The Traditional Chinese Medicine Baicalein Potently Inhibits Gastric Cancer Cells

The effects of plant flavones on the membrane boundary potential and lipid packing stress

Here we have revealed the effects of different plant flavones on the physicochemical properties of model lipid membranes. We have demonstrated that baicalein increases the boundary potential of membranes composed of phosphatidylcholine, while wogonin does not affect it. Other flavones tested reduce membrane boundary potential, with this ability increasing among scutellarein, chrysin, apigenin, morin, fisetin, and luteolin. Molecular dynamics simulations demonstrate connection of alteration in boundary potential with the preferential orientation of intrinsic flavone dipole moments in membranes. We have also shown that flavones reduce the melting point of phosphatidylcholine, and this ability increases in the series of luteolin, morin, wogonin, scutellarein, apigenin, baicalein, chrysin, and fisetin. The introduction of baicalein, chrysin and fisetin also leads to a significant decrease in the sharpness of the lipid phase transition. We have hypothesized that the localization of flavones in the glycerol backbone or in the C1-C8 methylene region of lipid hydrocarbon chains leads to an increase in the area per lipid and, as a consequence, to an expansion of the lipid melting peak. Replacement of neutral phosphatidylcholine with negatively charged phosphatidylserine affects the membrane-modifying activity of flavones which given the externalization of phosphatidylserine on the surface of cancer cells may be crucial in the flavone anticancer effects.

Flavonoids and Gastric Cancer Therapy: From Signaling Pathway to Therapeutic Significance

Gastric cancer (GC) is a prevalent gastrointestinal tumor characterized by high mortality and recurrence rates. Current treatments often have limitations, prompting researchers to explore novel anti-tumor substances and develop new drugs. Flavonoids, natural compounds with diverse biological activities, are gaining increasing attention in this regard. We searched from PubMed, Web of Science, SpringerLink and other databases to find the relevant literature in the last two decades. Using "gastric cancer", "stomach cancers", "flavonoid", "bioflavonoid", "2-Phenyl-Chromene" as keywords, were searched, then analyzed and summarized the mechanism of flavonoids in the treatment of GC. It was revealed that the anti-tumor mechanism of flavonoids involves inhibiting tumor growth, proliferation, invasion, and metastasis, as well as inducing cell death through various processes such as apoptosis, autophagy, ferroptosis, and pyroptosis. Additionally, combining flavonoids with other chemotherapeutic agents like 5-FU and platinum compounds can potentially reduce chemoresistance. Flavonoids have also demonstrated enhanced biological activity when used in combination with other natural products. Consequently, this review proposes innovative perspectives for the development of flavonoids as new anti-GC agents.

The most recent progress of baicalein in its anti-neoplastic effects and mechanisms

Problems, such as toxic side effects and drug resistance of chemoradiotherapy, target therapy and immunotherapy accompanying the current anti-cancer treatments, have become bottlenecks limiting the clinical benefit for patients. Therefore, it is urgent to find promising anti-cancer strategies with higher efficacy and lesser side effects. Baicalein, a flavonoid component derived from the Chinese medicine scutellaria baicalensis, has been widely studied for its remarkable anti-cancer activity in multiple types of malignancies both at the molecular and cellular levels. Baicalein exerts its anti-tumor effects by inhibiting angiogenesis, invasion and migration, inducing cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, as well as regulating cell autophagy, metabolism, the tumor microenvironment and cancer stem cells with no obvious toxic side effects. The role of classic signaling pathways, such as PI3K/AKT/mTOR, MAPK, AMPK, Wnt/β-catenin, JAK/STAT3, MMP-2/-9, have been highlighted as the major targets for baicalein exerting its anti-malignant potential. Besides, baicalein can regulate the relevant non-coding RNAs, such as lncRNAs, miRNAs and circ-RNAs, to inhibit tumorigenesis and progression. In addition to the mentioned commonalities, baicalein shows some specific anti-tumor characteristics in some specific cancer types. Moreover, the preclinical studies of the combination of baicalein and chemoradiotherapy pave the way ahead for developing baicalein as an adjunct treatment with chemoradiotherapy. Our aim is to summary the role of baicalein in different types of cancer with its mechanisms based on in vitro and in vivo experiments, hoping providing proof for baicalein serving as an effective and safe compound for cancer treatment in clinic in the future.

Exploring the mechanism of Erteng-Sanjie capsule in treating gastric and colorectal cancers via network pharmacology and in-vivo validation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The Erteng-Sanjie capsule (ETSJC) has therapeutic effects against gastric cancer (GC) and colorectal cancer (CRC). However, its underlying pharmacological mechanism remains unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To explore the pharmacological mechanism of ETSJC against GC and CRC via network pharmacology and in-vivo validation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data on the ingredients of ETSJC were obtained from the TCMSP and HERB databases. Further, details on the related targets of the active ingredients were collected from the HERB and SwissTargetPrediction databases. The targets in GC and CRC, which were screened from the OMIM, GeneCards, and TTD databases, were uploaded to STRING for a separate protein-protein interaction network analysis. The common targets shared by ETSJC, GC, and CRC were then screened. Cytoscape and STRING were used to construct the networks of herbs-compounds-targets and PPI. Metascape was utilized to analyze the enrichment of the GO and KEGG pathways. Molecular docking was used to validate the potential binding mode between the core ingredients and targets. Finally, the predicted results were verified with animal experiment.

RESULTS

Eight core ingredients (resveratrol, quercetin, luteolin, baicalein, delphinidin, kaempferol, pinocembrin, and naringenin) and six core targets (TP53, SRC, PIK3R1, AKT1, MAPK3, and STAT3) were filtered via network analysis. The molecular mechanism mainly involved the positive regulation of various processes such as cell migration, protein phosphorylation, and the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Molecular docking revealed that the core ingredients could be significantly combined with all core targets. The animal experiment revealed that ETSJC could suppress proliferation and promote apoptosis of both GC and CRC tumor cells by regulating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

Multiple targets (TP53, SRC, AKT1, and STAT3) were important in GC and CRC. ETSJC could act on these targets and engage in different pathways against GC and CRC. Simultaneously, inhibiting the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway was a promising therapeutic mechanism for treating GC and CRC.

A Comprehensive Review of Various Therapeutic Strategies for the Management of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer (SC) poses a global threat to the healthcare system and is expected to increase significantly over the next two decades if not diagnosed at an early stage. Early diagnosis is crucial for successful treatment, as the disease becomes more challenging to cure as it progresses. However, identifying new drugs, achieving clinical success, and overcoming drug resistance remain significant challenges. To overcome these obstacles and provide effective treatment, it is crucial to understand the causes of skin cancer, how cells grow and divide, factors that affect cell growth, and how drug resistance occurs. In this review, we have explained various therapeutic approaches for SC treatment via ligands, targeted photosensitizers, natural and synthetic drugs for the treatment of SC, an epigenetic approach for management of melanoma, photodynamic therapy, and targeted therapy for BRAF-mutated melanoma. This article also provides a detailed summary of the various natural drugs that are effective in managing melanoma and reducing the occurrence of skin cancer at early stages and focuses on the current status and future prospects of various therapies available for the management of skin cancer.

Gancao Xiexin Decoction inhibits gastric carcinoma proliferation and migration by regulating the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The incidence of gastric carcinoma (GC) is increasing rapidly. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) plays a unique role in the treatment of GC. At present, Gancao Xiexin Decoction (GCXXD) has been proved to have a good therapeutic effect on diseases of the spleen and stomach system, but relevant molecular mechanisms remain incompletely explained.

AIM OF STUDY

The mechanism of GCXXD for GC was investigated by network pharmacology and verified by cell experiments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Firstly, the public database was used to identify the core targets and key pathways of GCXXD in treating GC, followed by molecular docking and survival analysis. Subsequently, the effects of GCXXD on human gastric cancer AGS and HGC-27 cells were confirmed by a series of experiments, such as CCK-8, colony formation, apoptosis, cell cycle, wound scratch assay, transwell chamber assay, qRT-PCR and Western blot.

RESULTS

This study identified quercetin, wogonin, kaempferol, baicalein, sitosterol and beta-sitosterol as key ingredients, along with AKT1, TP53, JUN, STAT3, TNF, MAPK3, HSP90AA1 and EGFR as co targets, and the JAK/STAT signalling pathway as the key pathway. The experimental results showed that GCXXD inhibited the growth of GC cells, increased the apoptosis rate and the ratio of G0/G1 phase cells, and weakened the clone formation rate and inhibited cell migration and invasion. It also reduces the expression of core target genes and downregulates the expression of JAK2, p-JAK2, STAT3, and p-STAT3 proteins.

CONCLUSION

GCXXD inhibits GC cell growth, reduces clonogenic capacity, induces apoptosis, blocks the cell cycle, and decreases cell migration and invasion rates by inhibiting the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway.

Targeted intervention of natural medicinal active ingredients and traditional Chinese medicine on epigenetic modification: Possible strategies for prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis

BACKGROUND

Atherosclerosis is a deadly consequence of cardiovascular disease and has very high mortality rate worldwide. The epigenetic modifications can regulate the pervasiveness and progression of atherosclerosis through its involvement in regulation of inflammation, oxidative stress, lipid metabolism and several other factors. Specific non-coding RNAs, DNA methylation, and histone modifications are key regulatory factors of atherosclerosis. Natural products from traditional Chinese medicine have shown promising therapeutic potential against atherosclerosis by means of regulating the expression of specific genes, stabilizing arterial plaques and protecting vascular endothelial cells.

OBJECTIVE

Our study is focusing to explore the pathophysiology and probability of traditional Chinese medicine and natural medicinal active ingredients to treat atherosclerosis.

METHODS

Comprehensive literature review was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar and China National Knowledge Infrastructure with a core focus on natural medicinal active ingredients and traditional Chinese medicine prying in epigenetic modification related to atherosclerosis.

RESULTS

Accumulated evidence demonstrated that natural medicinal active ingredients and traditional Chinese medicine have been widely studied as substances that can regulate epigenetic modification. They can participate in the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis through inflammation, oxidative stress, lipid metabolism, cell proliferation and migration, macrophage polarization and autophagy respectively.

CONCLUSION

The function of natural medicinal active ingredients and traditional Chinese medicine in regulating epigenetic modification may provide a new potential strategy for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis. However, more extensive research is essential to determine the potential of these natural medicinal active ingredients to treat atherosclerosis because of least clinical data.

The signaling pathways and targets of natural products from traditional Chinese medicine treating gastric cancer provide new candidate therapeutic strategies

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the severe malignancies with high incidence and mortality, especially in Eastern Asian countries. Significant advancements have been made in diagnosing and treating GC over the past few decades, resulting in tremendous improvements in patient survival. In recent years, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has garnered considerable attention as an alternative therapeutic approach for GC due to its multicomponent and multitarget characteristics. Consequently, natural products found in TCM have attracted researchers' attention, as growing evidence suggests that these natural products can impede GC progression by regulating various biological processes. Nevertheless, their molecular mechanisms are not systematically uncovered. Here, we review the major signaling pathways involved in GC development. Additionally, clinical GC samples were analyzed. Moreover, the anti-GC effects of natural products, their underlying mechanisms and potential targets were summarized. These summaries are intended to facilitate further relevant research, and accelerate the clinical applications of natural products in GC treatment.

Ratiometric codelivery of Paclitaxel and Baicalein loaded nanoemulsion for enhancement of breast cancer treatment

The most prevalent clinical option for treating cancer is combination chemotherapy. In combination therapy, assessment and optimization for obtaining a synergistic ratio could be obtained by various preclinical setups. Currently, in vitro optimization is used to get synergistic cytotoxicity while constructing combinations. Herein, we co-encapsulated Paclitaxel (PTX) and Baicalein (BCLN) with TPP-TPGS1000 containing nanoemulsion (TPP-TPGS1000-PTX-BCLN-NE) for breast cancer treatment. The assessment of cytotoxicity of PTX and BCLN at different molar weight ratios provided an optimized synergistic ratio (1:5). Quality by Design (QbD) approach was later applied for the optimization as well as characterization of nanoformulation for its droplet size, zeta potential and drug content. TPP-TPGS1000-PTX-BCLN-NE significantly enhanced cellular ROS, cell cycle arrest, and depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential in the 4T1 breast cancer cell line compared to other treatments. In the syngeneic 4T1 BALB/c tumor model, TPP-TPGS1000-PTX-BCLN-NE outperformed other nanoformulation treatments. The pharmacokinetic, biodistribution and live imaging studies pivoted TPP-TPGS1000-PTX-BCLN-NE enhanced bioavailability and PTX accumulation at tumor site. Later, histology studies confirmed nanoemulsion non-toxicity, expressing new opportunities and potential to treat breast cancer. These results suggested that current nanoformulation can be a potential therapeutic approach to effectively address breast cancer therapy.

Neoprzewaquinone A Inhibits Breast Cancer Cell Migration and Promotes Smooth Muscle Relaxation by Targeting PIM1 to Block ROCK2/STAT3 Pathway

Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen) has been widely used to treat cancer and cardiovascular diseases in Chinese traditional medicine. Here, we found that Neoprzewaquinone A (NEO), an active component of S. miltiorrhiza, selectively inhibits PIM1. We showed that NEO potently inhibits PIM1 kinase at nanomolar concentrations and significantly suppresses the growth, migration, and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) in the triple-negative breast cancer cell line, MDA-MB-231 in vitro. Molecular docking simulations revealed that NEO enters the PIM1 pocket, thereby triggering multiple interaction effects. Western blot analysis revealed that both NEO and SGI-1776 (a specific PIM1 inhibitor), inhibited ROCK2/STAT3 signaling in MDA-MB-231 cells, indicating that PIM1 kinase modulates cell migration and EMT via ROCK2 signaling. Recent studies indicated that ROCK2 plays a key role in smooth muscle contraction, and that ROCK2 inhibitors effectively control the symptoms of high intraocular pressure (IOP) in glaucoma patients. Here, we showed that NEO and SGI-1776 significantly reduce IOP in normal rabbits and relax pre-restrained thoracic aortic rings in rats. Taken together, our findings indicated that NEO inhibits TNBC cell migration and relaxes smooth muscles mainly by targeting PIM1 and inhibiting ROCK2/STAT3 signaling, and that PIM1 may be an effective target for IOP and other circulatory diseases.

Baicalein facilitates gastric cancer cell apoptosis by triggering endoplasmic reticulum stress via repression of the PI3K/AKT pathway

OBJECTIVE

Gastric cancer (GC) remains a prevailing threat to life. Baicalein exhibits anti-cancer properties. This study estimated the mechanism of baicalein in GC cell apoptosis by mediating endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) through the PI3K/AKT pathway.

METHODS

After treatment with different concentrations of baicalein, GC cell (HGC-27 and AGS) viability was detected by MTT assay. AGS cells more sensitive to baicalein treatment were selected as study subjects. The IC50 of baicalein on AGS cells was determined. Colony formation, cell cycle, and apoptosis were detected using crystal violet staining and flow cytometry. Levels of ERS-related and BTG3/PI3K/AKT pathway-related proteins were determined by Western blot. Intracellular Ca²⁺ level was measured using Fluo-3 AM fluorescence working solution. GC mouse models were established by subcutaneously injecting AGS cells into the right rib and were intragastrically administrated with baicalein. Tumor volume and weight were recorded. Expression of Ki67 in tumor tissues and positive expression of apoptotic cells were detected by immunohistochemistry and TUNEL staining.

RESULTS

Baicalein inhibited cell proliferation and induced G0/G1 arrest and apoptosis by regulating the cell cycle, and triggered ERS in GC cells. Baicalein impeded the PI3K/AKT pathway by activating BTG3, thereby triggering ERS and inducing apoptosis. BTG3 inhibition reversed baicalein-induced apoptosis and ERS. Baicalein regulated GC cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, in xenograft mice, baicalein prevented tumor growth, decreased Ki67-positive cells, activated BTG3, and inhibited the PI3K/AKT pathway, thus activating ERS and increasing apoptotic cells.

CONCLUSION

Baicalein facilitates GC cell apoptosis by triggering ERS via repression of the PI3K/AKT pathway.

Phytochemicals and mitochondria: Therapeutic allies against gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Mitochondria are the energy factories of cells with the ability to modulate the cell cycle, cellular differentiation, signal transduction, growth, and apoptosis. Existing drugs targeting mitochondria in cancer treatment have disadvantages of drug resistance and side effects. Phytochemicals, which are widely found in plants, are bioactive compounds that could facilitate the development of new drugs for gastric cancer. Studies have shown that some phytochemicals can suppress the development of gastric cancer.

METHODS

We searched for data from PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Web of Science, and Embase databases from initial establishment to December 2021 to review the mechanism by which phytochemicals suppress gastric cancer cell growth by modulating mitochondrial function. Phytochemicals were classified and summarized by their mechanisms of action.

RESULTS

Phytochemicals can interfere with mitochondria through several mechanisms to reach the goal of promoting apoptosis in gastric cancer cells. Some phytochemicals, e.g., daidzein and tetrandrine promoted cytochrome c spillover into the cytoplasm by modulating the members of the B-cell lymphoma-2 protein family and induced apoptotic body activity by activating the caspase protein family. Phytochemicals (e.g., celastrol and shikonin) could promote the accumulation of reactive oxygen species and reduce the mitochondrial membrane potential. Several phytochemicals (e.g., berberine and oleanolic acid) activated mitochondrial apoptotic submission via the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/Akt signaling pathway, thereby triggering apoptosis in gastric cancer cells. Several well-known phytochemicals that target mitochondria, including berberine, ginsenoside, and baicalein, showed the advantages of multiple targets, high efficacy, and fewer side effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Phytochemicals could target the mitochondria in the treatment of gastric cancer, providing potential directions and evidence for clinical translation. Drug discovery focused on phytochemicals has great potential to break barriers in cancer treatment.

Crosstalk between xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibiting and cancer chemotherapeutic properties of comestible flavonoids- a comprehensive update

Gout is an inflammatory disease caused by metabolic disorder or genetic inheritance. People throughout the world are strongly dependent on ethnomedicine for the treatment of gout and some receive satisfactory curative treatment. The natural remedies as well as established drugs derived from natural sources or synthetically made exert their action by mechanisms that are closely associated with anticancer treatment mechanisms regarding inhibition of xanthine oxidase, feedback inhibition of de novo purine synthesis, depolymerization and disappearance of microtubule, inhibition of NF-ĸB activation, induction of TRAIL, promotion of apoptosis, and caspase activation and proteasome inhibition. Some anti-gout and anticancer novel compounds interact with same receptors for their action, e.g., colchicine and colchicine analogues. Dietary flavonoids, i.e., chrysin, kaempferol, quercetin, fisetin, pelargonidin, apigenin, luteolin, myricetin, isorhamnetin, phloretinetc etc. have comparable IC₅₀ values with established anti-gout drug and effective against both cancer and gout. Moreover, a noticeable number of newer anticancer compounds have already been isolated from plants that have been using by local traditional healers and herbal practitioners to treat gout. Therefore, the anti-gout plants might have greater potentiality to become selective candidates for screening of newer anticancer leads.

The Multifaceted Role of Baicalein in Cancer Management through Modulation of Cell Signalling Pathways

The roles of medicinal plants or their purified bioactive compounds have attracted attention in the field of health sciences due to their low toxicity and minimal side effects. Baicalein is an active polyphenolic compound, isolated from Scutellaria baicalensis, and plays a significant role in the management of different diseases. Epidemiologic studies have proven that there is an inverse association between baicalein consumption and disease severity. Baicalein is known to display anticancer activity through the inhibition of inflammation and cell proliferation. Additionally, the anticancer potential of baicalein is chiefly mediated through the modulation of various cell-signaling pathways, such as the induction of apoptosis, autophagy, cell cycle arrest, inhibition of angiogenesis, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, and PI3K/Akt pathways, as well as the regulation of other molecular targets. Therefore, the current review aimed to explore the role of baicalein in different types of cancer along with mechanisms of action. Besides this, the synergistic effects with other anti-cancerous drugs and the nano-formulation based delivery of baicalein have also been discussed.

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.

Natural Small Molecules in Gastrointestinal Tract and Associated Cancers: Molecular Insights and Targeted Therapies

Gastric cancer is one of the most common cancers of the gastrointestinal tract. Although surgery is the primary treatment, serious maladies that dissipate to other parts of the body may require chemotherapy. As there is no effective procedure to treat stomach cancer, natural small molecules are a current focus of research interest for the development of better therapeutics. Chemotherapy is usually used as a last resort for people with advanced stomach cancer. Anti-colon cancer chemotherapy has become increasingly effective due to drug resistance and sensitivity across a wide spectrum of drugs. Naturally-occurring substances have been widely acknowledged as an important project for discovering innovative medications, and many therapeutic pharmaceuticals are made from natural small molecules. Although the beneficial effects of natural products are as yet unknown, emerging data suggest that several natural small molecules could suppress the progression of stomach cancer. Therefore, the underlying mechanism of natural small molecules for pathways that are directly involved in the pathogenesis of cancerous diseases is reviewed in this article. Chemotherapy and molecularly-targeted drugs can provide hope to colon cancer patients. New discoveries could help in the fight against cancer, and future stomach cancer therapies will probably include molecularly formulated drugs.

Network-Based Pharmacological Study on the Mechanism of Action of Buxue Liqi Huatan Decoction in the Treatment of Lung Cancer

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of action of Buxue Liqi Huatan decoction against lung cancer through network pharmacology.

Methods

The chemical composition and targets of all the drugs in the Buxue Liqi Huatan decoction were obtained through the Database and Systematic Analysis Platform of Traditional Chinese Medicine Pharmacology, the Integrated Database of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and by screening lung cancer targets with the gene map and OMIM database. The targets were then imported into Cytoscape 3.7.2 to build a target network of active ingredients and imported into the STRING database to build a protein-protein interaction network. The BisoGenet plug-in in Cytoscape 3.7.2 was used for network topology analysis. Genetic ontology (GO) enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis were performed on potential targets of the Buxue Liqi Huatan decoction for lung cancer using the R-language Bioconductor platform, and results were imported from Cytoscape 3.7.2 to obtain the KEGG network connection diagram via the Autodock molecular docking software.

Results

A total of 238 chemical components and 694 disease targets were obtained, including 133 intersecting targets. The key targets included TP53, AKT1, and MYC, and the GO functional analysis was mainly related to oxidative and cellular oxidative stress, apoptotic signaling, and antibiotic response. The results showed that the key target with the best binding performance was TP53.

Conclusion

The treatment of lung cancer with blood-supplementing, qi-transforming, and phlegm-transforming soups works through multiple components and targets. The active ingredients include quercetin, luteolin, naringenin, and baicalein. Among them, the core proteins of PPI protein interaction mainly include TP53, AKT1, MYC, EGRF, CCNB1, and ESR1. The enrichment analysis results show that the TNF signal pathway, PI3K-Akt signal pathway, AGE-RAGE, IL-17, etc., are the main signal pathways of Buxue Liqi Huatan decoction in treating lung cancer. This lays the foundation for further study of its mechanism.

d-Borneol enhances cisplatin sensitivity via p21/p27-mediated S-phase arrest and cell apoptosis in non-small cell lung cancer cells and a murine xenograft model

Background

Cisplatin (CDDP) is commonly used to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but the appearance of drug resistance greatly hinders its efficacy. Borneol may promote drug absorption; however, synergism between borneol and CDDP in suppressing NSCLC is not clearly understood. Hence, we investigated borneol as a novel chemosensitizer to support chemotherapeutic efficacy and reduce side effects.

Methods

We compared viability after exposure to d-borneol, l-borneol, and synthetic borneol in two NSCLC cell lines, A549 and H460, and selected the most sensitive cells. We then assessed synergy between borneol forms and CDDP in cisplatin-resistant NSCLC cells, H460/CDDP. Next, we identified effective concentrations and exposure times. Subsequently, we evaluated cell migration via wound healing and cell proliferation via clone formation assay. Then, we focused on P-glycoprotein (P-gp) function, cell cycle, apoptosis, and RNA sequencing to elucidate underlying molecular mechanisms for synergy. Finally, we used an H460/CDDP xenograft tumor model to verify antitumor activity and safety in vivo. Data were examined using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for multiple datasets or t-test for comparisons between two variables.

Results

d-Borneol was more effective in H460 than A549 cells. d-Borneol combined with CDDP showed greater inhibition of cell proliferation, migration, and clone formation in H460/CDDP cells than CDDP alone. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis identified differentially expressed genes enriched in cell cycle pathways. The impact of d-borneol on CDDP chemosensitivity involved arrest of the cell cycle at S phase via p27/p21-mediated cyclinA2/D3-CDK2/6 signaling and activation of intrinsic apoptosis via p21-mediated Bax/Bcl-2/caspase3 signaling. Further, d-borneol ameliorated drug resistance by suppressing levels and activity of P-gp. Cotreatment with d-borneol and CDDP inhibited tumor growth in vivo and reduced CDDP-caused liver and kidney toxicity.

Conclusions

d-Borneol increased the efficacy of cisplatin and reduced its toxicity. This compound has the potential to become a useful chemosensitizer for drug-resistance NSCLC.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s11658-022-00362-4.

The molecular mechanism of baicalein repressing progression of gastric cancer mediating miR-7/FAK/AKT signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Baicalein (BAI) has a significant anti-cancerous function in the treatment of gastric cancer (GC). Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a key regulatory molecule in integrin and growth factor receptor mediated signaling. MicroRNA-7 (miR-7), has been considered as a potential tumor suppressor in a variety of cancers. However, the possible mechanisms by which BAI inhibiting progression of gastric cancer mediating miR-7/FAK/AKT signaling pathway remain unclear.

PURPOSE

To investigate the molecular mechanism and effects of BAI inhibiting progression of gastric cancer mediating miR-7/FAK/AKT signaling pathway.

METHODS

Gastric cancer cell lines with FAK knockdown and overexpression were constructed by lentivirus transfection. After BAI treatment, the effects of FAK protein on proliferation, metastasis and angiogenesis of gastric cancer cells were detected by MTT, EdU, colony formation, wound healing, transwell and Matrigel tube formation assays. In vivo experiment was performed by xenograft model. Immunofluorescence and western blot assay were used to detect the effects of FAK protein on the expression levels of EMT markers and PI3K/AKT signaling pathway related proteins. qRT-PCR and luciferase reporter assay were used to clarify the targeting relationship between miR-7 and FAK.

RESULTS

BAI can regulate FAK to affect proliferation, metastasis and angiogenesis of gastric cancer cells through PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. qRT-PCR showed BAI can upregulated the expression of miR-7 and luciferase reporter assay showed the targeting relationship between miR-7 and FAK. Additionally, miR-7 mediates cell proliferation, metastasis and angiogenesis by directly targeting FAK 3'UTR to inhibit FAK expression.

CONCLUSION

BAI repressing progression of gastric cancer mediating miR-7/FAK/AKT signaling pathway.

A Network Pharmacology Approach for Uncovering the Antitumor Effects and Potential Mechanisms of the Sijunzi Decoction for the Treatment of Gastric Cancer

Background

Sijunzi decoction (SJZD), a classic Chinese formula, has been clinically used for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. However, few studies have uncovered its antitumor effects and its potential mechanisms against gastric cancer (GC). Therefore, this work aimed to identify the active compounds and putative targets of the SJZD and to further explore the potential mechanisms involved in the treatment of GC.

Materials and Methods

The active compounds and potential targets of the SJZD and related genes for GC treatment were collected from a public database. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)-compound-target-disease networks, Venn diagrams, protein–protein interactions (PPIs), gene ontology (GO), and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) were used to obtain the bioactive compounds, key targets, and potential pathways. Next, the human gastric adenocarcinoma cell line NUGC-4 was inoculated subcutaneously into the right flank of NCG mice to build a tumor-bearing mouse model to further verify the findings.

Results

There were 117 compounds in the SJZD in total. The SJZD and GC had 161 and 3288 potential targets, respectively, among which 123 targets overlapped. The network analysis showed that quercetin, kaempferol formononetin, ginsenoside, atractylenolide III, etc., were bioactive molecules. The tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-6 (IL-6), cellular tumor antigen p53 (TP53), transcription factor AP-1 (JUN), and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) were potential targets. A KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed 110 pathways involved in the pathways for cancer, including the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. Validation experiments showed that the SJZD inhibited tumor growth and induced apoptosis in tumor cells. In addition, the SJZD downregulated expressions of VEGFA, iNOS, COX-2, and Bax/Bcl2 and inhibited the expressions of p-PI3K and p-AKT.

Conclusion

The SJZD treats GC by inhibiting blood vessel hyperplasia and inducing cell apoptosis by regulating the PI3K/AKT pathway.

Specific Flavonoids and Their Biosynthetic Pathway in Scutellaria baicalensis

Scutellaria baicalensis, is one of the most traditional medicinal plants in the Lamiaceae family, and has been widely used to treat liver and lung complaints and as a complementary cancer treatment in traditional Chinese medicine. The preparation from its roots, called "Huang Qin," is rich in specialized flavones such as baicalein, wogonin, and their glycosides which lack a 4'-hydroxyl group on the B ring (4'-deoxyflavones), with anti-tumor, antioxidant, and antiviral activities. Baicalein has recently been reported to inhibit the replication of the COVID-19 virus. These 4'-deoxyflavones are found only in the order Lamiales and were discovered in the genus Scutellaria, suggesting that a new metabolic pathway synthesizing 4'-deoxyflavones evolved recently in this genus. In this review, we focus on the class of 4'-deoxyflavones in S. baicalensis and their pharmacological properties. We also describe the apparent evolutionary route taken by the genes encoding enzymes involved in the novel, root-specific, biosynthetic pathway for baicalein and wogonin, which provides insights into the evolution of specific flavone biosynthetic pathways in the mint family.

An overview of pharmacological activities of baicalin and its aglycone baicalein: New insights into molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways

The flavonoids, baicalin, and its aglycone baicalein possess multi-fold therapeutic properties and are mainly found in the roots of Oroxylum indicum (L.) Kurz and Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi. These flavonoids have been reported to possess various pharmacological properties, including antibacterial, antiviral, anticancer, anticonvulsant, anti-oxidant, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective effects. The pharmacological properties of baicalin and baicalein are due to their abilities to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and interaction with various signaling molecules associated with apoptosis, inflammation, autophagy, cell cycle, mitochondrial dynamics, and cytoprotection. In this review, we summarized the molecular mechanisms underlying the chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic applications of baicalin and baicalein in the treatment of cancer and inflammatory diseases. In addition, the preventive effects of baicalin and baicalein on mitochondrial dynamics and functions were highlighted with a particular emphasis on their anti-oxidative and cytoprotective properties. The current review highlights could be useful for future prospective studies to further improve the pharmacological applications of baicalein and baicalin. These studies should define the threshold for optimal drug exposure, dose optimization and focus on therapeutic drug monitoring, objective disease markers, and baicalin/baicalein drug levels.

Anti-tumor effect of ginkgetin on human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines by inducing cell cycle arrest and promoting cell apoptosis

This study explored the anti-tumor effect of ginkgetin, an extract from ginkgo biloba, on human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines and the underlying mechanisms. Cell viability was measured by MTT assay. Apoptotic cell morphology was observed under an inverted microscope after Hoechst 33,258 staining, and the ratio of apoptotic and necrotic cells was examined by flow cytometry after FITC/PI staining. Cell cycle changes were analyzed using flow cytometry. Cytochrome c release and caspase 3 and 8 activities were monitored using the relevant reagent kits. The levels of cell cycle-related proteins were detected by Western blot. MTT results indicated that ginkgetin significantly reduced HepG2 cell viability in a dose-dependent manner. Cellular morphology observation revealed that ginkgetin induced typical apoptotic morphological features of HepG2 cells, such as increased apoptotic bodies and cell shrinkage. Cell cycle analysis showed that ginkgetin increased the proportion of cells in the S phase. S-phase cell accumulation could be attributed to the decreased expression of cell cycle regulatory factors. Similarly, ginkgetin also induced the apoptosis and S phase cell accumulation of another human HCC cell line SK-HEP-1. Furthermore, ginkgetin treatment increased caspase-3 activity and cytochrome c release but not caspase-8 activity, implying that ginkgetin might mediate cell apoptosis through the mitochondrial pathway. In addition, the tumor formation experiment in nude mice showed that ginkgetin administration inhibited tumor growth. These results suggest that ginkgetin could be a cell apoptosis stimulator by affecting the balance between cell proliferation and apoptosis, suggesting that ginkgetin might be suitable for human HCC treatment.

Current Advances and Outlook in Gastric Cancer Chemoresistance: A Review

BACKGROUND

Surgical resection of the lesion is the standard primary treatment of gastric cancer. Unfortunately, most patients are already in the advanced stage of the disease when they are diagnosed with gastric cancer. Alternative therapies, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, can achieve only very limited benefits. The emergence of cancer drug resistance has always been the major obstacle to the cure of tumors. The main goal of modern cancer pharmacology is to determine the underlying mechanism of anticancer drugs.

OBJECTIVE

Here, we mainly review the latest research results related to the mechanism of chemotherapy resistance in gastric cancer, the application of natural products in overcoming the chemotherapy resistance of gastric cancer, and the new strategies currently being developed to treat tumors based on immunotherapy and gene therapy.

CONCLUSION

The emergence of cancer drug resistance is the main obstacle in achieving alleviation and final cure for gastric cancer. Mixed therapies are considered to be a possible way to overcome chemoresistance. Natural products are the main resource for discovering new drugs specific for treating chemoresistance, and further research is needed to clarify the mechanism of natural product activity in patients. .

Fluorescence live cell imaging revealed wogonin targets mitochondria

Scutellaria baicalensis is one of the widely used Chinese traditional medicines, and wogonin is one of major active components in it. However, the mechanism of action of wogonin has largely remained unclear. In this work, we designed a fluorescent probe, namely ATTO565-WGN, by conjugating wogonin with the fluorophore ATTO565 based on Mannich reaction via a flexible chain linker. In vitro assays verified that the ATTO565-WGN conjugate has a similar anti-proliferative activity to wogonin against human A549 and HeLa cancer cell lines. Combining co-localization and competition studies, confocal fluorescence imaging clearly demonstrated that the fluorescent wogonin probe predominantly located in mitochondrial area of living cells, indicating that wogonin acts at mitochondrion to exert its pharmacological functions. Significantly, the conjugated ATTO565 fluorophore conferred the wogonin probe STED (Stimulated Emission Depletion) feature, enabling STED fluorescence living cell imaging with a 55 nm of ultrahigh spatial resolution. This will greatly beneficial for the in situ investigation of interactions between wogonin and biological targets at the finely organized and dynamic mitochondria of living cells. Moreover, this work also provides novel insights into rational design of mitochondrion targeting fluorescence probes for ultrahigh resolution living cell imaging.

Baicalein Inhibits Gastric Cancer Cell Proliferation and Migration through a FAK Interaction via AKT/mTOR Signaling

Gastric cancer is a common malignancy worldwide and is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. However, very little is known about the underlying mechanism in human gastric cancer cells. Baicalein (BAI), a widely used Chinese herbal medicine, has shown anticancer effects on many types of human cancer cell lines. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying BAI action on gastric cancer cell proliferation and migration. The results showed that BAI can expressively inhibit cell proliferation, colony-forming ability and migration ability in a dose-dependent manner, while in the meantime inducing cell apoptosis. Additionally, we found that BAI can suppress FAK and the phosphorylation of PI3K, AKT and mTOR in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, BAI significantly inhibited tumor growth in a xenograft model. Also, BAI can inhibit the proliferation and migration of gastric cancer cells and the expression of the pathway by downregulating the expression of FAK. In short, we demonstrated that BAI inhibited gastric cancer cell proliferation and migration through FAK interaction via downregulation in AKT/mTOR signaling, which signifies that BAI may be a latent therapeutic factor for the treatment of gastric cancer patients and that FAK might be a hopeful therapy target for the disease.

Total flavone extract from Ampelopsis megalophylla induces apoptosis in the MCF‑7 cell line

Ampelopsis megalophylla has been found to demonstrate anticancer activities in human cancer cells; however, the effect of total flavone extract (TFE), commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, remains unclear. Furthermore, there is limited information on its effects on breast cancer cell lines. The present study aimed to investigate the inhibitory effects of TFE in different human cancer cell lines. In addition, the underlying mechanisms and the signaling pathways involved were also investigated by determining tumor cell morphological changes, and differences in the cell cycle, apoptosis, mitochondrial transmembrane potential, and related protein expression levels in a breast cancer cell line. It was found that TFE inhibited proliferation in seven cancer cell lines (HeLa, A549, MCF-7, HepG2, A2780, SW620 and MDA-MB-231 and demonstrated a strong inhibitory effect on MCF-7 cell proliferation. Cell morphological changes were also observed and arrested at the G₂/M phase following treatment with TFE at different concentrations. In addition, TFE disrupted the mitochondrial membrane potential and upregulated the expression level of apoptotic proteins, including caspase-3, -8 and -9, the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, and Apaf-1 in time-dependent manner. These results indicated that TFE induced apoptosis of the MCF-7 cells via a mitochondrial-mediated apoptotic pathway. In conclusion, TFE is potentially effective in treating breast cancer.

Recent Research on Flavonoids and their Biomedical Applications

Flavonoids, commonly found in various plants, are a class of polyphenolic compounds having a basic structural unit of 2-phenylchromone. Flavonoid compounds have attracted much attention due to their wide biological applications. In order to facilitate further research on the biomedical application of flavonoids, we surveyed the literature published on the use of flavonoids in medicine during the past decade, documented the commonly found structures in natural flavonoids, and summarized their pharmacological activities as well as associated mechanisms of action against a variety of health disorders including chronic inflammation, cancer, cardiovascular complications and hypoglycemia. In this mini-review, we provide suggestions for further research on the biomedical applications of flavonoids.

LncRNA NCK1-AS1 in plasma distinguishes oral ulcer from early-stage oral squamous cell carcinoma

Background

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) at early stages can be misdiagnosed as an oral ulcer (OU) due to similar symptoms, such as chronic and indurated ulcer. LncRNA NCK1-AS1 has been characterized as a key player in cervical cancer, while its role in OSCC is unknown.

Methods

All participants were selected at Jiangxi Province Tumor Hospital from December 2016 to December 2018. Expression levels of NCK1-AS1 and miR-100 in plasma from both OSCC and OU patients were measured by RT-qPCR. Diagnostic analysis was performed through ROC curve. Potential interactions between NCK1-AS1 and miR-100 were detected by cell transfection experiments. Cell invasion and migration were assessed by Transwell assays.

Results

The expression of NCK1-AS1 was upregulated in early-stage OSCC patients but not in OU patients. Upregulation of NCK1-AS1 distinguished OSCC patients from OU patients. The expression of miR-100 was inversely correlated with the expression of NCK1-AS1. Overexpression of NCK1-AS1 was followed by promoted OSCC cell invasion and migration. Overexpression of miR-100 did not affect the expression of NCK1-AS1 but inhibited the role of NCK1-AS1.

Conclusions

Therefore, NCK1-AS1 may promote the metastasis of OSCC by downregulating miR-100.

The Potential Anticancer Activity of Phytoconstituents against Gastric Cancer-A Review on In Vitro, In Vivo, and Clinical Studies

Gastric cancer belongs to the heterogeneous malignancies and, according to the World Health Organization, it is the fifth most commonly diagnosed cancer in men. The aim of this review is to provide an overview on the role of natural products of plant origin in the therapy of gastric cancer and to present the potentially active metabolites which can be used in the natural therapeutical strategies as the support to the conventional treatment. Many of the naturally spread secondary metabolites have been proved to exhibit chemopreventive properties when tested on the cell lines or in vivo. This manuscript aims to discuss the pharmacological significance of both the total extracts and the single isolated metabolites in the stomach cancer prevention and to focus on their mechanisms of action. A wide variety of plant-derived anticancer metabolites from different groups presented in the manuscript that include polyphenols, terpenes, alkaloids, or sulphur-containing compounds, underlines the multidirectional nature of natural products.

A Network Pharmacology Analysis of the Active Components of the Traditional Chinese Medicine Zuojinwan in Patients with Gastric Cancer

BACKGROUND Zuojinwan (ZJW) is a traditional Chinese prescription normally used for gastritis. Several studies indicated that it could fight against gastric cancer. This study was designed to determine the potential pharmacological mechanism of ZJW in the treatment of gastric cancer. MATERIAL AND METHODS Bioactive compounds and potential targets of ZJW and related genes of gastric cancer were retrieved from public databases. Pharmacological mechanisms including crucial ingredients, potential targets, and signaling pathways were determined using protein-protein interaction (PPI) and Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses. Virtual docking was performed to validate the findings. RESULTS Network analysis identified 47 active ZJW compounds, and 48 potential ZJW target genes linked to gastric cancer. Quercetin, beta-sitosterol, isorhamnetin, wogonin, and baicalein were identified as potential candidate agents. Our PPI analysis results combined with previously published results indicated that matrix metalloproteinases family members MMP9, MMP1, and MMP3 may play key roles in the anti-gastric cancer effect of ZJW. Molecular docking analysis showed that these crucial targets had good affinity for the representative components in ZJW. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis showed that ZJW target genes functioned in multiple pathways for treating gastric cancer, including interleukin-17 signaling and platinum drug resistance. CONCLUSIONS Our results illuminate the active ingredients, associated targets, biological processes, and signaling pathways of ZJW in the treatment of gastric cancer. This study enhances our understanding of the potential effects of ZJW in gastric cancer and demonstrates a feasible method for discovering potential drugs from Chinese medicinal formulas.

Baicalein: A metabolite with promising antineoplastic activity

Cancer, being a multifactorial disease has diverse presentation in different subgroups which is mainly attributed to heterogenous presentation of tumor cells. This cancer cell heterogeneity is the major reason for variable response to standard chemotherapeutic regimes owing to which high relapse rate and multi-drug resistance has increasingly been reported over the past decade. Interestingly, the research on natural compounds in combination with standard therapies have reported with interesting and promising results from the pre-clinical trials and few of which have also been tested in other phases of clinical trials. This review focusses on baicalein, an emerging anti-cancerous natural compound, its chemistry and mechanism of action. In view of promising pre-clinical this review is mainly motivated by the results observed from baicalein treatment of different cancer cell population. With the advancing scientific evidence on the anti-malignant potential of baicalein with respect to its pharmacological activities encompassing from anti-inflammatory to anti-angiogenic/anti-metastatic effects, the focus is mainly directed to understanding the precise mechanism of action of baicalein. In the process of understanding the underlying signaling cascades, the role of mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), AKT serine/threonine protein kinase B (AKT), poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), matrix metalloproteinases-2 (MMP-2), matrix metalloproteinases-9 (MMP-9) and caspase-3/-8,-9 have been highlighted as the major players for baicalein anti-malignant potential. This is also supported by the interesting pre-clinical findings which cumulatively pave the way ahead for development of baicalein as an adjunct anti-cancer treatment with chemotherapeutic agents.

Proapoptotic and Antiangiogenic Activities of Arctium Lappa L. on Breast Cancer Cell Lines

In this study, the bioactivity-guided fractionation was conducted on the aerial parts of Arctium lappa L. and then the extracts were tested in vitro on breast cancer (MCF-7), colorectal cancer (HCT-116), and normal cells (EA.hy926). The n-hexane fraction (EHX) of the ethanolic extract showed strong activity against both MCF-7 and EA.hy926 cell lines (IC₅₀ values: 14.08 ± 3.64 and 27.25 ± 3.45 μg/mL, respectively). The proapoptotic activity of EHX was assessed using MCF-7. Morphological alterations were visualized using Hoechst staining and a transmission electron microscope. Cancer cell signal transduction pathways were investigated, and EHX significantly upregulated p53, TGF-β, and NF-κB. Furthermore, EHX was found to disrupt the metastatic cascade of breast cancer cells by the inhibition of cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and colonization. The antiangiogenic activity of EHX fraction showed potent inhibition of rat aorta microvessels with IC₅₀ value: 4.34 ± 1.64 μg/mL. This result was supported by the downregulation of VEGF-A expression up to 54%. Over 20 compounds were identified in EHX using GC-MS, of which stigmasterol, ß-sitosterol, and 3-O-acetyllupeol are the major active compounds. Phytochemical analysis of EHX showed higher phenolic and flavonoid contents with a substantial antioxidant activity. In conclusion, this work demonstrated that A. lappa has valuable anticancer activity and antiangiogenic properties that might be useful in breast cancer therapy.

Eriodictyol Inhibits Proliferation, Metastasis and Induces Apoptosis of Glioma Cells via PI3K/Akt/NF-κB Signaling Pathway

Glioma is the most common type of malignant brain tumor. Due to its highly aggressive and metastatic features, glioma is associated with poor prognosis and a lack of effective treatments. Eriodictyol, a natural flavonoid compound, has been reported to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, the anti-tumor effects of eriodictyol and the underlying mechanisms have rarely been reported. In this study, we found that eriodictyol has anti-tumor activity in lung, colon, breast, pancreas, and liver cancer, and most significantly in glioma cell lines. Eriodictyol dose- and time-dependently suppresses cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in U87MG and CHG-5 glioma cells. In addition, eriodictyol induces apoptosis in U87MG and CHG-5 cells, as evaluated by flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and Western blot. Furthermore, eriodictyol downregulates the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, the effects of eriodictyol on the apoptosis of glioma cells are enhanced by LY294002 (a PI3K inhibitor) and reversed by 740 Y-P (a PI3K agonist). In a mouse xenograft model, eriodictyol not only dramatically suppressed tumor growth but also induced apoptosis in tumor cells. In summary, our data illustrate that eriodictyol effectively inhibits proliferation and metastasis and induces apoptosis of glioma cell lines, which might be a result of the blockade of the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway.

The interaction between cucurbit[8]uril and baicalein and the effect on baicalein properties

The host-guest interactions between baicalein (BALE) and cucurbit[8]uril (Q[8]) and the corresponding properties of the inclusion complex were studied using ¹H NMR, IR and UV-vis spectroscopy and DTA. The results showed that BALE forms an inclusion compound (1:1) with Q[8], and the properties of baicalein are changed by cucurbit[8]uril.

Litchi Seed Aqueous Extracts play a role in suppression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition, invasion and migration in breast cancer cells

We carried out this study to unravel the function of Litchi Seed Aqueous Extracts (LSAE) on biological functions of breast cancer (BC) cells. MTT assay was adopted to measure proliferation of BC cells (MCF7, BT474 and MDA-MB-231) and normal mammary cells (MCF10A) under different time points (24, 48 and 72 h) and different concentrations (50, 100, 200 and 400 μg/mL). MCF-7 cells were selected for subsequent experiments and were grouped into blank group, negative control (NC) group, low-, medium- and high-dose LSAE (L-LSAE, M-LSAE, H-LSAE) groups. Cell viability, invasion, migration and apoptosis were measured by functional assays. Low dosage of LSAE (50 and 100 μg/mL) enhanced proliferation of MCF10A cells, while high dosage of LSAE (200 and 400 μg/mL) suppressed proliferation of MCF10A cells. The proliferation inhibition rate in BT474 and MDA-MB-231cells was increased relative to that in MCF7 cells. MCF-7 cells in the L-LSAE, M-LSAE and H-LSAE groups were rounded and epithelial-like, in which cell survival rate, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion and migration abilities were reduced versus the blank and NC groups. The tendency in the H-LSAE group was substantially obvious than those in the L-LSAE and M-LSAE groups (both P < 0.05). We found that LSAE is able to inhibit EMT, invasion and migration in BC cells based on concentration and time.

Baicalein inhibits the growth of oral squamous cell carcinoma cells by downregulating the expression of transcription factor Sp1

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), the most common malignancy of the oral cavity, accounts for >90% of all diagnosed oral cancer cases. Baicalein, a naturally derived compound, has been shown to alter p65 and the nuclear factor (NF)‑κB pathway, thus exerting cytotoxic effects on various tumor cell types. However, the mechanism of action of baicalein in OSCC has not been fully elucidated. In the present study, the proliferation of OSCC cells treated with baicalein was examined using a CCK‑8 assay. The effects of baicalein on the cell cycle and apoptosis of OSCC cells were determined by flow cytometric analyses. The expression of specificity protein 1 (Sp1), p65 and p50 at the mRNA and protein levels was determined by reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR and western blot analysis, respectively. The results of the present study demonstrated that baicalein suppresses the proliferation of OSCC cell lines in vivo and in vitro. Baicalein also induced apoptosis of OSCC cells and arrested the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase. Baicalein inhibited the expression of Sp1, p65 and p50 by downregulating the relative mRNA levels. Baicalein reduced the activity of NF‑κB in OSCC cells. Knockdown of Sp1 also resulted in reduced expression of p65 and p50. In addition, Sp1 silencing enhanced the effects of baicalein. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that baicalein suppresses the growth of OSCC cells through an Sp1/NF‑κB‑dependent mechanism.

Mechanisms Underlying Therapeutic Effects Of Traditional Chinese Medicine On Gastric Cancer

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in the world. It is the fourth most common cancer and has the second highest mortality rate globally. Metastasis is an important feature of gastric cancer and is the most common cause of death. Exploring the mechanism underlying the metastasis of gastric cancer and searching for new drug targets has become the focus of several studies. Traditional Chinese medicine may show promise for treatment of gastric cancer. In this review, we report the recent progress in research on the anti-metastasis activity of Chinese medicine, to facilitate clinical development of treatments for gastric cancer.

Sinomenine exerts antitumour effect in gastric cancer cells via enhancement of miR-204 expression

Gastric carcinoma (GC) is a pernicious neoplasm with high morbidity and mortality. Sinomenine (SIN) has long been exploited to heal rheumatoid arthritis. Recently, SIN has been discovered to exert the antitumour functions in diverse cancers. However, the impacts of SIN on GC remain indistinct. We attempted to expose the antitumour effect of SIN on GC. MKN45 and SGC-7901 cells were administered with SIN for 24 hours, cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion and the associated proteins in the above processes were examined via exploiting CCK-8, BrdU, flow cytometry, Transwell and Western blot. MiR-204 expression in GC tumour tissues, different GC cell lines and SIN-stimulated GC cells was investigated by executing RT-qPCR. The above cell biological processes were reassessed after transfection with miR-204 inhibitor. The latent mechanisms were probed by examining AMPK and Wnt/β-catenin pathways. We found that SIN memorably repressed cell proliferation, evoked apoptosis and affected CyclinD1, Bcl-2, Bax and cleaved-caspase-3 expression in MKN45 and SGC-7901 cells. Cell migration, invasion and expression of MMP-9 and Vimentin were all restrained by SIN stimulation. The increase of miR-204 was discovered in GC tissues and SIN-treated MKN45 and SGC-7901 cells. But suppression of miR-204 was observed in AGS, MKN28, MKN45 and SGC-7901 cells. Suppression of miR-204 overturned the inhibitory functions of SIN in MKN45 and SGC-7901 cells. Besides, SIN prohibited AMPK and Wnt/β-catenin pathways via enhancement of miR-204. In conclusion, these findings suggested that SIN exerted the antitumour activity in GC cells by hindering AMPK and Wnt/β-catenin pathways via enhancement of miR-204.

Sichong formula inhibits the proliferation and migration of human gastric cancer cells

Purpose

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has gained increasing attention for the treatment of multiple chronic diseases, such as cancer. Here we aim to identify the antitumor activity of Sichong formula, a novel TCM, in human gastric cancer cells and investigate the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

The AGS and MKN45 gastric cancer cells were treated with Sichong formula at different concentrations. The proliferation rates were tested by CCK-8 and colony formation assays. Cell migration and invasion were tested by scratch and transwell assays. Gelatin zymography was used to detect the matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) activity in cell suspendents. Cell apoptosis was analyzed by Annexin V/PI staining and flow cytometry. The expression of interest proteins was tested by Western blot.

Results

Cell proliferation analysis indicated that Sichong formula inhibited cell viability of AGS and MKN45 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The IC50 values were 240 μg/mL and 200 μg/mL for AGS and MKN45 cells, respectively. Furthermore, we found that Sichong formula could inhibit the invasion and migration of gastric cancer cells, which might be mediated by the downregulation of MMP9 activity. Flow cytometry results indicated that Sichong formula induced apoptosis in gastric cancer cells through upregulation of Bax/Bcl2 ratio and activation of caspase cascade. The results from Western blot indicated that Sichong formula resulted in cell autophagy and inactivation of AKT signaling pathway.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that Sichong formula inhibits the proliferation and migration and induces apoptosis in human gastric cancer cells. The inhibitory effect of Sichong formula was, at least partly, mediated by cell autophagy and AKT pathway.

Anticancer Effects of Baicalein in FRO Thyroid Cancer Cells Through the Up-regulation of ERK/p38 MAPK and Akt Pathway

BACKGROUND/AIM

The aim of the study was to evaluate the anticancer effects of baicalein in FRO anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

FRO cells were treated with baicalein and viability was measured by the MTT assay. Cell apoptosis was observed by staining with Hoechst dye. The expression of apoptotic proteins (Bax, Bcl-2, PARP, cytochrome c, and caspase-3) and the inflammatory protein Cox-2 and the phosphorylation of MAPKs and Akt were determined by western blot.

RESULTS

Treatment with baicalein inhibited cell proliferation in a time-dependent manner and increased DNA fragmentation and apoptosis in FRO cells. Baicalein at 50 and 100 μM inhibited the expression of Bax, PARP, cytochrome c, cleaved caspase-3, and Cox-2, and increased the expression of Bcl-2. Baicalein increased the phosphorylation of ERK, p38 MAPK, and Akt and decreased JNK phosphorylation.

CONCLUSION

Baicalein caused anticancer effects in FRO ATC cells through induction of apoptosis and regulation of the MAPK and Akt pathway.

Construing the Biochemical and Molecular Mechanism Underlying the In Vivo and In Vitro Chemotherapeutic Efficacy of Ruthenium-Baicalein Complex in Colon Cancer

In pursuit of a novel approach in colon cancer therapy, we explored the ability of ruthenium baicalein complex to eradicate colon cancer by efficiently targeting various apoptotic pathways on human colon cancer cell line and on a DMH and DSS induced murine model of colorectal cancer. In this study, we provide direct proof of the chemotherapeutic potential of the ruthenium baicalein complex by activating p-53 dependent intrinsic apoptosis and modulating the AKT/mTOR and WNT/β- catenin pathways. The ruthenium baicalein complex was synthesized and its characterizations were accomplished through various spectroscopic techniques followed by assessment of antioxidant potential by DPPH, FRAP, and ABTS methods. In vitro study established that the complex increased p53 and caspase-3 expressions while down regulating VEGF and mTOR expression, induced apoptosis, and DNA fragmentation in the HT-29 cells. Acute and sub-acute toxicity study was also considered and results from in vivo study revealed that complex was effective in suppressing ACF multiplicity and hyperplastic lesions and also raised the CAT, SOD, and glutathione levels. Furthermore, the complex decreased cell proliferation and increased apoptotic events in tumor cells correlated with the upregulation of Bax and downregulation of Bcl2, WNT and β- catenin expressions. Our findings from the in vitro and in vivo study provide robust confirmation that ruthenium baicalein complex possesses a potential chemotherapeutic activity against colon cancer and is competent in reducing ACF multiplicity, hyperplastic lesions in the colon tissues of rats by inducing apoptosis.

Antitumor Effects of Ruyiping on Cell Growth and Metastasis in Breast Cancer

Background: Ruyiping is an effective traditional Chinese herbal medicine formula for preventing postoperative recurrence and metastasis of breast cancer. However, the exact function and underlying mechanism of Ruyiping in breast cancer remain unclear. Materials and Methods: After breast cancer cell lines MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 were treated with Ruyiping, the CCK8, colony formation, wound-healing, and transwell invasion assays were used to examine cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, respectively. Flow cytometry was performed to examine the effect of Ruyiping on cell cycle distribution. Western blot was performed to examine the expression of related proteins, and the activity of MMP9 was detected using Gelatin zymography assay. Results: Ruyiping treatment significantly inhibited cell proliferation and viability of MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells. Ruyiping was also revealed to trigger cell cycle arrest at the G2 phase in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells. Moreover, Ruyiping suppressed the migration and invasion abilities of MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells in vitro. Furthermore, Ruyiping blocked the activity of MMP9 in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells. Additionally, western blotting showed that Ruyiping attenuated epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of breast cancer through downregulation of N-cadherin, Vimentin, Snail1, and Snail2 and upregulation of E-cadherin. The authors observed that the components of Ruyiping Pseudobulbus Cremastra seu pleiones polysaccharide and curcumol showed significant suppression in the growth and invasion of breast cancer cell. Conclusions: The observations of this study suggest the antitumor properties of Ruyiping in cell growth and invasion of breast cancer, which are modulated by induction of cell cycle arrest and reduction of MMP9 and EMT.

Serum Inflammatory Cytokines Comparison in Gastric Cancer Therapy

To compare serum inflammatory cytokines between laparoscopic-assisted and open radical gastrectomy in the perioperative period, 80 cases of advanced gastric cancer were chosen for the study. They were divided into laparoscopy group (40 cases) and abdominal open surgery group (40 cases), performed laparoscopic-assisted radical gastrostomy and conventional open radical gastrectomy, respectively. Serum Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), TNF-α, IL-6 and CRP were measured by ELISA on preoperative day 1, post-operative day 1 and post-operative day3. Serum HO-1, TNF-α, IL-6 and CRP had no significant difference between the laparoscopy group and the open group on pre-operative day 1. Serum HO-1, IL-6 and CRP of the laparoscopy group were significantly lower than that of the open group on post-operative day 1 and day 3 except for Serum TNF-α which had no significant difference. Laparoscopic-assisted radical gastrectomy was minimally invasive compared with conventional open radical gastrectomy in advanced gastric cancer patients.