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Gautam S, Lapčík L, Lapčíková B. Pharmacological Significance of Boraginaceae with Special Insights into Shikonin and Its Potential in the Food Industry. Foods 2024; 13:1350. [PMID: 38731721 PMCID: PMC11082953 DOI: 10.3390/foods13091350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Shikonin is a naphthoquinone pigment present in the hairy roots of the plant species from the Boraginaceae family. The compound has been well investigated for its highly efficient medicinal, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. Various extraction methodologies have been employed to maximise yield while minimising waste production of shikonin and its derivatives. Despite substantial research on shikonin and Boraginaceae plants, a research gap persists in the food industry and extraction technologies. This review addresses crucial aspects of shikonin deserving of further exploration. It begins by elucidating the attributes of the Boraginaceae plants and their medicinal traits in folklore. It proceeds to focus on the roots of the plant and its medicinal properties, followed by extraction procedures explored in the last fifteen years, emphasising the novel technologies that have been chosen to improve the yield extract while minimising extraction times. Furthermore, this review briefly outlines studies employing cell culture techniques to enhance in vitro shikonin production. Lastly, attention is directed towards research in the food industry, particularly on shikonin-loaded biodegradable films and the antioxidant activity of shikonin. This review concludes by summarising the future potential in food science and prominent research gaps in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shweta Gautam
- Department of Foodstuff Technology, Faculty of Technology, Tomas Bata University in Zlín, Nam. T.G. Masaryka 5555, 76001 Zlín, Czech Republic; (S.G.); or (B.L.)
| | - Lubomír Lapčík
- Department of Foodstuff Technology, Faculty of Technology, Tomas Bata University in Zlín, Nam. T.G. Masaryka 5555, 76001 Zlín, Czech Republic; (S.G.); or (B.L.)
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Palacky University in Olomouc, 17. Listopadu 12, 77146 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Lapčíková
- Department of Foodstuff Technology, Faculty of Technology, Tomas Bata University in Zlín, Nam. T.G. Masaryka 5555, 76001 Zlín, Czech Republic; (S.G.); or (B.L.)
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Palacky University in Olomouc, 17. Listopadu 12, 77146 Olomouc, Czech Republic
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Chan KI, Zhang S, Li G, Xu Y, Cui L, Wang Y, Su H, Tan W, Zhong Z. MYC Oncogene: A Druggable Target for Treating Cancers with Natural Products. Aging Dis 2024; 15:640-697. [PMID: 37450923 PMCID: PMC10917530 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.0520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Various diseases, including cancers, age-associated disorders, and acute liver failure, have been linked to the oncogene, MYC. Animal testing and clinical trials have shown that sustained tumor volume reduction can be achieved when MYC is inactivated, and different combinations of therapeutic agents including MYC inhibitors are currently being developed. In this review, we first provide a summary of the multiple biological functions of the MYC oncoprotein in cancer treatment, highlighting that the equilibrium points of the MYC/MAX, MIZ1/MYC/MAX, and MAD (MNT)/MAX complexes have further potential in cancer treatment that could be used to restrain MYC oncogene expression and its functions in tumorigenesis. We also discuss the multifunctional capacity of MYC in various cellular cancer processes, including its influences on immune response, metabolism, cell cycle, apoptosis, autophagy, pyroptosis, metastasis, angiogenesis, multidrug resistance, and intestinal flora. Moreover, we summarize the MYC therapy patent landscape and emphasize the potential of MYC as a druggable target, using herbal medicine modulators. Finally, we describe pending challenges and future perspectives in biomedical research, involving the development of therapeutic approaches to modulate MYC or its targeted genes. Patients with cancers driven by MYC signaling may benefit from therapies targeting these pathways, which could delay cancerous growth and recover antitumor immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ka Iong Chan
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Siyuan Zhang
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Guodong Li
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Yida Xu
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Liao Cui
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Natural Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524000, China
| | - Yitao Wang
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Huanxing Su
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Wen Tan
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Zhangfeng Zhong
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
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Zhao MN, Su L, Song F, Wei ZF, Qin TX, Zhang YW, Li W, Gao SJ. Shikonin Exerts an Antileukemia Effect against FLT3-ITD Mutated Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells via Targeting FLT3 and Its Downstream Pathways. Acta Haematol 2023; 147:310-324. [PMID: 37926079 PMCID: PMC11251672 DOI: 10.1159/000534101] [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: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with internal tandem duplication (ITD) mutations in Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) has an unfavorable prognosis. Recently, using newly emerging inhibitors of FLT3 has led to improved outcomes of patients with FLT3-ITD mutations. However, drug resistance and relapse continue to be significant challenges in the treatment of patients with FLT3-ITD mutations. This study aimed to evaluate the antileukemic effects of shikonin (SHK) and its mechanisms of action against AML cells with FLT3-ITD mutations in vitro and in vivo. METHODS The CCK-8 assay was used to analyze cell viability, and flow cytometry was used to detect cell apoptosis and differentiation. Western blotting and real-time polymerase chain reaction were used to examine the expression of certain proteins and genes. Leukemia mouse model was created to evaluate the antileukemia effect of SHK against FLT3-ITD mutated leukemia in vivo. RESULTS After screening a series of leukemia cell lines, those with FLT3-ITD mutations were found to be more sensitive to SHK in terms of proliferation inhibition and apoptosis induction than those without FLT3-ITD mutation. SHK suppresses the expression and phosphorylation of FLT3 receptors and their downstream molecules. Inhibition of the NF-κB/miR-155 pathway is an important mechanism through which SHK kills FLT3-AML cells. Moreover, a low concentration of SHK promotes the differentiation of AML cells with FLT3-ITD mutations. Finally, SHK could significantly inhibit the growth of MV4-11 cells in leukemia bearing mice. CONCLUSION The findings of this study indicate that SHK may be a promising drug for the treatment of FLT3-ITD mutated AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mu-Nan Zhao
- Department of Cancer, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Long Su
- Department of Hematology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Fei Song
- Department of Hematology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zhi-Feng Wei
- Department of Hematology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Tian-Xue Qin
- Department of Hematology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yun-Wei Zhang
- Department of Hematology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Cancer, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Department of Hematology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Su-Jun Gao
- Department of Hematology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Dong H, Chang CD, Gao F, Zhang N, Yan XJ, Wu X, Wang YH. The anti-leukemia activity and mechanisms of shikonin: a mini review. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1271252. [PMID: 38026987 PMCID: PMC10651754 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1271252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Leukemia encompasses a group of highly heterogeneous diseases that pose a serious threat to human health. The long-term outcome of patients with leukemia still needs to be improved and new effective therapeutic strategies continue to be an unmet clinical need. Shikonin (SHK) is a naphthoquinone derivative that shows multiple biological function includes anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, and anti-allergic effects. Numerous studies have reported the anti-leukemia activity of SHK during the last 3 decades and there are studies showing that SHK is particularly effective towards various leukemia cells compared to solid tumors. In this review, we will discuss the anti-leukemia effect of SHK and summarize the underlying mechanisms. Therefore, SHK may be a promising agent to be developed as an anti-leukemia drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Dong
- Department of Geriatrics, Jilin Geriatrics Clinical Research Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Chun-Di Chang
- Department of Neurology, Jilin Province People’s Hospital, Changchun, China
| | - Fei Gao
- Endocrine Department, Qian Wei Hospital of Jilin Province, Changchun, China
| | - Na Zhang
- Electrodiagnosis Department, Jilin Province FAW General Hospital, Changchun, China
| | - Xing-Jian Yan
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xue Wu
- Department of Geriatrics, Jilin Geriatrics Clinical Research Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yue-Hui Wang
- Department of Geriatrics, Jilin Geriatrics Clinical Research Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Király J, Szabó E, Fodor P, Fejes Z, Nagy B, Juhász É, Vass A, Choudhury M, Kónya G, Halmos G, Szabó Z. Shikonin Causes an Apoptotic Effect on Human Kidney Cancer Cells through Ras/MAPK and PI3K/AKT Pathways. Molecules 2023; 28:6725. [PMID: 37764501 PMCID: PMC10534756 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28186725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Shikonin, the main ingredient in Chinese herbal medicine, is described as a novel angiogenesis inhibitor, and its anticancer effects have already been studied. Shikonin and its derivatives induce apoptosis and suppress metastasis, which further enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy. However, their mechanism of function has not been completely elucidated on human renal cancer cells. (2) Methods: In our study, CAKI-2 and A-498 cells were treated with increasing concentrations (2.5-40 µM) of shikonin, when colony formation ability and cytotoxic activity were tested. The changes in the expression of the main targets of apoptotic pathways were measured by RT-qPCR and Western blot. The intracellular levels of miR-21 and miR-155 were quantified by RT-qPCR. (3) Results: Shikonin exerted a dose-dependent effect on the proliferation of the cell lines examined. In 5 µM concentration of shikonin in vitro elevated caspase-3 and -7 levels, the proteins of the Ras/MAPK and PI3K/AKT pathways were activated. However, no significant changes were detected in the miR-21 and miR-155 expressions. (4) Conclusions: Our findings indicated that shikonin causes apoptosis of renal cancer cells by activating the Ras/MAPK and PI3K/AKT pathways. These effects of shikonin on renal cancer cells may bear important potential therapeutic implications for the treatment of renal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- József Király
- Department of Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (J.K.); (P.F.); (A.V.); (G.K.); (G.H.)
| | - Erzsébet Szabó
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
- HUN-RE-DE Pharmamodul Research Group, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Petra Fodor
- Department of Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (J.K.); (P.F.); (A.V.); (G.K.); (G.H.)
| | - Zsolt Fejes
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (Z.F.); (B.N.J.)
| | - Béla Nagy
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (Z.F.); (B.N.J.)
| | - Éva Juhász
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - Anna Vass
- Department of Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (J.K.); (P.F.); (A.V.); (G.K.); (G.H.)
| | - Mahua Choudhury
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel School of Pharmacy, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX 77845, USA;
| | - Gábor Kónya
- Department of Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (J.K.); (P.F.); (A.V.); (G.K.); (G.H.)
| | - Gábor Halmos
- Department of Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (J.K.); (P.F.); (A.V.); (G.K.); (G.H.)
| | - Zsuzsanna Szabó
- Department of Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (J.K.); (P.F.); (A.V.); (G.K.); (G.H.)
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Guo Y, Zhou M, Mu Z, Guo J, Hou Y, Xu Y, Geng L. Recent advances in shikonin for the treatment of immune-related diseases: Anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory mechanisms. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115138. [PMID: 37454591 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Shikonin, the primary active compound found in the rhizome of the traditional Chinese medicinal herb known as "ZiCao", exhibits a diverse range of pharmacological effects. This drug has a wide range of uses, including as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer agent. It is also effective in promoting wound healing and treating autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, diabetes, asthma, systemic lupus erythematosus, inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Although shikonin has a wide range of applications, its mechanisms are still not fully understood. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advancements in the use of shikonin for the treatment of immune-related diseases. The article also delves into the anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory mechanisms of shikonin and offers insights into the inflammation and immunopathogenesis of related diseases. Overall, this article serves as a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians working in this field. These findings not only provide significant new information on the effects and mechanisms of shikonin but also establish a foundation for the development of clinical applications in treating autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimeng Guo
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155N Nanjing Street, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, China; National joint Engineering Research Center for Theranostics of Immunological Skin Diseases, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Immunodermatology, Ministry of Education and NHC, Shenyang, China
| | - Mingming Zhou
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155N Nanjing Street, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, China; National joint Engineering Research Center for Theranostics of Immunological Skin Diseases, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Immunodermatology, Ministry of Education and NHC, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhenzhen Mu
- Department of Dermatology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 155N Nanjing Street, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, China
| | - Jinrong Guo
- Department of Dermatology, Jincheng People's Hospital, 456N Wenchang East Street, Jincheng, Shanxi 048000, China
| | - Yuzhu Hou
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155N Nanjing Street, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, China; National joint Engineering Research Center for Theranostics of Immunological Skin Diseases, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Immunodermatology, Ministry of Education and NHC, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuanyuan Xu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155N Nanjing Street, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, China; National joint Engineering Research Center for Theranostics of Immunological Skin Diseases, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Immunodermatology, Ministry of Education and NHC, Shenyang, China
| | - Long Geng
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155N Nanjing Street, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, China; National joint Engineering Research Center for Theranostics of Immunological Skin Diseases, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Immunodermatology, Ministry of Education and NHC, Shenyang, China.
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Lohberger B, Glänzer D, Kaltenegger H, Eck N, Leithner A, Bauer R, Kretschmer N, Steinecker-Frohnwieser B. Shikonin derivatives cause apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in human chondrosarcoma cells via death receptors and MAPK regulation. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:758. [PMID: 35820864 PMCID: PMC9275282 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-09857-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although chondrosarcoma is the second most common primary malignant bone tumor, treatment options are limited due to its extensive resistance to a chemo- and radiation therapy. Since shikonin has shown potent anticancer activity in various types of cancer cells, it represents a promising compound for the development of a new therapeutic approach. Methods The dose-relationships of shikonin and its derivatives acetylshikonin and cyclopropylshikonin on two human chondrosarcoma cell lines were measured using the CellTiter-Glo®. The changes in the cell cycle were presented by flow cytometry. Protein phosphorylation and expression apoptotic markers, MAPKs and their downstream targets were analyzed using western blotting and gene expression were evaluated using RT-qPCR. Results Chondrosarcoma cells showed a dose-dependent inhibition of cell viability after treatment with shikonin and its derivatives, with the strongest effect for shikonin and IC50 values of 1.3 ± 0.2 µM. Flow cytometric measurements revealed a G2/M arrest of the cells after treatment. Protein and gene expression analysis demonstrated a dose-dependent downregulation of survivin and XIAP, and an upregulation of Noxa, γH2AX, cleaved caspase-8, -9, -3, and -PARP. Furthermore, the expression of various death receptors was modulated. As MAPK signaling pathways play a key role in tumor biology, their phosphorylation pattern and their corresponding downstream gene regulation were analyzed. Treatment with shikonin derivatives caused an inhibition of pSTAT3 and an increase of pAKT and the MAPKs pERK, pJNK, and pp38 in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusions These data demonstrated the significant anti-tumorigenic effect of shikonin derivatives in chondrosarcoma and encourage further research. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-09857-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgit Lohberger
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Medical University of Graz, 8036, Graz, Austria. .,Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Arthritis and Rehabilitation, Saalfelden, Austria.
| | - Dietmar Glänzer
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Medical University of Graz, 8036, Graz, Austria.,Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Arthritis and Rehabilitation, Saalfelden, Austria
| | - Heike Kaltenegger
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Medical University of Graz, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Nicole Eck
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Medical University of Graz, 8036, Graz, Austria.,Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Arthritis and Rehabilitation, Saalfelden, Austria
| | - Andreas Leithner
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Medical University of Graz, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Rudolf Bauer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacognosy, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Nadine Kretschmer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacognosy, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
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Xu Z, Huang L, Zhang T, Liu Y, Fang F, Wu X, Chen W, Lan L, Zhang Y, Li N, Hu P. Shikonin inhibits the proliferation of cervical cancer cells via FAK/AKT/GSK3β signalling. Oncol Lett 2022; 24:304. [PMID: 35949620 PMCID: PMC9353239 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2022.13424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cervical cancer is one of the most lethal malignancies of the female reproductive system. Shikonin, a naphthoquinone pigment extracted from the traditional medicinal herb, Lithospermum erythrorhizon, has been demonstrated to exert significant inhibitory effects on a variety of tumours in vitro and in vivo. In the present study, the effects of shikonin on cervical cancer and the underlying mechanisms were investigated. The effects of shikonin on the viability on HeLa and SiHa cervical cancer cells was examined using cell counting kit (CCK-8) and colony formation assays. Immunofluorescence assay was performed to detect the levels of the proliferation-related protein, Ki67. Western blot analysis was utilized to measure the phosphorylated and total expression levels of proteins, including focal adhesion kinase (FAK), AKT, and glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β). Cell migration was determined by using wound healing assay. Metastasis-associated 1 (MTA1), TGFβ1 and VEGF mRNA expression levels were determined using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. It was demonstrated that, shikonin inhibited cervical cancer cell proliferation and migration. The data of the present study revealed that shikonin inhibited the proliferation of HeLa and SiHa cells in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Mechanistically, shikonin blocked the proliferation of cervical cancer cells by downregulating the phosphorylation of FAK, AKT and GSK3β induced by EGF. In addition, shikonin significantly suppressed cell migration and reduced the expression of migration-related proteins, including MTA1, TGFβ1 and VEGF. On the whole, the present study demonstrates that shikonin may exert an inhibitory effect on the cervical cancer cell proliferation and migration through the FAK/AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway. These findings suggest that shikonin may function as a potential therapeutic drug for the treatment of cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyan Xu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330001, P.R. China
| | - Liru Huang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330001, P.R. China
| | - Tiantian Zhang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330001, P.R. China
| | - Yuwei Liu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330001, P.R. China
| | - Fang Fang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Xinyue Wu
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330001, P.R. China
| | - Wen Chen
- Jiangxi Institute of Respiratory Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Lingning Lan
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330001, P.R. China
| | - Yangbo Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Na Li
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Ping Hu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330001, P.R. China
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Lohberger B, Kaltenegger H, Eck N, Glänzer D, Sadoghi P, Leithner A, Bauer R, Kretschmer N, Steinecker-Frohnwieser B. Shikonin Derivatives Inhibit Inflammation Processes and Modulate MAPK Signaling in Human Healthy and Osteoarthritis Chondrocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063396. [PMID: 35328817 PMCID: PMC8955849 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disorder and is characterized by the degeneration of articular cartilage. To develop new therapeutic approaches, we investigated the effect of shikonin derivatives on inflammation, MMP expression, and the regulation of MAPK signaling in human healthy (HC) and OA chondrocytes (pCH-OA). Viability was analyzed using the CellTiter-Glo® Assay. Inflammatory processes were investigated using a proteome profiler™ assay. Furthermore, we analyzed the effects of the shikonin derivatives by protein expression analysis of the phosphorylation pattern and the corresponding downstream gene regulation using RT-qPCR. Both HC and pCH-OA showed a dose-dependent decrease in viability after treatment. The strongest effects were found for shikonin with IC50 values of 1.2 ± 0.1 µM. Shikonin counteracts the inflammatory response by massively reducing the expression of the pro-inflammatory mediators. The phosphorylation level of ERK changed slightly. pJNK and pp38 showed a significant increase, and the downstream targets c/EBPs and MEF2c may play a role in the cartilage homeostasis. STAT3 phosphorylation decreased significantly and has a chondroprotective function through the regulation of cyclin D1 and Sox9. Our results demonstrate for the first time that shikonin derivatives have extensive effects on the inflammatory processes, MAPKs, and IL6/STAT3 downstream regulation in healthy and OA chondrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgit Lohberger
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 5, 8036 Graz, Austria; (B.L.); (H.K.); (N.E.); (D.G.); (P.S.); (A.L.)
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Graz, Beethovenstr. 8, 8010 Graz, Austria; (R.B.); (N.K.)
| | - Heike Kaltenegger
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 5, 8036 Graz, Austria; (B.L.); (H.K.); (N.E.); (D.G.); (P.S.); (A.L.)
| | - Nicole Eck
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 5, 8036 Graz, Austria; (B.L.); (H.K.); (N.E.); (D.G.); (P.S.); (A.L.)
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Arthritis and Rehabilitation, Thorerstraße 26, 5760 Saalfelden, Austria
| | - Dietmar Glänzer
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 5, 8036 Graz, Austria; (B.L.); (H.K.); (N.E.); (D.G.); (P.S.); (A.L.)
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Arthritis and Rehabilitation, Thorerstraße 26, 5760 Saalfelden, Austria
| | - Patrick Sadoghi
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 5, 8036 Graz, Austria; (B.L.); (H.K.); (N.E.); (D.G.); (P.S.); (A.L.)
| | - Andreas Leithner
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 5, 8036 Graz, Austria; (B.L.); (H.K.); (N.E.); (D.G.); (P.S.); (A.L.)
| | - Rudolf Bauer
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Graz, Beethovenstr. 8, 8010 Graz, Austria; (R.B.); (N.K.)
| | - Nadine Kretschmer
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Graz, Beethovenstr. 8, 8010 Graz, Austria; (R.B.); (N.K.)
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10
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Zhu L, Li K, Liu M, Liu K, Ma S, Cai W. Anti-cancer Research on Arnebiae Radix-derived Naphthoquinone in Recent Five Years. Recent Pat Anticancer Drug Discov 2021; 17:218-230. [PMID: 34886780 DOI: 10.2174/1574892816666211209164745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, many naphthoquinone compounds with anticancer activity have been identified in Arnebiae Radix, and some of them have the potential to be developed into anticancer drugs. OBJECTIVE This article aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the anticancer effects of naphthoquinone compounds through a detailed review of literature and Chinese patents, and discuss their potential to be developed as anticancer drugs for clinical application. METHODS Research papers were collected through the databases of PubMed, Cnki and SciDirect using keyword searches "naphthoquinone compounds" and "anticancer". The keywords of "shikonin" and "shikonin derivatives" were also used in PubMed, Cnki and SciDirect databases to collect research articles. The Chinese patents were collected using the Cnki patent database. RESULTS Naphthoquinone compounds have been found to possess anti-cancer activity, and their modes of action are associated with inducing apoptosis, inhibiting cancer cell proliferation, promoting autophagy in cancer cells, anti-cancer angiogenesis and inhibition of cell adhesion, invasion and metastasis, inhibiting glycolysis and inhibiting DNA topoisomerase activity. CONCLUSION Most of the naphthoquinone compounds show effective anti-cancer activity in vitro. The structure modification of naphthoquinone aims to develop anti-cancer drugs with high efficacy and low toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lian Zhu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 41800. China
| | - Kailin Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 41800. China
| | - Mingjuan Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 41800. China
| | - Kexin Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 41800. China
| | - Shengjun Ma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 41800. China
| | - Wei Cai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 41800. China
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11
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Tsai MF, Chen SM, Ong AZ, Chung YH, Chen PN, Hsieh YH, Kang YT, Hsu LS. Shikonin Induced Program Cell Death through Generation of Reactive Oxygen Species in Renal Cancer Cells. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10111831. [PMID: 34829701 PMCID: PMC8615048 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10111831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Shikonin mitigated tumor cell proliferation by elevating reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Herein, we investigated the effects of shikonin on renal cancer cell (RCC) cell proliferation. 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay indicated that shikonin dose-dependently reduced the proliferation of Caki-1 and ACHN cells. Shikonin remarkably triggered necrosis and apoptosis in Caki-1 and ACHN cells in proportion to its concentration. Moreover, necrostatin-1 recovered cell viability in the presence of shikonin. Elevated ROS levels and mitochondrial dysfunction were also found in shikonin treatment groups. Pretreatment with N-acetyl cysteine remarkably mitigated shikonin-induced cell death and ROS generation. Western blot analysis revealed that shikonin reduced pro-PARP, pro-caspase-3, and Bcl-2 expression and increased cleavage PARP expression. Enhanced autophagy was also found in the shikonin-treated group as evidenced by acridine orange staining. Moreover, light chain 3B (LC3B)-II accumulation and enhanced p62 expression indicated that autophagy occurred in the shikonin-treated group. LC3B knockdown considerably recovered cell viability in the presence of shikonin. Shikonin treatment elevated p38 activity in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, our results revealed that shikonin triggered programmed cell death via the elevation of ROS level and p38 activity in different types of RCC cells. These findings suggested that shikonin may be a potential anti-RCC agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Feng Tsai
- Department of Nephrology, Antai Medical Care Cooperation Antai Tian-Sheng Memorial Hospital, Pingtung 92842, Taiwan;
| | - Shih-Ming Chen
- Bachelor Program in Health Care and Social Work for Indigenous Students, Providence University, Taichung 43301, Taiwan;
| | - Ann-Zhi Ong
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan; (A.-Z.O.); (Y.-H.C.); (P.-N.C.); (Y.-H.H.); (Y.-T.K.)
| | - Yi-Hsuan Chung
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan; (A.-Z.O.); (Y.-H.C.); (P.-N.C.); (Y.-H.H.); (Y.-T.K.)
| | - Pei-Ni Chen
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan; (A.-Z.O.); (Y.-H.C.); (P.-N.C.); (Y.-H.H.); (Y.-T.K.)
| | - Yi-Hsien Hsieh
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan; (A.-Z.O.); (Y.-H.C.); (P.-N.C.); (Y.-H.H.); (Y.-T.K.)
| | - Yu-Ting Kang
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan; (A.-Z.O.); (Y.-H.C.); (P.-N.C.); (Y.-H.H.); (Y.-T.K.)
| | - Li-Sung Hsu
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan; (A.-Z.O.); (Y.-H.C.); (P.-N.C.); (Y.-H.H.); (Y.-T.K.)
- Clinical Laboratory, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- Correspondence:
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12
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Chen Y, Li L, Zhang J, Cui H, Wang J, Wang C, Shi M, Fan H. Dexmedetomidine Alleviates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Hippocampal Neuronal Apoptosis via Inhibiting the p38 MAPK/c-Myc/CLIC4 Signaling Pathway in Rats. Mol Neurobiol 2021; 58:5533-5547. [PMID: 34363182 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-021-02512-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Dexmedetomidine (DEX) has multiple biological effects. Here, we investigated the neuroprotective role and molecular mechanism of DEX against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced hippocampal neuronal apoptosis. Sprague Dawley rats were intraperitoneally injected with LPS (10 mg/kg) and/or DEX (30 µg/kg). We found that DEX improved LPS-induced alterations of hippocampal microstructure (necrosis and neuronal loss in the CA1 and CA3 regions) and ultrastructure (mitochondrial damage). DEX also attenuated LPS-induced inflammation and hippocampal apoptosis by inhibiting the increase of interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, interleukin-18, and tumor necrosis factor-α levels and downregulating the expression of mitochondrial apoptosis pathway-related proteins. Moreover, DEX prevented the LPS-induced activation of the c-Myc/chloride intracellular channel 4 (CLIC4) pathway. DEX inhibited the p38 MAPK pathway, but not JNK and ERK. To further clarify whether DEX alleviated LPS-induced neuronal apoptosis through the p38 MAPK/c-Myc/CLIC4 pathway, we treated PC12 cells with p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203582 (10 µM). DEX had the same effect as SB203582 in reducing the protein and mRNA expression of c-Myc and CLIC4. Furthermore, DEX and SB203582 diminished LPS-induced apoptosis, indicated by decreased Bax and Tom20 fluorescent double-stained cells, reduced annexin V-FITC/PI apoptosis rate, and reduced protein expression levels of Bax, cytochrome C, cleaved caspase-9, and cleaved caspase-3. Taken together, the findings indicate that DEX attenuates LPS-induced hippocampal neuronal apoptosis by regulating the p38 MAPK/c-Myc/CLIC4 signaling pathway. These findings provide new insights into the mechanism of Alzheimer's disease and depression and may help aid in drug development for these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongping Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiuyan Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Hailin Cui
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiucheng Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuqiao Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingxian Shi
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Honggang Fan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China.
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China.
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13
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Aranda-Tavío H, Recio C, Martín-Acosta P, Guerra-Rodríguez M, Brito-Casillas Y, Blanco R, Junco V, León J, Montero JC, Gandullo-Sánchez L, McNaughton-Smith G, Zapata JM, Pandiella A, Amesty A, Estévez-Braun A, Fernández-Pérez L, Guerra B. JKST6, a novel multikinase modulator of the BCR-ABL1/STAT5 signaling pathway that potentiates direct BCR-ABL1 inhibition and overcomes imatinib resistance in chronic myelogenous leukemia. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 144:112330. [PMID: 34673425 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) is a hematological malignancy that highly depends on the BCR-ABL1/STAT5 signaling pathway for cell survival. First-line treatments for CML consist of tyrosine kinase inhibitors that efficiently target BCR-ABL1 activity. However, drug resistance and intolerance are still therapeutic limitations in Ph+ cells. Therefore, the development of new anti-CML drugs that exhibit alternative mechanisms to overcome these limitations is a desirable goal. In this work, the antitumoral activity of JKST6, a naphthoquinone-pyrone hybrid, was assessed in imatinib-sensitive and imatinib-resistant human CML cells. Live-cell imaging analysis revealed JKST6 potent antiproliferative activity in 2D and 3D CML cultures. JKST6 provoked cell increase in the subG1 phase along with a reduction in the G0/G1 phase and altered the expression of key proteins involved in the control of mitosis and DNA damage. Rapid increases in Annexin V staining and activation/cleavage of caspases 8, 9 and 3 were observed after JKST6 treatment in CML cells. Of interest, JKST6 inhibited BCR-ABL1/STAT5 signaling through oncokinase downregulation that was preceded by rapid polyubiquitination. In addition, JKST6 caused a transient increase in JNK and AKT phosphorylation, whereas the phosphorylation of P38-MAPK and Src was reduced. Combinatory treatment unveiled synergistic effects between imatinib and JKST6. Notably, JKST6 maintained its antitumor efficacy in BCR-ABL1-T315I-positive cells and CML cells that overexpress BCR-ABL and even restored imatinib efficacy after a short exposure time. These findings, together with the observed low toxicity of JKST6, reveal a novel multikinase modulator that might overcome the limitations of BCR-ABL1 inhibitors in CML therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haidée Aranda-Tavío
- Instituto Universitario de Investigaciones Biomédicas y Sanitarias (IUIBS), Farmacología Molecular y Traslacional (BIOPharm), Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Carlota Recio
- Instituto Universitario de Investigaciones Biomédicas y Sanitarias (IUIBS), Farmacología Molecular y Traslacional (BIOPharm), Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Pedro Martín-Acosta
- Instituto Universitario de Bio-Orgánica "Antonio González" (IUBO), Departamento de Química Orgánica, QUIBIONAT, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), La Laguna, Spain
| | - Miguel Guerra-Rodríguez
- Instituto Universitario de Investigaciones Biomédicas y Sanitarias (IUIBS), Farmacología Molecular y Traslacional (BIOPharm), Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Yeray Brito-Casillas
- Instituto Universitario de Investigaciones Biomédicas y Sanitarias (IUIBS), Farmacología Molecular y Traslacional (BIOPharm), Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Rosa Blanco
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria (IBBTEC), Universidad de Cantabria-CSIC, Santander, Spain
| | - Vanessa Junco
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria (IBBTEC), Universidad de Cantabria-CSIC, Santander, Spain
| | - Javier León
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria (IBBTEC), Universidad de Cantabria-CSIC, Santander, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos Montero
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC and CIBERONC. Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Lucía Gandullo-Sánchez
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC and CIBERONC. Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | | | - Juan Manuel Zapata
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas "Alberto Sols" - CSIC, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Atanasio Pandiella
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC and CIBERONC. Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Angel Amesty
- Instituto Universitario de Bio-Orgánica "Antonio González" (IUBO), Departamento de Química Orgánica, QUIBIONAT, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), La Laguna, Spain
| | - Ana Estévez-Braun
- Instituto Universitario de Bio-Orgánica "Antonio González" (IUBO), Departamento de Química Orgánica, QUIBIONAT, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), La Laguna, Spain
| | - Leandro Fernández-Pérez
- Instituto Universitario de Investigaciones Biomédicas y Sanitarias (IUIBS), Farmacología Molecular y Traslacional (BIOPharm), Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain.
| | - Borja Guerra
- Instituto Universitario de Investigaciones Biomédicas y Sanitarias (IUIBS), Farmacología Molecular y Traslacional (BIOPharm), Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain.
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14
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Todorovic Z, Milovanovic J, Arsenijevic D, Vukovic N, Vukic M, Arsenijevic A, Djurdjevic P, Milovanovic M, Arsenijevic N. Shikonin Derivatives from Onsoma visianii Decrease Expression of Phosphorylated STAT3 in Leukemia Cells and Exert Antitumor Activity. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13041147. [PMID: 33807148 PMCID: PMC8065735 DOI: 10.3390/nu13041147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Antitumor effects of shikonins on chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and B-cell prolymphocytic leukemia (B-PLL) are mostly unexplored. The antitumor activity of shikonins, isolated from Onosma visianii Clem (Boraginaceae), in BCL1, mouse CLL cells and JVM-13, human B-PLL cells was explored in this study. The cytotoxicity of shikonin derivatives was measured by an MTT test. Cell death, proliferation, cell cycle, and expression of molecules that control these processes were analyzed by flow cytometry. Expression of STAT3-regulated genes was analyzed by real-time q-RT-PCR (Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction). The antitumor effects of shikonin derivatives in vivo were analyzed, using flow cytometry, by detection of leukemia cells in the peripheral blood and spleens of mice intravenously injected with BCL1 cells. The two most potent derivatives, isobutyrylshikonin (IBS) and α-methylbutyrylshikonin (MBS), induced cell cycle disturbances and apoptosis, inhibited proliferation, and decreased expression of phospho-STAT3 and downstream-regulated molecules in BCL1 and JVM-13 cells. IBS and MBS decreased the percentage of leukemia cells in vivo. The link between the decrease in phosphorylated STAT3 by MBS and IBS and BCL1 cell death was confirmed by detection of enhanced cell death after addition of AG490, an inhibitor of Jak2 kinase. It seems that IBS and MBS, by decreasing STAT3 phosphorylation, trigger apoptosis, inhibit cell proliferation, and attenuate leukemia cell stemness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeljko Todorovic
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia; (Z.T.); (P.D.)
| | - Jelena Milovanovic
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia; (J.M.); (D.A.); (A.A.); (N.A.)
- Department of Histology and Embriology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Dragana Arsenijevic
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia; (J.M.); (D.A.); (A.A.); (N.A.)
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Nenad Vukovic
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Kragujevac, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia; (N.V.); (M.V.)
| | - Milena Vukic
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Kragujevac, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia; (N.V.); (M.V.)
| | - Aleksandar Arsenijevic
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia; (J.M.); (D.A.); (A.A.); (N.A.)
| | - Predrag Djurdjevic
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia; (Z.T.); (P.D.)
| | - Marija Milovanovic
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia; (J.M.); (D.A.); (A.A.); (N.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +381-34306800
| | - Nebojsa Arsenijevic
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia; (J.M.); (D.A.); (A.A.); (N.A.)
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15
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Lan XO, Wang HX, Qi RQ, Xu YY, Yu YJ, Yang Y, Guo H, Gao XH, Geng L. Shikonin inhibits CEBPD downregulation in IL‑17‑treated HaCaT cells and in an imiquimod‑induced psoriasis model. Mol Med Rep 2020; 22:2263-2272. [PMID: 32705251 PMCID: PMC7411367 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.11315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by well-defined scaly papules and plaques. Interleukin (IL)-17 is involved in its pathogenesis and promotes the proliferation of epidermal keratinocytes through signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) activation. Shikonin, a natural naphthoquinone isolated from Lithospermum erythrorhizon, possesses anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties and can suppress IL-17-induced vascular endothelial growth factor expression by inhibiting the JAK/STAT3 pathway. In the present study, MTS, iCELLigence and RT-qPCR were used to determine the optimal concentration and duration of IL-17 or shikonin acting on HaCaT cells. The changes in the expression levels of genes associated with the IL-6/STAT3 pathway in differentially treated cells were analyzed via RT2Profiler™ PCR Array. Small interfering RNA was used to silence the expression levels of the target gene CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein δ (CEBPD). Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were used to evaluate the effect of shikonin on imiquimod-induced psoriasis in mice and the expression levels of CEBPD. Shikonin reversed IL-17-mediated downregulation of the tumor suppressor CEBPD in HaCaT cells. Moreover, low levels of CEBPD in the imiquimod-induced mouse model of psoriasis were restored by shikonin treatment, which ameliorated excessive keratinocyte proliferation. Taken together, these findings suggest that CEBPD plays a key role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis and can be targeted by shikonin as a potential therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Ou Lan
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - He-Xiao Wang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Rui-Qun Qi
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Xu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Ya-Jie Yu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Hao Guo
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Xing-Hua Gao
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Long Geng
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
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16
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Wang F, Mayca Pozo F, Tian D, Geng X, Yao X, Zhang Y, Tang J. Shikonin Inhibits Cancer Through P21 Upregulation and Apoptosis Induction. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:861. [PMID: 32581812 PMCID: PMC7296065 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Shikonin is a natural naphthoquinone compound and has demonstrated potent anti-cancer activities; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms remained elusive. Here we report that Shikonin inhibited the growth of a wide range of human cancer cell lines, illustrating a broad anticancer effect. Mechanistically, we show that Shikonin arrested the cell cycle at the G2/M phase, inhibited the ERK-dependent cell growth signal, and induced cell death in both P53 wild type and mutant cancer cells, which collectively contributed to the growth inhibitory effect of Shikonin. A pan-apoptosis inhibitor largely suppressed Shikonin-induced cell death, suggesting an important role of apoptosis in this process. Intriguingly, Shikonin also activated autophagy and inhibition of autophagy by depleting critical autophagic genes further increased Shikonin-induced cell death, indicating a protective role of autophagy. In uncovering the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects of Shikonin, we found that Shikonin induced a robust upregulation of P21 independent of the P53 status, upregulated autophagy genes, as well as inhibited expression of genes required for cell growth. Using mouse tumor models, we confirmed the strong anticancer effect of Shikonin in vivo. Together, our data reveal a broad range of pharmacological functions of Shikonin, involving simultaneous growth inhibition, cell cycle arrest, autophagy activation and apoptosis induction through regulating expression of critical genes involved in these pathways. Our study may facilitate the development of Shikonin in cancer therapy as a single agent or in combination with other anticancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangfang Wang
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Natural Products, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drug Research, College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.,International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Franklin Mayca Pozo
- Department of Pharmacology, Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Danmei Tian
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Natural Products, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drug Research, College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.,International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinran Geng
- Department of Pharmacology, Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Xinsheng Yao
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Natural Products, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drug Research, College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.,International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Youwei Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Jinshan Tang
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Natural Products, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drug Research, College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.,International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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17
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Luo H, Vong CT, Chen H, Gao Y, Lyu P, Qiu L, Zhao M, Liu Q, Cheng Z, Zou J, Yao P, Gao C, Wei J, Ung COL, Wang S, Zhong Z, Wang Y. Naturally occurring anti-cancer compounds: shining from Chinese herbal medicine. Chin Med 2019; 14:48. [PMID: 31719837 PMCID: PMC6836491 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-019-0270-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 261] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous natural products originated from Chinese herbal medicine exhibit anti-cancer activities, including anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, anti-metastatic, anti-angiogenic effects, as well as regulate autophagy, reverse multidrug resistance, balance immunity, and enhance chemotherapy in vitro and in vivo. To provide new insights into the critical path ahead, we systemically reviewed the most recent advances (reported since 2011) on the key compounds with anti-cancer effects derived from Chinese herbal medicine (curcumin, epigallocatechin gallate, berberine, artemisinin, ginsenoside Rg3, ursolic acid, silibinin, emodin, triptolide, cucurbitacin B, tanshinone I, oridonin, shikonin, gambogic acid, artesunate, wogonin, β-elemene, and cepharanthine) in scientific databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, Scopus, and Clinical Trials). With a broader perspective, we focused on their recently discovered and/or investigated pharmacological effects, novel mechanism of action, relevant clinical studies, and their innovative applications in combined therapy and immunomodulation. In addition, the present review has extended to describe other promising compounds including dihydroartemisinin, ginsenoside Rh2, compound K, cucurbitacins D, E, I, tanshinone IIA and cryptotanshinone in view of their potentials in cancer therapy. Up to now, the evidence about the immunomodulatory effects and clinical trials of natural anti-cancer compounds from Chinese herbal medicine is very limited, and further research is needed to monitor their immunoregulatory effects and explore their mechanisms of action as modulators of immune checkpoints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Luo
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Chi Teng Vong
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Hanbin Chen
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Yan Gao
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Peng Lyu
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Ling Qiu
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Mingming Zhao
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Qiao Liu
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Zehua Cheng
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Jian Zou
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Peifen Yao
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Caifang Gao
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Jinchao Wei
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Carolina Oi Lam Ung
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Shengpeng Wang
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Zhangfeng Zhong
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Yitao Wang
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, China
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18
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Guo C, He J, Song X, Tan L, Wang M, Jiang P, Li Y, Cao Z, Peng C. Pharmacological properties and derivatives of shikonin-A review in recent years. Pharmacol Res 2019; 149:104463. [PMID: 31553936 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2019.104463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Shikonin is the major bioactive component extracted from the roots of Lithospermum erythrorhizon which is also known as "Zicao" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Recent studies have shown that shikonin demonstrates various bioactivities related to the treatment of cancer, inflammation, and wound healing. This review aimed to provide an updated summary of recent studies on shikonin. Firstly, many studies have demonstrated that shikonin exerts strong anticancer effects on various types of cancer by inhibiting cell proliferation and migration, inducing apoptosis, autophagy, and necroptosis. Shikonin also triggers Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) generation, suppressing exosome release, and activate anti-tumor immunity in multiple molecular mechanisms. Examples of these effects include modulating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and MAPKs signaling; inhibiting the activation of TrxR1, PKM2, RIP1/3, Src, and FAK; and regulating the expression of ERP57, MMPs, ATF2, C-MYC, miR-128, and GRP78 (Bip). Next, the anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties of shikonin were also reviewed. Furthermore, several studies focusing on shikonin derivatives were reviewed, and these showed that, with modification to the naphthazarin ring or side chain, some shikonin derivatives display stronger anticancer activity and lower toxicity than shikonin itself. Our findings suggest that shikonin and its derivatives could serve as potential novel drug for the treatment of cancer and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanjie Guo
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, National Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Systematic Research, Development and Utilization of Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu, China; School of Basic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Junlin He
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, National Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Systematic Research, Development and Utilization of Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaominting Song
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, National Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Systematic Research, Development and Utilization of Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu, China
| | - Lu Tan
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, National Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Systematic Research, Development and Utilization of Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu, China
| | - Miao Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, National Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Systematic Research, Development and Utilization of Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu, China
| | - Peidu Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuzhi Li
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, National Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Systematic Research, Development and Utilization of Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhixing Cao
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, National Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Systematic Research, Development and Utilization of Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu, China.
| | - Cheng Peng
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, National Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Systematic Research, Development and Utilization of Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu, China; School of Basic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China.
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19
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Wang H, Luo YH, Shen GN, Piao XJ, Xu WT, Zhang Y, Wang JR, Feng YC, Li JQ, Zhang Y, Zhang T, Wang SN, Xue H, Wang HX, Wang CY, Jin CH. Two novel 1,4‑naphthoquinone derivatives induce human gastric cancer cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest by regulating reactive oxygen species‑mediated MAPK/Akt/STAT3 signaling pathways. Mol Med Rep 2019; 20:2571-2582. [PMID: 31322207 PMCID: PMC6691246 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2019.10500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
1,4-Naphthoquinone derivatives have superior anticancer effects, but their use has been severely limited in clinical practice due to adverse side effects. To reduce the side effects and extend the anticancer effects of 1,4-naphthoquinone derivatives, 2-(butane-1-sulfinyl)-1,4-naphthoquinone (BQ) and 2-(octane-1-sulfinyl)-1,4-naphthoquinone (OQ) were synthesized, and their anticancer activities were investigated. The anti-proliferation effects, determined by MTT assays, showed that BQ and OQ significantly inhibited the viability of gastric cancer cells and had no significant cytotoxic effect on normal cell lines. The apoptotic effect was determined by flow cytometry, and the results showed that BQ and OQ induced cell apoptosis by regulating the mitochondrial pathway and cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase via inhibition of the Akt signaling pathway in AGS cells. Furthermore, BQ and OQ significantly increased the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and this effect was blocked by the ROS scavenger NAC in AGS cells. BQ and OQ induced apoptosis by upregulating the protein expression of p38 and JNK and downregulating the levels of ERK and STAT3. Furthermore, expression levels of these proteins were also blocked after NAC treatment. These results demonstrated that BQ and OQ induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase in AGS cells by stimulating ROS generation, which caused subsequent activation of MAPK, Akt and STAT3 signaling pathways. Thus, BQ and OQ may serve as potential therapeutic agents for the treatment of human gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang 163319, P.R. China
| | - Ying-Hua Luo
- Department of Grass Science, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang 163319, P.R. China
| | - Gui-Nan Shen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang 163319, P.R. China
| | - Xian-Ji Piao
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Daqing, Heilongjiang 163316, P.R. China
| | - Wan-Ting Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang 163319, P.R. China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang 163319, P.R. China
| | - Jia-Ru Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang 163319, P.R. China
| | - Yu-Chao Feng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang 163319, P.R. China
| | - Jin-Qian Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang 163319, P.R. China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang 163319, P.R. China
| | - Tong Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang 163319, P.R. China
| | - Shi-Nong Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang 163319, P.R. China
| | - Hui Xue
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang 163319, P.R. China
| | - Hong-Xing Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang 163319, P.R. China
| | - Chang-Yuan Wang
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, College of Food Science, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang 163319, P.R. China
| | - Cheng-Hao Jin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang 163319, P.R. China
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20
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Shikonin derivatives for cancer prevention and therapy. Cancer Lett 2019; 459:248-267. [PMID: 31132429 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2019.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Phytochemicals gained considerable interest during the past years as source to develop new treatment options for chemoprevention and cancer therapy. Motivated by the fact that a majority of established anticancer drugs are derived in one way or another from natural resources, we focused on shikonin, a naphthoquinone with high potentials to be further developed as preventive or therapeutic drug to fight cancer. Shikonin is the major chemical component of Lithospermum erythrorhizon (Purple Cromwell) roots. Traditionally, the root extract has been applied to cure dermatitis, burns, and wounds. Over the past three decades, the anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects of root extracts, isolated shikonin as well as semi-synthetic and synthetic derivatives and nanoformulations have been described. In vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to understand the effect of shikonin at cellular and molecular levels. Preliminary clinical trials indicate the potential of shikonin for translation into clinical oncology. Shikonin exerts additive and synergistic interactions in combination with established chemotherapeutics, immunotherapeutic approaches, radiotherapy and other treatment modalities, which further underscores the potential of this phytochemical to be integrated into standard treatment regimens.
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21
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Wang F, Yao X, Zhang Y, Tang J. Synthesis, biological function and evaluation of Shikonin in cancer therapy. Fitoterapia 2019; 134:329-339. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2019.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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22
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Gao S, Lin J, Wang T, Shen Y, Li Y, Yang W, Zhou K, Hu H. Qingxin kaiqiao fang ameliorates memory impairment and inhibits apoptosis in APP/PS1 double transgenic mice through the MAPK pathway. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2019; 13:459-475. [PMID: 30774310 PMCID: PMC6350643 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s188505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Background Qingxin kaiqiao fang (QKF) has been found to treat Alzheimer’s disease (AD) through apoptosis inhibition. The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway is closely related to apoptosis in the course of AD. This study aimed to investigate whether QKF-induced apoptosis depression is achieved through MAPK pathway. Materials and methods C57BL/6 J and APP/PS1 mice were used as control and model groups. APP/PS1 mice were treated with different dosages of QKF (4.75, 9.5, and 19 g⋅kg−1⋅d−1⋅ig, respectively) for 12 weeks as L-QKF, M-QKF, and H-QKF groups. The M-QKF-treated APP/ PS1 mice were administrated with 2 µg/kg of U46619 and saline, intra ventricular ventricle injection, as M-QKF+U46619 and M-QKF+saline groups and were injected with PD98059 0.3 mg/kg and the same volume of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), intravenous, as M-QKF+PD98059 and M-QKF+DMSO groups. After 12 weeks treatment, Morris water maze was performed for behavior study. Pathological degeneration was examined by H&E staining, Nissl staining, and transmission electron microscope observation of hippocampus; immunohistochemistry and Western blot (WB) were tested for amyloid β (Aβ) expression. Apoptosis was measured through TUNEL assay; Bax, Bcl-2, and caspase-3 expression through WB; and cleaved caspase-3 expression through ELISA. MAPK pathway was detected via WB for the expressions of ERK1/2, JNK, and p38 MAPK and their phosphorylation patterns. Results QKF improved the learning and memory capability, as well as inhibited neuronal apoptosis and then reduced the pathological degeneration of APP/PS1 mice. M-QKF reduced neuron apoptosis by inhibiting p38 MAPK and activating ERK1/2 but had no significant effect on JNK. Conclusion QKF, especially at the middle dose, alleviated the learning and memory impairment and played an antiapoptotic role in AD through MAPK pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyu Gao
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, China, .,The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325003, China,
| | - Jianwei Lin
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, China, .,The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325003, China,
| | - Tianqi Wang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, China, .,The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325003, China,
| | - Yan Shen
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, China, .,The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325003, China,
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, China, .,The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325003, China,
| | - Wenyu Yang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, China, .,The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325003, China,
| | - Kailiang Zhou
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325003, China, .,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics, Wenzhou 325027, China.,Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haiyan Hu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, China, .,The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325003, China,
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23
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Zhang S, Gao Q, Li W, Zhu L, Shang Q, Feng S, Jia J, Jia Q, Shen S, Su Z. Shikonin inhibits cancer cell cycling by targeting Cdc25s. BMC Cancer 2019; 19:20. [PMID: 30616572 PMCID: PMC6323793 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-018-5220-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2017] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Shikonin, a natural naphthoquinone, is abundant in Chinese herb medicine Zicao (purple gromwell) and has a wide range of biological activities, especially for cancer. Shikonin and its analogues have been reported to induce cell-cycle arrest, but target information is still unclear. We hypothesized that shikonin, with a structure similar to that of quinone-type compounds, which are inhibitors of cell division cycle 25 (Cdc25) phosphatases, will have similar effects on Cdc25s. To test this hypothesis, the effects of shikonin on Cdc25s and cell-cycle progression were determined in this paper. METHODS The in vitro effects of shikonin and its analogues on Cdc25s were detected by fluorometric assay kit. The binding mode between shikonin and Cdc25B was modelled by molecular docking. The dephosphorylating level of cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1), a natural substrate of Cdc25B, was tested by Western blotting. The effect of shikonin on cell cycle progression was investigated by flow cytometry analysis. We also tested the anti-proliferation activity of shikonin on cancer cell lines by MTT assay. Moreover, in vivo anti-proliferation activity was tested in a mouse xenograft tumour model. RESULTS Shikonin and its analogues inhibited recombinant human Cdc25 A, B, and C phosphatase with IC50 values ranging from 2.14 ± 0.21 to 13.45 ± 1.45 μM irreversibly. The molecular modelling results showed that shikonin bound to the inhibitor binding pocket of Cdc25B with a favourable binding mode through hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonds. In addition, an accumulation of the tyrosine 15-phosphorylated form of CDK1 was induced by shikonin in a concentration-dependent manner in vitro and in vivo. We also confirmed that shikonin showed an anti-proliferation effect on three cancer cell lines with IC50 values ranging from 6.15 ± 0.46 to 9.56 ± 1.03 μM. Furthermore, shikonin showed a promising anti-proliferation effect on a K562 mouse xenograph tumour model. CONCLUSION In this study, we provide evidence for how shikonin induces cell cycle arrest and functions as a Cdc25s inhibitor. It shows an anti-proliferation effect both in vitro and in vivo by mediating Cdc25s.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoude Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, 251# Ningda Road, Xining, 810016, Qinghai, China. .,Department of Pharmacy, Medical College of Qinghai University, 16# Kunlun Road, Xining, 810016, Qinghai, China.
| | - Qiang Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, 251# Ningda Road, Xining, 810016, Qinghai, China
| | - Wei Li
- Qinghai Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Science, 251# Ningda Road, Xining, 810016, China
| | - Luwei Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical College of Qinghai University, 16# Kunlun Road, Xining, 810016, Qinghai, China
| | - Qianhan Shang
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, 251# Ningda Road, Xining, 810016, Qinghai, China
| | - Shuo Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, 251# Ningda Road, Xining, 810016, Qinghai, China
| | - Junmei Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, 251# Ningda Road, Xining, 810016, Qinghai, China
| | - Qiangqiang Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, 251# Ningda Road, Xining, 810016, Qinghai, China
| | - Shuo Shen
- Qinghai Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Science, 251# Ningda Road, Xining, 810016, China
| | - Zhanhai Su
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, 251# Ningda Road, Xining, 810016, Qinghai, China. .,Department of Pharmacy, Medical College of Qinghai University, 16# Kunlun Road, Xining, 810016, Qinghai, China.
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