1
|
Wu K, Qiu C, Ma Q, Chen F, Lu T. The anti-cancer mechanism of Celastrol by targeting JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway in gastric and ovarian cancer. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2024; 491:117077. [PMID: 39181414 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2024.117077] [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: 06/21/2024] [Revised: 08/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Celastrol is a natural triterpene exhibiting significant and extensive antitumor activity in a wide range of cancer. Due to unfavorable toxicity profile and undefined mechanism, Celastrol's application in clinical cancer therapy remains limited. Herein, we elucidate the pharmacological mechanism of Celastrol's anticancer effects, with a focus on STAT3 signaling pathway in cancers with high incidence of metastasis. METHODS The safety profile of Celastrol were assessed in mice. In vitro analysis was performed in gastric cancer and ovarian cancer to assess the cytotoxicity, induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) of Celastrol using STAT3 knockout cancer cells. Effects of Celastrol on STAT3 activation and transcription activity, JAK2/STAT3 signaling protein expression were assessed. Additionally, proteomic contrastive analysis was performed to explore the molecular association of Celastrol with STAT3 deletion in cancer cells. RESULTS Celastrol has no obvious toxic effect at 1.5 mg/kg/day in a 15 days' administration. Celastrol inhibits tumor growth and increases ROS in a STAT3 dependent manner in gastric and ovarian cancer celllines. On molecular level, it downregulates IL-6 level and inhibits the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway by suppressing STAT3' activation and transcription activity. Proteomic contrastive analysis suggests a similar cellular mechanism of action between Celastrol and STAT3 deletion on regulating cancer progression pathways related to migration and invasion. CONCLUSION Our research elucidates the anti-cancer mechanism of Celastrol through targeting the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway in cancer with high incidence of metastasis. This study provides a solid theoretical basis for the application of Celastrol in cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kang Wu
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chentao Qiu
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qihong Ma
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Fangfang Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Tiangong Lu
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhang Z, Li M, Zhang X, Zhou F. Novel Strategies for Tumor Treatment: Harnessing ROS-Inducing Active Ingredients from Traditional Chinese Medicine Through Multifunctional Nanoformulations. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:9659-9688. [PMID: 39309188 PMCID: PMC11416109 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s479212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) encompass a diverse group of chemically reactive molecules or ions distinguished by their substantial oxidative potential. Empirical studies have shown that the targeted administration of high toxic concentrations of ROS can effectively induce tumor cell death in various types. Numerous bioactive ingredients derived from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), recognized for their ROS-inducing properties, have demonstrated significant anti-tumor activity. Nonetheless, their clinical application has been hindered by challenges such as low solubility, limited bioavailability, and poor selectivity. Multifunctional nanoformulations possess the potential to overcome these challenges and enhance the anticancer efficacy of ROS-inducing active compounds. Through extensive searches of various academic databases and a thorough review and screening of relevant literature, this study aims to systematically summarize and generalize multiple active ingredients in TCM that induce ROS generation, along with their multifunctional nanoformulations, from various perspectives. The objective is to provide new insights and references for fundamental cancer research and clinical treatments. Furthermore, we acknowledge that although numerous active ingredients and their nanoformulations in TCM have demonstrated ROS-inducing and anti-tumor potentials, potentially offering novel strategies for tumor therapy, the underlying mechanisms require further comprehensive investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhengguang Zhang
- Central Laboratory, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
- School of Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaolong Zhang
- The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fuqiong Zhou
- Central Laboratory, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Pasdaran A, Grice ID, Hamedi A. A review of natural products and small-molecule therapeutics acting on central nervous system malignancies: Approaches for drug development, targeting pathways, clinical trials, and challenges. Drug Dev Res 2024; 85:e22180. [PMID: 38680103 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.22180] [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: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
In 2021, the World Health Organization released the fifth edition of the central nervous system (CNS) tumor classification. This classification uses histopathology and molecular pathogenesis to group tumors into more biologically and molecularly defined entities. The prognosis of brain cancer, particularly malignant tumors, has remained poor worldwide, approximately 308,102 new cases of brain and other CNS tumors were diagnosed in the year 2020, with an estimated 251,329 deaths. The cost and time-consuming nature of studies to find new anticancer agents makes it necessary to have well-designed studies. In the present study, the pathways that can be targeted for drug development are discussed in detail. Some of the important cellular origins, signaling, and pathways involved in the efficacy of bioactive molecules against CNS tumorigenesis or progression, as well as prognosis and common approaches for treatment of different types of brain tumors, are reviewed. Moreover, different study tools, including cell lines, in vitro, in vivo, and clinical trial challenges, are discussed. In addition, in this article, natural products as one of the most important sources for finding new chemotherapeutics were reviewed and over 700 reported molecules with efficacy against CNS cancer cells are gathered and classified according to their structure. Based on the clinical trials that have been registered, very few of these natural or semi-synthetic derivatives have been studied in humans. The review can help researchers understand the involved mechanisms and design new goal-oriented studies for drug development against CNS malignancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ardalan Pasdaran
- Medicinal Plants Processing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Irwin Darren Grice
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Southport, Queensland, Australia
- School of Medical Science, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Southport, Queensland, Australia
| | - Azadeh Hamedi
- Medicinal Plants Processing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Alhanshali L, Khachemoune A. Clinical dermatologic applications of ginger: a focused review. Int J Dermatol 2024; 63:438-442. [PMID: 38102859 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.16963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Ginger is a traditional herb with medicinal properties. Although most commonly utilized as a spice, it has been used for various medicinal ailments for thousands of years. Over the past century, the anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and antimicrobial properties of ginger have been increasingly studied. Ginger has been demonstrated to be beneficial for many conditions including dermatologic, gastrointestinal, neoplastic, and respiratory diseases. Herein, we examine the existing literature regarding the clinical uses of ginger with a focus on its dermatologic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lina Alhanshali
- Department of Dermatology, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Amor Khachemoune
- Department of Dermatology, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
- Department of Dermatology, State University of New York Downstate, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Feng Y, An Q, Zhao Z, Wu M, Yang C, Liang W, Xu X, Jiang T, Zhang G. Beta-elemene: A phytochemical with promise as a drug candidate for tumor therapy and adjuvant tumor therapy. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 172:116266. [PMID: 38350368 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND β-Elemene (IUPAC name: (1 S,2 S,4 R)-1-ethenyl-1-methyl-2,4-bis(prop-1-en-2-yl) cyclohexane), is a natural compound found in turmeric root. Studies have demonstrated its diverse biological functions, including its anti-tumor properties, which have been extensively investigated. However, these have not yet been reviewed. The aim of this review was to provide a comprehensive summary of β-elemene research, with respect to disease treatment. METHODS β-Elemene-related articles were found in PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases to systematically summarize its structure, pharmacokinetics, metabolism, and pharmacological activity. We also searched the Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology database for therapeutic targets of β-elemene. We further combined these targets with the relevant literature for KEGG and GO analyses. RESULTS Studies on the molecular mechanisms underlying β-elemene activity indicate that it regulates multiple pathways, including STAT3, MAPKs, Cyclin-dependent kinase 1/cyclin B, Notch, PI3K/AKT, reactive oxygen species, METTL3, PTEN, p53, FAK, MMP, TGF-β/Smad signaling. Through these molecular pathways, β-elemene has been implicated in tumor cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion and improving the immune microenvironment. Additionally, β-elemene increases chemotherapeutic drug sensitivity and reverses resistance by inhibiting DNA damage repair and regulating pathways including CTR1, pak1, ERK1/2, ABC transporter protein, Prx-1 and ERCC-1. Nonetheless, owing to its lipophilicity and low bioavailability, additional structural modifications could improve the efficacy of this drug. CONCLUSION β-Elemene exhibits low toxicity with good safety, inhibiting various tumor types via diverse mechanisms in vivo and in vitro. When combined with chemotherapeutic drugs, it enhances efficacy, reduces toxicity, and improves tumor killing. Thus, β-elemene has vast potential for research and development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yewen Feng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Zhejiang 310053, China; Key Laboratory of Blood-stasis-toxin Syndrome of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang 310053, China; Traditional Chinese Medicine "Preventing Disease" Wisdom Health Project Research Center of Zhejiang, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Qingwen An
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Zhejiang 310053, China; Key Laboratory of Blood-stasis-toxin Syndrome of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang 310053, China; Traditional Chinese Medicine "Preventing Disease" Wisdom Health Project Research Center of Zhejiang, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Zhengqi Zhao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Zhejiang 310053, China; Key Laboratory of Blood-stasis-toxin Syndrome of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang 310053, China; Traditional Chinese Medicine "Preventing Disease" Wisdom Health Project Research Center of Zhejiang, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Mengting Wu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Zhejiang 310053, China; Key Laboratory of Blood-stasis-toxin Syndrome of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang 310053, China; Traditional Chinese Medicine "Preventing Disease" Wisdom Health Project Research Center of Zhejiang, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Chuqi Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Zhejiang 310053, China; Key Laboratory of Blood-stasis-toxin Syndrome of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang 310053, China; Traditional Chinese Medicine "Preventing Disease" Wisdom Health Project Research Center of Zhejiang, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - WeiYu Liang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Zhejiang 310053, China; Key Laboratory of Blood-stasis-toxin Syndrome of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang 310053, China; Traditional Chinese Medicine "Preventing Disease" Wisdom Health Project Research Center of Zhejiang, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Xuefei Xu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Zhejiang 310053, China; Key Laboratory of Blood-stasis-toxin Syndrome of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang 310053, China; Traditional Chinese Medicine "Preventing Disease" Wisdom Health Project Research Center of Zhejiang, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Zhejiang 310053, China; Key Laboratory of Blood-stasis-toxin Syndrome of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang 310053, China; Traditional Chinese Medicine "Preventing Disease" Wisdom Health Project Research Center of Zhejiang, Zhejiang 310053, China.
| | - Guangji Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Zhejiang 310053, China; Key Laboratory of Blood-stasis-toxin Syndrome of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang 310053, China; Traditional Chinese Medicine "Preventing Disease" Wisdom Health Project Research Center of Zhejiang, Zhejiang 310053, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Jiang XY, Shi LP, Zhu JL, Bai RR, Xie T. Elemene Antitumor Drugs Development Based on "Molecular Compatibility Theory" and Clinical Application: A Retrospective and Prospective Outlook. Chin J Integr Med 2024; 30:62-74. [PMID: 37882911 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-023-3714-0] [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] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Elemene, derived from Curcuma wenyujin, one of the "8 famous genuine medicinal materials of Zhejiang province," exhibits remarkable antitumor activity. It has gained wide recognition in clinical practice for effectiveness on tumors. Dr. XIE Tian, introduced the innovative concept of "molecular compatibility theory" by combining Chinese medicine principles, specifically the "monarch, minister, assistant, and envoy" theory, with modern biomedical technology. This groundbreaking approach, along with a systematic analysis of Chinese medicine and modern biomedical knowledge, led to the development of elemene nanoliposome formulations. These novel formulations offer numerous advantages, including low toxicity, well-defined composition, synergistic effects on multiple targets, and excellent biocompatibility. Following the principles of the "molecular compatibility theory", further exploration of cancer treatment strategies and methods based on elemene was undertaken. This comprehensive review consolidates the current understanding of elemene's potential antitumor mechanisms, recent clinical investigations, advancements in drug delivery systems, and structural modifications. The ultimate goal of this review is to establish a solid theoretical foundation for researchers, empowering them to develop more effective antitumor drugs based on the principles of "molecular compatibility theory".
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Ying Jiang
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, China
- Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, China
| | - Li-Ping Shi
- Good Clinical Practice Center, Affliliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Jun-Long Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, China
- Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, China
| | - Ren-Ren Bai
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, China.
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, China.
- Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, China.
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, China.
| | - Tian Xie
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, China.
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, China.
- Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, China.
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Tan Q, Lu J, Liang J, Zhou Y, Yang C, Zhang Z, Li C. A review of traditional Chinese medicine Curcumae Rhizoma for treatment of glioma. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 172:303-319. [PMID: 37833016 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2023.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Glioma is the most common primary central nervous tumor and its malignant and high recurrence rate are seriously threatening patient's life. The prognosis of glioma patients is still poor with a variety of modern treatments. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is widely used in the adjuvant treatment or alternative medicine of glioma. Curcumae Rhizoma is one of the most commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions for its anti-tumor characteristics. There are also many studies that reveals the anti-tumor effect of its active ingredients and some of which have been made into drugs and have been used in clinical practice. This review summarizes the new research progress on Curcumae Rhizoma for the treatment of glioma in recent years.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qijia Tan
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, P.R. China; The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, P.R. China
| | - Jiamin Lu
- The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, P.R. China
| | - Jingtong Liang
- The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, P.R. China
| | - Yuchen Zhou
- The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, P.R. China
| | - Chunrong Yang
- The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, P.R. China
| | - Zhiqiang Zhang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, P.R. China; The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, P.R. China
| | - Cong Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, P.R. China; The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, P.R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Zhou D, Wu X, Liu X, He S, Ni J, Chen B, Mu D. The pharmacological mechanism of β-elemene in the treatment of esophageal cancer revealed by network pharmacology and experimental verification. Sci Rep 2023; 13:12160. [PMID: 37500660 PMCID: PMC10374640 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38755-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The study aimed to investigate the mechanism of action of β-elemene (ELE) in the treatment of esophageal cancer (EC). In this study, public databases were used to predict related targets in ELE and EC. The network analysis was performed to identify key targets of ELE in EC treatment. Further, bioinformatics and DAVID databases were used for GO and KEGG enrichment analysis, respectively. Ultimately, molecular docking and in vitro cell experiments were conducted to validate the results of network pharmacology enrichment. As a result, 34 candidate targets for ELE in the treatment of EC were obtained, and five key targets (STAT3, EGFR, CTNNB1, BCL2L1 and CASP9) were identified. GO functional annotation yielded 2200 GO entries (p < 0.05). KEGG signaling pathway enrichment analysis screened 100 pathways (p < 0.05). Molecular docking results showed that ELE had similar affinity with five key targets. In vitro experiments showed that the expressions of STAT3, EGFR and BCL2L1 were significantly decreased, and the expression of CASP9 in the ELE intervention group was significantly increased compared with that in the control group. All in all, ELE may play a key role in the treatment of EC by regulating the expression of STAT3, EGFR, BCL2L1 and CASP9.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dejiang Zhou
- Department of Digestive Medicine, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command, #270, Tianhui Road, Rongdu Avenue, Chengdu, 610000, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaoling Wu
- Department of Digestive Medicine, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command, #270, Tianhui Road, Rongdu Avenue, Chengdu, 610000, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaoli Liu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Mechanism and Intervention Research for Plateau Diseases of Tibet Autonomous Region, School of Medicine, Xizang Minzu University, Xianyang, 712082, Shaanxi, China
- Engineering Research Center of Tibetan Medicine Detection Technology, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Xizang Minzu University, Xianyang, 712082, Shaanxi, China
| | - Sheng He
- Department of Digestive Medicine, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command, #270, Tianhui Road, Rongdu Avenue, Chengdu, 610000, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiang Ni
- Department of Digestive Medicine, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command, #270, Tianhui Road, Rongdu Avenue, Chengdu, 610000, Sichuan, China
| | - Beijin Chen
- Department of Digestive Medicine, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command, #270, Tianhui Road, Rongdu Avenue, Chengdu, 610000, Sichuan, China
| | - Dong Mu
- Department of Digestive Medicine, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command, #270, Tianhui Road, Rongdu Avenue, Chengdu, 610000, Sichuan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Song GQ, Wu P, Dong XM, Cheng LH, Lu HQ, Lin YY, Tang WY, Xie T, Zhou JL. Elemene induces cell apoptosis via inhibiting glutathione synthesis in lung adenocarcinoma. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 311:116409. [PMID: 37003401 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The rhizome of Curcuma wenyujin Y.H. Chen & C. Ling, also known as Wen-E-Zhu, has been used for cancer treatment since ancient times, with roots dating back to the Song Dynasty. Elemene (EE), a sesquiterpene extract with potent anticancer properties, is extracted from Wen-E-Zhu, with β-elemene (BE) being its main active compound, along with trace amounts of β-caryophyllene (BC), γ-elemene and δ-elemene isomers. EE has demonstrated broad-spectrum anti-cancer effects and is commonly used in clinical treatments for various types of malignant cancers, including lung cancer. Studies have shown that EE can arrest the cell cycle, inhibit cancer cell proliferation, and induce apoptosis and autophagy. However, the exact mechanism of its anti-lung cancer activity remains unclear and requires further research and investigation. AIM OF THE STUDY In this study, the possible mechanism of EE and its main active components, BE and BC, against lung adenocarcinoma was investigated by using A549 and PC9 cell lines. MATERIALS AND METHODS The subcutaneous tumor model of nude mice was constructed to evaluate the efficacy of EE in vivo, then the in vitro half-inhibitory concentration (IC50) of EE and its main active components, BE and BC, on A549 and PC9 cells at different concentrations were determined by CCK-8. Flow cytometry was used to detect the apoptosis and cycle of A549 and PC9 cells treated with different concentrations of BE and BC for 24 h. Non-targeted metabolomics analysis was performed on A549 cells to explore potential target pathways, which were subsequently verified through kit detection and western blot analysis. RESULTS Injection of EE in A549 tumor-bearing mice effectively suppressed cancer growth in vivo. The IC50 of EE and its main active components, BE and BC, was around 60 μg/mL. Flow cytometry analysis showed that BE and BC blocked the G2/M and S phases of lung adenocarcinoma cells and induced apoptosis, leading to a significant reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). Results from non-targeted metabolomics analysis indicated that the glutathione metabolism pathway in A549 cells was altered after treatment with the active components. Kit detection revealed a decrease in glutathione (GSH) levels and an increase in the levels of oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and reactive oxygen (ROS). Supplementation of GSH reduced the inhibitory activity of the active components on lung cancer and also decreased the ROS content of cells. Analysis of glutathione synthesis-related proteins showed a decrease in the expression of glutaminase, cystine/glutamate reverse transporter (SLC7A11), and glutathione synthase (GS), while the expression of glutamate cysteine ligase modified subunit (GCLM) was increased. In the apoptosis-related pathway, Bax protein and cleaved caspase-9/caspase-9 ratio were up-regulated and Bcl-2 protein was down-regulated. CONCLUSIONS EE, BE, and BC showed significant inhibitory effects on the growth of lung adenocarcinoma cells, and the mechanism of action was linked to the glutathione system. By down-regulating the expression of proteins related to GSH synthesis, EE and its main active components BE and BC disrupted the cellular redox system and thereby promoted cell apoptosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gao-Qian Song
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
| | - Pu Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China; Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China
| | - Xue-Man Dong
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China; Innovative Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Long-Hui Cheng
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
| | - Hua-Qiu Lu
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Lin
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China.
| | - Wei-Yang Tang
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
| | - Tian Xie
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China; Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China.
| | - Jian-Liang Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Gu L, Wu H, Zhang Y, Wu Y, Jin Y, Li T, Ma L, Zheng J. The effects of elemene emulsion injection on rat fecal microbiota and metabolites: Evidence from metagenomic exploration and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:913461. [PMID: 36504762 PMCID: PMC9730252 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.913461] [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: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Elemene emulsion injection (EEI) has been approved for interventional and intracavitary chemotherapy in treating malignant ascites in China, but few studies have focused on the effects of EEI on gut microbiota and metabolites. In this study, we investigated the effects of EEI on the fecal microbiota and metabolites in healthy Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Methods We randomly assigned 18 male SD rats to three groups (n = 6 in each group): the sham group (group S), the low-concentration EEI group (L-EEI), and the high-concentration EEI group (H-EEI). The L-EEI and H-EEI rats were administered 14 days of consecutive EEI, 20 mg/kg, and 40 mg/kg intraperitoneally (IP). Group S rats were administered the same volume of normal saline. On day 14, each animal's feces were collected for metagenomic sequencing and metabolomic analysis, and the colonic contents were collected for 16S rRNA sequencing. Results EEI could alter the β-diversity but not the α-diversity of the fecal microbiota and induce structural changes in the fecal microbiota. Different concentrations of EEI affect the fecal microbiota differently. The effects of different EEI concentrations on the top 20 bacteria with significant differences at the species level among the three groups were roughly divided into three categories: (1) A positive or negative correlation with the different EEI concentrations. The abundance of Ileibacterium Valens increased as the EEI concentration increased, while the abundance of Firmicutes bacteria and Clostridium sp. CAC: 273 decreased. (2) The microbiota showed a tendency to increase first, then decrease or decrease first, and then increase as EEI concentration increased-the abundance of Prevotella sp. PCHR, Escherichia coli, and Candidatus Amulumruptor caecigallinarius tended to decrease with L-EEI but significantly increased with H-EEI. In contrast, L-EEI significantly increased Ruminococcus bromii and Dorea sp. 5-2 abundance, and Oscillibacter sp. 1-3 abundance tended to increase, while H-EEI significantly decreased them. (3) L-EEI and H-EEI decreased the abundance of bacteria (Ruminococcaceae bacterium, Romboutsia ilealis, and Staphylococcus xylosus). Fecal metabolites, like microbiota, were sensitive to different EEI concentrations and correlated with fecal microbiota and potential biomarkers. Conclusion This study shows that intraperitoneal EEI modulates the composition of rat fecal microbiota and metabolites, particularly the gut microbiota's sensitivity to different concentrations of EEI. The impact of changes in the microbiota on human health remains unknown, particularly EEI's efficacy in treating tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Gu
- Department of Cardiology, Xi'an International Medical Center Hospital Affiliated to Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hao Wu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Health Center of 95816 of the People's Liberation Army, Wuhan, China
| | - Yousheng Wu
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Preclinical Medicine Education, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yuan Jin
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical College, Xinxiang, China
| | - Tian Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China,Tian Li
| | - Litian Ma
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China,Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China,Litian Ma
| | - Jin Zheng
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China,*Correspondence: Jin Zheng
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Qi X, Jiang S, Hui Z, Gao Y, Ye Y, Lirussi F, Garrido C, Xu L, He X, Bai R, Ye XY, Xie T. Design, synthesis and antitumor efficacy evaluation of a series of novel β-elemene-based macrocycles. Bioorg Med Chem 2022; 74:117049. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2022.117049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
12
|
Guo Q, Li Y, Chen Y, Ji J, Zheng S, Xu X, Zhang B, Ye J. β-Elemene induces apoptosis by activating the P53 pathway in human hypertrophic scar fibroblasts. IUBMB Life 2022; 74:508-518. [PMID: 35294085 DOI: 10.1002/iub.2614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypertrophic scar (HS) is a condition characterized by excessive synthesis and deposition of collagen. There are many clinical methods to alleviate HS, but most of them are accompanied by many complications. AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate the effects of β-Elemene, extracted from the ginger family plant Wenyujin, on Human hypertrophic scar fibroblast. MATERIALS AND METHODS Cultured human hypertrophic scar fibroblast (hHSFs) and human normal fibroblasts (HF), and observed the effect of β-Elemene on apoptosis、extracellular matrix and endoplasmic reticulum stress by Western blot、RT-PCR and flow cytometry. RESULTS Based on our findings, it is clear that β-Elemene could inhibit the expression of α-SMA、collagen I and Fibronectin, reduced collagen deposition. Further studies had found that β-Elemene could increase the expression of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS)-related proteins CHOP and Calnexin in a dose-dependent manner, thereby promoting the aggregation of cleaved-caspase-3 and inducing hHSFs to undergo apoptosis. This process may depend on the regulation of P53. CONCLUSIONS The results of our study indicates that β-Elemene induced hHSFs to undergo apoptosis though ERS pathway in a P53-dependent manner, which means that our research provided a new strategy for the development of drugs for the treatment of HS. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qin Guo
- Department of Dermatology, the Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine
| | - Yujia Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuan Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jin Ji
- Department of Dermatology, the Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine
| | - Shizhong Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xuefen Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Biyun Zhang
- Department of Nuclear medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine
| | - Jianzhou Ye
- YunNan Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| |
Collapse
|