1
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Almilaibary A. Phyto-therapeutics as anti-cancer agents in breast cancer: Pathway targeting and mechanistic elucidation. Saudi J Biol Sci 2024; 31:103935. [PMID: 38327657 PMCID: PMC10847379 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2024.103935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer of the breast is the mainly prevalent class of cancer in females diagnosed over the globe. It also happens to be the 2nd most prevalent reason of cancer-related deaths among females worldwide. Some of the most common type's therapies for carcinoma of the breast involve radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and resection. Many studies are being conducted to develop new therapeutic strategies for better diagnosis of breast cancer. An enormous number of anticancer medications have been developed as a result of growing understanding of the molecular pathways behind the advancement of cancer. Over the past few decades, the general survival rate has not greatly increased due to the usage of chemically manufactured medications. Therefore, in order to increase the effectiveness of current cancer treatments, new tactics and cutting-edge chemoprevention drugs are required. Phytochemicals, which are naturally occurring molecules derived from plants, are important sources for both cancer therapy and innovative medication development. These phytochemicals frequently work by controlling molecular pathways linked to the development and spread of cancer. Increasing antioxidant status, inactivating carcinogens, preventing proliferation, causing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, and immune system control are some of the specific ways. This primary objective of this review is to provide an overview of the active ingredients found in natural goods, including information on their pharmacologic action, molecular targets, and current state of knowledge. We have given a thorough description of a number of natural substances that specifically target the pathways linked to breast carcinoma in this study. We've conducted a great deal of study on a few natural compounds that may help us identify novel targets for the detection of breast carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Almilaibary
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Albaha University, Albaha, Saudi Arabia
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2
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Chagas Monteiro KL, dos Santos Alcântara MG, de Aquino TM, Ferreira da Silva-Júnior E. Insights on Natural Products Against Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Curr Neuropharmacol 2024; 22:1169-1188. [PMID: 38708921 PMCID: PMC10964095 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x22666231016153606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that causes the death of motor neurons and consequent muscle paralysis. Despite many efforts to address it, current therapy targeting ALS remains limited, increasing the interest in complementary therapies. Over the years, several herbal preparations and medicinal plants have been studied to prevent and treat this disease, which has received remarkable attention due to their blood-brain barrier penetration properties and low toxicity. Thus, this review presents the therapeutic potential of a variety of medicinal herbs and their relationship with ALS and their physiopathological pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kadja Luana Chagas Monteiro
- Research Group on Therapeutic Strategies - GPET, Laboratory of Synthesis and Research in Medicinal Chemistry - LSPMED, Institute of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Federal University of Alagoas, 57072-970, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Marcone Gomes dos Santos Alcântara
- Research Group on Therapeutic Strategies - GPET, Laboratory of Synthesis and Research in Medicinal Chemistry - LSPMED, Institute of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Federal University of Alagoas, 57072-970, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Thiago Mendonça de Aquino
- Research Group on Therapeutic Strategies - GPET, Laboratory of Synthesis and Research in Medicinal Chemistry - LSPMED, Institute of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Federal University of Alagoas, 57072-970, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
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3
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Zavareh VA, Gharibi S, Hosseini Rizi M, Nekookar A, Mirhendi H, Rahimmalek M, Szumny A. Satureja bachtiarica Induces Cancer Cell Death in Breast and Glioblastoma Cancer in 2D/3D Models and Suppresses Breast Cancer Stem Cells. Cells 2023; 12:2713. [PMID: 38067141 PMCID: PMC10706021 DOI: 10.3390/cells12232713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Overcoming drug resistance and specifically targeting cancer stem cells (CSCs) are critical challenges in improving cancer therapy. Nowadays, the use of novel and native medicinal plants can provide new sources for further investigations for this purpose. The aim of this study was to assess the potential of S. bachtiarica, an endemic plant with diverse medicinal applications, in suppressing and targeting cancer and cancer stem cells in glioblastoma and breast cancer. The effect of S. bachtiarica on viability, migration, invasion, and clonogenic potential of MDAMB-231 and U87-MG cells was assessed in both two- and three-dimensional cell culture models. Additionally, we evaluated its effects on the self-renewal capacity of mammospheres. The experimental outcomes indicated that S. bachtiarica decreased the viability and growth rate of cells and spheroids by inducing apoptosis and inhibited colony formation, migration, and invasion of cells and spheroids. Additionally, colony and sphere-forming ability, as well as the expression of genes associated with EMT and stemness were reduced in mammospheres treated with S. bachtiarica. In conclusion, this study provided valuable insights into the anti-cancer effects of S. bachtiarica, particularly in relation to breast CSCs. Therefore, S. bachtiarica may be a potential adjuvant for the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vajihe Azimian Zavareh
- Core Research Facilities (CRF), Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan 81746-73461, Iran; (V.A.Z.); (S.G.); (M.H.R.); (A.N.); (H.M.)
| | - Shima Gharibi
- Core Research Facilities (CRF), Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan 81746-73461, Iran; (V.A.Z.); (S.G.); (M.H.R.); (A.N.); (H.M.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology and Biotechnology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-367 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Mahnaz Hosseini Rizi
- Core Research Facilities (CRF), Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan 81746-73461, Iran; (V.A.Z.); (S.G.); (M.H.R.); (A.N.); (H.M.)
| | - Abdolhossein Nekookar
- Core Research Facilities (CRF), Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan 81746-73461, Iran; (V.A.Z.); (S.G.); (M.H.R.); (A.N.); (H.M.)
| | - Hossein Mirhendi
- Core Research Facilities (CRF), Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan 81746-73461, Iran; (V.A.Z.); (S.G.); (M.H.R.); (A.N.); (H.M.)
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan 81746-73461, Iran
| | - Mehdi Rahimmalek
- Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111, Iran
- Department of Food Chemistry and Biocatalysis, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 50-375 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Antoni Szumny
- Department of Food Chemistry and Biocatalysis, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 50-375 Wrocław, Poland
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4
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Zhou X, Zeng Y, Zheng R, Wang Y, Li T, Song S, Zhang S, Huang J, Ren Y. Natural products modulate cell apoptosis: a promising way for treating endometrial cancer. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1209412. [PMID: 37361222 PMCID: PMC10285317 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1209412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer (EC) is a prevalent epithelial malignancy in the uterine corpus's endometrium and myometrium. Regulating apoptosis of endometrial cancer cells has been a promising approach for treating EC. Recent in-vitro and in-vivo studies show that numerous extracts and monomers from natural products have pro-apoptotic properties in EC. Therefore, we have reviewed the current studies regarding natural products in modulating the apoptosis of EC cells and summarized their potential mechanisms. The potential signaling pathways include the mitochondria-dependent apoptotic pathway, endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) mediated apoptotic pathway, the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) mediated apoptotic pathway, NF-κB-mediated apoptotic pathway, PI3K/AKT/mTOR mediated apoptotic pathway, the p21-mediated apoptotic pathway, and other reported pathways. This review focuses on the importance of natural products in treating EC and provides a foundation for developing natural products-based anti-EC agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhou
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yiwei Zeng
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Runchen Zheng
- School of Chinese Classics, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuemei Wang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Tao Li
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Shanshan Song
- School of Chinese Classics, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Su Zhang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jinzhu Huang
- School of Nursing, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Department of Gynecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yulan Ren
- School of Chinese Classics, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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5
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Ma TL, Chang KF, Huang XF, Lai HC, Hsiao CY, Tsai NM. Angelica sinensis extract induces telomere dysfunction, cell cycle arrest, and mitochondria-mediated apoptosis in human glioblastoma cells. CHINESE J PHYSIOL 2023; 66:119-128. [PMID: 37322622 DOI: 10.4103/cjop.cjop-d-23-00024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GB) is one of the most aggressive and malignant tumors of the central nervous system. Conventional treatment for GB requires surgical resection followed by radiotherapy combined with temozolomide chemotherapy; however, the median survival time is only 12-15 months. Angelica sinensis Radix (AS) is commonly used as a traditional medicinal herb or a food/dietary supplement in Asia, Europe, and North America. This study aimed to investigate the effect of AS-acetone extract (AS-A) on the progression of GB and the potential mechanisms underlying its effects. The results indicated that AS-A used in this study showed potency in growth inhibition of GB cells and reduction of telomerase activity. In addition, AS-A blocked the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase by regulating the expression of p53 and p16. Furthermore, apoptotic morphology, such as chromatin condensation, DNA fragmentation, and apoptotic bodies, was observed in AS-A-treated cells, induced by the activation of the mitochondria-mediated pathway. In an animal study, AS-A reduced tumor volume and prolonged lifespans of mice, with no significant changes in body weight or obvious organ toxicity. This study confirmed the anticancer effects of AS-A by inhibiting cell proliferation, reducing telomerase activity, altering cell cycle progression, and inducing apoptosis. These findings suggest that AS-A has great potential for development as a novel agent or dietary supplement against GB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsung-Liang Ma
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Kai-Fu Chang
- Department of Medical Laboratory and Biotechnology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Xiao-Fan Huang
- Department of Medical Laboratory and Biotechnology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Chih Lai
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital; Institute of Pharmacology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Yen Hsiao
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Nu-Man Tsai
- Department of Medical Laboratory and Biotechnology, Chung Shan Medical University; Clinical Laboratory, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung; Department of Life-and-Death Studies, Nanhua University, Chiayi, Taiwan
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6
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Hashem S, Ali TA, Akhtar S, Nisar S, Sageena G, Ali S, Al-Mannai S, Therachiyil L, Mir R, Elfaki I, Mir MM, Jamal F, Masoodi T, Uddin S, Singh M, Haris M, Macha M, Bhat AA. Targeting cancer signaling pathways by natural products: Exploring promising anti-cancer agents. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 150:113054. [PMID: 35658225 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death and significantly burdens the healthcare system. Due to its prevalence, there is undoubtedly an unmet need to discover novel anticancer drugs. The use of natural products as anticancer agents is an acceptable therapeutic approach due to accessibility, applicability, and reduced cytotoxicity. Natural products have been an incomparable source of anticancer drugs in the modern era of drug discovery. Along with their derivatives and analogs, natural products play a major role in cancer treatment by modulating the cancer microenvironment and different signaling pathways. These compounds are effective against several signaling pathways, mainly cell death pathways (apoptosis and autophagy) and embryonic developmental pathways (Notch pathway, Wnt pathway, and Hedgehog pathway). The historical record of natural products is strong, but there is a need to investigate the current role of natural products in the discovery and development of cancer drugs and determine the possibility of natural products being an important source of future therapeutic agents. Many target-specific anticancer drugs failed to provide successful results, which accounts for a need to investigate natural products with multi-target characteristics to achieve better outcomes. The potential of natural products to be promising novel compounds for cancer treatment makes them an important area of research. This review explores the significance of natural products in inhibiting the various signaling pathways that serve as drivers of carcinogenesis and thus pave the way for developing and discovering anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheema Hashem
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Tayyiba Akbar Ali
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sabah Akhtar
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sabah Nisar
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Shahid Ali
- International Potato Center (CIP), Shillong, Meghalaya, India
| | - Sharefa Al-Mannai
- Division of Translational Medicine, Research Branch, Sidra Medicine, Doha 26999, Qatar
| | - Lubna Therachiyil
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Rashid Mir
- Prince Fahd Bin Sultan Research chair, Department Of Medical Lab Technology, FAMS, University of Tabuk,Saudi Arabia
| | - Imadeldin Elfaki
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Muzaffar Mir
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Farrukh Jamal
- Dr. Rammanohar Lohia Avadh University, Ayodhya, India
| | - Tariq Masoodi
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shahab Uddin
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mayank Singh
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, India
| | - Mohammad Haris
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar; Laboratory Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar; Center for Advanced Metabolic Imaging in Precision Medicine, Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Muzafar Macha
- Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine, Islamic University of Science and Technology, Kashmir, India.
| | - Ajaz A Bhat
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar.
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7
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Meerson A, Khatib S, Mahajna J. Natural Products Targeting Cancer Stem Cells for Augmenting Cancer Therapeutics. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222313044. [PMID: 34884848 PMCID: PMC8657727 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222313044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSC) have been identified in several types of solid tumors. In some cases, CSC may be the source of all the tumor cells, the cause of the tumor's resistance to chemotherapeutic agents, and the source of metastatic cells. Thus, a combination therapy targeting non-CSC tumor cells as well as specifically targeting CSCs holds the potential to be highly effective. Natural products (NPs) have been a historically rich source of biologically active compounds and are known for their ability to influence multiple signaling pathways simultaneously with negligible side effects. In this review, we discuss the potential of NPs in targeting multiple signaling pathways in CSC and their potential to augment the efficacy of standard cancer therapy. Specifically, we focus on the anti-CSC activities of flavonoids, FDA-approved drugs originating from natural sources. Additionally, we emphasize the potential of NPs in targeting microRNA-mediated signaling, given the roles of microRNA in the maintenance of the CSC phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ari Meerson
- Department of Natural Products and Nutrition, MIGAL—Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona 11016, Israel; (A.M.); (S.K.)
- Faculty of Sciences, Tel Hai Academic College, Qiryat Shemona 12208, Israel
| | - Soliman Khatib
- Department of Natural Products and Nutrition, MIGAL—Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona 11016, Israel; (A.M.); (S.K.)
- Faculty of Sciences, Tel Hai Academic College, Qiryat Shemona 12208, Israel
| | - Jamal Mahajna
- Department of Natural Products and Nutrition, MIGAL—Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona 11016, Israel; (A.M.); (S.K.)
- Faculty of Sciences, Tel Hai Academic College, Qiryat Shemona 12208, Israel
- Correspondence:
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8
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Phytomedicines Targeting Cancer Stem Cells: Therapeutic Opportunities and Prospects for Pharmaceutical Development. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14070676. [PMID: 34358102 PMCID: PMC8308767 DOI: 10.3390/ph14070676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of small subpopulations of cells within tumor cells are known as cancer stem cells (CSCs). These cells have been the reason for metastasis, resistance with chemotherapy or radiotherapy, and tumor relapse in several types of cancers. CSCs underwent to epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and resulted in the development of aggressive tumors. CSCs have potential to modulate numerous signaling pathways including Wnt, Hh, and Notch, therefore increasing the stem-like characteristics of cancer cells. The raised expression of drug efflux pump and suppression of apoptosis has shown increased resistance with anti-cancer drugs. Among many agents which were shown to modulate these, the plant-derived bioactive agents appear to modulate these key regulators and were shown to remove CSCs. This review aims to comprehensively scrutinize the preclinical and clinical studies demonstrating the effects of phytocompounds on CSCs isolated from various tumors. Based on the available convincing literature from preclinical studies, with some clinical data, it is apparent that selective targeting of CSCs with plants, plant preparations, and plant-derived bioactive compounds, termed phytochemicals, may be a promising strategy for the treatment of relapsed cancers.
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9
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Alves ALV, Gomes INF, Carloni AC, Rosa MN, da Silva LS, Evangelista AF, Reis RM, Silva VAO. Role of glioblastoma stem cells in cancer therapeutic resistance: a perspective on antineoplastic agents from natural sources and chemical derivatives. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:206. [PMID: 33762015 PMCID: PMC7992331 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02231-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the highest-grade form of glioma, as well as one of the most aggressive types of cancer, exhibiting rapid cellular growth and highly invasive behavior. Despite significant advances in diagnosis and therapy in recent decades, the outcomes for high-grade gliomas (WHO grades III-IV) remain unfavorable, with a median overall survival time of 15–18 months. The concept of cancer stem cells (CSCs) has emerged and provided new insight into GBM resistance and management. CSCs can self-renew and initiate tumor growth and are also responsible for tumor cell heterogeneity and the induction of systemic immunosuppression. The idea that GBM resistance could be dependent on innate differences in the sensitivity of clonogenic glial stem cells (GSCs) to chemotherapeutic drugs/radiation prompted the scientific community to rethink the understanding of GBM growth and therapies directed at eliminating these cells or modulating their stemness. This review aims to describe major intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms that mediate chemoradioresistant GSCs and therapies based on antineoplastic agents from natural sources, derivatives, and synthetics used alone or in synergistic combination with conventional treatment. We will also address ongoing clinical trials focused on these promising targets. Although the development of effective therapy for GBM remains a major challenge in molecular oncology, GSC knowledge can offer new directions for a promising future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Laura V Alves
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Izabela N F Gomes
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adriana C Carloni
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcela N Rosa
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luciane S da Silva
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adriane F Evangelista
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rui Manuel Reis
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil.,Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4806-909, Braga, Portugal
| | - Viviane Aline O Silva
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil.
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10
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Wang H, Cui G, Yu B, Sun M, Yang H. Cancer Stem Cell Niche in Colorectal Cancer and Targeted Therapies. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 26:1979-1993. [PMID: 32268862 DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666200408102305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), also known as tumor-initiating cells, are a sub-population of tumor cells found in many human cancers that are endowed with self-renewal and pluripotency. CSCs may be more resistant to conventional anticancer therapies than average cancer cells, as they can easily escape the cytotoxic effects of standard chemotherapy, thereby resulting in tumor relapse. Despite significant progress in related research, effective elimination of CSCs remains an unmet clinical need. CSCs are localized in a specialized microenvironment termed the niche, which plays a pivotal role in cancer multidrug resistance. The niche components of CSCs, such as the extracellular matrix, also physically shelter CSCs from therapeutic agents. Colorectal cancer is the most common malignancy worldwide and presents a relatively transparent process of cancer initiation and development, making it an ideal model for CSC niche research. Here, we review recent advances in the field of CSCs using colorectal cancer as an example to illustrate the potential therapeutic value of targeting the CSC niche. These findings not only provide a novel theoretical basis for in-depth discussions on tumor occurrence, development, and prognosis evaluation, but also offer new strategies for the targeted treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wang
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Drug Discovery, School of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China.,Laboratory medical college, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
| | - Guihua Cui
- School of Pharmacy, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
| | - Bo Yu
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Drug Discovery, School of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China
| | - Meiyan Sun
- Laboratory medical college, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
| | - Hong Yang
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Drug Discovery, School of Life Sciences, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China
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11
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Majolo F, Caye B, Stoll SN, Leipelt J, Abujamra AL, Goettert MI. Prevention and Therapy of Prostate Cancer: An Update on Alternatives for Treatment and Future Perspectives. CURRENT DRUG THERAPY 2020. [DOI: 10.2174/1574885514666190917150635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Prostate cancer is one of the most prevalent cancer types in men worldwide. With the
progression of the disease to independent stimulation by androgen hormones, it becomes more difficult
to control its progress. In addition, several studies have shown that chronic inflammation is
directly related to the onset and progression of this cancer. For many decades, conventional chemotherapeutic
drugs have not made significant progress in the treatment of prostate cancer. However,
the discovery of docetaxel yielded the first satisfactory responses of increased survival of
patients. In addition, alternative therapies using biomolecules derived from secondary metabolites
of natural products are promising in the search for new treatments. Despite the advances in the
treatment of this disease in the last two decades, the results are still insufficient and conventional
therapies do not present the expected results they once promised. Thus, a revision and
(re)establishment of prostate cancer therapeutic strategies are necessary. In this review, we also
approach suggested treatments for molecular biomarkers in advanced prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Majolo
- Instituto do Cérebro do Rio Grande do Sul (InsCer), Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina e Ciências da Saúde, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Bruna Caye
- Laboratatório de Cultura de Células, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade do Vale do Taquari – UNIVATES, Lajeado, Brazil
| | - Stefani Natali Stoll
- Laboratatório de Cultura de Células, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade do Vale do Taquari – UNIVATES, Lajeado, Brazil
| | - Juliano Leipelt
- Laboratatório de Cultura de Células, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade do Vale do Taquari – UNIVATES, Lajeado, Brazil
| | - Ana Lúcia Abujamra
- Laboratatório de Cultura de Células, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade do Vale do Taquari – UNIVATES, Lajeado, Brazil
| | - Márcia Inês Goettert
- Laboratatório de Cultura de Células, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade do Vale do Taquari – UNIVATES, Lajeado, Brazil
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Modi SJ, Kulkarni VM. Discovery of VEGFR-2 inhibitors exerting significant anticancer activity against CD44+ and CD133+ cancer stem cells (CSCs): Reversal of TGF-β induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in hepatocellular carcinoma. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 207:112851. [PMID: 33002846 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignancy characterized by neoangiogenesis, which is an augmented production of proangiogenic factors by the tumor and its adjacent infected cells. These dysregulated angiogenic factors are the therapeutic targets in anti-angiogenic drug development. The signaling pathway of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)/VEGFR-2 is crucial for controlling the angiogenic responses in endothelial cells (ECs). In this study, we carried out a rational drug design approach wherein we have identified the novel orally bioavailable compound VS 8 as a potent VEGFR-2 inhibitor, which remarkably suppresses hVEGF and hVEGFR-2 expression in HUVECs and exhibits significant anti-angiogenic effects in CAM assay. Besides, VS 8 significantly induces apoptosis in HCC cell line (Hep G2). Later we examined its effectiveness against CD44+ and CD133+ CSCs. Here, VS 8 was found to be active against CSCs, and adequate for the cessation of the cell cycle at 'G0/G1' and 'S' phase in CD44+ and CD133+ CSCs respectively. Factually, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) stimulated epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) induces invasion and migration of HCC cells, which results in the metastasis. Therefore, we studied the effect of VS 8 on EMT markers using flow cytometry, which suggested that VS 8 significantly upregulates E-cadherin (epithelial biomarker) and downregulates vimentin (mesenchymal biomarker). Further, VS 8 downregulates the expression of EMT-inducing transcription factors (EMT-TFs), i.e., SNAIL. Altogether, our findings indicate that VS 8 could be a promising drug candidate for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddharth J Modi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune, 411038, Maharashtra, India
| | - Vithal M Kulkarni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune, 411038, Maharashtra, India.
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Encapsulation of berberine into liquid crystalline nanoparticles to enhance its solubility and anticancer activity in MCF7 human breast cancer cells. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2020.101756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Koroth J, Nirgude S, Tiwari S, Gopalakrishnan V, Mahadeva R, Kumar S, Karki SS, Choudhary B. Investigation of anti-cancer and migrastatic properties of novel curcumin derivatives on breast and ovarian cancer cell lines. Altern Ther Health Med 2019; 19:273. [PMID: 31638975 PMCID: PMC6802352 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-019-2685-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Background Curcumin is known for its multitude of medicinal properties, including anti-cancer and migrastatic activity. Efforts to overcome poor bioavailability, stability, and side effects associated with the higher dose of curcumin has led to the development of newer derivatives of curcumin. Thus, the focus of this study is to screen novel curcumin derivatives, namely ST03 and ST08, which have not been reported before, for their cytotoxicity and migrastatic property on cancer cells. Methods Anti-cancer activity of ST03 and ST08 was carried out using standard cytotoxicity assays viz., LDH, MTT, and Trypan blue on both solid and liquid cancer types. Flow cytometric assays and western blotting was used to investigate the cell death mechanisms. Transwell migration assay was carried out to check for migrastatic properties of the compounds. Results Both the compounds, ST03 and ST08, showed ~ 100 fold higher potency on liquid and solid tumour cell lines compared to its parent compound curcumin. They induced cytotoxicity by activating the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis in the breast (MDA-MB-231) and ovarian cancer cell lines (PA-1) bearing metastatic and stem cell properties, respectively. Moreover, ST08 also showed inhibition on breast cancer cell migration by inhibiting MMP1 (matrix metalloproteinase 1). Conclusion Both ST03 and ST08 exhibit anti-cancer activity at nanomolar concentration. They induce cell death by activating the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis. Also, they inhibit migration of the cancer cells by inhibiting MMP1 in breast cancer cells.
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Lans C. Do recent research studies validate the medicinal plants used in British Columbia, Canada for pet diseases and wild animals taken into temporary care? JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2019; 236:366-392. [PMID: 30772483 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.02.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE There are insufficient safe and effective treatments for chronic pain in pets. In cases such as osteoarthritis there is no commercially available cure and veterinarians use NSAIDs to manage pain. Pet owners may have to plan for a lifetime of plant-based treatment for the conditions that lead to chronic pain in pets. Phytopharmacotherapies have the advantage of being less toxic, cheap or free, readily available, are more likely to be safe for long-term use and have the potential to reset the immune system to normal functioning. AIM OF THE STUDY To examine the recently published medicinal plant research that matches unpublished data on ethnoveterinary medicines (EVM) used for pets in Canada (British Columbia) to see if the EVM data can provide a lead to the development of necessary drugs. MATERIALS AND METHODS In 2003 semi-structured interviews were conducted with 60 participants who were organic farmers or holisitic medicinal/veterinary practitioners obtained using a purposive sample. A draft manual prepared from the data was then evaluated by participants at a participatory workshop that discussed the plant-based treatments. A copy of the final version of the manual was given to all research participants. In 2018, the recently published research matching the EVM data was reviewed to see if the EVM practices could serve as a lead for further research. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION Medicinal plants are used to treat a range of conditions. The injuries treated in pets in British Columbia included abscesses (resulting from an initial injury), sprains and abrasions. Dogs were also treated with medicinal plants for rheumatoid arthritis, joint pain and articular cartilage injuries. More than 40 plants were used. Anal gland problems were treated with Allium sativum L., Aloe vera L., Calendula officinalis L., Plantago major L., Ulmus fulva Michx., Urtica dioica L. and Usnea longissima Ach. Arctium lappa, Hydrangea arborescens and Lactuca muralis were used for rheumatoid arthritis and joint pain in pets. Asthma was treated with: Linum usitatissimum L., Borago officinalis L., Verbascum thapsus L., Cucurbita pepo L., Lobelia inflata L., and Zingiber officinale Roscoe. Pets with heart problems were treated with Crataegus oxyacantha L., Cedronella canariensis (L.) Willd. ex Webb & Berth, Equisetum palustre L., Cypripedium calceolus L., Pinus ponderosa Douglas ex Lawson, Humulus lupulus L., Valeriana officinalis L., Lobelia inflata L., Stachys officinalis (L.) Trev., and Viscum album L. The following plants were used for epilepsy, motion sickness and anxiety- Avena sativa L., Valeriana officinalis, Lactuca muralis (L.) Fresen., Scutellaria lateriflora L., Satureja hortensis L., and Passiflora incarnata L. Plants used for cancer treatment included Phytolacca decandra, Ganoderma lucidum, Lentinula edodes, Rumex acetosella, Arctium lappa, Ulmus fulva, Rheum palmatum, Frangula purshiana, Zingiber officinale, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Ulmus fulva, Althea officinalis, Rheum palmatum, Rumex crispus and Plantago psyllium. Trifolium pratense was used for tumours in the prostate gland. Also used were Artemisia annua, Taraxacum officinale and Rumex crispus. This review of plants used in EVM was possible because phytotherapy research of the plants described in this paper has continued because few new pharmaceutical drugs have been developed for chronic pain and because treatments like glucocorticoid therapy do not heal. Phytotherapuetic products are also being investigated to address the overuse of antibiotics. There have also been recent studies conducted on plant-based functional foods and health supplements for pets, however there are still gaps in the knowledge base for the plants Stillingia sylvatica, Verbascum thapsus, Yucca schidigera and Iris versicolor and these need further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl Lans
- Institute for Ethnobotany and Zoopharmacognosy (IEZ), Rijksstraatweg 158A, 6573 DG Beek, the Netherlands.
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16
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Jin X, Liu MY, Zhang DF, Zhong X, Du K, Qian P, Gao H, Wei MJ. Natural products as a potential modulator of microglial polarization in neurodegenerative diseases. Pharmacol Res 2019; 145:104253. [PMID: 31059788 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2019.104253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Revised: 04/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are characterized by the progressive loss of structure and function of neurons most common in elderly population, mainly including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and multiple sclerosis (MS). Neuroinflammation caused by microglia as the resident macrophages of the central nervous system (CNS) plays a contributory role in the onset and progression of NDs. Activated microglia, as in macrophages, to be heterogeneous, can polarize into M1 (pro-inflammatory) and M2 (anti-inflammatory) functional phenotypes. The former elaborate pro-inflammatory mediators promoting neuroinflammation and neuronal damage. In contrast, the latter generate anti-inflammatory mediators and neurotrophins that inhibit neuroinflammation and promote neuronal healing. Consistently, the regulation of microglial polarization from M1 to M2 phenotype appears as an outstanding therapeutic and preventive approach for NDs treatment. Although non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) currently used to alleviate M1 microglia-associated neuroinflammation responsible for the development of NDs, these drugs have different degrees of adverse effects and limited efficacy. As the advantages of novel structure, multi-target, high efficiency and low toxicity, natural products as the modulators of microglial polarization have attracted considerable concerns in the therapeutic areas of NDs. In this review, we mainly summarized the therapeutic potential of natural products and their various molecular mechanisms for NDs treatment through modulating microglial polarization. The aim of the current review is expected to be useful to develop innovative modulators of microglial polarization from natural products for the amelioration and treatment of NDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Jin
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ming-Yan Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Dong-Fang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xin Zhong
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ke Du
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ping Qian
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Hua Gao
- Division of Pharmacology Laboratory, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Min-Jie Wei
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Anti-Tumor Drug Development and Evaluation, Shenyang, China.
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Soltanian S, Riahirad H, Pabarja A, Jafari E, Khandani BK. Effect of Cinnamic acid and FOLFOX in diminishing side population and downregulating cancer stem cell markers in colon cancer cell line HT-29. Daru 2018; 26:10.1007/s40199-018-0210-8. [PMID: 30209760 PMCID: PMC6154487 DOI: 10.1007/s40199-018-0210-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE There is a lot of evidence suggesting that a small subset of cancer cells resistant to conventional chemotherapy and radiotherapy and known as cancer stem cells (CSCs) is responsible for promoting metastasis and cancer relapse. Therefore, targeting and eliminating the CSCs could lead to higher survival rates and a better quality of life. In comparison with conventional chemical drugs that may not be effective against CSCs, phytochemicals are strong anti-CSCs agents. The current study examines the effect of 5-fluorouracil plus oxaliplatin (FOLFOX) as a common chemotherapy drug on colorectal cancer as well as the influence of Cinnamic acid (CINN) as a plant-derived phytochemical on colon cancer stem-like cells in HT-29 adenocarcinoma cell line. METHODS The anti-proliferative effect of FOLFOX and CINN was determined using MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] assay. Flow cytometry analysis was used for the identification of side population (SP), CD44, and CD133 positive cells. The expression of OCT4, NANOG, ABCB1, and ALDH1A was assessed by RT-PCR. RESULTS The FOLFOX and CINN decreased cell viability in certain drug concentrations: IC50 = 5,40 μM oxaliplatin +220 μM 5-fluorouracil, and 13,50 mM for CINN. The CSC-associated markers (OCT4, NANOG, ABCB1, and ALDH1A) and the proportion of cancer stem-like cells (SP cells, CD44, and CD133 positive cells) were downregulated following the treatment of HT-29 adenocarcinoma cell line with IC50 concentrations of FOLFOX and CINN. CONCLUSION Our data suggests that CINN, a naturally occurring component, could be more effective than FOLFOX treatment in reducing the cancer stem-like cells and expression of CSC markers from HT-29 colon cancer cells. Graphical abstract ᅟ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Soltanian
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Helia Riahirad
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Athareh Pabarja
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Elham Jafari
- Pathology and Stem Cell Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Science, Kerman, Iran
| | - Behjat Kalantari Khandani
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
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18
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Montagnani Marelli M, Marzagalli M, Fontana F, Raimondi M, Moretti RM, Limonta P. Anticancer properties of tocotrienols: A review of cellular mechanisms and molecular targets. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:1147-1164. [PMID: 30066964 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin E is composed of two groups of compounds: α-, β-, γ-, and δ-tocopherols (TPs), and the corresponding unsaturated tocotrienols (TTs). TTs are found in natural sources such as red palm oil, annatto seeds, and rice bran. In the last decades, TTs (specifically, γ-TT and δ-TT) have gained interest due to their health benefits in chronic diseases, based on their antioxidant, neuroprotective, cholesterol-lowering, anti-inflammatory activities. Several in vitro and in vivo studies pointed out that TTs also exert a significant antitumor activity in a wide range of cancer cells. Specifically, TTs were shown to exert antiproliferative/proapoptotic effects and to reduce the metastatic or angiogenic properties of different cancer cells; moreover, these compounds were reported to specifically target the subpopulation of cancer stem cells, known to be deeply involved in the development of resistance to standard therapies. Interestingly, recent studies pointed out that TTs exert a synergistic antitumor effect on cancer cells when given in combination with either standard antitumor agents (i.e., chemotherapeutics, statins, "targeted" therapies) or natural compounds with anticancer activity (i.e., sesamin, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), resveratrol, ferulic acid). Based on these observations, different TT synthetic derivatives and formulations were recently developed and demonstrated to improve TT water solubility and to reduce TT metabolism in cancer cells, thus increasing their biological activity. These promising results, together with the safety of TT administration in healthy subjects, suggest that these compounds might represent a new chemopreventive or anticancer treatment (i.e., in combination with standard therapies) strategy. Clinical trials aimed at confirming this antitumor activity of TTs are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Montagnani Marelli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Monica Marzagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Fontana
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Michela Raimondi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberta Manuela Moretti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Patrizia Limonta
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
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Ning Y, Cui Y, Li X, Cao X, Chen A, Xu C, Cao J, Luo X. Co-culture of ovarian cancer stem-like cells with macrophages induced SKOV3 cells stemness via IL-8/STAT3 signaling. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 103:262-271. [PMID: 29656182 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2018] [Revised: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Among recent concepts in the cancer biology field, the tumor microenvironment is highly associated with cancer stem cells, and plays a key role in tumor progression. This study aimed to explore the mechanism that the stemness induction of SKOV3 cell line by macrophages derived from THP-1 cells, which was co-cultured with SKOV3-derived ovarian cancer stem-like cells (OCSLCs). Sphere formation, soft agar colony formation, and expression levels of CD133 and CD44 were assessed to reflect OCSLC properties. ELISA was used to evaluate secretion profile changes in macrophages co-cultured with or without SKOV3-derived OCSLCs. For mechanistic evaluation, rhIL-8, IL-8 neutralizing antibody (IL-8 Ab), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) shRNA and STAT3 cDNA were used. The results showed that IL-10, VEGF, MMP-9, IL-8 secretion and CD163 and STAT3 expression levels in macrophages co-cultured with OCSLCs were increased compared with those from THP-1 cells, while IL-12 and NO amounts were significantly reduced, reflecting M2 macrophage polarization. Addition of rhIL-8 to THP-1 cell conditioned media promoted M2 macrophage polarization and stemness in SKOV3 cells, which were suppressed by IL-8 Ab addition to co-culture conditioned media. Consistently, overexpression of STAT3 induced M2 macrophage polarization and stemness in SKOV3 cells, which were inhibited by STAT3 knockdown in macrophages from THP-1 cells. Importantly, STAT3 overexpression rescued the effects of IL-8 Ab on M2 macrophage polarization and stemness in SKOV3 cells. These results suggested that stemness induction in SKOV3 cells by macrophages co-cultured with SKOV3-derived OCSLCs involved IL-8/STAT3 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingxia Ning
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510120, China; The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yinghong Cui
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Medical College, Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410013, China
| | - Xiang Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Medical College, Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410013, China
| | - Xiaocheng Cao
- Laboratory of Molecular and Statistical Genetics, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan 410081, China
| | - A Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Medical College, Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410013, China
| | - Chang Xu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Medical College, Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410013, China
| | - Jianguo Cao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Medical College, Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410013, China.
| | - Xin Luo
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
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Marzagalli M, Moretti RM, Messi E, Marelli MM, Fontana F, Anastasia A, Bani MR, Beretta G, Limonta P. Targeting melanoma stem cells with the Vitamin E derivative δ-tocotrienol. Sci Rep 2018; 8:587. [PMID: 29330434 PMCID: PMC5766483 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-19057-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The prognosis of metastatic melanoma is very poor, due to the development of drug resistance. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) may play a crucial role in this mechanism, contributing to disease relapse. We first characterized CSCs in melanoma cell lines. We observed that A375 (but not BLM) cells are able to form melanospheres and show CSCs traits: expression of the pluripotency markers SOX2 and KLF4, higher invasiveness and tumor formation capability in vivo with respect to parental adherent cells. We also showed that a subpopulation of autofluorescent cells expressing the ABCG2 stem cell marker is present in the A375 spheroid culture. Based on these data, we investigated whether δ-TT might target melanoma CSCs. We demonstrated that melanoma cells escaping the antitumor activity of δ-TT are completely devoid of the ability to form melanospheres. In contrast, cells that escaped vemurafenib treatment show a higher ability to form melanospheres than control cells. δ-TT also induced disaggregation of A375 melanospheres and reduced the spheroidogenic ability of sphere-derived cells, reducing the expression of the ABCG2 marker. These data demonstrate that δ-TT exerts its antitumor activity by targeting the CSC subpopulation of A375 melanoma cells and might represent a novel chemopreventive/therapeutic strategy against melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Marzagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, 20133, Italy
| | - Roberta Manuela Moretti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, 20133, Italy
| | - Elio Messi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, 20133, Italy
| | - Marina Montagnani Marelli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, 20133, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Fontana
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, 20133, Italy
| | - Alessia Anastasia
- Laboratory of Biology and Treatment of Metastasis, IRCCS-Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milano, 20156, Italy
| | - Maria Rosa Bani
- Laboratory of Biology and Treatment of Metastasis, IRCCS-Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milano, 20156, Italy
| | - Giangiacomo Beretta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, 20133, Italy
| | - Patrizia Limonta
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, 20133, Italy.
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Hasanpourghadi M, Pandurangan AK, Mustafa MR. Modulation of oncogenic transcription factors by bioactive natural products in breast cancer. Pharmacol Res 2017; 128:376-388. [PMID: 28923544 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2017.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Revised: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Carcinogenesis, a multi-step phenomenon, characterized by alterations at genetic level and affecting the main intracellular pathways controlling cell growth and development. There are growing number of evidences linking oncogenes to the induction of malignancies, especially breast cancer. Modulations of oncogenes lead to gain-of-function signals in the cells and contribute to the tumorigenic phenotype. These signals yield a large number of proteins that cause cell growth and inhibit apoptosis. Transcription factors such as STAT, p53, NF-κB, c-JUN and FOXM1, are proteins that are conserved among species, accumulate in the nucleus, bind to DNA and regulate the specific genes targets. Oncogenic transcription factors resulting from the mutation or overexpression following aberrant gene expression relay the signals in the nucleus and disrupt the transcription pattern. Activation of oncogenic transcription factors is associated with control of cell cycle, apoptosis, migration and cell differentiation. Among different cancer types, breast cancer is one of top ten cancers worldwide. There are different subtypes of breast cancer cell-lines such as non-aggressive MCF-7 and aggressive and metastatic MDA-MB-231 cells, which are identified with distinct molecular profile and different levels of oncogenic transcription factor. For instance, MDA-MB-231 carries mutated and overexpressed p53 with its abnormal, uncontrolled downstream signalling pathway that account for resistance to several anticancer drugs compared to MCF-7 cells with wild-type p53. Appropriate enough, inhibition of oncogenic transcription factors has become a potential target in discovery and development of anti-tumour drugs against breast cancer. Plants produce diverse amount of organic metabolites. Universally, these metabolites with biological activities are known as "natural products". The chemical structure and function of natural products have been studied since 1850s. Investigating these properties leaded to recognition of their molecular effects as anticancer drugs. Numerous natural products extracted from plants, fruits, mushrooms and mycelia, show potential inhibitory effects against several oncogenic transcription factors in breast cancer. Natural compounds that target oncogenic transcription factors have increased the number of candidate therapeutic agents. This review summarizes the current findings of natural products in targeting specific oncogenic transcription factors in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohadeseh Hasanpourghadi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ashok Kumar Pandurangan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Rais Mustafa
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Centre for Natural Products Research and Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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