Delphinidin inhibits epidermal growth factor-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in hepatocellular carcinoma cells

Anti-metastatic potential of flavonoids for the treatment of cancers: focus on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process

The leading factor contributing to patient mortality is the local invasion and metastasis of tumors, which are influenced by the malignant progression of tumor cells. The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is key to understanding malignancy development. EMT is a critical regulatory mechanism for differentiating cell populations initially observed during the neural crest and embryonic gastrulation formation. This process is closely associated with tumor metastasis in cancer and is also related to the maintenance of cancer stem cells. Flavonoids, known for their antioxidant properties, have been widely studied for their anticancer potential to protect plants from harmful environmental conditions. They have attracted considerable attention and have been the focus of numerous experimental and epidemiological studies to evaluate their potential in cancer treatment. In vitro and in vivo research has demonstrated that flavonoids can significantly impact cancer-related EMT. They may inhibit the EMT process by reducing the levels of Twist1, N-cadherin, ZEB1, integrins, SNAI1/2, CD44, MMPs, and vimentin while increasing E-cadherin levels and targeting the PI3K/AKT, NF-κB p65, and JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathways. In order to suppress the transcription of the E-cadherin promoter, several Zn-finger transcription factors, such as SNAI2, ZEB1, and ZEB2, and basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) factors, such as Twist, may directly bind to its E-boxes. Overall, clinical cancer research should integrate the anticancer properties of flavonoids, which address all phases of carcinogenesis, including EMT, to improve the prospects for targeted cancer therapies in patients suffering from aggressive forms of tumors.

Anthocyanins in Black Soybean Coats Promote Apoptosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells by Regulating the JAK2/STAT3 Pathway

The use of black soybean (Glycine max L.), an edible crop prevalent in Asia, has attracted attention for its hepatoprotective properties. Notably, the anthocyanin components in black soybean coats have shown potential in inhibiting tumor growth. Here, anthocyanins were extracted from black soybean coats using both microwave and water bath methods. The physicochemical characteristics of black soybean coat anthocyanins (BSCAs) and their biological activities were examined. The results from the MTT and EDU assays demonstrated a dose-dependent inhibitory effect of BSCAs on hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells, while leaving normal cells unaffected. Flow cytometry and mitochondrial membrane potential assays revealed that BSCA treatment induces apoptosis in HepG2 cells. A network pharmacology approach was employed to explore the relationship between hepatocellular carcinoma and the active ingredients of BSCAs, identifying the JAK/STAT signaling pathway as a potential target. Molecular docking studies confirmed the interaction between BSCA components and JAK2/STAT3 targets. Subsequent Western blot and qPCR experiments validated that BSCAs promote apoptosis in HepG2 cells by modulating the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.

Modulation of hypoxia-inducible factor-1 signaling pathways in cancer angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis by natural compounds: a comprehensive and critical review

Tumor cells employ multiple signaling mediators to escape the hypoxic condition and trigger angiogenesis and metastasis. As a critical orchestrate of tumorigenic conditions, hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) is responsible for stimulating several target genes and dysregulated pathways in tumor invasion and migration. Therefore, targeting HIF-1 pathway and cross-talked mediators seems to be a novel strategy in cancer prevention and treatment. In recent decades, tremendous efforts have been made to develop multi-targeted therapies to modulate several dysregulated pathways in cancer angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. In this line, natural compounds have shown a bright future in combating angiogenic and metastatic conditions. Among the natural secondary metabolites, we have evaluated the critical potential of phenolic compounds, terpenes/terpenoids, alkaloids, sulfur compounds, marine- and microbe-derived agents in the attenuation of HIF-1, and interconnected pathways in fighting tumor-associated angiogenesis and invasion. This is the first comprehensive review on natural constituents as potential regulators of HIF-1 and interconnected pathways against cancer angiogenesis and metastasis. This review aims to reshape the previous strategies in cancer prevention and treatment.

Human diet-derived polyphenolic compounds and hepatic diseases: From therapeutic mechanisms to clinical utilization

This review focuses on the potential ameliorative effects of polyphenolic compounds derived from human diet on hepatic diseases. It discusses the molecular mechanisms and recent advancements in clinical applications. Edible polyphenols have been found to play a therapeutic role, particularly in liver injury, liver fibrosis, NAFLD/NASH, and HCC. In the regulation of liver injury, polyphenols exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, primarily targeting the TGF-β, NF-κB/TLR4, PI3K/AKT, and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathways. In the regulation of liver fibrosis, polyphenolic compounds effectively reverse the fibrotic process by inhibiting the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSC). Furthermore, polyphenolic compounds show efficacy against NAFLD/NASH by inhibiting lipid oxidation and accumulation, mediated through the AMPK, SIRT, and PPARγ pathways. Moreover, several polyphenolic compounds exhibit anti-HCC activity by suppressing tumor cell proliferation and metastasis. This inhibition primarily involves blocking Akt and Wnt signaling, as well as inhibiting the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Additionally, clinical trials and nutritional evidence support the notion that certain polyphenols can improve liver disease and associated metabolic disorders. However, further fundamental research and clinical trials are warranted to validate the efficacy of dietary polyphenols.

Flavonoids on the Frontline against Cancer Metastasis

Metastasis is the leading cause of death in cancer patients [...].

COVID-19 associated thyroid dysfunction and other comorbidities and its management using phytochemical-based therapeutics: a natural way

The present severe acute respiratory syndrome-2 (SARS-CoV-2) mediated Coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) and post-COVID-19 complications affect human life drastically. Patients who have been cured of COVID-19 infection are now experiencing post-COVID-19 associated comorbidities, which have increased mortality rates. The SARS-CoV-2 infection distresses the lungs, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, and various endocrine glands, including the thyroid. The emergence of variants which includes Omicron (B.1.1.529) and its lineages threaten the world severely. Among different therapeutic approaches, phytochemical-based therapeutics are not only cost-effective but also have lesser side effects. Recently a plethora of studies have shown the therapeutic efficacy of various phytochemicals for the treatment of COVID-19. Besides this, various phytochemicals have been found efficacious in treating several inflammatory diseases, including thyroid-related anomalies. The method of the phytochemical formulation is quick and facile and the raw materials for such herbal preparations are approved worldwide for human use against certain disease conditions. Owing to the advantages of phytochemicals, this review primarily discusses the COVID-19-related thyroid dysfunction and the role of key phytochemicals to deal with thyroid anomaly and post-COVID-19 complications. Further, this review shed light on the mechanism via which COVID-19 and its related complication affect organ function of the body, along with the mechanistic insight into the way by which phytochemicals could help to cure post-COVID-19 complications in thyroid patients. Considering the advantages offered by phytochemicals as a safer and cost-effective medication they can be potentially used to combat COVID-19-associated comorbidities.

Anticancer Effect of Pomegranate Peel Polyphenols against Cervical Cancer

Polyphenols are a broad group of bioactive phytochemicals with powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antiviral activities. Numerous studies have demonstrated that polyphenol extracts obtained from natural sources can be used for the prevention and treatment of cancer. Pomegranate peel extract is an excellent source of polyphenols, such as punicalagin, punicalin, ellagic acid, and caffeic acid, among others. These phenolic compounds have antineoplastic activity in in vitro models of cervical cancer through the regulation of cellular redox balance, induction of apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and modulation of different signaling pathways. The current review summarizes recent data from scientific reports that address the anticancer activity of the predominant polyphenol compounds present in PPE and their different mechanisms of action in cervical cancer models.

Skin fibrosis associated with keloid, scleroderma and Jorge Lobo's disease (lacaziosis): An immuno-histochemical study

Fibrosis is a common pathophysiological response of many tissues and organs subjected to chronic injury. Despite the diverse aetiology of keloid, lacaziosis and localized scleroderma, the process of fibrosis is present in the pathogenesis of all of these three entities beyond other individual clinical and histological distinct characteristics. Fibrosis was studied in 20 samples each of these three chronic cutaneous inflammatory diseases. An immunohistochemical study was carried out to explore the presence of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and vimentin cytoskeleton antigens, CD31, CD34, Ki67, p16; CD105, CD163, CD206 and FOXP3 antigens; and the central fibrotic cytokine TGF-β. Higher expression of vimentin in comparison to α-SMA in all three lesion types was found. CD31- and CD34-positive blood vessel endothelial cells were observed throughout the reticular dermis. Ki67 expression was low and almost absent in scleroderma. p16-positive levels were higher than ki67 and observed in reticular dermis of keloidal collagen in keloids, in collagen bundles in scleroderma and in the external layers of the granulomas in lacaziosis. The presence of α-actin positive cells and rarely CD34 positive cells, observed primarily in keloids, may be related to higher p16 antigen expression, a measure of cell senescence. Low FOXP3 expression was observed in all lesion types. CD105-positive cells were mainly found in perivascular tissue in close contact with the adventitia in keloids and scleroderma, while, in lacaziosis, these cells were chiefly observed in conjunction with collagen deposition in the external granuloma layer. We did not find high involvement of CD163 or CD206-positive cells in the fibrotic process. TGF-β was notable only in keloid and lacaziosis lesions. In conclusion, we have suggested vimentin to be the main myofibroblast general marker of the fibrotic process in all three studied diseases, while endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and M2 macrophages may not play an important role.

Chemistry and Pharmacological Actions of Delphinidin, a Dietary Purple Pigment in Anthocyanidin and Anthocyanin Forms

Anthocyanins are naturally occurring water-soluble flavonoids abundantly present in fruits and vegetables. They are polymethoxyderivatives of 2-phenyl-benzopyrylium or flavylium salts. Delphinidin (Dp) is a purple-colored plant pigment, which occurs in a variety of berries, eggplant, roselle, and wine. It is found in a variety of glycosidic forms ranging from glucoside to arabinoside. Dp is highly active in its aglycone form, but the presence of a sugar moiety is vital for its bioavailability. Several animal and human clinical studies have shown that it exerts beneficial effects on gut microbiota. Dp exhibits a variety of useful biological activities by distinct and complex mechanisms. This manuscript highlights the basic characteristics, chemistry, biosynthesis, stability profiling, chemical synthesis, physicochemical parameters along with various analytical methods developed for extraction, isolation and characterization, diverse biological activities and granted patents to this lead anthocyanin molecule, Dp. This review aims to open pathways for further exploration and research investigation on the true potential of the naturally occurring purple pigment (Dp) in its anthocyanidin and anthocyanin forms beyond nutrition.

Role of long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 01857 in hepatocellular carcinoma malignancy via the regulation of the microRNA-197-3p/anterior GRadient 2 axis

Objective

This study investigates the differential expression and the mechanism of long intergenic non-protein coding RNA (LINC) 01857 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) proliferation and apoptosis.

Methods

LINC01857 expression in HCC tissues and cells was evaluated. In addition, gain-of and loss-of functions were carried out to assess HCC cell proliferation and apoptosis. After that, LINC01857 subcellular localization was predicted and verified. Additionally, the binding relations between LINC01857 and microRNA (miRNA)-197-3p and between miR-197-3p and anterior GRadient 2 (AGR2) were detected and confirmed. Besides, HCC cell proliferation and apoptosis were assessed after silencing LINC01857 or overexpressing AGR2. Next, levels of key factors in the AKT and ERK pathways were measured. Additionally, xenograft transplantation was also conducted to confirm the effect of LINC01857 in HCC.

Results

LINC01857 was overexpressed in HCC. Silencing LINC01857 leads to a blockage in HCC cell proliferation but improved apoptosis. LINC01857 could competitively bind to miR-197-3p and thus upregulate AGR2. miR-197-3p was poorly expressed in HCC, while AGR2 was overexpressed. Mechanistically, downregulated miR-197-3p or overexpressed AGR2 were observed to attenuate the effect of the LINC01857 knockdown on suppressing cell proliferation and enhancing apoptosis. Moreover, LINC01857 activated the AKT and ERK pathways through the manipulation of the miR-197-3p/AGR2 axis in HCC.

Conclusion

The results of this study indicated that LINC01857 was highly expressed in HCC, and it could improve HCC cell proliferation and reduce apoptosis via competitively binding to miR-197-3p, promoting AGR2 and upregulating the AKT and ERK pathways.

Delphinidin induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in HER-2 positive breast cancer cell lines by regulating the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways

Delphinidin is an anthocyanidin monomer, commonly found in vegetables and fruits, and has demonstrated antitumor effects in the HER-2-positive MDA-MB-453 breast cancer cell line, with low cytotoxicity on normal breast cells. However, the direct functional mechanisms underlying the effect of delphinidin on HER-2-positive breast cancer cells has not been fully characterized. In the present study, it was found that delphinidin could induce G₂/M phase cell cycle arrest by inhibiting the protein expression level of cyclin B1 and Cdk1 in HER-2-positive breast cancer cell lines. In addition, delphinidin promoted the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway by inhibiting the ERK and NF-κB signaling pathway and activating the JNK signaling pathway. Therefore, delphinidin markedly suppressed the viability of the HER-2-positive breast cancer cell lines by modulating the cell cycle and inducing apoptosis. Overall, the findings from the present study demonstrated that delphinidin treatment could induce the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway in human HER-2-positive breast cancer cell lines, providing an experimental basis for the prevention and treatment of HER-2-positive breast cancer by flavonoids.

Delphinidin and Its Glycosides' War on Cancer: Preclinical Perspectives

Until now, several studies have looked at the issue of anthocyanin and cancer, namely the preventive and inhibitory effects of anthocyanins, as well as the underlying molecular processes. However, no targeted review is available regarding the anticarcinogenic effects of delphinidin and its glycosides on various cancers and their plausible molecular mechanisms. Considerable evidence shows significant anticancer properties of delphinidin-rich preparations and delphinidin alone both in vitro and in vivo. This review covers the in vitro and preclinical implications of delphinidin-mediated cell protection and cancer prevention; thus, we strongly recommend that delphinidin-rich preparations be further investigated as potential functional food, dietary antioxidant supplements, and natural health products targeting specific chronic diseases, including cancer. In addition to in vitro investigations, future research should focus on more animal and human studies to determine the true potential of delphinidin.

Anti-Hepatocellular Carcinoma Biomolecules: Molecular Targets Insights

This report explores the available curative molecules directed against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Limited efficiency as well as other drawbacks of existing molecules led to the search for promising potential alternatives. Understanding of the cell signaling mechanisms propelling carcinogenesis and driven by cell proliferation, invasion, and angiogenesis can offer valuable information for the investigation of efficient treatment strategies. The complexity of the mechanisms behind carcinogenesis inspires researchers to explore the ability of various biomolecules to target specific pathways. Natural components occurring mainly in food and medicinal plants, are considered an essential resource for discovering new and promising therapeutic molecules. Novel biomolecules normally have an advantage in terms of biosafety. They are also widely diverse and often possess potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. Based on quantitative structure-activity relationship studies, biomolecules can be used as templates for chemical modifications that improve efficiency, safety, and bioavailability. In this review, we focus on anti-HCC biomolecules that have their molecular targets partially or completely characterized as well as having anti-cancer molecular mechanisms that are fairly described.

Insights into Growth Factors in Liver Carcinogenesis and Regeneration: An Ongoing Debate on Minimizing Cancer Recurrence after Liver Resection

Hepatocellular carcinoma has become a leading cause of cancer-associated mortality throughout the world, and is of great concern. Currently used chemotherapeutic drugs in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma lead to severe side effects, thus underscoring the need for further research to develop novel and safer therapies. Liver resection in cancer patients is routinely performed. After partial resection, liver regeneration is a perfectly calibrated response apparently sensed by the body's required liver function. This process hinges on the effect of several growth factors, among other molecules. However, dysregulation of growth factor signals also leads to growth signaling autonomy and tumor progression, so control of growth factor expression may prevent tumor progression. This review describes the role of some of the main growth factors whose dysregulation promotes liver tumor progression, and are also key in regenerating the remaining liver following resection. We herein summarize and discuss studies focused on partial hepatectomy and liver carcinogenesis, referring to hepatocyte growth factor, insulin-like growth factor, and epidermal growth factor, as well as their suitability as targets in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Finally, and given that drugs remain one of the mainstay treatment options in liver carcinogenesis, we have reviewed the current pharmacological approaches approved for clinical use or research targeting these factors.

Molecular targets of Yangyin Fuzheng Jiedu Prescription in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma based on network pharmacology analysis

Background

Yangyin Fuzheng Jiedu Prescription (YFJP) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) indicated for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Its potential targets and molecular mechanisms are not clear. Therefore, this study intends to explore the molecular mechanism of YFJP based on network pharmacology analysis and in vitro validation.

Methods and results

Through univariate and multivariate analyses and survival analysis in HCC patients with or without YFJP treatment we found that drinking alcohol, alfafeto protein ≥ 400 ng/l, baseline portal vein tumor thrombus and total bilirubin level ≥ 18.8 μM) were independent risk factors for poor prognosis, while red blood cell count ≥ 4 × 10⁹/l and TCM treatment were independent protective factors. Besides, YFJP prolonged the cumulative survival of HCC patients. Using online pharmacological methods, we obtained 58 relevant compounds and molecular 53 targets. By using scratch test, Transwell assay, EdU assay, and TUNEL staining, we found that YFJP-containing serum repressed the migration, invasion and proliferation of HCC cells in vitro, and induced cell apoptosis. Moreover, YFJP diminished the gene expression of TP53, CCND1, p-EGFR, EGF, VEGFA, JUN, IL6, COX-2, AKT1, and MAPK1 in HCC cells, but elevated the expression of ESR1 and CASP3.

Conclusions

Taken together, results showed that YFJP attenuated HCC progression through mediating effects on HCC-related genes.

Flavonoids in Cancer Metastasis

Metastasis represents a serious complication in the treatment of cancer. Flavonoids are plant secondary metabolites exerting various health beneficiary effects. The effects of flavonoids against cancer are associated not only with early stages of the cancer process, but also with cancer progression and spread into distant sites. Flavonoids showed potent anti-cancer effects against various cancer models in vitro and in vivo, mediated via regulation of key signaling pathways involved in the migration and invasion of cancer cells and metastatic progression, including key regulators of epithelial-mesenchymal transition or regulatory molecules such as MMPs, uPA/uPAR, TGF-β and other contributors of the complex process of metastatic spread. Moreover, flavonoids modulated also the expression of genes associated with the progression of cancer and improved inflammatory status, a part of the complex process involved in the development of metastasis. Flavonoids also documented clear potential to improve the anti-cancer effectiveness of conventional chemotherapeutic agents. Most importantly, flavonoids represent environmentally-friendly and cost-effective substances; moreover, a wide spectrum of different flavonoids demonstrated safety and minimal side effects during long-termed administration. In addition, the bioavailability of flavonoids can be improved by their conjugation with metal ions or structural modifications by radiation. In conclusion, anti-cancer effects of flavonoids, targeting all phases of carcinogenesis including metastatic progression, should be implemented into clinical cancer research in order to strengthen their potential use in the future targeted prevention and therapy of cancer in high-risk individuals or patients with aggressive cancer disease with metastatic potential.

Diospyros kaki leaves inhibit HGF/Met signaling-mediated EMT and stemness features in hepatocellular carcinoma

Persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.f.) trees are widely cultivated for their edible fruits in Asia. D. kaki leaves are abundant in phytochemicals that have numerous medicinal properties. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its receptor Met lead to poor prognosis via the promotion of metastasis and chemoresistance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Therefore, inhibitors targeting the HGF/Met pathway are regarded as promising drugs against HCC. Here, we investigated the effects of D. kaki leaves on HGF-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and stemness traits in HCC. The ethanol extract of D. kaki leaves (EEDK) markedly suppressed HGF-mediated cell migration and invasion through upregulation of CDH1 and downregulation of SNAI1, VIM, MMP1, MMP2, and MMP9. Moreover, EEDK increased the cytotoxicity of sorafenib, which was reduced by HGF, and decreased the expression of the stemness markers KRT19 and CD44. Additionally, we found a clear correlation between stemness and EMT markers in HCC patients. Importantly, EEDK reduced Met activity and attenuated HGF-mediated activation of JNK/c-Jun. Our findings provide new evidence that EEDK can ameliorate HCC with poor prognosis and aggressive phenotype by blocking HGF/Met signaling.

Catechol inhibits epidermal growth factor-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and stem cell-like properties in hepatocellular carcinoma cells

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a major cellular process in which epithelial cells lose cell polarity and cell-cell adhesion and become motility and invasiveness by transforming into mesenchymal cells. Catechol is one of the natural compounds present in fruits and vegetables and has various pharmacological and physiological activities including anti-carcinogenic effects. However, the effects of catechol on EMT has not been reported. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is one of the growth factors and is known to play a role in inducing EMT. The present study showed that catechol suppressed not only the morphological changes to the mesenchymal phenotype of epithelial HCC cells, but also the reduction of E-cadherin and the increment of Vimentin, which are typical hallmark of EMT. In addition, catechol suppressed EMT-related steps such as migration, invasion, anoikis resistance acquisition, and stem cell-like characterization through the EGFR-AKT-ERK signaling pathway during liver cancer metastasis. Therefore, these results suggest that catechol may be able to regulate the early metastasis of liver cancer in vitro.

Reversal of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition by Natural Anti-Inflammatory and Pro-Resolving Lipids

Epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a key process in the progression of malignant cancer. Therefore, blocking the EMT can be a critical fast track for the development of anticancer drugs. In this paper, we update recent research output of EMT and we explore suppression of EMT by natural anti-inflammatory compounds and pro-resolving lipids.

The Multifunctional Benefits of Naturally Occurring Delphinidin and Its Glycosides

Delphinidin (Del) and its glycosides are water-soluble pigments, belonging to a subgroup of flavonoids. They are health-promoting candidates for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical uses, as indicated by exhibiting antioxidation, anti-inflammation, antimicroorganism, antidiabetes, antiobesity, cardiovascular protection, neuroprotection, and anticancer properties. Glycosylation modification of Del is associated with increased stability and reduced biological activity. Del and its glycosides can be the alternative inhibitors of CBRs, ERα/β, EGFR, BCRP, and SGLT-1, and virtual docking indicates that the sugar moiety may not effectively interact with the active sites of the targets. Structure-based characteristics confer the multifunctional properties of Del and its glycosides. Because of their health-promoting effects, Del and its glycosides are promising and have been developed as potential pharmaceuticals. However, more investigation on the underlying mechanisms of Del and its glycosides in mediating cellular processes with high specificity are still needed. The research progression of Del and its glycosides over the last 10 years is comprehensively reviewed in this article.