Scutellaria barbate extract induces apoptosis of hepatoma H22 cells via the mitochondrial pathway involving caspase-3

Effect and molecular mechanism of Sulforaphane alleviates brain damage caused by acute carbon monoxide poisoning:Network pharmacology analysis, molecular docking, and experimental evidence

Sulforaphane (SFN) has attracted much attention due to its ability on antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties, while its functional targets and underlying mechanism of action on brain injury caused by acute carbon monoxide poisoning (ACOP) have not been fully elucidated. Herein, we used a systematic network pharmacology approach to explore the mechanism of SFN in the treatment of brain damage after ACOP. In this study, the results of network pharmacology demonstrated that there were a total of 81 effective target genes of SFN and 36 drug-disease targets, which were strongly in connection with autophagy-animal signaling pathway, drug metabolism, and transcription disorders in cancer. Upon the further biological function and KEGG signaling pathway enrichment analysis, a large number of them were involved in neuronal death, reactive oxygen metabolic processes and immune functions. Moreover, based on the results of bioinformatics prediction associated with multiple potential targets and pathways, the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway was selected to elucidate the molecular mechanism of SFN in the treatment of brain injury caused by ACOP. The following molecular docking analysis also confirmed that SFN can bind to AMPKα well through chemical bonds. In addition, an animal model of ACOP was established by exposure to carbon monoxide in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber to verify the predicted results of network pharmacology. We found that the mitochondrial ultrastructure of neurons in rats with ACOP was seriously damaged, and apoptotic cells increased significantly. The histopathological changes were obviously alleviated, apoptosis of cortical neurons was inhibited, and the number of Nissl bodies was increased in the SFN group as compared with the ACOP group (p < .05). Besides, the administration of SFN could increase the expressions of phosphorylated P-AMPK and MFN2 proteins and decrease the levels of DRP1, Caspase3, and Casapase9 proteins in the brain tissue of ACOP rats. These findings suggest that network pharmacology is a useful tool for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) research, SFN can effectively inhibit apoptosis, protect cortical neurons from the toxicity of carbon monoxide through activating the AMPK pathway and may become a potential therapeutic strategy for brain injury after ACOP.

[Interference of CTPS gene promotes toosendanin-induced apoptosis of human gastric cancer MKN-45 cells]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of interference of CTPS gene on toosendanin-induced apoptosis of gastric cancer MKN-45 cells.

METHODS

Bioinformatic analysis was used to analyze CTPS gene expression in human gastric cancer tissues and the overall survival of gastric cancer patients with high CTPS gene expression. Human gastric cancer MKN-45 cells were transfected with a short hairpin interfering RNA targeting CTPS gene, and 48 h later, qRT-PCR and Western blotting were used to detect cellular expression CTPS at both the mRNA and protein levels. MKN-45 cells with CTPS knockdown were treated with 80 nmol/L toosendanin for 48 h, and the cell viability was assessed with MTT assay; the cell morphology was observed using laser confocal microscope, and the expression of γH2AX was detected with immunofluorescence assay.

RESULTS

Bioinformatic analysis suggested that CTPS was highly expressed in human gastric cancer tissues, and gastric cancer patients with high CTPS gene expression had a shorter overall survival. MKN-45 cells transfected with Sh-CTPS interference vector showed significantly lowered cell survival rate (P < 0.01) with obvious cell shrinkage, irregular morphology, typical apoptotic changes, and increased cell apoptosis rate (P < 0.05). Treatment of the transfected cells with 80 nmol/L toosendanin for 48 h resulted in further reduction of the cell survival rate (P < 0.001), and the cells showed an increased apoptotic rate (P < 0.05) with appearance of apoptotic bodies.

CONCLUSION

Interference of CTPS gene can promote TSN-induced apoptosis of gastric cancer MKN-45 cells.

Cell Metabolomics Study on Synergistic anti-Hepatocellular Carcinoma Effect of Aidi Injection Combined with Doxorubicin

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most common cancer worldwide and the second most common cause of cancer deaths. This study aimed to explore the inhibitory effect and mechanism of Aidi injection (ADI) combined with doxorubicin (DOX) in HCC treatment. The drug concentrations in combined threapy was determined by investigating the effect of various concentrations of ADI and DOX on the viability of H22 cells. The combination index (CI) was also calculated. A metabolomic strategy based on ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) platform was established to analyze the metabolites. As a result, the CI values were less than 1, indicating that the combination of ADI and DOX exerted a synergistic effect on HCC treatment. The combination of 40‰ ADI and 1 μmol/L DOX had the strongest inhibitory effect and was used for subsequent metabolomic analysis. A total of 19 metabolic markers were obtained in metabolomic analysis, including amino acids (L-glutamic acid, L-arginine, and L-tyrosine), organic acids (succinic acid and citric acid), adenosine, and hypoxanthine , etc. Compared with the treatment using DOX or ADI alone, the combined therapy further regulated the levels of metabolic markers in HCC, which may be the reason for the synergistic effect. Seven metabolic pathways were significantly enriched, including phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, D-glutamine and D-glutamate metabolism, alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, phenylalanine metabolism, arginine biosynthesis, tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, and purine metabolism. These findings demonstrated that ADI combined with DOX can effectively inhibit the viability of H22 cells, which may exert a synergistic anti-tumor effect by balancing the metabolism of amino acids and energy-related substances.

γ-glutamylcysteine suppresses cadmium-induced apoptosis in PC12 cells via regulating oxidative stress

Cadmium (Cd) is a highly toxic environmental pollutant, leading to the occurrence and development of multiple neurological diseases. γ-glutamylcysteine (γ-GC) is a dipeptide formed by the condensation of l-glutamic acid and l-cysteine, which has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and chelating properties. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of γ-GC on Cd-induced apoptosis in PC12 cells. PC12 cells were pretreated with or without γ-GC (2 mM or 4 mM) for 2 h and exposed to Cd (10 μM) for 12 h, and survival, apoptosis, and oxidative stress of PC12 cells were detected after different treatments. The results showed that γ-GC significantly inhibited cell viability reduction, apoptosis, and depolarization of mitochondrial transmembrane potential in Cd-treated PC12 cells, as indicated by CCK-8 assay, flow cytometry, TUNEL staining, and JC-1 detection. Western blot showed that γ-GC down-regulated the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2 and the protein levels of cytosolic cytopigment c, cleaved-caspase-9, cleaved-caspase-3, and cleaved-PARP. Mechanistically, γ-GC suppressed Cd-induced ROS production, MDA accumulation, and GSH depletion, and increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes. Cd-induced activation of MAPK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways were inhibited by γ-GC treatment, while sustained phosphorylation of JNK, p38, or Akt reversed anti-apoptotic effects of γ-GC. These results suggested that γ-GC inhibited Cd-induced apoptosis in PC12 cells through decreasing oxidative stress and inhibiting the activation of MAPK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways. γ-GC could be used as a potential protective agent against Cd neurotoxicity.

A drug-biomarker interaction model to predict the key targets of Scutellaria barbata D. Don in adverse-risk acute myeloid leukaemia

A poor prognosis, relapse and resistance are burning issues during adverse-risk acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) treatment. As a natural medicine, Scutellaria barbata D. Don (SBD) has shown impressive antitumour activity in various cancers. Thus, SBD may become a potential drug in adverse-risk AML treatment. This study aimed to screen the key targets of SBD in adverse-risk AML using the drug-biomarker interaction model through bioinformatics and network pharmacology methods. First, the adverse-risk AML-related critical biomarkers and targets of SBD active ingredient were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas database and several pharmacophore matching databases. Next, the protein-protein interaction network was constructed, and topological analysis and pathway enrichment were used to screen key targets and main pathways of intervention of SBD in adverse-risk AML. Finally, molecular docking was implemented for key target verification. The results suggest that luteolin and quercetin are the main active components of SBD against adverse-risk AML, and affected drug resistance, apoptosis, immune regulation and angiogenesis through the core targets AKT1, MAPK1, IL6, EGFR, SRC, VEGFA and TP53. We hope the proposed drug-biomarker interaction model provides an effective strategy for the research and development of antitumour drugs.

Efficacy of erzhu jiedu recipe on hepatitis B cirrhosis with hyperalphafetoproteinemia: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis B cirrhosis with hyperalphafetoproteinemia is the intermediate stage of liver cirrhosis progressing to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), there is no effective way to treat precancerous lesions of liver in modern medicine. In recent decades, clinical and experimental evidence shows that Chinese medicine (CM) has a certain beneficial effect on Hepatitis B Cirrhosis. Therefore, this trial aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a CM erzhu jiedu recipe (EZJDR) for the treatment of Hepatitis B Cirrhosis with Hyperalphafetoproteinemia.

METHODS

We designed a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. A total of 72 patients of Hepatitis B Cirrhosis with hyperalphafetoproteinemia were randomized in 2 parallel groups. Patients in the control group received placebo granules similar to the EZJDR. In the EZJDR group, patients received EZJDR twice a day, after meals, for 48 weeks. The primary efficacy measures were changes in serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and alpha-fetoprotein alloplasm (AFP-L3); The secondary indicators of efficacy are changes in liver function indicators, HBV-DNA level; Liver stiffness measurement (LSM); Hepatic portal vein diameter; T lymphocyte subgroup indexes during treatment. All data will be recorded in case report forms and analyzed by Statistical Analysis System software. Adverse events will also be evaluated.

RESULTS

The results showed that EZJDR can significantly inhibit the levels of AFP and AFP-L3 in patients with hepatitis B cirrhosis and hyperalphafetoproteinemia and have good security.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study protocol was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of Shuguang Hospital, affiliated with University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai (NO.2018-579-08-01).

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This trial was registered on Chinese Clinical Trial Center (NO.ChiCTR1800017165).

Scutellaria barbata: A Review on Chemical Constituents, Pharmacological Activities and Clinical Applications

Scutellaria barbata has a long history of medical use in Traditional Chinese Medicine for removing heat and toxic material, promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis, and inducing diuresis to reduce edema. Recent pharmacology investigations have provided evidence for its anti-cancer, bacteriostasis, anti-virus, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation and immunity enhancement properties. The efficacy of activating blood circulation and removing blood stasis has unique advantages in the treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. A total of 84 compounds have been isolated from S. barbata and are characterized mainly as flavonoids, diterpenoids, followed by polysaccharide, volatile oil and steroids. Peer-reviewed articles published over the last few years were gathered by consulting the databases PubMed, Elsevier, Springer, and Chinese Herbal Classics. This review mainly focuses on the pharmacologically active constituents isolated from S. barbata，which have been subjected to in vitro and/or in vivo studies. Although, the chemical components, pharmacological activities, toxicology, clinical applications and mechanisms of action of S. barbata have been investigated, many constituents remain unknown. Further investigations are required to investigate the medicinal properties of S. barbata.

Erzhu Jiedu decoction ameliorates liver precancerous lesions in a rat model of liver cancer

Precancerous lesions are the intermediate stage in the development of liver cancer from cirrhosis. Early intervention measures can effectively prevent the occurrence of liver cancer and prolong the lives of patients, resulting in greater economic effects. Erzhu Jiedu decoction (EJD) is a semiempirical formula that is used in the treatment of cirrhosis and liver cancer according to the academic philosophy of "Preventive treatment of disease" and has achieved good curative effects in clinical practice. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of EJD on liver precancerous lesions induced by diethylnitrosamine (DEN) in rats. The results showed that EJD improved the general conditions (body weight, ALT, AST, and GGT) and reduced the number of precancerous lesions in the rat model. Notably, the medium dose of EJD (1.05 g/kg) had better treatment effects than the low dose of EJD, and the high dose of EJD did not further improve the liver lesions compared to the medium dose of EJD. Moreover, EJD effectively reduced the DEN-induced GST-Pi, AFP, CK19, c-Myc, and Ki67 protein expression in liver precancerous tissues. Interestingly, EJD significantly reduced YAP and TAZ mRNA expression in the liver precancerous lesions. Collectively, EJD protects against in the initiation of liver cancer and the regulation of c-Myc and Hippo signaling pathways may be the underlying mechanism.

Natural Agents Targeting Mitochondria in Cancer

Mitochondria are the key energy provider to highly proliferating cancer cells, and are subsequently considered one of the critical targets in cancer therapeutics. Several compounds have been studied for their mitochondria-targeting ability in cancer cells. These studies’ outcomes have led to the invention of “mitocans”, a category of drug known to precisely target the cancer cells’ mitochondria. Based upon their mode of action, mitocans have been divided into eight classes. To date, different synthetic compounds have been suggested to be potential mitocans, but unfortunately, they are observed to exert adverse effects. Many studies have been published justifying the medicinal significance of large numbers of natural agents for their mitochondria-targeting ability and anticancer activities with minimal or no side effects. However, these natural agents have never been critically analyzed for their mitochondria-targeting activity. This review aims to evaluate the various natural agents affecting mitochondria and categorize them in different classes. Henceforth, our study may further support the potential mitocan behavior of various natural agents and highlight their significance in formulating novel potential anticancer therapeutics.

Effectiveness of Scutellaria barbata water extract on inhibiting colon tumor growth and metastasis in tumor-bearing mice

The plant Scutellaria barbata (SB) is commonly used as herbal medicines for treating cancer. The present pre-clinical study aimed to validate the Chinese Pharmacopoeia (CP) recommended dosages of SB water extract (SBW) in treating colon tumors. The content of chemical marker scutellarin in SBW was quantified using UPLC. Mice bearing human HCT116 xenografts or murine colon26 tumors received oral administration of SBW or scutellarin for 4 weeks. Results showed that SBW (615 and 1,230 mg/kg) and scutellarin (7 mg/kg) treatments significantly reduced human xenograft weights by 28.7, 36.9 and 28.8%, respectively. Lung metastasis area could be ameliorated after SBW (615 mg/kg) and scutellarin (7 mg/kg) treatments by 23.4 and 29.5%, respectively. Expressions of colon cancer metastasis-related proteins E-cadherin, Tspan 8 and CXCR4, as well as Src kinase in tumors were first shown to be regulated by SBW. Furthermore, in murine colon26 tumor-bearing mice, SBW (615 mg/kg) and scutellarin (7 mg/kg) treatments reduced the orthotopic tumor burden by 94.7% and lung metastatic tumor burden by 94.1%, respectively. Our findings provided evidences that SBW (at the mouse equivalent dosages to clinical dosages recommended by CP) could exert anti-tumor and anti-metastatic effects in colon cancer animal models.

Transcriptional regulation of G2/M regulatory proteins and perturbation of G2/M Cell cycle transition by a traditional Chinese medicine recipe

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hedyotis diffusa Willd. (H) and Scutellaria barbata D.Don (S) are ancient anti-cancer Chinese herb medicines. When combined, known as HS, it is one of the most commonly prescribed Chinese Medicines for cancer patients today in China.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The prevention of disease progression is a dominant concern for the growing number of men with prostate cancer. The purpose of this work is to evaluate the action and mode of action of Chinese Medicine recipe HS in inhibiting prostate cancer progression in preclinical models.

METHODS

Effects of HS were analyzed in prostate cancer cell lines by evaluating proliferation, cell cycle profile, DNA damage and key regulators responsible for G₂ to M phase transition. The transcriptional activities of these regulators were determined by RT-PCR and ChIP. The efficacy of HS in vitro was validated in an animal model.

RESULTS

HS treatment was observed to reduce DNA content and accumulated prostate cancer cells at the G₂/M phase. Immunolabeling for phospho-Histone H3 in association with nocodazole to capture mitotic cells confirmed that HS impeded G₂ to M transition. After excluding DNA damage-induced G₂ arrest, it was revealed that HS reduced expression of Cyclin B1, CDK1, PLK1 and Aurora A at both protein and mRNA levels, with concomitant reduction of H3K4 tri-methylation at their promoter-regions. Animals that received oral administration of HS with a dosage relevant to clinical application showed reduced tumor volume and weight with a reduction of Cyclin B1, CDK1, PLK1 and Aurora A protein levels.

CONCLUSIONS

HS acts by impeding the G₂ to M transition of prostate cancer cells. It is likely that the mode of action is transcriptionally suppressing proteins governing mitotic entry, without eliciting significant DNA damage.

Induction of apoptosis by Xiakemycin A in human hepatoma HepG2 cells

Xiakemycin A (XKA), a new antibiotic in the pyranonaphthoquinone family, shows antitumor activity. However, the type of cell death induced by XKA remains elusive. In this study, we aim to investigate the type of death induced by XKA in hepatic cancer.The apoptotic features, such as chromatic agglutination, reactive oxygen species generation and membrane potential of mitochondria, in HepG2 cells treated by XKA were measured by Hoechst 33342 staining and flow cytometry. Apoptosis of HepG2 cells treated with XKA was determined by Annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide double staining and Western blot analysis, respectively.XKA had a significant dose-dependent elevation of chromatic agglutination, reactive oxygen species generation, Annexin V and propidium iodide staining, decrease of membrane potential. Meanwhile, in apoptotic HepG2 cells induced by XKA, robust increment was noticed in p53 expression, cleavage of PARP, caspase-3, and caspase-9.XKA showed potent inhibitory effects on the proliferation of HepG2 cells. Such phenomenon may be related to activation of the apoptotic pathway.

Anti-colorectal cancer effects of scutellarin revealed by genomic and proteomic analysis

Background

Colorectal cancer, one of the most common digestive tumors with high mortality and morbidity worldwide, currently lacks effective therapies available to improve the prognosis. This study was aimed to investigate the potency of Scutellarin against colorectal cancers, and explore the related mechanism via genomic and proteomic analysis.

Methods

Cell counting kit-8 assay was employed to detect the viability of HCT-116 and RKO cell lines treated with Scutellarin. The apoptosis of HCT-116 and RKO cells after Scutellarin administration was determined by TUNEL staining and Caspase 3/7 activity. Cell cycle was detected by flow cytometry analysis. The wound healing and transwell invasion test detected the role of Scutellarin in migration and invasion of HCT-116 and RKO cells. Meanwhile, the energy metabolism and growth of tumor tissues in vivo at day 28 were observed by PET-CT after Scutellarin administration with 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg into 4-week-old nude mice. Blood routine and liver functions were also detected to evaluate the side effect of Scutellarin. Furthermore, the disease and function classifications which the differentially expressed genes and proteins involved after Scutellarin treatment were determined by genomic and proteomic analysis respectively.

Results

The Scutellarin inhibited the migration and increased apoptosis of HCT-116 and RKO cell lines. Besides, Scutellarin treatment substantially decreased the growth and volume of colorectal tumors in nude mice without side effects on the blood routine and liver function. The differentially expressed genes in RKO cells after Scutellarin administration were mainly enriched in cell death and survival, organismal injury and abnormalities, and cancer. In addition, forty-seven upregulated and twenty-nine downregulated proteins were identified. Functional clustering analysis exhibited enriched biological processes, cellular components, molecular functions and related pathways of these proteins in cellular metabolic. Then protein–protein interactions analysis showed the regulatory relationship among these differentially expressed proteins.

Conclusions

Taken together, the present findings revealed that Scutellarin exerted significant antitumor effect with no side effects in the blood and liver by regulating various important molecules in tumor proliferation, apoptosis and metastasis.

Screening and Identification of Molecular Targets Involved in Preventing Gastric Precancerous Lesions in Chronic Atrophic Gastritis by Qilianshupi Decoction

Chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG) is a common and possibly precancerous digestive tract disease. Development of drugs with effect of preventing precancerous lesions draws the eyes of global researchers. Qilianshupi decoction (QLSP) is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that is commonly used to treat CAG, but few studies have explored the mechanism of QLSP on treating CAG. This study investigated the molecular targets of the component herbs of QLSP in preventing precancerous lesions based on network pharmacology. Network pharmacology analysis revealed that the 6 herbs regulated multiple CAG-related genes, among which the most important were cancer-related pathway (apoptosis, p53, and VEGF) and epithelial cell signaling in Helicobacter pylori infection. Further animal experiments showed that the expression of survivin and p53 in precancerous lesions of CAG rats was significantly increased which was suppressed by QLSP. Moreover, telomerase activity was inhibited in precancerous lesions of CAG rats, and telomere length of gastric mucosa was increased, which was reversed by QLSP. Our results suggest that the components of QLSP prevents gastric precancerous lesions through decreasing the expression of survivin and p53 and regulating telomerase activity and telomere length in CAG.

From Scutellaria barbata to BZL101 in Cancer Patients: Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Clinical Evidence

Scutellaria barbata D.Don is a popular Chinese medicinal plant documented to treat cancer patients in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). A botanical new investigational drug for breast cancer BZL101 (FDA IDN# 59521) was previously developed in the United States from the aqueous extract of the aerial parts from S. barbata. The early phase 1A and 1B clinical trials show its favorable toxicity profiles, good clinical tolerance, and promising efficacy for patients with metastatic breast cancer. To further evidence the phytopharmacology research, drug development, and anticancer use of this herb, a systematic literature review was performed herein on the phytochemistry, pharmacology, and specifically anticancer clinical evidence. A systematic review of the literature on phytochemical and pharmacological properties of the plant related to cancer treatment employed several web-based scientific databases including Wanfang (Chinese), Pubmed, Web of Science, and Elsevier. Key words included Scutellaria barbata, Ban Zhi Lian, cancer, and tumor. Based on critical quality criteria, only 8 out of 69 reports related to clinical studies of cancer patients in China. This review covered the available literature up to July 2019. The anticancer effects of S. barbata can be explained by the presence of various flavonoids and diterpenoids alkaloids. The underlying mechanisms are primarily summarized as cyclin/cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK)-modulated cell cycle arrest and mitochondria-mediated apoptotic death. The highly cancer-cell selective cytotoxicity and detoxifying effects of S. barbata contribute to a favorable clinical profile and enhanced quality of life for the cancer patient, thereby demanding further study as an adjuvant or alternative to conventional chemotherapy. The phytochemical and pharmacological studies reviewed strongly underpin a fundamental understanding of the anticancer activity of S. barbata and support ongoing clinical trials. The further safety verification and clinical trials are expected to progress S. barbata-based development to finally transform the traditional TCM herb S. barbata to the valuable anticancer drug.

Apoptotic Pathway as the Therapeutic Target for Anticancer Traditional Chinese Medicines

Cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Apoptosis is a process of programmed cell death and it plays a vital role in human development and tissue homeostasis. Mounting evidence indicates that apoptosis is closely related to the survival of cancer and it has emerged as a key target for the discovery and development of novel anticancer drugs. Various studies indicate that targeting the apoptotic signaling pathway by anticancer drugs is an important mechanism in cancer therapy. Therefore, numerous novel anticancer agents have been discovered and developed from traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) by targeting the cellular apoptotic pathway of cancer cells and shown clinically beneficial effects in cancer therapy. This review aims to provide a comprehensive discussion for the role, pharmacology, related biology, and possible mechanism(s) of a number of important anticancer TCMs and their derivatives mainly targeting the cellular apoptotic pathway. It may have important clinical implications in cancer therapy.

Traditional Chinese medicine formulation Yanggan Jiedu Sanjie inhibits TGF-β1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metastatic potential in human hepatocarcinoma Bel-7402 cells

BACKGROUND

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a vital process in cancer progression and metastasis. Yanggan Jiedu Sanjie (YGJDSJ) is Traditional Chinese Medicine formulation for liver cancer treatment. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of YGJDSJ on TGF-β1-induced EMT in hepatocellular carcinoma Bel-7402 cells.

METHODS

Bel-7402 cells were treated with TGF-β1 and YGJDSJ. EMT was identified by morphological changes and expression of marker proteins. Cell morphology was observed under a microscope. Protein expression and phosphorylation was detected by western blotting. Cell migration was measured by the scratch assay. Cell adhesion and invasion was detected by a commercial kit.

RESULTS

YGJDSJ reversed TGF-β1-induced morphological changes, as well as the expression of the EMT markers E-cadherin and N-cadherin in Bel-7402 cells. YGJDSJ also inhibited TGF-β1 up-regulated Smad3 phosphorylation and Snail expression in Bel-7402 cells. Moreover, YGJDSJ inhibited TGF-β1-induced cell adhesion, migration and invasion in Bel-7402 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

YGJDSJ inhibited TGF-β1-induced EMT and mediated metastatic potential of Bel-7402 cells, which may be related to down-regulation of Smad3 phosphorylation and Snail expression. The present study provides a new basis for application of this herbal formula for prevention of liver cancer metastasis.

Scutellaria barbata polysaccharides inhibit tumor growth and affect the serum proteomic profiling of hepatoma H22‑bearing mice

The present study aimed to evaluate the antitumor effect of Scutellaria barbata polysaccharides (SBPS) in a hepatoma mouse model and examine the serum proteins involved in the tumorigenesis and SBPS treatment. A hepatoma model was established by the subcutaneous inoculation of murine hepatocellular carcinoma into Kunming mice. The treatment (once a day) lasted until the tumor weight in the model group was ~1 g (~7-10 days after inoculation). The sera proteins from each group were then collected and subjected to two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. Differentially expressed proteins were screened out and representatives were identified using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. SBPS treatment at different doses significantly inhibited hepatoma growth (all P<0.01 vs. model group). The comparative serum proteomics showed that pseudouridine synthase 1 and chain A of the signal recognition particle Alu RNA-binding heterodimer (Srp9/14) were increased in the serum of the H22 hepatoma-bearing mice, and both were reduced by SBPS treatment. Mitochondrial ribosomal protein L24 was absent from the serum of H22 hepatoma-bearing mice, and was restored by SBPS treatment to approximately the normal level. Taken together, SBPS inhibited the growth of hepatic carcinoma in mice and affected serum proteomic profiling.

A traditional Chinese medicine compound (Jian Er) for presbycusis in a mouse model: Reduction of apoptosis and protection of cochlear sensorineural cells and hearing

Age-related hearing loss (AHL) or presbycusis is steadily increasing due to the overall aging of the Chinese population. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has long been used to prevent and treat deafness, but its effectiveness and mechanism of action are still uncertain. The present study tested a TCM preparation called "Jian Er" in a mouse model of prebycusis.

Scutellaria: Debates on the anticancer property

The widespread use of plants as accessible anticancer agents leads to the identification of many natural source chemotherapeutic agents. Scutellaria one of the popular genus of flowering plants has been used for various human illnesses for thousands of years. Scutellaria has anti-metastatic, anti-proliferative, anti-invasion, anti-angiogenic and apoptosis effects in vitro as well as in vivo. Despite numerous reports on the cytotoxic-antitumor activity of the plant, there are still some issues need further consideration. Issues such as unjustified interpretations, lack of attention to the pharmacokinetics profile and weak study design may affect the final decision about the use of plants as anticancer agents and possibly needs reconsideration. In this review, we have summarized the potential health benefits of Scutellaria and its active components also the underlying mechanism of cytotoxicity and antitumor activity. Meanwhile we have discussed concerns may interfere with the precise conclusion.

Antioxidant activity and apoptotic induction as mechanisms of action of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) against a hepatocellular carcinoma cell line

Objective To evaluate the antioxidant and apoptotic inductive effects of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) leaf extract against a hepatocellular carcinoma cell line. Methods After treating HepG2cells with Ashwagandha water extract (ASH-WX; 6.25 mg/ml-100 mg/ml), cell proliferation was assessed using a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Antioxidant activities (total antioxidant, glutathione S-transferase and glutathione reductase), Fas-ligand level, tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) level and caspase-3, -8, and -9 activities were measured. Molecular modelling assessed the binding-free energies of Ashwagandha in the cyclin D1 receptor. Results The MTT assay demonstrated increased cytotoxicity following treatment of HepG2 cells with ASH-WX compared with control untreated cells and theIC50was 5% (approximately 5.0 mg/ml). Antioxidant activities, Fas-ligand levels and caspase-3, -8 and -9 activities significantly increased, while TNF-α level significantly decreased following ASH-WX treatment compared with control untreated cells. Molecular docking analysis revealed a good prediction of binding between cyclin D1 and Ashwagandha. There was significant accumulation of ASH-WX-treated HepG2cells in the G0/G1 and G2/M phases compared with the control untreated cells. Conclusion Ashwagandha could be a powerful antioxidant and a promising anticancer agent against HCC.

Tumor cell-released autophagosomes (TRAP) enhance apoptosis and immunosuppressive functions of neutrophils

Our previous studies have confirmed that tumor cell-released autophagosomes (TRAP) could induce the differentiation of B cells into IL-10⁺ regulatory B cells (Bregs) with suppressive activities on T lymphocytes. However, the mechanism of TRAP-mediated immune suppression is still largely unclear. Herein, we sought to assess the immunomodulatory effect of TRAPs on human neutrophils, a major immune cell type that infiltrates human tumor tissues. We found that TRAPs enriched from malignant effusions or ascites of cancer patients and tumor cell lines were rapidly and effectively phagocytized by neutrophils through macropinocytosis and promoted neutrophil apoptosis via reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and caspase-3 activation. Moreover, the apoptotic neutrophils that have phagocytized TRAPs inhibited the proliferation and activation of CD4⁺ T and CD8⁺ T cells in a cell contact- and ROS-dependent manner. These findings define a novel TRAP-mediated mechanism in neutrophils that potentially suppresses the anti-tumor T cell immunity and highlight TRAPs as an important target for future tumor immunotherapy.

A new clerodane furano diterpene glycoside from Tinospora cordifolia triggers autophagy and apoptosis in HCT-116 colon cancer cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Tinospora cordifolia is a miraculous ayurvedic herb used in the treatment of innumerable diseases such as diabetes, gonorrhea, secondary syphilis, anaemia, rheumatoid arthritis, dermatological diseases, cancer, gout, jaundice, asthma, leprosy, in the treatment of bone fractures, liver & intestinal disorders, purifies the blood, gives new life to the whole body; (rejuvenating herb) and many more. Recent studies have revealed the anticancer potential of this plant but not much work has been done on the anticancer chemical constituents actually responsible for its amazing anticancer effects. This prompted us to investigate this plant further for new potent anticancer molecules.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study was designed to isolate and identify new promising anticancer candidates from the aqueous alcoholic extract of T. cordifolia using bioassay-guided fractionation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The structures of the isolated compounds were determined on the basis of spectroscopic data interpretation and that of new potent anticancer molecule, TC-2 was confirmed by a single-crystal X-ray crystallographic analysis of its corresponding acetate. The in vitro anti-cancer activity of TC-2 was evaluated by SRB assay and the autophagic activity was investigated by immunofluorescence microscopy. Annexin-V FITC and PI dual staining was applied for the detection of apoptosis. The studies on Mitochondrial Membrane potential and ROS (Reactive oxygen species) production were also done.

RESULTS

Bioassay guided fractionation and purification of the aqueous alcoholic stem extract of Tinospora cordifolia led to the isolation of a new clerodane furano diterpene glycoside (TC-2) along with five known compounds i.e. cordifolioside A (β-D-Glucopyranoside,4-(3-hydroxy-1-propenyl)- 2,6-dimethoxyphenyl 3-O-D-apio-β-D-furanosyl) (TC-1), β-Sitosterol(TC-3), 2β,3β:15,16-Diepoxy- 4α, 6β-dihydroxy-13(16),14-clerodadiene-17,12:18,1-diolide (TC-4), ecdysterone(TC-5) and tinosporoside(TC-6). TC-2 emerged as a potential candidate for the treatment of colon cancer.

CONCLUSION

The overall study on the bioassay guided isolation of T.cordifolia identified and isolated a new clerodane furano diterpenoid that exhibited anticancer activity via induction of mitochondria mediated apoptosis and autophagy in HCT116 cells. We have reported a promising future candidate for treating colon cancer.

The anti-cancer effects and mechanisms of Scutellaria barbata D. Don on CL1-5 lung cancer cells

Lung cancer, with a poor prognosis and resistance to chemotherapy, is the most common malignant tumor and has the highest mortality rate worldwide. Scutellaria barbata D. Don (SB), which is derived from the dried whole plant of Labiatae, is a well-known anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer herb. The aim of this study was to examine the anti-cancer effects and precise regulatory mechanisms of SB in CL1-5 lung cancer cells. In an in vitro assay, we found that the anti-tumor mechanism of SB was due to P38/SIRT1-regulated cell apoptosis through G2/M phase arrest and ER stress-, intrinsic mitochondrial-, and extrinsic FAS/FASL-mediated pathways. Autophagy also plays a key role in SB-induced CL1-5 cell cytotoxicity. In addition, SB exerts additive effects with etoposide or cisplatin in lung cancer cells. In an in vivo assay, we found that SB significantly reduces tumor size with decreased proliferation and angiogenesis, as well as increased apoptosis and autophagy in CL1-5 tumor-bearing mice. These findings provided experimental evidence for the application of SB in the treatment of lung cancer.

Cladosporol A triggers apoptosis sensitivity by ROS-mediated autophagic flux in human breast cancer cells

Background

Endophytes have proven to be an invaluable resource of chemically diverse secondary metabolites that act as excellent lead compounds for anticancer drug discovery. Here we report the promising cytotoxic effects of Cladosporol A (HPLC purified >98%) isolated from endophytic fungus Cladosporium cladosporioides collected from Datura innoxia. Cladosporol A was subjected to in vitro cytotoxicity assay against NCI60 panel of human cancer cells using MTT assay. We further investigated the molecular mechanism(s) of Cladosporol A induced cell death in human breast (MCF-7) cancer cells. Mechanistically early events of cell death were studied using DAPI, Annexin V-FITC staining assay. Furthermore, immunofluorescence studies were carried to see the involvement of intrinsic pathway leading to mitochondrial dysfunction, cytochrome c release, Bax/Bcl-2 regulation and flowcytometrically measured membrane potential loss of mitochondria in human breast (MCF-7) cancer cells after Cladosporol A treatment. The interplay between apoptosis and autophagy was studied by microtubule dynamics, expression of pro-apoptotic protein p21 and autophagic markers monodansylcadaverine staining and LC3b expression.

Results

Among NCI60 human cancer cell line panel Cladosporol A showed least IC₅₀ value against human breast (MCF-7) cancer cells. The early events of apoptosis were characterized by phosphatidylserine exposure. It disrupts microtubule dynamics and also induces expression of pro-apoptotic protein p21. Moreover treatment of Cladosporol A significantly induced MMP loss, release of cytochrome c, Bcl-2 down regulation, Bax upregulation as well as increased monodansylcadaverine (MDC) staining and leads to LC3-I to LC3-II conversion.

Conclusion

Our experimental data suggests that Cladosporol A depolymerize microtubules, sensitize programmed cell death via ROS mediated autophagic flux leading to mitophagic cell death.

Graphical abstract

The proposed mechanism of Cladosporol A -triggered apoptotic as well as autophagic death of human breast cancer (MCF-7) cells. The figure shows that Cladosporol A induced apoptosis through ROS mediated mitochondrial pathway and increased p21 protein expression in MCF-7 cells in vitro.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12860-017-0141-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

A novel colchicine-based microtubule inhibitor exhibits potent antitumor activity by inducing mitochondrial mediated apoptosis in MIA PaCa-2 pancreatic cancer cells

Colchicine, an antimitotic alkaloid isolated from Colchicum autumnale, is a classical drug for treatment of gout and familial Mediterranean fever. It causes antiproliferative effects through the inhibition of microtubule formation, which leads to mitotic arrest and cell death by apoptosis. Here, we report that a novel colchicine analog, 4o (N-[(7S)-1,2,3-trimethoxy-9-oxo-10-[3-(trifluoromethyl)-4-chlorophenylamino]-5,6,7,9-tetrahydrobenzo[a]heptalen-7-yl]acetamide), which exhibited potent anticancer activities both in vitro and in vivo. In this study, 4o with excellent pharmacokinetic profile and no P-gp induction liability displayed strong inhibition of proliferation against various human cancer cell lines. However, pancreatic cancer cell line MIA PaCa-2 was found to be more sensitive towards 4o and showed strong inhibition in concentration and time-dependent manner. By increasing intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, 4o induced endoplasmic reticular stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in MIA PaCa-2 cells. Blockage of ROS production reversed 4o-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, calcium release, and cell death. More importantly, it revealed that increased ROS generation might be an effective strategy in treating human pancreatic cancer. Further 4o treatment induced mitotic arrest, altered the expression of cell cycle-associated proteins, and disrupted the microtubules in MIA PaCa-2 cells. 4o treatment caused loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, cytochrome c release, upregulation of Bax, downregulation of Bcl-2, and cleavage of caspase-3, thereby showing activation of mitochondrial mediated apoptosis. The in vivo anticancer activity of the compound was studied using sarcoma-180 (ascitic) and leukemia (P388 lymphocytic and L1210 lymphoid) models in mice and showed promising antitumor activity with the least toxicity unlike colchicine. Such studies have hitherto not been reported. Taken together, these findings highlighted that 4o, a potent derivative of colchicine, causes tumor regression with reduced toxicity and provides a novel anticancer candidate for the therapeutic use.

PLGA nanoparticles augmented the anticancer potential of pentacyclic triterpenediol in vivo in mice

A novel pentacyclic triterpenediol (TPD), an anticancer lead fromBoswellia serrata, was encapsulated into PLGA nanoparticles, leading to enhancement in anticancer potential in EAT bearing mice model.

Treatment Strategies that Enhance the Efficacy and Selectivity of Mitochondria-Targeted Anticancer Agents

Nearly a century has passed since Otto Warburg first observed high rates of aerobic glycolysis in a variety of tumor cell types and suggested that this phenomenon might be due to an impaired mitochondrial respiratory capacity in these cells. Subsequently, much has been written about the role of mitochondria in the initiation and/or progression of various forms of cancer, and the possibility of exploiting differences in mitochondrial structure and function between normal and malignant cells as targets for cancer chemotherapy. A number of mitochondria-targeted compounds have shown efficacy in selective cancer cell killing in pre-clinical and early clinical testing, including those that induce mitochondria permeability transition and apoptosis, metabolic inhibitors, and ROS regulators. To date, however, none has exhibited the standards for high selectivity and efficacy and low toxicity necessary to progress beyond phase III clinical trials and be used as a viable, single modality treatment option for human cancers. This review explores alternative treatment strategies that have been shown to enhance the efficacy and selectivity of mitochondria-targeted anticancer agents in vitro and in vivo, and may yet fulfill the clinical promise of exploiting the mitochondrion as a target for cancer chemotherapy.

Integrated Treatment of Aqueous Extract of Solanum nigrum-Potentiated Cisplatin- and Doxorubicin-Induced Cytotoxicity in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells

Chemotherapy is the main approach for treating advanced and recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the clinical performance of chemotherapy is limited by a relatively low response rate, drug resistance, and adverse effects that severely affect the quality of life of patients. The aqueous extract of Solanum nigrum (AE-SN) is a crucial ingredient in some traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulas for treating cancer patients and exhibits antitumor effects in human HCC cells. Therefore, this study examined the tumor-suppression efficiency of AE-SN integrated with a standard chemotherapeutic drug, namely, cisplatin or doxorubicin, in human HCC cells, namely, Hep3B and HepJ5. The results suggested that the integrated treatment with AE-SN-potentiated cisplatin and doxorubicin induced cytotoxicity through the cleavage of caspase-7 and accumulation of microtubule-associated protein-1 light chain-3 A/1B II (LC-3 A/B II), which were associated with apoptotic and autophagic cell death, respectively, in both the Hep3B and HepJ5 cells. In conclusion, AE-SN can potentially be used in novel integrated chemotherapy with cisplatin or doxorubicin to treat HCC patients.

Antitumor effects of traditional Chinese medicine targeting the cellular apoptotic pathway

Defects in apoptosis are common phenomena in many types of cancer and are also a critical step in tumorigenesis. Targeting the apoptotic pathway has been considered an intriguing strategy for cancer therapy. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been used in the People’s Republic of China for thousands of years, and many of the medicines have been confirmed to be effective in the treatment of a number of tumors. With increasing cancer rates worldwide, the antitumor effects of TCMs have attracted more and more attention globally. Many of the TCMs have been shown to have antitumor activity through multiple targets, and apoptosis pathway-related targets have been extensively studied and defined to be promising. This review focuses on several antitumor TCMs, especially those with clinical efficacy, based on their effects on the apoptotic signaling pathway. The problems with and prospects of development of TCMs as anticancer agents are also presented.

Flavonoids identified from Korean Scutellaria baicalensis induce apoptosis by ROS generation and caspase activation on human fibrosarcoma cells

The effects of flavonoids from Korean Scutellaria baicalensis on fibrosarcoma HT1080 cells and their underlying molecular mechanism were investigated in this study. Flavonoids affected HT1080 cell proliferation by interrupting cell cycle progress, obviously augmenting the proportion of sub-G1 and diminishing that of G1 phase, and undergoing apoptosis at the tested dosage (100-400 μg/mL). In addition, the mediated apoptosis was mainly caused by total reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and by up-regulating the ratio of Bax/Bcl-xL, triggering caspase cascades (caspase-3, -9 and -8), and inactivating PARP, dose-dependently. The proteomics results showed that AP-4, ARID 5B, HNRNP K, PLOG, Prdx6, and myosin-1, associated with cell growth, differentiation and development, and overexpressed in gastric cancer, colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, etc., were statistically down-regulated after the flavonoids treatment. Taken together, our data demonstrated that flavonoids from Korean S. baicalensis induced apoptosis in HT1080 cells, which involved a hierarchy of cellular pathways and multiple signal proteins, and might be a potential anticancer therapeutic agent.

Reversal of multidrug resistance in vitro by co-delivery of MDR1 targeting siRNA and doxorubicin using a novel cationic poly(lactide-co-glycolide) nanoformulation

Over expression of drug efflux transporters such as P-glycoprotein (P-gp) cumulatively leading to multidrug resistance (MDR) embodies a major hindrance for successful cancer therapy. A paradigm nanomedicinal approach involving an anticancer drug and modulators of drug resistance within one multifunctional nanocarrier-based delivery system represent an ideal modality for the treatment of MDR. In this regards, we have developed a cationic polymeric nanoparticulate system loaded with MDR1-siRNA and doxorubicin. Results indicated augmented synergistic effect of combinational nanoformulation in overcoming MDR in MCF-7/ADR cells. Therefore, the above regime could be a promising co-delivery system for effective therapy of drug resistant breast cancer.

Scutellaria barbata inhibits angiogenesis through downregulation of HIF-1 α in lung tumor

Hypoxia, a hallmark of many solid tumors, is associated with angiogenesis and tumor progression. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) plays a significant role in tumor angiogenesis. In this study, the authors constructed a selective platform to screen the traditional Chinese medicine as anti-angiogenic agent. The authors examined the molecular mechanism by which Scutellaria barbata regulates HIF-1-dependent expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which is an important angiogenic factor. Hypoxia promotes angiogenesis by increasing VEGF expression and secretion. Herein, the expression of VEGF was decreased by treatment with S. barbata in tumor cells. Meanwhile, S. barbata reduced the migration and proliferation of endothelial cells under hypoxic condition. S. barbata inhibited the expression of HIF-1α, as well as phosphorylated their upstream signal mediators AKT. S. barbata significantly inhibited the tumor growth in vivo and immunohistochemical studies in the tumors revealed decreased intratumoral microvessel density. These results suggest that the traditional Chinese medicine therapy using S. barbata, which exerts anti-angiogenic activities, represents a promising strategy for the treatment of tumors.

Cancer Prevention and Therapy: Integrating Traditional Korean Medicine Into Modern Cancer Care

In spite of billions of dollars spent on cancer research each year, overall cancer incidence and cancer survival has not changed significantly in the last half century. Instead, the recent projection from the World Health Organization suggests that global cancer incidence and death is expected to double within the next decade. This requires an "out of the box" thinking approach. While traditional medicine used for thousands of years is safe and affordable, its efficacy and mechanism of action are not fully reported. Demonstrating that traditional medicine is efficacious and how it works can provide a "bed to bench" and "bench to bed" back approach toward prevention and treatment of cancer. This current review is an attempt to describe the contributions of traditional Korean medicine (TKM) to modern medicine and, in particular, cancer treatment. TKM suggests that cancer is an outcome of an imbalance of body, mind, and spirit; thus, it requires a multimodal treatment approach that involves lifestyle modification, herbal prescription, acupuncture, moxibustion, traditional exercise, and meditation to restore the balance. Old wisdoms in combination with modern science can find a new way to deal with the "emperor of all maladies."

Induction of apoptosis by total flavonoids from Scutellaria barbata D. Don in human hepatocarcinoma MHCC97-H cells via the mitochondrial pathway

Scutellaria barbata D. Don, a traditional Chinese medicine, reportedly possesses antitumor activity against a variety of tumors. In the present study, we investigated the cytotoxic effect of total flavonoids from S. barbata (TF-SB) on human hepatocarcinoma cells and the underlying molecular mechanisms regarding the effect were explored. TF-SB treatment significantly reduced the cell viability of human HCC MHCC97-H cells in a dose-dependent manner. Further flow cytometric analysis showed that the apoptosis rate of MHCC97-H cells increased and the mitochondrial membrane potential (∆ψm) of MHCC97-H cells decreased after TF-SB treatment. DNA ladder showed that TF-SB induced a significant increase in DNA fragmentation in MHCC97-H cells. Reverse transcription PCR and Western blot analysis revealed that the expression levels of Smac, Apaf-1, Cytochrome c, Caspase-9, and Caspase-3 were upregulated in a dose-dependent manner and after treatment with different concentrations of TF-SB for 48 h. These results suggest that TF-SB induces apoptosis in MHCC97-H cells through the mitochondrial pathway.

Traditional herbal medicine: a review of potential of inhibitory hepatocellular carcinoma in basic research and clinical trial

Although significantly develops in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), features of HCC remain an aggressive cancer with a dismal outcome. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), specifically Chinese herbal medicine (CHM), is one of the most popular complementary and alternative medicine modalities worldwide. The use of heat-clearing and detoxicating (Chinese named qingre jiedu) CHM has attracted great attention as an alternative antitumor including HCC considering its low toxicity and high activity. Together these reports indicate that CHM is a promising anti-HCC herbal remedy in basic research. For patients with advanced HCC, CHM including formula and single combined with transcatheter arterial chemoembolization or chemotherapy is able to decrease tumor growth and the side effect of toxicity and improve overall survival, quality of life, and immune function. Due to its abundance, low cost, and safety in consumption, CHM remains a species with tremendous potential for further investigation in HCC.

Total flavonoids of Scutellaria barbata inhibit invasion of hepatocarcinoma via MMP/TIMP in vitro

Metastasis is the major cause of cancer-related deaths. Targeting the process of metastasis has been proposed as a strategy to fight cancer. Scutellaria barbata D. Don (S. barbata), a traditional Chinese medicine, is used for treatment of many diseases, including cancer. This study aimed to determine the anti-metastatic effect of total flavonoids of S. barbata (TF-SB) using the human hepatocarcinoma MHCC97H cell line with high metastatic potential. Our results show that TF-SB could significantly inhibit the proliferation and invasion of MHCC97H cells in a dose-dependent manner. MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression were obviously decreased after TF-SB treatment at both the mRNA and protein level. TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 expression were simultaneously increased. The present study indicates that TF-SB could reduce the metastatic capability of MHCC97H cell, probably through decrease of the MMP expression, and simultaneous increase of the TIMP expression.

IGF-I receptor signaling pathway is involved in the neuroprotective effect of genistein in the neuroblastoma SK-N-SH cells

Genistein, an isoflavone naturally found in soy products, displays estrogenic properties. Our previous study clearly demonstrated that genistein can activate the insulin-like growth factor-I receptor (IGF-IR) signaling pathway in human breast cancer MCF-7 cells. The present study aims to test the hypothesis that the IGF-I receptor signaling pathway is involved in the neuroprotective effects of genistein in neuroblastoma SK-N-SH cells. Our results revealed that pretreatment with genistein resulted in an enhancement in the survival of human neuroblastoma SK-N-SH cells against 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-induced neurotoxicity. 6-OHDA arrested the cells at G(0)G(1) phase and prevented S phase entry. Genistein pretreatment could reverse the cytostatic effect of 6-OHDA on cell cycle. The decreased mitochondrial membrane potential induced by 6-OHDA could be also reversed by genistein pretreatment. These effects could be completely blocked by co-treatment with JB-1, which is the specific antagonist of the IGF-I receptor. Furthermore, genistein pretreatment restored the 6-OHDA-induced up-regulation of Bax and down-regulation of Bcl-2 mRNA and protein expression. Genistein treatment alone could significantly increase the phosphorylation level of MEK and induce ERE luciferase activity. Co-treatment with IGF-I could enhance the effect of genistein on cell proliferation and MEK phosphorylation. This study provides the first evidence that genistein has neuroprotective effects against 6-OHDA-induced neurotoxicity in SK-N-SH cells and activation of the IGF-I receptor signaling pathway might be involved in actions of genistein.

Harmine induces apoptosis in HepG2 cells via mitochondrial signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Harmine has antitumor and antinociceptive effects, and inhibits human DNA topoisomerase. However, no detailed data are available on the mechanisms of action of harmine in hepatocellular carcinoma. This study aimed to investigate the effects of harmine on proliferation and apoptosis, and the underlying mechanisms in the human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HepG2.

METHODS

The proliferation of HepG2 cells was determined by the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and the clone formation test. The morphology of HepG2 cells was examined using fluorescence microscopy after Hoechst 33258 staining. Annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) was used to analyze apoptosis and PI to analyze the cell cycle. Western blotting was used to assess expression of the apoptosis-regulated genes Bcl-2, Bax, Bcl-xl, Mcl-1, caspase-3, and caspase-9. Mitochondrial transmembrane potential (ψm) was determined using JC-1.

RESULTS

Harmine inhibited the proliferation of HepG2 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Hoechst 33258 staining revealed nuclear fragmentation and chromosomal condensation, cell shrinkage, and attachment loss in HepG2 cells treated with harmine. The percentage of the sub/G1 fraction was increased in a concentration-dependent manner, indicating apoptotic cell death. PI staining showed that harmine changed the cell cycle distribution, by decreasing the proportion of cells in G0/G1 and increasing the proportion in S and G2/M. Harmine induced apoptosis in a concentration-dependent manner, with rates of 20.0%, 32.7% and 64.9%, respectively. JC-1 revealed a decrease in ψm. Apoptosis of HepG2 cells was associated with caspase-3 and caspase-9 activation, down-regulation of Bcl-2, Mcl-1, and Bcl-xl, and no change in Bax.

CONCLUSIONS

Harmine had an anti-proliferative effect in HepG2 cells by inducing apoptosis. Mitochondrial signal pathways were involved in the apoptosis. The cancer-specific selectivity shown in this study suggested that harmine is a promising novel drug for human hepatocellular carcinoma.

In vitro and in vivo antitumor activity of Scutellaria barbate extract on murine liver cancer

In the present study, we investigated the in vitro and in vivo antitumor effects of crude extract of Scutellaria barbate (CE-SB) on mouse hepatoma H22 cells. The MTT assay was used to determine the growth inhibition of H22 cells in vitro. The in vivo therapeutic effects of CE-SB were determined using H22 tumor bearing mice. Besides, the body weight, tumor weight, thymus index and spleen index of H22 bearing mice were also measured. The tumor inhibitory rate (IR) was calculated according to the mean weight of tumor (MWT). The phagocytotic function of macrophages was examined by observing peritoneal macrophages phagocytize chicken RBC. The results showed that CE-SB could inhibit the growth of hepatoma H22 Cells in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, CE-SB could improve immune function of H22 tumor bearing mice. Together these results indicate that CE-SB has antitumor activity and seems to be safe and effective for the use of anti-tumor therapy.

BZL101, a phytochemical extract from the Scutellaria barbata plant, disrupts proliferation of human breast and prostate cancer cells through distinct mechanisms dependent on the cancer cell phenotype

BZL101 is an aqueous extract from the Scutellaria barbata plant shown to have anticancer properties in a variety of human cancers. In order to determine its efficacy on human reproductive cancers, we assessed the responses of two human breast cancer cell lines, estrogen sensitive MCF7 and estrogen insensitive MDA-MB-231, and of two human prostate cancer cell lines, androgen sensitive LNCaP and androgen insensitive PC3 which are human cell lines that represent early and late stage reproductive cancers. BZL101 inhibited reproductive cancer growth in all cell lines by regulating expression levels of key cell cycle components that differ with respect to the cancer cell phenotypes. In early stage estrogen sensitive MCF7 cells, BZL101 induced a G₁ cell cycle arrest and ablated expression of key G₁ cell cycle regulators Cyclin D1, CDK2 and CDK4, as well as growth factor stimulatory pathways and estrogen receptor-α expression. Transfection of luciferase reporter plasmids revealed that the loss of CDK2, CDK4 and estrogen receptor-α transcript expression resulted from the BZL-dependent ablation of promoter activities. BZL101 growth arrests early stage androgen sensitive LNCaP cells in the G₂/M phase with corresponding decreases in Cyclin B1, CDK1 and androgen receptor expression. In late stage hormone insensitive breast (MDA-MB-231) and prostate (PC3) cancer cells, BZL101 induced an S phase arrest with corresponding ablations in Cyclin A2 and CDK2 expression. Our results demonstrate that BZL101 exerts phenotype specific anti-proliferative gene expression responses in human breast and prostate cancer cells, which will be valuable in the potential development of BZL-based therapeutic strategies for human reproductive cancers.

Photo-activated pheophorbide-a, an active component of Scutellaria barbata, enhances apoptosis via the suppression of ERK-mediated autophagy in the estrogen receptor-negative human breast adenocarcinoma cells MDA-MB-231

AIM OF THE STUDY

Scutellaria barbata is a traditional Chinese medicine for cancer treatments. Pheophorbide-a (Pa), one of the active components isolated from this herbal medicine has been proposed to be a potential natural photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy. The anti-tumor effect of pheophorbide-a based photodynamic therapy (Pa-PDT) has been successfully demonstrated in a wide range of human malignant cell lines. However, the effectiveness of Pa-PDT has not yet been evaluated on human breast cancer, which is documented as the second common and the fifth most lethal cancer worldwide.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The cytotoxicity of Pa-PDT was evaluated by using an estrogen receptor (ER)-negative human breast adenocarcinoma cell line MDA-MB-231. The involvement of mitochondria was revealed by the change of mitochondrial membrane potential and the increase of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). The hallmarks of apoptosis, ER stress and autophagy were also assessed by DNA fragmentation, Western blotting, and immunostaining assays.

RESULTS

Pa-PDT showed inhibitory effect on the growth of MDA-MB-231 cells with an IC(50) value of 0.5 microM at 24h. Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway was found to be triggered, where activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and inhibition of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) were occurred in the Pa-PDT-treated cells. Our findings suggested that Pa-PDT exhibited its anti-tumor effects by the activation of mitochondria-mediated apoptosis and the ERK-mediated autophagy in MDA-MB-231 cells.

CONCLUSION

The present study suggested Pa-PDT is a potential protocol for the late phase human breast cancer, and it is the first study to demonstrate the Pa-PDT induced autophagy contributed to the anti-tumor effects of Pa-PDT on human cancer cells.

Induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in human HCC MHCC97H cells with Chrysanthemum indicum extract

AIM: To investigate the effects of Chrysanthemum indicum extract (CIE) on inhibition of proliferation and on apoptosis, and the underlying mechanisms, in a human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) MHCC97H cell line.

METHODS: Viable rat hepatocytes and human endothelial ECV304 cells were examined by trypan blue exclusion and MTT assay, respectively, as normal controls. The proliferation of MHCC97H cells was determined by MTT assay. The cellular morphology of MHCC97H cells was observed by phase contrast microscopy. Flow cytometry was performed to analyze cell apoptosis with annexin V/propidium iodide (PI), mitochondrial membrane potential with rhodamine 123 and cell cycle with PI in MHCC97H cells. Apoptotic proteins such as cytochrome C, caspase-9, caspase-3 and cell cycle proteins, including P21 and CDK4, were measured by Western blotting.

RESULTS: CIE inhibited proliferation of MHCC97H cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner without cytotoxicity in rat hepatocytes and human endothelial cells. CIE induced apoptosis of MHCC97H cells in a concentration-dependent manner, as determined by flow cytometry. The apoptosis was accompanied by a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential, release of cytochrome C and activation of caspase-9 and caspase-3. CIE arrested the cell cycle in the S phase by increasing P21 and decreasing CDK4 protein expression.

CONCLUSION: CIE exerted a significant apoptotic effect through a mitochondrial pathway and arrested the cell cycle by regulation of cell cycle-related proteins in MHCC97H cells without an effect on normal cells. The cancer-specific selectivity shown in this study suggests that the plant extract could be a promising novel treatment for human cancer.