[Correlation analysis of cervical spine dysfunction, pain and muscle strength in office workers]

Objective: To expore the correlation between neck disability, neck pain and muscle strength in cervical pondylosis of office worker, and to provide scientific basis for the prevention and treatment of cervical spondylosis. Methods: In April 2021 ,234 patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy treated in the Subsidiary Rehabilitation Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine from April 2015 to April 2017 were selected, the correlation between Neck Disability Index (NDI) score, neck pain and muscle strength was analyzed using the Spearman rank correlation method. Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the difference of maximum muscle strength of isometric contraction. Results: NDI score was negatively correlated with neck flexion, extension, and muscle strength in the left and right flexion directions (r(s)=-0.164, -0.169, -0.222, -0.176, P=0.012, 0.010, 0.001 , 0.007). In mild and moderate functional disorder patients, the muscle strength in flexion, extension and left and right flexion direction was greater, the difference was statistically significant (P <0.01). Conclusion: There is a negative correlation between cervical functional disorder and cervical muscle strength in office workers, suggesting that strengthening cervical muscle strength may be a way to improve cervical spine function.

[Effects of pneumoperitoneal pressure on air embolism duringlaparoscopic hepatectomy and degree of postoperative inflammation]

Objective: To investigate the incidence and severity of embolicevents, and degree of postoperative inflammation when pneumoperitoneal pressures 15 mmHg and 12 mmHg were used during laparoscopic hepatectomy. Methods: A computer-generated 1∶1 randomization protocol was used to assign fifty patients to either the 15 mmHg(P15, n=25) or 12 mmHg(P12, n=25) group. Throughout the surgery, air embolisms were detected by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and graded based on their size. Vital signs, arterial blood gases (ABG), P(ET)CO(2) levels, blood loss, operative time and postoperative hospital stays were monitored. 2 ml blood samples were taken before and after operation finished 0, 12 and 24 h by using EDTA anticoagulated tubes in order to detect the IL-6, TNF-α and IL-10 level in plasma. Results: CO(2) embolism occurred in 100% of the enrolled patients. The frequencies of severe air embolism were 76%(n=19) in P15 group and 52% (n=13) in P12 group, respectively. The duration of severe embolism episodes in P15 group was much longer than that in P12 group[(58.0±22.6) s vs(36.6±17.8)s, t=3.71, P<0.01]. The incidence of complications in group P15 was 24%, which was higher than that in group P12 of 4%(χ(2)=4.15, P<0.05). The postoperative pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6 and TNF-α in group P15 at the point of 12 hour after operation[685.66(435.18-935.52)ng/L, 31.00(18.29-41.15)ng/L]were statistically higher than those in group P12 [480.50(255.28-685.34) ng/L, 21.00(14.87-31.64) ng/L, P<0.05], whereas the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 in P15 group[18.00(5.75-30.55) ng/L]was statistically lower than the P12 group [26.89(15.03-38.00) ng/L, P<0.05]. There was no statistical difference in operative time, blood loss and postoperative hospital stay between the two groups. Conclusion: The higher pneumoperitoneal pressure during laparoscopic hepatectomy causes more serious gas embolism, prolongs embolic duration and lead to more sever inflammatory response.

Anthocyanins from black rice (Oryza sativa) promote immune responses in leukemia through enhancing phagocytosis of macrophages in vivo

Rice is a staple food in numerous countries around the world. Anthocyanins found in black rice have been reported to reduce the risk of certain diseases, but the effects of crude extract of anthocyanins from Asia University-selected purple glutinous indica rice (AUPGA) on immune responses have not yet been demonstrated. The current study aimed to investigate whether AUPGA treatment could affect immune responses in murine leukemia cells in vivo. Murine acute myelomonocytic leukemia WEHI-3 cells were intraperitoneally injected into normal BALB/c mice to generate leukemia mice. A total of 50 mice were randomly divided into five groups (n=10 in each group) and were fed a diet supplemented with AUPGA at 0, 20, 50 or 100 mg/kg for three weeks. All mice were weighed and the blood, liver and spleen were collected for further experiments. The results indicated that AUPGA did not significantly affect animal body weight, but significantly increased spleen weight (P<0.05) and decreased liver weight (P<0.05) when compared with the control group. AUPGA significantly increased the T cell (CD3) population at treatments of 20 and 100 mg/kg (P<0.05). However, it only significantly increased the B cell (CD19) population at a treatment of 20 mg/kg (P<0.05). Furthermore, AUPGA at 50 and 100 mg/kg significantly increased the monocyte (CD11b) population and the level of macrophages (Mac-3; P<0.05 for both). AUPGA at 50 and 100 mg/kg significantly promoted macrophage phagocytosis in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (P<0.05), and all doses of AUPGA treatment significantly promoted macrophage phagocytotic activity in the peritoneum (P<0.05). AUPGA treatment significantly decreased natural killer cell activity from splenocytes (P<0.05). Finally, AUPGA treatment at 20 mg/kg treatment significantly promoted T cell proliferation (P<0.05), and treatment at 50 and 100 mg/kg significantly decreased B cell proliferation compared with the control group (P<0.05).

A comparative historical and demographic study of the neuromodulation management techniques of deep brain stimulation for dystonia and cochlear implantation for sensorineural deafness in children

Cochlear implants for sensorineural deafness in children is one of the most successful neuromodulation techniques known to relieve early chronic neurodisability, improving activity and participation. In 2012 there were 324,000 recipients of cochlear implants globally.

AIM

To compare cochlear implant (CI) neuromodulation with deep brain stimulation (DBS) for dystonia in childhood and explore relations between age and duration of symptoms at implantation and outcome.

METHODS

Comparison of published annual UK CI figures for 1985-2009 with a retrospective cohort of the first 9 years of DBS for dystonia in children at a single-site Functional Neurosurgery unit from 2006 to 14.

RESULTS

From 2006 to 14, DBS neuromodulation of childhood dystonia increased by a factor of 3.8 to a total of 126 cases over the first 9 years, similar to the growth in cochlear implants which increased by a factor of 4.1 over a similar period in the 1980s rising to 527 children in 2009. The CI saw a dramatic shift in practice from implantation at >5 years of age at the start of the programme towards earlier implantation by the mid-1990s. Best language results were seen for implantation <5 years of age and duration of cochlear neuromodulation >4 years, hence implantation <1 year of age, indicating that severely deaf, pre-lingual children could benefit from cochlear neuromodulation if implanted early. Similar to initial CI use, the majority of children receiving DBS for dystonia in the first 9 years were 5-15 years of age, when the proportion of life lived with dystonia exceeds 90% thus limiting benefits.

CONCLUSION

Early DBS neuromodulation for acquired motor disorders should be explored to maximise the benefits of dystonia reduction in a period of maximal developmental plasticity before the onset of disability. Learning from cochlear implantation, DBS can become an accepted management option in children under the age of 5 years who have a reduced proportion of life lived with dystonia, and not viewed as a last resort reserved for only the most severe cases where benefits may be at their most limited.

Crude extract of Rheum palmatum L. Induces cell cycle arrest S phase and apoptosis through mitochondrial-dependent pathways in U-2 OS human osteosarcoma cells

Cancer is the second cause of death in children. Osteosarcoma is the most common primary malignancy of solid bone cancer primarily affecting adolescents and young adults. In the Chinese population, the crude extract of Rheum palmatum L. (CERP) has been used for treating different diseases, including SARS, rheumatoid arthritis, coxsackievirus B3, and human colon cancer cell, pancreatic cancer. There are no reports on CERP and human osteosarcoma cells. The present study examined effects of CERP on cytotoxicity including cell cycle distribution and cell death (apoptosis) in U-2 OS human osteosarcoma cells. CERP significantly induced S phase arrest in U-2 OS cells in a dose-dependent. CERP produced DNA damage and DNA condensation. Other effects of CERP were stimulation of ROS and Ca(2+) , mitochondria impairment, and activation of caspase-3, -8, and -9. CERP increased the levels of Bax, Bak, Bad, cyclin B, Fas, PARP, GRP78, GADD153, AIF, Endo G, Calpain-2, p21, and p27, but decreased the levels of Bcl-2, BCL-X, XIAP, Akt, CDC25A, CDK2, Cyclin A, and Cyclin E of U-2 OS cells. It was also observed that CERP promoted the expression of AIF, Endo G, GADD153, and cytochrome c. These results indicate that CERP has anticancer effects in vitro and provide the foundation for in vivo studies of animal models of osteosarcoma. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 31: 957-969, 2016.

Casticin Induced Apoptosis in A375.S2 Human Melanoma Cells through the Inhibition of NF-[Formula: see text]B and Mitochondria-Dependent Pathways In Vitro and Inhibited Human Melanoma Xenografts in a Mouse Model In Vivo

Casticin, a polymethoxyflavone occurring in natural plants, has been shown to have anticancer activities. In the present study, we aims to investigate the anti-skin cancer activity of casticin on melanoma cells in vitro and the antitumor effect of casticin on human melanoma xenografts in nu/nu mice in vivo. A flow cytometric assay was performed to detect expression of viable cells, cell cycles, reactive oxygen species production, levels of [Formula: see text] and caspase activity. A Western blotting assay and confocal laser microscope examination were performed to detect expression of protein levels. In the in vitro studies, we found that casticin induced morphological cell changes and DNA condensation and damage, decreased the total viable cells, and induced G2/M phase arrest. Casticin promoted reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, decreased the level of [Formula: see text], and promoted caspase-3 activities in A375.S2 cells. The induced G2/M phase arrest indicated by the Western blotting assay showed that casticin promoted the expression of p53, p21 and CHK-1 proteins and inhibited the protein levels of Cdc25c, CDK-1, Cyclin A and B. The casticin-induced apoptosis indicated that casticin promoted pro-apoptotic proteins but inhibited anti-apoptotic proteins. These findings also were confirmed by the fact that casticin promoted the release of AIF and Endo G from mitochondria to cytosol. An electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) assay showed that casticin inhibited the NF-[Formula: see text]B binding DNA and that these effects were time-dependent. In the in vivo studies, results from immuno-deficient nu/nu mice bearing the A375.S2 tumor xenograft indicated that casticin significantly suppressed tumor growth based on tumor size and weight decreases. Early G2/M arrest and mitochondria-dependent signaling contributed to the apoptotic A375.S2 cell demise induced by casticin. In in vivo experiments, A375.S2 also efficaciously suppressed tumor volume in a xenotransplantation model. Therefore, casticin might be a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of skin cancer in the future.

Effects of diallyl trisulfide on induction of apoptotic death in murine leukemia WEHI-3 cells in vitro and alterations of the immune responses in normal and leukemic mice in vivo

Diallyl trisulfide (DATS), a chemopreventive dietary constituent and extracted from garlic, has been shown to against cultured many types of human cancer cell liens but the fate of apoptosis in murine leukemia cells in vitro and immune responses in leukemic mice remain elusive. Herein, we clarified the actions of DATS on growth inhibition of murine leukemia WEHI-3 cells in vitro and used WEHI-3 cells to generate leukemic mice in vivo, following to investigate the effects of DATS in animal model. In in vitro study, DATS induced apoptosis of WEHI-3 cells through the G0/G1 phase arrest and induction of caspase-3 activation. In in vivo study DATS decreased the weight of spleen of leukemia mice but did not affect the spleen weight of normal mice. DATS promoted the immune responses such as promotions of the macrophage phagocytosis and NK cell activities in WEHI-3 leukemic and normal mice. However, DATS only promotes NK cell activities in normal mice. DATS increases the surface markers of CD11b and Mac-3 in leukemia mice but only promoted CD3 in normal mice. In conclusion, the present study indicates that DATS induces cell death through induction of apoptosis in mice leukemia WHEI-3 cells. DATS also promotes immune responses in leukemia and normal mice in vivo.

Bisdemethoxycurcumin (BDMC) Alters Gene Expression-associated Cell Cycle, Cell Migration and Invasion and Tumor Progression in Human Lung Cancer NCI-H460 Cells

BACKGROUND/AIM

Lung cancer is one of the most common malignancies and a predominant cause of cancer-related death. It can metastasize in almost all organs, and currently, while new cases are increasing, treatment is still insufficient. Bisdemethoxycurcumin (BDMC), one of the components of turmeric, has been known to possess biological activities. However, the effects of BDMC on the genetic level remain unclear.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Human lung cancer NCI-H460 cells were treated with 35 μM BDMC for 24 h and cells were harvested for total RNA extraction. The purified RNA was used for cDNA synthesis, labeling, microarray hybridization, and flour-labeled cDNA on-chip hybridization. The expression Console software (Affymetrix) with default RNA parameters was used to detect and quantitate concentrations of fluorescent molecules. The key genes involved and their possible interaction pathways were analyzed by the GeneGo software.

RESULTS

Seven genes, such as CCNE2 (cyclin E), associated with cell cycle, were over 4-fold overexpressed, 22 genes, such as ERCC6L (excision repair cross-complementing rodent repair deficiency, complementation group 6-like) associated with DNA damage and repair, were from 3- to 4-fold overexpressed and 266, such as cell division cycle, S-phase associated kinase and associated with cell death, genes were from 2- to 3-fold overexpressed.

CONCLUSION

BDMC induced changes in gene expression that may reveal cytotoxic information on the genetic level while presenting novel biomarkers or targets for treatment of human lung cancer in the future.

Chloroform Extract of Solanum lyratum Induced G0/G1 Arrest via p21/p16 and Induced Apoptosis via Reactive Oxygen Species, Caspases and Mitochondrial Pathways in Human Oral Cancer Cell Lines

Solanum lyratum (SLEC) Thunberg (Solanaceae) has been used as a traditional herbal medicine in China for centuries. Numerous studies have shown that SLEC Thunberg (Solanaceae) extract inhibited cancer cell growth in vitro. Herein, we investigated cell death-induced by EcoAc, water, chloroform, butanol extract of SLEC in human oral cancer cell lines (HSC-3, SAS, and CAL-27) in vitro. Different SLEC extract induced cytotoxic effects in human oral cancer cells were examined by contrast phase microscopy. We selected the chloroform extract of SLEC to examine the cytotoxic effects by using DAPI staining, comet assays, flow cytometric assay, Western blotting and examination of confocal laser microscopy. SLEC decreased the percentage of viable cells, induced G0/G1 arrest and apoptosis. These effects were concentration- and time-dependent manners. SLEC increased protein levels of p21, p16, CDK2, and cyclin D1 in HSC-3, SAS, and CAL-27 cells. Also, SLEC increased CDK6 in HSC-3 and CAL-27 cells, but inhibited CDK6 in SAS cells. Cyclin E in HSC-3 and SAS cells was increased by SLEC, but it was inhibited in CAL-27 cells. SLEC suppressed the anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl, but increased the pro-apoptotic proteins Bax and Bad in HSC-3, SAS, and CAL-27 cells. SLEC promoted the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Ca²⁺, decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm) and stimulated NO production in HSC-3, SAS, and CAL-27 cells. Specific caspase inhibitors (caspase-8 inhibitor: Z-IETD-FMK; caspase-9 inhibitor: Z-LEHD-FMK and caspase-3 inhibitor: Z-DEVD-FMK) for caspase-8, -9, and -3 blocked SLE-activated caspase-8, -9, and -3 activities which were associated with an increase in the percentage of viable cells. Taken together, SLE induced G0/G1 arrest and apoptosis via extrinsic- and intrinsic-dependent pathways in HSC-3, SAS, and CAL-27 cells.

Ethanol Extract of Hedyotis diffusa Willd Affects Immune Responses in Normal Balb/c Mice In Vivo

Numerous clinical anticancer drugs are obtained from natural plants and Hedyotis diffusa Willd (EEHDW) has been used as a major component in Traditional Chinese medicine formulas since a long time. Ethanol extracts of EEHDW have been shown to possess various biological activities including anticancer function in vitro. Our earlier studies have shown that EEHDW affects immune responses in WEHI-3-generated leukemia mice, but EEHDW has not been reported to affect immune responses in a normal mouse model. Herein, we investigated whether EEHDW could affect immune responses on normal murine cells in vivo. Normal BALB/c mice were orally treated with or without EEHDW at 0, 16, 32, and 64 mg/kg or 32 mg/kg by i.p. for 3 weeks, then were weighed, and blood, liver and spleen samples were collected for further experiments. Results indicated that EEHDW did not significantly affect body and liver weight but significantly increased the spleen weight by i.p. treatment when compared to control groups. Flow cytometric assays indicated that EEHDW promoted CD11b levels at 16, 32 and 64 mg/kg oral treatment, CD19 levels at 16, 32, 64 mg/kg oral treatment and i.p. treatment, and Mac-3 levels at 16, 32 and 64 mg/kg oral treatment, however, it did not significantly affect the levels of CD3. Oral treatment with 16 and 32 mg/kg of EEHDW significantly decreased macrophage phagocytosis from PBMC; 32 mg/kg of EEHDW by i.p. treatment significantly increased phagocytosis activity of macrophages obtain from the peritoneal cavity. EEHDW at 32 mg/kg by i.p. treatment led to an increase of NK cell activities compared to oil control groups. EEHDW at 32 mg/kg of EEHDW by i.p. treatment increased B- and T-cell proliferation. Based on these observations, EEHDW seems to have promoted immune responses in this murine model.

Gallic acid induces DNA damage and inhibits DNA repair-associated protein expression in human oral cancer SCC-4 cells

Gallic acid (GA), a phenolic compound naturally present in plants, used as an antioxidant additive in food and in the pharmaceutical industry, may have cancer chemopreventive properties. In the present study, we investigated whether GA induced DNA damage and affected DNA repair-associated protein expression in human oral cancer SCC-4 cells. Flow cytometry assays were used to measure total viable cells and results indicated that GA decreased viable cells dose-dependently. The comet assay and 4',6-Diamidino-2-phenylindole dihydrochloride (DAPI) staining were used to measure DNA damage, as well as condensation and it was shown that GA induced DNA damage (comet tail) and DNA condensation in a dose-dependent manner. DNA gel electrophoresis was used to examine DNA fragmentation and we found that GA induced DNA ladder (fragmentation). Using western blotting it was shown that GA inhibited the protein expressions of MDC1, O(6)-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT), p-H2A.X, p53, DNA-dependent serine/threonine protein kinase (DNA-PK) and 14-3-3 proteins sigma (14-3-3σ) but increased p-p53, phosphate-ataxia-telangiectasia (p-H2A.X) and ataxia telangiectasia mutated and Rad3-related (p-ATR), phosphate-ataxia telangiectasia mutated (p-ATM) and breast cancer susceptibility protein 1 (BRCA1) in a 24-h treatment. The protein translocation was examined by confocal laser microscopy and results indicated that GA increased the levels of p-H2A.X, MDC1 and p-p53 in SCC-4 cells. In conclusion, we found that GA-induced cell death may proceed through the induced DNA damage and suppressed DNA repair-associated protein expression in SCC-4 cells.

Crude extract of Polygonum cuspidatum promotes immune responses in leukemic mice through enhancing phagocytosis of macrophage and natural killer cell activities in vivo

Polygonum cuspidatum is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine used in the treatment of various diseases. In the present study, we investigated whether the crude extract of Polygonum cuspidatum (CEPC) could affect immune responses of murine leukemia cells in vivo. Normal BALB/c mice were i.p. injected with WEHI-3 cells to generate leukemic mice and then were treated orally with CEPC at 0, 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg for three weeks. Animals were weighed and blood, liver, spleen samples were collected for further analyses. Results indicated that CEPC did not significantly affect the body and liver weight of animals, but reduced the weight of spleen when compared to control groups. Flow cytometric assay demonstrated that CEPC increased the percentage of CD3- (T-cell marker) and CD19- (B-cell marker) positive cells, but reduced that of CD11b-positive ones (monocytes). However, it did not significantly affect the proportion of Mac-3-positive cells (macrophages), compared to control groups. Results indicated that CEPC promoted phagocytosis by macrophages from blood samples at all examined doses but did not affect that of macrophages from the peritoneal cavity. CEPC also promoted natural killer cell activity of splenocytes at 200 mg/kg of CEPC. CEPC promoted B-cell proliferation at 200 mg/kg treatment when cells were stimulated with lipopolysaccharides but did not promote T-cell proliferation at three doses of CEPC treatment on concanavalin A stimulation.

Cantharidin induces DNA damage and inhibits DNA repair-associated protein expressions in TSGH8301 human bladder cancer cell

Cantharidin is an active component of mylabris, which has been used as a traditional Chinese medicine. Cantharidin has been shown to have antitumor activity against several types of human cancers in vitro and in animal models in vivo. We investigated whether cantharidin induces DNA damage and affects DNA damage repair-associated protein levels in TSGH8301 human bladder cancer cells. Using flow cytometry to measure viable cells, cantharidin was found to reduce the number of viable cells in a dose-dependent manner. Comet assay, 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining and DNA gel electrophoresis were used to measure DNA damage and condensation; the results indicated that cantharidin induced DNA damage (comet tail), DNA condensation (white DAPI staining) and DNA damage (DNA smear). Results from western blotting showed that cantharidin inhibited the expression of DNA-dependent serine/threonine protein kinase, poly-ADP ribose polymerase, phosphate-ataxia-telangiectasia and RAD3-related, O-6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase, breast cancer susceptibility protein 1, mediator of DNA damage checkpoint protein 1, phospho-histone H2A.X, but increased that of phosphorylated p53 following 6 and 24 h treatment. Confocal laser microscopy was used to examine the protein translocation; cantharidin suppressed the levels of p-H2A.X and MDC1 but increased the levels of p-p53 in TSGH8301 cells. In conclusion, we found that cantharidin-induced cell death may occur through the induction of DNA damage and suppression of DNA repair-associated protein expression in TSGH8301 cells.

Crude extract of Rheum palmatum L induced cell death in LS1034 human colon cancer cells acts through the caspase-dependent and -independent pathways

Crude extract of Rheum palmatum L (CERP) has been used to treat different diseases in the Chinese population for decades. In this study, we investigated the effects of CERP on LS1034 human colorectal cancer cells in vitro and also examined possible mechanisms of cell death. Flow cytometric assays were used to measure the percentage of viable cells, cell cycle distribution including the sub-G1 phase (apoptosis), the activities of caspase-8, -9, and -3, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Ca(2+) levels, and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). DNA damage, nuclei condensation, protein expression, and translocation were examined by Comet assay, 4'-6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining, Western blotting, and confocal laser system microscope, respectively. CERP induced apoptosis as seen by DNA fragmentation and DAPI staining in a concentration- and time-dependent manner in cancer cells. CERP was associated with an increase in the Bax/Bcl-2 protein ratio and CERP promoted the activities of caspase-8, -9, and -3. Both ROS and Ca(2+) levels were increased by CERP but the compound decreased levels of ΔΨm in LS1034 cells. Laser confocal microscope also confirmed that CERP promoted the expressions of AIF, Endo G, cytochrome c, and GADD153 to induce apoptosis through mitochondrial-dependent pathway.

Quercetin inhibits migration and invasion of SAS human oral cancer cells through inhibition of NF-κB and matrix metalloproteinase-2/-9 signaling pathways

Quercetin, a principal flavanoid compound in onions, has been shown to possess a wide spectrum of pharmacological properties, including anticancer activities. Our earlier study showed that quercetin induced cytotoxic effects on SAS human oral cancer cells. In this study, we found that quercetin significantly reduced wound closure of SAS cells in culture plates after 12- and 24-h treatments. Results indicated that quercetin inhibited the expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9, as measured by western blotting and gelatin zymography. The results from western blotting also showed that quercetin reduced the protein levels of MMP-2, -7, -9 and -10, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) p65, inductible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA), phosphatidylinositide-3 kinases (PI3K), nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells inhibitor, alpha (IKBα), IKB-α/β, phosphorylated nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells inhibitor kinase, alpha/beta (p-IKKα/β), focal adhesion kinase (FAK), son of sevenless homolog-1 (SOS1), growth factor receptor-bound protein-2 (GRB2), mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase-3 (MEKK3), MEKK7, extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), p-ERK1/2, c-Jun N-terminal kinase 1/2 (JNK1/2), p38, p-p38, Jun proto-oncogene (c-JUN) and p-c-JUN but it did not affect Ras homolog gene family, member A (RhoA), Protein kinase C (PKC) and rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (RAS) in SAS cells. Confocal laser microscopy also showed that quercetin promoted the expressions of RhoA and Rho-associated, coiled-coil containing protein kinase-1 (ROCK1), but inhibited the expression of NF-κB p65 in SAS cells. It is concluded from these data that inhibition of migration and invasion of SAS cells by quercetin is associated with the down-regulation of PKC and RhoA by blocking MAPK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways and NF-κB and uPA, resulting in inhibition of MMP-2 and MMP-9 signaling.

Phenethyl isothiocyanate promotes immune responses in normal BALB/c mice, inhibits murine leukemia WEHI-3 cells, and stimulates immunomodulations in vivo

Enhanced cruciferous vegetable consumption is associated with the reduction of cancer incidence as shown in epidemiological studies. Phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC), one of the important compounds in cruciferous vegetables, has been shown to induce apoptosis in many types of human cancer cell lines, but there is no available information addressing the effects on normal and leukemia mice in vivo. The purpose of this study is to focus on the in vivo effects of PEITC on immune responses of normal and WEHI-3 leukemia BALB/c mice in vivo. Influences of PEITC on BALB/c mice after intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection with WEHI-3 cells and normal mice were investigated. In normal BALB/c mice, PEITC did not affect the body weight when compared to the olive oil treated animals. Moreover, PEITC promoted phagocytosis by macrophages from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and peritoneal cavity, increased the levels of CD11b and Mac-3, decreased the level of CD19 and promoted natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxic activity, but it did not alter the level of CD3. Also, PEITC enhanced T cell proliferation after concanavalin A (Con A) stimulation. Otherwise, PEITC increased the body weight, but decreased the weight of liver and spleen as compared to the olive oil-treated WEHI-3 leukemia mice. PEITC also increased the level of CD19, decreased the levels of CD3 and Mac-3 rather than influence in the level of CD11b, suggesting that the differentiation of the precursor of macrophages and T cells was inhibited, but the differentiation of the precursor of B cells was promoted in leukemia mice. Furthermore, PEITC enhanced phagocytosis by monocytes and macrophages from PBMC and peritoneal cavity, and also promoted the NK cell cytotoxic activity in comparison with the group of leukemia mice. Based on these observations, the biological properties of PEITC can promote immune responses in normal and WEHI-3 leukemia mice in vivo. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2013.

Development and properties of Ti-In binary alloys as dental biomaterials

The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of alloying element indium on the microstructure, mechanical properties, corrosion behavior and in vitro cytotoxicity of Ti-In binary alloys, with the addition of 1, 5, 10 and 15 at.% indium. The phase constitution was studied by optical microscopic observation and X-ray diffraction measurements. The mechanical properties were characterized by tension and microhardness tests. Potentiodynamic polarization measurements were employed to investigate the corrosion behavior in artificial saliva solutions with and without fluoride. In vitro cytotoxicity was conducted by using L929 and NIH 3T3 mouse fibroblast cell lines, with commercially pure Ti (CP-Ti, ASTM grade 2) as negative control. All of the binary Ti-In alloys investigated in this work were found to have higher strength and microhardness than CP-Ti. Electrochemical results showed that Ti-In alloys exhibited the same order of magnitude of passivation current densities with CP-Ti in artificial saliva solutions. With the presence of NaF, Ti-10In and Ti-15In showed transpassive behavior and lower current densities at high potentials. All experimental Ti-In alloys showed good cytocompatibility, at the same level as CP-Ti. The addition of indium to titanium was effective on increasing the strength and microhardness, without impairing its good corrosion resistance and cytocompatibility.

Apigenin induces apoptosis through mitochondrial dysfunction in U-2 OS human osteosarcoma cells and inhibits osteosarcoma xenograft tumor growth in vivo

The cytostatic drug from natural products has acted as a chemotherapeutic agent used in treatment of a wide variety of cancers. Apigenin, a type of flavonoid, exhibits anticancer actions, but there is no report to show that apigenin induced apoptosis in osteosarcoma cells. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of apigenin on U-2 OS human osteosarcoma cells and clarify that the apigenin-induced apoptosis-associated signals. The cytotoxic effects of apigenin were examined by culturing U-2 OS cells with or without apigenin. The percentage of viable cells via PI staining, apoptotic cells, productions of ROS and Ca²⁺, and the level of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) were assayed by flow cytometry. The levels of apoptosis-related proteins were measured by immunoblotting. Results indicated that apigenin significantly decreased cell viability. Apigenin effectively induced apoptosis through the activations of caspase-3, -8, -9, and BAX and promoted the release of AIF in U-2 OS cells. In nude mice bearing U-2 OS xenograft tumors, apigenin inhibited tumor growth. In conclusion, apigenin has anticancer properties for induction of cell apoptosis in U-2 OS cells and suppresses the xenograft tumor growth. These findings offer novel information that apigenin possibly possesses anticancer activity in human osteosarcoma.

Microstructure, mechanical property, corrosion behavior, and in vitro biocompatibility of Zr-Mo alloys

In this study, the microstructure, mechanical properties, corrosion behaviors, and in vitro biocompatibility of Zr-Mo alloys as a function of Mo content after solution treatment were systemically investigated to assess their potential use in biomedical application. The experimental results indicated that Zr-1Mo alloy mainly consisted of an acicular structure of α' phase, while ω phase formed in Zr-3Mo alloy. In Zr-5Mo alloy, retained β phase and a small amount of precipitated α phase were observed. Only the retained β phase was obtained in Zr-10Mo alloy. Zr-1Mo alloy exhibited the greatest hardness, bending strength, and modulus among all experimental Zr-Mo alloys, while β phase Zr-10Mo alloy had a low modulus. The results of electrochemical corrosion indicated that adding Mo into Zr improved its corrosion resistance which resulted in increasing the thermodynamic stability and passivity of zirconium. The cytotoxicity test suggested that the extracts of the studied Zr-Mo alloys produced no significant deleterious effect to fibroblast cells (L-929) and osteoblast cells (MG 63), indicating an excellent in vitro biocompatibility. Based on these facts, certain Zr-Mo alloys potentially suitable for different biomedical applications were proposed.

Rutin inhibits human leukemia tumor growth in a murine xenograft model in vivo

Numerous studies have shown that rutin has anticancer effects. We have previously reported that rutin induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in murine leukemia WEHI-3 cells in vitro and in vivo. However, there are no data showing that rutin inhibits human leukemia HL-60 cells in vivo in a murine xenograft animal model. Human leukemia HL-60 cells were implanted into mice and treated with vehicle (1% DMSO), rutin (120 mg/kg of body weight) or vinblastine (120 μg/kg of body weight). Compounds and agents were injected once every four days intraperitoneally (i.p.) for 36 days. Treatment with 120 mg/kg of rutin or with 120 μg/kg of vinblastine resulted in a reduction of tumor weight and volume when compared with the control groups. Tumor size in xenograft mice treated with 120 mg/kg of rutin was significantly smaller than that in the untreated-control group. These novel findings indicate that rutin inhibits tumor growth in a xenograft animal model. Rutin may be useful in treating leukemia but certainly much more research is needed. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2012.

Osteoblast response on Ti- and Zr-based bulk metallic glass surfaces after sand blasting modification

The present study aimed to evaluate the osteoblast response on Ti- and Zr-based BMG surfaces sand blasted with different grit corundums for implant application, with mechanically polished disks before sand blasting as control groups. The surface properties were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), contact angle, and roughness measurements. Further evaluation of the surface bioactivity was conducted by MG63 cell attachment, proliferation, morphology, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity on the sample surfaces. It was found that corundum sand blasting surfaces significantly increased the surface wettability and MG63 cell attachment, cell proliferation, and ALP activity in comparison with the control group surfaces. Besides, the sample surface treated by large grit corundum is more favorable for cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation than samples treated by small grit corundum, indicating that it might be effective for improving implant osseointegration in vivo.

Inhibition of invasion and migration by newly synthesized quinazolinone MJ-29 in human oral cancer CAL 27 cells through suppression of MMP-2/9 expression and combined down-regulation of MAPK and AKT signaling

Anti-metastasis by reducing cellular migration and invasion and by deregulating the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) is a therapeutic approach for cancer treatment. The objective of this study focused on the effects of the novel compound 6-pyrrolidinyl-2-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-4-quinazolinone (MJ-29) regarding anti-metastatic actions on human oral squamous cell carcinoma CAL 27 cells and on the verification of the underlying related molecular mechanisms of this event. MJ-29 concentration- and time-dependently caused a suppression of cell adhesive ability utilizing cell adhesion assay; it also inhibited the migration and invasion of CAL 27 cells using scratch wound closure and transwell invasion assays in a concentration-dependent response. Importantly, we confirmed that the applied concentration range of MJ-29 exhibited no dramatic influence of cytotoxicity on CAL 27 cells using the thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide assay. MJ-29 also attenuated the enzymatic activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9. Furthermore, we found that activation of their upstream protein kinases, by MJ-29, potentially exerted an inhibitory effect on the phosphorylated protein levels of extracellular regulated protein kinase 1/2, p38 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase 1/2, as well as serine/threonine kinase AKT by MJ-29 in CAL 27 cells. The expression of RAS and focal adhesion kinase was also down-regulated in MJ-29-treated CAL 27 cells. Collectively, these findings provide further evidence for the molecular signaling basis of the effects of MJ-29 on suppression of migration and invasion which might be useful as a therapeutic strategy to treat human oral cancer.

Chrysin, a natural and biologically active flavonoid, influences a murine leukemia model in vivo through enhancing populations of T-and B-cells, and promoting macrophage phagocytosis and NK cell cytotoxicity

Chrysin (5,7-dihydroxyflavone), a natural and biologically active flavonoid found in plants, possesses many biological activities and anticancer effects. However, there is no available evidence regarding the antileukemia responses to chrysin in a mouse model. We hypothesized that chrysin affects murine WEHI-3 leukemia cells in vitro and in vivo. The present study showed that chrysin at concentrations of 5-50 μM reduced the cell viability in concentration- and time-dependent manners. In an in vivo study, WEHI-3 leukemic BALB/c mice were established in order to determine antileukemia activity of chrysin. Our results revealed that chrysin increased the percentage of CD3 (T-cell maker), CD19 (B-cell maker) and Mac-3 (macrophages) cell surface markers in treated mice as compared with the untreated leukemia group. However, chrysin did not significantly influence the level of CD11b (a monocyte maker) in treated mice. Moreover, there was a significant increase in phagocytosis by macrophages from peripheral blood mononuclear cells, but no effect in those from the peritoneal cavity in leukemic mice after chrysin treatment. Isolated splenocytes from chrysin-treated leukemic mice demonstrated an increase of natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity. Based on these observations, chrysin might exhibit antileukemia effects on a murine WEHI-3 cell line-induced leukemia in vivo.

Norcantharidin triggers cell death and DNA damage through S-phase arrest and ROS-modulated apoptotic pathways in TSGH 8301 human urinary bladder carcinoma cells

Norcantharidin (NCTD) is one of the ingredients of blister beetles which have been used in Chinese medicine for a long time. The purpose of this study was to investigate the inhibitory effects of NCTD on TSGH 8301 human bladder cancer cells in vitro and the mechanisms through which it exerts its anticancer action. Cell morphological analysis was performed using a phase-contrast microscope. The percentage of viable cells, cell cycle distribution, sub-G1 phase (apoptosis), reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and the levels of mitochondrial membrane potential (∆Ψ(m)) were analyzed by flow cytometry. DNA condensation and damage were determined by DAPI staining and comet assay. Apoptosis-associated protein level changes in TSGH 8301 cells following exposure to NCTD were examined, measured and determined by western blotting. Analysis of protein translocation was conducted by immunostaining and confocal laser microscopy. The results indicated that NCTD promoted cytotoxic effects, including the induction of cell morphological changes and the decrease in the percentage of viability, the induction of S-phase arrest as well as sub-G1 phase (apoptosis) in TSGH 8301 cells. The activities of caspase-3 and -9 were upregulated following NCTD treatment. Western blotting indicated that NCTD upregulated Fas, FasL, Bax, Bid, cytochrome c, caspase-3, -8 and -9 that led to the induction of apoptosis through the Fas extrinsic pathway. Furthermore, NCTD induced AIF and Endo G that were released from mitochondria to induce apoptosis through the mitochondrial-independent pathway. NCTD upregulated ROS production, downregulated ∆Ψ(m) and ERK, JNK, p38 protein kinases in TSGH 8301 cells. These findings suggest that NCTD triggers apoptosis in TSGH 8301 human bladder cancer cells via the Fas receptor, activation of the caspse-8, -9 and -3, mitochondrial-dependent and -independent pathways. NCTD may be useful for developing new therapeutic regimens for the treatment of bladder cancer.

Extract of Hedyotis diffusa Willd influences murine leukemia WEHI-3 cells in vivo as well as promoting T- and B-cell proliferation in leukemic mice

Medicinal plants and herbs are widely used in the treatment of various types of cancer in Taiwan, China and many other countries. Hedyotis diffusa Willd (HDW) has been known as a traditional Chinese medicine for a long time, and possesses various bioactivities and anticancer activity. There is no available information on the effects of HDW extracts in leukemic mice and on immune responses in vivo. In this study, we established murine WEHI-3 leukemia in BALB/c mice and hypothesized that an aqueous HDW extract might have antileukemia effects on leukemic animals in vivo. The major characteristic of leukemic mice was an enlarged spleen after intraperitoneal injection with WEHI-3 cells. HDW extract reduced the weights of spleen and liver, but had no significant effect on body weight in WEHI-3 leukemic mice. HDW extract increased the percentage of CD11b cell surface marker (monocytes), but it reduced the percentage of CD3 (T-cell) and CD19 (B-cell) markers. However, HDW extract did not affect the level of Mac-3 and there was no influence on phagocytosis by macrophages from peripheral blood mononuclear cells and the peritoneal cavity in leukemic mice. The isolated splenocytes from HDW extract-treated leukemic mice demonstrated an increase of T- and B-cell proliferation in vivo. Based on these results, HDW extract would appear to have antileukemia activity in WEHI-3 cell-induced leukemia in vivo.

Diallyl trisulfide (DATS) inhibits mouse colon tumor in mouse CT-26 cells allograft model in vivo

Our earlier studies showed that DATS induced apoptosis in human colon cancer HT29 and colo 205 cell lines in vitro. However, there is no report to show that DATS induced apoptosis in vitro and inhibited CT26 cancer cells in vivo on a murine allograft animal model. In vitro studies, the results indicated that DATS induced morphological changes and induction of apoptosis in CT26 cells. In vivo studies, CT26 cancer cells were implanted into BALB/c mice and groups of mice were treated with vehicle, DATS (10 and 50 mg/kg of body weight). DATS were injected once per four days intraperitoneally (i.p.), with treatment starting 4 weeks prior to cells inoculation. Treatment with vehicle or with 10 and 50 mg/kg of DATS resulted in a reduction in tumor volume and weight. Tumor volume and total hemoglobin in allograft mice treated with 50 mg/kg DATS were significantly smaller than that in the control group. These findings indicated that DATS inhibits tumor growth in an allograft animal model. Thus, DATS may represent a colon cancer preventive agent and can be used in the future.

Expression of aberrant beta-catenin and impaired p63 in craniopharyngiomas

Craniopharyngiomas are rare, histologically benign, non-neuroepithelial epithelial tumors arising from the sellar region, the molecular pathogenesis of CPs is yet not understood. The aim of the present study was to assess expression of aberrant beta-catenin and impaired p63 in 66 craniopharyngiomas included 51 adamantinomatous craniopharyngiomas and 15 squamous papillary craniopharyngiomas. On immunohistochemistry, 47 out of 51 adamantinomatous craniopharyngiomas, but not squamous papillary craniopharyngiomas, showed strong nuclear/cytoplasmic expression for beta-catenin predominantly in compactly cohesive epithelial cells within the whorl-like arrays where ki-67 was almost absent and rarely in palisaded cells where ki-67 was mainly present. P63 overexpression was observed in 45 out of 51 adamantinomatous craniopharyngiomas and 14 out of 15 squamous papillary craniopharyngiomas. P63 stained not only in the nuclei of basal layer cells but also within the whorl-like arrays in adamantinomatous craniopharyngiomas and uniformly in squamous papillary craniopharyngiomas. Using quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction techniques to correlate p63 protein expression with p63 mRNA levels, TAp63 isoforms mRNA was reduced, whereas DeltaNp63 mRNA elevated at levels in 5 snap frozen tissue samples with multiple large p63 positive cell clusters compared with normal tissues. In conclusion, the present study confirmed that the two variants of CPs have genetically not only distinctive but also common feature. It demonstrated that cytoplasm/nuclear beta-catenin accumulation is an exclusively characteristic morphology of adaCPs. P63 immunohistochemical overexpression were found in both adaCPs and spCPs variant when analyzed in the same study. Taken together, the impaired p63 expression may be attributed to elevated DeltaNp63 mRNA and reduced TAp63mRNA in CPs.

Wogonin triggers apoptosis in human osteosarcoma U-2 OS cells through the endoplasmic reticulum stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and caspase-3-dependent signaling pathways

Wogonin (5,7-dihydroxy-8-methoxyflavone) is a flavone constituent of Scutellaria baicalensis with various beneficial biological activities and it has been shown to have tumor therapeutic potential in vitro and in vivo. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of wogonin in a human osteosarcoma cell line (U-2 OS). Results showed that a dose- and time-dependent reduction occurred in cell viability after exposure to wogonin in U-2 OS cells. Increasing the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Ca2+ but decreasing the levels of mitochondrial membrane potential (∆Ψm) were examined in wogonin-treated U-2 OS cells. Flow cytometric assay indicated that wogonin induced sub-G1 phase (apoptosis) and increased caspase-3 activity in examined cells. Wogonin-induced apoptosis in U-2 OS cells was also confirmed by 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining. Also, results from Western blotting indicated that wogonin increased the levels of Bad, Bax, cytochrome c, cleaved caspase-9, cleaved caspase-3, AIF, Endo G, Fas/CD95, caspase-8, GADD153, GRP78, ATF-6α, calpain 1, calpain 2 and caspase-4 then leading to cell apoptosis. In conclusion, wogonin induced ROS production and intracellular Ca2+, and altered the levels of anti- (Bcl-2) and pro- (Bad and Bax) apoptotic proteins. Wogonin-induced apoptosis in U-2 OS cells was through the activation of caspase-3. In conclusion, these are the first findings to show wogonin-induced cytotoxic effects through induction of apoptotic cell death and ER stress in U-2 OS cells. The potent in vitro antitumor activities suggest that wogonin could be developed for the treatment of human osteosarcoma in the future.

Cantharidin induces apoptosis in human bladder cancer TSGH 8301 cells through mitochondria-dependent signal pathways

Cantharidin has shown potent anticancer activities on many types of human cancer cells. This study was performed to elucidate whether mitochondria and caspases are involved in the modulation of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest by cantharidin in human bladder cancer cells. The effect of cantharidin on cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, caspases, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨ(m)) were measured by flow cytometry, and the levels of apoptosis-associated proteins and its regulatory molecules were studied by Western blotting. Cantharidin-induced apoptosis and DNA damage was determined by flow cytometric analysis, DAPI staining and Comet assay. After cantharidin treatment, the active forms of caspase-3, -8 and -9 were promoted. Cantharidin-induced apoptosis was associated with enhanced ROS and Ca(2+) generations, caused DNA damage, decreased the levels of ΔΨ(m) and promoted Endo G and AIF released from mitochondria. Cantharidin-induced G0/G1 arrest was associated with a marked decrease in the protein expressions of cyclin E and Cdc25c but promoted the levels of p21 and p-p53. Cantharidin-induced apoptosis was accompanied with up-regulation of the protein expression of Bax and PARP, but down-regulation of the protein levels of Bcl-2, resulting in dysfunction of mitochondria then led to Endo G and AIF release for causing induction of apoptosis.

Agaricus blazei Murill extract abrogates CCl4-induced liver injury in rats

Agaricus blazei Murill (ABM) is enriched with polysaccharides, lipids, vitamins, fibers and minerals. Many studies have shown that ABM possesses immune-enhancing and anti-tumor effects. However, little is known about its protective effects on liver function. We employed carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4)) to induce hepatic fibrosis in a rat model to examine the protective effects of ABM on the liver in this study. The experiments included non-treatment control, CCl(4)-only control, and treatment with 200 mg and 2,000 mg of ABM extracts (per kilogram rat weight). All groups other than the non-treatment control were treated with intraperitoneal injections of CCl(4) twice a week. Experimental and control rats were tube-fed with experimental ABM extracts or double-distilled water, respectively, on the remaining four days each week. The whole experimental protocol lasted 8 weeks; blood and liver samples were collected for biochemical and tissue histochemical analysis. Plasma alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase, and the activities of the anti-oxidative enzymes glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase in the liver were measured. We found that high-dose ABM treatment reduced hepatic necrosis and fibrosis caused by CCl(4) in comparison with the CCl(4) control group. ALT and AST activities in the sera collected from ABM-treated rats were lower than those in the CCl(4) control rats. These results suggested that ABM extract was capable of either enhancing liver recovering from CCl(4) damage or attenuating CCl(4) toxicity. Results of anti-oxidative enzyme activity analysis showed no apparent differences among ABM-treated groups and CCl(4) control groups, indicating that removal of free radicals does not explain the protective/recovery effects observed in this study.

Quercetin-mediated cell cycle arrest and apoptosis involving activation of a caspase cascade through the mitochondrial pathway in human breast cancer MCF-7 cells

Dietary polyphenols have been correlated with a reduced risk of developing cancer. Quercetin (a natural polyphenolic compound) induced apoptosis in many human cancer cell lines, including breast cancer MCF-7 cells. However, the involvement of possible signaling pathways and the roles of quercetin in apoptosis are still undefined. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of quercetin on the induction of the apoptotic pathway in human breast cancer MCF-7 cells. When MCF-7 cells were treated with quercetin for 24 and 48 h and at various doses (10-175 microM), cell viability decreased significantly in time- and dose-dependent manners. Exposure of MCF-7 cells to 10-175 microM quercetin resulted in an approximate 90.25% decrease in viable cells. To explicate the mechanism underlying the antiproliferative effect of quercetin, cell cycle distribution and apoptosis in MCF-7 cells was investigated after exposure to 150 microM quercetin for 6-48 h. Quercetin caused a remarkable increase in the number of S phase (14.56% to 61.35%) and sub-G1 phase cells (0.1% to 8.32%) in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Quercetin caused S phase arrest by decreasing the protein expression of CDK2, cyclins A and B while increasing the p53 and p57 proteins. Following incubation with quercetin for 48 h, MCF-7 cells showed apoptotic cell death by the decreased levels of Bcl-2 protein and DeltaPsi(m) and increased activations of caspase-6, -8 and -9. Moreover, quercetin increased the AIF protein released from mitochondria to nuclei and the GADD153 protein translocation from endoplasmic reticulum to the nuclei. These data suggested that quercetin may induce apoptosis by direct activation of the caspase cascade through the mitochondrial pathway in MCF-7 cells.

Quercetin inhibited murine leukemia WEHI-3 cells in vivo and promoted immune response

Enhanced flavonoid consumption is closely related with a reduced cancer incidence as shown in epidemiological studies. Quercetin (3,5,7,3',4'-pentahydroxylflavone) is one of the active components of flavonoids which exist in natural plants, particularly in onions and fruits. It was reported that quercetin induced apoptosis in human cancer cell lines, including human leukemia HL-60 cells, but there is no available information as to its effects on leukemia cells in vivo. The purpose of the present studies was to focus on the in vivo effects of quercetin on leukemia WEHI-3 cells. The effects of quercetin on WEHI-3 cells injected into BALB/c mice were examined. Quercetin decreased the percentage of Mac-3 and CD11b markers, suggesting that the differentiation of the precursors of macrophages and T cells was inhibited. There was no effect on CD3 levels but increased CD19 levels. Quercetin decreased the weight of the spleen and liver compared with the olive oil treated animals. Quercetin stimulated macrophage phagocytosis of cells isolated from peritoneum. Quercetin also promoted natural killer cell activity. Based on pathological examination, an effect of quercetin was observed in the spleen of mice previously injected with WEHI-3 cells. Apparently, quercetin affects WEHI-3 cells in vivo.

Diallyl sulfide inhibits murine WEHI-3 leukemia cells in BALB/c mice in vitro and in vivo

It is well documented that enhanced garlic (Allium sativum) consumption leads to decrease in the cancer incidences. Diallyl sulfide (DAS), one of the components of garlic, induces cytotoxicity and apoptosis in many cancer cell lines. The present studies are focused on the in vivo effects of DAS on leukemia WEHI-3 cells in the BALB/c mice. We examined the effects of DAS on the cytotoxicity of WEHI-3 cells and results indicated that DAS decreased the percentage of viable WEHI-3 cells and these effects are dose-dependent. We examined the effects of DAS on WEHI-3 in vivo and the results indicated that DAS decreased the percentage of Mac-3 and CD11b, indicating that the differentiation of the precursor of macrophage cells was inhibited. DAS stimulated the percentage of CD3 and CD19, indicating that the differentiation of the precursor of T and B cells promoted. The weights of liver and spleen indicated that DAS decreased the weight of these organs after being compared to the control groups. One of the major characteristic of WEHI-3 leukemia is the enlarged spleen in murine after intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of WEHI-3 cells. In conclusion, DAS affects WEHI-3 cells both in vitro and in vivo.

Novel quinolone CHM-1 induces apoptosis and inhibits metastasis in a human osterogenic sarcoma cell line

Novel 2-phenyl-4-quinolone compounds have potent cytotoxic effects on different human cancer cell lines. In this study, we examined anticancer activity and mechanisms of 20-fluoro-6,7-methylenedioxy-2-phenyl-4-quinolone (CHM-1) in human osterogenic sarcoma U-2 OS cells. CHM-1-induced apoptosis was determined by flow cytometric analysis, DAPI staining, Comet assay, and caspase inhibitors. CHM-1-inhibited cell migration and invasion was assessed by a wound healing assay, gelatin zymography, and a Transwell assay. The mechanisms of CHM-1 effects on apoptosis and metastasis signaling pathways were studied using Western blotting and gene expression. CHM-1 induced G2/M arrest and apoptosis at an IC(50) (3 microM) in U-2 OS cells and caspase-3, -8, and -9 were activated. Caspase inhibitors increased cell viability after exposure to CHM-1. CHM-1-induced apoptosis was associated with enhanced ROS generation, DNA damage, decreased DeltaPsi(m) levels, and promotion of mitochondrial cytochrome c release. CHM-1 stimulated mRNA expression of caspase-3, -8, and -9, AIF, and Endo G. In addition, CHM-1 inhibited cell metastasis at a low concentration (<3 microM). CHM-1 inhibited the cell metastasis through the inhibition of MMP-2, -7, and -9. CHM-1 also decreased the levels of MAPK signaling pathways before leading to the inhibition of MMPs. In summary, CHM-1 is a potent inducer of apoptosis, which plays a role in the anticancer activity of CHM-1.

Effects of Agaricus blazei Murill extract on immune responses in normal BALB/c mice

Agaricus blazei Murill (ABM) has shown particularly strong results in treating and preventing cancer and has also traditionally been used as a food source in Brazil. However, the exact immune responses regarding the phagocytosis of macrophage and, the activity of natural killer (NK) cells in normal mice after exposure to ABM extract was unclear. The goal of this study was to investigate whether or not ABM extract can promote immune responses in normal BALB/c mice. BALB/c mice were treated with different doses of ABM extract for different time periods. The results indicated that ABM extract significantly promoted the proliferation of splenocytes both in vitro and in vivo. ABM extract promoted the levels of interleukein-6 (IL-6) and, interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) but reduced the levels of IL-4 in vitro and in vivo. The percentage of macrophages with phagocytosis after ABM extract treatment increased and these effects were of dose-dependent manners, both in vitro and in vivo. YAC-1 target cells were killed by NK cells from the mice after treatment with ABM extract at 3 and 6 mg/kg/day for up to 14 days at target cell ratios of 25:1 and 50:1. Taken together, these results show that ABM extract promoted immunomodulations in normal BALB/c mice in vitro and in vivo.

A. cantoniensis inhibits the proliferation of murine leukemia WEHI-3 cells in vivo and promotes immunoresponses in vivo

Ampelopsis cantoniensis (AC) has been used as a folk medicine for reducing pain in the Taiwanese population. Our previous studies have shown that the crude extract of AC induced apoptosis in human promyelocytic leukemia HL-60 cells. In this study, the in vivo effects of AC on leukemia WEHI-3 cells and immune responses such as phagocytosis and natural killer (NK) cell activity were investigated. The weights of the livers and spleens were decreased in the AC-treated groups compared to the control groups. The AC treatment increased the percentage of CD3 and CD19 marker cells in WEHI-3-injected mice, indicating that the precursors of T and B cells were inhibited. The AC treatment promoted the activity of macrophage phagocytosis in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and peritoneal cells. It was found that the NK cells from mice after treatment with AC can kill the YAC-1 target cells. Therefore, the AC treatment increased NK cell activity. In conclusion, AC can affect WEHI-3 cells in vivo and promote macrophage and NK cell activities.

The role of mitochondria in bee venom-induced apoptosis in human breast cancer MCF7 cells

Our previous studies have shown that bee venom (BV) can induce apoptosis in human cervical cancer Ca Ski cells, but it can also affect human breast cancer cells, though its molecular mechanisms are not precisely known. In this study, the molecular mechanisms of apoptosis induced by BV in human breast cancer MCF7 cells were investigated. BV induced morphological changes (examined by phase-contrast microscopy) and inhibited the proliferation (examined by MTT assay) of MCF7 cells; both effects occurred in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Flow cytometric analysis demonstrated that BV induced the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and dysfunction of the mitochondrial membrane potential (Azm), and led to cytochrome c release, an increase in the levels of caspase-9 and Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) and then apoptosis. It also showed that BV induced S-phase arrest in MCF7 cells which may occur through the promotion of p53, p21, p27 and the exhibition of Cdk2. Western blotting demonstrated that BV reduced Bcl-2 and increased Bax protein levels which may have caused the changes of delta psi m. BV treatment led to ROS production up to but after treatment led to a decrease in the levels of ROS, which may be associated with the observations of BVaffecting glutathion S-transferase (GST), Zn-superoxide dismutase (Zn-SOD), Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn-SOD) and catalase. The Comet assay also showed that BV induced DNA damage while DAPI staining also confirmed that BV induced apoptosis in examined MCF7 cells. Our results also showed that BV increased the levels of AIF and EndoG in MCF7 cells. In conclusion, our data demonstrated that BV induced apoptosis via a mitochondria-dependent pathway based on the changes of delta psi m, AIF and EndoG release in MCF7 cells.

Berberine induced down-regulation of matrix metalloproteinase-1, -2 and -9 in human gastric cancer cells (SNU-5) in vitro

Berberine, a yellow benzylisoquinoline alkaloid, is a constituent of Coptis chines and is commonly used in Chinese herbal medicine for patients with gastrointestinal disorders. The pharmacological effects of berberine include anti-inflammation, antidiarrhetic, antimalarial, and even antimicrobial activities. However, its mechanism of action on the cell migration of human gastric cancer SNU-5 cells is not fully understood. The effects of berberine on the percentage of viable cells were examined first and it was found that berberine induced dose-dependent inhibition in human gastric cancer SNU-5 cells. The effect of berberine on the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and matrix metalloproteinase-1, -2, -7 and -9 was then examined using Western blotting and the results showed that berberine induced ROS production for up to 6 hours of incubation. It was also found that berberine induced downregulation of MMP-1 -2, and -9 but did not affect the level of MMP-7. The mRNA levels of MMPs in SNU-5 cells after treatment with berberine for 24 hours were investigated using a polymerase chain reaction and the results showed that berberine inhibited the gene expression of MMP-1, -2 and -9 in human SNU-5 cells but it did not affect MMP-7. In conclusion, berberine appears to exert its anticancer properties by inducing ROS production and prevention of cell migration via inhibition of the gene expression of MMP-1, -2 and -9 in human gastric cancer SNU-5 cancer cells.

Bee venom induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in human cervical epidermoid carcinoma Ca Ski cells

Although it has been previously reported that bee venom (BV) can induce apoptosis in many cancer cell lines, there is no information on the effect of BV on human cervical cancer cells and its molecular mechanisms of action are not fully elucidated. In this study, the possible mechanisms of apoptosis by which BV acts on human cervical cancer Ca Ski cells were investigated. BV induced morphological changes and decreased the percentage of viable Ca Ski cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Flow cytometric analysis demonstrated that BV induced the production of reactive oxygen species, increased the level of cytoplasmic Ca2+, reduced mitochondrial membrane potential which led to cytochrome c release, and promoted the activation of caspase-3 which then led to apoptosis. BV also induced an increase in the levels of Fas, p53, p21 and Bax, but a decrease in the level of Bcl-2. The activities of both caspase-8 and caspase-9 were enhanced by BV, promoting caspase-3 activation, leading to DNA fragmentation. Based on the DNA fragmentation and DAPI staining, BV-induced apoptosis was mitochondrial-dependent and caspase-dependent. BV also promoted the expression of AIF and Endo G in the Ca Ski cells. Both AIF and Endo G proteins were released from the mitochondria, and then induced apoptosis which was not through activation of caspase. In conclusion, our data demonstrated that BV-induced apoptosis occurs via a Fas receptor pathway involving mitochondrial-dependent pathways and is closely related to the level of cytoplasmic Ca2+ in Ca Ski cells.

Shikonin-induced apoptosis involves caspase-3 activity in a human bladder cancer cell line (T24)

Apoptosis is a process that leads to programmed cell death and also a therapeutic target of cancer. In this study, potential apoptotic effects of shikonin on human bladder cancer cells (T24) in vitro were evaluated. Apoptosis induction, cell viability and morphological changes were investigated and caspase-3 and -9 activity was determined by flow cytometric assay and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The results showed marked differences in G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and cell death of the T24 cells between shikonin treated and untreated groups. Within 72 hours of treatment, shikonin influenced the cyclin dependent kinase (CDK) and cyclin activity by increasing p21 and decreasing cyclin E, CDK2 and CDK4 protein levels. A marked increase was found in apoptosis induction when the T24 cells were treated with shikonin compared to the untreated group, also confirmed by flow cytometry assay. Shikonin also promoted caspase-3 activity, which led to the induction of caspase-activated DNase (CAD) and cleavage poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase. Furthermore, the shikonin-induced apoptosis of the T24 cells was markedly blocked by the broad-spectrum caspase inhibitor, z-VAD-fmk. Shikonin may be a potential agent for the treatment of bladder transitional cell carcinoma since it induces apoptosis through the activation of caspase-3 activity in T24 human bladder cancer cells.

GADD153 mediates berberine-induced apoptosis in human cervical cancer Ca ski cells

Berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid, has been shown to possess anticancer properties in some cancer cell lines. Here, we report that in vitro treatment of cervical cancer Ca Ski cells with berberine decreased the percentage of viable Ca Ski cells in a dose-dependent and time-dependent manner. Berberine enhanced the apoptosis of Ca Ski cells with the induction of a higher ratio of p53 and Bax/Bcl-2 proteins, increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Ca2+, disruption of the mitochondrial membrane potential, and promotion of caspase-3 activity. In CaSki cells pretreated with the pan-caspase inhibitor zVAD-fmk, the berberine-induced caspase-3 activity and apoptosis were significantly blocked as confirmed by flow cytometric analysis. Western blot also showed that berberine induced the expression of GADD153, a transcription factor involved in apoptosis. Thus berberine increased ROS levels leading to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress based on the increase of GADD153 and shown by Ca2+ release from the ER. When the Ca Ski cells were pretreated with catalase, GADD153 production was abrogated and apoptosis was significantly reduced.

Crude extracts of Euchresta formosana radix induce cytotoxicity and apoptosis in human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line (Hep3B)

In this study, the effects of 95% ethanol extracts of Euchresta formosana radix (EFR) on the cell cycle and apoptosis in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) Hep3B cells were investigated. The results indicated that EFR decreased DNA synthesis and viable Hep3B cell numbers in a concentration-dependent manner. EFR induced a p21- and p27-dependent cell cycle arrest in S-phase and apoptosis of the Hep3B cells. The induction of apoptosis by EFR treatment was also confirmed by DAPI staining. EFR inhibited cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK)-1 and -2 expression and decreased cyclin B1 and E levels, resulting in S-phase arrest. EFR induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production followed by endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress that was based on the increase of GADD153 and GRP78 which led to the release of Ca2+ in the Hep3B cells. The EFR-promoted apoptosis was associated with increasing activation of caspases 3, 7, and 9 and enhanced poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage and increased expression of p21(CIP1/WAF1), p27(KIP1), Bax and Bad. Furthermore, the levels of Bcl-xl decreased after EFR treatment. Alteration of these key anti- and pro-apoptotic proteins could contribute to the increase in p53-independent apoptosis that was observed in the Hep3B cells.

Crude extracts of Euchresta formosana radix inhibit invasion and migration of human hepatocellular carcinoma cells

Crude extracts of Euchresta formosana radix (EFR) have previously been observed to induce the suppression of liver cancer Hep3B cell growth and induce apoptosis in response to overexpression of reactive oxygen species, GADD153, Bax and caspase-3, and to decrease the levels of mitochondrial membrane potential in vitro. In this study, the effect of EFR on cell migration and invasion by the human liver hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell line Hep3B was examined. Hep3B cells treated in vitro with EFR migrated and invaded less than cells treated with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) as a control. EFR inhibited migration and invasion by down-regulating the production of RhoA and ROCK1, FAK, and matrix metalloproteinase-1, -2, -9 and -10 relative to PBS only. These results show that EFR inhibits invasion and migration by liver cancer cells by down-regulating proteins associated with these processes, resulting in reduced metastasis. Thus, EFR should be considered as a possible therapeutic agent for inhibiting primary tumor growth and preventing metastasis.

Capsaicin induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in human esophagus epidermoid carcinoma CE 81T/VGH cells through the elevation of intracellular reactive oxygen species and Ca2+ productions and caspase-3 activation

Capsaicin (N-vanillyl-8-methyl-1-nonenamide) is found in pungent fruits, especially in red pepper. Many studies have focused on the anticarcinogenic, antimutagenic or chemopreventive activities of capsaicin. However, the effects of capsaicin on human esophagus epidermoid carcinoma cells have never been investigated. In this study, we investigated the effects of capsaicin on esophagus epidermoid carcinoma cells in vitro and further examined the molecular mechanisms of capsaicin-induced apoptosis in esophagus epidermoid carcinoma cells. Capsaicin decreased the percentage of viable cells of CE 81T/VGH cells, via induction of G0-G1 phase cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Capsaicin induced G0-G1 phase arrest underwent the promotion of p53 and p21, which is an inhibitor of Cdk2 and cyclin E complex before leading to the inhibitions of both compounds. Capsaicin induced apoptosis in time-dependent manners. Capsaicin-induced apoptosis was in association with the elevation of intracellular reactive oxygen species and Ca2+ productions and BAPTA, an intracellular Ca2+ chelator, which significantly inhibited capsaicin-induced apoptosis. Collectively, these results suggest that the capsaicin-induced apoptosis in the CE 81T/VGH cells may result from the activation of caspase-3 and intracellular Ca2+ release pathway, and it is further suggested that capsaicin has potential as a novel therapeutic agent for the treatment of esophagus epidermoid carcinoma cells.

Down-regulation of cyclin B1 and up-regulation of Wee1 by berberine promotes entry of leukemia cells into the G2/M-phase of the cell cycle

Berberine has a wide range of biological actions that suggest it may be of use in cancer prevention. It was previously reported that berberine induced cell cycle arrest, not only at the G0/G1-phase, but also at the G2/M-phase in a dose-dependent manner. However, the mechanism of berberine-induced G2/M-phase arrest in leukemia cells is not fully understood. In the present study, the effects of the naturally occurring berberine (the major constituent of Coptis chinensis) on the cell cycle, as well as on CDK1, cyclin B1, 14-3-3sigma, Wee1 and Cdc25c expressions, were investigated in the human promyelocytic leukemia HL-60 cells and in the murine myelomonocytic leukemia WEHI-3 cells. The flow cytometry assays indicated that berberine induced G2/M-phase arrest in both examined cell lines. The berberine-induced G2/M-phase arrest in both examined cell lines was accompanied by increased levels of Wee1 and 14-3-3sigma, but decreased levels of Cdc25c, CDK1 and cyclin B1. However, CDK2 expression was not affected as revealed by Western blotting assay. Berberine induced G2/M arrest in both the examined cells via the inhibition of cyclin B1 and the promotion of Wee1.

Berberine induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in human gastric carcinoma SNU-5 cell line

AIM

To investigate the relationship between the inhibited growth (cytotoxic activity) of berberine and apoptotic pathway with its molecular mechanism of action.

METHODS

The in vitro cytotoxic techniques were complemented by cell cycle analysis and determination of sub-G1 for apoptosis in human gastric carcinoma SNU-5 cells. Percentage of viable cells, cell cycle, and sub-G1 group (apoptosis) were examined and determined by the flow cytometric methods. The associated proteins for cell cycle arrest and apoptosis were examined by Western blotting.

RESULTS

For SNU-5 cell line, the IC50 was found to be 48 micromol/L of berberine. In SNU-5 cells treated with 25-200 micromol/L berberine, G2/M cell cycle arrest was observed which was associated with a marked increment of the expression of p53, Wee1 and CDk1 proteins and decreased cyclin B. A concentration-dependent decrease of cells in G0/G1 phase and an increase in G2/M phase were detected. In addition, apoptosis detected as sub-G0 cell population in cell cycle measurement was proved in 25-200 micromol/L berberine-treated cells by monitoring the apoptotic pathway. Apoptosis was identified by sub-G0 cell population, and upregulation of Bax, downregulation of Bcl-2, release of Ca2+, decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential and then led to the release of mitochondrial cytochrome C into the cytoplasm and caused the activation of caspase-3, and finally led to the occurrence of apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

Berberine induces p53 expression and leads to the decrease of the mitochondrial membrane potential, Cytochrome C release and activation of caspase-3 for the induction of apoptosis.

The effects of emodin on the expression of cytokines and functions of leukocytes from Sprague-Dawley rats

Emodin has been reported to induce apoptosis in many human cancer cell lines, although its effects on leukocyte functions in vitro have not been demonstrated Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the effect of emodin on the phagocytosis of macrophages, the activity of natural killer cells and the expression of cytokines in leukocytes from Sprague-Dawley rats. Leukocytes, isolated from rats, were placed into culture plates for incubation with or without various concentrations of emodin for 1-6 hours and the functions of macrophages and natural killer cells were evaluated by flow cytometric analysis. The results indicated that emodin caused a decrease in phagocytosis of macrophages after treatment for up to 4 hours but 6-hour treatments led to an increase in the phagocytosis of macrophages. Further, emodin increased the activity of natural killer cells, both effects being dose-dependent. The levels of cytokines from the examined leukocytes were evaluated by ELISA and the results indicated that emodin increased the levels of IL-1beta and TNF-alpha, results which were confirmed by PCR assay for the mRNA expressions of the examined cytokines.