Asparagus Polysaccharide inhibits the Hypoxia-induced migration, invasion and angiogenesis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells partly through regulating HIF1α/VEGF expression via MAPK and PI3K signaling pathway

TFAP2A Activates ADAM8 to Promote Lung Adenocarcinoma Angiogenesis Through the JAK/STAT Signaling Pathway

As the most prevalent subtype of lung cancer, lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is closely associated with angiogenesis, which is fundamental to its progression. ADAM8 (A disintegrin and metalloproteinase 8) is an enzyme associated with tumor invasion, while its implications in LUAD angiogenesis are a field that awaits exploration. A thorough investigation into the impacts of ADAM8 on LUAD angiogenesis could contribute to the development of therapeutic drugs for LUAD. Bioinformatics delineated the expression profiles of TFAP2A and ADAM8 in LUAD tissues, focusing on ADAM8-enriched pathways. qRT-PCR confirmed their expression in LUAD cells. The CCK-8 assay was applied to gauge cell viability, and Western blot detected the presence of JAK2/STAT3 pathway proteins and VEGFR-2 and VEGF. Angiogenesis assays quantified the length of angiogenesis, and dual-luciferase and Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays verified the TFAP2A-ADAM8 binding. ADAM8 exhibited high expression in LUAD tissues and cells, with notable enrichment in the VEGF and JAK/STAT pathways. Cellular assays revealed that elevated ADAM8 expression enhanced cell viability, promoted the phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT3, and boosted angiogenic capacity. The JAK inhibitor Peficitinib reversed the proangiogenic effects induced by ADAM8 overexpression. We also discovered overexpression of TFAP2A, an upstream transcription factor of ADAM8, in LUAD. Rescue experiments indicated that ADAM8 overexpression could counteract the inhibitory effects of TFAP2A knockdown on LUAD angiogenesis. This study reveals for the first time the critical role of ADAM8 in LUAD angiogenesis, demonstrating that TFAP2A promotes JAK/STAT pathway conduction by activating ADAM8. This finding not only provides a new perspective for understanding the pathogenesis of LUAD but also lays the foundation for the development of new therapies targeting ADAM8.

Targeting the mTOR Pathway in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: The Therapeutic Potential of Natural Products

Despite advancements in cancer treatment through surgery and drugs, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a significant challenge, as reflected by its low survival rates. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway plays a crucial role in regulating the cell cycle, proliferation, apoptosis, and metabolism. Notably, dysregulation leading to the activation of the mTOR signaling pathway is common in HCC, making it a key focus for in-depth research and a target for current therapeutic strategies. This review focuses on the role of the mTOR signaling pathway and its downstream effectors in regulating HCC cell proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, cell cycle, and metabolic reprogramming. Moreover, it emphasizes the potential of natural products as modulators of the mTOR signaling pathway. When incorporated into combination therapies, these natural products have been demonstrated to augment therapeutic efficacy and surmount drug resistance. These products target key signaling pathways such as mTOR signaling pathways. Examples include 11-epi-sinulariolide acetate, matrine, and asparagus polysaccharide. Their inhibitory effects on these processes suggest valuable directions for the development of more effective HCC therapeutic strategies. Various natural products have demonstrated the ability to inhibit mTOR signaling pathway and suppress HCC progression. These phytochemicals, functioning as mTOR signaling pathway inhibitors, hold great promise as potential anti-HCC agents, especially in the context of overcoming chemoresistance and enhancing the outcomes of combination therapies.

Natural products‐based antiangiogenic agents: New frontiers in cancer therapy

Angiogenesis, vital for tumor growth and metastasis, is a promising target in cancer therapy. Natural compounds offer potential as antiangiogenic agents with reduced toxicity. This review provides a comprehensive overview of natural product‐based antiangiogenic therapies, focusing on molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential. A systematic search identified relevant articles from 2019 to 2023. Various natural compounds, including polyphenols, terpenes, alkaloids, cannabinoids, omega‐3 fatty acids, polysaccharides, proteins, and carotenoids, were investigated for their antiangiogenic properties. Challenges such as dose standardization, routes of administration, and potential side effects remain. Further studies, including in‐depth animal models and human epidemiological studies, must elucidate clinical efficacy and safety. Synergistic effects with current antiangiogenic therapies, such as bevacizumab and tyrosine kinase inhibitors, should be explored. Additionally, the potential hormone‐dependent effects of compounds like genistein highlight the need for safety evaluation. In conclusion, natural products hold promise as adjunctive therapies to conventional antineoplastic drugs in modulating angiogenesis in cancer. However, robust clinical trials are needed to validate preclinical findings and ensure safety and efficacy.

Therapeutic Effects of Natural Products on Liver Cancer and Their Potential Mechanisms

Liver cancer ranks third globally among causes of cancer-related deaths, posing a significant public health challenge. However, current treatments are inadequate, prompting a growing demand for novel, safe, and effective therapies. Natural products (NPs) have emerged as promising candidates in drug development due to their diverse biological activities, low toxicity, and minimal side effects. This paper begins by reviewing existing treatment methods and drugs for liver cancer. It then summarizes the therapeutic effects of NPs sourced from various origins on liver cancer. Finally, we analyze the potential mechanisms of NPs in treating liver cancer, including inhibition of angiogenesis, migration, and invasion; regulation of the cell cycle; induction of apoptosis, autophagy, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis; influence on tumor metabolism; immune regulation; regulation of intestinal function; and regulation of key signaling pathways. This systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of NPs research in liver cancer treatment, offering a foundation for further development and application in pharmaceuticals and functional foods.

Traditional Chinese Medicine in Regulating Tumor Microenvironment

Tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex and integrated system containing a variety of tumor-infiltrating immune cells and stromal cells. They are closely connected with cancer cells and influence the development and progression of cancer. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is an important complementary therapy for cancer treatment in China. It mainly eliminates cancer cells by regulating TME. The aim of this review is to systematically summarize the crosstalk between tumor cells and TME, and to summarize the research progress of TCM in regulating TME. The review is of great significance in revealing the therapeutic mechanism of action of TCM, and provides an opportunity for the combined application of TCM and immunotherapy in cancer treatment.

Polysaccharide of Asparagus cochinchinensis (Lour.) Merr regulates macrophage immune response and epigenetic memory through TLR4-JNK/p38/ERK signaling pathway and histone modification

BACKGROUND

Innate immune memory of macrophages is closely linked to histone modifications. While various studies have demonstrated that the polysaccharide of Asparagus cochinchinensis (Lour.) Merr (ACMP), extracted through alcohol-alkali extraction, enhances macrophages' non-specific immune function; no literature currently addresses whether ACMP's regulatory effect is related to innate immune memory and histone modification.

PURPOSE

This study aims to investigate if ACMP induces innate immune memory emergence in macrophages via pattern recognition receptor (PRR).

STUDY DESIGN

After co-incubating different doses of ACMP with RAW264.7 cells and BMDM cells, we observed changes in signaling pathways related to PRR and assessed the presence of innate immune memory phenomenon in the cells.

METHODS

We observed the morphological characteristics of the ACMP using a scanning electron microscope, infrared spectrum, and HPLC pre-column derivatization method. We used q-PCR, Western blot, RNA-seq, and CUT&Tag-seq methods to examine ACMP's regulation of macrophage immune response and innate immune memory and explored its specific mechanism.

RESULTS

ACMP, primarily composed of Man, GlcN, Rha, Fuc, GalA, Xyl, Glc, Gal, Ara, and, exhibited a molar ratio of each monosaccharide (1.41: 0.35: 0.49: 0.18: 1.00: 97.12: 0.36: 3.58: 1.14). ACMP regulated immunological function in macrophages through the TLR4-MAPK-JNK/p38/ERK pathway. ACMP induced elevated levels of chromosomal H3K4me1, enhancing TNF-α, IL-1β, and other genes' responsiveness, allowing macrophages to develop innate immune memory to ACMP stimulation.

CONCLUSION

This study first time demonstrates that ACMP regulates immunological function through the TLR4-MAPK-JNK/ERK/p38 signaling pathway, distinct from prior reports. ACMP induces innate immune memory in macrophages in response to its immune stimulation by promoting increased H3K4me1 on chromosomes. This mechanism may be crucial in how plant polysaccharides regulate macrophages and the body's immune function.

Research Progress on the Anticancer Activity of Plant Polysaccharides

Tumor is a serious threat to human health, with extremely high morbidity and mortality rates. However, tumor treatment is challenging, and the development of antitumor drugs has always been a significant research focus. Plant polysaccharides are known to possess various biological activities. They have many pharmacological properties such as immunomodulation, antitumor, antiviral, antioxidative, antithrombotic, and antiradiation effects, reduction of blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and protection from liver injury. Among these effects, the antitumor effect of plant polysaccharides has been widely studied. Plant polysaccharides can inhibit tumor proliferation and growth by inhibiting tumor cell invasion and metastasis, inducing cell apoptosis, affecting the cell cycle, and regulating the tumor microenvironment. They also have the characteristics of safety, high efficiency, and low toxicity, which can alleviate, to a certain extent, the adverse reactions caused by traditional tumor treatment methods such as surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Therefore, this paper systematically summarizes the direct antitumor effects of plant polysaccharides, their regulatory effects on the tumor microenvironment, and intervening many common high-incidence tumors in other ways. It also provides data support for the administration of plant polysaccharides in modern tumor drug therapy, enabling the identification of new targets and development of new drugs for tumor therapy.

Recent advances in natural polysaccharides against hepatocellular carcinoma: A review

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignant tumor of the digestive system that poses a serious threat to human life and health. Chemotherapeutic drugs commonly used in the clinic have limited efficacy and heavy adverse effects. Therefore, it is imperative to find effective and safe alternatives, and natural polysaccharides (NPs) fit the bill. This paper summarizes in detail the anti-HCC activity of NPs in vitro, animal and clinical trials. Furthermore, the addition of NPs can reduce the deleterious effects of chemotherapeutic drugs such as immunotoxicity, bone marrow suppression, oxidative stress, etc. The potential mechanisms are related to induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, block of angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis, stimulation of immune activity and targeting of MircoRNA. And on this basis, we further elucidate that the anti-HCC activity may be related to the monosaccharide composition, molecular weight (Mw), conformational features and structural modifications of NPs. In addition, due to its good physicochemical properties, it is widely used as a drug carrier in the delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs and small molecule components. This review provides a favorable theoretical basis for the application of the anti-HCC activity of NPs.

Mechanism of action of Asparagus officinalis extract against multiple myeloma using bioinformatics tools, in silico and in vitro study

Introduction: Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) is a perennial flowering plant species. Its main components have tumor-prevention, immune system-enhancement, and anti-inflammation effects. Network pharmacology is a powerful approach that is being applied increasingly to research of herbal medicines. Herb identification, study of compound targets, network construction, and network analysis have been used to elucidate how herbal medicines work. However, the interaction of bioactive substances from asparagus with the targets involved in multiple myeloma (MM) has not been elucidated. We explored the mechanism of action of asparagus in MM through network pharmacology and experimental verification. Methods: The active ingredients and corresponding targets of asparagus were acquired from the Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology database, followed by identification of MM-related target genes using GeneCards and Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man databases, which were matched with the potential targets of asparagus. Potential targets were identified and a target network of traditional Chinese medicine was constructed. The STRING database and Cytoscape were utilized to create protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks and further screening of core targets. Results: The intersection of target genes and core target genes of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) pathway was enriched, the top-five core target genes were selected, and the binding affinity of corresponding compounds to the top-five core targets was analyzed using molecular docking. Network pharmacology identified nine active components of asparagus from databases based on oral bioavailability and drug similarity, and predicted 157 potential targets related to asparagus. Enrichment analyses showed that "steroid receptor activity" and the "PI3K/AKT signaling pathway" were the most enriched biological process and signaling pathway, respectively. According to the top-10 core genes and targets of the PPI pathway, AKT1, interleukin (IL)-6, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)A, MYC, and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) were selected for molecular docking. The latter showed that five core targets of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway could bind to quercetin, among which EGFR, IL-6, and MYC showed strong docking, and the diosgenin ligand could bind to VEGFA. Cell experiments showed that asparagus, through the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway, inhibited the proliferation and migration of MM cells, and caused retardation and apoptosis of MM cells in the G0/G1 phase. Discussion: In this study, the anti-cancer activity of asparagus against MM was demonstrated using network pharmacology, and potential pharmacological mechanisms were inferred using in vitro experimental data.

HIF-1α-activated TMEM237 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression via the NPHP1/Pyk2/ERK pathway

BACKGROUND

Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) are the most essential endogenous transcription factors in the hypoxic microenvironment and regulate multiple genes involved in the proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. However, the regulatory mechanism of HIFs in driving HCC progression remains poorly understood.

METHODS

Gain- and loss-of-function experiments were carried out to investigate the role of TMEM237 in vitro and in vivo. The molecular mechanisms involved in HIF-1α-induced TMEM237 expression and TMEM237-mediated enhancement of HCC progression were confirmed by luciferase reporter, ChIP, IP-MS and Co-IP assays.

RESULTS

TMEM237 was identified as a novel hypoxia-responsive gene in HCC. HIF-1α directly bound to the promoter of TMEM237 to transactivate its expression. The overexpression of TMEM237 was frequently detected in HCC and associated with poor clinical outcomes in patients. TMEM237 facilitated the proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT of HCC cells and promoted tumor growth and metastasis in mice. TMEM237 interacted with NPHP1 and strengthened the interaction between NPHP1 and Pyk2 to trigger the phosphorylation of Pyk2 and ERK1/2, thereby contributing to HCC progression. The TMEM237/NPHP1 axis mediates hypoxia-induced activation of the Pyk2/ERK1/2 pathway in HCC cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrated that HIF-1α-activated TMEM237 interacted with NPHP1 to activate the Pyk2/ERK pathway, thereby promoting HCC progression.

Angiogenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma: mechanisms and anti-angiogenic therapies

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer-associated death worldwide. Angiogenesis, the process of formation of new blood vessels, is required for cancer cells to obtain nutrients and oxygen. HCC is a typical hypervascular solid tumor with an aberrant vascular network and angiogenesis that contribute to its growth, progression, invasion, and metastasis. Current anti-angiogenic therapies target mainly tyrosine kinases, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR), and platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR), and are considered effective strategies for HCC, particularly advanced HCC. However, because the survival benefits conferred by these anti-angiogenic therapies are modest, new anti-angiogenic targets must be identified. Several recent studies have determined the underlying molecular mechanisms, including pro-angiogenic factors secreted by HCC cells, the tumor microenvironment, and cancer stem cells. In this review, we summarize the roles of pro-angiogenic factors; the involvement of endothelial cells, hepatic stellate cells, tumor-associated macrophages, and tumor-associated neutrophils present in the tumor microenvironment; and the regulatory influence of cancer stem cells on angiogenesis in HCC. Furthermore, we discuss some of the clinically approved anti-angiogenic therapies and potential novel therapeutic targets for angiogenesis in HCC. A better understanding of the mechanisms underlying angiogenesis may lead to the development of more optimized anti-angiogenic treatment modalities for HCC.

Targeting mTOR Signaling by Dietary Polysaccharides in Cancer Prevention: Advances and Challenges

Cancer is the most serious problem for public health. Traditional treatments often come with unavoidable side effects. Therefore, the therapeutic effects of natural products with wide sources and low toxicity are attracting more and more attention. Polysaccharides have been shown to have cancer-fighting potential, but the molecular mechanisms remain unclear. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway has become an attractive target of antitumor therapy research in recent years. The regulation of mTOR pathway not only affects cell proliferation and growth but also has an important effect in tumor metabolism. Recent studies indicate that dietary polysaccharides play a vital role in cancer prevention and treatment by regulating mTOR pathway. Here, the progress in targeting mTOR signaling by dietary polysaccharides in cancer prevention and their molecular mechanisms are systemically summarized. It will promote the understanding of the anticancer effects of polysaccharides and provide reference to investigators of this cutting edge field.

Biological impact and therapeutic perspective of targeting PI3K/Akt signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma: Promises and Challenges

Cancer progression results from activation of various signaling networks. Among these, PI3K/Akt signaling contributes to proliferation, invasion, and inhibition of apoptosis. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary liver cancer with high incidence rate, especially in regions with high prevalence of viral hepatitis infection. Autoimmune disorders, diabetes mellitus, obesity, alcohol consumption, and inflammation can also lead to initiation and development of HCC. The treatment of HCC depends on the identification of oncogenic factors that lead tumor cells to develop resistance to therapy. The present review article focuses on the role of PI3K/Akt signaling in HCC progression. Activation of PI3K/Akt signaling promotes glucose uptake, favors glycolysis and increases tumor cell proliferation. It inhibits both apoptosis and autophagy while promoting HCC cell survival. PI3K/Akt stimulates epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and increases matrix-metalloproteinase (MMP) expression during HCC metastasis. In addition to increasing colony formation capacity and facilitating the spread of tumor cells, PI3K/Akt signaling stimulates angiogenesis. Therefore, silencing PI3K/Akt signaling prevents aggressive HCC cell behavior. Activation of PI3K/Akt signaling can confer drug resistance, particularly to sorafenib, and decreases the radio-sensitivity of HCC cells. Anti-cancer agents, like phytochemicals and small molecules can suppress PI3K/Akt signaling by limiting HCC progression. Being upregulated in tumor tissues and clinical samples, PI3K/Akt can also be used as a biomarker to predict patients' response to therapy.

Salidroside intensifies mitochondrial function of CoCl2-damaged HT22 cells by stimulating PI3K-AKT-MAPK signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Salidroside (Sal), an active component from Rhodiola crenulata, has been confirmed to exert neuroprotective effects against hypoxia. However, its molecular mechanisms of intensifying mitochondrial function still largely unknown. In the present study, we aimed to explore the mechanisms by which Sal heightened mitochondrial function in CoCl₂-induced HT22 hypoxic injury.

METHODS

The hypoxic condition of HT22 cells was performed by CoCl₂ stimulus. We then investigated the effects of Sal on the viability of hypoxic HT22 cells by cell counting kit-8. The contents of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release in cultured supernatant were detected by using commercial biochemical kit. Superoxide free radical scavenging activity, total antioxidant capacity assay kit with ferric reducing ability of plasma and 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) methods were employed to detect the free radical scavenging ability and antioxidant capacity of Sal. Meanwhile, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), Ca2+ and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were determined by corresponding specific labeled probes. Mitochondrial morphology was tested by Mito-tracker green with confocal microscopy. Hoechst 33342 and Annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide staining were also employed to evaluate the effect of Sal on cell apoptosis. Oxygen consumption rate (OCR), real-time ATP production and proton efflux rate were measured using a Seahorse analyzer. Additionally, the potential interactions of Sal with PI3K-AKT signaling pathway-related proteins were predicted and tested by molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation (MDS) and localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) techniques, respectively. Furthermore, the protein levels of p-PI3K, PI3K, p-AKT, AKT, p-JNK, JNK, p-p38 and p38 were estimated by western blot analysis.

RESULTS

Sal alleviated CoCl2-induced hypoxic injury in HT22 cells as evidenced by increased cell viability and decreased LDH release. In vitro antioxidant test confirmed that Sal had marvelous antioxidant abilities. The protected mitochondrial function by Sal treatment was illustrated by the decrease of ROS, Ca2+, mitochondrial fragment and the increase of MMP. In addition, Sal ameliorated the apoptosis of HT22 cells by decreasing Hoechst 33342 positive cells and the rate of apoptotic cells. Enhancement of energy metabolism in HT22 by Sal was demonstrated by increased OCR, real-time ATP generation and proton efflux rate. The molecular docking confirmed the potential binding of Sal to PI3K, AKT and CaMK II proteins with calculated binding energy of -1.32, -4.21 and -4.38 kcal/mol, respectively. The MDS test revealed the average hydrogen bond of complex Sal-PI3K and Sal-AKT were 0.79 and 4.46, respectively. The results of LSPR verified the potential binding of Sal to proteins PI3K, AKT and HIF-1α with affinity values of 5.20 × 10 - 3, 2.83 × 10 - 3 and 3.97 × 10 - 3 KD, respectively. Western blot analysis further argued that Sal consolidated the levels of p-PI3K and p-AKT. Meanwhile, Sal could downregulate the proteins expression of p-JNK and p-p38.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, our findings suggested that Sal can intensify mitochondrial function of CoCl2-simulated hypoxia injury in HT22 cells by stimulating PI3K-AKT-MAPK signaling pathway. Sal is a potential agent for mitochondrial protection against hypoxia with the underlying molecular mechanisms of energy metabolism being further elucidated.

Acute hypoxia promotes the liver angiogenesis of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) by HIF - Dependent pathway

A 24-h hypoxia exposure experiment was conducted to determine how hypoxia exposure induce liver angiogenesis in largemouth bass. Nitrogen (N₂) was pumped into water to exclude dissolved oxygen into 1.2 ± 0.2 mg/L, and liver tissues were sampled during hypoxia exposure of 0 h, 4 h, 8 h, 12 h, 24 h and re-oxygenation for 12 h. Firstly, the results showed that hypoxia exposure promoted the angiogenesis occurrence by immunohistochemical analysis of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2). Secondly, the concentration of vasodilation factor increased and it's activity was elevated during 8 h exposure, such as nitric oxide (NO) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) (p < 0.05). Thirdly, hypoxia exposure promoted angiogenesis through up-regulation the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2), jagged, protein kinase B (AKT), phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) at 4 h; contrarily, the expression of inhibiting angiogenesis genes presented up-regulated at 8 h (p < 0.05), such as matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor-2 (TIMP-2), matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor-3 (TIMP-3). Finally, the genes and proteins that regulate angiogenesis presented obvious chronological order. Parts of them promoted the budding and extension of blood vessels were up-regulated during 4 h-8 h (p < 0.05), such as vascular endothelial growth factor a (VEGFA), VEGFR2, monocarboxylic acid transporter 1 (MCT1), CD147, prolyl hydroxylase (PHD), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB); other part of them promoted blood vessel maturation were highly expressed during 12 h-24 h (p < 0.05), such as angiogenin-1 (Ang-1) and angiogenin-2 (Ang-2). In short, acute hypoxia can promote the liver angiogenesis of largemouth bass by HIF - dependent pathway.

Combining Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation to Study the Action and Mechanism of Water extract of Asparagus Against Colorectal Cancer

Asparagus (ASP) is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine with nourishing, moistening, fire-clearing, cough-suppressing, and intestinal effects. In addition, it exerts anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-aging, immunity-enhancing, and anti-tumor pharmacological effect. The anti-tumor effect of ASP has been studied in hepatocellular carcinoma. However, its action and pharmacological mechanism in colorectal cancer (CRC) are unclear. The present study aimed to identify the potential targets of ASP for CRC treatment using network pharmacology and explore its possible therapeutic mechanisms using in vitro and in vivo experiments. The active compounds and potential targets of ASP were obtained from the TCMSP database, followed by CRC-related target genes identification using GeneCards and OMIM databases, which were matched with the potential targets of ASP. Based on the matching results, potential targets and signaling pathways were identified by protein-protein interaction (PPI), gene ontology (GO) functions, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses. Finally, in vitro and in vivo experiments were performed to further validate the anti-cancer effects of ASP on CRC. Network pharmacology analysis identified nine active components from ASP from the database based on oral bioavailability and drug similarity index, and 157 potential targets related to ASP were predicted. The PPI network identified tumor protein 53 (TP53), Fos proto-oncogene, AP-1 transcription factor subunit (FOS), and AKT serine/threonine kinase 1 (AKT1) as key targets. GO analysis showed that ASP might act through response to wounding, membrane raft, and transcription factor binding. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that ASP may affect CRC through the phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase PI3K/AKT/mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase (mTOR) signaling pathway. In vitro, ASP inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCT116 and LOVO cells, and caused G0/G1 phase arrest and apoptosis in CRC cells. In vivo, ASP significantly inhibited the growth of CRC transplanted tumors in nude mice. Furthermore, pathway analysis confirmed that ASP could exert its therapeutic effects on CRC by regulating cell proliferation and survival through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. This study is the first to report the potential role of ASP in the treatment of colorectal cancer.

The Regulatory Roles of Polysaccharides and Ferroptosis-Related Phytochemicals in Liver Diseases

Liver disease is a global health burden with high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Liver injuries can develop into severe end-stage diseases, such as cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma, without valid treatment. Therefore, identifying novel drugs may promote liver disease treatment. Phytochemicals, including polysaccharides, flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenes, are abundant in foods and medicinal plants and have various bioactivities, such as antioxidation, immunoregulation, and tumor killing. Recent studies have shown that many natural polysaccharides play protective roles in liver disease models in vitro and in vivo, such as fatty liver disease, alcoholic liver disease, drug-induced liver injury, and liver cancer. The mechanisms of liver disease are complex. Notably, ferroptosis, a new type of cell death driven by iron and lipid peroxidation, is considered to be the key mechanism in many hepatic pathologies. Therefore, polysaccharides and other types of phytochemicals with activities in ferroptosis regulation provide novel therapeutic strategies for ferroptosis-related liver diseases. This review summarizes our current understanding of the mechanisms of ferroptosis and liver injury and compelling preclinical evidence of natural bioactive polysaccharides and phytochemicals in treating liver disease.

A New Antitumor Direction: Tumor-Specific Endothelial Cells

Targeting tumor blood vessels is an important strategy for tumor therapies. At present, antiangiogenic drugs are known to have significant clinical effects, but severe drug resistance and side effects also occur. Therefore, new specific targets for tumor and new treatment methods must be developed. Tumor-specific endothelial cells (TECs) are the main targets of antiangiogenic therapy. This review summarizes the differences between TECs and normal endothelial cells, assesses the heterogeneity of TECs, compares tumorigenesis and development between TECs and normal endothelial cells, and explains the interaction between TECs and the tumor microenvironment. A full and in-depth understanding of TECs may provide new insights for specific antitumor angiogenesis therapies.