Thymoquinone-Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles as Natural Preservative Agent in Cosmetic Products

The current status of controversy regarding the use of certain preservatives in cosmetic products makes it necessary to seek new ecological alternatives that are free of adverse effects on users. In our study, the natural terpene thymoquinone was encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles. The nanoparticles were characterized by DLS and TEM, showing a particle size of 20 nm. The chemical structure, thermal properties, and release profile of thymoquinone were evaluated and showed a successful stabilization and sustained release of terpenes. The antimicrobial properties of the nanoparticles were evaluated against typical microbial contaminants found in cosmetic products, showing high antimicrobial properties. Furthermore, natural moisturizing cream inoculated with the aforementioned microorganisms was formulated with thymoquinone-chitosan nanoparticles to evaluate the preservative efficiency, indicating its promising use as a preservative in cosmetics.

Berberine regulates the Notch1/PTEN/PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and acts synergistically with 17-AAG and SAHA in SW480 colon cancer cells

CONTEXT

Berberine (BBR) is used to treat diarrhoea and gastroenteritis in the clinic. It was found to have anticolon cancer effects.

OBJECTIVE

To study the anticolon cancer mechanism of BBR by connectivity map (CMAP) analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

CMAP based mechanistic prediction was conducted by comparing gene expression profiles of 10 μM BBR treated MCF-7 cells with that of clinical drugs such as helveticoside, ianatoside C, pyrvinium, gossypol and trifluoperazine. The treatment time was 12 h and two biological replications were performed. The DMSO-treated cells were selected as a control. The interaction between 100 μM BBR and target protein was measured by cellular thermal shift assay. The protein expression of 1-9 μM BBR treated SW480 cells were measured by WB assay. Apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) of 1-9 μM BBR treated SW480 cells were measured by flow cytometry and Hoechst 33342 staining methods.

RESULTS

CMAP analysis found 14 Hsp90, HDAC, PI3K or mTOR protein inhibitors have similar functions with BBR. The experiments showed that BBR inhibited SW480 cells proliferation with IC₅₀ of 3.436 μM, induced apoptosis, autophage, MMP depolarization and arrested G1 phase of cell cycle at 1.0 μM. BBR dose-dependently up-regulated PTEN, while inhibited Notch1, PI3K, Akt and mTOR proteins at 1.0-9.0 μM (p < 0.05). BBR also acted synergistically with Hsp90 and HDAC inhibitor (0.01 μM) in SW480 cells at 0.5 and 1.0 μM.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

The integrative gene expression-based chemical genomic method using CMAP analysis may be applicable for mechanistic studies of other multi-targets drugs.

Hypothalamic administration of sargahydroquinoic acid elevates peripheral thermogenic signaling and ameliorates high fat diet-induced obesity through the sympathetic nervous system

Sargassum serratifolium (C. Agardh) C.Agardh, a marine brown alga, has been consumed as a food and traditional medicine in Asia. A previous study showed that the meroterpenoid-rich fraction of an ethanolic extract of S. serratifolium (MES) induced adipose tissue browning and suppressed diet-induced obesity and metabolic syndrome when orally supplemented. Sargahydroquinoic acid (SHQA) is a major component of MES. However, it is unclear whether SHQA regulates energy homeostasis through the central nervous system. To examine this, SHQA was administrated through the third ventricle in the hypothalamus in high-fat diet-fed C57BL/6 mice and investigated its effects on energy homeostasis. Chronic administration of SHQA into the brain reduced body weight without a change in food intake and improved metabolic syndrome-related phenotypes. Cold experiments and biochemical analyses indicated that SHQA elevated thermogenic signaling pathways, as evidenced by an increase in body temperature and UCP1 signaling in white and brown adipose tissues. Peripheral denervation experiments using 6-OHDA indicated that the SHQA-induced anti-obesity effect is mediated by the activation of the sympathetic nervous system, possibly by regulating genes associated with sympathetic outflow and GABA signaling pathways. In conclusion, hypothalamic injection of SHQA elevates peripheral thermogenic signaling and ameliorates diet-induced obesity.

Effects of 17-AAG on the RIP1/RIP3/MLKL pathway during the development of heart failure following myocardial infarction in rats

In a previous study, we suggested that the Hsp90 inhibitor 17-AAG prevents cardiac dysfunction in the failing heart following myocardial infarction in rats. Although it is assumed that the RIP1/RIP3/MLKL necroptotic pathway, which comprises client proteins for Hsp90, is involved; however, the relationship between the cardioprotective effects of 17-AAG and the activity of the cardiac RIP1/RIP3/MLKL necrosome-associated proteins in the failing heart following myocardial infarction remained unclear. Therefore, the levels of phosphorylated MLKL after myocardial infarction with or without Hsp90 inhibitor treatment were measured. Myocardial infarction was induced by ligation of the coronary artery (CAL) in Wistar rats. 17-AAG was injected from the 2nd to the 8th week after myocardial infarction. The administration of 17-AAG attenuated the cardiac dysfunction, hypertrophy, and fibrosis at the 8th week after CAL, simultaneously lessening the increases in the expression and phosphorylation levels of RIP1, RIP3, and MLKL in the area of the left ventricular muscle without infarct. These results indicate that the activation of the RIP1/RIP3/MLKL pathway is a common event in the development of chronic heart failure. Furthermore, our findings suggest that the effects of 17-AAG treatment on the improvement of cardiac function in rats after myocardial infarction is related to the attenuation of this RIP1/RIP3/MLKL pathway.

New Broth Macrodilution Volatilization Method for Antibacterial Susceptibility Testing of Volatile Agents and Evaluation of Their Toxicity Using Modified MTT Assay In Vitro

In this study, a new broth macrodilution volatilization method for the simple and rapid determination of the antibacterial effect of volatile agents simultaneously in the liquid and vapor phase was designed with the aim to assess their therapeutic potential for the development of new inhalation preparations. The antibacterial activity of plant volatiles (β-thujaplicin, thymohydroquinone, thymoquinone) was evaluated against bacteria associated with respiratory infections (Haemophilus influenzae, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes) and their cytotoxicity was determined using a modified thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide assay against normal lung fibroblasts. Thymohydroquinone and thymoquinone possessed the highest antibacterial activity against H. influenzae, with minimum inhibitory concentrations of 4 and 8 µg/mL in the liquid and vapor phases, respectively. Although all compounds exhibited cytotoxic effects on lung cells, therapeutic indices (TIs) suggested their potential use in the treatment of respiratory infections, which was especially evident for thymohydroquinone (TI > 34.13). The results demonstrate the applicability of the broth macrodilution volatilization assay, which combines the principles of broth microdilution volatilization and standard broth macrodilution methods. This assay enables rapid, simple, cost- and labor-effective screening of volatile compounds and overcomes the limitations of assays currently used for screening of antimicrobial activity in the vapor phase.

Anticancer Activity of Thymoquinone Cubic Phase Nanoparticles Against Human Breast Cancer: Formulation, Cytotoxicity and Subcellular Localization

INTRODUCTION

Triple negative breast cancer is an aggressive disorder which accounts for at least 15% of breast cancer diagnosis and a high percentage of breast cancer morbidity, hence intensive research efforts are focused on the development of effective therapies to overcome the disease. Thymoquinone (TQ), the bioactive constituent of Nigella sativa, exhibits anticancer activity, yet its translation to the clinic is hindered by its poor bioavailability and lack of quantification method in blood and tissues. To overcome these limitations, cubosomes were utilized for the encapsulation and delivery of this anticancer molecule.

METHODS

Thymoquinone loaded cubosomes were prepared through the emulsification homogenization method. The physicochemical characteristics, including particle size, zeta potential, morphology and entrapment efficiency, were studied. Moreover, the in vitro antitumor activity was tested on breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) and compared to non-tumorigenic cell line (MCF-10A). Subcellular localization, cellular uptake and apoptotic effects of the formulations were assessed.

RESULTS

The results revealed that the TQ loaded cubosomal formulation exhibited a mean particle size of 98.0 ± 4.10 nm with narrow unimodal distribution. The high entrapment efficiency (96.60 ± 3.58%) and zeta potential (31.50 ±4.20 mV) conceived the effectiveness of this nanosystem for TQ encapsulation. Cell viability in both breast cancer cell lines demonstrated a dose-dependent decrease in response to treatment with free TQ or TQ-loaded cubosomes, with enhanced antitumor activity upon treating with the latter formulation. A significant increase in apoptotic bodies and cleaved caspase 3 was observed upon treatment of MDA-MB-231 cells with either TQ or TQ-loaded cubosomes. Localization and trafficking studies unveiled that cubosomes accumulate in the cytoplasm of the studied breast cancer cell lines.

DISCUSSION

Our results show that thymoquinone encapsulation in cubosomal nanoparticles provides a promising anticancer drug delivery system with the ability to label, detect and subsequently trace it within the human cells.

Delivery of thymoquinone to cancer cells with as1411-conjugated nanodroplets

Systemic delivery of conventional chemotherapies can cause negative systemic toxicity, including reduced immunity and damage to organs such as the heart and kidneys-limiting the maximum dose that can be administered. Targeted therapies appear to address this problem by having a specific target while mitigating off-target effects. Biocompatible perfluorocarbon-based nanodroplet emulsions encapsulated by a phospholipid shell are in development for delivery of molecular compounds and hold promise as vehicles for targeted delivery of chemotherapeutics to tumors. When ultrasound is applied, perfluorocarbon will undergo a phase change-ultimately inducing transient perforation of the cell membrane when in close proximity, which is more commonly known as "sonoporation." Sonoporation allows enhanced intracellular delivery of molecular compounds and will reseal to encapsulate the molecular compound intracellularly. In this study, we investigated delivery of thymoquinone (TQ), a natural hydrophobic phytochemical compound with bioactivity in cancer cells. In addition, we conjugated a G-quadruplex aptamer, 'AS1411', to TQ-loaded nanodroplets and explored their effects on multiple human cancer cell lines. AS1411 binds nucleolin, which is over-expressed on the surface of cancer cells, and in addition to its tumor-targeting properties AS1411 has also been shown to induce anti-cancer effects. Thymoquinone was loaded onto AS1411-conjugated nanodroplet emulsion to assess activity against cancer cells. Confocal microscopy indicated uptake of AS1411-conjugated nanodroplets by cancer cells. Furthermore, AS1411-conjugated nanoemulsions loaded with TQ significantly enhanced cytotoxicity in cancer cells compared to free compound. These results demonstrate that AS1411 can be conjugated onto nanodroplet emulsions for targeted delivery to human cancer cells. This novel formulation offers significant potential for targeted delivery of hydrophobic chemotherapeutics to tumors for cancer treatment.

Effects of Topical Thymoquinone in an Experimental Dry Eye Model

Objectives

To comparatively evaluate the effects of thymoquinone (TQ), the biologically active main component of volatile oil derived from Nigella sativa seeds, in an experimental dry eye model.

Materials and Methods

A total of 36 BALB/c mice 10 weeks of age were used in the study. The mice were divided into 6 groups of 6 mice. Two groups were negative and positive controls, and the other 4 groups were treated with balanced salt solution, fluorometholone (FML), TQ, or vehicle (Tween80). After 1 week of treatment, the mice were killed and the eyes removed for histopathologic examination and cytokine analysis. Interleukin (IL)-1α tumor necrosis factor-α, interferon-γ, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, and lactoferrin levels in the conjunctival tissue were measured by multiplex immunobead assay. The presence of inflammatory cells in ocular tissue samples were investigated by hematoxylin-eosin and periodic acid-Schiff staining. Inflammatory T cells containing CXT receptor in the conjunctiva were determined by flow cytometry.

Results

FLML and TQ groups had less inflammatory cell density and more goblet cells compared to the other groups. High levels of IL-1α and IL-2 were found in the TQ group.

Conclusion

TQ treatment was associated with reduced inflammation in pathological examination, but did not significant lower cytokine levels.

Thymoquinone inhibits the metastasis of renal cell cancer cells by inducing autophagy via AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway

Thymoquinone (TQ, 2-methyl-5-isopropyl-1,4-benzoquinone), a bioactive constituent extracted from the seeds of Nigella sativa, has been proved to exert anti-tumor efficiency in various cancers. Autophagy is a self-digestion phenomenon, and its role in tumor formation and progression remains controversial. In the present study, we investigated the effects of TQ on renal cell cancer (RCC) cell lines (786-O and ACHN) using wound healing assay, transwell assay and western blot analysis. We found that TQ effectively inhibited the metastatic capacity of RCC cells in vitro, which was also verified in a xenograft model. Meanwhile, we observed LC3 puncta and detected the expression of LC3 in TQ-treated RCC cells, and then found that autophagy was induced by TQ in 786-O and ACHN cell lines. In addition, TQ inhibited the migration and invasion as well as the EMT in RCC cells in an autophagy-dependent manner. To further explore the underlying mechanism, we detected the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway. The results indicated that TQ inhibited the metastasis of RCC cells by inducing autophagy via AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway. In conclusion, our findings provide a novel therapeutic strategy that aims at TQ-induced autophagy in RCC treatment.

Effects of solvents and penetration enhancers on transdermal delivery of thymoquinone: permeability and skin deposition study

Thymoquinone (TQ) is a quinone-based phytochemical that was first identified in 1963 in Nigella sativa (black cumin seed) by El-Dakhakhany. Based on the ideal characteristics of transdermal delivery, TQ is potentially an attractive candidate for transdermal drug delivery. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of transdermal delivery of TQ and to assess the effect of an ethanol and propylene glycol donor solvent system along with various compositions of receptor solvents. The effects of penetration enhancers on the in vitro skin permeation and TQ skin absorption were studied using human cadaver skin in Franz diffusion cells. The permeation of saturated solutions of TQ was investigated with 5% v/v of each of the following enhancers: Azone (laurocapram), Transcutol® P (Tc), oleic acid, ethanol, Polysorbate 80 (Tween 80), and N-methyl-pyrrolidone (NMP). The results indicated that Azone, oleic acid, and Tc were able to provide adequate TQ flux and may be the agents of choice for use in a novel transdermal formulation of TQ. These penetration enhancers were also able to generate TQ reservoirs in the skin that may be useful to provide sustained release of TQ from the stratum corneum over longer periods of time.

Thymoquinone loaded solid lipid nanoparticles counteracts 3-Nitropropionic acid induced motor impairments and neuroinflammation in rat model of Huntington's disease

Defect in gene transcription, excitotoxicity, neuroinflammation and oxidative stress are the dominant disease process that causes striatal cell loss with motor abnormalities in Huntington's disease (HD). Homogeneous pathological reminiscent of HD was extrapolated in the present study using a potent mitochondrial toxin, 3-Nitropropionic acid (3-NP). Administration of 3-NP for 14 days in the present study portends glial cell activation, N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor stimulation, neuroinflammation and motor deficits. The therapeutic strategy in the present study was improvised by formulating thymoquinone, a biologically active compound into a colloidal carrier namely solid lipid nanoparticles. Treatment with 10 and 20 mg/kg b.w of thymoquinone loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (TQ-SLNs) and 80 mg/kg b.w of thymoquinone suspension (TQ-S) showed a significant (P < 0.01) improvement in ATPases function in 3-NP induced animals than TQ-S (40 mg/kg b.w) treated group. TQ-SLNs (10 and 20 mg/kg) treatment also attenuated the overexpression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), pro-inflammatory cytokines and p-p65 NFκB nuclear translocation in 3-NP exposed animals. Further, TQ-SLNs treatment desensitizes NR2B-subtype NMDA receptor, improves tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) immune reactive neurons and ameliorated the motor abnormalities in 3-NP intoxicated animals than TQ-S treated group. Hence, the study signifies that the treatment with lower doses of nanoformulated thymoquinone than thymoquinone suspension can efficiently culminate 3-NP induced HD progression in the striatum of male wistar rats.

Thymoquinone activates MAPK pathway in hippocampus of streptozotocin-treated rat model

Streptozotocin (STZ), a glucosamine-nitrosourea compound, produces deficiencies in learning, memory, and cognitive functions when it was administered intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v). In molecular level, increase in neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in brain, and decrease in the number of surviving neurons are the outcomes of STZ administration. Herein, we aimed to investigate the effect of thymoquinone (TQ), an anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and neuroprotective agent, on STZ-induced neurodegeneration in rats. For this purpose, bilateral i.c.v. injection of STZ (3 mg/kg) was given to adult female rats on days 1 and 3. TQ (20 mg/kg/day in cornoil) was administered intragastrically to rats for 15 days starting from the 15th day of STZ injection. The Morris water maze test and passive avoidance test were applied to measure the learning and memory performance of animals. Following the behavioral tests, all of the rats were sacrificed for evaluation of molecular alterations. Rats in the STZ-TQ group showed higher performance in passive avoidance test than rats in the STZ group whose memory performance declined compared to control group. The worse memory performance in STZ group was correlated with low number of surviving neurons and high number of degenerating neurons. In addition, an increase in APOE expression and a decrease in NGF expression were observed with STZ injection. Administration of TQ reversed these STZ-triggered cognitive and molecular alterations. In the present study, we observed the neuroregenerative effects of TQ by activation of JNK protein, upregulation of mir-124, and downregulation of ERK1/2 and NOS enzymes. The same ameliorative effect of TQ was also observed in the pTau protein expression. To sum up, we can say that the healing effect of TQ on STZ induced neurodegeneration opens a new door for the development of Alzheimer's disease treatment using natural products as an adjuvant when their action mechanism was explained in detail.

Loading of doxorubicin and thymoquinone with F2 gel nanofibers improves the antitumor activity and ameliorates doxorubicin-associated nephrotoxicity

AIMS

This study aimed to elucidate the benefits of nanoformulation of doxorubicin (DOX) and thymoquinone (TQ) loaded with nanofibers of poly-N-acetyl glucosamine (pGlcNAc), which is known as F2 gel, over their conventional free forms. Moreover, evaluate the role of TQ in improving chemotherapeutic effect and ameliorating nephrotoxicity of DOX.

MAIN METHODS

The drugs were loaded into F2 gel followed by measurement of physicochemical characterization. Next, MCF-7 and HEPG2 cells were treated with the prepared formulations and assessed for apoptosis alongside with cellular proliferation. Furthermore, we experimentally induced Heps liver carcinoma in mice and at the end of the treatment, mice were sacrificed and serum samples were used to assess nephrotoxicity markers; blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine. Additionally, renal tissue was used for determination of oxidative markers and antioxidant enzymes; whereas, tumor tissue was utilized to measure nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and caspase 3.

KEY FINDINGS

Nanoformulation showed dramatic increase in apoptosis, caspase 3, and antioxidant enzymes; in contrast to, dramatic fall in cell viability, tumor volume, oxidative and nephrotoxicity markers, and NF-κB compared to corresponding free therapies. Combined therapy was superior in conserving the measured parameters compared to other treated groups.

SIGNIFICANCE

F2 gel loaded with DOX and TQ revealed enhanced antitumor activity with minimal toxicity. Moreover, using TQ as an adjuvant with DOX could augment its cytotoxicity and ameliorate nephrotoxicity.

Protective role of thymoquinone against paraquat-induced hepatotoxicity in mice

Paraquat is a common and effective herbicide; although its poisoning could lead to severe oxidative organ damages and its main target organs are the lungs, kidneys, heart, and liver. Thymoquinone is the active ingredient of Nigella sativa which is traditionally used in herbal medicine; recent studies have shown that thymoquinone could inhibit oxidative stress. This study explores protective effects of thymoquinone on paraquat-induced hepatotoxicity in mice. Accordingly, adult male mice were randomly divided into nine groups for three continuous days intraperitoneal injection treatment: (1) control; (2) solvent; (3) 20 mg/kg vitamin E; (4) 20 mg/kg thymoquinone; (5) 20 mg/kg paraquat and Groups 6, 7, 8, and 9 received 20 mg/kg of vitamin E and 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg of thymoquinone, respectively. The last four groups, received 20 mg/kg paraquat just 24 h after pretreatments. We assessed serum liver enzymes activities, liver histopathology changes, oxidative (lipid peroxidation) and antioxidative (ferric reducing antioxidant power) potential, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activity, and total thiol groups content after administration of the poison and treatments. Pretreatment with 10 mg/kg thymoquinone inhibited, safely, the elevations in levels of liver function tests (LFTs) and lipid peroxidation, restored the activity of SOD, and ameliorated the histopathological alterations induced by paraquat. Eventually, our results indicate that thymoquinone performs its hepatoprotective role in mice by prevention of SOD suppression mediated by paraquat.

A review: Therapeutics potentials of phytochemical drugs and their loading in pH specific degradable Nano-drug carrier targeting colorectal cancer

Increasing incidents of colorectal cancer have shifted researchers' attention to the production and improvement of anti-cancer drugs by the scientific investigation of vast pool of synthetic, biological and natural products. Thymoquinone and thymohydroquinone are considered the ideal compounds for the cancer therapy as they are economically and environmental friendly and have less toxicity level to the survival and diseased model up to increased dosage level. For colorectal cancer, researches are shifting towards the oral drug delivery instead of injection, as administering drugs through oral route shows maximum absorption of drugs, improves patient life quality and is cost-effective. Naturally occurring polysaccharides as oral drug carriers, such as pectin, have the ability to break down completely in colon, making it suitable for targeted drug delivery against cancer cells. Pectin with polymeric base is an efficient nano drug carrier. The current study reviews the delivery of thymoquinone/thymohydroquinone through pectin nano carriers to treat colorectal cancer.

Thymoquinone-based nanotechnology for cancer therapy: promises and challenges

Thymoquinone (TQ), the active ingredient of black seed, is a promising anticancer molecule that inhibits cancer cell growth and progression in vitro and in vivo. Despite the promising anticancer activities of TQ, its translation to the clinic is limited by its poor bioavailability and hydrophobicity. As such, we and others encapsulated TQ in nanoparticles to improve its delivery and limit undesirable cytotoxicity. These TQ-nanoparticle formulations showed improved anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities when compared with free TQ. Here, we provide an overview of the various TQ-nanoparticle formulations, highlight their superior efficacy and discuss up-to-date solutions to further enhance TQ bioavailability and anticancer activity, thus improving potential for clinical translation.

Oral Nigella sativa oil and thymoquinone administration ameliorates the effect of long-term cisplatin treatment on the enzymes of carbohydrate metabolism, brush border membrane, and antioxidant defense in rat intestine

We have previously shown that oral administration of Nigella sativa oil (NSO) ameliorates the deleterious gastrointestinal effects of cisplatin (CP), administered as a single dose. Since a typical clinical CP dosing regimen involves multiple cycles of CP administration in lower doses, in the present study we investigate the protective efficacy of NSO and its major bioactive constituent, thymoquinone (TQ), against multiple-dose CP treatment-induced deleterious biochemical and histological changes in rat intestine. Rats were divided into six groups, viz., control, CP, CP+NSO, CP+TQ, NSO, and TQ. Animals in CP+NSO and CP+TQ groups were pre-administered NSO (2 ml/kg bwt, orally) and TQ (1.5 mg/kg bwt, orally), respectively, daily for 14 days and were then treated with five repeated doses of CP (3 mg/kg bwt, i.p.), every fourth day for 20 days while still receiving NSO/TQ. CP treatment alone led to a significant decline in specific activities of brush border membrane (BBM) enzymes while NSO or TQ administration to CP-treated rats significantly prevented the decline in BBM enzyme activities in the isolated brush border membrane vesicles (BBMV) as well as in mucosal homogenates. Furthermore, both NSO and TQ administration markedly ameliorated CP-induced alterations on carbohydrate metabolism enzymes and the enzymatic and non-enzymatic parameters of antioxidant defense system in the intestinal mucosa. However, NSO appeared to be more efficacious than TQ in protecting against CP-induced gastrointestinal dysfunction. Histopathological findings corroborated the biochemical results. Thus, NSO and TQ may prove clinically useful in amelioration of the intestinal toxicity associated with long-term CP chemotherapy.

Enhanced anticancer effect and reduced toxicity of doxorubicin in combination with thymoquinone released from poly-N-acetyl glucosamine nanomatrix in mice bearing solid Ehrlish carcinoma

The incidence of breast cancer remarkably increases all over the world. Therefore, there is a great demand to introduce new approaches into cancer treatment field. The current study was designated to evaluate the role of doxorubicin (DOX) and/or thymoquinone (TQ) nanomatrix in potentiating the cytotoxicity of either drug, and to investigate the ability of TQ to reduce cardiotoxicity of DOX in solid Ehrlich carcinoma (SEC)-bearing mice. DOX and TQ were loaded into F2 gel, which is a fully-acetylated poly-N-acetyl glucosamine nanofiber. SEC was induced in female albino mice as a model for experimentally induced breast cancer. Mice were randomly divided into eight groups (n=10): normal control, tumor control, F2 gel, free DOX, DOX+F2 gel, free TQ, TQ+F2 gel, and DOX+TQ+F2 gel. On day 28th from tumor inoculation, mice were sacrificed and blood samples were collected for measurement of the cardiac markers; lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase (CK-MB). In addition, cardiac tissue was utilized for determination of lipid peroxide, and tumor tissue was used for measurement of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 as well as gene expression of the tumor suppressor gene P53. DOX and/or TQ showed a significant reduction in tumor volume, cardiac markers, tumor Bcl-2, and P53 upregulation compared to free conventional therapies. Co-treatment with DOX+TQ+F2 gel was superior to all other groups in exerting beneficial effects. Use of TQ as an adjuvant therapy with DOX could improve its cytotoxic effects and limit its cardiac toxicity. Furthermore, loading of DOX and/or TQ into F2 gel showed a remarkable anti-cancer activity.

Geldanamycin inhibits Fas signaling pathway and protects neurons against ischemia

The inhibitor of Heat shock proteins 90, geldanamycin (GA), has been reported neuroprotective against both global and focal brain ischemia. To understand the mechanisms underlies the neuroprotection effect of GA, we investigated the relationship between GA pretreatment and Fas signaling pathway in rat global brain ischemia/reperfusion model in the present study. Results showed that GA attenuated neuron loss significantly in hippocampal CA1 region. Upon GA pretreatment, Mixed Lineage Kinase 3 (MLK3) expression and activation and FasL expression was decreased, the assembly of death-inducing signaling complex and activation of downstream apoptosis-associating proteins were inhibited along with neuroprotection. Based on the facts that MLK3 is one client protein of HSP90 and MLK3 pathway induces FasL expression in ischemic brain injury, our study suggests one of the mechanisms of neuroprotection against brain ischemia from GA.

Protective effect of thymoquinone against diazinon-induced hematotoxicity, genotoxicity and immunotoxicity in rats

Several studies have shown that oxidative stress and cell damage can occur in the very early stages of diazinon (DZN) exposure. The present study was designed to determine the beneficial effect of thymoquinone (Thy), the main component of Nigella sativa (black seed or black cumin) against DZN immunotoxicity, hematotoxicity and genotoxicity in rats. In the present experimental study, 48 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups, (eight per group) as follows: control (receiving corn oil as the DZN solvent), DZN (20mg/kg), Thy (10mg/kg), Thy (2.5mg/kg)+DZN, Thy (5mg/kg)+DZN and Thy (10mg/kg)+DZN. After four weeks of treatment, the hematological parameters of red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Hct) and platelets (PLTs) were evaluated. The evaluation of genotoxicity was carried out using the micronucleus assay. For measurement of cytokine production, interferon gamma (IFN-γ), interleukin 10 (IL10) and interleukin 4 (IL4) were chosen as immunotoxicity indicators of DZN toxicity. DZN was found to decrease RBCs, WBCs, Hb, Hct, PLTs, butyrl- and acetyl-cholinesterase activity and I FN-γ and increased the micronucleus indices of IL10 and IL4 as compared with the control group. Treatment with Thy reduced DZN hematotoxicity and immunotoxicity, but, significantly, did not prevent genotoxicity. This study showed that Thy (without the significant effect on genotoxicity) decreased the hematological toxicity, immunotoxicity and butyrl and acetyl cholinesterase activity induced by DZN. The success of Thy supplementation against DZN toxicity can be attributed to the antioxidant effects of its constituents.

GC-MS-based Metabolomic Profiling of Thymoquinone in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Nephropathy in Rats

*Diabetic nephropathy is a common complication of diabetes mellitus and one of the major etiologies of end-stage renal disease. Specific therapeutic interventions are necessary to treat such complications. The present study was designed to investigate the metabolomic changes induced by thymoquinone for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy, using a rodent model. Rats were divided into three different groups (n = 6 each): control, diabetic, and thymoquinone- treated diabetic groups. Metabolites in serum samples were analyzed via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Multiple changes were observed, including those related to the metabolism of amino acids and fatty acids. The correlation analysis suggested that treatment with thymoquinone led to the reversal of diabetic nephropathy that was associated with modulations in the metabolism and proteolysis of amino acids, fatty acids, glycerol phospholipids, and organic acids. In addition, we explored the mechanisms linking the metabolic profiling of diabetic nephropathy, with a particular emphasis on the potential roles of increased reactive oxygen species production and mitochondrial dysfunctions. Our findings demonstrated that metabolomic profiling provided significant insights-into the basic mechanisms of diabetic nephropathy and the therapeutic effects of thymoquinone.

Multi-drug loaded micelles delivering chemotherapy and targeted therapies directed against HSP90 and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

Advanced prostate cancers that are resistant to all current therapies create a need for new therapeutic strategies. One recent innovative approach to cancer therapy is the simultaneous use of multiple FDA-approved drugs to target multiple pathways. A challenge for this approach is caused by the different solubility requirements of each individual drug, resulting in the need for a drug vehicle that is non-toxic and capable of carrying multiple water-insoluble antitumor drugs. Micelles have recently been shown to be new candidate drug solubilizers for anti cancer therapy.

METHODS

This study set out to examine the potential use of multi-drug loaded micelles for prostate cancer treatment in preclinical models including cell line and mouse models for prostate cancers with Pten deletions. Specifically antimitotic agent docetaxel, mTOR inhibitor rapamycin, and HSP90 inhibitor 17-N-allylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin were incorporated into the micelle system (DR17) and tested for antitumor efficacy.

RESULTS

In vitro growth inhibition of prostate cancer cells was greater when all three drugs were used in combination compared to each individual drug, and packaging the drugs into micelles enhanced the cytotoxic effects. At the molecular level DR17 targeted simultaneously several molecular signaling axes important in prostate cancer including androgen receptor, mTOR, and PI3K/AKT. In a mouse genetic model of prostate cancer, DR17 treatment decreased prostate weight, which was achieved by both increasing caspase-dependent cell death and decreasing cell proliferation. Similar effects were also observed when DR17 was administered to nude mice bearing prostate cancer cells xenografts.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that combining these three cancer drugs in multi-drug loaded micelles may be a promising strategy for prostate cancer therapy.

Lectin, Galactoside-Binding Soluble 3 Binding Protein Promotes 17-N-Allylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin Resistance through PI3K/Akt Pathway in Lung Cancer Cell Line

Heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) stabilizing oncoproteins has been an attractive target in cancer therapy. 17-N-Allylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin (17-AAG), an HSP90 inhibitor, was tested in phase II/III clinical trials, but due to lack of efficacy, clinical evaluation of 17-AAG has achieved limited success, which led to resistance to 17-AAG. However, the mechanism of 17-AAG resistance has not clearly been identified. Here, we identified LGALS3BP (Lectin, galactoside-binding soluble 3 binding protein), a secretory glycoprotein, as a 17-AAG resistance factor. In the clinical reports, it was suggested that LGALS3BP was associated with low survival rate, development of cancer progression, and enhancement of metastasis in human cancers. As we confirmed that the LGALS3BP level was increased in 17-AAG-resistant cells (H1299_17R) compared with that of the parental cell line (H1299_17P), knockdown of LGALS3BP expression increased sensitivity to 17-AAG in H1299_17R cells. Overexpression of LGALS3BP also augmented PI3K/Akt and ERK signaling pathways. Furthermore, we determined that the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway was involved in LGALS3BP-mediated 17-AAG resistance in vitro and in vivo, demonstrating that LGALS3BP mediates the resistance against 17-AAG through PI3K/Akt activation rather than ERK activation. These findings suggest that LGALS3BP would be a target to overcome resistance to 17-AAG in lung cancer. For example, the combination of 17-AAG and PI3K/Akt inhibitor would effectively suppress acquired resistance to 17-AAG. In conclusion, targeting of LGALS3BP-mediated-specific survival signaling pathway in resistant cells may provide a novel therapeutic model for the cancer therapy. Mol Cancer Ther; 16(7); 1355-65. ©2017 AACR.

Protective Effect of Thymoquinone Against Morphine Injuries to Kidneys of Mice

INTRODUCTION

Thymoquinone is a phytochemical compound found in the plant Nigella sativa. It has various pharmacological effects such as antioxidant and anti-apoptotic. Morphine can increase the generation of free radicals. It is mainly excreted through the kidneys and causes disturbing effects. This study was designed to evaluate protective effects of thymoquinone against morphine-induced damages to the kidneys of mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Various doses of thymoquinone (4.5 mg/kg, 9 mg/kg, and 18 mg/kg) were intraperitoneally administered along with morphine to 48 male mice for 20 consequent days. These mice were compared with a control group with saline injection, morphine group, and groups with same doses of thymoquinone only (n = 6 in each group). Blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, and serum nitric oxide levels, as well kidney weight and histology were assessed after the interventions.

RESULTS

Morphine administration significantly decreased kidney weight and the number and mean diameter of the glomeruli. Increased levels of blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, and serum nitric oxide were also noted with morphine compared to the control group (P < .05). However, administration of thymoquinone and thymoquinone plus morphine significantly enhanced kidney weight, number and mean diameter of the glomeruli. All of the groups with thymoquinone were also associated with reduced blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, and serum nitric oxide levels compared to the morphine group (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

It seems that antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects of thymoquinone could protect of the kidneys against damage due to morphine toxicity.

Synthesis and characterisation of PEG modified chitosan nanocapsules loaded with thymoquinone

Thymoquinone (TQ), a major bioactive compound of Nigella sativa seeds has several therapeutic properties. The main drawback in bringing TQ to therapeutic application is that it has poor stability and bioavailability. Hence a suitable carrier is essential for TQ delivery. Recent studies indicate biodegradable polymers are potentially good carriers of bioactive compounds. In this study, polyethylene glycol (PEG) modified chitosan (Cs) nanocapsules were developed as a carrier for TQ. Aqueous soluble low molecular weight Cs and PEG was selected among different biodegradable polymers based on their biocompatibility and efficacy as a carrier. Optimisation of synthesis of nanocapsules was done based on particle size, PDI, encapsulation efficiency and process yield. A positive zeta potential value of +48 mV, indicating good stability was observed. Scanning electron microscope and atomic-force microscopy analysis revealed spherical shaped and smooth surfaced nanocapsules with size between 100 to 300 nm. The molecular dispersion of the TQ in Cs PEG nanocapsules was studied using X-ray powder diffraction. The Fourier transform infrared spectrum of optimised nanocapsule exhibited functional groups of both polymer and drug, confirming the presence of Cs, PEG and TQ. In vitro drug release studies showed that PEG modified Cs nanocapsules loaded with TQ had a slow and sustained release.

Thymoquinone effectively alleviates lung fibrosis induced by paraquat herbicide through down-regulation of pro-fibrotic genes and inhibition of oxidative stress

The potential preventive and therapeutic effects of thymoquinone (TQ) and its molecular mechanism were evaluated in paraquat (PQ)-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice. TQ was administered orally at the doses of 20 and 40mg/kg during the course and after development of fibrosis. Pathological changes, expressions of genes involved in fibrogenesis, hydroxyproline (HP) and oxidative stress parameters were determined in the lung tissues. TQ dose-dependently recovered the pathological changes induced by PQ. TQ decreased hydroxyproline content, lipid peroxidation and restored the antioxidant enzymes to the normal values. In molecular level, expressions of TGF-β1, α-SMA, collagen 1a1 and collagen 4a1 genes were also returned to the control level by TQ. This study indicated that TQ has the preventive and therapeutic potentials for the treatment of lung fibrosis by inhibition of oxidative stress and down-regulation of profibrotic genes.

The Th1/Th2 paradigm in lambda cyhalothrin-induced spleen toxicity: The role of thymoquinone

This study investigates the retrofitted role of thymoquinone (TQ) in the Th1/Th2 paradigm imbalance in lambda-cyhalothrin (LCT) treated rats. Four groups of male Wistar rats were formed: Group I served as control. Group II received 5 mg TQ/(kg bw) daily. Group III received 0.6 mg LCT/(kg bw). Group IV was treated with TQ and LCT. All treatments were given orally for 10 weeks. The LCT-treated group elicited a significant increase in MDA and NO levels with up-regulation of NF-κB/p65 and pro-inflammatory genes expression and their levels. Meanwhile, GSH and immunoglobulins concentrations were markedly decreased concomitant with lessening the activities of antioxidant enzymes and anti-inflammatory cytokine genes mRNA levels. The co-administration of TQ and LCT improved the altered antioxidant enzymes activities and concentration of cytokines with attenuation of NF-κB/p65 mRNA. These data support the antioxidant role of TQ in the Th1/Th2 imbalance paradigm during LCT toxicity.

Protective effects of thymoquinone and alpha-tocopherol on the sciatic nerve and femoral muscle due to lower limb ischemia-reperfusion injury

OBJECTIVE

Thymoquinone (TQ) is an antioxidant and anti-apoptotic substance found in the Nigella sativa plant. Alpha-tocopherol (α-TP) is a potent antioxidant. We aimed to determine whether or not TQ and TP have a protective effect against lower limb ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury of muscle and the sciatic nerve.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A single dose of TQ 25 mg/kg was given intraperitoneally to the TQ group, a single dose of α-TP 200 mg/kg was given intraperitoneally to the α-TP group. IR was performed for 45 minutes after the drugs' applications.

RESULTS

While serum levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) of the IR group were significantly higher than those of the TQ plus α-TP, TQ and α-TP groups (p<0.001, p<0.001, p=0.008, respectively) and IL-6 (all p<0.001), the reduced glutathione (GSH) level of the IR group was lower than that of the other three groups. While neuronal nitric oxide synthase activity of nerve tissues of the IR group was significantly lower than that of the TQ plus α-TP group, the muscle tissue caspase-3 activity was higher than that of the TQ plus α-TP group.

CONCLUSIONS

Administration of TQ plus α-TP may strongly protect muscle and nerve tissues against IR injury via their synergistic effects.

Biochemical, Histopathological and Immunohistochemical Evaluation of the Protective and Therapeutic Effects of Thymoquinone against Ischemia and Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in the Rat Ovary

AIM

To evaluate the antioxidant effects of thymoquinone (TQ) and to investigate the biochemical, histopathological and immunohistochemical changes in experimental rat ovarian torsion.

METHODS

A total of 48 female adult rats were used in this study and randomly divided into 7 groups: (1) sham operation; (2) bilateral 3-hour ovarian ischemia; (3) 3-hour ischemia and 3-hour reperfusion; (4) and (5) rats were administered 20 and 40 mg/kg of TQ, respectively, before 0.5 h of ischemia, and then 3 h of ovarian ischemia was applied; (6) and (7) 3-hour ovarian ischemia was applied; 2.5 h after the induction of ischemia, rats were administered the same doses of TQ; at the end of 3 h of ischemia, a 3-hour reperfusion was applied. Histologic changes under light microscopy, immunoreactivity for anticaspase-3 and serum levels of malondialdehyde, interleukin-6, catalase and glutathione peroxidase were noted and compared between the 7 groups.

RESULTS

Ischemia and ischemia/reperfusion cause a deterioration of biochemical and histopathological parameters. Administration of TQ seems to reverse these alterations and alleviate the injury. Antioxidant defense mechanisms appear to be enhanced by the administration of TQ.

CONCLUSION

TQ at different doses attenuates ovarian ischemia and ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats.

Ameliorative effects of thymoquinone against eye lens changes in streptozotocin diabetic rats

The possible protective effect of thymoquinone against eye lens changes in diabetic rats was investigated. Following diabetes induction by a single injection of streptozotocin (45 mg/kg, i.p.), thymoquinone was administered in three different doses (20, 40, and 80 mg/kg/day, p.o.) for 12 weeks. Thymoquinone significantly and dose-dependently attenuated the hypoinsulinemia and hyperglycemia in diabetic rats. Also, thymoquinone (particularly 40 and 80 mg/kg) significantly decreased the elevations of malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, tumor necrosis factor-α, glycated proteins, aldose reductase activity, sorbitol level, and caspase-3 activity in the lens tissues of diabetic rats. In addition, thymoquinone (particularly 40 and 80 mg/kg) significantly ameliorated the diabetes-induced reductions of glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities, and total and soluble protein contents in the lens tissues. It was concluded that thymoquinone significantly protected the lens tissue against changes induced by diabetes in rats through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic effects.

Effects of Thymoquinone on the Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Glibenclamide in a Rat Model

Glibenclamide and thymoquinone plasma concentrations were analysed using a sensitive RP-HPLC method, and non-compartmental model pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated. The maximum reduction in blood glucose level was observed 3 hours following glibenclamide administration, which reached 47.4% of baseline, whereas it was reduced by 53.0% to 56.2% when co-administrated with thymoquinone. Plasma concentration of glibenclamide was increased by 13.4% and 21.8% by the co-administration of thymoquinone as single and multiple doses, respectively (P<0.05). The AUC and TI/2 of glibenclamide were also increased respectively by 32.0% and 17.4% with a thymoquinone single dose, and by 52.5% and 92.8% after chronic treatment. Furthermore, diabetic rats treated with thymoquinone demonstrated a marked decrease in hepatic protein expressions of CYP3A2 and CYP2C 11 enzymes that are responsible for the metabolism of glibenclamide. The current data suggest that thymoquinone exhibits a synergistic effect with glibenclamide on glucose level, which could be explained by reducing CYP450 activity at the protein level.

Geldanamycin Reduces Aβ-Associated Anxiety and Depression, Concurrent with Autophagy Provocation

Neurodegenerative disorders are generally characterized by abnormal aggregation and deposition of specific proteins. Amyloid beta (Aβ)-associated neurodegenerative disorder is characterized by an oxidative damage that, in turn, leads to some behavioral changes before the establishment of dementia such as depression and anxiety. In the current study, we investigated the effect of heat shock protein 90 inhibitor geldanamycin (GA) administration 24 h before Aβ injection. In our experiment, 7 days after Aβ injection, elevated plus maze and forced swimming test were conducted to assess anxiety and depression-like behaviors. Levels of autophagy markers and malondialdehyde (MDA) and also activity of catalase in the hippocampus of rats were evaluated. Our behavioral analyses demonstrated that GA pretreatment can significantly decrease anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in Aβ-injected rats. Also, levels of autophagy markers including Atg12, Atg7, and LC3-II increased, while MDA level decreased and the activity of catalase increased in rats pretreated with GA compared to Aβ-injected rats. Thus, we assumed that GA, at least in part, ameliorated Aβ-mediated anxiety and depression by inducing autophagy and improving antioxidant defense system.

Moles of a Substance per Cell Is a Highly Informative Dosing Metric in Cell Culture

Background

The biological consequences upon exposure of cells in culture to a dose of xenobiotic are not only dependent on biological variables, but also the physical aspects of experiments e.g. cell number and media volume. Dependence on physical aspects is often overlooked due to the unrecognized ambiguity in the dominant metric used to express exposure, i.e. initial concentration of xenobiotic delivered to the culture medium over the cells. We hypothesize that for many xenobiotics, specifying dose as moles per cell will reduce this ambiguity. Dose as moles per cell can also provide additional information not easily obtainable with traditional dosing metrics.

Methods

Here, 1,4-benzoquinone and oligomycin A are used as model compounds to investigate moles per cell as an informative dosing metric. Mechanistic insight into reactions with intracellular molecules, differences between sequential and bolus addition of xenobiotic and the influence of cell volume and protein content on toxicity are also investigated.

Results

When the dose of 1,4-benzoquinone or oligomycin A was specified as moles per cell, toxicity was independent of the physical conditions used (number of cells, volume of medium). When using moles per cell as a dose-metric, direct quantitative comparisons can be made between biochemical or biological endpoints and the dose of xenobiotic applied. For example, the toxicity of 1,4-benzoquinone correlated inversely with intracellular volume for all five cell lines exposed (C6, MDA-MB231, A549, MIA PaCa-2, and HepG2).

Conclusions

Moles per cell is a useful and informative dosing metric in cell culture. This dosing metric is a scalable parameter that: can reduce ambiguity between experiments having different physical conditions; provides additional mechanistic information; allows direct comparison between different cells; affords a more uniform platform for experimental design; addresses the important issue of repeatability of experimental results, and could increase the translatability of information gained from in vitro experiments.

Liposomal thymoquinone effectively combats fluconazole-resistant Candida albicans in a murine model

The aim of the present study was to develop a novel liposomal formulation of thymoquinone (TQ) to treat fluconazole-susceptible and -resistant Candida albicans (C. albicans) infections. The liposomal preparation of TQ (Lip-TQ) was used against a fluconazole-susceptible or -resistant isolate of C. albicans. Various doses of fluconazole (0, 5, 10, 20 and 40 mg/kg) or free TQ or Lip-TQ (0, 1, 2 and 5mg/kg) were used to treat C. albicans infected mice. Mice were observed for 40 days post C. albicans infection, and their kidneys were assessed for the fungal load. Fluconazole showed anti-fungal activity against the drug-susceptible, but not against the -resistant isolate of C. albicans. Free TQ showed its activity against both fluconazole-susceptible or -resistant C. albicans, however, Lip-TQ was found to be the most effective and imparted ∼ 100% and ∼ 90% survival of mice infected with fluconazole-susceptible and -resistant isolates of C. albicans, respectively. Mice treated with Lip-TQ showed highly reduced severity of infection in their tissue homogenates. Therefore, Lip-TQ may effectively be used in the treatment of C. albicans infections, including those which are not responding to fluconazole.

HSP90 inhibition enhances antimitotic drug-induced mitotic arrest and cell death in preclinical models of non-small cell lung cancer

HSP90 inhibitors are currently undergoing clinical evaluation in combination with antimitotic drugs in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but little is known about the cellular effects of this novel drug combination. Therefore, we investigated the molecular mechanism of action of IPI-504 (retaspimycin HCl), a potent and selective inhibitor of HSP90, in combination with the microtubule targeting agent (MTA) docetaxel, in preclinical models of NSCLC. We identified a subset of NSCLC cell lines in which these drugs act in synergy to enhance cell death. Xenograft models of NSCLC demonstrated tumor growth inhibition, and in some cases, regression in response to combination treatment. Treatment with IPI-504 enhanced the antimitotic effects of docetaxel leading to the hypothesis that the mitotic checkpoint is required for the response to drug combination. Supporting this hypothesis, overriding the checkpoint with an Aurora kinase inhibitor diminished the cell death synergy of IPI-504 and docetaxel. To investigate the molecular basis of synergy, an unbiased stable isotope labeling by amino acids in cell culture (SILAC) proteomic approach was employed. Several mitotic regulators, including components of the ubiquitin ligase, anaphase promoting complex (APC/C), were specifically down-regulated in response to combination treatment. Loss of APC/C by RNAi sensitized cells to docetaxel and enhanced its antimitotic effects. Treatment with a PLK1 inhibitor (BI2536) also sensitized cells to IPI-504, indicating that combination effects may be broadly applicable to other classes of mitotic inhibitors. Our data provide a preclinical rationale for testing the combination of IPI-504 and docetaxel in NSCLC.

Thermosensitive poly-(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide)-block-poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly-(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) hydrogels for multi-drug delivery

A current treatment strategy for peritoneal ovarian cancer is a combination of peritoneal surgery and multi-drug-based chemotherapy that often involves intraperitoneal (IP) injection. A thermosensitive poly-(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide)-block-poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly-(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA-b-PEG-b-PLGA) hydrogel platform (thermogels) enabled gel loading of poorly work-soluble paclitaxel (cytotoxic agent), 17-allylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin (17-AAG, heat shock protein inhibitor), and rapamycin (mammalian target of rapamycin protein inhibitor). PLGA-b-PEG-b-PLGA thermogels (15%) carrying paclitaxel, 17-AAG, and rapamycin (named Triogel) made a successful transition from a free-flowing solution below ambient temperature to a gel depot at body temperature. Triogel gradually released paclitaxel, 17-AAG, and rapamycin at an equal release rate in response to the physical gel erosion. In an ES-2-luc ovarian cancer xenograft model, a single IP injection of Triogel (60, 60, and 30 mg/kg of paclitaxel, 17-AAG, and rapamycin, respectively) significantly reduced tumor burden and prolonged survival of ES-2-luc-bearing nude mice without notable systemic toxicity relative to those delivered by poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(d,l-lactic acid) (PEG-b-PLA) micelles in solution via IP or intravenous (IV) injection route. These results show a great potential of a biodegradable thermogel platform carrying multi-drugs for IP chemotherapy in peritoneal ovarian cancer.

Chronic treatment with 17-DMAG improves balance and coordination in a new mouse model of Machado-Joseph disease

Machado-Joseph disease (MJD) or spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3) is a neurodegenerative disease currently with no treatment. We describe a novel mouse model of MJD which expresses mutant human ataxin-3 at near endogenous levels and manifests MJD-like motor symptoms that appear gradually and progress over time. CMVMJD135 mice show ataxin-3 intranuclear inclusions in the CNS and neurodegenerative changes in key disease regions, such as the pontine and dentate nuclei. Hsp90 inhibition has shown promising outcomes in some neurodegenerative diseases, but nothing is known about its effects in MJD. Chronic treatment of CMVMJD mice with Hsp90 inhibitor 17-DMAG resulted in a delay in the progression of their motor coordination deficits and, at 22 and 24 weeks of age, was able to rescue the uncoordination phenotype to wild-type levels; in parallel, a reduction in neuropathology was observed in treated animals. We observed limited induction of heat-shock proteins with treatment, but found evidence that 17-DMAG may be acting through autophagy, as LC3-II (both at mRNA and protein levels) and beclin-1 were induced in the brain of treated animals. This resulted in decreased levels of the mutant ataxin-3 and reduced intranuclear aggregation of this protein. Our data validate this novel mouse model as a relevant tool for the study of MJD pathogenesis and for pre-clinical studies, and show that Hsp90 inhibition is a promising therapeutic strategy for MJD.

Antiproliferative and antimicrobial activities of alkylbenzoquinone derivatives from Ardisia kivuensis

CONTEXT

Medicinal plants are continuously screened for their pharmacological properties. Despite the diversity and the numerous phytochemicals found in Ardisia (Myrsinaceae) species, its full biological potential has not been fully explored.

OBJECTIVE

Four naturally occurring alkylbenzoquinone derivatives, namely ardisiaquinone N (1), ardisiaquinone J (2), ardisiaquinone K (3) and a mixture of ardisiaquinone P (4) and K (3) from Ardisia kivuensis Taton (Myrsinaceae) were investigated in vitro for their cytotoxicity and antimicrobial activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined using the broth micro-dilution assay. Tumor cells growth inhibition was performed by sulphorhodamine B (SRB) assay while sub-diploid DNA fraction was measured by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Compounds 1, 2 and 3 showed significant antimicrobial activity against two Gram-positive bacteria and one fungus (with MICs varying between 3.12 and 6.25 µg/ml). The four compounds exhibited remarkable antiproliferative activity against the leukemia cell line TPH-1 with IC₅₀ inhibition values between 2 and 2.1 µg/ml. Cytotoxic activity was found to be related to apoptosis induction.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that natural compounds herein studied are interesting potential candidates for the development of new therapeutic agents, especially against leukemia and Gram-positive bacterial infections.

Combination of rapamycin, CI-1040, and 17-AAG inhibits metastatic capacity of prostate cancer via Slug inhibition

Though prostate cancer (PCa) has slow progression, the hormone refractory (HRCP) and metastatic entities are substantially lethal and lack effective treatments. Transcription factor Slug is critical in regulating metastases of various tumors including PCa. Here we studied targeted therapy against Slug using combination of 3 drugs targeting 3 pathways respectively converging via Slug and further regulating PCa metastasis. Using in vitro assays we confirmed that Slug up-regulation incurred inhibition of E-cadherin that was anti-metastatic, and inhibited Bim-regulated cell apoptosis in PCa. Upstream PTEN/Akt, mTOR, Erk, and AR/Hsp90 pathways were responsible for Slug up-regulation and each of these could be targeted by rapamycin, CI-1040, and 17-AAG respectively. In 4 PCa cell lines with different traits in terms of PTEN loss and androgen sensitivity we tested the efficacy of mono- and combined therapy with the drugs. We found that metastatic capacity of the cells was maximally inhibited only when all 3 drugs were combined, due to the crosstalk between the pathways. 17-AAG decreases Slug expression via blockade of HSP90-dependent AR stability. Combination of rapamycin and CI-1040 diminishes invasiveness more potently in PCa cells that are androgen insensitive and with PTEN loss. Slug inhibited Bim-mediated apoptosis that could be rescued by mTOR/Erk/HSP90 inhibitors. Using mouse models for circulating PCa DNA quantification, we found that combination of mTOR/Erk/HSP90 inhibitors reduced circulating PCa cells in vivo significantly more potently than combination of 2 or monotherapy. Conclusively, combination of mTOR/Erk/Hsp90 inhibits metastatic capacity of prostate cancer via Slug inhibition.

A Txnrd1-dependent metabolic switch alters hepatic lipogenesis, glycogen storage, and detoxification

Besides helping to maintain a reducing intracellular environment, the thioredoxin (Trx) system impacts bioenergetics and drug metabolism. We show that hepatocyte-specific disruption of Txnrd1, encoding Trx reductase-1 (TrxR1), causes a metabolic switch in which lipogenic genes are repressed and periportal hepatocytes become engorged with glycogen. These livers also overexpress machinery for biosynthesis of glutathione and conversion of glycogen into UDP-glucuronate; they stockpile glutathione-S-transferases and UDP-glucuronyl-transferases; and they overexpress xenobiotic exporters. This realigned metabolic profile suggested that the mutant hepatocytes might be preconditioned to more effectively detoxify certain xenobiotic challenges. Hepatocytes convert the pro-toxin acetaminophen (APAP, paracetamol) into cytotoxic N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI). APAP defenses include glucuronidation of APAP or glutathionylation of NAPQI, allowing removal by xenobiotic exporters. We found that NAPQI directly inactivates TrxR1, yet Txnrd1-null livers were resistant to APAP-induced hepatotoxicity. Txnrd1-null livers did not have more effective gene expression responses to APAP challenge; however, their constitutive metabolic state supported more robust GSH biosynthesis, glutathionylation, and glucuronidation systems. Following APAP challenge, this effectively sustained the GSH system and attenuated damage.

Active drug encapsulation and release kinetics from hydrogel-in-liposome nanoparticles

Herein, we demonstrate for the first time the use of hydrogel-in-liposome nanoparticles (lipogels) as a promising drug delivery vehicle for the active encapsulation of the anticancer drug 17-DMAPG, a geldanamycin (GA) derivative. This model drug was chosen due to its improved aqueous solubility (4.6 mg/ml) compared to the parent GA (<0.01 mg/ml), and presence of a tertiary amine which readily protonates at low pH. For the design of lipogels, a PAA hydrogel core was formed inside liposomes through UV-initiated DEAP activation and polymerization of AA and BA. We have demonstrated here that electrostatic interactions between drug and gel are critical for active encapsulation and sustained release of 17-DMAPG. We found that optimal loading conditions could be obtained (88% loading efficiency) through control of pH, temperature and incubation time. Dramatic sustained drug release from lipogels was achieved independent of the external solution pH (ca. 54 h to 50% drug release) and confirmed that the lipid bilayer was intact in the presence of the gel core. In vitro cell culture studies revealed that at the highest concentration tested, which corresponded to approximately 0.4 mg/ml of material, lipogels did not exert cytotoxicity to cells.

Combined delivery of paclitaxel and tanespimycin via micellar nanocarriers: pharmacokinetics, efficacy and metabolomic analysis

Background

Despite the promising anticancer efficacy observed in preclinical studies, paclitaxel and tanespimycin (17-AAG) combination therapy has yielded meager responses in a phase I clinical trial. One serious problem associated with paclitaxel/17-AAG combination therapy is the employment of large quantities of toxic organic surfactants and solvents for drug solubilization. The goal of this study was to evaluate a micellar formulation for the concurrent delivery of paclitaxel and 17-AAG in vivo.

Methodology/Principal Findings

Paclitaxel/17-AAG-loaded micelles were assessed in mice bearing human ovarian tumor xenografts. Compared with the free drugs at equivalent doses, intravenous administration of paclitaxel/17-AAG-loaded micelles led to 3.5- and 1.7-fold increase in the tumor concentrations of paclitaxel and 17-AAG, respectively, without significant altering drug levels in normal organs. The enhanced tumor accumulation of the micellar drugs was further confirmed by the whole-body near infrared imaging using indocyanine green-labeled micelles. Subsequently, the anticancer efficacy of paclitaxel/17-AAG-loaded micelles was examined in comparison with the free drugs (weekly 20 mg/kg paclitaxel, twice-weekly 37.5 mg/kg 17-AAG). We found that paclitaxel/17-AAG-loaded micelles caused near-complete arrest of tumor growth, whereas the free drug-treated tumors experienced rapid growth shortly after the 3-week treatment period ended. Furthermore, comparative metabolomic profiling by proton nuclear magnetic resonance revealed significant decrease in glucose, lactate and alanine with simultaneous increase in glutamine, glutamate, aspartate, choline, creatine and acetate levels in the tumors of mice treated with paclitaxel/17-AAG-loaded micelles.

Conclusions/Significance

We have demonstrated in the current wok a safe and efficacious nano-sized formulation for the combined delivery of paclitaxel and 17-AAG, and uncovered unique metabolomic signatures in the tumor that correlate with the favorable therapeutic response to paclitaxel/17-AAG combination therapy.

Development and evaluation of thymoquinone-encapsulated chitosan nanoparticles for nose-to-brain targeting: a pharmacoscintigraphic study

Chitosan (CS) nanoparticles of thymoquinone (TQ) were prepared by the ionic gelation method and are characterized on the basis of surface morphology, in vitro or ex vivo release, dynamic light scattering, and X-ray diffractometry (XRD) studies. Dynamic laser light scattering and transmission electron microscopy confirmed the particle diameter was between 150 to 200 nm. The results showed that the particle size of the formulation was significantly affected by the drug:CS ratio, whereas it was least significantly affected by the tripolyphosphate:CS ratio. The entrapment efficiency and loading capacity of TQ was found to be 63.3% ± 3.5% and 31.23% ± 3.14%, respectively. The drug-entrapment efficiency and drug-loading capacity of the nanoparticles appears to be inversely proportional to the drug:CS ratio. An XRD study proves that TQ dispersed in the nanoparticles changes its form from crystalline to amorphous. This was further confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry thermography. The flat thermogram of the nanoparticle data indicated that TQ formed a molecular dispersion within the nanoparticles. Optimized nanoparticles were evaluated further with the help of scintigraphy imaging, which ascertains the uptake of drug into the brain. Based on maximum concentration, time-to-maximum concentration, area-under-curve over 24 hours, and elimination rate constant, intranasal TQ-loaded nanoparticles (TQ-NP1) proved more effective in brain targeting compared to intravenous and intranasal TQ solution. The high drug-targeting potential and efficiency demonstrates the significant role of the mucoadhesive properties of TQ-NP1.

Thymoquinone and proanthocyanidin attenuation of diabetic nephropathy in rats

BACKGROUND

Diabetic nephro-pathy (DN) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in diabetic patients. To prevent the development of this disease and to improve advanced kidney injury, effective therapies directed toward the key molecular target are required. Proanthocyanidin (PA) and thymoquinone (TQ) have been reported to be effective in treating DN, while little is known about their mechanism of action and their combination.

AIM

This study was designed to investigate the possible beneficial effects of (TQ), (PA) and their combination to attenuate DN in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rats were divided into five groups: group 1 (control), group 2 (diabetic untreated), group 3 (diabetic treated with PA), group 4 (diabetic treated with TQ) and group 5 (diabetic treated with PA+TQ). Diabetes was induced in groups 2-5 by a single dose of 65 mg/kg streptozotocin (STZ) in citrate buffer pH 4.5. Two days after STZ treatment, development of diabetes in the experimental groups was confirmed by measuring blood glucose. Rats in group 3 were given PA (250 mg/kg), rats in group 4 were given TQ (50 mg/kg) and rats in group 5 were given PA+TQ (250+50 mg/kg respectively) once a day orally for 12 weeks starting 2 days after STZ injection.

RESULTS

In this work, novel data correlate the relation between reactive oxygen species; advanced glycation end products; IL-6 and DN were obtained. Treatment of rats in groups 3-5 with PA, TQ and PA+TQ was significantly increased- the reduced body weight, the reduced glutathione concentration and activity of superoxide dismutase. The elevated levels of urea, creatinine, nitric oxide, malondialdehyde and IL-6 in group 2 were significantly reduced as a result of the treatment.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that PA and TQ treatment exerts a therapeutic protective effect in diabetes by decreasing oxidative stress and attenuating DN. Consequently, TQ and PA may be clinically useful for protecting diabetic kidney against oxidative stress.

A phase I trial of docetaxel and pulse-dose 17-allylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin in adult patients with solid tumors

PURPOSE

To define maximum tolerated dose (MTD), clinical toxicities, and pharmacokinetics of 17-allylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin (17-AAG) when administered in combination with docetaxel once every 21 days in patients with advanced solid tumor malignancies.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

Docetaxel was administered over 1 h at doses of 55, 70, and 75 mg/m(2). 17-AAG was administered over 1-2 h, following the completion of the docetaxel infusion, at escalating doses ranging from 80 to 650 mg/m(2) in 12 patient cohorts. Serum was collected for pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies during cycle 1. Docetaxel, 17-AAG, and 17-AG levels were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. Biologic effects of 17-AAG were monitored in peripheral blood mononuclear cells by immunoblot.

RESULTS

Forty-nine patients received docetaxel and 17-AAG. The most common all-cause grade 3 and 4 toxicities were leukopenia, lymphopenia, and neutropenia. An MTD was not defined; however, three dose-limiting toxicities were observed, including 2 incidences of neutropenic fever and 1 of junctional bradycardia. Dose escalation was halted at docetaxel 75 mg/m(2)-17-AAG 650 mg/m(2) due to delayed toxicities attributed to patient intolerance of the DMSO-based 17-AAG formulation. Of 46 evaluable patients, 1 patient with lung cancer experienced a partial response. Minor responses were observed in patients with lung, prostate, melanoma, and bladder cancers. A correlation between reduced docetaxel clearance and 17-AAG dose level was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of docetaxel and 17-AAG was well tolerated in adult patients with solid tumors, although patient intolerance to the DMSO formulation precluded further dose escalation. The recommended phase II dose is docetaxel 70 mg/m(2) and 17-AAG 500 mg/m(2).

Population pharmacokinetic analysis of 17-dimethylaminoethylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin (17-DMAG) in adult patients with solid tumors

PURPOSE

To identify sources of exposure variability for the tumor growth inhibitor 17-dimethylaminoethylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin (17-DMAG) using a population pharmacokinetic analysis.

METHODS

A total 67 solid tumor patients at 2 centers were given 1 h infusions of 17-DMAG either as a single dose, daily for 3 days, or daily for 5 days. Blood samples were extensively collected and 17-DMAG plasma concentrations were measured by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. Population pharmacokinetic analysis of the 17-DMAG plasma concentration with time was performed using nonlinear mixed effect modeling to evaluate the effects of covariates, inter-individual variability, and between-occasion variability on model parameters using a stepwise forward addition then backward elimination modeling approach. The inter-individual exposure variability and the effects of between-occasion variability on exposure were assessed by simulating the 95 % prediction interval of the AUC per dose, AUC(0-24 h), using the final model and a model with no between-occasion variability, respectively, subject to the five day 17-DMAG infusion protocol with administrations of the median observed dose.

RESULTS

A 3-compartment model with first order elimination (ADVAN11, TRANS4) and a proportional residual error, exponentiated inter-individual variability and between occasion variability on Q2 and V1 best described the 17-DMAG concentration data. No covariates were statistically significant. The simulated 95% prediction interval of the AUC(0-24 h) for the median dose of 36 mg/m(2) was 1,059-9,007 mg/L h and the simulated 95 % prediction interval of the AUC(0-24 h) considering the impact of between-occasion variability alone was 2,910-4,077 mg/L h.

CONCLUSIONS

Population pharmacokinetic analysis of 17-DMAG found no significant covariate effects and considerable inter-individual variability; this implies a wide range of exposures in the population and which may affect treatment outcome. Patients treated with 17-DMAG may require therapeutic drug monitoring which could help achieve more uniform exposure leading to safer and more effective therapy.

Geldanamycin derivative ameliorates high fat diet-induced renal failure in diabetes

Diabetic nephropathy is a serious complication of longstanding diabetes and its pathogenesis remains unclear. Oxidative stress may play a critical role in the pathogenesis and progression of diabetic nephropathy. Our previous studies have demonstrated that polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) induce peroxynitrite generation in primary human kidney mesangial cells and heat shock protein 90β1 (hsp90β1) is indispensable for the PUFA action. Here we investigated the effects of high fat diet (HFD) on kidney function and structure of db/db mice, a widely used rodent model of type 2 diabetes. Our results indicated that HFD dramatically increased the 24 h-urine output and worsened albuminuria in db/db mice. Discontinuation of HFD reversed the exacerbated albuminuria but not the increased urine output. Prolonged HFD feeding resulted in early death of db/db mice, which was associated with oliguria and anuria. Treatment with the geldanamycin derivative, 17-(dimethylaminoehtylamino)-17-demethoxygeldanamycin (17-DMAG), an hsp90 inhibitor, preserved kidney function, and ameliorated glomerular and tubular damage by HFD. 17-DMAG also significantly extended survival of the animals and protected them from the high mortality associated with renal failure. The benefit effect of 17-DMAG on renal function and structure was associated with a decreased level of kidney nitrotyrosine and a diminished kidney mitochondrial Ca²⁺ efflux in HFD-fed db/db mice. These results suggest that hsp90β1 is a potential target for the treatment of nephropathy and renal failure in diabetes.

In vitro and in vivo anti-plasmodial activity of essential oils, including hinokitiol

Abstract. The anti-plasmodial activity of 47 essential oils and 10 of their constituents were screened for in vitro activity against Plasmodium falciparum. Five of these essential oils (sandalwood, caraway, monarda, nutmeg, and Thujopsis dolabrata var. hondai) and 2 constituents (thymoquinone and hinokitiol) were found to be active against P. falciparum in vitro, with 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) values equal to or less than 1.0 microg/ml. Furthermore, in vivo analysis using a rodent model confirmed the anti-plasmodial potential of subcutaneously administered sandalwood oil, and percutaneously administered hinokitiol and caraway oil against rodent P. berghei. Notably, these oils showed no efficacy when administered orally, intraperitoneally or intravenously. Caraway oil and hinokitiol dissolved in carrier oil, applied to the skin of hairless mice caused high levels in the blood, with concentrations exceeding their IC50 values.

Protective effects of thymoquinone against cholestatic oxidative stress and hepatic damage after biliary obstruction in rats

The aim of this study was to examine the preventive and therapeutic effects of thymoquinone (TQ) against cholestatic oxidative stress and liver damage in common bile duct ligated rats. A total of 24 male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups: control, bile duct ligation (BDL) and BDL + received TQ; each group contain 8 animals. The rats in TQ treated groups were given TQ (50 mg/kg body weight) once a day orally for 2 weeks starting 3 days prior to BDL operation. To date, no more biochemical and histopathological changes on common bile duct ligated rats by TQ treatment have been reported. The application of BDL clearly increased the tissue hydroxyproline (HP) content, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and decreased the antioxidant enzyme [superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx)] activities. TQ treatment significantly decreased the elevated tissue HP content, and MDA levels and raised the reduced of SOD, and GPx enzymes in the tissues. The changes demonstrating the bile duct proliferation and fibrosis in expanded portal tracts include the extension of proliferated bile ducts into lobules, mononuclear cells, and neutrophil infiltration into the widened portal areas were observed in BDL group. Treatment of BDL with TQ attenuated alterations in liver histology. The immunopositivity of alpha smooth muscle actin and proliferating cell nuclear antigen in BDL were observed to be reduced with the TQ treatment. The present study demonstrates that oral administration of TQ in bile duct ligated rats maintained antioxidant defenses and reduces liver oxidative damage and ductular proliferation. This effect of TQ may be useful in the preservation of liver function in cholestasis.