Herbal medicine as inducers of apoptosis in cancer treatment

Tri-chalcone suppressed breast cancer cell proliferation and induced apoptosis through intrinsic and extrinsic pathways

Breast cancer development depends critically on antiproliferative and apoptotic mechanisms. However, the mechanisms underlying the antiproliferative and apoptosis effects of breast cancer treated with tri-chalcone remain unclear. Tri-chalcones have been demonstrated in prior studies to inhibit the proliferation of breast cancer cells (MCF-7). Following the discovery, this study seeks to investigate the effect of tri-chalcone compounds on targets involved in antiproliferative and apoptosis mechanisms. In this study, we employed bioinformatics analysis along with in vitro evaluation using tri-chalcone-treated MCF-7 cells to determine the responses of antiproliferative and apoptosis mechanisms. The analysis revealed that the compounds interact with six apoptosis target receptors: TNFα, Bak, Bcl-2, caspase-9, and caspase-8. Tri-chalcone S1-2 exhibited the strongest binding affinities for TNFα (-7.39 kcal/mol), caspase-8 (-8.43 kcal/mol), caspase-9 (-8.53 kcal/mol), Bcl-2 (-8.51 kcal/mol), and Bak (-7.15 kcal/mol). The tri-chalcone S1-2 paired with the corresponding proteins showed minor flexibility and extremely small changes of less than 0.25 nm during the MD simulation. Additionally, tri-chalcone S1-2 had a significant inhibitory effect on the proliferation of MCF-7 cells (5.31 ± 0.26 µg/mL) compared to other compounds. S1-2 also induced apoptosis, affecting nearly half (43.80%) of the total early and late apoptosis in MCF-7 cells. S1-2-treated MCF-7 cells also demonstrated upregulations of genes TNFα (1.50), Bak (1.42), caspase-8 (1.24), and caspase-9 (1.61), accompanied by a downregulation of gene Bcl-2 (0.71). The discovery gives us a better understanding of how tri-chalcone S1-2 suppressed MCF-7 cell proliferation and induced apoptosis through intrinsic and extrinsic pathways.

The mechanism of action of myricetin against lung adenocarcinoma based on bioinformatics, in silico and in vitro experiments

Myricetin is a natural flavonoid with anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects, but its mechanism for treating lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains unclearly. Therefore, bioinformatics, in silico and in vitro experiments were employed to elucidate this issue in this study. The core targets of myricetin against LUAD were screened by PharmaMapper (v2017), Assistant for Clinical Bioinformatics, STRING (v11.5) and Cytoscape (v3.8.1). Using Kaplan-Meier Plotter (v2022.04.20), UALCAN (v2021.12.13) and GEPIA (v2.0) databases, the correlation between core genes and the prognosis of LUAD patients were analyzed, and the expression levels of core genes were verified. In silico studies were used to analyze the binding energies and sites of myricetin with core genes. The effects of myricetin on H1975 cells were explored through thiazolyl blue (MTT), cell migration, colony formation and western blot assays. A total of 72 potential targets of myricetin against LUAD were identified through bioinformatics. Among the four core targets obtained by multiple networks and in silico assays, the up-regulated MMP9 (HR = 1.14 (1-1.29), logrank P = 0.046) and down-regulated PIK3R1 (HR = 0.58 (0.51-0.66), logrank P < 1E-16) were positively correlated with poor survival outcomes in LUAD patients. In vitro experiments demonstrated that myricetin inhibited the proliferation and migration of H1975 cells, promoting their apoptosis. Myricetin inhibits the proliferation of H1975 cells and induces cell apoptosis through its influence on the expression levels of MMP1, MMP3, MMP9, and PIK3R1 and regulating the multiple pathways these genes participate in. Both MMP9 and PIK3R1 are potential biomarkers for LUAD.

Investigating the Effects of Dorema hyrcanum Root Extracts on Selective Induction of Programmed Cell Death in Glioblastoma, Ovarian Cancer and Breast Cancer Cell Lines

BACKGROUND

Despite remarkable advances, cancer has remained the second cause of death, which shows that more potent novel compounds should be found. Ethnobotanical compounds have a long history of treating diseases, and several approved chemotherapeutic compounds were isolated from plants.

OBJECTIVE

The research aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic effects of Dorema hyrcanum root extract on ovarian, breast, and glioblastoma cells while examining its selectivity towards normal cells. Additionally, the study is directed to investigate cell death mechanisms, delineate modes of cell death, and explore intracellular ROS production.

METHODS

Cytotoxic effects of alcoholic, dichloromethane, and petroleum ether fractions of Dorema hyrcanum were investigated on cancer and normal cells by using MTT assay, and the concentration around IC50 values was used for flow cytometric assessment of apoptosis, evaluation of the expression of selected genes via RT-qPCR and production of ROS.

RESULTS

Methanolic extract exhibited the highest cytotoxicity, impacting A2780CP and MDA-MB-231. All fractions showed comparable effects on U251 cells. Notably, extracts displayed higher IC50 values in normal HDF cells, indicating cancer cell specificity. Flow cytometry revealed induction of apoptosis and non-apoptotic death in all three cancer cell lines. QPCR results showed upregulation of related genes, with RIP3K prominently increased in U251 glioblastoma. The DCFH-DA assay demonstrated ROS induction by the PE fraction exclusively in A2780CP cells after 30 minutes and up to 24 hours.

CONCLUSION

Dorema hyrcanum root extracts exhibited potent anti-tumor effects against all studied cell lines. The methanolic extract demonstrated the highest cytotoxicity, particularly against A2780CP and MDA-MB-231 cells. Importantly, all fractions displayed selectivity for cancer cells over normal HDF cells. Unique modes of action were observed, with the petroleum ether fraction inducing significant non-apoptotic cell death. These findings suggest promising therapeutic potential for Dorema hyrcanum in cancer treatment with subject to further mechanistic studies.

Discovery of 1-(5-bromopyrazin-2-yl)-1-[3-(trifluoromethyl)benzyl]urea as a promising anticancer drug via synthesis, characterization, biological screening, and computational studies

Cancer and different types of tumors are still the most resistant diseases to available therapeutic agents. Finding a highly effective anticancer drug is the first target and concern of thousands of drug designers. In our attempts to address this concern, a new pyrazine derivative, 1-(5-bromopyrazin-2-yl)-1-[3-(trifluoromethyl)benzyl]urea (BPU), was designed via structural optimization and synthesized to investigate its anticancer/antitumor potential. The in-vitro anticancer properties of BPU were evaluated by MTT assay using selected cell lines, including the Jurkat, HeLa, and MCF-7 cells. The Jurkat cells were chosen to study the effect of BPU on cell cycle analysis using flow cytometry technique. BPU exhibited an effective cytotoxic ability in all the three cell lines assessed. It was found to be more prominent with the Jurkat cell line (IC50 = 4.64 ± 0.08 µM). When it was subjected to cell cycle analysis, this compound effectively arrested cell cycle progression in the sub-G1 phase. Upon evaluating the antiangiogenic potential of BPU via the in-vivo/ex-vivo shell-less chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assays, the compound demonstrated very significant findings, revealing a complementary supportive action for the compound to act as a potent anticancer agent through inhibiting blood vessel formation in tumor tissues. Moreover, the docking energy of BPU computationally scored - 9.0 kcal/mol with the human matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and - 7.8 kcal/mol with the human matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), denoting promising binding results as compared to the existing drugs for cancer therapy. The molecular dynamics (MD) simulation outcomes showed that BPU could effectively bind to the previously-proposed catalytic sites of both MMP-2 and MMP-9 enzymes with relatively stable statuses and good inhibitory binding abilities and parameters. Our findings suggest that the compound BPU could be a promising anticancer agent since it effectively inhibited cell proliferation and can be selected for further in-vitro and in-vivo investigations. In addition, the current results can be extensively validated by conducting wet-lab analysis so as to develop novel and better derivatives of BPU for cancer therapy with much less side effects and higher activities.

Rhamnetin, a nutraceutical flavonoid arrests cell cycle progression of human ovarian cancer (SKOV3) cells by inhibiting the histone deacetylase 2 protein

Overexpression of HDAC 2 promotes cell proliferation in ovarian cancer. HDAC 2 is involved in chromatin remodeling, transcriptional repression, and the formation of condensed chromatin structures. Targeting HDAC 2 presents a promising therapeutic approach for correcting cancer-associated epigenetic abnormalities. Consequently, HDAC 2 inhibitors have evolved as an attractive class of anti-cancer agents. This work intended to investigate the anti-cancer abilities and underlying molecular mechanisms of Rhamnetin in human epithelial ovarian carcinoma cells (SKOV3), which remain largely unexplored. We employed various in vitro methods, including MTT, apoptosis study, cell cycle analysis, fluorescence microscopy imaging, and in vitro enzymatic HDAC 2 protein inhibition, to examine the chemotherapeutic sensitivity of Rhamnetin in SKOV3 cells. Additionally, we conducted in silico studies using molecular docking, MD simulation, MM-GBSA, DFT, and pharmacokinetic analysis to investigate the binding interaction mechanism within Rhamnetin and HDAC 2, alongside the compound's prospective as a lead candidate. The in vitro assay confirmed the cytotoxic effects of Rhamnetin on SKOV3 cells, through its inhibition of HDAC 2 activity. Rhamnetin, a nutraceutical flavonoid, halted at the G1 phase of the cell cycle and triggered apoptosis in SKOV3 cells. Furthermore, computational studies provided additional evidence of its stable binding to the HDAC 2 protein's binding site cavity. Based on our findings, we conclude that Rhamnetin effectively promotes apoptosis and mitigates the proliferation of SKOV3 cells through HDAC 2 inhibition. These results highlight Rhamnetin as a potential lead compound, opening a new therapeutic strategy for human epithelial ovarian cancer.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Advances in the roles of glycyrrhizic acid in cancer therapy

Since the first 70 years of reporting cancer chemotherapy, malignant tumors have been the second most common cause of death in children and adults. Currently, the commonly used anti-cancer methods include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. Although these treatment methods could alleviate cancer, they lead to different forms of side effects and have no particularly significant effect on prolonging the patients' life span. Glycyrrhizic acid (GL), a native Chinese herbal extract, has a wide range of pharmacological effects, such as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune regulation. In this review, the anti-cancer effects and mechanisms of GL are summarized in various cancers. The inhibition of GL on chemotherapy-induced side effects, including hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, genotoxicity, neurotoxicity and pulmonary toxicity, is highlighted. Therefore, GL may be a promising and ideal drug for cancer therapy.

Casticin as potential anticancer agent: recent advancements in multi-mechanistic approaches

Plants, with their range of pharmacologically active molecules, represent the most promising source for the production of new anticancer drugs and for the formulation of adjuvants in chemotherapy treatments to reduce drug content and/or counteract the side effects of chemotherapy. Casticin is a major bioactive flavonoid isolated from several plants, mainly from the Vitex species. This compound is well known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which are mainly exploited in traditional medicine. Recently, the antineoplastic potential of casticin has attracted the attention of the scientific community for its ability to target multiple cancer pathways. The purpose of this review is, therefore, to present and critically analyze the antineoplastic potential of casticin, highlighting the molecular pathways underlying its antitumor effects. Bibliometric data were extracted from the Scopus database using the search strings "casticin" and "cancer" and analyzed using VOSviewer software to generate network maps to visualize the results. Overall, more than 50% of the articles were published since 2018 and even more recent studies have expanded the knowledge of casticin's antitumor activity by adding interesting new mechanisms of action as a topoisomerase IIα inhibitor, DNA methylase 1 inhibitor, and an upregulator of the onco-suppressive miR-338-3p. Casticin counteracts cancer progression through the induction of apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and metastasis arrest, acting on several pathways that are generally dysregulated in different types of cancer. In addition, they highlight that casticin can be considered as a promising epigenetic drug candidate to target not only cancer cells but also cancer stem-like cells.

Ethyl Acetate Extract of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides Promotes Cytotoxicity and Apoptosis in Human Breast Cancer Cells

Fungal endophytes are known to be a paragon for producing bioactive compounds with a variety of pharmacological importance. The current study aims to elucidate the molecular alterations induced by the bioactive compounds produced by the fungal endophyte Colletotrichum gloeosporioides in the tumor microenvironment of human breast cancer cells. GC/MS analysis of the ethyl acetate (EA) extract of C. gloeosporioides revealed the presence of bioactive compounds with anticancer activity. The EA extract of C. gloeosporioides exerted potential plasmid DNA protective activity against hydroxyl radicals of Fenton's reagent. The cytotoxic activity further revealed that MDA-MB-231 cells exhibit more sensitivity toward the EA extract of C. gloeosporioides as compared to MCF-7 cells, whereas non-toxic to non-cancerous HEK293T cells. Furthermore, the anticancer activity demonstrated by the EA extract of C. gloeosporioides was studied by assessing nuclear morphometric analysis and induction of apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells. The EA extract of C. gloeosporioides causes the alteration in cellular and nuclear morphologies, chromatin condensation, long-term colony inhibition, and inhibition of cell migration and proliferation ability of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells. The study also revealed that the EA extract of C. gloeosporioides treated cells undergoes apoptosis by increased production of reactive oxygen species and significant deficit in mitochondrial membrane potential. Our study also showed that the EA extract of C. gloeosporioides causes upregulation of pro-apoptotic (BAX, PARP, CASPASE-8, and FADD), cell cycle arrest (P21), and tumor suppressor (P53) related genes. Additionally, the downregulation of antiapoptotic genes (BCL-2 and SURVIVIN) and increased Caspase-3 activity suggest the induction of apoptosis in the EA extract of C. gloeosporioides treated MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells. Overall, our findings suggest that the bioactive compounds present in the EA extract of C. gloeosporioides promotes apoptosis by altering the genes related to the extrinsic as well as the intrinsic pathway. Further in vivo study in breast cancer models is required to validate the in vitro observations.

The positive effects and mechanisms of honey against breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is a malignancy that occurs in cells in the breast tissue where cells in the breast divide and grow out of control, invade surrounding tissues, or spread (metastasize) to distant areas of the body.

METHOD

This review was systematically carried out through PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar websites in English and Indonesian using the keyword content of the article, obtaining 21 selected articles. This review demonstrates honey's promising mechanism of combined synergistic effect for breast cancer management.

CONCLUSION

Antioxidants in honey intercept free radicals of phenolic compounds which are the main factors responsible for the antioxidant activity of honey. The antimicrobial activity in most honey is due to the enzymatic production of hydrogen peroxide, and its anti-cancer properties are discussed in this section.

The antiproliferative and apoptotic potential of Clinacanthus nutans against human breast cancer cells through targeted apoptosis pathway

Clinacanthus nutans dichloromethane fraction (CN-Dcm) extract has previously been proven to suppress breast cancer (MCF7) cell proliferation. Despite this, the extrinsic and intrinsic apoptosis mechanisms involved in C. nutans extract-treated MCF7 cells are still unknown. This study was intended to subfractionate CN-Dcm extract using column chromatography and analyse the treated MCF7 cells using the CellTiter 96® AQueous One Solution Cell Proliferation (MTS) assay, Annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) assay, western blot, and reverse transcription-qualitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Out of nine subfraction extracts (SF1 to SF9), SF2 extract strongly inhibited MCF7 cells with the lowest IC50 value (23.51 ± 1.00 µg/mL) and substantially induced apoptosis in the MCF7 cells. In treated MCF7 cells, SF2 extract significantly upregulated the expression of P53, BAX, BID, caspase-8, caspase-9, and caspase-3, while downregulating the expression of BCL2. The presence of potential bioactive chemical compounds in the SF2 extract was identified using liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS). Thus, the SF2 extract has the potential to induce apoptosis in MCF7 cells through intrinsic and extrinsic pathways.

Combinatorial Effect of Arsenic and Herbal Compounds in Telomerase-Mediated Apoptosis Induction in Liver Cancer

Tumour illness and its resistance against existing anticancer therapies pose a serious health concern globally despite the progressive advancement of therapeutic options. The prevailing treatment of HCC using numerous antitumor agents has inflated long-lived complete remissions, but a percentage of individuals still die due to disease recurrence, indicating a need for further exploration of possible anti-tumour regimes. We aim to boost the effectiveness of the HCC treatment by conducting current investigations evaluating the effect of arsenic trioxide (ATO) with different herbal compounds like quercetin and aloe-emodin against liver tumour via inhibition of telomerase, a pro-cancer enzyme. The anticancer activity of ATO with herbal compounds was investigated in human control liver cell line (Wrl-68) and cancer liver cell line (HepG2) at different time intervals. Viability and cytotoxicity in response to combinatorial drugs were assessed in vitro by trypan blue dye exclusion assay and MTT and WST assay. Apoptosis was analysed by annexin V/PI assay, and the expression of telomerase and apoptosis-regulating proteins was evaluated by immunoblotting and qRT-PCR. Arsenic trioxide in combination with quercetin and aloe-emodin reduced cell viability in cancerous cells compared to normal cells by inducing apoptosis, downregulating telomerase and Bcl-2 (anti-apoptotic protein) and upregulating the expression of Bax (pro-apoptotic protein). ATO exhibited significant anticancer effects due to the synergistic effects of quercetin and aloe-emodin in liver tumour cells. The current study data collectively suggest that a successful inhibition of cancer growth by the combination of ATO and tested herbal medicines against liver tumour growth is via the inhibition of telomerase activity.

Untargeted Metabolomics Analysis of Crocus cancellatus subsp. damascenus (Herb.) B. Mathew Stigmas and Their Anticarcinogenic Effect on Breast Cancer Cells

Safranal, crocin, crocetin, and picrocrocin are major known compounds in the stigma extract of Crocus sativus with various medicinal properties. Crocus cancellatus is another Crocus species that grows extensively in Iran’s various regions, such as the Kurdistan province. The predominant metabolites and biological properties of C. cancellatus have not yet been investigated. The ingredients of the stigma ethanol extract of C. cancellatus were investigated using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The ROIMCR approach was performed to analyze the LC-MS full scan data sets. This method searches the MS regions of interest (ROI) data in the m/z domain and analyses the results using the multivariate curve-resolution alternating least squares (MCR-ALS) chemometrics technique for simultaneous resolution of two extracts. Also, the antiproliferative properties of C. cancellatus against MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cancer cells were examined by MTT, dual acridine orange/ethidium bromide test, Annexin V-FITC/PI, and zymography. The GC-MS and LC-MS untargeted metabolomics data analysis of the extract indicated the presence of cytotoxic agents including safranal, crocin, picrocrocin, and crocetin in the stigma ethanol extract of C. cancellatus. Biological tests showed that the viability of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cancer cells is decreased following C. cancellatus treatment in a time- and dose-dependent way in both monolayer and 3D cell cultures. The MCF-7 cell spheroids had greater resistance to the cytotoxic activity of the extract in 3D cell culture than the MDA-MB-231 cell spheroids. The morphological changes of the cells treated with C. cancellatus stigmas extract were indicative of apoptosis. Zymography analysis revealed a similar trend of matrix metallopeptidase-2 (MMP-2) and matrix metallopeptidase-9 (MMP-9) activity in the treated cells with C. cancellatus extract in comparison with doxorubicin treatment as a positive control. The findings of this research indicate that the ethanolic extract of C. cancellatus stigmas was a good source of bioactive metabolites with anticancer activity.

Targeting Ras-ERK cascade by bioactive natural products for potential treatment of cancer: an updated overview

MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) or ERK (extracellular-signal-regulated kinase) pathway is an important link in the transition from extracellular signals to intracellular responses. Because of genetic and epigenetic changes, signaling cascades are altered in a variety of diseases, including cancer. Extant studies on the homeostatic and pathologic behavior of MAPK signaling have been conducted; however, much remains to be explored in preclinical and clinical research in terms of regulation and action models. MAPK has implications for cancer therapy response, more specifically in response to experimental MAPK suppression, compensatory mechanisms are activated. The current study investigates MAPK as a very complex cell signaling pathway that plays roles in cancer treatment response, cellular normal conduit maintenance, and compensatory pathway activation. Most MAPK inhibitors, unfortunately, cause resistance by activating compensatory feedback loops in tumor cells and tumor microenvironment components. As a result, innovative combinatorial treatments for cancer management must be applied to limit the likelihood of alternate pathway initiation as a possibility for generating novel therapeutics based on incorporation in translational research. We summarize current knowledge about the implications of ERK (MAPK) in cancer, as well as bioactive products from plants, microbial organisms or marine organisms, as well as the correlation with their chemical structures, which modulate this pathway for the treatment of different types of cancer.

Social Marketing Strategy to Promote Traditional Thai Medicines during COVID-19: KAP and DoI Two-Step Theory Application Process

Introduction: Recently, the Thai government has been promoting the innovation of finished forms of traditional Thai medicine (TTM) products (e.g., tablets and capsules). According to the existing literature, most consumers are unaware of the finished forms of TTMs because of conflicting knowledge, information, and communication. Therefore, the consumers have poor perceptions about TTMs and their benefits. Purpose: This qualitative study explores the current perceptions about TTMs and the modes of promotion that are being utilized to develop a strategic communication plan for the finished forms of TTMs. Design/methodology/approach: Utilising thematic analysis, focus groups were conducted with thirty experienced consumers. Findings: Using KAP and DoI theory, the following three themes emerged in this study: (i) the current KAP of Thai consumers toward the finished forms of TTM; (ii) factors influencing the use of finished forms of TTM; and (iii) integrated marketing communication as a promotion strategy to rapidly disseminate knowledge. Research limitations/implications: Given Thailand's large population, the findings of this study are substantially limited and cannot be generalized. Therefore, the findings herein may not reflect the experiences and opinions of the Thai consumers residing in other regions or the opinions of the entire country. Originality/value: This study utilises interdisciplinary methods and two-step theory application to explain the current knowledge and perceptions about the finished forms of TTM and develop proper communication and media strategies that can promote the finished forms of traditional Thai medicines, helping to widen their usage significantly.

In silico, in vitro screening of antioxidant and anticancer potentials of bioactive secondary metabolites from an endophytic fungus (Curvularia sp.) from Phyllanthus niruri L

The main objective of this research work is to discover novel and efficient phytochemical substances from endophytic fungus found in medicinal plants. Curvularia geniculata L. (C. geniculata L.), an endophytic fungus isolated from Phyllanthus niruri L. (P. niruri L.), was tested against hepatoma cell lines (HepG2) in order to screen their antioxidant and anticancer potentials. The profiling of phytochemicals from the fungal extract was characterized using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and molecular docking was done for the identified compounds against one of the potential receptors predominantly present in the hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines. Among the phytochemicals found, 2-methyl-7-phenylindole had the highest binding affinity (- 8.8 kcal mol^-1) for the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). The stability of 2-methyl-7-phenylindole in the EGFR-binding pockets was tested using in silico molecular dynamics simulation. The fungal extract showed the highest antioxidant activity as measured by DPPH, ABTS radical scavenging, and FRAP assays. In vitro cytotoxicity assay of fungal extract demonstrated the concentration-dependent cytotoxicity against HepG2 cells after 24 h, and the IC₅₀ (50% cell death) value was estimated to be 62.23 μg mL^-1. Typical morphological changes such as condensation of nuclei and deformed membrane structures are indicative of ongoing apoptosis. The mitochondria of HepG2 cells were also targeted by the endophytic fungal extract, which resulted in substantial generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) leading to the destruction of mitochondrial transmembrane potential integrity. These outcomes suggest that the ethyl acetate extract of C. geniculata L. has the potential to be an antioxidant agent and further to be exploited in developing potential anticancer agents.

An in-Depth Analysis of Ovarian Cancer: Pathogenesis and Clinical Manifestation

Ovarian cancer is characterized by the establishment of tolerance, the recurrence of disease, as well as a poor prognosis. Gene signatures in ovarian cancer cells enable cancer medicine research, therapy, prevention, & management problematic. Notwithstanding advances in tumor puncture surgery, novel combinations regimens, and abdominal radiation, which can provide outstanding reaction times, the bulk of gynecological tumor patients suffer from side effects & relapse. As a consequence, more therapy alternatives for individuals with ovarian cancer must always be studied to minimize side effects and improve progression-free and total response rates. The development of cancer medications is presently undergoing a renaissance in the quest for descriptive and prognostic ovarian cancer biomarkers. Nevertheless, abnormalities in the BRCA2 or BRCA1 genes, a variety of hereditary predispositions, unexplained onset and progression, molecular tumor diversity, and illness staging can all compromise the responsiveness and accuracy of such indicators. As a result, current ovarian cancer treatments must be supplemented with broad-spectrum & customized targeted therapeutic approaches. The objective of this review is to highlight recent contributions to the knowledge of the interrelations between selected ovarian tumor markers, various perception signs, and biochemical and molecular signaling processes, as well as one's interpretation of much more targeted and effective treatment interventions.

In Vitro Anti-Proliferative, and Kinase Inhibitory Activity of Phenanthroindolizidine Alkaloids Isolated from Tylophora indica

The phenanthroindolizidine alkaloid (-)-tylophorine has been reported for its significant anticancer activity working through different biomechanistic pathways. The current study aimed to evaluate the anticancer activity of phenanthroindolizidine alkaloids isolated from Tylophora indica. Six phenanthroindolizidine alkaloid (compounds 1-6) in addition to septicine (7), chlorogenic acid (8), and chlorogenic acid methyl ester (9) were isolated from Tylophora indica using different chromatographic techniques including vacuum liquid chromatography (VLC) and preparative high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The isolated compounds structures' were determined using various spectro-analytical techniques, i.e., ¹H-NMR, ¹³C-NMR, and mass spectrometry. The isolates' structural stereochemistry and structural geometries were determined with the help of chiroptical techniques together with comparisons with the available standard samples. The in vitro anti-proliferative activity on three different cell lines, MCF-7, HepG2, and HCT-116 were evaluated. Among all the isolated compounds, tylophorinidine (5) was the most active cytotoxic agent with the lowest IC₅₀ values at 6.45, 4.77, and 20.08 μM against MCF-7, HepG2, and HCT-116 cell lines, respectively. The bioactivities were also validated by the in vitro kinase receptors inhibition assay. Compound (5) also exhibited the highest activity with lowest IC₅₀ values (0.6 and 1.3 μM against the Aurora-A and Aurora-B enzymes, respectively), as compared with all the isolated alkaloidal products. The structure activity relationship on the molecular properties, molecular attributes, and bioactivity levels were analyzed, interrelated, and the molecular docking studies on two different receptors, Aurora-A and Aurora-B, were determined, which provided the confirmations of the bioactivity with receptor-ligand geometric disposition, energy requirements, lipophilicity, and detailed the binding pharmacophore involvements responsible for bioactivity elicitations.

Targeting transforming growth factor-β signalling for cancer prevention and intervention: Recent advances in developing small molecules of natural origin

Background

Cancer is the world's second leading cause of death, but a significant advancement in cancer treatment has been achieved within the last few decades. However, major adverse effects and drug resistance associated with standard chemotherapy have led towards targeted treatment options.

Objectives

Transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) signaling plays a key role in cell proliferation, differentiation, morphogenesis, regeneration, and tissue homeostasis. The prime objective of this review is to decipher the role of TGF‐β in oncogenesis and to evaluate the potential of various natural and synthetic agents to target this dysregulated pathway to confer cancer preventive and anticancer therapeutic effects.

Methods

Various authentic and scholarly databases were explored to search and obtain primary literature for this study. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA) criteria was followed for the review.

Results

Here we provide a comprehensive and critical review of recent advances on our understanding of the effect of various bioactive natural molecules on the TGF‐β signaling pathway to evaluate their full potential for cancer prevention and therapy.

Conclusion

Based on emerging evidence as presented in this work, TGF‐β‐targeting bioactive compounds from natural sources can serve as potential therapeutic agents for prevention and treatment of various human malignancies.

iANP-EC: Identifying Anticancer Natural Products Using Ensemble Learning Incorporated with Evolutionary Computation

Cancer is one of the most deadly diseases that annually kills millions of people worldwide. The investigation on anticancer medicines has never ceased to seek better and more adaptive agents with fewer side effects. Besides chemically synthetic anticancer compounds, natural products are scientifically proved as a highly potential alternative source for anticancer drug discovery. Along with experimental approaches being used to find anticancer drug candidates, computational approaches have been developed to virtually screen for potential anticancer compounds. In this study, we construct an ensemble computational framework, called iANP-EC, using machine learning approaches incorporated with evolutionary computation. Four learning algorithms (k-NN, SVM, RF, and XGB) and four molecular representation schemes are used to build a set of classifiers, among which the top-four best-performing classifiers are selected to form an ensemble classifier. Particle swarm optimization (PSO) is used to optimise the weights used to combined the four top classifiers. The models are developed by a set of curated 997 compounds which are collected from the NPACT and CancerHSP databases. The results show that iANP-EC is a stable, robust, and effective framework that achieves an AUC-ROC value of 0.9193 and an AUC-PR value of 0.8366. The comparative analysis of molecular substructures between natural anticarcinogens and nonanticarcinogens partially unveils several key substructures that drive anticancerous activities. We also deploy the proposed ensemble model as an online web server with a user-friendly interface to support the research community in identifying natural products with anticancer activities.

Antioxidant and cytotoxic potentials of the methanolic extract of Teucrium persicum Boiss. in A-375 melanoma cells

Objective

Teucrium persicum is an Iranian endemic plant used in Iranian traditional medicine.

Materials and Methods

The total phenolic and total flavonoid contents, and antioxidant potential of the methanolic extract of T. persicum were determined. The MTT test was used to evaluate the inhibitory effect of the extract on the viability of A-375 cells. The clonogenic, micronucleus formation, and acridine orange/ethidium bromide staining methods were used to evaluate the survival and proliferation of A-375 cells. Apoptosis was evaluated by using DNA fragmentation assay and measuring the activity of caspase 3/7. To study the effect of the extract on the migration of A-375 cells, the in vitro wound-healing (scratch) assay was employed.

Results

The average total phenolic and flavonoid contents and antioxidant properties of the extract were 6.97±0.011 mg Ellagic acid (EGA)/g, 46.83±0.0019 mg of the ethoxyquin (1,2-dihydro-6-ethoxy-2,2,4-trimethylquinoline; EQ)/g of dried extract, and 10±0.002 μg/ml, respectively. The IC₅₀ value of the T. persicum methanolic extract was 13 μg/ml for 48 hr. The DNA fragmentation pattern and the activity of caspase3/7 suggested that the reduction of the cell viability may be due to apoptosis induction. Microscopic observations showed nuclear condensation, a considerable increase in micronuclei formation, and inhibition of the colony formation in A-375 cells treated with 7 μg/ml to 15 μg/ml of the extract. Wound-healing assay supported the anti-migration activity of the extract.

Conclusion

T. persicum has significant antioxidant and cytotoxic properties. Surely, more detailed molecular and biochemical studies are needed to find the mechanism(s) behind these effects.

The Therapeutic Potential of Common Herbal and Nano-Based Herbal Formulations against Ovarian Cancer: New Insight into the Current Evidence

Ovarian cancer (OCa) is characterized as one of the common reasons for cancer-associated death in women globally. This gynecological disorder is chiefly named the "silent killer" due to lacking an association between disease manifestations in the early stages and OCa. Because of the disease recurrence and resistance to common therapies, discovering an effective therapeutic way against the disease is a challenge. According to documents, some popular herbal formulations, such as curcumin, quercetin, and resveratrol, can serve as an anti-cancer agent through different mechanisms. However, these herbal products may be accompanied by some pharmacological limitations, such as poor bioavailability, instability, and weak water solubility. On the contrary, using nano-based material, e.g., nanoparticles (NPs), micelles, liposomes, can significantly solve these limitations. Therefore, in the present study, we will summarize the anti-cancer aspects of these herbal and-nano-based herbal formulations with a focus on their mechanisms against OCa.

Polygodial and Ophiobolin A Analogues for Covalent Crosslinking of Anticancer Targets

In a search of small molecules active against apoptosis-resistant cancer cells, including glioma, melanoma, and non-small cell lung cancer, we previously prepared α,β- and γ,δ-unsaturated ester analogues of polygodial and ophiobolin A, compounds capable of pyrrolylation of primary amines and demonstrating double-digit micromolar antiproliferative potencies in cancer cells. In the current work, we synthesized dimeric and trimeric variants of such compounds in an effort to discover compounds that could crosslink biological primary amine containing targets. We showed that such compounds retain the pyrrolylation ability and possess enhanced single-digit micromolar potencies toward apoptosis-resistant cancer cells. Target identification studies of these interesting compounds are underway.

ACNPD: The Database for Elucidating the Relationships Between Natural Products, Compounds, Molecular Mechanisms, and Cancer Types

Objectives: Cancer is well-known as a collection of diseases of uncontrolled proliferation of cells caused by mutated genes which are generated by external or internal factors. As the mechanisms of cancer have been constantly revealed, including cell cycle, proliferation, apoptosis and so on, a series of new emerging anti-cancer drugs acting on each stage have also been developed. It is worth noting that natural products are one of the important sources for the development of anti-cancer drugs. To the best of our knowledge, there is not any database summarizing the relationships between natural products, compounds, molecular mechanisms, and cancer types.

Materials and methods: Based upon published literatures and other sources, we have constructed an anti-cancer natural product database (ACNPD) (http://www.acnpd-fu.com/). The database currently contains 521 compounds, which specifically refer to natural compounds derived from traditional Chinese medicine plants (derivatives are not considered herein). And, it includes 1,593 molecular mechanisms/signaling pathways, covering 10 common cancer types, such as breast cancer, lung cancer and cervical cancer.

Results: Integrating existing data sources, we have obtained a large amount of information on natural anti-cancer products, including herbal sources, regulatory targets and signaling pathways. ACNPD is a valuable online resource that illustrates the complex pharmacological relationship between natural products and human cancers.

Conclusion: In summary, ACNPD is crucial for better understanding of the relationships between traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and cancer, which is not only conducive to expand the influence of TCM, but help to find more new anti-cancer drugs in the future.

LncRNA-H19 gene plays a significant role in regulating glioma cell function

Background

Glioma is an aggressive adult primary cancer, and is characterized by low cure rate, poor prognosis, and high recurrence. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of lncRNA‐H19 gene silencing on glioma cell function.

Methods

lncRNA‐H19 interference vector (LV3‐si‐H19) and negative control vector (LV3‐NC) were stably transfected into U251 and U87‐MG cells, respectively. Quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR) was performed to investigate the expression of lncRNA‐H19. Cell proliferation capacity was tested by adopting cell counting kit (CCK8), and propidium iodide (PI) was used for cell cycle analysis. Meanwhile, flow cytometry (FCM) method was used to investigate cell apoptosis, cell migration capacity was detected via wound healing and transwell experiments, and sphere‐forming ability was examined in serum‐free suspension culture. Additionally, glioma animal models were conducted through injecting U251 cells to estimate the effects of lncRNA‐H19 on glioma growth in vivo.

Results

Knocking down lncRNA‐H19 gene could effectively suppress the proliferation of U251 and U87‐MG cells. The knockdown of lncRNA‐H19 remarkably inhibited the migration and blocked cycle progressions of U251 and U87‐MG cells, yet, no obvious changes were observed in cell apoptosis. Besides, inhibiting lncRNA‐H19 expression could attenuate sphere‐forming function of U251 and U87‐MG cells. Additionally, tumor volume and weight were significantly reduced in rats injected with U251 LV‐si‐H19 cell line compared to untransfected and negative controls, when survival time was obviously prolonged in U251 LV‐si‐H19 injection groups.

Conclusion

LncRNA‐H19 gene plays a carcinogenic role in glioma progression via enhancing aggressive behavior of glioma cells.

Resveratrol-Based Nanoformulations as an Emerging Therapeutic Strategy for Cancer

Resveratrol is a polyphenolic stilbene derivative widely present in grapes and red wine. Broadly known for its antioxidant effects, numerous studies have also indicated that it exerts anti-inflammatory and antiaging abilities and a great potential in cancer therapy. Regrettably, the oral administration of resveratrol has pharmacokinetic and physicochemical limitations such as hampering its effects so that effective administration methods are demanding to ensure its efficiency. Thus, the present review explores the published data on the application of resveratrol nanoformulations in cancer therapy, with the use of different types of nanodelivery systems. Mechanisms of action with a potential use in cancer therapy, negative effects, and the influence of resveratrol nanoformulations in different types of cancer are also highlighted. Finally, the toxicological features of nanoresveratrol are also discussed.

Impacting the Remedial Potential of Nano Delivery-Based Flavonoids for Breast Cancer Treatment

Breast cancer persists as a diffuse source of cancer despite persistent detection and treatment. Flavonoids, a type of polyphenol, appear to be a productive option in the treatment of breast cancer, because of their capacity to regulate the tumor related functions of class of compounds. Plant polyphenols are flavonoids that appear to exhibit properties which are beneficial for breast cancer therapy. Numerous epidemiologic studies have been performed on the dynamic effect of plant polyphenols in the prevention of breast cancer. There are also subclasses of flavonoids that have antioxidant and anticarcinogenic activity. These can regulate the scavenging activity of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which help in cell cycle arrest and suppress the uncontrolled division of cancer cells. Numerous studies have also been performed at the population level, one of which reported a connection between cancer risk and intake of dietary flavonoids. Breast cancer appears to show intertumoral heterogeneity with estrogen receptor positive and negative cells. This review describes breast cancer, its various factors, and the function of flavonoids in the prevention and treatment of breast cancer, namely, how flavonoids and their subtypes are used in treatment. This review proposes that cancer risk can be reduced, and that cancer can be even cured by improving dietary intake. A large number of studies also suggested that the intake of fruit and vegetables is associated with reduced breast cancer and paper also includes the role and the use of nanodelivery of flavonoids in the healing of breast cancer. In addition, the therapeutic potential of orally administered phyto-bioactive compounds (PBCs) is narrowed because of poor stability and oral bioavailability of compounds in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), and solubility also affects bioavailability. In recent years, creative nanotechnology-based approaches have been advised to enhance the activity of PBCs. Nanotechnology also offers the potential to become aware of disease at earlier stages, such as the detection of hidden or unconcealed metastasis colonies in patients diagnosed with lung, colon, prostate, ovarian, and breast cancer. However, nanoformulation-related effects and safety must not be overlooked. This review gives a brief discussion of nanoformulations and the effect of nanotechnology on herbal drugs.

Identification of Targeted Proteins by Jamu Formulas for Different Efficacies Using Machine Learning Approach

BACKGROUND

We performed in silico prediction of the interactions between compounds of Jamu herbs and human proteins by utilizing data-intensive science and machine learning methods. Verifying the proteins that are targeted by compounds of natural herbs will be helpful to select natural herb-based drug candidates.

METHODS

Initially, data related to compounds, target proteins, and interactions between them were collected from open access databases. Compounds are represented by molecular fingerprints, whereas amino acid sequences are represented by numerical protein descriptors. Then, prediction models that predict the interactions between compounds and target proteins were constructed using support vector machine and random forest.

RESULTS

A random forest model constructed based on MACCS fingerprint and amino acid composition obtained the highest accuracy. We used the best model to predict target proteins for 94 important Jamu compounds and assessed the results by supporting evidence from published literature and other sources. There are 27 compounds that can be validated by professional doctors, and those compounds belong to seven efficacy groups.

CONCLUSION

By comparing the efficacy of predicted compounds and the relations of the targeted proteins with diseases, we found that some compounds might be considered as drug candidates.

Interactions of multidomain pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic proteins in cancer cell death

Cancer is a global public health concern that is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of tumor cells. It is regarded as the subsequent cause of death after cardiovascular disease. The most common types of cancer include breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate. The risk factors attributed to the development of common types of cancer are tobacco smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, dietary factors, ultraviolet radiation (UV), and lack of physical activities. Two major cellular apoptotic pathways targeted in cancer therapies are intrinsic and extrinsic. These two pathways are regulated by different types of proteins, the multidomain pro-apoptotic proteins (Bak, Bax, and Bok), BH3-only pro-apoptotic proteins (Bid, Bim, Bad, Noxa, and Puma), and the anti-apoptotic proteins (Mcl-1, Bfl-1, Bcl-XL, Bcl-2, Bcl-w, and Bcl-B). Other significant molecules/factors that are known to execute cellular apoptotic pathways include bioactive compounds, and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Proteolytic caspases are known to play a vital role in the initiation of apoptotic activities in cancerous cells. Based on their functions, they are categorized into initiators and executioners. Nanotechnology has produced novel outcomes in modern medicine. The green synthesis of nanoparticles has demonstrated prospective improvements in cancer therapies in combination with the existing therapies including photodynamic therapy. This review aims at highlighting the association between pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic proteins, and their significance in cancer therapy.

Antiproliferative Activities of Methanolic Extract and Fractions of Tetrapleura Tetraptera Fruit

Most of the current cancer chemotherapeutics are associated with harsh and undesirable side effects, including toxicity and chemoresistance, driving the need for safer and more effective alternatives. In this study, the antiproliferative activities of the methanolic extract of Tetrapleura tetraptera fruits and nine different fractions (C1-C9) from the column chromatographic separation of the extract against leukemia (Jurkat) and human breast cancer (MCF-7) cell lines were investigated using a tetrazolium-based colorimetric assay. Phytochemical screening of the extract and fractions found alkaloids, carbohydrates, flavonoids, glycosides, phenols, saponins, steroids, tannins, and terpenoids in the methanolic extract. Most of the fractions exhibited antiproliferative activity (>100 μg/mL) with the Jurkat cells being more susceptible than the MCF-7 cells. Four of the collected fractions C4, C3, C5, and C2 had good selective indices in decreasing order of activity, in the case of Jurkat cells. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of all samples (except for C4 and C9) revealed that C1, C2, C3, and C5 each had a single component. More importantly, fractions C2, C3, and C5, which were selective to Jurkat cells, also had the same retention time of 1.846 min. Fractions C6 and C8 had two components, with C7 having four components. This study serves as a basis for further work to isolate and characterize potential anticancer agents from the fractions of extracts of T. tetraptera fruits.

Chemical composition and cytotoxic activity of the essential oil from the aerial parts of Dorema aucheri

Introduction: Herbal products are beneficial compounds with many applications in human life. In this study the chemical composition and cytotoxic activity of the essential oil of the aerial parts of Dorema aucheri were assessed. Methods: The essential oil was extracted by hydrodistillation after drying the aerial parts of D. aucheri, collected from the mountains around Yasuj city in the South-West of Iran. The oil composition was determined by GC/MS. To evaluate in vitro cytotoxic activity, the apoptotic effects of the essential oil were investigated against SW48 and SW1116 colorectal cancer cell lines by (3-[4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2, 5 diphenyl tetrazolium) bromide (MTT) assay and flow cytometry. Results: The essential oil yield was obtained 0.02% (W/W). Twenty-five compounds were identified in the oil, and the main constituents were caryophyllene (E) (31.29%), Phytol (14.92%), gurjunene (β-) (9.84%), 3,7,11,15-tetramethyl-2-hexadecen-1-ol (8.7%), and n-hexadecanoic acid (8.09%). The MTT assay showed that the IC50 values of the essential oil for SW48 and SW1116 cell lines were 1.4 and 1.2 mg/mL, respectively. The results of flow cytometry showed that the essential oil significantly increased the apoptosis in SW48 cell line compared with the vincristine (P < 0.05). It also increased the apoptosis in SW1116 cells compared with the vincristine, but this difference is not significant. Conclusion: The essential oil of D. aucheri consisted of high amounts of caryophyllene and showed significant cytotoxic effects against SW48 and SW1116 cancerous cell lines.

Celastrol inhibit the proliferation, invasion and migration of human cervical HeLa cancer cells through down-regulation of MMP-2 and MMP-9

The present study evaluated the anticancer potential of celastrol through down-regulation of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9. HeLa cells were incubated with different concentrations of celastrol (1, 10 and 100 µM) for 48h. Doxorubicin was used as a reference drug. Cancer cell migration, apoptosis, cell viability and mitochondrial fragmentation were evaluated following celastrol treatment. In addition, the expression level of MMP-2, MMP-9 and caspase-3 was evaluated following celastrol treatment. HeLa cell viability was 94.1 ± 7, 53.4 ± 4 and 36.3 ± 2% at 1-100 µM of celastrol, respectively. Apoptotic cell numbers were increased, and inhibition of larger wounds in cancer cells was observed following celastrol treatment. Celastrol-treated cells showed condensed nuclei and clumped mitochondria. Reduced expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and increased expression of caspase-3 were observed following celastrol treatment. Based on the experimental results, we are concluding that the celastrol was effective against HeLa cervical cancer cells.

6-Shogaol induces apoptosis in acute lymphoblastic leukaemia cells by targeting p53 signalling pathway and generation of reactive oxygen species

Combination therapies, using medicinal herbs, are broadly recommended to attenuate the chemotherapy adverse effects. Based on our previous findings considering the anti-leukaemic effects of ginger extract on acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) cells, the present study was aimed to investigate the anti-cancer role of this pharmaceutical plant on ALL mice models. Moreover, we worked towards identifying the most anti-leukaemic derivative of ginger and the mechanism through which it may exert its cytotoxic impact. In vivo experiments were performed using five groups of six C57BL/6 nude mice, and the anti-leukaemic activity of ginger extract alone or in combination with methotrexate (MTX) was examined. Results showed increased survival rate and reduced damages in mice brain and liver tissues. Subsequently, MTT assay demonstrated synergistic growth inhibitory effect of 6-shogaol (6Sh) and MTX on ALL cell lines and patients primary cells. Eventually, the molecular anti-neoplastic mechanism of 6Sh was evaluated using Bioinformatics. Flow cytometry illustrated 6Sh-mediated apoptosis in Nalm-6 cells confirmed by Western blotting and RT-PCR assays. Further analyses exhibited the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) through 6Sh. The current study revealed the in vivo novel anti-leukaemic role of ginger extract, promoted by MTX. Moreover, 6-shogaol was introduced as the major player of ginger cytotoxicity through inducing p53 activity and ROS generation.

Momordicine-I, a Bitter Melon Bioactive Metabolite, Displays Anti-Tumor Activity in Head and Neck Cancer Involving c-Met and Downstream Signaling

Head and neck cancer (HNC) is one of the most aggressive cancers, and treatments are quite challenging due to the difficulty in early diagnosis, lack of effective chemotherapeutic drugs, adverse side effects and therapy resistance. We identified momordicine-I (M-I), a bioactive secondary metabolite in bitter melon (Momordica charantia), by performing liquid chromatography-high resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LC-HRESIMS) analysis. M-I inhibited human HNC cell (JHU022, JHU029, Cal27) viability in a dose-dependent manner without an apparent toxic effect on normal oral keratinocytes. Mechanistic studies showed that M-I inhibited c-Met and its downstream signaling molecules c-Myc, survivin, and cyclin D1 through the inactivation of STAT3 in HNC cells. We further observed that M-I was non-toxic and stable in mouse (male C57Bl/6) blood, and a favorable pharmacokinetics profile was observed after IP administration. M-I treatment reduced HNC xenograft tumor growth in nude mice and inhibited c-Met and downstream signaling. Thus, M-I has potential therapeutic implications against HNC.

Pterostilbene promotes mitochondrial apoptosis and inhibits proliferation in glioma cells

Glioma is the most general primary and lethal intracranial malignant tumor. Pterostilbene (PTE), an analog of stilbene and resveratrol, has attracted attention in recent years due to its significant antitumor activity in multiple solid tumors; however, its effect on drug-resistant glioma cells and the underlying mechanism have not yet been reported. In this study, we found that pterostilbene inhibited proliferation, induced intrinsic mitochondria-mediated apoptosis and caused S phase arrest, inhibited migration and excessive invasion in glioma cells. Pretreatment with the pan-caspase-inhibitor Z-VAD-FMK attenuated the PTE-induced apoptosis of glioma cells. Moreover, PTE significantly increased the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reduce the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). Inhibition of ROS with N-acetyl-l-cysteine not only rescued PTE-induced reduction of cellular viability but also prevented glioma cell apoptosis. We also discovered ERK 1/2 and JNK signaling pathways were activated by PTE and contributed to induce glioma cell apoptosis. In addition, specific inhibitors of ERK 1/2 and JNK attenuated PTE-induced apoptosis. Besides, PTE significantly reduced tumor volume and prolonged median survival of tumor-bearing rats in vivo. In summary, the results of this study indicate that the anti-tumor effect of PTE on glioma cells may provide a new treatment option for glioma patients.

Diverse roles of bitter melon (Momordica charantia) in prevention of oral cancer

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the common lethal malignancies which is increasing rapidly in the world. Increasing risks from alcohol and tobacco habits, lack of early detection markers, lack of effective chemotherapeutic agents, recurrence and distant metastasis make the disease more complicated to manage. Laboratory-based studies and epidemiological studies indicate important roles of nutraceuticals to manage different cancers. The plant bitter melon (Momordica charantia) is a good source of nutrients and bio-active phytochemicals such as triterpenoids, triterpene glycosides, phenolic acids, flavonoids, lectins, sterols and proteins. The plant is widely grown in Asia, Africa, and South America. Bitter melon has traditionally been used as a folk medicine and Ayurvedic medicine in Asian culture to treat diseases such as diabetes, since ancient times. The crude extract and some of the isolated pure compounds of bitter melon show potential anticancer effects against different cancers. In this review, we shed light on its effect on OSCC. Bitter melon extract has been found to inhibit cell proliferation and metabolism, induce cell death and enhance the immune defense system in the prevention of OSCC in vitro and in vivo. Thus, bitter melon may be used as an attractive chemopreventive agent in progression towards OSCC clinical study.

Naringenin inhibits migration, invasion, induces apoptosis in human lung cancer cells and arrests tumour progression in vitro

Lung cancer is one of the major cause for high-death rate all over the world, due to increased metastasize and difficulties in diagnosis. Naringenin is naturally occurring flavonoid found in various fruits including tomatoes, citrus fruit and figs. Naringenin is known to have several therapeutic effects including anti-atherogenic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, anticancer and anti-mutagenic. The present study was aimed to analyse the naringenin induced anti-proliferative and apoptosis effects in human lung cancer cells. Cells were treated with various concentrations of naringenin (10, 100 & 200 µmol/L) for 48 hours. Cisplatin (20 µg/mL) was used as positive control. Cell viability, apoptosis, migration and mRNA, and protein expression of caspase-3, matrixmetallo proteinases-2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9 were determined. The cell viability was 93.7 ± 7.5, 51.4 ± 4.4 and 32.1 ± 2.1 at 10, 100 and 200 µmol/L of naringenin respectively. Naringenin significantly increased apoptotic cells. The 100 and 200 µmol/L of naringenin significantly suppressed the larger wounds of cultured human cancer cells compared with the untreated lung cancer cells. Naringenin increased d the expression of caspase-3 and reduced the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9. Taking all these data together, it is suggested that the naringenin was effective against human lung cancer proliferation, migration and metastasis.

Naringenin inhibits migration, invasion, induces apoptosis in human lung cancer cells and arrests tumour progression in vitro

Lung cancer is one of the major cause for high-death rate all over the world, due to increased metastasize and difficulties in diagnosis. Naringenin is naturally occurring flavonoid found in various fruits including tomatoes, citrus fruit and figs. Naringenin is known to have several therapeutic effects including anti-atherogenic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, anticancer and anti-mutagenic. The present study was aimed to analyse the naringenin induced anti-proliferative and apoptosis effects in human lung cancer cells. Cells were treated with various concentrations of naringenin (10, 100 & 200 µmol/L) for 48 hours. Cisplatin (20 µg/mL) was used as positive control. Cell viability, apoptosis, migration and mRNA, and protein expression of caspase-3, matrixmetallo proteinases-2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9 were determined. The cell viability was 93.7 ± 7.5, 51.4 ± 4.4 and 32.1 ± 2.1 at 10, 100 and 200 µmol/L of naringenin respectively. Naringenin significantly increased apoptotic cells. The 100 and 200 µmol/L of naringenin significantly suppressed the larger wounds of cultured human cancer cells compared with the untreated lung cancer cells. Naringenin increased d the expression of caspase-3 and reduced the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9. Taking all these data together, it is suggested that the naringenin was effective against human lung cancer proliferation, migration and metastasis.

Mitochondrial impairments in aetiopathology of multifactorial diseases: common origin but individual outcomes in context of 3P medicine

Mitochondrial injury plays a key role in the aetiopathology of multifactorial diseases exhibiting a "vicious circle" characteristic for pathomechanisms of the mitochondrial and multi-organ damage frequently developed in a reciprocal manner. Although the origin of the damage is common (uncontrolled ROS release, diminished energy production and extensive oxidative stress to life-important biomolecules such as mtDNA and chrDNA), individual outcomes differ significantly representing a spectrum of associated pathologies including but not restricted to neurodegeneration, cardiovascular diseases and cancers. Contextually, the role of predictive, preventive and personalised (PPPM/3P) medicine is to introduce predictive analytical approaches which allow for distinguishing between individual outcomes under circumstance of mitochondrial impairments followed by cost-effective targeted prevention and personalisation of medical services. Current article considers innovative concepts and analytical instruments to advance management of mitochondriopathies and associated pathologies.

Deciphering the molecular pathways of apoptosis using purified fractions from leaf extract of Basella alba through studying the regulation of apoptosis related genes

Apoptosis plays a pivotal role in the exclusion of abnormal cells without any ruin of surrounding healthy cells. Generally, it occurs through an orderly and autonomously process which is controlled by proper function of various genes. Therefore, the current experiments detect the expression level/pattern of those genes to confirm the involvement of extrinsic and intrinsic pathway using Basella alba leaf (BAL). Several fractions after gel filtration chromatography of BAL extract have been pooled to evaluates its apoptosis induction potentiality on Ehrlich's Ascites Carcinoma (EAC) cells through conducting a number of bio-assays such as cell growth inhibition assay, fluorescence and optical microscopy, DNA fragmentation assay and gene expression analysis etc. The pooled fractions of BAL showed 12-56% inhibitory effect on EAC cell line at the concentration range of 25-400 μg/ml that was determined by MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) assay. They also exhibited excellent cell growth inhibition at in vivo and in vitro condition when treated with 10, 20 and 40 mg/kg day. After administration of six consequent days, significant morphological features of apoptosis were observed in EAC cells under both fluorescence and optical microscope which was further supported by DNA fragmentation assay. The polymerase chain reaction amplification of bax, bcl-2 (B-cell lymphoma 2), p53, tumor necrosis factor-α, Fas, NF-kβ (Nuclear factor-Kappa-B), PARP-1 (Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase), Cyt-c cas-8, cas-9 and cas-3 revealed that the experimental sample able to induce apoptosis in both extrinsic and intrinsic pathways through altering the gene expression. The current findings suggest that sample from BAL occupy wonderful competence to induce cell apoptosis and become an ideal resource for cancer treatment.

Anticancer Activity of Delphinium semibarbatum Alkaloid Fractions against LNCaP, and DU 145 Human Prostate Cancer Cells through the Intrinsic Apoptotic Pathway

Prostate cancer is one of the common cancers with a high mortality rate in men. Therefore, there is always a necessity to discover new medications for treatment or alleviating its symptoms. In recent years, anticancer properties of a number of delphinium species were reported, but there is no study on the anticancer effects of Delphinium semibarbatum (D. semibarbatum) alkaloid contents. Therefore, this survey aimed to check the cytotoxicity and apoptotic properties of D. semibarbatum alkaloid fractions (DSAFs) against prostate cancer cells. Cytotoxicity was measured by MTT assay. We examined the apoptosis by detecting annexin V-FITC/PI staining, the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) disruption, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, the activity of caspase-3, and expression of the Bax and Bcl-2 in cancer cells. DSAFs treatment inhibited the growth of LNCaP and DU-145 cells by the increase of apoptotic (Q2+Q3) cells detected by annexin V/PI assay. We found over-generation of intracellular ROS and ΔΨm loss in mitochondrial membrane potential treated cell lines. Attenuation of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 followed by the increase in pro-apoptotic Bax bands, as well as activation of the caspase-3 enzyme was shown in Western blot analysis. Phytochemical analysis suggested that hetisine type diterpene alkaloids were probably responsible for apoptotic activities. Conclusively, the present study demonstrated that D. semibarbatum alkaloid content exerted antiproliferative effects against prostate cancer cells by inducing the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis.

Hispolon: A natural polyphenol and emerging cancer killer by multiple cellular signaling pathways

Nature as an infinite treasure of chemotypes and pharmacophores will continue to play an imperative role in the drug discovery. Natural products (NPs) such as plant and fungal metabolites have emerged as leads in drug discovery during recent years due to their efficacy, safety and selectivity. The current review summarizes natural sources as well as pharmacological potential of hispolon which is a major constituent of traditional medicinal mushroom Phellinus linteus. The study aims to update the scientific community about recent developments of hispolon in the arena of natural drugs by providing insights into its present status in therapeutic pursuits. Hispolon, a polyphenol has been reported to possess anticancer, antidiabetic, antioxidant, antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities. It fights against cancer via induction of apoptosis, halting cell cycle and inhibition of metastasis by targeting various cellular signaling pathways including PI3K/Akt, MAPK and NF-κB. The current review proposes that hispolon provides a novel opportunity for pharmacological applications and its styrylpyrone carbon skeleton might serve as an attractive scaffold for drug development. However, future researches are recommended to assess bioavailability, toxicological limits, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles of hispolon, in order to establish its potential as a potent multi-targeted drug in the near future.

Phytochemical profiling, antioxidant and antiproliferation potential of Euphorbia milii var.: Experimental analysis and in-silico validation

This study was aimed to investigate the anticancer potential of Euphorbia milii (E. milii) using an exquisite combination of phytopharmacological and advanced computational techniques. The chloroform fraction (Em-C) of E. milii methanol extract showed the highest antioxidant activity (IC50: 6.41 ± 0.99 µg/ml) among all studied fractions. Likewise, Em-C also showed significant cytotoxicity (IC50: 11.2 ± 0.8 µg/ml) when compared with that of standard compound 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) (IC50: 4.22 ± 0.6 µg/ml) against hepatocarcinoma cell line (HepG2). However, in a human cervical cancer cell line (HeLa), Em-C demonstrated a non-significant difference in cytotoxicity (22.1 ± 0.8 µg/ml) when compared with that of 5-FU (IC50: 6.87 ± 0.5 µg/ml). Furthermore, Western blot and qRT-PCR analysis revealed that the suppression of HepG2 cells was the consequence of a tremendous decrease in CDK2 and E2F1 protein expression. The GC-MS analysis of Em-C revealed the unique presence of cyclobarbital (CBT) and benzodioxole derivative (BAN) as major constituents. Furthermore, molecular docking of compounds BAN, CBT, and MBT into the binding site of different molecular targets i.e. cyclin dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), thymidylate synthase (TS), caspase 3, BCL2 and topoisomerase II was carried out. Compounds BAN and CBT have demonstrated remarkable binding affinity towards CDK2 and thymidylate synthase, respectively. Molecular dynamic simulation studies have further confirmed the finding of docking analysis, suggesting that CDK2 and TS can act as an attractive molecular target for BAN and CBT, respectively. It can be concluded that these E. milii phytoconstituents (BAN and CBT) may likely be responsible for anti-invasive activity against HepG2 cells.

In Vitro Anticancer Potential of Berberis lycium Royle Extracts against Human Hepatocarcinoma (HepG2) Cells

Human liver cancer has emerged as a serious health concern in the world, associated with poorly available therapies. The Berberis genus contains vital medicinal plants with miraculous healing properties and a wide range of bioactivities. In this study, different crude extracts of B. lycium Royle were prepared and screened against Human Hepatocarcinoma (HepG2) cell lines. The water/ethanolic extract of B. lycium Royle (BLE) exhibited significant antiproliferative activity against the HepG2 cancer cell line with an IC₅₀ value of 47 μg/mL. The extract decreased the clonogenic potential of HepG2 cells in a dose-dependent manner. It induced apoptotic cell death in HepG2 cells that were confirmed by cytometric analysis and microscopic examination of cellular morphology through DAPI-stained cells. Biochemical evidence of apoptosis came from elevating the intracellular ROS level that was accompanied by the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. The mechanism of apoptosis was further confirmed by gene expression analysis using RT-qPCR that revealed the decline in Bcl-2 independent of p53 mRNA and a rise in CDK1 while downregulating CDK5, CDK9, and CDK10 mRNA levels at 48 h of BLE treatment. The most active fraction was subjected to HPLC which indicated the presence of berberine (48 μg/mL) and benzoic acid (15.8 μg/mL) as major compounds in BLE and a trace amount of luteolin, rutin, and gallic acid. Our study highlighted the importance of the most active BLE extract as an excellent source of nutraceuticals against Human Hepatocarcinoma that can serve as an herbal natural cure against liver cancer.

Anti-Oxidant, Anti-Hemolytic Effects of Crataegus aronia Leaves and Its Anti- Proliferative Effect Enhance Cisplatin Cytotoxicity in A549 Human Lung Cancer Cell Line

Objective:

For Arabian traditional medicine, Crataegus aronia syn. Azarolus (L) Bosc. ex DC (Rosaceae) is widely used to treat diabetes, sexual weakness, cardiovascular diseases and cancer. The anti-cancerous and anti-hemolysis effects of the hydroalcoholic extract of this plant have never been investigated before. The present study aims to evaluate the biological activities of the hydroalcoholic extract of Crataegus aronia leaves in combination with cisplatin, one of the most widely employed chemotherapeutics, on A549 human lung cancer cell line.

Methods:

The anti-oxidant and anti-proliferative activities of leaves, fruits, seeds of C. aronia were investigated by DPPH method and MTT assay; respectively. Cell migration activity was investigated by wound healing and by cell aggregation assays. The effect of C. aronia in inducing cell cycle arrest along with activating cell apoptosis was evaluated by flow cytometry and Western blot assays, respectively.

Results:

Our results showed that C. aronia leaves (C. aronia L.) had the highest anti-oxidant and anti-proliferative activities. The leaves extract was potent against hemolysis of the human erythrocytes and showed elevated decrease in migration by reducing wound healing migration and by increasing cell aggregation. Finally, C. aronia L. treatment exhibited apoptotic activity on A549 cells by the down-regulation of PARP-1, caspase-3 and Bcl-2 proteins and by increasing the percentage of A549 cells in sub G0 cell cycle. Moreover, the co-treatment of C. aronia L. and cisplatin remarkably sensitised A549 cells to cisplatin.

Conclusion:

The results suggested that C. aronia L. could be used as a potential treatment against human lung cancer exhibiting minimal side effects on human health.

Characterization of pomegranate peel extracts obtained using different solvents and their effects on cell cycle and apoptosis in leukemia cells

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) has been used in traditional herbal medicine by several cultures as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antihyperglycemic, and for treatment and prevention of cancer and other diseases. Different parts of the fruit, extraction methods, and solvents can define the chemical profile of the obtained extracts and their biological activities. This study aimed to characterize the chemical profile of peel extracts collected using different extraction solvents and their biological effects on the cell cycle and apoptosis of THP-1 leukemic cells. Aqueous extract presented the highest content of punicalagins (α pun = 562.26 ± 47.14 mg/L and β pun = 1,251.13 ± 22.21 mg/L) and the lowest content of ellagic acid (66.38 ± 0.21 mg/L), and it promoted a significant impairment of the cell cycle S phase. In fact, punicalagin-enriched fraction, but not an ellagic acid-enriched fraction, caused an S phase cell cycle arrest. All extracts increased the number of apoptotic cells. Punicalagin-enriched fraction increased the percentage of cells with fragmented DNA, which was intensified by ellagic acid combination. The treatment combining punicalagin and ellagic acid fractions increased the apoptotic cleaved PARP1 protein and reduced the activation of the growth-related mTOR pathway. Thus, these results evidence that solvent choice is critical for the phenolic compounds profile of pomegranate peel extracts and their biological activities.

In vitro anticancer activity of Scrophularia amplexicaulis extracts on MCF-7 and WEHI-164 cell line

Scrophularia amplexicaulis is an Iranian endemic plant belonging to the Scrophulariaceae family, which is used in traditional medicine to treat many diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro anticancer activity of S. amplexicaulis extracts against human breast carcinoma (MCF-7) and mouse fibrosarcoma (WEHI-164) cell lines. The ground aerial parts of S. amplexicaulis were soxhlet-extracted with n-hexane, dichloromethane and methanol. MTT assay exhibited that dichloromethane and methanol extracts remarkbly inhibited the growth of MCF-7 and WEHI-164 cancer cells in a dose-and time-dependent manner with little cytotoxicity on normal cell line HUVEC. Cell death ELISA, TUNEL assay, and the cleavage of poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) uncovered that the cytotoxic effects of dichloromethane and methanol extracts were attributed to apoptosis in cancerous cells. Furthermore, quantitative real-time PCR revealed significant increases in the mRNA expression levels of p-53, caspase-3, caspase-9, Bax, and also a decrease in Bcl-2 expression. These results suggested that the extracts mainly induced apoptosis via a mitochondria-mediated intrinsic pathway. Notably, dichloromethane extract had higher cytotoxic and apoptotic activities than that of methanol extract, against both cancer cell lines, particularly MCF-7 cells. Our results indicate that S. amplexicaulis may serve as a promising source of potent agents for the treatment of human cancers.

Flavokawain B and Doxorubicin Work Synergistically to Impede the Propagation of Gastric Cancer Cells via ROS-Mediated Apoptosis and Autophagy Pathways

Simple Summary

Among various kinds of treatment strategies for cancers, combination therapy has attracted significant attention due to its beneficial effects than the individual effects of the same compounds. Based on this idea, this study has investigated the synergistic effects of combination treatment of a natural anti-cancer agent flavokawain B (FKB) and a chemotherapeutic agent Doxorubicin on human gastric cancer cells and the underlying molecular mechanisms were deciphered through in vitro and in vivo approaches. Experimental data obtained in this study provided promising application prospects of FKB + Doxrubicin combination treatment in human gastric cancer cells.

Abstract

Chalcone flavokawain B (FKB) possesses a chemopreventive and anti-cancer activity. Doxorubicin is a chemotherapeutic DNA intercalating agent widely used in malignancy treatment. The present study investigated whether synergistic effects exist between the combination of FKB (1.25–5 µg/mL) and doxorubicin (0.5 µg/mL) on the apoptosis and autophagy in human gastric cancer (AGS) cells, and the possible in vitro and in vivo mechanisms. The MTT assay measured cell viability. Various apoptotic-, autophagy-associated protein expression was determined by the Western blot technique. FKB+doxorubicin synergy was estimated by the Chou-Talalay combination index (CI) method. In vivo studies were performed on BALB/c mice. Results showed that compared to FKB/doxorubicin treatments, low doses of FKB+doxorubicin suppressed AGS cell growth. FKB potentiated doxorubicin-induced DNA fragmentation, apoptotic cell death, and enhanced doxorubicin-mediated mitochondrial, death receptor pathways. FKB+doxorubicin activated increased LC3-II accumulation, p62/SQSTM1 expression, and AVO formation as compared to the FKB/doxorubicin alone treatments indicating autophagy in these cells. The death mechanism in FKB+doxorubicin-treated AGS cells is due to the activation of autophagy. FKB+doxorubicin-mediated dysregulated Bax/Bcl-2, Beclin-1/Bcl-2 ratios suggested apoptosis, autophagy induction in AGS cells. FKB+doxorubicin-induced LC3-II/AVOs downregulation was suppressed due to an apoptotic inhibitor Z-VAD-FMK. Whereas, 3-methyladenine/chloroquine weakened FKB+doxorubicin-induced apoptosis (decreased DNA fragmentation/caspase-3). Activation of ERK/JNK may be involved in FKB+doxorubicin-induced apoptosis and autophagy. FKB+doxorubicin-triggered ROS generation, but NAC attenuated FKB+doxorubicin-induced autophagic (LC3 accumulation) and apoptotic (caspase-3 activation and PARP cleavage) cell death. FKB+doxorubicin blocked gastric cancer cell xenografts in nude mice in vivo as compared to FKB/doxorubicin alone treatments. FKB and doxorubicin wielded synergistic anti-tumor effects in gastric cancer cells and is a promising therapeutic approach.