An Association Map on the Effect of Flavonoids on the Signaling Pathways in Colorectal Cancer

Hepatoprotective Effects of Flavonoids against Benzo[a]Pyrene-Induced Oxidative Liver Damage along Its Metabolic Pathways

Benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P), a highly carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon primarily formed during incomplete organic matter combustion, undergoes a series of hepatic metabolic reactions once absorbed into the body. B[a]P contributes to liver damage, ranging from molecular DNA damage to the onset and progression of various diseases, including cancer. Specifically, B[a]P induces oxidative stress via reactive oxygen species generation within cells. Consequently, more research has focused on exploring the underlying mechanisms of B[a]P-induced oxidative stress and potential strategies to counter its hepatic toxicity. Flavonoids, natural compounds abundant in plants and renowned for their antioxidant properties, possess the ability to neutralize the adverse effects of free radicals effectively. Although extensive research has investigated the antioxidant effects of flavonoids, limited research has delved into their potential in regulating B[a]P metabolism to alleviate oxidative stress. This review aims to consolidate current knowledge on B[a]P-induced liver oxidative stress and examines the role of flavonoids in mitigating its toxicity.

Co-administration of Chrysin and Luteolin with Cisplatin and Topotecan Exhibits a Variable Therapeutic Value in Human Cancer Cells, HeLa

Combinational treatment is a promising strategy for better cancer treatment outcomes. Chrysin and luteolin have demonstrated effective anticancer activity. Cisplatin and topotecan are commonly used for the treatment of human cancers. However, various side effects including drug resistance are an imperative restriction to use them as pharmacological therapy. Therefore, the aim was to use these agents in combination with flavones for better efficacy. In the present study, it was found that the combination of chrysin and cisplatin and luteolin and cisplatin significantly improved the anticancer effect as both the combinations showed synergistic interactions [combinational index (CI < 1)]. Remarkably, the combination of chrysin and luteolin with topotecan depicted the antagonistic interaction (CI > 1). Further, increased expression of the pro-apoptotic proteins Bax and caspase 8 and the inhibition of the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 were instituted in the synergistic doses (chrysin + cisplatin and luteolin + cisplatin), hence promoting apoptosis. Also, it was found that the synergistic combination inhibited the migration of HeLa cells by downregulation of metalloproteases and upregulation of TIMPs. However, there are no significant changes depicted in the antagonistic combinations which support their role in their antagonistic effects. Based on these results, it can be inferred that the two or more drug combinations need to be explored well for their interaction to enhance the therapeutic outcomes.

Targeting Breast Cancer Signaling via Phytomedicine and Nanomedicine

BACKGROUND

The development of breast cancer (BC) and how it responds to treatment have both been linked to the involvement of inflammation. Chronic inflammation is critical in carcinogenesis, leading to elevated DNA damage, impaired DNA repair machinery, cell growth, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and invasion. Studies have found several targets that selectively modulate inflammation in cancer, limit BC's growth, and boost treatment effectiveness. Drug resistance and the absence of efficient therapeutics for metastatic and triple-negative BC contribute to the poor outlook of BC patients.

SUMMARY

To treat BC, small-molecule inhibitors, phytomedicines, and nanoparticles are conjugated to attenuate BC signaling pathways. Due to their numerous target mechanisms and strong safety records, phytomedicines and nanomedicines have received much attention in studies examining their prospects as anti-BC agents by such unfulfilled demands.

KEY MESSAGES

The processes involved in the affiliation across the progression of tumors and the spread of inflammation are highlighted in this review. Furthermore, we included many drugs now undergoing clinical trials that target cancer-mediated inflammatory pathways, cutting-edge nanotechnology-derived delivery systems, and a variety of phytomedicines that presently address BC.

Antitumor Effects of Microencapsulated Gratiola officinalis Extract on Breast Carcinoma and Human Cervical Cancer Cells In Vitro

Flavonoid-containing Gratiola officinalis extract has been studied in relation to breast carcinoma and human cervical cancer cells in encapsulated and native form. Encapsulation was realized in polymer shells, which were formed by the layer-by-layer method using sequential adsorption of poly(allylamine hydrochloride) and poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) on the destructible cores. The extract was prepared by the author's method and characterized using high performance liquid chromatography. By means of optical and fluorescent microscopy, cell changes under the action of pure and encapsulated extracts were comprehensively studied, and statistical analysis was carried out. Cells were stained with propidium iodide, acridine orange, and Hoechst 33258. A fluorescence microscope with a digital video camera were used for cell imaging. The encapsulated extract caused 100% death of breast cancer SKBR-3 cells and 34% death of cervical cancer HeLa cells and prevented the formation of autophagosomes in both cultures. Analysis of the viability and morphological features of tumor cells under the action of microencapsulated extract allows us to consider microencapsulation as an effective strategy for delivering Gratiola officinalis extract to tumor cells and a promising way to overcome the protective autophagy.

Phenolic Phytochemicals for Prevention and Treatment of Colorectal Cancer: A Critical Evaluation of In Vivo Studies

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most diagnosed and second leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Limitations with existing treatment regimens have demanded the search for better treatment options. Different phytochemicals with promising anti-CRC activities have been reported, with the molecular mechanism of actions still emerging. This review aims to summarize recent progress on the study of natural phenolic compounds in ameliorating CRC using in vivo models. This review followed the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reporting and Meta-Analysis. Information on the relevant topic was gathered by searching the PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science databases using keywords, such as "colorectal cancer" AND "phenolic compounds", "colorectal cancer" AND "polyphenol", "colorectal cancer" AND "phenolic acids", "colorectal cancer" AND "flavonoids", "colorectal cancer" AND "stilbene", and "colorectal cancer" AND "lignan" from the reputed peer-reviewed journals published over the last 20 years. Publications that incorporated in vivo experimental designs and produced statistically significant results were considered for this review. Many of these polyphenols demonstrate anti-CRC activities by inhibiting key cellular factors. This inhibition has been demonstrated by antiapoptotic effects, antiproliferative effects, or by upregulating factors responsible for cell cycle arrest or cell death in various in vivo CRC models. Numerous studies from independent laboratories have highlighted different plant phenolic compounds for their anti-CRC activities. While promising anti-CRC activity in many of these agents has created interest in this area, in-depth mechanistic and well-designed clinical studies are needed to support the therapeutic use of these compounds for the prevention and treatment of CRC.

Green Tea Catechin Potentiating Doxorubicine Effects against BE(2)C Neuroblastoma Cells In Vitro

Background: Neuroblastoma (NB), a malignant sympathetic nervous system cancer, is the second most common type of pediatric tumor. Increasing the number of NB death emerges to design a new strategy for NB treatment. Nowadays, the development of natural compounds has gradually increased due to their ability to apoptosis induction. Tea catechin, a flavonoid compound, is one of the natural combinations which inhibit tumor growth and enhance tumor cell apoptosis. In the current study, the effects of pure catechin, doxorubicin (DOX), and their combination on a cellular model of NB [BE(2)C cells] are perused. (NB) a malignant sympathetic nervous system cancer is the second most common type of pediatric tumor. Increasing the number of NB death emerges to design a new strategy for NB treatment. Nowadays, the development of natural compounds has gradually increased due to their ability to apoptosis induction. Tea catechin, a flavonoid compound, is one of the natural combinations which inhibit tumor growth and enhance tumor cell apoptosis. Objectives: In the current study, the effects of pure catechin, doxorubicin (DOX), and their combination on a cellular model of NB [BE(2)C cells] are perused. Methods: The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was done to assess a response dose for each drug. Fluorescent Microscopic and cell cycle analyses were performed for apoptosis detection. Finally, Colony formation was performed to examine cell migration and invasion. Results: The MTT assay showed that catechin and DOX treatment inhibited the viability of the cells while the combination of their ineffective doses had more cytotoxic effects. However, these treatments could not inhibit the cell growth of the normal human fibroblast. Moreover, this combination reduced cell attachment, chromatin fragmentation, and G/S arrest in the cell cycle. The clonogenic assay demonstrated that colony size and numbers obviously reduced after ten days; therefore, Catchin and its combination with DOX suppressed cell capacities of clone formation and migration. Conclusions: These results suggest that catechin, DOX, and their combination may inhibit the proliferation, invasion, and migration of BE(2)C neuroblastoma cells in vitro while inducing cell apoptosis by arresting the cell cycle.

NF-kB in Signaling Patterns and Its Temporal Dynamics Encode/Decode Human Diseases

Defects in signaling pathways are the root cause of many disorders. These malformations come in a wide variety of types, and their causes are also very diverse. Some of these flaws can be brought on by pathogenic organisms and viruses, many of which can obstruct signaling processes. Other illnesses are linked to malfunctions in the way that cell signaling pathways work. When thinking about how errors in signaling pathways might cause disease, the idea of signalosome remodeling is helpful. The signalosome may be conveniently divided into two types of defects: phenotypic remodeling and genotypic remodeling. The majority of significant illnesses that affect people, including high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and many types of mental illness, appear to be caused by minute phenotypic changes in signaling pathways. Such phenotypic remodeling modifies cell behavior and subverts normal cellular processes, resulting in illness. There has not been much progress in creating efficient therapies since it has been challenging to definitively confirm this connection between signalosome remodeling and illness. The considerable redundancy included into cell signaling systems presents several potential for developing novel treatments for various disease conditions. One of the most important pathways, NF-κB, controls several aspects of innate and adaptive immune responses, is a key modulator of inflammatory reactions, and has been widely studied both from experimental and theoretical perspectives. NF-κB contributes to the control of inflammasomes and stimulates the expression of a number of pro-inflammatory genes, including those that produce cytokines and chemokines. Additionally, NF-κB is essential for controlling innate immune cells and inflammatory T cells' survival, activation, and differentiation. As a result, aberrant NF-κB activation plays a role in the pathogenesis of several inflammatory illnesses. The activation and function of NF-κB in relation to inflammatory illnesses was covered here, and the advancement of treatment approaches based on NF-κB inhibition will be highlighted. This review presents the temporal behavior of NF-κB and its potential relevance in different human diseases which will be helpful not only for theoretical but also for experimental perspectives.

Evaluation of double expression system for co-expression and co-immobilization of flavonoid glucosylation cascade

Abstract

Glucosylation cascade consisting of Leloir glycosyltransferase and sucrose synthase with in situ regeneration system of expensive and low available nucleotide sugars is a game-changing strategy for enzyme-based production of glycoconjugates of relevant natural products. We designed a stepwise approach including co-expression and one-step purification and co-immobilization on glass-based EziG resins of sucrose synthase from Glycine max (GmSuSy) with promiscuous glucosyltransferase YjiC from Bacillus licheniformis to produce efficient, robust, and versatile biocatalyst suited for preparative scale flavonoid glucosylation. The undertaken investigations identified optimal reaction conditions (30 °C, pH 7.5, and 10 mM Mg²⁺) and the best-suited carrier (EziG Opal). The prepared catalyst exhibited excellent reusability, retaining up to 96% of initial activity after 12 cycles of reactions. The semi-preparative glucosylation of poorly soluble isoflavone Biochanin A resulted in the production of 73 mg Sissotrin (Biochanin A 7-O-glucoside). Additionally, the evaluation of the designed double-controlled, monocistronic expression system with two independently induced promoters (rhaBAD and trc) brought beneficial information for dual-expression plasmid design.

Key points

• Simultaneous and titratable expression from two independent promoters is possible, although full control over the expression is limited.

• Designed catalyst managed to glucosylate poorly soluble isoflavone.

• The STY of Sissotrin using the designed catalyst reached 0.26 g/L∙h∙g of the resin.

Graphical Abstract

Supplementary information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00253-022-12259-5.

Targeting lncRNA/Wnt axis by flavonoids: A promising therapeutic approach for colorectal cancer

Despite the dramatic advances in our understanding of the etiology of colorectal cancer (CRC) in recent decades, effective therapeutic strategies are still urgently needed. Oncogenic mutations in the Wnt/β-Catenin pathway are hallmarks of CRC. Moreover, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as molecular managers are involved in the initiation, progression, and metastasis of CRC. Therefore, it is important to further explore the interaction between lncRNAs and Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway for targeted therapy of CRC. Natural phytochemicals have not toxicity and can target carcinogenesis-related pathways. Growing evidences suggest that flavonoids are inversely associated with CRC risk. These bioactive compounds could target carcinogenesis pathways of CRC and reduced the side effects of anti-cancer drugs. The review systematically summarized the progress of flavonoids targeting lncRNA/Wnt axis in the investigations of CRC, which will provide a promising therapeutic approach for CRC and develop nutrition-oriented preventive strategies for CRC based on epigenetic mechanisms. In the field, more epidemiological and clinical trials are required in the future to verify feasibility of targeting lncRNA/Wnt axis by flavonoids in the therapy and prevention of CRC.

Pt3R5G inhibits colon cancer cell proliferation through inducing ferroptosis by down-regulating SLC7A11

AIMS

Colon cancer (CC) is a prevalent malignancy worldwide and is one of the most easily altered cancers by dietary regulation. Petunidin 3-O-[rhamnopyranosyl-(trans-p-coumaroyl)]-5-O-(β-D-glucopyranoside) (Pt3R5G) isolated and purified from Lycium ruthenicum Murray, which exhibits highly efficient antioxidant activity and specific anticancer effects, is the flavonoids compound. We aimed to study the effect of Pt3R5G on CC cells and elucidate the potential underlying mechanisms.

MAIN METHODS

Cell proliferation was measured by the 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and colony formation assays. Cell cycle, cell apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) analysis were performed by flow cytometry. RNA-sequencing was performed to elucidate the potential underlying mechanisms. The lipid peroxidation level of cells was detected by malondialdehyde (MDA) assay. The mitochondrial morphology of cells was inspected using a transmission electron microscope. Additionally, we overexpressed SLC7A11 to perform rescue experiments. In vivo, xenograft mice assay was performed to verify the effect of Pt3R5G on the growth of colon cancer.

KEY FINDINGS

Pt3R5G reduced the cell activity by blocking the cell cycle in G0/G1 phase, inducing the apoptosis and ferroptosis in RKO cells. The overexpressed of SLC7A11, a significantly down-regulated expression gene caused by Pt3R5G, rescued the cell proliferation inhibition and ferroptosis process. Furthermore, Pt3R5G inhibited tumor growth in nude mice. Our study suggests that Pt3R5G inhibits RKO cell proliferation through mainly reducing ferroptosis by down-regulated SLC7A11.

SIGNIFICANCE

As a potential therapeutic drug, Pt3R5G showed efficient anticancer activity through a variety of pathways.

Synthesis of Silver Nano Particles Using Myricetin and the In-Vitro Assessment of Anti-Colorectal Cancer Activity: In-Silico Integration

The creation of novel anticancer treatments for a variety of human illnesses, including different malignancies and dangerous microbes, also potentially depends on nanoparticles including silver. Recently, it has been successful to biologically synthesize metal nanoparticles using plant extracts. The natural flavonoid 3,3′, 4′, 5,5′, and 7 hexahydroxyflavon (myricetin) has anticancer properties. There is not much known about the regulatory effects of myricetin on the possible cell fate-determination mechanisms (such as apoptosis/proliferation) in colorectal cancer. Because the majority of investigations related to the anticancer activity of myricetin have dominantly focused on the enhancement of tumor cell uncontrolled growth (i.e., apoptosis). Thus, we have decided to explore the potential myricetin interactors and the associated biological functions by using an in-silico approach. Then, we focused on the main goal of the work which involved the synthesis of silver nanoparticles and the labeling of myricetin with it. The synthesized silver nanoparticles were examined using UV-visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. In this study, we have investigated the effects of myricetin on colorectal cancer where numerous techniques were used to show myricetin’s effect on colon cancer cells. Transmission Electron Microscopy was employed to monitor morphological changes. Furthermore, we have combined the results of the colorectal cancer gene expression dataset with those of the myricetin interactors and pathways. Based on the results, we conclude that myricetin is able to efficiently kill human colorectal cancer cell lines. Since, it shares important biological roles and possible route components and this myricetin may be a promising herbal treatment for colorectal cancer as per an in-silico analysis of the TCGA dataset.

Flavones: Six Selected Flavones and Their Related Signaling Pathways That Induce Apoptosis in Cancer

Cancer is a horrific disease that, to date, has no cure. It is caused by various factors and takes many lives. Apoptosis is a programmed cell death mechanism and if it does not function correctly in cancer cells, it can lead to severe disease. There are various signaling pathways for regulating apoptosis in cancer cells. Flavonoids are non-artificial natural bioactive compounds that are gaining attention as being capable of for inducing apoptosis in cancer cells. Among these, in this study, we focus on flavones. Flavones are a subclass of the numerous available flavonoids and possess several bioactive functions. Some of the most reported and well-known critical flavones, namely apigenin, acacetin, baicalein, luteolin, tangeretin, and wogonin, are discussed in depth in this review. Our main aim is to investigate the effects of the selected flavones on apoptosis and cell signaling pathways that contribute to death due to various types of cancers.

Polypeptide induced perylene probe excimer formation and its application in the noncovalent ratiometric detection of matrix metalloproteinase activity

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are important biomarkers for a number of diseases. Thus, the precise determination of MMP activity is of crucial importance. Herein, we report a ratiometric fluorescence method for the sensitive and selective sensing of MMP activity. A number of positively charged MMP substrates (polypeptides) were designed and prepared. These polypeptides could induce aggregation of a negatively charged perylene diimide derivative (PC1). As a result, excimer fluorescence of PC1 was observed. Addition of the corresponding MMP resulted in cleavage of the polypeptide chain and dis-aggregation of PC1, which led to turning on of the PC1 monomer fluorescence. Based on the ratio of the monomer (545 nm, I_M) and the excimer (680 nm, I_M) fluorescence intensity changes, a ratiometric method I₅₄₅/I₆₈₀) was established to detect MMP activity. The enzymatic activity of a number of MMPs (MMP-1, 2, 3, 7, 9 and 13) could be determined with a limit of detection of 4.8, 2.2, 16, 6.0, 1.7 and 5.5 ng mL^-1, respectively. Using MMP-2 and MMP-9 as examples, flavonoid herbal extracts as potential inhibitors were studied. It was observed that mangiferin, apigenin, quercetin and isoliquiritigenin had significant inhibiting effects on the enzyme activity. And these herbal extracts also inhibited tumor cell metastasis. Moreover, the developed strategy was also employed to determine the concentration of MMP-9 in human saliva samples. Since the method relies on only noncovalent interactions between the polypeptide and PC1, no covalent labeling of fluorescence dye on the polypeptide substrate is required, and the method is thus simple, broad-spectrum inexpensive and effective. It has the potential to be developed into a clinical test kit.

Impacts of nutritive and bioactive compounds on cancer development and therapy

For persons who survive with progressive cancer, nutritional therapy and exercise may be significant factors to improve the health condition and life quality of cancer patients. Nutritional therapy and medications are essential to managing progressive cancer. Cancer survivors, as well as cancer patients, are mostly extremely encouraged to search for knowledge about the selection of diet, exercise, and dietary supplements to recover as well as maintain their treatment consequences, living quality, and survival of patients. A healthy diet plays an important role in cancer treatment. Different articles are studied to collect information and knowledge about the use of nutrients in cancer treatment as well as cancer prevention. The report deliberates nutrition and exercise strategies during the range of cancer care, emphasizing significant concerns during treatment of cancer and for patients of advanced cancer, but concentrating mostly on the requirements of the population of persons who are healthy or who have constant disease following their repossession from management. It also deliberates choice nutrition and exercise problems such as dietary supplements, food care, food selections, and weight; problems interrelated to designated cancer sites, and common questions about diet, and cancer survival. Decrease the side effects of medicines both during and after treatment.

Re-establishing the comprehension of phytomedicine and nanomedicine in inflammation-mediated cancer signaling

Recent mounting evidence has revealed extensive genetic heterogeneity within tumors that drive phenotypic variation affecting key cancer pathways, making cancer treatment extremely challenging. Diverse cancer types display resistance to treatment and show patterns of relapse following therapy. Therefore, efforts are required to address tumor heterogeneity by developing a broad-spectrum therapeutic approach that combines targeted therapies. Inflammation has been progressively documented as a vital factor in tumor advancement and has consequences in epigenetic variations that support tumor instigation, encouraging all the tumorigenesis phases. Increased DNA damage, disrupted DNA repair mechanisms, cellular proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and its incursion are a few pro-cancerous outcomes of chronic inflammation. A clear understanding of the cellular and molecular signaling mechanisms of tumor-endorsing inflammation is necessary for further expansion of anti-cancer therapeutics targeting the crosstalk between tumor development and inflammatory processes. Multiple inflammatory signaling pathways, such as the NF-κB signaling pathway, JAK-STAT signaling pathway, MAPK signaling, PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling, Wnt signaling cascade, and TGF-β/Smad signaling, have been found to regulate inflammation, which can be modulated using various factors such as small molecule inhibitors, phytochemicals, recombinant cytokines, and nanoparticles in conjugation to phytochemicals to treat cancer. Researchers have identified multiple targets to specifically alter inflammation in cancer therapy to restrict malignant progression and improve the efficacy of cancer therapy. siRNA-and shRNA-loaded nanoparticles have been observed to downregulate STAT3 signaling pathways and have been employed in studies to target tumor malignancies. This review highlights the pathways involved in the interaction between tumor advancement and inflammatory progression, along with the novel approaches of nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems currently used to target inflammatory signaling pathways to combat cancer.

Chrysin Modulates Aberrant Epigenetic Variations and Hampers Migratory Behavior of Human Cervical (HeLa) Cells

Purpose: Plant-derived phytochemicals have shown epigenetic modulatory effect in different types of cancer by reversing the pattern of DNA methylation and chromatin modulation, thereby restoring the function of silenced tumor-suppressor genes. In the present study, attempts have been made to explore chrysin-mediated epigenetic alterations in HeLa cells. Methods: Colony formation and migration assays followed by methylation-specific PCR for examining the methylation status of CpG promoters of various tumor-suppressor genes (TSGs) and the expression of these TSGs at the transcript and protein levels were performed. Furthermore, global DNA methylation; biochemical activities of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), histone methyl transferases (HMTs), histone deacetylases (HDACs), and histone acetyl transferases (HATs) along with the expression analysis of chromatin-modifying enzymes; and H3 and H4 histone modification marks analyses were performed after chrysin treatment. Results: The experimental analyses revealed that chrysin treatment encourages cytostatic behavior as well as inhibits the migration capacity of HeLa cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Chrysin reduces the methylation of various tumor-suppressor genes, leading to their reactivation at mRNA and protein levels. The expression levels of various chromatin-modifying enzymes viz DNMTs, HMTs, HDACs, and HATS were found to be decreased, and H3 and H4 histone modification marks were modulated too. Also, reduced global DNA methylation was observed following the treatment of chrysin. Conclusion: This study concludes that chrysin can be used as a potential epigenetic modifier for cancer treatment and warrants for further experimental validation.

Comparative Analysis of Phenolic Composition of Six Commercially Available Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) Extracts: Potential Biological Implications

Several phytochemical-containing herbal extracts are increasingly marketed as health-promoting products. In particular, chamomile (Matricaria recutita L.) is well known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antitumor properties. Here, we evaluated differences in chemical composition among six commercially available products and their potential impact on biological activity in human immortalized colonocytes. Our investigation encompassed: (i) preparation of dry extracts and yield evaluation; (ii) qualitative and quantitative analysis of phenol content; (iii) modulation of redox state; and (iv) bioavailability of main bioactive compounds. We demonstrated that apparently identical products showed huge heterogeneity, in terms of yield extraction, chemical composition, and antioxidant effects. All samples contained high amounts of flavonoids and cinnamic acid derivatives, but differentially concentrated in the six extracts. Depending on polyphenol content, chamomile samples possessed variable antioxidant potential, in terms of decreased radical generation and increased reduced glutathione levels. The observed effects might be ascribed to flavones (apigenin, luteolin, and their glycones) highly represented in the six extracts. Nonetheless, chamomile extracts exerted cytotoxic effects at high concentrations, suggesting that a herbal medicine is not always safe. In conclusion, due to the complexity and variability of plant matrices, studies evaluating effectiveness of chamomile should always be accompanied by preliminary characterization of phytochemical composition.

The mechanisms of wine phenolic compounds for preclinical anticancer therapeutics

Background

Wine is one of the oldest and most popular drinks worldwide, which is rich in phenolic compounds. Epidemiological studies show that moderate consumption of wine can reduce the risk of certain diseases, and this effect is attributed to its phenolic compounds.

Objective

The objective of this review was to elaborate the effects of wine-derived phenolic compounds for preclinical anticancer therapeutics and their major mechanisms.

Methods

In this review, we discuss the classification and content of common phenolic compounds in wine and summarize previous studies that have evaluated the anticancer properties of wine-derived phenolic compounds and their mechanisms.

Results

Wine-derived phenolic compounds have been proven to participate in several mechanisms against cancers, including deoxyribonucleic acid damage, oxidative stress, cell proliferation, cell cycle arrest, cell apoptosis, autophagy, cell invasion and metastasis, immunity and metabolism, regulation of multiple signaling molecules, and gene expression. However, the exact anticancer mechanisms of the phenolic compounds in wine need to be further investigated.

Conclusion

Wine-derived phenolic compounds are promising chemoprotective and chemotherapeutic agents for cancer.

Preclinical Drug Discovery in Colorectal Cancer: A Focus on Natural Compounds

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is considered one of the most predominant and deadly cancer globally. Nowadays, the main clinical management for this cancer includes chemotherapy and surgery; however, these treatments result in the occurrence of drug resistance and severe side effects, and thus it is a crucial requirement to discover an alternative and potential therapy for CRC treatment. Numerous therapeutic cancers were initially recognized from natural metabolites utilized in traditional medicine, and several recent types of research have shown that many natural products own potential effects against CRC and may assist the action of chemotherapy for the treatment of CRC. It has been indicated that most patients are well tolerated by natural compounds without showing any toxicity signs even at high doses. Conventional chemotherapeutics interaction with natural medicinal compounds presents a new feature in cancer exploration and treatment. Most of the natural compounds overwhelm malignant cell propagation by apoptosis initiation of CRC cells and arresting of the cell cycle (especially at G, S, and G2/M phase) that result in inhibition of tumor growth.

OBJECTIVE

This mini-review aimed to focus on natural compounds (alkaloids, flavonoids, polysaccharides, polyphenols, terpenoids, lactones, quinones, etc.) that were identified to have anti- CRC activity in vitro on CRC cell lines and/or in vivo experiments on animal models.

CONCLUSION

Most of the studied active natural compounds possess anti-CRC activity via different mechanisms and pathways in vitro and in vivo that might be used as assistance by clinicians to support chemotherapy therapeutic strategy and treatment doses for cancer patients.

The Anticancer Effects of Flavonoids through miRNAs Modulations in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Triple- negative breast cancer (TNBC) incidence rate has regularly risen over the last decades and is expected to increase in the future. Finding novel treatment options with minimum or no toxicity is of great importance in treating or preventing TNBC. Flavonoids are new attractive molecules that might fulfill this promising therapeutic option. Flavonoids have shown many biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. In addition to their anticancer effects by arresting the cell cycle, inducing apoptosis, and suppressing cancer cell proliferation, flavonoids can modulate non-coding microRNAs (miRNAs) function. Several preclinical and epidemiological studies indicate the possible therapeutic potential of these compounds. Flavonoids display a unique ability to change miRNAs' levels via different mechanisms, either by suppressing oncogenic miRNAs or activating oncosuppressor miRNAs or affecting transcriptional, epigenetic miRNA processing in TNBC. Flavonoids are not only involved in the regulation of miRNA-mediated cancer initiation, growth, proliferation, differentiation, invasion, metastasis, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), but also control miRNAs-mediated biological processes that significantly impact TNBC, such as cell cycle, immune system, mitochondrial dysregulation, modulating signaling pathways, inflammation, and angiogenesis. In this review, we highlighted the role of miRNAs in TNBC cancer progression and the effect of flavonoids on miRNA regulation, emphasizing their anticipated role in the prevention and treatment of TNBC.

Luteolin inhibits proliferation, triggers apoptosis and modulates Akt/mTOR and MAP kinase pathways in HeLa cells

Flavonoids, a subclass of polyphenols, have been shown to be effective against several types of cancer, by decreasing proliferation and inducing apoptosis. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to assess the anti-carcinogenic potential of luteolin on HeLa human cervical cancer cells, through the use of a cell viability assay, DNA fragmentation assay, mitochondrial membrane potential assay, cell cycle analysis using Annexin/PI staining and flow cytometry, gene expression analysis and a protein profiling array. Luteolin treatment exhibited cytotoxicity towards HeLa cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner, and its anti-proliferative properties were confirmed by accumulation of luteolin-treated cells in sub-G₁ phases. Cytotoxicity induced by luteolin treatment resulted in apoptosis, which was mediated through depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane potential and DNA fragmentation. Furthermore, luteolin treatment increased the expression of various proapoptotic genes, including APAF1, BAX, BAD, BID, BOK, BAK1, TRADD, FADD, FAS, and Caspases 3 and 9, whereas the expression of anti-apoptotic genes, including NAIP, MCL-1 and BCL-2, was decreased. Cell cycle regulatory genes, including CCND1, 2 and 3, CCNE2, CDKN1A, CDKN2B, CDK4 and CDK2, were decreased following treatment. Expression of TRAILR2/DR5, TRAILR1/DR4, Fas/TNFRSF6/CD95 and TNFR1/TNFRSF1A, as well as pro-apoptotic proteins, including BAD, BAX and Cytochrome C were consistently increased, and the expression of antiapoptotic proteins, HIF1α, BCL-X, MCL1 and BCL2, were found to be decreased following treatment. Expression of AKT1 and 2, ELK1, PIK3C2A, PIK3C2B, MAPK14, MAP3K5, MAPK3 and MAPK1 was significantly decreased at the transcriptional level. Expression of GSK3b (p-ser9), PRAS 40 (p-Ther246), BAD (p-ser112), PTEN (p-ser380), AKT (p-ser473), ERK2 (p-Y185/Y187), RISK2 (p-ser386), P70S6k (p-Thr421/ser424), PDK1(p-ser241), ERK1 (p-T202/Y204) and MTOR (p-ser2448) was downregulated and expression of P53 (p-ser241) and P27(p-Thr198) was upregulated by luteolin in a dose-dependent manner, indicating its anti-proliferative and apoptosis enabling properties, and this may have been mediated via inhibition of the AKT and the MAPK pathways.

Study on the synthesis of dual-chain ionic liquids and their application in the extraction of flavonoids

Ionic liquids, as tuneable, highly soluble, non-flammable, non-volatile and reusable extractants, have attracted extensive attention in the extraction of flavonoids from plants. In the present work, novel dual-chain imidazolium-derived ionic liquids were synthesized by a simple and efficient method and characterized (NMR spectroscopy, thermal stability, viscosity, conductivity, and polarity). Then, the imidazolium ionic liquids with different cation were used in the microwave-assisted extraction of flavonoids from Pinus massoniana Lamb. The results showed that the ionic liquid [Bmbim]Br, with a relatively low viscosity, conductivity and π* as well as a relatively large β, offered the best extraction efficiency and selectivity for flavonoids. Subsequently, the parameters of the extraction procedure for flavonoids were optimized as follows: extraction temperature of 80 °C, extraction time of 60 min, microwave power of 300 W, solid-liquid ratio of 1:20, and [Bmbim]Br solution concentration of 1.0 mol/L. The extraction yield of total flavonoids was 41.07 mg/g. Finally, a recovery method of the ionic liquid had been demonstrated, and the recovery rate of ionic liquid was 73.14%.

Paeonol exerts anti‑tumor activity against colorectal cancer cells by inducing G0/G1 phase arrest and cell apoptosis via inhibiting the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway

Paeonol is a simple phenolic compound isolated from herbal root bark, which has been reported to possess numerous biological and pharmacological characteristics, including a desirable anti‑tumor effect. To date, the effect of paeonol against colorectal cancer (CRC) cells is yet to be fully elucidated. Therefore, the present study aimed to identify the underlying mechanism via which paeonol exerts its anti‑tumor activity on HCT116 cells. After incubation with various concentrations of paeonol (7.8125, 15.625, 31.25, 62.5, 125, 250 and 500 µg/ml), the inhibitory effect of paeonol on cell viability was assessed using a Cell Counting Kit‑8 assay. Cell apoptosis and cell cycle distribution were measured using flow cytometry. Moreover, caspase activity was measured using a colorimetric caspase assay. Luciferase assay was also used to determine the β‑catenin‑mediated transcriptional activity of T‑cell specific transcription factor/lymphoid‑enhancer binding factor (TCF/LEF), and western blotting analysis was performed to measure the related expression of proteins. The results indicated that paeonol exhibited a notable effect against HCT116 cells by inducing G0/G1‑phase arrest, as demonstrated by downregulation of the cell cycle regulators cyclin‑dependent kinase 4 and cyclin D1 and upregulation of p21Cip1 in a dose‑dependent manner. Furthermore, paeonol dose‑dependently induced cell apoptosis, accompanied by an increase in the Bax/Bcl‑2 ratio, release of cytochrome c and further activation of caspases. Paeonol also dose‑dependently blocked the activation of the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway by suppressing the expression of β‑catenin, resulting in a decrease in β‑catenin‑mediated activity of TCF/LEF and downregulation of downstream target genes, including cyclin D1, survivin and c‑Myc. Therefore, the present results suggested that paeonol exerted its anti‑tumor effects on CRC cells, including the inhibition of cell proliferation, induction of cell cycle arrest and initiation of apoptosis, at least partly by suppressing the Wnt/β‑catenin pathway, which may offer a promising therapeutic strategy for CRC.

Do Aspirin and Flavonoids Prevent Cancer through a Common Mechanism Involving Hydroxybenzoic Acids?-The Metabolite Hypothesis

Despite decades of research to elucidate the cancer preventive mechanisms of aspirin and flavonoids, a consensus has not been reached on their specific modes of action. This inability to accurately pinpoint the mechanism involved is due to the failure to differentiate the primary targets from its associated downstream responses. This review is written in the context of the recent findings on the potential pathways involved in the prevention of colorectal cancers (CRC) by aspirin and flavonoids. Recent reports have demonstrated that the aspirin metabolites 2,3-dihydroxybenzoic acid (2,3-DHBA), 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (2,5-DHBA) and the flavonoid metabolites 2,4,6-trihydroxybenzoic acid (2,4,6-THBA), 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid (3,4-DHBA) and 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoic acid (3,4,5-THBA) were effective in inhibiting cancer cell growth in vitro. Limited in vivo studies also provide evidence that some of these hydroxybenzoic acids (HBAs) inhibit tumor growth in animal models. This raises the possibility that a common pathway involving HBAs may be responsible for the observed cancer preventive actions of aspirin and flavonoids. Since substantial amounts of aspirin and flavonoids are left unabsorbed in the intestinal lumen upon oral consumption, they may be subjected to degradation by the host and bacterial enzymes, generating simpler phenolic acids contributing to the prevention of CRC. Interestingly, these HBAs are also abundantly present in fruits and vegetables. Therefore, we suggest that the HBAs produced through microbial degradation of aspirin and flavonoids or those consumed through the diet may be common mediators of CRC prevention.

Engeletin suppresses cervical carcinogenesis in vitro and in vivo by reducing NF-κB-dependent signaling

Cervical cancer is an aggressive human cancer with poor prognosis among women, and urgently requires effective treatments. Engeletin (ENG, dihydrokaempferol 3-rhamnoside), as a flavanonol glycoside, could be found in various kinds of vegetables and fruits, exerting significant anti-inflammatory biological activities. However, its role in regulating cervical cancer, as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms are still unknown. In this study, we found that ENG treatments dose-dependently reduced the proliferation of cervical cancer cells. Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in cervical cancer was also restrained by ENG using transwell analysis, as evidenced by the significantly reduced migration and invasion. In addition, ENG treatments restricted vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGFA) expression in cervical cancer cells, contributing to the suppression of angiogenesis. Mechanistically, ENG significantly reduced the expression of chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2) in cervical cancer cells associated with the blockage of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway. Moreover, ENG functioned as an inhibitor of NF-κB, which was involved in the repression of angiogenesis. In xenograft model, ENG treatment effectively reduced the tumor volume and weight, accompanied with decreased expression of phosphorylated NF-κB, CCL2 and VEGFA, and showed little influence on the body weight change. Therefore, ENG might be a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of cervical cancer.

Fisetin protects against cardiac cell death through reduction of ROS production and caspases activity

Myocardial infarction (MI) is a leading cause of death worldwide. Reperfusion is considered as an optimal therapy following cardiac ischemia. However, the promotion of a rapid elevation of O₂ levels in ischemic cells produces high amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) leading to myocardial tissue injury. This phenomenon is called ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI). We aimed at identifying new and effective compounds to treat MI and minimize IRI. We previously studied heart regeneration following myocardial injury in zebrafish and described each step of the regeneration process, from the day of injury until complete recovery, in terms of transcriptional responses. Here, we mined the data and performed a deep in silico analysis to identify drugs highly likely to induce cardiac regeneration. Fisetin was identified as the top candidate. We validated its effects in an in vitro model of MI/IRI in mammalian cardiac cells. Fisetin enhances viability of rat cardiomyocytes following hypoxia/starvation – reoxygenation. It inhibits apoptosis, decreases ROS generation and caspase activation and protects from DNA damage. Interestingly, fisetin also activates genes involved in cell proliferation. Fisetin is thus a highly promising candidate drug with clinical potential to protect from ischemic damage following MI and to overcome IRI.

Phytochemicals and Gastrointestinal Cancer: Cellular Mechanisms and Effects to Change Cancer Progression

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer is a prevailing global health disease with a high incidence rate which varies by region. It is a huge economic burden on health care providers. GI cancer affects different organs in the body such as the gastric organs, colon, esophagus, intestine, and pancreas. Internal and external factors like smoking, obesity, urbanization, genetic mutations, and prevalence of Helicobacter pylori and Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C viral infections could increase the risk of GI cancer. Phytochemicals are non-nutritive bioactive secondary compounds abundantly found in fruits, grains, and vegetables. Consumption of phytochemicals may protect against chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative disease, and cancer. Multiple studies have assessed the chemoprotective effect of selected phytochemicals in GI cancer, offering support to their potential towards reducing the pathogenesis of the disease. The aim of this review was to summarize the current knowledge addressing the anti-cancerous effects of selected dietary phytochemicals on GI cancer and their molecular activities on selected mechanisms, i.e., nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), detoxification enzymes, adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase (AMPK), wingless-related integration site/β-catenin (wingless-related integration site (Wnt) β-catenin, cell apoptosis, phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3K)/ protein kinase B AKT/ mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). In this review phytochemicals were classified into four main categories: (i) carotenoids, including lutein, lycopene, and β-carotene; (ii) proanthocyanidins, including quercetin and ellagic acid; (iii) organosulfur compounds, including allicin, allyl propyl disulphide, asparagusic acid, and sulforaphane; and (iv) other phytochemicals including pectin, curcumins, p-coumaric acid and ferulic acid. Overall, phytochemicals improve cancer prognosis through the downregulation of β-catenin phosphorylation, therefore enhancing apoptosis, and upregulation of the AMPK pathway, which supports cellular homeostasis. Nevertheless, more studies are needed to provide a better understanding of the mechanism of cancer treatment using phytochemicals and possible side effects associated with this approach.

The Cytoprotective and Anti-cancer Potential of Bisbenzylisoquinoline Alkaloids from Nelumbo nucifera

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Natural product therapy has been gaining therapeutic importance against various diseases, including cancer. The failure of chemotherapy due to its associated adverse effects promoted adjunct therapy with natural products. Phytochemicals exert anti-carcinogenic activities through the regulation of various cell signaling pathways such as cell survival, inflammation, apoptosis, autophagy and metastasis. The ‘small molecule-chemosensitizing agents’ from plants induce apoptosis in drug-resistant and host-immune resistant cancer cells in in vitro as well as in vivo models. For example, alkaloids from Nelumbo nucifera, liensinine, isoliensinine and neferine exert the anticancer activity through enhanced ROS generation, activation of MAP kinases, followed by induction of autophagy and apoptotic cell death. Likewise, these alkaloids also exert their cytoprotective action against cerebrovascular stroke/ischemic stroke, diabetes, and chemotherapy-induced cytotoxicity. Therefore, the present review elucidates the pharmacological activities of these bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloids which include the cytoprotective, anticancer and chemosensitizing abilities against various diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, neurological diseases and cancer.

Evaluation of Anti-Tumorigenic Effects of Diosmetin against Human Colon Cancer Xenografts in Athymic Nude Mice

Colon cancer is the third most common type of cancer in the world. Diosmetin (Dis), a natural O-methylated flavone, has been reported to have anti-cancer effects against different types of cancer. Although the mechanisms of action of Dis against several cancer cell lines are well reported, in vivo anti-tumorigenesis properties of this compound are still obscure. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the anti-tumorigenesis properties of Dis against HCT-116 colon cancer xenografts in nude mice. HCT-116 colon cancer cells were injected in NCr nu/nu nude mice and treatment with Dis was initiated after the tumor volumes reached 100 mm³ and continued for four weeks. On the sacrificing date nude mice treated with 100 mg/kg of Dis showed significant lower tumor volume (264 ± 238.3 mm³) as compared to the untreated group (1428.8 ± 459.6 mm³). Anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein was significantly downregulated, while apoptotic protein (Bax) was significantly overexpressed in nude mice treated with 100 mg/kg Dis as compared to untreated mice. In conclusion, our in vivo results indicate that Dis significantly reduces tumor growth rate of HCT-116 colon cancer cells in nude mice at a dose of 100 mg/kg, and has no toxic effects in ICR mice up to 2000 mg/kg.

Investigation into the Molecular Mechanisms underlying the Anti-proliferative and Anti-tumorigenesis activities of Diosmetin against HCT-116 Human Colorectal Cancer

Diosmetin (Dis) is a bioflavonoid with cytotoxicity properties against variety of cancer cells including hepatocarcinoma, breast and colorectal (CRC) cancer. The exact mechanism by which Dis acts against CRC however, still remains unclear, hence in this study, we investigated the possible molecular mechanisms of Dis in CRC cell line, HCT-116. Here, we monitored the viability of HCT-116 cells in the presence of Dis and investigated the underlying mechanism of Dis against HCT-116 cells at the gene and protein levels using NanoString and proteome profiler array technologies. Findings demonstrated that Dis exhibits greater cytotoxic effects towards HCT-116 CRC cells (IC50 = 3.58 ± 0.58 µg/ml) as compared to the normal colon CCD-841 cells (IC50 = 51.95 ± 0.11 µg/ml). Arrests of the cells in G2/M phase confirms the occurrence of mitotic disruption via Dis. Activation of apoptosis factors such as Fas and Bax at the gene and protein levels along with the release of Cytochrome C from mitochondria and cleavage of Caspase cascades indicate the presence of turbulence as a result of apoptosis induction in Dis-treated cells. Moreover, NF-ƙB translocation was inhibited in Dis-treated cells. Our results indicate that Dis can target HCT-116 cells through the mitotic disruption and apoptosis induction.

Dietary Flavonoids and the Risk of Colorectal Cancer: An Updated Meta-Analysis of Epidemiological Studies

Aim: The aim of this study was to perform an up-to-date meta-analysis of the association between the intake of dietary flavonoids and the risk of colorectal cancer. Methods: The PubMed and EMBASE databases were searched to identify eligible studies. The risk of colorectal cancer for the highest versus the lowest categories of flavonoids intake were assessed. Results: A total of 12 studies (5 cohort and 7 case-control studies) involving 17,481 cases and 740,859 controls were eligible for meta-analysis. High intake of dietary flavonols, flavones and anthocyanidins may decrease the risk of colorectal cancer; the pooled odds ratio (OR) for the highest intake compared with the lowest was 0.70 (0.54–0.90), 0.79 (0.83–0.99) and 0.78 (0.64–0.95), respectively. No association between the intake of total flavonoids, flavanones or flavan-3-ols and the risk of colorectal cancer was observed. Furthermore, the data showed that high intake of flavonols may decrease the risk of colon cancer [0.80 (0.68–0.94)] but not rectal cancer [0.93 (0.74–1.18)], while on the contrary, the intake of flavones may decrease rectal cancer risk [0.82 (0.70–0.97)] but not colon cancer risk [0.88 (0.69–1.13)]. Conclusions: The present study suggested that high intake of flavonols (such as quercetin) may reduce the risk of colon cancer, and high intake of flavones (such as apigenin) may reduce the risk of rectal cancer.

Chrysin Attenuates Cell Viability of Human Colorectal Cancer Cells through Autophagy Induction Unlike 5-Fluorouracil/Oxaliplatin

Chemotherapeutic 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) combined with oxaliplatin is often used as the standard treatment for colorectal cancer (CRC). The disturbing side effects and drug resistance commonly observed in chemotherapy motivate us to develop alternative optimal therapeutic options for CRC treatment. Chrysin, a natural and biologically active flavonoid abundant in propolis, is reported to have antitumor effects on a few CRCs. However, whether and how chrysin achieves similar effectiveness to the 5-FU combination is not clear. In this study, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), western blotting, fluorescence microscopy, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were assayed. We found that chrysin exhibited similar inhibition of cell viability as the 5-FU combination in a panel of human CRC cells. Furthermore, the results showed that chrysin significantly increased the levels of LC3-II, an autophagy-related marker, in CRC cells, which was not observed with the 5-FU combination. More importantly, blockage of autophagy induction restored chrysin-attenuated CRC cell viability. Further mechanistic analysis revealed that chrysin, not the 5-FU combination, induced ROS generation, and in turn, inhibited the phosphorylation of protein kinase B (Akt) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). Collectively, these results imply that chrysin may be a potential replacement for the 5-FU and oxaliplatin combination to achieve antitumor activity through autophagy for CRC treatment in the future.

Fisetin mediated apoptotic cell death in parental and Oxaliplatin/irinotecan resistant colorectal cancer cells in vitro and in vivo

Irinotecan (CPT11) and Oxaliplatin have been used in combination with fluorouracil and leucovorin for treating colorectal cancer. However, the efficacy of these drugs is reduced due to various side effects and drug resistance. Fisetin, a hydroxyflavone possess anti-proliferative, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activity against various types of cancers. Apart from that, fisetin has been shown to induce cytotoxic effects when combined with other known chemotherapeutic drugs. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether Fisetin was capable of sensitizing both Irinotecan and Oxaliplatin resistance colon cancer cells and explored the possible signaling pathways involved using In vitro and In vivo models. The results showed that Fisetin treatment effectively inhibited cell viability and apoptosis of CPT11-LoVo cells than Oxaliplatin (OR) and parental LoVo cancer cells. Western blot assays suggested that apoptosis was induced by fisetin administration, promoting Caspase-8, and Cytochrome-C expressions possibly by inhibiting aberrant activation of IGF1R and AKT proteins. Furthermore, fisetin inhibited tumor growth in athymic nude mouse xenograft model. Overall, our results provided a basis for Fisetin as a promising agent to treat parental as well as chemoresistance colon cancer.

The co-treatment of metformin with flavone synergistically induces apoptosis through inhibition of PI3K/AKT pathway in breast cancer cells

Metformin, a widely used antidiabetic drug, exhibits anticancer effects which are mediated by the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/serine/threonine kinase (AKT) signaling pathway. However, its use in anticancer therapy combined with other natural products remains unclear. Flavone as the core structure of flavonoids has been demonstrated to induce cell apoptosis without causing serious side effect. Murine double minute X (MDMX) inhibits tumor suppressor gene p53 whose function is associated with the PI3K/AKT pathway. The results presented herein revealed that the combination of metformin and flavone significantly inhibited cell viability, and increased apoptosis of human breast cancer cells compared with metformin or flavone alone. The combination decreased the protein expression of MDMX, activated p53 through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, regulated p53 downstream target genes Bcl-2 apoptosis regulator, BCL2 associated X apoptosis regulator and cleaved caspase3, subsequently inducing apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 breast cancer cells. These results indicated that dietary flavone may potentiate breast cancer cell apoptosis induced by metformin, and PI3K/AKT is involved in regulating MDMX/p53 signaling. This data suggests that dietary supplementary of flavone is a promising strategy for metformin mediated anticancer effects.

Effects of Genistein and Synergistic Action in Combination with Tamoxifen on the HepG2 Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Line

Introduction: The flavonoids comprise a diverse group of polyphenolic compounds with antioxidant activity that is present in edible plants like soybeans and soy products. In vivo studies have concentrated on the effects of flavonoids on cancer and genistein (GE), a soy-derived isoflavone, has been reported to reduce prostate, colon, hepatic and breast adenocarcinoma risk. Tamoxifen (TAM) is an important drug for cancer treatment worldwide, which can induce apoptosis in various cancers, including examples in the liver, breast and ovaries. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of GE and TAM, alone and in combination, on proliferation and apoptosis in the human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) HepG2 cell line. Materials and Methods: HepG 2 cells were treated with GE, TAM and GE/TAM and then MTT and flow cytometry assays were conducted to determine effects on viability and apoptosis, respectively. Results: GE and TAM inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in the HepG 2 cell lines. Discussion: Our findings clearly indicated that GE and TAM may exert inhibitory and apoptotic effects in liver cancer cells. Conclusion: GE and TAM can significantly inhibit growth of HCC cells and play a significant role in apoptosis.

Knockdown of tripartite motif-59 inhibits the malignant processes in human colorectal cancer cells

The aim of the present study was to clarify the clinical implication and functional role of tripartite motif-59 (TRIM59) in colorectal carcinoma (CRC) and explore the underlying mechanism of aberrant high expression of TRIM59 in cancer. We validated that TRIM59 was upregulated in CRC samples, and also demonstrated that its upregulation was associated with advanced tumor stage of CRC patients; and its high expression indicated shorter overall survival and faster recurrence. Knockdown of TRIM59 significantly inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Cell cycle analysis showed that TRIM59-depleted cells accumulated in S-phase. In addition, the cell cycle regulators CDC25C, cyclin B1 and cyclin D1 were decreased by TRIM59 siRNA mediated knockdown. Furthermore, the depletion of TRIM59 promoted apoptosis in cell culture as indicated by the cleavage of caspase-3 and PARP when TRIM59 was depleted. These results suggested that TRIM59 is upregulated in human colorectal tumors compared with non-tumor tissues. The level of TRIM59 is correlated with malignant features of CRC and may serve as potential therapeutic and preventive strategies for CRC.

The gut microbiota: A key factor in the therapeutic effects of (poly)phenols

(Poly)phenols (PPs) constitute a large family of phytochemicals with high chemical diversity that are known to be active principles of plant-derived nutraceuticals and herbal medicinal products. Their pharmacological activity, however, is difficult to demonstrate due to their mild physiological effects, and to the large inter-individual variability observed. Many PPs have little bioavailability and reach the colon almost unaltered. There they encounter the gut microbes resulting in a two-way interaction in which PPs modulate the gut microbiota composition, and the intestinal microbes catabolize the ingested PPs to release metabolites that are often more active and better absorbed than the native phenolic compounds. The type and quantity of the PP metabolites produced in humans depend on the gut microbiota composition and function, and different metabotypes have been identified. However, not all the metabolites have the same biological activity, and therefore the final health effects of dietary PPs depend on the gut microbiota composition. Stratification in clinical trials according to individuals' metabotypes is necessary to fully understand the health effects of PPs. In this review, we present and discuss the most significant and updated knowledge regarding the reciprocal interrelation of the gut microbiota with dietary PPs as a key factor that modulates the health effects of these compounds. The review will focus in those PPs that are known to be metabolized by gut microbiota resulting in bioactive metabolites.

Microbial carcinogenic toxins and dietary anti-cancer protectants

Several toxins are known which account for the ability of some bacteria to initiate or promote carcinogenesis. These ideas are summarised and evidence is discussed for more specific mechanisms involving chymotrypsin and the bacterial chymotryptic enzyme subtilisin. Subtilisin and Bacillus subtilis are present in the gut and environment and both are used commercially in agriculture, livestock rearing and meat processing. The enzymes deplete cells of tumour suppressors such as deleted in colorectal cancer (DCC) and neogenin, so their potential presence in the food chain might represent an important link between diet and cancer. Over-eating increases secretion of chymotrypsin which is absorbed from the gut and could contribute to several forms of cancer linked to obesity. Inhibition of these serine proteases by Bowman–Birk inhibitors in fruit and vegetables could account for some of the protective effects of a plant-rich diet. These interactions represent previously unknown non-genetic mechanisms for the modification of tumour suppressor proteins and provide a plausible explanation contributing to both the pro-oncogenic effects of meat products and the protective activity of a plant-rich diet. The data suggest that changes to farming husbandry and food processing methods to remove these sources of extrinsic proteases might significantly reduce the incidence of several cancers.

Wine Flavonoids in Health and Disease Prevention

Wine, and particularly red wine, is a beverage with a great chemical complexity that is in continuous evolution. Chemically, wine is a hydroalcoholic solution (~78% water) that comprises a wide variety of chemical components, including aldehydes, esters, ketones, lipids, minerals, organic acids, phenolics, soluble proteins, sugars and vitamins. Flavonoids constitute a major group of polyphenolic compounds which are directly associated with the organoleptic and health-promoting properties of red wine. However, due to the insufficient epidemiological and in vivo evidences on this subject, the presence of a high number of variables such as human age, metabolism, the presence of alcohol, the complex wine chemistry, and the wide array of in vivo biological effects of these compounds suggest that only cautious conclusions may be drawn from studies focusing on the direct effect of wine and any specific health issue. Nevertheless, there are several reports on the health protective properties of wine phenolics for several diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, some cancers, obesity, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, allergies and osteoporosis. The different interactions that wine flavonoids may have with key biological targets are crucial for some of these health-promoting effects. The interaction between some wine flavonoids and some specific enzymes are one example. The way wine flavonoids may be absorbed and metabolized could interfere with their bioavailability and therefore in their health-promoting effect. Hence, some reports have focused on flavonoids absorption, metabolism, microbiota effect and overall on flavonoids bioavailability. This review summarizes some of these major issues which are directly related to the potential health-promoting effects of wine flavonoids. Reports related to flavonoids and health highlight some relevant scientific information. However, there is still a gap between the knowledge of wine flavonoids bioavailability and their health-promoting effects. More in vivo results as well as studies focused on flavonoid metabolites are still required. Moreover, it is also necessary to better understand how biological interactions (with microbiota and cells, enzymes or general biological systems) could interfere with flavonoid bioavailability.