Tanshinone IIA Inhibits Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Bladder Cancer Cells via Modulation of STAT3-CCL2 Signaling

Natural products and derivatives in renal, urothelial and testicular cancers: Targeting signaling pathways and therapeutic potential

BACKGROUND

Natural products have demonstrated significant potential in cancer drug discovery, particularly in renal cancer (RCa), urothelial carcinoma (UC), and testicular cancer (TC).

PURPOSE

This review aims to examine the effects of natural products on RCa, UC and TC.

STUDY DESIGN

systematic review METHODS: PubMed and Web of Science databases were retrieved to search studies about the effects of natural products and derivatives on these cancers. Relevant publications in the reference list of enrolled studies were also checked.

RESULTS

This review highlighted their diverse impacts on key aspects such as cell growth, apoptosis, metastasis, therapy response, and the immune microenvironment. Natural products not only hold promise for novel drug development but also enhance the efficacy of existing chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Importantly, we exert their effects through modulation of critical pathways and target genes, including the PI3K/AKT pathway, NF-κB pathway, STAT pathway and MAPK pathway, among others in RCa, UC, and TC.

CONCLUSION

These mechanistic insights provide valuable guidance for researchers, facilitating the selection of promising natural products for cancer management and offering potential avenues for further gene regulation studies in the context of cancer treatment.

Hydrophobic surface induced pro-metastatic cancer cells for in vitro extravasation models

In vitro vascularized cancer models utilizing microfluidics have emerged as a promising tool for mechanism study and drug screening. However, the lack of consideration and preparation methods for cancer cellular sources that are capable of adequately replicating the metastatic features of circulating tumor cells contributed to low relevancy with in vivo experimental results. Here, we show that the properties of cancer cellular sources have a considerable impact on the validity of the in vitro metastasis model. Notably, with a hydrophobic surface, we can create highly metastatic spheroids equipped with aggressive invasion, endothelium adhesion capabilities, and activated metabolic features. Combining these metastatic spheroids with the well-constructed microfluidic-based extravasation model, we validate that these metastatic spheroids exhibited a distinct extravasation response to epidermal growth factor (EGF) and normal human lung fibroblasts compared to the 2D cultured cancer cells, which is consistent with the previously reported results of in vivo experiments. Furthermore, the applicability of the developed model as a therapeutic screening platform for cancer extravasation is validated through profiling and inhibition of cytokines. We believe this model incorporating hydrophobic surface-cultured 3D cancer cells provides reliable experimental data in a clear and concise manner, bridging the gap between the conventional in vitro models and in vivo experiments.

Effect of Danshen for improving clinical outcomes in patients with bladder cancer: a retrospective, population-based study

Introduction: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has a broad application in healthcare, with Danshen being a notable herb used in Eastern medicine for cancer treatment. This study aims to explore the relationship between Danshen use and cardiovascular risks among bladder cancer patients. Methods: Patients were selected based on a confirmed diagnosis of bladder cancer with specific inclusion and exclusion criteria to control for certain comorbidities and treatments. Utilizing Taiwan's National Health Insurance data from 2003 to 2013, this retrospective, population-based study identified three groups: 525 patients treated with Danshen, 6,419 patients not treated with TCM, and 4,356 patients treated with TCM but not with Danshen. The Cox proportional hazard model was employed to estimate the risks of Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events (MACE) and mortality while accounting for various confounders. Results: The overall incidence of MACEs was significantly lower in the Danshen group (5%) compared to the TCM (8.1%) and non-TCM (9.9%) groups (p < 0.001). The Cox model revealed that bladder cancer patients treated with Danshen had the lowest risk of MACE (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.56; 95% confidence interval, 0.38-0.84) and all-cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.60; 95% confidence interval, 0.44-0.82). Discussion: The findings suggest that Danshen reduces the risk of MACE and all-cause mortality in bladder cancer patients, highlighting its potential benefits. This underpins the necessity for further research to substantiate the cardiovascular benefits of Danshen in bladder cancer patients and potentially broaden its application in oncology healthcare.

Isolinderalactone Induces Apoptosis, Autophagy, Cell Cycle Arrest and MAPK Activation through ROS-Mediated Signaling in Colorectal Cancer Cell Lines

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide. Isolinderalactone (ILL), a sesquiterpene isolated from the root extract of Lindera aggregata, has been reported to exhibit anti-proliferative and anti-metastatic activities in various cancer cell lines. However, the mechanisms associated with its antitumor effects on CRC cells remain unclear. ILL treatment significantly suppressed proliferation and induced cell cycle G2/M arrest in CRC cells by inhibiting the expression of cyclin B, p-cdc2, and p-cdc25c and up-regulating the expression of p21. In addition, ILL induced mitochondria-associated apoptosis through the up-regulation of cleaved -caspase-9 and -3 expression. ILL induced autophagy by increasing the levels of LC3B in CRC cells, which was partially rescued by treatment with an autophagy inhibitor (chloroquine). Furthermore, ILL increases the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and activates the MAPK pathway. Application of the ROS scavenger, N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), effectively inhibited ILL toxicity and reversed ILL-induced apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, autophagy, and ERK activation. Taken together, these results suggest that ILL induces G2/M phase arrest, apoptosis, and autophagy and activates the MAPK pathway via ROS-mediated signaling in human CRC cells.

New insight in urological cancer therapy: From epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) to application of nano-biomaterials

A high number of cancer-related deaths (up to 90) are due to metastasis and simple definition of metastasis is new colony formation of tumor cells in a secondary site. In tumor cells, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) stimulates metastasis and invasion, and it is a common characteristic of malignant tumors. Prostate cancer, bladder cancer and renal cancer are three main types of urological tumors that their malignant and aggressive behaviors are due to abnormal proliferation and metastasis. EMT has been well-documented as a mechanism for promoting invasion of tumor cells and in the current review, a special attention is directed towards understanding role of EMT in malignancy, metastasis and therapy response of urological cancers. The invasion and metastatic characteristics of urological tumors enhance due to EMT induction and this is essential for ensuring survival and ability in developing new colonies in neighboring and distant tissues and organs. When EMT induction occurs, malignant behavior of tumor cells enhances and their tend in developing therapy resistance especially chemoresistance promotes that is one of the underlying reasons for therapy failure and patient death. The lncRNAs, microRNAs, eIF5A2, Notch-4 and hypoxia are among common modulators of EMT mechanism in urological tumors. Moreover, anti-tumor compounds such as metformin can be utilized in suppressing malignancy of urological tumors. Besides, genes and epigenetic factors modulating EMT mechanism can be therapeutically targeted for interfering malignancy of urological tumors. Nanomaterials are new emerging agents in urological cancer therapy that they can improve potential of current therapeutics by their targeted delivery to tumor site. The important hallmarks of urological cancers including growth, invasion and angiogenesis can be suppressed by cargo-loaded nanomaterials. Moreover, nanomaterials can improve chemotherapy potential in urological cancer elimination and by providing phototherapy, they mediate synergistic tumor suppression. The clinical application depends on development of biocompatible nanomaterials.

E-liquid exposure induces bladder cancer cells to release extracellular vesicles that promote non-malignant urothelial cell transformation

The vaping of electronic cigarettes (E-cigarettes) has recently emerged as a popular alternative to traditional cigarette smoking, but its association with bladder cancer (BC) risk remains to be established. BC patients exhibit high rates of recurrent disease, possibly as a consequence of the field cancerization effect. We have shown that BC-derived extracellular vesicles (BCEVs) can permanently alter recipient urothelial cells in predisposed fields such that they become fully transformed malignant cells. To model the role that BCEVs may play in this potentially oncogenic setting, we treated TCCSUP BC cells with cigarette smoke extract, unflavored E-liquid, or menthol flavored E-liquid. Those treated BCEVs were then tested for their tumorigenic potential. We found that these smoking- and E-cigarette-related BCEVs were able to promote oxidative stress, inflammatory signaling, and DNA damage in recipient SV-HUC urothelial cells. Strikingly, menthol E-liquid-induced BCEVs significantly increased rates of malignant urothelial cell transformation. While further in vivo validation of the simultaneous effects of E-liquid and E-liquid-induced BCEVs on field cancerization is needed, these data highlight the possibility that E-cigarettes may compound user risk in a manner that can contribute to higher rates of BC incidence or recurrence.

Salvia miltiorrhiza in cancer: Potential role in regulating MicroRNAs and epigenetic enzymes

MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that play important roles in gene regulation by influencing the translation and longevity of various target mRNAs and the expression of various target genes as well as by modifying histones and DNA methylation of promoter sites. Consequently, when dysregulated, microRNAs are involved in the development and progression of a variety of diseases, including cancer, by affecting cell growth, proliferation, differentiation, migration, and apoptosis. Preparations from the dried root and rhizome of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bge (Lamiaceae), also known as red sage or danshen, are widely used for treating cardiovascular diseases. Accumulating data suggest that certain bioactive constituents of this plant, particularly tanshinones, have broad antitumor effects by interfering with microRNAs and epigenetic enzymes. This paper reviews the evidence for the antineoplastic activities of S. miltiorrhiza constituents by causing or promoting cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, autophagy, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, and epigenetic changes to provide an outlook on their future roles in the treatment of cancer, both alone and in combination with other modalities.

STAT3-EMT axis in tumors: modulation of cancer metastasis, stemness and therapy response

Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) mechanism is responsible for metastasis of tumor cells and their spread to various organs and tissues of body, providing undesirable prognosis. In addition to migration, EMT increases stemness and mediates therapy resistance. Hence, pathways involved in EMT regulation should be highlighted. STAT3 is an oncogenic pathway that can elevate growth rate and migratory ability of cancer cells and induce drug resistance. The inhibition of STAT3 signaling impairs cancer progression and promotes chemotherapy-mediated cell death. Present review focuses on STAT3 and EMT interaction in modulating cancer migration. First of all, STAT3 is an upstream mediator of EMT and is able to induce EMT-mediated metastasis in brain tumors, thoracic cancers and gastrointestinal cancers. Therefore, STAT3 inhibition significantly suppresses cancer metastasis and improves prognosis of patients. EMT regulators such as ZEB1/2 proteins, TGF-β, Twist, Snail and Slug are affected by STAT3 signaling to stimulate cancer migration and invasion. Different molecular pathways such as miRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs modulate STAT3/EMT axis. Furthermore, we discuss how STAT3 and EMT interaction affects therapy response of cancer cells. Finally, we demonstrate targeting STAT3/EMT axis by anti-tumor agents and clinical application of this axis for improving patient prognosis.

Dihydrotanshinone I Enhances Cell Adhesion and Inhibits Cell Migration in Osteosarcoma U-2 OS Cells through CD44 and Chemokine Signaling

In the screening of novel natural products against cancer using an in vitro cancer cell model, we recently found that tanshinones from a traditional Chinese medicine, the rhizome of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen), had potent effects on cell proliferation and migration. Especially for human osteosarcoma U−2 OS cells, tanshinones significantly enhanced the cell adherence, implying a possible role in cell adhesion and cell migration inhibition. In this work, therefore, we aimed to provide a new insight into the possible molecule mechanisms of dihydrotanshinone I, which had the strongest effects on cell adhesion among several candidate tanshinones. RNA−sequencing-based transcriptome analysis and several biochemical experiments indicated that there were comprehensive signals involved in dihydrotanshinone I-treated U−2 OS cells, such as cell cycle, DNA replication, thermogenesis, tight junction, oxidative phosphorylation, adherens junction, and focal adhesion. First, dihydrotanshinone I could potently inhibit cell proliferation and induce cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase by downregulating the expression of CDK4, CDK2, cyclin D1, and cyclin E1 and upregulating the expression of p21. Second, it could significantly enhance cell adhesion on cell plates and inhibit cell migration, involving the hyaluronan CD44−mediated CXCL8–PI3K/AKT–FOXO1, IL6–STAT3–P53, and EMT signaling pathways. Thus, the increased expression of CD44 and lengthened protrusions around the cell yielded a significant increase in cell adhesion. In summary, these results suggest that dihydrotanshinone I might be an interesting molecular therapy for enhancing human osteosarcoma U−2 OS cell adhesion and inhibiting cell migration and proliferation.

Effects of Buzhong Yiqi Decoction Combined with THP Bladder Perfusion on Postoperative Efficacy in Patients with Bladder Cancer

Background

As a traditional Chinese medicine tonic, Buzhong Yiqi decoction has the effects of invigorating Qi and lifting Yang. In this study, the effects of Buzhong Yiqi Shenge decoction combined with THP bladder perfusion on postoperative efficacy in bladder cancer were investigated.

Methods

A total of 70 cases of bladder cancer patients were divided into the experimental group and control group according to the random number table method, with 35 cases in each group. The control group was treated with THP bladder perfusion. The experimental group was treated with Buzhong Yiqi Shenge decoction on the basis of the control group. The number of urine white blood cells, VEGF level, the incidence of adverse reactions, and KPS score were compared between the two groups before and after treatment.

Results

After 3 and 6 months of therapy, the KPS score of the experimental group increased significantly compared with the control group. However, after 12 months of treatment, there was no difference in KPS scores between the two groups. Moreover, there was no significant variation in serum VEGF between two groups after 3 months of treatment. However, Buzhong Yiqi decoction notably reduced the level of VEGF after 6 months and 12 months. After 3 months, the urine white blood cell count was lower in the experimental group than in the control group. After 6 and 12 months, there was no difference in urine white blood cell count between the two groups. Furthermore, a total of 14 patients in two groups had reoccurrence after one year. Our results showed that there was no significant difference in postoperative recurrence rate between the experimental group and the control group. The occurrence rates of frequent and urgent urination, nausea/loss, and abnormal urine routine of appetite in the experimental group were significantly lower than those in the control group. But there was no difference in the occurrence rate of low heat, hematuria between the experimental group and the control group.

Conclusion

Buzhong Yiqi decoction combined with THP bladder perfusion has no advantage in the short-term recurrence rate of bladder cancer patients. However, Buzhong Yiqi decoction can alleviate the symptoms of adverse reactions and improve the quality of life of patients.

Recent Research Progress (2015-2021) and Perspectives on the Pharmacological Effects and Mechanisms of Tanshinone IIA

Tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA) is an important characteristic component and active ingredient in Salvia miltiorrhiza, and its various aspects of research are constantly being updated to explore its potential application. In this paper, we review the recent progress on pharmacological activities and the therapeutic mechanisms of Tan IIA according to literature during the years 2015-2021. Tan IIA shows multiple pharmacological effects, including anticarcinogenic, cardiovascular, nervous, respiratory, urinary, digestive, and motor systems activities. Tan IIA modulates multi-targets referring to Nrf2, AMPK, GSK-3β, EGFR, CD36, HO-1, NOX4, Beclin-1, TLR4, TNF-α, STAT3, Caspase-3, and bcl-2 proteins and multi-pathways including NF-κB, SIRT1/PGC1α, MAPK, SREBP-2/Pcsk9, Wnt, PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways, TGF-β/Smad and Hippo/YAP pathways, etc., which directly or indirectly influence disease course. Further, with the reported targets, the potential effects and possible mechanisms of Tan IIA against diseases were predicted by bioinformatic analysis. This paper provides new insights into the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of Tan IIA against diseases.

Tanshinone ⅡA inhibits the lipopolysaccharide-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition and protects bovine endometrial epithelial cells from pyolysin-induced damage by modulating the NF-κB/Snail2 signaling pathway

Mixed infection with Escherichia coli and Trueperella pyogenes (T. pyogenes) leads to purulent endometritis, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of tanshinone ⅡA (Tan ⅡA) on E. coli and T. pyogenes -induced purulent endometritis and explore the underlying mechanism. First, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) isolated from E. coli and bacteria-free filtrates (BFFs) isolated from T. pyogenes were used to induce a model of bovine endometrial epithelial cell (bEEC) damage in vitro. bEECs were pretreated with or without Tan ⅡA for 2 h, before LPS and BFFs were introduced to induce damage to investigate the protective effect of Tan IIA. Then, the cytolytic activity and inflammatory response in bEECs were examined using CCK-8, LDH and RT-qPCR assays. Furthermore, we confirmed the molecular mechanism by which Tan ⅡA reversed the damaged phenotypes in LPS- and BFFs-induced bEECs via the NF-κB/Snail2 pathway using qPCR and Western blotting. Tan ⅡA significantly decreased the cytolytic activity and inflammatory response in LPS- and BFFs-induced bEECs. In addition, Tan ⅡA reversed the dysregulation of E-cadherin, N-cadherin and vimentin. Moreover, Tan ⅡA significantly inhibited the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway and decreased the expression level of Snail2, which is the main regulator of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). In summary, Tan ⅡA inhibits the LPS-induced EMT and protects bEECs from pyolysin-induced damage by modulating the NF-κB/Snail2 signaling pathway.

Hispolon Induces Apoptosis, Suppresses Migration and Invasion of Glioblastoma Cells and Inhibits GBM Xenograft Tumor Growth In Vivo

Hispolon, a polyphenol compound isolated from Phellinus linteus, has been reported to exhibit antioxidant, antiproliferative, and antitumor activities. This study aimed to explore the antitumor effects of hispolon on glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cells in vitro and in vivo. The results revealed that hispolon significantly inhibited GBM cell proliferation and induced apoptosis through caspase-9 and caspase-3 activation and PARP cleavage. Hispolon also induced cell cycle G2/M phase arrest in GBM cells, as supported by flow cytometry analysis and confirmed by a decrease in cyclin B1, cdc2, and cdc25c protein expressions in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Furthermore, hispolon suppressed the migration and invasion of GBM cells by modulating epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers via wound healing, transwell assays, and real-time PCR. Moreover, hispolon significantly reduced tumor growth in DBTRG xenograft mice and activated caspase-3 in hispolon-treated tumors. Thus, our findings revealed that hispolon is a potential candidate for the treatment of GBM.

Natural Phytochemicals in Bladder Cancer Prevention and Therapy

Phytochemicals are natural small-molecule compounds derived from plants that have attracted attention for their anticancer activities. Some phytochemicals have been developed as first-line anticancer drugs, such as paclitaxel and vincristine. In addition, several phytochemicals show good tumor suppression functions in various cancer types. Bladder cancer is a malignant tumor of the urinary system. To date, few specific phytochemicals have been used for bladder cancer therapy, although many have been studied in bladder cancer cells and mouse models. Therefore, it is important to collate and summarize the available information on the role of phytochemicals in the prevention and treatment of bladder cancer. In this review, we summarize the effects of several phytochemicals including flavonoids, steroids, nitrogen compounds, and aromatic substances with anticancer properties and classify the mechanism of action of phytochemicals in bladder cancer. This review will contribute to facilitating the development of new anticancer drugs and strategies for the treatment of bladder cancer using phytochemicals.

Gastrodin alleviates seizure severity and neuronal excitotoxicities in the rat lithium-pilocarpine model of temporal lobe epilepsy via enhancing GABAergic transmission

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Temporal lobe epilepsy remains one of the most drug-resistant focal epilepsy, leading to enormous healthcare burden. Among traditional herb medicine, some ingredients have the potential to treat seizure and alleviate the neuronal excitoxicity. The dried rhizome of Gastrodia elata Blume has been used to treat convulsive disorder, dizziness, dementia and migraine in eastern Asia.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To determine whether gastrodin, an active ingredient of Gastrodia elata Blume, can reduce lithium-pilocarpine induced seizure severity and neuronal excitotoxicity and explore the underlying mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We divided the Sprague-Dawley rats into an experimental group (gastrodin group) and a control group (Dimethyl sulfoxide, vehicle group) and performed the behavioral analysis and electroencephalography to determine the effect of gastrodin on the seizure severity induced by lithium-pilocarpine injection. Nissl-stained histopathology elucidated the degree of rat hippocampal neuronal damage as markers of acute and subacute neuronal excitotoxicity. Besides, the Western blotting of dissected hippocampus was carried out to demonstrate the protein expression involving GABAergic transmission and metabolic pathway.

RESULTS

Gastrodin reduced the acute seizure severity in lithium-pilocarpine-induced seizure model. In electroencephalography recording, gastrodin exerted inhibitory action on epileptiform discharge. Compared with control group, gastrodin exhibited neuroprotective effect against seizure related hippocampal neuronal damage at acute and subacute stages. The Western blotting showed that gastrodin reversed the degradation of GABAA receptor after pilocarpine-induced seizures.

CONCLUSIONS

In the experimental seizure model, gastrodin showed anti-seizure and neuroprotective abilities. Enhancing the expression of GABAA receptor plays an important role in its antiepileptic mechanism. The results offer a new insight of developing new antiepileptic drugs from traditional Chinese medicine.

Pre-clinical investigation of STAT3 pathway in bladder cancer: Paving the way for clinical translation

Effective cancer therapy requires identification of signaling networks and investigating their potential role in proliferation and invasion of cancer cells. Among molecular pathways, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) has been of importance due to its involvement in promoting proliferation, and invasion of cancer cells, and mediating chemoresistance. In the present review, our aim is to reveal role of STAT3 pathway in bladder cancer (BC), as one of the leading causes of death worldwide. In respect to its tumor-promoting role, STAT3 is able to enhance the growth of BC cells via inhibiting apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. STAT3 also contributes to metastasis of BC cells via upregulating of MMP-2 and MMP-9 as well as genes in the EMT pathway. BC cells obtain chemoresistance via STAT3 overexpression and its inhibition paves the way for increasing efficacy of chemotherapy. Different molecular pathways such as KMT1A, EZH2, DAB2IP and non-coding RNAs including microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs can function as upstream mediators of STAT3 that are discussed in this review article.

Vimentin as a target for the treatment of COVID-19

We and others propose vimentin as a possible cellular target for the treatment of COVID-19. This innovative idea is so recent that it requires further attention and debate. The significant role played by vimentin in virus-induced infection however is well established: (1) vimentin has been reported as a co-receptor and/or attachment site for SARS-CoV; (2) vimentin is involved in viral replication in cells; (3) vimentin plays a fundamental role in both the viral infection and the consequent explosive immune-inflammatory response and (4) a lower vimentin expression is associated with the inhibition of epithelial to mesenchymal transition and fibrosis. Moreover, the absence of vimentin in mice makes them resistant to lung injury. Since vimentin has a twofold role in the disease, not only being involved in the viral infection but also in the associated life-threatening lung inflammation, the use of vimentin-targeted drugs may offer a synergistic advantage as compared with other treatments not targeting vimentin. Consequently, we speculate here that drugs which decrease the expression of vimentin can be used for the treatment of patients with COVID-19 and advise that several Food and Drug Administration-approved drugs be immediately tested in clinical trials against SARS-CoV-2, thus broadening therapeutic options for this type of viral infection.

An overview of the anti-cancer actions of Tanshinones, derived from Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen)

Tanshinone is a herbal medicinal compound described in Chinese medicine, extracted from the roots of Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen). This family of compounds, including Tanshinone IIA and Tanshinone I, have shown remarkable potential as anti-cancer molecules, especially against breast, cervical, colorectal, gastric, lung, and prostate cancer cell lines, as well as leukaemia, melanoma, and hepatocellular carcinoma among others. Recent data has indicated that Tanshinones can modulate multiple molecular pathways such as PI3K/Akt, MAPK and JAK/STAT3, and exert their pharmacological effects against different malignancies. In addition, preclinical and clinical data, together with the safety profile of Tanshinones, encourage further applications of these compounds in cancer therapeutics. In this review article, the effect of Tanshinones on different cancers, challenges in their pharmacological development, and opportunities to harness their clinical potential have been documented.

The Synergistic Anti-Cancer Effects of NVP-BEZ235 and Regorafenib in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer worldwide. Regorafenib is a multi-kinase inhibitor and the second-line treatment for HCC. Since the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway is dysregulated in HCC, we evaluated the therapeutic effects of regorafenib combined with a dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor BEZ235 in the human HCC cell lines (n = 3). The combined treatment with BEZ235 and regorafenib enhanced the inhibition of cell proliferation and increased the expression of cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved PARP in HCC cells. Moreover, the combined treatment suppressed HCC cell migration and invasion in the transwell assay. Further, the Western blot analyses confirmed the involvement of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related genes such as slug, vimentin, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9/-2. Additionally, the proteinase activity of MMP-9/-2 was analyzed using gelatin zymography. Furthermore, the inhibition of phosphorylation of the Akt, mTOR, p70S6K, and 4EBP1 after combined treatment was validated using Western blot analysis. Therefore, these results suggest that the combined treatment with BEZ235 and regorafenib benefits patients with HCC.

Naturally occurring anti-cancer compounds: shining from Chinese herbal medicine

Numerous natural products originated from Chinese herbal medicine exhibit anti-cancer activities, including anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, anti-metastatic, anti-angiogenic effects, as well as regulate autophagy, reverse multidrug resistance, balance immunity, and enhance chemotherapy in vitro and in vivo. To provide new insights into the critical path ahead, we systemically reviewed the most recent advances (reported since 2011) on the key compounds with anti-cancer effects derived from Chinese herbal medicine (curcumin, epigallocatechin gallate, berberine, artemisinin, ginsenoside Rg3, ursolic acid, silibinin, emodin, triptolide, cucurbitacin B, tanshinone I, oridonin, shikonin, gambogic acid, artesunate, wogonin, β-elemene, and cepharanthine) in scientific databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, Scopus, and Clinical Trials). With a broader perspective, we focused on their recently discovered and/or investigated pharmacological effects, novel mechanism of action, relevant clinical studies, and their innovative applications in combined therapy and immunomodulation. In addition, the present review has extended to describe other promising compounds including dihydroartemisinin, ginsenoside Rh2, compound K, cucurbitacins D, E, I, tanshinone IIA and cryptotanshinone in view of their potentials in cancer therapy. Up to now, the evidence about the immunomodulatory effects and clinical trials of natural anti-cancer compounds from Chinese herbal medicine is very limited, and further research is needed to monitor their immunoregulatory effects and explore their mechanisms of action as modulators of immune checkpoints.

Tanshinone IIA reverses EGF- and TGF-β1-mediated epithelial-mesenchymal transition in HepG2 cells via the PI3K/Akt/ERK signaling pathway

Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an essential phenotypic conversion involved in cancer progression. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 are potent inducers of the EMT. Tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA) is a phenanthrenequinone extracted from the root of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, and its anticancer activity has been demonstrated in numerous studies. However, the mechanisms of action underlying Tan IIA in EGF- and TGF-β1-induced EMT in HepG2 cells remain unknown. Multiple assays were utilized in the present study, including colony formation, wound healing, Transwell invasion, immunofluorescence staining and western blotting, in order to assess the influence of Tan IIA on HepG2 cells induced by 20 ng/ml EGF and 10 ng/ml TGF-β1. The present study reported that Tan IIA treatment decreased EGF- and TGF-β1-enhanced cell colony numbers, migration and invasion, and inhibited EGF- and TGF-β1-induced decreases in the expression levels of E-cadherin, and increases in the expression levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2, N-cadherin, vimentin and Snail. In addition, it was observed that Tan IIA decreased the expression levels of phosphorylated (p)-Akt and p-ERK1/2 induced by EGF and TGF-β1. Furthermore, western blot analysis confirmed that blocking the function of PI3K/Akt and ERK with LY294002 and U0126 resulted in upregulation of E-cadherin expression, and downregulation of vimentin and Snail expression in EGF- and TGF-β1-treated HepG2 cells. In conclusion, to the best of our knowledge, the results of the present study are the first to indicate that Tan IIA may suppress EGF- and TGF-β1-induced EMT in HepG2 cells by deactivating the PI3K/Akt/ERK pathway.

SARI suppresses colitis-associated cancer development by maintaining MCP-1-mediated tumour-associated macrophage recruitment

SARI (suppressor of AP‐1, regulated by IFN) impaired tumour growth by promoting apoptosis and inhibiting cell proliferation and tumour angiogenesis in various cancers. However, the role of SARI in regulating tumour‐associated inflammation microenvironment is still elusive. In our study, the colitis‐dependent and ‐independent primary model were established in SARI deficiency mice and immuno‐reconstructive mice to investigate the functional role of SARI in regulating tumour‐associated inflammation microenvironment and primary colon cancer formation. The results have shown that SARI deficiency promotes colitis‐associated cancer (CAC) development only in the presence of colon inflammation. SARI inhibited tumour‐associated macrophages (TAM) infiltration in colon tissues, and SARI deficiency in bone marrow cells has no observed role in the promotion of intestinal tumorigenesis. Mechanism investigations indicated that SARI down‐regulates p‐STAT1 and STAT1 expression in colon cancer cells, following inhibition of MCP‐1/CCR2 axis activation during CAC development. Inverse correlations between SARI expression and macrophage infiltration, MCP‐1 expression and p‐STAT1 expression were also demonstrated in colon malignant tissues. Collectively, our results prove the inhibition role of SARI in colon cancer formation through regulating TAM infiltration.

The Protective Effect of Hispidin against Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Oxidative Stress in ARPE-19 Cells via Nrf2 Signaling Pathway

Hispidin, a polyphenol compound isolated from Phellinus linteus, has been reported to possess antioxidant activities. In this study, we aimed to investigate the mechanisms underlying the protective effect of hispidin against hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced oxidative stress on Adult Retinal Pigment Epithelial cell line-19 (ARPE-19) cells. Hispidin was not cytotoxic to ARPE-19 cells at concentrations of less than 50 μM. The levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) were analyzed by dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCFDA) staining. Hispidin significantly restored H₂O₂-induced cell death and reduced the levels of intracellular ROS. The expression levels of antioxidant enzymes, such as NAD(P)H:Quinine oxidoreductase-1 (NQO-1), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC), and glutamate-cysteine ligase modifier subunit (GCLM) were examined using real-time PCR and Western blotting. Our results showed that hispidin markedly enhanced the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), HO-1, NQO-1, GCLM, and GCLC in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, knockdown experiments revealed that transfection with Nrf2 siRNA successfully suppresses the hispidin activated Nrf2 signaling in ARPE-19 cells. Moreover, activation of the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway is involved in mediating the protective effects of hispidin on the ARPE-19 cells. Thus, the present study demonstrated that hispidin provides protection against H₂O₂-induced damage in ARPE-19 cells via activation of Nrf2 signaling and up-regulation of its downstream targets, including Phase II enzymes, which might be associated with the activation of the JNK pathway.

Tanshinone IIA combined with cisplatin synergistically inhibits non-small-cell lung cancer in vitro and in vivo via down-regulating the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt signalling pathway

Cisplatin represents one of the first‐line drugs used for non‐small‐cell lung cancer treatment. However, considerable side effects and the emergence of drug resistance are becoming critical limitations to its application. Combinatorial strategies may be able to extend the use of cisplatin. Both Tanshinone IIA and cisplatin inhibit non‐small‐cell lung cancer cell growth in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner. When Tanshinone IIA was combined with cisplatin at a ratio of 20:1, they were observed to exert a synergistic inhibitory effect on non‐small‐cell lung cancer cells. The combination treatment was shown to impair cell migration and invasion, arrest the cell cycle in the S phases, and induce apoptosis in A549 and PC9 cells in a synergistic manner. KEGG pathway analysis and molecular docking indicated that Tanshinone IIA might mainly influence the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase‐Akt signalling pathway. In all treated groups, the expression levels of Bax and cleaved Caspase‐3 were up‐regulated, whereas the expression levels of Bcl‐2, Caspase‐3, p‐Akt, and p‐PI3K proteins were down‐regulated. Among these, the combination of Tan IIA and cisplatin exhibited the most significant difference. Tanshinone IIA may function as a novel option for combination therapy for non‐small‐cell lung cancer treatment.

PLEK2 promotes gallbladder cancer invasion and metastasis through EGFR/CCL2 pathway

BACKGROUND

Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is an extremely malignant tumor with a high mortality rate. Little is known about its invasion and metastasis mechanism so far.

METHODS

To identify the driver genes in GBC metastasis, we performed a mRNA microarray of metastatic GBC and paired non-tumor samples, and found PLEK2 was markedly upregulated in GBC tissues. Next, the expression of PLEK2 in GBC were examined in a larger cohort of patients by qRT-PCR, western blot and IHC staining. The clinicopathologic correlation of PLEK2 was determined by statistical analyses. The biological involvement of PLEK2 in GBC metastasis and the underlying mechanisms were investigated.

RESULTS

In this study, we found that PLEK2 had higher expression in GBC tumor tissues compared to non-cancerous adjacent tissues and cholecystolithiasis tissues. The clinicopathologic analyses showed PLEK2 expression was positively correlated with tumor TNM stage, distant metastasis and PLEK2 was an independent predictor of overall survival (OS) in GBC patients. The cellular function assays showed PLEK2 promoted GBC cells migration, invasion and liver metastasis in mouse model via the regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Our mass spectrum and co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP) assays demonstrated that PLEK2 could interact with the kinase domain of EGFR and suppress EGFR ubiquitination mediated by c-CBL, leading to constitutive activation of EGFR signaling. Furthermore, RNA-sequencing and qRT-PCR results demonstrated chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2), a target gene downstream of PLEK2/EGFR signaling, mediated the motility-promoting function of PLEK2.

CONCLUSIONS

On the basis of these collective data, we propose that PLEK2 promotes the invasion and metastasis of GBC by EGFR/CCL2 pathway and PLEK2 can serve as a potential therapeutic target for GBC treatment.

Small molecule inhibitors of epithelial-mesenchymal transition for the treatment of cancer and fibrosis

Tissue fibrosis and cancer both lead to high morbidity and mortality worldwide; thus, effective therapeutic strategies are urgently needed. Because drug resistance has been widely reported in fibrotic tissue and cancer, developing a strategy to discover novel targets for targeted drug intervention is necessary for the effective treatment of fibrosis and cancer. Although many factors lead to fibrosis and cancer, pathophysiological analysis has demonstrated that tissue fibrosis and cancer share a common process of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT is associated with many mediators, including transcription factors (Snail, zinc-finger E-box-binding protein and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3), signaling pathways (transforming growth factor-β1, RAC-α serine/threonine-protein kinase, Wnt, nuclear factor-kappa B, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor, Notch, and RAS), RNA-binding proteins (ESRP1 and ESRP2) and microRNAs. Therefore, drugs targeting EMT may be a promising therapy against both fibrosis and tumors. A large number of compounds that are synthesized or derived from natural products and their derivatives suppress the EMT by targeting these mediators in fibrosis and cancer. By targeting EMT, these compounds exhibited anticancer effects in multiple cancer types, and some of them also showed antifibrotic effects. Therefore, drugs targeting EMT not only have both antifibrotic and anticancer effects but also exert effective therapeutic effects on multiorgan fibrosis and cancer, which provides effective therapy against fibrosis and cancer. Taken together, the results highlighted in this review provide new concepts for discovering new antifibrotic and antitumor drugs.

Restoring E-cadherin Expression by Natural Compounds for Anticancer Therapies in Genital and Urinary Cancers

E-cadherin plays a pivotal role in cancer progression, including the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process and tumor metastasis. Loss of E-cadherin contributes to enhanced invasion and metastasis in human cancers. Therefore, restoring E-cadherin could be a potential approach for cancer therapy. Multiple natural compounds have been shown to possess anti-tumor activities through the regulation of key molecules in signaling pathways, including E-cadherin. In this review, we describe the numerous compounds that restore the expression of E-cadherin in genital and urinary malignancies. We further discuss the potential anti-tumor molecular mechanisms of these agents as the activators of E-cadherin in genital and urinary cancers. Although these compounds exhibit their potential to inhibit the development and progression of cancers, there are several challenges to developing them as therapeutic drugs for cancer patients. Poor bioavailability in vivo is the main disadvantage of these compounds. Modification of compound structures has produced actual improvements in bioavailability. Nanoparticle-based delivery systems could be useful to deliver the agents to targeted organs. These compounds could be new promising therapeutic agents for the treatment of human genital and urinary cancers. Further investigations are required to determine the safety and side effects of natural compounds using animal models prior to clinical trials.

Tanshinone IIA reduces SW837 colorectal cancer cell viability via the promotion of mitochondrial fission by activating JNK-Mff signaling pathways

Background

Mitochondrial homeostasis has been increasingly viewed as a potential target of cancer therapy, and mitochondrial fission is a novel regulator of mitochondrial function and apoptosis. The aim of our study was to determine the detailed role of mitochondrial fission in SW837 colorectal cancer cell viability, mobility and proliferation. In addition, the current study also investigated the therapeutic impact of Tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA), a type of anticancer adjuvant drug, on cancer mitochondrial homeostasis.

Results

The results of our data illustrated that Tan IIA promoted SW837 cell death, impaired cell migration and mediated cancer proliferation arrest in a dose-dependent manner. Functional investigation exhibited that Tan IIA treatment evoked mitochondrial injury, as witnessed by mitochondrial ROS overproduction, mitochondrial potential collapse, antioxidant factor downregulation, mitochondrial pro-apoptotic protein upregulation, and caspase-9-dependent apoptotic pathway activation. Furthermore, we confirmed that Tan IIA mediated mitochondrial damage by activating mitochondrial fission, and the inhibition of mitochondrial fission abrogated the proapoptotic effects of Tan IIA on SW837 cells. To this end, our results demonstrated that Tan IIA modulated mitochondrial fission via the JNK-Mff pathways. The blockade of the JNK-Mff axis inhibited Tan IIA-mediated mitochondrial fission and promoted the survival of SW837 cells.

Conclusions

Altogether, our results identified mitochondrial fission as a new potential target to control cancer viability, mobility and proliferation. Furthermore, our findings demonstrate that Tan IIA is an effective drug to treat colorectal cancer by activating JNK-Mff-mitochondrial fission pathways.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12860-018-0174-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

miR-124 regulates STAT3-mediated cell proliferation, migration and apoptosis in bladder cancer

The etiology and pathogenesis of bladder cancer (BCa) is complex. MicroRNA (miRNA) has been implicated in BCa. Targeting of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) by miR-124 to regulate tumorigenesis has been demonstrated in other types of cancer. In the present study, miR-124 levels were downregulated in the BCa T24 cell line and STAT3 was increased in BCa cell lines. Transfection of miR-124 mimics into T24 cells significantly inhibited STAT3 expression. A luciferase assay confirmed that miR-124 directly targeted the STAT3 3'untranslated region to inhibit STAT expression. Knockdown of STAT3 expression led to increased apoptosis of T24 cells and reduced tumor growth in vitro. The results demonstrated the molecular mechanisms and biological functions of the miR-124/STAT3 signal pathway at the cellular level and indicate the potential of miR-124 as a therapeutic target for BCa.

Tanshinone IIA inhibits cell proliferation and tumor growth by downregulating STAT3 in human gastric cancer

Gastric cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-associated deaths worldwide. Research into the underlying mechanisms of gastric cancer is essential for the development of novel therapeutic agents to improve the prognoses of patients with gastric cancer. Tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA) is the pure extract of Danshen root (Salvia miltiorrhiza) and has been report to inhibit the proliferation of gastric cancer cells; however, the intrinsic underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether Tan IIA has a direct anti-cancer effect in gastric cancer cells and determine the underlying mechanisms responsible. The results revealed that Tan IIA effectively inhibits proliferation in three human gastric cancer cell lines (SNU-638, MKN1 and AGS) in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, Tan IIA treatment induced an increase in apoptosis, B-cell lymphoma (Bcl-2)-associated protein X expression and cleaved caspase-3 levels, as well as a decrease in Bcl-2 expression. Treatment with Tan IIA inhibited Furthermore, treatment with Tan IIA significantly inhibited the phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), which may be responsible for the changes in apoptosis gene expression. However, overexpression of STAT3 significantly ameliorated the Tan IIA-induced suppression of cell growth and apoptosis. A nude mouse xenograft model was constructed and the results revealed that intraperitoneal Tan IIA treatment for 28 days significantly inhibited tumor growth and STAT3 activation. The results of the present study suggest that Tan IIA exerts potent anti-cancer activity in gastric cancer cells and this effect is mediated by the downregulation of STAT3 activation.

Tanshinone IIA regulates colorectal cancer apoptosis via attenuation of Parkin‑mediated mitophagy by suppressing AMPK/Skp2 pathways

Mitophagy is important for cancer development. Notably, the role of Parkin‑mediated mitophagy in colorectal cancer (CRC) mortality has not been fully determined. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of Parkin‑mediated mitophagy on CRC apoptosis. In addition, the present study investigated the therapeutic effects of Tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA) on the regulation of CRC cell death via mitophagy. Cellular apoptosis was measured following Tan IIA treatment. In addition, mitophagy activity was evaluated by immunofluorescence and western blotting. The results of the present study revealed that Tan IIA may enhance CRC cell death. In addition, the results demonstrated that Tan IIA enhanced mitochondrial apoptosis, as demonstrated by reduced mitochondrial membrane potential, elevated mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening, and increased oxidative stress, mitochondrial energy disorder and proapoptotic factor expression. Furthermore, the results of the present study demonstrated that Tan IIA induced mitochondrial apoptosis via inhibition of mitophagy. In addition, it was revealed that mitophagy could suppress mitochondrial apoptosis. Functional assays revealed that Tan IIA suppressed the adenosine monophosphate‑activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway, resulting in the inactivation of S‑phase kinase associated protein 2 (Skp2). Furthermore, reduced levels of Skp2 failed to activate Parkin, thus resulting in inhibition of mitophagy. Conversely, reactivation of AMPK and overexpression of Skp2 rescued mitophagy activity and thus attenuated the Tan IIA‑induced apoptosis of CRC cells. In conclusion, the results of the present study demonstrated the beneficial role of mitophagy in CRC cell survival and suggested that Tan IIA may be an effective therapeutic agent, which suppresses mitophagy activity and enhances CRC apoptosis.

Synergistic antitumor effects of tanshinone IIA and sorafenib or its derivative SC-1 in hepatocellular carcinoma cells

Introduction

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common form of hepatic malignancy in the world. We aimed to determine the effect of tanshinone IIA (Tan-IIA) in combination with sorafenib or its derivative SC-1 on cytotoxicity, apoptosis, and metastasis in human HCC cells.

Materials and methods

Cytotoxicity was detected by MTT assay. Apoptosis and sub-G1 populations were analyzed by flow cytometry. Cell migration and invasion were evaluated by Transwell assay. Protein expression was detected by Western blot.

Results

Tan-IIA combined with sorafenib or SC-1 exerted synergistic cytotoxicity in HCC cells. Elevated proportions of sub-G1 and caspase activation were observed in the combinative treatments; in addition, marked inhibition of cell migration and invasion, which could be mediated by the modulation of epithelial–mesenchymal transition was observed. pSTAT3 levels were significantly reduced as well.

Conclusion

A combination therapy using Tan-IIA and sorafenib or SC-1 could be a promising approach to target HCC, and further preclinical investigations are warranted to establish their synergetic advantage.