Synergy of Ginkgetin and Resveratrol in Suppressing VEGF-Induced Angiogenesis: A Therapy in Treating Colorectal Cancer

Effects of Resveratrol on In Vivo Ovarian Cancer Cells Implanted on the Chorioallantoic Membrane (CAM) of a Chicken Embryo Model

Ovarian cancer poses a significant threat to patients in its advanced stages, often with limited treatment options available. In such cases, palliative management becomes the primary approach to maintaining a reasonable quality of life. Therefore, the administration of any medication that can benefit patients without a curative option holds potential. Resveratrol, a natural compound known for its in vitro anticancer activities, has generated contrasting results in vivo and human studies. In this study, we aimed to assess the anticancer effects of resveratrol on ovarian cancer cells grown on the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) of chicken embryos. Two ovarian cancer cell lines, OVCAR-8 and SKOV-3, were cultured in collagen scaffolds for four days before being implanted on the CAM of chicken embryos on day 7. Different doses of resveratrol were applied to the CAM every two days for six days. Subsequently, CAM tissues were excised, fixed, and subjected to histological analysis. Some CAM tumours were extracted to analyse proteins through Western blotting. Our findings indicate that specific doses of resveratrol significantly reduce angiogenic activities, pNF-κB levels, and SLUG protein levels by using immunohistochemistry. These results suggest that resveratrol may have the potential to impact the behaviour of ovarian cancer CAM tumours, thereby warranting further consideration as a complementary treatment option for women with incurable ovarian cancer.

Investigation of Antiproliferative Effects of Combinations of White and Black Garlic Extracts with 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) on Caco-2 Colorectal Adenocarcinoma Cells

Garlic is rich in bioactive compounds that are effective against colon cancer cells. This study tests the antioxidant and antiproliferative effects of cold-extracted white and black garlic extracts. Black garlic extracted in water (SSU) exhibits the highest antioxidant activity, phenolic content, and flavonoid content, while black garlic extracted in ethanol (SET) shows the lowest values. Caspase-3 activity is notably higher in the white garlic extracted in methanol (BME), white garlic extracted in methanol combines with 5-FU, black garlic extracted in ethanol (SET), black garlic extracted in ethanol combines with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), and 5-FU treatments compare to the control group (p > 0.05). BME+5-FU displays the highest caspase-8 activity (p < 0.05). A decrease in NF-κB levels is observed in the SET+5-FU group (p>0.05), while COX-2 activities decrease in the BME, SET+5-FU, SET, and 5-FU groups (p>0.05). Wound healing increases in the BME, BME+5-FU, SET+5-FU, and 5-FU groups (p < 0.05). In conclusion, aqueous black garlic extract may exhibit pro-oxidant activity despite its high antioxidant capacity. It is worth noting that exposure to heat-treated food and increased sugar content may lead to heightened inflammation and adverse health effects. This study is the first to combine garlic with chemo-preventive drugs like 5-FU in Caco-2 cells.

The role of Ginkgo Folium on antitumor: Bioactive constituents and the potential mechanism

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ginkgo biloba L. is a well-known and highly regarded resource in Chinese traditional medicine due to its effectiveness and safety. Ginkgo Folium, the leaf of Ginkgo biloba L., contains biologically active constituents with diverse pharmacological activities. Recent studies have shown promising antitumor effects of the bioactive constituents found in Ginkgo Folium against various types of cancer cells, highlighting its potential as a natural source of antitumor agents. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and optimize its therapeutic potential.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

To provide a detailed understanding of the pharmacological activities of Ginkgo Folium and its potential therapeutic benefits for cancer patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, we conducted a thorough and systematic search of multiple online databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, using relevant keywords such as "Ginkgo Folium," "flavonoids," "terpenoids," "Ginkgo Folium extracts," and "antitumor" to cover a broad range of studies that could inform our review. Additionally, we followed a rigorous selection process to ensure that the studies included in our review met the predetermined inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

The active constituents of Ginkgo Folium primarily consist of flavonoids and terpenoids, with quercetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, ginkgolides, and bilobalide being the major compounds. These active constituents exert their antitumor effects through crucial biological events such as apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, autophagy, and inhibition of invasion and metastasis via modulating diverse signaling pathways. During the process of apoptosis, active constituents primarily exert their effects by modulating the caspase-8 mediated death receptor pathway and caspase-9 mediated mitochondrial pathway via regulating specific signaling pathways. Furthermore, by modulating multiple signaling pathways, active constituents effectively induce G1, G0/G1, G2, and G2/M phase arrest. Among these, the pathways associated with G2/M phase arrest are particularly extensive, with the cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) being most involved. Moreover, active constituents primarily mediate autophagy by modulating certain inflammatory factors and stressors, facilitating the fusion stage between autophagosomes and lysosomes. Additionally, through the modulation of specific chemokines and matrix metalloproteinases, active constituents effectively inhibit the processes of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and angiogenesis, exerting a significant impact on cellular invasion and migration. Synergistic effects are observed among the active constituents, particularly quercetin and kaempferol.

CONCLUSION

Active components derived from Ginkgo Folium demonstrate a comprehensive antitumor effect across various levels and pathways, presenting compelling evidence for their potential in new drug development. However, in order to facilitate their broad and adaptable clinical application, further extensive experimental investigations are required to thoroughly explore their efficacy, safety, and underlying mechanisms of action.

Modulation of hypoxia-inducible factor-1 signaling pathways in cancer angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis by natural compounds: a comprehensive and critical review

Tumor cells employ multiple signaling mediators to escape the hypoxic condition and trigger angiogenesis and metastasis. As a critical orchestrate of tumorigenic conditions, hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) is responsible for stimulating several target genes and dysregulated pathways in tumor invasion and migration. Therefore, targeting HIF-1 pathway and cross-talked mediators seems to be a novel strategy in cancer prevention and treatment. In recent decades, tremendous efforts have been made to develop multi-targeted therapies to modulate several dysregulated pathways in cancer angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. In this line, natural compounds have shown a bright future in combating angiogenic and metastatic conditions. Among the natural secondary metabolites, we have evaluated the critical potential of phenolic compounds, terpenes/terpenoids, alkaloids, sulfur compounds, marine- and microbe-derived agents in the attenuation of HIF-1, and interconnected pathways in fighting tumor-associated angiogenesis and invasion. This is the first comprehensive review on natural constituents as potential regulators of HIF-1 and interconnected pathways against cancer angiogenesis and metastasis. This review aims to reshape the previous strategies in cancer prevention and treatment.

Resveratrol as sensitizer in colorectal cancer plasticity

Despite tremendous medical treatment successes, colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Chemotherapy as monotherapy can lead to significant side effects and chemoresistance that can be linked to several resistance-activating biological processes, including an increase in inflammation, cellular plasticity, multidrug resistance (MDR), inhibition of the sentinel gene p53, and apoptosis. As a consequence, tumor cells can escape the effectiveness of chemotherapeutic agents. This underscores the need for cross-target therapeutic approaches that are not only pharmacologically safe but also modulate multiple potent signaling pathways and sensitize cancer cells to overcome resistance to standard drugs. In recent years, scientists have been searching for natural compounds that can be used as chemosensitizers in addition to conventional medications for the synergistic treatment of CRC. Resveratrol, a natural polyphenolic phytoalexin found in various fruits and vegetables such as peanuts, berries, and red grapes, is one of the most effective natural chemopreventive agents. Abundant in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that resveratrol, in interaction with standard drugs, is an effective chemosensitizer for CRC cells to chemotherapeutic agents and thus prevents drug resistance by modulating multiple pathways, including transcription factors, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition-plasticity, proliferation, metastasis, angiogenesis, cell cycle, and apoptosis. The ability of resveratrol to modify multiple subcellular pathways that may suppress cancer cell plasticity and reversal of chemoresistance are critical parameters for understanding its anti-cancer effects. In this review, we focus on the chemosensitizing properties of resveratrol in CRC and, thus, its potential importance as an additive to ongoing treatments.

Targeted therapy for non-small-cell lung cancer: New insights into regulated cell death combined with immunotherapy

Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which has a high rate of metastatic spread and drug resistance, is the most common subtype of lung cancer. Therefore, NSCLC patients have a very poor prognosis and a very low chance of survival. Human cancers are closely linked to regulated cell death (RCD), such as apoptosis, autophagy, ferroptosis, pyroptosis, and necroptosis. Currently, small-molecule compounds targeting various types of RCD have shown potential as anticancer treatments. Moreover, RCD appears to be a specific part of the antitumor immune response; hence, the combination of RCD and immunotherapy might increase the inhibitory effect of therapy on tumor growth. In this review, we summarize small-molecule compounds used for the treatment of NSCLC by focusing on RCD and pharmacological systems. In addition, we describe the current research status of an immunotherapy combined with an RCD-based regimen for NSCLC, providing new ideas for targeting RCD pathways in combination with immunotherapy for patients with NSCLC in the future.

A Comparative Analysis of Radical Scavenging, Antifungal and Enzyme Inhibition Activity of 3'-8″-Biflavones and Their Monomeric Subunits

Biflavonoids are dimeric forms of flavonoids that have recently gained importance as an effective new scaffold for drug discovery. In particular, 3'-8″-biflavones exhibit antiviral and antimicrobial activity and are promising molecules for the treatment of neurodegenerative and metabolic diseases as well as cancer therapies. In the present study, we directly compared 3'-8″-biflavones (amentoflavone, bilobetin, ginkgetin, isoginkgetin, and sciadopitysin) and their monomeric subunits (apigenin, genkwanin, and acacetin) and evaluated their radical scavenging activity (with DPPH), antifungal activity against mycotoxigenic fungi (Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus ochraceus, Fusarium graminearum, and Fusarium verticillioides), and inhibitory activity on enzymes (acetylcholinesterase, tyrosinase, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase). All the tested compounds showed weak radical scavenging activity, while antifungal activity strongly depended on the tested concentration and fungal species. Biflavonoids, especially ginkgetin and isoginkgetin, proved to be potent acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, whereas monomeric flavonoids showed higher tyrosinase inhibitory activity than the tested 3'-8″-biflavones. Amentoflavone proved to be a potent α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitor, and in general, 3'-8″-biflavones showed a stronger inhibitory potential on these enzymes than their monomeric subunits. Thus, we can conclude that 3'-8″-dimerization enhanced acetylcholinesterase, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase activities, but the activity also depends on the number of hydroxyl and methoxy groups in the structure of the compound.

Resveratrol-Laden Nano-Systems in the Cancer Environment: Views and Reviews

The genesis of cancer is a precisely organized process in which normal cells undergo genetic alterations that cause the cells to multiply abnormally, colonize, and metastasize to other organs such as the liver, lungs, colon, and brain. Potential drugs that could modify these carcinogenic pathways are the ones that will be used in clinical trials as anti-cancer drugs. Resveratrol (RES) is a polyphenolic natural antitoxin that has been utilized for the treatment of several diseases, owing to its ability to scavenge free radicals, control the expression and activity of antioxidant enzymes, and have effects on inflammation, cancer, aging, diabetes, and cardioprotection. Although RES has a variety of pharmacological uses and shows promising applications in natural medicine, its unpredictable pharmacokinetics compromise its therapeutic efficacy and prevent its use in clinical settings. RES has been encapsulated into various nanocarriers, such as liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, lipidic nanocarriers, and inorganic nanoparticles, to address these issues. These nanocarriers can modulate drug release, increase bioavailability, and reach therapeutically relevant plasma concentrations. Studies on resveratrol-rich nano-formulations in various cancer types are compiled in the current article. Studies relating to enhanced drug stability, increased therapeutic potential in terms of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, and reduced toxicity to cells and tissues are the main topics of this research. To keep the readers informed about the current state of resveratrol nano-formulations from an industrial perspective, some recent and significant patent literature has also been provided. Here, the prospects for nano-formulations are briefly discussed, along with machine learning and pharmacometrics methods for resolving resveratrol's pharmacokinetic concerns.

The underlying regulatory mechanisms of colorectal carcinoma by combining Vitexin and Aspirin: based on systems biology, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, and in vitro study

Introduction

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a highly prevalent digestive system malignancy. Aspirin is currently one of the most promising chemopreventive agents for CRC, and the combination of aspirin and natural compounds helps to enhance the anticancer activity of aspirin. Natural flavonoids like vitexin have an anticancer activity focusing on colorectal carcinoma.

Methods

This study investigated the potential mechanism of action of the novel combination of vitexin and aspirin against colorectal cancer through network pharmacology, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, and in vitro experiments.

Results

The results of network pharmacology suggested that vitexin and aspirin regulate multiple signaling pathways through various target proteins such as NFKB1, PTGS2 (COX-2), MAPK1, MAPK3, and TP53. Cellular experiments revealed that the combined effect of vitexin and aspirin significantly inhibited HT-29 cell growth. Vitexin dose-dependently inhibited COX-2 expression in cells and enhanced the down-regulation of COX-2 and NF-κB expression in colorectal cancer cells by aspirin.

Discussion

This study provides a pharmacodynamic material and theoretical basis for applying agents against colorectal cancer to delay the development of drug resistance and improve the prognosis of cancer patients.

The extract of Curcumae Longae Rhizoma suppresses angiogenesis via VEGF-induced PI3K/Akt-eNOS-NO pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Curcumae Longae Rhizoma (CLR) is a safe natural herbal medicine, and which has been widely used for centuries as functional food and health products, but its effects on angiogenesis and related underlying mechanism remain unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The abnormal angiogenesis is closely related with various diseases, and therefore the precise control of angiogenesis is of great importance. The well-known angiogenic factor, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), mediates angiogenesis and induces multiple signalling pathways via binding to VEGF receptor (VEGFR). The attenuation of VEGF-triggered angiogenic-related signalling pathways may relieve various diseases through suppression of angiogenesis. Here, we aimed to elucidate that CLR extract could exert striking anti-angiogenic activities both in vitro and in vivo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The viability of human umbilical vascular endothelial cell (HUVEC) was examined by LDH and MTT assays. Migrative and invasive ability of the endothelial cells were independently evaluated by wound healing and transwell assays. The activities of CLR extract on in vitro angiogenesis was tested by tube formation assay. In vivo vascularization was determined by using zebrafish embryo model in the present of CLR extract. Western blotting was applied to determine the phosphorylated levels of VEGFR2, PI3K, AKT and eNOS. Besides, the levels of nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were separately evaluated by Griess assay and 2'7'-dichlorofluorescein diacetate reaction. In addition, the cell migrative ability of cancer cell was estimated by using cultured human colon carcinoma cells (HT-29 cell line), and immunofluorescence assay was applied to evaluate the effect of CLR extract on nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 subunit in the VEGF-treated HT-29 cultures.

RESULTS

CLR extract significantly suppressed a series of VEGF-mediated angiogenic responses, including endothelial cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and tube formation. Moreover, CLR extract reduced in vivo sub-intestinal vessel formation in zebrafish embryo model. Mechanistically, the extract of CLR attenuated the VEGF-triggered signalling, as demonstrated by decreased level of phosphorylated VEGFR2 and subsequently inactivated its downstream regulators, e.g. phospho-PI3K, phospho-AKT and phospho-eNOS. The production of NO and formation of ROS were markedly inhibited in HUVECs. Furthermore, CLR extract suppressed cell migration and NF-κB translocation in cultured HT-29 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

These preclinical findings demonstrate that the extract of CLR remarkably attenuates angiogenesis and which has great potential as a natural drug candidate with excellent anti-angiogenic activity.

Ginkgetin suppresses ovarian cancer growth through inhibition of JAK2/STAT3 and MAPKs signaling pathways

BACKGROUND

Ginkgo biloba L., a kind of traditional Chinese medicine, is always used to treat various diseases. Ginkgetin is an active biflavonoid isolated from leaves of Ginkgo biloba L., which exhibits diverse biological activities, including anti-tumor, anti-microbial, anti-cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, and anti-inflammatory effects. However, there are few reports on the effects of ginkgetin on ovarian cancer (OC).

HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE

OC is one of the most common cancers with high mortality in women. The purpose of this study was to find out how ginkgetin inhibited OC and which signal transduction pathways was involved to suppress OC.

METHODS

The OC cell lines, A2780, SK-OV-3 and CP70, were used for in vitro experiments. MTT assay, colony formation, apoptosis assay, scratch wound assay and cell invasion assay were used to determine the inhibitory effect of ginkgetin. BALB/c nude female mice were injected with A2780 cells subcutaneously, then treated with ginkgetin by intragastric administration. Western blot experiment was used to verify the inhibitory mechanism of OC in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

We found that ginkgetin inhibited the proliferation and induced apoptosis in OC cells. In addition, ginkgetin reduced migration and invasion of OC cells. In vivo study showed that ginkgetin significantly reduced tumor volume in the xenograft mouse model. Furthermore, the anti-tumor effects of ginkgetin were associated with a down regulation of p-STAT3, p-ERK and SIRT1 both in vitro and in vivo.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that ginkgetin exhibits anti-tumor activity in OC cells via inhibiting the JAK2/STAT3 and MAPK pathways and SIRT1 protein. Ginkgetin could be a potential candidate for the treatment of OC.

Neuroprotective Potential of Biflavone Ginkgetin: A Review

Neurological disorders are becoming more common, and there is an intense search for molecules that can help treat them. Several natural components, especially those from the flavonoid group, have shown promising results. Ginkgetin is the first known biflavonoid, a flavonoid dimer isolated from ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba L.). Later, its occurrence was discovered in more than 20 different plant species, most of which are known for their use in traditional medicine. Herein we have summarized the data on the neuroprotective potential of ginkgetin. There is evidence of protection against neuronal damage caused by ischemic strokes, neurotumors, Alzheimer's disease (AD), and Parkinson's disease (PD). Beneficial effects in ischemic strokes have been demonstrated in animal studies in which injection of ginkgetin before or after onset of the stoke showed protection from neuronal damage. AD protection has been the most studied to date. Possible mechanisms include inhibition of reactive oxygen species, inhibition of β-secretase, inhibition of Aβ fibril formation, amelioration of inflammation, and antimicrobial activity. Ginkgetin has also shown positive effects on the relief of PD symptoms in animal studies. Most of the available data are from in vitro or in vivo animal studies, where ginkgetin showed promising results, and further clinical studies should be conducted.

Inhibition of Colorectal Cancer Cell Proliferation by Treatment with Itadori Leaf Extract

Treatment with itadori extract inhibited the growth of mouse colon cancer cells (Colon-26) in mice. In addition, it induced DNA fragmentation and caspase 3/7 activation in Colon-26 cells, suggesting potent induction of apoptosis. Itadori extracts are rich in neochlorogenic acid and rutin and also contain quercetin and piceatannol. These polyphenols are thought to be involved in the observed DNA fragmentation and caspase 3/7 activation in colon cancer cells and may thus have anticancer effects. There is hence scope for development of the leaf of itadori, which currently has only a few known uses, as a novel anti-tumor therapeutic.

Phenolic Phytochemicals for Prevention and Treatment of Colorectal Cancer: A Critical Evaluation of In Vivo Studies

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most diagnosed and second leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Limitations with existing treatment regimens have demanded the search for better treatment options. Different phytochemicals with promising anti-CRC activities have been reported, with the molecular mechanism of actions still emerging. This review aims to summarize recent progress on the study of natural phenolic compounds in ameliorating CRC using in vivo models. This review followed the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reporting and Meta-Analysis. Information on the relevant topic was gathered by searching the PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science databases using keywords, such as "colorectal cancer" AND "phenolic compounds", "colorectal cancer" AND "polyphenol", "colorectal cancer" AND "phenolic acids", "colorectal cancer" AND "flavonoids", "colorectal cancer" AND "stilbene", and "colorectal cancer" AND "lignan" from the reputed peer-reviewed journals published over the last 20 years. Publications that incorporated in vivo experimental designs and produced statistically significant results were considered for this review. Many of these polyphenols demonstrate anti-CRC activities by inhibiting key cellular factors. This inhibition has been demonstrated by antiapoptotic effects, antiproliferative effects, or by upregulating factors responsible for cell cycle arrest or cell death in various in vivo CRC models. Numerous studies from independent laboratories have highlighted different plant phenolic compounds for their anti-CRC activities. While promising anti-CRC activity in many of these agents has created interest in this area, in-depth mechanistic and well-designed clinical studies are needed to support the therapeutic use of these compounds for the prevention and treatment of CRC.

Role of Dietary Polyphenols in the Activity and Expression of Nitric Oxide Synthases: A Review

Nitric oxide (NO) plays several key roles in the functionality of an organism, and it is usually released in numerous organs and tissues. There are mainly three isoforms of the enzyme that produce NO starting from the metabolism of arginine, namely endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS). The expression and activity of these isoforms depends on the activation/deactivation of different signaling pathways at an intracellular level following different physiological and pathological stimuli. Compounds of natural origin such as polyphenols, which are obtainable through diet, have been widely studied in recent years in in vivo and in vitro investigations for their ability to induce or inhibit NO release, depending on the tissue. In this review, we aim to disclose the scientific evidence relating to the activity of the main dietary polyphenols in the modulation of the intracellular pathways involved in the expression and/or functionality of the NOS isoforms.

Gut microbial characteristical comparison reveals potential anti-aging function of Dubosiella newyorkensis in mice

INTRODUCTION

Previous study has indicated Dubosiella newyorkensis may act as a potential probiotic in age-related diseases. However, its detailed role in aging has not yet been promulgated. This study aimed to explore the potential anti-aging role of Dubosiella newyorkensis by comparing the anti-aging effect of resveratrol in young and old mice.

METHOD

Measurement of intestinal aging-related factors in colon and serum, and vascular endothelial function-related factors in serum were performed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Gut microbial analysis of intestinal contents were identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

RESULTS

The effect of Dubosiella newyorkensis on reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) and increasing superoxide dismutase (SOD) in aged mice were greater than that of resveratrol. While the effect of Dubosiella newyorkensis on nitric oxide (NO) level was less than that of resveratrol, the reduction of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and pentosidine (PTD) was better than that of resveratrol in young mice. In young mice, Dubosiella newyorkensis promoted an increase in the beneficial genus Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Ileibacterium less effectively as compared with resveratrol treatment. In aged mice, Dubosiella newyorkensis promoted the increase of Bifidobacterium, Ileibacterium less effectively than resveratrol, and promoted the increase of Akkermansia, Staphylococcus, Verrucomicrobiota expression better as compared with resveratrol treatment. Both young and old mice showed the same results for the remaining markers, including changes in gut microbial composition and predictions of function.

CONCLUSION

Dubosiella newyorkensis has similar anti-aging functions with resveratrol. Dubosiella newyorkensis may even be more effective than resveratrol in reducing oxidative stress, improving vascular endothelial function, and redistributing gut microbiota. The research provides an innovative strategy of Dubosiella newyorkensis to improve aging.

Integrating network pharmacology prediction and experimental investigation to verify ginkgetin anti-invasion and metastasis of human lung adenocarcinoma cells via the Akt/GSK-3β/Snail and Wnt/β-catenin pathway

Introduction: Lung cancer, one of the most frequent malignancies, has a high death rate and an increased number of new cases globally. Ginkgo biloba has been used for many years in the treatment of lung cancer. Ginkgetin is the key active ingredient extracted from Ginkgo biloba. However, the mechanism by which ginkgetin inhibits the invasive metastasis of lung cancer is unclear. Methods: We used a network pharmacology approach to obtain the molecular mechanism by which ginkgetin inhibits lung cancer metastasis. Then we analyzed potential target proteins between ginkgetin and lung cancer. Finally, we validated with molecular docking and experimental validation. Results: By analyzing the intersecting genes of lung cancer and ginkgetin, there were 79 intersecting genes, which were mainly involved in the positive regulation of cell migration, with the cancer pathway being one of the most enriched pathways. The results of in vitro experiments showed that GK had a large inhibitory effect on cell invasion and metastasis of A549 and H1299. In vivo animals GK had a great inhibitory effect on metastasis of LLC. Conclusion: This study identified the potential related GK molecular targets and signaling pathways in treating human lung cancer using network pharmacological approaches. Experiments confirmed that GK inhibits the Akt/GSK-3β/Snail and Wnt/β-catenin cascade initiation in A549, H1299 and LLC cells, preventing metastasis. This study's results align with the hypotheses derived from the network pharmacology analysis.

Natural Polyphenols for Treatment of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a prevalent and serious gastrointestinal malignancy with high mortality and morbidity. Chemoprevention refers to a newly emerged strategy that uses drugs with chemopreventive properties to promote antioxidation, regulate cancer cell cycle, suppress proliferation, and induce cellular apoptosis, so as to improve cancer treatment outcomes. Natural polyphenols are currently recognized as a class of chemopreventive agents that have shown remarkable anticarcinogenic properties. Numerous in vitro and in vivo studies have elucidated the anti-CRC mechanisms of natural polyphenols, such as regulation of various molecular and signaling pathways. Natural polyphenols are also reportedly capable of modulating the gut microbiota and cancer stem cells (CSCs) to suppress tumor formation and progression. Combined use of different natural polyphenols is recommended due to their low bioavailability and instability, and combination treatment can exert synergistical effects, reduce side effects, and avoid drug resistance in CRC treatment. In summary, the application of polyphenols in the chemoprevention and treatment of CRC is promising. Further clinical evaluation of their effectiveness is warranted and anticipated.

Leaves, seeds and exocarp of Ginkgo biloba L. (Ginkgoaceae): A Comprehensive Review of Traditional Uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, resource utilization and toxicity

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ginkgo biloba L. (Ginkgoaceae) is a treasure species with high medicinal value. The Ming Dynasty "Compendium of Materia Medica" and Qing Dynasty "Bencao Fengyuan" in China recorded this herbal medicine can reduce phlegm, clear poison, treat diarrhea and frequent urination, etc. AIM OF THE STUDY: Until now, there is no painstakingly summarized review on leaves, seeds and exocarp of G. biloba simultaneously. This review will systematically summarize and compare current knowledge of G. biloba.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ample original publications related to traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, resource utilization and toxicity of G. biloba leaves, seeds and exocarp till the end of 2021 were searched and collected by using various literature databases, including China National Knowledge Infrastructure, PubMed, Elsevier, Springer, Google Scholar and Web of Science database.

RESULTS

According to classical Chinese herbal books and Chinese Pharmacopoeia, relieving cough, reducing phlegm, clearing poison and relieving diarrhea are the main pharmacological effects of G. biloba. The common chemical ingredients in different parts of G. biloba are flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolic acids, polysaccharides and endotoxin, etc. Among them, flavonoids and terpenoids are the main bioactive compounds in G. biloba leaves. Phenolic acids are the main bioactive compounds in G. biloba exocarp. G. biloba seeds are rich in nutritional ingredients, such as starch, adipose, protein, etc. Modern pharmacological studies showed that the crude extracts or compounds of G. biloba leaves, seeds and exocarp can be used for treating cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, Alzheimer's disease, atherosclerosis, cancer, asthma, non-alcoholic fatty liver, diabetic complications and other diseases. In daily life, G. biloba seeds were usually used as raw material or additives for commodities, healthy food, drinks, even insecticides and antibacterial agents, etc. G. biloba leaves and seeds have been mainly applied for treating cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, cough and asthma in clinical. However, endotoxins and ginkgolic acids have been identified as the dominating toxic ingredients in different parts of G. biloba. Besides, flavonoids and ginkgolides also have been proved to have toxicity recently.

CONCLUSIONS

This review systematically sums up and compares the traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, resource utilization and toxicity research progress of G. biloba leaves, seeds and exocarp for the first time. It will provide some comprehensive reference data and suggestions for future research on this herbal medicine.

Classical Angiogenic Signaling Pathways and Novel Anti-Angiogenic Strategies for Colorectal Cancer

Although productive progress has been made in colorectal cancer (CRC) researchs, CRC is the second most frequent type of malignancy and the major cause of cancer-related death among gastrointestinal cancers. As angiogenesis constitutes an important point in the control of CRC progression and metastasis, understanding the key signaling pathways that regulate CRC angiogenesis is critical in elucidating ways to inhibit CRC. Herein, we comprehensively summarized the angiogenesis-related pathways of CRC, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT), Wingless and int-1 (Wnt), and Notch signaling pathways. We divided the factors influencing the specific pathway into promoters and inhibitors. Among these, some drugs or natural compounds that have antiangiogenic effects were emphasized. Furthermore, the interactions of these pathways in angiogenesis were discussed. The current review provides a comprehensive overview of the key signaling pathways that are involved in the angiogenesis of CRC and contributes to the new anti-angiogenic strategies for CRC.

Resveratrol, an Inhibitor Binding to VEGF, Restores the Pathology of Abnormal Angiogenesis in Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) in Mice: Application by Intravitreal and Topical Instillation

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a severe eye disease leading to blindness. Abnormal vessel formation is the pathological hallmark of neovascular ROP. In forming vessels, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is an important stimulator. The current anti-ROP therapy has focused on bevacizumab, a monoclonal antibody against VEGF, and pazopanib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor on the VEGF receptor (VEGFR). Several lines of evidence have proposed that natural compounds may be more effective and safer for anti-VEGF function. Resveratrol, a common natural compound, binds to VEGF and blocks its interaction with VEGFR, thereafter suppressing angiogenesis. Here, we evaluate the efficacy of intravitreal injection, or topical instillation (eye drops), of resveratrol into the eyes of mice suffering from oxygen-induced retinopathy, i.e., developing ROP. The treatment of resveratrol significantly relieved the degree of vascular distortion, permeability and hyperplasia; the efficacy could be revealed by both methods of resveratrol application. In parallel, the treatments of resveratrol inhibited the retinal expressions of VEGF, VEGFR and CD31. Moreover, the applied resveratrol significantly relieved the damage caused by oxygen radicals through upregulating the level of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and downregulating the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the retina. Taken together, the potential therapeutic benefit of resveratrol in pro-angiogenic diseases, including retinopathy, can be considered.

Biflavonoids: Important Contributions to the Health Benefits of Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba L.)

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba L.) is one of the most distinctive plants, characterized by excellent resistance to various environmental conditions. It is used as an ornamental plant and is recognized as a medicinal plant in both traditional and Western medicine. Its bioactive potential is associated with the presence of flavonoids and terpene trilactones, but many other compounds may also have synergistic effects. Flavonoid dimers-biflavonoids-are important constituents of ginkgophytopharmaceuticals. Currently, the presence of 13 biflavonoids has been reported in ginkgo, of which amentoflavone, bilobetin, sciadopitysin, ginkgetin and isoginkgetin are the most common. Their role in plants remains unknown, but their bioactivity and potential role in the management of human health are better investigated. In this review, we have provided an overview of the chemistry, diversity and biological factors that influence the presence of biflavonoids in ginkgo, as well as their bioactive and health-related properties. We have focused on their antioxidant, anticancer, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory activities as well as their potential role in the treatment of cardiovascular, metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases. We also highlighted their potential toxicity and pointed out further research directions.

Functional stratification of cancer drugs through integrated network similarity

Drugs not only perturb their immediate protein targets but also modulate multiple signaling pathways. In this study, we explored networks modulated by several drugs across multiple cancer cell lines by integrating their targets with transcriptomic and phosphoproteomic data. As a result, we obtained 236 reconstructed networks covering five cell lines and 70 drugs. A rigorous topological and pathway analysis showed that chemically and functionally different drugs may modulate overlapping networks. Additionally, we revealed a set of tumor-specific hidden pathways with the help of drug network models that are not detectable from the initial data. The difference in the target selectivity of the drugs leads to disjoint networks despite sharing a similar mechanism of action, e.g., HDAC inhibitors. We also used the reconstructed network models to study potential drug combinations based on the topological separation and found literature evidence for a set of drug pairs. Overall, network-level exploration of drug-modulated pathways and their deep comparison may potentially help optimize treatment strategies and suggest new drug combinations.

Bioactive food components for colorectal cancer prevention and treatment: A good match

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most frequent cancer worldwide, accounts for about 10% of the total cancer cases, and ranks as the second cause of death by cancer. CRC is more prevalent in developed countries in close causal relation with occidental diets. Due to anatomy, the diet has a strong impact on CRC. High contents in meat are acknowledged risk factors whereas a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is an established CRC protective factor. Fruits and vegetables contain numerous Bioactive Food Components (BFCs), physiologically active food compounds, beneficial on health. Preventive and therapeutic benefits of BFCs in cancer have increasingly been reported over the past 20 years. BFCs show both chemopreventive and anti-tumor properties in CRC but more interestingly, abundant research describes BFCs as enhancers of conventional cancer treatments. Despite these promising results, their clinical transferability is slowed down by bioavailability interrogations and their poorly understood hormetic effect. In this review, we would like to reposition BFCs as well-fitted for applications in CRC. We provide a synthetic overview of trustworthy BFC applications in CRC, with a special highlight on combinatory approaches and conventional cancer treatment potentiation strategies.

Research Advances in Antitumor Mechanism of Evodiamine

Evodiamine is a natural alkaloid extracted from Fructus Evodia. This bioactive alkaloid has been reported to have a wide range of biological activities, including anti-injury, antiobesity, vasodilator, and anti-inflammatory effects. In recent years, it has been found that evodiamine has tumor-suppressive effects on a variety of tumors. There is growing evidence that evodiamine can inhibit the rapid proliferation of tumor cells, induce cell cycle arrest at a certain phase, increase the incidence of apoptosis, promote autophagy, inhibit microangiogenesis and migration, and regulate immunotherapy. Evodiamine can inhibit Wnt/β-catenin, mTOR, NF-κB, PI3K/AKT, JAK-STAT, and other signaling pathways in various cancer cells, and it can significantly downregulate the expression of many tumor markers, such as VEGF and COX-2. These facts partially explain the antitumor mechanism of evodiamine. In this article, the antitumor mechanism of evodiamine was reviewed to provide the basis for its clinical application and therapeutic development in the future.

Common Pathogenetic Mechanisms Underlying Aging and Tumor and Means of Interventions

Recently, there has been an increase in the incidence of malignant tumors among the older population. Moreover, there is an association between aging and cancer. During the process of senescence, the human body suffers from a series of imbalances, which have been shown to further accelerate aging, trigger tumorigenesis, and facilitate cancer progression. Therefore, exploring the junctions of aging and cancer and searching for novel methods to restore the junctions is of great importance to intervene against aging-related cancers. In this review, we have identified the underlying pathogenetic mechanisms of aging-related cancers by comparing alterations in the human body caused by aging and the factors that trigger cancers. We found that the common mechanisms of aging and cancer include cellular senescence, alterations in proteostasis, microbiota disorders (decreased probiotics and increased pernicious bacteria), persistent chronic inflammation, extensive immunosenescence, inordinate energy metabolism, altered material metabolism, endocrine disorders, altered genetic expression, and epigenetic modification. Furthermore, we have proposed that aging and cancer have common means of intervention, including novel uses of common medicine (metformin, resveratrol, and rapamycin), dietary restriction, and artificial microbiota intervention or selectively replenishing scarce metabolites. In addition, we have summarized the research progress of each intervention and revealed their bidirectional effects on cancer progression to compare their reliability and feasibility. Therefore, the study findings provide vital information for advanced research studies on age-related cancers. However, there is a need for further optimization of the described methods and more suitable methods for complicated clinical practices. In conclusion, targeting aging may have potential therapeutic effects on aging-related cancers.

Targeting cellular senescence in cancer by plant secondary metabolites: A systematic review

Senescence suppresses tumor growth, while also developing a tumorigenic state in the nearby cells that is mediated by senescence-associated secretory phenotypes (SASPs). The dual function of cellular senescence stresses the need for identifying multi-targeted agents directed towards the promotion of cell senescence in cancer cells and suppression of the secretion of pro-tumorigenic signaling mediators in neighboring cells. Natural secondary metabolites have shown favorable anticancer responses in recent decades, as some have been found to target the senescence-associated mediators and pathways. Furthermore, phenolic compounds and polyphenols, terpenes and terpenoids, alkaloids, and sulfur-containing compounds have shown to be promising anticancer agents through the regulation of paracrine and autocrine pathways. Plant secondary metabolites are potential regulators of SASPs factors that suppress tumor growth through paracrine mediators, including growth factors, cytokines, extracellular matrix components/enzymes, and proteases. On the other hand, ataxia-telangiectasia mutated, ataxia-telangiectasia and Rad3-related, extracellular signal-regulated kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinase, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin, nuclear factor-κB, Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription, and receptor tyrosine kinase-associated mediators are main targets of candidate phytochemicals in the autocrine senescence pathway. Such a regulatory role of phytochemicals on senescence-associated pathways are associated with cell cycle arrest and the attenuation of apoptotic/inflammatory/oxidative stress pathways. The current systematic review highlights the critical roles of natural secondary metabolites in the attenuation of autocrine and paracrine cellular senescence pathways, while also elucidating the chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic capabilities of these compounds. Additionally, we discuss current challenges, limitations, and future research indications.

Structure-Activity Relationship of Hydroxycinnamic Acid Derivatives for Cooperating with Carnosic Acid and Calcitriol in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells

Plant phenolic compounds have shown the ability to cooperate with one another at low doses in producing enhanced anticancer effects. This may overcome the limitations (e.g., poor bioavailability and high-dose toxicity) in developing these agents as cancer medicines. We have previously reported that the hydroxycinnamic acid derivative (HCAD) methyl-4-hydroxycinnamate and the phenolic diterpene carnosic acid (CA) can synergistically induce massive calcium-dependent apoptosis in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) at non-cytotoxic concentrations of each agent. Here, we explored the chemical nature of the synergy between HCADs and either CA, in inducing cytotoxicity, or the active metabolite of vitamin D (calcitriol), in enhancing the differentiation of AML cells. This was done by determining the structure–activity relationship of a series of hydroxycinnamic acids and their derivatives (methyl hydroxycinnamates and hydroxybenzylideneacetones) in combination with CA or calcitriol. The HCAD/CA synergy required the following critical structural elements of an HCAD molecule: (a) the para-hydroxyl on the phenolic ring, (b) the carbon C7–C8 double bond, and (c) the methyl-esterified carboxyl. Thus, the only HCADs capable of synergizing with CA were found to be methyl-4-hydroxycinnamate and methyl ferulate, which also most potently enhanced calcitriol-induced cell differentiation. Notably, the C7–C8 double bond was the major requirement for this HCAD/calcitriol cooperation. Our findings may contribute to the rational design of novel synergistically acting AML drugs based on prototype combinations of HCADs with other agents studied here.

Role of NLRP3 Inflammasome in Lupus Nephritis and Therapeutic Targeting by Phytochemicals

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multisystem autoimmune inflammatory condition that affects multiple organs and provokes extensive and severe clinical manifestations. Lupus nephritis (LN) is one of the main clinical manifestations of SLE. It refers to the deposition of immune complexes in the glomeruli, which cause kidney inflammation. Although LN seriously affects prognosis and represents a key factor of disability and death in SLE patients, its mechanism remains unclear. The NACHT, leucine-rich repeat (LRR), and pyrin (PYD) domains-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome regulates IL-1β and IL-18 secretion and gasdermin D-mediated pyroptosis and plays a key role in innate immunity. There is increasing evidence that aberrant activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and downstream inflammatory pathways play an important part in the pathogenesis of multiple autoimmune diseases, including LN. This review summarizes research progress on the elucidation of NLRP3 activation, regulation, and recent clinical trials and experimental studies implicating the NLRP3 inflammasome in the pathophysiology of LN. Current treatments fail to provide durable remission and provoke several sides effects, mainly due to their broad immunosuppressive effects. Therefore, the identification of a safe and effective therapeutic approach for LN is of great significance. Phytochemicals are found in many herbs, fruits, and vegetables and are secondary metabolites of plants. Evidence suggests that phytochemicals have broad biological activities and have good prospects in a variety of diseases, including LN. Therefore, this review reports on current research evaluating phytochemicals for targeting NLRP3 inflammasome pathways in LN therapy.

Ocular lamellar crystalline gels for sustained release and enhanced permeation of resveratrol against corneal neovascularization

Corneal neovascularization (CNV) is the major cause of blindness after eye injury; however, only several drugs can be applied and the invasive administration ways (i.e., intravitreal injection and subconjunctival injection) are used. Resveratrol is a highly effective anti-VEGF agent against CNV. However, its applications are limited due to its strong hydrophobicity and instability. Here, we developed a resveratrol-loaded ocular lamellar crystalline gel (ROLG) for high inhibition of CNV. ROLGs were composed of resveratrol, glyceryl monooleate (GMO), ethanol, and water, and their lamellar crystalline structures were identified by polarizing light microscopy and small-angle X-ray scattering. High drug loading (4.4 mg/g) of ROLGs was achieved due to the hydrogen bonding between GMO and resveratrol. Resveratrol showed sustained release with 67% accumulative release in 7 h, which was attributed to the slow erosion of gels. Resveratrol in ROLGs had a high corneal permeation 3 times higher than resveratrol in hyaluronic acid suspensions (RHSs). ROLGs were administered to rats only once a day because of their strong retention on the cornea surface. ROLGs were safe due to the very little contact of ethanol in ROLGs to the cornea. CNV post-rat corneal alkaline injury was highly inhibited by ROLGs, resulting from the attenuation of corneal VEGF expression and then corneal healing was improved. The ROLG was a promising ocular medicine for the prevention of CNV.

Hinokiflavone and Related C-O-C-Type Biflavonoids as Anti-cancer Compounds: Properties and Mechanism of Action

Biflavonoids are divided in two classes: C-C type compounds represented by the dimeric compound amentoflavone and C-O-C-type compounds typified by hinokiflavone (HNK) with an ether linkage between the two connected apigenin units. This later sub-group of bisflavonyl ethers includes HNK, ochnaflavone, delicaflavone and a few other dimeric compounds, found in a variety of plants, notably Selaginella species. A comprehensive review of the anticancer properties and mechanism of action of HNK is provided, to highlight the anti-proliferative and anti-metastatic activities of HNK and derivatives, and HNK-containing plant extracts. The anticancer effects rely on the capacity of HNK to interfere with the ERK1-2/p38/NFκB signaling pathway and the regulation of the expression of the matrix metalloproteinases MMP-2 and MMP-9 (with a potential direct binding to MMP-9). In addition, HNK was found to function as a potent modulator of pre-mRNA splicing, inhibiting the SUMO-specific protease SENP1. As such, HNK represents a rare SENP1 inhibitor of natural origin and a scaffold to design synthetic compounds. Oral formulations of HNK have been elaborated to enhance its solubility, to facilitate the compound delivery and to enhance its anticancer efficacy. The review shed light on the anticancer potential of C-O-C-type biflavonoids and specifically on the pharmacological profile of HNK. This compound deserves further attention as a regulator of pre-mRNA splicing, useful to treat cancers (in particular hepatocellular carcinoma) and other human pathologies.

A Brief Updated Review of Advances to Enhance Resveratrol's Bioavailability

Resveratrol (RES) has a low bioavailability. This limitation was addressed in an earlier review and several recommendations were offered. A literature search was conducted in order to determine the extent of the research that was conducted in line with these recommendations, along with new developments in this field. Most of the identified studies were pre-clinical and confirmed the heightened activity of RES analogues compared to their parent compound. Although this has provided additional scientific kudos for these compounds and has strengthened their potential to be developed into phytopharmaceutical products, clinical trials designed to confirm this increased activity remain lacking and are warranted.

Resveratrol and endothelial function: A literature review

Endothelial dysfunction is a major contributing factor to diseases such as atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus, obesity, hypertension, acute lung injury, preeclampsia, among others. Resveratrol (RSV) is a naturally occurring bioactive polyphenol found in grapes and red wine. According to experimental studies, RSV modulates several events involved in endothelial dysfunction such as impaired vasorelaxation, eNOS uncoupling, leukocyte adhesion, endothelial senescence, and endothelial mesenchymal transition. The endothelial protective effects of RSV are found to be mediated by numerous molecular targets (e.g. Silent Information Regulator 1 (SIRT1), 5' AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), nuclear factor-erythroid-derived 2-related factor-2 (Nrf2), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR), Krüppel-like factor-2 (KLF2), and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-kB)). Herein, we present an updated review addressing pharmacological effects and molecular targets of RSV in maintaining endothelial function, and the potential of this phytochemical for endothelial dysfunction-associated disorders.

Biomedical application of chitosan-based nanoscale delivery systems: Potential usefulness in siRNA delivery for cancer therapy

Gene therapy is an emerging and promising strategy in cancer therapy where small interfering RNA (siRNA) system has been deployed for down-regulation of targeted gene and subsequent inhibition in cancer progression; some issues with siRNA, however, linger namely, its off-targeting property and degradation by enzymes. Nanoparticles can be applied for the encapsulation of siRNA thus enhancing its efficacy in gene silencing where chitosan (CS), a linear alkaline polysaccharide derived from chitin, with superb properties such as biodegradability, biocompatibility, stability and solubility, can play a vital role. Herein, the potential of CS nanoparticles has been discussed for the delivery of siRNA in cancer therapy; proliferation, metastasis and chemoresistance are suppressed by siRNA-loaded CS nanoparticles, especially the usage of pH-sensitive CS nanoparticles. CS nanoparticles can provide a platform for the co-delivery of siRNA and anti-tumor agents with their enhanced stability via chemical modifications. As pre-clinical experiments are in agreement with potential of CS-based nanoparticles for siRNA delivery, and these carriers possess biocompatibiliy and are safe, further studies can focus on evaluating their utilization in cancer patients.

Ginkgetin derived from Ginkgo biloba leaves enhances the therapeutic effect of cisplatin via ferroptosis-mediated disruption of the Nrf2/HO-1 axis in EGFR wild-type non-small-cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Cisplatin (DDP) is the first-in-class drug for advanced and non-targetable non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). A recent study indicated that DDP could slightly induce non-apoptotic cell death ferroptosis, and the cytotoxicity was promoted by ferroptosis inducer. The agents enhancing the ferroptosis may therefore increase the anticancer effect of DDP. Several lines of evidence supporting the use of phytochemicals in NSCLC therapy. Ginkgetin, a bioflavonoid derived from Ginkgo biloba leaves, showed anticancer effects on NSCLC by triggering autophagy. Ferroptosis can be triggered by autophagy, which regulates redox homeostasis. Thus, we aimed to elucidate the possible role of ferroptosis involved in the synergistic effect of ginkgetin and DDP in cancer therapy.

METHODS

The promotion of DDP-induced anticancer effects by ginkgetin was examined via a cytotoxicity assay and western blot. Ferroptosis triggered by ginkgetin in DDP-treated NSCLC was observed via a lipid peroxidation assay, a labile iron pool assay, western blot, and qPCR. With ferroptosis blocking, the contribution of ferroptosis to ginkgetin + DDP-induced cytotoxicity, the Nrf2/HO-1 axis, and apoptosis were determined via a luciferase assay, immunostaining, chromatin immunoprecipitation (CHIP), and flow cytometry. The role of ferroptosis in ginkgetin + DDP-treated NSCLC cells was illustrated by the application of ferroptosis inhibitors, which was further demonstrated in a xenograft nude mouse model.

RESULTS

Ginkgetin synergized with DDP to increase cytotoxicity in NSCLC cells, which was concomitant with increased labile iron pool and lipid peroxidation. Both these processes were key characteristics of ferroptosis. The induction of ferroptosis mediated by ginkgetin was further confirmed by the decreased expression of SLC7A11 and GPX4, and a decreased GSH/GSSG ratio. Simultaneously, ginkgetin disrupted redox hemostasis in DDP-treated cells, as demonstrated by the enhanced ROS formation and inactivation of the Nrf2/HO-1 axis. Ginkgetin also enhanced DDP-induced mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) loss and apoptosis in cultured NSCLC cells. Furthermore, blocking ferroptosis reversed the ginkgetin-induced inactivation of Nrf2/HO-1 as well as the elevation of ROS formation, MMP loss, and apoptosis in DDP-treated NSCLC cells.

CONCLUSION

This study is the first to report that ginkgetin derived from Ginkgo biloba leaves promotes DDP-induced anticancer effects, which can be due to the induction of ferroptosis.

The binding of kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside to vascular endothelial growth factor potentiates anti-inflammatory efficiencies in lipopolysaccharide-treated mouse macrophage RAW264.7 cells

BACKGROUND

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors (VEGFs) are a group of growth factor in regulating development and maintenance of blood capillary. The VEGF family members include VEGF-A, placenta growth factor (PGF), VEGF-B, VEGF-C and VEGF-D. VEGF receptor activation leads to multiple complex signaling pathways, particularly in inducing angiogenesis. Besides, VEGF is produced by macrophages and T cells, which is playing roles in inflammation. In macrophages, VEGF receptor-3 (VEGFR-3) and its ligand VEGF-C are known to attenuate the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

METHODS

Immunoprecipitation and molecular docking assays showed the binding interaction of kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside and VEGF-C. Western blotting and qRT-PCR methods were applied to explore the potentiating effect of kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside in VEGF-C-mediated expressions of proteins and genes in endothelial cells and LPS-induced macrophages. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was employed to reveal the release of proinflammatory cytokines in LPS-induced macrophages. Immunofluorescence assay was performed to determine the effect of kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside in regulating nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 subunit in the VEGF-C-treated cultures. In addition, Transwell® motility assay was applied to detect the ability of cell migration after drug treatment in LPS-induced macrophages.

RESULTS

We identified kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside, a flavonoid commonly found in vegetable and fruit, was able to act on cultured macrophages in inhibiting inflammatory response, and the inhibition was mediated by its specific binding to VEGF-C. The kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside-bound VEGF-C showed high potency to trigger the receptor activation. In LPS-treated cultured macrophages, applied kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside potentiated inhibitory effects of exogenous applied VEGF-C on the secretions of pro-inflammatory cytokines, i.e. IL-6 and TNF-α, as well as expressions of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). This inhibition was in parallel to transcription and translocation of NF-κB. Moreover, the binding of kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside with VEGF-C suppressed the LPS-induced migration of macrophage.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, our results suggested the pharmacological roles of kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside in VEGF-C-mediated anti-inflammation.

Exploring the Antitumor Mechanisms of Zingiberis Rhizoma Combined with Coptidis Rhizoma Using a Network Pharmacology Approach

Background

Although the combination of Zingiberis rhizoma (ZR) and Coptidis rhizoma (CR) is a classic traditional Chinese medicine-based herbal pair used for its antitumor effect, the material basis and underlying mechanisms are unclear. Here, a network pharmacology approach was used to elucidate the antitumor mechanisms of ZR-CR.

Materials and Methods

To predict the targets of ZR-CR in treating tumors, we constructed protein–protein interactions and hub component-target networks and performed pathway and process enrichment and molecular docking analysis. We used a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) assay to validate the predicted component-target affinities. Hub gene expression and survival analysis in patients with tumors were used to predict the clinical significance.

Results

The active components of ZR-CR—shogaol, daucosterol, ginkgetin, berberine, quercetin, chlorogenic acid, and vanillic acid—exhibited antitumor activities via the MAPK, PI3K-AKT, TNF, FOXO, HIF-1, and VEGF signaling pathways. Molecular docking and SPR analyses suggested direct binding of berberine with AKT1 and TP53; quercetin with EGFR and VEGF165; and ginkgetin, isoginkgetin, and daucosterol with VEGF165 with weak affinities. Gene expression levels of the hub targets of ZR-CR were associated with overall survival and disease-free survival in patients with various tumor types.

Conclusions

The antitumor components of the ZR-CR herbal pair and the mechanisms underlying their antitumor effects were identified. These antitumor components deserve to be explored further in experimental and clinical studies.

Resveratrol and Tumor Microenvironment: Mechanistic Basis and Therapeutic Targets

Resveratrol (3,4′,5 trihydroxystilbene) is a naturally occurring non-flavonoid polyphenol. It has various pharmacological effects including antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer. Many studies have given special attention to different aspects of resveratrol anti-cancer properties and proved its high efficiency in targeting multiple cancer hallmarks. Tumor microenvironment has a critical role in cancer development and progression. Tumor cells coordinate with a cast of normal cells to aid the malignant behavior of cancer. Many cancer supporting players were detected in tumor microenvironment. These players include blood and lymphatic vessels, infiltrating immune cells, stromal fibroblasts and the extracellular matrix. Targeting tumor microenvironment components is a promising strategy in cancer therapy. Resveratrol with its diverse biological activities has the capacity to target tumor microenvironment by manipulating the function of many components surrounding cancer cells. This review summarizes the targets of resveratrol in tumor microenvironment and the mechanisms involved in this targeting. Studies discussed in this review will participate in building a solid ground for researchers to have more insight into the mechanism of action of resveratrol in tumor microenvironment.

Resveratrol and Its Nanoformulation Attenuate Growth and the Angiogenesis of Xenograft and Orthotopic Colon Cancer Models

Cancer is a multifactorial disorder that induces mortality worldwide, and the colorectal type is the third most common cancer globally. Resveratrol (RSV) is a natural compound with an effective anticancer effect, especially against colorectal cancer, and therefore numerous studies recommended its use in colorectal cancer prevention and treatment. The current study investigated the effect of either RSV or its nanoformulation (NP-RSV) on the growth and vascularity of xenograft and orthotopic mice models in colon cancer (COLO205-luc). Both RSV and NP-RSV induced significant reductions in tumor growth and the hemoglobin percentages of the tumor mass, but NP-RSV showed greater bioavailability and efficacy than RSV. Generally, we recommend using NP-RSV as a therapeutic to control colon cancer.