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Genah S, Ciccone V, Filippelli A, Simonis V, Martelli A, Piragine E, Pagnotta E, Pecchioni N, Calderone V, Morbidelli L. Erucin, a natural isothiocyanate, exerts pro-angiogenic properties in cultured endothelial cells and reverts angiogenic impairment induced by high glucose. Phytother Res 2024; 38:2641-2655. [PMID: 38488442 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8183] [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: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Insufficient vessel maintenance adversely impacts patients in terms of tissue reperfusion following stroke or myocardial infarction, as well as during wound healing. Angiogenesis impairment is a feature typical of metabolic disorders acting at the cardiovascular level, such as diabetes. Therapeutic angiogenesis regulation offers promising clinical implications, and natural compounds as pro-angiogenic nutraceuticals hold valuable applications in regenerative medicine. By using cultured endothelial cells from human umbilical veins (HUVEC) we studied functional and molecular responses following exposure to erucin, a natural isothiocyanate derived from Brassicaceae plants and extracted from the seeds of rocket. Erucin (at nanomolar concentrations) promotes cell migration and tube formation, similar to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), through mobilizing paxillin at endothelial edges. At the molecular level, erucin induces signaling pathways typical of angiogenesis activation, namely Ras, PI3K/AKT, and ERK1/2, leading to VEGF expression and triggering its autocrine production, as pharmacological inhibition of soluble VEGF and VEGFR2 dampens endothelial functions. Furthermore, erucin, alone and together with VEGF, preserves endothelial angiogenic functions under pathological conditions, such as those induced in HUVEC by high glucose (HG) exposure. Erucin emerges as a compelling candidate for therapeutic revascularization applications, showcasing promising prospects for natural compounds in regenerative medicine, particularly in addressing angiogenesis-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley Genah
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Valerio Ciccone
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | | | - Alma Martelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Eleonora Pagnotta
- Research Centre for Cereal and Industrial Crops, CREA, Bologna, Italy
| | - Nicola Pecchioni
- Research Centre for Cereal and Industrial Crops, CREA, Foggia, Italy
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Spezzini J, Piragine E, Flori L, Calderone V, Martelli A. Natural H 2S-donors: A new pharmacological opportunity for the management of overweight and obesity. Phytother Res 2024; 38:2388-2405. [PMID: 38430052 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8181] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
The prevalence of overweight and obesity has progressively increased in the last few years, becoming a real threat to healthcare systems. To date, the clinical management of body weight gain is an unmet medical need, as there are few approved anti-obesity drugs and most require an extensive monitoring and vigilance due to risk of adverse effects and poor patient adherence/persistence. Growing evidence has shown that the gasotransmitter hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and, therefore, H2S-donors could have a central role in the prevention and treatment of overweight/obesity. The main natural sources of H2S-donors are plants from the Alliaceae (garlic and onion), Brassicaceae (e.g., broccoli, cabbage, and wasabi), and Moringaceae botanical families. In particular, polysulfides and isothiocyanates, which slowly release H2S, derive from the hydrolysis of alliin from Alliaceae and glucosinolates from Brassicaceae/Moringaceae, respectively. In this review, we describe the emerging role of endogenous H2S in regulating adipose tissue function and the potential efficacy of natural H2S-donors in animal models of overweight/obesity, with a final focus on the preliminary results from clinical trials. We conclude that organosulfur-containing plants and their extracts could be used before or in combination with conventional anti-obesity agents to improve treatment efficacy and reduce inflammation in obesogenic conditions. However, further high-quality studies are needed to firmly establish their clinical efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lorenzo Flori
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Calderone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health (NUTRAFOOD)", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center "Biology and Pathology of Ageing", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alma Martelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health (NUTRAFOOD)", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center "Biology and Pathology of Ageing", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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3
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Li P, Liang F, Wang L, Jin D, Shang Y, Liu X, Pan Y, Yuan J, Shen J, Yin M. Bilayer vascular grafts with on-demand NO and H 2S release capabilities. Bioact Mater 2024; 31:38-52. [PMID: 37601276 PMCID: PMC10432902 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gasotransmitters exhibit potential therapeutic effects in the cardiovascular system. Herein, biomimicking multilayer structures of biological blood vessels, bilayer small-diameter vascular grafts (SDVGs) with on-demand NO and H2S release capabilities, were designed and fabricated. The keratin-based H2S donor (KTC) with good biocompatibility and high stability was first synthesized and then electrospun with poly (l-lactide-co-caprolactone) (PLCL) to be used as the outer layer of grafts. The electrospun poly (ε-caprolactone) (PCL) mats were aminolyzed and further chelated with copper (II) ions to construct glutathione peroxidase (GPx)-like structural surfaces for the catalytic generation of NO, which acted as the inner layer of grafts. The on-demand release of NO and H2S selectively and synergistically promoted the proliferation and migration of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) while inhibiting the proliferation and migration of human umbilical artery smooth muscle cells (HUASMCs). Dual releases of NO and H2S gasotransmitters could enhance their respective production, resulting in enhanced promotion of HUVECs and inhibition of HUASMCs owing to their combined actions. In addition, the bilayer grafts were conducive to forming endothelial cell layers under flow shear stress. In rat abdominal aorta replacement models, the grafts remained patency for 6 months. These grafts were capable of facilitating rapid endothelialization and alleviating neointimal hyperplasia without obvious injury, inflammation, or thrombosis. More importantly, the grafts were expected to avoid calcification with the degradation of the grafts. Taken together, these bilayer grafts will be greatly promising candidates for SDVGs with rapid endothelialization and anti-calcification properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Li
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bio-functional Materials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Fubang Liang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1678 Dong Fang Road, Shanghai, 200127, PR China
| | - Lijuan Wang
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bio-functional Materials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Dawei Jin
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1678 Dong Fang Road, Shanghai, 200127, PR China
| | - Yushuang Shang
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bio-functional Materials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Xu Liu
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bio-functional Materials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Yanjun Pan
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1678 Dong Fang Road, Shanghai, 200127, PR China
| | - Jiang Yuan
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bio-functional Materials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Jian Shen
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bio-functional Materials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
- Jiangsu Engineering Research Center of Interfacial Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Meng Yin
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1678 Dong Fang Road, Shanghai, 200127, PR China
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4
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Flori L, Montanaro R, Pagnotta E, Ugolini L, Righetti L, Martelli A, Di Cesare Mannelli L, Ghelardini C, Brancaleone V, Testai L, Calderone V. Erucin Exerts Cardioprotective Effects on Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury through the Modulation of mitoKATP Channels. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3281. [PMID: 38137502 PMCID: PMC10740937 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123281] [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: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Modulation of mitochondrial K channels represents a pharmacological strategy to promote cardioprotective effects. Isothiocyanates emerge as molecules capable of releasing hydrogen sulfide (H2S), an endogenous pleiotropic gasotransmitter responsible for anti-ischemic cardioprotective effects also through the involvement of mitoK channels. Erucin (ERU) is a natural isothiocyanate resulting from the enzymatic hydrolysis of glucosinolates (GSLs) present in Eruca sativa Mill. seeds, an edible plant of the Brassicaceae family. In this experimental work, the specific involvement of mitoKATP channels in the cardioprotective effect induced by ERU was evaluated in detail. An in vivo preclinical model of acute myocardial infarction was reproduced in rats to evaluate the cardioprotective effect of ERU. Diazoxide was used as a reference compound for the modulation of potassium fluxes and 5-hydroxydecanoic acid (5HD) as a selective blocker of KATP channels. Specific investigations on isolated cardiac mitochondria were carried out to evaluate the involvement of mitoKATP channels. The results obtained showed ERU cardioprotective effects against ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) damage through the involvement of mitoKATP channels and the consequent depolarizing effect, which in turn reduced calcium entry and preserved mitochondrial integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Flori
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56120 Pisa, Italy; (L.F.); (A.M.); (V.C.)
| | - Rosangela Montanaro
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy; (R.M.); (V.B.)
| | - Eleonora Pagnotta
- Research Centre for Cereal and Industrial Crops, CREA—Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Via di Corticella 133, 40128 Bologna, Italy; (E.P.); (L.U.); (L.R.)
| | - Luisa Ugolini
- Research Centre for Cereal and Industrial Crops, CREA—Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Via di Corticella 133, 40128 Bologna, Italy; (E.P.); (L.U.); (L.R.)
| | - Laura Righetti
- Research Centre for Cereal and Industrial Crops, CREA—Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Via di Corticella 133, 40128 Bologna, Italy; (E.P.); (L.U.); (L.R.)
| | - Alma Martelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56120 Pisa, Italy; (L.F.); (A.M.); (V.C.)
- Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, 56120 Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Centre of Ageing Biology and Pathology, University of Pisa, 56120 Pisa, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Di Cesare Mannelli
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (L.D.C.M.); (C.G.)
| | - Carla Ghelardini
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (L.D.C.M.); (C.G.)
| | - Vincenzo Brancaleone
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy; (R.M.); (V.B.)
| | - Lara Testai
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56120 Pisa, Italy; (L.F.); (A.M.); (V.C.)
- Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, 56120 Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Centre of Ageing Biology and Pathology, University of Pisa, 56120 Pisa, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Calderone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56120 Pisa, Italy; (L.F.); (A.M.); (V.C.)
- Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, 56120 Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Centre of Ageing Biology and Pathology, University of Pisa, 56120 Pisa, Italy
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Guidotti L, Tomassi E, Marracci S, Lai M, Lapi D, Pesi R, Pucci L, Novellino E, Albi E, Garcia-Gil M. Effects of Nutraceuticals on Cisplatin-Induced Cytotoxicity in HEI-OC1 Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17416. [PMID: 38139245 PMCID: PMC10743635 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417416] [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: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Cisplatin is a chemotherapeutic drug for the treatment of several solid tumors, whose use is limited by its nephrotoxicity, neurotoxicity, ototoxicity, and development of resistance. The toxicity is caused by DNA cross-linking, increase in reactive oxygen species and/or depletion of cell antioxidant defenses. The aim of the work was to study the effect of antioxidant compounds (Lisosan G, Taurisolo®) or hydrogen sulfide (H2S)-releasing compounds (erucin) in the auditory HEI-OC1 cell line treated with cisplatin. Cell viability was determined using the MTT assay. Caspase and sphingomyelinase activities were measured by fluorometric and colorimetric methods, respectively. Expression of transcription factors, apoptosis hallmarks and genes codifying for antioxidant response proteins were measured by Western blot and/or RT-qPCR. Lisosan G, Taurisolo® and erucin did not show protective effects. Sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS), a donor of H2S, increased the viability of cisplatin-treated cells and the transcription of heme oxygenase 1, superoxide dismutase 2, NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase type 1 and the catalytic subunit of glutamate-cysteine ligase and decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS), the Bax/Bcl2 ratio, caspase-3, caspase-8 and acid sphingomyelinase activity. Therefore, NaHS might counteract the cytotoxic effect of cisplatin by increasing the antioxidant response and by reducing ROS levels and caspase and acid sphingomyelinase activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Guidotti
- General Physiology Unit, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via San Zeno 31, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (L.G.); (S.M.); (D.L.)
| | - Elena Tomassi
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, Italian National Research Council, Via Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (E.T.); (L.P.)
| | - Silvia Marracci
- General Physiology Unit, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via San Zeno 31, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (L.G.); (S.M.); (D.L.)
| | - Michele Lai
- Retrovirus Centre, Department of Translational Medicine and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Strada Statale del Brennero 2, 56127 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Dominga Lapi
- General Physiology Unit, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via San Zeno 31, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (L.G.); (S.M.); (D.L.)
| | - Rossana Pesi
- Biochemistry Unit, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via San Zeno 31, 56127 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Laura Pucci
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, Italian National Research Council, Via Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (E.T.); (L.P.)
| | - Ettore Novellino
- Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Elisabetta Albi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Interno Orto Botanico, University of Perugia, Via Romana, 06126 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Mercedes Garcia-Gil
- General Physiology Unit, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via San Zeno 31, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (L.G.); (S.M.); (D.L.)
- Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy
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6
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Crescenzi MA, Cerulli A, Montoro P, Piacente S. Metabolite Profiling for Typization of "Rucola della Piana del Sele" (PGI), Eruca sativa, through UHPLC-Q-Exactive-Orbitrap-MS/MS Analysis. Foods 2023; 12:3384. [PMID: 37761093 PMCID: PMC10529767 DOI: 10.3390/foods12183384] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In August 2020, the Eruca sativa cultivar "Rucola della Piana del Sele" obtained from the European Union the prestigious PGI (protected geographical indication) label, which certifies the uniqueness of its characteristics and increases its prestige both nationally and, above all, internationally. This plant is recognized as a product of excellence, with a unique flavor and unmistakable aroma. Therefore, since there are no methods to characterize the PGI product, a metabolomic approach was applied to characterize E. sativa grown in the Piana del Sele and different geographical areas. As E. sativa has very wide cultivation, this study sought to compare the metabolite profiles of rocket grown in Piana del Sele, Bergamo, and Brescia, as well as in Switzerland, making a comparison also with the metabolite profile of E. sativa grown spontaneously. To determine the best procedure to distinguish "Rucola della Piana del Sele" from the others, different extraction procedures were carried out using different solvents and fresh or freeze-dried plant matrices. The different extracts were analyzed by liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry experiments, using chemometric analyses to identify biomarker metabolites that characterize the PGI product. The LC-ESI-Q-Exactive-MS/MS profiles of methanol and hydroalcoholic extracts of different cultivars of E. sativa were found to be rich in bioactive compounds such as glucosinolates, glycosylated flavonoids, fatty acids, and lipids. The LCMS data were analyzed by principal component analysis (PCA); the score scatter plot shows significant separation among Eruca samples grown in different geographical areas. In detail, loading the scatter plot revealed Eruca grown in Piana del Sele to be richer than other cultivars in glycosylated quercetin 3,3',4'-O-triglucoside (7), quercetin-3,4'-O-diglucoside-3'-O-(6-sinapoyl-glucoside) (10), and quercetin diglucoside (30). Finally, considering the biological interest in erucin, the myrosinase product of glucoerucin, the latter was quantified in the extracts by LC-ESI/QTrap/MS/MS using the multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) method; E. sativa from Piana del Sele showed the highest content of glucoerucin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Assunta Crescenzi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of the Study of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, I-84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy; (M.A.C.); (A.C.); (S.P.)
- PhD Program in Drug Discovery & Development, Department of Pharmacy, University of the Study of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, I-84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Antonietta Cerulli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of the Study of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, I-84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy; (M.A.C.); (A.C.); (S.P.)
| | - Paola Montoro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of the Study of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, I-84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy; (M.A.C.); (A.C.); (S.P.)
| | - Sonia Piacente
- Department of Pharmacy, University of the Study of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, I-84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy; (M.A.C.); (A.C.); (S.P.)
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7
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Testai L, Montanaro R, Flori L, Pagnotta E, Vellecco V, Gorica E, Ugolini L, Righetti L, Brancaleone V, Bucci M, Piragine E, Martelli A, Di Cesare Mannelli L, Ghelardini C, Calderone V. Persulfidation of mitoKv7.4 channels contributes to the cardioprotective effects of the H 2S-donor Erucin against ischemia/reperfusion injury. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 215:115728. [PMID: 37524208 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115728] [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: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a gasotransmitter deeply involved in cardiovascular homeostasis and implicated in the myocardial protection against ischemia/reperfusion. The post-translational persulfidation of cysteine residues has been identified as the mechanism through which H2S regulates a plethora of biological targets. Erucin (ERU) is an isothiocyanate produced upon hydrolysis of the glucosinolate glucoerucin, presents in edible plants of Brassicaceae family, such as Eruca sativa Mill., and it has emerged as a slow and long-lasting H2S-donor. AIM In this study the cardioprotective profile of ERU has been investigated and the action mechanism explored, focusing on the possible role of the recently identified mitochondrial Kv7.4 (mitoKv7.4) potassium channels. RESULTS Interestingly, ERU showed to release H2S and concentration-dependently protected H9c2 cells against H2O2-induced oxidative damage. Moreover, in in vivo model of myocardial infarct ERU showed protective effects, reducing the extension of ischemic area, the levels of troponin I and increasing the amount of total AnxA1, as well as co-related inflammatory outcomes. Conversely, the pre-treatment with XE991, a blocker of Kv7.4 channels, abolished them. In isolated cardiac mitochondria ERU exhibited the typical profile of a mitochondrial potassium channels opener, in particular, this isothiocyanate produced a mild depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential, a reduction of calcium accumulation into the matrix and finally a flow of potassium ions. Finally, mitoKv7.4 channels were persulfidated in ERU-treated mitochondria. CONCLUSIONS ERU modulates the cardiac mitoKv7.4 channels and this mechanism may be relevant for cardioprotective effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Testai
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56120-Pisa, Italy; Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy; Interdepartmental Research Centre of Ageing Biology and Pathology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - R Montanaro
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, 85100, Potenza, Italy
| | - L Flori
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56120-Pisa, Italy
| | - E Pagnotta
- CREA-Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Research Centre for Cereal and Industrial Crops, via di Corticella 133, 40128 Bologna, Italy
| | - V Vellecco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - E Gorica
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56120-Pisa, Italy
| | - L Ugolini
- CREA-Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Research Centre for Cereal and Industrial Crops, via di Corticella 133, 40128 Bologna, Italy
| | - L Righetti
- CREA-Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Research Centre for Cereal and Industrial Crops, via di Corticella 133, 40128 Bologna, Italy
| | - V Brancaleone
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, 85100, Potenza, Italy
| | - M Bucci
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - E Piragine
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56120-Pisa, Italy
| | - A Martelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56120-Pisa, Italy; Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy; Interdepartmental Research Centre of Ageing Biology and Pathology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - L Di Cesare Mannelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health-Neurofarba-Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - C Ghelardini
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health-Neurofarba-Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - V Calderone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56120-Pisa, Italy; Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy; Interdepartmental Research Centre of Ageing Biology and Pathology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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8
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Citi V, Passerini M, Calderone V, Testai L. Plants and Mushrooms as Possible New Sources of H 2S Releasing Sulfur Compounds. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11886. [PMID: 37569263 PMCID: PMC10418851 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241511886] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), known for many decades exclusively for its toxicity and the smell of rotten eggs, has been re-discovered for its pleiotropic effects at the cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular level. Therefore, great attention is being paid to the discovery of molecules able to release H2S in a smart manner, i.e., slowly and for a long time, thus ensuring the maintenance of its physiological levels and preventing "H2S-poor" diseases. Despite the development of numerous synthetically derived molecules, the observation that plants containing sulfur compounds share the same pharmacological properties as H2S led to the characterization of naturally derived compounds as H2S donors. In this regard, polysulfuric compounds occurring in plants belonging to the Alliaceae family were the first characterized as H2S donors, followed by isothiocyanates derived from vegetables belonging to the Brassicaceae family, and this led us to consider these plants as nutraceutical tools and their daily consumption has been demonstrated to prevent the onset of several diseases. Interestingly, sulfur compounds are also contained in many fungi. In this review, we speculate about the possibility that they may be novel sources of H2S-donors, furnishing new data on the release of H2S from several selected extracts from fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Citi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno, 56120 Pisa, Italy; (V.C.); (V.C.)
| | | | - Vincenzo Calderone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno, 56120 Pisa, Italy; (V.C.); (V.C.)
- Interdepartmental Center of Nutrafood, University of Pisa, Via Del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Lara Testai
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno, 56120 Pisa, Italy; (V.C.); (V.C.)
- Interdepartmental Center of Nutrafood, University of Pisa, Via Del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
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9
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Bechelli C, Macabrey D, Deglise S, Allagnat F. Clinical Potential of Hydrogen Sulfide in Peripheral Arterial Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9955. [PMID: 37373103 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24129955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) affects more than 230 million people worldwide. PAD patients suffer from reduced quality of life and are at increased risk of vascular complications and all-cause mortality. Despite its prevalence, impact on quality of life and poor long-term clinical outcomes, PAD remains underdiagnosed and undertreated compared to myocardial infarction and stroke. PAD is due to a combination of macrovascular atherosclerosis and calcification, combined with microvascular rarefaction, leading to chronic peripheral ischemia. Novel therapies are needed to address the increasing incidence of PAD and its difficult long-term pharmacological and surgical management. The cysteine-derived gasotransmitter hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has interesting vasorelaxant, cytoprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In this review, we describe the current understanding of PAD pathophysiology and the remarkable benefits of H2S against atherosclerosis, inflammation, vascular calcification, and other vasculo-protective effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clémence Bechelli
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Diane Macabrey
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sebastien Deglise
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Florent Allagnat
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland
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10
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Vass V, Szabó E, Bereczki I, Debreczeni N, Borbás A, Herczegh P, Tósaki Á. Reperfusion-induced injury and the effects of the dithioacetate type hydrogen sulfide donor ibuprofen derivative, BM-88, in isolated rat hearts. Eur J Pharm Sci 2023; 185:106449. [PMID: 37076051 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2023.106449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) plays an important role in cardiac protection by regulating various redox signalings associated with myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) induced injury. The goal of the present investigations is the synthesis of a newly designed H2S-releasing ibuprofen derivative, BM-88, and its pharmacological characterization regarding the cardioprotective effects in isolated rat hearts. Cytotoxicity of BM-88 was also estimated in H9c2 cells. H2S-release was measured by an H2S sensor from the coronary perfusate. Increasing concentrations of BM-88 (1.0 to 20.0 µM) were tested in in vitro studies. Preadministration of 10 µM BM-88 significantly reduced the incidence of reperfusion-induced ventricular fibrillation (VF) from its drug-free control value of 92% to 12%. However, no clear dose dependent reduction in the incidence of reperfusion-induced VF was observed while different concentrations of BM-88 were used. It was also found that 10 µM BM-88 provided a substantial protection and significantly reduced the infarct size in the ischemic/reperfused myocardium. However, this cardiac protection was not reflected in any significant changes in coronary flow and heart rates. The results support the fact that H2S release plays an important role mitigating reperfusion-induced cardiac damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virág Vass
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary; Doctoral School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary; ELKH-DE Pharmamodul Research Team, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.
| | - Erzsébet Szabó
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary; ELKH-DE Pharmamodul Research Team, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.
| | - Ilona Bereczki
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary; ELKH-DE Pharmamodul Research Team, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.
| | - Nóra Debreczeni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary; Doctoral School of Chemistry, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.
| | - Anikó Borbás
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.
| | - Pál Herczegh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary; ELKH-DE Pharmamodul Research Team, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.
| | - Árpád Tósaki
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary; ELKH-DE Pharmamodul Research Team, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.
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11
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Antiproliferative and Proapoptotic Effects of Erucin, a Diet-Derived H 2S Donor, on Human Melanoma Cells. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 12:antiox12010041. [PMID: 36670903 PMCID: PMC9854590 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12010041] [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: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer and is characterized by chemotherapy resistance and recurrence despite the new promising therapeutic approaches. In the last years, erucin (ERU), the major isothiocyanate present in Eruca sativa, commonly known as rocket salads, has demonstrated great efficacy as an anticancer agent in different in vitro and in vivo models. More recently, the chemopreventive effects of ERU have been associated with its property of being a H2S donor in human pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Here, we investigated the effects of ERU in modulating proliferation and inducing human melanoma cell death by using multiple in vitro approaches. ERU significantly reduced the proliferation of different human melanoma cell lines. A flow cytometry analysis with annexin V/PI demonstrated that ERU was able to induce apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in A375 melanoma cells. The proapoptotic effect of ERU was associated with the modulation of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related cadherins and transcription factors. Moreover, ERU thwarted the migration, invasiveness and clonogenic abilities of A375 melanoma cells. These effects were associated with melanogenesis impairment and mitochondrial fitness modulation. Therefore, we demonstrated that ERU plays an important role in inhibiting the progression of melanoma and could represent a novel add-on therapy for the treatment of human melanoma.
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12
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Ciccone V, Piragine E, Gorica E, Citi V, Testai L, Pagnotta E, Matteo R, Pecchioni N, Montanaro R, Di Cesare Mannelli L, Ghelardini C, Brancaleone V, Morbidelli L, Calderone V, Martelli A. Anti-Inflammatory Effect of the Natural H 2S-Donor Erucin in Vascular Endothelium. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415593. [PMID: 36555238 PMCID: PMC9778978 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular inflammation (VI) represents a pathological condition that progressively affects the integrity and functionality of the vascular wall, thus leading to endothelial dysfunction and the onset of several cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, the research of novel compounds able to prevent VI represents a compelling need. In this study, we tested erucin, the natural isothiocyanate H2S-donor derived from Eruca sativa Mill. (Brassicaceae), in an in vivo mouse model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced peritonitis, where it significantly reduced the amount of emigrated CD11b positive neutrophils. We then evaluated the anti-inflammatory effects of erucin in LPS-challenged human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The pre-incubation of erucin, before LPS treatment (1, 6, 24 h), significantly preserved cell viability and prevented the increase of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) levels. Moreover, erucin downregulated endothelial hyperpermeability and reduced the loss of vascular endothelial (VE)-Cadherin levels. In addition, erucin decreased vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and microsomal prostaglandin E-synthase 1 (mPGES-1) expression. Of note, erucin induced eNOS phosphorylation and counteracted LPS-mediated NF-κB nuclear translocation, an effect that was partially abolished in the presence of the eNOS inhibitor L-NAME. Therefore, erucin can control endothelial function through biochemical and genomic positive effects against VI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerio Ciccone
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Eugenia Piragine
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno Pisano 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Era Gorica
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno Pisano 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Valentina Citi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno Pisano 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Lara Testai
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno Pisano 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center “Nutrafood: Nutraceutica e Alimentazione per la Salute”, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center “Biology and Pathology of Ageing”, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Eleonora Pagnotta
- Research Centre for Cereal and Industrial Crops, CREA Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Via di Corticella 133, 40134 Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberto Matteo
- Research Centre for Cereal and Industrial Crops, CREA Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Via di Corticella 133, 40134 Bologna, Italy
| | - Nicola Pecchioni
- Research Centre for Cereal and Industrial Crops, CREA Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, S.S. 673 Km 25,200, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Rosangela Montanaro
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, Via Ateneo Lucano 10, 85100 Potenza, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Di Cesare Mannelli
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Viale Gaetano Pieraccini, 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Carla Ghelardini
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Viale Gaetano Pieraccini, 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Brancaleone
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, Via Ateneo Lucano 10, 85100 Potenza, Italy
| | - Lucia Morbidelli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Interuniversity Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-Environmental Technology (BAT Center), 80055 Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Calderone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno Pisano 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center “Nutrafood: Nutraceutica e Alimentazione per la Salute”, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center “Biology and Pathology of Ageing”, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Correspondence: (V.C.); (A.M.)
| | - Alma Martelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno Pisano 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center “Nutrafood: Nutraceutica e Alimentazione per la Salute”, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center “Biology and Pathology of Ageing”, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Correspondence: (V.C.); (A.M.)
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13
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Ciccone L, Piragine E, Brogi S, Camodeca C, Fucci R, Calderone V, Nencetti S, Martelli A, Orlandini E. Resveratrol-like Compounds as SIRT1 Activators. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315105. [PMID: 36499460 PMCID: PMC9738298 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) activator resveratrol has emerged as a promising candidate for the prevention of vascular oxidative stress, which is a trigger for endothelial dysfunction. However, its clinical use is limited by low oral bioavailability. In this work, we have applied a previously developed computational protocol to identify the most promising derivatives from our in-house chemical library of resveratrol derivatives. The most promising compounds in terms of SIRT1 activation and oral bioavailability, predicted in silico, were evaluated for their ability to activate the isolated SIRT1 enzyme. Then, we assessed the antioxidant effects of the most effective derivative, compound 3d, in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) injured with H2O2 100 µM. The SIRT1 activator 3d significantly preserved cell viability and prevented an intracellular reactive oxygen species increase in HUVECs exposed to the oxidative stimulus. Such effects were partially reduced in the presence of a sirtuin inhibitor, sirtinol, confirming the potential role of sirtuins in the activity of resveratrol and its derivatives. Although 3d appeared less effective than resveratrol in activating the isolated enzyme, the effects exhibited by both compounds in HUVECs were almost superimposable, suggesting a higher ability of 3d to cross cell membranes and activate the intracellular target SIRT1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Ciccone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Center for Instrument Sharing, University of Pisa (CISUP), Lungarno Pacinotti 43, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Eugenia Piragine
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Simone Brogi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Caterina Camodeca
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Raffaele Fucci
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Calderone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Center for Instrument Sharing, University of Pisa (CISUP), Lungarno Pacinotti 43, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Susanna Nencetti
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Center for Instrument Sharing, University of Pisa (CISUP), Lungarno Pacinotti 43, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Correspondence: (S.N.); (A.M.)
| | - Alma Martelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Center for Instrument Sharing, University of Pisa (CISUP), Lungarno Pacinotti 43, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Correspondence: (S.N.); (A.M.)
| | - Elisabetta Orlandini
- Department of Earth Science, University of Pisa, Via Santa Maria 53, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Research Centre E. Piaggio, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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14
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Design, Synthesis and Evaluation of Novel Molecular Hybrids between Antiglaucoma Drugs and H 2S Donors. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232213804. [PMID: 36430281 PMCID: PMC9695456 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232213804] [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: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases consisting of optic nerve damage with corresponding loss of field vision and blindness. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a gaseous neurotransmitter implicated in various pathophysiological processes. It is involved in the pathological mechanism of glaucomatous neuropathy and exerts promising effects in the treatment of this disease. In this work, we designed and synthetized new molecular hybrids between antiglaucoma drugs and H2S donors to combine the pharmacological effect of both moieties, providing a heightened therapy. Brinzolamide, betaxolol and brimonidine were linked to different H2S donors. The H2S-releasing properties of the new compounds were evaluated in a phosphate buffer solution by the amperometric approach, and evaluated in human primary corneal epithelial cells (HCEs) by spectrofluorometric measurements. Experimental data showed that compounds 1c, 1d and 3d were the hybrids with the best properties, characterized by a significant and long-lasting production of the gasotransmitter both in the aqueous solution (in the presence of L-cysteine) and in the intracellular environment. Because, to date, the donation of H2S by antiglaucoma H2S donor hybrids using non-immortalized corneal cells has never been reported, these results pave the way to further investigation of the potential efficacy of the newly synthesized compounds.
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15
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Potential effects of Alliaceae and Brassicaceae edible plants on blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials. Pharmacol Res 2022; 185:106519. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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16
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The Nitric Oxide Donor [Zn(PipNONO)Cl] Exhibits Antitumor Activity through Inhibition of Epithelial and Endothelial Mesenchymal Transitions. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14174240. [PMID: 36077778 PMCID: PMC9454450 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14174240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Nitric oxide (NO) plays a critical pathophysiological role in cancer by modulating several processes, such as angiogenesis, tumor growth, and metastatic potential. The aim of this study was to characterize the antitumor effects of a novel NO donor, [Zn(PipNONO)Cl], on the processes of epithelial– and endothelial–mesenchymal transitions (EMT and EndMT), known to actively participate in cancer progression. Two tumor cells lines were used in this study: human lung cancer cells (A549) and melanoma cells (A375), alone and co-cultured with human endothelial cells. Our results demonstrate that both tumor and endothelial cells were targets of NO action, which impaired EMT and EndMT functional and molecular features. Further studies are needed to finalize the therapeutic use of the novel NO donor. Abstract Exogenous nitric oxide appears a promising therapeutic approach to control cancer progression. Previously, a nickel-based nonoate, [Ni(SalPipNONO)], inhibited lung cancer cells, along with impairment of angiogenesis. The Zn(II) containing derivatives [Zn(PipNONO)Cl] exhibited a protective effect on vascular endothelium. Here, we have evaluated the antitumor properties of [Zn(PipNONO)Cl] in human lung cancer (A549) and melanoma (A375) cells. Metastasis initiates with the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) process, consisting of the acquisition of invasive and migratory properties by tumor cells. At not cytotoxic levels, the nonoate significantly impaired A549 and A375 EMT induced by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). Reduction of the mesenchymal marker vimentin, upregulated by TGF-β1, and restoration of the epithelial marker E-cadherin, reduced by TGF-β1, were detected in both tumor cell lines in the presence of Zn-nonoate. Further, the endothelial–mesenchymal transition achieved in a tumor-endothelial cell co-culture was assessed. Endothelial cells co-cultured with A549 or A375 acquired a mesenchymal phenotype with increased vimentin, alpha smooth muscle actin and Smad2/3, and reduced VE-cadherin. The presence of [Zn(PipNONO)Cl] maintained a typical endothelial phenotype. In conclusion, [Zn(PipNONO)Cl] appears a promising therapeutic tool to control tumor growth and metastasis, by acting on both tumor and endothelial cells, reprogramming the cells toward their physiologic phenotypes.
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17
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Gorica E, Mohammed SA, Ambrosini S, Calderone V, Costantino S, Paneni F. Epi-Drugs in Heart Failure. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:923014. [PMID: 35911511 PMCID: PMC9326055 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.923014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Unveiling the secrets of genome’s flexibility does not only foster new research in the field, but also gives rise to the exploration and development of novel epigenetic-based therapies as an approach to alleviate disease phenotypes. A better understanding of chromatin biology (DNA/histone complexes) and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) has enabled the development of epigenetic drugs able to modulate transcriptional programs implicated in cardiovascular diseases. This particularly applies to heart failure, where epigenetic networks have shown to underpin several pathological features, such as left ventricular hypertrophy, fibrosis, cardiomyocyte apoptosis and microvascular dysfunction. Targeting epigenetic signals might represent a promising approach, especially in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), where prognosis remains poor and breakthrough therapies have yet to be approved. In this setting, epigenetics can be employed for the development of customized therapeutic approaches thus paving the way for personalized medicine. Even though the beneficial effects of epi-drugs are gaining attention, the number of epigenetic compounds used in the clinical practice remains low suggesting that more selective epi-drugs are needed. From DNA-methylation changes to non-coding RNAs, we can establish brand-new regulations for drug targets with the aim of restoring healthy epigenomes and transcriptional programs in the failing heart. In the present review, we bring the timeline of epi-drug discovery and development, thus highlighting the emerging role of epigenetic therapies in heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Era Gorica
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zürich, Schlieren, Switzerland.,Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Shafeeq A Mohammed
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zürich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Samuele Ambrosini
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zürich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | | | - Sarah Costantino
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zürich, Schlieren, Switzerland.,Department of Cardiology, University Heart Center, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Francesco Paneni
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zürich, Schlieren, Switzerland.,Department of Cardiology, University Heart Center, Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Research and Education, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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18
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Testai L, Pagnotta E, Piragine E, Flori L, Citi V, Martelli A, Mannelli LDC, Ghelardini C, Matteo R, Suriano S, Troccoli A, Pecchioni N, Calderone V. Cardiovascular benefits of Eruca sativa mill. Defatted seed meal extract: Potential role of hydrogen sulfide. Phytother Res 2022; 36:2616-2627. [PMID: 35478197 PMCID: PMC9320972 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Eruca sativa Mill. is an edible plant belonging to the Brassicaceae botanical family with a long story as a medicinal material, mainly linked to the presence of glucoerucin. One of the main products of this glucosinolate is erucin, a biologicallly active isothiocyanate recently recognized as a hydrogen sulfide (H2S) donor. In this work, an Eruca sativa extract has been obtained from a defatted seed meal (DSM), achieving a powder rich in thiofunctionalized glucosinolates, glucoerucin, and glucoraphanin, accounting for 95% and 5% of the total glucosinolate content (17% on a dry weight basis), associated with 13 identified phenolic acids and flavonoids accounting for 2.5%. In a cell‐free model, Eruca sativa DSM extract slowly released H2S. Moreover, this extract promoted significant hypotensive effects in hypertensive rats, and evoked dose‐dependent cardioprotection in in vivo model of acute myocardial infarct, obtained through a reversible coronary occlusion. This latter effect was sensitive to blockers of mitochondrial KATP and Kv7.4 potassium channels, suggesting a potential role of these mitochondrial channels in the protective effects of Eruca sativa DSM extract. Accordingly, Eruca sativa DSM extract reduced calcium uptake and apoptotic cell death in isolated cardiac mitochondria. Taken together, these results demonstrate that Eruca sativa DSM extract is endowed with an interesting nutraceutical profile on the cardiovascular system due to, at least in part, its H2S releasing properties. These results pave the way for future investigations on active metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Testai
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Centre of Ageing Biology and Pathology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Eleonora Pagnotta
- CREA-Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Research Centre for Cereal and Industrial Crops, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Lorenzo Flori
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Alma Martelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Centre of Ageing Biology and Pathology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Di Cesare Mannelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health-Neurofarba- Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Carla Ghelardini
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health-Neurofarba- Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Roberto Matteo
- CREA-Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Research Centre for Cereal and Industrial Crops, Bologna, Italy
| | - Serafino Suriano
- CREA-Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Research Centre for Cereal and Industrial Crops, Foggia, Italy
| | - Antonio Troccoli
- CREA-Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Research Centre for Cereal and Industrial Crops, Foggia, Italy
| | - Nicola Pecchioni
- CREA-Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Research Centre for Cereal and Industrial Crops, Foggia, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Calderone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Centre of Ageing Biology and Pathology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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19
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Piragine E, Citi V, Lawson K, Calderone V, Martelli A. Potential Effects of Natural H 2S-Donors in Hypertension Management. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12040581. [PMID: 35454169 PMCID: PMC9024781 DOI: 10.3390/biom12040581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
After the discovery of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in the central nervous system by Abe and Kimura in 1996, the physiopathological role of H2S has been widely investigated in several systems such as the cardiovascular. In particular, H2S plays a pivotal role in the control of vascular tone, exhibiting mechanisms of action able to induce vasodilation: for instance, activation of potassium channels (KATP and Kv7) and inhibition of 5-phosphodiesterase (5-PDE). These findings paved the way for the research of natural and synthetic exogenous H2S-donors (i.e., molecules able to release H2S) in order to have new tools for the management of hypertension. In this scenario, some natural molecules derived from Alliaceae (i.e., garlic) and Brassicaceae (i.e., rocket or broccoli) botanical families show the profile of slow H2S-donors able to mimic the endogenous production of this gasotransmitter and therefore can be viewed as interesting potential tools for management of hypertension or pre-hypertension. In this article, the preclinical and clinical impacts of these natural H2S-donors on hypertension and vascular integrity have been reviewed in order to give a complete panorama of their potential use for the management of hypertension and related vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenia Piragine
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (E.P.); (V.C.); (V.C.)
| | - Valentina Citi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (E.P.); (V.C.); (V.C.)
| | - Kim Lawson
- Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield S1 1WB, UK;
| | - Vincenzo Calderone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (E.P.); (V.C.); (V.C.)
- Interdepartmental Research Centre “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health (NUTRAFOOD)”, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Centre of Ageing, Biology and Pathology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Alma Martelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (E.P.); (V.C.); (V.C.)
- Interdepartmental Research Centre “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health (NUTRAFOOD)”, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Centre of Ageing, Biology and Pathology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Correspondence:
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20
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Kamal RM, Abdull Razis AF, Mohd Sukri NS, Perimal EK, Ahmad H, Patrick R, Djedaini-Pilard F, Mazzon E, Rigaud S. Beneficial Health Effects of Glucosinolates-Derived Isothiocyanates on Cardiovascular and Neurodegenerative Diseases. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27030624. [PMID: 35163897 PMCID: PMC8838317 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27030624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are illnesses that affect the nervous system and heart, all of which are vital to the human body. To maintain health of the human body, vegetable diets serve as a preventive approach and particularly Brassica vegetables have been associated with lower risks of chronic diseases, especially NDDs and CVDs. Interestingly, glucosinolates (GLs) and isothiocyanates (ITCs) are phytochemicals that are mostly found in the Cruciferae family and they have been largely documented as antioxidants contributing to both cardio- and neuroprotective effects. The hydrolytic breakdown of GLs into ITCs such as sulforaphane (SFN), phenylethyl ITC (PEITC), moringin (MG), erucin (ER), and allyl ITC (AITC) has been recognized to exert significant effects with regards to cardio- and neuroprotection. From past in vivo and/or in vitro studies, those phytochemicals have displayed the ability to mitigate the adverse effects of reactive oxidation species (ROS), inflammation, and apoptosis, which are the primary causes of CVDs and NDDs. This review focuses on the protective effects of those GL-derived ITCs, featuring their beneficial effects and the mechanisms behind those effects in CVDs and NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramla Muhammad Kamal
- Natural Medicines and Products Research Laboratory, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia;
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University Dutse, Dutse 720101, Jigawa State, Nigeria
| | - Ahmad Faizal Abdull Razis
- Natural Medicines and Products Research Laboratory, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia;
- Department of Food Science, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
- Correspondence:
| | - Nurul Syafuhah Mohd Sukri
- Faculty of Applied Science and Technology, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, Batu Pahat 86400, Johor, Malaysia;
| | - Enoch Kumar Perimal
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Hafandi Ahmad
- Department of Veterinary Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Rollin Patrick
- Université d’Orléans et CNRS, ICOA, UMR 7311, BP 6759, CEDEX 02, F-45067 Orléans, France;
| | - Florence Djedaini-Pilard
- LG2A UMR 7378, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, 33 rue Saint Leu—UFR des Sciences, F-80000 Amiens, France; (F.D.-P.); (S.R.)
| | - Emanuela Mazzon
- Laboratorio di Neurologia Sperimentale, IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", 98124 Messina, Italy;
| | - Sébastien Rigaud
- LG2A UMR 7378, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, 33 rue Saint Leu—UFR des Sciences, F-80000 Amiens, France; (F.D.-P.); (S.R.)
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21
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Gambari L, Grigolo B, Grassi F. Dietary organosulfur compounds: Emerging players in the regulation of bone homeostasis by plant-derived molecules. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:937956. [PMID: 36187121 PMCID: PMC9521401 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.937956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The progressive decline of bone mass and the deterioration of bone microarchitecture are hallmarks of the bone aging. The resulting increase in bone fragility is the leading cause of bone fractures, a major cause of disability. As the frontline pharmacological treatments for osteoporosis suffer from low patients' adherence and occasional side effects, the importance of diet regimens for the prevention of excessive bone fragility has been increasingly recognized. Indeed, certain diet components have been already associated to a reduced fracture risk. Organosulfur compounds are a broad class of molecules containing sulfur. Among them, several molecules of potential therapeutic interest are found in edible plants belonging to the Allium and Brassica botanical genera. Polysulfides derived from Alliaceae and isothiocyanates derived from Brassicaceae hold remarkable nutraceutical potential as anti-inflammatory, antioxidants, vasorelaxant and hypolipemic. Some of these effects are linked to the ability to release the gasotrasmitter hydrogen sulfide (H2S). Recent preclinical studies have investigated the effect of organosulfur compounds in bone wasting and metabolic bone diseases, revealing a strong potential to preserve skeletal health by exerting cytoprotection and stimulating the bone forming activity by osteoblasts and attenuating bone resorption by osteoclasts. This review is intended for revising evidence from preclinical and epidemiological studies on the skeletal effects of organosulfur molecules of dietary origin, with emphasis on the direct regulation of bone cells by plant-derived polysulfides, glucosinolates and isothiocyanates. Moreover, we highlight the potential molecular mechanisms underlying the biological role of these compounds and revise the importance of the so-called 'H2S-system' on the regulation of bone homeostasis.
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22
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Morbidelli L, Genah S, Cialdai F. Effect of Microgravity on Endothelial Cell Function, Angiogenesis, and Vessel Remodeling During Wound Healing. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:720091. [PMID: 34631676 PMCID: PMC8493071 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.720091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Wound healing is a complex phenomenon that involves different cell types with various functions, i.e., keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells, all influenced by the action of soluble mediators and rearrangement of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Physiological angiogenesis occurs in the granulation tissue during wound healing to allow oxygen and nutrient supply and waste product removal. Angiogenesis output comes from a balance between pro- and antiangiogenic factors, which is finely regulated in a spatial and time-dependent manner, in order to avoid insufficient or excessive nonreparative neovascularization. The understanding of the factors and mechanisms that control angiogenesis and their change following unloading conditions (in a real or simulated space environment) will allow to optimize the tissue response in case of traumatic injury or medical intervention. The potential countermeasures under development to optimize the reparative angiogenesis that contributes to tissue healing on Earth will be discussed in relation to their exploitability in space.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shirley Genah
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Francesca Cialdai
- ASA Campus Joint Laboratory, ASA Research Division & Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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