1
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Mokhtarian R, Rajabi S, Zahedian S, Jafarinejad-Farsangi S, Hadizadeh M, Sadeghinejad M. The effect of saffron and its extracts on the treatment of breast cancer: A narrative review. ANNALES PHARMACEUTIQUES FRANÇAISES 2024; 82:629-640. [PMID: 38367937 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharma.2024.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent malignancy in women and the second most common disease worldwide, affecting approximately one million individuals annually. Despite the efficacy of conventional chemotherapy, medication resistance and adverse effects limit its effectiveness, leading researchers to explore alternative treatments, including herbal remedies. Saffron, a well-known spice derived from the Crocus sativus L. plant, has shown potential as a BC treatment. The active components of saffron exhibit anti-cancer properties by inducing apoptosis, inhibiting cell division, and modulating signaling pathways implicated in cancer development, such as PI3K/AKT, NF-κB, and MAPK. Clinical findings suggest that saffron can alleviate chemotherapy-induced symptoms, reduce serum tumor marker levels, and enhance quality of life. Preliminary clinical trials are investigating the safety and efficacy of saffron in treating BC, with recent evidence indicating that recommended doses of saffron supplementation are well-tolerated and safe. This review provides an overview of the anti-tumor effects of saffron and its unique chemical composition in BC. However, further research and clinical studies are imperative to fully comprehend the potential of saffron in adjuvant therapy for BC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roya Mokhtarian
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Department of Biology, NourDanesh Institute of Higher Education, Meymeh, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Soodeh Rajabi
- Student Research Committee, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Setareh Zahedian
- Physiology Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Saeideh Jafarinejad-Farsangi
- Physiology Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| | - Morteza Hadizadeh
- Physiology Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Sadeghinejad
- Department of Kinesiology and Applied Physiology, College of Health Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States
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2
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Malathi N, Rajan ST, Warnakulasuriya S. Natural products and diet for the prevention of oral cancer: Research from south and southeast Asia. Oral Dis 2024. [PMID: 38804557 DOI: 10.1111/odi.15002] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Medicinal plants are of prime importance in the discovery of drugs. They are an inherent source of naturally available phytochemicals that can help in the prevention and treatment of several diseases including cancer. This article reviews the experimental and clinical evidence of phytochemicals available in natural dietary products that are used in everyday life across South Asia and South-East Asia for their perceived effectiveness in the management of Potentially Malignant Disorders and prevention of Oral Cancer. The review also highlights the active phytometabolites, their in vitro anti-proliferative properties and targeted signalling pathways, biological activities in in vivo models and translative potential for clinical trials in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Malathi
- Department of Oral Pathology, Sri Ramachandra Dental College & Hospital, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education & Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sharada T Rajan
- Department of Oral Pathology, Sri Ramachandra Dental College & Hospital, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education & Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Saman Warnakulasuriya
- Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Oral Cancer, London, UK
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3
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Koch W, Wawruszak A, Kukula-Koch W, Zdziebło M, Helon P, Almarhoon ZM, Al-Omari B, Calina D, Sharifi-Rad J. Exploring the therapeutic efficacy of crocetin in oncology: an evidence-based review. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:1455-1476. [PMID: 37736836 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02714-z] [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: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
With cancer being a leading cause of death globally, there is an urgent need to improve therapeutic strategies and identify effective chemotherapeutics. This study aims to highlight the potential of crocetin, a natural product derived from certain plants, as an anticancer agent. It was conducted an extensive review of the existing literature to gather and analyze the most recent data on the chemical properties of crocetin and its observed effects in various in vitro and in vivo studies. The study particularly focused on studies that examined crocetin's impact on cell cycle dynamics, apoptosis, caspases and antioxidant enzyme levels, tumor angiogenesis, inflammation, and overall tumor growth. Crocetin exhibited diverse anti-tumorigenic activities including inhibition of tumor cell proliferation, apoptosis induction, angiogenesis suppression, and potentiation of chemotherapy. Multiple cellular and molecular pathways such as the PI3K/Akt, MAPK and NF-κB were modulated by it. Crocetin demonstrates promising anti-cancer properties and offers potential as an adjunctive or alternative therapy in oncology. More large-scale, rigorously designed clinical trials are needed to establish therapeutic protocols and ascertain the comprehensive benefits and safety profile of crocetin in diverse cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wojciech Koch
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Medical University of Lublin, 4a Chodźki Str, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
| | - Anna Wawruszak
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, 1 Chodźki Str, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
| | - Wirginia Kukula-Koch
- Department of Pharmacognosy with Medicinal Plants Garden, Medical University of Lublin, 1 Chodźki Str, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
| | - Magdalena Zdziebło
- Branch in Sandomierz, Jan Kochanowski University in Kielce, Schinzla 13a Str, 27-600, Sandomierz, Poland
| | - Paweł Helon
- Branch in Sandomierz, Jan Kochanowski University in Kielce, Schinzla 13a Str, 27-600, Sandomierz, Poland
| | - Zainab M Almarhoon
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, P. O. Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Basem Al-Omari
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Daniela Calina
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349, Craiova, Romania.
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4
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Ibrahim S, Baig B, Hisaindee S, Darwish H, Abdel-Ghany A, El-Maghraby H, Amin A, Greish Y. Development and Evaluation of Crocetin-Functionalized Pegylated Magnetite Nanoparticles for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28072882. [PMID: 37049645 PMCID: PMC10095796 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28072882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer remains among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. This is due to many reasons, including limitations of available drugs, late diagnosis due to the overlapping symptoms with many other liver diseases, and lack of effective screening modalities. Compared to conventional chemotherapy, targeted drug delivery systems are advantageous in many ways, as they minimize drug resistance and improve therapeutic value for cancer patients. Nanomaterials, in general, and nanoparticles, in particular, possess nm size, which provides a high surface area for a great extent of functionalization to be used for the targeted delivery of cancer drugs. Amongst the different formulations of nanoparticles, magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have unique chemical and physical characteristics and magnetic behavior, making them preferable candidates as a core for drug delivery systems. To maintain the nanosized structure of MNPs, a polymeric coating is usually applied to maintain the nanoparticles dispersed in the solution. Moreover, the polymeric coating provides a plate form for carrying drug molecules on its surface. In the present study, poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-coated MNPs were successfully synthesized, where the optimum concentration of PEG on the surface of the MNPs was investigated. The PEG-coated MNPs were further coated with crocetin at different concentrations. The crocetin-coated pegylated MNPs were evaluated in vitro using a hepatic cell line (HepG2) for up to 72 h. Results showed good release kinetics under acidic and neutral conditions. The optimally prepared drug delivery system showed a high potential for reducing the HepG2 cell proliferation in vitro using an MTT assay. The calculated IC50 for Cro-PEG-MNPs were 0.1019, 0.0903, and 0.0462 mg/mL of 5×, 10× and 20×, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sulafa Ibrahim
- Department of Chemistry, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Badriya Baig
- Department of Biology, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Soleiman Hisaindee
- Department of Chemistry, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hussein Darwish
- Department of Glass Research, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo 12622, Egypt
| | - Ashraf Abdel-Ghany
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo 12622, Egypt
| | - Hesham El-Maghraby
- Department of Chemistry, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Ceramics, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo 12622, Egypt
| | - Amr Amin
- Department of Biology, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Centre for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Yaser Greish
- Department of Chemistry, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Ceramics, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo 12622, Egypt
- Zayed Centre for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
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An In Vitro Study of Saffron Carotenoids: The Effect of Crocin Extracts and Dimethylcrocetin on Cancer Cell Lines. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11061074. [PMID: 35739971 PMCID: PMC9220052 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11061074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocus sativus L. has various pharmacological properties, known for over 3600 years. These properties are attributed mainly to biologically active substances, which belong to the terpenoid group and include crocins, picrocrocin and safranal. The aim of the current work was to examine the effects of crocins (CRCs) and their methyl ester derivate dimethylcrocetin (DMCRT) on glioblastoma and rhabdomyosarcoma cell lines, in terms of cytotoxicity and gene expression, implicated in proapoptotic and cell survival pathways. Cell cytotoxicity was assessed with Alamar Blue fluorescence assay after treatment with saffron carotenoids for 24, 48 and 72 h and concentrations ranging from 22.85 to 0.18 mg/mL for CRCs and 11.43 to 0.09 mg/mL for DMCRT. In addition, BAX, BID, BCL2, MYCN, SOD1, and GSTM1 gene expression was studied by qRT-PCR analysis. Both compounds demonstrated cytotoxic effects against glioblastoma and rhabdomyosarcoma cell lines, in a dose- and time-dependent manner. They induced apoptosis, via BAX and BID upregulation, MYCN and BCL-2, SOD1, GSTM1 downregulation. The current research denotes the possible anticancer properties of saffron carotenoids, which are considered safe phytochemicals, already tested in clinical trials for their health promoting properties.
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Therapeutic Potential of Certain Terpenoids as Anticancer Agents: A Scoping Review. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051100. [PMID: 35267408 PMCID: PMC8909202 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a life-threatening disease and is considered to be among the leading causes of death worldwide. Chemoresistance, severe toxicity, relapse and metastasis are the major obstacles in cancer therapy. Therefore, introducing new therapeutic agents for cancer remains a priority to increase the range of effective treatments. Terpenoids, a large group of secondary metabolites, are derived from plant sources and are composed of several isoprene units. The high diversity of terpenoids has drawn attention to their potential anticancer and pharmacological activities. Some terpenoids exhibit an anticancer effect by triggering various stages of cancer progression, for example, suppressing the early stage of tumorigenesis via induction of cell cycle arrest, inhibiting cancer cell differentiation and activating apoptosis. At the late stage of cancer development, certain terpenoids are able to inhibit angiogenesis and metastasis via modulation of different intracellular signaling pathways. Significant progress in the identification of the mechanism of action and signaling pathways through which terpenoids exert their anticancer effects has been highlighted. Hence, in this review, the anticancer activities of twenty-five terpenoids are discussed in detail. In addition, this review provides insights on the current clinical trials and future directions towards the development of certain terpenoids as potential anticancer agents.
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7
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Guo ZL, Li MX, Li XL, Wang P, Wang WG, Du WZ, Yang ZQ, Chen SF, Wu D, Tian XY. Crocetin: A Systematic Review. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:745683. [PMID: 35095483 PMCID: PMC8795768 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.745683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocetin is an aglycone of crocin naturally occurring in saffron and produced in biological systems by hydrolysis of crocin as a bioactive metabolite. It is known to exist in several medicinal plants, the desiccative ripe fruit of the cape jasmine belonging to the Rubiaceae family, and stigmas of the saffron plant of the Iridaceae family. According to modern pharmacological investigations, crocetin possesses cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, antidepressant, antiviral, anticancer, atherosclerotic, antidiabetic, and memory-enhancing properties. Although poor bioavailability hinders therapeutic applications, derivatization and formulation preparation technologies have broadened the application prospects for crocetin. To promote the research and development of crocetin, we summarized the distribution, preparation and production, total synthesis and derivatization technology, pharmacological activity, pharmacokinetics, drug safety, drug formulations, and preparation of crocetin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Liang Guo
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese of PLA, Gansu Plateau Pharmaceutical Technology Center, Lanzhou, China.,College of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Mao-Xing Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese of PLA, Gansu Plateau Pharmaceutical Technology Center, Lanzhou, China.,College of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,College of Pharmacy, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Lin Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese of PLA, Gansu Plateau Pharmaceutical Technology Center, Lanzhou, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese of PLA, Gansu Plateau Pharmaceutical Technology Center, Lanzhou, China.,College of Pharmacy, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Wei-Gang Wang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese of PLA, Gansu Plateau Pharmaceutical Technology Center, Lanzhou, China.,College of Pharmacy, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Wei-Ze Du
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese of PLA, Gansu Plateau Pharmaceutical Technology Center, Lanzhou, China.,College of Pharmacy, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Qiang Yang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese of PLA, Gansu Plateau Pharmaceutical Technology Center, Lanzhou, China.,Institute of Chemical Technology, Northwest Minzu University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Sheng-Fu Chen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese of PLA, Gansu Plateau Pharmaceutical Technology Center, Lanzhou, China.,College of Pharmacy, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Di Wu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese of PLA, Gansu Plateau Pharmaceutical Technology Center, Lanzhou, China.,College of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Xiu-Yu Tian
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese of PLA, Gansu Plateau Pharmaceutical Technology Center, Lanzhou, China.,College of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
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8
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Arzi L, Hoshyar R. Saffron anti-metastatic properties, ancient spice novel application. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2021; 62:3939-3950. [PMID: 33653190 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2020.1871320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Crocus sativus L. (saffron), was applied as a spice, food colorant and medicine since four millennia ago and has been used as a remedy for various maladies. In the last three decades, the anti-primary tumor properties of saffron and its main carotenoids, crocin and crocetin, have been well explored. Despite the fact that metastasis is the leading cause of death in cancer patients, the anti-metastatic potential of saffron and its carotenoids has been surveyed only this decade. This review aims to provide an unprecedented overview of the anti-metastatic effects of saffron, crocin and crocetin, and the mechanisms underlying these effects. Investigations on various cancers demonstrated the anti-migratory, anti-invasion, anti-angiogenic potentials of saffron and its carotenoids, as well as their effects suppressing cell-ECM adhesion and enhancing cell-cell attachment. Saffron and its carotenoids exert their impact through different mechanisms such as reduction of CD34 and suppression of Wnt/β-catenin, Ras/ERK, P38, DCLK1, EMT, matrix metalloproteinases and urokinases. Crocin displayed more effective anti-metastatic potency, in comparison with saffron extract and crocetin. The bioaccessibility/bioavailability, nontoxicity on normal cells, confirmed anti-tumor efficiency and the recent evidence on the anti-metastatic potential of saffron and its carotenoids, recommends them as a propitious multipotent dietary agent and herbal medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laleh Arzi
- Department of Microbiology, Shahr-e-Qods Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reyhane Hoshyar
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) is one of the most important complications following vitreoretinal surgery. So far, surgical strategies have been the gold standard in treatment. Pharmacological approaches for prevention and treatment of PVR are under clinical investigation and intervene in different phases of the PVR cascade. METHODS The relevant literature as well as own data and experience with PVR are discussed in this review article. The most important aspects of pharmacological approaches for PVR prophylaxis and treatment are explained. RESULTS A prophylactic use of systemic prednisone administration as an anti-inflammatory substance showed contradictory results, while there was no additional benefit for intravitreal triamcinolone. Orally administered isotretinoin also seems to be able to minimize the formation of PVR after retinal reattachment surgery, whereas there was no improvement in the success rate in established PVR. Cell proliferation inhibitors have already been extensively studied. The combined intravitreal prophylactic approach of 5‑fluorouracil and low molecular weight heparin was recently further investigated in a multicenter, placebo-controlled study and showed a positive effect in some studies. New preclinical and experimental approaches include the inhibition of growth factors, modulation of integrin activity and the induction of apoptosis. CONCLUSION Most clinical studies dealt with an anti-inflammatory or antiproliferative approach. So far, no pharmacological substance has been established for the treatment of PVR but there are promising approaches for prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Schaub
- Zentrum für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Köln, Kerpener Str. 62, 50924, Köln, Deutschland.
| | - A M Abdullatif
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kasr El Aini Hospital, Cairo University, Kairo, El-Manial, Ägypten
| | - S Fauser
- Zentrum für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Köln, Kerpener Str. 62, 50924, Köln, Deutschland
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Basel, Schweiz
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Khajeh E, Rasmi Y, Kheradmand F, Malekinejad H, Aramwit P, Saboory E, Daeihassani B, Nasirzadeh M. Crocetin suppresses the growth and migration in HCT-116 human colorectal cancer cells by activating the p-38 MAPK signaling pathway. Res Pharm Sci 2020; 15:592-601. [PMID: 33828602 PMCID: PMC8020854 DOI: 10.4103/1735-5362.301344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and purpose: Crocetin is a natural antioxidant that is found in the crocus flower and Gardenia jasminoides (fruit). Previous studies have reported its anticancer activity both in vivo and in vitro. In addition, crocetin suppresses the growth and migration of human colorectal cancer cells, however, its mechanism of action remains to be elucidated. Therefore, the present study investigated the molecular mechanism of crocetin effect on colorectal cancer cells (HCT-116) in vitro. Experimental approach: HCT-116 cells were treated with different concentrations (0, 200, 400, 600, and 800 μM) of crocetin for 24 h. The cell survival rate was measured by MTT assay. Cell migration capacity was evaluated using the wound healing assay. The expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-9) was monitored by RT-PCR. Phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) was determined using western blot. Findings/Results: The proliferation of HCT-116 was inhibited by crocetin at 800 μM (P < 0.001). Crocetin prevented migration of HCT-116 cells (P < 0.05) and suppressed VEGF and MMP-9 mRNA expression (P < 0.001) and increased phosphorylation of p38 (MAPK; P < 0.001). However, no significant change in the phosphorylation of FAK was observed. Conclusion and implication: These data suggested that crocetin-induced growth- and migration- suppressing effects on HCT-116 cells may partially depend on the regulation of the p38 (MAPK) signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esmaeil Khajeh
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, I.R. Iran
| | - Yousef Rasmi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, I.R. Iran.,Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, I.R. Iran
| | - Fatemeh Kheradmand
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, I.R. Iran
| | - Hassan Malekinejad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, I.R. Iran
| | - Pornanong Aramwit
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Center of Excellence in Bioactive Resources for Innovative Clinical Applications, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand
| | - Ehsan Saboory
- Zanjan Metabolic Diseases Research Center, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, I.R. Iran
| | | | - Mahdieh Nasirzadeh
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, I.R. Iran
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11
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Traditional Herbal Medicine Mediated Regulations during Head and Neck Carcinogenesis. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10091321. [PMID: 32942674 PMCID: PMC7565208 DOI: 10.3390/biom10091321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is one of the most prevalent neoplasms worldwide. It is well recognized that environmental challenges such as smoking, viral infection and alcohol consumption are key factors underlying HNSCC pathogenesis. Other than major clinical interventions (e.g., surgical resection, chemical and radiotherapy) that have been routinely practiced over years, adjuvant anticancer agents from Traditional Herbal Medicine (THM) are proposed, either alone or together with conventional therapies, to be experimentally effective for improving treatment efficacy in different cancers including HNSCCs. At a cellular and molecular basis, THM extracts could modulate different malignant indices via distinct signaling pathways and provide better control in HNSCC malignancy and its clinical complications such as radiotherapy-induced xerostomia/oral mucositis. In this article, we aim to systemically review the impacts of THM in regulating HNSCC tumorous identities and its potential perspective for clinical use.
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12
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Survivin as a Target for Anti-cancer Phytochemicals According to the Molecular Docking Analysis. Int J Pept Res Ther 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-019-09914-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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13
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Farahi A, Mollaei H, Hoshyar R. Crocetin as an Active Secondary Metabolite of Saffron Stigma and Anticancer Effects. CURRENT CANCER THERAPY REVIEWS 2019. [DOI: 10.2174/1573394714666180626154833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In order to try to increase the effectiveness of cancer therapeutic procedures, natural carotenoids
attract lots of attention. Crocetin is one of the main carotenoids of saffron whose anticancer
properties have been shown in recent decades. This study aimed to review previous invitro
and invivo investigations on anticancer effects of this carotenoid and also proposed molecular
mechanisms of its action. Literature reviewing between 1990 and 2017 was performed using
pubmed and scopus databases. Anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects of crocetin have been
observed in several cancers cell lines and also model organisms that might be due to the alternation
in the expression of cancer-related genes and epigenetic changes. Moreover, several studies
indicated synergistic effects of crocetin with common chemotherapy agents and mentioned it as a
potential novel adjuvant therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Farahi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Homa Mollaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Birjand, Birjand, Iran
| | - Reyhane Hoshyar
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
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14
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Colapietro A, Mancini A, D'Alessandro AM, Festuccia C. Crocetin and Crocin from Saffron in Cancer Chemotherapy and Chemoprevention. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2019; 19:38-47. [PMID: 30599111 DOI: 10.2174/1871520619666181231112453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2017] [Revised: 03/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cancer is a disorder which has a powerful impact on the quality life and life expectancy despite the increase in drugs and treatments available for cancer patients. Moreover, many new therapeutic options are known to have adverse reactions without any improvement in outcome than before. Nowadays, natural products or plant derivatives are used as chemoprevention drugs and chemotherapy is the new approach that uses specific cell premalignant transformation in the malignant form. Natural substances derived from plants, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, alkaloids and others, can be biologically active and have a wide spectrum of effects. The protective effects of Saffron carotenoids (crocin and crocetin) have been extensively studied mainly for their antioxidant properties, however, they have various other biological activities including tumor growth inhibition with the induction of cell death. METHODS The relevant information on Saffron and its carotenoids was collected from scientific databases (such as PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct). To identify all published articles in relation to saffron, crocin and crocetin, in different types of cancer, no language restriction has been used. RESULTS To date, crossing the words saffron and cancer, approximately 150 articles can be found. If crossing is made between crocin and cancer, approximately 60 articles can be found. With the crossing between crocetin and cancer, the number is approximately 55, while between carotenoids and cancer, the number exceeds 16.000 reports. In all the papers published to date, there are evidences that saffron and its carotenoids exert chemopreventive activity through anti-oxidant activity, cancer cells apoptosis, inhibition of cell proliferation, enhancement of cell differentiation, modulation of cell cycle progression and cell growth, modulation of tumor metabolism, stimulation of cell-to-cell communication and immune modulation. CONCLUSION Here, we have tried to offer an up-to-date overview of pre-clinical experimental investigations on the potential use of the main carotenoids of saffron in tumor models and focus the attention on the molecular mechanisms involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Colapietro
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, Radiobiology Laboratory, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Andrea Mancini
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, Radiobiology Laboratory, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Anna Maria D'Alessandro
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Claudio Festuccia
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, Radiobiology Laboratory, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
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15
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Singh VK, Arora D, Ansari MI, Sharma PK. Phytochemicals based chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic strategies and modern technologies to overcome limitations for better clinical applications. Phytother Res 2019; 33:3064-3089. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vipendra Kumar Singh
- Environmental Carcinogenesis Laboratory, Food, Drug and Chemical Toxicology GroupCSIR‐Indian Institute of Toxicology Research Lucknow India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) Ghaziabad‐ 201002 India
| | - Deepika Arora
- Environmental Carcinogenesis Laboratory, Food, Drug and Chemical Toxicology GroupCSIR‐Indian Institute of Toxicology Research Lucknow India
- Material and Measurement LaboratoryNational Institute of Standards and Technology Gaithersburg 20899 Maryland USA
| | - Mohammad Imran Ansari
- Environmental Carcinogenesis Laboratory, Food, Drug and Chemical Toxicology GroupCSIR‐Indian Institute of Toxicology Research Lucknow India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) Ghaziabad‐ 201002 India
| | - Pradeep Kumar Sharma
- Environmental Carcinogenesis Laboratory, Food, Drug and Chemical Toxicology GroupCSIR‐Indian Institute of Toxicology Research Lucknow India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) Ghaziabad‐ 201002 India
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16
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Naeimi M, Shafiee M, Kermanshahi F, Khorasanchi Z, Khazaei M, Ryzhikov M, Avan A, Gorji N, Hassanian SM. Saffron (Crocus sativus) in the treatment of gastrointestinal cancers: Current findings and potential mechanisms of action. J Cell Biochem 2019; 120:16330-16339. [PMID: 31245875 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.29126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Revised: 05/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are major causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide and include malignancies of the GI tract such as the stomach, liver, pancreas, small intestine, colon, and rectum. Promising and selective anticancer effects of pharmacologically active components of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) have been shown in preclinical in vitro and in vivo studies. Saffron and its active components including crocin, crocetin, and safranal exert their anticancer effects through different mechanisms, including induction of apoptosis, influence on the cell cycle, and regulation of host immune response and anti-inflammatory activities. This review summarizes the recent literature on the chemopreventive properties of saffron in GI cancers to have a better understanding of the potential underlying mechanisms and hence the appropriate management of these malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Naeimi
- Traditional Medicine and History of Medical Sciences Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.,Department of Persian Medicine, School of Persian Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Shafiee
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Farnoush Kermanshahi
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Zahra Khorasanchi
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Majid Khazaei
- Department of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mikhail Ryzhikov
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Washington University, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Amir Avan
- Department of Modern Sciences and Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Narjes Gorji
- Traditional Medicine and History of Medical Sciences Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.,Department of Persian Medicine, School of Persian Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Seyed M Hassanian
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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17
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Safety, pharmacokinetics, and prevention effect of intraocular crocetin in proliferative vitreoretinopathy. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 109:1211-1220. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.10.193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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18
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A Comparative Study on Anti-Invasion, Antimigration, and Antiadhesion Effects of the Bioactive Carotenoids of Saffron on 4T1 Breast Cancer Cells Through Their Effects on Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway Genes. DNA Cell Biol 2018; 37:697-707. [DOI: 10.1089/dna.2018.4248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
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19
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Khorasanchi Z, Shafiee M, Kermanshahi F, Khazaei M, Ryzhikov M, Parizadeh MR, Kermanshahi B, Ferns GA, Avan A, Hassanian SM. Crocus sativus a natural food coloring and flavoring has potent anti-tumor properties. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2018; 43:21-27. [PMID: 29747750 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2018.03.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 03/18/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Saffron, the dried stigmas of Crocus sativus L., is a highly valued agricultural product that is used mainly as a food coloring and flavoring agent. Three main secondary metabolites of Crocus sativus including crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal are responsible for the color, the bitter taste and for the odor and aroma, respectively. As a component of traditional medicine, saffron has been utilized as a medicinal herb for treating various ailments including cramps, asthma, liver disease, menstruation disorders, pain, and in the pathogenesis of cancer. HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE To summarize the recent published data on the chemo-preventive properties of Crocus sativus in cancer treatment. STUDY DESIGN We conducted a non-systematic review of the literature. METHODS A search of English-language literature was performed using Scopus, EMBASE and PubMed. We applied no restriction in time. Articles were searched using the keywords "Lung", "breast", "skin", "prostate", "leukemia", "cancer", "neoplasm", "tumor", "malignancy", "saffron", "crocus sativus", "crocin", "crocetin", "picrocrocin", and "safranal". RESULTS Saffron has been reported to exert anti-tumor and anti-cancer effects in various types of cancer including lung cancer, breast cancer, leukemia, skin cancer and prostate cancer. This appears to be via various mechanisms including: the induction of apoptosis, arresting cell cycle progression, suppressing expression of matrix metalloproteinase, modulatory effects on some phase II detoxifying enzymes and decreasing expression of inflammatory molecules are potential mechanisms of saffron-induced anticancer effects. CONCLUSION Saffron possesses potent anti-tumor properties and represents an efficacious and safe treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Khorasanchi
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Shafiee
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Farnoush Kermanshahi
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Majid Khazaei
- Department of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mikhail Ryzhikov
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, St. Louis University, School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Mohammad Reza Parizadeh
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Gordon A Ferns
- Brighton & Sussex Medical School, Division of Medical Education, Falmer, Brighton, Sussex BN1 9PH, UK
| | - Amir Avan
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Modern Sciences and Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Seyed Mahdi Hassanian
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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20
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Ngoc NB, Lv P, Zhao WE. Suppressive effects of lycopene and β-carotene on the viability of the human esophageal squamous carcinoma cell line EC109. Oncol Lett 2018; 15:6727-6732. [PMID: 29731858 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2018.8175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2016] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms underlying the chemopreventive effects of carotenoids in different types of cancer are receiving increasing attention. In the present study, the role of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) in the effect of lycopene and β-carotene on the viability of EC109 human esophageal squamous carcinoma cells was investigated. The viability of EC109 cells was evaluated using MTT assays. The effects of lycopene and β-carotene on the expression of PPARγ, p21WAF1/CIP1, cyclin D1 and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) were analyzed by western blotting. Lycopene and β-carotene (5-40 µM) dose- and time-dependently reduced the viability of the EC109 cells. GW9662, an irreversible PPARγ antagonist, partly attenuated the decrease in EC109 cell viability induced by these carotenoids. Lycopene and β-carotene treatments upregulated the expression of PPARγ and p21WAF1/CIP1, and downregulated the expression of cyclin D1 and COX-2. These modulatory effects of the carotenoid treatments were suppressed by GW9662, suggesting that the inhibition of EC109 cell viability by lycopene and β-carotene involves PPARγ signaling pathways and the modulation of p21WAF1/CIP1, cyclin D1 and COX-2 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Ba Ngoc
- School of Chemical Engineering and Energy, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, P.R. China.,Faculty of Food Industry, College of Food Industry, Danang 550000, Vietnam
| | - Pin Lv
- School of Chemical Engineering and Energy, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, P.R. China.,School of Pharmacy, Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan 450046, P.R. China
| | - Wen-En Zhao
- School of Chemical Engineering and Energy, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, P.R. China
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21
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Chen H, Zhang ZQ, Zhao B, Ning WL, Wang XY, Zhou F. Clinical significance of ALDH1 combined with DAPI expression in patients with esophageal carcinoma. Oncol Lett 2017; 14:4878-4882. [PMID: 29085496 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2017.6743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2015] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Esophageal carcinoma is the most common type of tumor, with the incidence in China accounting for 50% of cases worldwide and the majority of patients not surviving due to tumor recurrence. According to the cancer stem cell theory, tumor development and recurrence is due to the excitation of a cancer stem cell. Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1) is an appropriate marker for cancer stem cells and the present study aimed at determining the function of ALDH1 in human esophageal carcinoma. Indirect fluorescence antibody staining was used to investigate the association between the level of ALDH1 protein expression and clinicopathological parameters, including sex, age, vein invasion, degree of tumor cell differentiation and clinical stage. DAPI was used to stain the nuclei of tumor cells and exclude non-tumor cells. The results of the present study revealed that ALDH1 expression was associated with the level of tumor cell differentiation, tumor-node-metastasis stage and lymphatic invasion. In addition, increased expression of ALDH1 was identified in esophageal carcinoma tissues compared with in healthy esophageal tissues. Therefore, ALDH1 may be used as a parameter for the pathology of esophageal carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Chen
- Center of Individualized Medicine Diagnosis and Treatment, The First Hospital of Qiqihar, Qiqihar, Heilongjiang 161005, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Qiang Zhang
- Department of First General Surgery, The First Hospital of Harbin, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150010, P.R. China
| | - Bin Zhao
- Department of Anorectal Surgery, The First Hospital Affiliated of Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang 154000, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Long Ning
- Department of Emergency, The First Hospital of Qiqihar, Qiqihar, Heilongjiang 161005, P.R. China
| | - Xue-Yan Wang
- Department of Public Health, The First Hospital of Qiqihar, Qiqihar, Heilongjiang 161005, P.R. China
| | - Fei Zhou
- Department of Second General Surgery, The First Hospital of Qiqihar, Qiqihar, Heilongjiang 161005, P.R. China.,Harbin Medical University Clinical Post-Doctor, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P.R. China
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22
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Synergistic anticancer effect of combined crocetin and cisplatin on KYSE-150 cells via p53/p21 pathway. Cancer Cell Int 2017; 17:98. [PMID: 29093644 PMCID: PMC5663096 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-017-0468-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2017] [Accepted: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background More than 400,000 patients die from esophageal cancer annually. Considerable efforts have been made to develop new and effective treatments, one of which is directed toward herbal medication. Crocetin is a natural carotenoid dicarboxylic acid isolated from the Chinese herb saffron. We recently reported on the anticancer effects of saffron. This study aimed to determine whether crocetin combined cisplatin has synergistic effect in KYSE-150 cells and explore the underlying mechanism. Methods KYSE-150 cells were treated with crocetin and/or cisplatin. The effects on cell viability, cell apoptosis, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), as well as the expression levels of PI3K/AKT, MAPKs, p53/p21, and apoptosis-related protein were evaluated. MTT assay, Annexin V-FITC/PI staining, Rh123 staining, and Western blot analysis were used. Results The cell proliferation significantly decreased and cell apoptosis was induced with combined crocetin and cisplatin, compared with either crocetin only or cisplatin only. The outcome suggested that crocetin combined cisplatin has synergistic effects on inhibition of cell proliferation and pro-apoptotic effect of cisplatin on KYSE-150 cells. Disruption of MMP, upregulation of cleaved caspase-3 expression, and downregulation of Bcl-2 occurred in the group treated with combined treatment. No significant differences in p-PI3K, p-AKT, and MAPKs activity were indicated between combined treatment group and the individual treatment group. However, the expression levels of p53 and p21 were markedly higher in the combined treatment group than in the individual treatment group. The wild-type p53 inhibitor, PFT-α suppressed the overexpression of p53/p21 and the synergistic effect induced by the combination of crocetin and cisplatin. Conclusions We concluded that crocetin combined with cisplatin exerts a synergistic anticancer effect by up-regulating the p53/p21 pathway.
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Jabini R, Ehtesham-Gharaee M, Dalirsani Z, Mosaffa F, Delavarian Z, Behravan J. Evaluation of the Cytotoxic Activity of Crocin and Safranal, Constituents of Saffron, in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (KB Cell Line). Nutr Cancer 2017; 69:911-919. [PMID: 28718677 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2017.1339816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Crocin and safranal are active ingredients in the saffron. Some studies have demonstrated antitumor activities of saffron ingredients. The aim of this study was to evaluate cytotoxic effects of crocin and safranal in oral squamous cell carcinoma (KB cells) and NIH 3T3 cell line as nonmalignant cells. The cells were incubated with crocin and safranal at 37°C for 24, 48, and 72 h, and cell viability was quantitated by MTT assay. Apoptotic cells, cell cycle distribution, and sub-G1 fraction were determined using propidium iodide staining of DNA fragmentation by flow cytometry. Crocin (0.05-4 mM) and safranal (0.2-3.2 mM) significantly inhibited the growth of KB cells (the inhibitory growth effects of all concentrations for both were >50% after 72 h), while they had less inhibitory effects on NIH 3T3 cells viability. The IC50 values of crocin and safranal against NIH 3T3 cells after 72 h were determined as 2.8 and 0.3 mM, respectively. Crocin and safranal induced a sub-G1 peak in the flow cytometry histogram of treated cells compared to control cells indicating that apoptotic cell death is involved in the toxicity of crocin and safranal. Apoptotic effects of crocin and safranal in tumor cells were more than normal cells. Neither crocin nor safranal affected the cell cycle progression. Crocin and safranal exerted apoptotic effects in KB cell line.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raheleh Jabini
- a Biotechnology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences , Mashhad , Iran
| | | | - Zohreh Dalirsani
- b Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences , Mashhad , Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mosaffa
- a Biotechnology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences , Mashhad , Iran
| | - Zahra Delavarian
- b Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences , Mashhad , Iran
| | - Javad Behravan
- a Biotechnology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences , Mashhad , Iran
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Moradzadeh M, Sadeghnia HR, Tabarraei A, Sahebkar A. Anti-tumor effects of crocetin and related molecular targets. J Cell Physiol 2017; 233:2170-2182. [PMID: 28407293 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Natural products have gained a wide popularity as chemopreventive and anti-cancer agents owing to their multi-mechanistic mode of action, availability and synergism with several conventional chemotherapeutic agents. Crocetin is a carotenoid compound isolated from the stigma of Crocus sativus L. (saffron). Crocetin has shown promising effects as an anti-tumor agent in animal models and cell culture systems. Crocetin retards the growth of cancer cells via inhibiting nucleic acid synthesis, enhancing anti-oxidative system, and inducing apoptosis and differentiation pathways. The present review outlines natural sources of crocetin, and its pharmacokinetic and pharmacological properties relevant to the prevention and treatment of cancer. Also, we discuss molecular targets underlying the putative anti-tumor effects of crocetin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maliheh Moradzadeh
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of New Sciences and Technology, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Sadeghnia
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of New Sciences and Technology, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Neurocognitive Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Alijan Tabarraei
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Shi XK, Bian XB, Huang T, Wen B, Zhao L, Mu HX, Fatima S, Fan BM, Bian ZX, Huang LF, Lin CY. Azoxystrobin Induces Apoptosis of Human Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma KYSE-150 Cells through Triggering of the Mitochondrial Pathway. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:277. [PMID: 28567017 PMCID: PMC5434151 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies indicate that mitochondrial pathways of apoptosis are potential chemotherapeutic target for the treatment of esophageal cancer. Azoxystrobin (AZOX), a methoxyacrylate derived from the naturally occurring strobilurins, is a known fungicide acting as a ubiquinol oxidation (Qo) inhibitor of mitochondrial respiratory complex III. In this study, the effects of AZOX on human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma KYSE-150 cells were examined and the underlying mechanisms were investigated. AZOX exhibited inhibitory effects on the proliferation of KYSE-150 cells with inhibitory concentration 50% (IC50) of 2.42 μg/ml by 48 h treatment. Flow cytometry assessment revealed that the inhibitory effect of AZOX on KYSE-150 cell proliferation occurred with cell cycle arrest at S phase and increased cell apoptosis in time-dependent and dose-dependent manners. Cleaved poly ADP ribose polymerase (PARP), caspase-3 and caspase-9 were increased significantly by AZOX. It is worth noted that the Bcl-2/Bax ratios were decreased because of the down-regulated Bcl-2 and up-regulated Bax expression level. Meanwhile, the cytochrome c release was increased by AZOX in KYSE-150 cells. AZOX-induced cytochrome c expression and caspase-3 activation was significantly blocked by Bax Channel Blocker. Intragastric administration of AZOX effectively decreased the tumor size generated by subcutaneous inoculation of KYSE-150 cells in nude mice. Consistently, decreased Bcl-2 expression, increased cytochrome c and PARP level, and activated caspase-3 and caspase-9 were observed in the tumor samples. These results indicate that AZOX can effectively induce esophageal cancer cell apoptosis through the mitochondrial pathways of apoptosis, suggesting AZOX or its derivatives may be developed as potential chemotherapeutic agents for the treatment of esophageal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Ke Shi
- Yunnan Minzu University-Hong Kong Baptist University, Joint Laboratory of Traditional Natural Medicine, Yunnan Minzu UniversityKunming, China.,Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon TongHong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiao-Bo Bian
- Graduate School, New York University, New YorkNY, United States
| | - Tao Huang
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon TongHong Kong SAR, China
| | - Bo Wen
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon TongHong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ling Zhao
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon TongHong Kong SAR, China
| | - Huai-Xue Mu
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon TongHong Kong SAR, China
| | - Sarwat Fatima
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon TongHong Kong SAR, China
| | - Bao-Min Fan
- Yunnan Minzu University-Hong Kong Baptist University, Joint Laboratory of Traditional Natural Medicine, Yunnan Minzu UniversityKunming, China
| | - Zhao-Xiang Bian
- Yunnan Minzu University-Hong Kong Baptist University, Joint Laboratory of Traditional Natural Medicine, Yunnan Minzu UniversityKunming, China.,Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon TongHong Kong SAR, China
| | - Lin-Fang Huang
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijing, China
| | - Cheng-Yuan Lin
- Yunnan Minzu University-Hong Kong Baptist University, Joint Laboratory of Traditional Natural Medicine, Yunnan Minzu UniversityKunming, China.,Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon TongHong Kong SAR, China
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Trans -crocetin improves amyloid-β degradation in monocytes from Alzheimer's Disease patients. J Neurol Sci 2017; 372:408-412. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2016.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2016] [Revised: 10/18/2016] [Accepted: 11/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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27
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Ding YQ, Qin Q, Yang Y, Sun XC, Yang X, Zhu HC, Chen XC, Zhang H, Yang YH, Gao L, Luo JD, Zhou XF. Improved sensitization effect of sunitinib in cancer cells of the esophagus under hypoxic microenviroment. Oncol Lett 2016; 12:4671-4676. [PMID: 28105174 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2016.5247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2015] [Accepted: 09/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy is widely used in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) treatment. Promoting the radiation sensitivity of cancer cells is required. Recent studies have shown that sunitinib can inhibit the growth of several cancer lines. However, few studies on the radiosensitive effect of sunitinib on ESCC cells under hypoxic conditions have been conducted. In the present study, the radiosensitive effects of sunitinib on human ESCC cells were assessed, and the underlying mechanisms were explored. ESCC cells were exposed to hypoxia and treated with sunitinib at different concentrations prior to irradiation. Sunitinib potently inhibited ESCC cell proliferation in an MTT assay. In a clonogenic survival assay, sunitinib sensitized hypoxic ESCC cells to radiation, with sensitizing enhancement ratios of 1.31-1.59. In addition, sunitinib promoted the apoptosis of ESCC cells, but did not alter their cell cycle distribution. Radiosensitization was accompanied by inhibition of the radiation-induced upregulation of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression. Thus, sunitinib confers radiosensitivity to esophageal cancer cells, which is associated with the downregulation of HIF-1α and VEGF expression. Sunitinib can be a promising radiosensitizer for esophageal cancer radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Qiong Ding
- Department of Radiotherapy, Changzhou Cancer Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213001, P.R. China
| | - Qin Qin
- Department of Radiotherapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Yan Yang
- Department of Radiotherapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Xin-Chen Sun
- Department of Radiotherapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Xi Yang
- Department of Radiotherapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Hong-Cheng Zhu
- Department of Radiotherapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Chen Chen
- Department of Radiotherapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Radiotherapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Yue-Hua Yang
- Department of Radiotherapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Lei Gao
- Department of Radiotherapy, Changzhou Cancer Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213001, P.R. China
| | - Ju-Dong Luo
- Department of Radiotherapy, Changzhou Cancer Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213001, P.R. China
| | - Xi-Fa Zhou
- Department of Radiotherapy, Changzhou Cancer Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213001, P.R. China
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Pastor JC, Rojas J, Pastor-Idoate S, Di Lauro S, Gonzalez-Buendia L, Delgado-Tirado S. Proliferative vitreoretinopathy: A new concept of disease pathogenesis and practical consequences. Prog Retin Eye Res 2015. [PMID: 26209346 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2015.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
During the last four decades, proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) has defied the efforts of many researchers to prevent its occurrence or development. Thus, PVR is still the major complication following retinal detachment (RD) surgery and a bottle-neck for advances in cell therapy that require intraocular surgery. In this review we tried to combine basic and clinical knowledge, as an example of translational research, providing new and practical information for clinicians. PVR was defined as the proliferation of cells after RD. This idea was used for classifying PVR and also for designing experimental models used for testing many drugs, none of which were successful in humans. We summarize current information regarding the pathogenic events that follow any RD because this information may be the key for understanding and treating the earliest stages of PVR. A major focus is made on the intraretinal changes derived mainly from retinal glial cell reactivity. These responses can lead to intraretinal PVR, an entity that has not been clearly recognized. Inflammation is one of the major components of PVR, and we describe new genetic biomarkers that have the potential to predict its development. New treatment approaches are analyzed, especially those directed towards neuroprotection, which can also be useful for preventing visual loss after any RD. We also summarize the results of different surgical techniques and clinical information that is oriented toward the identification of high risk patients. Finally, we provide some recommendations for future classification of PVR and for designing comparable protocols for testing new drugs or techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Carlos Pastor
- Retina Group, IOBA (Eye Institute), University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain; Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Clinico Universitario de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain.
| | - Jimena Rojas
- Retina Group, IOBA (Eye Institute), University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain; Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Universitario Austral, Universidad Austral, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Salvador Pastor-Idoate
- Retina Group, IOBA (Eye Institute), University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain; Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Manchester Vision Regeneration (MVR) Lab at NIHR/Wellcome Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Salvatore Di Lauro
- Retina Group, IOBA (Eye Institute), University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain; Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Clinico Universitario de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Lucia Gonzalez-Buendia
- Retina Group, IOBA (Eye Institute), University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain; Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Clinico Universitario de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Santiago Delgado-Tirado
- Retina Group, IOBA (Eye Institute), University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain; Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Clinico Universitario de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
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