Lower serum zinc level is associated with higher fasting insulin in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and relates with disturbed glucagon suppression response in male patients

AIMS

Zinc ion can play critical role in glycemic control in diabetes mellitus (DM), contributing to both insulin synthesis and secretion. In this study, we aimed to investigate the level of zinc in diabetic patients and its association with glycemic parameters, insulin, and glucagon level.

METHODS

112 individuals (59 cases of type 2DM and 53 non-diabetic controls) were included in this study. Biochemical parameters (FBG, 2hpp, HbA1C), and zinc level in the serum were measured using colorimetric assays. Insulin and glucagon were measured by ELISA method. HOMA-IR, HOMA-B, reciprocal HOMA-B, and Quicki indices were calculated using appropriate formula. For further analysis, patients were divided into two groups: high (>135.5 μg/dl) and low (<135.5 μg/dl) zinc. Glucagon suppression was considered yes if 2hpp glucagon < fasting glucagon.

RESULTS

Our results showed that serum Zn level in type 2 DM patients was lower than control (P value=0.02). Patients with lower Zn had higher fasting insulin (P value=0.006) and higher β-cell activity index (HOMA-B, p value=0.02), however fasting glucagon and parameters of hyperglycemia (FBG, 2hpp, Hba1C) were not different. Moreover, insulin sensitivity and resistance indices (Quicki, HOMA-IR,1/HOMA-IR) showed non-significantly improved status in high Zn group. We found non-significant association between glucagon suppression and Zn level in both genders (N = 39, p value = 0.07), however, it was significant in males (N = 14, p value = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Altogether, our results indicated reduced serum Zn in type 2DM can exacerbate hyperinsulinemia and glucagon suppression (only significant in the male), highlighting its importance in type 2DM control.

Inhibitory potency of the nettle lectin on neovascularization: a biomolecule for carbohydrate-mediated targeting of angiogenesis

BACKGROUND

Current angiogenesis inhibitors target cellular vascularization processes, including proliferation, migration, and tube formation. In this study, we investigated the impact of Urtica dioica agglutinin (UDA) on the cellular vascularization process.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Various concentrations of UDA were applied to normal (HUVEC, MCF-10 A, and HDF from humans, and L-929 from mice) and cancer (A431 and U87 from humans, and 4T1 from mice) cell lines at different times. The MTT, cell migration assay, differentiation of endothelial cells, expression of VEGF-A/VEGF-R2, and integrin α2 were evaluated. The MTT results demonstrated that UDA was non-toxic to normal cells while inhibiting the growth of neoplastic cells. The migratory capacity of HUVECs and U87 glioblastoma cells was inhibited by UDA in the wound repair model. This lectin inhibited HUVEC-induced vessel sprouting in the collagen-cytodex matrix. In addition, UDA treatment reduced VEGF-integrin cross-talk in HUVECs, confirming the anti-angiogenic activity of this molecule.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on our findings, UDA may have an effect on cancer cell proliferation and vascularization events while causing minimal toxicity to normal cells via binding glyco-conjugates containing GlcNAc/man oligomers like EGFR. This is a blue clue for the angiogenesis-related therapeutic importance of UDA.

Gene expression pattern of adenosine receptors in lung tumors

BACKGROUND

Adenosine, a purine nucleoside, plays an important function in the pathogenesis of cancer through interaction with the cell surface G protein-coupled adenosine receptors. It is important to determine the expression pattern of these receptors in different cancers. Previously in our lab, we found up-regulation of A1 adenosine receptor (AR) in lung tumors playing as a putative target for cancer cell inhibition, and here we aimed to investigate the significance of other adenosine receptor isoforms (A2aAR, A2bAR, and A3AR).

METHODS

In this study, first of all, we evaluated the adenosine receptors gene expression in the bioinformatics database (GENT2). Then the genes expression was measured experimentally in the 20 lung cancer tumor tissues in comparison to the matched tumor-adjacent normal tissue (as control). The mRNA expression of receptors was evaluated by real-time PCR. The tumors were categorized by the tumor size and the gene expression change was evaluated.

RESULTS

The experimental results indicated a significant increase in A2aAR (p value = .021) and A3AR (p value = .01) expression in lung tumor tissues compared to the adjacent tumor margins which were in accordant to bioinformatics analysis. We found a non-significant increase in A2bAR expression; however, when comparing the patients according to the tumor size, our data showed that the expression of A2bAR adenosine receptor in patients with smaller lung tumor sizes was higher than the other group (p = .011).

CONCLUSION

The results of this study showed that adenosine receptors A3AR, and A2aAR are highly expressed in lung tumors relative to tumor-adjacent normal tissue. We suggest that overexpression of adenosine receptors in lung cancer is due to their regulatory role in various aspects of lung cancer.

Anti-cancer effect of entacaponeon esophageal cancer cells via apoptosis induction and cell cycle modulation

BACKGROUND

Esophageal cancer (EC) is the sixth leading cause of cancer-related death, despite many advances in treatment, the survival of patients still remains poor. In recent years, the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) has been introduced as one of the most important modifications at the epitranscriptome level, with an important role in the mRNA regulation in various diseases, such as cancers. The m6A is regulated by different factors, including FTO as a demethylase. The m6A modification, especially through FTO overexpression has an oncogenic role in different cancer types such as EC. Recent studies showed that entacapone, a catechol-o-methyl transferase (COMT) inhibitor currently applied for Parkinson's disease, can inhibit FTO enzyme.

AIMS

In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of entacapone as an FTO inhibitor on the m6A level and also apoptosis and cell cycle response in KYSE-30 and YM-1 of esophageal squamous cancer cell (ESCC) lines.

METHODS

Cell toxicity and IC50 of entacapone were evaluated using The MTT assay in YM-1 and KYSE-30 cells. Cells were treated into two groups: DMSO (control) and entacapone (mean IC₅₀ ). Total RNA was extracted, and m6A levels were measured via the ELISA method. Subsequently, the apoptosis and cell cycle dys-regulation were detected by annexin-V-FITC/PI staining and PI staining via flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Entacapone has the cytotoxicity effect on both esophageal cancer cell lines compared to normal PBMC cells. As well, entacapone treatment (140 μM) can induce apoptosis (KYSE-30: 50%. YM-1:22.6%) and has a modulatory effect on cell cycle progression in both YM-1 and KYSE-30 cells (p-value<.05). However, no significant difference in the m6A concentration was observed.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggested that entacapone has the inhibitory effect on ESCC cell lines through induction of the apoptosis and modulation of the cell cycle without toxicity on the normal PBMC.

A reliable mouse model of liver and lung metastasis by injecting esophageal cancer stem cells (CSCs) through tail-vein injection

BACKGROUND

Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma (ESCC) is a highly aggressive tumor with increased metastatic potential. Recent evidence suggests that esophageal CSCs have a crucial role in tumor initiation, progression, and resistance to conventional anti-cancer therapies. The study aimed to develop mouse model to mimic the late steps of the metastasis process using a tail-vein injection of esophageal CSCs.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The sphere formation assay was used to enrich CSCs. For analysis of tumorigenicity, YM-1 adherent cells and enriched CSCs were injected subcutaneously into dorsal flank of nude mice. The expression of SLUG, E-cad, and CTHRC1 genes was examined by Real-Time qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC) methods. To assess the metastatic potential of adherent YM-1 cells and their enriched CSCs, we injected the cells into the tail vein of nude mice. Our findings showed the up-regulation of SLUG and down-regulation of E-cad in the esophageal CSC-derived tumors (ECSCTs) compared to adherent cells-derived tumors. There was no statistically significant difference between CTHRC1 gene expressions in both groups of tumors. IHC staining confirmed the higher expression of SLUG protein in ECSCTs compared to adherent cell-derived tumors. Enriched CSCs were able to metastasize to the lungs and livers after three months, but, metastasis of adherent cells wasn't observed.

CONCLUSION

Our study showed esophageal CSCs injected through the tail-vein injection can migrate and metastasize to the lung and liver after three months. The developed metastatic mouse model can be a valuable and relevant model to investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms of metastasis and develop successful targeted therapies against ESCC. The present study is one of the few studies that investigate the metastasis of esophageal cancer stem cells (ESCC type) through injection into the tail vein of nude mice.

SOX2OT lncRNA Inhibition Suppresses the Stemness Characteristics of Esophageal Tumorspheres

BACKGROUND

SOX2OT is a novel cancer associated long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) with higher expression in variable tumor tissues, including esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). It also plays an important function in embryonic neuronal development. Regarding its function in both stemness and carcinogenesis, here, we aimed to investigate its expression and function in tumorspheres of the esophagus using the RNAi method.

MATERIAL & METHODS

Two esophageal squamous cancer cells (ESCC): KYSE30 and YM1 cells were used for sphere enrichment. Cells were transfected with SOX2OT targeting and control siRNA. The size and the number of spheres were measured using light microscopy. Gene expression of the pluripotency genes was measured by qRT-PCR and docetaxel chemoresistance was assessed by MTS viability assay.

RESULTS

Our findings showed that ESCC tumorspheres overexpress SOX2OT gene along with other stemness genes (SOX2, OCT4A, and Nanog) compared to their original cancer cells. RNAi experiments indicated that SOX2OT knockdown can suppress the stemness-related gene expression, sphere formation ability (both size and number), and docetaxel resistance as three of the main cancer stem cell characteristics of tumorspheres.

CONCLUSION

Altogether our results showed the regulatory role of SOX2OT in pluripotency and stemness in ESCC tumorspheres. Our results suggest a potential application of SOX2OT inhibition in combination with docetaxel for ESCC inhibition in vitro.

Effects of Urtica dioica agglutinin on glycotargeting of the vasculature: an in ovo study on chicken embryo

The angiogenesis process is a pivotal cellular process involved in both developmental and pathological circumstances. In this study we investigated effect of Urtica dioica agglutinin (UDA), as an unusual phyto-lectin from the chitin-binding protein family, on the angiogenesis of chicken embryos. The UDA was extracted from plant rhizomes and purified by affinity chromatography column. The activity of this lectin was assayed by hemagglutination test on the human RBCs. Anti-angiogenic effect of UDA on the extra-embryonic layer of the chick egg was studied in the different concentrations. Our results showed that the minimum concentration of UDA for agglutination were 48.00 and 15.00 µg mL^-1 in macro- and microscopic studies, respectively. Because the number and length of the vessels were dramatically decreased at 100 µg kg^-1 of UDA, the lectin had an inhibitory effect on angiogenesis of the embryonic vasculature of the chick. We concluded that UDA might target the vascularization events through binding to GlcNAc-conjugates. More investigations are needed to clarify the angiogenesis-related therapeutic roles of this interesting biomolecule.

Synergistic effects of BAY606583 on docetaxel in esophageal cancer through modulation of ERK1/2

Docetaxel (DTX) is a taxane chemotherapy agent used to treat many types of cancers, including esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Adenosine is a purinergic signaling molecule that contributes to cancer cell proliferation via A2B adenosine receptor (A2BAR) activation. Extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK) plays a crucial role in cell proliferation in various types of cancers. Stimulation of A2BAR involves a regulated ERK signaling pathway, and might provide a fascinating approach for treatment, leading to decreased proliferation in certain tumors that express A2BAR. Recent studies demonstrated that DTX and A2BAR have anticancer effects. The current study was designed to investigate the synergistic effect of the A2BAR agonist (BAY606583) on DTX in inducing antiproliferation effects on esophageal squamous cells carcinoma (ESCCs). The cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay in KYSE-30 and Ym-1 cells. In addition, the synergistic effect of DTX on the A2BAR agonist was evaluated. Subsequently, apoptosis was assessed by Annexin-V and propidium iodide staining, and Bcl-2, Bax, and ERK1/2 protein-level expressions were evaluated by Western blot. Use of BAY606583 and cotreatment of DTX and BAY606583 significantly decreased cell proliferation in KYSE-30 and Ym-1 cell lines. The use of BAY606583 and cotreatment of DTX with the A2BAR agonist induced apoptosis in KYSE-30 and Ym-1 cells. Western blot analysis revealed that the use of the A2BAR agonist and cotreatment of DTX with the A2BAR agonist inhibited the expression of apoptotic regulatory proteins as well as the expression of ERK1/2 proteins. Our findings suggested that use of BAY606583 and cotreatment of BAY606583/DTX have an antiproliferative effect on ESCC cell lines through ERK signaling pathway inhibition. BAY606583 has a synergistic effect on DTX, which could be used as an adjuvant for esophageal cancer therapy.

The Role of Micro RNAs in Regulating PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathways in Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma is a type of brain cancer with aggressive and invasive nature. Such features result from increased proliferation and migration and also poor apoptosis of glioma cells leading to resistance to current treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In recent studies, micro RNAs have been introduced as a novel target for treating glioblastoma via regulation of apoptotic signaling pathway, remarkably PI3K/AKT, which affect cellular functions and blockage or progression of the tumor. In this review, we focus on PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and other related apoptotic processes contributing to glioblastoma and investigate the role of micro RNAs interfering in apoptosis, invasion and proliferation of glioma through such apoptotic processes pathways. Databases NCBI, PubMed, and Web of Science were searched for published English articles using keywords such as 'miRNA OR microRNA', 'Glioblastoma', 'apoptotic pathways', 'PI3K and AKT', 'Caspase signaling Pathway' and 'Notch pathway'. Most articles were published from 7 May 2015 to 16 June 2020. This study focused on PI3K/AKT signaling pathway affecting glioma cells in separated subparts. Also, other related apoptotic pathways as the Caspase cycle and Notch have been also investigated. Nearly 40 miRNAs were found as tumor suppressors or onco-miRNA, and their targets, which regulated subcomponents participating in proliferation, invasion, and apoptosis of the tumoral cells. Our review reveals that miRNAs affect key molecules in signaling apoptotic pathways, partly PI3K/AKT, making them potential therapeutic targets to overcome the tumor. However, their utility as a novel treatment for glioblastoma requires further examination and investigation.

Antioxidant supplementations ameliorate PCOS complications: a review of RCTs and insights into the underlying mechanisms

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most important gynecological disorders of women in the age of reproduction. Different hormonal and inflammatory cross-talks may play in the appearance of its eventual complications as a leading cause of infertility. Excessive production of reactive oxygen species over the power of the antioxidant system as oxidative stress is known to contribute to a variety of diseases like PCOS. Thus, the utilization of antioxidants can be efficient in preventing or assistant in treating these diseases. In this review, we describe the clinical trial studies that have examined the efficiency of antioxidant strategies against PCOS and the possible underlying mechanisms. The investigations presented here lead us to consider that targeting oxidative stress pathways is probably a powerful promising therapeutic approach towards PCOS. There is preparatory evidence of the effectiveness of antioxidant interventions in ameliorating some of the PCOS complications, including metabolic and hormonal disorders. Due to limited data and relatively few clinical trials, many of these interventions need further investigation before they can be considered effective agents for routine clinical use.

Melatonin: A smart molecule in the DNA repair system

DNA repair is an important pathway for the protection of DNA molecules from destruction. DNA damage can be produced by oxidative reactive nitrogen or oxygen species, irritation, alkylating agents, depurination and depyrimidination; in this regard, DNA repair pathways can neutralize the negative effects of these factors. Melatonin is a hormone secreted from the pineal gland with an antioxidant effect by binding to oxidative factors. In addition, the effect of melatonin on DNA repair pathways has been proven by the literature. DNA repair is carried out by several mechanisms, of which homologous recombination repair (HRR) and non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) are of great importance. Because of the importance of DNA repair in DNA integrity and the anticancer effect of this pathway, we presented the effect of melatonin on DNA repair factors regarding previous studies conducted in this area.

Decreased Expression of LAMB3 Is Associated with Esophageal Cancer Stem Cell Formation

Purpose: Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a highly aggressive cancer. The main cause of death in ESCC is related to relapse, metastasis, and resistance to cancer therapy. Recent studies have shown that a minor subset of cancer cells, known as cancer stem cells (CSCs), are responsible for tumor formation initiation and cancer progression. Understanding the genes associated with CSCs and metastasis can help in targeted cancer therapy. The aim of this study was to assess the expression of LAMB3 and TOP2A metastasis-associated genes in CSCs and adherent cells in the xenograft mouse model. Methods: Esophageal CSCs were enriched by the sphere formation method. The expression level of LAMB3 and TOP2A genes were evaluated in spheres and adherent cells in vitro by qRT-PCR. A xenograft mouse model was established to investigate the tumorigenesis and metastasis potential by subcutaneous and tail vein injection of CSCs and adherent YM-1 cells. Consequently, LAMB3 and TOP2A expression at the mRNA level was assessed in tumors. Immunohistochemistry was also used to evaluate the LAMB3 expression at the protein level in tumors. Results: CSCs-derived tumor was developed more quickly than the adherent cells-derived tumor. LAMB3 at mRNA and protein level was significantly down-regulated in sphere-derived tumor compared with adherent cells-derived tumor (p-value <0.05). TOP2A expression was almost similar in both sphere cells and adherent cells and there was no significant difference. Conclusion: we concluded that YM-1 spheres have CSCs characteristics in vitro with high capability of tumorigenicity in vivo. Our results were also shown that the LAMB3 expression was decreased in YM-1 spheres suggesting LAMB3 association with sphere formation.

Increased Induction of Apoptosis in ESCC (Esophageal Squamous-Cell Carcinoma) by Betula pendula Roth Stem Cell Extract Containing Triterpenoids Compared to Doxorubicin

BACKGROUND

Esophageal Squamous-Cell Carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most life-threatening malignancies worldwide, with a growing incidence in Iran higher than the global average.

OBJECTIVE

The present study, for the first time under patent number (97668), introduces a method using in vitro production of activated-Birch stem cells using biotechnological techniques of tissue culture and plant stem cell culture from Betula pendula Roth (Birch) bark.

METHODS

In the first step, Birch stem cells were produced in large amounts using tissue culture, and then the amount of triterpenoids of its extract was measured by the HPLC method. In the second step, the cytotoxicity was evaluated by MTT, and the IC50 was calculated. The cellular apoptosis in response to the extract compared to doxorubicin was measured using the Annexin V kit and the flow cytometry method.

RESULTS

The optimized method introduced in the current study efficiently produced plant stem cells containing triterpenoids in large quantities over a period of 2-4 months. Our findings indicated that the growth of ESCC cells decreased by induction treatment 3 times (24, 36, 48 hours). IC50 values were obtained in 24 hours for the natural bark extract, Birch stem cell extract, doxorubicin and interactions of two extracts with doxorubicin at 300μg/mL, 1700μg/mL, 0.5μM, 150μg/mL, 1800μg/mL, respectively. In the flow cytometric test, the Birch stem cell extract showed the highest percentage of apoptosis, with 92.5% for total apoptosis. The percentage of total apoptosis in doxorubicin treatment was 85.33%, and the combination of doxorubicin with Birch stem cell extract was 88.33%. Natural bark extract and its combination with a lower percentage (69.33% and 70.33%, respectively) caused apoptosis of esophageal cancer cells.

CONCLUSION

Owing to the extinction of Birch in Iran and its inaccessibility and exploitation, Birch stem cells can be cultured as an appropriate alternative source to produce valuable triterpenoids for pharmaceutical purposes. Additionally, according to the results of this study, stem cells can be used to enhance the treatment of esophageal cancer and supplementation with chemotherapy.

Selective Inhibition of Esophageal Cancer Stem-like Cells with Salinomycin

BACKGROUND

Targeting Cancer Stem-Like Cells (CSLCs) can provide promising new therapeutic strategies to inhibit cancer progression, metastasis and recurrence. Salinomycin (Sal), an antibacterial ionophore, has been shown to inhibit CSCs specifically. Recently, it has been reported that Sal can destabilize TAZ, the hypo pathway transducer in CSLCs.

OBJECTIVES

Here, in the current study, we aimed to assess the differential toxicity of Sal in esophageal CSLCs and its relation to TAZ gene expression.

METHODS

The esophageal cancer cell line, KYSE-30, was used for the enrichment of CSLCs. The expression of TAZ was knocked down using specific siRNA transfection and then the cytotoxicity of Sal was measured using XTT assay. The qRT-PCR method was used for gene expression assessment and the sphere formation ability was monitored using light microscopy.

RESULTS

Our findings showed that esophageal CSLCs over-express stemness-associated genes, including SOX2, OCT4 as well as TAZ (~14 fold, P value=0.02) transcription coactivator. We found Sal can selectively inhibit KYSE-30 CSLCs viability and sphere formation ability; however, TAZ knockdown does not change its differential toxicity.

CONCLUSION

Overall, our results indicated that Sal can selectively decrease the viability of esophageal CSLCs in a TAZ-independent manner.

The Use of Bio-Active Compounds of Citrus Fruits as Chemopreventive Agents and Inhibitor of Cancer Cells Viability

Common therapy of cancer, such as chemotherapy, has various side effects for the patients. In recent studies, new therapeutic approaches in cancer treatment are adjuvant therapy, along with a reduction in side effects of chemotherapy drugs. Treatment by herbal medicines may have some advantages over treatment with single purified chemicals, also in terms of side effects, the use of plants in cancer treatment is a more secure method. Citrus fruits are one of the most consumed natural products in the world due to the presence of various metabolites and bioactive compounds, such as phenols, flavonoids and, carotenoids. Bioactive compounds of citrus modulate signaling pathways and interact with signaling molecules such as apoptotic and cell cycle (P53, P21, etc.) and thus have a wide range of pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and oxidative stress. The findings discussed in this review strongly support their potential as anti-cancer agents. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to examine the effects of active compounds in citrus as a therapy agent in cancer treatment.

Efficient co-cultivation of human fibroblast cells (HFCs) and adipose-derived stem cells (ADSs) on gelatin/PLCL nanofiber

In this study, we investigated whether the nanofibers produced by natural-synthetic polymers can probably promote the proliferation of co-cultured adipose-derived stem cells/human fibroblast cells (ADSs/HFCs) and synthesis of collagen. Nanofiber was fabricated by blending gelatin and poly (L-lactide co-ɛ-caprolactone) (PLCL) polymer nanofiber (Gel/PLCL). Cell morphology and the interaction between cells and Gel/PLCL nanofiber were evaluated by FESEM and fluorescent microscopy. MTS assay and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction were applied to assess the proliferation of co-cultured ADSs/HFCs and the collagen type I and III synthesis, respectively. The concentrations of two cytokines including fibroblast growth factor-basic and transforming growth factor-β1 were also measured in culture medium of co-cultured ADSs/HDCs using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay assay. Actually, nanofibers exhibited proper structural properties in terms of stability in cell proliferation and toxicity analysis processes. Gel/PLCL nanofiber promoted the growth and the adhesion of HFCs. Our results showed in contact co-culture of ADSs/HFCs on the Gel/PLCL nanofiber increased cellular adhesion and proliferation synergistically compared to non-coated plate. Also, synthesis of collagen and cytokines secretion of co-cultured ADSs/HFCs on Gel/PLCL scaffolds is significantly higher than non-coated plates. To conclude, the results suggest that Gel/PLCL nanofiber can imitate physiological characteristics in vivo and enhance the efficacy of co-cultured ADSs/HFCs in wound healing process.

Melatonin and doxorubicin co-delivered via a functionalized graphene-dendrimeric system enhances apoptosis of osteosarcoma cells

A functionalized graphene-dendrimeric system was designed via Fe₃O₄ nanoparticle (NP) as a magnetic nanocarrier for co-delivery of doxorubicin (DOX) and melatonin (MLT). Accordingly, β-Cyclodextrin (β-CD) was modified by creating amine functional groups. The modified β-CD was grafted with Graphene oxide (GO), and the resulting platform gain many functional groups, including the hydroxyl (-OH), carboxylic acid (-COOH), and amine functional groups (-NH2). Finally, magnetic NPs were synthesized on the prepared platform to efficiently controlling and targeting drugs to tumor sites. The human osteosarcoma cell lines including Saos-2 and MG-63, as well as Human Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hBM-MSC) line, were used to determine the in vitro biological effects of the functionalized graphene-dendrimeric system. The magnetic nanocarrier has encapsulation efficiency (EE) values of 99.92% for DOX and 21.5% for MLT. The biocompatibility tests of the nanocarrier revealed that the magnetic nanocarrier was appropriate as a drug carrier. Co-delivery of DOX and MLT with an efficiently anticancer performance was also was confirmed by cellular uptake, 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining, and apoptosis analysis in comparison with free DOX and MLT. Moreover, there was a synergy in the antitumor effect when MLT was combined with DOX, especially in the nano-formulation form, which may be due to the down-regulation of X-linked Inhibitor of Apoptosis (XIAP), survivin, and human telomerase catalytic subunit (hTERT) (p < 0.0001). Overall, the result of our study suggests that the designed carrier is a promising nanocarrier for targeted co-delivery of DOX and MLT with improved anticancer efficacy in cancer cells and thus reduced toxicity in normal cells.

Knockdown of TAZ decrease the cancer stem properties of ESCC cell line YM-1 by modulation of Nanog, OCT-4 and SOX2

Cancer stem cells are a rare population in tumors with high metastatic potential and resistance to treatment. Recent strategies in cancer treatment have focused on targeting important signaling pathways that have an important role in maintaining CSC populations. TAZ (transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif) is a key downstream of the Hippo pathway which plays a fundamental role in the survival of CSCs from different origins, however, no data on the role of TAZ in esophageal cancer are available. Our findings showed that esophageal CSCs enriched from the YM-1 cell line have stemness properties. We found that TAZ was strongly expressed in esophageal CSCs and knockdown of TAZ in esophageal CSCs results in reduced colony formation and cell migration. Moreover, this data indicated that TAZ knockdown reduces the expression of SOX-2, OCT-4, and Nanong in esophageal CSCs. Taken together, the results of the current study suggested that TAZ has a crucial role in the biology of esophageal CSCs.

Shelterin Complex at Telomeres: Implications in Ageing

Different factors influence the development‎ and control of ageing. It is well known that progressive telomere shorting is one of the molecular mechanisms underlying ageing. The shelterin complex consists of six telomere-specific proteins which are involved in the protection of chromosome ends. More particularly, this vital complex protects the telomeres from degradation, prevents from activation of unwanted repair systems, regulates the activity of telomerase, and has a crucial role in cellular senescent and ageing-related pathologies. This review explores the organization and function of telomeric DNA along with the mechanism of telomeres during ageing, followed by a discussion of the critical role of shelterin components and their changes during ageing.

Upregulation of Fucosyltransferase 3, 8 and protein O-Fucosyltransferase 1, 2 genes in esophageal cancer stem-like cells (CSLCs)

Recently, studies have shown that Fucosylation plays an important role in the invasion and metastatic process of CSLCs. Understanding the expression pattern of fucosyltransferase (FUT) genes may help to suggest better-targeted therapy strategies for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The study aimed to address the expression pattern of FUT gene variants in esophageal CSLCs and parental adherent cells. Sphere formation method was used to enrich CSLCs. Expression of FUT genes was examined in tumor sphere and parental adherent cells using the RT-PCR method and then relative expression of detected variants was performed by the Real-Time PCR method in both groups. The detected FUTs, also, were assessed in fresh ESCC tumors and the matched healthy controls. Analysis of The cell surface carbohydrate Lewis x (LeX, CD15) was performed by flow cytometry. Molecular analysis showed that the expression of FUT 3, 8 and POFUT1, 2 genes in tumorsphere were significantly higher than parental adherent cells. Analysis of fresh ESCC tumor tissues and the matched healthy controls showed that FUT8 and POFUT1, 2 genes in contrast to FUT 3 have higher expression in tumor tissues than controls. Flow cytometric analyses revealed that tumorsphere and their parent cells do not differ significantly in Lewis x surface marker. The present study showed that FUT 3, 8 and POFUT1, 2 genes upregulated in esophageal CSLCs in comparison to adherent cells. Understanding the expression pattern of FUT gene variants may help to suggest better-targeted therapy strategies for ESCC.

The role of substance P/neurokinin 1 receptor in the pathogenesis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma through constitutively active PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signal transduction pathways

One of the most prevalent malignancies is esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), which is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Substance P (SP), as one of the peptides released from sensory nerves, causes the enhancement of cellular excitability through the activation of the neurokinin-1 (NK1) receptor in several human tumor cells. Aprepitant, a specific, potent, and long-acting NK1 receptor antagonist, is considered as a novel agent to inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis in malignant cells. Since the antitumor mechanism of aprepitant in ESCC is not completely understood, we conducted this study and found that aprepitant induced growth inhibition of KYSE-30 cells and arrested cells in the G2/M phase of the cell cycle. Aprepitant also caused apoptotic cell death and inhibited activation of the PI3K/Akt axis and its downstream effectors, including NF-κB in KYSE-30 cells. Besides, quantitative real-time (qRT)-PCR analysis showed a significant down-regulation of NF-κB target genes in KYSE-30 cells, indicating a probable NF-κB-dependent mechanism involved in aprepitant cytotoxicity. Thus, the present study recommends that SP/NK1R system might, therefore, be considered as an emerging and promising therapeutic strategy against ESCC.

Protective and anticancer effects of orange peel extract and naringin in doxorubicin treated esophageal cancer stem cell xenograft tumor mouse model

BACKGROUND

chemotherapy drugs are the common therapy for cancer cells with side effects. Recent studies reported that natural products may contribute to decreasing the side effects of chemotherapy drugs. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects of orange peel extract (OPE) and its main compound; naringin (NR) to protect the side effects of doxorubicin (Dox) in esophageal cancer stem cells (CSCs) derived tumors in vivo.

METHODS

for this purpose, Esophageal cancer cell (YM1) derived spheres were treated in vitro with OPE, NR, Dox, Dox in combination with OPE or NR. The cell viability was assessed by XTT and the apoptosis was measured using Annexin/7-AAD and the cell cycle was also quantified by using PI staining method. The pluripotency related genes expression was carried out using qRT-PCR The protective effects of OPE and NR were evaluated by body weight evaluation and oxidative stress factors: malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) measurement in xenograft mice tumor model injected with Dox.

RESULTS

ESCC CSCs overexpress SOX₂ and OCT4 pluripotency genes. OPE or NR can protect the cellular toxicity of Dox in vitro mainly by decreasing cellular apoptosis of ESCC CSCs however S-phase cell cycle arrest has not been affected significantly. In vivo experiments revealed that the use of Dox simultaneously with OPE or NR not only can reduce the tumor size but also the body weight of the treated nude mice were maintained in comparison to Dox alone. In contrast to Dox alone, Dox in combination with OPE or NR showed less systemic toxicity and decreased oxidative stress fraction circulation, however, OPE seemed as more protective.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that these natural compounds can be used as adjuvant therapy to lower systemic toxicity of chemotherapeutic agents like DOX in ESCC cancer stem cells treatment.

Increased expression of miR-146a, miR-10b, and miR-21 in cancer stem-like gastro-spheres

BACKGROUND

Gastric cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-associated mortalities globally. Accumulating evidence support the presence of gastric cancer stem cells (CSCs) and their role in the pathogenesis and therapeutic challenges of gastric cancer. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) may be influenced by the cellular differentiative state and as critical regulators of the cellular fate in development and cancer, can modulate the behavior of CSCs too. Here, we aimed to investigate the expression relevance of three prognostic miRNAs (miR-21, miR-10b, and miR-146a) in CSCs of AGS and MKN-45 gastric cancer cell lines.

METHODS

Serial sphere-forming assay in serum-free culture medium was used to enrich the cellular population with stem-like properties. Gastro-spheres were characterized by evaluating the stemness gene expression, clonogenicity, and resistance to docetaxel and cisplatin in comparison with their parental cells. The expression level of miRNAs in gastro-spheres and their parental cells was measured using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Gastro-spheres from both cell lines exhibit stem-like properties: upregulated stemness associated genes (P < 0.05), more colonogenicity and more resistance to docetaxel (P < 0.05). MKN-45 gastro-spheres exhibited upregulated expression of miR-21 (1.8-folds), miR-10b (1.34-folds) and miR-146a (4.8-folds; P < 0.05) compared with the parental cells. AGS-derived gastro-spheres showed upregulation of miR-21 (4.7-folds; P < 0.01), miR-10b (15.2-folds; P < 0.001) and miR-146a (39.3-folds; P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our data exhibited upregulation of miR-21, miR-10b, and miR-146a in the stem-like gastro-spheres; however; their function in gastric CSCs remains to be verified by further experiments.

Amphotericin B potentiates the anticancer activity of doxorubicin on the MCF-7 breast cancer cells

Despite the improvements in cancer treatment, breast cancer still remains the second most common cause of death from cancer in women. Doxorubicin (DOXO) is widely used for cancer treatment. However, drug resistance limits the treatment outcome. Here, we investigated the toxicity of DOXO in combination with an antifungal agent amphotericin B (AmB) against the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line. The cell viability was measured using MTT assay. The apoptosis was studied by caspase-8 and caspase-9 activity measurements and DNA fragmentation was investigated by TUNEL assay. The combination of two drugs significantly increased the apoptotic index and the caspase-8 and caspase-9 activities in comparison to DOXO-treated cells. Our finding showed that pre-treatment of MCF-7 cells with AmB synergistically exerted the anticancer effect of DOXO through the caspase-dependent apoptosis manner.

Effects of berberine on the secretion of cytokines and expression of genes involved in cell cycle regulation in THP-1 monocytic cell line

OBJECTIVES

Current acute myeloid leukemia (AML) therapeutic strategies have irreversible side-effects. Berberine (BBR) is an isoquinoline alkaloid, which has been known as an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) ligand. AhR is a cytoplasmic receptor, which is involved in the regulation of cellular and immune responses. Here, we investigated the expression profile of genes involved in the cell cycle and different cytokines upon BBR-mediated AhR activation on AML THP-1 cell line.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

THP-1 cells and normal monocytes were treated with different concentrations of BBR (10 μM, 25 μM, 50 μM, and 100 μM) for 24 and 48 hr. The cell viability was measured by MTT assay. Real-time RT-PCR was conducted to evaluate the expression of AhR, cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1), interleukin 1 beta (IL1β), p21, p27, cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) and p53. Cellular expression of AhR was also assessed using immunofluorescence method. ELISA was used to determine the level of IL-10 and IL-12 cytokines.

RESULTS

BBR inhibits the proliferation of THP-1 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner with minimal toxicity on normal monocytes. Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) treatment increased the cellular expression of AhR. The AhR target genes (CYP1A1, IL1β) were overexpressed upon BBR treatment. BBR downregulated Cdk2 and upregulated p21, p27 and p53 genes in THP-1 cells. IL-10 was significantly increased upon BBR treatment, while IL-12 was not significantly changed in all combinations.

CONCLUSION

BBR could be introduced as an effective chemotherapeutic agent against AML by giving rise to the expression of CDK inhibitors and anti-inflammatory cytokines and downregulation of CDK2.

Expression Analysis of Previously Verified Fecal and Plasma Dow-regulated MicroRNAs (miR-4478, 1295-3p, 142-3p and 26a-5p), in FFPE Tissue Samples of CRC Patients

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Early diagnosis of this neoplasm is critical and may reduce patients' mortality. MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNA molecules whose expression pattern can be altered in various diseases such as CRC.

METHODS

In this study, we evaluated the expression levels of miR-142-3p, miR-26a-5p (their reduced expression in plasma samples of CRC patients was previously confirmed), miR-4478 and miR-1295-3p (their reduced expression in stool samples of CRC patients was previously confirmed) in tissue samples of CRC patients in comparison to healthy subjects. To achieve this purpose, total RNA including small RNA was extracted from 53 CRC and 35 normal subjects' Formalin-fixed, Paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue samples using the miRNeasy FFPE Mini Kit. The expression levels of these four selected miRNAs were measured using quantitative Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR).

RESULTS

We found that the expression levels of miR-4478 and miR-1295b-3p (two previously down-regulated fecal miRNAs) were significantly decreased in FFPE samples of CRC patients compared to healthy controls. On the other hand, no significant differences were seen in expression levels of miR-142-3p and miR-26a-5p (two previously down-regulated circulating miRNAs) in FFPE samples between these two groups.

CONCLUSION

Regarding current findings, it may be concluded that to diagnose CRC patients based on the miRNAs approach, stool samples are more likely preferable to plasma samples; nevertheless, additional studies with more samples are needed to confirm the results.

The correlation between telomerase activity and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio in valproic acid-treated MCF-7 breast cancer cell line

OBJECTIVES

Valproic acid (VPA), a drug used in the treatment of neurological disorders, has been shown to have cytotoxic effects on cancer cells through different mechanisms. Telomerase, a ribonucleoprotein reverse transcriptase, is responsible for elongation of the telomere and is activated in cancers. A relation between telomerase activity and resistance to apoptosis has been established. This study focused on probable effects of VPA on MCF-7 cancer cells. In particular, we investigated VPA effects on viability, apoptosis and telomerase activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cytotoxicity effects of VPA on MCF-7 cells were determined by neutral red uptake assay. Cells were treated with different concentrations of VPA (0-32 mM) and telomerase activity and Bax and Bcl-2 protein levels were determined using TRAP assay (PCR-ELISA) method and ELISA method, respectively.

RESULTS

The cytotoxic effects of different concentration of VPA on MCF-7 cells were observed as a reduction in cell viability and telomerase activity and altered expression of Bcl-2 family protein levels. The results also showed that there is a significant correlation between reduction of telomerase activity and increase in Bax/Bcl-2 ratio (P=0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated that cell viability of MCF-7 cells was decreased after treatment with VPA, probably through a reduction of telomerase activity and an increase in Bax/bcl-2 ratio. Therefore, it could be concluded that VPA is a potent anti-cancer agent for breast cancer cells through inhibition of telomerase activity and induction of apoptosis.

Downregulation of Plasma MiR-142-3p and MiR-26a-5p in Patients With Colorectal Carcinoma

Background:

Colorectal cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers and cancer- related death worldwide. Identification of new specific biomarkers could be helpful to detection of this malignancy. Altered plasma microRNA expression has been identified in many cancers, including colorectal cancer.

Objectives:

The main objective of this study was to identify the circulating microRNAs with the most expression changes in colorectal cancer patients compared with neoplasm free healthy individuals.

Materials and Methods:

MicroRNA expression profiling was performed on plasma samples of 37 colorectal cancer patients and 8 normal subjects using microRNA microarray. Quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to validate the two selected altered microR NAs. Plasma samples from 61 colorectal cancer patients and 24 normal subjects were used in our validation study.

Results:

In profiling study we found a panel of six plasma microRNAs with significant downregulation. MicroRNA-142-3p and microRNA-26a-5p were selected and validated by polymerase chain reaction. Our results demonstrated that expression levels of plasma microRNA-142-3p and microRNA-26a-5p were significantly downregulated in patients with colorectal cancer when compared to control group.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest that downregulation of plasma microRNA-142-3p and microRNA-26a-5p might serve as novel noninvasive biomarkers in the diagnosis of colorectal cancer, although more studies are needed to highlight the theoretical strengths.

Apolipoproteins A1, B, and other prognostic biochemical cardiovascular risk factors in patients with beta-thalassemia major

OBJECTIVES

The occurrence of cardiac iron deposition is one of the late effect of iron over load which causes cardiovascular disease (CVD) in patients who are affected by beta-thalassemia major. Evaluation of some cardiovascular risk factors plays a crucial role in prediction and prevention of CVD.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

This study consisted of 70 young adult subjects with beta-thalassemia major (beta-TM) (aged <30 years) and 71 age- and sex-matched healthy subjects as control group in the range of 20-30 years. Hematological and biochemical laboratory parameters including apolipoprotein (Apo)A1 and ApoB, oxidative stress biomarker pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB), homocysteine, serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and lipid profile were evaluated.

RESULTS

ApoA1, ApoB, lipid profiles, and homocysteine were significantly decreased in patients group (P < 0.001); however, very low-density lipoprotein and also mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (P > 0.05) were different. Some elements included ferritin (P < 0.001), PAB (P < 0.001), and ApoB/apoA1 ratio (P < 0.05) statistically increased in patients, whereas hs-CRP (P > 0.05) was not significantly different in study groups. Exception of high-density lipoprotein (P > 0.05), other lipid profiles, and apoB had a negative meaningful correlation with PAB (P < 0.05). Likewise, apoA1, apoB, apoB/A1 ratio with apoB and homocysteine showed a strong correlation (P < 0.05). We did not find a slight correlation between apoB/A1 ratio in the company of oxidative stress marker PAB (r = -0.366; P = 0.086). We found a statistical correlation between apoB/A1 and homocysteine (P < 0.05).

DISCUSSION

Higher level of some risk factors like PAB values, apoB/A1 ratio concentration, and lipid profiles is able to involve in the prognostic pathological consequences in patients with beta-thalassemia major. Even so, they contribute toward the gradual development of CVD.