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Martínez-Campa C, Álvarez-García V, Alonso-González C, González A, Cos S. Melatonin and Its Role in the Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:956. [PMID: 38473317 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16050956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a cell-biological program that occurs during the progression of several physiological processes and that can also take place during pathological situations such as carcinogenesis. The EMT program consists of the sequential activation of a number of intracellular signaling pathways aimed at driving epithelial cells toward the acquisition of a series of intermediate phenotypic states arrayed along the epithelial-mesenchymal axis. These phenotypic features include changes in the motility, conformation, polarity and functionality of cancer cells, ultimately leading cells to stemness, increased invasiveness, chemo- and radioresistance and the formation of cancer metastasis. Amongst the different existing types of the EMT, type 3 is directly involved in carcinogenesis. A type 3 EMT occurs in neoplastic cells that have previously acquired genetic and epigenetic alterations, specifically affecting genes involved in promoting clonal outgrowth and invasion. Markers such as E-cadherin; N-cadherin; vimentin; and transcription factors (TFs) like Twist, Snail and ZEB are considered key molecules in the transition. The EMT process is also regulated by microRNA expression. Many miRNAs have been reported to repress EMT-TFs. Thus, Snail 1 is repressed by miR-29, miR-30a and miR-34a; miR-200b downregulates Slug; and ZEB1 and ZEB2 are repressed by miR-200 and miR-205, respectively. Occasionally, some microRNA target genes act downstream of the EMT master TFs; thus, Twist1 upregulates the levels of miR-10b. Melatonin is an endogenously produced hormone released mainly by the pineal gland. It is widely accepted that melatonin exerts oncostatic actions in a large variety of tumors, inhibiting the initiation, progression and invasion phases of tumorigenesis. The molecular mechanisms underlying these inhibitory actions are complex and involve a great number of processes. In this review, we will focus our attention on the ability of melatonin to regulate some key EMT-related markers, transcription factors and micro-RNAs, summarizing the multiple ways by which this hormone can regulate the EMT. Since melatonin has no known toxic side effects and is also known to help overcome drug resistance, it is a good candidate to be considered as an adjuvant drug to conventional cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Martínez-Campa
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Cantabria and Instituto de Investigación Valdecilla (IDIVAL), 39011 Santander, Spain
| | - Virginia Álvarez-García
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Cantabria and Instituto de Investigación Valdecilla (IDIVAL), 39011 Santander, Spain
| | - Carolina Alonso-González
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Cantabria and Instituto de Investigación Valdecilla (IDIVAL), 39011 Santander, Spain
| | - Alicia González
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Cantabria and Instituto de Investigación Valdecilla (IDIVAL), 39011 Santander, Spain
| | - Samuel Cos
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Cantabria and Instituto de Investigación Valdecilla (IDIVAL), 39011 Santander, Spain
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Qi Q, Yang J, Li S, Liu J, Xu D, Wang G, Feng L, Pan X. Melatonin alleviates oxidative stress damage in mouse testes induced by bisphenol A. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1338828. [PMID: 38440074 PMCID: PMC10910031 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1338828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
We investigated the effect of melatonin on bisphenol A (BPA)-induced oxidative stress damage in testicular tissue and Leydig cells. Mice were gavaged with 50 mg/kg BPA for 30 days, and concurrently, were injected with melatonin (10 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg). Leydig cells were treated with 10 μmol/L of BPA and melatonin. The morphology and organ index of the testis and epididymis were observed and calculated. The sperm viability and density were determined. The expressions of melatonin receptor 1A and luteinizing hormone receptor, and the levels of malonaldehyde, antioxidant enzymes, glutathione, steroid hormone synthases, aromatase, luteinizing hormone, testosterone, and estradiol were measured. TUNEL assay was utilized to detect testicular cell apoptosis. The administration of melatonin at 20 mg/kg significantly improved the testicular index and epididymis index in mice treated with BPA. Additionally, melatonin promoted the development of seminiferous tubules in the testes. Furthermore, the treatment with 20 mg/kg melatonin significantly increased sperm viability and sperm density in mice, while also promoting the expressions of melatonin receptor 1A and luteinizing hormone receptor in Leydig cells of BPA-treated mice. Significantly, melatonin reduced the level of malonaldehyde in testicular tissue and increased the expression of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase 1, superoxide dismutase 2, and catalase) as well as the content of glutathione. Moreover, melatonin also reduced the number of apoptotic Leydig cells and spermatogonia, aromatase expression, and estradiol level, while increasing the expression of steroid hormone synthases (steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, cytochrome P450 family 17a1, cytochrome P450 17α-hydroxylase/20-lyase, and, 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase) and the level of testosterone. Melatonin exhibited significant potential in alleviating testicular oxidative stress damage caused by BPA. These beneficial effects may be attributed to melatonin's ability to enhance the antioxidant capacity of testicular tissue, promote testosterone synthesis, and reduce testicular cell apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Qi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
- School of Medical Technology, Beihua University, Jilin, China
| | - Jiaxin Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
| | - Shuang Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
- School of Medical Technology, Beihua University, Jilin, China
| | - Jingjing Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
- School of Medical Technology, Beihua University, Jilin, China
| | - Da Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
| | - Guoqing Wang
- School of Medical Technology, Beihua University, Jilin, China
| | - Lei Feng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
| | - Xiaoyan Pan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
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Hassan AA, Abdelgayed SS, Mansour SZ. Liver and ovarian toxicities boosted by bisphenol and gamma radiation in female albino rats. Hum Exp Toxicol 2024; 43:9603271231219264. [PMID: 38263794 DOI: 10.1177/09603271231219264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA), a carbon-based synthetic polymer compound, was newly classified as an environmental toxicant and an endocrine-disrupting chemical leading to abnormalities in cell proliferation, apoptosis, or migration that contributes to cancer development and progression. This study aims to evaluate the effect of the elevation of γ- radiation dose and BPA on the liver and ovaries of female rats. In this study, eighty female albino rats (130-150 g) were used in this work. Rats in this experiment received BPA in ethanol (50 mg/kg b. wt.) for 30 days, day after day, and in the irradiated groups, animals were administered BPA and then exposed to γ- radiation in doses (2, 4, and 6 Gy) one shot dose. Several members of the cytochrome family were examined. Exposure to γ-radiation and BPA showed an increase in cytochrome P450 and b5 fold change. Further, BPA and γ-radiation activate α and β estrogen receptors and also downregulate aromatase (CYT19) fold change. The current results also revealed that BPA and/or γ-radiation regulate the protein expression of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. The steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) appeared to be targeted by BPA and γ-radiation and its relative expression was elevated significantly by raising the γ-radiation dose. In conclusion, exposure to BPA, an endocrine-disrupting chemical, leads to marked toxicity. Additionally, toxicity is heightened by increasing the γ-radiation dose, either alone or in combination with BPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa A Hassan
- Radiation Biology Department, National Centre for Radiation Research and Technology, Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sherein S Abdelgayed
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Somaya Z Mansour
- Radiation Biology Department, National Centre for Radiation Research and Technology, Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
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Peng X, Wang J, Li Z, Jia X, Zhang A, Ju J, Eulenburg V, Gao F. Toll-like Receptor 2-Melatonin Feedback Loop Regulates the Activation of Spinal NLRP3 Inflammasome in Morphine-Tolerant Rats. Neurochem Res 2023; 48:3597-3609. [PMID: 37561258 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-023-03998-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Morphine is amongst the most effective analgesics available for the management of severe pain. However, prolonged morphine treatment leads to analgesic tolerance which limits its clinical usage. Previous studies have demonstrated that melatonin ameliorates morphine tolerance by reducing neuroinflammation. However, little is known about the relationship between Toll like receptor 2 (TLR2) and neuroinflammation in morphine tolerance. The aim of this study was to explore the role of TLR2 in morphine tolerance and its connections with melatonin and Nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome. METHODS Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with morphine for 7 days and tail-flick latency test was performed to identify the induction of analgesic tolerance. The roles of TLR2 in microglia activation and morphine tolerance were assessed pharmacologically, and the possible interactions between melatonin, TLR2 and NLRP3 inflammasome were investigated. KEY RESULTS Morphine tolerance was accompanied by increased TLR2 expression and NLRP3 inflammasome activation in spinal cord. whereas melatonin level was down-regulated. Chronic melatonin administration resulted in a reduced TLR2 expression and NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Moreover, the analgesic effect of morphine was partially restored. Inhibition of TLR2 suppressed the microglia and NLRP3 inflammasome activation, as well as restored the spinal melatonin level while attenuated the development of morphine tolerance. Furthermore, the inhibition of microglia activation ameliorated morphine tolerance via inhibiting TLR2-NLRP3 inflammasome signaling in spinal cord. CONCLUSION In this study, we directly demonstrate a TLR2-melatonin negative feedback loop regulating microglia and NLRP3 inflammasome activation during the development of morphine tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Peng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, and Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jihong Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, and Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, and Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Xiaoqian Jia
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, and Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Anqi Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, and Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jie Ju
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, and Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Volker Eulenburg
- Department for Translational Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Medical Faculty University of Augsburg, 86156, Augsburg, Germany.
| | - Feng Gao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, and Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Hekmatirad S, Moloudizargari M, Fallah M, Rahimi A, Poortahmasebi V, Asghari MH. Cancer-associated immune cells and their modulation by melatonin. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2023; 45:788-801. [PMID: 37489565 DOI: 10.1080/08923973.2023.2239489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Rapidly growing evidence suggests that immune cells play a key role in determining tumor progression. Tumor cells are surrounded by a microenvironment composed of different cell populations including immune cells. The cross talk between tumor cells and the neighboring microenvironment is an important factor to take into account while designing tumor therapies. Despite significant advances in immunotherapy strategies, a relatively small proportion of patients have successfully responded to them. Therefore, the search for safe and efficient drugs, which could be used alongside conventional therapies to boost the immune system against tumors, is an ongoing need. In the present work, the modulatory effects of melatonin on different components of tumor immune microenvironment are reviewed. METHODS A thorough literature review was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. All published papers in English on tumor immune microenvironment and the relevant modulatory effects of melatonin were scrutinized. RESULTS Melatonin modulates macrophage polarization and prevents M2 induction. Moreover, it prevents the conversion of fibroblasts into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and prevents cancer cell stemness. In addition, it can affect the payload composition of tumor-derived exosomes (TEXs) and their secretion levels to favor a more effective anti-tumor immune response. Melatonin is a safe molecule that affects almost all components of the tumor immune microenvironment and prevents them from being negatively affected by the tumor. CONCLUSION Based on the effects of melatonin on normal cells, tumor cells and microenvironment components, it could be an efficient compound to be used in combination with conventional immune-targeted therapies to increase their efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirin Hekmatirad
- Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Marjan Fallah
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medicinal Plant Research Centre, Islamic Azad University, Amol, Iran
| | - Atena Rahimi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Vahdat Poortahmasebi
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Asghari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
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Gao W, Li R, Ye M, Zhang L, Zheng J, Yang Y, Wei X, Zhao Q. The circadian clock has roles in mesenchymal stem cell fate decision. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:200. [PMID: 35578353 PMCID: PMC9109355 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02878-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The circadian clock refers to the intrinsic biological rhythms of physiological functions and behaviours. It synergises with the solar cycle and has profound effects on normal metabolism and organismal fitness. Recent studies have suggested that the circadian clock exerts great influence on the differentiation of stem cells. Here, we focus on the close relationship between the circadian clock and mesenchymal stem cell fate decisions in the skeletal system. The underlying mechanisms include hormone signals and the activation and repression of different transcription factors under circadian regulation. Additionally, the clock interacts with epigenetic modifiers and non-coding RNAs and is even involved in chromatin remodelling. Although the specificity and safety of circadian therapy need to be further studied, the circadian regulation of stem cells can be regarded as a promising candidate for health improvement and disease prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenzhen Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Rong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Meilin Ye
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Oral Tissue Regeneration & Shandong Engineering Laboratory for Dental Materials and Oral Tissue Regeneration, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Lanxin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jiawen Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yuqing Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Qing Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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Nijakowski K, Surdacki M, Sobieszczańska M. Salivary Melatonin Changes in Oncological Patients: A Systematic Review. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12050439. [PMID: 35629943 PMCID: PMC9147810 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12050439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is known as a regulator of circadian sleep and waking rhythm. This hormone secreted by the pineal gland also has protective, oncostatic, and antioxidant properties. This systematic review was designed to answer the question “Is there a relationship between salivary melatonin changes and oncological diseases?”. Following the inclusion and exclusion criteria, ten studies were included, according to PRISMA statement guidelines. In all included studies, the diagnostic material was unstimulated whole saliva, in which the melatonin changes were determined by different laboratory methods. Most studies concerned changes in melatonin levels in patients with brain tumours due to a direct effect on the circadian rhythm centres. Other studies focused on disorders of melatonin secretion and its inclusion as a diagnostic marker in patients with prostate cancer and oral squamous cell carcinoma. The association between melatonin changes and sleep quality and chronotype in patients with newly diagnosed lung cancer and lymphoma survivors was also investigated. In conclusion, our systematic review may suggest trends for melatonin secretion alterations in oncological patients. However, due to the significant heterogeneity of the included reports, it is not possible to clearly determine a link between changes in salivary melatonin levels and the oncological diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kacper Nijakowski
- Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-812 Poznan, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Michał Surdacki
- Student Research Group of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Department of Clinical Geriatrics, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-369 Wroclaw, Poland;
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Alonso-González C, González-Abalde C, Menéndez-Menéndez J, González-González A, Álvarez-García V, González-Cabeza A, Martínez-Campa C, Cos S. Melatonin Modulation of Radiation-Induced Molecular Changes in MCF-7 Human Breast Cancer Cells. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10051088. [PMID: 35625825 PMCID: PMC9138876 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10051088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiation therapy is an important component of cancer treatment scheduled for cancer patients, although it can cause numerous deleterious effects. The use of adjuvant molecules aims to limit the damage in normal surrounding tissues and enhance the effects of radiation therapy, either killing tumor cells or slowing down their growth. Melatonin, an indoleamine released by the pineal gland, behaves as a radiosensitizer in breast cancer, since it enhances the therapeutic effects of ionizing radiation and mitigates side effects on normal cells. However, the molecular mechanisms through which melatonin modulates the molecular changes triggered by radiotherapy remain mostly unknown. Here, we report that melatonin potentiated the anti-proliferative effect of radiation in MCF-7 cells. Treatment with ionizing radiation induced changes in the expression of many genes. Out of a total of 25 genes altered by radiation, melatonin potentiated changes in 13 of them, whereas the effect was reverted in another 10 cases. Among them, melatonin elevated the levels of PTEN and NME1, and decreased the levels of SNAI2, ERBB2, AKT, SERPINE1, SFN, PLAU, ATM and N3RC1. We also analyzed the expression of several microRNAs and found that melatonin enhanced the effect of radiation on the levels of miR-20a, miR-19a, miR-93, miR-20b and miR-29a. Rather surprisingly, radiation induced miR-17, miR-141 and miR-15a but melatonin treatment prior to radiation counteracted this stimulatory effect. Radiation alone enhanced the expression of the cancer suppressor miR-34a, and melatonin strongly stimulated this effect. Melatonin further enhanced the radiation-mediated inhibition of Akt. Finally, in an in vivo assay, melatonin restrained new vascularization in combination with ionizing radiation. Our results confirm that melatonin blocks many of the undesirable effects of ionizing radiation in MCF-7 cells and enhances changes that lead to optimized treatment results. This article highlights the effectiveness of melatonin as both a radiosensitizer and a radioprotector in breast cancer. Melatonin is an effective adjuvant molecule to radiotherapy, promoting anti-cancer therapeutic effects in cancer treatment. Melatonin modulates molecular pathways altered by radiation, and its use in clinic might lead to improved therapeutic outcomes by enhancing the sensitivity of cancerous cells to radiation and, in general, reversing their resistance toward currently applied therapeutic modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Alonso-González
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Cantabria and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Valdecilla (IDIVAL), 39011 Santander, Spain; (C.A.-G.); (C.G.-A.); (J.M.-M.); (V.Á.-G.); (S.C.)
| | - Cristina González-Abalde
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Cantabria and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Valdecilla (IDIVAL), 39011 Santander, Spain; (C.A.-G.); (C.G.-A.); (J.M.-M.); (V.Á.-G.); (S.C.)
| | - Javier Menéndez-Menéndez
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Cantabria and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Valdecilla (IDIVAL), 39011 Santander, Spain; (C.A.-G.); (C.G.-A.); (J.M.-M.); (V.Á.-G.); (S.C.)
| | - Alicia González-González
- Unidad de Gestión Clínica Intercentros de Oncología Médica, Hospitales Universitarios Regional y Virgen de la Victoria and Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA)-CIMES-UMA, 29010 Málaga, Spain;
| | - Virginia Álvarez-García
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Cantabria and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Valdecilla (IDIVAL), 39011 Santander, Spain; (C.A.-G.); (C.G.-A.); (J.M.-M.); (V.Á.-G.); (S.C.)
| | - Alicia González-Cabeza
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Cantabria and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Valdecilla (IDIVAL), 39011 Santander, Spain; (C.A.-G.); (C.G.-A.); (J.M.-M.); (V.Á.-G.); (S.C.)
- Correspondence: (A.G.-C.); (C.M.-C.); Tel.: +34-942-201965 (A.G.-C.); +34-942-201963 (C.M.-C.)
| | - Carlos Martínez-Campa
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Cantabria and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Valdecilla (IDIVAL), 39011 Santander, Spain; (C.A.-G.); (C.G.-A.); (J.M.-M.); (V.Á.-G.); (S.C.)
- Correspondence: (A.G.-C.); (C.M.-C.); Tel.: +34-942-201965 (A.G.-C.); +34-942-201963 (C.M.-C.)
| | - Samuel Cos
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Cantabria and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Valdecilla (IDIVAL), 39011 Santander, Spain; (C.A.-G.); (C.G.-A.); (J.M.-M.); (V.Á.-G.); (S.C.)
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Wang L, Wang C, Choi WS. Use of Melatonin in Cancer Treatment: Where Are We? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073779. [PMID: 35409137 PMCID: PMC8998229 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer represents a large group of diseases accounting for nearly 10 million deaths each year. Various treatment strategies, including surgical resection combined with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy, have been applied for cancer treatment. However, the outcomes remain largely unsatisfying. Melatonin, as an endogenous hormone, is associated with the circadian rhythm moderation. Many physiological functions of melatonin besides sleep–wake cycle control have been identified, such as antioxidant, immunomodulation, and anti-inflammation. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have described the anticancer effects of melatonin. This has drawn our attention to the potential usage of melatonin for cancer treatment in the clinical setting, although huge obstacles still exist before its wide clinical administration is accepted. The exact mechanisms behind its anticancer effects remain unclear, and the specific characters impede its in vivo investigation. In this review, we will summarize the latest advances in melatonin studies, including its chemical properties, the possible mechanisms for its anticancer effects, and the ongoing clinical trials. Importantly, challenges for the clinical application of melatonin will be discussed, accompanied with our perspectives on its future development. Finally, obstacles and perspectives of using melatonin for cancer treatment will be proposed. The present article will provide a comprehensive foundation for applying melatonin as a preventive and therapeutic agent for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leilei Wang
- Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China;
| | - Chuan Wang
- Division of Periodontology & Implant Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China;
| | - Wing Shan Choi
- Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +852-28590266
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Sadoughi F, Dana PM, Asemi Z, Shafabakhash R, Mohammadi S, Heidar Z, Mirzamoradi M, Targhazeh N, Mirzaei H. Molecular and cellular mechanisms of melatonin in breast cancer. Biochimie 2022; 202:26-33. [PMID: 35341930 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2022.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is considered as one of the most important health problems due to its poor prognosis and high rate of mortality and new diagnosed cases. Annually, a great number of deaths are reported in men and women; this means that despite all the improvements in cancer diagnosis and treatment, still, an intense need for more effective approaches exists. Melatonin is a multivalent compound which has a hand in several cellular and molecular processes and therefore, is an appropriate candidate for treatment of many diseases like cancer. Currently, considerable properties of this agent have oriented the research towards investigating its effects specifically in breast cancer. In this review, we gathered a bunch of evidence in order to give a new sight for breast cancer treatment utilizing melatonin. We expect that in coming years, melatonin will become one of the most common therapeutic drugs with lesser side-effects than other chemotherapeutic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Sadoughi
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, I.R., Iran.
| | - Parisa Maleki Dana
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, I.R., Iran.
| | - Zatollah Asemi
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, I.R., Iran.
| | - Rana Shafabakhash
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, I.R., Iran.
| | - Sotoudeh Mohammadi
- Clinical Research Development Center, Mahdiyeh Educational Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Zahra Heidar
- Clinical Research Development Center, Mahdiyeh Educational Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Masoumeh Mirzamoradi
- Clinical Research Development Center, Mahdiyeh Educational Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Niloufar Targhazeh
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, I.R., Iran.
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11
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Mir SM, Aliarab A, Goodarzi G, Shirzad M, Jafari SM, Qujeq D, Samavarchi Tehrani S, Asadi J. Melatonin: A smart molecule in the DNA repair system. Cell Biochem Funct 2021; 40:4-16. [PMID: 34672014 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
DNA repair is an important pathway for the protection of DNA molecules from destruction. DNA damage can be produced by oxidative reactive nitrogen or oxygen species, irritation, alkylating agents, depurination and depyrimidination; in this regard, DNA repair pathways can neutralize the negative effects of these factors. Melatonin is a hormone secreted from the pineal gland with an antioxidant effect by binding to oxidative factors. In addition, the effect of melatonin on DNA repair pathways has been proven by the literature. DNA repair is carried out by several mechanisms, of which homologous recombination repair (HRR) and non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) are of great importance. Because of the importance of DNA repair in DNA integrity and the anticancer effect of this pathway, we presented the effect of melatonin on DNA repair factors regarding previous studies conducted in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Mostafa Mir
- Metabolic Disorders Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Azadeh Aliarab
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Golnaz Goodarzi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Student Scientific Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Moein Shirzad
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.,Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Seyyed Mehdi Jafari
- Metabolic Disorders Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Durdi Qujeq
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.,Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Sadra Samavarchi Tehrani
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Student Scientific Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jahanbakhsh Asadi
- Metabolic Disorders Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
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12
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González A, Alonso-González C, González-González A, Menéndez-Menéndez J, Cos S, Martínez-Campa C. Melatonin as an Adjuvant to Antiangiogenic Cancer Treatments. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13133263. [PMID: 34209857 PMCID: PMC8268559 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13133263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is a hormone with different functions, antitumor actions being one of the most studied. Among its antitumor mechanisms is its ability to inhibit angiogenesis. Melatonin shows antiangiogenic effects in several types of tumors. Combination of melatonin and chemotherapeutic agents have a synergistic effect inhibiting angiogenesis. One of the undesirable effects of chemotherapy is the induction of pro-angiogenic factors, whilst the addition of melatonin is able to overcome these undesirable effects. This protective effect of the pineal hormone against angiogenesis might be one of the mechanisms underlying its anticancer effect, explaining, at least in part, why melatonin administration increases the sensitivity of tumors to the inhibitory effects exerted by ordinary chemotherapeutic agents. Melatonin has the ability to turn cancer totally resistant to chemotherapeutic agents into a more sensitive chemotherapy state. Definitely, melatonin regulates the expression and/or activity of many factors involved in angiogenesis which levels are affected (either positively or negatively) by chemotherapeutic agents. In addition, the pineal hormone has been proposed as a radiosensitizer, increasing the oncostatic effects of radiation on tumor cells. This review serves as a synopsis of the interaction between melatonin and angiogenesis, and we will outline some antiangiogenic mechanisms through which melatonin sensitizes cancer cells to treatments, such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
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13
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Gulbahce-Mutlu E, Baltaci SB, Menevse E, Mogulkoc R, Baltaci AK. The Effect of Zinc and Melatonin Administration on Lipid Peroxidation, IL-6 Levels, and Element Metabolism in DMBA-Induced Breast Cancer in Rats. Biol Trace Elem Res 2021; 199:1044-1051. [PMID: 32572799 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-020-02238-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of zinc and melatonin administration on interleukin-6, lipid peroxidation parameters, and element metabolism in DMBA-induced breast cancer in female rats. A total of 42 recently weaned Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups as follows: control (group 1), DMBA control (group 2), DMBA + zinc (group 3), DMBA + melatonin (group 4), and DMBA + melatonin and zinc (group 5). Malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels in breast tissue and blood samples were determined via spectrophotometric methods. In addition, iron, magnesium, zinc, and copper levels in serum samples were determined by atomic emission, and plasma interleukin-6 levels were determined by ELISA method. The highest tissue and plasma MDA and the lowest tissue and erythrocyte GSH levels found in the study were in group 2; the highest tissue and erythrocyte GSH levels and the lowest tissue and plasma MDA levels are in group 5 (P < 0.05). Iron, magnesium, and zinc levels of groups 3, 4, and 5 were higher than the DMBA group without administration (group 2), but the copper values were significantly lower (P < 0.05). The highest IL-6 levels were determined in group 2 while IL-6 levels in the DMBA group (G5) treated with combined melatonin and zinc were lower than all other breast cancer groups (P < 0.05). According to the findings obtained in this presented study, combined zinc and melatonin therapy can contribute to the prevention of tumor growth by improving the disruption in element metabolism and suppressing IL-6 levels and reducing tissue damage that causes the cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elif Gulbahce-Mutlu
- Medical Facultuy, Department of Medical Biology, KTO Karatay University, Konya, Turkey
| | | | - Esma Menevse
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Selçuk University, Konya, Turkey
| | - Rasim Mogulkoc
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Selçuk University, Konya, Turkey
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14
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Melatonin as an Oncostatic Molecule Based on Its Anti-Aromatase Role in Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22010438. [PMID: 33406787 PMCID: PMC7795758 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer. In the developmental stages of breast cancer, estrogens are strongly involved. As estrogen synthesis is regulated by the enzyme aromatase, targeting the activity of this enzyme represents a therapeutic option. The pineal hormone melatonin may exert a suppressive role on aromatase activity, leading to reduced estrogen biosynthesis. A melatonin-mediated decrease in the expression of aromatase promoters and associated genes would provide suitable evidence of this molecule’s efficacy as an aromatase inhibitor. Furthermore, melatonin intensifies radiation-induced anti-aromatase effects and counteracts the unwanted disadvantages of chemotherapeutic agents. In this manner, this review summarizes the inhibitory role of melatonin in aromatase action, suggesting its role as a possible oncostatic molecule in breast cancer.
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Alonso-González C, González A, Menéndez-Menéndez J, Martínez-Campa C, Cos S. Melatonin as a Radio-Sensitizer in Cancer. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8080247. [PMID: 32726912 PMCID: PMC7460067 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8080247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy is one of the treatments of choice in many types of cancer. Adjuvant treatments to radiotherapy try, on one hand, to enhance the response of tumor cells to radiation and, on the other hand, to reduce the side effects to normal cells. Radiosensitizers are agents that increase the effect of radiation in tumor cells by trying not to increase side effects in normal tissues. Melatonin is a hormone produced mainly by the pineal gland which has an important role in the regulation of cancer growth, especially in hormone-dependent mammary tumors. Different studies have showed that melatonin administered with radiotherapy is able to enhance its therapeutic effects and can protect normal cells against side effects of this treatment. Several mechanisms are involved in the radiosensitization induced by melatonin: increase of reactive oxygen species production, modulation of proteins involved in estrogen biosynthesis, impairment of tumor cells to DNA repair, modulation of angiogenesis, abolition of inflammation, induction of apoptosis, stimulation of preadipocytes differentiation and modulation of metabolism. At this moment, there are very few clinical trials that study the therapeutic usefulness to associate melatonin and radiotherapy in humans. All findings point to melatonin as an effective adjuvant molecule to radiotherapy in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alicia González
- Correspondence: (A.G.); (C.M.-C.); Tel.: +34-942-201965 (A.G.); +34-942-201963 (C.M.-C.)
| | | | - Carlos Martínez-Campa
- Correspondence: (A.G.); (C.M.-C.); Tel.: +34-942-201965 (A.G.); +34-942-201963 (C.M.-C.)
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16
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Editorial for the Special Issue "New Strategies in Cancer Pharmacotherapy: Development of Hormonal Antineoplastic Drugs, Cytotoxic Drugs and Targeted Therapies". Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21114081. [PMID: 32521599 PMCID: PMC7312230 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21114081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The Special Issue entitled "New Strategies in Cancer Pharmacotherapy: Development of Hormonal Antineoplastic Drugs, Cytotoxic Drugs and Targeted Therapies" was conceived with the idea of compiling information on the latest advances in the treatment of both hormone-dependent and hormone-independent cancers [...].
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