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Wen L, Chan BCL, Qiu MH, Leung PC, Wong CK. Artemisinin and Its Derivatives as Potential Anticancer Agents. Molecules 2024; 29:3886. [PMID: 39202965 PMCID: PMC11356986 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29163886] [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: 07/24/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Artemisinin is a natural sesquiterpene lactone obtained from the traditional Chinese medicinal herb Artemisia annua L. (qinghao). Artemisinin and its derivatives share an unusual endoperoxide bridge and are extensively used for malaria treatment worldwide. In addition to antimalarial activities, artemisinin and its derivatives have been reported to exhibit promising anticancer effects in recent decades. In this review, we focused on the research progress of artemisinin and its derivatives with potential anticancer activities. The pharmacological effects, potential mechanisms, and clinical trials in cancer therapy of artemisinin and its derivatives were discussed. This review may facilitate the future exploration of artemisinin and its derivatives as effective anticancer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luan Wen
- Institute of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (L.W.); (P.-C.L.); (C.-K.W.)
| | - Ben Chung-Lap Chan
- Institute of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (L.W.); (P.-C.L.); (C.-K.W.)
| | - Ming-Hua Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China;
| | - Ping-Chung Leung
- Institute of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (L.W.); (P.-C.L.); (C.-K.W.)
| | - Chun-Kwok Wong
- Institute of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (L.W.); (P.-C.L.); (C.-K.W.)
- Department of Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Li Dak Sum Yip Yio Chin R & D Centre for Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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2
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Yang C, Wei W, Hu F, Zhao X, Yang H, Song X, Sun Z. Dihydroartemisinin suppresses the tumorigenesis of esophageal carcinoma by elevating DAB2IP expression in a NFIC-dependent manner. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03163-y. [PMID: 38789636 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03163-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) has been identified to have the anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities. Disabled homolog 2 interacting protein (DAB2IP) is a well-recognized tumor suppressor. Both DHA and DAB2IP were proven to have suppressing effects on esophageal carcinoma (ESCA) tumorigenesis. However, whether DHA regulated ESCA cells via DAB2IP and its mechanism are still vague. Functional analyses were conducted using MTT, tube formation, sphere formation, and transwell assays in vitro as well as Tumor formation experiments in mice. Levels of genes and proteins were assayed by qRT-PCR and western blotting analyses. The interaction between DAB2IP and Nuclear Factor I C (NFIC) was confirmed using bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase reporter assay. DHA treatment suppressed ESCA cell angiogenesis, stemmess, migration, and invasion. DAB2IP level was decreased in ESCA tissues and cells, and DHA elevated DAB2IP expression in ESCA cells. Functionally, DAB2IP overexpression impaired ESCA cell angiogenesis, stemmess, migration and invasion. Mechanistically, NFIC had binding sites on the promoter region and directly targeted DAB2IP. DHA could up-regulate DAB2IP expression via NFIC. Moreover, NFIC was also decreased in ESCA tissues and cells, and its overexpression had anticancer activity in ESCA cells. In addition, DAB2IP knockdown reversed the anticancer effects of NFIC or DHA on ESCA cells. In further in vivo analysis, DHA also suppressed ESCA growth by regulating DAB2IP expression. DHA suppressed the tumorigenesis of ESCA by elevating DAB2IP expression in an NFIC-dependent manner, suggesting the potential clinical application of DHA in ESCA treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Yang
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, No.136, Jingzhou Street, Xiangcheng District, Xiangyang City, 441021, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Wei
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, No.136, Jingzhou Street, Xiangcheng District, Xiangyang City, 441021, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Fen Hu
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, No.136, Jingzhou Street, Xiangcheng District, Xiangyang City, 441021, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xing Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, No.136, Jingzhou Street, Xiangcheng District, Xiangyang City, 441021, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Hanxue Yang
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, No.136, Jingzhou Street, Xiangcheng District, Xiangyang City, 441021, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiujun Song
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, No.136, Jingzhou Street, Xiangcheng District, Xiangyang City, 441021, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhihua Sun
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, No.136, Jingzhou Street, Xiangcheng District, Xiangyang City, 441021, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China.
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3
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Zhang H, Zhang J, Luan S, Liu Z, Li X, Liu B, Yuan Y. Unraveling the Complexity of Regulated Cell Death in Esophageal Cancer: from Underlying Mechanisms to Targeted Therapeutics. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:3831-3868. [PMID: 37564206 PMCID: PMC10411468 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.85753] [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: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Esophageal cancer (EC) is the sixth most common and the seventh most deadly malignancy of the digestive tract, representing a major global health challenge. Despite the availability of multimodal therapeutic strategies, the existing EC treatments continue to yield unsatisfactory results due to their limited efficacy and severe side effects. Recently, knowledge of the subroutines and molecular mechanisms of regulated cell death (RCD) has progressed rapidly, enhancing the understanding of key pathways related to the occurrence, progression, and treatment of many types of tumors, including EC. In this context, the use of small-molecule compounds to target such RCD subroutines has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for patients with EC. Thus, in this review, we firstly discussed the risk factors and prevention of EC. We then outlined the established treatment regimens for patients with EC. Furthermore, we not only briefly summarized the mechanisms of five best studied subroutines of RCD related to EC, including apoptosis, ferroptosis, pyroptosis, necroptosis and autophagy, but also outlined the recent advances in the development of small-molecule compounds and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) targeting the abovementioned RCD subroutines, which may serve as a new therapeutic strategy for patients with EC in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haowen Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Siyuan Luan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Zhiying Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Xiaokun Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yong Yuan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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4
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Liu S, Li L, Ren D. Anti-Cancer Potential of Phytochemicals: The Regulation of the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition. Molecules 2023; 28:5069. [PMID: 37446730 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28135069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
A biological process called epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) allows epithelial cells to change into mesenchymal cells and acquire some cancer stem cell properties. EMT contributes significantly to the metastasis, invasion, and development of treatment resistance in cancer cells. Current research has demonstrated that phytochemicals are emerging as a potential source of safe and efficient anti-cancer medications. Phytochemicals could disrupt signaling pathways related to malignant cell metastasis and drug resistance by suppressing or reversing the EMT process. In this review, we briefly describe the pathophysiological properties and the molecular mechanisms of EMT in the progression of cancers, then summarize phytochemicals with diverse structures that could block the EMT process in different types of cancer. Hopefully, these will provide some guidance for future research on phytochemicals targeting EMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangyu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Lingyu Li
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Dongmei Ren
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Jinan 250012, China
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5
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Wang H. Network pharmacology- and molecular docking-based approaches to unveil the pharmacological mechanisms of dihydroartemisinin against esophageal carcinoma. Front Genet 2022; 13:1017520. [PMID: 36506308 PMCID: PMC9732420 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.1017520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) is an active metabolite of artemisinin and its derivatives, which is a potent drug extensively applied in clinical treatment of malaria. The antitumor properties of DHA have received increasing attention. However, there is no systematic summary on the pharmacological mechanisms of DHA against esophageal carcinoma (ESCA). The present study implemented network pharmacology- and molecular docking-based approaches to unveil the pharmacological mechanisms of DHA against ESCA. Methods: DHA targets were accessed through integrating the SwissTargetPrediction, HERB, as well as BATMAN-TCM platforms. In TCGA-ESCA dataset, genes with differential expression were screened between 161 ESCA and 11 normal tissue specimens. DHA targets against ESCA were obtained through intersection. Their biological significance was evaluated with functional enrichment analysis. A prognostic signature was established via uni- and multivariate cox regression analyses. DHA-target interactions were predicted via molecular docking. Molecular dynamics simulation was implemented to examine the stability of DHA binding to potential targets. Results: The study predicted 160 DHA targets as well as 821 genes with differential expression in ESCA. Afterwards, 16 DHA targets against ESCA were obtained, which remarkably correlated to cell cycle progression. The ADORA2B- and AURKA-based prognostic signature exhibited the reliability and independency in survival prediction. The stable docking of DHA-ADORA2B and DHA-AURKA was confirmed. Conclusion: Collectively, this study systematically revealed the basis and mechanism of DHA against ESCA through targeting multi-target and multi-pathway mechanisms, and thus offered theoretical and scientific basis for the clinical application of DHA.
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6
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Shao BZ, Chai NL, Yao Y, Li JP, Law HKW, Linghu EQ. Autophagy in gastrointestinal cancers. Front Oncol 2022; 12:975758. [PMID: 36091106 PMCID: PMC9459114 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.975758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal cancers are a group of cancers occurred in gastrointestinal tissues with high morbidity and mortality rate. Although numerous studies were conducted on the investigation of gastrointestinal cancers, the real mechanisms haven’t been discovered, and no effective methods of prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal cancers have been developed. Autophagy, a vital catabolic process in organisms, have been proven to participate in various mechanisms and signaling pathways, thus producing a regulatory effect on various diseases. The role of autophagy in gastrointestinal cancers remains unclear due to its high complexity. In this review, firstly, the biological features of autophagy will be introduced. Secondly, the role of autophagy in three popular gastrointestinal cancers, namely esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, and colorectal cancer will be described and discussed by reviewing the related literature. We aimed to bring novel insights in exploring the real mechanisms for gastrointestinal cancers and developing effective and efficient therapeutic methods to treat gastrointestinal cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Zong Shao
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, Beijing, China
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, Faculty of Health and Social Science, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hunghom, Hong Kong SAR, China
- *Correspondence: En-Qiang Linghu, ; Helen Ka Wai Law, ; Bo-Zong Shao,
| | - Ning-Li Chai
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Yao
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, Beijing, China
| | - Jin-Ping Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, Beijing, China
| | - Helen Ka Wai Law
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, Faculty of Health and Social Science, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hunghom, Hong Kong SAR, China
- *Correspondence: En-Qiang Linghu, ; Helen Ka Wai Law, ; Bo-Zong Shao,
| | - En-Qiang Linghu
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: En-Qiang Linghu, ; Helen Ka Wai Law, ; Bo-Zong Shao,
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7
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LC-MS/TOF Characterization and Stability Study of Artesunate in Different Solvent Systems. SEPARATIONS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/separations9080218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Artemisinin (ART) is a sesquiterpene lactone and a popular malaria drug used in many parts of the world. Artesunate (ARTS) is a semi-synthetic derivative of ART with improved pharmacokinetic properties. However, the half-life of ARTS is less than an hour in vivo. The analysis of this drug in vitro in different solvent systems using LC-MS/TOF showed a solvent-driven breakdown. ARTS breakdown formed several derivatives, including dihydroartemisinin (DHA), artemether (ARTM) and DHA-dimer among others, at different rates in different solvent composition systems. The change in temperature from room temperature to physiological temperature (37 °C) was found to enhance the rate of the ARTS breakdown. In methanol, ARTS mainly formed ARTM with a chromatographic peak decrease of about 3.13%, while methanol and water (90:10) v/v mainly gave rise to DHA and ARTM with about an 80% chromatographic peak decrease. On the other hand, ARTS in methanol and ammonium acetate (85:15) v/v formed DHA, ARTM, DHA-dimer and other reaction peaks with about a 97% peak decrease and the formation of an orange solution pointing to a molecular re-arrangement reaction. These results have an important bearing on research on the analysis of artemisinin drugs conducted on these common solvents.
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8
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Rao Q, Li R, Yu H, Xiang L, He B, Wu F, Zhao G. Effects of dihydroartemisinin combined with cisplatin on proliferation, apoptosis and migration of HepG2 cells. Oncol Lett 2022; 24:275. [PMID: 35782905 PMCID: PMC9247656 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2022.13395] [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: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cisplatin (DDP) is a potent and widely applied chemotherapeutic agent. However, its clinical efficacy for the treatment of liver cancer is limited by adverse effects and the development of resistance. Combinatorial therapy may alleviate these issues. Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) is a first-generation derivative of artemisinin. The effects of DDP on liver cancer when applied in combination with DHA have not previously been studied. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effects of DHA combined with DDP on HepG2 cells and their potential underlying molecular mechanisms. HepG2 cells were treated with different concentrations of DHA and/or DDP. Cell Counting Kit-8 assay was used to assess the cell viability. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were quantified using flow cytometry, acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) fluorescent dual staining and the colony formation assay. Cell migration was quantified using the Transwell and wound healing assays. The HepG2 cell protein expression levels of Fas, Fas-associated death domain (FADD), procaspase-3, cleaved caspase-3, pro-caspase-8, cleaved caspase-8, Bax, Bcl-2, E-cadherin and N-cadherin, were detected via western blotting. Gelatin zymography was used to assess the levels of MMP-9 secreted by HepG2 cells into the supernatant. Following combined DHA and DDP treatment, the percentage of apoptotic cells was significantly increased, whereas cell proliferation and migration were significantly reduced, compared with cells treated with DDP only. DHA and DPP in combination significantly inhibited the expression of MMP-9, significantly increased the protein expression levels of Fas, FADD, Bax and E-cadherin, significantly increased the ratio of cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved caspase-8 to their precursor proteins and significantly decreased the protein expression levels of Bcl-2 and N-cadherin. The findings of the present study suggested that, DHA may confer synergistic effects with DDP in potentially promoting apoptosis and inhibiting the epithelial-mesenchymal transition for the treatment of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Rao
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430065, P.R. China
| | - Ruochan Li
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430065, P.R. China
| | - He Yu
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430065, P.R. China
| | - Lei Xiang
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430065, P.R. China
| | - Bin He
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430065, P.R. China
| | - Fenghua Wu
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430065, P.R. China
| | - Gang Zhao
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430065, P.R. China
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9
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Zhou X, Suo F, Haslinger K, Quax WJ. Artemisinin-Type Drugs in Tumor Cell Death: Mechanisms, Combination Treatment with Biologics and Nanoparticle Delivery. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:395. [PMID: 35214127 PMCID: PMC8875250 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14020395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Artemisinin, the most famous anti-malaria drug initially extracted from Artemisia annua L., also exhibits anti-tumor properties in vivo and in vitro. To improve its solubility and bioavailability, multiple derivatives have been synthesized. However, to reveal the anti-tumor mechanism and improve the efficacy of these artemisinin-type drugs, studies have been conducted in recent years. In this review, we first provide an overview of the effect of artemisinin-type drugs on the regulated cell death pathways, which may uncover novel therapeutic approaches. Then, to overcome the shortcomings of artemisinin-type drugs, we summarize the recent advances in two different therapeutic approaches, namely the combination therapy with biologics influencing regulated cell death, and the use of nanocarriers as drug delivery systems. For the former approach, we discuss the superiority of combination treatments compared to monotherapy in tumor cells based on their effects on regulated cell death. For the latter approach, we give a systematic overview of nanocarrier design principles used to deliver artemisinin-type drugs, including inorganic-based nanoparticles, liposomes, micelles, polymer-based nanoparticles, carbon-based nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers and niosomes. Both approaches have yielded promising findings in vitro and in vivo, providing a strong scientific basis for further study and upcoming clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kristina Haslinger
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Biology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands; (X.Z.); (F.S.)
| | - Wim J. Quax
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Biology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands; (X.Z.); (F.S.)
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10
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Ma Z, Woon CYN, Liu CG, Cheng JT, You M, Sethi G, Wong ALA, Ho PCL, Zhang D, Ong P, Wang L, Goh BC. Repurposing Artemisinin and its Derivatives as Anticancer Drugs: A Chance or Challenge? Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:828856. [PMID: 35035355 PMCID: PMC8758560 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.828856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer has become a global health problem, accounting for one out of six deaths. Despite the recent advances in cancer therapy, there is still an ever-growing need for readily accessible new therapies. The process of drug discovery and development is arduous and takes many years, and while it is ongoing, the time for the current lead compounds to reach clinical trial phase is very long. Drug repurposing has recently gained significant attention as it expedites the process of discovering new entities for anticancer therapy. One such potential candidate is the antimalarial drug, artemisinin that has shown anticancer activities in vitro and in vivo. In this review, major molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the anticancer effect of artemisinin and its derivatives are summarised. Furthermore, major mechanisms of action and some key signaling pathways of this group of compounds have been reviewed to explore potential targets that contribute to the proliferation and metastasis of tumor cells. Despite its established profile in malaria treatment, pharmacokinetic properties, anticancer potency, and current formulations that hinder the clinical translation of artemisinin as an anticancer agent, have been discussed. Finally, potential solutions or new strategies are identified to overcome the bottlenecks in repurposing artemisinin-type compounds as anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaowu Ma
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Clariis Yi-Ning Woon
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chen-Guang Liu
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Jun-Ting Cheng
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Mingliang You
- Hangzhou Cancer Institute, Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China.,Affiliated Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Andrea Li-Ann Wong
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Haematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Paul Chi-Lui Ho
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Daping Zhang
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Peishi Ong
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Lingzhi Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Boon-Cher Goh
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Haematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute, Singapore, Singapore
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11
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Cao L, Wang X, Zhu G, Li S, Wang H, Wu J, Lu T, Li J. Traditional Chinese Medicine Therapy for Esophageal Cancer: A Literature Review. Integr Cancer Ther 2021; 20:15347354211061720. [PMID: 34825600 PMCID: PMC8649093 DOI: 10.1177/15347354211061720] [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] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Esophageal cancer (EC) is the sixth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Western medicine has played a leading role in its treatment, but its prognosis remains unsatisfactory. Therefore, the development of effective therapies is important. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been practiced for thousands of years, and involves taking measures before diseases occur, deteriorate, and recur. Interestingly, there is growing evidence that TCM can improve the therapeutic effects in reversing precancerous lesions, inhibiting the recurrence and metastasis of EC. In this article, we review traditional Chinese herbs and formulas that have preventive and therapeutic effects on EC, summarize the application and research status of TCM in patients with EC, and discuss its shortcomings and prospects in the context of translational, evidence-based, and precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luchang Cao
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xinmiao Wang
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Guanghui Zhu
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Shixin Li
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Heping Wang
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jingyuan Wu
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Taicheng Lu
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Li
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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12
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Yu R, Jin G, Fujimoto M. Dihydroartemisinin: A Potential Drug for the Treatment of Malignancies and Inflammatory Diseases. Front Oncol 2021; 11:722331. [PMID: 34692496 PMCID: PMC8529146 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.722331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) has been globally recognized for its efficacy and safety in the clinical treatment of malaria for decades. Recently, it has been found that DHA inhibits malignant tumor growth and regulates immune system function in addition to anti-malaria. In parasites and tumors, DHA causes severe oxidative stress by inducing excessive reactive oxygen species production. DHA also kills tumor cells by inducing programmed cell death, blocking cell cycle and enhancing anti-tumor immunity. In addition, DHA inhibits inflammation by reducing the inflammatory cells infiltration and suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Further, genomics, proteomics, metabolomics and network pharmacology of DHA therapy provide the basis for elucidating the pharmacological effects of DHA. This review provides a summary of the recent research progress of DHA in anti-tumor, inhibition of inflammatory diseases and the relevant pharmacological mechanisms. With further research of DHA, it is likely that DHA will become an alternative therapy in the clinical treatment of malignant tumors and inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Yu
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Guihua Jin
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Manabu Fujimoto
- Department of Dermatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan.,Laboratory of Cutaneous Immunology, Osaka University Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka, Japan
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13
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Artemisinin DNA Base Interaction Studies in Presence of Fe(II): LC/TOF MS Separation of Reaction Products. SEPARATIONS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/separations8090161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Artemisinin (ART) is a sesquiterpene lactone and a popular malaria drug with potential anticancer properties. In this work, LC/TOF/MS, was used to investigate the reaction of ART with DNA bases. ART-deoxyadenosine and ART-deoxycytidine interactions, were studied in the presence of iron II ions. ART-deoxyadenosine and ART-deoxycytidine reaction mixtures gave chromatographic signatures that remained fairly unchanged at room temperature but grew after incubation at 37 °C. The change in temperature from room temperature to 37 °C was the main driver of adduct formation in these reactions. ART was found to react with Fe(II) ions as observed from several new chromatographic peaks. ART-deoxyadenosine as well as ART-deoxycytidine in the presence of Fe(II) ions resulted in formation of new chromatographic signatures of adducts consisting of DNA bases and ART. It was clear that addition of iron (II) to DNA base-ART mixtures gave rise to new reaction products mediated by a different reaction mechanism. Studies of ART reactions with DNA in vitro is key in elucidating elusive mechanism of this drug.
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Ma Y, Zhang P, Zhang Q, Wang X, Miao Q, Lyu X, Cui B, Ma H. Dihydroartemisinin suppresses proliferation, migration, the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and EMT via TNKS in gastric cancer. Oncol Lett 2021; 22:688. [PMID: 34457043 PMCID: PMC8358739 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.12949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer is a common malignancy worldwide. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this malignancy remain unclear and there are a lack of effective drugs. The present study aimed to investigate the antitumor effect of Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) or inhibition of Tankyrases (TNKS), and determine the underlying molecular mechanisms of gastric cancer. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence analyses were performed to detect the expression levels of TNKS, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and Wnt/β-catenin pathway-related proteins in gastric cancer tissues and adjacent normal tissues. The Cell Counting Kit-8 assay was performed to assess the viability of HGC-27 and AGS cells following treatment with different concentrations of HLY78 (a Wnt activator) or DHA. Following treatment with HLY78, DHA or small interfering (si)-TNKS1/si-TNKS2, colony formation and migratory abilities were assessed via the colony formation, wound healing and Transwell assays. Furthermore, western blot and immunofluorescence analyses were performed to detect the expression levels of TNKS, EMT- and Wnt/β-catenin-related proteins. The results demonstrated that the expression levels of TNKS, AXI2, β-catenin, N-cadherin and Vimentin were upregulated, whereas E-cadherin expression was downregulated in gastric cancer tissues compared with normal tissues. Furthermore, HLY78 and DHA suppressed the viability of HGC-27 and AGS cells, in a concentration-independent manner. Notably, TNKS knockdown or treatment with DHA suppressed colony formation, migration, TNKS expression, EMT and the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Opposing effects were observed following treatment with HLY78, which were ameliorated following co-treatment with DHA. Taken together, these results suggest that DHA or inhibition of TNKS can suppress the proliferation and migration of gastric cancer cells, which is partly associated with inactivation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and EMT process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanmei Ma
- Department of Pathology, The First Hospital of Yulin, Yulin, Shaanxi 719000, P.R. China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Department of Pathology, The First Hospital of Yulin, Yulin, Shaanxi 719000, P.R. China
| | - Qilong Zhang
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Hospital of Yulin, Yulin, Shaanxi 719000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaofei Wang
- Department of Pathology, North China University of Science and Technology Affiliated Hospital, Tangshan, Hebei 063000, P.R. China
| | - Qiong Miao
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Hospital of Yulin, Yulin, Shaanxi 719000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaolan Lyu
- Department of Pathology, The First Hospital of Yulin, Yulin, Shaanxi 719000, P.R. China
| | - Bo Cui
- Department of Pathology, The First Hospital of Yulin, Yulin, Shaanxi 719000, P.R. China
| | - Honghong Ma
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Hospital of Yulin, Yulin, Shaanxi 719000, P.R. China
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Abstract
The major problems with cancer therapy are drug-induced side effects. There is an urgent need for safe anti-tumor drugs. Artemisinin is a Chinese herbal remedy for malaria with efficacy and safety. However, several studies reported that artemisinin causes neurotoxicity and cardiotoxicity in animal models. Recently, nanostructured drug delivery systems have been designed to improve therapeutic efficacy and reduce toxicity. Artemisinin has been reported to show anticancer properties. The anticancer effects of artemisinin appear to be mediated by inducing cell cycle arrest, promoting ferroptosis and autophagy, inhibiting cell metastasis. Therefore, the review is to concentrate on mechanisms and molecular targets of artemisinin as anti-tumor agents. We believe these will be important topics in realizing the potential of artemisinin and its derivatives as potent anticancer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongning Li
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhao
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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Luo J, Odaka Y, Huang Z, Cheng B, Liu W, Li L, Shang C, Zhang C, Wu Y, Luo Y, Yang S, Houghton PJ, Guo X, Huang S. Dihydroartemisinin Inhibits mTORC1 Signaling by Activating the AMPK Pathway in Rhabdomyosarcoma Tumor Cells. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061363. [PMID: 34205996 PMCID: PMC8226784 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Dihydroartemisinin (DHA), an anti-malarial drug, has been shown to possess potent anticancer activity, partly by inhibiting the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling. However, how DHA inhibits mTORC1 is still unknown. Here, using rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) as a model, we found that DHA reduced cell proliferation and viability in RMS cells, but not those in normal cells, which was associated with inhibition of mTORC1. Mechanistically, DHA did not bind to mTOR or FK506 binding protein 12 (FKBP12). In addition, DHA neither inhibited insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R), phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), and extracellular signal-regulated kinase ½ (Erk1/2), nor activated phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) in the cells. Rather, DHA activated AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Pharmacological inhibition of AMPK, ectopic expression dominant negative or kinase-dead AMPK, or knockdown of AMPKα attenuated the inhibitory effect of DHA on mTORC1 in the cells. Additionally, DHA was able to induce dissociation of regulatory-associated protein of mTOR (raptor) from mTOR and inhibit mTORC1 activity. Moreover, treatment with artesunate, a prodrug of DHA, dose-dependently inhibited tumor growth and concurrently activated AMPK and suppressed mTORC1 in RMS xenografts. The results indicated that DHA inhibits mTORC1 by activating AMPK in tumor cells. Our finding supports that DHA or artesunate has a great potential to be repositioned for treatment of RMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Luo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA 71130-3932, USA; (J.L.); (Y.O.); (Z.H.); (B.C.); (W.L.); (L.L.); (C.S.); (C.Z.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.)
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yoshinobu Odaka
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA 71130-3932, USA; (J.L.); (Y.O.); (Z.H.); (B.C.); (W.L.); (L.L.); (C.S.); (C.Z.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.)
| | - Zhu Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA 71130-3932, USA; (J.L.); (Y.O.); (Z.H.); (B.C.); (W.L.); (L.L.); (C.S.); (C.Z.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.)
- Research Center of Aquatic Organism Conservation and Water Ecosystem Restoration in Anhui Province, Anqing Normal University, Anqing 246011, China
| | - Bing Cheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA 71130-3932, USA; (J.L.); (Y.O.); (Z.H.); (B.C.); (W.L.); (L.L.); (C.S.); (C.Z.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.)
| | - Wang Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA 71130-3932, USA; (J.L.); (Y.O.); (Z.H.); (B.C.); (W.L.); (L.L.); (C.S.); (C.Z.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.)
| | - Lin Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA 71130-3932, USA; (J.L.); (Y.O.); (Z.H.); (B.C.); (W.L.); (L.L.); (C.S.); (C.Z.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.)
| | - Chaowei Shang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA 71130-3932, USA; (J.L.); (Y.O.); (Z.H.); (B.C.); (W.L.); (L.L.); (C.S.); (C.Z.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.)
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA 71130-3932, USA; (J.L.); (Y.O.); (Z.H.); (B.C.); (W.L.); (L.L.); (C.S.); (C.Z.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.)
- Key Laboratory of National Health and Family Planning Commission on Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi 214064, China
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi 214064, China
| | - Yang Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA 71130-3932, USA; (J.L.); (Y.O.); (Z.H.); (B.C.); (W.L.); (L.L.); (C.S.); (C.Z.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.)
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China;
| | - Yan Luo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA 71130-3932, USA; (J.L.); (Y.O.); (Z.H.); (B.C.); (W.L.); (L.L.); (C.S.); (C.Z.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.)
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China;
| | - Shengyong Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China;
| | - Peter J. Houghton
- Greehey Children’s Cancer Research Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229-3000, USA;
| | - Xiaofeng Guo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Correspondence: (X.G.); (S.H.); Tel.: +86-20-38295980 (X.G.); +1-318-675-7759 (S.H.)
| | - Shile Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA 71130-3932, USA; (J.L.); (Y.O.); (Z.H.); (B.C.); (W.L.); (L.L.); (C.S.); (C.Z.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.)
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA 71130-3932, USA
- Correspondence: (X.G.); (S.H.); Tel.: +86-20-38295980 (X.G.); +1-318-675-7759 (S.H.)
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Wang X, Song W, Zhang F, Huang R. Dihydroartemisinin Inhibits TGF-β-Induced Fibrosis in Human Tenon Fibroblasts via Inducing Autophagy. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2021; 15:973-981. [PMID: 33688170 PMCID: PMC7937381 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s280322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Background The formation of hypertrophic scars (HS) can result in the failure of glaucoma surgery, and fibrosis is known to be closely associated with the progression of HS. Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) has been reported to inhibit the progression of fibrosis; however, whether DHA can alleviate the formation of HS remains unclear. Methods In the present study, in order to examine the effects of DHA on the progression of HS, human Tenon's capsule fibroblasts (HTFs) were isolated from patients who underwent glaucoma surgery. In addition, Western blot analysis, microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3 α staining and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR were performed to detect protein and mRNA expression levels in the HTFs, respectively. Cell proliferation was detected by Ki67 staining. Flow cytometry was used to examine apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in the HTFs. Results The results revealed that TGF-β promoted the proliferation and fibrosis of HTFs; however, DHA significantly reversed the effects of TGF-β by increasing cell autophagy. In addition, DHA notably induced the apoptosis of TGF-β-stimulated HTFs by increasing the ROS levels, while these increases were partially reversed by 3-methyladenine. Furthermore, DHA notably increased the expression of microRNA (miR)-145-5p in HTFs in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion The present study demonstrated that DHA inhibits the TGF-β-induced fibrosis of HTFs by inducing autophagy. These findings may aid in the development of novel agents for the prevention of the formation of HS following glaucoma surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyuan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150001, People's Republic of China
| | - Wuqi Song
- Department of Microbiology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150001, People's Republic of China
| | - Fengmin Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150001, People's Republic of China
| | - Renping Huang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150001, People's Republic of China
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Dai X, Zhang X, Chen W, Chen Y, Zhang Q, Mo S, Lu J. Dihydroartemisinin: A Potential Natural Anticancer Drug. Int J Biol Sci 2021; 17:603-622. [PMID: 33613116 PMCID: PMC7893584 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.50364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) is an active metabolite of artemisinin and its derivatives (ARTs), and it is an effective clinical drug widely used to treat malaria. Recently, the anticancer activity of DHA has attracted increasing attention. Nevertheless, there is no systematic summary on the anticancer effects of DHA. Notably, studies have shown that DHA exerts anticancer effects through various molecular mechanisms, such as inhibiting proliferation, inducing apoptosis, inhibiting tumor metastasis and angiogenesis, promoting immune function, inducing autophagy and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. In this review, we comprehensively summarized the latest progress regarding the anticancer activities of DHA in cancer. Importantly, the underlying anticancer molecular mechanisms and pharmacological effects of DHA in vitro and in vivo are the focus of our attention. Interestingly, new methods to improve the solubility and bioavailability of DHA are discussed, which greatly enhance its anticancer efficacy. Remarkably, DHA has synergistic anti-tumor effects with a variety of clinical drugs, and preclinical and clinical studies provide stronger evidence of its anticancer potential. Moreover, this article also gives suggestions for further research on the anticancer effects of DHA. Thus, we hope to provide a strong theoretical support for DHA as an anticancer drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoshuo Dai
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China.,State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450052, PR China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China
| | - Yihuan Chen
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China
| | - Qiushuang Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China
| | - Saijun Mo
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China
| | - Jing Lu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450001, PR China.,State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450052, PR China
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Xu C, Zhang H, Mu L, Yang X. Artemisinins as Anticancer Drugs: Novel Therapeutic Approaches, Molecular Mechanisms, and Clinical Trials. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:529881. [PMID: 33117153 PMCID: PMC7573816 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.529881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Artemisinin and its derivatives have shown broad-spectrum antitumor activities in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, outcomes from a limited number of clinical trials provide encouraging evidence for their excellent antitumor activities. However, some problems such as poor solubility, toxicity and controversial mechanisms of action hamper their use as effective antitumor agents in the clinic. In order to accelerate the use of ARTs in the clinic, researchers have recently developed novel therapeutic approaches including developing novel derivatives, manufacturing novel nano-formulations, and combining ARTs with other drugs for cancer therapy. The related mechanisms of action were explored. This review describes ARTs used to induce non-apoptotic cell death containing oncosis, autophagy, and ferroptosis. Moreover, it highlights the ARTs-caused effects on cancer metabolism, immunosuppression and cancer stem cells and discusses clinical trials of ARTs used to treat cancer. The review provides additional insight into the molecular mechanism of action of ARTs and their considerable clinical potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cangcang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Huihui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Lingli Mu
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaoping Yang
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
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