Dual inhibition of CPT1A and G6PD suppresses glioblastoma tumorspheres

PURPOSE

Limited treatment options are currently available for glioblastoma (GBM), an extremely lethal type of brain cancer. For a variety of tumor types, bioenergetic deprivation through inhibition of cancer-specific metabolic pathways has proven to be an effective therapeutic strategy. Here, we evaluated the therapeutic effects and underlying mechanisms of dual inhibition of carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A (CPT1A) and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) critical for fatty acid oxidation (FAO) and the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), respectively, against GBM tumorspheres (TSs).

METHODS

Therapeutic efficacy against GBM TSs was determined by assessing cell viability, neurosphere formation, and 3D invasion. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and RNA sequencing were employed for metabolite and gene expression profiling, respectively. Anticancer efficacy in vivo was examined using an orthotopic xenograft model.

RESULTS

CPT1A and G6PD were highly expressed in GBM tumor tissues. Notably, siRNA-mediated knockdown of both genes led to reduced viability, ATP levels, and expression of genes associated with stemness and invasiveness. Similar results were obtained upon combined treatment with etomoxir and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). Transcriptome analyses further confirmed these results. Data from LC-MS analysis showed that this treatment regimen induced a considerable reduction in the levels of metabolites associated with the TCA cycle and PPP. Additionally, the combination of etomoxir and DHEA inhibited tumor growth and extended survival in orthotopic xenograft model mice.

CONCLUSION

Our collective findings support the utility of dual suppression of CPT1A and G6PD with selective inhibitors, etomoxir and DHEA, as an efficacious therapeutic approach for GBM.

EXTH-66. BIOENERGETIC SWITCH AND BIOLOGIC RESPONSE WITH SLC25A11 INHIBITION TARGETING MALATE-ASPARTATE SHUTTLE (MAS) ON GLIOBLASTOMA TUMORSPHERE

BACKGROUND: Cancer cells depended on cytosolic nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) transported into mitochondria via the malate-aspartate shuttle (MAS) for ATP production. KN612 (N-phenylmaleimide), a MAS inhibitor, is known to interfere with cancer growth by reducing ATP production, supported by several studies except on glioblastoma (GBM). Therefore, this study was designed to elucidate whether MAS could be an aimable target in GBM. METHODS: We compared expression levels of MAS conforming enzymes between normal and GBM samples. Gene expression profiles were analyzed using RNA-sequencing. Mitochondrial activity was measured by oxygen consumption (OCR), tetramethylrhodamine-ethylester (TMRE) staining, and liquid chromatograph-tandem mass spectrometer (LC-MS/MS). Also, biological functions were measured by cell viability, ATP levels, NADH levels, stemness, and invasiveness. In vivo efficacies were confirmed using a mouse orthotopic xenograft model. RESULTS: An analysis of the microarray database revealed that expression levels of several MAS enzymes including OGC (SLC25A11) were elevated in GBM. Through RNA sequencing, it was confirmed that KN612 accurately targeted SLC25A11 and decreased its expression. KN612-treated cells showed decreased viability, ATP production, and NADH levels compared with control cells. Under the same conditions, a significant decrease in stemness, invasion, and MMP was confirmed. In addition, KN612 confirmed remarkable therapeutic responses in a mouse orthotopic xenograft model. CONCLUSION: Our results show that KN612 effectively inhibits cancer cells both at the cellular level and at the in vivo level. This shows that targeting MAS could be a potential treatment option in addition to the currently limited standard GBM therapy.

STEM-12. DISCOVERY THE ORIGIN-CELLS FOR HUMAN GLIOBLASTOMA GENESIS IN SUBVENTRICULAR ZONE

Human glioblastoma (GBM), originating from the subventricular zone (SVZ), occurs due to molecular disruptions in chromosomes. Most GBM tissues exhibit definitive chromosomal patterns: copy-number-variations (CNV) in chromosome 7 (gain) and 10 (loss), known as the earliest molecular events. Herein, we hypothesised that the origin-cells in SVZ of GBM patients can provide clues regarding these chromosomal alterations. We compared bulk RNA sequencing (RNAseq) data of GBM tumor tissue (n=126), tumour free GBM SVZ (n=40), and tumor-free control SVZ of non-glial tumor (n=9). Paired single-cell-level RNAseq samples of tumor free GBM SVZ (n=7) and GBM tumor tissue (n=10), were done to see cell specific CNVs. Using human SVZ and GBM samples as a background, we generated origin-cell and origin-cell-derived tumour cell using CRISPR/Cas9. In this work, we identified two GBM-origin-cell types with stem-cell signatures during single-cell level analyses of 60 SVZ tissue samples obtained from tumor-free regions of GBM patients. Furthermore, single-cell level analysis revealed that two origin-cell types in SVZ harbor ongoing patterns of CNV alterations. Among the origin-cells found in the SVZ of GBM patients, NO-like cells showed neural progenitor plus oligodendrocyte progenitor (NO) signature, while AN-like cells showed astrocyte plus neural stem cell (AN) signature. For the interconnectedness, we subjected single-cell-level RNA-seq data to ligand-receptor connection analysis. In the stem cell mode, NO-like cells was connected to AN-like cells in SVZ samples and while in the tumor samples, cycling cell was connected to AN-like cells. NO-like cells was common in TERT promoter wildtype GBM and AN-like cells was more common in TERT promoter mutant GBM. CRISPR/Cas9 models revealed accumulation copy-number alterations from non-tumorigenic origin-cells to tumor cells. These two origin-cells (NO-like cells and AN-like cells) derived from the SVZ of the adult human brain will facilitate the understanding of GBM genesis and development of potential novel therapeutic targets.

Tissue Niche Miniature of Glioblastoma Patient Treated with Nano-Awakeners to Induce Suicide of Cancer Stem Cells

Patient-specific cancer therapies can evolve by vitalizing the mother tissue-like cancer niche, cellular profile, genetic signature, and drug responsiveness. This evolution has enabled the elucidation of a key mechanism along with development of the mechanism-driven therapy. After surgical treatment, glioblastoma (GBM) patients require prompt therapy within 14 days in a patient-specific manner. Hence, this study approaches direct culture of GBM patient tissue (1 mm diameter) in a microchannel network chip. Cancer vasculature-mimetic perfusion can support the preservation of the mother tissue-like characteristic signatures and microenvironment. When temozolomide and radiation are administered within 1 day, the responsiveness of the tissue in the chip reflected the clinical outcomes, thereby overcoming the time-consuming process of cell and organoid culture. When the tissue chip culture is continued, the intact GBM signature gets lost, and the outward migration of stem cells from the tissue origin increases, indicating a leaving-home effect on the family dismantle. Nanovesicle production using GBM stem cells enables self-chasing of the cells that escape the temozolomide effect owing to quiescence. The anti-PTPRZ1 peptide display and temozolomide loading to nanovesicles awakes cancer stem cells from the quiescent stage to death. This study suggests a GBM clinic-driven avatar platform and mechanism-learned nanotherapy for translation.

Etomoxir, a carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 inhibitor, combined with temozolomide reduces stemness and invasiveness in patient-derived glioblastoma tumorspheres

Introduction

The importance of fatty acid oxidation (FAO) in the bioenergetics of glioblastoma (GBM) is being realized. Etomoxir (ETO), a carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1) inhibitor exerts cytotoxic effects in GBM, which involve interrupting the FAO pathway. We hypothesized that FAO inhibition could affect the outcomes of current standard temozolomide (TMZ) chemotherapy against GBM.

Methods

The FAO-related gene expression was compared between GBM and the tumor-free cortex. Using four different GBM tumorspheres (TSs), the effects of ETO and/or TMZ was analyzed on cell viability, tricarboxylate (TCA) cycle intermediates and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production to assess metabolic changes. Alterations in tumor stemness, invasiveness, and associated transcriptional changes were also measured. Mouse orthotopic xenograft model was used to elucidate the combinatory effect of TMZ and ETO.

Results

GBM tissues exhibited overexpression of FAO-related genes, especially CPT1A, compared to the tumor-free cortex. The combined use of ETO and TMZ further inhibited TCA cycle and ATP production than single uses. This combination treatment showed superior suppression effects compared to treatment with individual agents on the viability, stemness, and invasiveness of GBM TSs, as well as better downregulation of FAO-related gene expression. The results of in vivo study showed prolonged survival outcomes in the combination treatment group.

Conclusion

ETO, an FAO inhibitor, causes a lethal energy reduction in the GBM TSs. When used in combination with TMZ, ETO effectively reduces GBM cell stemness and invasiveness and further improves survival. These results suggest a potential novel treatment option for GBM.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12935-022-02731-7.

Influence of the Amount of Fresh Specimen on the Isolation of Tumor Mesenchymal Stem-Like Cells from High-Grade Glioma

PURPOSE

A critical indicator of the overall survival of patients with high-grade glioma is the successful isolation of tumor mesenchymal stem-like cells (tMSLCs), which play important roles in glioma progression. However, attempts to isolate tMSLCs from surgical specimens have not always been successful, and the reasons for this remain unclear. Considering that the amount of surgical high-grade glioma specimens varies, we hypothesized that larger surgical specimens would be better for tMSLC isolation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We assessed 51 fresh, high-grade glioma specimens and divided them into two groups according to the success or failure of tMSLC isolation. The success of tMSLC isolation was confirmed by plastic adherence, presenting antigens, tri-lineage differentiation, and non-tumorigenicity. Differences in characteristics between the two groups were tested using independent two sample t-tests, chi-square tests, or Kaplan-Meier survival analysis.

RESULTS

The mean specimen weights of the groups differed from each other (tMSLC-negative group: 469.9±341.9 mg, tMSLC positive group: 546.7±618.9 mg), but the difference was not statistically significant. The optimal cut-off value of specimen weight was 180 mg, and the area under the curve value was 0.599.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggested a minimum criterion for specimen collection, and found that the specimen amount was not deeply related to tMSLC detection. Collectively, our findings imply that the ability to isolate tMSLCs is determined by factors other than the specimen amount.

Prediction and identification of synergistic compound combinations against pancreatic cancer cells

Resistance to current therapies is common for pancreatic cancer and hence novel treatment options are urgently needed. In this work, we developed and validated a computational method to select synergistic compound combinations based on transcriptomic profiles from both the disease and compound side, combined with a pathway scoring system, which was then validated prospectively by testing 30 compounds (and their combinations) on PANC-1 cells. Some compounds selected as single agents showed lower GI50 values than the standard of care, gemcitabine. Compounds suggested as combination agents with standard therapy gemcitabine based on the best performing scoring system showed on average 2.82-5.18 times higher synergies compared to compounds that were predicted to be active as single agents. Examples of highly synergistic in vitro validated compound pairs include gemcitabine combined with Entinostat, thioridazine, loperamide, scriptaid and Saracatinib. Hence, the computational approach presented here was able to identify synergistic compound combinations against pancreatic cancer cells.

Combination of Ginsenosides Rb2 and Rg3 Promotes Angiogenic Phenotype of Human Endothelial Cells via PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK Pathways

Shexiang Baoxin Pill (SBP) is an oral formulation of Chinese materia medica for the treatment of angina pectoris. It displays pleiotropic roles in protecting the cardiovascular system. However, the mode of action of SBP in promoting angiogenesis, and in particular the synergy between its constituents is currently not fully understood. The combination of ginsenosides Rb2 and Rg3 were studied in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) for their proangiogenic effects. To understand the mode of action of the combination in more mechanistic detail, RNA-Seq analysis was conducted, and differentially expressed genes (DEGs), pathway analysis and Weighted Gene Correlation Network Analysis (WGCNA) were applied to further identify important genes that a play pivotal role in the combination treatment. The effects of pathway-specific inhibitors were observed to provide further support for the hypothesized mode of action of the combination. Ginsenosides Rb2 and Rg3 synergistically promoted HUVEC proliferation and tube formation under defined culture conditions. Also, the combination of Rb2/Rg3 rescued cells from homocysteine-induced damage. mRNA expression of CXCL8, CYR61, FGF16 and FGFRL1 was significantly elevated by the Rb2/Rg3 treatment, and representative signaling pathways induced by these genes were found. The increase of protein levels of phosphorylated-Akt and ERK42/44 by the Rb2/Rg3 combination supports the notion that it promotes endothelial cell proliferation via the PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK signaling pathways. The present study provides the hypothesis that SBP, via ginsenosides Rb2 and Rg3, involves the CXCR1/2 CXCL8 (IL8)-mediated PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK signaling pathways in achieving its proangiogenic effects.

Combined effects of niclosamide and temozolomide against human glioblastoma tumorspheres

PURPOSE

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive type of brain tumor and has poor survival outcomes, even after a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Temozolomide is the only agent that has been shown to be effective against GBM, suggesting that combination of temozolomide with other agents may be more effective. Niclosamide, an FDA approved anthelmintic agent, has shown anti-cancer effects against human colon, breast, prostate cancers as well as GBM. However, the efficacy of the combination of niclosamide with temozolomide against GBM tumorspheres (TSs) has not been determined. We hypothesized that the combined treatment could effectively suppress GBM TSs.

METHODS

GBM TSs (TS15-88, GSC11) were treated with niclosamide and/or temozolomide. Combined effects of two drugs were evaluated by measuring viability, neurosphere formation, and 3D-invasion in collagen matrix. Transcriptional profiles of GBM TS were analyzed using RNA sequencing. In vivo anticancer efficacy of combined drugs was tested in a mouse orthotopic xenograft model.

RESULTS

Combination treatment of niclosamide and temozolomide significantly inhibited the cell viability, stemness, and invasive properties of GBM TSs. This combined treatment significantly down-regulated the expression of epithelial mesenchymal transition-related markers, Zeb1, N-cadherin, and β-catenin. The combined treatment also significantly decreased tumor growth in orthotopic xenograft models.

CONCLUSION

The combination of niclosamide and temozolomide effectively decreased the stemness and invasive properties of GBM TSs, suggesting that this regimen may be therapeutically effective in treating patients with GBM.

EXTH-23. COMBINED EFFECTS OF NICLOSAMIDE AND TEMOZOLOMIDE AGAINST HUMAN GLIOBLASTOMA TUMORSPHERES

PURPOSE

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive type of brain tumor and has poor survival outcomes, even after a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Temozolomide is the only agent that has been shown to be effective against GBM, suggesting that combination of temozolomide with other agents may be more effective. Niclosamide, an FDA approved anthelmintic agent, has shown anti-cancer effects against human colon, breast, prostate cancers as well as GBM. However, the efficacy of the combination of niclosamide with temozolomide against GBM tumorspheres (TSs) has not been determined. We hypothesized that the combined treatment could effectively suppress GBM TSs.

METHODS

Effects of niclosamide and/or temozolomide on GBM TSs were evaluated. Viability, stemness, and invasive properties of GBM TSs were examined. In vivo anticancer efficacy was tested in a mouse orthotopic xenograft model.

RESULTS

The combination of niclsoamide and temozolomide significantly inhibited the viability, sphere formation, expression of stemness-related proteins, and invasive properties of GBM TSs. This combination significantly down-regulated the expression of epithelial mesenchymal transition-related proteins. Bioluminescence imaging further showed that compared with either agent alone, combination of niclosamide and temozolomide significantly reduced the tumor burden in orthotopic xenograft models.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of niclosamide and temozolomide effectively decreased the stemness and invasive properties of GBM TSs, suggesting that this regimen may be therapeutically effective in treating patients with GBM. KEYWORDS: Glioblastoma; Invasion; Niclosamide; Temozolomide; Tumorsphere

Glioblastoma Cellular Origin and the Firework Pattern of Cancer Genesis from the Subventricular Zone

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a disease without any definite cure. Numerous approaches have been tested in efforts to conquer this brain disease, but patients invariably experience recurrence or develop resistance to treatment. New surgical tools, carefully chosen samples, and experimental methods are enabling discoveries at single-cell resolution. The present article reviews the cell-of-origin of isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)-wildtype GBM, beginning with the historical background for focusing on cellular origin and introducing the cancer genesis patterned on firework. The authors also review mutations associated with the senescence process in cells of the subventricular zone (SVZ), and biological validation of somatic mutations in a mouse SVZ model. Understanding GBM would facilitate research on the origin of other cancers and may catalyze the development of new management approaches or treatments against IDH-wildtype GBM.

BACE1 molecular docking and anti-Alzheimer's disease activities of ginsenosides

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ginsenosides are natural product steroid glycosides and triterpene saponins obtained from the Panax species. Panax ginseng has been widely used as a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for around a thousand years, especially in East Asian countries. Ginseng, the root and rhizome of the most popular species P. ginseng, used as tonic, prophylactic agent and restorative. In TCM, ginseng is highly valued herb and has been applied to a variety of pathological conditions and illnesses such as hypodynamia, anorexia, shortness of breath, palpitation, insomnia, impotence, hemorrhage and diabetes.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The basic aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-Alzheimer's disease activities of selected ginsenosides (Rb1, Rb2, Rc, Re, Rg1, and Rg3) according to peroxynitrite (ONOO(‒)) scavenging activity and inhibitory activity of ONOO(-)-mediated nitrotyrosine formation as a measure of changes in oxidative stress. In addition, molecular docking simulation studies were performed to predict binding energies of the ginsenosides with β-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1, β-secretase) and identify the interacting residues.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In vitro cholinesterase enzyme assays by using acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), and BACE1 were performed. In vitro authentic peroxynitrite scavenging activity and inhibitory activity against ONOO(-)-mediated nitrotyrosine formation were also performed. Molecular docking simulation studies were performed with Autodock Vina software and Discovery studio 4.1.

RESULTS

In vitro enzyme assays demonstrated that ginsenosides have significant inhibitory potential against AChE, BChE, and BACE1, as well as ONOO(-) and nitrotyrosine formation. Most importantly, significant AChE inhibitory activities were observed for Re; BChE for Rg3; and BACE1 for Rc, with IC50 values of 29.86±3.20, 16.80±0.36, and 59.81±2.74μg/mL, respectively. Among the tested ginsenosides, Rb1 exhibited a higher scavenging activity against ONOO(-) with an IC50 value of 27.86±1.34μg/mL, while Rc and Rg3 exhibited impressive inhibitory activity against the formation of nitrotyrosine. In addition, molecular docking studies revealed potential BACE1 inhibitory activity of ginsenosides, especially Rb1 and Rb2, which exhibited good binding affinities towards BACE1, with docking scores of -10kcal/mol.

CONCLUSION

The findings of the present study suggest the potential of ginsenosides (Rb1, Rb2, Rc, Re, Rg1, and Rg3) for use in the development of therapeutic or preventive agents for Alzheimer's disease, especially through inhibition of AChE, BChE and BACE1 activities, as well as scavenging of ONOO(-) and inhibition of nitrotyrosine formation.

Health benefit of fucosterol from marine algae: a review

Seaweeds belong to a group of marine plants known as algae, which are consumed as sea vegetables in several Asian countries. Recent studies have focused on the biological and pharmacological activities of seaweeds and their highly bioactive secondary metabolites because of their potential in the development of new pharmaceutical agents. Although several varieties of bioactive novel compounds such as phlorotannins, diterpenes and polysaccharides from seaweeds have already been well scrutinized, fucosterol as a phytosterol still needs to reinvent itself. Fucosterol (24-ethylidene cholesterol) is a sterol that can be isolated from algae, seaweed and diatoms. Fucosterol exhibits various biological therapeutics, including anticancer, antidiabetic, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, antihyperlipidemic, antifungal, antihistaminic, anticholinergic, antiadipogenic, antiphotodamaging, anti-osteoporotic, blood cholesterol reducing, blood vessel thrombosis preventive and butyrylcholinesterase inhibitory activities. In this review, we address some potential approaches for arbitrating novel fucosterol biologics in the medical field, focusing on the selection of personalized drug candidates and highlighting the challenges and opportunities regarding medical breakthroughs. We also highlight recent advances made in the design of this novel compound, as the significant health benefits from using these optimized applications apply to the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical fields.

Kinetics and molecular docking studies of fucosterol and fucoxanthin, BACE1 inhibitors from brown algae Undaria pinnatifida and Ecklonia stolonifera

Since the action of β-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1) is strongly correlated with the onset of Alzheimer's disease (AD), the development of BACE1 inhibitors as therapeutic agents is being vigorously pursued. In our ongoing research aimed at identifying anti-AD remedies derived from maritime plants, we evaluated the BACE1 inhibitory activities of fucosterol and fucoxanthin from Ecklonia stolonifera and Undaria pinnatifida. In vitro anti-AD activities were performed via BACE1 inhibition assays, as well as enzyme kinetic and molecular docking predictions. Based on enzyme-based assays, fucosterol and fucoxanthin showed noncompetitive and mixed-type inhibition, respectively, against BACE1. In addition, docking simulation results demonstrated that the Lys224 residue of BACE1 interacted with one hydroxyl group of fucosterol, while two additional BACE1 residues (Gly11 and Ala127) interacted with two hydroxyl groups of fucoxanthin. Moreover, the binding energy of fucosterol and fucoxanthin was negative (-10.1 and -7.0 kcal/mol), indicating that hydrogen bonding may stabilize the open form of the enzyme and potentiate tight binding of the active site of BACE1, resulting in more effective BACE1 inhibition. The results suggest that fucosterol and fucoxanthin may be used beneficially in the treatment of AD and provide potential guidelines for the design of new BACE1 inhibitors.

Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B inhibitory activity of alkaloids from Rhizoma Coptidis and their molecular docking studies

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGIC RELEVANCE

Rhizoma Coptidis (the rhizome of Coptis chinensis Franch) has commonly been used for treatment of diabetes mellitus in traditional Chinese medicine due to its blood sugar-lowering properties and therapeutic benefits which highly related to the alkaloids therein. However, a limited number of studies focused on the Coptis alkaloids other than berberine.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In the present study, we investigated the anti-diabetic potential of Coptis alkaloids, including berberine (1), epiberberine (2), magnoflorine (3), and coptisine (4), by evaluating the ability of these compounds to inhibit protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B), and ONOO(-)-mediated protein tyrosine nitration. We scrutinized the potentials of Coptis alkaloids as PTP1B inhibitors via enzyme kinetics and molecular docking simulation.

RESULTS

The Coptis alkaloids 1-4 exhibited remarkable inhibitory activities against PTP1B with the IC50 values of 16.43, 24.19, 28.14, and 51.04 μM, respectively, when compared to the positive control ursolic acid. These alkaloids also suppressed ONOO(-)-mediated tyrosine nitration effectively in a dose dependent manner. In addition, our kinetic study using the Lineweaver-Burk and Dixon plots revealed that 1 and 2 showed a mixed-type inhibition against PTP1B, while 3 and 4 noncompetitively inhibited PTP1B. Moreover, molecular docking simulation of these compounds demonstrated negative binding energies (Autodock 4.0=-6.7 to -7.8 kcal/mol; Fred 2.0=-59.4 to -68.2 kcal/mol) and a high proximity to PTP1B residues, including Phe182 and Asp181 in the WPD loop, Cys215 in the active sites and Tyr46, Arg47, Asp48, Val49, Ser216, Ala217, Gly218, Ile219, Gly220, Arg221 and Gln262 in the pocket site, indicating a higher affinity and tighter binding capacity of these alkaloids for the active site of the enzyme.

CONCLUSION

Our results clearly indicate the promising anti-diabetic potential of Coptis alkaloids as inhibitors on PTP1B as well as suppressors of ONOO(-)-mediated protein tyrosine nitration, and thus hold promise as therapeutic agents for the treatment of diabetes and related disease.

Anti-hyperalgesic and anti-allodynic activities of capillarisin via suppression of inflammatory signaling in animal model

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Artemisia capillaris has widespread traditional and pharmacological applications such as analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-pyretic, enhance immunity and anti-tumor activity properties. To evaluate the pharmacological activities of this plant, capillarisin, one of the potent constituent of Artemisia capillaris was studied based on anti-hyperalgesic and anti-allodynic effects with detailed mechanism. It can be assumed that measurement of anti-nociceptive effects of capillarisin is one of the parameter for the evaluation of this herb. Capillarisin has extensive pharmacological properties and has been considered to have promising ant-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive activities. The aim of the current study is to investigate the effect of capillarisin and underlying molecular mechanisms of action in preventing acute and subchronic inflammatory pain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The inflammatory pain was induced after 40 min or 1h of administration of vehicle, 70% EtOH extract of Artemisia capillaris (100mg/kg) or capillarisin (20 and 80 mg/kg) by intraplantar (i.p.l.) injections of CFA and carrageenan in ICR mice, respectively. Mechanical hyperalgesia and allodynia were evaluated in both acute and subchronic models. Further analysis was performed in CFA-induced mice exploring various molecular and signaling pathways such as NF-κB, AP-1, and ERK-CREB involved in the persistent pain sensations.

RESULTS

In acute model, mechanical hyperalgesia and allodynia were evaluated after every 2h until 6h of CFA and after 4h of carrageenan injections. Whereas, in subchronic inflammatory pain model, mechanical hyperalgesia and paw edema were measured after 4h of CFA injection and every day after 4h of daily treatment until 5 days with interval of day four in order to assess the tolerance effect of capillarisin. Further analysis was performed in CFA-induced mice exploring various molecular and signaling pathways such as NF-κB, AP-1 and ERK-CREB involved in the persistent of pain sensations. Pre-treatment of capillarisin strongly inhibited NF-κB mediated genes (iNOS, COX-2), involved in pain. The plasma leading nitrite production was significantly reduced by capillarisin. Moreover, i.p. administration of capillarisin markedly suppressed the adenosine 5׳-triphosphate (ATP) in plasma and substance P in CFA-induced paw tissue.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study indicates that capillarisin possessed promising anti-hyperalgesic and anti-allodynic effects through the inhibition of various inflammatory pain signaling, suggesting that capillarisin constitutes a significant component for the treatment of inflammatory pain.

Anti-inflammatory activity of edible brown alga Saccharina japonica and its constituents pheophorbide a and pheophytin a in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells

Anti-inflammatory activity of Saccharina japonica and its active components was evaluated via in vitro inhibitory activities against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO) production, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cells. Since the methanolic extract of S. japonica showed strong anti-inflammatory activity, it was fractionated with several solvents. Among the fractions, the ethyl acetate fraction demonstrated the highest inhibition of LPS-induced NO production (IC50=25.32μg/mL), followed by the CH2Cl2 fraction (IC50=75.86μg/mL). Considering the yield and anti-inflammatory potential together, the CH2Cl2 fraction was selected for chromatographic separation to yield two active porphyrin derivatives, pheophorbide a and pheophytin a, together with an inactive fucoxanthin. In contrast to fucoxanthin, pheophorbide a and pheophytin a showed dose-dependent inhibition against LPS-induced NO production at nontoxic concentrations in RAW 264.7 cells. Both compounds also suppressed the expression of iNOS proteins, while they did not inhibit the COX-2 expression in LPS-stimulated macrophages. These results indicate that pheophorbide a and pheophytin a are two important candidates of S. japonica as anti-inflammatory agents which can inhibit the production of NO via inhibition of iNOS protein expression. Thus, these compounds hold great promise for use in the treatment of various inflammatory diseases.

Molecular mechanism of capillarisin-mediated inhibition of MyD88/TIRAP inflammatory signaling in in vitro and in vivo experimental models

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Artemisia capillaris Thunberg (Compositae) have been used as traditional medicine as a diuretic, liver protective agent, and for amelioration of inflammatory and analgesic disorders. The present study was carried out to establish the scientific rationale for treating inflammation and to find active principles from A. capillaris. The aim of the present study is to investigate the possible anti-inflammatory mechanism of the major component (capillarisin) isolated from A. capillaris via inhibition of MyD88/TIRAP inflammatory signaling both in vitro and in vivo models.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The nitrite, PGE(2), and TNF-α productions were evaluated by Griess reagent and ELISA kits. The protein and mRNA expression levels were investigated by Western blot and RT-PCR. The NF-κB and AP-1 DNA-binding was performed by electrophoretic mobility shift assay. The CFA- and carrageenan-induced paw edema was performed in ICR mice in which 20 and 80 mg/kg body weight of capillarisin was administered intraperitoneally (i.p.).

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that pretreatment with capillarisin effectively inhibited the LPS-induced activation of NF-κB, Akt, and MAP kinase-activated inflammatory genes, which is mediated by MyD88 and TIRAP. Treatment with capillarisin reduced the mRNA and protein levels of iNOS and COX-2 in RAW 264.7 cells as assessed by RT-PCR and Western blot. Capillarisin suppressed LPS-induced inhibitory kappa kinase (IKK) phosphorylation and the degradation of inhibitory kappa B (IκBα) and prevented the nuclear translocation of p65 and p50. Capillarisin also exhibited a promising inhibitory effect on the LPS-induced NF-κB and AP-1 DNA binding activity based on an electrophoretic mobility shift assay. The LPS-induced activation of p-JNK, p-p38, p-ERK, and p-Akt was significantly inhibited. In addition, the TNF-α level in the media was effectively reduced by capillarisin. In vivo experimental analysis revealed that capillarisin (20 and 80 mg/kg, i.p.) inhibited complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-and carrageenan-induced paw edema, nitrite production in plasma, and TNF-α, a pro-inflammatory cytokine production.

CONCLUSION

The results presented here demonstrate that capillarisin has consistent anti-inflammatory properties and acts by inhibiting inflammatory mediators in in vitro and in vivo experimental models, and suggest its potential utility in the control of inflammatory disorders.

Anti-inflammatory properties of anthraquinones and their relationship with the regulation of P-glycoprotein function and expression

There is a growing interest in natural products that potentially have anti-inflammatory properties and inhibit P-glycoprotein (P-gp) function. In this report, we assessed the effects of anthraquinone derivatives from rhubarb on LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages to determine their anti-inflammatory potential. The derivatives were also tested in Caco-2 cell lines to evaluate the inhibition of the drug efflux function of P-gp. The transport abilities were examined and the cellular accumulation of rhodamine-123 (R-123) was also measured. Electorphoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) was performed to check the activator protein-1 (AP-1) DNA binding affinity. Five anthraquinones were tested to determine their inhibitory activities on NO production and the protein and mRNA expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Furthermore, the level of prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) was determined in LPS-induced RAW264.7 macrophages. Emodin was found to be the most potent inhibitor, and it also reduced paw swelling in the mouse model of carrageenan-induced paw edema. In Caco-2 cells, emodin elevated the accumulation of R-123 and decreased the efflux ratio of R-123, which indicates the inhibition of P-gp function. The inhibition of COX-2 protein by emodin paralleled the decrease in P-gp expression. In addition, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) expression was decreased through the prevention of AP-1 DNA binding, which leads to downregulation in the expression of P-gp. Our data indicate that the decrease of P-gp expression is caused by the decreased expression of COX-2 through the MAPK/AP-1 pathway. Based on our results, we suggest that anti-inflammatory drugs with COX-2 inhibitory activity might be used to modulate P-gp function and expression.

Mechanism of anti-inflammatory activity of umbelliferone 6-carboxylic acid isolated from Angelica decursiva

AIMS OF THE STUDY

We recently reported the potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of umbelliferone 6-carboxylic acid (UMC) isolated from the whole plants of Angelica decursiva. In this study, we elucidated the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of UMC in vitro and in vivo.

METHODS

The inhibitory effects of UMC on the production of nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), the expression of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), the activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) were evaluated using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation inhibitory activity of UMC was evaluated using t-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP)-induced RAW 264.7 cells. Furthermore, the in vivo anti-inflammatory activity of UMC was evaluated using carrageenan induced mouse paw edema model.

RESULTS

UMC dose-dependently inhibited NO and PGE(2) production by down-regulating iNOS and COX-2 protein expression in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. UMC also suppressed the production of the proinflammatory cytokine TNF-α in LPS stimulated RAW 264.7 cells in a concentration dependent manner. In addition, UMC dose-dependently prevented LPS-induced nuclear translocation of NF-κB in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Furthermore, UMC exhibited the inhibitory activity against t-BHP-induced ROS generation in RAW 264.7 cells with an IC(50) value of 705.1 μg/ml. Moreover, UMC inhibited λ-carrageenan induced mouse paw edema by 70.40 and 60.20% at doses of 50 and 25 mg/kg body weight, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The combined results of this study indicate that UMC is an important anti-inflammatory constituent of A. decursiva and its anti-inflammatory effect was due to its ability to inhibit the production of inflammatory mediators via inhibition of NF-κB activation pathway.

Sesquiterpenes and other constituents from Dendranthema zawadskii var. latilobum

Six new germacranolides, zawadskinolides A-F (1-6), and a new eudesmane glucoside, chrysantiloboside (7) were isolated from the aerial parts of Dendranthema zawadskii var. latilobum, along with thirteen known constituents. Their structures were elucidated by means of spectroscopic evidence. Bioassay showed that flavonoids such as apigenin (9), (-)-eriodictyol (10) and nepetin (12), as well as the sesquiterpene lactone, zawadskinolide F (6), inhibited nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells with IC50 values of 66.15, 132.55, 35.44, and 91.32 μM, respectively.

Anti-inflammatory effects of (Z)-ligustilide through suppression of mitogen-activated protein kinases and nuclear factor-κB activation pathways

The roots of Angelica tenuissima have been commonly used for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases and menstrual discomfort in Asian countries, such as China and Korea. The primary volatile flavor components are essential oil ingredients, phthalide lactones. In this study, (Z)-ligustilide was tested for its anti-inflammatory activities in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. We found that (Z)-ligustilide strongly inhibitis the induction of LPS-induced inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) at both the mRNA and protein levels in a dose-dependent manner. The transcriptional activity of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-B) was also down-regulated in a concentration-dependent manner. Further study revealed that (Z)-ligustilide inhibited the phosphorylation and subsequent degradation of IBα, an inhibitor protein of NF-B. In addition, (Z)-ligustilide inhibited the phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase (JNK) in a dose-dependent manner. Taken together, these data suggest that (Z)-ligustilide can exert its antiinflammatory effects by regulating the NF-B and MAPK signal pathways.

Suppression of LPS-induced inflammatory and NF-κB responses by anomalin in RAW 264.7 macrophages

The treatment of inflammatory diseases today is largely based on interrupting the synthesis or action of the mediators that drive the host's response to injury. It is on the basis of this concept that most of the anti-inflammatory drugs have been developed. In our continuous search for novel anti-inflammatory agents from traditional medicinal plants, Saposhnikovia divaricata has been a focus of our investigations. Anomalin, a pyranocoumarin constituent of S. divaricata, exhibits potent anti-inflammatory activity. To clarify the cellular signaling mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory action of anomalin, we investigated the effect of anomalin on the production of inflammatory molecules in LPS-stimulated murine macrophages. The anomalin dose-dependently inhibited inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) mRNA and protein expression in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage. Molecular analysis using quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) revealed that several pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), were reduced by anomalin, and this reduction correlated with the down-regulation of the NF-κB signaling pathway. In addition, anomalin suppressed the LPS-induced phosphorylation and degradation of IκBα. To further study the mechanisms underlying its anti-inflammatory activity, an electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) using a (32) P-labeled NF-κB probe was conducted. LPS-induced NF-κB DNA binding was drastically abolished by anomalin. The present data suggest that anomalin is a major anti-inflammatory agent and may be a potential therapeutic candidate for the treatment of inflammatory disorders.

Inhibitory effects of kaurenoic acid from Aralia continentalis on LPS-induced inflammatory response in RAW264.7 macrophages

This study investigates the anti-inflammatory effects of a diterpenoid, kaurenoic acid, isolated from the root of Aralia continentalis (Araliaceae). To determine its anti-inflammatory effects, LPS-induced RAW264.7 macrophages were treated with different concentrations of kaurenoic acid and carrageenan-induced paw edema mice model was used in vivo. Kaurenoic acid (ent-kaur-16-en-19-oic acid) dose-dependently inhibited nitric oxide (NO) production, prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) release, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression at micromolar concentrations in LPS-induced RAW264.7 macrophages with IC(50) (the half maximal inhibitory concentration) values of 51.73 (±2.42) μM and 106.09 (±0.27) μM in NO production and PGE(2) release, respectively. Kaurenoic acid also dose-dependently inhibited LPS-induced activation of NF-κB as assayed by electrophorectic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and it almost abolished NF-κB DNA binding affinity at 100μM. Furthermore, the in vivo anti-inflammatory effect of kaurenoic acid was examined in a carrageenan-induced paw edema model. Eight ICR mice in each group were injected with carrageenan and observed hourly, compared with the control group. Kaurenoic acid dose-dependently reduced paw swelling up to 34.4% at 5h after induction, demonstrating inhibition in an acute inflammation model. Taken together, our data suggest that kaurenoic acid, a major diterpenoid from the root of A. continentalis shows anti-inflammatory activity and the inhibition of iNOS and COX-2 expression might be one of the mechanisms responsible for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Anti-amnesic activity of neferine with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities, as well as inhibition of ChEs and BACE1

AIMS

the multifunctional potential of neferine derived from the embryo of Nelumbo nucifera seeds for the age-related neurodegenerative disorders, in vivo anti-amnesic activities and in vitro cholinesterases (ChEs)- and β-site APP cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1)-inhibitory activities, as well as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities were investigated.

MAIN METHODS

in vivo anti-amnesic activities were performed via the passive avoidance, Y-maze, and Morris water maze tasks in a scopolamine-induced amnesia model. The cell-free antioxidant capacities were evaluated by in vitro scavenging activities against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) radicals, and peroxynitrite (ONOO(-)), as well as inhibitory activities against nitric oxide (NO), superoxide anion (O(2)(-)), lipid peroxidation, and ONOO(-)-mediated tyrosine nitration. The intracellular antioxidant capacities were also determined via inhibitory activities of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced NO generation and NF-κB activation in RAW 264.7 cells.

KEY FINDINGS

neferine showed significant improvement in cognitive impairment in scopolamine-induced amnesia animal models and moderate inhibitory activities in ChEs and BACE1 assays. In addition, it exhibited notable scavenging activities against DPPH, ABTS, NO, and O(2)(-) radicals, as well as ONOO(-). Neferine also demonstrated remarkable inhibitory activity against lipid peroxidation and protein nitration in cell-free antioxidant assays and moderate inhibitory activity of NO generation with exceptional suppression of NF-κB activation in cell-based assays.

SIGNIFICANCE

the results demonstrate that the anti-amnesic effect of neferine may be mediated via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities, as well as inhibition of ChEs and BACE1.