Dihydroartemisinin Suppresses the Tumorigenesis and Cycle Progression of Colorectal Cancer by Targeting CDK1/CCNB1/PLK1 Signaling

Dihydroartemisinin inhibits ATP6 activity, reduces energy metabolism of hepatocellular carcinoma cells, promotes apoptosis and inhibits metastasis via CANX

Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) may inhibit the migration and invasion of liver cancer cells by reducing ATP synthase production (specifically ATP1A1 and ATP5H) through the calcium/calmodulin dependent protein kinase kinase 2/solute carrier family 8 member B1 signaling pathway. However, it is unclear whether DHA regulates ATP synthase activity by modulating other calcium ion signals to inhibit the energy metabolism and the transfer of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. Using the Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis database, a search for specific expression genes in liver cancer tissues was performed. Human HCC HuH-7 and Li-7 cells were used to produce CANX overexpression and small interfering RNA cell models. The study assessed changes in cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion. Reactive oxygen species production, ATP production, mitochondrial membrane potential (JC-1), NAD+/NADH ratio and mitochondrial fluorescence were also evaluated. Western blotting was used to assess changes in CANX, ATP6V1 domain (ATP6V1F) and V0 domain (ATP6V0B) protein expression levels. The results demonstrated that CANX is highly expressed in liver cancer tissues. Furthermore, CANX regulated malignant biological behavior, mediated mitochondrial function and energy metabolism. However, these effects were inhibited by DHA, which decreased the expression of CANX, ATP6V0B and ATP6V1F. The findings of the present study underscore the central role of CANX in affecting the malignant biological behavior of liver cancer cells by regulating mitochondrial function and energy metabolism. Additionally, they indicate that DHA serves an anticancer role by inhibiting CANX expression.

Integrative approach using network pharmacology, bioinformatics, and experimental methods to explore the mechanism of cantharidin in treating colorectal cancer

Cantharidin, a terpenoid produced by blister beetles, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat various ailments and cancers. However, its biological activity, impact, and anticancer mechanisms remain unclear. The Cantharidin chemical gene connections were identified using various databases. The GSE21815 dataset was used to collect the gene expression information. Differential gene analysis and gene ontology analyses were performed. Gene set enrichment analysis was used to assess the activation of disease pathways. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis and differential analysis were used to identify illness-associated genes, examine differential genes, and discover therapeutic targets via protein-protein interactions. MCODE analysis of major subgroup networks was used to identify critical genes influenced by Cantharidin, examine variations in the expression of key clustered genes in colorectal cancer vs. control samples, and describe the subject operators. Single-cell GSE188711 dataset was preprocessed to investigate Cantharidin's therapeutic targets and signaling pathways in colorectal cancer. Single-cell RNA sequencing was utilized to identify 22 cell clusters and marker genes for two different cell types in each cluster. The effects of different Cantharidin concentrations on colorectal cancer cells were studied in vitro. One hundred and ninety-seven Cantharidin-associated target genes and 480 critical genes implicated in the development of the illness were identified. Cantharidin significantly inhibited the proliferation and migration of HCT116 cells and promoted apoptosis at certain concentrations. Patients on current therapy develop inherent and acquired resistance. Our study suggests that Cantharidin may play an anti-CRC role by modulating immune function.

Elucidation of the mechanism of action of ailanthone in the treatment of colorectal cancer: integration of network pharmacology, bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation

Background: Ailanthone, a small compound derived from the bark of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle, has several anti-tumour properties. However, the activity and mechanism of ailanthone in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain to be investigated. This study aims to comprehensively investigate the mechanism of ailanthone in the treatment of CRC by employing a combination of network pharmacology, bioinformatics analysis, and molecular biological technique. Methods: The druggability of ailanthone was examined, and its targets were identified using relevant databases. The RNA sequencing data of individuals with CRC obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database were analyzed. Utilizing the R programming language, an in-depth investigation of differentially expressed genes was carried out, and the potential target of ailanthone for anti-CRC was found. Through the integration of protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, GO and KEGG enrichment studies to search for the key pathway of the action of Ailanthone. Then, by employing molecular docking verification, flow cytometry, Transwell assays, and Immunofluorescence to corroborate these discoveries. Results: Data regarding pharmacokinetic parameters and 137 target genes for ailanthone were obtained. Leveraging The Cancer Genome Atlas database, information regarding 2,551 differentially expressed genes was extracted. Subsequent analyses, encompassing protein-protein interaction network analysis, survival analysis, functional enrichment analysis, and molecular docking verification, revealed the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway as pivotal mediators of ailanthone against CRC. Additionally, the in vitro experiments indicated that ailanthone substantially affects the cell cycle, induces apoptosis in CRC cells (HCT116 and SW620 cells), and impedes the migration and invasion capabilities of these cells. Immunofluorescence staining showed that ailanthone significantly inhibited the phosphorylation of AKT protein and suppressed the activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, thereby inhibiting the proliferation and metastasis of CRC cells. Conclusion: Therefore, our findings indicate that Ailanthone exerts anti-CRC effects primarily by inhibiting the activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway. Additionally, we propose that Ailanthone holds potential as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of human CRC.

Dihydroartemisinin inhibits the development of colorectal cancer by GSK-3β/TCF7/MMP9 pathway and synergies with capecitabine

Patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) suffer from poor prognosis and lack effective drugs. Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) has anti-cancer potential but the mechanism remains unclear. We elucidated the effects and mechanism of DHA on CRC development with the aim of providing an effective, low-toxicity drug and a novel strategy for CRC. Herein, proliferation assay, transwell assay, tube formation assay, metastasis models, PDX model and AOM/DSS model were used to reveal the effects of DHA on CRC. The key pathway and target were identified by RNA-seq, ChIP, molecular docking, pull down and dual-luciferase reporter assays. As a result, DHA showed a strong inhibitory effect on the growth, metastasis and angiogenesis of CRC with no obvious toxicity, and the inhibitory effect was similar to that of the clinical drug Capecitabine (Cap). Indeed, DHA directly targeted GSK-3β to inhibit CRC development through the GSK-3β/TCF7/MMP9 pathway. Meaningfully, DHA in combination with Cap enhanced the anti-cancer effect, and alleviated Cap-induced diarrhoea, immunosuppression and inflammation. In conclusion, DHA has the potential to be an effective and low-toxicity drug for the treatment of CRC. Furthermore, DHA in combination with Cap could be a novel therapeutic strategy for CRC with improved efficacy and reduced side effects.

Identification of potential key genes for colorectal cancer based on bioinformatics analysis

This study aimed to explore key genes as potential biomarkers for colorectal cancer (CRC) diagnosis and prognosis in order to improve their clinical utility. To identify and screen candidate genes involved in CRC carcinogenesis and disease progression, we downloaded the microarray datasets GSE143939, GSE196006, and GSE200427 from the GEO database and applied the GEO2R tool to obtain differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between colorectal cancer tissue samples and normal tissue samples. Differentially expressed genes were analyzed using the DAVID online database for gene ontology and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes pathway enrichment analyses. Protein-protein interaction network was constructed and related module analysis was performed using STRING and Cytoscape. In total, 241 DEGs were identified, including 127 downregulated and 114 upregulated genes. DEGs enriched functions and pathways included cellular response to chemical stimulus, extracellular region, carbonate dehydratase activity, cell division, spindle, and cell division. The abundant functions and pathways of DEGs included cellular response to chemical stimulus, extracellular region, carbonate dehydratase activity, cell division, spindle, cell adhesion molecule binding, Aldosterone-regulated sodium reabsorption, and Cell cycle-related processes. Fifteen key genes were identified, and bioprocess analyses showed that these genes were mainly enriched in cell cycle, cell division, mitotic spindle, and tubulin binding processes. It was found that CDK1, CEP55, MKI67, and TOP2A may be involved in CRC cancer invasion and recurrence. The pivotal genes identified in this study contribute to our understanding of the molecular and pathogenic mechanisms of CRC carcinogenesis and progression, and provide possible biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of CRC.

Lotus leaf extract can attenuate salpingitis in laying hens by inhibiting apoptosis

This study aimed to determine whether the lotus leaf extract (LLE) had the effect of treating salpingitis in laying hens. First, the salpingitis model was established by the method of bacterial infection. Differential genes between salpingitis and healthy laying hens were identified by transcriptome sequencing, and GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were performed. Groups of treatment of antibiotics and LLE were established to verify the feasibility of the lotus leaf extract in treating salpingitis. Furthermore, the active component and pharmacological effects of LLE were identified using the UPLC-Q-TOF-MS and network pharmacology technique. At last, the mechanism of LLE treating salpingitis was further evaluated by DF-1 cells infected with bacteria. The results showed that LLE significantly reduced the levels of TLR4 and IFN-γ (P < 0.05), accelerated the levels of IgA and IgG (P < 0.05), regulated the levels of SOD and MDA (P < 0.05) in laying hens with salpingitis. A total of 1,874 differential genes were obtained according to the transcriptome sequencing. It was revealed a significant role in cell cycle and apoptosis by enrichment analysis. In addition, among the 28 components identified by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS, 20 components acted on 58 genes, including CDK1, BIRC5, and CA2 for treating salpingitis. After bacterial infection, cells were damaged and unable to complete the normal progression of the cell cycle, leading to cell cycle arrest and further apoptosis formation. However, with the intervention of LLE, bacterial infection was resisted. The cells proliferation was extensively restored, and the expression of NO was increased. The addition of LLE significantly decreased cell apoptosis. The G1 phase increased, the S phase and the G2 phase decreased in the model group; after the intervention of LLE, the G1 phase gradually returned to the average level, and G2 and S phases increased. The mRNA expression levels of BIRC5, CDK1, and CA2 were consistent with the predicted results in network pharmacology. At the same time, the mRNA expression levels of Caspase-3 and Caspase-7 were reduced after added with LLE. The mRNA expression levels of TNF-α, TRADD, FADD, Caspase-8, Caspase-10, and Caspase-9 (P < 0.05), which would inhibit death receptor activation and decrease the apoptotic cascade, were upregulated after bacterial infection. However, the results in LLE groups were downregulated (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, the mRNA expression levels of BCL-2 in LLE groups were increased significantly compared with it in model group (P < 0.05). Notably, LLE administration inhibited apoptosis and regulated the cell cycle distribution in the salpingitis induced by bacterial infection. These results indicated that the LLE attenuated bacterial-induced salpingitis by modulating apoptosis and immune function in laying hens.

Exploring Key Biomarkers and Common Pathogenesis of Seven Digestive System Cancers and Their Correlation with COVID-19

Digestive system cancer and COVID-19 significantly affect the digestive system, but the mechanism of interaction between COVID-19 and the digestive system cancers has not been fully elucidated. We downloaded the gene expression of COVID-19 and seven digestive system cancers (oral, esophageal, gastric, colorectal, hepatocellular, bile duct, pancreatic) from GEO and identified hub differentially expressed genes. Multiple verifications, diagnostic efficacy, prognostic analysis, functional enrichment and related transcription factors of hub genes were explored. We identified 23 common DEGs for subsequent analysis. CytoHubba identified nine hub genes (CCNA2, CCNB1, CDKN3, ECT2, KIF14, KIF20A, KIF4A, NEK2, TTK). TCGA and GEO data validated the expression and excellent diagnostic and prognostic ability of hub genes. Functional analysis revealed that the processes of cell division and the cell cycle were essential in COVID-19 and digestive system cancers. Furthermore, six related transcription factors (E2F1, E2F3, E2F4, MYC, TP53, YBX1) were involved in hub gene regulation. Via in vitro experiments, CCNA2, CCNB1, and MYC expression was verified in 25 colorectal cancer tissue pairs. Our study revealed the key biomarks and common pathogenesis of digestive system cancers and COVID-19. These may provide new ideas for further mechanistic research.

m6A reader YTHDF3 is associated with clinical prognosis, related RNA signatures and immunosuppression in gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

YTHDF3 as a N6-methyladenosine (m6A) reader participates in the development and progression of multiple cancer types, however, the prognosis, molecular biology and immune infiltration of YTHDF3 in gastric cancer (GC) have not been investigated.

METHODS

The YTHDF3 expression profile and clinicopathological parameters of stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD) were downloaded from TCGA. The online websites and databases such as GEPIA2, cBioPortal, UALCAN, ImmuCellAl, xCell, TISIDB, GSCA were utilized for analysis of the association of YTHDF3 with STAD, including clinical prognosis, WGCNA and LASSO Cox regression analysis. Further functional assays such as RT-qPCR, Western blot, immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunofluorescence (IF), CCK-8, colony formation, EdU and Transwell assays were performed to determine the role of YTHDF3 in GC.

RESULTS

We found that YTHDF3 was upregulated in STAD tissue samples ascribed to its copy number amplification and associated with poor prognosis in patients with STAD. GO and KEGG analyses showed that YTHDF3-related differential genes were predominantly enriched in the proliferation, metabolism and immune signaling pathways. Knockdown of YTHDF3 repressed the growth and invasion of GC cells by inhibition of PI3K/AKT signaling. We then identified YTHDF3-related lncRNAs, miRNAs and mRNAs, and constructed their prognostic signatures in patients with STAD. Moreover, YTHDF3 associated with tumor immune infiltration such as CD8+ T cells, macrophages, Tregs, MHC molecules and chemokines, upregulated PD-L1 and CXCL1 and exerted a response to the immunotherapy in GC.

CONCLUSIONS

YTHDF3 upregulation indicates poor prognosis and promotes GC cell growth and invasion by activating PI3K/AKT pathway and regulating immune microenvironment. The established YTHDF3-related signatures highlight the association of YTHDF3 with the clinical prognosis and immune cell infiltration in GC.

Repurposing Dihydroartemisinin to Combat Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Associated with Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Oxidative Stress

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), with aggressive locoregional invasion, has a high rate of early recurrences and poor prognosis. Dihydroartemisinin (DHA), as a derivative of artemisinin, has been found to exert potent antitumor activity. Recent studies reported that DHA suppresses OSCC cell growth and viability through the regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and mitochondrial calcium uniporter. However, the mechanism underlying the action of DHA on OSCCs remains elusive. In the study, we observed that 159 genes were remarkably misregulated in primary OSCC tumors associated with DHA-inhibited pathways, supporting that OSCCs are susceptible to DHA treatment. Herein, our study showed that DHA exhibited promising effects to suppress OSCC cell growth and survival, and single-cell colony formation. Interestingly, the combination of DHA and cisplatin (CDDP) significantly reduced the toxicity of CDDP treatment alone on human normal oral cells (NOK). Moreover, DHA remarkably impaired mitochondrial structure and function, and triggered DNA damage and ROS generation, and activation of mitophagy. In addition, DHA induced leakage of cytochrome C and apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF) from mitochondria, elevated Bax/cleaved-caspase 3 expression levels and compromised Bcl2 protein expression. In the OSCC tumor-xenograft mice model, DHA remarkably suppressed tumor growth and induced apoptosis of OSCCs in vivo. Intriguingly, a selective mitophagy inhibitor Mdivi-1 could significantly reinforce the anticancer activity of DHA treatment. DHA and Mdivi-1 can synergistically suppress OSCC cell proliferation and survival. These data uncover a previously unappreciated contribution of the mitochondria-associated pathway to the antitumor activity of DHA on OSCCs. Our study shed light on a new aspect of a DHA-based therapeutic strategy to combat OSCC tumors.

Oxethazaine inhibits esophageal squamous cell carcinoma proliferation and metastasis by targeting aurora kinase A

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), a malignant neoplasm with high incidence, is a severe global public health threat. The current modalities used for treating ESCC include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Although ESCC management and treatment strategies have improved over the last decade, the overall 5-year survival rate remains <20%. Therefore, the identification of novel therapeutic strategies that can increase ESCC patient survival rates is urgently needed. Oxethazaine, an amino-amide anesthetic agent, is mainly prescribed in combination with antacids to relieve esophagitis, dyspepsia, and other gastric disorders. In the present study, we found that oxethazaine inhibited the proliferation and migration of esophageal cancer cells. According to the results of in vitro screening and binding assays, oxethazaine binds directly to AURKA, suppresses AURKA activity, and inhibits the downstream effectors of AURKA. Notably, we found that oxethazaine suppressed tumor growth in three patient-derived esophageal xenograft mouse models and tumor metastasis in vivo. Our findings suggest that oxethazaine can inhibit ESCC proliferation and metastasis in vitro and in vivo by targeting AURKA.