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Deng N, Qiao M, Li Y, Liang F, Li J, Liu Y. Anticancer effects of licochalcones: A review of the mechanisms. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1074506. [PMID: 36755942 PMCID: PMC9900005 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1074506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a disease with a high fatality rate representing a serious threat to human health. Researchers have tried to identify effective anticancer drugs. Licorice is a widely used traditional Chinese medicine with various pharmacological properties, and licorice-derived flavonoids include licochalcones like licochalcone A, licochalcone B, licochalcone C, licochalcone D, licochalcone E, and licochalcone H. By regulating the expression in multiple signaling pathways such as the EGFR/ERK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, p38/JNK, JAK2/STAT3, MEK/ERK, Wnt/β-catenin, and MKK4/JNK pathways, and their downstream proteins, licochalcones can activate the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway and death receptor pathway, promote autophagy-related protein expression, inhibit the expression of cell cycle proteins and angiogenesis factors, regulate autophagy and apoptosis, and inhibit the proliferation, migration, and invasion of cancer cells. Among the licochalcones, the largest number of studies examined licochalcone A, far more than other licochalcones. Licochalcone A not only has prominent anticancer effects but also can be used to inhibit the efflux of antineoplastic drugs from cancer cells. Moreover, derivatives of licochalcone A exhibit strong antitumor effects. Currently, most results of the anticancer effects of licochalcones are derived from cell experiments. Thus, more clinical studies are needed to confirm the antineoplastic effects of licochalcones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Deng
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Mingming Qiao
- Chongqing Institute for Food and Drug Control, Chongqing, China
| | - Ying Li
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Fengyan Liang
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jingjing Li
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yanfeng Liu
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Yanfeng Liu,
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Muto E, Okada T, Yamanaka T, Uchino H, Inazu M. Licochalcone E, a β-Amyloid Aggregation Inhibitor, Regulates Microglial M1/M2 Polarization via Inhibition of CTL1-Mediated Choline Uptake. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13020191. [PMID: 36830561 PMCID: PMC9953043 DOI: 10.3390/biom13020191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is thought to be a series of neuroinflammatory diseases caused by abnormal deposits of amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau protein in the brain as part of its etiology. We focused on Aβ aggregation and M1 and M2 microglial polarity in microglia to search for novel therapeutic agents. It has been reported that the inhibition of choline uptake via choline transporter-like protein 1 (CTL1) in microglia preferentially induces M2 microglial polarity. However, the role of the choline transport system on the regulation of microglial M1/M2 polarity in AD is not fully understood. Licochalcones (Licos) A-E, flavonoids extracted from licorice, have been reported to have immunological anti-inflammatory effects, and Lico A inhibits Aβ aggregation. In this study, we compared the efficacy of five Licos, from Lico A to E, at inhibiting Aβ1-42 aggregation. Among the five Licos, Lico E was selected to investigate the relationship between the inhibition of choline uptake and microglial M1/M2 polarization using the immortalized mouse microglial cell line SIM-A9. We newly found that Lico E inhibited choline uptake and Aβ1-42 aggregation in SIM-A9 cells in a concentration-dependent manner, suggesting that the inhibitory effect of Lico E on choline uptake is mediated by CTL1. The mRNA expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), a marker of M1 microglia, was increased by Aβ1-42, and its effect was inhibited by choline deprivation and Lico E in a concentration-dependent manner. In contrast, the mRNA expression of arginase-1 (Arg-1), a marker of M2 microglia, was increased by IL-4, and its effect was enhanced by choline deprivation and Lico E. We found that Lico E has an inhibitory effect on Aβ aggregation and promotes polarity from M1 to M2 microglia via inhibition of the CTL1 function in microglia. Thus, Lico E may become a leading compound for a novel treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eisuke Muto
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
| | - Toshio Okada
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Yamanaka
- Department of Molecular Preventive Medicine, Tokyo Medical University, 6-1-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8402, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Uchino
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
| | - Masato Inazu
- Department of Molecular Preventive Medicine, Tokyo Medical University, 6-1-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8402, Japan
- Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo Medical University, 6-1-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8402, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-3-3351-6141
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Tuli HS, Garg VK, Mehta JK, Kaur G, Mohapatra RK, Dhama K, Sak K, Kumar A, Varol M, Aggarwal D, Anand U, Kaur J, Gillan R, Sethi G, Bishayee A. Licorice ( Glycyrrhiza glabra L.)-Derived Phytochemicals Target Multiple Signaling Pathways to Confer Oncopreventive and Oncotherapeutic Effects. Onco Targets Ther 2022; 15:1419-1448. [PMID: 36474507 PMCID: PMC9719702 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s366630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a highly lethal disease, and its incidence has rapidly increased worldwide over the past few decades. Although chemotherapeutics and surgery are widely used in clinical settings, they are often insufficient to provide the cure for cancer patients. Hence, more effective treatment options are highly needed. Although licorice has been used as a medicinal herb since ancient times, the knowledge about molecular mechanisms behind its diverse bioactivities is still rather new. In this review article, different anticancer properties (antiproliferative, antiangiogenic, antimetastatic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects) of various bioactive constituents of licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) are thoroughly described. Multiple licorice constituents have been shown to bind to and inhibit the activities of various cellular targets, including B-cell lymphoma 2, cyclin-dependent kinase 2, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, c-Jun N-terminal kinases, mammalian target of rapamycin, nuclear factor-κB, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, vascular endothelial growth factor, and matrix metalloproteinase-3, resulting in reduced carcinogenesis in several in vitro and in vivo models with no evident toxicity. Emerging evidence is bringing forth licorice as an anticancer agent as well as bottlenecks in its potential clinical application. It is expected that overcoming toxicity-related obstacles by using novel nanotechnological methods might importantly facilitate the use of anticancer properties of licorice-derived phytochemicals in the future. Therefore, anticancer studies with licorice components must be continued. Overall, licorice could be a natural alternative to the present medication for eradicating new emergent illnesses while having just minor side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hardeep Singh Tuli
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Markandeshwar Engineering College, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to Be University), Mullana-Ambala, Haryana, India
| | - Vivek Kumar Garg
- Department of Medical Lab Technology, University Institute of Applied Health Sciences, Chandigarh University, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Jinit K Mehta
- Department of Pharmacology, Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal, Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Ginpreet Kaur
- Department of Pharmacology, Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal, Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Ranjan K Mohapatra
- Department of Chemistry, Government College of Engineering, Keonjhar, Odisha, India
| | - Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | | | - Ajay Kumar
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, India
| | - Mehmet Varol
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, Mugla Sitki Kocman University, Mugla, Turkey
| | - Diwakar Aggarwal
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Markandeshwar Engineering College, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to Be University), Mullana-Ambala, Haryana, India
| | - Uttpal Anand
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Jagjit Kaur
- Centre of Excellence in Nanoscale Biophotonics, Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ross Gillan
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL, USA
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Anupam Bishayee
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL, USA
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Zhang Q, Zhang J, Liu B, Wei J. Licochalcone E inhibits trxR1 expression, alters Nrf2/STAT6 signal, and induces antitumor effects in vitro against human SH-SY5Y and SK-N-BE(2) neuroblastoma cells. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2022; 37:1173-1184. [PMID: 35092341 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common solid tumor of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) arising in childhood less than 15 years age. Licochalcone (Lic) is known to show inhibitory effects in cancer growth, and there has evidence suggested that Lic A inhibits hypoxic induced NB SK-N-SH cell proliferation. However, it is unclear whether LicE exerts similar effects in NB and the associated molecular mechanism of Lic in neuroblastoma is still unclear. In the current study, we found that LicE at the concentration 2, 4 and 6 μM all induced a profound reduction in cell viability, colony formation and cell proliferation. Next, LicE treatment effectively promoted cell apoptosis, inhibited cell migration and invasion. LicE significantly suppressed trxR1 expression, activated Nrf2 expression and inhibited STAT6 expression in SH-SY5Y and SK-N-BE(2) NB cells. We further identified that trxR1, STAT6 overexpression or Nrf2 silence reversed the antitumor effects of LicE in human SH-SY5Y and SK-N-BE(2) NB cells. Finally, LicE treatment significantly inhibited tumor growth in nude mice carrying a SK-N-SH cell xenograft. These results provide new insights into the effects and highlighting a novel mechanism of LicE through regulating trxR1/Nrf2/STAT6 signal pathway in NB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Xi'an Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Xi'an Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Bailing Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, Xi'an Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Jingli Wei
- Department of Ultrasound, Xi'an Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
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Chemical Composition, Protective Effects, and Mechanisms of Volatile Oil from Fructus Gleditsiae Abnormalis with Nasal Administration against Ischemic Injury in HFD and MCAO-Induced Rats. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:8880996. [PMID: 34760019 PMCID: PMC8575625 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8880996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Fructus Gleditsiae Abnormalis (FGA) has been used as a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for the treatment of stroke caused by phlegm and blood stasis. However, its substance basis and mechanism of action are currently unknown. This study is aimed to analyze the constituents of the volatile oil in FGA (VOFGA) using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and explore the underlying effects and mechanisms of VOFGA in the prevention and treatment of ischemia stroke. An in vivo ischemia model was constructed by combination treatment of high-fat diet (HFD) and middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) method. After administration, the cerebral infarction volume, the brain water content, hemorheology, blood lipids, inflammatory factors, oxidative stress indicators, Bax, Bcl-2, and cleaved caspase-3 and histological examination (HE) were determined and observed to explore the underlying effects and mechanisms of VOFGA against ischemia stroke. The results showed that forty components were determined after analyzed by GC-MS, and the percentage content of palmitate, paeonol, violetone, linalool, salpinol, citral, and methyleugenol were 4.69%, 5.2%, 3.56%, 3.31%, 2.42%, 2.65%, and 1.67%, respectively. The high dose of VOFGA could inhibit neurological damage; reduce the cerebral infarction volume and brain water content; improve whole blood viscosity and red blood cell aggregation index at various shear rates; reduce the levels of TG, TC, LDL-C, TNF-α, IL-1β, MDA, and NO; increase the contents of HDL-C, IL-10, and SOD; downregulate the expressions of Bax and cleaved caspase-3 in the ischemic regions; and upregulate the expressions of Bcl-2. These effects implied that VOFGA may exert neuroprotective effects via inhibiting ischemia-triggered oxidative damage-regulating blood lipid factors and reducing the production of proinflammatory mediators against cerebral I/R injury and neuronal apoptosis. The VOFGA presents a potential treatment value for cerebral ischemic stroke, and it may offer insights into discovering new active compounds for the treatment of ischemic stroke.
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He M, Yu M, Li C, Meng X, Su J, Zhu Y, Yao R. Design, Synthesis and Bioactivity Evaluation of Novel Chalcone Derivatives Possessing Tryptophan Moiety with Dual Activities of Anti-cancer and Partially Restoring the Proliferation of Normal Kidney Cells Pre-treated with Cisplatin. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2021; 22:1945-1961. [PMID: 34674626 DOI: 10.2174/1871520621666211021134626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chalcone is a broad-spectrum natural product with anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory activities. However, low potency, low selectivity, and serious side effects limit its druggability. L-Tryptophan is an essential precursor molecule of an anti-cancer active substance. Also, the indole moiety inhibits the proliferation of tumor cells by binding to colchicine sites. A decrease in kidney cell activity caused by kidney inflammation is the primary side effect of cancer therapy. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this work was to design, synthesize, and perform bioactivity evaluation of novel chalcone derivatives possessing tryptophan moiety with dual activities of anti-cancer and partially restoring the proliferation of normal kidney cells pre-treated with cisplatin. METHODS A series of novel chalcone derivatives possessing tryptophan moiety (5a-5g, 6a-6o) were designed, synthesized, and evaluated for anti-cancer activity against four cancer cell lines (gastric (HGC-27), colon (HCT-116), prostate (PC-3), and lung (A549)), and a human normal cell line (gastric mucosal epithelial (GES-1)). The activity of restoring the proliferation of normal kidney cells pre-treated with cisplatin was evaluated by MTT assay. Cell cycle, apoptosis, and apoptosis proteins (Bax and Bcl-2) were used to evaluate the anti-cancer mechanism of the most potent compound. Moreover, a docking study was performed to explain the high anti-cancer activity of 6n. The expressions of TNF-α, IL-6, and MCP-1 were detected by ELISA. RESULTS Most of the compounds exhibited high anti-cancer activity against the HGC-27 cell line and exhibited low toxicity against the normal cell line. Based on three rounds of a structure optimization, 6n was discovered as the most potent compound against HGC-27 cells with an IC50 value of 2.02 μM and an SI value of 28.47. Further studies demonstrated that 6n could induce cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase and the apoptosis of the HGC-27 cell line by reducing the expression of Bcl-2 and improving the expression level of Bax. Molecular docking result displayed 6n bound to the colchicine site. At the same time, 6n also exhibited moderate activity of restoring the proliferation of normal kidney cells pre-treated with cisplatin by reducing the expression of inflammatory substances. CONCLUSION Our findings collectively suggested that 6n should be further studied as a potential anti-cancer agent that could partially restore the proliferation of normal kidney cells pre-treated with cisplatin in gastric cancer patients by an anti-inflammatory pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng He
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230000. China
| | - Mingjun Yu
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230000. China
| | - Chao Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032. China
| | - Xiaoming Meng
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032. China
| | - Jiamin Su
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230000. China
| | - Yuting Zhu
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230000. China
| | - Risheng Yao
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230000. China
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Bcl-2 Modulation in p53 Signaling Pathway by Flavonoids: A Potential Strategy towards the Treatment of Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111315. [PMID: 34768743 PMCID: PMC8582810 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a major cause of death, affecting human life in both developed and developing countries. Numerous antitumor agents exist but their toxicity and low efficacy limits their utility. Furthermore, the complex pathophysiological mechanisms of cancer, serious side effects and poor prognosis restrict the administration of available cancer therapies. Thus, developing novel therapeutic agents are required towards a simultaneous targeting of major dysregulated signaling mediators in cancer etiology, while possessing lower side effects. In this line, the plant kingdom is introduced as a rich source of active phytochemicals. The secondary metabolites produced by plants could potentially regulate several dysregulated pathways in cancer. Among the secondary metabolites, flavonoids are hopeful phytochemicals with established biological activities and minimal side effects. Flavonoids inhibit B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) via the p53 signaling pathway, which is a significant apoptotic target in many cancer types, hence suppressing a major dysregulated pathway in cancer. To date, there have been no studies reported which extensively highlight the role of flavonoids and especially the different classes of flavonoids in the modulation of Bcl-2 in the P53 signaling pathway. Herein, we discuss the modulation of Bcl-2 in the p53 signaling pathway by different classes of flavonoids and highlight different mechanisms through which this modulation can occur. This study will provide a rationale for the use of flavonoids against different cancers paving a new mechanistic-based approach to cancer therapy.
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Michalkova R, Mirossay L, Gazdova M, Kello M, Mojzis J. Molecular Mechanisms of Antiproliferative Effects of Natural Chalcones. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13112730. [PMID: 34073042 PMCID: PMC8198114 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13112730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Despite the important progress in cancer treatment in the past decades, the mortality rates in some types of cancer have not significantly decreased. Therefore, the search for novel anticancer drugs has become a topic of great interest. Chalcones, precursors of flavonoid synthesis in plants, have been documented as natural compounds with pleiotropic biological effects including antiproliferative/anticancer activity. This article focuses on the knowledge on molecular mechanisms of antiproliferative action of chalcones and draws attention to this group of natural compounds that may be of importance in the treatment of cancer disease. Abstract Although great progress has been made in the treatment of cancer, the search for new promising molecules with antitumor activity is still one of the greatest challenges in the fight against cancer due to the increasing number of new cases each year. Chalcones (1,3-diphenyl-2-propen-1-one), the precursors of flavonoid synthesis in higher plants, possess a wide spectrum of biological activities including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer. A plethora of molecular mechanisms of action have been documented, including induction of apoptosis, autophagy, or other types of cell death, cell cycle changes, and modulation of several signaling pathways associated with cell survival or death. In addition, blockade of several steps of angiogenesis and proteasome inhibition has also been documented. This review summarizes the basic molecular mechanisms related to the antiproliferative effects of chalcones, focusing on research articles from the years January 2015–February 2021.
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Zhang Z, Yang L, Hou J, Tian S, Liu Y. Molecular mechanisms underlying the anticancer activities of licorice flavonoids. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 267:113635. [PMID: 33246112 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Licorice has been commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine for treatment of gastric, liver, and respiratory disease conditions for more than two thousand years. It is a major component of several Chinese patent medicines certificated by National Medical Products Administration that possess great anticancer activities. AIM OF THE STUDY To comprehensively summarize the anticancer activities of licorice flavonoids, explain the underlying molecular mechanisms, and assess their therapeutic potentials and side-effects. METHODS PubMed, Research Gate, Web of Science, Google Scholar, academic journals, and Science Direct were used as information sources, with the key words of "anticancer", "licorice", "flavonoids", and their combinations, mainly from 2000 to 2019. RESULTS Sixteen licorice flavonoids are found to possess anticancer activities. These flavonoids inhibit cancer cells through blocking cell cycle and regulating multiple signaling pathways. The major pathways targeted by licorice flavonoids include: the MAPK pathway, PI3K/AKT pathway, NF-κB pathway, death receptor - dependent extrinsic signaling pathway, and mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. CONCLUSION Licorice flavonoids are a group of versatile molecules that have pleiotropic effects on cell growth, survival and cell signaling. Many of the flavonoids possess inhibitory activities toward cancer cell growth and hence have a great therapeutic potential in cancer treatment. However, additional preclinical studies are still needed to assess their in vivo efficacy and possible toxicities. It is also imperative to evaluate the effects of licorice flavonoids on the metabolism of other drugs and explore the potential synergistic mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixin Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, China
| | - Lin Yang
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, China
| | - Jiaming Hou
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, China
| | - Shaokai Tian
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, China
| | - Ying Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, China.
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Garcia-Oliveira P, Otero P, Pereira AG, Chamorro F, Carpena M, Echave J, Fraga-Corral M, Simal-Gandara J, Prieto MA. Status and Challenges of Plant-Anticancer Compounds in Cancer Treatment. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14020157. [PMID: 33673021 PMCID: PMC7918405 DOI: 10.3390/ph14020157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, cancer is one of the deadliest diseases in the world, which has been estimated to cause 9.9 million deaths in 2020. Conventional treatments for cancer commonly involve mono-chemotherapy or a combination of radiotherapy and mono-chemotherapy. However, the negative side effects of these approaches have been extensively reported and have prompted the search of new therapeutic drugs. In this context, scientific community started to look for innovative sources of anticancer compounds in natural sources, including traditional plants. Currently, numerous studies have evaluated the anticancer properties of natural compounds derived from plants, both in vitro and in vivo. In pre-clinical stages, some promising compounds could be mentioned, such as the sulforaphane or different phenolic compounds. On the other hand, some phytochemicals obtained positive results in clinical stages and were further approved for cancer treatment, such as vinca alkaloids or the paclitaxel. Nevertheless, these compounds are not exempt of limitations, such as low solubility, restricted effect on their own, negative side-effects, etc. This review aims to compile the information about the current phytochemicals used for cancer treatment and also promising candidates, main action mechanisms and also reported limitations. In this sense, some strategies to face the limitations have been considered, such as nano-based formulations to improve solubility or chemical modification to reduce toxicity. In conclusion, although more research is still necessary to develop more efficient and safe phytochemical drugs, more of these compounds might be used in future cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Garcia-Oliveira
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Analytical and Food Chemistry Department, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Vigo, Ourense Campus, E-32004 Ourense, Spain; (P.G.-O.); (P.O.); (A.G.P.); (F.C.); (M.C.); (J.E.); (M.F.-C.)
- Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), Campus de Santa Apolonia, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
| | - Paz Otero
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Analytical and Food Chemistry Department, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Vigo, Ourense Campus, E-32004 Ourense, Spain; (P.G.-O.); (P.O.); (A.G.P.); (F.C.); (M.C.); (J.E.); (M.F.-C.)
| | - Antia Gonzalez Pereira
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Analytical and Food Chemistry Department, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Vigo, Ourense Campus, E-32004 Ourense, Spain; (P.G.-O.); (P.O.); (A.G.P.); (F.C.); (M.C.); (J.E.); (M.F.-C.)
- Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), Campus de Santa Apolonia, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
| | - Franklin Chamorro
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Analytical and Food Chemistry Department, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Vigo, Ourense Campus, E-32004 Ourense, Spain; (P.G.-O.); (P.O.); (A.G.P.); (F.C.); (M.C.); (J.E.); (M.F.-C.)
| | - Maria Carpena
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Analytical and Food Chemistry Department, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Vigo, Ourense Campus, E-32004 Ourense, Spain; (P.G.-O.); (P.O.); (A.G.P.); (F.C.); (M.C.); (J.E.); (M.F.-C.)
| | - Javier Echave
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Analytical and Food Chemistry Department, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Vigo, Ourense Campus, E-32004 Ourense, Spain; (P.G.-O.); (P.O.); (A.G.P.); (F.C.); (M.C.); (J.E.); (M.F.-C.)
| | - Maria Fraga-Corral
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Analytical and Food Chemistry Department, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Vigo, Ourense Campus, E-32004 Ourense, Spain; (P.G.-O.); (P.O.); (A.G.P.); (F.C.); (M.C.); (J.E.); (M.F.-C.)
- Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), Campus de Santa Apolonia, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
| | - Jesus Simal-Gandara
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Analytical and Food Chemistry Department, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Vigo, Ourense Campus, E-32004 Ourense, Spain; (P.G.-O.); (P.O.); (A.G.P.); (F.C.); (M.C.); (J.E.); (M.F.-C.)
- Correspondence: (J.S.-G.); (M.A.P.)
| | - Miguel Angel Prieto
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Analytical and Food Chemistry Department, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Vigo, Ourense Campus, E-32004 Ourense, Spain; (P.G.-O.); (P.O.); (A.G.P.); (F.C.); (M.C.); (J.E.); (M.F.-C.)
- Correspondence: (J.S.-G.); (M.A.P.)
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Synthetic methods and biological applications of retrochalcones isolated from the root of Glycyrrhiza species: A review. RESULTS IN CHEMISTRY 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rechem.2021.100216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
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12
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Natural Chalcones in Chinese Materia Medica: Licorice. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:3821248. [PMID: 32256642 PMCID: PMC7102474 DOI: 10.1155/2020/3821248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Licorice is an important Chinese materia medica frequently used in clinical practice, which contains more than 20 triterpenoids and 300 flavonoids. Chalcone, one of the major classes of flavonoid, has a variety of biological activities and is widely distributed in nature. To date, about 42 chalcones have been isolated and identified from licorice. These chalcones play a pivotal role when licorice exerts its pharmacological effects. According to the research reports, these compounds have a wide range of biological activities, containing anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidative, antiviral, antidiabetic, antidepressive, hepatoprotective activities, and so on. This review aims to summarize structures and biological activities of chalcones from licorice. We hope that this work can provide a theoretical basis for the further studies of chalcones from licorice.
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Maria Pia GD, Sara F, Mario F, Lorenza S. Biological Effects of Licochalcones. Mini Rev Med Chem 2019; 19:647-656. [PMID: 30049263 DOI: 10.2174/1389557518666180601095420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2017] [Revised: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Medicinal plants and their natural bioactive molecules, are evaluated as the foundation for health preservation and care of humanity. The licorice root, known as "Radix Glycyrrhizae", is a perennial plant that comes from Mediterranean countries, central to southern Russia, Asia, Turkey, Iraq and Iran. The licorice root has been used in traditional Chinese medicines for centuries and has been defined as "the progenitor of herbs". The name 'Licorice' is derived from the ancient Greek word Glukurrhiza, meaning 'sweet root'. It consists of approximately 30 species, however, the most common ones consist of Glycyrrhiza glabra L., Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch and Glycyrrhiza Inflata. In addition, the licorice root contains chalcones, which are a part of an important class of natural products and are precursors of flavonoids. Chemically, chalcones are composed of two aromatic rings associated with α, β-unsaturated α-carbon ketone, representing the prima nucleus of the structure. They have been classified, according to chemical structures, in Licochalcone A, B, C, D, E, F and G. This review aims to highlight all the in vitro and in vivo studies that have been conducted on the licochalcones, extracted from Glycyrrhiza species. The main effects are as follows: anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, antimicrobial, antiviral, antiallergic, antidiabetic, hepatotoxic and osteogenic. It is important to implement the introduction of biologically active natural molecules from the bench (research) to the bedside (clinical practice). However, in the future, it is required to conduct additional studies to validate these biological effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gatta Daniela Maria Pia
- Department of Medicine and Science of Aging, University "G. D'Annunzio", Chieti 66100, Italy
| | - Franceschelli Sara
- Department of Medicine and Science of Aging, University "G. D'Annunzio", Chieti 66100, Italy
| | - Felaco Mario
- Department of Medicine and Science of Aging, University "G. D'Annunzio", Chieti 66100, Italy
| | - Speranza Lorenza
- Department of Medicine and Science of Aging, University "G. D'Annunzio", Chieti 66100, Italy
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Reversine induces caspase-dependent apoptosis of human osteosarcoma cells through extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic signaling pathways. Genes Genomics 2019; 41:657-665. [PMID: 30953339 DOI: 10.1007/s13258-019-00790-1] [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: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 2-(4-morpholinoanilino)-6-cyclohexylaminopurine (reversine) acts as a chemopreventive agent and induces apoptotic cell death in various cancer cells. However, the anticancer effects of reversine on osteosarcoma cells are not clearly established. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of reversine on cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis in human osteosarcoma cells. METHODS Cell viability assay, histological analysis, DAPI staining, caspase activation analysis, flow cytometric analysis and immunoblotting were carried out in MG-63 osteosarcoma cells. RESULTS Reversine inhibited the growth of cells in a dose-dependent manner and induced nuclear condensation and fragmentation. Reversine-treated cells showed caspase-3/7 activation and increased apoptosis versus control cells. FasL, a death ligand associated with extrinsic apoptotic signaling pathways, was significantly up-regulated by reversine treatment. Moreover, the caspase-8, a part of the extrinsic apoptotic pathway, was activated by reversine treatments. Expressions of anti-apoptotic factors such as Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL, components of the mitochondria dependent intrinsic apoptosis pathway, significantly decreased following reversine treatment. The expressions of pro-apoptotic factors such as BAX, BAD and caspase-9 increased by reversine treatments. In addition, reversine activated caspase-3 and Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) to induce cell death. The Z-VAD-fmk significantly inhibited cell death through the suppression of caspase-3 expression in MG-63 cells treated with reversine. CONCLUSION These results suggest that the reversine may inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptotic cell death in MG-63 osteosarcoma cells through both the mitochondria-mediated intrinsic pathway and the death receptor-mediated extrinsic pathway, and may have potential properties for the discovery of anti-cancer agents.
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Pastorino G, Cornara L, Soares S, Rodrigues F, Oliveira MBP. Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): A phytochemical and pharmacological review. Phytother Res 2018; 32:2323-2339. [PMID: 30117204 PMCID: PMC7167772 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 304] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Revised: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
In the last years, consumers are paying much more attention to natural medicines and principles, mainly due to the general sense that natural compounds are safe. On the other hand, there is a growing demand by industry for plants used in traditional medicine that could be incorporated in foods, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, or even pharmaceuticals. Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn. belongs to the Fabaceae family and has been recognized since ancient times for its ethnopharmacological values. This plant contains different phytocompounds, such as glycyrrhizin, 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid, glabrin A and B, and isoflavones, that have demonstrated various pharmacological activities. Pharmacological experiments have demonstrated that different extracts and pure compounds from this species exhibit a broad range of biological properties, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antioxidant, and antidiabetic activities. A few toxicological studies have reported some concerns. This review addresses all those issues and focuses on the pharmacological activities reported for G. glabra. Therefore, an updated, critical, and extensive overview on the current knowledge of G. glabra composition and biological activities is provided here in order to explore its therapeutic potential and future challenges to be utilized for the formulation of new products that will contribute to human well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura Cornara
- DISTAVUniversity of GenoaGenoaItaly
- Istituto di BiofisicaConsiglio Nazionale delle RicercheGenoaItaly
| | - Sónia Soares
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Faculty of PharmacyUniversity of PortoPortoPortugal
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Li LY, Peng JD, Zhou W, Qiao H, Deng X, Li ZH, Li JD, Fu YD, Li S, Sun K, Liu HM, Zhao W. Potent hydrazone derivatives targeting esophageal cancer cells. Eur J Med Chem 2018; 148:359-371. [PMID: 29475156 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.02.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Revised: 11/19/2017] [Accepted: 02/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Hydrazone and their derivatives are a series of highly active molecules, which are widely used as lead compounds for the research and development of new anti-cancer drugs. In this study, 20 compounds were synthesized, based on this scaffold and their in vitro cytotoxicity against 6 cancer cell lines, including EC9706, SMMC-7721, MCF7, PC3, MGC-803 and EC109 was tested. Among them, compound 6p, showed strong anti-proliferative activities on esophageal carcinoma cells: EC9706 and EC109 with IC50 values of 1.09 ± 0.03 and 2.79 ± 0.45 μM, respectively. 6p also significantly induces both EC9706 and EC109 cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase and cell apoptosis, as well as intracellular ROS accumulation, which could be markedly reversed caspase or ROS inhibitor: NAC. Meanwhile, treatment of compound 6p results in significant declined mitochondria membrane potential, increases in the expression of P53 and bax, as well as decrease in Bcl-2. 6p also activates caspase-8/9/3, PARP and Bid, indicating that 6p induces cancer cell apoptosis via the death receptor-mediated extrinsic pathway and the mitochondria-mediated intrinsic pathway. Further studies also proved that 6p does not show obvious side effects at cellular and in vivo levels. Our findings suggested that hydrazone derivative: compound 6p may serve as a lead compound for further optimization against esophageal cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Yu Li
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology, Ministry of Education of China, Co-innovation Center of Henan Province for New Drug R & D and Preclinical Safety, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, PR China
| | - Jia-Di Peng
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology, Ministry of Education of China, Co-innovation Center of Henan Province for New Drug R & D and Preclinical Safety, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, PR China
| | - Wenjuan Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology, Ministry of Education of China, Co-innovation Center of Henan Province for New Drug R & D and Preclinical Safety, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, PR China
| | - Hui Qiao
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology, Ministry of Education of China, Co-innovation Center of Henan Province for New Drug R & D and Preclinical Safety, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, PR China
| | - Xin Deng
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology, Ministry of Education of China, Co-innovation Center of Henan Province for New Drug R & D and Preclinical Safety, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, PR China
| | - Zhou-Hua Li
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology, Ministry of Education of China, Co-innovation Center of Henan Province for New Drug R & D and Preclinical Safety, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, PR China
| | - Ji-Deng Li
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology, Ministry of Education of China, Co-innovation Center of Henan Province for New Drug R & D and Preclinical Safety, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, PR China
| | - Yun-Dong Fu
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology, Ministry of Education of China, Co-innovation Center of Henan Province for New Drug R & D and Preclinical Safety, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, PR China
| | - Song Li
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology, Ministry of Education of China, Co-innovation Center of Henan Province for New Drug R & D and Preclinical Safety, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, PR China
| | - Kai Sun
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology, Ministry of Education of China, Co-innovation Center of Henan Province for New Drug R & D and Preclinical Safety, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, PR China.
| | - Hong-Min Liu
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology, Ministry of Education of China, Co-innovation Center of Henan Province for New Drug R & D and Preclinical Safety, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, PR China.
| | - Wen Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology, Ministry of Education of China, Co-innovation Center of Henan Province for New Drug R & D and Preclinical Safety, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, PR China.
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Kim JE, Yoon G, Shim JH, Cho SS. Broad Spectrum Antimicrobial Activity of Licochalcones A and E against MDR (Multidrug Resistant) Strains of Clinical Origin. Nat Prod Commun 2017. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x1701201123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity of the licochalcones A (1) and E (2) against drug resistant strains of clinical origin. The results indicate that the licochalcones had a broad inhibitory activity against tested bacteria. Compared to vancomycin and teicoplanin, these compounds provided weaker activity against non-MDR Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus but broader activity against MRSA and VRE strains. The results provide promising baseline information for the potential use of 1 and 2 from Glycyrrhiza inflata in the treatment of drug resistant bacterial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jung-Hyun Shim
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Natural Medicine Research Institute, Mokpo National University, Muan, Jeonnam 534-729, Korea
| | - Seung-Sik Cho
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Natural Medicine Research Institute, Mokpo National University, Muan, Jeonnam 534-729, Korea
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