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Tian H, Zhao F, Yue BS, Zhai BT. Combinational Antitumor Strategies Based on the Active Ingredients of Toad Skin and Toad Venom. Drug Des Devel Ther 2024; 18:3549-3594. [PMID: 39139676 PMCID: PMC11321342 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s469832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
A multidrug combination strategy is an important mean to improve the treatment of cancer and is the mainstream scheme of clinical cancer treatment. The active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine, represented by toad skin and toad venom, have the advantages of high efficiency, low toxicity, wide action and multiple targets and have become ideal targets in combined treatment strategies for tumors in recent years. Toad skin and toad venom are traditional Chinese animal medicines derived from Bufo bufo gargarizans Cantor or Bufo melanostictus Schneider that have shown excellent therapeutic effects on the treatment of various cancers and cancer pain as adjuvant antitumor drugs in clinical practice. The involved mechanisms include inducing apoptosis, arresting the cell cycle, inhibiting cell proliferation, migration and invasion, inhibiting tumor angiogenesis, reversing the multidrug resistance of tumor cells, and regulating multiple signaling pathways and targets. Moreover, a multidrug combination strategy based on a nanodelivery system can realize the precise loading of the active ingredients of toad skin or toad venom and other antitumor drugs and carry drugs to overcome physiological and pathological barriers, complete efficient enrichment in tumor tissues, and achieve targeted delivery to tumor cells and the controlled release of drugs, thus enhancing antitumor efficacy and reducing toxicity and side effects. This article reviewed the clinical efficacy and safety of the combination of toad skin and toad venom with chemotherapeutic drugs, targeted drugs, analgesics and other drugs; evaluated the effects and mechanisms of the combination of toad skin and toad venom with chemotherapy, targeted therapy, radiotherapy or hyperthermia, traditional Chinese medicine, signaling pathway inhibitors and other therapies in cell and animal models; and summarized the codelivery strategies for the active ingredients of toad skin and toad venom with chemotherapeutic drugs, small-molecule targeted drugs, monoclonal antibodies, active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine, and photodynamic and photothermal therapeutic drugs to provide a basis for the rational drug use of toad skin and toad venom in the clinic and the development of novel drug delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Tian
- Department of Pharmacy, Xi’an Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xi’an, People’s Republic of China
| | - Feng Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, Xi’an Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xi’an, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bao-Sen Yue
- Department of Pharmacy, Xi’an Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xi’an, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bing-Tao Zhai
- College of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xi’an, People’s Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Characteristic Qin Medicine Resources (Cultivation), Xi’an, People’s Republic of China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Fundamentals and New Drugs Research, Xi’an, People’s Republic of China
- Shaanxi Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Xi’an, People’s Republic of China
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2
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Zhang D, Zhai B, Sun J, Cheng J, Zhang X, Guo D. Advances on Delivery System of Active Ingredients of Dried Toad Skin and Toad Venom. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:7273-7305. [PMID: 39050871 PMCID: PMC11268768 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s469742] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Dried toad skin (TS) and toad venom (TV) are the dried skin of the Bufo bufo gargarizans Cantor and the Bufo melanostictus Schneider, which remove the internal organs and the white secretions of the skin and retroauricular glands. Since 2005, cinobufacini preparations have been approved by the State Food and Drug Administration for use as adjuvant therapies in the treatment of various advanced cancers. Meanwhile, bufalenolides has been identified as the main component of TS/TV, exhibiting antitumor activity, inducing apoptosis of cancer cells and inhibiting cancer cell proliferation or metastasis through a variety of signaling pathways. However, clinical agents frequently face limitations such as inherent toxicity at high concentrations and insufficient tumor targeting. Additionally, the development and utilization of these active ingredients are hindered by poor water solubility, low bioavailability, and rapid clearance from the bloodstream. To address these challenges, the design of a targeted drug delivery system (TDDS) aims to enhance drug bioavailability, improve targeting within the body, increase drug efficacy, and reduce adverse reactions. This article reviews the TDDS for TS/TV, and their active components, including passive, active, and stimuli-responsive TDDS, to provide a reference for advancing their clinical development and use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Characteristic Qin Medicine Resources (Cultivation), and Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Fundamentals and New Drugs Research, and Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xi’an, 712046, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bingtao Zhai
- State Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Characteristic Qin Medicine Resources (Cultivation), and Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Fundamentals and New Drugs Research, and Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xi’an, 712046, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jing Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Characteristic Qin Medicine Resources (Cultivation), and Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Fundamentals and New Drugs Research, and Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xi’an, 712046, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiangxue Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Characteristic Qin Medicine Resources (Cultivation), and Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Fundamentals and New Drugs Research, and Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xi’an, 712046, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaofei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Characteristic Qin Medicine Resources (Cultivation), and Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Fundamentals and New Drugs Research, and Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xi’an, 712046, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dongyan Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Characteristic Qin Medicine Resources (Cultivation), and Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Fundamentals and New Drugs Research, and Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xi’an, 712046, People’s Republic of China
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Kaur G, Devi S, Sharma A, Sood P. Pharmacological insights and role of bufalin (bufadienolides) in inflammation modulation: a narrative review. Inflammopharmacology 2024:10.1007/s10787-024-01517-9. [PMID: 39012431 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-024-01517-9] [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: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Bufadienolides, specifically bufalin, have garnered attention for their potential therapeutic application in modulating inflammatory pathways. Bufalin is derived from toad venom and exhibits promising anti-inflammatory properties. Its anti-inflammatory effects have been demonstrated by influencing crucial signaling pathways like NF-B, MAPK, and JAK-STAT, resulting in the inhibition of pro-inflammatory substances like cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecules. Bufalin blocks inflammasome activation and reduces oxidative stress, hence increasing its anti-inflammatory properties. Bufalin has shown effectiveness in reducing inflammation-related diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular problems, and autoimmune ailments in preclinical investigations. Furthermore, producing new approaches of medication delivery and combining therapies with bufalin shows potential for improving its effectiveness and reducing adverse effects. This review explores the pharmacological effects and mechanistic approaches of bufalin as an anti-inflammatory agent, which further highlights its potential for therapy and offers the basis for further study on its therapeutic application in inflammation-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gagandeep Kaur
- Chitkara University School of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Sushma Devi
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, India.
| | - Akhil Sharma
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, India
| | - Parul Sood
- Chitkara University School of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, India
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4
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Lei X, Wang X, Xiong W, Xiao H, Wu Y, Huang T, Liang R, Li Y, Lin S. Cytochrome P450 Mining for Bufadienolide Diversification. ACS Chem Biol 2024; 19:1169-1179. [PMID: 38624108 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.4c00089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Bufadienolides are a class of steroids with a distinctive α-pyrone ring at C17, mostly produced by toads and consisting of over 100 orthologues. They exhibit potent cardiotonic and antitumor activities and are active ingredients of the traditional Chinese medicine Chansu and Cinobufacini. Direct extraction from toads is costly, and chemical synthesis is difficult, limiting the accessibility of active bufadienolides with diverse modifications and trace content. In this work, based on the transcriptome and genome analyses, using a yeast-based screening platform, we obtained eight cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes from toads, which catalyze the hydroxylation of bufalin and resibufogenin at different sites. Moreover, a reported fungal CYP enzyme Sth10 was found functioning in the modification of bufalin and resibufogenin at multiple sites. A total of 15 bufadienolides were produced and structurally identified, of which six were first discovered. All of the compounds were effective in inhibiting the proliferation of tumor cells, especially 19-hydroxy-bufalin (2) and 1β-hydroxy-bufalin (3), which were generated from bufalin hydroxylation catalyzed by CYP46A35. The catalytic efficiency of CYP46A35 was improved about six times and its substrate diversity was expanded to progesterone and testosterone, the common precursors for steroid drugs, achieving their efficient and site-specific hydroxylation. These findings elucidate the key modification process in the synthesis of bufadienolides by toads and provide an effective way for the synthesis of unavailable bufadienolides with site-specific modification and active potentials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolai Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory on Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Xiaozheng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory on Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Weiliang Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory on Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Han Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory on Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yingchun Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Tingting Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory on Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Rubing Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory on Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yiming Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Shuangjun Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory on Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China
- Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China
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Zhang H, Jian B. Resibufogenin: An Emerging Therapeutic Compound with Multifaceted Pharmacological Effects - A Comprehensive Review. Med Sci Monit 2024; 30:e942783. [PMID: 38369741 PMCID: PMC10885638 DOI: 10.12659/msm.942783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Resibufogenin (RBG), a significant bufadienolide compound found in the traditional Chinese medicine Chansu, has garnered increasing attention in recent years for its wide range of pharmacological effects. This compound has shown promising potential in various therapeutic areas, including oncology, cardiology, and respiratory medicine. Among its notable properties, the anticancer effects of RBG are particularly striking, positioning it as a potential candidate for innovative cancer treatments. The mechanism of action of RBG is diverse, impacting various cellular processes. Its anticancer efficacy has been observed in different types of cancer cells, where it induces apoptosis and inhibits cell proliferation. Beyond its oncological applications, RBG also demonstrates substantial anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities. These properties suggest its utility in managing chronic inflammatory disorders and viral infections, respectively. The compound's cardiotonic effects are also noteworthy, providing potential benefits in cardiovascular health, particularly in heart failure management. Additionally, RBG has shown effectiveness in blood pressure regulation and respiratory function improvement, making it a versatile agent in the treatment of hypertension and respiratory disorders. However, despite these promising aspects, systematic reviews focusing specifically on RBG are limited. This article aims to address this gap by comprehensively reviewing RBG's origin, physiological, and pharmacological effects. The review will serve as a crucial reference for clinicians and researchers interested in the therapeutic applications of RBG, highlighting its potential in various medical domains. By synthesizing current research findings, this review will facilitate a deeper understanding of RBG's role in medicine and encourage further investigation into its clinical uses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao (Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China (mainland)
| | - Baiyu Jian
- Institute of Polygenic Disease, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, Heilongjiang, China (mainland)
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Xiong W, Xie J, Liang Y, Chai J, Guo R, Zeng B, Wu J, Lai S, Zhang H, Huang X, Chen X, Xu X. Cath-DM-NT, a peptide derived from the skin of Duttaphrynus melanostictus, shows dual lectin-like and antioxidant activity. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 956:175941. [PMID: 37536626 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175941] [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: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Chansu, a mixture extracted from Duttaphrynus melanostictus or Bufo gargarizans Cantor, is a traditional Chinese medicine with a broad range of medical applications. However, the peptides/proteins in it have not received adequate attention. Herein, a Cathelicidin-DM-derived peptide named Cath-DM-NT was identified from the skin of D. melanostictus. Previous studies have shown that Cathelicidin-DM has significant antibacterial activity, while Cath-DM-NT has no antibacterial activity. In this study, Cath-DM-NT is found to have lectin-like activity which can agglutinate erythrocytes and bacteria, and bind to lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In addition, Cath-DM-NT has antioxidant activity, which can scavenge 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS), 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and nitric oxide (NO) radicals and reduce Fe3+. Consistently, Cath-DM-NT can protect PC12 cells from H2O2-induced oxidative damage and carrageenan-induced paw edema, reduce malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, and restore superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) levels. Our study suggests that Cath-DM-NT can serve as a lead compound for the development of drugs with dual lectin and antioxidant effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weichen Xiong
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianpeng Xie
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan Liang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinwei Chai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ruiyin Guo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Baishuang Zeng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiena Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shian Lai
- Department of Molecular Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Japan
| | - Haiyun Zhang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaowen Huang
- Department of Dermatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Xueqing Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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Ye Q, Zhou X, Ren H, Han F, Lin R, Li J. An overview of the past decade of bufalin in the treatment of refractory and drug-resistant cancers: current status, challenges, and future perspectives. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1274336. [PMID: 37860119 PMCID: PMC10582727 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1274336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Profound progress has been made in cancer treatment in the past three decades. However, drug resistance remains prevalent and a critical challenge. Drug resistance can be attributed to oncogenes mutations, activated defensive mechanisms, ATP-bind cassette transporters overexpression, cancer stem cells, etc. Chinese traditional medicine toad venom has been used for centuries for different diseases, including resistant cancers. Bufalin is one of the bufadienolides in toad venom that has been extensively studied for its potential in refractory and drug-resistant cancer treatments in vitro and in vivo. In this work, we would like to critically review the progress made in the past decade (2013-2022) of bufalin in overcoming drug resistance in cancers. Generally, bufalin shows high potential in killing certain refractory and resistant cancer cells via multiple mechanisms. More importantly, bufalin can work as a chemo-sensitizer that enhances the sensitivity of certain conventional and targeted therapies at low concentrations. In addition, the development of bufalin derivatives was also briefly summarized and discussed. We also analyzed the obstacles and challenges and provided possible solutions for future perspectives. We hope that the collective information may help evoke more effort for more in-depth studies and evaluation of bufalin in both lab and possible clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingmei Ye
- Hainan General Hospital & Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Medicinal Resource Chemistry of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Tropical Medicinal Plant Chemistry of Hainan Province, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Xin Zhou
- The Fifth People’s Hospital of Hainan Province & Affiliated Dermatology Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Han Ren
- Hainan General Hospital & Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Fangxuan Han
- Hainan General Hospital & Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Rong Lin
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Resource and Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Juan Li
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Resource and Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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Zhang H, Jian B, Kuang H. Pharmacological Effects of Cinobufagin. Med Sci Monit 2023; 29:e940889. [PMID: 37743616 PMCID: PMC10540643 DOI: 10.12659/msm.940889] [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: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cinobufagin (CBF) is a bufadienolide, which is a major active ingredient of toad venom. In recent years, CBF has attracted increasing attention due to its highly potent and multiple pharmacological activities. To better understand the status of research on CBF, we collated recent studies on CBF to provide a valuable reference for clinical researchers and practitioners. According to reports, CBF exhibits extensive pharmacological properties, including antitumor, analgesic, cardioprotection, immunomodulatory, antifibrotic, antiviral, and antiprotozoal effects. Studies on the pharmacological activity of CBF have mainly focused on its anticancer activity. It has been demonstrated that CBF has a therapeutic effect on liver cancer, osteosarcoma, melanoma, colorectal cancer, acute promyelocytic leukemia, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, multiple myeloma, gastric cancer, and breast cancer. However, the direct molecular targets of CBF are currently unknown. In addition, there are few reports on toxicological and pharmacokinetic of CBF. Subsequent studies focusing on these aspects will help promote the development and application of CBF in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Ministry of Education, Harbin, Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Baiyu Jian
- Institute of Polygenic Disease, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Haixue Kuang
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Ministry of Education, Harbin, Heilongjiang, PR China
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Ye Q, Zhou X, Han F, Zheng C. Toad venom-derived bufadienolides and their therapeutic application in prostate cancers: Current status and future directions. Front Chem 2023; 11:1137547. [PMID: 37007051 PMCID: PMC10060886 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2023.1137547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Specially, the high incidence rate and prevalence of drug resistance have rendered prostate cancer (PCa) a great threat to men’s health. Novel modalities with different structures or mechanisms are in urgent need to overcome these two challenges. Traditional Chinese medicine toad venom-derived agents (TVAs) have shown to possess versatile bioactivities in treating certain diseases including PCa. In this work, we attempted to have an overview of bufadienolides, the major bioactive components in TVAs, in the treatment of PCa in the past decade, including their derivatives developed by medicinal chemists to antagonize certain drawbacks of bufadienolides such as innate toxic effect to normal cells. Generally, bufadienolides can effectively induce apoptosis and suppress PCa cells in-vitro and in-vivo, majorly mediated by regulating certain microRNAs/long non-coding RNAs, or by modulating key pro-survival and pro-metastasis players in PCa. Importantly, critical obstacles and challenges using TVAs will be discussed and possible solutions and future perspectives will also be presented in this review. Further in-depth studies are clearly needed to decipher the mechanisms, e.g., targets and pathways, toxic effects and fully reveal their application. The information collected in this work may help evoke more effects in developing bufadienolides as therapeutic agents in PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingmei Ye
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Medicinal Resource Chemistry of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Tropical Medicinal Plant Chemistry of Hainan Province, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Hainan General Hospital & Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Xin Zhou
- The Fifth People’s Hospital of Hainan Province & Affiliated Dermatology Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Fangxuan Han
- Hainan General Hospital & Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Caijuan Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Medicinal Resource Chemistry of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Tropical Medicinal Plant Chemistry of Hainan Province, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, Hainan, China
- *Correspondence: Caijuan Zheng,
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Bioactive Compounds from Kalanchoe Genus Potentially Useful for the Development of New Drugs. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13030646. [PMID: 36983802 PMCID: PMC10058616 DOI: 10.3390/life13030646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The genus Kalanchoe Adans. (Crassulaceae) is native to Madagascar and comprises 145 species, being naturalized in the tropics and cultivated worldwide. In addition to having ornamental value, several Kalanchoe species are commonly used in popular medicine for the treatment of inflammatory conditions, wounds, gastric ulcers, and other diseases. The great importance of the genus is reflected on its acknowledgment by traditional and alternative health systems and organizations, as well as on the growing number of papers reporting pharmacological properties of extracts and isolated compounds from Kalanchoe. Among these properties, we highlight anti-inflammatory, antitumor, wound healing, antiulcer, and muscle relaxing properties. These activities are attributed mostly to flavonoids and bufadienolides, the main secondary metabolites reported in Kalanchoe extracts. While bufadienolides are generally related to cytotoxic and muscle relaxing activities, flavonoids are commonly reported as anti-inflammatory and wound healing agents. This review provides up to date information and perspectives on bioactive compounds from the Kalanchoe genus that are potentially useful for the development of new drugs. It includes not only a discussion on the advantages of the Kalanchoe species as source of bioactive compounds, but also the gaps, opportunities, and challenges to translate the acquired knowledge into innovation for drug development.
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Ye G, Huang W, Chen Z, Zhong H, Zhong J, Guo X, Huang Y, Kandalai S, Zhou X, Zhang N, Zhou Y, Zheng Q, Tian H. Tunable Toxicity of Bufadienolides is Regulated through a Configuration Inversion Catalyzed by a Short-Chain Dehydrogenase/Reductase. Chembiochem 2022; 23:e202200473. [PMID: 36125775 PMCID: PMC9828183 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202200473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Bufadienolides are toxic components widely found in amphibious toads that exhibit a wide range of biological activities. Guided by UPLC-QTOF-MS analysis, several 3-epi-bufadienolides with unique structures were isolated from the bile of the Asiatic toad, Bufo gargarizans. However, the enzymatic machinery of this epimerization in toads and its significance in chemical ecology remains poorly understood. Herein, we firstly compared the toxicities of two typical bufadienolides, bufalin (featuring a 14β-hydroxyl) and resibufogenin (containing a 14, 15-epoxy group), with their corresponding 3-epi isomers in a zebrafish model. The results of the toxicology assays showed that the ratio of maximum non-toxic concentrations of these two pairs of compounds are 256 and 96 times, respectively, thereby indicating that 3-hydroxyl epimerization leads to a significant decrease in toxicity. Aiming to investigate the biotransformation of 3-epi bufadienolides in toads, we applied liver lysate to transform bufalin and found that it could stereoselectively catalyze the conversion of bufalin into its 3α-hydroxyl epimer. Following this, we cloned and characterized a short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase, HSE-1, from the toad liver cDNA library and verified its 3(β→α)-hydroxysteroid epimerization activity. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first hydroxyl epimerase identified from amphibians that regulates the toxicity of animal-derived natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ge Ye
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Natural ProductsInternational Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) of ChinaCollege of PharmacyJinan University855 Xingye East Avenue510632GuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Weihuan Huang
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative MedicineMinistry of EducationJinan University601 West Huangpu Avenue510632GuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Zeping Chen
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Natural ProductsInternational Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) of ChinaCollege of PharmacyJinan University855 Xingye East Avenue510632GuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Hao Zhong
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Natural ProductsInternational Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) of ChinaCollege of PharmacyJinan University855 Xingye East Avenue510632GuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Junhao Zhong
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Natural ProductsInternational Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) of ChinaCollege of PharmacyJinan University855 Xingye East Avenue510632GuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Xiaoxin Guo
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Natural ProductsInternational Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) of ChinaCollege of PharmacyJinan University855 Xingye East Avenue510632GuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Yuheng Huang
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Natural ProductsInternational Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) of ChinaCollege of PharmacyJinan University855 Xingye East Avenue510632GuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Shruthi Kandalai
- Department of Radiation OncologyCollege of MedicineThe Ohio State University420 W. 12th Ave43210ColumbusOhioUSA
- Center for Cancer MetabolismJames Comprehensive Cancer CenterThe Ohio State University420 W. 12th Ave43210ColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Xiaozhuang Zhou
- Department of Radiation OncologyCollege of MedicineThe Ohio State University420 W. 12th Ave43210ColumbusOhioUSA
- Center for Cancer MetabolismJames Comprehensive Cancer CenterThe Ohio State University420 W. 12th Ave43210ColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Nan Zhang
- Department of Radiation OncologyCollege of MedicineThe Ohio State University420 W. 12th Ave43210ColumbusOhioUSA
- Center for Cancer MetabolismJames Comprehensive Cancer CenterThe Ohio State University420 W. 12th Ave43210ColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Yang Zhou
- Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug DevelopmentCollege of PharmacyJinan University855 Xingye East Avenue510632GuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Qingfei Zheng
- Department of Radiation OncologyCollege of MedicineThe Ohio State University420 W. 12th Ave43210ColumbusOhioUSA
- Center for Cancer MetabolismJames Comprehensive Cancer CenterThe Ohio State University420 W. 12th Ave43210ColumbusOhioUSA
- Department of Biological Chemistry and PharmacologyCollege of MedicineThe Ohio State University420 W. 12th Ave43210ColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Haiyan Tian
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Natural ProductsInternational Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) of ChinaCollege of PharmacyJinan University855 Xingye East Avenue510632GuangzhouP. R. China
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Strategies for Solubility and Bioavailability Enhancement and Toxicity Reduction of Norcantharidin. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27227740. [PMID: 36431851 PMCID: PMC9693198 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27227740] [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: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cantharidin (CTD) is the main active ingredient isolated from Mylabris, and norcantharidin (NCTD) is a demethylated derivative of CTD, which has similar antitumor activity to CTD and lower toxicity than CTD. However, the clinical use of NCTD is limited due to its poor solubility, low bioavailability, and toxic effects on normal cells. To overcome these shortcomings, researchers have explored a number of strategies, such as chemical structural modifications, microsphere dispersion systems, and nanodrug delivery systems. This review summarizes the structure-activity relationship of NCTD and novel strategies to improve the solubility and bioavailability of NCTD as well as reduce the toxicity. This review can provide evidence for further research of NCTD.
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Zou D, Wang Q, Chen T, Sang D, Yang T, Wang Y, Gao M, He F, Li Y, He L, Longzhu D. Bufadienolides originated from toad source and their anti-inflammatory activity. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1044027. [PMID: 36339575 PMCID: PMC9627299 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1044027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Bufadienolide, an essential member of the C-24 steroid family, is characterized by an α-pyrone positioned at C-17. As the predominantly active constituent in traditional Chinese medicine of Chansu, bufadienolide has been prescribed in the treatment of numerous ailments. It is a specifically potent inhibitor of Na+/K+ ATPase with excellent anti-inflammatory activity. However, the severe side effects triggered by unbiased inhibition of the whole-body cells distributed α1-subtype of Na+/K+ ATPase, restrict its future applicability. Thus, researchers have paved the road for the structural alteration of desirable bufadienolide derivatives with minimal adverse effects via biotransformation. In this review, we give priority to the present evidence for structural diversity, MS fragmentation principles, anti-inflammatory efficacy, and structure modification of bufadienolides derived from toads to offer a scientific foundation for future in-depth investigations and views.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denglang Zou
- School of Life Science, Qinghai Normal University, Xining, China
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, China
| | - Qiqi Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tao Chen
- Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, China
| | - Duocheng Sang
- School of Life Science, Qinghai Normal University, Xining, China
| | - Tingqin Yang
- School of Life Science, Qinghai Normal University, Xining, China
| | - Yuhan Wang
- School of Life Science, Qinghai Normal University, Xining, China
| | - Mengze Gao
- School of Life Science, Qinghai Normal University, Xining, China
| | - Fangfang He
- School of Life Science, Qinghai Normal University, Xining, China
| | - Yulin Li
- Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, China
| | - Liangliang He
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Duojie Longzhu
- School of Life Science, Qinghai Normal University, Xining, China
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14
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Soumoy L, Ghanem GE, Saussez S, Journe F. Bufalin for an innovative therapeutic approach against cancer. Pharmacol Res 2022; 184:106442. [PMID: 36096424 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Bufalin is an endogenous cardiotonic steroid, first discovered in toad venom but also found in the plasma of healthy humans, with anti-tumour activities in different cancer types. The current review is focused on its mechanisms of action and highlights its very large spectrum of effects both in vitro and in vivo. All leads to the conclusion that bufalin mediates its effects by affecting all the hallmarks of cancer and seems restricted to cancer cells avoiding side effects. Bufalin decreases cancer cell proliferation by acting on the cell cycle and inducing different mechanisms of cell death including apoptosis, necroptosis, autophagy and senescence. Bufalin also moderates metastasis formation by blocking migration and invasion as well as angiogenesis and by inducing a phenotype switch towards differentiation and decreasing cancer cell stemness. Regarding its various mechanisms of action in cancer cells, bufalin blocks overactivated signalling pathways and modifies cell metabolism. Moreover, bufalin gained lately a huge interest in the field of drug resistance by both reversing various drug resistance mechanisms and affecting the immune microenvironment. Together, these data support bufalin as a quite promising new anti-cancer drug candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Soumoy
- Laboratory of Human Anatomy & Experimental Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Mons (UMONS), 7000 Mons, Belgium.
| | - Ghanem E Ghanem
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Oncology, Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1000 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sven Saussez
- Laboratory of Human Anatomy & Experimental Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Mons (UMONS), 7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - Fabrice Journe
- Laboratory of Human Anatomy & Experimental Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Mons (UMONS), 7000 Mons, Belgium; Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Oncology, Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1000 Brussels, Belgium.
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