6‑Gingerol suppresses cell viability, migration and invasion via inhibiting EMT, and inducing autophagy and ferroptosis in LPS‑stimulated and LPS‑unstimulated prostate cancer cells

Integrative analysis of network pharmacology and proteomics reveal the protective effect of Xiaoqinglong Decotion on neutrophilic asthma

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Xiaoqinglong Decotion (XQLD) is a commonly used Chinese herbal formula in clinical practice, especially for allergic diseases such as asthma. However, its intrinsic mechanism for the treatment of neutrophilic asthma (NA) remains unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and potential mechanisms of XQLD on NA using network pharmacology and in vivo experiments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

First, the active compounds, potential targets and mechanisms of XQLD against NA were initially elucidated by network pharmacology. Then, OVA/CFA-induced NA mice were treated with XQLD to assess its efficacy. Proteins were then analyzed and quantified using a Tandem Mass Tags approach for differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) to further reveal the mechanisms of NA treatment by XQLD. Finally, the hub genes, critical DEPs and potential pathways were validated.

RESULTS

176 active compounds and 180 targets against NA were identified in XQLD. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network revealed CXCL10, CX3CR1, TLR7, NCF1 and FABP4 as hub genes. In vivo experiments showed that XQLD attenuated inflammatory infiltrates, airway mucus secretion and remodeling in the lungs of NA mice. Moreover, XQLD significantly alleviated airway neutrophil inflammation in NA mice by decreasing the expression of IL-8, MPO and NE. XQLD also reduced the levels of CXCL10, CX3CR1, TLR7, NCF1 and FABP4, which are closely associated with neutrophil inflammation. Proteomics analysis identified 28 overlapping DEPs in the control, NA and XQLD groups, and we found that XQLD inhibited ferroptosis signal pathway (elevated GPX4 and decreased ASCL3) as well as the expression of ARG1, MMP12 and SPP1, while activating the Rap1 signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that inhibition of ARG1, MMP12 and SPP1 expression as well as ferroptosis pathways, and activation of the Rap1 signaling pathway contribute to the therapeutic effect of XQLD on NA.

Emerging trends of phytochemicals as ferroptosis modulators in cancer therapy

Ferroptosis, a novel form of regulated cell death characterized by dependence on iron and lipid peroxidation, has been implicated in a wide range of clinical conditions including neurological diseases, cardiovascular disorders, acute kidney failure, and various types of cancer. Therefore, it is critical to suppress cancer progression and proliferation. Ferroptosis can be triggered in cancer cells and some normal cells by synthetic substances, such as erastin, Ras-selective lethal small molecule-3, or clinical pharmaceuticals. Natural bioactive compounds are traditional drug discovery tools, and some have been therapeutically used as dietary additives or pharmaceutical agents against various malignancies. The fact that natural products have multiple targets and minimal side effects has led to notable advances in anticancer research. Research has indicated that ferroptosis can also be induced by natural compounds during cancer treatment. In this review, we focused on the most recent developments in emerging molecular processes and the significance of ferroptosis in cancer. To provide new perspectives on the future development of ferroptosis-related anticancer medications, we also provide a summary of the implications of natural phytochemicals in triggering ferroptosis through ROS production and ferritinophagy induction in a variety of malignancies.

Ferroptosis and ferroptosis-inducing nanomedicine as a promising weapon in combination therapy of prostate cancer

Incidence and mortality of prostate cancer (PCa) rank in the top five among male tumors. However, single treatment modalities are often restricted due to biochemical recurrence and drug resistance, necessitating the development of new approaches for the combination treatment of castration-resistant and neuroendocrine PCa. Ferroptosis is characterized by the accumulation of iron-overload-mediated lipid peroxidation and has shown promising outcomes in anticancer treatment, prompting us to present a review reporting the application of ferroptosis in the treatment of PCa. First, the process and mechanism of ferroptosis are briefly reviewed. Second, research advances combining ferroptosis-inducing agents and clinical treatment regimens, which exhibit a "two-pronged approach" effect, are further summarized. Finally, the recent progress on ferroptosis-inducing nanomaterials for combination anticancer therapy is presented. This review is expected to provide novel insights into ferroptosis-based combination treatment in drug-resistant PCa.

Deciphering the binding mechanism of gingerol molecules with plasma proteins: implications for drug delivery and therapeutic potential

Ginger is a highly valued herb, renowned globally for its rich content of phenolic compounds. It has been traditionally used to treat various health conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, digestive issues, migraines, Alzheimer's disease, tumor reduction and chronic inflammation. Despite its potential medicinal applications, the therapeutic effectiveness of ginger is hindered by its limited availability and low plasma concentration levels. In this study, we explored the interaction of ginger's primary phenolic compounds, specifically 6-gingerol (6 G), 8-gingerol (8 G) and 10-gingerol (10 G), with plasma proteins which are human serum albumin (HSA) and α-1-acid glycoprotein (AGP). These two plasma proteins significantly influence drug distribution and disposition as they are key binding sites for most drugs. Fluorescence emission spectra indicated strong binding of 6, 8 and 10 G with HSA, with binding constants of 2.03 ± 0.01 × 104 M-1, 4.20 ± 0.01 × 104 M-1 and 6.03 ± 0.01 × 106 M-1, respectively. However, the binding of gingerols with AGP was found to be negligible. Molecular displacement by site-specific probes and molecular docking analyses revealed that gingerols bind at the IIA domain, with stability provided by hydrogen bonds, van der Waals forces, conventional hydrogen bonds, carbon-hydrogen bonds, alkyl and Pi-alkyl interactions. Further, the partial unfolding of the protein was observed upon binding the gingerol compound with HSA. In addition, molecular dynamic simulations demonstrated that gingerols remained stable in the subdomain IIA over 100 ns. This stability, coupled with Molecular Mechanics Generalized Born Surface Area indicating free energies of -43.765, -57.504 and -66.69 kcal/mol for 6, 8 and 10 G, respectively, reinforces the robust binding potential of these compounds. Circular dichroism studies suggested that the interaction of gingerols leads to the minimal transformation of HSA secondary structure, with the pattern being 10 G > 8 G > 6 G, a finding further substantiated by root mean square deviation and root mean square fluctuation fluctuations. These results propose that HSA has a stronger affinity to gingerols than AGP, which could have significant implications on the therapeutic circulating levels of gingerols.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Therapeutic importance and diagnostic function of circRNAs in urological cancers: from metastasis to drug resistance

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a member of non-coding RNAs with no ability in encoding proteins and their aberrant dysregulation is observed in cancers. Their closed-loop structure has increased their stability, and they are reliable biomarkers for cancer diagnosis. Urological cancers have been responsible for high mortality and morbidity worldwide, and developing new strategies in their treatment, especially based on gene therapy, is of importance since these malignant diseases do not respond to conventional therapies. In the current review, three important aims are followed. At the first step, the role of circRNAs in increasing or decreasing the progression of urological cancers is discussed, and the double-edged sword function of them is also highlighted. At the second step, the interaction of circRNAs with molecular targets responsible for urological cancer progression is discussed, and their impact on molecular processes such as apoptosis, autophagy, EMT, and MMPs is highlighted. Finally, the use of circRNAs as biomarkers in the diagnosis and prognosis of urological cancer patients is discussed to translate current findings in the clinic for better treatment of patients. Furthermore, since circRNAs can be transferred to tumor via exosomes and the interactions in tumor microenvironment provided by exosomes such as between macrophages and cancer cells is of importance in cancer progression, a separate section has been devoted to the role of exosomal circRNAs in urological tumors.

Gingerol and/or sorafenib attenuates the DAB-induced HCC and hepatic portal vein dilatation via ATG4/CASP3 and COIIV/COX-2/NF-κB expression

Ginger (Gin) has numerous therapeutic properties. One of Gin's most potent components is 6-gingerol, a naturally occurring phenol. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic impact of gingerol and/or sorafenib on the ATG4/CASP3 and COIIV/COX-2/NF-B Expression as a potential therapy for DAB-induced HCC. Gin was administered to HCC mice induced by p-Dimethylaminoazobenzene (DAB) alone or combined with sorafenib (Sor). Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and oxidative stress malondialdehyde (MDA), as well as biochemical markers including AST, ALT, ALP, Albumin, and Bilirubin, were examined. The expression of oncogenes (COIIV, COX-2, NF-κB, and survivin) and tumor suppressor genes (ATG4 and CASP3) was evaluated using qPCR. According to the results, the levels of MDA have been markedly decreased, while SOD and CAT have been increased. Further, the expression levels of tumor suppressor genes were upregulated, whereas the expression levels of oncogene genes were downregulated. Furthermore, in a dose-dependent manner, gingerol has shown the potential to alleviate hepatic portal vein (PV) dilatation and could offer a reliable therapy for HCC. This suggests combining the two compounds may be more effective than alone and that Gin could be a promising therapeutic option for HCC. The binding of Gin and Sor to the active sites of the target genes prevents them from functioning normally, which in turn stops the pathways from carrying out their oncogenic functions. Additionally, COX-2 inhibition reduces the production of certain pro-inflammatory compounds, which further averts oncogenesis. Conclusively, this study indicated that Gin has cytoprotective properties and anti-cancer activity that may be related to controlling oxidative stress. This effect may be achieved by suppressing the COIIV/COX-2/NF-κB pathway and upregulating the ATG4 /CASP3 pathways.

Novel Insights on Ferroptosis Modulation as Potential Strategy for Cancer Treatment: When Nature Kills

Significance: The multifactorial nature of the mechanisms implicated in cancer development still represents a major issue for the success of established antitumor therapies. The discovery of ferroptosis, a novel form of programmed cell death distinct from apoptosis, along with the identification of the molecular pathways activated during its execution, has led to the uncovering of novel molecules characterized by ferroptosis-inducing properties. Recent advances: As of today, the ferroptosis-inducing properties of compounds derived from natural sources have been investigated and interesting findings have been reported both in vitro and in vivo. Critical Issues: Despite the efforts made so far, only a limited number of synthetic compounds have been identified as ferroptosis inducers, and their utilization is still limited to basic research. In this review, we analyzed the most important biochemical pathways involved in ferroptosis execution, with particular attention to the newest literature findings on canonical and non-canonical hallmarks, together with mechanisms of action of natural compounds identified as novel ferroptosis inducers. Compounds have been classified based on their chemical structure, and modulation of ferroptosis-related biochemical pathways has been reported. Future Directions: The outcomes herein collected represent a fascinating starting point from which to take hints for future drug discovery studies aimed at identifying ferroptosis-inducing natural compounds for anticancer therapies. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 40, 40-85.

Regulation of neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease via nanoparticle-loaded phytocompounds with anti-inflammatory and autophagy-inducing properties

BACKGROUND

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by neuroinflammation linked to amyloid β (Aβ) aggregation and phosphorylated tau (τ) protein in neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). Key elements in Aβ production and NFT assembly, like γ-secretase and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK), contribute to neuroinflammation. In addition, impaired proteosomal and autophagic pathways increase Aβ and τ aggregation, leading to neuronal damage. Conventional neuroinflammation drugs have limitations due to unidirectional therapeutic approaches and challenges in crossing the Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB). Clinical trials for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and other therapeutics remain uncertain. Novel strategies addressing the complex pathogenesis and BBB translocation are needed to effectively tackle AD-related neuroinflammation.

PURPOSE

The current scenario demands for a much-sophisticated theranostic measures which could be achieved via customized engineering and designing of novel nanotherapeutics. As, these therapeutics functions as a double edge sword, having the efficiency of unambiguous targeting, multiple drug delivery and ability to cross BBB proficiently.

METHODS

Inclusion criteria involve selecting recent, English-language studies from the past decade (2013-2023) that explore the regulation of neuroinflammation in neuroinflammation, Alzheimer's disease, amyloid β, tau protein, nanoparticles, autophagy, and phytocompounds. Various study types, including clinical trials, experiments, and reviews, were considered. Exclusion criteria comprised non-relevant publication types, studies unrelated to Alzheimer's disease or phytocompounds, those with methodological flaws, duplicates, and studies with inaccessible data.

RESULTS

In this study, polymeric nanoparticles loaded with specific phytocompounds and coated with an antibody targeting the transferrin receptor (anti-TfR) present on BBB. Thereafter, the engineered nanoparticles with the ability to efficiently traverse the BBB and interact with target molecules within the brain, could induce autophagy, a cellular process crucial for neuronal health, and exhibit potent anti-inflammatory effects. Henceforth, the proposed combination of desired phytocompounds, polymeric nanoparticles, and anti-TfR coating presents a promising approach for targeted drug delivery to the brain, with potential implications in neuroinflammatory conditions such as Alzheimer's disease.

Eriocitrin inhibits epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) in lung adenocarcinoma cells via triggering ferroptosis

INTRODUCTION

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most prevalent pathological subtype of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), characterized by a high propensity for relapse and metastasis due to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of cancer cells. Ferroptosis, a newly discovered regulated cell death modality, is interconnected with the EMT process in certain cancers. Eriocitrin, a natural flavonoid compound, exerts anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to investigate the potential inhibitory effect of eriocitrin on lung adenocarcinoma metastasis and explore whether its underlying mechanism involves ferroptosis induction in cancer cells.

METHODS

The CCK8 assay and wound healing assay and transwell were conducted to determine the cell viability and migration ability of A549 and H1299 cells, respectively. EMT process was assessed by western blot and RT-PCR to detect protein and mRNA levels of EMT markers. ROS and cell iron were measured to determine ferroptosis level.

RESULTS

Eriocitrin treatment significantly inhibited cell viability and migration ability in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, eriocitrin administration for 24 hours resulted in enhanced expression of E-cadherin, while downregulating vimentin, N-cadherin and snail expression, indicating marked repression of the EMT process. Additionally, eriocitrin significantly induced ferroptosis in A549 and H1299 cells, as evidenced by increased ROS levels, downregulation of Nrf-2, SLC7A11 and GPX4 expression, and enhanced cellular iron accumulation. Moreover, pretreatment with the ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin-1 effectively abrogated the inhibitory effects of eriocitrin on EMT.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings further support the anti-cancer properties of eriocitrin, as evidenced by its ability to inhibit the EMT process in LUAD cells, which is partially mediated through induction of ferroptosis in cancer cells.

Modulation of carcinogenesis with selected GRAS nutraceuticals via Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway

Keap1-Nrf2 is a fundamental signaling cascade known to promote or prevent carcinogenesis. Extensive studies identify the key target of modulatory aspects of Keap1-Nrf2 signaling against cancer. Nutraceuticals are those dietary agents with many health benefits that have immense potential for cancer chemoprevention. The nutritional supplements known as nutraceuticals are found to be one of the most promising chemoprevention agents. Upon investigating the dual nature of Nrf2, it became clear that, in addition to shielding normal cells from numerous stresses, Nrf2 may also promote the growth of tumors. In the present review, we performed a systematic analysis of the role of 12 different nutraceuticals like curcumin, sulforaphane, resveratrol, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) from fish oil, lycopene, soybean, kaempferol, allicin, thymoquinone, quercetin, gingerol, and piperine in modulating the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling mechanism. Among these, 12 Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) certified nutraceuticals, sulforaphane is the most extensively studied compound in modulating Keap1-Nrf signaling. Even though there is much evidence at preclinical levels, further high-quality research is still required to validate the potential role of these nutraceuticals in Keap1-Nrf2 modulation.

Metformin induces ferroptosis through the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling in lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Metformin is the most frequently prescribed medication for the treatment of type II diabetes mellitus and has played an anti-tumor potential in a variety of cancer types. Metformin can inhibit the growth of many cancer cells through various mechanisms, including ferroptosis. However, it is still unclear whether metformin can induce ferroptosis in lung cancer.

METHODS

This study evaluated the anti-tumor effect of metformin by detecting the levels of oxidative stress factors, the levels of ferrous ions, and the expression of ferroptosis-related genes in A549 and H1299 lung cancer cell lines treated with or without metformin.

RESULTS

The results showed that metformin treatment increased the levels of MDA, ROS and iron ions, while decreased the levels of GSH, T-SOD and CAT. Meanwhile, metformin treatment reduced the protein expression levels of Gpx4 and SLC7A11, Nrf2 and HO-1, while the addition of ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin-1 reversed the reduction.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrated that metformin exerts anti-tumor effects by inducing ferroptosis through the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway in lung cancer cells, providing a theoretical basis for drug therapy of lung cancer patients.

Autophagy Regulators in Cancer

Autophagy plays a complex impact role in tumor initiation and development. It serves as a double-edged sword by supporting cell survival in certain situations while also triggering autophagic cell death in specific cellular contexts. Understanding the intricate functions and mechanisms of autophagy in tumors is crucial for guiding clinical approaches to cancer treatment. Recent studies highlight its significance in various aspects of cancer biology. Autophagy enables cancer cells to adapt to and survive unfavorable conditions by recycling cellular components. However, excessive or prolonged autophagy can lead to the self-destruction of cancer cells via a process known as autophagic cell death. Unraveling the molecular mechanisms underlying autophagy regulation in cancer is crucial for the development of targeted therapeutic interventions. In this review, we seek to present a comprehensive summary of current knowledge regarding autophagy, its impact on cancer cell survival and death, and the molecular mechanisms involved in the modulation of autophagy for cancer therapy.

Ferroptosis landscape in prostate cancer from molecular and metabolic perspective

Prostate cancer is a major disease that threatens men's health. Its rapid progression, easy metastasis, and late castration resistance have brought obstacles to treatment. It is necessary to find new effective anticancer methods. Ferroptosis is a novel iron-dependent programmed cell death that plays a role in various cancers. Understanding how ferroptosis is regulated in prostate cancer will help us to use it as a new way to kill cancer cells. In this review, we summarize the regulation and role of ferroptosis in prostate cancer and the relationship with AR from the perspective of metabolism and molecular pathways. We also discuss the feasibility of ferroptosis in prostate cancer treatment and describe current limitations and prospects, providing a reference for future research and clinical application of ferroptosis.

Epithelial-Mesenchymal Plasticity: Implications for Ferroptosis Vulnerability and Cancer Therapy

Cancers polarized to a mesenchymal or poorly differentiated state can often evade cell death induced by conventional therapies. The epithelial-mesenchymal transition is involved in lipid metabolism and increases polyunsaturated fatty acid levels in cancer cells, contributing to chemo- and radio-resistance. Altered metabolism in cancer enables invasion and metastasis but is prone to lipid peroxidation under oxidative stress. Cancers with mesenchymal rather than epithelial signatures are highly vulnerable to ferroptosis. Therapy-resistant persister cancer cells show a high mesenchymal cell state and dependence on the lipid peroxidase pathway, which can respond more sensitively to ferroptosis inducers. Cancer cells may survive under specific metabolic and oxidative stress conditions, and targeting this unique defense system can selectively kill only cancer cells. Therefore, this article summarizes the core regulatory mechanisms of ferroptosis in cancer, the relationship between ferroptosis and epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity, and the implications of epithelial-mesenchymal transition for ferroptosis-based cancer therapy.