Terpenoids as potential chemopreventive and therapeutic agents in liver cancer

TopMarker: Computational screening biomarkers of hepatocellular carcinoma from transcriptome and interactome based on differential network topological parameters

Identifying diagnostic biomarkers for cancer is crucial in the field of personalized medicine. The available transcriptome and interactome provide unprecedented opportunities and challenges for biomarker screening. From a systematic perspective, network-based medicine methods provide alternative approaches to organizing the available high-throughput omics data for deciphering molecular interactions and their associations with phenotypic states. In this work, we propose a bioinformatics strategy named TopMarker for discovering diagnostic biomarkers by comparing the network topology differences in control and disease samples. Specifically, we build up gene-gene interaction networks in the two states of control and disease respectively. The network rewiring status across the two networks results in differential network topologies reflecting dynamics and changes in normal samples when compared with those in disease. Thus, we identify the potential biomarker genes with differential network topological parameters between the control and disease gene networks. For a proof-of-concept study, we introduce the computational pipeline of biomarker discovery in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We prove the effectiveness of the proposed TopMarker method using these candidate biomarkers in classifying HCC samples and validate its signature capability across numerous independent datasets. We also compare the discriminant power of biomarker genes identified by TopMarker with those identified by other baseline methods. The higher classification performances and functional implications indicate the advantages of our proposed method for discovering biomarkers from differential network topology.

Targeted codelivery of doxorubicin and oleanolic acid by reduction responsive hyaluronic acid-based prodrug nano-micelles for enhanced antitumor activity and reduced toxicity

Chemotherapy remains one of the most commonly used strategies in cancer treatment but suffers from damages to healthy tissues and organs. How to precisely co-deliver two or more drugs with different mechanisms of action to the tumors for synergistic function is a challenge for chemotherapy. Herein, Oleanolic acid (OA)-conjugated Hyaluronic acid self-assembled nano-micelles loaded with Doxorubicin (DOX) (HSO NPs/DOX) were constructed for CD44 positive cancer targeted codelivery of DOX and OA. HSO NPs/DOX exhibited reduction triggered drug release under high concentration of glutathione, more efficient uptake by 4T1 breast cancer cells than free DOX leading to higher cytotoxicity, pro-apoptotic, and migration inhibitory activities against 4T1 cells. The ex vivo biodistribution experiment demonstrated more HSO NPs/DOX were accumulated in the tumor tissues than free DOX and less in the non-tumor tissues after injections in 4T1 tumor bearing mice. More importantly, synergistic anti-tumor effects of DOX and OA were obtained using HSO NPs/DOX in 4T1 breast tumor-bearing mice and toxicity of DOX to liver and heart were circumvented through regulating the Nuclear Factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and Silent Information Regulator 1 (Sirt1) expressions. Taken together, HSO NPs/DOX may become a promising codelivery system for chemotherapeutics in cancer therapy.

Nano-Formulations of Natural Antioxidants for the Treatment of Liver Cancer

Oxidative stress is a key factor in the pathological processes that trigger various chronic liver diseases, and significantly contributes to the development of hepatocarcinogenesis. Natural antioxidants reduce oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals and play a crucial role in the treatment of free-radical-induced liver diseases. However, their efficacy is often limited by poor bioavailability and metabolic stability. To address these limitations, recent advances have focused on developing nano-drug delivery systems that protect them from degradation and enhance their therapeutic potential. Among the several critical benefits, they showed to be able to improve bioavailability and targeted delivery, thereby reducing off-target effects by specifically directing the antioxidant to the liver tumor site. Moreover, these nanosystems led to sustained release, prolonging the therapeutic effect over time. Some of them also exhibited synergistic effects when combined with other therapeutic agents, allowing for improved overall efficacy. This review aims to discuss recent scientific advances in nano-formulations containing natural antioxidant molecules, highlighting their potential as promising therapeutic approaches for the treatment of liver cancer. The novelty of this review lies in its comprehensive focus on the latest developments in nano-formulations of natural antioxidants for the treatment of liver cancer.

Therapeutic potential of oleanolic acid in liver diseases

Liver-associated diseases affect millions of individuals worldwide. In developed countries, the incidence of viral hepatitis is reducing due to advancements in disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. However, with improvements in living standards, the prevalence of metabolic liver diseases, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and alcohol-related liver disease, is expected to increase; notably, this rise in the prevalence of metabolic liver disease can lead to the development of more severe liver diseases, including liver failure, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. The growing demand for natural alternative therapies for chronic diseases has highlighted the importance of studying the pharmacology of bioactive compounds in plants. One such compound is oleanolic acid (OA), a pentacyclic triterpenoid known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, antibacterial, antiviral, antihypertensive, anti-obesity, anticancer, anti-diabetic, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, and anti-neurodegenerative properties. Recent studies have demonstrated that OA treatment can reduce the risk of pathological liver damage, ultimately alleviating liver dysregulation and restoring overall liver function. This review aims to explore the latest research on the biological effects of OA and its derivatives. Notably, it explores the mechanisms of action of these compounds in both in vitro and in vivo research models and, ultimately, highlights OA as a promising candidate for alternative therapies in the treatment and management of chronic liver disease.

Integrated Metabolomics and Transcriptomics Analysis Reveals New Insights into Triterpene Biosynthesis in Rosa rugosa

Rosa rugosa is highly regarded for its aesthetic and therapeutic qualities. In particular, R. rugosa's flowers are known to produce essential oils containing a mixture of volatile terpenes, phenylpropanoids, and other compounds. Despite this, extensive research exists on volatile terpenes in flowers, while the knowledge of non-volatile terpenes in distinct tissues is still limited. Using UPLC-ESI-MS/MS, a comprehensive analysis of the terpene metabolites in five different tissues of R. rugosa was conducted. These metabolites accumulated in distinct tissues, and the majority of them were triterpenoids. Transcriptome data were collected from five tissues using RNA-seq. Transcriptomics and metabolomics were utilized to evaluate the triterpene biosynthesis pathway, resulting in new insights into its regulation and biosynthesis. The RrOSC10 was identified as a key enzyme in converting 2,3-oxidosqualene into α-amyrin, potentially contributing to the triterpene biosynthesis pathway. Furthermore, the expression of the RrOSC10 gene was upregulated by salinity for 0.5 h and 1 h, with subsequent downregulation at 2 h. This study lays a foundation for future research on the biosynthesis and accumulation of triterpenes in R. rugosa.

Bioprospecting of Aspergillus sp. as a promising repository for anti-cancer agents: a comprehensive bibliometric investigation

Cancer remains a significant global health challenge, claiming nearly 10 million lives in 2020 according to the World Health Organization. In the quest for novel treatments, fungi, especially Aspergillus species, have emerged as a valuable source of bioactive compounds with promising anticancer properties. This study conducts a comprehensive bibliometric analysis to map the research landscape of Aspergillus in oncology, examining publications from 1982 to the present. We observed a marked increase in research activity starting in 2000, with a notable peak from 2005 onwards. The analysis identifies key contributors, including Mohamed GG, who has authored 15 papers with 322 citations, and El-Sayed Asa, with 14 papers and 264 citations. Leading countries in this research field include India, Egypt, and China, with King Saud University and Cairo University as the leading institutions. Prominent research themes identified are "endophyte," "green synthesis," "antimicrobial," "anti-cancer," and "biological activities," indicating a shift towards environmentally sustainable drug development. Our findings highlight the considerable potential of Aspergillus for developing new anticancer therapies and underscore the necessity for further research to harness these natural compounds for clinical use.

Applying Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking in the Screening for Molecular Mechanisms of Ampalaya (Momordica charantia L.) and Banaba (Lagerstroemia speciosa L.) against Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Background and Objectives

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a global health concern affecting more than 400 million people worldwide. Diabetic neuropathy, nephropathy, retinopathy, and cardiovascular complications lead to debilitating effects to patients. To prevent these, the treatment goal is to lower the blood sugar levels and maintain at a normal range which is achieved through conventional treatments like insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents. However, the high cost of these medications implicates patient treatment outcomes. Hence, alternatives are sought for including the use of herbal medicines. Momordica charantia (MC) and Lagerstroemia speciosa (LS) are common herbal medicines used to manage T2DM. In the Philippines, these herbal preparations are validated for their glucose lowering effects and are commonly found in combination in food supplements. The study aims to screen the possible mechanisms of compounds present in these herbal medicines which can offer possible explanations for their synergistic effects and rationalization of their combination in preparations.

Methods

Network pharmacology was employed to determine pivotal proteins that are targeted by MC and LS compounds. Molecular docking was then done to evaluate the favorability of the binding of these compounds toward their target proteins.

Results

Our results showed that TNF, HSP90AA1, MAPK3, ALDH2, GCK, AKR1B1, TTR and RBP4 are the possible pivotal targets of MC and LS compounds in T2DM.

Conclusion

Terpenoids from MC and decanoic acid from LS are the compounds which showed favorable binding towards pivotal protein targets in T2DM. By binding towards the different key proteins in T2DM, they may exhibit their synergistic effects. However, the results of this study are bound to the limitations of computational methods and experimental validation are needed to verify our findings.

Modulation of hypoxia-inducible factor-1 signaling pathways in cancer angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis by natural compounds: a comprehensive and critical review

Tumor cells employ multiple signaling mediators to escape the hypoxic condition and trigger angiogenesis and metastasis. As a critical orchestrate of tumorigenic conditions, hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) is responsible for stimulating several target genes and dysregulated pathways in tumor invasion and migration. Therefore, targeting HIF-1 pathway and cross-talked mediators seems to be a novel strategy in cancer prevention and treatment. In recent decades, tremendous efforts have been made to develop multi-targeted therapies to modulate several dysregulated pathways in cancer angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. In this line, natural compounds have shown a bright future in combating angiogenic and metastatic conditions. Among the natural secondary metabolites, we have evaluated the critical potential of phenolic compounds, terpenes/terpenoids, alkaloids, sulfur compounds, marine- and microbe-derived agents in the attenuation of HIF-1, and interconnected pathways in fighting tumor-associated angiogenesis and invasion. This is the first comprehensive review on natural constituents as potential regulators of HIF-1 and interconnected pathways against cancer angiogenesis and metastasis. This review aims to reshape the previous strategies in cancer prevention and treatment.

Fabrication, organoleptic evaluation and in vitro characterization of cream loaded with Carica papaya seed extract

OBJECTIVE

The current study aimed to provide preliminary insights into potential biopharmaceutical applications of Carica papaya seed extract by evaluating its phytochemical and biological profiles. Furthermore, the study aimed to develop a stable oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion for the effective delivery of antioxidant-rich biologicals for cosmetic purposes.

METHODS

The hydroethanolic (ethanol 80%: 20% water) extract of C. papaya seeds was prepared via maceration technique. The chemical composition was carried out through preliminary phytochemical screening and estimation of total phenolic contents (TPC) and total flavonoid contents (TFC). The biological profile of the extract was explored using various in-vitro antioxidant methods. The homogenization procedure was used to create a cream of O/W and various tests were applied to assess the stability of the emulsion. By keeping the emulsion at different storage conditions (8 ± 0.5°C, 25 ± 0.5°C, 40 ± 0.5°C, and 40 ± 0.5°C ± 75% relative humidity [RH]) for a period of 28 days), the physical stability parameters of the emulsion, including pH, viscosity, centrifugation, phase separation, and conductivity, as well as rheological parameters and organoleptic parameters (odor, color, liquefaction, and creaming), were assessed.

RESULTS

The preliminary phytochemical screening assay revealed the presence of various plant secondary metabolites including alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and quinones. The extract was found to be rich in TPC and TFC. The in vitro antioxidant study gave maximum activity in the DPPH method. The plant extract containing cosmetic cream exhibited remarkable stability during the entire research. Data gathered indicated that no phase separation or liquefaction was seen after the experimental period. Throughout the experimental period, a small variation in the pH and conductivity values of the base and formulation was seen.

CONCLUSION

The findings suggest that the seed extract of C. papaya is a rich source of polyphenols with antioxidant potential and can be a promising alternative for the treatment of various ailments. The stability of emulsion paves the way for its utilization as a carrier for the delivery of 3% C. papaya seed extract and applications in cosmetics products.

Targeting the key players of phenotypic plasticity in cancer cells by phytochemicals

Plasticity of phenotypic traits refers to an organism's ability to change in response to environmental stimuli. As a result, the response may alter an organism's physiological state, morphology, behavior, and phenotype. Phenotypic plasticity in cancer cells describes the considerable ability of cancer cells to transform phenotypes through non-genetic molecular signaling activities that promote therapy evasion and tumor metastasis via amplifying cancer heterogeneity. As a result of metastable phenotypic state transitions, cancer cells can tolerate chemotherapy or develop transient adaptive resistance. Therefore, new findings have paved the road in identifying factors and agents that inhibit or suppress phenotypic plasticity. It has also investigated novel multitargeted agents that may promise new effective strategies in cancer treatment. Despite the efficiency of conventional chemotherapeutic agents, drug toxicity, development of resistance, and high-cost limit their use in cancer therapy. Recent research has shown that small molecules derived from natural sources are capable of suppressing cancer by focusing on the plasticity of phenotypic responses. This systematic, comprehensive, and critical review analyzes the current state of knowledge regarding the ability of phytocompounds to target phenotypic plasticity at both preclinical and clinical levels. Current challenges/pitfalls, limitations, and future perspectives are also discussed.

A virtual insight into mushroom secondary metabolites: 3D-QSAR, docking, pharmacophore-based analysis and molecular modeling to analyze their anti-breast cancer potential

Breast cancer is a major issue of investigation in drug discovery due to its rising frequency and global dominance. Plants are significant natural sources for the development of novel medications and therapies. Medicinal mushrooms have many biological response modifiers and are used for the treatment of many physical illnesses. In this research, a database of 89 macro-molecules with anti-breast cancer activity, which were previously isolated from the mushrooms in literature, has been selected for the three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationships (3D-QSAR) studies. The 3D-QSAR model was necessarily used in Pharmacopoeia virtual evaluation of the database to develop novel MCF-7 inhibitors. With the known potential targets of breast cancer, the docking studies were achieved. Using molecular dynamics simulations, the targets' stability with the best-chosen natural product molecule was found. Furthermore, the absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity of three compounds, resulting after the docking study, were predicted. The compound C1 (Pseudonocardian A) showed the features of effective compounds because it has bioavailability from different coral species and is toxicity-free for the prevention of many dermatological illnesses. C1 is chemically active and possesses charge transfer inside the monomer, as seen by the band gaps of highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) electrons. The reactivity descriptors ionization potential, electron affinity, chemical potential (μ), hardness (η), softness (S), electronegativity (χ), and electrophilicity index (ω) have been estimated using the energies of frontier molecular orbitals (HOMO-LUMO). Additionally, molecular electrostatic potential maps were created to show that the C1 is reactive.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Protective effects of leaf aqueous extracts from Gardenia ternifolia Schumach. on alcoholic liver disease in Wistar rats

BACKGROUND

Gardenia ternifolia (GT) is a plant of the Rubiaceae family, with a wide range of ethnopharmacological properties. However, its hepatoprotective effects were poorly investigated. This work aimed at assessing the hepatoprotective activity of GT leaf aqueous extracts against chronic ethanol-induced damage in vivo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male Wistar albino rats were given orally 10 % ethanol (10 mL/kg) and different doses of GT extracts (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) or distilled water (negative control) simultaneously and daily for 28 days. Normal controls were fed with a normal diet while positive controls received, in addition to ethanol, silymarin (50 mg/kg). After treatment, animals were sacrificed, blood and liver samples were collected, various biochemical parameters were quantified and the histological sections were performed. Moreover, a qualitative phytochemical analysis of this extract was carried out.

RESULTS

GT administration significantly reduced alanine aminotransferase (10.35 ± 2.13 U/L and 9.07 ± 2.13 U/L vs 24.43 ± 4.28 UI/L) and aspartate aminotransferase (14.25 ± 3.02 and 18.32 ± 2.13 UI/L vs 34.61 ± 3.23 UI/L) activities at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg respectively in comparison with the negative control. Likewise, serum triglyceride and total cholesterol levels were significantly reduced by GT extract, especially at the dose of 200 mg/kg compared to the ethanol-treated group. Histological examination showed that the extract protected the liver by reducing hepatic cytolysis, and leukocyte infiltration. Different secondary metabolites including condensed tannins, phenolic acids, and saponins were found in the GT extract but none of these compounds corresponded to epicatechin, coumarin and naringenin.

CONCLUSION

These results show that GT extract may be a potential therapeutic agent against alcoholic liver disease.

Bioactive phytocompounds for oral cancer prevention and treatment: A comprehensive and critical evaluation

The high incidence of oral cancer combined with excessive treatment cost underscores the need for novel oral cancer preventive and therapeutic options. The value of natural agents, including plant secondary metabolites (phytochemicals), in preventing carcinogenesis and representing expansive source of anticancer drugs have been established. While fragmentary research data are available on antioral cancer effects of phytochemicals, a comprehensive and critical evaluation of the potential of these agents for the prevention and intervention of human oral malignancies has not been conducted according to our knowledge. This study presents a complete and critical analysis of current preclinical and clinical results on the prevention and treatment of oral cancer using phytochemicals. Our in-depth analysis highlights anticancer effects of various phytochemicals, such as phenolics, terpenoids, alkaloids, and sulfur-containing compounds, against numerous oral cancer cells and/or in vivo oral cancer models by antiproliferative, proapoptotic, cell cycle-regulatory, antiinvasive, antiangiogenic, and antimetastatic effects. Bioactive phytochemicals exert their antineoplastic effects by modulating various signaling pathways, specifically involving the epidermal growth factor receptor, cytokine receptors, toll-like receptors, and tumor necrosis factor receptor and consequently alter the expression of downstream genes and proteins. Interestingly, phytochemicals demonstrate encouraging effects in clinical trials, such as reduction of oral lesion size, cell growth, pain score, and development of new lesions. While most phytochemicals displayed minimal toxicity, concerns with bioavailability may limit their clinical application. Future directions for research include more in-depth mechanistic in vivo studies, administration of phytochemicals using novel formulations, investigation of phytocompounds as adjuvants to conventional treatment, and randomized clinical trials.

Melatonin treatment delays the softening of blueberry fruit by modulating cuticular wax metabolism and reducing cell wall degradation

The effects of postharvest melatonin (MT) treatment on cuticular wax and cell wall metabolism in blueberry fruit (Vaccinium spp.) were evaluated. The results revealed that MT treatment maintained the cuticular wax rod-like structure and delayed wax degradation. The gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis results revealed that MT application changed the cuticular wax composition in blueberries, and 25 metabolic components were screened. The metabolic regulation of wax quality in blueberry fruit may therefore be influenced by MT. Additionally, MT slowed down pectin and cellulose degradation by reducing the activities of cell wall degrading enzymes like pectin methyl esterase polygalacturonase, β-galactosidase, and cellulose in the later stages of storage. It also downregulated the transcriptional expression of related genes like VcPE, VcPG, VcBG6, and VcGAL1. Thus, MT prevented softening and senescence by postponing the degradation of the cell wall in postharvest blueberry fruit.

Synthesis, characterization and anti-breast cancer potential of an incensole acetate nanoemulsion from Catharanthus roseus essential oil; in silico, in vitro, and in vivo study

The characteristics of phytocompounds and essential oils have undergone extensive research in the medical and pharmaceutical sectors due to their extensive usage. In spite of the fact that these molecules are widely used, terpenes, terpenoids, and their derivatives have not yet been well characterized. This study intends to evaluate the prospective activity of incensole acetate (IA), a compound identified and isolated from Catharanthus roseus essential oil by GC/MS analysis and column chromatography, and to analyze the anticancer effect of an IA biosynthesized nanoemulsion against breast cancer. The in silico activity of IA against breast cancer targets was observed by molecular docking, ADMET assessment and molecular dynamics simulations. The IA-mediated nanoformulation exhibited cytotoxicity against breast cancer cell lines at an effective concentration when analyzed by MTT and crystal violet assay. The increased interleukin serum indicators were significantly improved as a result of nanoemulsion treatment in a DMBA-induced rat model. In addition, the anticancer properties of IA biosynthesized nanoemulsion are supported due to their potential effects on biochemical parameters, oxidative stress markers, proinflammatory cytokines, and upon tumor growth profiling in cancer-induced rats.

Natural compounds as lactate dehydrogenase inhibitors: potential therapeutics for lactate dehydrogenase inhibitors-related diseases

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is a crucial enzyme involved in energy metabolism and present in various cells throughout the body. Its diverse physiological functions encompass glycolysis, and its abnormal activity is associated with numerous diseases. Targeting LDH has emerged as a vital approach in drug discovery, leading to the identification of LDH inhibitors among natural compounds, such as polyphenols, alkaloids, and terpenoids. These compounds demonstrate therapeutic potential against LDH-related diseases, including anti-cancer effects. However, challenges concerning limited bioavailability, poor solubility, and potential toxicity must be addressed. Combining natural compounds with LDH inhibitors has led to promising outcomes in preclinical studies. This review highlights the promise of natural compounds as LDH inhibitors for treating cancer, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Graphene Oxide Nanostructures as Nanoplatforms for Delivering Natural Therapeutic Agents: Applications in Cancer Treatment, Bacterial Infections, and Bone Regeneration Medicine

Graphene, fullerenes, diamond, carbon nanotubes, and carbon dots are just a few of the carbon-based nanomaterials that have gained enormous popularity in a variety of scientific disciplines and industrial uses. As a two-dimensional material in the creation of therapeutic delivery systems for many illnesses, nanosized graphene oxide (NGO) is now garnering a large amount of attention among these materials. In addition to other benefits, NGO functions as a drug nanocarrier with remarkable biocompatibility, high pharmaceutical loading capacity, controlled drug release capability, biological imaging efficiency, multifunctional nanoplatform properties, and the power to increase the therapeutic efficacy of loaded agents. Thus, NGO is a perfect nanoplatform for the development of drug delivery systems (DDSs) to both detect and treat a variety of ailments. This review article's main focus is on investigating surface functionality, drug-loading methods, and drug release patterns designed particularly for smart delivery systems. The paper also examines the relevance of using NGOs to build DDSs and considers prospective uses in the treatment of diseases including cancer, infection by bacteria, and bone regeneration medicine. These factors cover the use of naturally occurring medicinal substances produced from plant-based sources.

Effects of Table Grape Cultivars on Fruit Quality and Aroma Components

The basic physical and chemical qualities, nutrition, aroma components, and sensory evaluation of 17 varieties of table grapes were studied. The quality evaluation system of different table grape varieties was preliminarily determined. Our results show that the soluble solid content in Ruby Seedless was 21.17%, which was higher than that of other varieties. The black varieties Aishenmeigui and Sweet Sapphire had the highest total phenol content. Aishenmeigui had high levels of tannin and vitamin C. In addition, the aroma contents in Meixiangbao, Ruby Seedless, and Shine-Muscat were higher than those in other varieties. Manicure Finger and Ruby Seedless had higher levels of C6 compounds. Moreover, the "Kyoho" series of grape Meixiangbao, Sunmmer Black, Jumeigui, Hutai 8 hao, and Black Beet were high in ester content, while Muscat varieties, including Zaoheibao, Aishenmeigui, Jumeigui, and Shine-Muscat were rich in terpene substances. Ruby Seedless, Shine-Muscat, and Heibaladuo had higher comprehensive scores in sensory evaluation. Hence, the comprehensive quality of Shine-Muscat, Ruby Seedless, and Aishenmeigui was better. These results may serve as references for determining the quality differences between table grape varieties.

Targeting Cell Signaling Pathways in Lung Cancer by Bioactive Phytocompounds

Lung cancer is a heterogeneous group of malignancies with high incidence worldwide. It is the most frequently occurring cancer in men and the second most common in women. Due to its frequent diagnosis and variable response to treatment, lung cancer was reported as the top cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide in 2020. Many aberrant signaling cascades are implicated in the pathogenesis of lung cancer, including those involved in apoptosis (B cell lymphoma protein, Bcl-2-associated X protein, first apoptosis signal ligand), growth inhibition (tumor suppressor protein or gene and serine/threonine kinase 11), and growth promotion (epidermal growth factor receptor/proto-oncogenes/phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase). Accordingly, these pathways and their signaling molecules have become promising targets for chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agents. Recent research provides compelling evidence for the use of plant-based compounds, known collectively as phytochemicals, as anticancer agents. This review discusses major contributing signaling pathways involved in the pathophysiology of lung cancer, as well as currently available treatments and prospective drug candidates. The anticancer potential of naturally occurring bioactive compounds in the context of lung cancer is also discussed, with critical analysis of their mechanistic actions presented by preclinical and clinical studies.

Characterization of disease-associated microbiota in hepatocellular carcinoma

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the differences in the composition of microbial communities and related functions in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumours and matched normal tissues were investigated.

Methods and Material

Tumour tissues and matched normal samples were collected from 30 HCC patients. Genomic DNA was collected and subjected to sequencing of the V3 + V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene. The microbial community profiles and metabolic pathway predictions of the different groups were characterized and compared.

Results

Tumour and adjacent tissues had similar microbiota compositions but differed in abundance. Proteobacteria and Firmicutes abundance decreased and Cyanobacteria and Acidobacteria abundance increased in the tumour tissue. The microbial community diversity was higher in the tumour tissues than in adjacent samples, with potentially more dominant taxa in the adjacent tissues, including Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteria. Acidobacteria, Cyanobacteria, and Chloroflexi were the dominant microbes in tumour tissues. A total of 46 metabolic pathways were identified. Global and overview maps were the most abundant pathways, followed by carbohydrate metabolism, energy metabolism, metabolism of cofactors and vitamins, and membrane transport. The top 50 most highly correlated microbial genera included Klebsiella, Rhodococcus, Ochrobactrum, and Azoarcus. Fonticella, Haloimpatiens, Brevibacterium, and Acidothermus were positively correlated with other microbial genera. The microbiota of adjacent tissues was more robust in the network analysis.

Conclusions

This study revealed differences in microbial composition between HCC tumour tissues and normal tissues and differences in microbial abundance associated with different metabolic functions. Cyanobacteria, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteria may play important roles in HCC.

Production of secondary metabolites using tissue culture-based biotechnological applications

Plants are the sources of many bioactive secondary metabolites which are present in plant organs including leaves, stems, roots, and flowers. Although they provide advantages to the plants in many cases, they are not necessary for metabolisms related to growth, development, and reproduction. They are specific to plant species and are precursor substances, which can be modified for generations of various compounds in different plant species. Secondary metabolites are used in many industries, including dye, food processing and cosmetic industries, and in agricultural control as well as being used as pharmaceutical raw materials by humans. For this reason, the demand is high; therefore, they are needed to be obtained in large volumes and the large productions can be achieved using biotechnological methods in addition to production, being done with classical methods. For this, plant biotechnology can be put in action through using different methods. The most important of these methods include tissue culture and gene transfer. The genetically modified plants are agriculturally more productive and are commercially more effective and are valuable tools for industrial and medical purposes as well as being the sources of many secondary metabolites of therapeutic importance. With plant tissue culture applications, which are also the first step in obtaining transgenic plants with having desirable characteristics, it is possible to produce specific secondary metabolites in large-scale through using whole plants or using specific tissues of these plants in laboratory conditions. Currently, many studies are going on this subject, and some of them receiving attention are found to be taken place in plant biotechnology and having promising applications. In this work, particularly benefits of secondary metabolites, and their productions through tissue culture-based biotechnological applications are discussed using literature with presence of current studies.

In Vitro Anti-Microbial Activity and Anti-Cancer Potential of Novel Synthesized Carbamothioyl-Furan-2-Carboxamide Derivatives

A series of carbamothioyl-furan-2-carboxamide derivatives were synthesized using a one-pot strategy. Compounds were obtained in moderate to excellent yields (56-85%). Synthesized derivatives were evaluated for their anti-cancer (HepG2, Huh-7, and MCF-7 human cancer cell lines) and anti-microbial potential. Compound p-tolylcarbamothioyl)furan-2-carboxamide showed the highest anti-cancer activity at a concentration of 20 μg/mL against hepatocellular carcinoma, with a cell viability of 33.29%. All compounds showed significant anti-cancer activity against HepG2, Huh-7, and MCF-7, while indazole and 2,4-dinitrophenyl containing carboxamide derivatives were found to be less potent against all tested cell lines. Results were compared with the standard drug doxorubicin. Carboxamide derivatives possessing 2,4-dinitrophenyl showed significant inhibition against all bacterial and fungal strains with inhibition zones (I.Z) in the range of 9-17 and MICs were found to be 150.7-295 μg/mL. All carboxamide derivatives showed significant anti-fungal activity against all tested fungal strains. Gentamicin was used as the standard drug. The results showed that carbamothioyl-furan-2-carboxamide derivatives could be a potential source of anti-cancer and anti-microbial agents.

Morinda lucida stem bark reversed the pattern and extent of lead nitrate-induced liver injury in Wistar rats

Lead toxicity remains one of the most important occupational and environmental health problems with characteristic features that are incompatible with life. Considering the foregoing, we investigated the ameliorative potentials of Morinda lucida stem bark (MLSB) extract on lead nitrate-induced hepatic injury with particular emphasis on its effects on the pattern and extent of lead nitrate toxicity. Thirty-six adult Wistar rats were randomly assigned into six groups (n=6). Normal control group received 2.2mL/kg distilled water only for 4 weeks while hepatic injury was induced by 2-week oral administration of 30mg/kg lead nitrate to experimental rats in the remaining five groups. Following induction, test groups were treated with MLSB for another 2 weeks at 100, 250, and 500mg/kg concentrations respectively while silymarin was administered orally for 2 weeks to positive control group. At the end of the study, serum activities of liver function enzymes and tissue levels of malondialdehyde were determined. Patterns and extent of injury were determined in hematoxylin and eosin-stained section. The result revealed a significant reduction in sera levels of liver function enzymes and tissue level of malondialdehyde (MDA) in extract treated groups. Lead nitrate-induced necrotic changes and other deranged features observed in histological sections were multifocal and they span through multiple zones of hepatic acini (panacinar), MLSB at 250mg/kg concentration reversed by some of these effects. The study concluded that ameliorative property of MLSB could be due to the antioxidant and membrane stabilizing properties of its phenolic compounds.

Antioxidant and Pulmonary Protective Potential of Fraxinus xanthoxyloides Bark Extract against CCl4 -Induced Toxicity in Rats

Fraxinus xanthoxyloides is a perennial shrub belonging to family Oleaceae, traditionally used for malaria, jaundice, pneumonia, inflammation, and rheumatism. Our study is aimed to assess the total phenolics (TPC), flavonoids (TFC), terpenoids contents (TTC) and antioxidant profiling of F. xanthoxyloides methanol bark extract (FXBM) and its fractions, hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and aqueous, along with high-performance liquid chromatography with diode-array detection (HPLC-DAD). Further, the antioxidant and pulmonary protective potential was explored against carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄ )-induced CCl4-induced pulmonary tissue damage in rats. The highest TPC, TFC and TTC were found in FXBM (133.29±4.19 mg/g), ethyl acetate fraction (279.55±10.35 mg/g), and chloroform fraction (0.79±0.06 mg/g), respectively. The most potent antioxidant capacity was depicted by FXBM (29.21±2.40 μg/mg) and ethyl acetate fraction (91.16±5.51 μg/mg). The HPLC-DAD analysis revealed the predominance of gallic, chlorogenic, vanillic and ferulic acid in FXBM. The administration of CCl₄ induced oxidative stress, suppressed antioxidant enzymes' activities including catalase, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase, and glutathione reductase. Further, it increased thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and H₂ O₂ levels, induced DNA injuries and reduced the total protein and glutathione content in lung tissues. The treatment of rats with FXBM restored these biochemical parameters to the normal level. Moreover, the histopathological studies of lung tissues demonstrated that FXBM protected rats' lung tissues from oxidative damage restoring normal lung functions. Thus, F. xanthoxyloides bark extract is recommended as adjuvant therapy as protective agent for patients with lung disorders.

Inhibition of bladder cancer growth with homoharringtonine by inactivating integrin α5/β1-FAK/Src axis: A novel strategy for drug application

The application of immune checkpoint inhibitors and FGFR protein tyrosine kinase inhibitors have made a tremendous breakthrough in bladder cancer therapy. However, inadequate drug responses and drug resistance interfere with successful treatment outcomes. For a new drug to enter the market, there is a long development cycle with high costs and low success rates. Repurposing previously Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medications and using novel drug discovery strategies may be an optimal approach. Homoharringtonine (HHT) has been used for hematologic malignancies for over 40 years in China and was approved by the FDA approximately 10 years ago. Many studies have demonstrated that HHT effectively inhibits the development of several types of solid tumors, although the underlying mechanisms of action are unclear. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms underlying HHT activity against bladder cancer growth. We first compared HTT with the drugs currently used clinically for bladder cancer treatment. HHT showed stronger inhibitory activity than cisplatin, carboplatin, and doxorubicin. Our in vitro and in vivo data demonstrated that HHT inhibited proliferation, colony formation, migration, and cell adhesion of bladder cancer cells and induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in the nanomolar concentration range. Furthermore, we revealed that HHT treatment could downregulate the MAPK/Erk and PI3k/Akt signaling pathways by inactivating the integrin α5/β1-FAK/Src axis. HHT-induced activity reduced cell-ECM interactions and cell migration, thus suppressing tumor metastasis progression. Altogether, HHT shows enormous potential as an anticancer agent and may be applied as a combination treatment strategy for bladder cancer.

Anticancer Activity of (±)-Kusunokinin Derivatives towards Cholangiocarcinoma Cells

This study aimed to investigate the cytotoxicity and anticancer activity of (±)-kusunokinin derivatives ((±)-TTPG-A and (±)-TTPG-B). The cytotoxicity effect was performed on human cancer cells, including breast cancer, cholangiocarcinoma, colon and ovarian cancer-cells, compared with normal cells, using the MTT assay. Cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis were detected using flow-cytometry analysis. We found that (±)-TTPG-B exhibited the strongest cytotoxicity on aggressive breast-cancer (MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-231) and cholangiocarcinoma (KKU-M213), with an IC50 value of 0.43 ± 0.01, 1.83 ± 0.04 and 0.01 ± 0.001 µM, respectively. Interestingly, (±)-TTPG-A and (±)-TTPG-B exhibited less toxicity than (±)-kusunokinin (9.75 ± 0.39 µM) on L-929 cells (normal fibroblasts). Moreover, (±)-TTPG-A predominated the ell-cycle arrest at the S phase, while (±)-TTPG-B caused cell arrest at the G0/G1 phase, in the same way as (±)-kusunokinin in KKU-M213 cells. Both (±)-TTPG-A and (±)-TTPG-B induced apoptosis and multi-caspase activity more than (±)-kusunokinin. Taken together, we conclude that (±)-TTPG-A and (±)-TTPG-B have a strong anticancer effect on cholangiocarcinoma. Moreover, (±)-TTPG-B could be a potential candidate compound for breast cancer and cholangiocarcinoma in the future.

Total Synthesis of Terpenes and Their Biological Significance: A Critical Review

Terpenes are a group of natural products made up of molecules with the formula (C5H8)n that are typically found in plants. They are widely employed in the medicinal, flavor, and fragrance industries. The total synthesis of terpenes as well as their origin and biological potential are discussed in this review.

Understanding the Antilymphoma Activity of Annona macroprophyllata Donn and Its Acyclic Terpenoids: In Vivo, In Vitro, and In Silico Studies

Annona macroprophyllata Donn (A. macroprophyllata) is used in traditional Mexican medicine for the treatment of cancer, diabetes, inflammation, and pain. In this work, we evaluated the antitumor activity of three acyclic terpenoids obtained from A. macroprophyllata to assess their potential as antilymphoma agents. We identified the terpenoids farnesyl acetate (FA), phytol (PT) and geranylgeraniol (Gg) using gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) and spectroscopic (1H, and 13C NMR) methods applied to petroleum ether extract of leaves from A. macroprophyllata (PEAm). We investigated antitumor potential in Balb/c mice inoculated with U-937 cells by assessing brine shrimp lethality (BSL), and cytotoxic activity in these cells. In addition, to assess the potential toxicity of PEAm, FA, PT and Gg in humans, we tested their acute oral toxicity in mice. Our results showed that the three terpenoids exhibited considerable antilymphoma and cytotoxic activity. In terms of lethality, we determined a median lethal dose (LD50) for thirteen isolated products of PEAm. Gg, PT and AF all exhibited a higher lethality with values of 1.41 ± 0.42, 3.03 ± 0.33 and 5.82 ± 0.58 µg mL-1, respectively. To assess cytotoxic activity against U-937 cells, we calculated the mean cytotoxic concentration (CC50) and found that FA and PT were closer in respect to the control drug methotrexate (MTX, 0.243 ± 0.007 µM). In terms of antilymphoma activity, we found that FA, PT and Gg considerably inhibited lymph node growth, with median effective doses (ED50) of 5.89 ± 0.39, 6.71 ± 0.31 and 7.22 ± 0.51 mg kg-1 in females and 5.09 ± 0.66, 5.83 ± 0.50 and 6.98 ± 0.57mg kg -1 in males, respectively. Regarding acute oral toxicity, we classified all three terpenoids as category IV, indicating a high safety margin for human administration. Finally, in a molecular docking study of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase, we found binding of terpenoids to some amino acids of the catalytic site, suggesting an effect upon activity with a resulting decrease in the synthesis of intermediates involved in the prenylation of proteins involved in cancer progression. Our findings suggest that the acyclic terpenoids FA, PT, and Gg may serve as scaffolds for the development of new treatments for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Green synthesis of chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) Chitosan nanoparticles and evaluation of their anti-fungal, anti-hemolytic, and anti-cancer activities

Chicory ( Cichorium intybus L.) is widely consumed as a food plant in many regions of the world and has been involved in traditional medicine due to its unique contents of phytochemicals. We aimed to investigate the anti-fungal, anti-hemolytic, and anti-cancer activities of chicory roots and leaves ethanolic extracts, and their Chitosan nanoparticles (Chit NPs) formulations. The ethanolic extract of chicory roots and leaves were microencapsulated into Chit NPs. The anti-hemolytic, anti-fungal, and anti-cancer activity of chicory extracts and their Chit-NPs were investigated, along with an in vitro toxicological study. Chicory extracts encapsulation into Chit NPs increased their anti-fungal activity against two fungal pathogens, Candida albicans and Aspergillus flavus. Chicory extracts and their Chit NPs appeared strong anti-hemolytic activity in hypotonic media. Due to microencapsulation of roots and leaves extracts into Chit NPs, the IC50 was decreased 2.49 and 2.6-folds in HepG2 and MCF-7 cell lines, and 6.31 and 5.50-folds in HepG2 and MCF-7 cell lines, respectively. The in vitro toxicological study revealed that the IC50 of chicory roots (56.84 ± 6.4 μg/ml) and leaves (45.51 ± 4.2 μg/ml) decreased 8.45 and 6.77-folds in the normal human fibroblasts (WI38) cell line, compared to Doxorubicin (6.72 ± 0.5 μg/ml). Microencapsulation of extracts into Chit NPs increased their toxicity 2.43-folds for Chit-Roots NPs (IC50 = 23.35 ± 2.3 μg/ml) and 1.22-fold for Chit-Leaves NPs (IC50 = 37.29 ± 2.9 μg/ml). Chicory-Chit NPs possess promising anti-cancer and anti-hemolytic activities. It is worth for further testing their efficacy and toxicity in pre-clinical animal models as well as clinical trials.

The Role of Natural Products as Inhibitors of JAK/STAT Signaling Pathways in Glioblastoma Treatment

The permeability of glioblastoma, as well as its escaping the immune system, makes them one of the most deadly human malignancies. By avoiding programmed cell death (apoptosis), unlimited cell growth and metastatic ability could dramatically affect the immune system. Genetic mutations, epigenetic changes, and overexpression of oncogenes can cause this process. On the other hand, the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and intratumor heterogeneity are important factors causing resistance to therapy. Several signaling pathways have been identified in this field, including the Janus tyrosine kinase (JAK) converter and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) activator pathways, which are closely related. In addition, the JAK/STAT signaling pathway contributes to a wide array of tumorigenesis functions, including replication, anti-apoptosis, angiogenesis, and immune suppression. Introducing this pathway as the main tumorigenesis and treatment resistance center can give a better understanding of how it operates. In light of this, it is an important goal in treating many disorders, particularly cancer. The inhibition of this signaling pathway is being considered an approach to the treatment of glioblastoma. The use of natural products alternatively to conventional therapies is another area of research interest among researchers. Some natural products that originate from plants or natural sources can interfere with JAK/STAT signaling in human malignant cells, also by stopping the progression and phosphorylation of JAK/STAT, inducing apoptosis, and stopping the cell cycle. Natural products are a viable alternative to conventional chemotherapy because of their cost-effectiveness, wide availability, and almost no side effects.

Potential anti-hepatocellular carcinoma properties and mechanisms of action of clerodane diterpenes isolated from Polyalthia longifolia seeds

Diterpenes are secondary metabolites that have attracted much attention due to their potential biological activities including anti-cancer potential. The aim of the current study is to assess the anticancer potential of the six known clerodane diterpenes (1–6) isolated from Polyalthia longifolia seeds and their underlying molecular mechanisms. These compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxicity in vitro by using MTT assays. The “two-phase model” with NDEA and PB ad libitum was used for induction of HCC and sorafenib was used as the standard drug. Prophylactic studies were carried out for compounds 4/6 at both low (5 mg/kg b.w) and high (10 mg/kg b.w) doses. Based on the MTT assay results, the two best compounds, 4 and 6, were selected for in vivo studies. The results showed that treatment with compound 4/6 significantly restored the changes in biochemical parameters and liver morphology observed in (NDEA + PB)-induced HCC rats. Additionally, the docking studies showed that compound 4/6 interacted with several key proteins such as MDM2, TNF-α, FAK, thereby inhibiting these proteins and reversing the negative impacts of NDEA. In conclusion, our results suggested that compounds 4 and 6 are potential therapeutic agents for HCC, mostly due to their ability to control typical cancer pathways.

Immunomodulatory and Anticancer Activities of Barley Bran Grown in Jordan: An in vitro and in vivo Study

The Mediterranean diet is regarded as one of the most healthful dietary patterns in the world, owing to a combination of foods high in antioxidants and anticancer constituents. Barley bran is one of the components of the Mediterranean diet. It has nutritional and beneficial effects in different pathological conditions. Many studies were achieved to assess the nutritious values of barley bran, but there is no research indicating immunomodulatory and anticancer activities of barley bran grown in Jordan. The present study aims to examine and assess the potential immunomodulatory and anti-tumor activities of ethanol, n-hexane, aqueous/methanol, and water extracts obtained from barley bran. The Maceration method was utilized to prepare ethanol, n-h