1
|
Sadek KM, Shib NA, Taher ES, Rashed F, Shukry M, Atia GA, Taymour N, El-Nablaway M, Ibrahim AM, Ramadan MM, Abdelkader A, Abdo M, Imbrea I, Pet E, Ali LS, Abdeen A. Harnessing the power of bee venom for therapeutic and regenerative medical applications: an updated review. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1412245. [PMID: 39092234 PMCID: PMC11291246 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1412245] [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: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Honeybees have been helpful insects since ancient centuries, and this benefit is not limited to being a honey producer only. After the bee stings a person, pain, and swelling occur in this place, due to the effects of bee venom (BV). This is not a poison in the total sense of the word because it has many benefits, and this is due to its composition being rich in proteins, peptides, enzymes, and other types of molecules in low concentrations that show promise in the treatment of numerous diseases and conditions. BV has also demonstrated positive effects against various cancers, antimicrobial activity, and wound healing versus the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Even though topical BV therapy is used to varying degrees among countries, localized swelling or itching are common side effects that may occur in some patients. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the complex chemical composition of BV, highlighting the diverse range of bioactive compounds and their therapeutic applications, which extend beyond the well-known anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, showcasing the versatility of BV in modern medicine. A specific search strategy was followed across various databases; Web of sciences, Scopus, Medline, and Google Scholar including in vitro and in vivo clinical studies.to outline an overview of BV composition, methods to use, preparation requirements, and Individual consumption contraindications. Furthermore, this review addresses safety concerns and emerging approaches, such as the use of nanoparticles, to mitigate adverse effects, demonstrating a balanced and holistic perspective. Importantly, the review also incorporates historical context and traditional uses, as well as a unique focus on veterinary applications, setting it apart from previous works and providing a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kadry M. Sadek
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour, Egypt
| | - Naira A. Shib
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour, Egypt
| | - Ehab S. Taher
- Department of Basic Medical and Dental Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Zarqa University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Fatema Rashed
- Department of Basic Medical and Dental Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Zarqa University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Mustafa Shukry
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt
| | - Gamal A. Atia
- Department of Oral Medicine, Periodontology, and Diagnosis, Faculty of Dentistry, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Noha Taymour
- Department of Substitutive Dental Sciences, College of Dentistry, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad El-Nablaway
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Ateya M. Ibrahim
- Department of Administration and Nursing Education, College of Nursing, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Family and Community Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Port Said University, Port Said, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud M. Ramadan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Afaf Abdelkader
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Abdo
- Department of Animal Histology and Anatomy, School of Veterinary Medicine, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Egypt
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty Veterinary Medicine, University of Sadat City, Sadat City, Egypt
| | - Ilinca Imbrea
- Department of Forestry, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Technologies, University of Life Sciences “King Mihai I” from Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Elena Pet
- Department of Management and Rural Development, Faculty of Management and Rural Tourism, University of Life Sciences “King Mihai I” from Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Lashin S. Ali
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Ahmed Abdeen
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Toukh, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wang K, Nguyen T, Gao Y, Guo R, Fan C, Liao H, Li J, Chai J, Xu X, Gong Y, Chen X. Androcin 18-1, a novel scorpion-venom peptide, shows a potent antitumor activity against human U87 cells via inducing mitochondrial dysfunction. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 170:104137. [PMID: 38759703 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2024.104137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Scorpion venom is a potent natural source for antitumor drug development due to the multiple action modes of anticancer components. Although the sequence of Androcin 18-1 has been identified from the transcriptome profile of the scorpion venom Androctonus bicolor, its bioactivity remains unclear. In this study, we described the antitumor mechanism whereby Androcin 18-1 inhibits the proliferation and induces apoptosis by inducing cell membrane disruption, ROS accumulation, and mitochondrial dysfunction in human U87 glioblastoma cells. Moreover, Androcin 18-1 could suppress cell migration via the mechanisms associated with cytoskeleton disorganization and MMPs/TIMPs expression regulation. The discovery of this work highlights the potential application of Androcin 18-1 in drug development for glioblastoma treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kai Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 510280, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tienthanh Nguyen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yihan Gao
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 510280, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ruiyin Guo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chaofan Fan
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 510280, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hang Liao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiali Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinwei Chai
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 510280, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xueqing Xu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 510280, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yuxin Gong
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 510280, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 510280, Guangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Huo H, Feng Y, Tang Q. Inhibition of proteinase-activated receptor 2 (PAR2) decreased the malignant progression of lung cancer cells and increased the sensitivity to chemotherapy. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2024; 93:397-410. [PMID: 38172304 PMCID: PMC11043148 DOI: 10.1007/s00280-023-04630-8] [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: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to study the effect of protease-activated receptor 2 (PAR2) on the proliferation, invasion, and clone formation of lung cancer cells. It also aimed to evaluate the inhibitory effect of melittin on PAR2 and the anti-lung cancer effect of melittin combined with gefitinib. METHODS The correlation between the co-expression of PAR2 and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers was analyzed. PAR2 in A549 and NCI-H1299 cells was knocked down using siRNA. MTT assay, Transwell assay, and colony formation assay were used to detect the effects of PAR2 on cell proliferation, invasion, and clone formation. The anti-cancer effect of PAR2 knockdown on gefitinib treatment was analyzed. The synergistic effect of melittin on gefitinib treatment by inhibiting PAR2 and the underlying molecular mechanism were further analyzed and tested. RESULTS The expression of PAR2 was upregulated in lung cancer, which was associated with the poor prognosis of lung cancer. PAR2 knockdown inhibited the stemness and EMT of lung cancer cells. It also inhibited the proliferation, invasion, and colony formation of A549 and NCI-H1299 cells. Moreover, PAR2 knockdown increased the chemotherapeutic sensitivity of gefitinib in lung cancer. Melittin inhibited PAR2 and the malignant progression of lung cancer cells. Melittin increased the chemotherapeutic sensitivity of gefitinib in lung cancer by inhibiting PAR2. CONCLUSION PAR2 may promote the proliferation, invasion, and colony formation of lung cancer cells by promoting EMT. Patients with a high expression of PAR2 have a poor prognosis. Inhibition of PAR2 increased the chemotherapeutic sensitivity of gefitinib. PAR2 may be a potential therapeutic target and diagnostic marker for lung cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongjie Huo
- Department of Respiration Medicine, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, 300121, China
| | - Yu Feng
- Department of Respiration Medicine, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, 300121, China
| | - Qiong Tang
- Department of Respiration Medicine, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, 300121, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Honari P, Shahbazzadeh D, Behdani M, Pooshang Bagheri K. Highly in vitro anti-cancer activity of melittin-loaded niosomes on non-small cell lung cancer cells. Toxicon 2024; 241:107673. [PMID: 38432612 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2024.107673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Development of promising medicines from natural sources, specially venom, is of highly necessitated to combat against life-threatening cancers. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has a significant percentage of mortalities. Melittin, from bee venom, is a potent anticancer peptide but its toxicity has limited its therapeutic applications. Accordingly, this study aims to synthesize niosomes with suitable stability and capacity for carrying melittin as a drug. Additionally, it seeks to evaluate the anti-cancer activity of melittin-loaded niosomes on non-small cell lung cancer. METHODS The niosome was prepared by thin film hydration method. Cytotoxicity and apoptosis were assessed on A549, Calu-3, and MRC5 cells. Real-time PCR was used to determine expression of apoptotic and pro-apoptotic Bax, Bcl2, and Casp3 genes. Immunocytochemistry (ICC) was also used to confirm expression of the abovementioned genes. Furthermore, wound healing assay was performed to compare inhibition effects of melittin-loaded niosomes with free melittin on migration of cancer cells. RESULTS IC50 values of melittin-loaded niosomes for A549, Calu-3, and MRC5 cells were respectively 0.69 μg/mL, 1.02 μg/mL, and 2.56 μg/mL after 72 h. Expression level of Bax and Casp3 increased '10 and 8' and '9 and 10.5' fold in A549 and Calu-3, whereas Bcl2 gene expression decreased 0.19 and 0.18 fold in the mentioned cell lines. The cell migration inhibited by melittin-loaded niosomes. CONCLUSIONS Melittin-loaded niosomes had more anti-cancer effects and less toxicity on normal cells than free melittin. Furthermore, it induced apoptosis and inhibited cancer cells migration. Our results showed that melittin-loaded niosomes may be a drug lead and it has the potential to be future developed for lung cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pooyan Honari
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Delavar Shahbazzadeh
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab, Medical Biotechnology Dept., Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, P.O BOX. 1316943551, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Behdani
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab, Medical Biotechnology Dept., Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, P.O BOX. 1316943551, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kamran Pooshang Bagheri
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab, Medical Biotechnology Dept., Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, P.O BOX. 1316943551, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sinha B, Choudhury Y. Revisiting edible insects as sources of therapeutics and drug delivery systems for cancer therapy. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1345281. [PMID: 38370484 PMCID: PMC10869617 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1345281] [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: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer has been medicine's most formidable foe for long, and the rising incidence of the disease globally has made effective cancer therapy a significant challenge. Drug discovery is targeted at identifying efficacious compounds with minimal side effects and developments in nanotechnology and immunotherapy have shown promise in the fight against this complicated illness. Since ancient times, insects and insect-derived products have played a significant role in traditional medicine across several communities worldwide. The aim of this study was to inspect the traditional use of edible insects in various cultures and to explore their modern use in cancer therapy. Edible insects are sources of nutrients and a variety of beneficial substances with anticancer and immunomodulatory potential. Recently, insect derived bioactive-components have also been used as nanoparticles either in combination with chemotherapeutics or as a nano-cargo for the enhanced delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs due to their high biocompatibility, low bio-toxicity, and their antioxidant and anticancer effects. The crude extracts of different edible insects and their active components such as sericin, cecropin, solenopsin, melittin, antimicrobial peptides and fibroin produce anti-cancer and immunomodulatory effects by various mechanisms which have been discussed in this review.
Collapse
|
6
|
Bindlish A, Sawal A. Bee Sting Venom as a Viable Therapy for Breast Cancer: A Review Article. Cureus 2024; 16:e54855. [PMID: 38533165 PMCID: PMC10964279 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.54855] [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: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a kind of aggressive cancer that significantly affects women worldwide, thus making research on alternative and new therapies necessary. The potential impact of bee venom on breast cancer is the main subject of this analysis of this research article. Bee venom has drawn the attention of the world with the help of its constituent ingredients, namely the bioactive compounds, enzymes, and complex blend of proteins. They have a particularly varied chemical makeup and proven anti-cancer capabilities. This is a detailed review demonstrating the components of bee venom and their individual functions in fighting cancer, as well as the results of previously conducted in-vitro and in-vivo research. As described later, bee venom has given positive results in triggering apoptosis, preventing cell migration, inhibiting metastasis and invasion, and suppressing the existing breast cancer cells. It is found to have worked better along with the already existing chemotherapy treatments. These results were also proved with the help of various animal studies that showed reduced tumor development, reduced metastasis, and improved therapeutic effectiveness. Furthermore, certain studies and case reports from all over the world have exhibited consistent results in females affected by breast cancer. This study found that people receiving chemotherapy experienced improved health outcomes and reduced discomfort, with fewer negative side effects. It is important to conduct extensive research on the safety and effectiveness of this treatment because it is yet to be approved. The ideal dosage and administration methods must be explored in clinical trials. Moreover, it is imperative to evaluate the results of any combined treatments with current medications. There should be constant monitoring to prevent any potential side effects. Other important things like allergic reactions and hidden concerns should also be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aabhas Bindlish
- Anatomy, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Anupama Sawal
- Anatomy, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Qu B, Yuan J, Liu X, Zhang S, Ma X, Lu L. Anticancer activities of natural antimicrobial peptides from animals. Front Microbiol 2024; 14:1321386. [PMID: 38298540 PMCID: PMC10827920 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1321386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the most common cause of human death worldwide, posing a serious threat to human health and having a negative impact on the economy. In the past few decades, significant progress has been made in anticancer therapies, but traditional anticancer therapies, including radiation therapy, surgery, chemotherapy, molecular targeted therapy, immunotherapy and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), have serious side effects, low specificity, and the emergence of drug resistance. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop new treatment methods to improve efficacy and reduce side effects. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) exist in the innate immune system of various organisms. As the most promising alternatives to traditional drugs for treating cancers, some AMPs also have been proven to possess anticancer activities, which are defined as anticancer peptides (ACPs). These peptides have the advantages of being able to specifically target cancer cells and have less toxicity to normal tissues. More and more studies have found that marine and terrestrial animals contain a large amount of ACPs. In this article, we introduced the animal derived AMPs with anti-cancer activity, and summarized the types of tumor cells inhibited by ACPs, the mechanisms by which they exert anti-tumor effects and clinical applications of ACPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Baozhen Qu
- Qingdao Cancer Prevention and Treatment Research Institute, Qingdao Central Hospital, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (Qingdao Central Medical Group), Qingdao, China
| | - Jiangshui Yuan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qingdao Hospital, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (Qingdao Municipal Hospital), Qingdao, China
| | - Xueli Liu
- Qingdao Cancer Prevention and Treatment Research Institute, Qingdao Central Hospital, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (Qingdao Central Medical Group), Qingdao, China
- Medical Ethics Committee Office, Qingdao Central Hospital, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (Qingdao Central Medical Group), Qingdao, China
| | - Shicui Zhang
- College of Life and Geographic Sciences, Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Ecology of Pamirs Plateau in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Kashi University, Kashi, China
- Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Xuezhen Ma
- Department of Oncology, Qingdao Central Hospital, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (Qingdao Central Medical Group), Qingdao, China
| | - Linlin Lu
- Qingdao Cancer Prevention and Treatment Research Institute, Qingdao Central Hospital, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (Qingdao Central Medical Group), Qingdao, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sengul F, Vatansev H, Ozturk B. Investigation the effects of bee venom and H-dental-derived mesenchymal stem cells on non-small cell lung cancer cells (A549). Mol Biol Rep 2023; 51:2. [PMID: 38057592 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-09002-2] [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: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung cancer, one of the most common oncological diseases worldwide, continues to be the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. The development of new approaches for lung cancer, which still has a low survival rate despite medical advances, is of great importance. METHODS AND RESULTS In this study, bee venom (BV), conditioned medium of MSCs isolated from dental follicles (MSC-CM) and cisplatin were applied at different doses and their effects on A549 cell line were evaluated. Dental follicles were used as a source of MSCs source and differentiation kits, and characterization studies (flow cytometry) were performed. Cell viability was measured by the MTT method and apoptosis was measured by an Annexin V-FITC/PI kit on flow cytometer. IC50 dose values were determined according to the 24th hour and were determined as 15.8 µg/mL for BV, 10.78% for MSC-CM and 5.77 µg/mL for cisplatin. IC50 values found for BV and MSC-CM were also given in combination and the effects were observed. It was found that the applied substances caused BV to decrease in cell viability and induced apoptosis in cells. In addition to the induction of apoptosis in BV, MSC-CM, and combined use, all three applications led to an increase in Bax protein expression and a decrease in Bcl-2 protein expression. The molecular mechanism of anticancer activity through inhibition of Bax and Bcl-2 proteins and the NF-κB signaling pathway may be suggested. CONCLUSION Isolated MSCs in our study showed anticancer activity and BV and MSC-CM showed synergistic antiproliferative and apoptotic effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Sengul
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Adiyaman, Central Classroom C Block Floor:3, 02040, Adiyaman, Turkey.
| | - Husamettin Vatansev
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Selçuk, Alaeddin Keykubat Campus, 42131, Konya, Turkey
| | - Bahadir Ozturk
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Selçuk, Alaeddin Keykubat Campus, 42131, Konya, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Haque S, Hussain A, Joshi H, Sharma U, Sharma B, Aggarwal D, Rani I, Ramniwas S, Gupta M, Tuli HS. Melittin: a possible regulator of cancer proliferation in preclinical cell culture and animal models. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:17709-17726. [PMID: 37919474 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05458-8] [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: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melittin is a water-soluble cationic peptide derived from bee venom that has been thoroughly studied for the cure of different cancers. However, the unwanted interactions of melittin produce hemolytic and cytotoxic effects that hinder their therapeutic applications. To overcome the shortcomings, numerous research groups have adopted different approaches, including conjugation with tumor-targeting proteins, gene therapy, and encapsulation in nanoparticles, to reduce the non-specific cytotoxic effects and potentiate their anti-cancerous activity. PURPOSE This article aims to provide mechanistic insights into the chemopreventive activity of melittin and its nanoversion in combination with standard anti-cancer drugs for the treatment of cancer. METHODS We looked over the pertinent research on melittin's chemopreventive properties in online databases such as PubMed and Scopus. CONCLUSION In the present article, the anti-cancerous effects of melittin on different cancers have been discussed very nicely, as have their possible mechanisms of action to act against different tumors. Besides, it interacts with different signal molecules that regulate the diverse pathways of cancerous cells, such as cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, metastasis, angiogenesis, and inflammation. We also discussed the recent progress in the synergistic combination of melittin with standard anti-cancer drugs and a nano-formulated version of melittin for targeted delivery to improve its anticancer potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shafiul Haque
- Research and Scientific Studies Unit, College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, Jazan University, 45142, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
- Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Beirut, 11022801, Lebanon
- Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, 13306, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Arif Hussain
- School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, P.O. Box 345050, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hemant Joshi
- School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India.
| | - Ujjawal Sharma
- Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, 151401, India
| | - Bunty Sharma
- Department of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Maharishi Markandeshwar Engineering College, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala, 133207, India
| | - Diwakar Aggarwal
- Department of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Maharishi Markandeshwar Engineering College, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala, 133207, India
| | - Isha Rani
- Department of Biochemistry, Maharishi Markendashwar College of Medical Sciences and Research (MMCMSR), Sadopur, Ambala, 134007, India
| | - Seema Ramniwas
- University Centre for Research and Development, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali, 140413, India
| | - Madhu Gupta
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, Pushp Vihar, New Delhi, 110017, India
| | - Hardeep Singh Tuli
- Department of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Maharishi Markandeshwar Engineering College, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala, 133207, India.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Sun D, Li S, Huang H, Xu L. Neurotoxicity of melittin: Role of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation system in synaptic plasticity dysfunction. Toxicology 2023; 497-498:153628. [PMID: 37678661 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2023.153628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Melittin (Mel), a main active peptide component of bee venom, has been proven to possess strong antitumor activity. Previous studies have shown that Mel caused severe cell membrane lysis and acted on the central nervous system (CNS). Here, this study was designed to investigate the effects of Mel on CNS and explore the potential mechanism. We confirmed the neurotoxic effect of melittin by in vivo and in vitro experiments. After subcutaneous administration of Mel (4 mg/kg, 8 mg/kg) for 14 days, the mice exhibited obvious depression-like behavior in a dose dependent manner. Besides, RNA-sequencing analysis revealed that oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) signaling pathway was mostly enriched in hippocampus. Consistently, we found that Mel distinctly inhibited the activity of OXPHOS complex I and induced oxidative stress injury. Moreover, Mel significantly induced synaptic plasticity dysfunction in hippocampus via BDNF/TrkB/CREB signaling pathway. Taken together, the neurotoxic effect of Mel was involved in impairing OXPHOS system and hippocampal synaptic plasticity. These novel findings provide new insights into fully understanding the health risks of Mel and are conducive to the development of Mel related drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dan Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Inflammation and Molecular Drug Targets, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Shanshan Li
- School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui 233000, China
| | - Haiqin Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Inflammation and Molecular Drug Targets, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Lixing Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Inflammation and Molecular Drug Targets, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Małek A, Strzemski M, Kurzepa J, Kurzepa J. Can Bee Venom Be Used as Anticancer Agent in Modern Medicine? Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3714. [PMID: 37509375 PMCID: PMC10378503 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15143714] [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: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Honey bee venom in its composition contains many biologically active peptides and enzymes that are effective in the fight against diseases of various etiologies. The history of the use of bee venom for medicinal purposes dates back thousands of years. There are many reports in the literature on the pharmacological properties of bee venom and/or its main components, e.g., anti-arthritic, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial or neuroprotective properties. In addition, both crude venom and melittin exhibit cytotoxic activity against a wide range of tumor cells, with significant anti-metastatic activity in pre-clinical studies. Due to the constantly increasing incidence of cancer, the development of new therapeutic strategies in oncology is a particular challenge for modern medicine. A review paper discusses the various properties of bee venom with an emphasis on its anticancer properties. For this purpose, the PubMed database was searched, and publications related to "bee", "venom", "cancer" from the last 10 years were selected.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agata Małek
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Maciej Strzemski
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Joanna Kurzepa
- 1st Department of Radiology, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Jacek Kurzepa
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Pandey P, Khan F, Khan MA, Kumar R, Upadhyay TK. An Updated Review Summarizing the Anticancer Efficacy of Melittin from Bee Venom in Several Models of Human Cancers. Nutrients 2023; 15:3111. [PMID: 37513529 PMCID: PMC10385528 DOI: 10.3390/nu15143111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Apitherapy (using bee products) has gained broad recognition in cancer therapeutics globally. Honeybee venom has a broad range of biological potential, and its utilization is rapidly emerging in apitherapy. Bee products have significant potential to strengthen the immune system and improve human health. Thus, this review is targeted toward recapitulating the chemo-preventive potential of melittin (MEL), which constitutes a substantial portion of honeybee venom. Honeybee venom (apitoxin) is produced in the venom gland of the honeybee abdomen, and adult bees utilize it as a primary colony defense mechanism. Apitoxin comprises numerous biologically active compounds, including peptides, enzymes, amines, amino acids, phospholipids, minerals, carbohydrates, and volatile components. We are mainly focused on exploring the potential of melittin (a peptide component) of bee venom that has shown promising potential in the treatment of several human cancers, including breast, stomach, lung, prostate, ovary, kidney, colon, gastric, esophageal, cervical cancers, melanoma, osteosarcoma, and hepatocellular carcinoma. This review has summarized all potential studies related to the anticancerous efficacy of melittin (apitoxin), its formulations, conjugates, and nano-formulations against several human carcinomas, which would further pave the way for future researchers in developing potent drugs for cancer management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pratibha Pandey
- Department of Biotechnology, Noida Institute of Engineering & Technology, Greater Noida 201306, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Fahad Khan
- Department of Biotechnology, Noida Institute of Engineering & Technology, Greater Noida 201306, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Minhaj Ahmad Khan
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India
| | - Rajnish Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Noida Institute of Engineering and Technology (Pharmacy Institute), Greater Noida 201306, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Tarun Kumar Upadhyay
- Department of Biotechnology, Parul Institute of Applied Sciences and Centre of Research for Development, Parul University, Vadodara 391760, Gujarat, India
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Yang JC, Lee J, Lim SJ, Kwak G, Park J. Molecularly Imprinted Chalcone-Branched Polyimide-Based Chemosensors with Stripe Nanopatterns for the Detection of Melittin. ACS Sens 2023; 8:2298-2308. [PMID: 37261931 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.3c00341] [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] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
In this study, a chalcone-branched polyimide (CB-PI) was synthesized by the Steglich esterification reaction for selective recognition of the toxic peptide melittin (MEL). MEL was immobilized on a nanopatterned poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) mold using a conventional surface modification technique to increase binding sites. A stripe-nanopatterned thin CB-PI film was formed on a quartz crystal (QC) substrate by simultaneously performing microcontact printing and ultraviolet (UV) light dimerization using a MEL-immobilized mold. The surface morphology changes and dimensions of the molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) films with stripe nanopatterns (S-MIP) were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The sensing signals (Δf and Qe) of the S-MIP sensor were investigated upon adsorption in a 100-μL dilute plasma solution containing 30 μg/mL MEL, and its reproducibility, reuse, stability, and durability were investigated. The S-MIP sensor showed high sensitivity (5.49 mL/mg) and coefficient of determination (R2 = 0.999), and the detection limit (LOD) and the quantification limit (LOQ) were determined as 0.3 and 1.1 μg/mL, respectively. In addition, the selectivity coefficients (k*) calculated from the selectivity tests were 2.7-5.7, 2.1-4.3, and 2.8-4.6 for bovine serum albumin (BSA), immunoglobulin G (IgG), and apamin (APA), respectively. Our results indicate that the nanopatterned MIP sensors based on CB-PI demonstrate great potential as a sensing tool for the quantitative analysis of biomolecules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin Chul Yang
- Department of Polymer Science & Engineering, Kyungpook National University, 80 Daehak-ro, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Jineun Lee
- Department of Polymer Science & Engineering, Kyungpook National University, 80 Daehak-ro, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok Jin Lim
- Department of Polymer Science & Engineering, Kyungpook National University, 80 Daehak-ro, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Giseop Kwak
- Department of Polymer Science & Engineering, Kyungpook National University, 80 Daehak-ro, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinyoung Park
- Department of Polymer Science & Engineering, Kyungpook National University, 80 Daehak-ro, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Therapeutic Use of Bee Venom and Potential Applications in Veterinary Medicine. Vet Sci 2023; 10:vetsci10020119. [PMID: 36851423 PMCID: PMC9965945 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10020119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Apitherapy is a branch of alternative medicine that consists of the treatment of diseases through products collected, processed, and secreted by bees, specifically pollen, propolis, honey, royal jelly, and bee venom. In traditional medicine, the virtues of honey and propolis have been well-known for centuries. The same, however, cannot be said for venom. The use of bee venom is particularly relevant for many therapeutic aspects. In recent decades, scientific studies have confirmed and enabled us to understand its properties. Bee venom has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, central nervous system inhibiting, radioprotective, antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, among others. Numerous studies have often been summarised in reviews of the scientific literature that have focused on the results obtained with mouse models and their subsequent transposition to the human patient. In contrast, few reviews of scientific work on the use of bee venom in veterinary medicine exist. This review aims to take stock of the research achievements in this particular discipline, with a view to a recapitulation and stabilisation in the different research fields.
Collapse
|
15
|
Lv C, Chen J, Huang F, Fang F, Li B. Melittin inhibits the proliferation migration and invasion of HCC cells by regulating ADAMTS9-AS2 demethylation. Toxicon 2023; 222:106996. [PMID: 36535531 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2022.106996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melittin (MEL) has been reported to exhibit anti-cancer effects in vitro against several types of cancer. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) ADAMTS9-AS2 can be used as a tumor suppressor. However, there is insufficient data on the potential link between MEL and ADAMTS9-AS2 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS RT-qPCR, CCK-8, colony formation, scratch wound healing and transwell assays were used to detect the function of MEL or ADAMTS9-AS2 on HCC cells. Furthermore, Western blot analysis was applied to determine that whether an association existed in MEL or ADAMTS9-AS2 with the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signal pathway. In addition, RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis validated that whether MEL has a demethylation effect. RESULTS All the experimental data showed that MEL or ADAMTS9-AS2 inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of MHCC97-H and HepG2 cells, which may relate to PI3K/AKT/mTOR signal pathway. Moreover, the result showed that MEL treatment inhibited the expression of DNA methyltransferase protein-1 (DNMT1), which acted as the role of demethylation, and then up-regulated the expression of ADAMTS9-AS2, affecting the development of HCC. CONCLUSIONS ADAMTS9-AS2 played a role in MEL-induced HCC inhibition. This study provided an interesting theoretical basis and further evidence for the potential application of MEL in the treatment of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Can Lv
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, China; Faculty of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Naval Medical University, China
| | - Jiaojiao Chen
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, China; Faculty of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Naval Medical University, China
| | - Feng Huang
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, China; Faculty of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Naval Medical University, China
| | - Fanfu Fang
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, China; Faculty of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Naval Medical University, China.
| | - Bai Li
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, China; Faculty of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Naval Medical University, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Li X, Zhu S, Li Z, Meng Y, Huang S, Yu Q, Li B. Melittin induces ferroptosis and ER stress-CHOP-mediated apoptosis in A549 cells. Free Radic Res 2022; 56:398-410. [PMID: 36194238 DOI: 10.1080/10715762.2022.2131551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Melittin is a natural polypeptide present in bee venom, with significant anti-tumor activity. Melittin has been reported to induce cell death in lung carcinoma cell line A549 cells, suggesting an excellent potential for treating lung cancer. However, the core mechanism underlying melittin-induced cell death in A549 cells remains unclear. This work reports that melittin induces reactive oxygen species (ROS) burst, upregulates intracellular Fe2+ levels, disrupts the glutathione-glutathione peroxidase 4 antioxidant system, and increases lipid peroxide accumulation, eventually inducing cell death, indicating that ferroptosis may be involved in the antitumor effects of melittin in A549 cells. Furthermore, A549 cells treated with the ferroptosis inhibitors ferrostatin-1 and deferoxamine demonstrated that these inhibitors could reverse the cell death induced by melittin, further confirming that melittin induces A549 cell death via ferroptosis. Furthermore, the results also illustrated that melittin activated the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-CHOP (C/EBP homologous protein) apoptotic signal, closely associated with high-level intracellular ROS. The ER stress inhibitor, 4-Phenyl butyric acid, was used to confirm that ER stress-CHOP apoptotic signaling is another molecular mechanism of melittin-induced A549 cell death. Thus, our results demonstrate that ferroptosis and ER stress-CHOP signaling are key molecular mechanisms of melittin-induced cell death in lung cancer.Key policy highlightsMelittin upregulates intracellular Fe2+ levels, leading to the accumulation of lipid peroxides in A549 cells.Melittin disrupts the glutathione-glutathione peroxidase 4 antioxidant system in A549 cells.Melittin induces activation of endoplasmic reticulum stress-C/EBP homologous protein apoptosis signal.Ferroptosis and ER stress are the core molecular mechanisms underlying melittin-induced apoptosis in A549 cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou University Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University 730030, Lanzhou, China
| | - Sen Zhu
- School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, 730030, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou University Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University 730030, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yuqi Meng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou University Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University 730030, Lanzhou, China
| | - Sujie Huang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, 730030, Lanzhou, China
| | - Qiyao Yu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou University Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University 730030, Lanzhou, China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou University Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University 730030, Lanzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Scorpion Peptide Smp24 Exhibits a Potent Antitumor Effect on Human Lung Cancer Cells by Damaging the Membrane and Cytoskeleton In Vivo and In Vitro. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14070438. [PMID: 35878176 PMCID: PMC9318729 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14070438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Smp24, a cationic antimicrobial peptide identified from the venom gland of the Egyptian scorpion Scorpio maurus palmatus, shows variable cytotoxicity on various tumor (KG1a, CCRF-CEM and HepG2) and non-tumor (CD34+, HRECs, HACAT) cell lines. However, the effects of Smp24 and its mode of action on lung cancer cell lines remain unknown. Herein, the effect of Smp24 on the viability, membrane disruption, cytoskeleton, migration and invasion, and MMP-2/-9 and TIMP-1/-2 expression of human lung cancer cells have been evaluated. In addition, its in vivo antitumor role and acute toxicity were also assessed. In our study, Smp24 was found to suppress the growth of A549, H3122, PC-9, and H460 with IC50 values from about 4.06 to 7.07 µM and show low toxicity to normal cells (MRC-5) with 14.68 µM of IC50. Furthermore, Smp24 could induce necrosis of A549 cells via destroying the integrity of the cell membrane and mitochondrial and nuclear membranes. Additionally, Smp24 suppressed cell motility by damaging the cytoskeleton and altering MMP-2/-9 and TIMP-1/-2 expression. Finally, Smp24 showed effective anticancer protection in a A549 xenograft mice model and low acute toxicity. Overall, these findings indicate that Smp24 significantly exerts an antitumor effect due to its induction of membrane defects and cytoskeleton disruption. Accordingly, our findings will open an avenue for developing scorpion venom peptides into chemotherapeutic agents targeting lung cancer cells.
Collapse
|
18
|
Ion transporters: emerging agents for anticancer therapy. Sci China Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11426-022-1258-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
19
|
Membrane Cholesterol Content and Lipid Organization Influence Melittin and Pneumolysin Pore-Forming Activity. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14050346. [PMID: 35622592 PMCID: PMC9147762 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14050346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Melittin, the main toxic component in the venom of the European honeybee, interacts with natural and artificial membranes due to its amphiphilic properties. Rather than interacting with a specific receptor, melittin interacts with the lipid components, disrupting the lipid bilayer and inducing ion leakage and osmotic shock. This mechanism of action is shared with pneumolysin and other members of the cholesterol-dependent cytolysin family. In this manuscript, we investigated the inverse correlation for cholesterol dependency of these two toxins. While pneumolysin-induced damage is reduced by pretreatment with the cholesterol-depleting agent methyl-β-cyclodextrin, the toxicity of melittin, after cholesterol depletion, increased. A similar response was also observed after a short incubation with lipophilic simvastatin, which alters membrane lipid organization and structure, clustering lipid rafts. Therefore, changes in toxin sensitivity can be achieved in cells by depleting cholesterol or changing the lipid bilayer organization.
Collapse
|
20
|
Qi J, Liu Y, Xu H, Xue T, Su Y, Lin Z. Anti-cancer effect of melittin-Au25(MHA)18 complexes on human cervical cancer HeLa cells. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2021.103078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
21
|
Chang SN, Kim SH, Kim HJ, Jeong YJ, Lee KC. In Vitro and In Vivo Investigation of the Radiation-Sensitizing Effects of Melittin in Breast Cancer Cells. Int J Pept Res Ther 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-021-10313-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
|
22
|
Huang JY, Peng SF, Chueh FS, Chen PY, Huang YP, Huang WW, Chung JG. Melittin suppresses epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metastasis in human gastric cancer AGS cells via regulating Wnt/BMP associated pathway. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 2021; 85:2250-2262. [PMID: 34482401 DOI: 10.1093/bbb/zbab153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Gastric cancer has a poor prognosis; once cancer has metastasized, it can easily lead to patient death. Melittin is one of the major components extracted from the bee venom. It has been shown that melittin emerges antitumor activities against many human cancer cell lines. Our results indicated that melittin at 0.2-0.5 µm significantly reduced total cell viability in human gastric cancer AGS cells. At low concentrations (0.05-0.15 µm), melittin displayed antimetastasis effects and inhibited cell adhesion and colony formation. Besides, it inhibited cell motility and suppressed cell migration and invasion. Melittin inhibited the activities of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and the integrity of cell membrane in AGS cells. Furthermore, Western blotting results showed that melittin decreased the protein expressions of Wnt/BMP and MMP-2 signaling pathways. Based on these observations, melittin inhibited cell migration and invasion of AGS cells through multiple signaling pathways. It may be used to treat metastasized gastric cancers in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jye-Yu Huang
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Fen Peng
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Fu-Shin Chueh
- Department of Food Nutrition and Health Biotechnology, Asia University, Wufeng, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Po-Yuan Chen
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ping Huang
- Department of Physiology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Wen Huang
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jing-Gung Chung
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Guha S, Ferrie RP, Ghimire J, Ventura CR, Wu E, Sun L, Kim SY, Wiedman GR, Hristova K, Wimley WC. Applications and evolution of melittin, the quintessential membrane active peptide. Biochem Pharmacol 2021; 193:114769. [PMID: 34543656 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2021.114769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Melittin, the main venom component of the European Honeybee, is a cationic linear peptide-amide of 26 amino acid residues with the sequence: GIGAVLKVLTTGLPALISWIKRKRQQ-NH2. Melittin binds to lipid bilayer membranes, folds into amphipathic α-helical secondary structure and disrupts the permeability barrier. Since melittin was first described, a remarkable array of activities and potential applications in biology and medicine have been described. Melittin is also a favorite model system for biophysicists to study the structure, folding and function of peptides and proteins in membranes. Melittin has also been used as a template for the evolution of new activities in membranes. Here we overview the rich history of scientific research into the many activities of melittin and outline exciting future applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shantanu Guha
- University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ryan P Ferrie
- Tulane University School of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Jenisha Ghimire
- Tulane University School of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Cristina R Ventura
- Seton Hall University, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, South Orange, NJ, USA
| | - Eric Wu
- Tulane University School of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Leisheng Sun
- Tulane University School of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Sarah Y Kim
- Duke University, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Gregory R Wiedman
- Seton Hall University, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, South Orange, NJ, USA
| | - Kalina Hristova
- Johns Hopkins University, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Wimley C Wimley
- University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Houston, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Dabbagh Moghaddam F, Akbarzadeh I, Marzbankia E, Farid M, khaledi L, Reihani AH, Javidfar M, Mortazavi P. Delivery of melittin-loaded niosomes for breast cancer treatment: an in vitro and in vivo evaluation of anti-cancer effect. Cancer Nanotechnol 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s12645-021-00085-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Melittin, a peptide component of honey bee venom, is an appealing candidate for cancer therapy. In the current study, melittin, melittin-loaded niosome, and empty niosome had been optimized and the anticancer effect assessed in vitro on 4T1 and SKBR3 breast cell lines and in vivo on BALB/C inbred mice. "Thin-layer hydration method" was used for preparing the niosomes; different niosomal formulations of melittin were prepared and characterized in terms of morphology, size, polydispersity index, encapsulation efficiency, release kinetics, and stability. A niosome was formulated and loaded with melittin as a promising drug carrier system for chemotherapy of the breast cancer cells. Hemolysis, apoptosis, cell cytotoxicity, invasion and migration of selected concentrations of melittin, and melittin-loaded niosome were evaluated on 4T1 and SKBR3 cells using hemolytic activity assay, flow cytometry, MTT assay, soft agar colony assay, and wound healing assay. Real-time PCR was used to determine the gene expression. 40 BALB/c inbred mice were used; then, the histopathology, P53 immunohistochemical assay and estimate of renal and liver enzyme activity for all groups had been done.
Results
This study showed melittin-loaded niosome is an excellent substitute in breast cancer treatment due to enhanced targeting, encapsulation efficiency, PDI, and release rate and shows a high anticancer effect on cell lines. The melittin-loaded niosome affects the genes expression by studied cells were higher than other samples; down-regulates the expression of Bcl2, MMP2, and MMP9 genes while they up-regulate the expression of Bax, Caspase3 and Caspase9 genes. They have also enhanced the apoptosis rate and inhibited cell migration, invasion in both cell lines compared to the melittin samples. Results of histopathology showed reduce mitosis index, invasion and pleomorphism in melittin-loaded niosome. Renal and hepatic biomarker activity did not significantly differ in melittin-loaded niosome and melittin compared to healthy control. In immunohistochemistry, P53 expression did not show a significant change in all groups.
Conclusions
Our study successfully declares that melittin-loaded niosome had more anti-cancer effects than free melittin. This project has demonstrated that niosomes are suitable vesicle carriers for melittin, compare to the free form.
Collapse
|
25
|
Mir Hassani Z, Nabiuni M, Parivar K, Abdirad S, Karimzadeh L. Melittin inhibits the expression of key genes involved in tumor microenvironment formation by suppressing HIF-1α signaling in breast cancer cells. Med Oncol 2021; 38:77. [PMID: 34076777 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-021-01526-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
HIF-1α has critical roles in the formation of tumor microenvironment by regulating genes involved in angiogenesis and anaerobic respiration. TME fuels tumors' growth and metastasis and presents therapy with several challenges. Therefore, we aimed to investigate if Melittin disrupts HIF-1α signaling pathway in breast adenocarcinoma cell line MDA-MB-231. Breast adenocarcinoma cell line MDA-MB-231 was cultured in the presence of different doses of Melittin, and MTT assay was carried out to measure Melittin's cytotoxic effects. Cells were exposed to 5% O2 to mimic hypoxic conditions and Melittin. Western blot was used to measure HIF-1α protein levels. Gene expression analysis was performed using real-time PCR to measure relative mRNA abundance of genes involved in tumor microenvironment formation. Our results revealed that Melittin effectively inhibits HIF-1α at transcriptional and translational/post-translational level. HIF-1α protein and mRNA level were significantly decreased in Melittin-treated groups. It is found that inhibition of HIF-1α by Melittin is through downregulation of NFκB gene expression. Furthermore, gene expression analysis showed a downregulation in VEGFA and LDHA expression due to inhibition of HIF-1α protein by Melittin. In addition, cell toxicity assay showed that Melittin inhibits the growth of MDA-MB-231 cell line through activation of extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways by upregulating TNFA and BAX expression. Melittin suppresses the expression of genes responsible for formation of TME physiological hallmarks by suppressing HIF-1α signaling pathway. Our results suggest that Melittin can modulate tumor microenvironment by inhibition of VEGFA and LDHA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zabih Mir Hassani
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, 31979-37551, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nabiuni
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, 31979-37551, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Kazem Parivar
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Somayeh Abdirad
- Department of Plant Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Latifeh Karimzadeh
- Department of Animal Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Melittin inhibits lung metastasis of human osteosarcoma: Evidence of wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway participation. Toxicon 2021; 198:132-142. [PMID: 33930393 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2021.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Melittin is a major active peptide component of bee venom that has been demonstrated to show anti-tumor effects. Osteosarcoma is a type of bone tumor with a high degree of malignancy, and metastasis is the main challenge of osteosarcoma therapy. This study aimed to investigate the role of melittin in the lung metastasis of osteosarcoma. 143 B cells were treated with different concentrations of melittin in vitro. Wound-healing and transwell assays were performed to determine the cell migration and invasion potential. Quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot experiments were performed to evaluate the expression levels of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway-related factors after treatment with melittin. The orthotopic implantation model and hematoxylin-eosin staining were used to investigate the effect of melittin treatment on tumor formation and lung metastasis. Immunohistochemical staining and Western blot experiments were performed to indicate the melittin-mediated expression changes in Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway-related factors. The cell migration and invasion potential were observed to be inhibited in a dose-dependent manner upon treatment with melittin. Treatment with medium and high concentrations of melittin attenuated the mRNA and protein expression of LRP5, β-catenin, MMP-2, cyclin D, c-Myc, survivin, MMP-9, and VEGF genes in vitro. Melittin significantly inhibited the growth of tibia xenografts in nude mice and decreased the number of lung metastatic nodules. Consistent with the results observed in vitro, treatment with melittin at medium and high concentrations attenuated the expression of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway-related factors in vivo. In vitro, Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway was involved in Melittin-mediated -migration and invasion potential of 143 B cells. Similarly, as observed in the in vivo experiments, Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway was also associated with the role of melittin on lung metastasis of osteosarcomas.
Collapse
|
27
|
Wen T, Song L, Hua S. Perspectives and controversies regarding the use of natural products for the treatment of lung cancer. Cancer Med 2021; 10:2396-2422. [PMID: 33650320 PMCID: PMC7982634 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.3660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer‐related mortality both in men and women and accounts for 18.4% of all cancer‐related deaths. Although advanced therapy methods have been developed, the prognosis of lung cancer patients remains extremely poor. Over the past few decades, clinicians and researchers have found that chemical compounds extracted from natural products may be useful for treating lung cancer. Drug formulations derived from natural compounds, such as paclitaxel, doxorubicin, and camptothecin, have been successfully used as chemotherapeutics for lung cancer. In recent years, hundreds of new natural compounds that can be used to treat lung cancer have been found through basic and sub‐clinical research. However, there has not been a corresponding increase in the number of drugs that have been used in a clinical setting. The probable reasons may include low solubility, limited absorption, unfavorable metabolism, and severe side effects. In this review, we present a summary of the natural compounds that have been proven to be effective for the treatment of lung cancer, as well as an understanding of the mechanisms underlying their pharmacological effects. We have also highlighted current controversies and have attempted to provide solutions for the clinical translation of these compounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Wen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration & Transplantation of the Ministry of Education, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, P.R. China
| | - Lei Song
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration & Transplantation of the Ministry of Education, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, P.R. China
| | - Shucheng Hua
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration & Transplantation of the Ministry of Education, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Borojeni SK, Zolfagharian H, Babaie M, Javadi I. Cytotoxic Effect of Bee ( A. mellifera) Venom on Cancer Cell Lines. J Pharmacopuncture 2020; 23:212-219. [PMID: 33408897 PMCID: PMC7772077 DOI: 10.3831/kpi.2020.23.4.212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Nowadays cancer treatment is an important challenge in the medical world that needs better therapies. Many active secretions produced by insects such as honey bees used to discover new anticancer drugs. Bee venom (BV) has a potent anti inflammatory, anti cancer and tumor effects. The aim of present study is evaluation of anticancer effects induced by Apis mellifera venom (AmV) on cell Lines. Methods AmV was selected for study on cancer cell lines. Total protein, molecular weight and LD50 of crude venom were determined. Then, cells were grown in Dulbecco's Modified Eagle medium supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum and 1% antibiotics. The A549, HeLa and MDA-MB-231 cell Lines were exposed by different concentration of AmV. The morphology of cells was determined and cell viability was studed by MTT assay. Evaluation of cell death was determined by and DNA fragmentation. Results The results from MTT assay showed that 3.125 µg/mL of A549, 12.5 for HeLa and 6.25 µg/mL of MDA-MB-231 killed 50% of cells (p < 0.05). Morphological analysis and the results from hoescht staining and DNA fragmentation indicated that cell death induced by AmV was significantly apoptosis. Conclusion The data showed that using lower dosage of AmV during treatment period cause inhibition of proliferation in time and dose dependant manner. Findings indicated that some ingredients of AmV have anticancer effects and with further investigation it can be used in production of anticancer drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sima Khalilifard Borojeni
- Department of Venomous Animals and Antivenom Production, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | - Hossein Zolfagharian
- Department of Venomous Animals and Antivenom Production, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | - Mahdi Babaie
- Department of Venomous Animals and Antivenom Production, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran.,Young Researchers and Elites Club, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Iraj Javadi
- Department of Toxicology, Islamic Azad University, Shahreza Branch, Shahreza, Isfahan, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Yu R, Wang M, Wang M, Han L. Melittin suppresses growth and induces apoptosis of non-small-cell lung cancer cells via down-regulation of TGF-β-mediated ERK signal pathway. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 54:e9017. [PMID: 33331417 PMCID: PMC7747877 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x20209017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the anti-cancer effect of melittin on growth, migration, invasion, and apoptosis of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. This study also explored the potential anti-cancer mechanism of melittin in NSCLC cells. The results demonstrated that melittin suppressed growth, migration, and invasion, and induced apoptosis of NSCLC cells in vitro. Melittin increased pro-apoptotic caspase-3 and Apaf-1 gene expression. Melittin inhibited tumor growth factor (TGF)-β expression and phosphorylated ERK/total ERK (pERK/tERK) in NSCLC cells. However, TGF-β overexpression (pTGF-β) abolished melittin-decreased TGF-β expression and pERK/tERK in NSCLC cells. Treatment with melittin suppressed tumor growth and prolonged mouse survival during the 120-day observation in vivo. Treatment with melittin increased TUNEL-positive cells and decreased expression levels of TGF-β and ERK in tumor tissue compared to the control group. In conclusion, the findings of this study indicated that melittin inhibited growth, migration, and invasion, and induced apoptosis of NSCLC cells through down-regulation of TGF-β-mediated ERK signaling pathway, suggesting melittin may be a promising anti-cancer agent for NSCLC therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renzhi Yu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Mudanjiang Medical University Affiliated Hongqi Hospital, Mudanjiang, China
| | - Miao Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Mudanjiang Medical University Affiliated Hongqi Hospital, Mudanjiang, China
| | - Minghuan Wang
- Community Health Service Center, Mudanjiang Medical University Affiliated Hongqi Hospital, Mudanjiang, China
| | - Lei Han
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Mudanjiang Medical University Affiliated Hongqi Hospital, Mudanjiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Melittin-A Natural Peptide from Bee Venom Which Induces Apoptosis in Human Leukaemia Cells. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10020247. [PMID: 32041197 PMCID: PMC7072249 DOI: 10.3390/biom10020247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Bee venom is a very complex mixture produced and secreted by the honeybee (Apis mellifera). Melittin is a major component of bee venom that accounts for about 52% of its dry mass. A vast number of studies have been dedicated to the effects of melittin’s regulation of apoptosis and to the factors that induce apoptosis in various types of cancer such as breast, ovarian, prostate, lung. The latest evidence indicates its potential as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of leukaemia. The aim of our present study is to evaluate melittin’s ability to induce apoptosis in leukaemia cell lines of different origin acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (CCRF-CEM) and chronic myelogenous leukaemia (K-562). We demonstrated that melittin strongly reduced cell viability in both leukaemia cell lines but not in physiological peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PMBCs). Subsequent estimated parameters (mitochondrial membrane potential, Annexin V binding and Caspases 3/7 activity) clearly demonstrated that melittin induced apoptosis in leukaemia cells. This is a very important step for research into the development of new potential anti-leukaemia as well as anticancer therapies. Further analyses on the molecular level have been also planned (analysis of proapoptotic genes expression and DNA damages) for our next research project, which will also focus on melittin.
Collapse
|
31
|
Qi J, Chen Y, Xue T, Lin Y, Huang S, Cao S, Wang X, Su Y, Lin Z. Graphene oxide-based magnetic nanocomposites for the delivery of melittin to cervical cancer HeLa cells. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2020; 31:065102. [PMID: 31645027 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ab5084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Melittin (MEL), the primary active component of bee venom, has recently emerged as a promising cancer chemotherapeutic agent. However, the instability and rapid degradation of MEL is a significant challenge in practical therapeutic applications. In the present study, graphene oxide (GO)-based magnetic nanocomposites (PEG-GO-Fe3O4) were prepared and adopted as the drug delivery vehicles of MEL, and the anticancer effects of PEG-GO-Fe3O4/MEL complexes on human cervical cancer HeLa cells were studied. PEG-GO-Fe3O4 exhibited a series of unique physical and chemical properties resulting in multiple interactions with MEL, and ultimately the release of MEL. In vitro experiments showed that PEG-GO-Fe3O4/MEL not only distinctly enhanced the inhibition effect on HeLa cells, but also induced pore formation in the cell membrane that ultimately led to cell lysis. In this newly developed drug delivery system, PEGylated GO plays the role of a MEL protector while Fe3O4 nanoparticles act as magnetic responders; therefore active MEL can be released over a long period of time (up to 72 h) and maintain its inhibition effect on HeLa cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinxia Qi
- Center of Scientific Research, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, People's Republic of China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Soliman C, Eastwood S, Truong VK, Ramsland PA, Elbourne A. The membrane effects of melittin on gastric and colorectal cancer. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0224028. [PMID: 31622415 PMCID: PMC6797111 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0224028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The cytotoxic effects of melittin, a bee-venom peptide, have been widely studied towards cancer cells. Typically, these studies have examined the effect of melittin over extended-time courses (6-24 hours), meaning that immediate cellular interactions have been overlooked. In this work, we demonstrate the rapid effects of melittin on both gastric and colorectal cancer, specifically AGS, COLO205 and HCT-15 cell lines, over a period of 15 minutes. Melittin exhibited a dose dependent effect at 4 hours of treatment, with complete cellular death occurring at the highest dose of 20 μg/mL. Interestingly, when observed at shorter time points, melittin induced cellular changes within seconds; membrane damage was observed as swelling, breakage or blebbing. High-resolution imaging revealed treated cells to be compromised, showing clear change in cellular morphology. After 1 minute of melittin treatment, membrane changes were observed, and intracellular material could be seen expelled from the cells. Overall, these results enhance our understanding of the fast acting anti-cancer effects of melittin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Soliman
- School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora West Campusm Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarah Eastwood
- School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora West Campusm Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vi Khanh Truong
- School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora West Campusm Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
- Nanobiotechnology Laboratory, RMIT University, Melbourne City Campus, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul A. Ramsland
- School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora West Campusm Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Immunology, Central Clinical School (Monash University), Alfred Medical Research and Education Precinct, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Surgery Austin Health (University of Melbourne), Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Aaron Elbourne
- School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora West Campusm Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
- Nanobiotechnology Laboratory, RMIT University, Melbourne City Campus, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
An overview of the bioactive compounds, therapeutic properties and toxic effects of apitoxin. Food Chem Toxicol 2019; 134:110864. [PMID: 31574265 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2019.110864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2019] [Revised: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
|
34
|
Tsuji S, Ohno Y, Nakamura S, Yamada T, Noda Y, Saio M, Iwama T, Shimazawa M, Hara H. Temozolomide has anti-tumor effects through the phosphorylation of cPLA 2 on glioblastoma cells. Brain Res 2019; 1723:146396. [PMID: 31442413 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2019.146396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Temozolomide is an alkylating agent used as the first line of treatment for glioblastoma. However, chemoresistance to temozolomide is common in glioma patients. In addition, there are likely many unknown mechanisms for the anti-tumor effects of temozolomide. It is known that an alkylating agent, sulfur mustard, activates cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA₂) releasing arachidonic acid to suppress tumors. The present study was performed to elucidate the involvement of cPLA2 in the anti-tumor mechanisms of temozolomide. In three glioblastoma cell lines (GL261, U251MG and T98G), we performed several evaluations including cell viability, cell migration and apoptosis, to study temozolomide-induced anti-tumor effects. Further, we evaluated tumor size in the murine orthotropic glioblastoma model after oral administration of temozolomide. Finally, we investigated the phosphorylation of cPLA2 in GL261 cells treated with temozolomide, and clarified whether phosphorylation of cPLA2 affects cell growth. Temozolomide suppressed cell growth and cell migration in glioblastoma cells in vitro and showed anti-tumor effect in the murine orthotopic glioblastoma model in vivo. Furthermore, temozolomide increased phosphorylation of cPLA2, which was associated with suppression of cell growth. However, in MGMT high-expressing glioblastoma T98G cells, temozolomide could not suppress cell growth or cause phosphorylation of cPLA2. These findings indicate that temozolomide suppressed cell growth partly by phosphorylation of cPLA2 in glioblastoma cells. In addition, because temozolomide did not cause phosphorylation of cPLA2 in MGMT high-expressing glioblastoma T98G cells, phosphorylation of cPLA2 may be caused by DNA alkylation of temozolomide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shohei Tsuji
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 1-25-4 Daigaku-nishi, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
| | - Yuta Ohno
- Department of Pharmacology, Asahi University School of Dentistry, 1851-1 Hozumi, Gifu 501-0023, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Nakamura
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 1-25-4 Daigaku-nishi, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Yamada
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 1-25-4 Daigaku-nishi, Gifu 501-1196, Japan; Department of Neurosurgery, Gifu University School of Medicine, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Noda
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 1-25-4 Daigaku-nishi, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
| | - Masanao Saio
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Gunma University, 3-39-22 Showa-machi, Maebashi, Gunma 371-8514, Japan
| | - Toru Iwama
- Department of Neurosurgery, Gifu University School of Medicine, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
| | - Masamitsu Shimazawa
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 1-25-4 Daigaku-nishi, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
| | - Hideaki Hara
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 1-25-4 Daigaku-nishi, Gifu 501-1196, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Shaw P, Kumar N, Hammerschmid D, Privat-Maldonado A, Dewilde S, Bogaerts A. Synergistic Effects of Melittin and Plasma Treatment: A Promising Approach for Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11081109. [PMID: 31382579 PMCID: PMC6721819 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11081109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Melittin (MEL), a small peptide component of bee venom, has been reported to exhibit anti-cancer effects in vitro and in vivo. However, its clinical applicability is disputed because of its non-specific cytotoxicity and haemolytic activity in high treatment doses. Plasma-treated phosphate buffered saline solution (PT-PBS), a solution rich in reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) can disrupt the cell membrane integrity and induce cancer cell death through oxidative stress-mediated pathways. Thus, PT-PBS could be used in combination with MEL to facilitate its access into cancer cells and to reduce the required therapeutic dose. The aim of our study is to determine the reduction of the effective dose of MEL required to eliminate cancer cells by its combination with PT-PBS. For this purpose, we have optimised the MEL threshold concentration and tested the combined treatment of MEL and PT-PBS on A375 melanoma and MCF7 breast cancer cells, using in vitro, in ovo and in silico approaches. We investigated the cytotoxic effect of MEL and PT-PBS alone and in combination to reveal their synergistic cytological effects. To support the in vitro and in ovo experiments, we showed by computer simulations that plasma-induced oxidation of the phospholipid bilayer leads to a decrease of the free energy barrier for translocation of MEL in comparison with the non-oxidized bilayer, which also suggests a synergistic effect of MEL with plasma induced oxidation. Overall, our findings suggest that MEL in combination with PT-PBS can be a promising combinational therapy to circumvent the non-specific toxicity of MEL, which may help for clinical applicability in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Shaw
- Research Group PLASMANT, Department of Chemistry, University of Antwerp, BE-2610 Wilrijk-Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Naresh Kumar
- Research Group PLASMANT, Department of Chemistry, University of Antwerp, BE-2610 Wilrijk-Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Dietmar Hammerschmid
- Laboratory of Protein Science, Proteomics & Epigenetic Signaling, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, BE-2610 Wilrijk-Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Angela Privat-Maldonado
- Research Group PLASMANT, Department of Chemistry, University of Antwerp, BE-2610 Wilrijk-Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Sylvia Dewilde
- Laboratory of Protein Science, Proteomics & Epigenetic Signaling, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, BE-2610 Wilrijk-Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Annemie Bogaerts
- Research Group PLASMANT, Department of Chemistry, University of Antwerp, BE-2610 Wilrijk-Antwerp, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Zhang J, Zhu W, Xin B, Lin S, Jin L, Wang H. Development of an antibacterial surface with a self-defensive and pH-responsive function. Biomater Sci 2019; 7:3795-3800. [DOI: 10.1039/c9bm00670b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In this work, a charge conversion mechanism was introduced to build a bacteria responsive antibacterial surface.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhang
- Jilin Medical University
- Jilin 132013
- P. R. China
- Jilin Agricultural University
- School of Life Science
| | - Wenhe Zhu
- Jilin Medical University
- Jilin 132013
- P. R. China
| | - Benkai Xin
- Jilin Medical University
- Jilin 132013
- P. R. China
| | - Sue Lin
- Wenzhou University
- Institute of Life Sciences
- Wenzhou
- P. R. China
| | - Libo Jin
- Wenzhou University
- Institute of Life Sciences
- Wenzhou
- P. R. China
| | - Huiyan Wang
- Jilin Medical University
- Jilin 132013
- P. R. China
- Jilin Agricultural University
- School of Life Science
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Cherniack EP, Govorushko S. To bee or not to bee: The potential efficacy and safety of bee venom acupuncture in humans. Toxicon 2018; 154:74-78. [PMID: 30268393 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Revised: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Bee venom acupuncture is a form of acupuncture in which bee venom is applied to the tips of acupuncture needles, stingers are extracted from bees, or bees are held with an instrument exposing the stinger, and applied to acupoints on the skin. Bee venom is a complex substance consisting of multiple anti-inflammatory compounds such as melittin, adolapin, apamin. Other substances such as phospholipase A2 can be anti-inflammatory in low concentrations and pro-inflammatory in others. However, bee venom also contains proinflammatory substances, melittin, mast cell degranulation peptide 401, and histamine. Nevertheless, in small studies, bee venom acupuncture has been used in man to successfully treat a number of musculoskeletal diseases such as lumbar disc disease, osteoarthritis of the knee, rheumatoid arthritis, adhesive capsulitis, and lateral epicondylitis. Bee venom acupuncture can also alleviate neurological conditions, including peripheral neuropathies, stroke and Parkinson's Disease. The treatment has even been piloted in one series to alleviate depression. An important concern is the safety of bee venom. Bee venom can cause anaphylaxis, and several deaths have been reported in patients who successfully received the therapy prior to the adverse event. While the incidence of adverse events is unknown, the number of published reports of toxicity is small. Refining bee venom to remove harmful substances may potentially limit its toxicity. New uses for bee venom acupuncture may also be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Paul Cherniack
- Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami VA Medical Center, Miami, USA.
| | - Sergey Govorushko
- Pacific Geographic Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vladivostok, Russia; Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Gao D, Zhang J, Bai L, Li F, Dong Y, Li Q. Melittin induces NSCLC apoptosis via inhibition of miR-183. Onco Targets Ther 2018; 11:4511-4523. [PMID: 30122943 PMCID: PMC6078185 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s169806] [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] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has one of the highest mortality rates among cancers worldwide, with a poor prognosis. Previous studies have reported that melittin, an active component of apitoxin, exerts anti-inflammatory and antitumor effects via vascular endothelial growth factor or FoxO1. Methods CCK8, flow cytometry assay and Western blotting were performed to evaluate the effect of melittin on NSCLC. Results The present study demonstrates that melittin activated caspase-2 by inhibiting miR-183 expression and, thus, induced NSCLC apoptosis in both NCI-H441 cancer cell line assays and an in vivo xenograft model. The results of the cell-based assays showed that melittin (2 μg/mL) robustly suppressed miR-183 expression level and resulted in decreased invasion and migration abilities of NCI-H441 cells. Additionally, a flow cytometry assay and Western blotting showed that melittin induced NSCLC NCI-H441 cell apoptosis along with significant elevation of caspase-2 and Bax, which are regulators of cell apoptosis, and reduced Bcl-2 protein expression compared with dimethyl sulfoxide control. Furthermore, subcutaneous injection of melittin (5 mg/kg) significantly suppressed NSCLC tumor growth compared with vehicle group tumors, determined through tumor size and weight. Conclusion Taken together, the aforementioned findings contribute to identification of a novel therapeutic target in the treatment of NSCLC, in patients diagnosed with a high expression of miR-183. Moreover, this article provides solid evidence for the inhibitory effect of melittin on NSCLC cancer cell growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongqi Gao
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde 067000, China,
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde 067000, China,
| | - Lu Bai
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde 067000, China,
| | - Fubo Li
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde 067000, China,
| | - Yi Dong
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde 067000, China,
| | - Qingshan Li
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde 067000, China,
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Krishnakumari V, Guru A, Adicherla H, Nagaraj R. Effects of increasing hydrophobicity by N‐terminal myristoylation on the antibacterial and hemolytic activities of the C‐terminal cationic segments of human‐β‐defensins 1–3. Chem Biol Drug Des 2018; 92:1504-1513. [DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.13317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2017] [Revised: 01/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ankeeta Guru
- CSIR‐ Center for Cellular and Molecular Biology Hyderabad India
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Melittin Constrains the Expression of Identified Key Genes Associated with Bladder Cancer. J Immunol Res 2018; 2018:5038172. [PMID: 29854840 PMCID: PMC5960535 DOI: 10.1155/2018/5038172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Revised: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
This work is aimed at investigating the effect of melittin on identified key genes in bladder cancer (BC) and further providing a theoretical basis for BC treatment. GSE35014 downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database was used to screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in BC cells and control. Results showed that a total of 389 upregulated and 169 downregulated genes were identified. Subsequently, GO analysis, KEGG pathway enrichment analysis, and PPI network analysis were employed to disclose the crucial genes and signaling pathways involved in BC. Fifteen module-related DEGs and their associated signaling pathways were obtained according to the PPI network and modular analyses. Based on the analysis of articles retrieved in the PubMed database, we found that melittin could induce apoptosis and constrain the progression of tumor cells as a result of regulating critical cancer-related signaling pathways, such as PI3K-Akt and TNF signaling pathways. Furthermore, PI3K-Akt and TNF signaling pathways were also found to be associated with module-related DEGs according to biological analyses. At last, qRT-PCR analysis demonstrated that melittin could constrain the expression of module-related DEGs (LPAR1, COL5A1, COL6A2, CXCL1, CXCL2, and CXCL3) associated with PI3K-Akt and TNF signaling pathways in BC cells. Functional assays revealed that melittin could constrain the proliferative and migrated abilities of BC cells. Conjointly, these findings provide a theoretical basis for these six genes as drug-sensitive markers of melittin in BC treatment.
Collapse
|