysis discovered that the expression of core targets AKT1, EGFR, and STAT3 in CRC was related to TICs.

Conclusion

This study explored the targets and pathways of curcumin in the treatment of CRC. The core targets are AKT1, EGFR, and STAT3. The study indicated that curcumin has preventive and treatment effects on CRC through multitarget and multipathway, which laid the foundation for follow-up research.

Phytosomes as Innovative Delivery Systems for Phytochemicals: A Comprehensive Review of Literature

Nowadays, medicinal herbs and their phytochemicals have emerged as a great therapeutic option for many disorders. However, poor bioavailability and selectivity might limit their clinical application. Therefore, bioavailability is considered a notable challenge to improve bio-efficacy in transporting dietary phytochemicals. Different methods have been proposed for generating effective carrier systems to enhance the bioavailability of phytochemicals. Among them, nano-vesicles have been introduced as promising candidates for the delivery of insoluble phytochemicals. Due to the easy preparation of the bilayer vesicles and their adaptability, they have been widely used and approved by the scientific literature. The first part of the review is focused on introducing phytosome technology as well as its applications, with emphasis on principles of formulations and characterization. The second part provides a wide overview of biological activities of commercial and non-commercial phytosomes, divided by systems and related pathologies. These results confirm the greater effectiveness of phytosomes, both in terms of biological activity or reduced dosage, highlighting curcumin and silymarin as the most formulated compounds. Finally, we describe the promising clinical and experimental findings regarding the applications of phytosomes. The conclusion of this study encourages the researchers to transfer their knowledge from laboratories to market, for a further development of these products.

Biosensors, microfluidics systems and lateral flow assays for circulating microRNA detection: A review

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short RNA sequences found in eukaryotic cells and they are involved in several diseases pathogenesis including different types of cancers, metabolic and cardiovascular disorders. Thus, miRNAs circulating in serum, plasma, and other body fluids are employed as biomarkers for diagnostic and prognostic purposes and in assessment of drug response. Thus, various methods have been developed for detection of miRNAs including northern blotting, reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), next-generation sequencing, microarray, and isothermal amplification that are recognized as traditional methods. Considering the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of miRNAs-related diseases, development of simple, one-step, sensitive methods is of great interest. Nowadays developing technologies including lateral flow assay, biosensors (optical and electrochemical) and microfluidic systems which are simple fast responding, user-friendly, and are enabled with visible detection have gained considerable attention. This review briefly discusses miRNAs detection' methods, with a particular focus on lateral flow assay, biosensors, and microfluidic systems as novel and practical procedures.

Curcumin attenuates Adriamycin-resistance of acute myeloid leukemia by inhibiting the lncRNA HOTAIR/miR-20a-5p/WT1 axis

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a common subtype of leukemia, and a large proportion of patients with AML eventually develop drug resistance. Curcumin exerts cancer suppressive effects and increases sensitivity to chemotherapy in several diseases. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism by which curcumin affects the resistance of AML to Adriamycin by regulating HOX transcript antisense RNA (HOTAIR) expression. Cell viability, colony-formation, flow cytometry, and Transwell assays were used to assess cell proliferation, apoptosis, and migration. A dual-luciferase reporter assay was used to verify the interaction between microRNA (miR)-20a-5p and HOTAIR or Wilms' tumor 1 (WT1). RT-qPCR and Western blotting assays were performed to detect gene and protein expression. The results showed that curcumin suppressed the resistance to Adriamycin, inhibited the expression of HOTAIR and WT1, and promoted the expression of miR-20a-5p in human acute leukemia cells (HL-60) or Adriamycin-resistant HL-60 cells (HL-60/ADR). Furthermore, curcumin suppressed proliferation and promoted apoptosis of HL-60/ADR cells. Overexpression of HOTAIR reversed the regulatory effect of curcumin on apoptosis and migration and restored the effect of curcumin on inducing the expression of cleaved caspase3, Bax, and P27. In addition, HOTAIR upregulated WT1 expression by targeting miR-20a-5p, and inhibition of miR-20a-5p reversed the regulation of Adriamycin resistance by curcumin in AML cells. Finally, curcumin inhibited Adriamycin resistance by suppressing the HOTAIR/miR-20a-5p/WT1 pathway in vivo. In short, curcumin suppressed the proliferation and migration, blocked the cell cycle progression of AML cells, and sensitized AML cells to Adriamycin by regulating the HOTAIR/miR-20a-5p/WT1 axis. These findings suggest a potential role of curcumin and HOTAIR in AML treatment.

Effect of Co-Administration of Curcumin with Amlodipine in Hypertension

Curcumin, a curcuminoid known as the main bioactive compound of turmeric, is used in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products. Amlodipine is a general antihypertensive drug used in combination with various other antihypertensive agents. To date, no studies have examined the effects of the co-administration of amlodipine with curcumin. In this study, the vasodilatory effects of curcumin, amlodipine, and the co-administration of curcumin with amlodipine on isolated rat aortic rings pre-contracted with phenylephrine were evaluated, and the hypotensive effects were evaluated using the tail cuff method. To measure blood pressure, male spontaneously hypertensive rats were divided into four groups, each containing six rats, as follows: amlodipine 1 mg/kg alone treated, amlodipine 1 mg/kg with curcumin 30 mg/kg treated, amlodipine 1 mg/kg with curcumin 100 mg/kg treated, and amlodipine 1 mg/kg with curcumin 300 mg/kg treated groups. Amlodipine and curcumin were intraperitoneally injected, and systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were measured at 1, 2, 4, and 8 h after administration. The combined administration of curcumin and amlodipine induced a stronger vasorelaxant effect than amlodipine alone. However, co-administration did not significantly lower SBP and DBP compared to the single administration of amlodipine. The results of this study suggest that hypertensive patients taking amlodipine can consume curcumin or turmeric for food or other medical purposes without inhibiting the blood pressure-lowering effect of amlodipine.

Rigosertib elicits potent anti-tumor responses in colorectal cancer by inhibiting Ras signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

The therapeutic potency of Rigosertib (RGS) in the treatment of the myelodysplastic syndrome has been investigated previously, but little is known about its mechanisms of action.

METHODS

The present study integrates systems and molecular biology approaches to investigate the mechanisms of the anti-tumor effects of RGS, either alone or in combination with 5-FU in cellular and animal models of colorectal cancer (CRC).

RESULTS

The effects of RGS were more pronounced in dedifferentiated CRC cell types, compared to cell types that were epithelial-like. RGS inhibited cell proliferation and cell cycle progression in a cell-type specific manner, and that was dependent on the presence of mutations in KRAS, or its down-stream effectors. RGS increased both early and late apoptosis, by regulating the expression of p53, BAX and MDM2 in tumor model. We also found that RGS induced cell senescence in tumor tissues by increasing ROS generation, and impairing oxidant/anti-oxidant balance. RGS also inhibited angiogenesis and metastatic behavior of CRC cells, by regulating the expression of CD31, E-cadherin, and matrix metalloproteinases-2 and 9.

CONCLUSION

Our findings support the therapeutic potential of this potent RAS signaling inhibitor either alone or in combination with standard regimens for the management of patients with CRC.

Curcumin Activates the Nrf2 Pathway and Induces Cellular Protection Against Oxidative Injury

Curcumin is a naturally occurring polyphenol that is isolated from the rhizome of Curcuma longa (turmeric). This medicinal compound has different biological activities, including antioxidant, antibacterial, antineoplastic, and anti-inflammatory. It also has therapeutic effects on neurodegenerative disorders, renal disorders, and diabetes mellitus. Curcumin is safe and well-tolerated at high concentrations without inducing toxicity. It seems that curcumin is capable of targeting the Nrf2 signaling pathway in protecting the cells against oxidative damage. Besides, this strategy is advantageous in cancer therapy. Accumulating data demonstrates that curcumin applies four distinct ways to stimulate the Nrf2 signaling pathway, including inhibition of Keap1, affecting the upstream mediators of Nrf2, influencing the expression of Nrf2 and target genes, and finally, improving the nuclear translocation of Nrf2. In the present review, the effects of curcumin on the Nrf2 signaling pathway to exert its therapeutic and biological activities has been discussed.

The Clinical Impact of Quantitative Cell-free DNA, KRAS, and BRAF Mutations on Response to Anti-EGFR Treatment in Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common leading causes of cancer death in the world. Although EGFR inhibitors have established efficacy in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), some patients do not respond to this treatment. The EGFR inhibitors' failure and acquired resistance are partly due to KRAS and BRAF mutations. Thus, prognostic biomarkers that help to select eligible patients are highly in demand. To improve patient selection, assessment of mutational status in circulating cell free DNA (cfDNA), which possibly represents the dynamicity of tumor genetic status better than tumor tissue, could be advantageous. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the prognostic value of cfDNA in patients with mCRC treated with EGFR inhibitors with emphasis on the clinical importance of identification of KRAS and BRAF mutations.

Curcumin induces apoptosis and inhibits the growth of adrenocortical carcinoma: Identification of potential candidate genes and pathways by transcriptome analysis

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is an endocrine tumour with high malignancy, high invasiveness and poor prognosis. Curcumin, a major component in turmeric, has been reported to have good efficacy and biological safety in treating cancer. However, the role and mechanism of curcumin in ACC have not yet been fully investigated and were thus the focus of this study. In vitro, ACC SW-13 and NCI-H295R cells were treated with curcumin and their viability, migration and invasion were assessed by CCK-8 and Transwell assays. Apoptosis was detected via flow cytometry and western blotting. High-throughput sequencing and comprehensive bioinformatics analyses were performed to elucidate the molecular processes underlying curcumin activity. In vivo, SW-13 cells were injected into nude mice, and the tumour volumes and weights were observed after 2 weeks of curcumin treatment. Organelle changes were observed by electron microscopy, and potential candidate genes and pathways were analysed by RT-qPCR and western blotting. The role of the CHOP target gene in curcumin-induced ACC cell apoptosis was verified via lentiviral transfection experiments. Curcumin inhibited the viability, migration and invasion, and induced the apoptosis of ACC cells. Transcriptome sequencing analysis showed that curcumin treatment markedly changed the gene expression levels. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses showed that the MAPK and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress pathways were the predominant pathways associated with curcumin-induced apoptosis of ACC cells. Subsequent in vivo and in vitro results demonstrated that the JNK, p38 MAPK and ER stress pathways were activated in curcumin-treated ACC cells, and that C/EBP homologous protein induction was responsible for curcumin-induced apoptosis of ACC cells. In summary, curcumin induced ACC cell apoptosis and inhibited tumour growth by activating the JNK, p38 MAPK and ER stress pathways. Thus, curcumin may be a potential therapeutic drug for ACC.

Curcumin inhibited the growth and invasion of human monocytic leukaemia SHI-1 cells in vivo by altering MAPK and MMP signalling

Context: Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound extracted from the rhizome of the tropical plant Curcuma longa L. (Zingiberaceae), has been considered as a cancer chemopreventive drug by American National Cancer Institute.Objective: To examine the effect of curcumin on acute monocytic leukaemia SHI-1 cells in vivo.Materials and methods: The SHI-1 cells (1 × 10⁶ cells in 0.1 mL PBS) were injected subcutaneously into the right flanks of the female SCID mice. Curcumin dissolved in olive oil (15 and 30 mg/kg) was administered (i.p.) to mice once a day for 15 days while the control group received olive oil injection. Tumour proliferation and apoptosis were examined by PCNA, TUNEL and cleaved caspase-3 staining. The expression of MAPK, NF-κB, MMP9, MMP2 and vimentin were confirmed by RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry or western blotting.Results: Administration of curcumin significantly inhibited tumour growth, as the tumour weight decreased from 0.67 g (control) to 0.47 g (15 mg/kg) and 0.35 g (30 mg/kg). Curcumin inhibited the expression of PCNA and increased the degree of TUNEL and cleaved caspase-3 staining in tumour tissue. The results of western blotting showed that curcumin treatment inhibited NF-κB and ERK signalling while activating p38 and JNK. Moreover, curcumin attenuated the mRNA transcription and protein expression of MMP2 and MMP9. Curcumin also suppressed the level of vimentin.Discussion and conclusions: Our study demonstrates that curcumin can inhibit the growth and invasion of human monocytic leukaemia in vivo, suggesting the possible use of curcumin for anti-metastasis in leukaemia and the value of determining its unique target.

TRIM67 inhibits tumor proliferation and metastasis by mediating MAPK11 in Colorectal Cancer

Purpose: We recently reported that tripartite motif-containing 67 (TRIM67) activates p53 to suppress colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the function and mechanism of TRIM67 in the inhibition of CRC cell proliferation and metastasis remains to be further elucidated.

Methods: We detected the expression of TRIM67 in CRC tissues compared with normal tissues and confirmed its relationship with clinicopathological features. DNA methylation of TRIM67 was analyzed to determine its significantly hypermethylated sites in CRC tissues. CCK-8, colony formation, transwell migration, and Matrigel invasion assays were performed to evaluate the effects of TRIM67 on cell proliferation and metastasis in CRC cells. RNA sequencing of TRIM67 and TRIM67 rescue experiments were performed to reveal its mechanisms in CRC cell proliferation and metastasis.

Results:TRIM67 expression was significantly downregulated in CRC tissues and its expression was associated with clinical stage, invasive depth, tumor size, lymph node metastasis, and Dukes' stage. Three methylation sites were significantly hypermethylated and negatively correlated with TRIM67 expression in CRC tissues. TRIM67 suppressed proliferation, migration, and invasion in CRC cells. RNA sequencing revealed that protein mitogen-activated protein kinase 11 (MAPK11) was a potential downstream negative regulatory gene of TRIM67. Reversing MAPK11 expression could rescue the effects of TRIM67 on the proliferation and metastasis of CRC cells.

Conclusion:TRIM67 inhibited cell proliferation and metastasis by mediating MAPK11 in CRC, and may be a potential target to inhibit CRC metastasis.

Curcumin and colorectal cancer: An update and current perspective on this natural medicine

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of most common malignancies worldwide and its incidence is still growing. In spite of recent advances in targeted therapies, their clinical efficacy has been limited, non-curative and unaffordable. A growing body of literature indicates that CRC is a multi-modal disease, where a variety of factors within the tumor microenvironment play a significant role in its pathogenesis. For instance, imbalance in gut microbial profiles and impaired intestinal barrier function contribute to the overall intestinal inflammation and initiation of CRC. Moreover, persistent chronic inflammation favors a tumor microenvironment for the growth of cancer. In addition, autophagy or 'self-eating' is a surveillance mechanism involved in the degradation of cellular constituents that are generated under stressful conditions. Cancer stem cells (CSCs), on the other hand, engage in the onset of CRC and are able to endow cancer cells with chemo-resistance. Furthermore, the aberrant epigenetic alterations promote CRC. These evidences highlight the need for multi-targeted approaches that are not only safe and inexpensive but offer a more effective alternative to current generation of targeted drugs. Curcumin, derived from the plant Curcuma longa, represents one such option that has a long history of its use for a variety of chronic disease including cancer, in Indian ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine. Scientific evidence over the past few decades have overwhelmingly shown that curcumin exhibits a multitude of anti-cancer activities orchestrated through key signaling pathways associated with cancer. In this article, we will present a current update and perspective on this natural medicine - incorporating the basic cellular mechanisms it effects and the current state of clinical evidence, challenges and promise for its use as a cancer preventative and potential adjunct together with modern therapies for CRC patients.

Quinacrine and curcumin synergistically increased the breast cancer stem cells death by inhibiting ABCG2 and modulating DNA damage repair pathway

Cancer stem cell like cells (CSCs) present a challenge in the management of cancers due to their involvement in the development of resistance against various chemotherapeutic agents. Over expression of ABCG2 transporter gene is one of the factors responsible for drug resistance in CSCs, which causes efflux of therapeutic drugs from these cells. The development of inhibitors against CSCs has not achieved any significant success, till date. In this work, we have evaluated the anti-proliferative activity of curcumin (Cur) and quinacrine (QC) against CSCs using in vitro model system. Cur and QC synergistically inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of CSCs enriched side population (SP) cells of cigarette smoke condensate induced breast epithelial transformed (MCF-10A-Tr) generated metastatic cells. Cur + QC combination increased the DNA damage and inhibited the DNA repair pathways in SP cells. Uptake of QC increased in Cur pre-treated SP cells and this combination inhibited the ABCG2 activity by the reduction of ATP hydrolysis in cells. In vitro DNA binding reconstitution system suggests that QC specifically binds to DNA and caused DNA damage inside the cell. Decreased level of ABCG2, representative cell survival and DNA repair proteins were noted after Cur + QC treatment in SP cells. The molecular docking studies were performed to examine the binding behaviour of these drugs with ABCG2, which showed that QC (-53.99 kcal/mol) and Cur (-45.90 kcal/mol) occupy a highly overlapping interaction domain. This suggested that in Cur pre-treated cells, the Cur occupied the ligand-binding site in ABCG2, thus making the ligand binding site unavailable for the QC. This causes an increase in the intracellular concentration of QC. The results indicate that Cur + QC combination causes CSCs death by increasing the concentration of QC in the cells and thus causing the DNA damage and inhibiting the DNA repair pathways through modulating the ABCG2 activity.

Hsp70 inhibitors: Implications for the treatment of colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies in the world. Despite intensive advances in diagnosis and treatment of CRC, it is yet one of the leading cause of cancer related morbidity and mortality. Therefore, there is an urgent medical need for alternative therapeutic approaches to treat CRC. The 70 kDa heat shock proteins (Hsp70s) are a family of evolutionary conserved heat shock proteins, which play an important role in cell homeostasis and survival. They overexpress in various types of malignancy including CRC and are typically accompanied with poor prognosis. Hence, inhibition of Hsp70 may be considered as a striking chemotherapeutic avenue. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the progress made so far to discover compounds, which target the Hsp70 family, with particular emphasis on their efficacy in treatment of CRC. We also briefly explain the induction of Hsp70 as a strategy to prevent CRC.

Natural products with SGLT2 inhibitory activity: Possibilities of application for the treatment of diabetes

Diabetes mellitus currently affects as many as 400 million people worldwide, creating a heavy economic burden and stretching health care resources. A dysfunction of glucose homeostasis underlies the disease. Despite advances in the treatment of diabetes, many patients still suffer from complications and side effects; hence, development of more effective treatments for diabetes is still desirable. SGLT2 is the principle cotransporter involved in glucose reabsorption in the kidney. SGLT2 inhibition reduces glucose reabsorption by the kidney and ameliorates plasma glucose concentration. The interest in natural products that can be used for the inhibition of SGLT2 is growing. The flavonoid phlorizin, which can be isolated from the bark of apple trees, has been used as lead structure due to its inhibitory activity of SGLT1 and SGLT2. Some phlorizin-derived synthetic compounds, including canagliflozin, dapagliflozin, empagliflozin, ipragliflozin, and ertugliflozin, are approved by the food and drug administration to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), whereas others are under clinical trials investigation. In addition, other natural product-derived compounds have been investigated for their ability to improve blood glucose control. The present review summarizes the natural products with SGLT2 inhibitory activity, and the synthetic compounds obtained from them, and discusses their application for the treatment of diabetes.

MicroRNAs as potential therapeutic targets to predict responses to oxaliplatin in colorectal cancer: From basic evidence to therapeutic implication

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies with poor prognosis. Oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy is an important treatment for CRC; however, the cells develop resistance to therapy. The mechanisms underlying oxaliplatin resistance are complex and unclear. There is increasing evidence that microRNAs (miRNAs) (i.e., miR-34a, miR-143, miR-153, miR-27a, miR-218, and miR-520) play an essential role in tumorigenesis and chemotherapy resistance, by targeting various cellular and molecular pathways (i.e., PI3K/Akt/Wnt, EMT, p53, p21, and ATM) that are involved in the pathogenesis of CRC. Identifying the miRNAs that are involved in chemo-resistance, and their function, may help as a potential therapeutic option for treatment of CRC or as potential prognostic biomarker. Here, we summarized the clinical impact of miRNAs that have critical roles in the development of resistance to oxaliplatin in CRC.

Effects of Curcumin on Vessel Formation Insight into the Pro- and Antiangiogenesis of Curcumin

Curcumin is a compound extracted from the Curcuma longa L, which possesses a wide range of pharmacological effects. However, few studies have collected scientific evidence on its dual effect on angiogenesis. The present review gathered the fragmented information available in the literature to discuss the dual effect and possible mechanisms of curcumin on angiogenesis. Available information concerning the effect of curcumin on angiogenesis is compiled from scientific databases, including PubMed and Web of Science using the key term (curcumin and angiogenesis). The results were reviewed to identify relevant articles. Related literature demonstrated that curcumin has antiangiogenesis effect via regulating multiple factors, including proangiogenesis factor VEGF, MMPs, and FGF, both in vivo and in vitro, and could promote angiogenesis under certain circumstances via these factors. This paper provided a short review on bidirectional action of curcumin, which should be useful for further study and application of this compound that require further studies.

Extrinsic or Intrinsic Apoptosis by Curcumin and Light: Still a Mystery

Curcumin—a rhizomal phytochemical from the plant Curcuma longa—is well known to inhibit cell proliferation and to induce apoptosis in a broad range of cell lines. In previous studies we showed that combining low curcumin concentrations and subsequent ultraviolet A radiation (UVA) or VIS irradiation induced anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects. There is still debate whether curcumin induces apoptosis via the extrinsic or the intrinsic pathway. To address this question, we investigated in three epithelial cell lines (HaCaT, A431, A549) whether the death receptors CD95, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-receptor I and II are involved in apoptosis induced by light and curcumin. Cells were incubated with 0.25–0.5 µg/mL curcumin followed by irradiation with 1 J/cm² UVA. This treatment was combined with inhibitors specific for distinct membrane-bound death receptors. After 24 h apoptosis induction was monitored by quantitative determination of cytoplasmic histone-associated-DNA-fragments. Validation of our test system showed that apoptosis induced by CH11 and TNF-α could be completely inhibited by their respective antagonists. Interestingly, apoptosis induced by curcumin/light treatment was reversed by none of the herein examined death receptor antagonists. These results indicate a mechanism of action independent from classical death receptors speaking for intrinsic activation of apoptosis. It could be speculated that a shift in cellular redox balance might prompt the pro-apoptotic processes.