Sanguinarine suppresses migration and metastasis in colorectal carcinoma associated with the inversion of EMT through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling

The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in colorectal cancer: mechanism and intervention of traditional Chinese medicine and chemical compound

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is globally recognized as the third most frequently diagnosed malignancy and the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality. The etiology of CRC is multifactorial, arising from a complex interplay of genetic alterations, environmental exposures, and age-related physiological changes. Among the numerous signaling pathways that regulate cellular homeostasis, the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway not only plays a critical role in embryonic development and cell proliferation but also contributes to the initiation and progression of various malignancies, including CRC. Dysregulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is a hallmark of CRC, playing a pivotal role in regulating chemoresistance and driving invasive and metastatic behaviors. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is characterized by its multi-target and multi-pathway mechanisms. Extensive studies have demonstrated that TCM can inhibit the activity of CRC cells by targeting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and significantly alleviate symptoms in CRC animal models, demonstrating its potential therapeutic value for the treatment of CRC. This review primarily focuses on the literature published in the past 5 years, retrieved from databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, MEDLINE, and Springer, concerning the targeting of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway for the treatment of CRC. It highlights the research progress on TCM monomers (e.g., myricetin, genistein, baicalein), TCM formulations (e.g., Pai-Nong-San (PNS), Jian-Du-Xiao-Sheng Yin (JXY), Zuo-Jin-Wan (ZJW)), and small-molecule inhibitors (e.g., PCDHGA9, Cetuximab, PTK7). Furthermore, the experimental results and conclusions from these studies are thoroughly analyzed and discussed. Through a comprehensive review of the literature, we conclude that TCM exhibits multi-level, multi-target, and multi-faceted effects in the prevention and treatment of CRC. In-depth research into the mechanisms by which TCM targets the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway to prevent and treat CRC may provide novel insights into exploring the pathogenesis of CRC and developing new therapeutic agents for CRC.

Sanguinarine identified as a natural dual inhibitor of AURKA and CDK2 through network pharmacology and bioinformatics approaches

Cervical cancer (CA) continues to be a female malignant tumor with limited therapeutic options, resulting in a high mortality rate. Sanguinarine (SANG), a naturally occurring alkaloid, has demonstrated notable efficacy in preclinical treatment of CA. However, the mechanism through which SANG acts against CA is not fully understood. To address this, utilizing nine drug target prediction databases, we have successfully identified 379 potential targets for SANG. Venn diagram analysis compared 2367 CA-related targets from the GeneCards disease database, 2618 CA-closely related targets derived from multiple datasets in GEO through WGCNA analysis, and the 379 potential targets of SANG, resulting in 35 shared targets. Subsequently, by employing PPI network analysis, the Cytohubba plugin, the Human Protein Atlas, TCGA database data, and ROC curve analysis, we have identified AURKA and CDK2 as key targets of SANG in combating CA. Single-gene GSEA results suggest that the overexpression of AURKA and CDK2 is closely correlated with DNA replication, cell cycle progression, and various DNA repair pathways in CA. Molecular docking and molecular simulation dynamics analyses have confirmed the stable binding of both AURKA and CDK2 to SANG. In summary, by integrating diverse methodological approaches, this study discovered that SANG potentially inhibits the malignant features of CA by targeting AURKA and CDK2, thereby regulating DNA replication, cell cycle progression, and multiple DNA repair pathways. This lays a solid foundation for further exploring the pharmacological role of SANG in CA therapy. However, further in-depth in vitro and in vivo experiments are required to corroborate our findings.

Identification of sanguinarine as c-MYC transcription inhibitor through enhancing the G-quadruplex-NM23-H2 interactions

c-MYC is a proto-oncogene ubiquitously overexpressed in various cancers. The formation of G-quadruplex (G4) structures within the c-MYC promoter region can regulate its transcription by interfering with protein binding. Consequently, small molecules targeting c-MYC G4 have emerged as promising anticancer agents. Herein, we report that sanguinarine (SG) and its analogs exhibit a high affinity for c-MYC G4 and potently modulate G4-protein interactions within a natural product library. Notably, SG uniquely enhances NM23-H2 binding to c-MYC G4, both in vitro and in cellular contexts, leading to c-MYC transcriptional repression and subsequent inhibition of cancer cell growth in an NM23-H2-dependent manner. Mechanistic studies and molecular modeling suggest that SG binds to the c-MYC G4/NM23-H2 interface, acting as an orthosteric stabilizer of the DNA-protein complex and preventing c-MYC transcription. Our findings identify SG as a potent c-MYC transcription inhibitor and provide a novel strategy for developing G4-targeting anticancer therapeutics through modulation of G4-protein interactions.

[Sanguinarine induces ferroptosis of colorectal cancer cells by upregulating STUB1 and downregulating GPX4]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of sanguinarine (SAN) on proliferation and ferroptosis of colorectal cancer cells.

METHODS

SW620 and HCT-116 cells treated with different concentrations of SAN were examined for cell viability changes using CCK8 assay to determine the IC50 of SAN in the two cells. The inhibitory effects of SAN on proliferation, invasion and migration of the cells were evaluated using colony-forming assay and Transwell assays. ROS production in the treated cells was analyzed with flow cytometry, and lipid peroxide production was assessed by detecting malondialdehyde (MDA) level. Glutathione (GSH) levels in the cells were detected, and Western blotting was used to detect the expressions of ferroptosis-related proteins STUB1 and GPX4.

RESULTS

SAN significantly inhibited the proliferation, invasion and migration of SW620 and HCT-116 cells. SAN treatment significantly promoted ROS production, increased intracellular MDA level, and lowered GSH level in the two cells (P<0.05). Western blotting showed that SAN significantly upregulated the expression of STUB1 and down-regulated the expression of its downstream protein GPX4 (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

SAN induces ferroptosis in colorectal cancer cells by regulating STUB1/GPX4, which may serve as a new therapeutic target for colorectal cancer.

Sulforaphane-mediated immune regulation through inhibition of NF-kB and MAPK signaling pathways in human dendritic cells

Inflammation and immune responses are intricately intertwined processes crucial for maintaining homeostasis and combating against pathogens. These processes involve complex signaling pathways, notably the Nuclear Factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B-cells (NF-κB) and Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) pathways, which play crucial roles. Sulforaphane (SFN), a nutraceutic, has emerged as a potential regulator of NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways, exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties. However, limited knowledge exists regarding SFN's effects on immune cell modulation. This study aimed to assess the immunomodulatory capacity of SFN pretreatment in human dendritic cells (DCs), followed by exposure to a chronic inflammatory environment induced by lipopolysaccharide. SFN pretreatment was found to inhibit the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways, resulting in phenotypic changes in DCs characterized by a slight reduction in the expression of surface markers, as well as a decrease of TNF-α/IL-10 ratio. Additionally, SFN pretreatment enhanced the proliferation of Treg-cells and promoted the production of IL-10 by B-cells before exposure to the chronic inflammatory environment. Furthermore, these changes in DCs were found to be influenced by the inhibition of NF-κB and MAPK pathways (specifically p38 MAPK and JNK), suggesting that these pathways may play a role in the regulation of the differentiation of adaptive immune responses (proliferation of T- and IL-10-producing regulatory-cells), prior to SFN pretreatment. Our findings suggest that SFN pretreatment may induce a regulatory response by inhibiting NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways in an inflammatory environment. SFN could be considered a promising strategy for utilizing functional foods to protect against inflammation and develop immunoregulatory interventions.

Hawthorn Proanthocyanidin Extract Inhibits Colorectal Carcinoma Metastasis by Targeting the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Process and Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway

Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is a major global health concern, with cancer metastasis being the main cause of patient mortality, and current CRC treatments are challenged by drug resistance. Although natural compounds, especially in foods like hawthorn proanthocyanidin extract (HPOE), have good anticancer activity, their effects on CRC metastasis remain unknown. Therefore, our objective was to investigate the impact and potential mechanisms of HPOE on the movement and infiltration of cells in the HCT116 CRC cells. Firstly, scratch-healing experiments confirmed the anti-migratory and anti-invasive capabilities of HPOE. Then, network pharmacology identified 16 possible targets, including MMP-9. Subsequently, RT-qPCR and Western blotting experiments confirmed that HPOE downregulated epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related factors (N-cadherin and MMP-9) and inhibited Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation. Finally, these results were experimentally validated using the Wnt pathway activator Licl and inhibitor XAV939. It was confirmed that HPOE had a certain inhibitory effect on the activation of the Wnt signaling pathway caused by the activator Licl and could enhance the inhibitory effect of the inhibitor XAV939. Our findings provide a basis for developing functional foods or dietary supplements, especially positioning HPOE as a functional food raw material for adjuvant treatment of CRC, given its ability to inhibit metastasis through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

Bioactivity and mechanism of action of sanguinarine and its derivatives in the past 10 years

Sanguinarine is a quaternary ammonium benzophenanthine alkaloid found in traditional herbs such as Chelidonium, Corydalis, Sanguinarum, and Borovula. It has been proven to possess broad-spectrum biological activities, such as antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antiosteoporosis, neuroprotective, and antipathogenic microorganism activities. In this paper, recent progress on the biological activity and mechanism of action of sanguinarine and its derivatives over the past ten years is reviewed. The results showed that the biological activities of hematarginine and its derivatives are related mainly to the JAK/STAT, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, NF-κB, TGF-β, MAPK and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways. The limitations of using sanguinarine in clinical application are also discussed, and the research prospects of this subject are outlined. In general, sanguinarine, a natural medicine, has many pharmacological effects, but its toxicity and safety in clinical application still need to be further studied. This review provides useful information for the development of sanguinarine-based bioactive agents.

Extracellular vesicles from Fusobacterium nucleatum: roles in the malignant phenotypes of gastric cancer

The increase of the Fusobacterium nucleatum level has been previously identified in various cancers including gastric cancer (GC), but how the F. nucleatum exerts its carcinogenic role in GC remains unclear. Several studies revealed that F. nucleatum contributes to cancer progression via its secretion of extracellular vehicles (EVs). Hence, it's designed to reveal the influence of F. nucleatum-derived EVs (Fn-EVs) in GC progression. The tumor and adjacent tissues were collected from 30 GC patients, and the abundance of F. nucleatum was found to be highly expressed in tumor samples. The ultracentrifugation was employed to isolate EVs from F. nucleatum and Escherischia coli (E. coli), which were labeled Fn-EVs and E. coli-EVs, respectively. After treating GC cells with Fn-EVs and E. coli-EVs, cell counting kit 8, colony formation, wound healing as well as transwell assay were performed, which revealed that Fn-EVs effectively enhanced oxaliplatin resistance, and facilitated cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and stemness in GC cells while E. coli-EVs exert no significant effect on GC cells. Besides, the stemness and DNA repair of GC cells were also enhanced by Fn-EVs, as revealed by the sphere-forming assay and the detection of stemness- and DNA repair-associated proteins by western blotting. In vivo analyses demonstrated that Fn-EVs administration not only promoted GC tumor growth and liver metastasis but also conferred GC tumor resistance to oxaliplatin resistance. This study first revealed the contributive role of F. nucleatum in GC development via Fn-EVs, which provided a better perspective for manipulating F. nucleatum in treating GC patients with malignant phenotypes.

Benzophenanthridine Alkaloid Chelerythrine Elicits Necroptosis of Gastric Cancer Cells via Selective Conjugation at the Redox Hyperreactive C-Terminal Sec498 Residue of Cytosolic Selenoprotein Thioredoxin Reductase

Targeting thioredoxin reductase (TXNRD) with low-weight molecules is emerging as a high-efficacy anti-cancer strategy in chemotherapy. Sanguinarine has been reported to inhibit the activity of TXNRD1, indicating that benzophenanthridine alkaloid is a fascinating chemical entity in the field of TXNRD1 inhibitors. In this study, the inhibition of three benzophenanthridine alkaloids, including chelerythrine, sanguinarine, and nitidine, on recombinant TXNRD1 was investigated, and their anti-cancer mechanisms were revealed using three gastric cancer cell lines. Chelerythrine and sanguinarine are more potent inhibitors of TXNRD1 than nitidine, and the inhibitory effects take place in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Site-directed mutagenesis of TXNRD1 and in vitro inhibition analysis proved that chelerythrine or sanguinarine is primarily bound to the Sec498 residue of the enzyme, but the neighboring Cys497 and remaining N-terminal redox-active cysteines could also be modified after the conjugation of Sec498. With high similarity to sanguinarine, chelerythrine exhibited cytotoxic effects on multiple gastric cancer cell lines and suppressed the proliferation of tumor spheroids derived from NCI-N87 cells. Chelerythrine elevated cellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Moreover, the ROS induced by chelerythrine could be completely suppressed by the addition of N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), and the same is true for sanguinarine. Notably, Nec-1, an RIPK1 inhibitor, rescued the chelerythrine-induced rapid cell death, indicating that chelerythrine triggers necroptosis in gastric cancer cells. Taken together, this study demonstrates that chelerythrine is a novel inhibitor of TXNRD1 by targeting Sec498 and possessing high anti-tumor properties on multiple gastric cancer cell lines by eliciting necroptosis.

Cryptolepine Suppresses Colorectal Cancer Cell Proliferation, Stemness, and Metastatic Processes by Inhibiting WNT/β-Catenin Signaling

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most frequent cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. Evidence shows that over 90% of CRC cases are initiated by a deregulated Wingless Integrated Type-1 (WNT)/β-catenin signaling pathway. The WNT/β-catenin pathway also promotes CRC cell proliferation, stemness, and metastasis. Therefore, modulators of the WNT/β-catenin pathway may serve as promising regimens for CRC. This study investigated the effect of cryptolepine-a plant-derived compound-on the WNT/β-catenin pathway in CRC. Two CRC cell lines, COLO205 and DLD1, were treated with cryptolepine or XAV 939 (a WNT inhibitor) in the presence or absence of WNT3a (a WNT activator). Using a tetrazolium-based assay, cryptolepine was found to reduce cell viability in a dose- and time-dependent manner and was a more potent inhibitor of viability than XAV 939. RT-qPCR analyses showed that cryptolepine reverses WNT3a-induced expression of β-catenin, c-MYC, and WISP1, suggesting that cryptolepine inhibits WNT3a-mediated activation of WNT/β-catenin signaling. Cryptolepine also repressed WNT3a-induced OCT4 and CD133 expression and suppressed colony formation of the cells, indicating that cryptolepine inhibits the stemness of CRC cells. Additionally, cryptolepine inhibited WNT3a-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition by reducing the expression of SNAI1 and TWIST1 genes. In a wound healing assay, cryptolepine was found to suppress cell migration under unstimulated and WNT3a-stimulated conditions. Moreover, cryptolepine downregulated WNT3a-induced expression of MMP2 and MMP9 genes, which are involved in cancer cell invasion. Altogether, cryptolepine suppresses CRC cell proliferation, stemness, and metastatic properties by inhibiting WNT3a-mediated activation of the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway. These findings provide a rationale for considering cryptolepine as a potential WNT inhibitor in CRC.

Insights into the potential of Sanguinarine as a promising therapeutic option for breast cancer

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in women worldwide. The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in the progression and metastasis of BC. A significant proportion of BC is characterized by a hypoxic TME, which contributes to the development of drug resistance and cancer recurrence. Sanguinarine (SAN), an isoquinoline alkaloid found in Papaver plants, has shown promise as an anticancer agent. The present review focuses on exploring the molecular mechanisms of hypoxic TME in BC and the potential of SAN as a therapeutic option. The review presents the current understanding of the hypoxic TME, its signaling pathways, and its impact on the progression of BC. Additionally, the review elaborates on the mechanisms of action of SAN in BC, including its effects on vital cellular processes such as proliferation, migration, drug resistance, and tumor-induced immune suppression. The review highlights the importance of addressing hypoxic TME in treating BC and the potential of SAN as a promising therapeutic option.

Caprin-1 plays a role in cell proliferation and Warburg metabolism of esophageal carcinoma by regulating METTL3 and WTAP

BACKGROUND

Cytoplasmic activation/proliferation-associated protein-1 (Caprin-1) is implicated in cancer cell proliferation and tumorigenesis; however, its role in the development of esophageal carcinoma (ESCA) has not been examined.

METHODS

Biological methods and data analysis were used to investigate the expression of Caprin-1 in ESCA tissue and cell lines. We comprehensively analyzed the mRNA expression and prognostic values, signalling pathways of CAPRIN1 in ESCA using public databases online. Biological functions of CAPRIN1 were performed by clorimetric growth assay, EdU staining, colony formation, flow cytometry, apoptosis analysis, Western blot, lactate detection assay, extracellular acidification rates. The underlying mechanism was determined via flow cytometric analysis, Western blot and rescue experiments. In addition, xenograft tumor model was constructed to verify the phenotypes upon CAPRIN1 silencing.

RESULTS

Caprin-1 expression was significantly elevated in both ESCA tumor tissues and cell lines compared with that in normal adjacent tissues and fibroblasts. Increased CAPRIN1 mRNA expression was significantly associated with clinical prognosis and diagnostic accuracy. The GO enrichment and KEGG pathway analysis CAPRIN1 might be related to immune-related terms, protein binding processes, and metabolic pathways. A significant positive correlation was observed between high Caprin-1 protein levels and lymph node metastasis (P = 0.031), ki-67 (P = 0.023), and 18F- FDG PET/CT parameters (SUVmax (P = 0.002) and SUV mean (P = 0.005)) in 55 ESCA patients. At cut-off values of SUVmax 17.71 and SUVmean 10.14, 18F- FDG PET/CT imaging predicted Caprin-1 expression in ESCA samples with 70.8% sensitivity and 77.4% specificity. In vitro and in vivo assays showed that Caprin-1 knockdown affected ESCA tumor growth. Silencing Caprin-1 inhibited ESCA cell proliferation and glycolysis, and decreased the expression of methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3) and Wilms' tumor 1-associating protein (WTAP). However, this effect could be partially reversed by the restoration of METTL3 and WTAP expression.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that Caprin-1 could serve as a prognostic biomarker and has an oncogenic role in ESCA.

In vivo near-infrared fluorescence and SPECT-CT imaging of colorectal Cancer using the bradykinin B2R-specific ligand icatibant

Cancer molecular imaging using specific probes designed to identify target proteins in cancer is a powerful tool to guide therapeutic selection, patient management, and follow-up. We demonstrated that icatibant may be used as a targeting probe for the significantly upregulated bradykinin B2R in colorectal cancer (CRC). Icatibant-based probes with high affinity towards bradykinin B2R were identified. The near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent dye conjugate MPA-PEG₃-k-Icatibant and radioconjugate [^99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-PEG₄-Icatibant exhibited favourable selective and specific uptake in tumours when the subcutaneous and orthotopic colorectal tumour-bearing mouse models were imaged using NIR fluorescence imaging and Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography-Computed Tomography (SPECT-CT), respectively. The tracer of [^99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-PEG₄-Icatibant accumulated in tumours according to biodistribution studies and peaked at 4 h with an uptake value of 3.41 ± 0.27%ID/g in HT29 tumour-bearing nude mice following intravenous injection (i.v.). The tumour-to-colorectal signal ratios were 5.03 ± 0.37, 15.45 ± 0.32, 13.58 ± 1.19 and 11.33 ± 1.73 1, 2, 4 and 6 h after tail-veil injection, respectively. Overall, in the wake of rapid and precise tumour delineation and penetration characteristics, icatibant-based probes represent promising high-contrast molecular imaging probes for the detection of bradykinin B2R.

Molecular Mechanisms of Sanguinarine in Cancer Prevention and Treatment

Historically, natural plant-derived drugs received a great impact of consideration in the treatment of several human-associated disorders. Cancer is a devastating disease and the second most cause of mortality. Sanguinarine (SANG), a naturally isolated plant alkaloidal agent, possesses chemo-preventive effects. Several studies have revealed that SANG impedes tumor metastasis and development by disrupting a wide range of cell signaling pathways and its molecular targets, such as BCL-2, MAPKs, Akt, NF-κB, ROS, and microRNAs (miRNAs). However, its low chemical stability and poor oral bioavailability remain key issues in its use as a medicinal molecule. A novel method (e.g., liposomes, nanoparticles, and micelles) and alternative analogs provide an exciting approach to alleviate these problems and broaden its pharmacokinetic profile. Cancer-specific miRNA expression is synchronized by SANG, which has also been uncertain. In this critical study, we review the utilization of SANG mimics and nano-technologies to improve its support in cancer. We focus on recently disclosed studies on SANG anti-cancer properties.

Cardamonin suppressed the migration, invasion, epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) and lung metastasis of colorectal cancer cells by down-regulating ADRB2 expression

CONTEXT

Cardamonin (CDN) can suppress cell growth in colorectal cancer (CRC), a common digestive malignancy.

OBJECTIVE

We explored the effect and mechanism of CDN on metastatic CRC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two cell lines (HT29 and HCT116) were initially treated with CDN at different concentrations (5, 10 and 20 μmol/L) or 50 μmol/L propranolol (positive control) for 24 or 48 h. Then, the two cell lines were separately transfected with siADRB2 and ADRB2 overexpression plasmids, and further treated with 10 μmol/L CDN for 24 h. The cell viability, migration and invasion were determined by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), wound healing and transwell assays, respectively. The levels of ADRB2, matrix metalloprotease (MMP)-2, MMP-9, E-cadherin and N-cadherin were measured by Western blotting or/and RT-qPCR. A CRC metastasis model was established to evaluate the antimetastatic potential of CDN (25 mg/kg).

RESULTS

ADRB2 (3.2-fold change; p < 0.001) was highly expressed in CRC tissues. CDN at 10 μmol/L suppressed viability (69% and 70%), migration (33% and 66%), invasion (43% and 72%) and ADRB2 expression (2.2- and 2.84-fold change) in HT29 and HCT116 cells (p < 0.001). CDN at 10 μmol/L inhibited MMP-2, MMP-9 and N-cadherin expression but promoted E-cadherin expression in CRC cells (p < 0.001). Importantly, the effect of CDN on CRC cells was impaired by ADRB2 overexpression, but further enhanced by ADRB2 down-regulation (p < 0.01). Additionally, ADRB2 overexpression reversed the inhibitory effect of CDN on metastatic lung nodules (p < 0.05). Discussion and conclusions: CDN is a potential candidate for the treatment of metastatic CRC in clinical practice.

Inhibition and potential treatment of colorectal cancer by natural compounds via various signaling pathways

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common type of malignant digestive tract tumor with a high incidence rate worldwide. Currently, the clinical treatment of CRC predominantly include surgical resection, postoperative chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. However, these treatments contain severe limitations such as drug side effects, the risk of recurrence and drug resistance. Some natural compounds found in plants, fungi, marine animals, and bacteria have been shown to inhibit the occurrence and development of CRC. Although the explicit molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of these compounds on CRC are not clear, classical signaling transduction pathways such as NF-kB and Wnt/β-catenin are extensively regulated. In this review, we have summarized the specific mechanisms regulating the inhibition and development of CRC by various types of natural compounds through nine signaling pathways, and explored the potential therapeutic values of these natural compounds in the clinical treatment of CRC.

A novel O2- (2,4-dinitrophenyl) diazeniumdiolate inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma migration, invasion, and EMT through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway

Targeted Wnt/β-catenin pathway is considered to be a promising therapy for cancer metastasis. The novel O² -(2,4-dinitrophenyl) diazeniumdiolate (JS-K) plays a potent inhibitory role in the proliferation of cancers. In this study, HepG2 and SMMC7721 were used to clarify the efficacy of JS-K inhibition of HCC metastasis. JS-K significantly inhibited cell motility through a wound-healing assay and restrained cell migration and invasion at noncytotoxic concentrations. However, the inhibitory effects of migration and invasion were abolished after the addition of NO scavenger, Carboxy-PTIO. In addition, JS-K inhibited the Wnt/β-catenin pathway by a decrease of p-GSK-3β at Ser9, cytosolic β-catenin, and nuclear β-catenin accumulation whereas an increase of p-β-catenin. Furthermore, the transcription regulators c-Myc, survivin, and Cyclin D1 were down-regulated after treating with JS-K. The inhibitory of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway was reversed after the addition of Carboxy-PTIO or LiCl. Meanwhile, JS-K also inhibited the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-mediated cell migration and invasion. The characteristics of the inhibition were reflected by the upregulation of E-cadherin whereas the downregulation of Vimentin, Snail, and Slug. Taking together, these results demonstrated that JS-K inhibited HepG2 and SMMC7721 cells migration and invasion by reversing EMT via the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

Preclinical safety evaluation of Macleaya Cordata extract: A re-assessment of general toxicity and genotoxicity properties in rodents

Macleaya cordata extract (MCE) is widely used for its diverse pharmacological actions and beneficial effects on farm animals. Modern pharmacological studies have shown that it has anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-bacterial activities, and is gradually becoming a long-term additive veterinary drug used to improve animal intestinal health and growth performance. Although some evidence points to the DNA mutagenic potential of sanguinarine (SAN), a major component of MCE, there is a lack of sufficient basic toxicological information on the oral route, posing a potential safety risk for human consumption of food of animal origin. In this study, we assessed the acute oral toxicity, repeated 90-day oral toxicity and 180-day chronic toxicity of MCE in rats and mice and re-evaluated the genotoxicity of MCE using a standard combined in vivo and ex vivo assay. In the oral acute toxicity test, the LD₅₀ for MCE in rats and mice was 1,564.55 mg/kg (95% confidence interval 1,386.97–1,764.95 mg/kg) and 1,024.33 mg/kg (95% confidence interval 964.27–1,087.30 mg/kg), respectively. The dose range tested had no significant effect on hematology, clinical chemistry, and histopathological findings in rodents in the long-term toxicity assessment. The results of the bacterial reverse mutation, sperm abnormality and micronucleus test showed negative results and lack of mutagenicity and teratogenicity; the results of the rat teratogenicity test showed no significant reproductive or embryotoxicity. The results indicate that MCE was safe in the dose range tested in this preclinical safety assessment. This study provides data to support the further development of maximum residue limits (MRLs) for MCE.

Current treatment strategies for seasonal allergic rhinitis: where are we heading?

INTRODUCTION

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is very commonly caused by pollens. The symptoms of AR consist of sneezing, nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, nasal itching and airflow obstruction. The diagnosis has long been based on clinical history, skin prick tests and in vitro measurement of specific IgE, but the innovative approach of precision medicine has made diagnostic tools of much greater accuracy available.

AREAS COVERED

This review covers the advances in the treatment of seasonal AR concerning the drugs to be used according to the grade of disease and the characteristics of the patients, and the role of allergen immunotherapy (AIT), which is the only treatment capable of acting, in addition to the symptoms, on the cause of AR and therefore to modify its natural history.

EXPERT OPINION

Drug treatment of AR include a large number of agents, the choice of which depends on the severity of the disease. AIT has high evidence of efficacy demonstrated by meta-analyses, and further improvement is currently apparent, as for diagnosis, applying the means of precision medicine. However, when AIT is performed in current practice, without the strict rules of controlled trials, long-term low adherence is a major problem to be solved.

Sanguinarine Regulates Tumor-Associated Macrophages to Prevent Lung Cancer Angiogenesis Through the WNT/β-Catenin Pathway

Tumor-associated macrophage (TAM)-mediated angiogenesis in the tumor microenvironment is a prerequisite for lung cancer growth and metastasis. Therefore, targeting TAMs, which block angiogenesis, is expected to be a breakthrough in controlling the growth and metastasis of lung cancer. In this study, we found that Sanguinarine (Sang) inhibits tumor growth and tumor angiogenesis of subcutaneously transplanted tumors in Lewis lung cancer mice. Furthermore, Sanguinarine inhibited the proliferation, migration, and lumen formation of HUVECs and the expression of CD31 and VEGF by regulating the polarization of M2 macrophages in vitro. However, the inhibitory effect of Sanguinarine on angiogenesis remained in vivo despite the clearance of macrophages using small molecule drugs. Further high-throughput sequencing suggested that WNT/β-Catenin signaling might represent the underlying mechanism of the beneficial effects of Sanguinarine. Finally, the β-Catenin activator SKL2001 antagonized the effect of Sanguinarine, indicating that Sanguinarine can regulate M2-mediated angiogenesis through the WNT/β-Catenin pathway. In conclusion, this study presents the first findings that Sanguinarine can function as a novel regulator of the WNT/β-Catenin pathway to modulate the M2 macrophage polarization and inhibit angiogenesis, which has potential application value in immunotherapy and antiangiogenic therapy for lung cancer.

Sanguinarine represses the growth and metastasis of non-small cell lung cancer by facilitating ferroptosis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Sanguinarine (SAG), a natural benzophenanthridine alkaloid derived from the root of Sanguinaria canadensis Linn. (Bloodroot), possesses a potential anticancer activity. Lung carcinoma is the chief cause of malignancy-related mortality in China. Non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) is the main subtype of lung carcinoma and accounts for about eighty-five percent of this disease. Current treatment in controlling and curing NSCLC remains deficient.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The role and underlying mechanism of SAG in repressing the growth and metastasis of NSCLC was explored.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The role of SAG in regulating the proliferation and invasion of NSCLC cells was evaluated in vitro and in a xenograft model. After treatment with SAG, Fe2+ concentration, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH) content in NSCLC cells were assessed to evaluate the effect of SAG on facilitating ferroptosis.

RESULTS

SAG exhibited a dose- and time- dependent cytotoxicity in A549 and H3122 cells. SAG treatment effectively repressed the growth and metastasis of NSCLC in a xenograft model. We for the first time verified that SAG triggered ferroptosis of NSCLC cells, as evidenced by increased Fe2+ concentration, ROS level, and MDA content, and decreased GSH content. Mechanistically, SAG decreased the protein stability of glutathione peroxide 4 (GPX4) through E3 ligase STUB1-mediated ubiquitination and degradation of endogenous GPX4. GPX4 overexpression restored the proliferation and invasion of NSCLC cells treated with SAG through inhibiting ferroptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

SAG inhibits the growth and metastasis of NSCLC by regulating STUB1/GPX4-dependent ferroptosis.

Epigenetic Comparison of CHO Hosts and Clones Reveals Divergent Methylation and Transcription Patterns Across Lineages

In this study, we examined DNA methylation and transcription profiles of recombinant clones derived from two different Chinese hamster ovary hosts. We found striking epigenetic differences between the clones, with global hypomethylation in the host 1 clones that produce bispecific antibody with higher productivity and complex assembly efficiency. Whereas the methylation patterns were found mostly inherited from the host, the host 1 clones exhibited continued demethylation reflected by the hypomethylation of newly emerged differential methylation regions (DMRs) even at the clone development stage. Several interconnected biological functions and pathways including cell adhesion, regulation of ion transport, and cholesterol biosynthesis were significantly altered between the clones at the RNA expression level and contained DMR in the promoter and/or gene-body of the transcripts, suggesting epigenetic regulation. Indeed, expression changes of epigenetic regulators were observed including writers (Dnmt1, Setdb1), readers (Mecp2), and erasers (Tet3, Kdm3a, Kdm1b/5c) involved in CpG methylation, histone methylation and heterochromatin maintenance. In addition, we identified putative transcription factors that may be readers or effectors of the epigenetic regulation in these clones. By combining transcriptomics with DNA methylation data, we identified potential processes and factors that may contribute to the variability in cell physiology between different production hosts. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Sanguisorba officinalis L. suppresses 5-fluorouracil-sensitive and-resistant colorectal cancer growth and metastasis via inhibition of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a widespread cancer with high morbidity and mortality. Chemoresistance and metastasis are the current challenges for CRC treatment. Sanguisorba officinalis Linn. (called DiYu in Chinese, DY) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) whose root is long used as medicinal part. In our previous study, the aqueous extract of DY could inhibit the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and showed great antitumor effect against CRC. The Wnt/β-catenin pathway is involved in CRC chemoresistance and metastasis. However, there is little study on the antitumor and antimetastatic effects of DY on resistant CRC cells. The aim of this study is to explore the effect of aqueous extract of DY on the growth and metastasis of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) sensitive and resistant CRC, and to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanism.

METHODOLOGY

In this study, cell viability, cell colony formation and apoptosis analyses were performed to verify the in vitro antitumor effect of DY on 5-FU-sensitive and -resistant CRC cells. Next, transwell assays were used to test the inhibition activity of DY on CRC migration and invasion. Western Blotting assays were carried out to identify the molecular mechanism underlying the efficacy of DY extract. Xenograft CRC nude mice model and tumor metastasis model were used to confirm the in vivo antitumor and antimetastatic effects of DY.

RESULTS

DY inhibited cell proliferation and apoptosis via the upregulation of Bax, cleaved-caspase3 and cleaved-PARP proteins and downregulation of Bcl-2 protein. DY also inhibited cell migration and invasion via the downregulation of N-cadherin, vimentin and snail proteins and upregulation of E-cadherin protein, demonstrating that DY suppressed cell metastasis by reversing epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) procession. Moreover, the protein expression levels of β-catenin in whole cell, cytoplasm and nucleus were decreased after DY treatment. Taken together, DY suppressed CRC cell growth and metastasis via inhibition of the Wnt pathway. Additionally, DY also demonstrated effective antitumor and anti-metastasis activities in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, DY suppressed the growth and metastasis of 5-FU-sensitive and -resistant CRC via inhibition of the Wnt pathway, which indicated that DY could be a potential drug to treat CRC patients and improve clinic outcome.

PDE4B Induces Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Bladder Cancer Cells and Is Transcriptionally Suppressed by CBX7

Urinary bladder cancer (UBC) is a common malignant tumor with high incidence. Advances in the diagnosis and treatment of this disease demand the identification of novel therapeutic targets. Multiple studies demonstrated that PDE4B level was upregulated in malignancies and high PDE4B expression was correlated with poor outcomes. Herein, we identified that PDE4B was a potential therapeutic target in UBC. We confirmed that PDE4B expression was correlated with aggressive clinicopathological characteristics and unfavorable prognosis. Functional studies demonstrated that ectopic expression of PDE4B promoted UBC cells proliferation, migration and invasion, whereas PDE4B depletion suppressed cancer cell aggressiveness. We also identified CBX7 as a regulator of PDE4B to suppress the expression of PDE4B at the transcription level in a PRC1-dependent manner. Moreover, our results indicated that PDE4B induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in UBC cells via β-catenin pathway, whereas inhibition of PDE4B by its small molecule inhibitor, rolipram, effectively reversed the PDE4B overexpression-induced effects. To sum up, our results indicated that PDE4B acts as an oncogene by promoting UBC cell migration and invasion via β-catenin/EMT pathway.

Mesenchymal Stem Cell-derived Extracellular Vesicles Transmitting MicroRNA-34a-5p Suppress Tumorigenesis of Colorectal Cancer Through c-MYC/DNMT3a/PTEN Axis

Mesenchymal stem cell–derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EV) can transport microRNAs (miRNAs) into colorectal cancer (CRC) cells, thus to inhibit the malignant phenotype of cancer cells. Whether MSC-EV could deliver miR-34a-5p to suppress CRC development was surveyed through the research. miR-34a-5p, c-MYC, DNA methyltransferase 3a (DNMT3a), and phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) expression were measured in CRC tissues and cell lines. miR-34a-5p and c-MYC expression were altered by transfection in HCT-116 cells. MSC-EV were transfected with miR-34a-5p- and c-MYC-related oligonucleotides and co-cultured with HCT-116 cells. HCT-116 cell growth after treatment was observed. Furthermore, the functional roles of miR-34a-5p and c-MYC were explored in vivo. The combined interactions of miR-34a-5p/c-MYC/DNMT3a/PTEN axis were assessed. miR-34a-5p and PTEN were downregulated while c-MYC and DNMT3a were upregulated in CRC. Depletion of miR-34a-5p drove while that of c-MYC restricted CRC cell growth. MSC-EV retarded CRC progression. Moreover, MSC-EV carrying overexpressed miR-34a-5p or depleted c-MYC further disrupted CRC cell progression. miR-34a-5p targeted c-MYC to regulate DNMT3a and PTEN. c-MYC overexpression abrogated EV-derived miR-34a-5p upregulation-induced effects on CRC. Restoring miR-34a-5p or depleting c-MYC in MSC-EV limited CRC tumor formation. MSC-EV-derived miR-34a-5p depresses CRC development through modulating the binding of c-MYC to DNMT3a and epigenetically regulating PTEN.

KLK8 promotes the proliferation and metastasis of colorectal cancer via the activation of EMT associated with PAR1

Kallikrein-related peptidase 8 (KLK8) acts as an oncogene or anti-oncogene in various tumours, and the abnormal expression of KLK8 is involved in the carcinogenesis of several tumours. However, the role of KLK8 in colorectal cancer (CRC) and the underlying mechanism remain largely unclear. In this study, the carcinogenic effect of KLK8 was determined via CCK-8 and colony formation assays in vitro and a xenograft model in nude mice in vivo. The metastasis-promoting effect of KLK8 was investigated with transwell migration and invasion assays and wound-healing assay in vitro and a metastasis model in nude mice in vivo. Bioinformatics analyses and mechanistic experiments were conducted to elucidate the molecular mechanism. Herein, we reported that KLK8 had a promotive effect on the proliferation, migration and invasion of RKO and SW480 cells. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) played an important role in the promotive effects of KLK8 on CRC. In addition, protease-activated receptor-1 (PAR-1) antagonist SCH79797 but not protease-activated receptor-2 (PAR-2) antagonist FSLLRY-NH2 attenuated the proliferation, migration and invasion of KLK8-upregulated RKO and SW480 cells. PAR-1 antagonist SCH79797 reduced the tumour volume of xenograft model and decreased the metastatic nodules in the livers of metastasis model. Furthermore, SCH79797 could reverse the positive impact of KLK8 on the EMT process in CRC both in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, these findings demonstrated for the first time that KLK8 promoted EMT and CRC progression, and this effect might be, at least partly mediated by PAR1-dependent pathway.

Regulatory roles of osteopontin in human lung cancer cell epithelial-to-mesenchymal transitions and responses

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer is still the main cause of death in patients with cancer, due to poor understanding of intracellular regulations. Of those, osteopontin (OPN) may induce the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) to promote tumor cell metastasis. The present study aims to evaluate the regulatory mechanism of internal and external OPN in the development of lung cancer.

METHODS

We evaluated genetic variations and different bioinformatics of genes in chromosome 4 among subtypes of lung cancer using global databases. We validated the expression of OPN and EMT-related proteins (e.g., E-cadherin, vimentin) in 208 non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tumors and the adjacent nontumorous tissues, further to explore the function of OPN in the progression of lung cancer, with a focus on a potential communication between OPN and EMT in the lung cancer.

RESULTS

We found that OPN might act as a target molecule in lung cancer, which is associated with lymph node metastasis, postresection recurrence/metastasis, and prognosis of patients with lung cancer. Biological behaviors and pathological responses of OPN varied among diseases, challenges, and severities. Overexpression of OPN was correlated with the existence of EMT in lung cancer tissues. Internal and external OPN plays the decisive roles in lung cancer cell movement, proliferation, and EMT formation, through the upregulation of OPN-PI3K and OPN-MEK pathways. PI3K and MEK inhibitors downregulated the process of EMT and biological behaviors of lung cancer cells, probably through altering vimentin-associated cytoskeletons.

CONCLUSION

OPN can be a metastasis-associated or specific biomarker for lung cancer and a potential target for antimetastatic treatment.

Sanguinarine impedes metastasis and causes inversion of epithelial to mesenchymal transition in breast cancer

BACKGROUND

A large number of breast cancer patients perishes due to metastasis instead of primary tumor, but molecular mechanisms contributing towards cancer metastasis remain poorly understood. Therefore, prompting development of novel treatment is inevitable. A vast variety of plant derived natural substance possesses several therapeutically active constituents, e.g. alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, resins, terpenoids etc. that exhibit various pharmacological properties e.g. anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and anti-cancer properties. Sanguinarine (SAN) alkaloid found its place among such naturally occurring substances that exerts several pharmacological activities, including anti-cancer effects.

PURPOSE

Until now, role of SAN not only against epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) but also against metastasis progression in breast cancer remains indistinct. Thus, aim of the present study was to investigate effects of SAN on EMT process and cancer metastasis in animal model.

METHODS

MTT assay was performed to assess SAN effects on proliferation in breast cancer. Scratch assay was performed to evaluate effects of SAN on migration in breast cancer. Colony formation assay was performed to determine effects of SAN on colonization characteristics of breast cancer. Western blotting was performed to measure EMT regulating protein expression as well as major pathway protein expression induced against TGF-β treatment in breast cancer. Tail vein method of injecting breast cancer cells in bulb/c mice was conducted to study metastasis progression and thereafter assessing effects of SAN against metastasis in mice.

RESULTS

In vivo results: MTT assay performed, demonstrated dose dependent inhibition of cell proliferation in breast cancer. Scratch assay results showed, SAN played a major role as migration inhibitor in estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer. Colony forming assay results demonstrated that SAN constrains ability of breast cancer to develop into well-defined colonies. Western blotting results for EMT regulating protein expression, after TGF-β treatment showed, SAN inhibited cadherin switch in ER+ breast cancer. Moreover, expression of pathway proteins involved in EMT process after TGF-β treatment i.e. Smad, PI3K/Akt and MAP kinase were significantly masked against SAN treatment.

IN VIVO RESULTS

The appearance of metastatic nodules in lung tissues of mice model, helps to study the effects of SAN against metastasis in bulb/c mice. The obtained results have confirmed that SAN impeded lung metastasis. The macroscopic examination has confirmed metastasis inhibitory role of SAN in breast cancer. The Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining results further advocate anti-metastatic characteristics of SAN, presented by fewer metastatic nodule and lesions appearance in SAN treated mice compared to untreated metastasis mice.

CONCLUSION

In summary, SAN displayed prominent anti-metastatic effects in animal model and anti-proliferation effects together with significant inhibitory potential on EMT regulating protein expression against TGF-β treatment in ER+ breast cancer. So, overall findings of our study highlighted the pre-clinical significance of SAN in animal model therefore, further studies in humans as a part of clinical trial will be needed to establish pharmacokinetics and other effects of SAN, so that it can be a potential candidate for future treatment of metastatic breast cancer (MBC).

Determination of Cytotoxic Activity of Sanguinaria canadensis Extracts against Human Melanoma Cells and Comparison of Their Cytotoxicity with Cytotoxicity of Some Anticancer Drugs

Melanoma is an enormous global health burden, and should be effectively addressed with better therapeutic strategies. Therefore, new therapeutic agents are needed for the management of this disease. The aim of this study was the investigation of cytotoxic activity of some isoquinoline alkaloid standards and extracts obtained from Sanguinaria canadensis—collected before, during, and after flowering—against three different human melanoma cells (A375, G361, SK-MEL-3). The cytotoxicity of these extracts was not previously tested on these melanoma cell lines. Determination of alkaloid contents was performed by HPLC-DAD using Polar RP column and mobile phase containing acetonitrile, water, and 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate. The cytotoxicity of alkaloid standards was investigated by determination of cell viability and calculation of IC₅₀ values. Significant differences were observed in the alkaloids content and cytotoxic activity of the extracts, depending on the season of collection of the plant material. In the Sanguinaria canadensis extracts high contents of sanguinarine (from 4.8543 to 9.5899 mg/g of dry plant material) and chelerythrine (from 42.7224 to 6.8722 mg/g of dry plant material) were found. For both of these alkaloids, very high cytotoxic activity against the tested cell lines were observed. The IC₅₀ values were in the range of 0.11–0.54 µg/mL for sanguinarine and 0.14 to 0.46 µg/mL for chelerythrine. IC₅₀ values obtained for Sanguinaria canadensis extracts against all tested cell lines were also very low (from 0.88 to 10.96 µg/mL). Cytotoxic activity of alkaloid standards and Sanguinaria canadensis extracts were compared with the cytotoxicity of anticancer drugs—etoposide, cisplatin, and hydroxyurea. In all cases except the one obtained for cisplatin against A375, which was similar to that obtained for Sanguinaria canadensis after flowering against the same cell line, IC₅₀ values obtained for anticancer drugs were higher than the IC₅₀ values obtained for sanguinarine, chelerythrine, and Sanguinaria canadensis extracts. Our results showed that Sanguinaria canadensis extracts and isoquinoline alkaloids, especially sanguinarine and chelerythrine, could be recommended for further in vivo experiments in order to confirm the possibility of their application in the treatment of human melanomas.

Transfer of microRNA-25 by colorectal cancer cell-derived extracellular vesicles facilitates colorectal cancer development and metastasis

Cancer cell-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been reported to promote the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC), although the regulatory mechanism remains uncharacterized. In this study, we investigated the role of microRNA-25 (miR-25)/sirtuin 6 (SIRT6) in the contribution of EVs derived from CRC cells to progression of CRC. In a co-culture system with EVs from HCT116 and NCM460 cells, the viability, migratory, and invasive properties of SW480 and SW620 cells were evaluated by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and Transwell assays. Luciferase, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays were conducted to verify the interaction among miR-25, SIRT6, lin-28 homologB (Lin28b), and neuropilin-1 (NRP-1). It was established that HCT116 cell-derived EVs promoted the malignant properties of SW480 cells and SW620 cells by delivering miR-25. SIRT6 was targeted by miR-25, whereas SIRT6 inhibited NRP-1 through downregulation of Lin28b. The tumor-bearing nude mouse experiments substantiated that HCT116 cell-derived EVs transferred miR-25 to facilitate tumor formation and metastasis by inhibiting SIRT6. In summary, our study clarifies the involvement of miR-25-targeted SIRT6 inhibition and SIRT6-mediated inhibition of the Lin28b/NRP-1 axis in CRC cell-derived EVs to CRC progression and metastasis.

Participation of MicroRNAs in the Treatment of Cancer with Phytochemicals

Cancer is a global health concern and one of the main causes of disease-related death. Even with considerable progress in investigations on cancer therapy, effective anti-cancer agents and regimens have thus far been insufficient. There has been compelling evidence that natural phytochemicals and their derivatives have potent anti-cancer activities. Plant-based anti-cancer agents, such as etoposide, irinotecan, paclitaxel, and vincristine, are currently being applied in medical treatments for patients with cancer. Further, the efficacy of plenty of phytochemicals has been evaluated to discover a promising candidate for cancer therapy. For developing more effective cancer therapy, it is required to apprehend the molecular mechanism deployed by natural compounds. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been realized to play a pivotal role in regulating cellular signaling pathways, affecting the efficacy of therapeutic agents in cancer. This review presents a feature of phytochemicals with anti-cancer activity, focusing mainly on the relationship between phytochemicals and miRNAs, with insights into the role of miRNAs as the mediators and the regulators of anti-cancer effects of phytochemicals.

Optimizations of a novel fluorescence polarization-based high-throughput screening assay for β-catenin/LEF1 interaction inhibitors

Aberrant activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is prominent in the development and metastasis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Highly effective inhibition of this pathway highlights a therapeutic avenue against NSCLC. Moreover, β-catenin/LEF1 interaction regulates β-catenin nuclear transport as well as the transcriptions of the key oncogenes in Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Therefore, interruption of this interaction would be a promising therapeutic strategy for NSCLC metastasis. To date, no economical and rapid high-throughput screening (HTS) assay has been reported for the discovery of β-catenin/LEF1 interaction inhibitors. In this study, we developed a novel fluorescence polarization (FP)-based HTS assay to identify β-catenin/LEF1 interaction inhibitors. The FITC-LEF1 sequence, incubation time, temperature, and DMSO resistance were optimized, and then a high Z' factor of 0.77 was achieved. A pilot screening of a natural product library via this established FP screening assay identified sanguinarine analogues as potential β-catenin/LEF1 interaction inhibitors. GST pull-down and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) assay demonstrated that β-catenin/LEF1 interaction is a potential anticancer target of sanguinarine in vitro. This newly developed FP screening assay will be vital for the rapid discovery of novel Wnt inhibitors targeting β-catenin/LEF1 interaction.