1
|
Halder S, Afrose S, Shill MC, Sharmin N, Mollick PP, Shuma ML, Muhit MA, Rahman SMA. Self-micellizing solid dispersion of thymoquinone with enhanced biopharmaceutical and nephroprotective effects. Drug Deliv 2024; 31:2337423. [PMID: 38590120 PMCID: PMC11005877 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2024.2337423] [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: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The present study was designed to develop a self-micellizing solid dispersion (SMSD) containing Thymoquinone (TQM), a phytonutrient obtained from Nigella sativa seeds, aiming to improve its biopharmaceutical and nephroprotective functions. The apparent solubility of TQM in polymer solutions was used to choose an appropriate amphiphilic polymer that could be used to make an SMSD system. Based on the apparent solubility, Soluplus® was selected as an appropriate carrier, and mixing with TQM, SMSD-TQM with different loadings of TQM (5-15%) was made by solvent evaporation and freeze-drying techniques, respectively, and the formulations were optimized. The optimized SMSD-TQM was evaluated in terms of particle size distribution, morphology, release characteristics, pharmacokinetic behavior, and nephroprotective effects in a rat model of acute kidney injury. SMSD-TQM significantly improved the dissolution characteristics (97.8%) of TQM in water within 60 min. Oral administration of SMSD-TQM in rats exhibited a 4.9-fold higher systemic exposure than crystalline TQM. In a cisplatin-induced (6 mg/kg, i.p.) acute kidney-damaged rat model, oral SMSD-TQM (10 mg/kg) improved the nephroprotective effects of TQM based on the results of kidney biomarkers and histological abnormalities. These findings suggest that SMSD-TQM might be efficacious in enhancing the nephroprotective effect of TQM by overcoming biopharmaceutical limitations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shimul Halder
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Sanjida Afrose
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Manik Chandra Shill
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Nahid Sharmin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Madhabi Lata Shuma
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy and Public Health, Independent University Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Abdul Muhit
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - S. M. Abdur Rahman
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
ALRashdi BM, Massoud D, Rashwan HK, Mahgoub S, Abuelezz NZ, Nasr AM, Kassab RB, Amin HK. The Protecting Role of Black Seed Oil and Its Nano-Formulation in LPS-Induced Acute Kidney Injury in Mice: Evaluation of Oxidative Stress, Biochemical & Molecular Parameters. J Inflamm Res 2024; 17:4747-4763. [PMID: 39051058 PMCID: PMC11268590 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s463369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a medical concern that is accompanied by the rapid deterioration of kidney function. It can be triggered by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) of gram-negative bacteria as it activates a complicated immune response, resulting in widespread inflammation and potential organ dysfunction. Black seed oil (BSO) is rich in beneficial constituents and has been widely used owing to its nutritional advantages. Purpose This research is aimed to investigate the potential protective effects of BSO and its nano-formulation on AKI induced by LPS. It also aimed to compare their anti-inflammatory activity with indomethacin, a known synthetic anti-inflammatory drug. Materials and Methods Forty-eight mice were placed randomly into 8 groups. A single intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of 2.5 mg/kg B.W. of LPS was used to trigger inflammation, and pretreatment with BSO and its nano-formulation was at 0.2 mL/kg/day for 14 consecutive days. Indomethacin was used as a reference drug and its efficacy was tested alone or in combination with BSO at lower doses. Renal function was assessed using urea, creatinine, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1). Also, oxidative and inflammatory markers were assessed by measuring levels of reduced glutathione (GSH), nitric oxide (NO), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4). Histopathological examination of the kidney tissues was also performed. Results The study showed that BSO and its nano-formulation had anti-inflammatory effects comparable to or better than those of indomethacin. They greatly decreased the oxidative stress and inflammatory markers induced by LPS. Their protective effect against pathological alterations in kidney tissues was significantly noticed. Conclusion BSO and its nano-formulation could be used as nephroprotective and anti-inflammatory supplements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barakat M ALRashdi
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia
| | - Diaa Massoud
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hager K Rashwan
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Manufacturing, Misr University for Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Shahenda Mahgoub
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nermeen Z Abuelezz
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Manufacturing, Misr University for Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ali M Nasr
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Port Said University, Port Said, 42526, Egypt
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Galala University, New Galala, 43713, Egypt
| | - Rami B Kassab
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hatem K Amin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bozali K, Koc S, Beyaztas H, Ozdemir M, Ozkan BN, Dumlu FS, Yalcin B, Guler EM. Thymoquinone oxime synthesis and its effects on melanoma cells: cytotoxic, genotoxic, and apoptotic evaluation. Nat Prod Res 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38742473 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2024.2353913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Strong evidence supports the anticancer properties of natural plant product isolates. The cytotoxic, genotoxic, and apoptotic properties of an oxime derivative of thymoquinone (TQ) in melanoma cancer cells were investigated. The structure of TQ-Oxime was elucidated through nuclear magnetic resonance, and its effect on B16F10 and L929 cell lines was assessed using a luminometric adenosine triphosphate assay. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (iROS) were quantified via fluorometry, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) was assessed using flow cytometry, glutathione (GSH) levels were measured using a luminometric GSH/oxidized glutathione assay, DNA damage via comet assay, and apoptosis was detected using acridine orange/ethidium bromide staining. Concentrations (0.5-20 μM) of TQ-Oxime significantly increased cytotoxicity, DNA damage, apoptosis, and iROS, in a concentration-dependent manner compared (p < 0.001). In addition, MMP and GSH levels decreased significantly with increasing concentrations compared with the control (p < 0.001). Overall, these findings contribute to our understanding of the therapeutic potential of TQ and its derivatives in cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kubra Bozali
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Health Sciences Turkey, Hamidiye School of Medicine, Istanbul, Türkiye
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Health Sciences Turkey, Hamidiye Institute of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Sumeyye Koc
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Health Sciences Turkey, Hamidiye School of Medicine, Istanbul, Türkiye
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Health Sciences Turkey, Hamidiye Institute of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Hakan Beyaztas
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Health Sciences Turkey, Hamidiye School of Medicine, Istanbul, Türkiye
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Health Sciences Turkey, Hamidiye Institute of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Mucahit Ozdemir
- Department of Chemistry, Marmara University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Beyza Nur Ozkan
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Health Sciences Turkey, Hamidiye School of Medicine, Istanbul, Türkiye
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Health Sciences Turkey, Hamidiye Institute of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Fatma Sena Dumlu
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Health Sciences Turkey, Hamidiye School of Medicine, Istanbul, Türkiye
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Health Sciences Turkey, Hamidiye Institute of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Bahattin Yalcin
- Department of Chemistry, Marmara University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Eray Metin Guler
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Health Sciences Turkey, Hamidiye School of Medicine, Istanbul, Türkiye
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Health Sciences Turkey, Hamidiye Faculty of Medicine, Haydarpasa Numune Health Application and Research Center, Istanbul, Türkiye
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Moulana MS, Haiaty S, Bazmani A, Shabkhizan R, Moslehian MS, Sadeghsoltani F, Mostafazadeh M, Asadi MR, Talebi M, Jafari Z, Morovati MR, Farzaei MH, Rahbarghazi R. Tumoricidal properties of thymoquinone on human colorectal adenocarcinoma cells via the modulation of autophagy. BMC Complement Med Ther 2024; 24:132. [PMID: 38532470 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-024-04432-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is deadly anaplastic changes in the gastrointestinal tract with high-rate mortality. In recent years, the application of phytocompounds has been extended along with different therapeutic protocols. Here, we monitored the effects of Thymoquinone (TQ) on autophagy via mitochondrial function after modulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.Human colorectal adenocarcinoma HT-29 cells were treated with TQ (60 µM) and 15 µM Wnt3a inhibitor (LGK974) for 48 h. The survival rate was evaluated using an MTT assay. The expression of Wnt-related factors (c-Myc, and Axin), angiogenesis (VE-Cadherin), and mitophagy-related factors (PINK1, OPTN) was assessed using real-time PCR assay. Protein levels of autophagy factors (Beclin-1, LC3, and P62) were monitored using western blotting. Using flow cytometry analysis, the intracellular accumulation of Rhodamine 123 was evaluated. The migration properties were analyzed using a scratch wound healing assay.Data indicated that TQ can reduce the viability of HT-29 cells compared to the control cells (p < 0.05). The expression of VE-Cadherin was inhibited while the expression of PINK1 was induced in treated cells (p < 0.05). Both LGK974 and TQ-treated cells exhibited activation of autophagy flux (Beclin-1↑, LC3II/I↑, and p62↓) compared to the control group (p < 0.05). TQ can increase intracellular accumulation of Rhodamine 123, indicating the inhibition of efflux mechanisms in cancer cells. Along with these changes, the migration of cells was also reduced (p < 0.05).TQ is a potential phytocompound to alter the dynamic growth of human colorectal HT-29 cells via the modulation of autophagy, and mitophagy-related mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Saleh Moulana
- Department of Persian Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Sanya Haiaty
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ahad Bazmani
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Roya Shabkhizan
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Sadat Moslehian
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sadeghsoltani
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mostafa Mostafazadeh
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Asadi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Talebi
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zahra Jafari
- Department of Persian Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Morovati
- Department of Persian Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hosein Farzaei
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
- Department of Traditional Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
| | - Reza Rahbarghazi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Seyed Aliyan SM, Roohbakhsh A, Jafari Fakhrabad M, Salmasi Z, Moshiri M, Shahbazi N, Etemad L. Evaluating the Protective Effects of Thymoquinone on Methamphetamine-induced Toxicity in an In Vitro Model Based on Differentiated PC12 Cells. Altern Lab Anim 2024; 52:94-106. [PMID: 38445454 DOI: 10.1177/02611929241237409] [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: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Methamphetamine (Meth) is a highly addictive stimulant. Its potential neurotoxic effects are mediated through various mechanisms, including oxidative stress and the initiation of the apoptotic process. Thymoquinone (TQ), obtained from Nigella sativa seed oil, has extensive antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties. This study aimed to investigate the potential protective effects of TQ against Meth-induced toxicity by using an in vitro model based on nerve growth factor-differentiated PC12 cells. Cell differentiation was assessed by detecting the presence of a neuronal marker with flow cytometry. The effects of Meth exposure were evaluated in the in vitro neuronal cell-based model via the determination of cell viability (in an MTT assay) and apoptosis (by annexin/propidium iodide staining). The generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), as well as the levels of glutathione (GSH) and dopamine, were also determined. The model was used to determine the protective effects of 0.5, 1 and 2 μM TQ against Meth-induced toxicity (at 1 mM). The results showed that TQ reduced Meth-induced neurotoxicity, possibly through the inhibition of ROS generation and apoptosis, and by helping to maintain GSH and dopamine levels. Thus, the impact of TQ treatment on Meth-induced neurotoxicity could warrant further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ali Roohbakhsh
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Marzieh Jafari Fakhrabad
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Zahar Salmasi
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Moshiri
- Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Clinical Toxicology, Imam Reza Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Niosha Shahbazi
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Leila Etemad
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Derosa G, D’Angelo A, Maffioli P, Cucinella L, Nappi RE. The Use of Nigella sativa in Cardiometabolic Diseases. Biomedicines 2024; 12:405. [PMID: 38398007 PMCID: PMC10886913 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12020405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Nigella sativa L. is an herb that is commonly used in cooking and in traditional medicine, particularly in Arab countries, the Indian subcontinent, and some areas of eastern Europe. Nigella sativa is also called "black cumin" or "black seeds", as the seeds are the most-used part of the plant. They contain the main bioactive component thymoquinone (TQ), which is responsible for the pleiotropic pharmacological properties of the seeds, including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive, anti-hepatotoxic, hypoglycemic, and lipid-lowering properties. In this narrative review, both the potential mechanisms of action of Nigella sativa and the fundamental role played by pharmaceutical technology in optimizing preparations based on this herb in terms of yield, quality, and effectiveness have been outlined. Moreover, an analysis of the market of products containing Nigella sativa was carried out based on the current literature with an international perspective, along with a specific focus on Italy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Derosa
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
- Centre of Diabetes, Metabolic Diseases, and Dyslipidemias, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
- Regional Centre for Prevention, Surveillance, Diagnosis and Treatment of Dyslipidemias and Atherosclerosis, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Italian Nutraceutical Society (SINut), 40100 Bologna, Italy
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Angela D’Angelo
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Pamela Maffioli
- Centre of Diabetes, Metabolic Diseases, and Dyslipidemias, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
- Regional Centre for Prevention, Surveillance, Diagnosis and Treatment of Dyslipidemias and Atherosclerosis, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Italian Nutraceutical Society (SINut), 40100 Bologna, Italy
| | - Laura Cucinella
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (L.C.); (R.E.N.)
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology, Menopause Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Rossella Elena Nappi
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (L.C.); (R.E.N.)
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology, Menopause Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kurowska N, Madej M, Strzalka-Mrozik B. Thymoquinone: A Promising Therapeutic Agent for the Treatment of Colorectal Cancer. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 46:121-139. [PMID: 38248312 PMCID: PMC10814900 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46010010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers and is responsible for approximately one million deaths each year. The current standard of care is surgical resection of the lesion and chemotherapy with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). However, of concern is the increasing incidence in an increasingly younger patient population and the ability of CRC cells to develop resistance to 5-FU. In this review, we discuss the effects of thymoquinone (TQ), one of the main bioactive components of Nigella sativa seeds, on CRC, with a particular focus on the use of TQ in combination therapy with other chemotherapeutic agents. TQ exhibits anti-CRC activity by inducing a proapoptotic effect and inhibiting proliferation, primarily through its effect on the regulation of signaling pathways crucial for tumor progression and oxidative stress. TQ can be used synergistically with chemotherapeutic agents to enhance their anticancer effects and to influence the expression of signaling pathways and other genes important in cancer development. These data appear to be most relevant for co-treatment with 5-FU. We believe that TQ is a suitable candidate for consideration in the chemoprevention and adjuvant therapy for CRC, but further studies, including clinical trials, are needed to confirm its safety and efficacy in the treatment of cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Kurowska
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland; (N.K.); (M.M.)
| | - Marcel Madej
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland; (N.K.); (M.M.)
- Silesia LabMed, Centre for Research and Implementation, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
| | - Barbara Strzalka-Mrozik
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland; (N.K.); (M.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Haif SK, Al Kury LT, Talib WH. Combination of Thymoquinone and Intermittent Fasting as a Treatment for Breast Cancer Implanted in Mice. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:35. [PMID: 38202341 PMCID: PMC10780740 DOI: 10.3390/plants13010035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer stands out as a particularly challenging form of cancer to treat among various types. Traditional treatment methods have been longstanding approaches, yet their efficacy has diminished over time owing to heightened toxicity, adverse effects, and the emergence of multi-drug resistance. Nevertheless, a viable solution has emerged through the adoption of a complementary treatment strategy utilizing natural substances and the incorporation of intermittent fasting to enhance therapeutic outcomes. This study aimed to assess the anticancer activity of thymoquinone (TQ), intermittent fasting, and their combination using in vivo and in vitro methods. The anti-proliferative activity of TQ and fasting (glucose/serum restriction) were evaluated against the T47D, MDA-MB-231, and EMT6 cell lines and compared to normal cell lines (Vero) using the MTT colorimetric assay method. Additionally, this study aimed to determine the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of TQ. For the in vivo experiment, the antitumor activity of TQ and intermittent fasting (IF) was assessed by measuring the tumor sizes using a digital caliper to determine the change in the tumor size and survival rates. At the molecular level, the serum levels of glucose, β-hydroxybutyrate (β-HB), leptin, and insulin growth factor-1 (IGF-1) were measured using standard kits. Additionally, the aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and creatinine serum levels were measured. The inhibition of the breast cancer cell lines was achieved by TQ. TQ and intermittent fasting both had an additional anticancer effect against breast tumors inoculated in mice. The combination therapy was evaluated and found to significantly reduce the tumor size, with a change in tumor size of -57.7%. Additionally, the combination of TQ and IF led to a decrease in the serum levels of glucose, IGF-1 (24.49 ng/mL) and leptin (1.77 ng/mL) while increasing β-hydroxybutyrate in the mice given combination therapy (200.86 nM) with no toxicity on the liver or kidneys. In the mice receiving combination therapy, TQ and IF treated breast cancer in an additive way without causing liver or kidney toxicity due to decreased levels of glucose, IGF-1, and leptin and increased levels of β-hydroxybutyrate. Further investigation is required to optimize the doses and determine the other possible mechanisms exhibited by the novel combination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shatha Khaled Haif
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931-166, Jordan;
| | - Lina T. Al Kury
- Department of Health Sciences, College of Natural and Health Sciences, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi 144534, United Arab Emirates
| | - Wamidh H. Talib
- Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931-166, Jordan
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Algaissi A, Tabassum H, Khan E, Dwivedi S, Lohani M, Khamjan NA, Farasani A, Ahmad IZ. HDAC inhibition by Nigella sativa L. sprouts extract in hepatocellular carcinoma: an approach to study anti-cancer potential. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023:1-19. [PMID: 37948309 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2279283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
A wide variety of natural products have been widely used in chemoprevention therapy because they have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activity. In the present study, we shed light on the 5th day germinated sprouts of N. sativa seeds and evaluated them against HDAC inhibition and antioxidant activity. The extract from the seed and sprout was extracted and characterised by LC-MS/MS, FTIR, and NMR to reveal its chemical composition, especially thymol (THY) and thymoquinone (TQ). Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a global health concern as it is a major lifestyle disease. Hence, incorporating herbal-based therapeutic compounds into everyday routines has become an attractive alternative for preventing hepatic diseases. Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibition (HDACi) is emerging as a promising therapeutic strategy for managing various carcinomas including HCC. Therefore, the 5th day of N. sativa can be used as a potential anticancer agent by inhibiting HDAC activity, as it is reported to have an important role in the management of oxidative stress. The bioactive compound of N. sativa, i.e. thymoquinone, also showed a good binding affinity with the HDAC protein (3MAX) with a stable interaction in an in silico study as compared to the standard drug (Trichostatin A) and thymol.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Algaissi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Heena Tabassum
- Dr. D.Y. Patil Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Institute, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Elhan Khan
- Natural Products Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Integral University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sonam Dwivedi
- Natural Products Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Integral University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Mohtashim Lohani
- Medical Research Centre, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nizar A Khamjan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Farasani
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Iffat Zareen Ahmad
- Natural Products Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Integral University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ceylan T, Akin AT, Karabulut D, Tan FC, Taşkiran M, Yakan B. Therapeutic effect of thymoquinone on brain damage caused by nonylphenol exposure in rats. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2023; 37:e23471. [PMID: 37466128 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Nonylphenol (NP), causes various harmful effects such as cognitive impairment and neurotoxicity. Thymoquinone (TQ), has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. In this study, our aim is to investigate the effects of TQ on the brain damage caused by NP. Corn oil was applied to the control group. NP (100 mg/kg/day) was administered to the NP and NP + TQ groups for 21 days. TQ (5 mg/kg/day) was administered to the NP + TQ and TQ groups for 7 after 21 days. At the end of the experiment, the new object recognition test was applied to the rats and the rats were killed and their brain tissues were removed. Sections taken from brain tissues were stained with hematoxylin-eosin for histopathological evaluation. In addition, neuronal nuclei (NeuN), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), Cas-3, and nerve growth factor (NGF) immunoreactivities were evaluated in brain tissue sections. In addition, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) activities were determined. Comet assay was applied to determine DNA damage in cells. The results of our study showed that NP, caused behavioral disorders and damage to the cerebral cortex in rats. This damage in the form of neuron degeneration seen in the cortex was associated with apoptosis involving Cas-3 activation, increased DNA damage, and free oxygen radicals. NP, SOD, and CAT caused a decrease in enzyme activities. In addition, the cellular protein NeuN was decreased, astrocytosis-associated GFAP was increased, and growth factor NGF was decreased. When all our evaluations are taken together, treatment with TQ showed an ameliorative effect on the behavioral impairment and brain damage caused by NP exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tayfun Ceylan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Dentistry, Cappadocia University, Nevsehir, Turkey
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Ali Tuğrul Akin
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Istinye University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Derya Karabulut
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Fazile Cantürk Tan
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Taşkiran
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Birkan Yakan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Gulbay G, Secme M, Ilhan H. Exploring the Potential of Thymoquinone-Stabilized Selenium Nanoparticles: In HEC1B Endometrial Cancer Cells Revealing Enhanced Anticancer Efficacy. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:39822-39829. [PMID: 37901525 PMCID: PMC10601430 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c06028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this research is to examine the potential anticancer properties of thymoquinone (TQ)-encapsulated selenium nanoparticles (TQ-SeNPs) in HEC1B endometrial carcinoma cells. TQ-SeNPs were synthesized, and their size, morphology, and elemental analysis were characterized. Morphological changes were examined by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The cytotoxicity and viability of nanothymoquinone were assessed by the XTT (2,3-bis (2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium-5 carboxanilide) assay. Gene expressions and protein levels of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway were analyzed by real-time PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively. The decrease in the viability of HEC1B endometrial carcinoma cells was observed in a time- and dose-dependent manner. HEC-1B cells were treated with TQ-SeNP at 40-640 μg/mL concentrations and time intervals, and their viability was assessed by XTT assay. IC50 doses of TQ-SeNP in HEC1B cells were detected as 526.45 μg/mL at 48th hour. ELISA indicated that TQ-SeNP treatment reduced the level of p38 MAPK. ERK2, MEK2, and NFKB (p65) mRNA expressions were decreased in the dose group administered TQ-SeNP at the 48th hour compared to that in the control group. However, it was not significant. The novel nanoparticle showed an antiproliferative effect in endometrial cancer cells. However, further studies are needed to increase the anticancer activity of the cell in the TQ-SeNP interaction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gonca Gulbay
- Department
of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Ordu University, Ordu 52200, Turkey
| | - Mucahit Secme
- Department
of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Ordu University, Ordu 52200, Turkey
| | - Hasan Ilhan
- Department
of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ordu University, Ordu 52200, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Selmi M, Salek A, Barboura M, Njim L, Trabelsi A, Lahmar A, Lautram N, Roger E, Baati T, Ghedira LC. Thymoquinone-loaded lipid nanocapsules with promising anticancer activity for colorectal cancer. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2023; 5:5390-5398. [PMID: 37767034 PMCID: PMC10521245 DOI: 10.1039/d3na00445g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common worldwide. Depending on its stage, chemotherapy is usually given after surgery when CRC has already metastasized to other organs like the liver or lungs. Unfortunately, the current antineoplastics used for CRC therapies involve toxicity and side effects due to their lack of site-specificity. To overcome the drawbacks of heavy chemotherapy, this study proposes to assess the efficacy of thymoquinone (TQ), a bioactive constituent of black seeds (Nigella sativa), as an antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic agent on an experimental CRC model in mice. TQ was encapsulated in lipid nanocapsules (LNCs), used as nanocarriers, in order to increase its specificity and cell absorption. TQ-loaded LNCs (TQ-LNCs) have a diameter of 58.3 ± 3.7 nm and 87.7 ± 4.5% TQ encapsulation efficiency. In turn, in vivo studies showed that the intratumoral administration of TQ-LNCs decreased the tumor size in colorectal cancer bearing mice compared to the control group. TQ-LNCs were more effective than free TQ for inducing tumor cell death. These results highlight the potential of TQ entrapped in LNCs as an anticancer agent for CRC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mouna Selmi
- Laboratoire des Substances Naturelles Bioactives et Biotechnologie UR17ES49, Faculté de Médecine Dentaire, Université de Monastir Tunisia
| | - Abir Salek
- Laboratoire des Substances Naturelles Bioactives et Biotechnologie UR17ES49, Faculté de Médecine Dentaire, Université de Monastir Tunisia
| | - Mahassen Barboura
- Laboratoire des Substances Naturelles Bioactives et Biotechnologie UR17ES49, Faculté de Médecine Dentaire, Université de Monastir Tunisia
| | - Leila Njim
- Service d'Anatomie Pathologique, CHU de Monastir, Université de Monastir Tunisia
| | - Amine Trabelsi
- Laboratoire des Substances Naturelles Bioactives et Biotechnologie UR17ES49, Faculté de Médecine Dentaire, Université de Monastir Tunisia
- Laboratoire de Pharmacognosie, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Monastir Tunisia
| | - Aida Lahmar
- Laboratoire des Substances Naturelles Bioactives et Biotechnologie UR17ES49, Faculté de Médecine Dentaire, Université de Monastir Tunisia
| | - Nolwenn Lautram
- Université d'Angers, INSERM, CNRS, MINT, SFR-ICAT F-49000 Angers France
| | - Emilie Roger
- Université d'Angers, INSERM, CNRS, MINT, SFR-ICAT F-49000 Angers France
| | - Tarek Baati
- Laboratoire des Substances Naturelles, Institut National de Recherche et d'Analyse Physico-chimique, Biotechpôle Sidi Thabet 2020 Tunisia +216 71 537 688 +216 71 537 666
| | - Leila Chekir Ghedira
- Laboratoire des Substances Naturelles Bioactives et Biotechnologie UR17ES49, Faculté de Médecine Dentaire, Université de Monastir Tunisia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Shaukat A, Zaidi A, Anwar H, Kizilbash N. Mechanism of the antidiabetic action of Nigella sativa and Thymoquinone: a review. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1126272. [PMID: 37818339 PMCID: PMC10561288 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1126272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Long used in traditional medicine, Nigella sativa (NS; Ranunculaceae) has shown significant efficacy as an adjuvant therapy for diabetes mellitus (DM) management by improving glucose tolerance, decreasing hepatic gluconeogenesis, normalizing blood sugar and lipid imbalance, and stimulating insulin secretion from pancreatic cells. In this review, the pharmacological and pharmacokinetic properties of NS as a herbal diabetes medication are examined in depth, demonstrating how it counteracts oxidative stress and the onset and progression of DM. Methods This literature review drew on databases such as Google Scholar and PubMed and various gray literature sources using search terms like the etiology of diabetes, conventional versus herbal therapy, subclinical pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, physiology, behavior, and clinical outcomes. Results The efficiency and safety of NS in diabetes, notably its thymoquinone (TQ) rich volatile oil, have drawn great attention from researchers in recent years; the specific therapeutic dose has eluded determination so far. TQ has anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties but has not proved druggable. DM's intimate link with oxidative stress, makes NS therapy relevant since it is a potent antioxidant that energizes the cell's endogenous arsenal of antioxidant enzymes. NS attenuates insulin resistance, enhances insulin signaling, suppresses cyclooxygenase-2, upregulates insulin-like growth factor-1, and prevents endothelial dysfunction in DM. Conclusion The interaction of NS with mainstream drugs, gut microbiota, and probiotics opens new possibilities for innovative therapies. Despite its strong potential to treat DM, NS and TQ must be examined in more inclusive clinical studies targeting underrepresented patient populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arslan Shaukat
- Department of Physiology, Government College University - GCU, Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Arsalan Zaidi
- National Probiotic Laboratory, National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering College - NIBGE-C, Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan
- Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences - PIEAS, Nilore, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Haseeb Anwar
- Department of Physiology, Government College University - GCU, Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Nadeem Kizilbash
- Department Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Northern Border University, Arar, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Adam SH, Abu IF, Kamal DAM, Febriza A, Kashim MIAM, Mokhtar MH. A Review of the Potential Health Benefits of Nigella sativa on Obesity and Its Associated Complications. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:3210. [PMID: 37765374 PMCID: PMC10536791 DOI: 10.3390/plants12183210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Obesity has become a worldwide epidemic and its prevalence continues to increase at an alarming rate. It is considered a major risk factor for the development of several comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes, stroke, other cardiovascular diseases and even cancer. Conventional treatments for obesity, such as dietary interventions, exercise and pharmacotherapy, have proven to have limited effectiveness and are often associated with undesirable side effects. Therefore, there is a growing interest in exploring alternative therapeutic approaches. Nigella sativa (NS), a medicinal plant with multiple pharmacological properties, has gained attention due to its potential role in the treatment of obesity and its associated complications. The aim of this review is therefore to assess the effects of NS on obesity and its complications and to provide insights into the underlying mechanisms. From this review, NS appears to play a complementary or supportive role in the treatment of obesity and its complications. However, future studies are needed to verify the efficacy of NS in the treatment of obesity and its complications and to prove its safety so that it can be introduced in patients with obesity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siti Hajar Adam
- Preclinical Department, Faculty of Medicine & Defence Health, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia
| | - Izuddin Fahmy Abu
- Institute of Medical Science Technology, Universiti Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur 50250, Malaysia
| | - Datu Agasi Mohd Kamal
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Malaysia
| | - Ami Febriza
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Makassar, Kota Makassar 90221, Indonesia
| | - Mohd Izhar Ariff Mohd Kashim
- Centre of Shariah, Faculty of Islamic Studies, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia
- Insitute of Islam Hadhari, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Helmy Mokhtar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Shabani H, Karami MH, Kolour J, Sayyahi Z, Parvin MA, Soghala S, Baghini SS, Mardasi M, Chopani A, Moulavi P, Farkhondeh T, Darroudi M, Kabiri M, Samarghandian S. Anticancer activity of thymoquinone against breast cancer cells: Mechanisms of action and delivery approaches. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:114972. [PMID: 37481931 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The rising incidence of breast cancer has been a significant source of concern in the medical community. Regarding the adverse effects and consequences of current treatments, cancers' health, and socio-economical aspects have become more complicated, leaving research aimed at improved or new treatments on top priority. Medicinal herbs contain multitarget compounds that can control cancer development and advancement. Owing to Nigella Sativa's elements, it can treat many disorders. Thymoquinone (TQ) is a natural chemical derived from the black seeds of Nigella sativa Linn proved to have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. TQ interferes in a broad spectrum of tumorigenic procedures and inhibits carcinogenesis, malignant development, invasion, migration, and angiogenesis owing to its multitargeting ability. It effectively facilitates miR-34a up-regulation, regulates the p53-dependent pathway, and suppresses Rac1 expression. TQ promotes apoptosis and controls the expression of pro- and anti-apoptotic genes. It has also been shown to diminish the phosphorylation of NF-B and IKK and decrease the metastasis and ERK1/2 and PI3K activity. We discuss TQ's cytotoxic effects for breast cancer treatment with a deep look at the relevant stimulatory or inhibitory signaling pathways. This review discusses the various forms of polymeric and non-polymeric nanocarriers (NC) and the encapsulation of TQ for increasing oral bioavailability and enhanced in vitro and in vivo efficacy of TQ-combined treatment with different chemotherapeutic agents against various breast cancer cell lines. This study can be useful to a broad scientific community, comprising pharmaceutical and biological scientists, as well as clinical investigators.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hadi Shabani
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Islamshahr Branch, Iran
| | | | - Jalili Kolour
- Cellular and Molecular Biology master student, Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, Italy
| | - Zeinab Sayyahi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amir Parvin
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, school of Biology, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahrad Soghala
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sadegh Shojaei Baghini
- Plant Biotechnology Department, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology(NIGEB), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Mardasi
- Department of Plant Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University G. C., Evin, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Chopani
- Department of Microbiology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pooria Moulavi
- Department of Biology, Tehran North Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tahereh Farkhondeh
- Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Majid Darroudi
- Nuclear Medicine Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Basic Sciences, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur 9318614139, Iran
| | - Mahboubeh Kabiri
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Saeed Samarghandian
- Healthy Ageing Research Centre, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Madani F, Kazemi S, Shirafkan F, Lotfi M, Hosseini SM, Moghadamnia AA. Thymoquinone protects against 5-Fluorouracil-induced mucositis by NF-κβ and HIF-1 mechanisms in mice. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2023; 37:e23405. [PMID: 37338137 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
Mucositis is among the most common side effects of 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) and other cancer therapeutic drugs. Thymoquinone (TQ), a bioactive constituent extracted from Nigella sativa, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and can modify acute gastrointestinal injury. To investigate the effects of TQ on mucositis induced by 5-FU, studied animals were divided into four groups: control, 5-FU unit dose (300 mg/kg) to cause oral and intestinal mucositis (OM and IM), TQ (2.5 mg/kg) and TQ (2.5 mg/kg) plus 5-FU. Due to The molecular mechanisms, it was confirmed that the expression of NF-κβ and HIF-1 increases in OM. The serum levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), as well as pathological parameters, were assessed. Based on our results, the nuclear factor-kappa β gene expression in the tongue was downregulated significantly in the 5-FU + TQ compared to the 5-FU. TQ treatment can diminish MDA, and a reduction in oxidative stress was shown. TQ could also reduce the severity of tissue destruction and damaging effects induced by 5-FU on the tongue and intestine. We also observed lower villus length and width in the intestine of the 5-FU group compared to the control group. According to our research's pathological, biochemical, and molecular results, treatment with TQ as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound may be the potential to improve and treat 5-FU-induced OM and IM, and TQ could be used against cancer treatment drugs and exhibit fewer adverse effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Madani
- Student Research Committee, Health Research Center, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Sohrab Kazemi
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Center, Babol University of Medical, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Shirafkan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Mandana Lotfi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Seyed M Hosseini
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Babol-Branch, Islamic Azad University, Babol, Iran
| | - Ali A Moghadamnia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Shoaib A, Javed S, Wahab S, Azmi L, Tabish M, Sultan MH, Abdelsalam K, Alqahtani SS, Ahmad MF. Cellular, Molecular, Pharmacological, and Nano-Formulation Aspects of Thymoquinone-A Potent Natural Antiviral Agent. Molecules 2023; 28:5435. [PMID: 37513307 PMCID: PMC10383476 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28145435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The goal of an antiviral agent research is to find an antiviral drug that reduces viral growth without harming healthy cells. Transformations of the virus, new viral strain developments, the resistance of viral pathogens, and side effects are the current challenges in terms of discovering antiviral drugs. The time has come and it is now essential to discover a natural antiviral agent that has the potential to destroy viruses without causing resistance or other unintended side effects. The pharmacological potency of thymoquinone (TQ) against different communicable and non-communicable diseases has been proven by various studies, and TQ is considered to be a safe antiviral substitute. Adjunctive immunomodulatory effects in addition to the antiviral potency of TQ makes it a major compound against viral infection through modulating the production of nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species, decreasing the cytokine storm, and inhibiting endothelial dysfunction. Nevertheless, TQ's low oral bioavailability, short half-life, poor water solubility, and conventional formulation are barriers to achieving its optimal pharmacologic benefits. Nano-formulation proposes numerous ways to overcome these obstacles through a small particle size, a big surface area, and a variety of surface modifications. Nano-based pharmaceutical innovations to combat viral infections using TQ are a promising approach to treating surmounting viral infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ambreen Shoaib
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit (PPRU), College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shamama Javed
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shadma Wahab
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia
| | - Lubna Azmi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226007, India
| | - Mohammad Tabish
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Shaqra University, Shaqra 11961, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad H Sultan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Karim Abdelsalam
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit (PPRU), College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saad S Alqahtani
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia
| | - Md Faruque Ahmad
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Vladić J, Kovačević S, Aladić K, Jokić S, Radman S, Podunavac-Kuzmanović S, Duarte ARC, Jerković I. Innovative Strategy for Aroma Stabilization Using Green Solvents: Supercritical CO 2 Extracts of Satureja montana Dispersed in Deep Eutectic Solvents. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1126. [PMID: 37509162 PMCID: PMC10377330 DOI: 10.3390/biom13071126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this work was to establish the potential of natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) for the stabilization of aroma volatile organic compounds from a natural source. Satureja montana was used as a source of volatile components, as it is rich in terpenes of great commercial and biological importance, such as carvacrol, thymol, and thymoquinone, among others. Supercritical CO2 was used to extract the lipophilic fraction of S. montana, which was further directly dispersed in NADES. The stabilizing capacity of seven different NADES based on betaine and glycerol was analyzed. The stability of the components in NADES was monitored by analyzing the headspace profile during 6 months of storage at room temperature. The changes in the headspace profile over time were analyzed by using different statistical and chemometric tools and the Wilcoxon matched pair test. It was determined that alterations over time occurred such as degradation and oxidation, and they were the most prominent in the control. In addition, the indicator of decreased stability of the control was the formation of the new compounds that could compromise the quality of the product. In the stabilized NADES samples, the changes were significantly less prominent, indicating that the NADES had a stabilizing effect on the volatile compounds. According to Wilcoxon matched pair test, the most efficient stability was achieved by using betaine/ethylene glycol, glycerol/glucose, and betaine/sorbitol/water. Therefore, by applying two green solvents, a sustainable approach for obtaining pure and high-quality S. montana extracts with extended stability at room temperature was established.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Vladić
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Strahinja Kovačević
- Faculty of Technology Novi Sad, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Krunoslav Aladić
- Faculty of Food Technology Osijek, University of Josip Juraj Strossmayer of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Stela Jokić
- Faculty of Food Technology Osijek, University of Josip Juraj Strossmayer of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Sanja Radman
- Faculty of Chemistry and Technology, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia
| | | | - Ana Rita C Duarte
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Igor Jerković
- Faculty of Chemistry and Technology, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Mittal P, Dhankhar S, Chauhan S, Garg N, Bhattacharya T, Ali M, Chaudhary AA, Rudayni HA, Al-Zharani M, Ahmad W, Khan SUD, Singh TG, Mujwar S. A Review on Natural Antioxidants for Their Role in the Treatment of Parkinson's Disease. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:908. [PMID: 37513820 PMCID: PMC10385773 DOI: 10.3390/ph16070908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The neurodegenerative condition known as Parkinson's disease (PD) is brought on by the depletion of dopaminergic neurons in the basal ganglia, which is the brain region that controls body movement. PD occurs due to many factors, from which one of the acknowledged effects of oxidative stress is pathogenic pathways that play a role in the development of Parkinson's disease. Antioxidants, including flavonoids, vitamins E and C, and polyphenolic substances, help to reduce the oxidative stress brought on by free radicals. Consequently, this lowers the risk of neurodegenerative disorders in the long term. Although there is currently no cure for neurodegenerative illnesses, these conditions can be controlled. The treatment of this disease lessens its symptoms, which helps to preserve the patient's quality of life. Therefore, the use of naturally occurring antioxidants, such as polyphenols, which may be obtained through food or nutritional supplements and have a variety of positive effects, has emerged as an appealing alternative management strategy. This article will examine the extent of knowledge about antioxidants in the treatment of neurodegenerative illnesses, as well as future directions for research. Additionally, an evaluation of the value of antioxidants as neuroprotective agents will be provided.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Mittal
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura 140401, India
| | - Sanchit Dhankhar
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura 140401, India
- Ganpati Institute of Pharmacy, Bilaspur 135102, India
| | - Samrat Chauhan
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura 140401, India
| | - Nitika Garg
- Ganpati Institute of Pharmacy, Bilaspur 135102, India
| | - Tanima Bhattacharya
- Department of Food and Nutrition, BioNanocomposite Research Center, Kyung Hee University, 260 Kyunghee-daero, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Nondestructive Bio-Sensing Laboratory, Department of Biosystems Machinery Engineering, College of Agriculture and Life Science, Chungnam National University, 99 Daehak-ro, BLDG# E10-2, RM# 2213, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Maksood Ali
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Orlean College of Pharmacy, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University, 42, Knowledge Park-III, Greater Noida 201308, India
- Department of Pharmacognosy, HIMT College of Pharmacy, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University, 8, Institutional Area, Knowledge Park-I, Greater Noida 201301, India
| | - Anis Ahmad Chaudhary
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11623, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan Ahmad Rudayni
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11623, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Al-Zharani
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11623, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wasim Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacy, Mohammed Al-Mana College for Medical Sciences, Dammam 34222, Saudi Arabia
| | - Salah Ud-Din Khan
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11623, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Somdutt Mujwar
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura 140401, India
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Zhao Z, Liu L, Chen H, Li S, Guo Y, Hou X, Yang J. Thymoquinone affects the gemcitabine sensitivity of pancreatic cancer by regulating collagen via hypoxia inducible factor-1α. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1138265. [PMID: 37324458 PMCID: PMC10264578 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1138265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: To clarify the potential therapeutic effects of thymoquinone (TQ) on pancreatic cancer and its gemcitabine (GEM) sensitivity. Methods: The expression levels of hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), collagens (COL1A1, COL3A1, and COL5A1), and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ1) in pancreatic cancer and para-carcinoma tissues were compared using immunohistochemical methods, and their relationships with TNM staging were analyzed. The effects of TQ on apoptosis, migration, invasion, and GEM sensitivity of pancreatic cancer cells were assessed using in vitro and in vivo experiments. Western blot and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the expression levels of HIF-1α, extracellular matrix (ECM) production pathway-related proteins, and TGFβ/Smad signaling pathway-related proteins. Results: The expression levels of HIF-1α, COL1A1, COL3A1, COL5A1, and TGFβ1 in pancreatic cancer tissues were significantly higher than those in para-carcinoma tissues and correlated with TNM staging (p < 0.05). TQ and GEM administration inhibited the migration and invasion of the human pancreatic cancer cell line PANC-1 and promoted the apoptosis of PANC-1 cells. The combination of TQ and GEM was more effective than GEM alone. Western blot analysis showed that the expression levels of HIF-1α, ECM production pathway-related proteins, and TGFβ/Smad signaling pathway-related proteins were significantly decreased when TQ was used to treat PANC-1 cells (p < 0.05), and the expression levels of these proteins in the TQ + GEM group were significantly more decreased than those in the GEM group. Overexpression or knockdown of HIF-1α in PANC-1 cells showed the same effects as those induced by TQ administration. In vivo experiments showed that in PANC-1 tumor-bearing mice, tumor volume and tumor weight in mice treated with GEM and TQ were significantly lower than those in control or GEM-treated mice, whereas cell apoptosis was significantly increased (p < 0.05). Western blot and immunohistochemistry results showed that the levels of HIF-1α, ECM production pathway-related proteins, and TGFβ/Smad signaling pathway-related proteins in the GEM + TQ treatment group were further decreased compared to the control group or the GEM treatment group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: In pancreatic cancer cells, TQ can promote apoptosis, inhibit migration, invasion, and metastasis, and enhance the sensitivity to GEM. The underlying mechanism may involve the regulation of ECM production through the TGFβ/Smad pathway, in which HIF-1α plays a key role.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhanxue Zhao
- Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Department of General Surgery, Qinghai Provincial People’s Hospital, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Linxun Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Qinghai Provincial People’s Hospital, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Hekai Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University BinHai Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Shuai Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Yan Guo
- Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Pathology, Qinghai Provincial People’s Hospital, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Xiaofan Hou
- Graduate School, Qinghai University, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Jinyu Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Qinghai Provincial People’s Hospital, Xining, Qinghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Alsaffar N, Fang Y, Walters E. Thymoquinone effect on the Dictyostelium discoideum model correlates with functional roles for glutathione S-transferases in eukaryotic proliferation, chemotaxis, and development. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282399. [PMID: 36857392 PMCID: PMC9977050 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
An increasing body of literature demonstrates the therapeutic relevance of polyphenols in eukaryotic cell and animal model studies. The phase II glutathione S-transferases (GST) show differential responses to thymoquinone, a major bioactive polyphenol constituent of the black seed, Nigella sativa. Beyond antioxidant defense, GSTs may act in non-enzymatic capacities to effect cell cycle, motility, and differentiation. Here, we report the impact of thymoquinone on the life cycle of the eukaryotic model Dictyostelium discoideum and accompanying profiles of its GST-alpha (DdGSTA) enzyme activity and isozyme expression. In silico molecular modeling revealed strong interaction(s) between thymoquinone and DdGSTA2 and DdGSTA3 isozymes that correlated with in vivo, dose-dependent inhibition of cell proliferation of amoebae at 24, 48, and 72hr. Similarly, cytosolic DdGST enzyme activity (CDNB activity) was also responsive to different thymoquinone concentrations. Thymoquinone generally reduced expression of DdGSTA2 and DdGSTA3 isozymes in proliferating cells, however differential expression of the isozymes occurred during starvation. Thymoquinone effectively reduced early-stage aggregation of starved amoeba, accompanied by increased reactive oxygen species and altered expression of tubulin and contact site A (gp80), which resulted in reduced morphogenesis and fruiting body formation. These observations reveal that thymoquinone can impact signaling mechanisms that regulate proliferation and development in D. discoideum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nida Alsaffar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Yayin Fang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Eric Walters
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Sakib R, Caruso F, Aktar S, Belli S, Kaur S, Hernandez M, Rossi M. Antioxidant Properties of Thymoquinone, Thymohydroquinone and Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.) Seed Oil: Scavenging of Superoxide Radical Studied Using Cyclic Voltammetry, DFT and Single Crystal X-ray Diffraction. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12030607. [PMID: 36978853 PMCID: PMC10045468 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12030607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Black cumin seeds and seed oil have long been used in traditional foods and medicine in South Asian, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean countries and are valuable flavor ingredients. An important ingredient of black cumin is the small molecule thymoquinone (TQ), which manifests low toxicity and potential therapeutic activity against a wide number of diseases including diabetes, cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. In this study, the antioxidant activities of black seed oil, TQ and a related molecule found in black cumin, thymohydroquinone (THQ), were measured using a direct electrochemical method to experimentally evaluate their superoxide scavenging action. TQ and the black seed oil showed good superoxide scavenging ability, while THQ did not. Density Functional Theory (DFT) computational methods were applied to arrive at a chemical mechanism describing these results, and confirmed the experimental Rotating Ring Disk Electrode (RRDE) findings that superoxide oxidation to O2 by TQ is feasible, in contrast with THQ, which does not scavenge superoxide. Additionally, a thorough inquiry into the unusual cyclic voltammetry pattern exhibited by TQ was studied and was associated with formation of a 1:1 TQ-superoxide radical species, [TQ-O2]−•. DFT calculations reveal this radical species to be involved in the π-π mechanism describing TQ reactivity with superoxide. The crystal structures of TQ and THQ were analyzed, and the experimental data reveal the presence of stacking intermolecular interactions that can be associated with formation of the radical species, [TQ-O2]−•. All three of these methods were essential for us to arrive at a chemical mechanism that explains TQ antioxidant activity, that incorporates intermolecular features found in the crystal structure and which correlates with the measured superoxide scavenging activity.
Collapse
|
23
|
Salimi A, Shabani M, Nikjou A, Choupani M, Biniyaz M. Exploring the possible mitoprotective and neuroprotective potency of thymoquinone, betanin, and vitamin D against cytarabine-induced mitochondrial impairment and neurotoxicity in rats' brain. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2023; 37:e23256. [PMID: 36419121 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
It has been suggested that cytarabine (Ara-C) induces toxicity via mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. Therefore, we hypothesized that mitochondrial protective agents and antioxidants can reduce cytarabine-induced neurotoxicity. For this purpose, 48 male Wistar rats were assigned into eight equal groups include control group, Ara-C (70 mg/kg, i.p.) group, Ara-C plus betanin (25 mg/kg, i.p.) group, Ara-C plus vitamin D (500 U/kg, i.p.) group, Ara-C plus thymoquinone (0.5 mg/kg, i.p.) group, betanin group, vitamin group, and thymoquinone group. The activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), the concentrations of antioxidants (reduced glutathione and oxidized glutathione), oxidative stress (malondialdehyde) biomarkers, mitochondrial toxicity parameters as well as histopathological alteration in brain tissues were measured. Our results demonstrated that Ara-C exposure significantly declines the brain enzymes activity (AChE and BChE), levels of antioxidant biomarkers (GSH), and mitochondrial functions, but markedly elevate the levels of oxidative stress biomarkers (MDA) and mitochondrial toxicity. Almost all of the previously mentioned parameters (especially mitochondrial toxicity) were retrieved by betanin, vitamin D, and thymoquinone compared to Ara-C group. These findings conclusively indicate that betanin, vitamin D, and thymoquinone administration provide adequate protection against Ara-C-induced neurotoxicity through modulations of oxidative, antioxidant activities, and mitochondrial protective (mitoprotective) effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Salimi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.,Traditional Medicine and Hydrotherapy Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Mohammad Shabani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Amirreza Nikjou
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Mahshid Choupani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.,Traditional Medicine and Hydrotherapy Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Mohana Biniyaz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
El-Sayed SAES, Rizk MA. COVID-19 and Thymoquinone: Clinical Benefits, Cure, and Challenges. BIOMED 2023; 3:59-76. [DOI: 10.3390/biomed3010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
In today’s world, the outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread throughout the world, causing severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and several associated complications in various organs (heart, liver, kidney, and gastrointestinal tract), as well as significant multiple organ dysfunction, shock, and even death. In order to overcome the serious complications associated with this pandemic virus and to prevent SARS-CoV-2 entry into the host cell, it is necessary to repurpose currently available drugs with a broad medicinal application as soon as they become available. There are several therapeutics under investigation for improving the overall prognosis of COVID-19 patients, but none of them has demonstrated clinical efficacy to date, which is disappointing. It is in this pattern that Nigella sativa seeds manifest their extensive therapeutic effects, which have been reported to be particularly effective in the treatment of skin diseases, jaundice, and gastrointestinal problems. One important component of these seeds is thymoquinone (TQ), which has a wide range of beneficial properties, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as antibacterial and parasitic properties, in addition to anticarcinogenic, antiallergic, and antiviral properties. This comprehensive review discussed the possibility of an emerging natural drug with a wide range of medical applications; the use of TQ to overcome the complications of COVID-19 infection; and the challenges that are impeding the commercialization of this promising phytochemical compound. TQ is recommended as a highly effective weapon in the fight against the novel coronavirus because of its dual antiviral action, in addition to its capacity to lessen the possibility of SARS-CoV-2 penetration into cells. However, future clinical trials are required to confirm the role of TQ in overcoming the complications of COVID-19 infection.
Collapse
|
25
|
Hajmomeni P, Sisakhtnezhad S, Bidmeshkipour A. Thymoquinone-treated mouse mesenchymal stem cells-derived conditioned medium inhibits human breast cancer cells in vitro. Chem Biol Interact 2023; 369:110283. [PMID: 36450322 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2022.110283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer is now the most prevalent cancer in females, therefore, it is essential to identify factors affecting its initiation and progression. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have received considerable attention in stem cell-based therapies and drug delivery applications. Because the therapeutic potential of MSCs is primarily achieved by their paracrine effects, thus identifying and employing bioactive molecules that promote the paracrine activity of MSCs is crucial for their efficient use in cancer treatment. Thymoquinone (TQ) has many biomedical properties, including anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-aging, anti-cancer, etc. In addition, it has been found that TQ affects the self-renewal and immunomodulatory properties of MSCs. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of TQ-treated mouse bone marrow-derived MSCs conditioned medium (TQ-MSC-CM) on the biological characteristics of breast cancer cell line MCF7. MSCs were cultured and treated with TQ for 24 h. The TQ-MSC-CM and MSC-CM were collected, and their effects were investigated on ROS production, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), cell death, cell cycle, and migration of MCF7 cells by DCFDA-cellular ROS assay, Rhodamine-123 MMP assay, Annexin-PI staining and Caspase-3/7 activity assays, PI-staining and flow-cytometry, and in vitro wound healing assay, respectively. Moreover, the effects of TQ-MSC-CM and MSC-CM were studied on Cdk4, Sox2, c-Met, and Bcl2 gene expression by real-time PCR. Results demonstrated that MSC-CM and TQ-MSC-CM did not have a significant effect on the apoptosis induction in MCF7 cells; however, they significantly stimulated necrosis in the cells. Although TQ-MSC-CM promoted ROS production in MCF7 cells, it decreased the MMP of the cells. TQ-MSC-CM also induced Bcl2 anti-apoptosis gene expression and Casp-3/7 activity in cells. In addition, although MSC-CM induced MCF7 cells to enter the cell cycle, TQ-MSC-CM inhibited its progression. TQ-MSC-CM also downregulated the Cdk4 and Sox2 gene expression. Furthermore, TQ-MSC-CM induced the migration potential of MCF7 in a c-Met-independent manner. Altogether, we conclude that TQ may induce programmed necrosis and inhibits the proliferation and migration of the breast cancer cells by affecting the paracrine activity of MSCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pouria Hajmomeni
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran
| | | | - Ali Bidmeshkipour
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Zhao Z, Liu L, Li S, Hou X, Yang J. Advances in research on the relationship between thymoquinone and pancreatic cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 12:1092020. [PMID: 36686732 PMCID: PMC9846546 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1092020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer has one of the worst prognoses among the most common cancers in the world. Its characteristics include a high rate of metastasis and chemotherapeutic resistance, which present major challenges to the medical community. The potential anticancer effects of thymoquinone (TQ), which is the main bioactive compound of the black seeds of the Nigella sativa plant, have recently received widespread attention for their potential use in treating pancreatic cancer. TQ can inhibit cell proliferation, promote cancer cell apoptosis, inhibit cell invasion and metastasis, enhance chemotherapeutic sensitivity, inhibit angiogenesis, and exert anti-inflammatory effects. These anticancer effects predominantly involve the nuclear factor (NF)-κB, phosphoinositide 3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt, Notch, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways as well as the regulation of the cell cycle, matrix metallopeptidase (MMP)-9 expression, and pyruvate kinase isozyme type M2 (PKM2) activity. TQ regulates the occurrence and development of pancreatic cancer at multiple levels and through multiple targets that communicate with each other. In this review, we summarize and discuss the analogs and carriers of TQ that have been developed in recent years. Given its multilevel anticancer effects, TQ may become a new therapeutic drug for treating pancreatic cancer in the future. This review presents a brief introduction to the research that has been conducted on TQ in relation to pancreatic cancer to provide a theoretical basis for future studies on the topic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhanxue Zhao
- Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China,Department of General Surgery, Qinghai Provincial People’s Hospital, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Linxun Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Qinghai Provincial People’s Hospital, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Shuai Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Xiaofan Hou
- Graduate school, Qinghai University, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Jinyu Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Qinghai Provincial People’s Hospital, Xining, Qinghai, China,*Correspondence: Jinyu Yang,
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Lee SP, Kuo FY, Cheng JT, Wu MC. Thymoquinone activates imidazoline receptor to enhance glucagon-like peptide-1 secretion in diabetic rats. Arch Med Sci 2023; 19:209-215. [PMID: 36817688 PMCID: PMC9897103 DOI: 10.5114/aoms.2019.86938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Thymoquinone (TQ) is one of the principal bioactive ingredients proven to exhibit anti-diabetic effects. Recently, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) has been found to be involved in antidiabetic effects in rats. The aim of this study was to evaluate the mediation of GLP-1 in the antidiabetic effect of TQ and to understand the possible mechanisms. MATERIAL AND METHODS NCI-H716 cells and CHO-K1 cells were used to investigate the effects of TQ on GLP-1 secretion in vitro. In type 1 diabetic rats, the changes in plasma glucose and GLP-1 levels were evaluated with TQ treatment. RESULTS The direct effect of TQ on imidazoline receptors (I-Rs) was identified in CHO-K1 cells overexpressing I-Rs. Additionally, in the intestinal NCI-H716 cells that may secrete GLP-1, TQ treatment enhanced GLP-1 secretion in a dose-dependent manner. However, these effects of TQ were reduced by ablation of I-Rs with siRNA in NCI-H716 cells. Moreover, these effects were inhibited by BU224, the imidazoline I2 receptor (I-2R) antagonist. In diabetic rats, TQ increased plasma GLP-1 levels, which were inhibited by BU-224 treatment. Functionally, TQ-attenuated hyperglycemia is also evidenced through GLP-1 using pharmacological manipulations. CONCLUSIONS This report demonstrates that TQ may promote GLP-1 secretion through I-R activation to reduce hyperglycemia in type-1 diabetic rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shu Ping Lee
- Department of Food Science, College of Agriculture, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Neipu Township, Pingtung County, Taiwan
| | - Feng Yu Kuo
- Cardiovascular Center, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung City, Zuoying District, Taiwan
| | - Juei-Tang Cheng
- Department of Medical Research, Chi-Mei Medical Center, Tainan City, Yongkang District, Taiwan
| | - Ming Chang Wu
- Department of Food Science, College of Agriculture, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Neipu Township, Pingtung County, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Wang T, Rho O, Eguiarte-Solomon F, DiGiovanni J. Twist1 as a target for prevention of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Mol Carcinog 2023; 62:62-76. [PMID: 36373194 PMCID: PMC9772054 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) represents an important clinical problem requiring novel approaches for both prevention and treatment. The transcription factor, Twist-related protein 1 (Twist1), has been identified as having a key mechanistic role in the development and progression of cSCC. Studies in relevant mouse models of cSCC have shown that Twist1 regulates epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and stemness driving progression and metastasis of cSCC. In addition, further research has shown that Twist1 regulates the balance between keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation and therefore impacts earlier stages of cSCC development. Through use of keratinocyte specific Twist1 knockout models, a role for this gene in keratinocyte stem cell homeostasis has been revealed. As a transcription factor, Twist1 regulates a large number of genes both in a positive, as well as a negative manner across several interdependent pathways. Studies in keratinocyte specific knockout models have shown that Twist1 upregulates the expression of genes involved in proliferation, stemness, and EMT while downregulating the expression of genes associated with differentiation. Furthermore, a number of compounds, including naturally occurring compounds, have been identified that target Twist1 and can block its effects in cancer cells and in keratinocytes in vivo. Collectively, the current understanding of Twist1 function in cSCC development and progression suggests that it represents a potential target for prevention and treatment of cSCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tingzeng Wang
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78723, United States
| | - Okkyung Rho
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78723, United States
| | - Fernando Eguiarte-Solomon
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78723, United States
| | - John DiGiovanni
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78723, United States
- Center for Molecular Carcinogenesis and Toxicology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78723, United States
- Livestrong Cancer Institutes, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78723, United States
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
AlSheddi M, Rahman I, Mohammed A, Algazlan A, Alwably A, Hebbal M, Omar M. Nigella sativa oil as a treatment for gingivitis: A randomized active–control trial. ASIAN PAC J TROP MED 2023. [DOI: 10.4103/1995-7645.372290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
|
30
|
Mohtashamian A, Ebrahimzadeh A, Shamekhi Z, Sharifi N. Nigella sativa supplementation and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A systematic review of clinical trials. AVICENNA JOURNAL OF PHYTOMEDICINE 2023; 13:18-33. [PMID: 36698733 PMCID: PMC9840772 DOI: 10.22038/ajp.2022.20060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Objective Based on the results of previous studies, the effects of N. sativa on some of the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease's (NAFLD) biomarkers were positive; however, there were conflicting results regarding other variables. Therefore, the present systematic review of clinical trials was designed to clarify whether N. sativa effectively prevents the progression of NAFLD. Materials and Methods A search of four databases (Scopus, PubMed, Medline, and Google scholar) was conducted to identify the clinical trials that assessed the effects of N. sativa supplementation on NAFLD. The outcome variables of interest were biomarkers of hepatic steatosis, liver enzymes, insulin resistance, and inflammation. Results Overall, four randomized clinical trials (RCTs) were included. In three studies, hepatic steatosis grade decreased significantly after N. sativa supplementation. Serum levels of liver enzymes reduced significantly in three of four included trials. In the only study that examined the effect of N. sativa on insulin resistance parameters, all variables related to this factor were significantly reduced. In two included studies that measured biomarkers of inflammation, the serum levels of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) decreased significantly after intaking N. sativa supplements. Conclusion Although the efficacy of N. sativa on liver enzymes and the grade of hepatic steatosis was reported in some of the included studies, more well-designed clinical trials are needed to determine the definitive effects of N. sativa on NAFLD. The present study provides suggestions that help to design future studies in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abbas Mohtashamian
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Basic Science Research Institute, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Armin Ebrahimzadeh
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Basic Science Research Institute, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Zahra Shamekhi
- Sepidan Bagherololoom Higher Education College, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Nasrin Sharifi
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Basic Science Research Institute, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Bampidis V, Azimonti G, Bastos MDL, Christensen H, Fašmon Durjava M, Kouba M, López‐Alonso M, López Puente S, Marcon F, Mayo B, Pechová A, Petkova M, Ramos F, Sanz Y, Villa RE, Woutersen R, Brantom P, Chesson A, Schlatter J, Schrenk D, Westendorf J, Manini P, Pizzo F, Dusemund B. Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of an essential oil from the fruit of Cuminum cyminum L. (cumin oil) for use in all animal species (FEFANA asbl). EFSA J 2022; 20:e07690. [PMID: 36545574 PMCID: PMC9762120 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2022.7690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of an essential oil obtained from the fruit of Cuminum cyminum L. (cumin oil), when used as a sensory additive in feed and water for drinking for all animal species. The EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) concluded that the use of cumin oil up to the maximum proposed use levels in feed of 15 mg/kg complete feed is considered as safe for all animal species. The FEEDAP Panel considered the use in water for drinking as safe provided that the total daily intake of the additive does not exceed the daily amount that is considered safe when consumed via feed. No concerns for consumers were identified following the use of cumin oil up to the maximum proposed use level in feed. The additive under assessment should be considered as irritant to skin and eyes, and as a dermal and respiratory sensitiser. When handling the essential oil, exposure of unprotected users to estragole (and dillapiole) cannot be excluded. Therefore, to reduce the risk, the exposure of the users should be minimised. The use of cumin oil at the proposed use level in feed is not expected to pose a risk to the environment. Since C. cyminum and its preparations are recognised to flavour food and its function in feed would be essentially the same as that in food, no further demonstration of efficacy is considered necessary.
Collapse
|
32
|
Swingler S, Gupta A, Gibson H, Kowalczuk M, Adamus G, Heaselgrave W, Radecka I. Thymoquinone: Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin Loaded Bacterial Cellulose for the Management of Wounds. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14122816. [PMID: 36559309 PMCID: PMC9781873 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14122816] [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: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The need for more advantageous and pharmaceutically active wound dressings is a pressing matter in the area of wound management. In this study, we explore the possibility of incorporating thymoquinone within bacterial cellulose, utilising cyclodextrins as a novel method of solubilising hydrophobic compounds. The thymoquinone was not soluble in water, so was incorporated within hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin before use. Thymoquinone: hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin inclusion complex produced was found to be soluble in water up to 7% (w/v) and was stable with no crystal formation for at least 7 days with the ability to be loaded within the bacterial cellulose matrix. The inclusion complex was found to be thermally stable up to 280 °C which is far greater than the production temperature of 80 °C and was stable in phosphate-buffered saline and extraction solvents in permeation and dose experiments. The adhesion properties of the Thymoquinone: hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin loaded bacterial cellulose dressings were tested and found to be 2.09 N. Permeation studies on skin mimicking membrane Strat-M showed a total permeated amount (0-24 h) of 538.8 µg cm-2 and average flux after a 2 h lag of 22.4 µg h-1 cm-2. To the best of our knowledge, the methods outlined in this study are the first instance of loading bacterial cellulose with thymoquinone inclusion complex with the aim of producing a pharmaceutically active wound dressing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sam Swingler
- Department of Biology, Chemistry and Forensic Science, School of Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton WV1 1LY, UK
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (I.R.)
| | - Abhishek Gupta
- School of Allied Health and Midwifery, Faculty of Education, Health and Wellbeing, University of Wolverhampton, Walsall WS1 3BD, UK
| | - Hazel Gibson
- Department of Biology, Chemistry and Forensic Science, School of Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton WV1 1LY, UK
| | - Marek Kowalczuk
- Centre of Polymer and Carbon Materials, Polish Academy of Sciences, M. Curie-Sklodowskiej 34, 41-819 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Grazyna Adamus
- Centre of Polymer and Carbon Materials, Polish Academy of Sciences, M. Curie-Sklodowskiej 34, 41-819 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Wayne Heaselgrave
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton WV1 1LY, UK
| | - Iza Radecka
- Department of Biology, Chemistry and Forensic Science, School of Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton WV1 1LY, UK
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (I.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Molecular Mechanisms of Herbal Bioactive Compounds for Sickness Behaviour. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12121215. [PMID: 36557252 PMCID: PMC9782141 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12121215] [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: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
The host's response to acute infections or tissue injury is a sophisticated and coordinated adaptive modification called sickness behaviour. Many herbs have been studied for their ability to protect animals against experimentally induced sickness behaviour. However, there is a lack of knowledge and experimental evidence on the use of herbal bioactive compounds (HBACs) in the management of sick behaviour. The goal of this review is to provide a concise summary of the protective benefits and putative mechanisms of action of phytochemicals on the reduction of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced sickness behaviour. Relevant studies were gathered from the search engines Scopus, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Google Scholar, and other scientific databases (between 2000 and to date). The keywords used for the search included "Lipopolysaccharide" OR "LPS" OR "Sickness behaviour" OR "Sickness" AND "Bioactive compounds" OR "Herbal medicine" OR "Herbal drug" OR "Natural products" OR "Isolated compounds". A total of 41 published articles that represented data on the effect of HBACs in LPS-induced sickness behaviour were reviewed and summarised systemically. There were 33 studies that were conducted in mice and 8 studies in rats. A total of 34 HBACs have had their effects against LPS-induced changes in behaviour and biochemistry investigated. In this review, we examined 34 herbal bioactive components that have been tested in animal models to see if they can fight LPS-induced sickness behaviour. Future research should concentrate on the efficacy, safety, and dosage needed to protect against illness behaviour in humans, because there is a critical shortage of data in this area.
Collapse
|
34
|
Alam T, Shahid F, Abidi S, Parwez I, Khan F. Thymoquinone supplementation mitigates arsenic-induced cytotoxic and genotoxic alterations in rat liver. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2022; 74:127067. [PMID: 36155422 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2022.127067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Arsenic, a widespread environmental toxin, produces multiple organ toxicity, including hepatotoxicity. Thymoquinone (TQ) is known to restore liver functions in several hepatic injury models. This study aims to assess the mitigative potential of TQ against sodium arsenate (NaAs)-induced cytotoxic and genotoxic alterations in the liver. Rats were randomly distributed to control, NaAs, TQ, and NaAs+TQ groups. NaAs+TQ and TQ group of rats were pre-treated with TQ (1.5 mg/kg bwt, orally) for 14 days, and the treatment was further continued for 30 days, with and without NaAs treatment (5 mg/kg bwt, orally), respectively. The deleterious histological alterations in the liver of arsenic intoxicated animals were accompanied by an upsurge in the activities of serum ALT and AST, the diagnostic indicators of liver injury. NaAs caused pronounced alterations in the activities of membrane marker and carbohydrate metabolic enzymes and the enzymatic and non-enzymatic components of hepatic antioxidant defense. Significant hepatocyte DNA damage and hepatic arsenic accumulation were also observed in arsenic-exposed rats. TQ supplementation alleviated these adverse alterations and improved the overall hepatic metabolic and antioxidant status in NaAs-administered rats. Prevention of oxidative injury could be the key mechanism of TQ-elicited protective effects. TQ may have an excellent scope as a dietary supplement in the management of arsenic-induced hepatic pathophysiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tauseef Alam
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Faaiza Shahid
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Subuhi Abidi
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Iqbal Parwez
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Farah Khan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Agrawal YO, Patil KD, More KR, Mohd Siddique MU, Alkahtani S, Aljarba NH, Hasnain MS. Amelioration of bioavailability through formulating and optimizing Azilsartan Entrapped nanostructured lipid carriers and its pharmacokinetic assessment. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2022.103894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
|
36
|
Girish BP, Dariya B, Mannarapu M, Nagaraju GP, Raju GSR. Targeting the tumor microenvironment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma using nano-phytomedicines. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:1155-1162. [PMID: 34147639 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Despite advanced therapeutic strategies, the mortality and morbidity of pancreatic cancer (PC) have been increasing. This is due to the anomalous proliferation activity of stromal cells, like cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), in the tumor microenvironment (TME). These cells develop resistance in the tumor cells, blocking the drug from entering the target tumor site, ultimately resulting in tumor metastasis. Additionally, the current conventional adjuvant techniques, including chemo and radiotherapy, carry higher risk due to their excess toxicity against normal healthy cells. Phytochemicals including curcumin, irinotecan and paclitaxel are anti-oxidants, less toxic, and have anti-cancerous properties; however, the use of phytochemicals is limited due to their less solubility and bioavailability. Nanotechnology offers the resources to directly target the drug to the tumor site, thereby enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of the current treatment modalities. This review focuses on the importance of nanotechnology for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) therapy and on delivering the nano-formulated phytochemicals to the target site.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bala Prabhakar Girish
- Nanotechnology Laboratory, Institute of Frontier Technology, Regional Agricultural Research Station, Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Tirupati, 517502, India
| | - Begum Dariya
- Department of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Banasthali University, Banasthali, 304022, Rajasthan, India
| | - Mastan Mannarapu
- Department of Biotechnology, Dravidian University, Kuppam, Chittoor, Andra Pradesh, 517 426, India
| | - Ganji Purnachandra Nagaraju
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Ganji Seeta Rama Raju
- Department of Energy and Materials Engineering, Dongguk University-Seoul, Seoul, 04620, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Utilization of Nanotechnology to Improve Bone Health in Osteoporosis Exploiting Nigella sativa and Its Active Constituent Thymoquinone. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:bioengineering9110631. [DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9110631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoporosis, a chronic bone disorder, is one of the leading causes of fracture and morbidity risk. Numerous medicinally important herbs have been evaluated for their efficacy in improving bone mass density in exhaustive preclinical and limited clinical studies. Nigella sativa L. has been used as local folk medicine, and traditional healers have used it to manage various ailments. Its reported beneficial effects include controlling bone and joint diseases. The present manuscript aimed to provide a sound discussion on the pharmacological evidence of N. sativa and its active constituent, thymoquinone, for its utility in the effective management of osteoporosis. N. sativa is reported to possess anti-IL-1 and anti-TNF-α-mediated anti-inflammatory effects, leading to positive effects on bone turnover markers, such as alkaline phosphatase and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase. It is reported to stimulate bone regeneration by prompting osteoblast proliferation, ossification, and decreasing osteoclast cells. Thymoquinone from N. sativa has exhibited an antioxidant effect on bone tissue by reducing the FeNTA-induced oxidative stress. The present manuscript highlights phytochemistry, pharmacological effect, and the important mechanistic perspective of N. sativa and its active constituents for the management of osteoporosis. Further, it also provides sound discussion on the utilization of a nanotechnology-mediated drug delivery approach as a promising strategy to improve the therapeutic performance of N. sativa and its active constituent, thymoquinone, in the effective management of osteoporosis.
Collapse
|
38
|
A comparative brain Toxico-Pharmacokinetics study of a developed tannic acid nanoparticles in the treatment of epilepsy. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2022.103772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
39
|
Elyasi R, Majdi M, Krause ST, Kücükay N, Azizi A, Degenhardt J. Identification and functional characterization of a γ-terpinene synthase in Nigella sativa L (black cumin). PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2022; 202:113290. [PMID: 35803303 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2022.113290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Nigella sativa (Black cumin) has many applications in food and pharmaceutical industries. Thymoquinone has been considered as a main effective compound in N. sativa seeds and attracted researchers' attention mainly due to its medicinal potential. In this study, the essential oil components of leaves, flowers and seed developmental stages including half black seeds, soft black seeds and hard black seeds were analyzed in N. sativa. Whereas no terpenes were detected in flowers and leaves, seeds showed an essential oil composition that increased in its thymoquinone content during seed maturation. To study the proposed first step of thymoquinone biosynthesis, the formation of γ-terpinene from geranyl diphosphate (GDP), we identified and functionally characterized a γ-terpinene synthase (NsTPS1) in N. sativa. This monoterpene synthase was identified in RNA sequence data derived from seeds. After heterologous expression in Escherichia coli, partially purified NsTPS1 converted GDP to γ-terpinene. NsTPS1 is the first functionally characterized terpene synthase from N. sativa and displays a higher similarity to other terpene synthases from Ranunculaceae than known γ-terpinene synthases from more distant plant species. Characterization of NsTPS1 elucidates the first dedicated step in the biosynthesis of thymoquinone in N. sativa and paves the way towards metabolic engineering for high-level thymoquinone production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rizan Elyasi
- Department of Production Engineering and Plant Genetics, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Mohammad Majdi
- Department of Production Engineering and Plant Genetics, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran.
| | - Sandra T Krause
- Institute of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle, Germany
| | - Nagihan Kücükay
- Institute of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle, Germany
| | - Abdolbaset Azizi
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Jörg Degenhardt
- Institute of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Qureshi KA, Imtiaz M, Al Nasr I, Koko WS, Khan TA, Jaremko M, Mahmood S, Fatmi MQ. Antiprotozoal Activity of Thymoquinone (2-Isopropyl-5-methyl-1,4-benzoquinone) for the Treatment of Leishmania major-Induced Leishmaniasis: In Silico and In Vitro Studies. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11091206. [PMID: 36139985 PMCID: PMC9495120 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11091206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis, a neglected tropical parasitic disease (NTPD), is caused by various Leishmania species. It transmits through the bites of the sandfly. The parasite is evolving resistance to commonly prescribed antileishmanial drugs; thus, there is an urgent need to discover novel antileishmanial drugs to combat drug-resistant leishmaniasis. Thymoquinone (2-isopropyl-5-methyl-1,4-benzoquinone; TQ), a primary pharmacologically active ingredient of Nigella sativa (black seed) essential oil, has been reported to possess significant antiparasitic activity. Therefore, the present study was designed to investigate the in vitro and in silico antileishmanial activity of TQ against various infectious stages of Leishmania major (L. major), i.e., promastigotes and amastigotes, and its cytotoxicity against mice macrophages. In silico molecular dockings of TQ were also performed with multiple selected target proteins of L. major, and the most preferred antileishmanial drug target protein was subjected to in silico molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. The in vitro antileishmanial activity of TQ revealed that the half-maximal effective concentration (EC50), half-maximal cytotoxic concentration (CC50), and selectivity index (SI) values for promastigotes are 2.62 ± 0.12 μM, 29.54 ± 0.07 μM, and 11.27, while for the amastigotes, they are 17.52 ± 0.15 μM, 29.54 ± 0.07 μM, and 1.69, respectively. The molecular docking studies revealed that squalene monooxygenase is the most preferred antileishmanial drug target protein for TQ, whereas triosephosphate isomerase is the least preferred. The MD simulation revealed that TQ remained stable in the binding pocket throughout the simulation. Additionally, the binding energy calculations using Molecular Mechanics Generalized-Born Surface Area (MMGBSA) indicated that TQ is a moderate binder. Thus, the current study shows that TQ is a promising antileishmanial drug candidate that could be used to treat existing drug-resistant leishmaniasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kamal A. Qureshi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Unaizah 51911, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: (K.A.Q.); (M.Q.F.)
| | - Mahrukh Imtiaz
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad 45600, Pakistan
| | - Ibrahim Al Nasr
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, College of Science and Arts, Qassim University, Ar Rass 51921, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Arts, Qassim University, Unaizah 51911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed S. Koko
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, College of Science and Arts, Qassim University, Ar Rass 51921, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tariq A. Khan
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, College of Applied Health Sciences, Qassim University, Ar Rass 51921, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mariusz Jaremko
- Smart-Health Initiative (SHI) and Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Syed Mahmood
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - M. Qaiser Fatmi
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad 45600, Pakistan
- Correspondence: (K.A.Q.); (M.Q.F.)
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Nakhate KT, Badwaik H, Choudhary R, Sakure K, Agrawal YO, Sharma C, Ojha S, Goyal SN. Therapeutic Potential and Pharmaceutical Development of a Multitargeted Flavonoid Phloretin. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14173638. [PMID: 36079895 PMCID: PMC9460114 DOI: 10.3390/nu14173638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Phloretin is a flavonoid of the dihydrogen chalcone class, present abundantly in apples and strawberries. The beneficial effects of phloretin are mainly associated with its potent antioxidant properties. Phloretin modulates several signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms to exhibit therapeutic benefits against various diseases including cancers, diabetes, liver injury, kidney injury, encephalomyelitis, ulcerative colitis, asthma, arthritis, and cognitive impairment. It ameliorates the complications associated with diabetes such as cardiomyopathy, hypertension, depression, memory impairment, delayed wound healing, and peripheral neuropathy. It is effective against various microbial infections including Salmonella typhimurium, Listeria monocytogenes, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Considering the therapeutic benefits, it generated interest for the pharmaceutical development. However, poor oral bioavailability is the major drawback. Therefore, efforts have been undertaken to enhance its bioavailability by modifying physicochemical properties and molecular structure, and developing nanoformulations. In the present review, we discussed the pharmacological actions, underlying mechanisms and molecular targets of phloretin. Moreover, the review provides insights into physicochemical and pharmacokinetic characteristics, and approaches to promote the pharmaceutical development of phloretin for its therapeutic applications in the future. Although convincing experimental data are reported, human studies are not available. In order to ascertain its safety, further preclinical studies are needed to encourage its pharmaceutical and clinical development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kartik T. Nakhate
- Department of Pharmacology, Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal’s Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule 424001, Maharashtra, India
| | - Hemant Badwaik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Shri Shankaracharya Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Bhilai 490020, Chhattisgarh, India
| | - Rajesh Choudhary
- Department of Pharmacology, Shri Shankaracharya College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bhilai 490020, Chhattisgarh, India
| | - Kalyani Sakure
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Rungta College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Bhilai 490024, Chhattisgarh, India
| | - Yogeeta O. Agrawal
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal’s Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule 424001, Maharashtra, India
| | - Charu Sharma
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shreesh Ojha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
- Correspondence: (S.O.); (S.N.G.)
| | - Sameer N. Goyal
- Department of Pharmacology, Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal’s Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule 424001, Maharashtra, India
- Correspondence: (S.O.); (S.N.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Amin N, Chen S, Ye S, Wu F, Hussien AB, Lou C, Hu Z, Wang Y, Wu J, Fang M. Thymoquinone has a synergistic effect with PHD inhibitors to ameliorate ischemic brain damage in mice. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 104:154298. [PMID: 35797865 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A blockage in a blood vessel can cause reduced blood flow to the brain, which eventually leads to the death of surrounding tissue. Several studies have attempted to develop an effective intervention to reverse this process and improve the health status of affected individuals. Due to its indirect effect on cellular functions and metabolism, the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF-1α) protein has been proposed as a promising transcription factor in the treatment of stroke. PURPOSE The current study aims to explore the relation between HIF-1 α and thymoquinone (TQ) in the attenuation of ischemic brain damage and the possible mechanism of this relation to reduce cell death. METHODS For this purpose, dimethyloxallyl glycine (DMOG), 8 mg/kg, Acriflavine (ACF), 1.5 mg/kg, and both combined with TQ (5 mg/kg) were assessed. Male C57 mice were used to establish an ischemic stroke model by using endothelin-1 (ET-1) (400 pmole/μl) intra- cranial injection. The ultrastructure alterations of neuronal soma, axons, and mitochondria after stroke and treatment were well addressed. Besides, the expression levels of VEGF, HIF-1α, Nrf2, and HO-1 were evaluated. Meanwhile, apoptosis and autophagy-related proteins were also investigated. RESULTS Treatment of ischemic stroke by TQ can activate the HIF-1α pathway and its downstream genes such as VEGF, TrkB, and PI3K, which in turn enhance angiogenesis and neurogenesis. Our study revealed that TQ has the same effect as DMOG to activate HIF-1 α and can improve motor dysfunction after ischemic stroke. Further, we demonstrated that both TQ and DMOG effectively attenuate the organelle's damage following ischemic stroke, which was confirmed by the cryogenic transmission electron microscope. The synergistic effect of TQ and DMOG may lead to a chemo-modulation action in the autophagy process after stroke onset and this result is validated by the western blot and rt-qPCR techniques. CONCLUSION Our finding revealed the potential role of TQ as a HIF-1 α activator to reduce cell death, modulate autophagy and decrease the infarct volume after ischemic stroke onset. The neuroprotective effect of TQ is achieved by decreasing the inflammation and increasing angiogenesis as well as neurogenesis via induction of the HIF-1α-VEGF/Nrf2-HO-1-TrkB-PI3K pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nashwa Amin
- Gastroenterology Department, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Institute of Systemic medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Aswan University, Egypt
| | - Shijia Chen
- Gastroenterology Department, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shan Ye
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fei Wu
- Gastroenterology Department, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Azhar B Hussien
- Gastroenterology Department, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Institute of Systemic medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chengjian Lou
- Fourth Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, China
| | - Zhiying Hu
- Obstetrics & Gynecology Department, Zhejiang Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yanyan Wang
- The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China
| | - Junsong Wu
- Department of Orthopedic, First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Marong Fang
- Gastroenterology Department, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Institute of Systemic medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Butnariu M, Quispe C, Herrera-Bravo J, Helon P, Kukula-Koch W, López V, Les F, Vergara CV, Alarcón-Zapata P, Alarcón-Zapata B, Martorell M, Pentea M, Dragunescu AA, Samfira I, Yessimsiitova Z, Daştan SD, Castillo CMS, Roberts TH, Sharifi-Rad J, Koch W, Cho WC. The effects of thymoquinone on pancreatic cancer: Evidence from preclinical studies. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 153:113364. [PMID: 35810693 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Thymoquinone (TQ) is a secondary metabolite found in abundance in very few plant species including Nigella sativa L., Monarda fistulosa L., Thymus vulgaris L. and Satureja montana L. Preclinical pharmacological studies have shown that TQ has many biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer. Both in vivo and in vitro experiments have shown that TQ acts as an antitumor agent by altering cell cycle progression, inhibiting cell proliferation, stimulating apoptosis, inhibiting angiogenesis, reducing metastasis and affecting autophagy. In this comprehensive study, the evidence on the pharmacological potential of TQ on pancreatic cancer is reviewed. The positive results of preclinical studies support the view that TQ can be considered as an additional therapeutic agent against pancreatic cancer. The possibilities of success for this compound in human medicine should be further explored through clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica Butnariu
- Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine "King Michael I of Romania" from Timisoara, Romania.
| | - Cristina Quispe
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Arturo Prat, Avda. Arturo Prat 2120, Iquique 1110939, Chile.
| | - Jesús Herrera-Bravo
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Santo Tomas, Chile; Center of Molecular Biology and Pharmacogenetics, Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile.
| | - Paweł Helon
- Branch in Sandomierz, Jan Kochanowski University of Kielce, Schinzla 13a Str., 27-600, Sandomierz, Poland.
| | - Wirginia Kukula-Koch
- Department of Pharmacognosy with Medicinal Plants Garden, Medical University of Lublin, 1 Chodźki Str., 20-093, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Víctor López
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad San Jorge, 50830 Villanueva de Gállego, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), 50059 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Francisco Les
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad San Jorge, 50830 Villanueva de Gállego, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), 50059 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Cristian Valdés Vergara
- Centro de Investigación de Estudios Avanzados del Maule, Vicerrectoría de Investigación y Postgrado, Universidad Católica del Maule, Chile.
| | - Pedro Alarcón-Zapata
- Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Concepción, Concepción, VIII - Bio Bio Region, Chile; Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad San Sebastián, Lientur 1457, Concepción 4080871, Chile.
| | - Barbara Alarcón-Zapata
- Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Concepción, Concepción, VIII - Bio Bio Region, Chile.
| | - Miquel Martorell
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, and Centre for Healthy Living, University of Concepción, 4070386 Concepción, Chile; Universidad de Concepción, Unidad de Desarrollo Tecnológico, UDT, Concepción 4070386, Chile.
| | - Marius Pentea
- Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine "King Michael I of Romania" from Timisoara, Romania.
| | - Aneta Anca Dragunescu
- Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine "King Michael I of Romania" from Timisoara, Romania.
| | - Ionel Samfira
- Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine "King Michael I of Romania" from Timisoara, Romania.
| | - Zura Yessimsiitova
- Department of Biodiversity and Bioresource, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, 050040, Almaty, Kazakhstan.
| | - Sevgi Durna Daştan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Sivas Cumhuriyet University, 58140 Sivas, Turkey; Beekeeping Development Application and Research Center, Sivas Cumhuriyet University, 58140 Sivas, Turkey.
| | | | - Thomas H Roberts
- Plant Breeding Institute, Sydney Institute of Agriculture, University of Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia.
| | - Javad Sharifi-Rad
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad del Azuay, 14-008 Cuenca, Ecuador.
| | - Wojciech Koch
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Medical University of Lublin, 4a Chodźki Str., 20-093 Lublin, Poland.
| | - William C Cho
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Ferro Y, Pujia R, Mazza E, Lascala L, Lodari O, Maurotti S, Pujia A, Montalcini T. A new nutraceutical (Livogen Plus®) improves liver steatosis in adults with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Lab Invest 2022; 20:377. [PMID: 35986358 PMCID: PMC9392294 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03579-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Currently, there is no approved medication for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease management. Pre-clinical and clinical studies showed that several bioactive molecules in plants or foods (i.e., curcumin complex, bergamot polyphenol fraction, artichoke leaf extract, black seed oil, concentrate fish oil, picroliv root, glutathione, S-adenosyl-l-methionine and other natural ingredients) have been associated with improved fatty liver disease. Starting from these evidences, our purpose was to evaluate the effects of a novel combination of abovementioned nutraceuticals as a treatment for adults with fatty liver disease.
Methods
A total of 140 participants with liver steatosis were enrolled in a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled clinical trial. The intervention group received six softgel capsules daily of a nutraceutical (namely Livogen Plus®) containing a combination of natural bioactive components for 12 weeks. The control group received six softgel capsules daily of a placebo containing maltodextrin for 12 weeks. The primary outcome measure was the change in liver fat content (CAP score). CAP score, by transient elastography, serum glucose, lipids, transaminases, and cytokines were measured at baseline and after intervention.
Results
After adjustment for confounding variables (i.e., CAP score and triglyceride at baseline, and changes of serum γGT, and vegetable and animal proteins, cholesterol intake at the follow-up), we found a greater CAP score reduction in the nutraceutical group rather than placebo (− 34 ± 5 dB/m vs. − 20 ± 5 dB/m, respectively; p = 0.045). The CAP score reduction (%) was even greater in those with aged 60 or less, low baseline HDL-C, AST reduction as well as in men.
Conclusion
Our results showed that a new combination of bioactive molecules as nutraceutical was safe and effective in reducing liver fat content over 12 weeks in individuals with hepatic steatosis.
Trial registration ISRCTN, ISRCTN70887063. Registered 03 August 2021—retrospectively registered, https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN70887063
Collapse
|
45
|
Targeting Breast Cancer-Derived Stem Cells by Dietary Phytochemicals: A Strategy for Cancer Prevention and Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14122864. [PMID: 35740529 PMCID: PMC9221436 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14122864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is heterogeneous disease with variable prognosis and therapeutic response. Approximately, 70% of diagnosed breast cancer represents the luminal A subtype. This subpopulation has a fair prognosis with a lower rate of relapse than the other clinical subtypes. Acquisition of stemness in luminal A subtype modifies the phenotype plasticity to accomplish increased aggressiveness and therapeutic resistance. Therefore, targeting luminal A-derived breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) could be a promising strategy for its prevention and treatment. Extensive studies reveal that dietary phytochemicals have the potential to target BCSCs by modulating the molecular and signal transduction pathways. Dietary phytochemicals alone or in combination with standard therapeutic modalities exert higher efficacy in targeting BCSCs through changes in stemness, self-renewal properties and hypoxia-related factors. These combinations offer achieving higher radio- and chemo- sensitization through alteration in the key signaling pathways such as AMPK, STAT3, NF-ĸB, Hedgehog, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, Notch, GSK3β, and Wnt related to cancer stemness and drug resistance. In this review, we highlight the concept of targeting luminal A-derived BCSCs with dietary phytochemicals by summarizing the pathways and underlying mechanism(s) involved during therapeutic resistance.
Collapse
|
46
|
Verma R, Sartaj A, Qizilbash FF, Ghoneim MM, Alshehri S, Imam SS, Kala C, Alam MS, Gilani SJ, Taleuzzaman M. An Overview of the Neuropharmacological Potential of Thymoquinone and its Targeted Delivery Prospects for CNS Disorder. Curr Drug Metab 2022; 23:447-459. [PMID: 35676849 DOI: 10.2174/1389200223666220608142506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
At present, people and patients worldwide are relying on the medicinal plant as a therapeutic agent over pharmaceuticals because the medicinal plant is considered safer, especially for chronic disorders. Several medicinal plants and their components are being researched and explored for their possible therapeutic contribution to CNS disorders. Thymoquinone (TQ) is one such molecule. Thymoquinone, one of the constituents of Plant Nigella Sativa, is effective against several neurodegenerative diseases like; Alzheimer's, Depression, Encephalomyelitis, Epilepsy, Ischemia, Parkinson's, and Traumatic. This review article presents the neuropharmacological potential of TQ's, their challenges, and delivery prospects, explicitly focusing on neurological disorders along with their chemistry, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity. Since TQ has some pharmacokinetic challenges, scientists have focused on novel formulations and delivery systems to enhance bioavailability and ultimately increase its therapeutic value. In the present work, the role of nanotechnology in neurodegenerative disease and how it improves bioavailability and delivery of a drug to the site of action has been discussed. There are a few limitations for developing novel drug formulation, including solubility, pH, and compatibility of nanomaterials. Since here we are targeting CNS disorders, the blood-brain barrier (BBB) becomes an additional challenge Hence, the review summarized the novel aspects of delivery and biocompatible nanoparticles-based approaches for targeted drug delivery into CNS, enhancing TQ bioavailability and its neurotherapeutic effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rishabh Verma
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Education & Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi-110062, India
| | - Ali Sartaj
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, 110062, India
| | - Farheen Fatima Qizilbash
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, 110062, India
| | - Mohammed M Ghoneim
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Al Maarefa University, Ad Diriyah, Riyadh 13713, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sultan Alshehri
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Syed Sarim Imam
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Chandra Kala
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Maulana Azad University, Village Bujhawar, Tehsil Luni, Jodhpur, 342802. Rajasthan, India
| | - Md Shamsher Alam
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, P.O. Box 114, Postal Code 45142, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Sadaf Jamal Gilani
- College of Basic Health Science, Preparatory Year, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamad Taleuzzaman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Maulana Azad University, Village Bujhawar, Tehsil Luni, Jodhpur, Rajasthan,342008, India
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Phytochemical Variability of Essential Oils of Two Balkan Endemic Species: Satureja pilosa Velen. and S. kitaibelii Wierzb. ex Heuff. (Lamiaceae). Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27103153. [PMID: 35630632 PMCID: PMC9147943 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27103153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Satureja pilosa and S. kitaibelii (Lamiaceae) are Balkan endemic plant species, and the composition of their essential oil (EO) is highly variable. The aim of the present study was to establish: (1) the EO variability in two populations of S. pilosa (the intrapopulation), and (2) the EO variation in S. kitaibelii between nine populations (interpopulation) from Bulgaria and two from Serbia. The EOs of two Satureja species were obtained from aboveground plant parts by hydrodistillation and were analyzed by GC/MS/FID. Overall, the EO yield on the intrapopulation level of S. pilosa varied from 0.54% to 2.15%, while the EO of S. kitaibelii varied from 0.04% to 0.43% (interpopulation). The EO of S. pilosa was found to contain thymol and carvacrol as the main constituents, with other major constituents being p-cymene and γ-terpinene. S. pilosa samples in both studied populations formed six chemical groups. The major constituents (p-cymene, terpinen-4-ol, bornyl acetate, γ-muurolene, endo-borneol, cis-β-ocimene, trans-β-ocimene, carvacrol, α-pinene, thymoquinone, geranial, geranyl acetate, spathulenol, and caryophyllene oxide) of S. kitaibelii EO were considered for grouping the populations into ten chemotypes. The present study is the first report on the interpopulation diversity of S. kitaibelii EOs in Bulgaria. It demonstrated variability of the EOs between and within the populations of S. kitaibelii from Bulgaria. This study identified promising genetic material that could be further propagated and developed into cultivars for commercial production of S. kitaibelii and S. pilosa, thereby reducing the impact of collection on wild populations.
Collapse
|
48
|
Abdelrahim M, Esmail A, Al Saadi N, Zsigmond E, Al Najjar E, Bugazia D, Al-Rawi H, Alsaadi A, Kaseb AO. Thymoquinone's Antiviral Effects: It is Time to be Proven in the Covid-19 Pandemic Era and its Omicron Variant Surge. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:848676. [PMID: 35462919 PMCID: PMC9022724 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.848676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted every country in the world. With more than 400 million cases and more than 5.5 million deaths. The FDA either approved or authorized the emergency use for three vaccines against COVID-19. The treatment options of COVID-19 are very limited. Multiple complementary and alternative medicine modalities were suggested to be efficacious in the treatment of COVID-19 such as Thymoquinone. The effects of Thymoquinone have been examined and multiple studies indicate a promising beneficial effect. However, the current body of research is limited in terms of its scope, quality, and quantity. While higher-quality studies are required, physicians do not routinely recommend the use of marketed supplements of natural products, including Thymoquinone for COVID-19. Given the numerous suggested positive effects of Thymoquinone, including anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, additional research is required to confirm or refute these promising benefits. Complementary and alternative medicine is an area that requires additional evidence-based practice and research to confirm effects observed in clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maen Abdelrahim
- Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, United States.,Cockrell Center for Advanced Therapeutic Phase I Program, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States.,Weill Cornell Medical College, Institute of Academic Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Abdullah Esmail
- Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, United States.,Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Science and Technology, Sanaa, Yemen
| | - Noor Al Saadi
- Faculty of Medicine, Xavier University School of Medicine Aruba, Oranjestad, Aruba
| | - Eva Zsigmond
- Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ebtesam Al Najjar
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Science and Technology, Sanaa, Yemen
| | - Doaa Bugazia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Tripoli, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Hadeel Al-Rawi
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Ayat Alsaadi
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Buffalo State College, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Ahmed O Kaseb
- Department of Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Nigella sativa L. and COVID-19: A Glance at The Anti-COVID-19 Chemical Constituents, Clinical Trials, Inventions, and Patent Literature. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27092750. [PMID: 35566101 PMCID: PMC9105261 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27092750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 has had an impact on human quality of life and economics. Scientists have been identifying remedies for its prevention and treatment from all possible sources, including plants. Nigella sativa L. (NS) is an important medicinal plant of Islamic value. This review highlights the anti-COVID-19 potential, clinical trials, inventions, and patent literature related to NS and its major chemical constituents, like thymoquinone. The literature was collected from different databases, including Pubmed, Espacenet, and Patentscope. The literature supports the efficacy of NS, NS oil (NSO), and its chemical constituents against COVID-19. The clinical data imply that NS and NSO can prevent and treat COVID-19 patients with a faster recovery rate. Several inventions comprising NS and NSO have been claimed in patent applications to prevent/treat COVID-19. The patent literature cites NS as an immunomodulator, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, a source of anti-SARS-CoV-2 compounds, and a plant having protective effects on the lungs. The available facts indicate that NS, NSO, and its various compositions have all the attributes to be used as a promising remedy to prevent, manage, and treat COVID-19 among high-risk people as well as for the therapy of COVID-19 patients of all age groups as a monotherapy or a combination therapy. Many compositions of NS in combination with countless medicinal herbs and medicines are still unexplored. Accordingly, the authors foresee a bright scope in developing NS-based anti-COVID-19 composition for clinical use in the future.
Collapse
|
50
|
Jehan S, Huang J, Farooq U, Basheer I, Zhou W. Combinatorial effect of thymoquinone with chemo agents for tumor therapy. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 98:153936. [PMID: 35114449 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.153936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most chemotherapeutics used in cancer therapies exhibit considerable side effects to the patients. Thus, developing new chemo agents to treat cancer patients with minimal toxic and side effects is urgently needed. Recently, the combination of different chemotherapeutics has become a promising strategy to treat malignancies. Thymoquinone (TQ) is a primary bioactive compound derived from the folk medicinal plant Nigella sativa, which has been found an antitumor, chemopreventive and chemopotentiating agent against human neoplastic diseases. PURPOSE We briefly summarize the current research of the biomolecular mechanisms of TQ and evaluate the existing literature on TQ adjuvant therapies against various cancers. METHOD The data in this review were gathered by several search engines including, Google Scholar, PubMed and ScienceDirect. We highlighted and classified the outcomes of both in vitro and in vivo experiments of TQ adjuvant therapies against human cancers and their chemopreventive activities on vital organs. RESULTS Several studies have shown that TQ synergistically potentiated the antitumor activity of numerous chemo agents against human neoplastic disease, including lung, breast, liver, colorectal, skin, prostate, stomach, bone and blood cancers. TQ also acted as a chemopreventive agent and reduced the toxicity of many chemo agents to vital organs, such as the heart, liver, kidneys and lungs. CONCLUSION In summary, we highly recommend an advanced evaluation of TQ adjuvant therapies at the level of preclinical and clinical trials, which could lead to a novel combinatorial therapy for cancer treatment with low or tolerable adverse effects on patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shah Jehan
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Tongzipo Road 172, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China; Key Laboratory of Saline-alkali Vegetation Ecology Restoration, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Jiaxin Huang
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Tongzipo Road 172, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Umar Farooq
- Key Laboratory of Saline-alkali Vegetation Ecology Restoration, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Irum Basheer
- Key Laboratory of Saline-alkali Vegetation Ecology Restoration, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Wenhu Zhou
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Tongzipo Road 172, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China.
| |
Collapse
|