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Khaksar S, Kiarostami K, Ramdan M. Effect of Rosmarinic Acid on Cell Proliferation, Oxidative Stress, and Apoptosis Pathways in an Animal Model of Induced Glioblastoma Multiforme. Arch Med Res 2024; 55:103005. [PMID: 38759277 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2024.103005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In brain tumors, the complexity of the pathophysiological processes such as oxidative stress, cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and apoptosis have seriously challenged the definitive treatment. Rosmarinic acid (RA), as a polyphenolic compound, has been found to prevent tumor progression in some aggressive cancers. This study was designed to evaluate the anticancer effects of RA on brain tumors. METHOD Rats were divided into six groups. Implantation of C6 glioma cells was carried out in the caudate nucleus of the right hemisphere. RA at doses of 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg (i.p.) was administered to the treatment groups for seven days. Tumor volume (by MRI imaging), locomotor ability, survival time, histological alterations (by H & E staining), expression of p53 and p21 mRNAs (by RT-PCR), activities of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase [SOD] and catalase [CAT] by assay kits), expression of caspase-3 and VEGF (by immunohistochemical analysis), and TUNEL-positive cells (by tunnel staining) were analyzed. RESULTS The results indicated that the RA at a dose of 20 mg/kg reduced the tumor volume, prolonged survival time, increased p53 and p21 mRNAs, attenuated SOD and CAT activities in tumor tissue, elevated caspase-3, and increased the number of TUNEL-positive cells. Furthermore, histological analysis revealed less invasion of tumor cells into the normal parenchyma in rats treated with RA (20 mg/kg). CONCLUSION These findings provide evidence that the ability of RA to reduce tumor volume could be related to factors that modulate oxidative stress (SOD and CAT enzymes), cell proliferation (p53 and p21), and apoptosis (caspase-3).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Khaksar
- Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Khadijeh Kiarostami
- Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Ramdan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Al-Furat University, Deir-ez-Zor, Syrian Arab Republic
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Chen JF, Wu SW, Shi ZM, Hu B. Traditional Chinese medicine for colorectal cancer treatment: potential targets and mechanisms of action. Chin Med 2023; 18:14. [PMID: 36782251 PMCID: PMC9923939 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-023-00719-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a disease with complex pathogenesis, it is prone to metastasis, and its development involves abnormalities in multiple signaling pathways. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, target therapy, and immunotherapy remain the main treatments for CRC, but improvement in the overall survival rate and quality of life is urgently needed. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a long history of preventing and treating CRC. It could affect CRC cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle, migration, invasion, autophagy, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, and chemoresistance by regulating multiple signaling pathways, such as PI3K/Akt, NF-κB, MAPK, Wnt/β-catenin, epidermal growth factor receptors, p53, TGF-β, mTOR, Hedgehog, and immunomodulatory signaling pathways. In this paper, the main signaling pathways and potential targets of TCM and its active ingredients in the treatment of CRC were systematically summarized, providing a theoretical basis for treating CRC with TCM and new ideas for further exploring the pathogenesis of CRC and developing new anti-CRC drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Fang Chen
- grid.412540.60000 0001 2372 7462Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Oncology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 200032 Shanghai, People’s Republic of China ,grid.412540.60000 0001 2372 7462Department of Oncology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 200032 Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shi-Wei Wu
- grid.412540.60000 0001 2372 7462Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Oncology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 200032 Shanghai, People’s Republic of China ,grid.412540.60000 0001 2372 7462Department of Oncology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 200032 Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zi-Man Shi
- grid.412540.60000 0001 2372 7462Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Oncology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 200032 Shanghai, People’s Republic of China ,grid.412540.60000 0001 2372 7462Department of Oncology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 200032 Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bing Hu
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Oncology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 200032, Shanghai, People's Republic of China. .,Department of Oncology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 200032, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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3
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Tang HZ, Yang ZP, Lu S, Wang B, Wang YY, Sun XB, Qu JX, Rao BQ. Network pharmacology-based analysis of heat clearing and detoxifying drug JC724 on the treatment of colorectal cancer. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2023; 15:90-101. [PMID: 36684054 PMCID: PMC9850754 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v15.i1.90] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heat-clearing and detoxifying drugs has protective effect on colorectal cancer (CRC). Given the complicated features of Traditional Chinese medicine formulas, network pharmacology is an effective approach for studying the multiple interactions between drugs and diseases.
AIM To systematically explore the anticancer mechanism of heat-clearing and detoxifying drug JC724.
METHODS This study obtained the active compounds and their targets in JC724 from Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology Database. In addition, the CRC targets were obtained from Drugbank, TTD, DisGeNET and GeneCards databases. We performed transcriptome analysis of differentially expressed genes in CRC treated with JC724. Venn diagram was used to screen the JC724-CRC intersection targets as candidate targets. Core targets were selected by protein-protein interaction network and herb ingredient-target-disease network analysis. The functional and pathway of core targets were analysed by enrichment analysis.
RESULTS We found 174 active ingredients and 283 compound targets from JC724. 940 CRC-related targets were reserved from the four databases and 304 CRC differentially expressed genes were obtained by transcriptome analysis. We constructed the network and found that the five core ingredients were quercetin, β Beta sitosterol, wogonin, kaempferol and baicalein. The core JC724-CRC targets were CYP1A1, HMOX1, CXCL8, NQO1 and FOSL1. JC724 acts on multiple signaling pathways associated with CRC, including the Nrf2 signaling pathway, oxidative stress, and the IL-17 signaling pathway.
CONCLUSION In this study, we systematically analyzed the active ingredients, core targets and main mechanisms of JC724 in the treatment of CRC. This study could bring a new perspective to the heat-clearing and detoxifying therapy of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua-Zhen Tang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Key Laboratory of Cancer FSMP for State Market Regulation, Beijing 100038, China
| | - Zhen-Peng Yang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Key Laboratory of Cancer FSMP for State Market Regulation, Beijing 100038, China
| | - Shuai Lu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Key Laboratory of Cancer FSMP for State Market Regulation, Beijing 100038, China
| | - Bing Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Key Laboratory of Cancer FSMP for State Market Regulation, Beijing 100038, China
| | - Yu-Ying Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Key Laboratory of Cancer FSMP for State Market Regulation, Beijing 100038, China
| | - Xi-Bo Sun
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Taian 271000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jin-Xiu Qu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Key Laboratory of Cancer FSMP for State Market Regulation, Beijing 100038, China
| | - Ben-Qiang Rao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Key Laboratory of Cancer FSMP for State Market Regulation, Beijing 100038, China
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Qiang M, Cai P, Ao M, Li X, Chen Z, Yu L. Polysaccharides from Chinese materia medica: Perspective towards cancer management. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 224:496-509. [PMID: 36265542 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.10.139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Cancer has always been a focus of global attention, and the difficulty of treatment and poor prognosis have always plagued humanity. Conventional chemotherapeutics and treatment with synthetic disciplines will cause adverse side effects and drug resistance. Therefore, searching for a safe, valid, and clinically effective drug is necessary. At present, some natural compounds have proved to have the potential to fight cancer. Polysaccharides obtained from Chinese materia medica are good anti-cancer ingredients. Polysaccharides are macromolecular compounds of equal or distinct monosaccharides with an α- or β-glycosidic bonds. The anti-cancer activity has been fully demonstrated in vivo and in vitro. However, Chinese materia medica polysaccharides are only used as adjuvant therapy for cancer-related diseases. Hence, this review mainly discusses the chemical composition, biological activity, absorption in vivo, and clinical application of Chinese materia medica polysaccharides. Also, we discussed the anti-cancer mechanism. We also discussed the current research's limitations on treating cancer with Chinese materia medica polysaccharides and insights into future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqin Qiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China; State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu, China
| | - Pingjun Cai
- Department of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China; State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu, China
| | - Mingyue Ao
- Department of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China; State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu, China
| | - Xing Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China; State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhimin Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China; State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu, China.
| | - Lingying Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China; State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu, China.
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LI M, ZHENG J, WANG S, CHEN L, PENG X, CHEN J, AN H, HU B. Tenglong Buzhong granules inhibits the growth of SW620 human colon cancer. J TRADIT CHIN MED 2022; 42:701-706. [PMID: 36083476 PMCID: PMC9924744 DOI: 10.19852/j.cnki.jtcm.2022.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To observe the anticancer effects of the granular preparation of Tenglong Buzhong decoction (,TBD), i.e Tenglong Buzhong granules (, TBG), in human SW620 colon cancer. METHODS BALB/c nude mice were subcutaneously transplanted with SW620 cells, and treated with TBG (2.56 g/kg, once per day) and/or 5-Fu (104 mg/kg, once per week) for 21 d. Apoptosis, Caspase activities and cellular senescence were measured by commercial kits. The protein expression and phosphorylation were detected by Western blot or immunohistochemistry. RESULTS TBG and 5-Fu inhibited tumor growth. The tumor inhibition rate of the TBG, 5-Fu, and TBG+5-Fu groups was 42.25%, 51.58%, and 76.08%, respectively. Combination of TBG and 5-Fu showed synergetic anti-cancer effects. TBG and 5-Fu induced apoptosis, activated caspase-3, -8, and -9, increased SMAC expression, inhibited XIAP expression. TBG induced cellular senescence, upregulated cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1a (CDKN1a) and cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2a (CDKN2a) expression, and inhibited phosphorylation of retinoblastoma-associated protein (RB) and expression of cyclin E1 (CCNE1) and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK) 2. TBG also inhibited angiogenesis accompanied by downregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α). CONCLUSIONS TBG inhibits SW620 colon cancer growth, induces apoptosis SMAC-XIAP-Caspases signaling, induces cellular senescence through CDKN1a/CDKN2a-RB-E2F signaling, inhibits angiogenesis by down-regulation of HIF-1α and VEGF, and enhances the effects of 5-Fu.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao LI
- 1 Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Oncology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
- 2 Department of Oncology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jialu ZHENG
- 2 Department of Oncology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Shuangshuang WANG
- 3 Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Lei CHEN
- 1 Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Oncology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
- 2 Department of Oncology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xiao PENG
- 1 Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Oncology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
- 2 Department of Oncology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jinfang CHEN
- 1 Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Oncology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
- 2 Department of Oncology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hongmei AN
- 4 Department of Science and Technology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Bing HU
- 1 Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Oncology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
- 2 Department of Oncology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
- Dr. HU Bing, Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Oncology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China. Telephone: +86-21-64385700
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Khaksar S, Kiarostami K, Alinaghi S. The Effects of Methanol Extracts of Hyssopus officinalis on Model of Induced Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) in Rats. J Mol Neurosci 2022; 72:2045-2066. [PMID: 35963984 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-022-02058-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Given the complexity of pathophysiological processes of brain tumors, ineffective therapies, and high mortality rate, new therapeutic options with less toxicity are necessary. Hyssopus officinalis (hyssop) is an aromatic plant with important biological activities. The aim of this study is to assess the anti-cancer effect of hyssop extract on damages of glioblastoma multiforme. In this study, total flavonoids, phenolic content, and quantification of phenolic compound of hyssop extracts were analyzed. In vitro antioxidant properties of hyssop extract were also examined. In addition, cell viability, apoptosis, and cell cycle were evaluated in C6 glioma cell culture. In vivo, the rats were divided randomly into four main groups: intact, control, vehicle, and treatment groups. 1 × 106 C6 rat glioma cells were implanted into the right caudate nucleus of the rat's brain. The treatment group received the methanol extract of hyssop (100 mg/kg) for 7 days. Evolution of locomotor activity, tumor volume, survival rate, activities of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT)), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression, TUNEL-positive cells, p53 and p21 mRNA expression, and histological alterations were performed. The results showed that the methanol extract of hyssop increased the apoptosis and reduced the cell division of C6 glioma cells in cell culture. Moreover, methanol extract decreased the tumor volume and prolonged survival. Also, the activity of SOD and CAT enzymes was reduced in tumor tissue and enhanced in surrounding tissue. TUNEL-positive cells were increased in methanol extract of hyssop group. The expression of p53 and p21 mRNA was upregulated in the treatment group. Moreover, the histological analysis indicated a considerable decrease in invasion of tumor cells and inflammation in the hyssop-treated rats. According to the achieved results, it can be stated that hyssop has sufficient potential to inhibit damage of brain tumors, at least in part, by affecting the oxidative stress and cell proliferation pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Khaksar
- Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Khadijeh Kiarostami
- Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahrzad Alinaghi
- Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran
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Ai Y, Zhao Z, Wang H, Zhang X, Qin W, Guo Y, Zhao M, Tang J, Ma X, Zeng J. Pull the plug: Anti‐angiogenesis potential of natural products in gastrointestinal cancer therapy. Phytother Res 2022; 36:3371-3393. [PMID: 35871532 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yanling Ai
- Department of Oncology Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Chengdu China
| | - Ziyi Zhao
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Chengdu China
| | - Hengyi Wang
- Department of Oncology Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Chengdu China
| | - Xiaomei Zhang
- Institute of Medicinal Chemistry of Chinese Medicine Chongqing Academy of Chinese Materia Medica Chongqing China
| | - Weihan Qin
- Institute of Medicinal Chemistry of Chinese Medicine Chongqing Academy of Chinese Materia Medica Chongqing China
| | - Yanlei Guo
- Institute of Medicinal Chemistry of Chinese Medicine Chongqing Academy of Chinese Materia Medica Chongqing China
| | - Maoyuan Zhao
- Department of Oncology Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Chengdu China
| | - Jianyuan Tang
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Chengdu China
| | - Xiao Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Chengdu China
| | - Jinhao Zeng
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Chengdu China
- Department of Geriatrics Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Chengdu China
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Liu L, Liu T, Tao W, Liao N, Yan Q, Li L, Tan J, Shen W, Cheng H, Sun D. Flavonoids from Scutellaria barbata D. Don exert antitumor activity in colorectal cancer through inhibited autophagy and promoted apoptosis via ATF4/sestrin2 pathway. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 99:154007. [PMID: 35259610 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Scutellaria barbata D. Don (SB), mainly containing flavonoids, has been frequently used for cancer treatment. However, little research has investigated the antitumor activity of flavonoids from SB (FSB). The current study aimed to assess the antitumor effect of TFSB and elucidate the probable underlying mechanism in vivo and in vitro. STUDY DESIGN FSB was prepared, and its chemical composition was characterized by HPLC-MS. Colorectal HCT116 cells were treated with various concentration of FSB. The viability, proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and autophagy of HCT116 cells were studied, as were further confirmed in tumor xenografts. METHODS Cell viability and proliferation were respectively examined by MTT and EdU staining. ROS was determined with DCFH-DA, and cell apoptosis was detected using flow cytometry. Transwell and wound-healing assays were performed to evaluate cell migration. Immunofluorescence was employed to evaluate sestrin2 and ATF4 level. The protein expressions of p-AMPK, p-ULK1, p-mTOR, 4E-BP1, LC3-I/II, cleaved-caspase-3, Bax, and bcl-2 were investigated by western blot. ATF4 was overexpressed in experiments to explore the role of ATF4/sestrin2 pathway in FSB-mediated efficacy. RESULTS FSB clearly reduced the cell viability, promoted ROS generation, and induced apoptosis in HCT116 cells by down-regulated Bcl-2, and increased cleaved-caspase-3 and Bax. Furthermore, FSB significantly inhibited migration of colorectal cells in a dose-dependent manner. Further mechanistic study indicated that FSB upregulated p-mTOR protein level, and reduced p-AMPK, p-ULK1, p-mTOR, p-4E-BP1 and LC3-I/II expression, which were major autophagy-related genes. In addition, FSB could cause downregulation of endogenous mTOR inhibitor sestrin2 and ATF4 expression. Transient overexpression of ATF4 resulted in mTOR and sestrin2 inhibition, and significantly compromised the effects of FSB on apoptosis and autophagy in HCT116 cells. CONCLUSION Our results reveal, for the first time, that FSB exerts antitumor activity through autophagy inhibition and apoptosis induction via ATF4/sestrin2 pathway in colorectal cancer cells. Scutellaria barbata D. Don may have great potential in the application for the prevention and treatment of human colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianfang Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhangjiagang TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Suzhou 215600, China; School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Tianya Liu
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Weiwei Tao
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Naikai Liao
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Naning 530021, China
| | - Qiuying Yan
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Jiangsu Province of Cancer Prevention and Treatment of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Liu Li
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Jiangsu Province of Cancer Prevention and Treatment of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jiani Tan
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Jiangsu Province of Cancer Prevention and Treatment of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Weixing Shen
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Jiangsu Province of Cancer Prevention and Treatment of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Haibo Cheng
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Jiangsu Province of Cancer Prevention and Treatment of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for TCM Formulae Research, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Dongdong Sun
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Jiangsu Province of Cancer Prevention and Treatment of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for TCM Formulae Research, Nanjing 210023, China.
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Hung HY, Cheng KC, Kuo PC, Chen IT, Li YC, Hwang TL, Lam SH, Wu TS. Chemical Constituents of Hedyotis diffusa and Their Anti-Inflammatory Bioactivities. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11020335. [PMID: 35204218 PMCID: PMC8868389 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11020335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Seven new anthraquinones with rare 2-isopropyldihydrofuran (1–3) and 2,2-dimethylpyrano (4–7) moieties together with thirty-four known compounds were isolated from the extracts of whole Hedyotis diffusa plants. Their structures were elucidated and established by various spectroscopic and spectrometric analytical methods. Among these isolates, selected compounds were examined for their anti-inflammatory activity. The results showed that rare substituted anthraquinones displayed potent inhibitory activity with IC50 values ranging from 0.15 ± 0.01 to 5.52 ± 1.59 µM on the N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine/cytochalasin B (fMLP/CB)-induced superoxide anion generation and elastase release cellular models. Meanwhile, the proposed drug target of the active anthraquinone was studied by computer modeling. The binding affinity between the anti-inflammatory anthraquinone and elastase was evaluated by molecular docking. These results provided the scientific insight into the medicinal values of Hedyotis diffusa and vision of development as lead compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsin-Yi Hung
- School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan; (H.-Y.H.); (P.-C.K.); (Y.-C.L.)
| | | | - Ping-Chung Kuo
- School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan; (H.-Y.H.); (P.-C.K.); (Y.-C.L.)
| | - I-Tsen Chen
- Department of Chemistry, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan;
| | - Yue-Chiun Li
- School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan; (H.-Y.H.); (P.-C.K.); (Y.-C.L.)
| | - Tsong-Long Hwang
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan;
- Research Center for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Research Center for Food and Cosmetic Safety, Graduate Institute of Health Industry Technology, College of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Sio-Hong Lam
- School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan; (H.-Y.H.); (P.-C.K.); (Y.-C.L.)
- Correspondence: (S.-H.L.); (T.-S.W.); Tel.: +886-6-2353535 (ext. 6807) (S.-H.L.); +886-6-2757575 (ext. 65333) (T.-S.W.)
| | - Tian-Shung Wu
- School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan; (H.-Y.H.); (P.-C.K.); (Y.-C.L.)
- Correspondence: (S.-H.L.); (T.-S.W.); Tel.: +886-6-2353535 (ext. 6807) (S.-H.L.); +886-6-2757575 (ext. 65333) (T.-S.W.)
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Xie ZS, Xing RR, Chen X, Hu S, Bai XH. Simultaneous preconcentration of both polar and non-polar Q-markers of flavonoids in traditional Chinese medicine by reverse micellar floating solidification liquid-phase microextraction. J LIQ CHROMATOGR R T 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/10826076.2022.2026784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhong-shui Xie
- School of Pharmacy, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, P. R. China
| | - Rong-rong Xing
- School of Pharmacy, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, P. R. China
| | - Xuan Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, P. R. China
| | - Shuang Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, P. R. China
| | - Xiao-hong Bai
- School of Pharmacy, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, P. R. China
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11
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Hu B, Wei MM, Wang SS, Zheng JL, Chen L, Peng X, Chen JF, An HM. Herbal medicine teng-long-bu-zhong-tang inhibits the growth of human RKO colorectal cancer by regulating apoptosis, senescence, and angiogenesis. WORLD JOURNAL OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/wjtcm.wjtcm_42_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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12
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Tsai CL, Tsai CW, Chang WS, Lin JC, Hsia TC, Bau DAT. Protective Effects of Baicalin on Arsenic Trioxide-induced Oxidative Damage and Apoptosis in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells. In Vivo 2021; 35:155-162. [PMID: 33402461 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.12243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Arsenic trioxide (As2O3) is an environmental pollutant. However, the detailed mechanisms about As2O3-induced loss of endothelial integrity are unknown. This study aimed at investigating how As2O3 causes endothelial dysfunction and whether baicalin can reverse such dysfunction. MATERIALS AND METHODS Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were used to examine As2O3-induced oxidative stress, and apoptosis. The influence of baicalin on As2O3-induced endothelial dysfunction were investigated. RESULTS The viability of HUVECs was inhibited by As2O3 and cells underwent apoptosis. As2O3 treatment increased NADPH oxidase activity, and elevated the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Formamidopyrimidine DNA-glycosylase- and endonuclease III-digestible adducts were accumulated. Baicalin reversed As2O3-induced apoptosis and As2O3-suppressed cell viability. Baicalin caused a decrease in NADPH oxidase activity, and re-balanced the ROS level. As2O3-induced formamidopyrimidine DNA-glycosylase- and endonuclease III-digestible adducts were down-regulated. CONCLUSION Baicalin was found to have the potential capacity to protect endothelial cells from As2O3-induced cytotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chung-Lin Tsai
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan, R.O.C.,Division of Cardiac and Vascular Surgery, Cardiovascular Center, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Chia-Wen Tsai
- Terry Fox Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Wen-Shin Chang
- Terry Fox Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Jiunn-Cherng Lin
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital Chiayi Branch, Chiayi, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Te-Chun Hsia
- Terry Fox Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - DA-Tian Bau
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan, R.O.C.; .,Terry Fox Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, R.O.C.,Department of Bioinformatics and Medical Engineering, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan, R.O.C
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13
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Jafari Nivlouei S, Soltani M, Carvalho J, Travasso R, Salimpour MR, Shirani E. Multiscale modeling of tumor growth and angiogenesis: Evaluation of tumor-targeted therapy. PLoS Comput Biol 2021; 17:e1009081. [PMID: 34161319 PMCID: PMC8259971 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1009081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The dynamics of tumor growth and associated events cover multiple time and spatial scales, generally including extracellular, cellular and intracellular modifications. The main goal of this study is to model the biological and physical behavior of tumor evolution in presence of normal healthy tissue, considering a variety of events involved in the process. These include hyper and hypoactivation of signaling pathways during tumor growth, vessels' growth, intratumoral vascularization and competition of cancer cells with healthy host tissue. The work addresses two distinctive phases in tumor development-the avascular and vascular phases-and in each stage two cases are considered-with and without normal healthy cells. The tumor growth rate increases considerably as closed vessel loops (anastomoses) form around the tumor cells resulting from tumor induced vascularization. When taking into account the host tissue around the tumor, the results show that competition between normal cells and cancer cells leads to the formation of a hypoxic tumor core within a relatively short period of time. Moreover, a dense intratumoral vascular network is formed throughout the entire lesion as a sign of a high malignancy grade, which is consistent with reported experimental data for several types of solid carcinomas. In comparison with other mathematical models of tumor development, in this work we introduce a multiscale simulation that models the cellular interactions and cell behavior as a consequence of the activation of oncogenes and deactivation of gene signaling pathways within each cell. Simulating a therapy that blocks relevant signaling pathways results in the prevention of further tumor growth and leads to an expressive decrease in its size (82% in the simulation).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Jafari Nivlouei
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isafahan, Iran
- CFisUC, Department of Physics, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - M. Soltani
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (CBB), University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
- Advanced Bioengineering Initiative Center, Computational Medicine Center, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Cancer Institute of Iran, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - João Carvalho
- CFisUC, Department of Physics, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rui Travasso
- CFisUC, Department of Physics, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Ebrahim Shirani
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isafahan, Iran
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Foolad Institute of Technology, Fooladshahr, Iran
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14
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Ding F, Yang S. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate inhibits proliferation and triggers apoptosis in colon cancer via the hedgehog/phosphoinositide 3-kinase pathways. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2021; 99:910-920. [PMID: 33617370 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2020-0588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The present study evaluated whether epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) effectively attenuates tumor growth in colon cancer cells and in the xenografts of nude mice and investigated the underlying mechanisms by focusing on the sonic hedgehog (Shh) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) pathways. Three kinds of colon cancer cells and BALB/c nude mice were used to evaluate the antiproliferative effect of EGCG. The apoptosis, migration, and invasion of colon cancer cells were analyzed to explore the toxicity effect of EGCG on colon cancer cells. Western blotting was used to demonstrate the expression levels of related proteins. The results showed that EGCG exhibited an antiproliferative effect against colon cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner with low toxicity against normal colon epithelial cells. Administration of EGCG caused significant apoptosis and inhibited the migration and invasion of colon cancer cells. The toxic effect of EGCG on colon cancer cells was accompanied by downregulation of the Shh and PI3K/Akt pathways. In addition, EGCG reduced tumor volume and weight without affecting the body weight of nude mice and inhibited the activation of the Shh and PI3K/AKT pathways in tumor tissue. Further study showed that purmorphamine (smoothened (Smo) agonist) or insulin like growth factor-1 (IGF-1, PI3K agonist) partly abolished the effect of EGCG on cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis. Cyclopamine (Smo inhibitor) and LY294002 (PI3K inhibitor) showed the similar toxic effects as EGCG on colon cancer cells. In conclusion, EGCG inhibited colon tumor growth via downregulation of the Shh and PI3K pathways and may be a potential chemotherapeutic agent against colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Ding
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou 121001, China
| | - Su Yang
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou 121001, China
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15
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Chen WW, Gong KK, Yang LJ, Dai JJ, Zhang Q, Wang F, Li XL, Xi SC, Du J. Scutellariabarbata D. Don extraction selectively targets stemness-prone NSCLC cells by attenuating SOX2/SMO/GLI1 network loop. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 265:113295. [PMID: 32841701 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 08/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Scutellariabarbata D. Don extraction (SBE), a traditional Chinese medicine, has been proved effective against various malignant disorders in clinics with tolerable side-effects when administered alone or in combination with conventional chemotherapeutic regimens. AIM OF THIS STUDY Multi-drug resistance of cancer is attributed to existence of cancer stemness-prone cells that harbor aberrantly high activation of Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) cascade. Our previous study has demonstrated that SBE sensitized non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells to Cisplatin (DDP) treatment by downregulating SHH pathway. Yet, whether SBE could prohibit proliferation of cancer stemness-prone cells and its underlying molecular mechanisms remain to be investigated. In this article, we further investigated intervention of SBE on NSCLC cell stemness-associated phenotypes and its potential mode of action. MATERIALS AND METHODS CCK-8 and clonal formation detection were used to measure the anti-proliferative potency of SBE against NSCLC and normal epithelial cells. Sphere formation assay and RQ-PCR were used to detect proliferation of cancer stemness cells and associated marker expression upon SBE incubation. Mechanistically, DARTS-WB and SPR were used to unveil binding target of SBE. Immunodeficient mice were implanted with patient derived tumor bulk for in vivo validation of anti-cancer effect of SBE. RESULTS SBE selectively attenuated proliferation and stemness-like phenotypes of NSCLC cells rather than bronchial normal epithelial cells. Drug-protein interaction analysis revealed that SBE could directly bind with stem cell-specific transcription factor sex determining region Y-box 2 (SOX2) and interfere with the SOX2/SMO/GLI1 positive loop. In vivo assay using patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) model further proved that SBE diminished tumor growth and SOX2 expression in vivo. CONCLUSION Our data indicate that SBE represses stemness-related features of NSCLC cells via targeting SOX2 and may serve as an alternative therapeutic option for clinic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Wei Chen
- Center Research Institute, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, 256600, Binzhou, PR China
| | - Kai-Kai Gong
- Center Research Institute, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, 256600, Binzhou, PR China
| | - Li-Juan Yang
- Center Research Institute, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, 256600, Binzhou, PR China
| | - Juan-Juan Dai
- Center Research Institute, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, 256600, Binzhou, PR China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, 256600, Binzhou, PR China
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of Oncology, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, 256600, Binzhou, PR China
| | - Xue-Lin Li
- Center Research Institute, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, 256600, Binzhou, PR China
| | - Si-Chuan Xi
- Center Research Institute, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, 256600, Binzhou, PR China.
| | - Jing Du
- Center Research Institute, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, 256600, Binzhou, PR China.
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16
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Li W, Xiao H. Scutellaria barbata D. Don Polysaccharides Inhibit High Glucose-Induced Proliferation and Angiogenesis of Retinal Vascular Endothelial Cells. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes 2021; 14:2431-2440. [PMID: 34103952 PMCID: PMC8180288 DOI: 10.2147/dmso.s296164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The traditional Chinese medicine Scutellaria barbata D. Don (S. barbata) has been reported to exhibit anti-cancer and anti-inflammation activities. The ethanol extract of S. barbata has been confirmed to attenuate diabetic retinopathy (DR). This study aimed to investigate the effects and underlying mechanisms of the polysaccharides isolated from S. barbata (PSB) on the proliferation and angiogenesis of retinal vascular endothelial cells (RVECs) in DR. METHODS Human RVECs (HRVECs) were cultured in normal glucose (NG, 5.5 mM), mannitol (MA, 30 mM), high glucose (HG, 30 mM) and HG plus 40 μg/mL PSB, respectively. Then, cell proliferation, migration and angiogenesis were evaluated. The cell proliferation was also estimated in the presence of SLIGKV, which was used to induce the phosphorylation of ERK (p-ERK). RESULTS PSB reduced normal and HG-induced HRVECs cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner. The protein expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and proliferating antigen KI67 (Ki67), the migration rate and tube formation ability, which were increased by HG treatment, were significantly decreased by PSB. PSB also inhibited the phosphorylation of Raf, MEK and ERK in HG-stimulated HRVECs. Moreover, the application of SLIGKV recovered cell viability and the expression of p-ERK, PCNA and Ki67, in HG plus PSB-treated cells. Finally, the HG-enhanced expression of VE-cadherin, Frizzed, β-catenin, MMP-2 and MMP-9 was all reversed by PSB. CONCLUSION PSB could inhibit HG-induced HRVECs proliferation, migration and neovascularization, and these effects might work through blocking the activation of MEK/ERK pathway and VEGF/VE-cadherin axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjun Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, NHC Key Laboratory of Hormones and Development, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases, Chu Hsien-I Memorial Hospital & Tianjin Institute of Endocrinology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300134, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongxia Xiao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jingmen NO.2 People’s Hospital, Jingmen, 448000, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Hongxia Xiao Email
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17
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Hu B, Wei MM, Wang SS, Zheng JL, Chen L, Peng X, Chen JF, An HM. Herbal medicine teng-long-bu-zhong-tang inhibits the growth of human rko colorectal cancer by regulating apoptosis, senescence, and angiogenesis. WORLD JOURNAL OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.4103/2311-8571.321296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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18
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Chen Q, Rahman K, Wang SJ, Zhou S, Zhang H. Scutellaria barbata: A Review on Chemical Constituents, Pharmacological Activities and Clinical Applications. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 26:160-175. [PMID: 31840605 DOI: 10.2174/1381612825666191216124310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Scutellaria barbata has a long history of medical use in Traditional Chinese Medicine for removing heat and toxic material, promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis, and inducing diuresis to reduce edema. Recent pharmacology investigations have provided evidence for its anti-cancer, bacteriostasis, anti-virus, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation and immunity enhancement properties. The efficacy of activating blood circulation and removing blood stasis has unique advantages in the treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. A total of 84 compounds have been isolated from S. barbata and are characterized mainly as flavonoids, diterpenoids, followed by polysaccharide, volatile oil and steroids. Peer-reviewed articles published over the last few years were gathered by consulting the databases PubMed, Elsevier, Springer, and Chinese Herbal Classics. This review mainly focuses on the pharmacologically active constituents isolated from S. barbata,which have been subjected to in vitro and/or in vivo studies. Although, the chemical components, pharmacological activities, toxicology, clinical applications and mechanisms of action of S. barbata have been investigated, many constituents remain unknown. Further investigations are required to investigate the medicinal properties of S. barbata.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.,Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Khalid Rahman
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Faculty of Science, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool L3 3AF, England, United Kingdom
| | - Su-Juan Wang
- Department of Drug Preparation, Hospital of TCM and Hui Nationality Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Wuzhong 751100, China
| | - Shuang Zhou
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion Techniques Department, School of Acupuncture-moxibustion and Tuina, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.,Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
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19
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Yue GGL, Chan YY, Liu W, Gao S, Wong CW, Lee JKM, Lau KM, Lau CBS. Effectiveness of Scutellaria barbata water extract on inhibiting colon tumor growth and metastasis in tumor-bearing mice. Phytother Res 2020; 35:361-373. [PMID: 32869911 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The plant Scutellaria barbata (SB) is commonly used as herbal medicines for treating cancer. The present pre-clinical study aimed to validate the Chinese Pharmacopoeia (CP) recommended dosages of SB water extract (SBW) in treating colon tumors. The content of chemical marker scutellarin in SBW was quantified using UPLC. Mice bearing human HCT116 xenografts or murine colon26 tumors received oral administration of SBW or scutellarin for 4 weeks. Results showed that SBW (615 and 1,230 mg/kg) and scutellarin (7 mg/kg) treatments significantly reduced human xenograft weights by 28.7, 36.9 and 28.8%, respectively. Lung metastasis area could be ameliorated after SBW (615 mg/kg) and scutellarin (7 mg/kg) treatments by 23.4 and 29.5%, respectively. Expressions of colon cancer metastasis-related proteins E-cadherin, Tspan 8 and CXCR4, as well as Src kinase in tumors were first shown to be regulated by SBW. Furthermore, in murine colon26 tumor-bearing mice, SBW (615 mg/kg) and scutellarin (7 mg/kg) treatments reduced the orthotopic tumor burden by 94.7% and lung metastatic tumor burden by 94.1%, respectively. Our findings provided evidences that SBW (at the mouse equivalent dosages to clinical dosages recommended by CP) could exert anti-tumor and anti-metastatic effects in colon cancer animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Gar-Lee Yue
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Yuk-Yu Chan
- Li Dak Sum Yip Yio Chin R&D Centre for Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Wenjing Liu
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Si Gao
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Chun-Wai Wong
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Julia Kin-Ming Lee
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Kit-Man Lau
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Clara Bik-San Lau
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong.,Li Dak Sum Yip Yio Chin R&D Centre for Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
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20
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Kong MY, Li LY, Lou YM, Chi HY, Wu JJ. Chinese herbal medicines for prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer: From molecular mechanisms to potential clinical applications. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE-JIM 2020; 18:369-384. [PMID: 32758397 DOI: 10.1016/j.joim.2020.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Worldwide, colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignant tumors, leading to immense social and economic burdens. Currently, the main treatments for CRC include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy. Despite advances in the diagnosis and treatment of CRC, the prognosis for CRC patients remains poor. Furthermore, the occurrence of side effects and toxicities severely limits the clinical use of these therapies. Therefore, alternative medications with high efficacy but few side effects are needed. An increasing number of modern pharmacological studies and clinical trials have supported the effectiveness of Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) for the prevention and treatment of CRC. CHMs may be able to effectively reduce the risk of CRC, alleviate the adverse reactions caused by chemotherapy, and prolong the survival time of patients with advanced CRC. Studies of molecular mechanisms have provided deeper insight into the roles of molecules from CHMs in treating CRC. This paper summarizes the current understanding of the use of CHMs for the prevention and treatment of CRC, the main molecular mechanisms involved in these processes, the role of CHMs in modulating chemotherapy-induced adverse reactions, and CHM's potential role in epigenetic regulation of CRC. The current study provides beneficial information on the use of CHMs for the prevention and treatment of CRC in the clinic, and suggests novel directions for new drug discovery against CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mu-Yan Kong
- Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Le-Yan Li
- Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yan-Mei Lou
- Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Hong-Yu Chi
- Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jin-Jun Wu
- Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, Guangdong Province, China.
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21
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Yuan J, Xie A, Cao Q, Li X, Chen J. INHBB Is a Novel Prognostic Biomarker Associated with Cancer-Promoting Pathways in Colorectal Cancer. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:6909672. [PMID: 33083477 PMCID: PMC7563060 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6909672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inhibin subunit beta B (INHBB) is a protein-coding gene that participated in the synthesis of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) family members. The study is aimed at exploring the clinical significance of INHBB in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) by bioinformatics analysis. METHODS Real-time PCR and analyses of Oncomine, Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases were utilized to evaluate the INHBB gene transcription level of colorectal cancer (CRC) tissue. We evaluated the INHBB methylation level and the relationship between expression and methylation levels of CpG islands in CRC tissue. The corresponding clinical data were obtained to further explore the association of INHBB with clinical and survival features. In addition, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was performed to explore the gene ontology and signaling pathways of INHBB involved. RESULTS INHBB expression was elevated in CRC tissue. Although the promoter of INHBB was hypermethylated in CRC, methylation did not ultimately correlate with the expression of INHBB. Overexpression of INHBB was significantly and positively associated with invasion depth, distant metastasis, and TNM stage. Cox regression analyses and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis indicated that high expression of INHBB was correlated with worse overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). GSEA showed that INHBB was closely correlated with 5 cancer-promoting signaling pathways including the Hedgehog signaling pathway, ECM receptor interaction, TGF-β signaling pathway, focal adhesion, and pathway in cancer. INHBB expression significantly promoted macrophage infiltration and inhibited memory T cell, mast cell, and dendritic cell infiltration. INHBB expression was positively correlated with stromal and immune scores of CRC samples. CONCLUSION INHBB might be a potential prognostic biomarker and a novel therapeutic target for CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinpeng Yuan
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong, China
- Shantou University Medical College, China
| | - Aosi Xie
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong, China
| | - Qiangjian Cao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong, China
| | - Xinxin Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong, China
| | - Juntian Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong, China
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22
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Gao J, Yin W, Corcoran O. From Scutellaria barbata to BZL101 in Cancer Patients: Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Clinical Evidence. Nat Prod Commun 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x19880645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Scutellaria barbata D.Don is a popular Chinese medicinal plant documented to treat cancer patients in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). A botanical new investigational drug for breast cancer BZL101 (FDA IDN# 59521) was previously developed in the United States from the aqueous extract of the aerial parts from S. barbata. The early phase 1A and 1B clinical trials show its favorable toxicity profiles, good clinical tolerance, and promising efficacy for patients with metastatic breast cancer. To further evidence the phytopharmacology research, drug development, and anticancer use of this herb, a systematic literature review was performed herein on the phytochemistry, pharmacology, and specifically anticancer clinical evidence. A systematic review of the literature on phytochemical and pharmacological properties of the plant related to cancer treatment employed several web-based scientific databases including Wanfang (Chinese), Pubmed, Web of Science, and Elsevier. Key words included Scutellaria barbata, Ban Zhi Lian, cancer, and tumor. Based on critical quality criteria, only 8 out of 69 reports related to clinical studies of cancer patients in China. This review covered the available literature up to July 2019. The anticancer effects of S. barbata can be explained by the presence of various flavonoids and diterpenoids alkaloids. The underlying mechanisms are primarily summarized as cyclin/cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK)-modulated cell cycle arrest and mitochondria-mediated apoptotic death. The highly cancer-cell selective cytotoxicity and detoxifying effects of S. barbata contribute to a favorable clinical profile and enhanced quality of life for the cancer patient, thereby demanding further study as an adjuvant or alternative to conventional chemotherapy. The phytochemical and pharmacological studies reviewed strongly underpin a fundamental understanding of the anticancer activity of S. barbata and support ongoing clinical trials. The further safety verification and clinical trials are expected to progress S. barbata-based development to finally transform the traditional TCM herb S. barbata to the valuable anticancer drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Gao
- School of Chemical Engineering and Pharmaceutics, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Weiping Yin
- School of Chemical Engineering and Pharmaceutics, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Olivia Corcoran
- Medicines Research Group, School of Health, Sport and Bioscience, University of East London, Water Lane, London, UK
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Ligustrazin increases lung cell autophagy and ameliorates paraquat-induced pulmonary fibrosis by inhibiting PI3K/Akt/mTOR and hedgehog signalling via increasing miR-193a expression. BMC Pulm Med 2019; 19:35. [PMID: 30744607 PMCID: PMC6371511 DOI: 10.1186/s12890-019-0799-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels largely determine pulmonary fibrosis. Antioxidants have been found to ameliorate lung fibrosis after long-term paraquat (PQ) exposure. The effects of antioxidants, however, on the signalling pathways involved in PQ-induced lung fibrosis have not yet been investigated sufficiently. Here, we examined the impacts of ligustrazin on lung fibrosis, in particular ROS-related autophagy and pro-fibrotic signalling pathways, using a murine model of PQ-induced lung fibrosis. Methods We explored the effects of microRNA-193 (miR-193a) on Hedgehog (Hh) and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signalling and oxidative stress in lung tissues. Levels of miR-193a, protein kinase B (Akt), phosphoinositide 3-Kinase (PI3K), ceclin1, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), sonic hedgehog (SHH), myosin-like Bcl2 interacting protein (LC3), smoothened (Smo), and glioma-associated oncogene-1 (Gli-1) mRNAs were determined with quantitative real-time PCR. Protein levels of PI3K, p-mTOR, p-Akt, SHH, beclin1, gGli-1, LC3, smo, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), mothers against DPP homologue-2 (Smad2), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), collagen I, collagen III, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) nuclear factor erythroid 2p45-related factor-2 (Nrf2), and p-Smad2 were detected by western blotting. In addition, α-SMA, malondialdehyde, ROS, superoxide dismutase (SOD), oxidised and reduced glutathione, hydroxyproline, and overall collagen levels were identified in lung tissues using immunohistochemistry. Results Long-term PQ exposure blocked miR-193a expression, reduced PI3K/Akt/mTOR signalling, increased oxidative stress, inhibited autophagy, increased Hh signalling, and facilitated the formation of pulmonary fibrosis. Ligustrazin blocked PI3K/Akt/mTOR and Hh signalling as well as reduced oxidative stress via increasing miR-193a expression and autophagy, all of which reduced pulmonary fibrosis. These effects of ligustrazin were accompanied by reduced TGF-β1, CTGF, and Collagen I and III expression. Conclusions Ligustrazin blocked PQ-induced PI3K/Akt/mTOR and Hh signalling by increasing miR-193a expression, thereby attenuating PQ-induced lung fibrosis.
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Farooqi AA, de la Roche M, Djamgoz MBA, Siddik ZH. Overview of the oncogenic signaling pathways in colorectal cancer: Mechanistic insights. Semin Cancer Biol 2019; 58:65-79. [PMID: 30633978 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2019.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Revised: 12/29/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is a multifaceted disease which is therapeutically challenging. Based on insights gleaned from almost a quarter century of research, it is obvious that deregulation of spatio-temporally controlled signaling pathways play instrumental role in development and progression of colorectal cancer. High-throughput technologies have helped to develop a sharper and broader understanding of the wide ranging signal transduction cascades which also contribute to development of drug resistance, loss of apoptosis and, ultimately, of metastasis. In this review, we have set the spotlight on role of JAK/STAT, TGF/SMAD, Notch, WNT/β-Catenin, SHH/GLI and p53 pathways in the development and progression of colorectal cancer. We have also highlighted recent reports on TRAIL-mediated pathways and molecularly distinct voltage-gated sodium channels in colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ammad Ahmad Farooqi
- Institute of Biomedical and Genetic Engineering (IBGE), Islamabad, Pakistan.
| | - Marc de la Roche
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, 80 Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1GA, United Kingdom.
| | - Mustafa B A Djamgoz
- Imperial College London, Department of Life Sciences, Neuroscience Solutions to Cancer Research Group, South Kensington Campus, London, SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom; Cyprus International University, Biotechnology Research Centre, Haspolat, Mersin 10, North Cyprus, Turkey.
| | - Zahid H Siddik
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.
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Baicalin, the major component of traditional Chinese medicine Scutellaria baicalensis induces colon cancer cell apoptosis through inhibition of oncomiRNAs. Sci Rep 2018; 8:14477. [PMID: 30262902 PMCID: PMC6160418 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-32734-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the most frequently occurring cancers worldwide. Baicalin is isolated from the roots of Scutellaria baicalensis and is its dominant flavonoid. Anticancer activity of baicalin has been evaluated in different types of cancers, especially in CRC. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the contribution of baicalin to the treatment of CRC are still unknown. Here, we confirmed that baicalin can effectively induce and enhance apoptosis in HT-29 cells in a dose-dependent manner and suppress tumour growth in xenografted nude mice. We further performed a miRNA microarray analysis of baicalin-treated and untreated HT-29 cells. The results showed that a large number of oncomiRs, including miR-10a, miR-23a, miR-30c, miR-31, miR-151a and miR-205, were significantly suppressed in baicalin-treated HT-29 cells. Furthermore, our in vitro and in vivo studies showed that baicalin suppressed oncomiRs by reducing the expression of c-Myc. Taken together, our study shows a novel mechanism for anti-cancer action of baicalin, that it induces apoptosis in colon cancer cells and suppresses tumour growth by reducing the expression of c-Myc and oncomiRs.
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EghbaliFeriz S, Taleghani A, Tayarani-Najaran Z. Scutellaria: Debates on the anticancer property. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 105:1299-1310. [PMID: 30021367 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.06.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The widespread use of plants as accessible anticancer agents leads to the identification of many natural source chemotherapeutic agents. Scutellaria one of the popular genus of flowering plants has been used for various human illnesses for thousands of years. Scutellaria has anti-metastatic, anti-proliferative, anti-invasion, anti-angiogenic and apoptosis effects in vitro as well as in vivo. Despite numerous reports on the cytotoxic-antitumor activity of the plant, there are still some issues need further consideration. Issues such as unjustified interpretations, lack of attention to the pharmacokinetics profile and weak study design may affect the final decision about the use of plants as anticancer agents and possibly needs reconsideration. In this review, we have summarized the potential health benefits of Scutellaria and its active components also the underlying mechanism of cytotoxicity and antitumor activity. Meanwhile we have discussed concerns may interfere with the precise conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samira EghbaliFeriz
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Akram Taleghani
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Birjand, Birjand, Iran
| | - Zahra Tayarani-Najaran
- Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Wang Q, Acharya N, Liu Z, Zhou X, Cromie M, Zhu J, Gao W. Enhanced anticancer effects of Scutellaria barbata D. Don in combination with traditional Chinese medicine components on non-small cell lung cancer cells. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2018; 217:140-151. [PMID: 29458146 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2018.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2017] [Revised: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Experience-based herbal medicine as a complementary to modern western medicine has triggered an array of studies in quest of novel anticancer drugs. Scutellaria barbata D. Don (SB) is commonly used to treat different types of cancers, but its molecular mechanism of action is not clearly understood. In this study, we attempted to elucidate the mode of action of a traditional Chinese medicine prescription with a total of 14 components, named Lian-Jia-San-Jie-Fang (LJSJF, in Chinese), where SB works as the "principle" against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS Four different NSCLC cell lines (A549, H460, H1650, and H1975) were used. Cytotoxicity, in vitro tumorigenicity, gene expression, and protein expression were analyzed by MTT assay, soft agar assay, real-time PCR, and Western blots, respectively. RESULTS Among the 14 components in LJSJF, SB was the only one to possess cytotoxic effects at its pharmacologically relevant doses. Additionally, we observed synergistically dose-dependent cytotoxic effects of SB in combination with other LJSJF components. After SB or LJSJF treatment, significant reductions in colony number and/or size were observed in A549 and H460; a notable dose-dependent decrease in EGFR was observed in A549, H460, and H1650; significant downregulation in EGFR and its downstream signaling targets mTOR and p38MAPK were also observed in A549 and H460; and p53 and p21 were significantly increased while survivin, cyclin D1, and MDM2 were significantly decreased in A549. Additionally, p53, p21, and Mettl7b were decreased, but p73 was increased in H460. Neither EGFR nor p53 was changed in H1975. Therefore, SB or LJSJF may induce cytotoxic effects by regulating multiple and/or distinct apoptotic pathways in different NSCLC cells. CONCLUSION LJSJF exerts more pronounced cytotoxic effects against NSCLC cells than SB does by synergistically regulating the underlining molecular mechanisms including EGFR and/or p53 signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Wang
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, The Institute of Environmental and Human Health, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas 79416, United States; Department of Respiratory Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Narayan Acharya
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, The Institute of Environmental and Human Health, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas 79416, United States
| | - Zhongwei Liu
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, The Institute of Environmental and Human Health, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas 79416, United States
| | - Xianmei Zhou
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Meghan Cromie
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, The Institute of Environmental and Human Health, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas 79416, United States
| | - Jia Zhu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Weimin Gao
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, The Institute of Environmental and Human Health, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas 79416, United States.
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Zheng X, Kang W, Liu H, Guo S. Inhibition effects of total flavonoids from Sculellaria barbata D. Don on human breast carcinoma bone metastasis via downregulating PTHrP pathway. Int J Mol Med 2018; 41:3137-3146. [PMID: 29512770 PMCID: PMC5881663 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2018.3515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
It is abundantly clear that tumor-derived parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP), receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) are central contributors in promoting osteolytic process of breast carcinoma bone metastasis. Forcusing on this molecular basis, the study was undertaken to explore the inhibition effects of total flavonoids from Scutellaria barbata D. Don (TF-SB) on human breast carcinoma bone metastasis. MDA-MB-231 cells and nude mouse models of breast cancer bone metastasis were given TF-SB in different concentrations. The proliferation, migration and invasion potentials of MDA-MB-231 cells were respectively tested. The effects of TF-SB on tumor weights and bone destruction were investigated. The mRNA and protein expression of PTHrP, OPG and RANKL were assessed by qPCR and western blot analysis. In vitro, TF-SB inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of MDA-MB-231 cells in a dose-dependent manner. In vivo, TF-SB prevented bone metastasis of breast cancer by decreasing the number of osteoclast cells per field in a dose-dependent manner, but not affecting tumor growth or mouse survival. Molecular analysis revealed that TF-SB controled the secretion of osteolysis-related factors PTHrP and its downstream RANKL/OPG. Together, by controlling the expression of PTHrP and its downstream OPG/RANKL, TF-SB has significant inhibition effects on breast cancer bone metastasis, which indicates a new therapeutic method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Zheng
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Wen Kang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Huihui Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Shanyu Guo
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
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Rossi M, Jahanzaib Anwar M, Usman A, Keshavarzian A, Bishehsari F. Colorectal Cancer and Alcohol Consumption-Populations to Molecules. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 10:E38. [PMID: 29385712 PMCID: PMC5836070 DOI: 10.3390/cancers10020038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality, being the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the world. Several environmental and habitual factors have been associated with the CRC risk. Alcohol intake, a common and rising habit of modern society, is one of the major risk factors for development of CRC. Here, we will summarize the evidence linking alcohol with colon carcinogenesis and possible underlying mechanisms. Some epidemiologic studies suggest that even moderate drinking increases the CRC risk. Metabolism of alcohol involves ethanol conversion to its metabolites that could exert carcinogenic effects in the colon. Production of ethanol metabolites can be affected by the colon microbiota, another recently recognized mediating factor to colon carcinogenesis. The generation of acetaldehyde and alcohol's other metabolites leads to activation of cancer promoting cascades, such as DNA-adduct formation, oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, epigenetic alterations, epithelial barrier dysfunction, and immune modulatory effects. Not only does alcohol induce its toxic effect through carcinogenic metabolites, but alcoholics themselves are predisposed to a poor diet, low in folate and fiber, and circadian disruption, which could further augment alcohol-induced colon carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Rossi
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | - Muhammad Jahanzaib Anwar
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | - Ahmad Usman
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | - Ali Keshavarzian
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | - Faraz Bishehsari
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
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Chen CC, Kao CP, Chiu MM, Wang SH. The anti-cancer effects and mechanisms of Scutellaria barbata D. Don on CL1-5 lung cancer cells. Oncotarget 2017; 8:109340-109357. [PMID: 29312612 PMCID: PMC5752525 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.22677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer, with a poor prognosis and resistance to chemotherapy, is the most common malignant tumor and has the highest mortality rate worldwide. Scutellaria barbata D. Don (SB), which is derived from the dried whole plant of Labiatae, is a well-known anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer herb. The aim of this study was to examine the anti-cancer effects and precise regulatory mechanisms of SB in CL1-5 lung cancer cells. In an in vitro assay, we found that the anti-tumor mechanism of SB was due to P38/SIRT1-regulated cell apoptosis through G2/M phase arrest and ER stress-, intrinsic mitochondrial-, and extrinsic FAS/FASL-mediated pathways. Autophagy also plays a key role in SB-induced CL1-5 cell cytotoxicity. In addition, SB exerts additive effects with etoposide or cisplatin in lung cancer cells. In an in vivo assay, we found that SB significantly reduces tumor size with decreased proliferation and angiogenesis, as well as increased apoptosis and autophagy in CL1-5 tumor-bearing mice. These findings provided experimental evidence for the application of SB in the treatment of lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin-Chuan Chen
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan, Chinese Herbal Medicine Research Team, Healthy Aging Research Center, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Tissue Bank, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Pin Kao
- Department of Nursing, Hsin Sheng Junior College of Medical Care and Management, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Miao Chiu
- Department of Medicine, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Shu-Huei Wang
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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Wei LH, Lin JM, Chu JF, Chen HW, Li QY, Peng J. Scutellaria barbata D. Don inhibits colorectal cancer growth via suppression of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Chin J Integr Med 2017; 23:858-863. [PMID: 29080197 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-017-2775-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of the ethanol extract of Scutellaria barbata D. Don (EESB) on colorectal cancer (CRC) growth and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in vivo and in vitro. METHODS In vivo experiment, CRC xenograft mouse model was constructed with injection of HT-29 cells. Following xenograft implantation, twenty mice were randomly divided into EESB-treated group (n=10) and control group (n=10) by a random number table, and were given with intra-gastric administration of 2 g/kg EESB or saline, 5 days a week for 16 days, respectively. At the end of experiment, tumors were removed and weighed by electronic scales. The proliferation biomarker Ki-67 of tumor was evaluated by immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay. In vitro study, HT-29 cells were treated with 0, 0.5, 1.5, 2.5 mg/mL EESB for 24 h. At the end of the treatment, the viability and survival of HT-29 cells were determined by methylthiazolyldiphenyl-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and colony formation assay, respectively. The mRNA expression of c-Myc, Survivin and adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) was examined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) both in tumor tissues of CRC xenograft mice and HT-29 cells. Protein expression of c-Myc, Survivin, APC, and β-catenin as well as β-catenin phosphorylation level were evaluated by IHC assay or Western blotting. RESULTS EESB significantly reduced tumor weight in CRC xenografts mice, compared with the control group (P<0.05). IHC assay showed that EESB significantly inhibited protein expression of Ki-67 in tumor tissues (P<0.05). MTT assay showed that EESB significantly reduced HT-29 cell viability in a dose-dependent manner (P<0.05). Colony formation assay showed that EESB dose-dependently decreased the survival of HT-29 cells (P<0.05). In addition, RT-PCR assay showed that EESB decreased the mRNA expression of c-Myc and Survivin and increased APC expression, both in tumor tissues of CRC xenograft mice and HT-29 cells (P<0.05). IHC assay or Western blotting showed that EESB decreased protein expression of β-catenin, c-Myc and Survivin, as well as increased APC expression and β-catenin phosphorylation in tumor tissues or HT-29 cells (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS EESB significantly reduced tumor growth in CRC xenografts mice, and inhibited the viability and survival of HT-29 cells. EESB could suppress the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, which might be one of the mechanisms whereby Scutellaria barbata D. Don exerts its anticancer activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Hui Wei
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Jiu-Mao Lin
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Jian-Feng Chu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Hong-Wei Chen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Qing-Yu Li
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China.
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China.
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Wang YS, Cho JG, Hwang ES, Yang JE, Gao W, Fang MZ, Zheng SD, Yi TH. Enhancement of Protective Effects of Radix Scutellariae on UVB-induced Photo Damage in Human HaCaT Keratinocytes. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2017; 184:1073-1093. [PMID: 28948464 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-017-2611-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Radix Scutellariae (RS) has long been used in the treatment of inflammatory and allergic diseases. Its main flavonoids, baicalin (BG) and wogonoside (WG), can be hydrolyzed into their corresponding aglycones, baicalein (B) and wogonin (W). In this study, we developed a safe and effective method of transforming these glycosides using Peclyve PR. The transformation rate of BG and WG reached 98.5 and 98.1%, respectively, with 10% enzyme at 40 °C for 60 h. Furthermore, we compared the anti-photoaging activity of RS before and after enzyme treatment, as well as their respective main components, in UVB-irradiated HaCaT cells. Results found that enzyme-treated RS (ERS) appeared to be much better at preventing UVB-induced photoaging than RS. ERS significantly inhibited the upregulation of matrix metalloproteinase-1 and IL-6 caused by UVB radiation by inactivating the MAPK/AP-1 and NF-κB/IκB-α signaling pathways. ERS treatment also recovered UVB-induced reduction of procollagen type I by activating the TGF-β/Smad pathway. In addition, ERS exhibited an excellent antioxidant activity, which could increase the expression of cytoprotective antioxidants such as HO-1 and NQ-O1, by facilitating Nrf2 nuclear transfer. These findings demonstrated that the photoprotective effects of RS were significantly improved by enzyme-modified biotransformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Shuai Wang
- Department of Oriental Medicinal Material and Processing, College of Life Science, Kyung Hee University Global Campus, 1732, Deogyeong-daero, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, 17104, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Gyeong Cho
- Department of Oriental Medicinal Material and Processing, College of Life Science, Kyung Hee University Global Campus, 1732, Deogyeong-daero, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, 17104, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Son Hwang
- Department of Oriental Medicinal Material and Processing, College of Life Science, Kyung Hee University Global Campus, 1732, Deogyeong-daero, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, 17104, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Eun Yang
- Department of Oriental Medicinal Material and Processing, College of Life Science, Kyung Hee University Global Campus, 1732, Deogyeong-daero, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, 17104, Republic of Korea
| | - Wei Gao
- Department of Oriental Medicinal Material and Processing, College of Life Science, Kyung Hee University Global Campus, 1732, Deogyeong-daero, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, 17104, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Zhe Fang
- Department of Oriental Medicinal Material and Processing, College of Life Science, Kyung Hee University Global Campus, 1732, Deogyeong-daero, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, 17104, Republic of Korea
| | - Sheng-Dao Zheng
- Department of Oriental Medicinal Material and Processing, College of Life Science, Kyung Hee University Global Campus, 1732, Deogyeong-daero, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, 17104, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Hoo Yi
- Department of Oriental Medicinal Material and Processing, College of Life Science, Kyung Hee University Global Campus, 1732, Deogyeong-daero, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, 17104, Republic of Korea.
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Lin J, Feng J, Yang H, Yan Z, Li Q, Wei L, Lai Z, Jin Y, Peng J. Scutellaria barbata D. Don inhibits 5-fluorouracil resistance in colorectal cancer by regulating PI3K/AKT pathway. Oncol Rep 2017; 38:2293-2300. [PMID: 28849113 DOI: 10.3892/or.2017.5892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) resistance or multidrug resistance (MDR) has become a major obstacle in clinical treatment of cancers including colorectal cancer (CRC). Aberrant activation of phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) pathway may lead to unlimited growth and chemoresistance in CRC cells, which thus could be a promising therapeutic target. As a long-term used traditional Chinese folk-medicine, Scutellaria barbata D. Don (SB) processes specific anticancer activity, but its activity against cancer chemoresistance is less known. Therefore, using a 5-FU-resistant CRC cell line HCT-8/5-FU, in this study we evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of the ethanol extracts of SB (EESB) against 5-FU resistance and explored the possible molecular mechanisms. We found that EESB significantly suppressed proliferation and promoted apoptosis in HCT-8/5-FU cells. Additionally, EESB displayed remarkable effect enhancing the retention of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter substrate, rhodamine‑123 (Rh‑123) in HCT-8/5-FU cells. Furthermore, EESB obviously downregulated the expression of cyclin D1, Bcl-2 and ABCG2, while upregulated p21 and Bax expression. Moreover, EESB showed a prominent suppressive effect on the activation of PI3K/AKT pathway. The findings suggested that Scutellaria barbata D. Don was able to inhibit chemoresistance in colorectal cancer by suppression of the PI3K/AKT pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiumao Lin
- Academy of Integrative Medicine Biomedical Research Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Jianyu Feng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine Biomedical Research Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Hong Yang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine Biomedical Research Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Zhaokun Yan
- Academy of Integrative Medicine Biomedical Research Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Qiongyu Li
- Academy of Integrative Medicine Biomedical Research Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Lihui Wei
- Academy of Integrative Medicine Biomedical Research Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Zijun Lai
- Academy of Integrative Medicine Biomedical Research Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Yiyi Jin
- Academy of Integrative Medicine Biomedical Research Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine Biomedical Research Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
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Wu C, Zhu X, Liu W, Ruan T, Tao K. Hedgehog signaling pathway in colorectal cancer: function, mechanism, and therapy. Onco Targets Ther 2017; 10:3249-3259. [PMID: 28721076 PMCID: PMC5501640 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s139639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common gastrointestinal cancers worldwide. It is a complicated and often fatal cancer, and is related to a high disease-related mortality. Around 90% of mortalities are caused by the metastasis of CRC. Current treatment statistics shows a less than 5% 5-year survival for patients with metastatic disease. The development and metastasis of CRC involve multiple factors and mechanisms. The Hedgehog (Hh) signaling plays an important role in embryogenesis and somatic development. Abnormal activation of the Hh pathway has been proven to be related to several types of human cancers. The role of Hh signaling in CRC, however, remains controversial. In this review, we will go through previous literature on the Hh signaling and its functions in the formation, proliferation, and metastasis of CRC. We will also discuss the potential of targeting Hh signaling pathway in the treatment, prognosis, and prevention of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanqing Wu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaojie Zhu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Weizhen Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Tuo Ruan
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kaixiong Tao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Du J, Chen W, Yang L, Dai J, Guo J, Wu Y, Gong K, Zhang J, Yu N, Xie Z, Xi S. Disruption of SHH signaling cascade by SBE attenuates lung cancer progression and sensitizes DDP treatment. Sci Rep 2017; 7:1899. [PMID: 28507311 PMCID: PMC5432500 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-02063-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Deregulated Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) pathway facilitates the initiation, progression, and metastasis of Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), confers drug resistance and renders a therapeutic interference option to lung cancer patients with poor prognosis. In this study, we screened and evaluated the specificity of a Chinese herb Scutellariabarbata D. Don extraction (SBE) in repressing SHH signaling pathway to block NSCLC progression. Our study confirmed that aberrant activation of the SHH signal pathway conferred more proliferative and invasive phenotypes to human lung cancer cells. This study revealed that SBE specifically repressed SHH signaling pathway to interfere the SHH-mediated NSCLC progression and metastasis via arresting cell cycle progression. We also found that SBE significantly sensitized lung cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agent DDP via repressing SHH components in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistic investigations indicated that SBE transcriptionally and specifically downregulated SMO and consequently attenuated the activities of GLI1 and its downstream targets in SHH signaling pathway, which interacted with cell cycle checkpoint enzymes to arrest cell cycle progression and lead to cellular growth inhibition and migration blockade. Collectively, our results suggest SBE as a novel drug candidate for NSCLC which specifically and sensitively targets SHH signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Du
- Cancer Research Institute, Binzhou Medical University hospital, 256600, Binzhou, P.R. China
| | - Weiwei Chen
- Cancer Research Institute, Binzhou Medical University hospital, 256600, Binzhou, P.R. China
| | - Lijuan Yang
- Cancer Research Institute, Binzhou Medical University hospital, 256600, Binzhou, P.R. China
| | - Juanjuan Dai
- Cancer Research Institute, Binzhou Medical University hospital, 256600, Binzhou, P.R. China
| | - Jiwei Guo
- Cancer Research Institute, Binzhou Medical University hospital, 256600, Binzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yan Wu
- Cancer Research Institute, Binzhou Medical University hospital, 256600, Binzhou, P.R. China
| | - Kaikai Gong
- Cancer Research Institute, Binzhou Medical University hospital, 256600, Binzhou, P.R. China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Binzhou City People's Hospital, 256610, Binzhou, P.R. China
| | - Ning Yu
- Department of Pathology, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, 256600, Binzhou, P.R. China
| | - Zhen Xie
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, 256600, Binzhou, P.R. China
| | - Sichuan Xi
- Cancer Research Institute, Binzhou Medical University hospital, 256600, Binzhou, P.R. China.
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Zhang L, Fang Y, Feng JY, Cai QY, Wei LH, Lin S, Peng J. Chloroform fraction of Scutellaria barbata D. Don inhibits the growth of colorectal cancer cells by activating miR‑34a. Oncol Rep 2017; 37:3695-3701. [PMID: 28498458 DOI: 10.3892/or.2017.5625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Scutellaria barbata D. Don (SB) is a well known formula in traditional Chinese medicine, which exhibits potent anticancer effects on various cancers. Many miRNAs play crucial roles in the regulation of cancer, for instance, miR‑34a functions as a tumor suppressor, and is often downregulated during cancer. In this study, we investigated the role of ECSB in suppressing the growth of human colon cancer HCT‑8 cells, and whether this is mediated by regulation of miR‑34a and its downstream target genes, using real-time PCR and western blot analysis. ECSB treatment significantly inhibited the proliferation of HCT‑8 cells and promoted apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, ECSB treatment significantly increased the level of miR‑34a expression and decreased the levels of Bcl-2, Notch1/2 and Jagged1 expression. Furthermore, knockdown of miR‑34a expression through transfection of anti-miR‑34a oligonucleotide was significantly reversed by ECSB treatment. Likewise, knockdown of miR‑34a resulted in significant upregulation of Bcl-2, Notch1/2 and Jagged1 expression, which was reversed following ECSB treatment. Therefore, this study reveals that ECSB inhibited cancer cell growth via promoting apoptosis and inhibiting proliferation, through regulation of miR‑34a. These findings further support the use of ECSB as an effective therapeutic agent against colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Zhang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Yi Fang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Jian-Yu Feng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Qiao-Yan Cai
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Li-Hui Wei
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Shan Lin
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
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Lu J, Xu J, Shi Q. Effect of ethanol extract of HPRS, a Traditional Chinese Medicine formula, on HCT116 cell Line. J TRADIT CHIN MED 2016; 36:760-7. [PMID: 29949709 DOI: 10.1016/s0254-6272(17)30012-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this study, we investigated the effects of ethanol extract of Hupiruisu Fang (HPRS), a
formula of Traditional Chinese Medicine, on HCT116 cell line. METHODS MKN45, A549, Hela and HCT116 cells were treated with ethanol extract of HPRS alone or
the extract plus 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) for 48 h, and then the cell viabilities were measured using CCK-8
Kit. The early apoptosis rate and total apoptosis rate in both HCT116 cells were evaluated by flow
cytometry. The mRNA levels of apoptosis-related genes including caspase-3, caspase-8, Bcl2 and Bax were detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Lastly, the protein activities
and expressions of those apoptosis related genes were observed for further verifying the pro-apoptosis
of the extract of HPRS. RESULTS Ethanol extract of HPRS could significantly induce apoptosis in HCT116 cell line. Synergistic
analysis revealed that the extract exhibited a significant effect upon 5-FU-associated cytotoxicity in the
cell line. CONCLUSION The ethanol extract of HPRS plus 5-FU might have the potential to improve the treatment of colorectal cancer.
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The Annexin a2 Promotes Development in Arthritis through Neovascularization by Amplification Hedgehog Pathway. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0150363. [PMID: 26963384 PMCID: PMC4786284 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0150363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 02/12/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The neovascularization network of pannus formation plays a crucial role in the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Annexin a2 (Axna2) is an important mediating agent that induces angiogenesis in vascular diseases. The correlation between Axna2 and pannus formation has not been studied. Here, we provided evidence that compared to osteoarthritis (OA) patients and healthy people, the expression of Axna2 and Axna2 receptor (Axna2R) were up-regulated in patients with RA. Joint swelling, inflammation and neovascularization were increased significantly in mice with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) that were exogenously added Axna2. Cell experiments showed that Axna2 promoted HUVEC proliferation by binding Axna2R, and could activate Hedgehog (HH) signaling and up-regulate the expression of Ihh and Gli. Besides, expression of Ihh, Patched (Ptc), Smoothened (Smo) and Gli and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2), angiogenic growth factor of HH signaling downstream, were down-regulated after inhibition of expression Axna2R on HUVEC. Together, our research definitely observed that over-expression of Axna2 could promote the development of CIA, especially during the process of pannus formation for the first time. Meanwhile, Axna2 depended on combining Axna2R to activate and enlarge HH signaling and the expression of its downstream VEGF, Ang-2 and MMP-2 to promote HUVEC proliferation, and eventually caused to angiogenesis. Therefore, the role of Axna2 is instructive for understanding the development of RA, suppress the effect of Axna2 might provide a new potential measure for treatment of RA.
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NIE JIAO, ZHAO CHANGLIN, DENG LI, CHEN JIA, YU BIN, WU XIANLIN, PANG PENG, CHEN XIAOYIN. Efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine in treating cancer. Biomed Rep 2016; 4:3-14. [PMID: 26870326 PMCID: PMC4726876 DOI: 10.3892/br.2015.537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2015] [Accepted: 09/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The morbidity associated with cancer has rapidly increased in recent years, and in the previous 5 years has had a tendency to be the leading cause of fatality compared with cardiovascular disease. Therefore, effective measures are required with an aim to reduce the incidence. Based on the results of clinical investigation, a multidisciplinary treatment strategy for cancer, which includes radiotherapy, chemotherapy, surgery, targeted therapy and immunotherapy, are prominently used in clinical practice. However, the therapies are insufficient due to multidrug resistance, adverse effects and the presence of the root of the cancer. Therefore, there is a necessity to develop more effective or adjunctive therapies for cancer prevention and treatment. Cancer is now widely recognized as a systemic humoral disease. Similarly, the function of herbal drugs is to modulate the whole body system in a more holistic way. Recently, herbal drugs have been applied to one of the efficient approaches for cancer therapy. Furthermore, there is evidence that various herbal medicines have been proven to be useful and effective in sensitizing the conventional agents against the various factors at the cellular and molecular levels that are associated with the occurrence of cancer and in prolonging survival time, alleviating side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy and improving the quality of life in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- JIAO NIE
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Medical College of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China
| | - CHANGLIN ZHAO
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Medical College of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China
- Department of Oncology, Clifford Hospital of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China
| | - LI DENG
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Medical College of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China
| | - JIA CHEN
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Medical College of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China
| | - BIN YU
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Medical College of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China
- Clinical Institute, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong 272013, P.R. China
| | - XIANLIN WU
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Medical College of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China
- Department of Pancreatic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China
| | - PENG PANG
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Medical College of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China
| | - XIAOYIN CHEN
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Medical College of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China
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Li L, Wei L, Shen A, Chu J, Lin J, Peng J. Oleanolic acid modulates multiple intracellular targets to inhibit colorectal cancer growth. Int J Oncol 2015; 47:2247-54. [PMID: 26459864 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2015.3198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2015] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to drug resistance and unacceptable cytotoxicity of most currently-used cancer chemotherapies, naturally occurring products have gained attention in the field of anticancer treatment. Oleanolic acid (OA) is a natural pentacyclic triterpenoic acid and a principal active compound in many medicinal herbs that have long been used to clinically treat various types of human malignancies. Using a colorectal cancer (CRC) mouse xenograft model and the cell line HT-29, we evaluated the effect of OA on tumor growth in vivo and in vitro, and investigated the underlying molecular mechanisms in the present study. We found that OA significantly inhibited tumor growth in volume and weight in CRC xenograft mice. In addition, OA treatment led to the induction of apoptosis and inhibition of cell proliferation. OA significantly reduced the expression of Bcl-2, Cyclin D1 and CKD4, whereas Bax and p21 expression was profoundly increased after OA treatment. Furthermore, OA significantly suppressed the activation of Akt, p70S6K and MAPK signalings, but promoted p53 pathway activation. Collectively, findings from this study suggest that OA possesses a broad range of anticancer effects via modulation of multiple intracellular targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Department of Disease Prevention and Healthcare, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Lihui Wei
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Aling Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Jianfeng Chu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Jiumao Lin
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
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41
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Jiang Q, Li Q, Chen H, Shen A, Cai Q, Lin J, Peng J. Scutellaria barbata D. Don inhibits growth and induces apoptosis by suppressing IL-6-inducible STAT3 pathway activation in human colorectal cancer cells. Exp Ther Med 2015; 10:1602-1608. [PMID: 26622533 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2015.2692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2014] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the most critical cellular signal transduction pathways known to malfunction in colorectal cancer is the interleukin-6/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (IL-6/STAT3) pathway. Scutellaria barbata D. Don (SB) is well-known traditional medicine in China that targets STAT3 signaling, and it has long been used to treat various types of cancer; however, the precise mechanism of its antitumor activity remains largely unclear. In order to further elucidate this underlying mechanism, an ethanol extract of SB (EESB) in cancer treatment. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of EESB on the IL-6-inducible STAT3 pathway. We tested the dose-response association between EESB, IL-6-induced proliferaion and apoptosis using an MTT assay, colony formation and flow cytometry analysis in vitro. In addition, caspase-9 and caspase-3 activation was determined using a colorimetric assay, the activity of IL-6-induced STAT3 pathway was evaluated using western blot analysis, and the expression levels of cyclin D1, cyclin-dependent kinase 4, Bcl2 and Bcl2-associated X were determined using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis. In the present study it was found that EESB could significantly inhibit the IL-6-mediated increase in STAT3 phosphorylation levels and transcriptional activity in HT-29 human colon carcinoma cells, resulting in the suppression of cell proliferation and the induction of apoptosis. In addition, treatment with EESB markedly inhibited the IL-6-induced upregulation of cyclin D1 and B-cell lymphoma-2, two key target genes of the STAT3 pathway. These results suggest that treatment with EESB could effectively inhibit the proliferation and promote the apoptosis of human colon carcinoma cells via modulation of the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway and its target genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiqin Jiang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China ; People's Hospital, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Qiongyu Li
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Hongwei Chen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Aling Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Qiaoyan Cai
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China ; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Jiumao Lin
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China ; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China ; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
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Ye L, Jia Y, Ji KE, Sanders AJ, Xue K, Ji J, Mason MD, Jiang WG. Traditional Chinese medicine in the prevention and treatment of cancer and cancer metastasis. Oncol Lett 2015; 10:1240-1250. [PMID: 26622657 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2015.3459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 02/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been a major part of healthcare in China, and has extensively affected medicine and healthcare in surrounding countries over a long period of time. In the fight against cancer, certain anticancer remedies using herbs or herbal formulas derived from TCM have been developed for the management of malignancies. Furthermore, there are clinical trials registered for the use of herbal remedies in cancer management. Herbal medicine has been used as part of combined therapies to reduce the side-effects of chemotherapy, including bone marrow suppression, nausea and vomiting. Herbal remedies have also been used as chemopreventive therapies to treat precancerous conditions in order to reduce the incidence of cancer in high-risk populations. Emerging evidence has revealed that herbal remedies can regulate the proliferation, apoptosis, adhesion and migration of cancer cells. In addition to this direct effect upon cancer cells, a number of herbal remedies have been identified to suppress angiogenesis and therefore reduce tumour growth. The inhibition of tumour growth may also be due to modifications of the host immune system by the herbal treatment. However, the precise mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of herbal remedies remain poorly understood and are yet to be fully elucidated. The present study aims to summarize the current literature and clinical trial results of herbal remedies for cancer treatment, with a particular focus on the recent findings and development of the Yangzheng Xiaoji capsule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Ye
- Cardiff University-Peking University Cancer Institute, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK ; Metastasis and Angiogenesis Research Group, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK ; Institute of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Yongning Jia
- Cardiff University-Peking University Cancer Institute, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK ; Metastasis and Angiogenesis Research Group, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK ; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Haidian, Beijing 100142, P.R. China
| | - K E Ji
- Cardiff University-Peking University Cancer Institute, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK ; Metastasis and Angiogenesis Research Group, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK ; Institute of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Andrew J Sanders
- Cardiff University-Peking University Cancer Institute, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK ; Metastasis and Angiogenesis Research Group, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK ; Institute of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Kan Xue
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Haidian, Beijing 100142, P.R. China
| | - Jiafu Ji
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Haidian, Beijing 100142, P.R. China
| | - Malcolm D Mason
- Institute of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Wen G Jiang
- Cardiff University-Peking University Cancer Institute, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK ; Metastasis and Angiogenesis Research Group, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK ; Institute of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK
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43
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Inhibition of Tumor Growth and Immunomodulatory Effects of Flavonoids and Scutebarbatines of Scutellaria barbata D. Don in Lewis-Bearing C57BL/6 Mice. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2015; 2015:630760. [PMID: 26064167 PMCID: PMC4433671 DOI: 10.1155/2015/630760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2015] [Accepted: 04/02/2015] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Immunomodulatory effect has been found to be an important therapeutic measure for immune responses against cancer. In this study, we evaluated the inhibition of Scutellaria barbata D. Don (SB), an anti-inflammatory and an antitumor Chinese herb, including flavonoids and scutebarbatines on tumor growth and its immunomodulatory effects in vivo. HPLC and LC/MS/MS methods were conducted for the analysis of flavonoids and scutebarbatines in SB. Lewis-bearing C57BL/6 mice model was established and tumor volume was evaluated by high frequency color ultrasound experiment. ELISA and western blot analysis were performed for the determination of immunomodulatory factors. SB treatment at the dose of 10, 6.67, and 3.33 g crude drug/kg/d significantly inhibited tumor growth of Lewis-bearing C57BL/6 mice with the inhibition rates of 44.41 ± 5.44%, 33.56 ± 4.85%, and 27.57 ± 4.96%, respectively. More importantly, the spleen and thymus indexes were increased remarkably by SB treatment. SB could decrease IL-17, IL-10, FOXP3, TGF-β1, RORγt, and IL-6 levels whereas it could increase remarkably IL-2 and IFN-γ levels. Our results demonstrated that SB could inhibit tumor growth in vivo through regulating immune function in tumor-bearing mice and suggested that the immunomodulatory function of SB had a potential therapeutic effect in lung cancer.
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Yang J, Yang G, Hou G, Liu Q, Hu W, Zhao PU, He YI. Scutellaria barbata D. Don polysaccharides inhibit the growth of Calu-3 xenograft tumors via suppression of the HER2 pathway and angiogenesis. Oncol Lett 2015; 9:2721-2725. [PMID: 26137135 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2015.3127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2014] [Accepted: 03/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Scutellaria barbata D. Don, a perennial herb belonging to the family Lamiaceae, is widely distributed throughout China and the Republic of Korea, and has been traditionally used in folk medicine as an antitumor and anti-inflammatory agent. Polysaccharides isolated from Scutellaria barbata D. Don (PSB), have been reported to possess antitumor effects. However, the detailed antitumor mechanisms behind the effects of PSB remain unclear. In the present study, a non-small cell lung cancer cell line harboring the HER2 gene mutation Calu-3, the Calu-3 cell line, was used to investigate the underlying mechanisms of the antitumor effects of PSB. The results revealed that PSB potently inhibited cell proliferation and human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER)2 phosphorylation in vitro, and also downregulated the expression of the downstream signaling molecules, including phosphorylated (phospho-)Akt and phospho-extracellular signal-related kinase. In vivo, PSB demonstrated efficacy at well-tolerated doses, including significant antitumor activity in a Calu-3 subcutaneous xenograft model. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis revealed a PSB dose-dependent reduction of microvessel density, demonstrated by cluster of differentiation 31 staining. The present findings suggest that inhibition of tumor angiogenesis via suppression of the HER2 pathway may be one of the mechanisms by which PSB can be effective in the treatment of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junfeng Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, People's Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, P.R. China
| | - Guangyu Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, People's Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, P.R. China
| | - Guangjie Hou
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, People's Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, P.R. China
| | - Qingfeng Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, People's Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, P.R. China
| | - Weicai Hu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, People's Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, P.R. China
| | - P U Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, People's Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, P.R. China
| | - Y I He
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, People's Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, P.R. China
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Lin J, Shen A, Chen H, Liao J, Xu T, Liu L, Lin J, Peng J. Nitidine chloride inhibits hepatic cancer growth via modulation of multiple signaling pathways. BMC Cancer 2014; 14:729. [PMID: 25266147 PMCID: PMC4190448 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-14-729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2014] [Accepted: 09/26/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The development of hepatic cancer is tightly regulated by multiple intracellular signaling pathways. Therefore, most currently-used anti-tumor agents, which typically target single intracellular pathway, might not always be therapeutically effective. Additionally, long-term use of these agents probably generates drug resistance and unacceptable adverse effects. These problems increase the necessity for the development of new chemotherapeutic approaches. Nitidine chloride (NC), a natural benzophenanthridine alkaloid, has been shown to inhibit cancer growth via induction of cell apoptosis and suppression of cancer angiogenesis. But the precise mechanisms of its tumorcidal activity are not well understood. Methods To further elucidate the precise mechanisms of its anti-tumor activity, using a hepatic cancer mouse xenograft model, the human hepatic cancer cell lines (HepG2, HCCLM3, Huh7), and umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), here we evaluate the effect of NC on tumor growth in vivo and in vitro and investigated the underlying molecular mechanisms. Results We found that NC treatment resulted in significant decrease in tumor volume and tumor weight respectively, but didn’t affect body weight changes. Additionally, NC treatment dose- and time-dependently reduced the cell viability of all three hepatic cell lines. Moreover, NC suppressed the activation of STAT3, ERK and SHH pathways; and altered the expression of critical target genes including Bcl-2, Bax, Cyclin D1, CDK4, VEGF-A and VEGFR2. These molecular effects resulted in the promotion of apoptosis, inhibition of cell proliferation and tumor angiogenesis. Conclusions Our findings suggest that NC possesses a broad range of anti-cancer activities due to its ability to affect multiple intracellular targets, suggesting that NC could be a novel multi-potent therapeutic agent for the treatment of hepatic cancer and other cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine Biomedical Research Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
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Chao TH, Fu PK, Chang CH, Chang SN, Chiahung Mao F, Lin CH. Prescription patterns of Chinese herbal products for post-surgery colon cancer patients in Taiwan. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2014; 155:702-708. [PMID: 24945402 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2014.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2014] [Revised: 06/03/2014] [Accepted: 06/04/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
ETHNO-PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is commonly provided to cancer patients, however, the patterns of prescriptions for this type of medicine in Taiwan are unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the use of traditional Chinese medicine products in colon cancer patients post-surgery in Taiwan and to research patterns of TCM. MATERIAL AND METHODS This was a cross-sectional study of newly diagnosed colon cancer patients who received surgery between 2004 and 2008 identified from the National Health Insurance Research Database of Taiwan. The prescription patterns and reasons for the use of TCM for colon cancer were analyzed. RESULTS The results showed that "symptoms, signs and ill-defined conditions" (23.3%) and diseases of the digestive system (16.9%) were the most common reasons for using Chinese herbal medicine. Xiang-sha-liu-jun-zi-tang (7.1%), Bu-zhong-yi-qi-tang (4.3%), Jia-wei-xiao-yao-san (4.1%), Shen-Ling-Bai-Zhu-San (3.7%), Ban-Xia-Xie-Xin-Tang (3.4%), Gui-pi-tang (2.4%), Ping-Wei-San (2.4%), Gan-Lu-Yin (2.0%), Bao-He-Wan (1.9%), and Zhen-Ren-Huo-Ming-Yin (1.8%) were the most commonly prescribed single Chinese herbal formulae (CHF) for colon cancer patients post-surgery. Hedyotis diffusa Willd (Bai Hua She She Cao) (5.1%) and Scutellaria barbata (Ban Zhi Lian )(4.8%) were the most commonly prescribed single Chinese herbs. CONCLUSIONS This study identified patterns of TCM use in colon cancer patients post-surgery in Taiwan. The herbal ingredients were most commonly used for stimulate ghrelin secretion to increase food intake and had potential anti-tumor effect. However, further research is required to evaluate any beneficial effects which could identify leads for the development of new treatment strategies using TCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Te-Hsin Chao
- Department of Surgery, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan, ROC; Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Pin-Kuei Fu
- Division of Critical Care & Respiratory Therapy, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan, ROC; Institute of Health Policy and Management, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chiung-Hung Chang
- School of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan, ROC; Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Shih-Ni Chang
- Department of Medical Research, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, #160, Section 3, Chung-Kang Rd., Taichung, Taichung 407, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Frank Chiahung Mao
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Ching-Heng Lin
- Department of Medical Research, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, #160, Section 3, Chung-Kang Rd., Taichung, Taichung 407, Taiwan, ROC.
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Ruan C, Xiao XH, Li GK. Microwave-assisted extraction coupled with countercurrent chromatography for the rapid preparation of flavonoids from Scutellaria barbata D. Don. J Sep Sci 2014; 37:1364-9. [DOI: 10.1002/jssc.201400168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2014] [Revised: 03/10/2014] [Accepted: 03/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Chong Ruan
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering; Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou China
- School of Public Health; Guangxi Medical University; Nanning China
| | - Xiao-hua Xiao
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering; Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou China
| | - Gong-ke Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering; Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou China
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Zhang L, Cai Q, Lin J, Fang Y, Zhan Y, Shen A, Wei L, Wang L, Peng J. Chloroform fraction of Scutellaria barbata D. Don promotes apoptosis and suppresses proliferation in human colon cancer cells. Mol Med Rep 2013; 9:701-6. [PMID: 24337216 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2013.1864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2013] [Accepted: 12/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Scutellaria barbata D. Don (SB) has long been used as a major component in numerous Chinese medical formulas to clinically treat various types of cancer. Previously, we reported that the extracts of SB were able to suppress colon cancer growth in vivo and in vitro, possibly by inducing cancer cell apoptosis and inhibiting cell proliferation and tumor angiogenesis. However, the anticancer mechanisms of its bioactive ingredients remain largely unclear. In the present study, using three human colon cancer cell lines SW620, HT-29 and HCT-8, the antitumor effect of different solvent fractions of SB were evaluated and the potential underlying molecular mechanisms were investigated. Using an 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, it was revealed that the chloroform fraction of SB (ECSB) exhibited the most potent inhibitory effect on the growth of all three colon cancer cell lines and SW620 cells exhibited the most sensitive response to ECSB treatment (IC50=65 µg/ml). In addition, by performing fluorescence-activated cell sorting, transmission electron microscopy and colony formation assays, it was observed that ECSB significantly induced apoptosis and inhibited proliferation in SW620 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, ECSB treatment resulted in the upregulation of the pro-apoptotic Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and a decrease in the expression of the pro-proliferative cyclin D1 and cyclin-dependent kinase 4. The results from the present study may provide a scientific foundation for the development of novel anticancer agents from the bioactive ingredients in the ECSB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Zhang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Qiaoyan Cai
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Jiumao Lin
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Yi Fang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Youzhi Zhan
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Aling Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Lihui Wei
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Lili Wang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, P.R. China
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Badr G, Al-Sadoon MK, Rabah DM. Therapeutic efficacy and molecular mechanisms of snake (Walterinnesia aegyptia) venom-loaded silica nanoparticles in the treatment of breast cancer- and prostate cancer-bearing experimental mouse models. Free Radic Biol Med 2013; 65:175-189. [PMID: 23811005 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2013.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2012] [Revised: 04/12/2013] [Accepted: 06/07/2013] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The treatment of drug-resistant cancer is a clinical challenge, and thus screening for novel anticancer drugs is critically important. We recently demonstrated a strong enhancement of the antitumor activity of snake (Walterinnesia aegyptia) venom (WEV) in vitro in breast carcinoma, prostate cancer, and multiple myeloma cell lines but not in normal cells when the venom was combined with silica nanoparticles (WEV+NP). In the present study, we investigated the in vivo therapeutic efficacy of WEV+NP in breast cancer- and prostate cancer-bearing experimental mouse models. Xenograft breast and prostate tumor mice models were randomized into 4 groups for each cancer model (10 mice per group) and were treated with vehicle (control), NP, WEV, or WEV+NP daily for 28 days post tumor inoculation. The tumor volumes were monitored throughout the experiment. On Day 28 post tumor inoculation, breast and prostate tumor cells were collected and either directly cultured for flow cytometry analysis or lysed for Western blot and ELISA analysis. Treatment with WEV+NP or WEV alone significantly reduced both breast and prostate tumor volumes compared to treatment with NP or vehicle alone. Compared to treatment with WEV alone, treatment of breast and prostate cancer cells with WEV+NP induced marked elevations in the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), hydroperoxides, and nitric oxide; robust reductions in the levels of the chemokines CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL12, CXCL13, and CXCL16 and decreased surface expression of their cognate chemokine receptors CXCR3, CXCR4, CXCR5, and CXCR6; and subsequent reductions in the chemokine-dependent migration of both breast and prostate cancer cells. Furthermore, we found that WEV+NP strongly inhibited insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1)- and epidermal growth factor (EGF)-mediated proliferation of breast and prostate cancer cells, respectively, and enhanced the induction of apoptosis by increasing the activity of caspase-3,-8, and -9 in both breast and prostate cancer cells. In addition, treatment of breast and prostate cancer cells with WEV+NP or WEV alone revealed that the combination of WEV with NP robustly decreased the phosphorylation of AKT, ERK, and IκBα; decreased the expression of cyclin D1, surviving, and the antiapoptotic Bcl-2 family members Bcl-2, Bcl-XL, and Mcl-1; markedly increased the expression of cyclin B1 and the proapoptotic Bcl-2 family members Bak, Bax, and Bim; altered the mitochondrial membrane potential; and subsequently sensitized tumor cells to growth arrest. Our data reveal the therapeutic potential of the nanoparticle-sustained delivery of snake venom against different cancer cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gamal Badr
- Princess Al-Johara Al-Ibrahim Center for Cancer Research, Prostate Cancer Research Chair, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, 71516 Assiut, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed K Al-Sadoon
- Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Danny M Rabah
- Princess Al-Johara Al-Ibrahim Center for Cancer Research, Prostate Cancer Research Chair, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Department of Urology/Surgery, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Saudi Arabia
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Lin J, Chen Y, Cai Q, Wei L, Zhan Y, Shen A, Sferra TJ, Peng J. Scutellaria Barbata D Don Inhibits Colorectal Cancer Growth via Suppression of Multiple Signaling Pathways. Integr Cancer Ther 2013; 13:240-8. [PMID: 24231788 DOI: 10.1177/1534735413508811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathogenic mechanisms underlying cancer development are complex and heterogeneous, involving multiple cellular signaling transduction pathways that usually function redundantly. In addition, crosstalk between these pathways generates a complicated and robust signaling network that is regulated by compensatory mechanisms. Given the complexity of cancer pathogenesis and progression, many of the currently used antitumor agents, which typically target a single intracellular pathway, might not always be effective on complex tumor systems. Moreover, long-term use of these agents often generates drug resistance and toxicity against normal cells. Therefore, the development of novel anticancer chemotherapies is urgently needed.Scutellaria barbataD Don (SB) is a medicinal herb that has long been used in China to treat various types of cancer. We previously reported that the ethanol extract of SB (EESB) is able to induce colon cancer cell apoptosis, inhibit cell proliferation and tumor angiogenesis via modulation of several pathways, including Hedgehog, Akt, and p53. To further elucidate the precise mechanisms of SB's antitumor activity, using a colorectal cancer (CRC) mouse xenograft model in the present study, we evaluated the therapeutic efficacy and molecular mechanisms of EESB against tumor growth. We found that EESB reduced tumor volume and tumor weight but had no effect on body weight gain in CRC mice, demonstrating that EESB could inhibit colon cancer growth in vivo without apparent adverse effect. In addition, EESB treatment could significantly suppress the activation of several CRC-related pathways, including STAT3, Erk, and p38 signalings in tumor tissues, and alter the expression of multiple critical target genes such as Bcl-2, Bax, Cyclin D1, CDK4, and p21. These molecular effects lead to the induction of cancer cell apoptosis and inhibition of cell proliferation. Our findings demonstrate that SB possesses a broad range of antitumor activities because of its ability to affect multiple intracellular targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiumao Lin
- Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian, China
| | - Youqin Chen
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Qiaoyan Cai
- Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian, China
| | - Lihui Wei
- Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian, China
| | - Youzhi Zhan
- Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian, China
| | - Aling Shen
- Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian, China
| | - Thomas J Sferra
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Jun Peng
- Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian, China
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