Gallic acid: a dietary polyphenol that exhibits anti-neoplastic activities by modulating multiple oncogenic targets

Gallic acid suppresses the progression of clear cell renal cell carcinoma through inducing autophagy via the PI3K/Akt/Atg16L1 signaling pathway

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), the most common type of renal cell carcinoma (RCC), is not sensitive to traditional radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The polyphenolic compound Gallic acid (GA) can be naturally found in a variety of fruits, vegetables and plants. Autophagy, an intracellular catabolic process, regulates the lysosomal degradation of organelles and portions in cytoplasm. It was reported that autophagy and GA could affect the development of several cancers. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of GA on ccRCC development and clarify the role of autophagy in this process. In the present study, the effects of GA on the proliferation, migration and invasion of ccRCC cells were investigated in vitro by Cell Counting Kit‑8, colony formation, flow cytometry, wound healing and Transwell migration assays, respectively. Additionally, the effects of GA on ccRCC growth and metastasis were evaluated using hematoxylin‑eosin and immunohistochemical staining in vivo. Moreover, it was sought to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms using transmission electron microscopy, western blotting and reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR analyses. In the present study, it was revealed that GA had a more potent viability inhibitory effect on ccRCC cells (786‑O and ACHN) than the effect on normal renal tubular epithelial cell (HK‑2), which demonstrated that GA selectively inhibits the viability of cancer cells. Furthermore, it was identified that GA dose‑dependently inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of ccRCC cells in vitro and in vivo. It was demonstrated that GA promoted the release of autophagy markers, which played a role in regulating the PI3K/Akt/Atg16L1 signaling pathway. All the aforementioned data provided evidence for the great potential of GA in the treatment of ccRCC.

Advancements and recent explorations of anti-cancer activity of chrysin: from molecular targets to therapeutic perspective

In recent times, there have been notable advancements in comprehending the potential anti-cancer effects of chrysin (CH), a naturally occurring flavonoid compound found abundantly in various plant sources like honey, propolis, and certain fruits and vegetables. This active compound has garnered significant attention due to its promising therapeutic qualities and minimal toxicity. CH's ability to combat cancer arises from its multifaceted mechanisms of action, including the initiation of apoptosis and the inhibition of proliferation, angiogenesis, metastasis, and cell cycle progression. CH also displays potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, effectively counteracting the harmful molecules that contribute to DNA damage and the development of cancer. Furthermore, CH has exhibited the potential to sensitize cancer cells to traditional chemotherapy and radiotherapy, amplifying the effectiveness of these treatments while reducing their negative impact on healthy cells. Hence, in this current review, the composition, chemistry, mechanisms of action, safety concerns of CH, along with the feasibility of its nanoformulations. To conclude, the recent investigations into CH's anti-cancer effects present a compelling glimpse into the potential of this natural compound as a complementary therapeutic element in the array of anti-cancer approaches, providing a safer and more comprehensive method of combating this devastating ailment.

Treating cancer through modulating exosomal protein loading and function: The prospects of natural products and traditional Chinese medicine

Exosomes, small yet vital extracellular vesicles, play an integral role in intercellular communication. They transport critical components, such as proteins, lipid bilayers, DNA, RNA, and glycans, to target cells. These vesicles are crucial in modulating the extracellular matrix and orchestrating signal transduction processes. In oncology, exosomes are pivotal in tumor growth, metastasis, drug resistance, and immune modulation within the tumor microenvironment. Exosomal proteins, noted for their stability and specificity, have garnered widespread attention. This review delves into the mechanisms of exosomal protein loading and their impact on tumor development, with a focus on the regulatory effects of natural products and traditional Chinese medicine on exosomal protein loading and function. These insights not only offer new strategies and methodologies for cancer treatment but also provide scientific bases and directions for future clinical applications.

Multiple molecular and cellular mechanisms of the antitumour effect of dihydromyricetin (Review)

Dihydromyricetin (DHM) is a natural flavonoid compound with multiple antitumour effects, including inhibition of proliferation, promotion of apoptosis, inhibition of invasion and migration, clearance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and induction of autophagy. For example, DHM can effectively block the progression of the tumour cell cycle and inhibit cell proliferation. In different types of cancer cells, DHM can regulate the PI3K/Akt pathway, mTOR, and NF-κB pathway components, such as p53, and endoplasmic reticulum stress can alter the accumulation of ROS or induce autophagy to promote the apoptosis of tumour cells. In addition, when DHM is used in combination with various known chemotherapy drugs, such as paclitaxel, nedaplatin, doxorubicin, oxaliplatin and vinblastine, it can increase the sensitivity of tumour cells to DHM and increase the therapeutic effect of chemotherapy drugs. In the present review, the multiple molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the antitumour effect of DHM, as well as its ability to increase the effects of various traditional antitumour drugs were summarized. Through the present review, it is expected by the authors to draw attention to the potential of DHM as an antitumour drug and provide valuable references for the clinical translation of DHM research and the development of related treatment strategies.

Advancing the frontiers of colorectal cancer treatment: harnessing ferroptosis regulation

In recent years, colorectal cancer incidence and mortality have increased significantly due to poor lifestyle choices. Despite the development of various treatments, their effectiveness against advanced/metastatic colorectal cancer remains unsatisfactory due to drug resistance. However, ferroptosis, a novel iron-dependent cell death process induced by lipid peroxidation and elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels along with reduced activity of the glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) antioxidant enzyme system, shows promise as a therapeutic target for colorectal cancer. This review aims to delve into the regulatory mechanisms of ferroptosis in colorectal cancer, providing valuable insights into potential therapeutic approaches. By targeting ferroptosis, new avenues can be explored for innovative therapies to combat colorectal cancer more effectively. In addition, understanding the molecular pathways involved in ferroptosis may help identify biomarkers for prognosis and treatment response, paving the way for personalized medicine approaches. Furthermore, exploring the interplay between ferroptosis and other cellular processes can uncover combination therapies that enhance treatment efficacy. Investigating the tumor microenvironment's role in regulating ferroptosis may offer strategies to sensitize cancer cells to cell death induction, leading to improved outcomes. Overall, ferroptosis presents a promising avenue for advancing the treatment of colorectal cancer and improving patient outcomes.

Bunium persicum Seeds Extract in Combination with Vincristine Mediates Apoptosis in MCF-7 Cells through Regulation of Involved Genes and Proteins Expression

BACKGROUND

Bunium persicum seeds, a member of the Apiaceae family, have historically been consumed as part of the Iranian diet.

OBJECTIVE

While many of this herb's biological properties have been fully investigated, there is currently no reliable information about its anticancer/cytotoxic properties.

METHODS

Herein, we first determined the major bioactive compounds of B. persicum seed extract (BPSE) via GC-Mass analysis. We evaluated the cytotoxicity of the extract alone as well as in combination with vincristine (VCR), a commonly used chemotherapy drug, using MTT assays on two breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231, as well as a normal breast cancer cell line, MCF-10A. Moreover, these compounds were evaluated in vitro for their anticancer activity using ROS assays, Real-Time PCR, Western blots, flow cytometry, and cell cycle assays.

RESULTS

As a result of our investigation, it was determined that the extract significantly reduced the viability of cancerous cells while remaining harmless to normal cells. The combination of BPSE and VCR also resulted in synergistic effects. BPSE and/or BPSE-VCR treatment increased the intracellular ROS of MCF-7 cells by over twofold. Moreover, the IC30 of BPSE (100 μg/ml) significantly increased the BAX/BCL-2 and P53 gene expression while reducing the expression of the MYC gene. Moreover, treated cells were arrested in the G2 phase of the cell cycle. The BPSE-VCR combination synergistically reduced the NF-κB and increased the Caspase-7 proteins' expression. The percent of apoptosis in the cells treated with the extract, VCR, and their combination was 27, 11, and 50, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study demonstrated the anticancer activity of the BPSE and its potential for application in combination therapy with VCR.

Free Radical-Mediated Grafting of Natural Polysaccharides Such as Chitosan, Starch, Inulin, and Pectin with Some Polyphenols: Synthesis, Structural Characterization, Bioactivities, and Applications-A Review

Polyphenols and polysaccharides are very important natural products with special physicochemical properties and extensive biological activities. Recently, polyphenol-polysaccharide conjugates have been synthesized to overcome the limitations of polysaccharides and broaden their application range. Grafted copolymers are produced through chemical coupling, enzyme-mediated, and free radical-mediated methods, among which the free radical-induced grafting reaction is the most cost-effective, ecofriendly, safe, and plausible approach. Here, we review the grafting reactions of polysaccharides mediated by free radicals with various bioactive polyphenols, such as gallic acid (GA), ferulic acid (FA), and catechins. A detailed introduction of the methods and their mechanisms for free radical-mediated grafting is given. Structural characterization methods of the graft products, including thin-layer chromatography (TLC), ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) are introduced. Furthermore, the biological properties of polyphenol-polysaccharide conjugates are also presented, including antioxidant, antibacterial, antidiabetic, and neuroprotection activities, etc. Moreover, the potential applications of polyphenol-polysaccharide conjugates are described. Finally, the challenges and research prospects of graft products are summarized.

Signaling pathways driving ocular malignancies and their targeting by bioactive phytochemicals

Ocular cancers represent a rare pathology. The American Cancer Society estimates that 3,360 cases of ocular cancer occur annually in the United States. The major types of cancers of the eye include ocular melanoma (also known as uveal melanoma), ocular lymphoma, retinoblastoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. While uveal melanoma is one of the primary intraocular cancers with the highest occurrence in adults, retinoblastoma remains the most common primary intraocular cancer in children, and squamous cell carcinoma presents as the most common conjunctival cancer. The pathophysiology of these diseases involves specific cell signaling pathways. Oncogene mutations, tumor suppressor mutations, chromosome deletions/translocations and altered proteins are all described as causal events in developing ocular cancer. Without proper identification and treatment of these cancers, vision loss, cancer spread, and even death can occur. The current treatments for these cancers involve enucleation, radiation, excision, laser treatment, cryotherapy, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy. These treatments present a significant burden to the patient that includes a possible loss of vision and a myriad of side effects. Therefore, alternatives to traditional therapy are urgently needed. Intercepting the signaling pathways for these cancers with the use of naturally occurring phytochemicals could be a way to relieve both cancer burden and perhaps even prevent cancer occurrence. This research aims to present a comprehensive review of the signaling pathways involved in various ocular cancers, discuss current therapeutic options, and examine the potential of bioactive phytocompounds in the prevention and targeted treatment of ocular neoplasms. The current limitations, challenges, pitfalls, and future research directions are also discussed.

Dendrimers as Nanocarriers for the Delivery of Drugs Obtained from Natural Products

Natural products have proven their value as drugs that can be therapeutically beneficial in the treatment of various diseases. However, most natural products have low solubility and poor bioavailability, which pose significant challenges. To solve these issues, several drug nanocarriers have been developed. Among these methods, dendrimers have emerged as vectors for natural products due to their superior advantages, such as a controlled molecular structure, narrow polydispersity index, and the availability of multiple functional groups. This review summarizes current knowledge on the structures of dendrimer-based nanocarriers for natural compounds, with a particular focus on applications in alkaloids and polyphenols. Additionally, it highlights the challenges and perspectives for future development in clinical therapy.

Understanding the Combined Effects of High Glucose Induced Hyper-Osmotic Stress and Oxygen Tension in the Progression of Tumourigenesis: From Mechanism to Anti-Cancer Therapeutics

High glucose (HG), a hallmark of the tumour microenvironment, is also a biomechanical stressor, as it exerts hyper-osmotic stress (HG-HO), but not much is known regarding how tumour cells mechanoadapt to HG-HO. Therefore, this study aimed to delineate the novel molecular mechanisms by which tumour cells mechanoadapt to HG/HG-HO and whether phytochemical-based interference in these mechanisms can generate tumour-cell-selective vulnerability to cell death. Mannitol and L-glucose were used as hyper-osmotic equivalents of high glucose. The results revealed that the tumour cells can efficiently mechanoadapt to HG-HO only in the normoxic microenvironment. Under normoxic HG/HG-HO stress, tumour cells polySUMOylate a higher pool of mitotic driver pH3(Ser10), which translocates to the nucleus and promotes faster cell divisions. On the contrary, acute hypoxia dampens HG/HG-HO-associated excessive proliferation by upregulating sentrin protease SENP7. SENP7 promotes abnormal SUMOylation of pH3(Ser10), thereby restricting its nuclear entry and promoting the M-phase arrest and cell loss. However, the hypoxia-arrested cells that managed to survive showed relapse upon reversal to normoxia as well as upregulation of pro-survival-associated SENP1, and players in tumour growth signalling, autophagy, glycolytic pathways etc. Depletion of SENP1 in both normoxia and hypoxia caused significant loss of tumour cells vs undepleted controls. SENP1 was ascertained to restrict the abnormal SUMOylation of pH3(Ser10) in both normoxia and hypoxia, although not so efficiently in hypoxia, due to the opposing activity of SENP7. Co-treatment with Momordin Ic (MC), a natural SENP1 inhibitor, and Gallic Acid (GA), an inhibitor of identified major pro-tumourigenic signalling (both enriched in Momordica charantia), eliminated surviving tumour cells in normal glucose, HG and HG-HO normoxic and hypoxic microenvironments, suggesting that appropriate and enhanced polySUMOylation of pH3(Ser10) in response to HG/HG-HO stress was attenuated by this treatment along with further dampening of other key tumourigenic signalling, due to which tumour cells could no longer proliferate and grow.

Starch, gallic acid, their inclusion complex and their effects in diabetes and other diseases—A review

Starch is the most important energy-providing component of food. It is useful for maintaining the structural and rheological consistency of food, ad thus, in turn, is responsible for maintaining the freshness of food. Polyphenols are present in plant products in huge amounts as secondary metabolites. Gallic acid, one of the potent plant polyphenols, has been reported to have excellent anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, anticarcinogenic, microbicidal, and antidiabetic properties. Till date, very few articles on the starch-polyphenol inclusion complex are present. Quite a few hypotheses have been proposed as to how the formation of an inclusion complex of starch with polyphenol can slower the digestion or the hydrolysis of starch. The efficient qualities of starch-polyphenol systems, such as reduced starch digestion, lower blood glucose and preserving food freshness, have formed a necessity for investigation in this area. The focus of this review centers on the recent research on starch-polyphenol interactions and starch-gallic acid inclusion complexes in native and extruded food systems, as well as how the production of these complexes can aid in the treatment of diseases, particularly diabetes mellitus.

Natural flavonoids exhibit potent anticancer activity by targeting microRNAs in cancer: A signature step hinting towards clinical perfection

Cancer prevalence and its rate of incidence are constantly rising since the past few decades. Owing to the toxicity of present-day antineoplastic drugs, it is imperative to explore safer and more effective molecules to combat and/or prevent this dreaded disease. Flavonoids, a class of polyphenols, have exhibited multifaceted implications against several diseases including cancer, without showing significant toxicity towards the normal cells. Shredded pieces of evidence suggest that flavonoids can enhance drug sensitivity and suppress proliferation, metastasis, and angiogenesis of cancer cells by modulating several oncogenic or oncosuppressor microRNAs (miRNAs, miRs). They play pivotal roles in regulation of various biological and pathological processes, including various cancers. In the present review, the structure, chemistry and miR targeting efficacy of quercetin, luteolin, silibinin, genistein, epigallocatechin gallate, and cyanidin against several cancer types are comprehensively discussed. miRs are considered as next-generation medicine of recent times, and their targeting by naturally occurring flavonoids in cancer cells could be deemed as a signature step. We anticipate that our compilations related to miRNA-mediated regulation of cancer cells by flavonoids might catapult the clinical investigations and affirmation in the future.

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.)-Derived Phytochemicals Target Multiple Signaling Pathways to Confer Oncopreventive and Oncotherapeutic Effects

Cancer is a highly lethal disease, and its incidence has rapidly increased worldwide over the past few decades. Although chemotherapeutics and surgery are widely used in clinical settings, they are often insufficient to provide the cure for cancer patients. Hence, more effective treatment options are highly needed. Although licorice has been used as a medicinal herb since ancient times, the knowledge about molecular mechanisms behind its diverse bioactivities is still rather new. In this review article, different anticancer properties (antiproliferative, antiangiogenic, antimetastatic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects) of various bioactive constituents of licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) are thoroughly described. Multiple licorice constituents have been shown to bind to and inhibit the activities of various cellular targets, including B-cell lymphoma 2, cyclin-dependent kinase 2, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, c-Jun N-terminal kinases, mammalian target of rapamycin, nuclear factor-κB, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, vascular endothelial growth factor, and matrix metalloproteinase-3, resulting in reduced carcinogenesis in several in vitro and in vivo models with no evident toxicity. Emerging evidence is bringing forth licorice as an anticancer agent as well as bottlenecks in its potential clinical application. It is expected that overcoming toxicity-related obstacles by using novel nanotechnological methods might importantly facilitate the use of anticancer properties of licorice-derived phytochemicals in the future. Therefore, anticancer studies with licorice components must be continued. Overall, licorice could be a natural alternative to the present medication for eradicating new emergent illnesses while having just minor side effects.

Targeted UHPLC-MS Analysis Reveals Disparate Polyphenol Composition and Concentration in Muscadine Grape Supplements with Proportional Antioxidant Activity

Muscadine grape supplements (MGS) with high polyphenol content are a potential therapeutic option to combat oxidative stress; however, the precise identity and concentration of individual phenolics in commercially processed MGSs is not well defined. We probed for 17 phenolic compounds by ultra-high pressure liquid chromatography and mass spectroscopy from distinct lots of four commercially processed MGSs composed of MG seed and/or skin waste products. The total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity were highest in a dried water-extract MGS as compared to three ground seed and/or skin products. The TPC was not different between MGS lots from individual companies and remained stable for 3 years without microbial contamination. The extract MGS had the highest concentration of epicatechin, ellagic acid, gallic acid, procyanidin B2, catechin and catechin gallate compared to the other supplements. Only ellagic acid and gallic acid were detected in all four MGSs, while catechin and catechin gallate were below detection in two supplements. Based on gram weight, only the extract MGS prevented the angiotensin II-induced increase in malondialdehyde and 4-hydroxynonenol in rat H9c2 cardiomyocytes as well as upregulated superoxide dismutase and catalase. This study demonstrates that commercial MGSs differ in phenolic composition and concentration, resulting in disparate antioxidant activity.

“Key Factor” for Baijiu Quality: Research Progress on Acid Substances in Baijiu

Baijiu is the national liquor of China, which has lasted in China for more than 2000 years. Abundant raw materials, multi-strain co-fermentation, and complex processes make the secrets of baijiu flavor and taste still not fully explored. Acid substances not only have a great influence on the flavor and taste of baijiu, but also have certain functions. Therefore, this paper provides a systematic review for the reported acid substances, especially for their contribution to the flavor and functional quality of baijiu. Based on previous studies, this paper puts forward a conjecture, a suggestion, and a point of view, namely: the conjecture of “whether acid substances can be used as ‘key factor’ for baijiu quality “; the suggestion of “the focus of research on acid substances in baijiu should be transferred to evaluating their contribution to the taste of baijiu”; and the view of “acid substances are ‘regulators’ in the fermentation process of baijiu”. It is worth thinking about whether acid substances can be used as the key factors of baijiu to be studied and confirmed by practice in the future. It is hoped that the systematic review of acid substances in baijiu in this paper can contribute to further in-depth and systematic research on baijiu by researchers in the future.

MicroRNAs, Key Regulators in Glioma Progression as Potential Therapeutic Targets for Chinese Medicine

Gliomas are tumors of the primary central nervous system associated with poor prognosis and high mortality. The 5-year survival rate of patients with gliomas received surgery combined with chemotherapy or radiotherapy does not exceed 5%. Although temozolomide is commonly used in the treatment of gliomas, the development of resistance limits its use. MicroRNAs are non-coding RNAs involved in numerous processes of glioma cells, such as proliferation, migration and apoptosis. MicroRNAs regulate cell cycle, PI3K/AKT signal pathway, and target apoptosis-related genes (e.g., BCL6), angiogenesis-related genes (e.g., VEGF) and other related genes to suppress gliomas. Evidence illustrates that microRNAs can regulate the sensitivity of gliomas to temozolomide, cisplatin, and carmustine, thereby enhancing the efficacy of these agents. Moreover, traditional Chinese medicine (e.g., tanshinone IIA, xanthohumol, and curcumin) exert antiglioma effects by regulating the expression of microRNAs, and then microRNAs inhibit gliomas through influencing the process of tumors by targeting certain genes. In this paper, the mechanisms through which microRNAs regulate the sensitivity of gliomas to therapeutic drugs are described, and traditional Chinese medicine that can suppress gliomas through microRNAs are discussed. This review aims to provide new insights into the traditional Chinese medicine treatment of gliomas.

Ampelopsin targets in cellular processes of cancer: Recent trends and advances

Cancer is being considered as a serious threat to human health globally due to limited availability and efficacy of therapeutics. In addition, existing chemotherapeutic drugs possess a diverse range of toxic side effects. Therefore, more research is welcomed to investigate the chemo-preventive action of plant-based metabolites. Ampelopsin (dihydromyricetin) is one among the biologically active plant-based chemicals with promising anti-cancer actions. It modulates the expression of various cellular molecules that are involved in cancer progressions. For instance, ampelopsin enhances the expression of apoptosis inducing proteins. It regulates the expression of angiogenic and metastatic proteins to inhibit tumor growth. Expression of inflammatory markers has also been found to be suppressed by ampelopsin in cancer cells. The present review article describes various anti-tumor cellular targets of ampelopsin at a single podium which will help the researchers to understand mechanistic insight of this phytochemical.

In the Search for Novel, Isoflavone-Rich Functional Foods—Comparative Studies of Four Clover Species Sprouts and Their Chemopreventive Potential for Breast and Prostate Cancer

Despite a significant amount of research, the relationship between a diet rich in isoflavones and breast and prostate cancer risk is still ambiguous. The purpose of the current study was to pre-select the potential candidate for functional foods among red, white, crimson, and Persian clover sprouts, cultured for different periods of time (up to 10 days), with respect to the isoflavone content (determined by HPLC-UV-VIS), and to verify their impact on hormone-dependent cancers in vitro. The red clover sprouts were the richest in isoflavones (up to 426.2 mg/100 g dw), whereas the lowest content was observed for the crimson clover. Each species produced isoflavones in different patterns, which refer to the germination time. Hormone-insensitive MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells were more resistant to the tested extracts than estrogen-dependent MCF7 breast cancer cells. Regarding prostate cancer, androgen-dependent LNCap cells were most susceptible to the tested sprouts, followed by androgen-insensitive, high metastatic PC3, and low metastatic DU145 cells. The observed cytotoxic impact of the tested sprouts is not associated with isoflavone content, as confirmed by chemometric analysis. Furthermore, the sprouts tested revealed a high antioxidant potential, and were characterized by high safety for normal breast and prostate cells.