Resveratrol Action on Lipid Metabolism in Cancer

Multi-modal transcriptomic analysis reveals metabolic dysregulation and immune responses in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a progressive inflammatory condition of the airways, emerges from the complex interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental factors. Notably, its incidence is on the rise, particularly among the elderly demographic. Current research increasingly highlights cellular senescence as a key driver in chronic lung pathologies. Despite this, the detailed mechanisms linking COPD with senescent genomic alterations remain elusive. To address this gap, there is a pressing need for comprehensive bioinformatics methodologies that can elucidate the molecular intricacies of this link. This approach is crucial for advancing our understanding of COPD and its association with cellular aging processes. Utilizing a spectrum of advanced bioinformatics techniques, this research delved into the potential mechanisms linking COPD with aging-related genes, identifying four key genes (EP300, MTOR, NFE2L1, TXN) through machine learning and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) analyses. Subsequently, a precise diagnostic model leveraging an artificial neural network was developed. The study further employed single-cell analysis and molecular docking to investigate senescence-related cell types in COPD tissues, particularly focusing on the interactions between COPD and NFE2L1, thereby enhancing the understanding of COPD's molecular underpinnings. Leveraging artificial neural networks, we developed a robust classification model centered on four genes-EP300, MTOR, NFE2L1, TXN-exhibiting significant predictive capability for COPD and offering novel avenues for its early diagnosis. Furthermore, employing various single-cell analysis techniques, the study intricately unraveled the characteristics of senescence-related cell types in COPD tissues, enriching our understanding of the disease's cellular landscape. This research anticipates offering novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for early COPD intervention, potentially alleviating the disease's impact on individuals and healthcare systems, and contributing to a reduction in global COPD-related mortality. These findings carry significant clinical and public health ramifications, bolstering the foundation for future research and clinical strategies in managing and understanding COPD.

Metabolic Roles of HIF1, c-Myc, and p53 in Glioma Cells

The metabolic reprogramming that promotes tumorigenesis in glioblastoma is induced by dynamic alterations in the hypoxic tumor microenvironment, as well as in transcriptional and signaling networks, which result in changes in global genetic expression. The signaling pathways PI3K/AKT/mTOR and RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK stimulate cell metabolism, either directly or indirectly, by modulating the transcriptional factors p53, HIF1, and c-Myc. The overexpression of HIF1 and c-Myc, master regulators of cellular metabolism, is a key contributor to the synthesis of bioenergetic molecules that mediate glioma cell transformation, proliferation, survival, migration, and invasion by modifying the transcription levels of key gene groups involved in metabolism. Meanwhile, the tumor-suppressing protein p53, which negatively regulates HIF1 and c-Myc, is often lost in glioblastoma. Alterations in this triad of transcriptional factors induce a metabolic shift in glioma cells that allows them to adapt and survive changes such as mutations, hypoxia, acidosis, the presence of reactive oxygen species, and nutrient deprivation, by modulating the activity and expression of signaling molecules, enzymes, metabolites, transporters, and regulators involved in glycolysis and glutamine metabolism, the pentose phosphate cycle, the tricarboxylic acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation, as well as the synthesis and degradation of fatty acids and nucleic acids. This review summarizes our current knowledge on the role of HIF1, c-Myc, and p53 in the genic regulatory network for metabolism in glioma cells, as well as potential therapeutic inhibitors of these factors.

Can Compounds of Natural Origin Be Important in Chemoprevention? Anticancer Properties of Quercetin, Resveratrol, and Curcumin-A Comprehensive Review

Malignant tumors are the second most common cause of death worldwide. More attention is being paid to the link between the body's impaired oxidoreductive balance and cancer incidence. Much attention is being paid to polyphenols derived from plants, as one of their properties is an antioxidant character: the ability to eliminate reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, chelate specific metal ions, modulate signaling pathways affecting inflammation, and raise the level and activity of antioxidant enzymes while lowering those with oxidative effects. The following three compounds, resveratrol, quercetin, and curcumin, are polyphenols modulating multiple molecular targets, or increasing pro-apoptotic protein expression levels and decreasing anti-apoptotic protein expression levels. Experiments conducted in vitro and in vivo on animals and humans suggest using them as chemopreventive agents based on antioxidant properties. The advantage of these natural polyphenols is low toxicity and weak adverse effects at higher doses. However, the compounds discussed are characterized by low bioavailability and solubility, which may make achieving the blood concentrations needed for the desired effect challenging. The solution may lie in derivatives of naturally occurring polyphenols subjected to structural modifications that enhance their beneficial effects or work on implementing new ways of delivering antioxidants that improve their solubility and bioavailability.

Photoactive Poly-L-Lysine gel with resveratrol-magnesium metal polyphenol network: A promising strategy for preventing tracheal anastomotic complications following surgery

Postoperative complications at the anastomosis site following tracheal resection are a prevalent and substantial concern. However, most existing solutions primarily focus on managing symptoms, with limited attention given to proactively preventing the underlying pathological processes. To address this challenge, we conducted a drug screening focusing on clinically-relevant polyphenolic compounds, given the growing interest in polyphenolic compounds for their potential role in tissue repair during wound healing. This screening led to the identification of resveratrol as the most promising candidate for mitigating tracheal complications, as it exhibited the most significant efficacy in enhancing the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) while concurrently suppressing the pivotal fibrosis factor: transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1), showcasing its robust potential in addressing these issues. Building upon this discovery, we further developed an innovative photosensitive poly-L-lysine gel integrated with a resveratrol-magnesium metal polyphenol network (MPN), named Res-Mg/PL-MA. This design allows for the enables sustained release of resveratrol and synergistically enhances the expression of VEGF and also promotes resistance to tensile forces, aided by magnesium ions, in an anastomotic tracheal fistula animal models. Moreover, the combination of resveratrol and poly-L-lysine hydrogel effectively inhibits bacteria, reduces local expression of key inflammatory factors, and induces polarization of macrophages toward an anti-inflammatory phenotype, as well as inhibits TGF-β1, consequently decreasing collagen production levels in an animal model of post-tracheal resection. In summary, our novel Res-Mg/PL-MA hydrogel, through antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and pro-vascularization mechanisms, effectively prevents complications at tracheal anastomosis, offering significant promise for translational applications in patients undergoing tracheal surgeries.

Regulating Cholesterol in Tumorigenesis: A Novel Paradigm for Tumor Nanotherapeutics

During the past decade, "membrane lipid therapy", which involves the regulation of the structure and function of tumor cell plasma membranes, has emerged as a new strategy for cancer treatment. Cholesterol is an important component of the tumor plasma membrane and serves an essential role in tumor initiation and progression. This review elucidates the role of cholesterol in tumorigenesis (including tumor cell proliferation, invasion/metastasis, drug resistance, and immunosuppressive microenvironment) and elaborates on the potential therapeutic targets for tumor treatment by regulating cholesterol. More meaningfully, this review provides an overview of cholesterol-integrated membrane lipid nanotherapeutics for cancer therapy through cholesterol regulation. These strategies include cholesterol biosynthesis interference, cholesterol uptake disruption, cholesterol metabolism regulation, cholesterol depletion, and cholesterol-based combination treatments. In summary, this review demonstrates the tumor nanotherapeutics based on cholesterol regulation, which will provide a reference for the further development of "membrane lipid therapy" for tumors.

Effect of gold-conjugated resveratrol nanoparticles on glioma cells and its underlying mechanism

BACKGROUND

 Glioblastoma is the most aggressive brain tumor with poor prognosis. Although Resveratrol (Rsv) is known to have therapeutic effects on glioma, the effects of gold-conjugated resveratrol nanoparticles (Rsv-AuNPs) on glioma cells are rarely reported.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the effects of Rsv-AuNPs on glioma cells and its underlying mechanism.

METHOD

Human glioma cell line U87 was treated with different concentrations of Rsv-AuNPs. CCK-8, transwell, and wound healing assay were performed to measure the effects of Rsv-AuNPs on cell proliferation, invasion, and migration ability, respectively. Flow cytometry assay was used to detect the effects of Rsv-AuNPs on apoptosis. Changes of protein expressions related to proliferation, invasion, migration, and apoptosis were measured by Western blot assay. In addition, the inhibitory role of Rsv-AuNPs in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway was verified by using PI3K inhibitor LY294002.

RESULTS

Rsv-AuNPs treatment significantly suppressed proliferation, migration, and invasion of U87 cells (all P < 0.05) and increased the apoptosis rate (P < 0.05). The changes of proteins related to proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis were consistent (all P < 0.05). Moreover, Rsv-AuNPs treatment significantly inhibited the phosphorylation of PI3K, AKT and mTOR proteins in U87 cells (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The present study found that Rsv-AuNPs inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of U87 cells and induced apoptosis by inhibiting the activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. In the future, Rsv-AuNPs might be applied to the clinical treatment of glioma through more in-depth animal and clinical research.

Dietary grape seed proanthocyanidin extract supplementation improves antioxidant capacity and lipid metabolism in finishing pigs

Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) plays a significant role in body health, including improving antioxidant capacity and maintaining lipid metabolism stability. However, whether dietary GSPE supplementation can improve lipid metabolism in finishing pigs remains unclear. Here 18 castrated male Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire finishing pigs were randomly divided into three groups with six replicates and one pig per replicate. Pigs were fed a basal diet (control), a basal diet supplemented with 100 mg/kg GSPE, or a basal diet supplemented with 200 mg/kg GSPE for 30 days. Antioxidant analysis showed that dietary 200 mg/kg GSPE supplementation increased glutathione, total antioxidant capacity and glutathione peroxidase levels, and reduced malondialdehyde levels in serum, muscle and liver. Dietary 200 mg/kg GSPE supplementation also upregulated the mRNA and protein levels of nuclear-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Lipid metabolism analysis showed that dietary GSPE supplementation increased serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and reduced serum triglyceride and total cholesterol levels. Besides, GPSE upregulated the mRNA expression of lipolysis- and fatty acid oxidation-related genes downregulated the mRNA expression of lipogenesis-related genes, and activated the AMPK signal in finishing pigs. Together, we provided evidence that dietary GSPE supplementation improved the antioxidant capacity and lipid metabolism in finishing pigs.

Molecular mechanisms of resveratrol as chemo and radiosensitizer in cancer

One of the primary diseases that cause death worldwide is cancer. Cancer cells can be intrinsically resistant or acquire resistance to therapies and drugs used for cancer treatment through multiple mechanisms of action that favor cell survival and proliferation, becoming one of the leading causes of treatment failure against cancer. A promising strategy to overcome chemoresistance and radioresistance is the co-administration of anticancer agents and natural compounds with anticancer properties, such as the polyphenolic compound resveratrol (RSV). RSV has been reported to be able to sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents and radiotherapy, promoting cancer cell death. This review describes the reported molecular mechanisms by which RSV sensitizes tumor cells to radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatment.

Sphingolipid Levels and Signaling via Resveratrol and Antioxidant Actions in Cardiometabolic Risk and Disease

Resveratrol (RSV) is a phenolic compound with strong antioxidant activity, which is generally associated with the beneficial effects of wine on human health. All resveratrol-mediated benefits exerted on different systems and pathophysiological conditions are possible through resveratrol's interactions with different biological targets, along with its involvement in several key cellular pathways affecting cardiometabolic (CM) health. With regard to its role in oxidative stress, RSV exerts its antioxidant activity not only as a free radical scavenger but also by increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes and regulating redox genes, nitric oxide bioavailability and mitochondrial function. Moreover, several studies have demonstrated that some RSV effects are mediated by changes in sphingolipids, a class of biolipids involved in a number of cellular functions (e.g., apoptosis, cell proliferation, oxidative stress and inflammation) that have attracted interest as emerging critical determinants of CM risk and disease. Accordingly, this review aimed to discuss the available data regarding the effects of RSV on sphingolipid metabolism and signaling in CM risk and disease, focusing on oxidative stress/inflammatory-related aspects, and the clinical implications of this relationship.

Inhibitory Potential of Resveratrol in Cancer Metastasis: From Biology to Therapy

Cancer metastasis is a significant challenge in cancer treatment, and most existing drugs are designed to inhibit tumor growth but are often ineffective in treating metastatic cancer, which is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Resveratrol, a polyphenol found in grapes, berries, and peanuts, has shown potential in preclinical studies as an anticancer agent to suppress metastasis. However, despite positive results in preclinical studies, little progress has been made in clinical trials. To develop resveratrol as an effective anticancer agent, it is crucial to understand its cellular processes and signaling pathways in tumor metastasis. This review article evaluates the current state and future development strategies of resveratrol to enhance its potency against cancer metastasis within its therapeutic dose. In addition, we critically evaluate the animal models used in preclinical studies for cancer metastasis and discuss novel techniques to accelerate the translation of resveratrol from bench to bedside. The appropriate selection of animal models is vital in determining whether resveratrol can be further developed as an antimetastatic drug in cancer therapy.

Reactive oxygen species and ovarian diseases: Antioxidant strategies

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are mainly produced in mitochondria and are involved in various physiological activities of the ovary through signaling and are critical for regulating the ovarian cycle. Notably, the imbalance between ROS generation and the antioxidant defense system contributes to the development of ovarian diseases. These contradictory effects have critical implications for potential antioxidant strategies that aim to scavenge excessive ROS. However, much remains to be learned about how ROS causes various ovarian diseases to the application of antioxidant therapy for ovarian diseases. Here, we review the mechanisms of ROS generation and maintenance of homeostasis in the ovary and its associated physiological effects. Additionally, we have highlighted the pathological mechanisms of ROS in ovarian diseases and potential antioxidant strategies for treatment.

Development and Validation of a Prognostic Classifier Based on Lipid Metabolism-Related Genes for Breast Cancer

Background

The changes of lipid metabolism have been implicated in the development of many tumors, but its role in breast invasive carcinoma (BRCA) remains to be fully established. Here, we attempted to ascertain the prognostic value of lipid metabolism-related genes in BRCA.

Methods

We obtained RNA expression data and clinical information for BRCA and normal samples from public databases and downloaded a lipid metabolism-related gene set. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) was applied to identify the potential pathways and functions of Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) related to lipid metabolism. Subsequently, univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were utilized to construct the prognostic gene signature. Functional enrichment analysis of prognostic genes was achieved by the Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Kaplan-Meier analysis, Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves, clinical follow-up results were employed to assess the prognostic potency. Potential compounds targeting prognostic genes were screened by Connectivity Map (CMap) database and a prognostic gene-drug interaction network was constructed using Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD). Furthermore, we separately validated the selected marker genes in BRCA samples and human breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7, MDA-MB-231).

Results

IPA and functional enrichment analysis demonstrated that the 162 lipid metabolism-related DEGs we obtained were involved in many lipid metabolism and BRCA pathological signatures. The prognostic classifier we constructed comprising SDC1 and SORBS1 can serve as an independent prognostic marker for BRCA. CMap filtered 37 potential compounds against prognostic genes, of which 16 compounds could target both two prognostic genes were identified by CTD. The functions of the two prognostic genes in breast cancer cells were verified by cell function experiments.

Conclusion

Within this study, we identified a novel prognostic classifier based on two lipid metabolism-related genes: SDC1 and SORBS1. This result highlighted a new perspective on the metabolic exploration of BRCA.

Antitumor Potential of Immunomodulatory Natural Products

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death globally. Anticancer drugs aim to block tumor growth by killing cancerous cells in order to prevent tumor progression and metastasis. Efficient anticancer drugs should also minimize general toxicity towards organs and healthy cells. Tumor growth can also be successfully restrained by targeting and modulating immune response. Cancer immunotherapy is assuming a growing relevance in the fight against cancer and has recently aroused much interest for its wider safety and the capability to complement conventional chemotherapeutic approaches. Natural products are a traditional source of molecules with relevant potential in the pharmacological field. The huge structural diversity of metabolites with low molecular weight (small molecules) from terrestrial and marine organisms has provided lead compounds for the discovery of many modern anticancer drugs. Many natural products combine chemo-protective and immunomodulant activity, thus offering the potential to be used alone or in association with conventional cancer therapy. In this review, we report the natural products known to possess antitumor properties by interaction with immune system, as well as discuss the possible immunomodulatory mechanisms of these molecules.

Nanoparticles as phytochemical carriers for cancer treatment: News of the last decade

INTRODUCTION

The development and application of novel therapeutic medicines for the treatment of cancer are of vital importance to improve the disease's outcome and survival rate. One noteworthy treatment approach is the use of biologically active compounds present in natural products. Even though these phytocompounds present anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties, their use is limited essentially due to poor systemic delivery, low bioavailability, and water solubility concerns. To make full use of the anticancer potential of natural products, these limitations need to be technologically addressed. In this sense, nanotechnology emerges as a promising drug delivery system strategy.

AREAS COVERED

In this review, the benefits and potential of nanodelivery systems for natural products encapsulation as promising therapeutic approaches for cancer, which were developed during the last decade, are highlighted.

EXPERT OPINION

The nanotechnology area has been under extensive research in the medical field given its capacity for improving the therapeutic potential of drugs by increasing their bioavailability and allowing a targeted delivery to the tumor site. Thereby, the nanoencapsulation of phytocompounds can have a direct impact on the recognized therapeutic activity of natural products towards cancer.

Differential in vitro anti-leukemic activity of resveratrol combined with serine palmitoyltransferase inhibitor myriocin in FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3-internal tandem duplication (FLT3-ITD) carrying AML cells

Treatment of FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3)-internal tandem duplication (ITD) AML is restricted due to toxicity, drug resistance and relapse eventhough targeted therapies are clinically available. Resveratrol with its multi-targeted nature is a promising chemopreventive remaining limitedly studied in FLT3-ITD AML regarding to ceramide metabolism. Here, its cytotoxic, cytostatic and apoptotic effects are investigated in combination with serine palmitoyltransferase (SPT), the first enzyme of de novo pathway of ceramide production, inhibitor myriocin on MOLM-13 and MV4-11 cells. We assessed dose-dependent cell viability, flow cytometric cell death and cell cycle profiles of resveratrol in combination with myriocin by MTT assay, annexin-V/PI staining and PI staining respectively. Resveratrol's dose-dependent effect on SPT protein expression was also checked by western blot. Resveratrol decreased cell viability in a dose- dependent manner whereas myriocin did not affect cell proliferation effectively in both cell lines after 48h treatments. Although resveratrol induced both apoptosis and a significant S phase arrest in MV4-11 cells, it triggered apoptosis and non-significant S phase accumulation in MOLM-13 cells. Co-administrations reduced cell viability. Increased cytotoxic effect of co-treatments was further proved mechanistically through induction of apoptosis via phosphatidylserine relocalization. The cell cycle alteration in co-treatment was significant with an S phase arrest in MV4-11 cells, however, it was not effective on cell cycle progression of MOLM-13 cells. Resveratrol also increased SPT expression. Overall, modulation of SPT together with resveratrol might be the possible explanation for resveratrol's action. It could be an integrative medicine for FLT3-ITD AML after investigating its detailed mechanism of action in relation to de novo pathway of ceramide production.

Modulation of lncRNA H19 enhances resveratrol-inhibited cancer cell proliferation and migration by regulating endoplasmic reticulum stress

The phytoalexin resveratrol exhibits anti-tumour activity in many types of cancer. In this study, we showed that resveratrol suppressed the survival of gastric tumour cells both in vivo and in vitro. Resveratrol promoted apoptosis, autophagy and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in a dose-dependent manner. RNA-seq analysis showed that multiple cell death signalling pathways were activated after resveratrol treatment, while the use of ER stress activators (tunicamycin and thapsigargin) in combinatorial with resveratrol led to further inhibition of cancer cell survival. Results also showed that resveratrol altered the expression of several long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), including MEG3, PTTG3P, GAS5, BISPR, MALAT1 and H19. Knockdown of H19 in resveratrol-treated cells further enhanced the effects of resveratrol on apoptosis, ER stress and cell cycle S-phase arrest. Furthermore, the migratory ability of resveratrol-treated cells was dramatically decreased after H19 knockdown. In conclusion, resveratrol inhibited cancer cell survival, while knockdown of lncRNA H19 resulted in increased sensitivity to resveratrol therapy.

Resveratrol and its nanocrystals: A promising approach for cancer therapy?

There has been a significant research interest in nanocrystals as a promising technology for improving the therapeutic efficacy of poorly water-soluble drugs, such as resveratrol. Little is known about the interaction of nanocrystals with biological tissue. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential use of resveratrol (RSV) and its nanocrystals (NANO-RSV) as antitumor agents in Ehrlich ascites tumour (EAT)-bearing mice and the interaction of nanocrystals with biological tissue through biochemical and histological changes of kidney, liver and EAT cells. After intraperitoneal injection of 2.5 × 10⁶ cells into the abdominal cavity of mice, treatment of animals was started next day by injecting RSV or NANO-RSV at a dose of either 25 or 50 mg/kg every other day for 14 days. The results show that the administration of resveratrol and its nanocrystals lead to significant reductions in the proliferation of tumour cells in the abdominal cavity, and a reduction of the number of blood vessels in the peritoneum, with low systemic toxicity. In histopathological examinations, greater hepatocellular necrosis and apoptosis, hepatic fibrosis around the central vein and degeneration with minor fatty change were observed with RSV than with NANO-RSV. Inflammation with proximal tubular necrosis and renal glomerulus swelling were also observed, together with slight elevation of several biochemical parameters in both the RSV and NANO-RSV groups. In order to increase the beneficial effects and reduce risks associated with resveratrol nanocrystals, additional factors such as dose, genetic factors, health status, and the nature of the target cells should also be considered.

Targeting AMPK Signaling by Dietary Polyphenols in Cancer Prevention

Cancer is a serious public health problem in the world and a major disease affecting human health. Dietary polyphenols have shown good potential in the treatment of various cancers. It is worth noting that cancer cells usually exhibit metabolic abnormalities of high glucose intake and inefficient utilization. AMPK is the key molecule in the regulation of energy metabolism and is closely related with obesity and diabetes. Recent studies indicate that AMPK also plays an important role in cancer prevention and regulating cancer-related genes and pathways, and dietary polyphenols can significantly regulate AMPK activity. In this review, the progress of dietary polyphenols preventing carcinogenesis via AMPK pathway is systemically summarized. From the viewpoint of interfering energy metabolism, the anti-cancer effects of dietary polyphenols are explained. AMPK pathway modulated by different dietary polyphenols affects pathways and target genes are summarized. Dietary polyphenols exert anti-cancer effect through the target molecules regulated by AMPK, which broadens the understanding of polyphenols anti-cancer mechanisms and provides value reference for the investigators of the novel field.

Antimutagenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative activities of the juice of Vitis ficifolia var. Ganebu, a woody vine in the grape family, known as Ryukyu-ganebu in Japan

Background

Mutation, inflammation, and oxidative damage including lipid-peroxidation are factors involved in the development of cancer. We investigated the antimutagenic, in vivo and in vitro anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative effects of the juice of Vitis ficifolia var. ganebu (known as Ryukyu-ganebu in Japan) harvested in Kuchinoshima island (hereafter, the juice is referred to as ganebu-K) in comparison with the juice of Vitis coignetiae (crimson glory vine, known as yamabudo in Japan; hereafter, the juice is referred to as yamabudo) which we found antimutagenic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Results

Ganebu-K inhibited the mutagenic activity of several carcinogens, MeIQx, IQ, Trp-P-2(NHOH), and MNNG, model compounds of tumor initiation. Using S. typhimurium YG7108, a strain lacking O⁶-methylguanine DNA methyltransferases, ganebu-K showed no significant inhibition of the mutagenicity of MNNG. Thus, DNA repair of O⁶-methylguanine produced by MNNG might be an antimutagenic target of the components in ganebu-K. Topical application of ganebu-K to the dorsal sides of mice resulted in potent suppression of acute edema induced by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA). Ganebu-K, but not yamabudo, exhibited significant inhibition of the induction of prostaglandin E₂ (PGE2) induced by TPA. Components contained in ganebu-K, but not in yamabudo, might be responsible for the inhibition of the induction of PGE2. Ganebu-K inhibited in vivo lipid peroxidation and decreased the level of glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase induced by CCL₄ treatment.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the active components in ganebu-K juice are not the same as those in yamabudo, and the components in ganebu-K are attractive candidates as chemopreventive agents.

A Systematic Review of the Potential Chemoprotective Effects of Resveratrol on Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity: Focus on the Antioxidant, Antiapoptotic, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities

PURPOSE

Although doxorubicin chemotherapeutic drug is commonly used to treat various solid and hematological tumors, its clinical use is restricted because of its adverse effects on the normal cells/tissues, especially cardiotoxicity. The use of resveratrol may mitigate the doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxic effects. For this aim, we systematically reviewed the potential chemoprotective effects of resveratrol against the doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity.

METHODS

In the current study, a systematic search was performed based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guideline for the identification of all relevant studies on "the role of resveratrol on doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity" in the electronic databases of Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus up to March 2021 using search terms in their titles and abstracts. Two hundred and eighteen articles were screened in accordance with a predefined set of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Finally, 33 eligible articles were included in this systematic review.

RESULTS

The in vitro and in vivo findings demonstrated a decreased cell survival, increased mortality, decreased heart weight, and increased ascites in the doxorubicin-treated groups compared to the control groups. The combined treatment of resveratrol and doxorubicin showed an opposite pattern than the doxorubicin-treated groups alone. Furthermore, this chemotherapeutic agent induced the biochemical and histopathological changes on the cardiac cells/tissue; however, the results (for most of the cases) revealed that these alterations induced by doxorubicin were reversed near to normal levels (control groups) by resveratrol coadministration.

CONCLUSION

The results of this systematic review stated that coadministration of resveratrol alleviates the doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. Resveratrol exerts these chemoprotective effects through several main mechanisms of antioxidant, antiapoptosis, and anti-inflammatory.

Therapeutic potentials of resveratrol in combination with radiotherapy and chemotherapy during glioblastoma treatment: a mechanistic review

Glioblastoma, WHO grade IV astrocytoma, is the most aggressive type of brain tumors. These cancerous cells have a rapid growth rate, tendency to penetrate vital brain structures, molecular heterogeneity, etc. and this cancer is associated with a poor prognosis and low survival rate. Due to the resistance of glioblastoma cells to conventional therapeutic modalities (such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy) as well as the adverse effects of these modalities, the researchers have attempted to discover an appropriate alternative or adjuvant treatment for glioblastoma. Resveratrol, as an herbal and natural polyphenolic compound, has anti-tumoral property and has shown to be effective in GBM treatment. Resveratrol exerts its anti-tumoral effect through various mechanisms such as regulation of cell cycle progression and cell proliferation, autophagy, oxidant system, apoptosis pathways, and so on. Resveratrol in combination with radiation therapy and chemotherapy has also been used. In the present study, we summarized the current findings on therapeutic potentials of resveratrol in glioblastoma radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Phytochemical Targeting of STAT3 Orchestrated Lipid Metabolism in Therapy-Resistant Cancers

Lipids are critical for maintaining homeostasis and cellular metabolism. However, the dysregulation of lipid metabolism contributes to the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory diseases and is a hallmark of several cancer types. Tumours exist in a microenvironment of poor vascularization-depleted oxygen and restricted nutrients. Under these conditions, tumours have been shown to increasingly depend on the metabolism of fatty acids for sustained proliferation and survival. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) plays a key role in cellular processes such as cell growth, apoptosis and lipid metabolism. Aberrant STAT3 activity, as seen in several cancer types, is associated with tumour progression and malignancy, in addition to propagating crosstalk between tumour cells and the microenvironment. Furthermore, STAT3-regulated lipid metabolism is critical for cancer stem cell self-renewal and therapy resistance. Plant-derived compounds known as phytochemicals are a potential source for novel cancer therapeutic drugs. Dietary phytochemicals are known to modulate key cellular signalling pathways involved in lipid homeostasis and metabolism, including the STAT3 signalling pathways. Targeting STAT3 orchestrated lipid metabolism has shown therapeutic promise in human cancer models. In this review, we summarize the antitumour activity of phytochemicals with an emphasis placed on their effect on STAT3-regulated lipid metabolism and their role in abrogating therapy resistance.

Natural Products as Modulators of Sirtuins

Natural products have been used for the treatment of human diseases since ancient history. Over time, due to the lack of precise tools and techniques for the separation, purification, and structural elucidation of active constituents in natural resources there has been a decline in financial support and efforts in characterization of natural products. Advances in the design of chemical compounds and the understanding of their functions is of pharmacological importance for the biomedical field. However, natural products regained attention as sources of novel drug candidates upon recent developments and progress in technology. Natural compounds were shown to bear an inherent ability to bind to biomacromolecules and cover an unparalleled chemical space in comparison to most libraries used for high-throughput screening. Thus, natural products hold a great potential for the drug discovery of new scaffolds for therapeutic targets such as sirtuins. Sirtuins are Class III histone deacetylases that have been linked to many diseases such as Parkinson`s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, type II diabetes, and cancer linked to aging. In this review, we examine the revitalization of interest in natural products for drug discovery and discuss natural product modulators of sirtuins that could serve as a starting point for the development of isoform selective and highly potent drug-like compounds, as well as the potential application of naturally occurring sirtuin inhibitors in human health and those in clinical trials.

Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines in Postoperative Abdominal Adhesion

Adhesion is a frequent complication after abdominal surgery. Although various methods have been applied to prevent and treat postoperative abdominal adhesion (PAA), few modern drugs designed for clinical applications have reached the expected preventive or therapeutic effect so far. There is an imperative to develop some new strategies for the treatment of PAA. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been widely practiced for thousands of years and played an indispensable role in the prevention and treatment of diseases. Modern medicine researchers have accepted the therapeutic effects of many active components derived from Chinese medicinal herbs. The review stresses the most commonly used TCM treatment, including Chinese medicinal herbals and monomers, TCM formulas, and acupuncture treatment.

Phytochemicals modulate cancer aggressiveness: A review depicting the anticancer efficacy of dietary polyphenols and their combinations

Cancer is referred to as the "Emperor of all maladies" accounting for the second-highest mortality rates worldwide. Major factors associated with cancer lethality are uncontrolled proliferation, metastasis, and frequent recurrence. The conventional therapeutic drugs used in cancer therapy have been associated with numerous damaging side-effects that call for the use of alternative therapeutic options. The natural plant compounds (NPCs) have been found to be effective against diverse groups of diseases including cancer. Among the different types, the polyphenolic phytochemicals like curcumin, (-)epigallocatechin-3-gallate, Resveratrol, and nimbolide which are predominant parts of daily dietary intake have proved their potency in reducing the aggressive properties of cancer. Here, we have highlighted the mechanisms through which these NPCs influence growth, metastatic potential, and the drug-resistant behavior of different cancer types. Moreover, we have also emphasized on their function as modulators of the immune system as well as the metabolic properties of the tumor. The role of these phytochemicals in reducing cancer progression has been highlighted when administered unaided or in combination with similar group of compounds. Moreover, their ability to enhance the drug-sensitivity of cancer cells which accounts for their use in combination with conventional chemotherapeutics has also been discussed in this article. Therefore, co-administration of these phytochemicals with chemically similar group members or with conventional chemotherapeutics may prove to be an effective treatment strategy for cancer.

Therapeutic potential of PPARγ natural agonists in liver diseases

Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) is a vital subtype of the PPAR family. The biological functions are complex and diverse. PPARγ plays a significant role in protecting the liver from inflammation, oxidation, fibrosis, fatty liver and tumours. Natural products are a promising pool for drug discovery, and enormous research effort has been invested in exploring the PPARγ‐activating potential of natural products. In this manuscript, we will review the research progress of PPARγ agonists from natural products in recent years and probe into the application potential and prospects of PPARγ natural agonists in the therapy of various liver diseases, including inflammation, hepatic fibrosis, non‐alcoholic fatty liver and liver cancer.

The Plant-Derived Compound Resveratrol in Brain Cancer: A Review

Despite intensive research, malignant brain tumors are among the most difficult to treat due to high resistance to conventional therapeutic approaches. High-grade malignant gliomas, including glioblastoma and anaplastic astrocytoma, are among the most devastating and rapidly growing cancers. Despite the ability of standard treatment agents to achieve therapeutic concentrations in the brain, malignant gliomas are often resistant to alkylating agents. Resveratrol is a plant polyphenol occurring in nuts, berries, grapes, and red wine. Resveratrol crosses the blood‒brain barrier and may influence the central nervous system. Moreover, it influences the enzyme isocitrate dehydrogenase and, more importantly, the resistance to standard treatment via various mechanisms, such as O6-methylguanine methyltransferase. This review summarizes the anticancer effects of resveratrol in various types of brain cancer. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have presented promising results; however, further clinical research is necessary to prove the therapeutic efficacy of resveratrol in brain cancer treatment.

Resveratrol Inhibits the Tumorigenesis of Follicular Thyroid Cancer via ST6GAL2-Regulated Activation of the Hippo Signaling Pathway

Follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) is a common endocrine malignancy with highly aggressive features. In this study, next-generation sequencing technology was used to identify aberrant expression of sialyltransferase (ST) family members in FTC. Aberrant high expression of alpha-2,6-sialyltransferase 2 (ST6GAL2) was demonstrated to promote tumorigenesis of FTC in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, ST6GAL2 promoted tumorigenesis by inactivating the Hippo signaling pathway. Resveratrol is a native compound extracted from Vitis species, and many studies have confirmed its protective cardiovascular and antineoplastic effects. Here we found that resveratrol can inhibit the tumorigenesis of FTC by suppressing the expression of ST6GAL2, further activating the Hippo pathway. In summary, this study revealed the role of the ST6GAL2-Hippo signaling pathway in FTC tumorigenesis and indicated that resveratrol, a commonly found antineoplastic compound, could inhibit tumorigenesis of FTC by regulating the abovementioned pathways.