Astragalin Inhibits the Proliferation and Migration of Human Colon Cancer HCT116 Cells by Regulating the NF-κB Signaling Pathway

Family Malvaceae: a potential source of secondary metabolites with chemopreventive and anticancer activities supported with in silico pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles

Introduction

Cancer is the second most widespread cause of mortality following cardiovascular disorders, and it imposes a heavy global burden. Nowadays, herbal nutraceutical products with a plethora of bioactive metabolites represent a foundation stone for the development of promising chemopreventive and anticancer agents. Certain members of the family Malvaceae have traditionally been employed to relieve tumors. The literature concerning the chemopreventive and anticancer effects of the plant species along with the isolated cytotoxic phytometabolites was reviewed. Based on the findings, comprehensive computational modelling studies were performed to explore the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles of the reported cytotoxic metabolites to present basis for future plant-based anticancer drug discovery.

Methods

All the available information about the anticancer research in family Malvaceae and its cytotoxic phytometabolites were retrieved from official sources. Extensive search was carried out using the keywords Malvaceae, cancer, cytotoxicity, mechanism and signalling pathway. Pharmacokinetic study was performed on the cytotoxic metabolites using SWISS ADME model. Acute oral toxicity expressed as median lethal dose (LD50) was predicted using Pro Tox 3.0 web tool. The compounds were docked using AutoDock Vina platform against epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR kinase enzyme) obtained from the Protein Data Bank. Molecular dynamic simulations and MMGBSA calculations were performed using GROMACS 2024.2 and gmx_MMPBSA tool v1.5.2.

Results

One hundred forty-five articles were eligible in the study. Several tested compounds showed safe pharmacokinetic properties. Also, the molecular docking study showed that the bioactive metabolites possessed agreeable binding affinities to EGFR kinase enzyme. Tiliroside (25), boehmenan (30), boehmenan H (31), and isoquercetin (22) elicited the highest binding affinity toward the enzyme with a score of -10.4, -10.4, -10.2 and -10.1 Kcal/mol compared to the reference drug erlotinib having a binding score equal to -9 Kcal/mol. Additionally, compounds 25 and 31 elicited binding free energies equal to -42.17 and -42.68 Kcal/mol, respectively, comparable to erlotinib.

Discussion

Overall, the current study presents helpful insights into the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of the reported cytotoxic metabolites belonging to family Malvaceae members. The molecular docking and dynamic simulations results intensify the roles of secondary metabolites from medicinal plants in fighting cancer.

Investigating the Anticancer Potential of Biochanin A in KB Oral Cancer Cells Through the NFκB Pathway

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a malignancy primarily affecting squamous cells. Its development is linked to multiple risk factors, such as alcohol and tobacco consumption, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, and Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) infection. Biochanin A (BCA), a phytoestrogen extracted from red clover, has been extensively researched for its therapeutic properties. It spans antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory effects, neuroprotection, cardioprotection, and anticancer potential in different bodily systems. However, its impact on oral cancer remains unexplored. Therefore, this investigation aims to assess the potential anticancer effects of BCA, specifically on KB oral cancer cells. This study utilized KB cells to evaluate the impact of BCA on various cellular parameters, including cell viability, apoptosis, intracellular ROS production, mitochondrial membrane potential, and cell migration. BCA treatment induced several notable effects on KB cells, including reduced cell viability, altered morphology suggestive of apoptosis, heightened oxidative stress, and alterations in mitochondrial membrane potential. Moreover, BCA treatment demonstrated an inhibitory effect on cell migration. The study further investigated the impact of BCA on antioxidant enzyme activities and lipid peroxidation, revealing decreased antioxidant enzyme activities and increased lipid peroxidation across different BCA concentrations (IC50 and IC90). Immunocytochemistry and qRT-PCR analyses unveiled that BCA treatment at varying doses (IC50 and IC90) downregulated the expression of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) subunits p50 and p65, pivotal players in cancer progression. In summary, this study sheds light on the promising potential of BCA as an anticancer therapeutic agent for treating oral cancer. Its demonstrated ability to induce apoptosis, perturb cellular functions, and modulate gene expression within cancer cells underscores its significance. Nonetheless, further research, particularly following animal studies, is imperative to comprehensively grasp the breadth of BCA's effects and its viability for clinical applications.

Advancements of Macrophages Involvement in Pathological Progression of Colitis-Associated Colorectal Cancer and Associated Pharmacological Interventions

Intestinal macrophages play crucial roles in both intestinal inflammation and immune homeostasis. They can adopt two distinct phenotypes, primarily determined by environmental cues. These phenotypes encompass the classically activated pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype, as well as the alternatively activated anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. In regular conditions, intestinal macrophages serve to shield the gut from inflammatory harm. However, when a combination of genetic and environmental elements influences the polarization of these macrophages, it can result in an M1/M2 macrophage activation imbalance, subsequently leading to a loss of control over intestinal inflammation. This shift transforms normal inflammatory responses into pathological damage within the intestines. In patients with ulcerative colitis-associated colorectal cancer (UC-CRC), disorders related to intestinal inflammation are closely correlated with an imbalance in the polarization of intestinal M1/M2 macrophages. Therefore, reinstating the equilibrium in M1/M2 macrophage polarization could potentially serve as an effective approach to the prevention and treatment of UC-CRC. This paper aims to scrutinize the clinical evidence regarding Chinese medicine (CM) in the treatment of UC-CRC, the pivotal role of macrophage polarization in UC-CRC pathogenesis, and the potential mechanisms through which CM regulates macrophage polarization to address UC-CRC. Our objective is to offer fresh perspectives for clinical application, fundamental research, and pharmaceutical advancement in UC-CRC.

Research Progress on Anti-Inflammatory Effects and Related Mechanisms of Astragalin

Chronic inflammation is a significant contributor to the development of cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, autoimmune disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and other illnesses. In the academic field, there is a constant demand for effective methods to alleviate inflammation. Astragalin (AST), a type of flavonoid glycoside that is the primary component in several widely used traditional Chinese anti-inflammatory medications in clinical practice, has garnered attention from numerous experts and scholars. This article focuses on the anti-inflammatory effects of AST and conducts research on relevant literature from 2003 to 2023. The findings indicate that AST demonstrates promising anti-inflammatory potential in various models of inflammatory diseases. Specifically, AST is believed to possess inhibitory effects on inflammation-related factors and protein levels in various in vitro cell models, such as macrophages, microglia, and epithelial cells. In vivo studies have shown that AST effectively alleviates neuroinflammation and brain damage while also exhibiting potential for treating moderate diseases such as depression and stroke; it also demonstrates significant anti-inflammatory effects on both large and small intestinal epithelial cells. Animal experiments have further demonstrated that AST exerts therapeutic effects on colitis mice. Molecular biology studies have revealed that AST regulates complex signaling networks, including NF-κB, MAPK, JAK/STAT pathways, etc. In conclusion, this review will provide insights and references for the development of AST as an anti-inflammatory agent as well as for related drug development.

Astragali Radix: comprehensive review of its botany, phytochemistry, pharmacology and clinical application

Astragali Radix (A. Radix) is the dried root of Astragalus membranaceus var. mongholicus (Bge) Hsiao or Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge., belonging to the family Leguminosae, which is mainly distributed in China. A. Radix has been consumed as a tonic in China for more than 2000 years because of its medicinal effects of invigorating the spleen and replenishing qi. Currently, more than 400 natural compounds have been isolated and identified from A. Radix, mainly including saponins, flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, alkaloids, and others. Modern pharmacological studies have shown that A. Radix has anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anti-atherosclerotic, cardioprotective, anti-hypertensive, and anti-aging effects. It has been clinically used in the treatment of tumors, cardiovascular diseases, and cerebrovascular complications associated with diabetes with few side effects and high safety. This paper reviewed the progress of research on its chemical constituents, pharmacological effects, clinical applications, developing applications, and toxicology, which provides a basis for the better development and utilization of A. Radix.

Gastrointestinal Cancer Therapeutics via Triggering Unfolded Protein Response and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress by 2-Arylbenzofuran

Gastrointestinal cancers are a major global health challenge, with high mortality rates. This study investigated the anti-cancer activities of 30 monomers extracted from Morus alba L. (mulberry) against gastrointestinal cancers. Toxicological assessments revealed that most of the compounds, particularly immunotoxicity, exhibit some level of toxicity, but it is generally not life-threatening under normal conditions. Among these components, Sanggenol L, Sanggenon C, Kuwanon H, 3'-Geranyl-3-prenyl-5,7,2',4'-tetrahydroxyflavone, Morusinol, Mulberrin, Moracin P, Kuwanon E, and Kuwanon A demonstrate significant anti-cancer properties against various gastrointestinal cancers, including colon, pancreatic, and gastric cancers. The anti-cancer mechanism of these chemical components was explored in gastric cancer cells, revealing that they inhibit cell cycle and DNA replication-related gene expression, leading to the effective suppression of tumor cell growth. Additionally, they induced unfolded protein response (UPR) and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, potentially resulting in DNA damage, autophagy, and cell death. Moracin P, an active monomer characterized as a 2-arylbenzofuran, was found to induce ER stress and promote apoptosis in gastric cancer cells, confirming its potential to inhibit tumor cell growth in vitro and in vivo. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of Morus alba L. monomers in gastrointestinal cancers, especially focusing on Moracin P as a potent inducer of ER stress and apoptosis.

Untargeted metabolomics and phenotype data indicate the therapeutic and prophylactic potential of Lysimachia candida Lindl. towards high-fat high-fructose-induced metabolic syndrome in rats

The present study evaluated the therapeutic potential of the medicinal plant Lysimachia candida Lindl. against metabolic syndrome in male SD rats fed with a high-fat high-fructose (HFHF) diet. Methanolic extract of Lysimachia candida Lindl. (250 mg kg-1 body weight p.o.) was administrated to the HFHF-fed rats daily for 20 weeks. Blood samples were collected, and blood glucose levels and relevant biochemical parameters were analysed and used for the assessment of metabolic disease phenotypes. In this study, Lysimachia candida decreased HFHF diet-induced phenotypes of metabolic syndrome, i.e., obesity, blood glucose level, hepatic triglycerides, free fatty acids, and insulin resistance. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based metabolomics was done to study the dynamics of metabolic changes in the serum during disease progression in the presence and absence of the treatment. Furthermore, multivariate data analysis approaches have been employed to identify metabolites responsible for disease progression. Lysimachia candida Lindl. plant extract restored the metabolites that are involved in the biosynthesis and degradation of amino acids, fatty acid metabolism and vitamin metabolism. Interestingly, the results depicted that the treatment with the plant extract restored the levels of acetylated amino acids and their derivatives, which are involved in the regulation of beta cell function, glucose homeostasis, insulin secretion, and metabolic syndrome phenotypes. Furthermore, we observed restoration in the levels of indole derivatives and N-acetylgalactosamine with the treatment, which indicates a cross-talk between the gut microbiome and the metabolic syndrome. Therefore, the present study revealed the potential mechanism of Lysimachia candida Lindl. extract to prevent metabolic syndrome in rats.

Evaluation of pharmacological and pharmacokinetic herb-drug interaction between irinotecan hydrochloride injection and Kangai injection in colorectal tumor-bearing mice and healthy rats

Introduction: Kangai (KA) injection, a Chinese herbal injection, is often used in combination with irinotecan (CPT-11) to enhance the effectiveness of anti-colorectal cancer treatment and alleviate side effects. However, the combined administration of this herb-drug pair remains controversial due to limited pre-clinical evidence and safety concerns. This study aimed to determine the pre-clinical herb-drug interactions between CPT-11 and KA injection to provide a reference for their clinical co-administration. Methods: In the pharmacological study, BALB/c mice with CT26 colorectal tumors were divided into four groups and treated with vehicle alone (0.9% saline), CPT-11 injection (100 mg/kg), KA injection (10 mL/kg), or a combination of CPT-11 and KA injection, respectively. The tumor volume of mice was monitored daily to evaluate the therapeutic effect. Daily body weight, survival rate, hematopoietic toxicity, immune organ indices, and gut toxicity were analyzed to study the adverse effects. Healthy Sprague-Dawley rats in the pharmacokinetic study were administered KA injection only (4 mL/kg), or a combination of CPT-11 injection (20 mg/kg) and KA injection, respectively. Six key components of KA injection (oxymatrine, matrine, ginsenoside Rb1, Rg1, Re, and astragaloside IV) in rat plasma samples collected within 24 h after administration were determined by LC-MS/MS. Results: The pharmacological study indicated that KA injection has the potential to enhance the anti-colorectal cancer efficacy of CPT-11 injection and alleviate the severe weight loss induced by CPT-11 injection in tumor-bearing mice. The pharmacokinetic study revealed that co-administration resulted in inhibition of oxymatrine metabolism in rats, evidenced by the significantly reduced Cmax and AUC0-t of its metabolite, matrine (p < 0.05), from 2.23 ± 0.24 to 1.38 ± 0.12 μg/mL and 8.29 ± 1.34 to 5.30 ± 0.79 μg h/mL, respectively. However, due to the similar efficacy of oxymatrine and matrine, this may not compromise the anti-cancer effect of this herb-drug pair. Discussion: This study clarified the pre-clinical pharmacology and pharmacokinetic benefits and risks of the CPT-11-KA combination and provided a reference for their clinical co-administration.

Astragalin: a food-origin flavonoid with therapeutic effect for multiple diseases

Naturally occurring flavonoids have long been utilized as essential templates for the development of novel drugs and as critical ingredients for functional foods. Astragalin (AG) is a natural flavonoid that can be isolated from a variety of familiar edible plants, such as the seeds of green tea, Morus alba L., and Cuscuta chinensis. It is noteworthy that AG has a wide range of pharmacological activities and possesses therapeutic effects against a variety of diseases, covering cancers, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, ulcerative colitis, mastitis, obesity, diabetes mellitus, diabetic complications, ischemia/reperfusion injury, neuropathy, respiratory diseases, and reproductive system diseases. This article reviewed the natural source and pharmacokinetics of AG and systematically summarized the pharmacological activities and potential mechanisms of AG in treating diverse diseases in order to promote the development of AG as a functional food, in doing so providing references for its clinical application in disease therapy.

Natural anti-inflammatory products for osteoarthritis: From molecular mechanism to drug delivery systems and clinical trials

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that affects millions globally. The present nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug treatments have different side effects, leading researchers to focus on natural anti-inflammatory products (NAIPs). To review the effectiveness and mechanisms of NAIPs in the cellular microenvironment, examining their impact on OA cell phenotype and organelles levels. Additionally, we summarize relevant research on drug delivery systems and clinical randomized controlled trials (RCTs), to promote clinical studies and explore natural product delivery options. English-language articles were searched on PubMed using the search terms "natural products," "OA," and so forth. We categorized search results based on PubChem and excluded "natural products" which are mix of ingredients or compounds without the structure message. Then further review was separately conducted for molecular mechanisms, drug delivery systems, and RCTs later. At present, it cannot be considered that NAIPs can thoroughly prevent or cure OA. Further high-quality studies on the anti-inflammatory mechanism and drug delivery systems of NAIPs are needed, to determine the appropriate drug types and regimens for clinical application, and to explore the combined effects of different NAIPs to prevent and treat OA.

Anticancer plant-derivatives: deciphering their oncopreventive and therapeutic potential in molecular terms

Background

Over the years, phytomedicines have been widely used as natural modalities for the treatment and prevention of various diseases by different ethnic groups across the globe. Although, 25% of drugs in the USA contain at least one plant-derived therapeutic compound, currently there is a paucity of plant-derived active medicinal ingredients in the pharmaceutical industry. Scientific evidence-based translation of plant-derived ethnomedicines for their clinical application is an urgent need. The anticancer and associated properties (antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, pro-apoptotic and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) inhibition) of various plant extracts and phytochemicals have been elucidated earlier. Several of the plant derivatives are already in use under prophylactic/therapeutic settings against cancer and many are being investigated under different phases of clinical trials.

Main body

The purpose of this study is to systematically comprehend the progress made in the area of prophylactic and therapeutic potential of the anticancerous plant derivatives. Besides, we aim to understand their anticancer potential in terms of specific sub-phenomena, such as anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, pro-apoptotic and inhibition of EMT, with an insight of the molecules/pathways associated with them. The study also provides details of classes of anticancer compounds, their plant source(s) and the molecular pathway(s) targeted by them. In addition to the antioxidative and antiproliferative potentials of anticancer plant derivatives, this study emphasizes on their EMT-inhibition potential and other ‘anticancer related’ properties. The EMT is highlighted as a phenomenon of choice for targeting cancer due to its role in the induction of metastasis and drug resistance. Different phytochemicals in pre-clinical or clinical trials, with promising chemopreventive/anticancer activities have been enlisted and the plant compounds showing synergistic anticancer activity in combination with the existing drugs have been discussed. The review also unravels the need of carrying out pan-signalome studies for identifying the cardinal pathways modulated by phytomedicine(s), as in many cases, the molecular pathway(s) has/have been randomly studied.

Conclusion

This review systematically compiles the studies regarding the impact of various plant derivatives in different cancers and oncogenic processes, as tested in diverse experimental model systems. Availability of more comprehensive information on anticancer phyto-constituents, their relative abundance in crude drugs, pathways/molecules targeted by phytomedicines, their long-term toxicity data and information regarding their safe use under the combinatorial settings, would open greater avenues of their utilization in future against this dreaded disease.

Graphical Abstract

Variation of Saponins in Sanguisorba officinalis L. before and after Processing (Paozhi) and Its Effects on Colon Cancer Cells In Vitro

The incidence of colon cancer is increasing year over year, seriously affecting human health and quality of life in recent years. However, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been utilized for the treatment of colon cancer. S. officinalis Saponins (S-Saponins), the potential compound of TCM, displays multiple biological activities in colon cancer treatment. In our study, ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) combined with multivariate statistical analysis were performed to analyze and identify raw and processed saponins. Then, MTT and cell migration assays were used to preliminarily explore the effects of saponins in vitro on colon cancer cells. The results showed that 29 differential saponins compounds under Paozhi were identified by UHPLC-MS/MS. Moreover, in vitro validation showed that Sprocessed better inhibited the proliferation and migration of colon cancer cells than Sraw. This study provides a basis for the determination of the chemical fundamentals of the efficacy changes during Paozhi through inferring the changes in saponin components and its possible transformation mechanisms before and after processing S. officinalis. Meanwhile, it also provides new insights into potential bioactive ingredients for the treatment of colon cancer.

Identification of a Hydroxygallic Acid Derivative, Zingibroside R1 and a Sterol Lipid as Potential Active Ingredients of Cuscuta chinensis Extract That Has Neuroprotective and Antioxidant Effects in Aged Caenorhabditis elegans

We examined the effects of the extracts from two traditional Chinese medicine plants, Cuscuta chinensis and Eucommia ulmoides, on the healthspan of the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans. C. chinensis increased the short-term memory and the mechanosensory response of aged C. elegans. Furthermore, both extracts improved the resistance towards oxidative stress, and decreased the intracellular level of reactive oxygen species. Chemical analyses of the extracts revealed the presence of several bioactive compounds such as chlorogenic acid, cinnamic acid, and quercetin. A fraction from the C. chinensis extract enriched in zingibroside R1 improved the lifespan, the survival after heat stress, and the locomotion in a manner similar to the full C. chinensis extract. Thus, zingibroside R1 could be (partly) responsible for the observed health benefits of C. chinensis. Furthermore, a hydroxygallic acid derivative and the sterol lipid 4-alpha-formyl-stigmasta-7,24(241)-dien-3-beta-ol are abundantly present in the C. chinensis extract and its most bioactive fraction, but hardly in E. ulmoides, making them good candidates to explain the overall healthspan benefits of C. chinensis compared to the specific positive effects on stress resistance by E. ulmoides. Our findings highlight the overall anti-aging effects of C. chinensis in C. elegans and provide first hints about the components responsible for these effects.

Anticancer potential of acetone extracts from selected Potentilla species against human colorectal cancer cells

Cinquefoils have been widely used in local folk medicine in Europe and Asia to manage various gastrointestinal inflammations and/or infections, certain forms of cancer, thyroid gland disorders, and wound healing. In the present paper, acetone extracts from aerial parts of selected Potentilla species, namely P. alba (PAL7), P. argentea (PAR7), P. grandiflora (PGR7), P. norvegica (PN7), P. recta (PRE7), and the closely related Drymocalis rupestris (syn. P. rupestris) (PRU7), were analysed for their cytotoxicity and antiproliferative activities against human colon adenocarcinoma cell line LS180 and human colon epithelial cell line CCD841 CoN. Moreover, quantitative assessments of the total polyphenolic (TPC), total tannin (TTC), total proanthocyanidins (TPrC), total flavonoid (TFC), and total phenolic acid (TPAC) were conducted. The analysis of secondary metabolite composition was carried out by LC-PDA-HRMS. The highest TPC and TTC were found in PAR7 (339.72 and 246.92 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g extract, respectively) and PN7 (332.11 and 252.3 mg GAE/g extract, respectively). The highest TPrC, TFC, and TPAC levels were found for PAL7 (21.28 mg catechin equivalents (CAT)/g extract, 71.85 mg rutin equivalents (RE)/g extract, and 124.18 mg caffeic acid equivalents (CAE)/g extract, respectively). LC-PDA-HRMS analysis revealed the presence of 83 compounds, including brevifolincarboxylic acid, ellagic acid, pedunculagin, agrimoniin, chlorogenic acid, astragalin, and tiliroside. Moreover, the presence of tri-coumaroyl spermidine was demonstrated for the first time in the genus Potentilla. Results of the MTT assay revealed that all tested extracts decreased the viability of both cell lines; however, a markedly stronger effect was observed in the colon cancer cells. The highest selectivity was demonstrated by PAR7, which effectively inhibited the metabolic activity of LS180 cells (IC₅₀ = 38 μg/ml), while at the same time causing the lowest unwanted effects in CCD841 CoN cells (IC₅₀ = 1,134 μg/ml). BrdU assay revealed a significant decrease in DNA synthesis in both examined cell lines in response to all investigated extracts. It should be emphasized that the tested extracts had a stronger effect on colon cancer cells than normal colon cells, and the most significant antiproliferative properties were observed in the case of PAR7 (IC₅₀ LS180 = 174 μg/ml) and PN7 (IC₅₀ LS180 = 169 μg/ml). The results of LDH assay revealed that all tested extracts were not cytotoxic against normal colon epithelial cells, whereas in the cancer cells, all compounds significantly damaged cell membranes, and the observed effect was dose-dependent. The highest cytotoxicity was observed in LS180 cells in response to PAR7, which, in concentrations ranging from 25 to 250 μg/ml, increased LDH release by 110%–1,062%, respectively. Performed studies have revealed that all Potentilla species may be useful sources for anti-colorectal cancer agents; however, additional research is required to prove this definitively.

p-Coumaric acid, Kaempferol, Astragalin and Tiliroside Influence the Expression of Glycoforms in AGS Gastric Cancer Cells

Abnormal glycosylation of cancer cells is considered a key factor of carcinogenesis related to growth, proliferation, migration and invasion of tumor cells. Many plant-based polyphenolic compounds reveal potential anti-cancer properties effecting cellular signaling systems. Herein, we assessed the effects of phenolic acid, p-coumaric acid and flavonoids such as kaempferol, astragalin or tiliroside on expression of selected cancer-related glycoforms and enzymes involved in their formation in AGS gastric cancer cells. The cells were treated with 80 and 160 µM of the compounds. RT-PCR, Western blotting and ELISA tests were performed to determine the influence of polyphenolics on analyzed factors. All the examined compounds inhibited the expression of MUC1, ST6GalNAcT2 and FUT4 mRNAs. C1GalT1, St3Gal-IV and FUT4 proteins as well as MUC1 domain, Tn and sialyl T antigen detected in cell lysates were also lowered. Both concentrations of kaempferol, astragalin and tiliroside also suppressed ppGalNAcT2 and C1GalT1 mRNAs. MUC1 cytoplasmic domain, sialyl Tn, T antigens in cell lysates and sialyl T in culture medium were inhibited only by kaempferol and tiliroside. Nuclear factor NF-κB mRNA expression decreased after treatment with both concentrations of kaempferol, astragalin and tiliroside. NF-κB protein expression was inhibited by kaempferol and tiliroside. The results indicate the rationality of application of examined polyphenolics as potential preventive agents against gastric cancer development.

Metabolite Profiling of Soy By-Products: A Comprehensive Approach

Soy is the major oilseed crop as soybeans are widely used to produce biofuel, food, and feed. Other parts of the plant are left on the ground after harvest. The accumulation of such by-products on the soil can cause environmental problems. This work presents for the first time a comprehensive metabolite profiling of soy by-products collected directly from the ground just after mechanical harvesting. A two-liquid-phase extraction using n-heptane and EtOH-H2O 7:3 (v/v) provided extracts with complete characterization by gas chromatography and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography both coupled to time-of-flight mass spectrometry. A total of 146 metabolites, including flavones, flavonols, isoflavonoids, fatty acids, steroids, mono-, sesqui-, di-, and triterpenoids, were tentatively identified in soy by-products and soybeans. These proved to be sources of a wide range of bioactive metabolites, thus suggesting that they could be valorized while reducing potential environmental damage in line with a circular economy model.

Ficus dubia Latex Extract Induces Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis by Regulating the NF-κB Pathway in Inflammatory Human Colorectal Cancer Cell Lines

Colorectal cancer is one of the most diagnosed cancers that is associated with inflammation. Ficus dubia latex is recognized as a remedy with various therapeutic effects in traditional medicine, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. The present study aims to compare the anti-tumor activity of Ficus dubia latex extract (FDLE) against HCT-116 and HT-29 human colorectal cancer cell lines in normal and inflammatory condition and explore its mechanism of action. FDLE exhibited remarkable antiproliferative activity against HCT-116 and HT-29 colorectal cancer cell lines in both conditions using MTT and colony formation assays and more effective anti-proliferation was observed in inflammatory condition. Mechanistically, FDLE induced cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase by down-regulating NF-κB, cyclin D1, CDK4 and up-regulatingp21 in both cell in normal condition. In inflammatory condition, FDLE not only exhibited stronger induction of cell cycle arrest in both cells by down-regulating NF-κB, cyclin D1, CDK4 and down-regulating p21, but also selectively induced apoptosis in HCT-116 cells by down-regulating NF-κB and Bcl-xl and up-regulating Bid, Bak, cleaved caspase-7 and caspase-3 through stronger ability to regulate these proteins. Our results demonstrated that the phytochemical agent in the latex of Ficus dubia could potential be used for treatment and prevention of human colorectal cancer, especially in inflammation-induced hyperproliferation progression.

Astragalin and Isoquercitrin Isolated from Aster scaber Suppress LPS-Induced Neuroinflammatory Responses in Microglia and Mice

The current study investigated the anti-neuroinflammatory effects and mechanisms of astragalin (Ast) and isoquercitrin (Que) isolated from chamchwi (Aster scaber Thunb.) in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated microglia and hippocampus of LPS induced mice. LPS induced increased cytotoxicity, nitric oxide (NO) production, antioxidant activity, reactive oxygen species (ROS), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression, the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, protein kinase B phosphorylation, and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) phosphorylation in LPS-treated microglial cells. Intraperitoneal injection of LPS also induced neuroinflammatory effects in the murine hippocampus. Ast and Que significantly reduced LPS-induced production of NO, iNOS, and pro-inflammatory cytokines in the microglia and hippocampus of mice. Therefore, anti-inflammatory effects on MAPK signaling pathways mediate microglial cell and hippocampus inflammation. In LPS-activated microglia and hippocampus of LPS-induced mice, Ast or Que inhibited MAPK kinase phosphorylation by extracellular signal-regulated kinase, c-Jun N-terminal kinase, and p38 signaling proteins. Ast and Que inhibited LPS-induced ROS generation in microglia and increased 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging. In addition, LPS treatment increased the heme oxygenase-1 level, which was further elevated after Ast or Que treatments. Ast and Que exert anti-neuroinflammatory activity by down-regulation of MAPKs signaling pathways in LPS-activated microglia and hippocampus of mice.

Arylquin 1 (Potent Par-4 Secretagogue) Inhibits Tumor Progression and Induces Apoptosis in Colon Cancer Cells

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common gastrointestinal cancers worldwide. Current therapeutic strategies mainly involve surgery and chemoradiotherapy; however, novel antitumor compounds are needed to avoid drug resistance in CRC, as well as the severe side effects of current treatments. In this study, we investigated the anticancer effects and underlying mechanisms of Arylquin 1 in CRC. The MTT assay was used to detect the viability of SW620 and HCT116 cancer cells treated with Arylquin 1 in a dose-dependent manner in vitro. Further, wound-healing and transwell migration assays were used to evaluate the migration and invasion abilities of cultured cells, and Annexin V was used to detect apoptotic cells. Additionally, Western blot was used to identify the expression levels of N-cadherin, caspase-3, cyclin D1, p-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), p-c-JUN N-terminal kinase (JNK), and phospho-p38, related to key signaling proteins, after administration of Arylquin 1. Xenograft experiments further confirmed the effects of Arylquin 1 on CRC cells in vivo. Arylquin 1 exhibited a dose-dependent reduction in cell viability in cultured CRC cells. It also inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, and induced apoptosis. Mechanistic analysis demonstrated that Arylquin 1 increased phosphorylation levels of ERK, JNK, and p38. In a mouse xenograft model, Arylquin 1 treatment diminished the growth of colon tumors after injection of cultured cancer cells. Arylquin 1 may have potential anticancer effects and translational significance in the treatment of CRC.

Application of Quality by Design Approach to the Pharmaceutical Development of Anticancer Crude Extracts of Crocus sativus Perianth

The application of the Quality by Design (QbD) concept to extracts obtained from Crocus sativus perianth with potential anticancer activity will ensure the safety, efficiency, and quality control of the entire technological process, as well as determine the critical factors affecting the quality of extracts. Potentially critical points of the production of the plant extracts, including the cultivation and processing of the plant materials, the extraction process, and the choice of solvents, were identified using the Ishikawa diagram and FMEA risk assessment methods as well as the corrective actions proposed. The Herbal Chemical Marker Ranking System (HerbMars) approach was used to justify the Q-markers choice of Crocus, which takes into account bioavailability, pharmacological activity, and the presence of the selected standard. An experimental design (DoE) was used to assess the influence of potentially critical factors on the efficiency of the compound extraction from raw materials with water or ethanol. The presence of 16 compounds in Crocus perianth was determined by HPLC and their quantitative assessment was established. Selected compounds (ferulic acid, mangiferin, crocin, rutin, isoquercitrin) can be used for the quality control of Crocus perianth. In addition, the stigmas from the Volyn region met the requirements of ISO 3632 for saffron as a spice (category I). The cytotoxic activity against melanoma (IGR39) and triple-negative breast cancer (MDA-MB-231) cell lines of the hydroethanolic extract of C. sativus perianth was significantly more pronounced than the water extract, probably due to the chemical composition of the constituent components. The results show that the QbD approach is a powerful tool for process development for the production of quality herbal drugs.

Modulation of TLR/NF-κB/NLRP Signaling by Bioactive Phytocompounds: A Promising Strategy to Augment Cancer Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy

Background

Tumors often progress to a more aggressive phenotype to resist drugs. Multiple dysregulated pathways are behind this tumor behavior which is known as cancer chemoresistance. Thus, there is an emerging need to discover pivotal signaling pathways involved in the resistance to chemotherapeutic agents and cancer immunotherapy. Reports indicate the critical role of the toll-like receptor (TLR)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)/Nod-like receptor pyrin domain-containing (NLRP) pathway in cancer initiation, progression, and development. Therefore, targeting TLR/NF-κB/NLRP signaling is a promising strategy to augment cancer chemotherapy and immunotherapy and to combat chemoresistance. Considering the potential of phytochemicals in the regulation of multiple dysregulated pathways during cancer initiation, promotion, and progression, such compounds could be suitable candidates against cancer chemoresistance.

Objectives

This is the first comprehensive and systematic review regarding the role of phytochemicals in the mitigation of chemoresistance by regulating the TLR/NF-κB/NLRP signaling pathway in chemotherapy and immunotherapy.

Methods

A comprehensive and systematic review was designed based on Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane electronic databases. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed to include papers on TLR/NF-κB/NLRP and chemotherapy/immunotherapy/chemoresistance by phytochemicals.

Results

Phytochemicals are promising multi-targeting candidates against the TLR/NF-κB/NLRP signaling pathway and interconnected mediators. Employing phenolic compounds, alkaloids, terpenoids, and sulfur compounds could be a promising strategy for managing cancer chemoresistance through the modulation of the TLR/NF-κB/NLRP signaling pathway. Novel delivery systems of phytochemicals in cancer chemotherapy/immunotherapy are also highlighted.

Conclusion

Targeting TLR/NF-κB/NLRP signaling with bioactive phytocompounds reverses chemoresistance and improves the outcome for chemotherapy and immunotherapy in both preclinical and clinical stages.

Antifatigue Effect of Panax Notoginseng Leaves Fermented With Microorganisms: In-vitro and In-vivo Evaluation

Fatigue is a common physiological phenomenon caused by many complicated factors. Excessive fatigue will lead to a series of uncomfortable reactions and damage body health. Panax notoginseng leaves (PNL) is a new resource food that good for soothing nerves, nourishing the heart, and strengthening the spleen. Microbial fermentation could increase the content of bio-ingredients and produce new active ingredients. However, the effect of fermented P. notoginseng leaves (FPNL) on antifatigue and the molecular mechanisms remain to be elucidated. Thus, in this study, we evaluated the antifatigue effect of co-fermented P. notoginseng leaves by Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Bacillus subtilis in-vitro and in-vivo, and its mechanism was further elucidated. The results showed that FPNL exhibited higher saponins, organic phenolic acids content, and antioxidant activity than PNL. FPNL improved ISO-induced H9c2 myocardial cell damage by alleviating apoptosis (modulating Bax and Bcl-2 protein expression) and reducing antioxidant activity in-vitro. Moreover, in-vivo experiment showed that FPNL significantly prolonged the weight-loading swimming time of mice. After gavaged FPNL, the levels of liver glycogen (LG) and serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity were increased in mice. In contrast, the levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), lactate acid, and malondialdehyde (MDA) were decreased. In summary, our results indicated that FPNL showed a good antifatigue effect in-vivo and in-vitro.

The bioactive ingredients in Actinidia chinensis Planch. Inhibit liver cancer by inducing apoptosis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Actinidia chinensis Planch. (ACP) is a common traditional Chinese medicine, which is mostly used for cancer treatment clinically. Liver cancer is a refractory tumor with a high incidence. Although ACP has been reported in the treatment of liver cancer, its possible mechanism of action is little known.

AIM OF STUDY

The aim of this paper was to investigate the active components of ACP in the treatment of liver cancer and the related mechanisms by a network pharmacology approach.

METHODS

The active components of ACP and the corresponding targets were obtained from multiple databases. Cytoscape software and STRING database were used to build the "herb-component-target (H-C-T)" network and protein-protein interactions (PPI) network. The key components and targets were further predicted by the Cytohubba plug-in in Cytoscape. Then, experiments were carried out on HepG2 cell line and Huh7 cell line to verify the effects and related mechanisms of the key compounds in ACP.

RESULTS

28 active components in ACP and 1299 related targets were screened out according to two indicators, oral bioavailability (OB) and drug-likeness (DL). The key compounds predicted include rutinum, astragalin, and L-epicatechin, and the main signaling pathways focus on apoptosis. Astragalin, a key compound in ACP, could inhibit the expression of Bcl-2, up-regulate the expression of Bax, cleaved caspase 3, cleaved caspase 8, and cleaved caspase 9, and regulate the apoptosis signaling pathway to inhibit the proliferation of liver cancer cells to play a therapeutic role in anti-liver cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that ACP can alleviate the progression of liver cancer through the mechanisms predicted by network pharmacology, and provide a basis for the further understanding of the application of ACP in anti-cancer.

Insights into the molecular mechanisms of Huangqi decoction on liver fibrosis via computational systems pharmacology approaches

BACKGROUND

The traditional Chinese medicine Huangqi decoction (HQD) consists of Radix Astragali and Radix Glycyrrhizae in a ratio of 6: 1, which has been used for the treatment of liver fibrosis. In this study, we tried to elucidate its action of mechanism (MoA) via a combination of metabolomics data, network pharmacology and molecular docking methods.

METHODS

Firstly, we collected prototype components and metabolic products after administration of HQD from a publication. With known and predicted targets, compound-target interactions were obtained. Then, the global compound-liver fibrosis target bipartite network and the HQD-liver fibrosis protein-protein interaction network were constructed, separately. KEGG pathway analysis was applied to further understand the mechanisms related to the target proteins of HQD. Additionally, molecular docking simulation was performed to determine the binding efficiency of compounds with targets. Finally, considering the concentrations of prototype compounds and metabolites of HQD, the critical compound-liver fibrosis target bipartite network was constructed.

RESULTS

68 compounds including 17 prototype components and 51 metabolic products were collected. 540 compound-target interactions were obtained between the 68 compounds and 95 targets. Combining network analysis, molecular docking and concentration of compounds, our final results demonstrated that eight compounds (three prototype compounds and five metabolites) and eight targets (CDK1, MMP9, PPARD, PPARG, PTGS2, SERPINE1, TP53, and HIF1A) might contribute to the effects of HQD on liver fibrosis. These interactions would maintain the balance of ECM, reduce liver damage, inhibit hepatocyte apoptosis, and alleviate liver inflammation through five signaling pathways including p53, PPAR, HIF-1, IL-17, and TNF signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides a new way to understand the MoA of HQD on liver fibrosis by considering the concentrations of components and metabolites, which might be a model for investigation of MoA of other Chinese herbs.