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Luo P, An Y, He J, Xing X, Zhang Q, Liu X, Chen Y, Yuan H, Chen J, Wong YK, Huang J, Gong Z, Du Q, Xiao W, Wang J. Icaritin with autophagy/mitophagy inhibitors synergistically enhances anticancer efficacy and apoptotic effects through PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Lett 2024; 587:216621. [PMID: 38242198 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216621] [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: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among the deadliest malignancies worldwide and still a pressing clinical problem. Icaritin, a natural compound obtained from the Epimedium genus plant, has garnered significant attention as a potential therapeutic drug for HCC therapies. Mitophagy plays a crucial role in mitochondrial quality control through efficiently eliminating damaged mitochondria. However, the specific mechanisms of the interplay between mitophagy and apoptosis in HCC is still unclear. We aimed to explore the cross-talk between icaritin-induced mitophagy and apoptosis in HCC cells and investigate its potential mechanisms. Firstly, we confirmed that icaritin inhibits proliferation and migration while inducing mitochondrial damage and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in HCC cells. Secondly, based on proteomics analysis, we discovered that icaritin inhibits the growth of tumor cells and disrupts their mitochondrial homeostasis through the regulation of both mitophagy and apoptosis. Thirdly, icaritin causes mitophagy mediated by PINK1-Parkin signaling via regulating feedforward loop. Furthermore, knockdown of PINK1/Parkin leads to inhibition of mitophagy, which promotes cell death induced by icaritin in HCC cells. Finally, autophagy/mitophagy inhibitors remarkably enhance icaritin-induced cell death and anticancer efficacy. Collectively, our findings reveal that icaritin suppresses growth, proliferation and migration of HCC cell through induction of mitophagy and apoptosis, while inhibition of mitophagy significantly increased the anti-cancer and pro-apoptotic effects of icaritin, indicating that targeting autophagy or mitophagy is a novel approach to overcome drug resistance and enhance anticancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piao Luo
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China; State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Yehai An
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China; State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang, 550004, China
| | - Jingqian He
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Xuefeng Xing
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China; State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Xueying Liu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Diseases, and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Haitao Yuan
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Diseases, and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, China
| | - Junhui Chen
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Diseases, and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, China
| | - Yin-Kwan Wong
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Diseases, and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, China
| | - Jingnan Huang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Diseases, and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, China
| | - Zipeng Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang, 550004, China.
| | - Qingfeng Du
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.
| | - Wei Xiao
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - Jigang Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China; State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China; Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Diseases, and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, China; State Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, China; Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.
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Reyes-Hernández OD, Figueroa-González G, Quintas-Granados LI, Hernández-Parra H, Peña-Corona SI, Cortés H, Kipchakbayeva A, Mukazhanova Z, Habtemariam S, Leyva-Gómez G, Büsselberg D, Sharifi-Rad J. New insights into the anticancer therapeutic potential of icaritin and its synthetic derivatives. Drug Dev Res 2024; 85:e22175. [PMID: 38567708 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.22175] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Icaritin is a natural prenylated flavonoid derived from the Chinese herb Epimedium. The compound has shown antitumor effects in various cancers, especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Icaritin exerts its anticancer activity by modulating multiple signaling pathways, such as IL-6/JAK/STAT3, ER-α36, and NF-κB, affecting the tumor microenvironment and immune system. Several clinical trials have evaluated the safety and efficacy of icaritin in advanced HCC patients with poor prognoses, who are unsuitable for conventional therapies. The results have demonstrated that icaritin can improve survival, delay progression, and produce clinical benefits in these patients, with a favorable safety profile and minimal adverse events. Moreover, icaritin can enhance the antitumor immune response by regulating the function and phenotype of various immune cells, such as CD8+ T cells, MDSCs, neutrophils, and macrophages. These findings suggest that icaritin is a promising candidate for immunotherapy in HCC and other cancers. However, further studies are needed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms and optimal dosing regimens of icaritin and its potential synergistic effects with other agents. Therefore, this comprehensive review of the scientific literature aims to summarize advances in the knowledge of icaritin in preclinical and clinical studies as well as the pharmacokinetic, metabolism, toxicity, and mechanisms action to recognize the main challenge, gaps, and opportunities to develop a medication that cancer patients can use. Thus, our main objective was to clarify the current state of icaritin for use as an anticancer drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Octavio Daniel Reyes-Hernández
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular del Cáncer, UMIEZ, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Gabriela Figueroa-González
- Laboratorio de Farmacogenética, UMIEZ, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Laura Itzel Quintas-Granados
- Colegio de Ciencias y Humanidades, Plantel Cuautepec, Universidad Autónoma de la Ciudad de México. Ciudad de México, México, México
| | - Hector Hernández-Parra
- Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
- Departamento de Farmacología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Sheila I Peña-Corona
- Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Hernán Cortés
- Laboratorio de Medicina Genómica, Departamento de Genómica, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra, Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico
| | - Aliya Kipchakbayeva
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Zhazira Mukazhanova
- Higher School of IT and Natural Sciences, Sarsen Amanzholov East Kazakhstan University, Ust-Kamenogorsk, Kazakhstan
| | - Solomon Habtemariam
- Pharmacognosy Research & Herbal Analysis Services UK, Central Avenue, Chatham-Maritime, London, UK
| | - Gerardo Leyva-Gómez
- Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
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Gupta M, Ahmad J, Ahamad J, Kundu S, Goel A, Mishra A. Flavonoids as promising anticancer therapeutics: Contemporary research, nanoantioxidant potential, and future scope. Phytother Res 2023; 37:5159-5192. [PMID: 37668281 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Flavonoids are natural polyphenolic compounds considered safe, pleiotropic, and readily available molecules. It is widely distributed in various food products such as fruits and vegetables and beverages such as green tea, wine, and coca-based products. Many studies have reported the anticancer potential of flavonoids against different types of cancers, including solid tumors. The chemopreventive effect of flavonoids is attributed to various mechanisms, including modulation of autophagy, induction of cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and antioxidant defense. Despite of significant anticancer activity of flavonoids, their clinical translation is limited due to their poor biopharmaceutical attributes (such as low aqueous solubility, limited permeability across the biological membranes (intestinal and blood-brain barrier), and stability issue in biological systems). A nanoparticulate system is an approach that is widely utilized to improve the biopharmaceutical performance and therapeutic efficacy of phytopharmaceuticals. The present review discusses the significant anticancer potential of promising flavonoids in different cancers and the utilization of nanoparticulate systems to improve their nanoantioxidant activity further to enhance the anticancer activity of loaded promising flavonoids. Although, various plant-derived secondary metabolites including flavonoids have been recommended for treating cancer, further vigilant research is warranted to prove their translational values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mukta Gupta
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Javed Ahmad
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Javed Ahamad
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tishk International University, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Snehashis Kundu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Archit Goel
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Awanish Mishra
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Guwahati, Assam, India
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Situmorang H, Hestiantoro A, Purbadi S, Wuyung P, Werdhani R, Harahap A, Permadi W, Sahlan M, Hadisaputra W. Sulawesi propolis induces higher apoptotic activity and lower inflammatory activity in a rat endometriosis model. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol X 2023; 19:100204. [PMID: 37753513 PMCID: PMC10518513 DOI: 10.1016/j.eurox.2023.100204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Endometriosis has a major impact on women's quality of life. The two primary pathologies are chronic inflammation and altered apoptotic activity. Sulawesi propolis has been shown to have known anti-inflammatory and pro-apoptotic properties in other diseases. Objective To investigate the effects of Sulawesi propolis in the rat endometriosis model. Methods An autologous endometriosis model was created in 60 female Wistar rats by laparotomy. Rats were divided into four groups (n = 15 in each group): control group (CG), dienogest group (DG), propolis 50 mg/kg body weight (BW)/day (P50) group, and propolis 100 mg/kg BW/day (P100) group. Each treatment group was divided into three different treatment durations (n = 5 in each treatment group): 2, 4 and 6 weeks. After treatment, laparotomy was performed to determine endometriotic tissue growth, apoptosis [caspase-3 and Bcl-2-associated X/Bcl-2 (Bax/Bcl)] and inflammation [prostaglandin-E2 (PGE2) and interleukin-1B (IL-1B)]. Results A significant difference was seen in endometriotic tissue growth between the P50 group and the CG, with the greatest reduction in the P50 6-week (P50-6) group, reaching 70.66% of the initial area. Highest Bax/Bcl-2 mRNA expression was shown in the P50-4 and P100-4 groups, highest caspase-3 expression was shown in the P50-2 and P50-4 groups, and lowest IL-1B expression was shown in the P50-4 group; all differed significantly from the CG. No significant difference in PGE2S mRNA was found between the groups. Conclusion Sulawesi propolis extract suppressed endometriotic tissue growth in the rat model by increasing apoptotic activity. The effects were time-dependent, with 50 mg/kg BW as the optimal dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- H. Situmorang
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Central Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - A. Hestiantoro
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Central Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - S. Purbadi
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Central Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - P.E. Wuyung
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Central Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - R.A. Werdhani
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Central Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - A. Harahap
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Central Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - W. Permadi
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Padjadjaran, Sumedang, Indonesia
| | - M. Sahlan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Indonesia, Central Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - W. Hadisaputra
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Central Jakarta, Indonesia
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5
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Huong NT, Son NT. Icaritin: A phytomolecule with enormous pharmacological values. PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2023:113772. [PMID: 37356700 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2023.113772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Pharmacological studies on flavonoids have always drawn much interest for many years. Icaritin (ICT), a representative flavone containing an 8-prenyl group, is a principal compound detected in medicinal plants of the genus Epimedum, the family Berberidaceae. Experimental results in the phytochemistry and pharmacology of this molecule are abundant now, but a deep overview has not been carried out. The goal of this review is to provide an insight into the natural observation, biosynthesis, biotransformation, synthesis, pharmacology, and pharmacokinetics of prenyl flavone ICT. The relevant data on ICT was collected from bibliographic sources, like Google Scholar, Web of Science, Sci-Finder, and various published journals. "Icaritin" alone or in combination is the main keyword to seek for references, and references have been updated till now. ICT is among the characteristic phytomolecules of Epimedum plants. Bacteria monitored its biosynthesis and biotransformation, while this agent was rapidly synthesized from phloroglucinol by microwave-assistance Claisen rearrangement. ICT is a potential agent in numerous in vitro and in vivo pharmacological records, which demonstrated its role in cancer treatments via apoptotic-related mechanisms. It also brings in various health benefits since it reduced harmful effects on the liver, lung, heart, bone, blood, and skin, and improved immune responses. Pharmacokinetic outcomes indicated that its metabolic pathway involved hydration, hydroxylation, dehydrogenation, glycosylation, and glucuronidation. Molecule mechanisms of action at a cellular level are predominant, but clinical studies are expected to get more. Structure-activity relationship records seem insufficient, and the studies on nano-combined approaches to improve its soluble property in living bodied medium are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Thi Huong
- Faculty of Chemical Technology, Hanoi University of Industry, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Ninh The Son
- Institute of Chemistry, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Caugiay, Hanoi, Viet Nam.
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Screening and characterization of a β-xylosidase from Bifidobacterium breve K-110 and its application in the biotransformation of the total flavonoids of epimedium to icariin with α-l-rhamnosidase. Bioorg Chem 2023; 132:106364. [PMID: 36706530 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Among the flavonoids of epimedium, epimedin B, epimedin C, and icariin are considered to be representative components and their structures are quite similar. Besides sharing the same backbone, the main difference is the sugar groups attached at the positions of C-3 and C-7. Despite their structural similarities, their potencies differ significantly, and only icariin is currently included in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia as a quality marker (Q-marker) for epimedium flavonoids. Furthermore, icariin has the functions of anti-aging, anti-inflammation, antioxidation, anti-osteoporosis, and ameliorating fibrosis. We used bioinformatics to look for the GH43 family β-xylosidase genes BbXyl from Bifidobacterium breve K-110, which has a length of 1347 bp and codes for 448 amino acids. This will allow us to convert epimedin B and epimedin C into icariin in a specific way. The expression level of recombinant BbXyl in TB medium containing 1 % inulin as carbon source, with an inducer concentration of 0.05 mmol/L and a temperature of 28 °C, was 86.4 U/mL. Previous studies found that the α-l-rhamnosidase BtRha could convert epoetin C to produce icariin, so we combined BbXyl and BtRha to catalyze the conversion of epimedium total flavonoids in vitro and in vivo to obtain the product icariin. Under optimal conditions, in vitro hydrolysis of 5 g/L of total flavonoids of epimedium eventually yielded a concentration of icariin of 678.1 μmol/L. To explore the conversion of total flavonoids of epimedium in vivo. Under the optimal conditions, the yield of icariin reached 97.27 μmol/L when the total flavonoid concentration of epimedium was 1 g/L. This study is the first to screen xylosidases for the targeted conversion of epimedin B to produce icariin, and the first to report that epimedin B and epimedin C in the raw epimedium flavonoids can convert efficiently to icariin by a collaborative of β-xylosidase and α-l-rhamnosidase.
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Han CH, Ma JY, Zou W, Qu JL, Du Y, Li N, Liu Y, Jin G, Leng AJ, Liu J. 3D Microfluidic System for Evaluating Inhibitory Effect of Chinese Herbal Medicine Oldenlandia diffusa on Human Malignant Glioma Invasion Combined with Network Pharmacology Analysis. Chin J Integr Med 2023; 29:52-60. [PMID: 36401750 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-021-3726-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the anti-invasion efficacy of the ethanol extract of Oldenlandia diffusa Will. (EEOD) on a three-dimensional (3D) human malignant glioma (MG) cell invasion and perfusion model based on microfluidic chip culture and the possible mechanism of action of Oldenlandia diffusa Will. (OD). METHODS The comprehensive pharmacodynamic analysis method in this study was based on microfluidic chip 3D cell perfusion culture technology, and the action mechanism of Chinese medicine (CM) on human MG cells was investigated through network pharmacology analysis. First, the components of EEOD were analyzed by ultraperformance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF/MS). Then, cell viability and apoptosis were assessed to determine the optimum concentration of EEOD for invasion experiments, and two-dimensional (2D) migration and invasion abilities of U87 and U251 MG cells were evaluated using scratch wound and Transwell assays. The possible mechanism underlying the effects of EEOD on glioma was analyzed through a network pharmacology approach. RESULTS Thirty-five compounds of EEOD were detected by UPLC-Q-TOF/MS. EEOD suppressed the viability of MG cells, promoted their apoptosis, and inhibited their migratory and invasive potentials (all P<0.05). Network pharmacology analysis showed that OD inhibited the invasion of MG cells by directly regulating MAPK and Wnt pathways through MAPK, EGFR, MYC, GSK3B, and other targets. The anti-invasion effect of OD was also found to be related to the indirect regulation of microtubule cytoskeleton organization. CONCLUSIONS ]EEOD could inhibit the invasion of human MG cells, and the anti-invasion mechanism of OD might be regulating MAPK and Wnt signaling pathways and microtubule cytoskeleton organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Hui Han
- Stem Cells Clinical Research Institution, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, Liaoning Province, China.,Dalian Innovation Institute of Stem Cell and Precision Medicine, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jing-Yun Ma
- Stem Cells Clinical Research Institution, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, Liaoning Province, China.,Dalian Innovation Institute of Stem Cell and Precision Medicine, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Wei Zou
- Dalian Innovation Institute of Stem Cell and Precision Medicine, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jia-Lin Qu
- Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Yang Du
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Na Li
- Stem Cells Clinical Research Institution, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Yong Liu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Guo Jin
- Dalian Innovation Institute of Stem Cell and Precision Medicine, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Ai-Jing Leng
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Stem Cells Clinical Research Institution, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, Liaoning Province, China. .,Dalian Innovation Institute of Stem Cell and Precision Medicine, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning Province, China.
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Potential of Compounds Originating from the Nature to Act in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Therapy by Targeting the Tumor Immunosuppressive Microenvironment: A Review. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 28:molecules28010195. [PMID: 36615387 PMCID: PMC9822070 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28010195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most prevalent subtype of liver cancer, is the second main reason for cancer-related deaths worldwide. In recent decades, sufficient evidence supported that immunotherapy was a safe and effective treatment option for HCC. However, tolerance and frequent recurrence and metastasis occurred in patients after immunotherapy due to the complicated crosstalk in the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment (TIME) in HCC. Therefore, elucidating the TIME in HCC and finding novel modulators to target TIME for attenuating immune suppression is critical to optimize immunotherapy. Recently, studies have shown the potentially immunoregulatory activities of natural compounds, characterized by multiple targets and pathways and low toxicity. In this review, we concluded the unique role of TIME in HCC. Moreover, we summarized evidence that supports the hypothesis of natural compounds to target TIME to improve immunotherapy. Furthermore, we discussed the comprehensive mechanisms of these natural compounds in the immunotherapy of HCC. Accordingly, we present a well-grounded review of the naturally occurring compounds in cancer immunotherapy, expecting to shed new light on discovering novel anti-HCC immunomodulatory drugs from natural sources.
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Nanomedicine-boosting icaritin-based immunotherapy of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. Mil Med Res 2022; 9:69. [PMID: 36503490 PMCID: PMC9743634 DOI: 10.1186/s40779-022-00433-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional treatments for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), such as surgical resection, transplantation, radiofrequency ablation, and chemotherapy are unsatisfactory, and therefore the exploration of powerful therapeutic strategies is urgently needed. Immunotherapy has emerged as a promising strategy for advanced HCC treatment due to its minimal side effects and long-lasting therapeutic memory effects. Recent studies have demonstrated that icaritin could serve as an immunomodulator for effective immunotherapy of advanced HCC. Encouragingly, in 2022, icaritin soft capsules were approved by the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) of China for the immunotherapy of advanced HCC. However, the therapeutic efficacy of icaritin in clinical practice is impaired by its poor bioavailability and unfavorable in vivo delivery efficiency. Recently, functionalized drug delivery systems including stimuli-responsive nanocarriers, cell membrane-coated nanocarriers, and living cell-nanocarrier systems have been designed to overcome the shortcomings of drugs, including the low bioavailability and limited delivery efficiency as well as side effects. Taken together, the development of icaritin-based nanomedicines is expected to further improve the immunotherapy of advanced HCC. Herein, we compared the different preparation methods for icaritin, interpreted the HCC immune microenvironment and the mechanisms underlying icaritin for treatment of advanced HCC, and discussed both the design of icaritin-based nanomedicines with high icaritin loading and the latest progress in icaritin-based nanomedicines for advanced HCC immunotherapy. Finally, the prospects to promote further clinical translation of icaritin-based nanomedicines for the immunotherapy of advanced HCC were proposed.
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Liu M, Hu T, Gou W, Chang H, Li Y, Li Y, Zuo D, Hou W, Jiao S. Exploring the pharmacological mechanisms of icaritin against nasopharyngeal carcinoma via network pharmacology and experimental validation. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:993022. [PMID: 36467051 PMCID: PMC9715612 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.993022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Icaritin is a natural product with a wide range of anti-tumor effects. However, its anti-tumor mechanism has not been thoroughly studied. This study examined the inhibitory effect of icaritin on nasopharyngeal cancer and its underlying mechanism using network pharmacology along with in vivo and in vitro experiments. Methods: MTT and clone formation assays were used to detect the effects of icaritin on the viability and proliferation of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells, followed by the construction of a HONE1 xenograft tumor model to evaluate the anti-tumor efficacy of icaritin in vivo. A public database was used to predict prospective targets, built a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, and analyze gene enrichment and biological processes. Based on network pharmacological data, cell cycle-related proteins were identified using western blotting. Besides, cell cycle distribution, apoptosis, and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation were identified using flow cytometry. In addition, SA-β-Gal staining was performed to detect cellular senescence, and western blotting was performed to detect the expression of P53, P21, and other proteins to verify key signaling pathways. Results: Icaritin effectively inhibited the viability and proliferation of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell lines and showed good anti-tumor activity against HONE1 nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells in vivo. Key protein targets, including AKT1, HSP90AA1, CDK4, CCND1, and EGFR, were screened using PPI network topology analysis. GO and KEGG analysis revealed that the cell cycle, p53 signaling, and cell senescence pathways may be the main regulatory pathways. Flow cytometry and western blot experiments showed that icaritin caused S-phase arrest and promoted an increase in ROS. SA-β-Gal staining showed that icaritin significantly induced cellular senescence, and western blotting showed that the expression of senescence-related proteins p53 and P21 increased significantly. Moreover, inhibition of ROS levels by N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) enhanced cell viability, reversed cellular senescence and reduced cellular senescence-associated protein expression. Conclusion: The results of network pharmacological analysis and in vivo and in vitro experiments showed that icaritin effectively inhibited the growth of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells, promoted ROS production, induced cellular senescence, and inhibited tumor cells, which are related to the regulation of P53/P21 signal pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minglu Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Medical Centre, Chinese People’s Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tong Hu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Tianjin, China,Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Wenfeng Gou
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Tianjin, China
| | - Huajie Chang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Tianjin, China
| | - Yanli Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Tianjin, China
| | - Yiliang Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Tianjin, China
| | - Daiying Zuo
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Wenbin Hou
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Tianjin, China,*Correspondence: Shunchang Jiao, ; Wenbin Hou,
| | - Shunchang Jiao
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Medical Centre, Chinese People’s Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Shunchang Jiao, ; Wenbin Hou,
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Chandrasekaran AP, Tyagi A, Poondla N, Sarodaya N, Karapurkar JK, Kaushal K, Park CH, Hong SH, Kim KS, Ramakrishna S. Dual role of deubiquitinating enzyme USP19 regulates mitotic progression and tumorigenesis by stabilizing survivin. Mol Ther 2022; 30:3414-3429. [PMID: 35918893 PMCID: PMC9637645 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2022.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Survivin is a component of the chromosomal passenger complex, which includes Aurora B, INCENP, and Borealin, and is required for chromosome segregation and cytokinesis. We performed a genome-wide screen of deubiquitinating enzymes for survivin. For the first time, we report that USP19 has a dual role in the modulation of mitosis and tumorigenesis by regulating survivin expression. Our results found that USP19 stabilizes and interacts with survivin in HCT116 cells. USP19 deubiquitinates survivin protein and extends its half-life. We also found that USP19 functions as a mitotic regulator by controlling the downstream signaling of survivin protein. Targeted genome knockout verified that USP19 depletion leads to several mitotic defects, including cytokinesis failure. In addition, USP19 depletion results in significant enrichment of apoptosis and reduces the growth of tumors in the mouse xenograft. We envision that simultaneous targeting of USP19 and survivin in oncologic drug development would increase therapeutic value and minimize redundancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arun Pandian Chandrasekaran
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Department of Biomedical Science, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong, Seoul 04763, South Korea
| | - Apoorvi Tyagi
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Department of Biomedical Science, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong, Seoul 04763, South Korea
| | - Naresh Poondla
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Department of Biomedical Science, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong, Seoul 04763, South Korea
| | - Neha Sarodaya
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Department of Biomedical Science, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong, Seoul 04763, South Korea
| | - Janardhan Keshav Karapurkar
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Department of Biomedical Science, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong, Seoul 04763, South Korea
| | - Kamini Kaushal
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Department of Biomedical Science, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong, Seoul 04763, South Korea
| | - Chang-Hwan Park
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Department of Biomedical Science, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong, Seoul 04763, South Korea; College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, South Korea
| | - Seok-Ho Hong
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, South Korea
| | - Kye-Seong Kim
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Department of Biomedical Science, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong, Seoul 04763, South Korea; College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, South Korea.
| | - Suresh Ramakrishna
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Department of Biomedical Science, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong, Seoul 04763, South Korea; College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, South Korea.
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12
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Icaritin inhibits CDK2 expression and activity to interfere with tumor progression. iScience 2022; 25:104991. [PMID: 36093042 PMCID: PMC9460166 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Icaritin has shown antitumor activity in a variety of human solid tumors and myeloid leukemia cells. However, the direct target of icaritin and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In our study, CDK2 was found to be a direct target of icaritin in tumor cells. On one hand, icaritin interacted with CDK2 and interfered with CDK2/CyclinE complex formation, resulting in downregulation of CDK2 activity as illustrated with attenuated phosphorylation of FOXO1, Rb, and P27, and E2F/Rb dissociation. On the other hand, icaritin reduced the stability and translation efficiency of CDK2-mRNA by modulating microRNA-597 expression. To be of functional importance, icaritin inhibited proliferation and promoted apoptosis of tumor cells in vitro and in vivo, which was consistent with CDK2 inhibitors—k03861. Our data revealed CDK2 as the direct target of icaritin for its antitumor effects, which may suggest new therapeutics of icaritin or combinational therapeutics involving both icaritin and CDK2 inhibitors for cancers. Icaritin can interact with CDK2 and affect the biological role of CDK2 Icaritin inhibits the formation of CDK2/cyclin E complex and the activity of CDK2 Icaritin enhance the inhibitory effect of P27 on CDK2 Icaritin regulates tumor cell proliferation and apoptosis in a CDK2-dependent manner
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Zhang C, Xu H, Sui X, Chen L, Chen B, Lv H, Wang S, Wang X. Icaritin inhibits PLK1 to activate DNA damage response in NK/T cell lymphoma and increases sensitivity to GELOX regime. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2022; 25:288-304. [PMID: 35663228 PMCID: PMC9127125 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2022.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer/T cell lymphoma (NKTCL) is a highly aggressive subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Gemcitabine, oxaliplatin, and L-asparaginase (GELOX) is one of the first-line chemotherapy regimens of NKTCL. Yet, the prognosis of NKTCL is poor. Icaritin is an herb-derived monomer from icariin with antitumor effects. We found that icaritin induced proliferation inhibition and apoptosis of NKTCL both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, icaritin inhibited the dissemination of NKTCL in vivo. RNA sequencing revealed the Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) gene and DNA damage response (DDR) as the targets of icaritin. Mechanistically, icaritin inhibited PLK1 to promote checkpoint kinase 2 (Chk2) homodimerization and its T387 phosphorylation, which further activated p53, leading to the activation of the DDR pathway. Moreover, inhibiting PLK1 increased Forkhead box O3a nuclear localization, the latter of which activated ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM), an early sensor of DNA damage. Then ATM phosphorylated Chk2 T68 and initiated Chk2 activation. Remarkably, the combined treatment of icaritin and GELOX achieved better antitumor efficacy than single treatment in vivo. In summary, our results proved the efficacy of icaritin treating NKTCL, provided insights into its antitumor molecular mechanism, and revealed the application value of icaritin in facilitating clinical NKTCL treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Canjing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology of Ministry of Education & Ministry of Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, People's Republic of China.,Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Experimental Teaching Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Huiwen Xu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology of Ministry of Education & Ministry of Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, People's Republic of China.,Department of Hematology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, People's Republic of China
| | - Xianxian Sui
- Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Experimental Teaching Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Lina Chen
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology of Ministry of Education & Ministry of Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Bobin Chen
- Department of Hematology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, People's Republic of China
| | - Haozhen Lv
- Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Songmei Wang
- Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Experimental Teaching Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuanyi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology of Ministry of Education & Ministry of Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, People's Republic of China
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14
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Li X, Liang S, Tan CH, Cao S, Xu X, Er Saw P, Tao W. Nanocarriers in the Enhancement of Therapeutic Efficacy of Natural Drugs. BIO INTEGRATION 2021. [DOI: 10.15212/bioi-2020-0040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract Since time immemorial, plant derived natural products have been used for the treatment of various human diseases before the intervention of modern medicine. The basis of modern medicine is still being inspired from traditional medicine and therapies. However, despite
their tremendous therapeutic potential, these natural drugs often have poor bioavailability, metabolic instability, and aqueous insolubility. These factors greatly impede a natural drug’s commercialization potential as a mainstream medicine. Therefore, the development of nanocarrier
drug delivery systems is indispensable in overcoming the various constraints of the bottlenecks which occur with natural drugs. Of particular interest in this review are four plant materials endogenous to China with the common names of barrenwort or horny goat weed (Epimedium), Shu
Di Huang (Rehmannia glutinosa, RG), ginseng (Panax ginseng), and Dong Quai or female ginseng (Angelica sinensis, AS), each having been scientifically investigated for a wide range of therapeutic uses as has been originally discovered from the long history of traditional
usage and anecdotal information by local population groups in Asia. The integration of natural drugs from the East and nanocarrier drug delivery systems developed from the West is paving the way towards further accurate and efficient medicine therapy. We further discuss the potential benefits
of these plants and the enhancement of their therapeutic efficacy by nanotechnology intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuling Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Shunung Liang
- The First Clinical Medical School of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510004, China
| | - Chee Hwee Tan
- The First Clinical Medical School of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510004, China
| | - Shuwen Cao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Xiaoding Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Phei Er Saw
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Wei Tao
- Center for Nanomedicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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15
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Liu S, Liu C, Xiong L, Xie J, Huang C, Pi R, Huang Z, Li L. Icaritin Alleviates Glutamate-Induced Neuronal Damage by Inactivating GluN2B-Containing NMDARs Through the ERK/DAPK1 Pathway. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:525615. [PMID: 33692666 PMCID: PMC7937872 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.525615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Excitatory toxicity due to excessive glutamate release is considered the core pathophysiological mechanism of cerebral ischemia. It is primarily mediated by N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) on neuronal membranes. Our previous studies have found that icaritin (ICT) exhibits neuroprotective effects against cerebral ischemia in rats, but the underlying mechanism is unclear. This study aims to investigate the protective effect of ICT on glutamate-induced neuronal injury and uncover its possible molecular mechanism. An excitatory toxicity injury model was created using rat primary cortical neurons treated with glutamate and glycine. The results showed that ICT has neuroprotective effects on glutamate-treated primary cortical neurons by increasing cell viability while reducing the rate of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release and reducing apoptosis. Remarkably, ICT rescued the changes in the ERK/DAPK1 signaling pathway after glutamate treatment by increasing the expression levels of p-ERK, p-DAPK1 and t-DAPK1. In addition, ICT also regulates NMDAR function during glutamate-induced injury by decreasing the expression level of the GluN2B subunit and enhancing the expression level of the GluN2A subunit. As cotreatment with the ERK-specific inhibitor U0126 and ICT abolishes the beneficial effects of ITC on the ERK/DAPK1 pathway, NMDAR subtypes and neuronal cell survival, ERK is recognized as a crucial mediator in the protective mechanism of ICT. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that ICT has a neuroprotective effect on neuronal damage induced by glutamate, and its mechanism may be related to inactivating GluN2B-containing NMDAR through the ERK/DAPK1 pathway. This study provides a new clue for the prevention and treatment of clinical ischemic cerebrovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Liu
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Chaoming Liu
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Lijiao Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China.,First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Jiali Xie
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China.,Institute for Medical Sciences of Pain, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Rongbiao Pi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhihua Huang
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China.,Institute for Medical Sciences of Pain, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Liangdong Li
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China.,First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
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16
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Bailly C. Molecular and cellular basis of the anticancer activity of the prenylated flavonoid icaritin in hepatocellular carcinoma. Chem Biol Interact 2020; 325:109124. [PMID: 32437694 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2020.109124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The prenylated flavonoid icaritin (ICT) is currently undergoing phase 3 clinical trial for the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), based on a solid array of preclinical and clinical data. The antitumor activity originates from the capacity of the drug to modulate several signaling effectors in cancer cells, mainly the estrogen receptor splice variant ERα36, the transcription factors STAT3 and NFκB, and the chemokine receptor CXCR4. Recent studies have implicated additional components, including different microRNAs, the generation of reactive oxygen species and the targeting of sphingosine kinase-1. ICT also engages the RAGE-HMGB1 signaling route and modulates the apoptosis/autophagy crosstalk to promote its anticancer activity. In addition, ICT exerts profound changes on the tumor microenvironment to favor an immune-response. Collectively, these multiple biochemical and cellular characteristics confer to ICT a robust activity profile which can be exploited to treat HCC, as well as other cancers, including glioblastoma and onco-hematological diseases such as chronic myeloid leukemia. This review provides an update of the pharmacological properties of ICT and its metabolic characteristics. It also addresses the design of derivatives, including both natural products and synthetic molecules, such as SNG1153 also in clinical trial. The prenylated flavonoid ICT deserves attention as a multifunctional natural product potentially useful to improve the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Taleghani A, Tayarani-Najaran Z. Potent Cytotoxic Natural Flavonoids: The Limits of Perspective. Curr Pharm Des 2019; 24:5555-5579. [PMID: 30799786 DOI: 10.2174/1381612825666190222142537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Besides the numerous biologic and pharmacologic functions in the human body that act as potent antioxidants, flavonoids (flavones, flavanones, flavonols, flavanols and isoflavones) are noted as cancer preventive or therapeutic agents. METHODS This review summarizes the published data using PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus. RESULTS In this context, recognition and introduction of the most active cytotoxic flavonoids as promising agents for cancer therapy gives insight for further evaluations. However, there are some critical points that may affect the entering of flavonoids as active cytotoxic phytochemicals in the clinical phase. Issues such as the abundance of active species in nature, the methods of extraction and purification, solubility, pharmacokinetic profile, presence of the chiral moieties, method of synthesis, and structure modification may limit the entry of a selected compound for use in humans. Although plenty of basic evidence exists for cytotoxic/antitumor activity of the versatility of flavonoids for entry into clinical trials, the above-mentioned concerns must be considered. CONCLUSION This review is an effort to introduce cytotoxic natural flavonoids (IC50< 10 µM) that may have the potential to be used against various tumor cells. Also, active constituents, molecular mechanisms, and related clinical trials have been discussed as well as the limitations and challenges of using flavonoids in clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akram Taleghani
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Gonbad Kavous University, Golestan Province, Gonbad Kavus, P.O. Box 163, Iran
| | - Zahra Tayarani-Najaran
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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18
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Wang S, Wang Q, Wang H, Qin C, Cui X, Li L, Liu Y, Chang H. Induction of ROS and DNA damage-dependent senescence by icaritin contributes to its antitumor activity in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2019; 57:424-431. [PMID: 31407933 PMCID: PMC8871611 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2019.1628073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2019] [Revised: 04/06/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Context: Icaritin (ICT), a prenylflavonoid derivative extracted from the Epimedium (Berberidaceae) genus, has been identified to exhibit antitumor effect in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells by inducing apoptosis. However, its effect on cellular senescence has not been elucidated. Objective: To investigate the mechanism for low concentrations of ICT exerting antitumor activity through induction of cellular senescence. Materials and methods: Human HepG2 and Huh7 cells were treated with low concentrations of ICT (1 and 2 μM) once per day for a week. Cellular senescence was evaluated through cell viability and senescence-associated-β-galactosidase activity. Cell cycle distribution and ROS levels were measured with flow cytometry. Gene expression was detected using qRT-PCR and western blotting. Fluorescent punctuates formation of γH2AX was analyzed by immunofluorescence. Results: ICT (1 and 2 μM) promoted cellular senescence in HepG2 and Huh7 cells, as observed by enlarged and flattened morphology and increased senescence-associated-β-galactosidase activity (∼7-8-fold and ∼11-12-fold of vehicle controls, respectively), accompanied by significant cell cycle arrest and decrease in DNA synthesis. Mechanistically, ICT-induced senescence occurred through accumulation of ROS (∼1.3-fold and ∼1.8-fold of vehicle controls in response to 1 and 2 μM ICT, respectively), which further resulted in DNA damage response, as evidenced by strong induction of γH2AX through immunofluorescence and western blotting assays. Pharmacological inhibition of ROS production with N-acetylcysteine attenuated ICT-induced γH2AX and senescence-associated-β-galactosidase activity (∼0.28-0.30-fold decrease, p < 0.05). Discussion and conclusions: Induction of cellular senescence by ICT defines a novel anticancer mechanism of ICT and provides a rationale for generalizing the study design to a broader study population to further developing ICT as a novel therapeutic agent for treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shikang Wang
- Emergency Center, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Institute of Medical Sciences, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Huijun Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Shandong Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Chengkun Qin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xianping Cui
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Lei Li
- Emergency Center, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yongqing Liu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Hong Chang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
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In a Rat Model of Acute Liver Failure, Icaritin Improved the Therapeutic Effect of Mesenchymal Stem Cells by Activation of the Hepatocyte Growth Factor/c-Met Pathway. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2019; 2019:4253846. [PMID: 31915446 PMCID: PMC6935441 DOI: 10.1155/2019/4253846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Acute liver failure (ALF) is a serious life-threatening condition. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) may be an effective treatment for this condition and a good alternative to liver transplantation. Icaritin (ICT) is an active ingredient of the genus Epimedium, a traditional Chinese medicine, with the potential to enhance the proliferation of MSCs. The purpose of this study was to explore whether ICT increased the therapeutic effects of MSCs and explore its underlying mechanisms. For in vivo experiments, a rat ALF model was established by intraperitoneal injection of D(+)-galactosamine/ lipopolysaccharide. MSCs cocultured with ICT were used to treat ALF rats and the protective effects assessed as survival rate, levels of serum AST and ALT, and histological changes in liver tissue. For in vitro experiments, MSCs were treated in serum-free culture for 72 h to simulate the disruption of intrahepatic microcirculation. MSCs apoptosis was examined to determine whether ICT rescued impaired MSCs. The role of the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-Met pathway in MSCs was assessed by constructing genetically modified MSCs overexpressing c-Met and by using the c-Met receptor inhibitor (crizotinib). The results showed that MSCs increased the survival rate of ALF rats and reduced liver damage. MSCs cocultured with ICT exerted a greater therapeutic effect than MSCs alone. Further, the HGF/c-Met pathway played a key role in the antiapoptotic activity of MSCs, which was associated with the optimized efficacy of ICT. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that ICT enhances the therapeutic effect of MSCs in a model of ALF, improving the antiapoptotic potential of MSCs by upregulation of the HGF/c-Met pathway. The combination of stem cell therapy with traditional herbal extracts may improve MSC-based clinical applications.
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Icaritin: A Novel Natural Candidate for Hematological Malignancies Therapy. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:4860268. [PMID: 31032347 PMCID: PMC6458936 DOI: 10.1155/2019/4860268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Hematological malignancies including leukemia and lymphoma can severely impact human health. With the current therapies combined with chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy, the prognosis of hematologic malignancies improved significantly. However, most hematological malignancies are still incurable. Therefore, research for novel treatment options was continuing with the natural product as one source. Icaritin is a compound extracted from a traditional Chinese herb, Epimedium Genus, and demonstrated an antitumor effect in various neoplasms including hematological malignancies such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. In hematological malignancies, icaritin showed multiple cytotoxic effects to induce apoptosis, arrest the cell cycle, inhibit proliferation, promote differentiation, restrict metastasis and infiltration, and suppress the oncogenic virus. The proved underlying mechanisms of the cytotoxic effects of icaritin are different in various cell types of hematological malignancies but associated with the critical cell signal pathway, including PI3K/Akt, JAK/STAT3, and MAPK/ERK/JNK. Although the primary target of icaritin is still unspecified, the existing evidence indicates that icaritin is a potential novel therapeutic agent for neoplasms as with hematological malignancies. Here, in the field of hematology, we reviewed the reported activity of icaritin in hematologic malignancies and the underlying mechanisms and recognized icaritin as a candidate for therapy of hematological malignancies.
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Wu T, Pei J, Ge L, Wang Z, Ding G, Xiao W, Zhao L. Characterization of a α-l-rhamnosidase from Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron with high catalytic efficiency of epimedin C. Bioorg Chem 2018; 81:461-467. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2018.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2018] [Revised: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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Icaritin induces ovarian cancer cell apoptosis through activation of p53 and inhibition of Akt/mTOR pathway. Life Sci 2018; 202:188-194. [PMID: 29625193 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.03.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 03/18/2018] [Accepted: 03/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Ovarian cancer (OC) has the highest mortality rate of all gynecological cancers. Currently, the first-line OC treatment consists of cytoreductive surgery and platinum-based chemotherapy. However, most patients develop chemoresistance after the first-line treatment limits the success of treatment. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify effective therapeutic agents. MAIN METHODS Cell viabilities were detected by MTS assay; Annexin V-FITC/PI assay and western blotting assay were performed to analyze the apoptotic cells in vitro; An immunofluorescence assay was performed to analyze the TUNEL+ apoptotic cells in vivo; Patient-derived xenografts were established to test the in vivo antitumor effects; The key proteins of p53, caspase-mediated apoptotic pathway and Akt/mTOR pathway were detected by Western blotting. KEY FINDINGS Icaritin, a prenylflavonoid derivative from Epimedium Genus, inhibited the proliferation of drug-sensitive OC cells (OV2008 and C13*) and cisplatin resistant OC cells A2780cp. Icaritin induced OC cell apoptosis in vitro, as indicated by the increase of Annexin V+/PI+ apoptotic cells analyzed with flow cytometry, and the cleavage of caspase 9, caspase 3 and poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) detected with western blotting. Icaritin also inhibited tumor growth and induced OC cells apoptosis in patient-derived xenografts, as indicated by the tumor growth delay and increase of TUNEL-positive cells in tumor tissues. The icaritin-induced OC cell apoptosis may be associated with the activation of p53 and the suppression of Akt/mTOR pathway. SIGNIFICANCE This study sheds light on the underlying mechanisms of antitumor effect of icaritin, and warrants clinical trial for treatment of OC.
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Zhang C, Li H, Jiang W, Zhang X, Li G. Icaritin inhibits the expression of alpha-fetoprotein in hepatitis B virus-infected hepatoma cell lines through post-transcriptional regulation. Oncotarget 2018; 7:83755-83766. [PMID: 27835879 PMCID: PMC5347802 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.13194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Although it has showed that icaritin can apparently suppress growth of HCC by reducing the level of AFP, the intrinsic mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we explored the possible mechanism of miRNAs on post-transcriptional regulation of AFP gene, as well as the effects of HBV infection and icaritin in hepatoma cells. The results showed that miR-620, miR-1236 and miR-1270 could bind target sites in the range of 9–18 nt and 131–151 nt downstream of the stop codon in the AFP mRNA 3′-UTR to suppress the expression of AFP. Mutation of these target sites could reverse the effects of these miRNAs. Icaritin (10 μM) might reduce the stability and translational activity of AFP mRNA by increasing the expression levels of these mentioned miRNAs. HBV infection resulted in apparent decreases of these miRNAs and, consequently, increased AFP expression. The results indicated that miR-620, miR-1236 and miR-1270 are critical factors in the post-transcriptional regulation of AFP. Icaritin can counteract the effect of HBV. These findings will contribute to full understanding of the regulatory mechanism of AFP expression in hepatoma cells. And also it revealed a synergistic mechanism of HBV infection and elevation of AFP in the pathogenesis of HCC, as well as the potential clinical significance of icaritin on the therapy of HCC induced by HBV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology and Municipal Laboratory of Liver Protection and Regulation of Regeneration, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaowei Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Gang Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
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Zhang Q, Feng Y, Kennedy D. Multidrug-resistant cancer cells and cancer stem cells hijack cellular systems to circumvent systemic therapies, can natural products reverse this? Cell Mol Life Sci 2017; 74:777-801. [PMID: 27622244 PMCID: PMC11107623 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-016-2362-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2016] [Revised: 09/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Chemotherapy is one of the most effective and broadly used approaches for cancer management and many modern regimes can eliminate the bulk of the cancer cells. However, recurrence and metastasis still remain a major obstacle leading to the failure of systemic cancer treatments. Therefore, to improve the long-term eradication of cancer, the cellular and molecular pathways that provide targets which play crucial roles in drug resistance should be identified and characterised. Multidrug resistance (MDR) and the existence of tumor-initiating cells, also referred to as cancer stem cells (CSCs), are two major contributors to the failure of chemotherapy. MDR describes cancer cells that become resistant to structurally and functionally unrelated anti-cancer agents. CSCs are a small population of cells within cancer cells with the capacity of self-renewal, tumor metastasis, and cell differentiation. CSCs are also believed to be associated with chemoresistance. Thus, MDR and CSCs are the greatest challenges for cancer chemotherapy. A significant effort has been made to identify agents that specifically target MDR cells and CSCs. Consequently, some agents derived from nature have been developed with a view that they may overcome MDR and/or target CSCs. In this review, natural products-targeting MDR cancer cells and CSCs are summarized and clustered by their targets in different signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhang
- School of Natural Sciences, Eskitis Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Nathan, 4111, Australia
| | - Yunjiang Feng
- School of Natural Sciences, Eskitis Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Nathan, 4111, Australia
| | - Derek Kennedy
- School of Natural Sciences, Eskitis Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Nathan, 4111, Australia.
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Jin L, Miao J, Liu Y, Li X, Jie Y, Niu Q, Han X. Icaritin induces mitochondrial apoptosis by up-regulating miR-124 in human oral squamous cell carcinoma cells. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 85:287-295. [PMID: 27889233 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2016.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Revised: 11/02/2016] [Accepted: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM OF THE STUDY The present study is aimed to investigate the apoptosis-inducing effect of icaritin in human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells and the associated mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS KB and SCC9 cell lines were used as model cell lines. Effect of icaritin on apoptosis was analyzed by flow cytometry. The effect of icaritin on mitochondrial apoptotic pathway was demonstrated by loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and release of cytocrome C from mitochondria. MiR-124 mimic and miR-124 inhibitor were used to manipulate the expression of miR-124 in OSCC cells. SiRNA targeting Sp1 and DNMT1 as well as Sp1 and DNMT1 overexpressing vector were utilized to confirm their roles in the apoptosis-inducing effect of icaritin in OSCC cells. Activation of relevant signaling pathway by icaritin and effect of icaritin on expression of targeting molecules were determined by western blots or qRT-PCR. RESULTS Our results showed that icaritin inhibited tumor cell viability in a dose- and time-dependent manner, and induced cell apoptosis via intrinsic mitochondrial pathway by upregulating miR-124. Moreover, our results showed that the icaritin exerted regulatory effect on miR-124 through suppressing Sp1/DNMT1 signaling. CONCLUSION Our data provide the first experimental evidence that icaritin induces mitochondrial apoptosis in OSCC cells by upregulating miR-124 and suggest a new mechanism to explain its anti-tumor effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limin Jin
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, China
| | - Jinhong Miao
- Department of Nursing Management,The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, China
| | - Yanjin Liu
- Department of Nursing Management,The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, China
| | - Xingdan Li
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, China
| | - Yaqiong Jie
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, China
| | - Qianyun Niu
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Stomatological Hospital of Nanyang, China
| | - Xinguang Han
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, China.
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Tan HL, Chan KG, Pusparajah P, Saokaew S, Duangjai A, Lee LH, Goh BH. Anti-Cancer Properties of the Naturally Occurring Aphrodisiacs: Icariin and Its Derivatives. Front Pharmacol 2016; 7:191. [PMID: 27445824 PMCID: PMC4925704 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 06/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Epimedium (family Berberidaceae), commonly known as Horny Goat Weed or Yin Yang Huo, is commonly used as a tonic, aphrodisiac, anti-rheumatic and anti-cancer agent in traditional herbal formulations in Asian countries such as China, Japan, and Korea. The major bioactive compounds present within this plant include icariin, icaritin and icariside II. Although it is best known for its aphrodisiac properties, scientific and pharmacological studies suggest it possesses broad therapeutic capabilities, especially for enhancing reproductive function and osteoprotective, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory and immunoprotective effects. In recent years, there has been great interest in scientific investigation of the purported anti-cancer properties of icariin and its derivatives. Data from in vitro and in vivo studies suggests these compounds demonstrate anti-cancer activity against a wide range of cancer cells which occurs through various mechanisms such as apoptosis, cell cycle modulation, anti-angiogenesis, anti-metastasis and immunomodulation. Of note, they are efficient at targeting cancer stem cells and drug-resistant cancer cells. These are highly desirable properties to be emulated in the development of novel anti-cancer drugs in combatting the emergence of drug resistance and overcoming the limited efficacy of current standard treatment. This review aims to summarize the anti-cancer mechanisms of icariin and its derivatives with reference to the published literature. The currently utilized applications of icariin and its derivatives in cancer treatment are explored with reference to existing patents. Based on the data compiled, icariin and its derivatives are shown to be compounds with tremendous potential for the development of new anti-cancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Li Tan
- Novel Bacteria and Drug Discovery Research Group, School of Pharmacy, Monash University MalaysiaBandar Sunway, Malaysia; Biomedical Research Laboratory, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University MalaysiaBandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Kok-Gan Chan
- Division of Genetic and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Malaya Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Priyia Pusparajah
- Biomedical Research Laboratory, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Surasak Saokaew
- Novel Bacteria and Drug Discovery Research Group, School of Pharmacy, Monash University MalaysiaBandar Sunway, Malaysia; Center of Health Outcomes Research and Therapeutic Safety (Cohorts), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of PhayaoPhayao, Thailand; Pharmaceutical Outcomes Research Center, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Naresuan UniversityPhitsanulok, Thailand
| | - Acharaporn Duangjai
- Center of Health Outcomes Research and Therapeutic Safety (Cohorts), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of PhayaoPhayao, Thailand; Division of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, University of PhayaoPhayao, Thailand
| | - Learn-Han Lee
- Novel Bacteria and Drug Discovery Research Group, School of Pharmacy, Monash University MalaysiaBandar Sunway, Malaysia; Center of Health Outcomes Research and Therapeutic Safety (Cohorts), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of PhayaoPhayao, Thailand
| | - Bey-Hing Goh
- Novel Bacteria and Drug Discovery Research Group, School of Pharmacy, Monash University MalaysiaBandar Sunway, Malaysia; Center of Health Outcomes Research and Therapeutic Safety (Cohorts), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of PhayaoPhayao, Thailand
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Chen X, Duan N, Zhang C, Zhang W. Survivin and Tumorigenesis: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategies. J Cancer 2016; 7:314-23. [PMID: 26918045 PMCID: PMC4747886 DOI: 10.7150/jca.13332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 215] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 11/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Survivin is the smallest member of the inhibitor of apoptosis protein family, which has key roles in regulating cell division and inhibiting apoptosis by blocking caspase activation. Survivin is highly expressed in most human cancers, such as lung, pancreatic and breast cancers, relative to normal tissues. Aberrant survivin expression is associated with tumor cell proliferation, progression, angiogenesis, therapeutic resistance, and poor prognosis. Studies on the underlying molecular mechanisms indicate that survivin is involved in the regulation of cytokinesis and cell cycle progression, as well as participates in a variety of signaling pathways such as the p53, Wnt, hypoxia, transforming growth factor, and Notch signaling pathways. In this review, recent progress in understanding the molecular basis of survivin is discussed. Therapeutic strategies targeting survivin in preclinical studies are also briefly summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xun Chen
- 1. Hong-Hui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, College of Medicine, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China, 710054
| | - Ning Duan
- 1. Hong-Hui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, College of Medicine, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China, 710054
| | - Caiguo Zhang
- 2. Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA, 80045
| | - Wentao Zhang
- 1. Hong-Hui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, College of Medicine, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China, 710054
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Chen XJ, Tang ZH, Li XW, Xie CX, Lu JJ, Wang YT. Chemical Constituents, Quality Control, and Bioactivity of Epimedii Folium (Yinyanghuo). THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2015; 43:783-834. [DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x15500494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Epimedii Folium (Yinyanghuo in Chinese) is one of the most commonly used traditional Chinese medicines. Its main active components are flavonoids, which exhibit multiple biological activities, such as promotion of bone formation and sexual function, protection of the nervous system, and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Flavonoids also show anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects. Various effective methods, including genetic and chemical approaches, have been developed for the quality control of Yinyanghuo. In this review, the studies conducted in the last decade about the chemical constituents, quality control, and bioactivity of Yinyanghuo are summarized and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Jia Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Zheng-Hai Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Xi-Wen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Cai-Xiang Xie
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jin-Jian Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Yi-Tao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
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Zhang C, Li G. Role of alpha-fetoprotein in hepatitis B virus-induced hepatocellular carcinoma: Prospect in clinical application. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2015; 23:3171-3181. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v23.i20.3171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) as a fetal specific alpha-globulin that has been used as a serum fetal defect/tumor marker for diagnosis and prediction of liver disease. Over the past decade, research indicates that AFP as an intracellular signal molecule is not only a biomarker but also interacts with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis B virus protein x and plays multifarious roles in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma, especially in HBV-induced liver cancer.
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