Astragaloside IV inhibits metastasis in hepatoma cells through the suppression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition via the Akt/GSK-3β/β-catenin pathway

The role of Shenqi Fuzheng injection as adjuvant therapy for breast cancer: an overview of systematic reviews and meta-analyses

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer (BC) is the most frequent malignancy in the world. Chemotherapy (CT) is a common treatment for BC but is accompanied by toxicity and side effects. Shenqi Fuzheng Injection (SFI) is an adjuvant therapy with promising results in improving efficacy and reducing toxicity in clinical studies. This overview of systematic reviews and meta-analysis (SRs/MAs) aimed to summarize the benefits and evaluate the quality of evidence supporting SFI adjuvant as CT for BC.

METHODS

A systematic search for SRs/MAs of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on SFI treatment for BC was performed by searching PubMed, Web of Science, EMbase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, and SinoMed databases from inception to October 1, 2022. The quality of SRs/MAs was evaluated using AMSTAR-2, PRISMA 2020, ROBIS, and GRADE by two reviewers. The corrected covered area (CCA) was used to quantify the degree of duplication of the original SRs/MAs. Finally, quantitative analysis of RCTs was conducted using RevMan 5.4 software. This study was registered with PROSPERO, CRD42022377290.

RESULTS

Six SRs/MAs including 61 RCTs with 5593 patients were included in this study. Studies were published between 2015 and 2019, the original RCTs ranged from 7-49, with sample sizes ranging from 336-1989. The quantitative meta-analysis found that adjuvant CT of SFI improved the clinical response rate (RR=1.37, 95% CI=1.28, 1.46; P<0.00001) and the KPS score (RR=1.66, 95% CI 1.54, 1.79, P<0.00001) of patients with BC. In terms of immune function, CD3+ (SMD=1.51, 95% CI 0.91, 2.10; P<0.00001), CD4+ (SMD=1.87, 95% CI 1.18, 2.56; P<0.00001), CD4+/CD8+ (SMD=0.86, 95% CI 0.48, 1.23; P<0.00001), and NK cell levels (SMD=0.94, 95% CI 0.63, 1.24; P<0.00001) in the adjuvant CT group SFI were better than those with CT alone. Adverse reactions following SFI adjuvant CT showed reduced incidence of leukopenia (RR=0.53, 95% CI 0.46, 0.62; P<0.00001) and gastrointestinal reactions (RR=0.48, 95% CI 0.39, 0.58; P<0.00001). However, the GRADE results showed 'very low' to 'moderate' evidence for the 42 outcomes, without high-quality evidence supporting them, limited mainly by deficiencies in the design of RCTs (42/42, 100.00%), inconsistency (19/42, 45.24%), publication bias (41/42, 97.62%), and inaccuracy (3/42, 7.14%). The unsatisfactory results of AMSTAR-2, PRISMA 2020, and ROBIS were limited to lack of registration of study protocols, explanation of inclusion basis of RCTs, description of funding sources for the included studies, incomplete search strategy and screening process, addressing heterogeneity and sensitivity, and reporting potential conflicts of interest.

CONCLUSION

Adjuvant CT with SFI for BC had better benefits and a lower risk of adverse events. The methodology and quality of the evidence are generally low, highlighting a need of greater attention during study implementation. More objective and high-quality studies are needed to verify the efficacy of adjuvant CT with SFI in clinical decision-making for BC.

Astragaloside in cancer chemoprevention and therapy

ABSTRACT

Tumor chemoprevention and treatment are two approaches aimed at improving the survival of patients with cancers. An ideal anti-tumor drug is that which not only kills tumor cells but also alleviates tumor-causing risk factors, such as precancerous lesions, and prevents tumor recurrence. Chinese herbal monomers are considered to be ideal treatment agents due to their multi-target effects. Astragaloside has been shown to possess tumor chemoprevention, direct anti-tumor, and chemotherapeutic drug sensitization effects. In this paper, we review the effects of astragaloside on tumor prevention and treatment and provide directions for further research.

Roles of conventional and complementary therapies in recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common type of cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. HCC has a reported recurrence rate of 70%-80% after 5 years of follow-up. Controlling tumor recurrence is the most critical factor associated with HCC mortality. Conventional salvage therapies for recurrent HCC include re-hepatectomy or liver transplantation, transcatheter arterial chemoembolization, Y-90, target therapy, and immunotherapy; however, these conventional treatment modalities have yet to achieve consistently favorable outcomes. Meanwhile, previous studies have demonstrated that conventional therapies in combination with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), acupuncture, moxibustion or dietary supplements could notably benefit patients with HCC recurrence by strengthening and augmenting the overall management strategy. However, systemic reviews related to the interactions between complementary therapies and conventional therapy in recurrent HCC are limited. In this review, we discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying the functions of complementary therapies for recurrent HCC, which include augmenting the local control to improve the congestion status of primary tumors and reducing multicentric tumor occurrence via inducing autophagy, apoptosis or cell cycle arrest. TCM and its derivatives may play important roles in helping to control HCC recurrence by inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal transition, migration, invasion, and metastasis, inhibiting cancer stem cells, and ameliorating drug resistance.

Astragaloside IV, as a potential anticancer agent

Cancer is a global intractable disease, and its morbidity and mortality are increasing year by year in developing countries. Surgery and chemotherapy are often used to treat cancer, but they result in unsatisfactory outcomes, such as severe side effects and drug resistance. With the accelerated modernization of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), an increasing body of evidence has shown that several TCM components have significant anticancer activities. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) is considered the main active ingredient of the dried root of Astragalus membranaceus. AS-IV exhibits various pharmacological effects, such as anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, antifibrotic, and anticancer activities. AS-IV possesses a wide range of activities, such as the modulation of reactive oxygen species-scavenging enzyme activities, participation in cell cycle arrest, induction of apoptosis and autophagy, and suppression of cancer cell proliferation, invasiveness, and metastasis. These effects are involved in the inhibition of different malignant tumors, such as lung, liver, breast, and gastric cancers. This article reviews the bioavailability, anticancer activity, and mechanism of AS-IV and provides suggestions for further research of this TCM.

Research progress on the antitumor effects of astragaloside IV

One of the most important and effective components of Astragalus membranaceus is astragaloside IV (AS-IV), which can exert anti-tumor effects through various pathways. For instance, AS-IV exerts an anti-tumor effect by acting at the cellular level, regulating the phenotype switch of tumor-associated macrophages, or inhibiting the development of tumor cells. Furthermore, AS-IV inhibits tumor cell progression by enhancing its sensitivity to antitumor drugs or reversing the drug resistance of tumor cells. This article reviews the different mechanisms of AS-IV inhibition of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), migration, proliferation, and invasion of tumor cells, inducing apoptosis and improving the sensitivity of anti-tumor drugs. This review summarizes recent progress in the current research into AS-IV anti-tumor effect and provides insight on the next anti-tumor research of AS-IV.

Overcoming therapeutic resistance to platinum-based drugs by targeting Epithelial–Mesenchymal transition

Platinum-based drugs (PBDs), including cisplatin, carboplatin, and oxaliplatin, have been widely used in clinical practice as mainstay treatments for various types of cancer. Although there is firm evidence of notable achievements with PBDs in the management of cancers, the acquisition of resistance to these agents is still a major challenge to efforts at cure. The introduction of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) concept, a critical process during embryonic morphogenesis and carcinoma progression, has offered a mechanistic explanation for the phenotypic switch of cancer cells upon PBD exposure. Accumulating evidence has suggested that carcinoma cells can enter a resistant state via induction of the EMT. In this review, we discussed the underlying mechanism of PBD-induced EMT and the current understanding of its role in cancer drug resistance, with emphasis on how this novel knowledge can be exploited to overcome PBD resistance via EMT-targeted compounds, especially those under clinical trials.

Astragaloside IV pre-treatment attenuates PM2.5-induced lung injury in rats: Impact on autophagy, apoptosis and inflammation

BACKGROUND

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) with an aerodynamic diameter of less than 2.5 μm, exerts serious lung toxicity. At present, effective prevention measures and treatment modalities for pulmonary toxicity caused by PM2.5 are lacking. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) is a natural product that has received increasing attention from researchers for its unique biological functions.

PURPOSE

To investigate the protective effects of AS-IV on PM2.5-induced pulmonary toxicity and identify its potential mechanisms.

METHODS

The rat model of PM2.5-induced lung toxicity was created by intratracheal instillation of PM2.5 dust suspension. The investigation was performed with AS-IV or in combination with autophagic flux inhibitor (Chloroquine) or AMP-sensitive protein kinase (AMPK)-specific inhibitor (Compound C). Apoptosis was detected by terminal deoxy-nucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) and western blotting. Autophagy was detected by immunofluorescence staining, autophagic flux measurement, western blotting, and transmission electron microscopy. The AMPK/mTOR pathway was analyzed by western blotting. Inflammation was analyzed by western blotting and suspension array.

RESULTS

AS-IV prevented histopathological injury, inflammation, autophagy dysfunction, apoptosis, and changes in AMPK levels induced by PM2.5. AS-IV increased autophagic flux and inhibited apoptosis and inflammation by activating the AMPK/ mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. However, AS-IV had no protective effect on PM2.5-induced lung injury following treatment with Compound C or Chloroquine.

CONCLUSION

AS-IV prevented PM2.5-induced lung toxicity by restoring the balance among autophagy, apoptosis, and inflammation in rats by activating the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway.

Astragaloside IV Ameliorates Streptozotocin Induced Pancreatic β-Cell Apoptosis and Dysfunction Through SIRT1/P53 and Akt/GSK3β/Nrf2 Signaling Pathways

BACKGROUND

Absolute or relative lack of insulin secretion caused by pancreatic β-cell dysfunction can lead to diabetes. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV), the main components of the traditional Chinese medicine Astragalus, has anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties, and exerts anti-diabetic pharmacological effects.

PURPOSE

To explore whether AS-IV can protect the apoptosis and dysfunction of pancreatic β-cells induced by streptozotocin (STZ) and its underlying molecular mechanism.

METHODS

STZ-induced pancreatic β-cell line INS-1 was treated with different concentrations of AS-IV, then cell viability, apoptosis, oxidative stress and insulin secretion was assessed by CCK-8, TUNEL staining, Western blot, commercial kits and qRT-PCR, respectively. The expression of proteins involved in Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1)/p53 and Akt/glycogen synthase kinase-3 β (GSK3β)/nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling was measured by Western blot assay. Besides, Akt inhibitor MK-2206 and SIRT1 inhibitor EX-527 were used to co-treat STZ-induced INS-1 cells in the presence of AS-IV, and the above experiments were repeated.

RESULTS

AS-IV increased the cell viability of INS-1 cells induced by STZ. AS-IV also reduced the increase in apoptosis rate and reversed STZ-induced down-regulation of Bcl-2 and up-regulation of Bax and Cleaved caspase 3. In addition, AS-IV significantly reduced STZ-induced malondialdehyde upregulation and reduced superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase levels. Furthermore, the use of AS-IV was found to increase the insulin secretion capacity of INS-1 cells with impaired function, along with the increase of the mRNA levels of insulin 1 and insulin 2. Mechanism studies further showed that MK-2206 and EX-527 reversed the protective effect of AS-IV against STZ-induced injury on INS-1 cells.

CONCLUSION

AS-IV exerted cytoprotective effect on STZ-induced INS-1 cells through regulating SIRT1/p53 and Akt/GSK3β/Nrf2 signaling pathways. These findings are expected to provide new supplements to the molecular mechanism of AS-IV in the treatment of diabetes.

Modulation of Long Non-Coding RNAs by Different Classes of Secondary Metabolites from Plants: A Mini-Review on Antitumor Effects

The broad pharmacological spectrum of plants is related to their secondary metabolism, which is responsible for the synthesis of different compounds that have multiple effects on cellular physiology. Among the biological effects presented by phytochemicals, their use for the prevention and treatment of cancer can be highlighted. This occurs due to several mechanisms of antitumor action demonstrated by these compounds, including regulation of the cell signaling pathways and inhibition of tumor growth. In this way, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) appear to be promising targets for the treatment of cancer. Their deregulation has already been related to a variety of clinical-pathological parameters. However, the effects of secondary metabolites on lncRNAs are still restricted. For this reason, the present review aimed to gather data on phytochemicals with action on lncRNAs in order to confirm their possible antitumor potential. According to the literature, terpenoid and flavonoid are the main examples of secondary metabolites involved with lncRNAs activity. In addition, the lncRNAs H19, CASC2, HOTAIR, NKILA, CCAT1, MALAT1, AFAP1-AS1, MEG3, and CDKN2B-AS1 can be highlighted as important targets in the search for new anti-tumor agents since they act as modulating pathways related to cell proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis, cell migration and invasion. Finally, challenges for the use of natural products as a commercial drug were also discussed. The low yield, selectivity index and undesirable pharmacokinetic parameters were emphasized as a difficulty for obtaining these compounds on a large scale and for improving the potency of its biological effect. However, the synthesis and/or development of formulations were suggested as a possible approach to solve these problems. All of these data together confirm the potential of secondary metabolites as a source of new anti-tumor agents acting on lncRNAs.

Astragaloside IV inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma by continually suppressing the development of fibrosis and regulating pSmad3C/3L and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Astragalus is a medicinal herb used in China for the prevention and treatment of diseases such as diabetes and cancer. As one of the main active ingredients of astragalus, Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) has a wide range of pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammation and anti-cancer effects.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Different phosphorylated forms of Smad3 differentially regulate the progression of hepatic carcinoma. The phosphorylation of the COOH-terminal of Smad3 (pSmad3C) and activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway inhibits hepatic carcinoma, while phosphorylation of the linker region of Smad3 (pSmad3L) promotes progression. Thus, pSmad3C/3L and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways are potential targets for drug of anti-cancer development. AS-IV is anti-apoptotic and can inhibit hepatocellular carcinoma cell (HCC) proliferation, invasion, and tumor growth in nude mice. However, it is not clear whether AS-IV has a therapeutic effect on inhibiting the progression of primary liver cancer by regulating the pSmad3C/3L and Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether AS-IV inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma by regulating pSmad3C/3L and Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

primary liver cancer in mice induced by DEN/CCl₄/C₂H₅OH (DCC) and HSC-T6/HepG2 cell models activated by TGF-β₁ was investigated for the mechanisms of AS-IV. In vivo assays included liver biopsy, histopathology and post-mortem analysis included immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescent, and Western blotting analysis, and in vitro assays included immunofluorescent, and Western blotting analysis.

RESULTS

AS-IV significantly inhibited the development of primary liver cancer, reflecting improved liver biopsy, histopathology. The incidence and multiplicity of primary liver cancer were markedly decreased by AS-IV treatment at the 20th week. AS-IV had observable effects on the TGF-β₁/Smad and Nrf2/HO-1 expression in vivo, especially up-regulated pSmad3C, pNrf2, HO-1, and NQO1, while it down-regulated pSmad2C, pSmad2L, pSmad3L, PAI-1, and α-SMA at the 12th week and the 20th week. Furthermore, in vitro analysis further confirmed that AS-IV regulated the expression of pSmad3C/3L and Nrf2/HO-1 pathway in HSC-T6 and HepG2 cells activated by TGF-β₁.

CONCLUSION

AS-IV administration delays the occurrence of primary liver cancer by continually suppressing the development of fibrosis, the mechanism of the therapeutic effect involving the regulation of the pSmad3C/3L and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways, especially in regulation reversibility and antagonism of pSmad3C and pSmad3L and promoting the phosphorylation of Nrf2.

Traditional Chinese medicine for prevention and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma: A focus on epithelial-mesenchymal transition

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent malignant cancers worldwide. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which endows epithelial cells with mesenchymal properties, plays an important role in the early stages of metastasis. Conventional cancer therapies have promising effects, but issues remain, such as high rates of metastasis and drug resistance. Thus, exploring and evaluating new therapies is an urgent need. Traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have been acknowledged for their multi-target and coordinated intervention effects against HCC. Accumulating evidence indicates that TCM can inhibit the malignancy of cells and the progression of EMT in HCC. However, studies on the effects of TCM on EMT in HCC are scarce. In this review, we summarized recent developments in anti-EMT TCMs and formulae, focusing on their underlying pharmacological mechanisms, to provide a foundation for further research on the exact mechanisms through which TCM affects EMT in HCC.

Ethanol extract of Ardisiae Japonicae Herba inhibits hepatoma carcinoma cell proliferation in vitro through regulating lipid metabolism

Objective

The aim of this study is to discover the possible working mechanisms of Ardisiae Japonicae Herba (AJH) on hepatoma carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

In this study, ethanol extract of AJH was prepared and used to treat HCC cell in vitro. Furthermore, a genomic wide RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed to screen deregulated genes in HCC cells after the treatment of AJH extract. The gene and protein expression related to lipid metabolism in HCC cells were also investigated to validate the results obtained from RNA-seq.

Results

AJH extract could inhibit HCC cell proliferation in vitro. RNA-seq analysis has identified 1,601 differentially expressed genes (DEGs, fold change ≥ 2.0 or fold change ≤ 0.5, P < 0.05) in HCC after AJH extract treatment, which included 225 up-regulated genes and 1,376 down-regulated genes. KEGG pathway analysis of DEGs demonstrated that lipid metabolism was a potential pathway related to AJH treatment. In agreement with the RNA-seq data, qPCR and Western-blot analysis indicated that expression of genes and proteins related to lipid metabolism (SREBP1, ACC, ACLY and FASN) were significantly down-regulated in AJH treatment group as compared with the control group. Furthermore, AJH extract could also decrease lipid contents and cellular free fatty acid levels in HCC cells.

Conclusion

Ethanol extract of AJH could inhibit HCC cell proliferation in vitro, the possible mechanism may be related to the inhibition of lipid metabolism.

Protective role of astragaloside IV in gastric cancer through regulation of microRNA-195-5p-mediated PD-L1

AIM

Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) was reported to exert anti-cancer function in many cancers, but its actions in gastric cancer (GC) remain unclear. In the present study, we tried to elaborate the underlying mechanism by which AS-IV regulated the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and angiogenesis of GC cells.

METHODS

The expressions of hsa-miR-15b-5p, hsa-miR-15a-5p, hsa-miR-195-5p, hsa-miR-424-5p and hsa-miR-497-5p in GC tissues and adjacent normal tissues were predicted by TCGA database. SGC7901 or MGC803 cells were treated with AS-IV, or transfected with miR-195-5p inhibitor/mimic or pcDNA3.1-PD-L1 followed by detection of cell proliferation, EMT and angiogenesis. The target relation between miR-195-5p and PD-L1 was confirmed by dual luciferase reporter gene assay.

RESULTS

Elevated hsa-miR-15b-5p, hsa-miR-15a-5p and hsa-miR-424-5p expressions were found in GC tissues, while decreased hsa-miR-195-5p and hsa-miR-497-5p expressions were observed in GC tissues. AS-IV inhibits EMT and angiogenesis in GC. PD-L1 was a potential target of miR-195-5p. Down-regulation of miR-195-5p or elevated PD-L1 expression reverses the inhibitory effect of AS-IV on EMT and angiogenesis of GC cells.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated that AS-IV inhibited EMT and angiogenesis in GC through upregulation of miR-195-5p, highlighting the potential therapeutic effect of AS-IV on GC via miR-195-5p-regulated PD-L1.

Molecular mechanisms of astragaloside‑IV in cancer therapy (Review)

Radix Astragali (RA) is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and astragaloside IV (AS-IV) is the most critical component of RA. Previous studies have demonstrated that AS-IV exerts effects on the myocardium, nervous system and endocrine system, among others. In the present review article, data from studies conducted over the past 20 years were collated, which have evaluated the effects of AS-IV on tumors. The mechanisms of action of AS-IV on malignant cells both in vivo and in vitro were summarized and it was demonstrated that AS-IV plays a vital role, particularly in inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis, promoting the apoptosis of tumor cells, enhancing immune function and preventing drug resistance. Moreover, AS-IV controls several epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT)-related and autophagy-related pathways, such as the phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT), Wnt/β-catenin, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/SMAD signaling pathways, which are commonly affected in the majority of tumors. The present review provides new perspectives on the functions of AS-IV and its role as an adjuvant treatment in cancer chemotherapy.

Astragaloside IV Induces Apoptosis, G1-Phase Arrest and Inhibits Anti-apoptotic Signaling in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

BACKGROUND/AIM

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary malignancy of the liver and the third leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Although multiple chemotherapies options are available for HCC, chemo-induced toxicity is inevitable during clinical treatment. Therefore, identifying possible adjuvant agents with both liver-protective and antitumor effects is critical. Herbal medicines have chemopreventive and anti-HCC effect, such as Juzen taiho-to and Sho-saiko-to. Astragaloside IV is a compound extracted from the Chinese medical herb Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge. with liver protection potential. However, whether astragaloside IV may also possess tumor-inhibitory capability and its underlying mechanism is remaining unknown.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Viability analysis, cell-cycle analysis, apoptosis analysis, western blotting analysis and invasion trans-well assay were performed to identify tumor-inhibitory potential of astragaloside IV on HCC cells (SK-Hep1 and Hep3B cells).

RESULTS

We found that astragaloside IV may induce cytotoxicity and extrinsic/intrinsic apoptosis effect, but also trigger G₁ arrest in HCC cells. The expression of anti-apoptotic proteins of HCC were all reduced by astragaloside IV. Additionally, astragaloside IV also suppressed HCC cell invasion ability.

CONCLUSION

Astragaloside IV effectively suppressed HCC cell proliferation, invasion and anti-apoptosis in vitro.

BYSL Promotes Glioblastoma Cell Migration, Invasion, and Mesenchymal Transition Through the GSK-3β/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway

BYSL, which encodes the human bystin protein, is a sensitive marker for astrocyte proliferation during brain damage and inflammation. Previous studies have revealed that BYSL has important roles in embryo implantation and prostate cancer infiltration. However, the role and mechanism of BYSL in glioblastoma (GBM) cell migration and invasion remain unknown. We found that knockdown of BYSL inhibited cell migration and invasion, downregulated the expression of mesenchymal markers (e.g., β-catenin and N-cadherin), and upregulated the expression of epithelial marker E-cadherin in GBM cell lines. Overexpression of BYSL promoted GBM cell migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). In addition, the role of BYSL in promoting EMT was further confirmed in a glioma stem cell line derived from a GBM patient. Mechanistically, overexpression of BYSL increased the phosphorylation of GSK-3β and the nuclear distribution of β-catenin. Inhibition of GSK-3β by 1-Azakenpaullone could partially reverse the effects of BYSL downregulation on the transcriptional activity of β-catenin, the expression of EMT markers, and GBM cell migration/invasion. Moreover, immunohistochemical analysis showed strong expression of BYSL in GBM tissues, which was positively correlated with markers of mesenchymal GBM. These results suggest that BYSL promotes GBM cell migration, invasion, and EMT through the GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling pathway.

Astragaloside IV enhanced carboplatin sensitivity in prostate cancer by suppressing AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway

In our study, we explored the effect of astragaloside IV (AgIV) on carboplatin chemotherapy in prostate cancer cell lines in vitro and in vivo. Cell viability assay, colony formation assay, flow cytometry, Western blot, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and tumor xenograft growth assay were conducted. We found that AgIV significantly decreased the half-maximal inhibitory concentration of carboplatin in prostate cancer cell lines LNCap and PC-3. Moreover, AgIV enhanced the effect of carboplatin in suppressing colony formation and inducing cell apoptosis. A low-dose carboplatin treatment upregulated N-cadherin and Vimentin expression and downregulated E-cadherin expression, but this effect was abolished by combining with AgIV. Carboplatin treatment increased the levels of p-AKT and p-p65 and decreased p-IκBα, but AgIV treatment suppressed this. In addition, AgIV synergized with carboplatin to suppress tumor xenograft growth of PC-3 cells, and decreased pAKT and p-p65 levels in vivo. Our results suggested that AgIV enhanced carboplatin sensitivity in prostate cancer cell lines by suppressing AKT/NF-κB signaling, thus suppressed epithelial-mesenchymal transition induced by carboplatin. Our findings provided a new mechanism for AgIV in overcoming drug resistance of platinum-based chemotherapy and suggested a potential combination therapy of AgIV and carboplatin in prostate cancer.

Antagonistic effects of IL-17 and Astragaloside IV on cortical neurogenesis and cognitive behavior after stroke in adult mice through Akt/GSK-3β pathway

We aimed to investigate the exact effect of IL-17 on regulating neural stem cells (NSCs) stemness and adult neurogenesis in ischemic cortex after stroke, how Astragaloside IV(As-IV) regulated IL-17 expression and the underlying mechanism. Photochemical brain ischemia model was established and IL-17 protein expression was observed at different time after stroke in WT mice. At 3 days after stroke, when IL-17 expression peaked, IL-17 knock out (KO) mice were used to observe cell proliferation and neurogenesis in ischemic cortex. Then, As-IV was administered intravenously to assess cell apoptosis, proliferation, neurogenesis, and cognitive deficits by immunochemistry staining, western blots, and animal behavior tests in WT mice. Furthermore, IL-17 KO mice and As-IV were used simultaneously to evaluate the mechanism of cell apoptosis and proliferation after stroke in vivo. Besides, in vitro, As-IV and recombinant mouse IL-17A was administered, respectively, into NSCs culture, and then their diameters, viable cell proliferation and pathway relevant protein was assessed. The results showed knocking out IL-17 contributed to regulating PI3K/Akt pathway, promoting NSCs proliferation, and neurogenesis after ischemic stroke. Moreover, As-IV treatment helped inhibit neural apoptosis, promote the neurogenesis and eventually relieve mice anxiety after stroke. Unsurprisingly, IL-17 protein expression could be downregulated by As-IV in vivo and in vitro and they exerted antagonistic effect on neurogenesis by regulating Akt/GSK-3β pathway, with significant regulation for apoptosis. In conclusion, IL-17 exerts negative effect on promoting NSCs proliferation, neurogenesis and cognitive deficits after ischemic stroke, which could be reversed by As-IV.

Astragaloside IV suppresses development of hepatocellular carcinoma by regulating miR-150-5p/β-catenin axis

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a common malignant tumor, has been regarded as a leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) was reported to participate in the regulation of multiple tumors. However, the role of AS-IV in HCC was still unclear in HCC. Bioinformatics analysis and function or mechanism experiments including RT-qPCR, MTT assay, flow cytometry, Western blot, luciferase reporter assay and xenografts assays were applied to investigate the function of AS-IV, miR-150-5p and CTNNB1. We discovered that AS-IV treatment was supposed to significantly increase miR-150-5p level. In addition, AS-IV accelerated cell apoptosis by inducing miR-150-5p in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, AS-IV increased cell apoptosis rate through reducing β-catenin level in vitro and in vivo. In detail, AS-IV triggered a decline of Bax and a rise of Bcl-2 in HCC cells and xenograft tissues. In mechanism, we validated the combination between miR-150-5p and CTNNB1. Moreover, miR-150-5p could negatively regulate CTNNB1 level by binding to its3'UTR. Finally, rescue assay demonstrated that CTNNB1 overexpression partially rescued the inhibitive effect on tumor growth and promotive influence on cell apoptosis caused by miR-150-5p amplification. The up-regulation of miR-150-5p induced by AS-IV suppressed the progression of HCC by repressing β-catenin, providing a new molecular target for the utilization of AS-IV In the treatment of HCC.

Yiqi Huoxue Recipe Improves Liver Regeneration in Rats after Partial Hepatectomy via JNK Pathway

The liver is the only visceral organ that exhibits a remarkable capability of regenerating in response to partial hepatectomy (PH) or chemical injury. Improving liver regeneration (LR) ability is the basis for the favourable treatment outcome of patients after PH, which can serve as a potential indicator for postoperative survival. The present study aimed to investigate the protective effects of Yiqi Huoxue recipe (YQHX) on LR after PH in rats and further elucidate its underlying mechanism. A two-thirds PH rat model was used in this study. Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups: sham-operated, PH, YQHX + PH, and Fuzheng Huayu decoction (FZHY) + PH groups. All rats were sacrificed under anesthesia at 24 and 72 h after surgery. The rates of LR were calculated, and the expression levels of cyclin D1 and c-jun were determined by immunohistochemical staining. The protein levels of p-JNK1/2, JNK1/2, p-c-jun, c-jun, Bax, and Bcl-2 were detected by Western blotting, while the mRNA levels of JNK1, JNK2, c-jun, Bax, and Bcl-2 were examined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). At the corresponding time points, YQHX and FZHY administration dramatically induced the protein levels of p-JNK1/2 compared to the PH group (p < 0.05), while FZHY + PH group showed prominently increase in p-JNK1/2 protein levels compared to the YQHX + PH group (p < 0.05). A similar trend was observed for the expression levels of p-c-jun. Compared to the PH group, YQHX and FZHY markedly reduced the mRNA and protein expression levels of Bax at 24 h after PH, while those in the FZHY + PH group decreased more obviously (p < 0.05). Besides, in comparison with the PH group, YQHX and FZHY administration predominantly upregulated the mRNA and protein expression levels of Bcl-2 at 24 and 72 h after PH (p < 0.05). In conclusion, YQHX improves LR in rats after PH by inhibiting hepatocyte apoptosis via the JNK signaling pathway.

Astragaloside IV suppresses transforming growth factor-β1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition through inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin pathway in glioma U251 cells

Astragaloside IV (AS#IV) has previously demonstrated antitumoractivity. We investigated the effect and mechanisms of AS#IV in relation to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), viainterference with the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in gliomaU251 cells. Induction of glioma U251 cells by transforming growthfactor (TGF)#β1 activated EMT, including switching E#cadherin toN-cadherin and altering the expression of Wnt/β-catenin signalingpathway components such as vimentin, β-catenin, and cyclin-D1.AS-IV inhibited the viability, invasion, and migration of TGF-β1-induced glioma U251 cells. AS-IV also interfered with the TGF#β1-induced Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in glioma U251 cells.These findings indicate that AS#IV prohibits TGF#β1-induced EMTby disrupting the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in glioma U251 cells. AS#IV may thus be a potential candidate agent for treating glioma andother central nervous system tumors.

Ginsenoside Rg1 Alleviates Podocyte EMT Passage by Regulating AKT/GSK3 β/β-Catenin Pathway by Restoring Autophagic Activity

Background

Diabetic nephropathy (DN), a complication of diabetes, is the result of high glucose-induced pathological changes in podocytes, such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Autophagy is an important mechanism of podocyte repair. Ginsenoside Rg1, the active ingredient of ginseng extract, has antifibrotic and proautophagic effects. Therefore, we hypothesized that ginsenoside Rg1 can reverse podocyte EMT via autophagy and alleviate DN.

Aim

This study aimed to investigate the effect of ginsenoside Rg1 on DN rats and high glucose-induced podocyte EMT by regulating the AKT/GSK3β/β/

Methods

Diabetic rats induced by STZ injection were treated with 50 mg/kg ginsenoside Rg1 for 8 weeks, and the renal functional, metabolic, and histopathological indices were evaluated. DN was simulated in vitro by exposing podocytes to high glucose levels and treated with ginsenoside Rg1. The expression of EMT and autophagy-related markers was analyzed in vivo and in vitro by exposing podocytes to high glucose levels and treated with ginsenoside Rg1. The expression of EMT and autophagy-related markers was analyzed

Results

Ginsenoside Rg1 significantly alleviated renal fibrosis and podocyte EMT in diabetic rats, and podocytes exposed to high glucose levels, which was abolished by the autophagy inhibitor 3-MA. Furthermore, ginsenoside Rg1 regulated the AKT/GSK3 β/β/

Conclusion

Ginsenoside Rg1 alleviated podocyte EMT by enhancing AKT/GSK3β/β-catenin pathway-mediated autophagy, indicating its therapeutic potential for DN and other glomerular diseases.β/β/

Astragaloside IV derived from Astragalus membranaceus: A research review on the pharmacological effects

Decoctions prepared from the roots of Astragali Radix are known as "Huangqi" and are widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for treatment of viral and bacterial infections, inflammation, as well as cancer. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV), one of the major compounds from the aqueous extract of Astragalus membranaceus, is a cycloartane-type triterpene glycoside chemical. To date, many studies in cellular and animal models have demonstrated that AS-IV possesses potent protective effects in cardiovascular, lung, kidney and brain. Based on studies over the past several decades, this review systematically summarizes the pharmacological effects, pharmacokinetics and the toxicity of AS-IV. We analyze in detail the pharmacological effects of AS-IV on neuroprotection, liver protection, anti-cancer and anti-diabetes, attributable to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic properties, and the roles in enhancement of immunity, attenuation of the migration and invasion of cancer cells and improvement of chemosensitivity of chemotherapy drugs. In addition, the latest developments in the combination of AS-IV and other active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine or chemical drugs are detailed. These pharmacological effects are associated with multiple signaling pathways, including the Raf-MEK-ERK pathway, EGFR-Nrf2 signaling pathway, Akt/PDE3B signaling pathway, AMPK signaling pathway, NF-κB signaling pathway, Nrf2 antioxidant signaling pathways, PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway, PKC-α-ERK1/2-NF-κB pathway, IL-11/STAT3 signaling pathway, Akt/GSK-3β/β-catenin pathway, JNK/c-Jun/AP-1 signaling pathway, PI3K/Akt/NF-κB pathway, miRNA-34a/LDHA pathway, Nox4/Smad2 pathway, JNK pathway and NF-kB/PPARγ pathway. This review will provide an overall understanding of the pharmacological functions of astragaloside IV on neuroprotection, liver protection, anti-cancer and anti-diabetes. In light of this, AS-IV will be a potent alternative therapeutic agent for treatment of the above mentioned diseases.

Effect of astragaloside IV and the role of nuclear receptor RXRα in human peritoneal mesothelial cells in high glucose‑based peritoneal dialysis fluids

Peritoneal fibrosis is a serious complication that can occur during peritoneal dialysis (PD), which is primarily caused by damage to peritoneal mesothelial cells (PMCs). The onset of peritoneal fibrosis is delayed or inhibited by promoting PMC survival and inhibiting PMC epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). In the present study, the effect of astragaloside IV and the role of the nuclear receptor retinoid X receptor-α (RXRα) in PMCs in high glucose-based PD fluids was investigated. Human PMC HMrSV5 cells were transfected with RXRα short hairpin RNA (shRNA), or an empty vector, and then treated with PD fluids and astragaloside IV. Cell viability, apoptosis and EMT were examined using the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay and flow cytometry, and by determining the levels of caspase-3, E-cadherin and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) via western blot analysis. Cell viability and apoptosis were increased, as were the levels of E-cadherin in HMrSV5 cells following treatment with PD fluid. The protein levels of α-SMA and caspase-3 were increased by treatment with PD fluid. Exposure to astragaloside IV inhibited these changes; however, astragaloside IV did not change cell viability, apoptosis, E-cadherin or α-SMA levels in HMrSV5 cells under normal conditions. Transfection of HMrSV5 cells with RXRα shRNA resulted in decreased viability and E-cadherin expression, and increased apoptosis and α-SMA levels, in HMrSV5 cells treated with PD fluids and co-treated with astragaloside IV or vehicle. These results suggested that astragaloside IV increased cell viability, and inhibited apoptosis and EMT in PMCs in PD fluids, but did not affect these properties of PMCs under normal condition. Thus, the present study suggested that RXRα is involved in maintaining viability, inhibiting apoptosis and reducing EMT of PMCs in PD fluid.

Traditional Chinese medicine formulation Yanggan Jiedu Sanjie inhibits TGF-β1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metastatic potential in human hepatocarcinoma Bel-7402 cells

BACKGROUND

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a vital process in cancer progression and metastasis. Yanggan Jiedu Sanjie (YGJDSJ) is Traditional Chinese Medicine formulation for liver cancer treatment. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of YGJDSJ on TGF-β1-induced EMT in hepatocellular carcinoma Bel-7402 cells.

METHODS

Bel-7402 cells were treated with TGF-β1 and YGJDSJ. EMT was identified by morphological changes and expression of marker proteins. Cell morphology was observed under a microscope. Protein expression and phosphorylation was detected by western blotting. Cell migration was measured by the scratch assay. Cell adhesion and invasion was detected by a commercial kit.

RESULTS

YGJDSJ reversed TGF-β1-induced morphological changes, as well as the expression of the EMT markers E-cadherin and N-cadherin in Bel-7402 cells. YGJDSJ also inhibited TGF-β1 up-regulated Smad3 phosphorylation and Snail expression in Bel-7402 cells. Moreover, YGJDSJ inhibited TGF-β1-induced cell adhesion, migration and invasion in Bel-7402 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

YGJDSJ inhibited TGF-β1-induced EMT and mediated metastatic potential of Bel-7402 cells, which may be related to down-regulation of Smad3 phosphorylation and Snail expression. The present study provides a new basis for application of this herbal formula for prevention of liver cancer metastasis.

Astragaloside IV inhibits glucose-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition of podocytes through autophagy enhancement via the SIRT-NF-κB p65 axis

Both autophagy and podocyte epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) are critical factors in glomerular diseases that involve proteinuria and fibrosis. Here, we sought to determine whether plant-derived saponin astragaloside IV (AS-IV) was able to reverse renal fibrosis and improve renal function through regulation of autophagy and podocyte EMT. Cultured immortalized mouse podocytes and KK-Ay mice models of diabetes were exposed to AS-IV. Western blotting, real-time PCR, immunofluorescence and histochemistry were used to analyze markers of autophagy and podocyte EMT. We observed that AS-IV inhibited glucose-induced podocyte EMT and enhanced autophagy by decreasing NF-κB subunit p65 acetylation as well as increasing Sirtuin1 (SIRT1) expression. Treatment of the cells and animal models with a SIRT1 inhibitor EX527 was able to reverse these effects. The SIRT1 activator SRT1720 was also found to decrease p65 acetylation and enhance autophagy in glucose-induced podocyte EMT. Additionally, further treatment with autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine was able to reverse the effects of AS-IV on podocyte EMT, while the autophagy activator rapamycin or the NF-κB pathway inhibitor ammonium pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate (PDTC) were able to reverse glucose-induced podocyte EMT. Notably, both renal fibrosis and renal function in diabetic KK-Ay mice were improved after treatment with AS-IV. These findings support AS-IV as a renoprotective agent that likely exerts its effects on podocyte EMT through modulation of the SIRT1-NF-κB pathway and autophagy activation. Further studies are required to clarify the role of AS-IV as a potential therapeutic agent in glomerular diseases.

Astragaloside IV promotes the proliferation and migration of osteoblast-like cells through the hedgehog signaling pathway

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of astragaloside IV on osteoblast-like cell proliferation and migration, in addition to the underlying signaling pathway. In order to observe the effect on proliferation, a Cell Counting Kit-8 assay and flow cytometry were used. To detect cell migration ability, cell scratch and Transwell cell migration assays were performed. The RNA and protein expression levels of hedgehog signaling molecules, including Sonic hedgehog (SHH) and GLI family zinc finger 1 (GLI1), were examined by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analyses. To inhibit the hedgehog signaling pathway, cyclopamine was used. Astragaloside IV, at a dosage of 1×10⁻²µg/ml in MG-63 cells and 1×10⁻³µg/ml in U-2OS cells, resulted in the enhanced proliferation and migration of cells, and the gene expression levels of the SHH and GLI1 were significantly increased. The combination of astragaloside IV and cyclopamine reduced MG-63 and U-2OS cell proliferation and migration, and inhibited the gene expression of SHH and GLI1. Astragaloside IV enhanced the proliferation and migration of human osteoblast-like cells through activating the hedgehog signaling pathway. The results of the present study provide a rational for the mechanistic link in astragaloside IV promoting the proliferation and migration of osteoblasts via the hedgehog signaling pathway.

Astragaloside IV inhibits cell migration and viability of hepatocellular carcinoma cells via suppressing long noncoding RNA ATB

Astragaloside IV (AS-IV), the major active component of Astragalus membranaceus, has shown attractive anticancer effects in certain cancers. However, the roles and action mechanisms of AS-IV in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are largely unclear. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are recently revealed to have crucial roles in HCC initiation and progression, but whether lncRNAs participate in the anticancer roles of AS-IV are unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that AS-IV significantly downregulated lncRNA-ATB expression in a dose- and time-dependent manner in HCC cells. Through downregulating lncRNA-ATB, AS-IV repressed epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and migration of HCC cells. Furthermore, through downregulating lncRNA-ATB, AS-IV inactivated IL-11/STAT3 signaling, induced HCC cell apoptosis, and decreased HCC cell viability. Overexpression of lncRNA-ATB reversed the effects of AS-IV on HCC cell migration, EMT, cell apoptosis, cell viability, and IL-11/STAT3 signaling. Taken together, our results showed that AS-IV inhibited migration and cell viability of HCC cells via downregulating lncRNA-ATB. Thus, our data provided a novel molecular basis for the applications of AS-IV in the therapy of HCC.

Anti-Aging Implications of Astragalus Membranaceus (Huangqi): A Well-Known Chinese Tonic

Owing to a dramatic increase in average life expectancy and the Family Planning program of the 1970s - 1990s, China is rapidly becoming an aging society. Therefore, the investigation of healthspan-extending drugs becomes more urgent. Astragalus membranaceus (Huangqi) is a major medicinal herb that has been commonly used in many herbal formulations in the practice of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to treat a wide variety of diseases and body disorders, or marketed as life-prolonging extracts for human use in China, for more than 2000 years. The major components of Astragalus membranaceus are polysaccharides, flavonoids, and saponins. Pharmacological research indicates that the extract component of Astragalus membranaceus can increase telomerase activity, and has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunoregulatory, anticancer, hypolipidemic, antihyperglycemic, hepatoprotective, expectorant, and diuretic effects. A proprietary extract of the dried root of Astragalus membranaceus, called TA-65, was associated with a significant age-reversal effect in the immune system. Our review focuses on the function and the underlying mechanisms of Astragalus membranaceus in lifespan extension, anti-vascular aging, anti-brain aging, and anti-cancer effects, based on experimental and clinical studies.

Oridonin inhibits migration, invasion, adhesion and TGF-β1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition of melanoma cells by inhibiting the activity of PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β signaling pathway

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been reported to play pivotal roles in tumor invasion and metastasis. Inhibition of EMT may exert beneficial effects in regulating metastasis. Oridonin (ORI), an active diterpenoid compound isolated from Rabdosia rubescens, was found to be a potent anti-metastatic agent. However, the possible involvement of ORI in the EMT in malignant melanoma is unclear. The present study found that ORI inhibited cell migration, invasion, and adhesion in A375 and B16-F10 melanoma cells. The transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-induced EMT was also inhibited in ORI-treated cells, as reflected in the upregulation of E-cadherin, and downregulation of vimentin and Snail. Similar results were observed in A375 and B16-F10 melanoma cells treated with ORI. Furthermore, pre-treatment with ORI blocked the TGF-β1-induced phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT serine/threonine kinase (Akt)/glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β signaling pathway activation. These effects mimicked PI3 kinase inhibitor LY294002 treatment. ORI interfered with the PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β pathway, and reversed TGF-β1-induced EMT, which suppressed the invasion and metastasis of melanoma cells. Taken together, the present study demonstrated that ORI inhibits melanoma cells migration, invasion, and adhesion and TGF-β1-induced EMT through the PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β signaling pathway. These findings suggest that ORI is a promising anti-metastasis agent for melanoma.

The Effect of Transarterial Chemoembolization in Combination With Kang'ai Injection on Patients With Intermediate Stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Prospective Study

Background: The outcome of patients with intermediate stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treated by transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) remains poor. Search for a more effective therapy is still necessary. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of combining TACE with Kang’ai (KA) injection for treating patients with intermediate stage HCC. Methods: A total of 89 patients with intermediate stage HCC were enrolled and divided into TACE +KA group (n = 48) receiving repeated TACE plus KA injection, and TACE group (n = 41) receiving repeated TACE alone. All patients were prospectively studied. Primary endpoints were overall survival (OS) and time to radiologic progression (TTP). Results: The TACE + KA group had significantly longer median OS (27.0 vs 21.0 months, P = .038) and TTP (12.0 vs 10.0 months, P = .028) than TACE group. The 1-, 2-, and 3-year OS rates in the TACE + KA group were markedly higher than in TACE group (88.5%, 58.8%, and 20.8% vs 81.3%, 44.9%, and 6.7%, respectively, P = .038), while the 1- and 2-year TTP rates in the TACE + KA group were significantly lower than in TACE group (49.3% and 86.9% vs 75.3% and 100%, P = .028). TACE + KA group displayed significantly lower incidences of intrahepatic and extrahepatic metastases, as well as postembolization syndrome than TACE group (P < .05). Multivariate analyses revealed group (P = .023), maximum tumor size (P = .019), and tumor number (P = .034) as significant predictors for OS, and group (P = .046), maximum tumor size (P = .002) and α-fetoprotein level (P = .020) as significant predictors for TTP. Both TACE and KA injection were well tolerated. Conclusion: TACE plus KA injection is more effective than TACE alone for treating patients with intermediate stage HCC in this nonrandomized study. Further research is warranted.