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Koltai T, Fliegel L. Dichloroacetate for Cancer Treatment: Some Facts and Many Doubts. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:744. [PMID: 38931411 PMCID: PMC11206832 DOI: 10.3390/ph17060744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Rarely has a chemical elicited as much controversy as dichloroacetate (DCA). DCA was initially considered a dangerous toxic industrial waste product, then a potential treatment for lactic acidosis. However, the main controversies started in 2008 when DCA was found to have anti-cancer effects on experimental animals. These publications showed contradictory results in vivo and in vitro such that a thorough consideration of this compound's in cancer is merited. Despite 50 years of experimentation, DCA's future in therapeutics is uncertain. Without adequate clinical trials and health authorities' approval, DCA has been introduced in off-label cancer treatments in alternative medicine clinics in Canada, Germany, and other European countries. The lack of well-planned clinical trials and its use by people without medical training has discouraged consideration by the scientific community. There are few thorough clinical studies of DCA, and many publications are individual case reports. Case reports of DCA's benefits against cancer have been increasing recently. Furthermore, it has been shown that DCA synergizes with conventional treatments and other repurposable drugs. Beyond the classic DCA target, pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase, new target molecules have also been recently discovered. These findings have renewed interest in DCA. This paper explores whether existing evidence justifies further research on DCA for cancer treatment and it explores the role DCA may play in it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Koltai
- Hospital del Centro Gallego de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires 2199, Argentina
| | - Larry Fliegel
- Department of Biochemistry, University Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada;
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Xia WF, Zheng XL, Liu WY, Huang YT, Wen CJ, Zhou HH, Wu QC, Wu LX. Romidepsin exhibits anti-esophageal squamous cell carcinoma activity through the DDIT4-mTORC1 pathway. Cancer Gene Ther 2024; 31:778-789. [PMID: 38480975 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-024-00760-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most common human malignancies worldwide and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Current treatment options are limited, highlighting the need for development of novel effective agents. Here, a high-throughput drug screening (HTS) was performed using ESCC cell lines in both two- and three-dimensional culture systems to screen compounds that have anti-ESCC activity. Our screen identified romidepsin, a histone deactylase inhibitor, as a potential anti-ESCC agent. Romidepsin treatment decreased cell viability, induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in ESCC cell lines, and these findings were confirmed in ESCC cell line-derived xenografted (CDX) mouse models. Mechanically, romidepsin induced transcriptional upregulation of DNA damage-inducible transcript 4 (DDIT4) gene by histone hyperacetylation at its promoter region, leading to the inhibition of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) pathway. Furthermore, romidepsin exhibited better efficacy and safety compared to the conventional therapeutic drugs in ESCC patient-derived xenografted (PDX) mouse models. These data indicate that romidepsin may be a novel option for anti-ESCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Feng Xia
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Xiao-Li Zheng
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Wen-Yi Liu
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Yu-Tang Huang
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Chun-Jie Wen
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Hong-Hao Zhou
- Pharmacogenetics Research Institute, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China
| | - Qing-Chen Wu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
| | - Lan-Xiang Wu
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
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Galal MA, Al-Rimawi M, Hajeer A, Dahman H, Alouch S, Aljada A. Metformin: A Dual-Role Player in Cancer Treatment and Prevention. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4083. [PMID: 38612893 PMCID: PMC11012626 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25074083] [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: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer continues to pose a significant global health challenge, as evidenced by the increasing incidence rates and high mortality rates, despite the advancements made in chemotherapy. The emergence of chemoresistance further complicates the effectiveness of treatment. However, there is growing interest in the potential of metformin, a commonly prescribed drug for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), as an adjuvant chemotherapy agent in cancer treatment. Although the precise mechanism of action of metformin in cancer therapy is not fully understood, it has been found to have pleiotropic effects, including the modulation of metabolic pathways, reduction in inflammation, and the regulation of cellular proliferation. This comprehensive review examines the anticancer properties of metformin, drawing insights from various studies conducted in vitro and in vivo, as well as from clinical trials and observational research. This review discusses the mechanisms of action involving both insulin-dependent and independent pathways, shedding light on the potential of metformin as a therapeutic agent for different types of cancer. Despite promising findings, there are challenges that need to be addressed, such as conflicting outcomes in clinical trials, considerations regarding dosing, and the development of resistance. These challenges highlight the importance of further research to fully harness the therapeutic potential of metformin in cancer treatment. The aims of this review are to provide a contemporary understanding of the role of metformin in cancer therapy and identify areas for future exploration in the pursuit of effective anticancer strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam Ahmed Galal
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, P.O. Box 50927, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.G.); (M.A.-R.); (H.D.); (S.A.)
- Department of Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1QU, UK
| | - Mohammed Al-Rimawi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, P.O. Box 50927, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.G.); (M.A.-R.); (H.D.); (S.A.)
| | | | - Huda Dahman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, P.O. Box 50927, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.G.); (M.A.-R.); (H.D.); (S.A.)
| | - Samhar Alouch
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, P.O. Box 50927, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.G.); (M.A.-R.); (H.D.); (S.A.)
| | - Ahmad Aljada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, P.O. Box 50927, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.G.); (M.A.-R.); (H.D.); (S.A.)
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Luo Y, Peng X, Cheng C, Deng Y, Lei N, Feng S, Yu X. 3D Molybdenum Disulfide Nanospheres Loaded with Metformin to Enhance SCPP Scaffolds for Bone Regeneration. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:201-216. [PMID: 38127723 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c14229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Conventional strontium-doped calcium polyphosphate (SCPP) ceramics have attracted a lot of attention due to good cytocompatibility and controlled degradation. However, their poor mechanical strength, brittleness, and difficulty in eliminating unavoidable postoperative inflammation and bacterial infections in practical applications limit their further clinical application. In this study, carboxylated molybdenum disulfide nanospheres (MoS2-COOH) were first prepared via a one-step hydrothermal method. The optimal doping concentration of MoS2-COOH was then incorporated into SCPP to overcome its poor mechanical strength. To further enhance the anti-inflammatory properties of scaffolds, metformin (MET) was loaded onto MoS2-COOH through covalent bond cross-linking (MoS2-MET). Then MoS2-MET was doped into SCPP (SCPP/MoS2-MET) according to the previously obtained concentration, resulting in the controlled and sustained release of MET from the SCPP/MoS2-MET scaffolds for 21 days in vitro. The SCPP/MoS2-MET scaffolds were shown to have good biological activity in vitro to promote stem cell proliferation and the potential to promote mineralization in vitro. It also showed good osteoimmunomodulatory activity could reduce the expression of proinflammatory factors and effectively induce the differentiation of BMSCs under inflammatory conditions, upregulating the expression of relevant osteoblastic cytokines. In addition, SCPP/MoS2-MET scaffolds could effectively inhibit Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. In vivo experiments also demonstrated better osteogenic potential of SCPP/MoS2-MET scaffolds compared with the other scaffold-samples. Thus, the introduction of carboxylated molybdenum disulfide nanospheres is a promising approach to improve the properties of SCPP and may provide a new modification strategy for inert ceramic scaffolds and the construction of multifunctional composite scaffolds for bone tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihao Luo
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
| | - Xu Peng
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
- Experimental and Research Animal Institute, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
| | - Chan Cheng
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
| | - Yiqing Deng
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
| | - Ningning Lei
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
| | - Shaoxiong Feng
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
| | - Xixun Yu
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
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Phoolchund AGS, Khakoo SI. MASLD and the Development of HCC: Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Challenges. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:259. [PMID: 38254750 PMCID: PMC10814413 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020259] [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: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD, previously known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)) represents a rapidly increasing cause of chronic liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), mirroring increasing rates of obesity and metabolic syndrome in the Western world. MASLD-HCC can develop at an earlier stage of fibrosis compared to other causes of chronic liver disease, presenting challenges in how to risk-stratify patients to set up effective screening programmes. Therapeutic decision making for MASLD-HCC is also complicated by medical comorbidities and disease presentation at a later stage. The response to treatment, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors, may vary by the aetiology of the disease, and, in the future, patient stratification will be key to optimizing the therapeutic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anju G. S. Phoolchund
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Salim I. Khakoo
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
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Citi V, Barresi E, Piragine E, Spezzini J, Testai L, Da Settimo F, Martelli A, Taliani S, Calderone V. Anti-Proliferative Properties of the Novel Hybrid Drug Met-ITC, Composed of the Native Drug Metformin with the Addition of an Isothiocyanate H 2S Donor Moiety, in Different Cancer Cell Lines. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16131. [PMID: 38003321 PMCID: PMC10671447 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216131] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Metformin (Met) is the first-line therapy in type 2 diabetes mellitus but, in last few years, it has also been evaluated as anti-cancer agent. Several pathways, such as AMPK or PI3K/Akt/mTOR, are likely to be involved in the anti-cancer Met activity. In addition, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and H2S donors have been described as anti-cancer agents affecting cell-cycle and inducing apoptosis. Among H2S donors, isothiocyanates are endowed with a further anti-cancer mechanism: the inhibition of the histone deacetylase enzymes. On this basis, a hybrid molecule (Met-ITC) obtained through the addition of an isothiocyanate moiety to the Met molecule was designed and its ability to release Met has been demonstrated. Met-ITC exhibited more efficacy and potency than Met in inhibiting cancer cells (AsPC-1, MIA PaCa-2, MCF-7) viability and it was less effective on non-tumorigenic cells (MCF 10-A). The ability of Met-ITC to release H2S has been recorded both in cell-free and in cancer cells assays. Finally, its ability to affect the cell cycle and to induce both early and late apoptosis has been demonstrated on the most sensitive cell line (MCF-7). These results confirmed that Met-ITC is a new hybrid molecule endowed with potential anti-cancer properties derived both from Met and H2S.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Citi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (V.C.); (E.B.); (E.P.); (J.S.); (L.T.); (F.D.S.); (S.T.); (V.C.)
| | - Elisabetta Barresi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (V.C.); (E.B.); (E.P.); (J.S.); (L.T.); (F.D.S.); (S.T.); (V.C.)
- Center for Instrument Sharing of the University of Pisa (CISUP), University of Pisa, Lungarno Pacinotti 43/44, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Eugenia Piragine
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (V.C.); (E.B.); (E.P.); (J.S.); (L.T.); (F.D.S.); (S.T.); (V.C.)
| | - Jacopo Spezzini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (V.C.); (E.B.); (E.P.); (J.S.); (L.T.); (F.D.S.); (S.T.); (V.C.)
| | - Lara Testai
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (V.C.); (E.B.); (E.P.); (J.S.); (L.T.); (F.D.S.); (S.T.); (V.C.)
- Center for Instrument Sharing of the University of Pisa (CISUP), University of Pisa, Lungarno Pacinotti 43/44, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center “Biology and Pathology of Ageing”, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Federico Da Settimo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (V.C.); (E.B.); (E.P.); (J.S.); (L.T.); (F.D.S.); (S.T.); (V.C.)
- Center for Instrument Sharing of the University of Pisa (CISUP), University of Pisa, Lungarno Pacinotti 43/44, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Alma Martelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (V.C.); (E.B.); (E.P.); (J.S.); (L.T.); (F.D.S.); (S.T.); (V.C.)
- Center for Instrument Sharing of the University of Pisa (CISUP), University of Pisa, Lungarno Pacinotti 43/44, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center “Biology and Pathology of Ageing”, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Sabrina Taliani
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (V.C.); (E.B.); (E.P.); (J.S.); (L.T.); (F.D.S.); (S.T.); (V.C.)
- Center for Instrument Sharing of the University of Pisa (CISUP), University of Pisa, Lungarno Pacinotti 43/44, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Calderone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (V.C.); (E.B.); (E.P.); (J.S.); (L.T.); (F.D.S.); (S.T.); (V.C.)
- Center for Instrument Sharing of the University of Pisa (CISUP), University of Pisa, Lungarno Pacinotti 43/44, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center “Biology and Pathology of Ageing”, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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Prabhu SS, Nair AS, Nirmala SV. Multifaceted roles of mitochondrial dysfunction in diseases: from powerhouses to saboteurs. Arch Pharm Res 2023; 46:723-743. [PMID: 37751031 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-023-01465-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
The fact that mitochondria play a crucial part in energy generation has led to the nickname "powerhouses" of the cell being applied to them. They also play a significant role in many other cellular functions, including calcium signalling, apoptosis, and the creation of vital biomolecules. As a result, cellular function and health as a whole can be significantly impacted by mitochondrial malfunction. Indeed, malignancies frequently have increased levels of mitochondrial biogenesis and quality control. Adverse selection exists for harmful mitochondrial genome mutations, even though certain malignancies include modifications in the nuclear-encoded tricarboxylic acid cycle enzymes that generate carcinogenic metabolites. Since rare human cancers with mutated mitochondrial genomes are often benign, removing mitochondrial DNA reduces carcinogenesis. Therefore, targeting mitochondria offers therapeutic options since they serve several functions and are crucial to developing malignant tumors. Here, we discuss the various steps involved in the mechanism of cancer for which mitochondria plays a significant role, as well as the role of mitochondria in diseases other than cancer. It is crucial to understand mitochondrial malfunction to target these organelles for therapeutic reasons. This highlights the significance of investigating mitochondrial dysfunction in cancer and other disease research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surapriya Surendranath Prabhu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Analysis, Amrita School of Pharmacy, AIMS Health Sciences Campus, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Kochi, Kerala, 682041, India
| | - Aathira Sujathan Nair
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Analysis, Amrita School of Pharmacy, AIMS Health Sciences Campus, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Kochi, Kerala, 682041, India
| | - Saiprabha Vijayakumar Nirmala
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Analysis, Amrita School of Pharmacy, AIMS Health Sciences Campus, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Kochi, Kerala, 682041, India.
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Li H, Chen Y, Hu L, Yang W, Gao Z, Liu M, Tao H, Li J. Will metformin use lead to a decreased risk of thyroid cancer? A systematic review and meta-analyses. Eur J Med Res 2023; 28:392. [PMID: 37773165 PMCID: PMC10542235 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-023-01287-0] [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: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been reported that metformin use may reduce the risk of thyroid cancer, but existing studies have generated inconsistent results. The purpose of this study was to investigate such association between metformin use and the risk of thyroid cancer. METHODS Studies of metformin use for the risk of thyroid cancer were searched in Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Biomedical Database, Wanfang Data, and Chinese Scientific Journals Database (VIP) from the establishment date to December 2022. Newcastle-Ottawa scale is adopted for assessing the methodological quality of included studies, and the inter-study heterogeneity was assessed by using the I-squared statistic. Combined odds ratios (ORs) with the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated through either fixed-effects or random-effects model according to the heterogeneity. Besides, subgroup analyses, sensitivity analyses and test for publication bias were conducted. RESULTS Five studies involving 1,713,528 participants were enrolled in the qualitative and quantitative synthesis. The result of the meta-analyses showed that metformin use was associated with a statistically significant lower risk of thyroid cancer (pooled OR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.50-0.91, P = 0.011). Moreover, in the subgroup analysis, we found that the use of metformin may also aid in the prevention of thyroid cancer in Eastern population (pooled OR = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.35-0.88, P = 0.012) rather than Western population (pooled OR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.52-1.54, P = 0.685). Sensitivity analysis suggested the results of this meta-analyses were relatively stable. No publication bias was detected. CONCLUSION Metformin use is beneficial for reducing the risk of thyroid cancer. For further investigation, more well-designed studies are still needed to elucidate the association between metformin use and the risk of thyroid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailong Li
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, No.74 Nonglin Road, Guangzhou, 510030, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Hu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenzhi Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Zongshi Gao
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengqing Liu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Chaohu Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Tao
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China.
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Ibrahim RS, Ibrahim SS, El-Naas A, Koklesová L, Kubatka P, Büsselberg D. Could Metformin and Resveratrol Support Glioblastoma Treatment? A Mechanistic View at the Cellular Level. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3368. [PMID: 37444478 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15133368] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma, a malignant brain tumor, is a common primary brain tumor in adults, with diabetes mellitus being a crucial risk factor. This review examines how the antidiabetic drug metformin and dietary supplement resveratrol can benefit the treatment of glioblastoma. Metformin and resveratrol have demonstrated action against relevant pathways in cancer cells. Metformin and resveratrol inhibit cell proliferation by downregulating the PI3K/Akt pathway, activating mTOR, and increasing AMPK phosphorylation, resulting in lower proliferation and higher apoptosis levels. Metformin and resveratrol both upregulate and inhibit different cascades in the MAPK pathway. In vivo, the drugs reduced tumor growth and volume. These actions show how metformin and resveratrol can combat cancer with both glucose-dependent and glucose-independent effects. The pre-clinical results, alongside the lack of clinical studies and the rise in novel delivery mechanisms, warrant further clinical investigations into the applications of metformin and resveratrol as both separate and as a combination complement to current glioblastoma therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ahmed El-Naas
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Education City, Qatar Foundation, Doha 24144, Qatar
| | - Lenka Koklesová
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, 036 01 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Peter Kubatka
- Department of Medical Biology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, 036 01 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Dietrich Büsselberg
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Education City, Qatar Foundation, Doha 24144, Qatar
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Papadakos SP, Ferraro D, Carbone G, Frampton AE, Vennarecci G, Kykalos S, Schizas D, Theocharis S, Machairas N. The Emerging Role of Metformin in the Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Is There Any Value in Repurposing Metformin for HCC Immunotherapy? Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3161. [PMID: 37370771 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15123161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. There has been significant progress in understanding the risk factors and epidemiology of HCC during the last few decades, resulting in efficient preventative, diagnostic and treatment strategies. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been demonstrated to be a major risk factor for developing HCC. Metformin is a widely used hypoglycemic agent for patients with T2DM and has been shown to play a potentially beneficial role in improving the survival of patients with HCC. Experimental and clinical studies evaluating the outcomes of metformin as an antineoplastic drug in the setting of HCC were reviewed. Pre-clinical evidence suggests that metformin may enhance the antitumor effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and reverse the effector T cells' exhaustion. However, there is still limited clinical evidence regarding the efficacy of metformin in combination with ICIs for the treatment of HCC. We appraised and analyzed in vitro and animal studies that aimed to elucidate the mechanisms of action of metformin, as well as clinical studies that assessed its impact on the survival of HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavros P Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Daniele Ferraro
- HPB Surgery and Liver Transplant Unit, AORN A. Cardarelli, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Gabriele Carbone
- Department of General Surgery and Organ Transplantation, University of Rome "Sapienza", 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Adam Enver Frampton
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London W12 0NN, UK
- Oncology Section, Surrey Cancer Research Institute, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, FHMS, University of Surrey, The Leggett Building, Daphne Jackson Road, Guildford GU2 7WG, UK
- HPB Surgical Unit, Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK
| | - Giovanni Vennarecci
- HPB Surgery and Liver Transplant Unit, AORN A. Cardarelli, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Stylianos Kykalos
- Second Department of Propaedeutic Surgery, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laiko General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Schizas
- First Department of Surgery, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laiko General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Machairas
- Second Department of Propaedeutic Surgery, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laiko General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece
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Singh S, De Carlo F, Ibrahim MA, Penfornis P, Mouton AJ, Tripathi SK, Agarwal AK, Eastham L, Pasco DS, Balachandran P, Claudio PP. The Oligostilbene Gnetin H Is a Novel Glycolysis Inhibitor That Regulates Thioredoxin Interacting Protein Expression and Synergizes with OXPHOS Inhibitor in Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24097741. [PMID: 37175448 PMCID: PMC10178141 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24097741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Since aerobic glycolysis was first observed in tumors almost a century ago by Otto Warburg, the field of cancer cell metabolism has sparked the interest of scientists around the world as it might offer new avenues of treatment for malignant cells. Our current study claims the discovery of gnetin H (GH) as a novel glycolysis inhibitor that can decrease metabolic activity and lactic acid synthesis and displays a strong cytostatic effect in melanoma and glioblastoma cells. Compared to most of the other glycolysis inhibitors used in combination with the complex-1 mitochondrial inhibitor phenformin (Phen), GH more potently inhibited cell growth. RNA-Seq with the T98G glioblastoma cell line treated with GH showed more than an 80-fold reduction in thioredoxin interacting protein (TXNIP) expression, indicating that GH has a direct effect on regulating a key gene involved in the homeostasis of cellular glucose. GH in combination with phenformin also substantially enhances the levels of p-AMPK, a marker of metabolic catastrophe. These findings suggest that the concurrent use of the glycolytic inhibitor GH with a complex-1 mitochondrial inhibitor could be used as a powerful tool for inducing metabolic catastrophe in cancer cells and reducing their growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivendra Singh
- National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - Flavia De Carlo
- National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - Mohamed A Ibrahim
- National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - Patrice Penfornis
- National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
- Cancer Center & Research Institute, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
| | - Alan J Mouton
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
| | - Siddharth K Tripathi
- National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - Ameeta K Agarwal
- National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - Linda Eastham
- National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - David S Pasco
- National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - Premalatha Balachandran
- National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - Pier Paolo Claudio
- National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
- Cancer Center & Research Institute, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
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12
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Integrative analyses of biomarkers and pathways for metformin reversing cisplatin resistance in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells. Arch Oral Biol 2023; 147:105637. [PMID: 36738487 DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2023.105637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In this study, transcriptome sequencing were performed to elucidate the molecular mechanism by which metformin inhibits head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cells progression and sensitizes HNSCC cells to chemotherapy. We aimed to propose a novel chemotherapeutic approach with high efficacy and few side effects and provide a new strategy for HNSCC treatment. DESIGN The effects of metformin on the biological behaviors of HNSCC cells were validated by CCK8 cell proliferation assays, would healing assays and flow cytometric apoptosis assays. The appropriate metformin concentrations for the experimental pretreatment of HNSCC cells were selected based on experimental results, and the treated cells were subjected to transcriptome sequencing. After bioinformatics analysis and intersection with a post-chemotherapy resistance dataset from the GEO database numbered GSE102787, the genes were identified and used to predict potential metformin targets after functional enrichment analysis. RESULTS Metformin significantly inhibited the proliferation and migration and induced the apoptosis of Cal27 and FaDu cells. A total of 284 genes that are potentially targeted by metformin during HNSCC cell sensitization were identified by bioinformatics, and ten hub genes with high connectivity were selected. In particular, Fen1 overexpression was associated with poor prognosis in HNSCC patients. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates that Fen1 is overexpressed in HNSCC tissues compared with normal tissues and that Fen1 overexpression is a poor prognostic factor in HNSCC patients. Metformin enhances the ability of cisplatin to inhibit HNSCC progression. Further studies are needed to explore the therapeutic value of Fen1 in HNSCC.
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13
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Stacpoole PW, McCall CE. The pyruvate dehydrogenase complex: Life's essential, vulnerable and druggable energy homeostat. Mitochondrion 2023; 70:59-102. [PMID: 36863425 DOI: 10.1016/j.mito.2023.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
Found in all organisms, pyruvate dehydrogenase complexes (PDC) are the keystones of prokaryotic and eukaryotic energy metabolism. In eukaryotic organisms these multi-component megacomplexes provide a crucial mechanistic link between cytoplasmic glycolysis and the mitochondrial tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. As a consequence, PDCs also influence the metabolism of branched chain amino acids, lipids and, ultimately, oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). PDC activity is an essential determinant of the metabolic and bioenergetic flexibility of metazoan organisms in adapting to changes in development, nutrient availability and various stresses that challenge maintenance of homeostasis. This canonical role of the PDC has been extensively probed over the past decades by multidisciplinary investigations into its causal association with diverse physiological and pathological conditions, the latter making the PDC an increasingly viable therapeutic target. Here we review the biology of the remarkable PDC and its emerging importance in the pathobiology and treatment of diverse congenital and acquired disorders of metabolic integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter W Stacpoole
- Department of Medicine (Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes), and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Florida, College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, United States.
| | - Charles E McCall
- Department of Internal Medicine and Translational Sciences, and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, United States
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Fu K, Chen X, Shou N, Wang Z, Yuan X, Wu D, Wang Q, Cheng Y, Ling N, Shi Z. Swainsonine Induces Liver Inflammation in Mice via Disturbance of Gut Microbiota and Bile Acid Metabolism. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023; 71:1758-1767. [PMID: 36638362 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c08519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Swainsonine induced liver inflammation in livestock; however, the underlying mechanisms, especially the role of bile acids (BAs), in the pathogenesis remained elusive. Here, our results showed that swainsonine induced hepatic inflammation via changing BA metabolism and gut microbiota in mice. Swainsonine significantly upregulated the levels of deoxycholic acid (DCA) and taurine-β-muricholic acid (T-β-MCA) in the serum and liver of mice due to the markedly increased genus Clostridium and the decreased genus Lactobacillus in the gut. As antagonists of the farnesoid X receptor (FXR), elevated DCA and T-β-MCA inhibited hepatic Fxr gene expression and thus suppressed FXR-SHP signaling and activated hepatic Cyp7a1 gene expression, which induced a significant upregulation of the total BA level in serum, contributing to liver inflammation. These findings offer new insights into the underlying mechanisms in which swainsonine induced liver inflammation in mice via the gut-liver axis and suggest that gut microbiota and its metabolite BAs may be underlying triggering factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keyi Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Center for Grassland Microbiome, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Center for Grassland Microbiome, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Na Shou
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Center for Grassland Microbiome, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Zilong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Center for Grassland Microbiome, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xuefeng Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Center for Grassland Microbiome, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Dandan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Center for Grassland Microbiome, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Qi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Center for Grassland Microbiome, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Yanfen Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Center for Grassland Microbiome, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Ning Ling
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Center for Grassland Microbiome, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Zunji Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Center for Grassland Microbiome, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
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Zhang X, Halberstam AA, Zhu W, Leitner BP, Thakral D, Bosenberg MW, Perry RJ. Isotope tracing reveals distinct substrate preference in murine melanoma subtypes with differing anti-tumor immunity. Cancer Metab 2022; 10:21. [PMID: 36457136 PMCID: PMC9714036 DOI: 10.1186/s40170-022-00296-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research about tumor "metabolic flexibility"-the ability of cells to toggle between preferred nutrients depending on the metabolic context-has largely focused on obesity-associated cancers. However, increasing evidence for a key role for nutrient competition in the tumor microenvironment, as well as for substrate regulation of immune function, suggests that substrate metabolism deserves reconsideration in immunogenic tumors that are not strongly associated with obesity. METHODS We compare two murine models: immunologically cold YUMM1.7 and immunologically-hot YUMMER1.7. We utilize stable isotope and radioisotope tracer-based metabolic flux studies as well as gas and liquid chromatography-based metabolomics analyses to comprehensively probe substrate preference in YUMM1.7 and YUMMER1.7 cells, with a subset of studies on the impact of available metabolites across a panel of five additional melanoma cell lines. We analyze bulk RNA-seq data and identify increased expression of amino acid and glucose metabolism genes in YUMMER1.7. Finally, we analyze melanoma patient RNA-seq data to identify potential prognostic predictors rooted in metabolism. RESULTS We demonstrate using stable isotope tracer-based metabolic flux studies as well as gas and liquid chromatography-based metabolomics that immunologically-hot melanoma utilizes more glutamine than immunologically-cold melanoma in vivo and in vitro. Analyses of human melanoma RNA-seq data demonstrate that glutamine transporter and other anaplerotic gene expression positively correlates with lymphocyte infiltration and function. CONCLUSIONS Here, we highlight the importance of understanding metabolism in non-obesity-associated cancers, such as melanoma. This work advances the understanding of the correlation between metabolism and immunogenicity in the tumor microenvironment and provides evidence supporting metabolic gene expression as potential prognostic factors of melanoma progression and may inform investigations of adjunctive metabolic therapy in melanoma. TRIAL REGISTRATION Deidentified data from The Cancer Genome Atlas were analyzed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Zhang
- Department of Internal Medicine (Endocrinology), Yale School of Medicine, P.O. Box 208026, 333 Cedar St., SHM BE36-B, New Haven, CT, 06520-8026, USA
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
| | - Alexandra A Halberstam
- Department of Internal Medicine (Endocrinology), Yale School of Medicine, P.O. Box 208026, 333 Cedar St., SHM BE36-B, New Haven, CT, 06520-8026, USA
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
| | - Wanling Zhu
- Department of Internal Medicine (Endocrinology), Yale School of Medicine, P.O. Box 208026, 333 Cedar St., SHM BE36-B, New Haven, CT, 06520-8026, USA
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
| | - Brooks P Leitner
- Department of Internal Medicine (Endocrinology), Yale School of Medicine, P.O. Box 208026, 333 Cedar St., SHM BE36-B, New Haven, CT, 06520-8026, USA
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
| | - Durga Thakral
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
| | - Marcus W Bosenberg
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale Stem Cell Center, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale Cancer Center, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale Center for Immuno-Oncology, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Rachel J Perry
- Department of Internal Medicine (Endocrinology), Yale School of Medicine, P.O. Box 208026, 333 Cedar St., SHM BE36-B, New Haven, CT, 06520-8026, USA.
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, USA.
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Lam SK, Yan S, Lam JSM, Feng Y, Khan M, Chen C, Ko FCF, Ho JCM. Disturbance of the Warburg effect by dichloroacetate and niclosamide suppresses the growth of different sub-types of malignant pleural mesothelioma in vitro and in vivo. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1020343. [PMID: 36304150 PMCID: PMC9592830 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1020343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Inhalation of asbestos fibers is the most common cause of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). In 2004, the United States Food and Drug Administration approved a combination of cisplatin with pemetrexed to treat unresectable MPM. Nonetheless novel treatment is urgently needed. The objective of this study is to report the combination effect of dichloroacetate (DCA) or niclosamide (Nic) Nic in MPM. Materials and methods: The effect of a combination of DCA and Nic was studied using a panel of MPM cell lines (H28, MSTO-211H, H226, H2052, and H2452). Cell viability was monitored by MTT assay. Glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, glucose, glycogen, pyruvate, lactate, citrate, succinate and ATP levels were determined by corresponding ELISA. Apoptosis, mitochondrial transmembrane potential, cell cycle analysis, hydrogen peroxide and superoxide were investigated by flow cytometry. Cell migration and colony formation were investigated by transwell migration and colony formation assays respectively. The in vivo effect was confirmed using 211H and H226 nude mice xenograft models. Results and conclusion: Cell viability was reduced. Disturbance of glycolysis and/or oxidative phosphorylation resulted in downregulation of glycogen, citrate and succinate. DCA and/or Nic increased apoptosis, mitochondrial transmembrane depolarization, G2/M arrest and reactive oxygen species. Moreover, DCA and/or Nic suppressed cell migration and colony formation. Furthermore, a better initial tumor suppressive effect was induced by the DCA/Nic combination compared with either drug alone in both 211H and H226 xenograft models. In H226 xenografts, DCA/Nic increased median survival of mice compared with single treatment. Single drug and/or a combination disturbed the Warburg effect and activated apoptosis, and inhibition of migration and proliferation in vivo. In conclusion, dichloroacetate and/or niclosamide showed a tumor suppressive effect in MPM in vitro and in vivo, partially mediated by disturbance of glycolysis/oxidative phosphorylation, apoptosis, ROS production, G2/M arrest, and suppression of migration and proliferation.
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17
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Cunha A, Rocha AC, Barbosa F, Baião A, Silva P, Sarmento B, Queirós O. Glycolytic Inhibitors Potentiated the Activity of Paclitaxel and Their Nanoencapsulation Increased Their Delivery in a Lung Cancer Model. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14102021. [PMID: 36297455 PMCID: PMC9611291 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14102021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Antiglycolytic agents inhibit cell metabolism and modify the tumor’s microenvironment, affecting chemotherapy resistance mechanisms. In this work, we studied the effect of the glycolytic inhibitors 3-bromopyruvate (3BP), dichloroacetate (DCA) and 2-deoxyglucose (2DG) on cancer cell properties and on the multidrug resistance phenotype, using lung cancer cells as a model. All compounds led to the loss of cell viability, with different effects on the cell metabolism, migration and proliferation, depending on the drug and cell line assayed. DCA was the most promising compound, presenting the highest inhibitory effect on cell metabolism and proliferation. DCA treatment led to decreased glucose consumption and ATP and lactate production in both A549 and NCI-H460 cell lines. Furthermore, the DCA pretreatment sensitized the cancer cells to Paclitaxel (PTX), a conventional chemotherapeutic drug, with a 2.7-fold and a 10-fold decrease in PTX IC50 values in A549 and NCI-H460 cell lines, respectively. To increase the intracellular concentration of DCA, thereby potentiating its effect, DCA-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles were produced. At higher DCA concentrations, encapsulation was found to increase its toxicity. These results may help find a new treatment strategy through combined therapy, which could open doors to new treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Cunha
- UNIPRO—Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), CESPU, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
| | - Ana Catarina Rocha
- UNIPRO—Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), CESPU, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
- DCM—Departamento de Ciências Médicas, Universidade de Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Flávia Barbosa
- UNIPRO—Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), CESPU, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
- DCM—Departamento de Ciências Médicas, Universidade de Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ana Baião
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- INEB—Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- ICBAS—Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Silva
- UNIPRO—Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), CESPU, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
- TOXRUN—Toxicology Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), CESPU, 3810-193 Gandra, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sarmento
- UNIPRO—Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), CESPU, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- INEB—Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Odília Queirós
- UNIPRO—Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), CESPU, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
- Correspondence:
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The role of MicroRNA networks in tissue-specific direct and indirect effects of metformin and its application. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 151:113130. [PMID: 35598373 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin is a first-line oral antidiabetic agent that results in clear benefits in relation to glucose metabolism and diabetes-related complications. The specific regulatory details and mechanisms underlying these benefits are still unclear and require further investigation. There is recent mounting evidence that metformin has pleiotropic effects on the target tissue development in metabolic organs, including adipose tissue, the gastrointestinal tract and the liver. The mechanism of actions of metformin are divided into direct effects on target tissues and indirect effects via non-targeted tissues. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of endogenous, noncoding, negative gene regulators that have emerged as important regulators of a number of diseases, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Metformin is involved in many aspects of miRNA regulation, and metformin treatment in T2DM should be associated with other miRNA targets. A large number of miRNAs regulation by metformin in target tissues with either direct or indirect effects has gradually been revealed in the context of numerous diseases and has gradually received increasing attention. This paper thoroughly reviews the current knowledge about the role of miRNA networks in the tissue-specific direct and indirect effects of metformin. Furthermore, this knowledge provides a novel theoretical basis and suggests therapeutic targets for the clinical treatment of metformin and miRNA regulators in the prevention and treatment of cancer, cardiovascular disorders, diabetes and its complications.
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Metformin Protects against Spinal Cord Injury and Cell Pyroptosis via AMPK/NLRP3 Inflammasome Pathway. Anal Cell Pathol 2022; 2022:3634908. [PMID: 35387358 PMCID: PMC8977347 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3634908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is an extreme neurological impairment with few effective drug treatments. Pyroptosis is a recently found and proven type of programmed cell death that is characterized by a reliance on inflammatory caspases and the release of a large number of proinflammatory chemicals. Pyroptosis differs from other cell death mechanisms such as apoptosis and necrosis in terms of morphological traits, incidence, and regulatory mechanism. Pyroptosis is widely involved in the occurrence and development of SCI. In-depth research on pyroptosis will help researchers better understand its involvement in the onset, progression, and prognosis of SCI, as well as provide new therapeutic prevention and treatment options. Herein, we investigated the role of AMPK-mediated activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome in the neuroprotection of MET-regulated pyroptosis. We found that MET treatment reduced NLRP3 inflammasome activation by activating phosphorylated AMPK and reduced proinflammatory cytokine (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) release. At the same time, MET improved motor function recovery in rats after SCI by reducing motor neuron loss in the anterior horn of the spinal cord. Taken together, our study confirmed that MET inhibits neuronal pyroptosis after SCI via the AMPK/NLRP3 signaling pathway, which is mostly dependent on the AMPK pathway increase, hence decreasing NLRP3 inflammasome activation.
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Chen ML, Wu CX, Zhang JB, Zhang H, Sun YD, Tian SL, Han JJ. Transarterial chemoembolization combined with metformin improves the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma patients with type 2 diabetes. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:996228. [PMID: 36187118 PMCID: PMC9520252 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.996228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study aims to investigate the effect of metformin on Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) who received transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) for the first time. METHODS From January 2016 to December 2019, T2DM patients diagnosed with HCC in Shandong Cancer Hospital and treated with TACE were included in this retrospective study. Overall survival (OS) and Progression-free survival (PFS) were compared between patients treated with metformin and other antidiabetics. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression models were used to evaluate the independent risk factors associated with OS and PFS. And sub-analysis was performed to investigate whether metformin could give a survival advantage in each Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage of HCC. Propensity score matched (PSM) analyses based on patient and tumor characteristics were also conducted. RESULTS A total of 123 HCC patients with T2DM underwent TACE, of which 50 (40.65%) received treatment with metformin. For the whole cohort, the median OS (42 vs 32 months, p=0.054) and PFS (12 vs 7 months, P=0.0016) were longer in the metformin group than that in the non-metformin group. Multi-analysis revealed that BCLC stage, BMI (Body Mass Index), and metformin use were independent predictors of OS. Metformin use was independently associated with recurrence. After PSM, 39 matched pairs were identified. The use of metformin was associated with a numerically longer m OS (43 vs 35 months, P=0.183) than the use of other anti-diabetics. And the difference in median PFS (13 vs 7 months, p=0.018) between the metformin group and non-metformin group remained significant. CONCLUSION The combination of transarterial chemoembolization and metformin may be associated with better OS and PFS in HCC patients with T2DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao-Ling Chen
- Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Chun-Xue Wu
- Interventional Medicine Center, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Affiliated Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Jian-Bo Zhang
- Pathology Department, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Affiliated Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Interventional Medicine Center, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Affiliated Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Yuan-Dong Sun
- Interventional Medicine Center, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Affiliated Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Shi-Lin Tian
- Interventional Medicine Center, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Affiliated Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Jian-Jun Han
- Interventional Medicine Center, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Affiliated Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Jian-Jun Han, ;
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