Cycloartane triterpenoids from Cimicifuga yunnanensis induce apoptosis of breast cancer cells (MCF7) via p53-dependent mitochondrial signaling pathway

Unraveling the anti-breast cancer activity of Cimicifugae rhizoma using biological network pathways and molecular dynamics simulation

Cimicifugae is a commonly used treatment for breast cancer, but the specific molecular mechanisms underlying its effectiveness remain unclear. In this research, we employ a combination of network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations to uncover the most potent phytochemical within Cimicifugae rhizoma in order to delve into its interaction with the target protein in breast cancer treatment. We identified 18 active compounds and 89 associated targets, primarily associated to various biological processes such as lipid metabolism, the signaling pathway in diabetes, viral infections, and cancer-related pathways. Molecular docking analysis revealed that the two most active compounds, Formononetin and Cimigenol, exhibit strong binding to the target protein AKT1. Through molecular dynamics simulations, we found that the Cimigenol-AKT1 complex exhibits greater structural stability and lower interaction energy compared to the stigmasterol-AKT1 complex. Our study demonstrates that Cimicifugae rhizoma exerts its effects in breast cancer treatment through a multi-component, multi-target synergistic approach. Furthermore, we propose that Cimigenol, targeting AKT-1, represents the most effective compound, offering valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underpinning its role in breast cancer therapy.

Cycloartane triterpenoid from Euphorbia macrostegia modulates ER stress signaling pathways to induce apoptosis in MDA-MB231 and MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines

Unfolded protein response (UPR) is involved in breast cancer (BC) progression and drug resistance. Many natural products (NPs) could modulate UPR and used for therapeutic purposes. Herein, we aimed to investigate the molecular mechanism of Cycloart-23E-ene-3β, 25-diol (Cycloart-E25), cytotoxicity, as a NP extracted from Euphorbia macrostegia and focused on endoplasmic-reticulum stress (ERS) and UPR signaling pathways. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were probed by DCFDA fluorescence dye. Apoptosis was assayed by annexin V/propidium iodide (PI), immunoblotting of anti- and proapoptotic, Bcl-2 and Bax proteins, and mitochondrial transmembrane potential (ΔΨm) changes. Thioflavin T (ThT) staining and immunoblotting of UPR signaling components (CHOP, PERK, ATF6, BiP, and XBP1) were recruited for the assessment of ERS. Our results indicated that Cycloart-E25 noticeably increases ROS levels in both MB-231 MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cell lines, p>0.05. Flow cytometry assessments revealed an increase in the cell population undergoing apoptosis. Also, the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio increased in a dose-dependent manner following Cycloart-E25 treatment, significantly, p>0.05. Mitochondrial involvement could be deduced by significant decreases in ΔΨm, p>0.05. Cycloart-E25 potently induces protein aggregation and upregulated CHOP, PERK, ATF6, BiP, and XBP1 factors in both MDA-MB-231 MB-231 and MCF-7 cell lines, indicating the involvement of ERS in Cycloart-E25-mediated apoptosis. In conclusion, Cycloart-E25 increased the accumulation of misfolded proteins and upregulated UPR components. Therefore, induction of ERS may be involved in the trigger of apoptosis in BC cell lines. Cycloart-E25 induced apoptosis in breast cancer cell lines through ERS. More assessments are needed to confirm its in vivo anti-tumoral effects.

Cimigenoside Affects Cell Viability, Apoptosis and Metastasis Of A549 Cells Via The NF-κB Pathway

Cimigenoside, one of the main elements isolated from the aboveground plants of the Cimicifuga genus, has anti-tumour effects. However, the question of whether Cimigenoside had effects on lung cancer remains elusive. This study was aimed at investigating the effects of Cimigenoside on A549 lung cancer cells. The A549 cells were cultured in vitro, and an MTT assay was carried out to explore the cell proliferative abilities after a treatment with Cimigenoside. The wound healing assays and Transwell invasion assays were carried out to explore the effects of Cimigenoside on cell migration and invasion in the A549 cells. A cell apoptosis assay using flow cytometry was used to evaluate the effects on cell apoptosis in the A549 cells. The related protein expression levels were measured using a Western blot assay. It was hypothesised that Cimigenoside could restrain tumour cell proliferation, migration and invasion, while inducing cell apoptosis with apoptosis-related protein change levels in a time- and dose-dependent manner. The Western blot assay revealed that the Cimigenoside treated A549 cells had a reduced expression of p65, while having an increased expression of IκBα at the protein level. Taken together, this study demonstrated that Cimigenoside has the potential to repress cell proliferation, migration and invasion, while inducing apoptosis in A549 lung cancer cells through the NF-κB pathway. These results reveal that Cimigenoside may have a therapeutic potential for lung cancer treatment.

Treat more than heat-New therapeutic implications of Cimicifuga racemosa through AMPK-dependent metabolic effects

BACKGROUND

Cimicifuga racemosa extracts (CRE) have obtained a "well-established use status" in the treatment of postmenopausal (i.e., climacteric) complaints, which predominantly include vasomotor symptoms such as hot flushes and sweating, as well as nervousness, irritability, and metabolic changes. Although characteristic postmenopausal complaints are known for a very long time and the beneficial effects of CRE on climacteric symptoms are well accepted, both the pathophysiology of postmenopausal symptoms and the mechanism of action of CREs are not yet fully understood. In particular, current hypotheses suggest that changes in the α-adrenergic and serotonergic signaling pathways secondary to estrogen depletion are responsible for the development of hot flushes.

PURPOSE

Some of the symptoms associated with menopause cannot be explained by these hypotheses. Therefore, we attempted to extend our classic understanding of menopause by integrating of partly age-related metabolic impairments.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature survey was performed using the PubMed database for articles published through September 2021. The following search terms were used: (cimicifuga OR AMPK) AND (hot flush* OR hot flash* OR menopaus* OR osteoporos* OR cancer OR antioxida* OR cardiovasc*). No limits were set with respect to language, and the references cited in the articles retrieved were used to identify additional publications.

RESULTS

We found that menopause is a manifestation of the general aging process, with specific metabolic changes that aggravate menopausal symptoms, which are accelerated by estrogen depletion and associated neurotransmitter dysregulation. Cimicifuga extracts with their metabolic effects mitigate climacteric symptoms but may also modulate the aging process itself. Central to these effects are effects of CRE on the metabolic key regulator, the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK).

CONCLUSIONS

As an extension of this effect dimension, other off-label indications may appear attractive in the sense of repurposing of this herbal treatment.

Chemical characterization, antiproliferative and antifungal activities of Clinacanthus nutans

Clinacanthus nutans Lindau (Family: Acanthaceae) is a medicinal herb widely distributed in the tropic and subtropic areas of Asia. C. nutans is traditionally consumed as vegetable or herbal tea, as well as a folk medicine for anticancer and antifungal activities. However, to date, chemical constituent responsible for observed health beneficial effects of this medicinal plant is not clear. In the current study, 32 compounds (1-32), including three new megastigmanes (1-3) were isolated from the aerial parts of C. nutans. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of comprehensive NMR, MS, and CD spectroscopic data analysis, as well as chemical hydrolysis. Among the isolates, cycloartane triterpenoids (9, 10, and 12) displayed moderate anti-proliferative effects against HepG2 cell growth with IC₅₀ values ranging from 9.12 to 19.89 μM. Data obtained from flow cytometry analysis and western blotting assays revealed that compounds 9 and 12 induced apoptosis of HepG2 cells by modulating the expression of proteins associated to mitochondrial-mediated apoptotic pathway. Furthermore, megastigmanes 1, 2, 7, and 8 enhanced the anti-Candida albicans activity of amphotericin B (AmB), supporting the synergistic effects between megastigmanes and AmB. This is the first report of anticancer and antifungal potential of cycloartane triterpenoids and megastigmanes in C. nutans, which shed useful insights on the relationship between C. nutans's chemical constituent and its beneficial effects to health. Findings from this study support further development of this medicinal plant for potential pharmaceutical applications.

Natural Compounds in Sex Hormone-Dependent Cancers: The Role of Triterpenes as Therapeutic Agents

Sex hormone-dependent cancers currently contribute to the high number of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The study and elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying the progression of these tumors was a double-edged sword, leading to the expansion and development of new treatment options, with the cost of triggering more aggressive, therapy resistant relapses. The interaction of androgen, estrogen and progesterone hormones with specific receptors (AR, ER, PR) has emerged as a key player in the development and progression of breast, ovarian, prostate and endometrium cancers. Sex hormone-dependent cancers share a common and rather unique carcinogenesis mechanism involving the active role of endogenous and exogenous sex hormones to maintain high mitotic rates and increased cell proliferation thus increasing the probability of aberrant gene occurrence and accumulation highly correlated with abnormal cell division and the occurrence of malignant phenotypes. Cancer related hormone therapy has evolved, currently being associated with the blockade of other signaling pathways often associated with carcinogenesis and tumor progression in cancers, with promising results. However, despite the established developments, there are still several shortcomings to be addressed. Triterpenes are natural occurring secondary metabolites biosynthesized by various pathways starting from squalene cyclization. Due to their versatile therapeutic potential, including the extensively researched antiproliferative effect, these compounds are most definitely a cornerstone in the research and development of new natural/semisynthetic anticancer therapies. The present work thoroughly describes the ongoing research related to the antitumor activity of triterpenes in sex hormone-dependent cancers. Also, the current review highlights both the biological activity of various triterpenoid compounds and their featured mechanisms of action correlated with important chemical structural features.

Structure-Guided Identification of Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa) Triterpenoids with In Vitro Activity against Multiple Myeloma

Black cohosh is a well-established medicinal plant and preparations of its rootstock are used for the treatment of mild climacteric complaints. The compounds considered responsible for the therapeutic effect are triterpene glycosides, characterized by a cycloartane scaffold and a pentose moiety. Because some of these triterpenoids were found to exhibit relevant cytotoxic effects against human breast cancer cells, we decided to investigate their activity on multiple myeloma cell lines NCI-H929, OPM-2, and U266. In a systematic approach, we initially tested three known cytotoxic compounds of three different triterpenoid types, revealing the cimigenol-type triterpenoid as the most active constituent. In a second round, seven naturally occurring cimigenol derivatives were compared with respect to their sugar moiety and their substitution pattern at position C-25, leading to 25-O-methylcimigenol-3-O-α-L-arabinopyranoside as the most potent candidate. Interestingly, not only the methyl group at position C-25 increased the cytotoxic effect but also the arabinose moiety at position C-3 had an impact on the activity. The variety of cimigenol derivatives, moreover, allowed a detailed discussion of their structure–activity relationships, not only for their effect on multiple myeloma cells but also with regard to previous studies on the cytotoxicity of black cohosh triterpenoids.

The Chemical Structure and Bioactivity of Cycloartane-type Compounds

:

For decades now, compounds in the cycloartane-type series have been shown to have versatile pharmacological activities. However, no extensive review has been written to summarize these health-beneficial activities. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to systematically highlight the biological activities of these compounds, including their antitumor and anti-osteoporosis effects, their effects on receptors, cytokine release, and chronic renal failure, as well as their tyrosinase inhibitory, anticomplement, anti-parasite, anti-HIV, and antituberculosis activities. In this review, we have summarized the structures of over 200 compounds based on their characteristics and described their structureactivity relationships (SARs), and potential mechanisms of action.

Mechanism-based inactivation of cytochrome P450 2D6 by chelidonine

Chelidonine (CHE) is a major bioactive constituent of greater celandine, a plant used in traditional herbal medicines. CHE has widely been used as an analgesic in clinical settings. We evaluated the inhibitory effects of CHE on human cytochrome P450 enzymes. CHE produced time-, concentration-, and NADPH-dependent inhibition of CYP2D6, with K _I and k _inact values of 20.49 μM and 11.05 min ^-1 , respectively. Approximately 76% of CYP2D6 activity was suppressed after 9 minute incubation with CHE (50 μM). The loss of enzyme activity was not restored following dialysis. The estimated partition ratio of the inactivation was about 156. Quinidine, a competitive inhibitor of CYP2D6, attenuated the CHE-mediated enzyme inactivation, while glutathione and catalase/superoxide dismutase did not markedly ameliorate the inhibitory effect. Upon oxidation using potassium ferricyanide, the 15.1% activity of CYP2D6 was restored. These findings indicate that CHE acted as a mechanism-based inactivator of CYP2D6 and the observed effects may induce potential drug-drug interactions.

Influence of hormone therapy or C. foetida extract on breast tenderness in postmenopausal women

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the prevalence of breast tenderness in a population treated with menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) or Cimicifuga foetida extract.

METHODS

A prospective, randomized, controlled trial was conducted. Ninety-six postmenopausal women were randomly assigned to three groups: group A, 1 mg estradiol valerate daily plus 4 mg medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), days 19-30; group B, 1 mg estradiol valerate daily plus 100 mg micronized progesterone (MP), days 19-30; group C, 100 mg C. foetida extract daily. Breast tenderness was evaluated daily for 12 months.

RESULTS

Seventy-three patients completed the study. Group A had the highest prevalence of breast tenderness, while group C had the lowest. More than 50% of all participants reported no symptoms throughout the period. The participants in group A experienced a sharp increase in breast tenderness after treatment, but decreased after 1 month. No significant decline was found in the duration of pain in group B. The patients in group C reported no remarkable changes after 1 month. Compared to estrogen only, estrogen plus MPA/MP led to a higher incidence of prolonged breast symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to MHT groups, C. foetida extract had the lowest prevalence of breast tenderness. Most participants experienced mild or no symptoms.

The cycloartane triterpenoid ADCX impairs autophagic degradation through Akt overactivation and promotes apoptotic cell death in multidrug-resistant HepG2/ADM cells

Multidrug resistance is the main obstacle in cancer chemotherapy. Emerging evidence demonstrates the important role of autophagy in cancer cell resistance to chemotherapy. Therefore, autophagy inhibition by natural compounds may be a promising strategy for overcoming drug resistance in liver cancer cells. Here, we found that ADCX, a natural cycloartane triterpenoid extracted from the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) source Cimicifugae rhizoma (Shengma), impaired autophagic degradation by suppressing lysosomal cathepsin B (CTSB) expression in multidrug-resistant liver cancer HepG2/ADM cells, thereby leading to autophagic flux inhibition. Moreover, impairing autophagic flux promoted ADCX-induced apoptotic cell death in HepG2/ADM cells. Interestingly, Akt was overactivated by ADCX treatment, which downregulated CTSB and inhibited autophagic flux. Together, our results provide the first demonstration that an active TCM constituent can overcome multidrug resistance in liver cancer cells via Akt-mediated inhibition of autophagic degradation.

Iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles combined with actein suppress non-small-cell lung cancer growth in a p53-dependent manner

Actein (AT) is a triterpene glycoside isolated from the rhizomes of Cimicifuga foetida that has been investigated for its antitumor effects. AT treatment leads to apoptosis in various cell types, including breast cancer cells, by regulating different signaling pathways. Iron oxide (Fe₃O₄) magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are nanomaterials with biocompatible activity and low toxicity. In the present study, the possible benefits of AT in combination with MNPs on non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) were explored in in vitro and in vivo studies. AT-MNP treatment contributed to apoptosis in NSCLC cells, as evidenced by activation of the caspase 3-signaling pathway, which was accompanied by downregulation of the antiapoptotic proteins Bcl2 and BclXL, and upregulation of the proapoptotic signals Bax and Bad. The death receptors of TRAIL were also elevated following AT-MNP treatment in a p53-dependent manner. Furthermore, a mouse xenograft model in vivo revealed that AT-MNP treatment exhibited no toxicity and suppressed NSCLC growth compared to either AT or MNP monotherapies. In conclusion, this study suggests a novel therapy to induce apoptosis in suppressing NSCLC growth in a p53-dependent manner by combining AT with Fe₃O₄ MNPs.

Bardoxolone-methyl inhibits migration and metabolism in MCF7 cells

Bardoxolone-methyl (BAR) is reported to have anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative and anti-fibrotic effects. BAR activates Nrf2 and may ameliorate oxidative stress through induction of antioxidant genes. However, off-target effects, probably concentration and NFkB-dependent, have limited the clinical use of BAR. Nrf2 regulates expression of antioxidant and mitochondrial genes and has been proposed as a target for both obesity and breast cancer. Therefore, we explored whether BAR can alter migration and proliferation in the MCF7 cell line and whether metabolic function is affected by BAR. Incubation with BAR caused a time-dependent migratory inhibition and an associated decrease in mitochondrial respiration. Both migratory and mitochondrial inhibition by BAR were further enhanced in the presence of fatty acids. In addition to the activation of Nrf2, BAR altered the expression of target mRNA GCLC and UCP1. After 24 h, BAR inhibited both glycolytic capacity, reserve (p < 0.05) and oxidative phosphorylation (p < 0.001) with an associated increase in mitochondrial ROS and loss of intracellular glutathione in MCF7 cells; however, impairment of mitochondrial activity was prevented by N-acetyl cysteine. The fatty acid, palmitate, increased mitochondrial ROS, impaired migration and oxidative phosphorylation but palmitate toxicity towards MCF7 could not be inhibited by N-acetyl cysteine suggesting that they exert effects through different pathways. BAR-activated AKT, induced DNA damage and inhibited cell proliferation. When the proteasome was inhibited, there was loss of BAR-mediated changes in p65 phosphorylation and SOD2 expression suggesting non-canonical NFkB signaling effects. These data suggest that BAR-induced ROS are important in inhibiting MCF7 migration and metabolism by negatively affecting glycolytic capacity and mitochondrial function.

New potential beneficial effects of actein, a triterpene glycoside isolated from Cimicifuga species, in breast cancer treatment

Actein is a triterpene glycoside isolated from the rhizomes of Cimicifuga foetida (Chinese herb “shengma”) which could inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells. Nevertheless, the effect of actein on angiogenesis, which is an essential step for tumor growth and metastasis, has never been reported. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the in vitro and in vivo effects of actein on angiogenesis using human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC-1), matrigel plug and tumor-bearing mouse models. Our results showed that actein significantly inhibited the proliferation, reduced the migration and motility of endothelial cells, and it could suppress the protein expressions of VEGFR1, pJNK and pERK, suggesting that JNK/ERK pathways were involved. In vivo results showed that oral administration of actein at 10 mg/kg for 7 days inhibited blood vessel formation in the growth factor-containing matrigel plugs. Oral actein treatments (10–15 mg/kg) for 28 days resulted in decreasing mouse 4T1 breast tumor sizes and metastasis to lungs and livers. The apparent reduced angiogenic proteins (CD34 and Factor VIII) expressions and down-regulated metastasis-related VEGFR1 and CXCR4 gene expressions were observed in breast tumors. Our novel findings provide insights into the use of actein for development of anti-angiogenic agents for breast cancer.

Novel cycloartane triterpenoid from Cimicifuga foetida (Sheng ma) induces mitochondrial apoptosis via inhibiting Raf/MEK/ERK pathway and Akt phosphorylation in human breast carcinoma MCF-7 cells

Background

Cycloartane triterpenoids exhibited anticancer effects. This study aims to identify any potential novel anticancer cycloartane triterpenoids from Cimicifuga foetida L. rhizome (Sheng ma) and the mode of actions.

Methods

Cycloartane triterpenoids were isolated from the C. foetida rhizome by a series of column chromatography and identified by IR, MS and NMR. Their anticancer effects on several human cancer cell lines, MCF-7, HepG2, HepG2/ADM, HeLa, and PC3, and normal human mammary epithelial cells MCF10A were investigated by colony formation and MTT assays. Morphological analysis of apoptosis induction was performed by acridine orange/ethidium bromide dual-staining and Hoechst 33258 nuclear staining. The cell-cycle profile and annexin V staining were evaluated by flow cytometry. Apoptosis were investigated by measuring changes in mitochondrial membrane potential and analyzing expression of cell cycle- and apoptosis-related proteins in MCF-7 cells by Western blotting.

Results

A novel cycloartane triterpenoid, 25-O-acetyl-7,8-didehydrocimigenol-3-O-β-d-(2-acetyl)xylopyranoside (ADHC-AXpn), together with the known 7,8-didehydrocimigenol-3-O-β-d-xylopyranoside (DHC-Xpn) were isolated. MCF-7 growth was significantly inhibited by ADHC-AXpn in a dose- and time-dependent manner (IC₅₀: 27.81 µM at 48 h; P = 0.004 vs. control at 25 μM for 48 h treatment), and ADHC-AXpn was selectively cytotoxic for cancerous cells (MCF-7, HepG2/ADM, HepG2 and HELA cells) based on its higher IC₅₀ values for normal cells MCF10A (IC₅₀: 78.63 µM at 48 h) than for tumor cells. In MCF-7 cells, ADHC-AXpn induced G₂/M cell cycle arrest by mediating cyclin-B1, and CDK1 and its phosphorylation; and induced apoptosis through the mitochondrial-mediated apoptotic pathway, with inhibition of Akt activation. As ADHC-AXpn suppressed phosphorylation of ERK1/2, Raf and Akt proteins in MCF-7 cells, its apoptotic effect might be associated with Raf/MEK/ERK signaling and Akt activation.

Conclusions

ADHC-AXpn significantly suppressed the growth of MCF-7 cells, induced mitochondrial apoptosis and cell-cycle arrest, and inhibited Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathway and Akt phosphorylation.

New anti-angiogenic leading structure discovered in the fruit of Cimicifuga yunnanensis

Cimyunnins A–C (1–3), characterized with an unusual fused cyclopentenone ring G, together with cimyunnin D (4), possessing a highly rearranged γ-lactone ring F, were characterized from the fruit of Cimicifuga yunnanensis. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic analysis, X-ray diffraction, and density functional theory calculations. In addition, cimyunnin A exhibited comparable anti-angiogenic activities to those of sunitinib, a clinically-used first-line angiogenesis inhibitor, in the in vitro and ex vivo studies.

New 9, 19-cycloartane triterpenoid from the root of Cimicifuga foetida

AIM

To study the 9, 19-cycloartane triterpenes from the roots of Cimicifuga foetida.

METHOD

Chromatographic separations by silica gel, C18 reversed phase silica gel, and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were used. All of the structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analysis and chemical methods.

RESULTS

Five 9, 19-cycloartane triterpenes, (3β, 12β, 15α, 24R)-12, 2'-diacetoxy-24, 25-epoxy-15-hydroxy-16, 23-dione-3-O-α-L-arabinopyranoside (1), actein (2), 23-epi-26-deoxyactein (3), asiaticoside B (4), and 12β-hydroxycimigenol (5) were isolated from the roots of Cimicifuga foetida.

CONCLUSION

Compound 1 is a new triterpene with two acetoxy groups at C-2' and C-12.

Pharmacokinetics and safety of the multiple constituents of Shuanghua Baihe tablets in healthy subjects

It is the first clinical study to investigate the pharmacokinetics and safety of the multiple constituents of Shuanghua Baihe tablets in humans by LC-MS/MS.

Construction and evaluation of rats' tolerogenic dendritic cells (DC) induced by NF-κB Decoy method

AIMS

To construct and evaluate rats' tolerogenic dendritic cells (DC) through induction by NF-κB Decoy method.

METHODS

GM-CSF and IL-4 were used to transform rats's monocytes into DC, and DC were stimulated with LPS, NF-κB Decoy ODN, and loaded with Bovine Type II Collagen. The following methods were employed to phenotype DC: 1) Observation of cell morphology; 2) Evaluation of cell viability using trypan blue staining; 3) Purity determination of DC through detection of specific markers OX-62; 4) Evaluation of mature state of DC via the determination of the expression of CD80 and CD86; 5) Determination of stimulation capability towards the proliferation of lymphocyte and the secretion of INF-r and IL-10.

RESULTS

The activity of DC was more than 92%, and the expression of OX-62 was more than 70%. Most of DC exhibited the phenotype of CD80(+)/CD86(-). Compared with control group and LPS-stimulation group, the less mature adhered cells and hairlike DC were observed in NF-κB decoy group. Significant reduction (p < 0.05) was observed for the positive expression and extension of CD80 and CD86 in cell surface. After loaded with calf type II collagen, the low expression of CD80 and CD86 remains to be existed. The stimulation capability of DC towards lymphocyte in NF-κB decoy group was lower than that in control group (p<0.05) and LPS stimulation group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

NF-κB Decoy ODN method can be successfully applied for construct rats' tolerogenic dendritic cells (DC) with stable morphology and phenotype. The tolerogenic DC exhibited immature immune phenotype, and low capability to stimulate lymphocytes.

Correlation between the cystathionine-γ-lyase (CES) and the severity of peptic ulcer disease

BACKGROUND

The infection of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is one of the most important causes of gastric ulcer disease. The role of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) production in H. pylori-induced gastric ulcer disease.

AIM

The expression of cystathionine-γ-lyase (CSE) was determined, and correlated with the severity of gastric ulcer disease.

METHODS

One hundred and eight patients were selected based on the determination of gastric ulcer and the infection of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), including 36 normal control, 36 patients with H. Pylori-negative gastric ulcer, and 36 patients with H. Pylori-positive gastric ulcer. RT-PCR determination was performed to determine the expression of CSE, NF-κB and IL-8.

RESULTS

The expression of CSE, NF-κB and IL-8 was higher in the gastric ulcer group than control group (p<0.05). Compared with the H. pylori-negative gastric ulcer, the expression of CSE, NF-κB and IL-8 was higher than H. pylori-positive gastric ulcer group (p<0.05). For H. pylori-negative gastric ulcer group, the expression of CSE positively correlated with the expression of NF-κB (r=0.98, p<0.05) and IL-8 (r=0.95, p<0.05). For H. pylori-positive gastric ulcer group, the expression of CSE also positively correlated with the expression of NF-κB (r=0.99, p<0.05) and IL-8 (r=0.85, p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

The expression of CSE was positively correlated with the severity of gastric ulcer.

Triterpenes from the aerial parts of Cimicifuga yunnanensis and their antiproliferative effects on p53(N236S) mouse embryonic fibroblasts

Nine new triterpene derivatives, yunnanterpenes A-F (1-6), 15,16-seco-cimiterpenes A and B (7, 8), and cimilactone C (9), and 15 known analogues (10-24) were isolated from the aerial parts of Cimicifuga yunnanensis. The new structures were established using a combination of MS, NMR, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction techniques. WT MEFs (wild-type mouse embryonic fibroblasts) and tumorigenic cell lines p53(-/-)+H-RasV12 and p53(-/-)+p53(N236S)+H-RasV12 were used for evaluating active structures, targeting p53(N236S) (corresponding to p53(N239S) in humans) mutation. Compound 5 showed nonselective activities against these cell lines, with IC50 values of 5.8, 8.6, and 6.0 μM, respectively. Compound 4 exhibited greater selectivity against the p53(-/-)+p53(N236S)+H-RasV12 cells (IC50 5.5 μM) than against the WT MEFs cells (IC50 14.3 μM).

Anti-proliferative effect of Klimaktoplan® on human breast cancer cells

OBJECTIVE

With the health concerns of menopausal hormone replacement therapy, alternatives have been sought. Klimaktoplan® is a homeopathic formulation consisting of four main components and has been used for relief of menopausal symptoms for a long time. The study investigated the safety of Klimaktoplan® through its effect on the proliferation of breast cancer (MCF-7) and non-malignant mammary epithelial cells (MCF-10A).

METHODS

MCF-7 and MCF-10A cells were cultured in 312.5, 625, and 1,250 μg/ml Klimaktoplan®. 17-Beta estradiol (E2) and medroxyprogesterone 17-acetate (MPA) were used for comparison with Klimaktoplan®. E2 only (0.001, 0.01, and 0.1 μM), and the combination of E2 (0.001, 0.01, and 0.1 μM) and MPA (0.01, 0.1, and 1 μM) were tested. Control cells for Klimaktoplan® and E2 groups were treated with dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), and DMSO + ethanol was used for the combination group. Cellular proliferation was evaluated by the formation of insoluble formazan after incubation of 4 days.

RESULTS

Klimaktoplan® had a concentration-dependent anti-proliferative effect on breast cancer cells at 625 and 1,250 μg/ml, while not affecting proliferation of non-malignant mammary cells at any tested concentration. The effect of lactose was evaluated as lactose (the adjuvant of Klimaktoplan®) affect cell growth. E2 and lactose increased the proliferation of both malignant and non-malignant cells. The effect of E2 + MPA on the proliferation of malignant and non-malignant mammary cells was lower than estradiol only, but was higher than control.

CONCLUSIONS

Klimaktoplan® has an anti-proliferative effect on breast cancer cells, but not for non-malignant mammary epithelial cells, unlike E2 and E2 + P. With further research, KP would be a good alternative or additive in women with menopausal symptoms who wish to avoid conventional E or E + P hormone therapy.

Effective protection of rabbits' explosive brain injury through blocking gap junction communication

BACKGROUND

The gap junction plays an important role in spreading of apoptotic and necrotic signals from injured and stressed cells to the neighboring viable cells. The present study was performed to investigate the important role of gap junction communication on rabbits' explosive brain injury.

METHODS

Explosion of paper detonators was used to create explosive brain injury model in 60 rabbits, which was randomly divided into control group and experimental group. Octanol, an efficient blocker of gap junction, was injected in the left ventricle to block gap junction communication in the experimental group 2 hours before injury, while the same volume of saline was utilized in the control group.

RESULTS

Penumbra volume around the brain contusion in the experimental group was significantly less than that in the control group at 1d and 3d after brain damage. RT-PCR and Western blotting analysis indicated that the expression of connexin-43 (Cx43) and caspase-3 was significantly lower in the experimental group than that in the control group at all time points.

CONCLUSION

Rabbits' explosive brain injury can be efficiently attenuated through blocking the gap junction communication, which benefit for deeper understanding the mechanism of brain injury.

An update on plant derived anti-androgens

Anti-androgens are an assorted group of drugs and compounds that reduce the levels or activity of androgen hormones within the human body. Disease states in which this is relevant include polycystic ovarian syndrome, hirsutism, acne, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and endocrine related cancers such as carcinoma of the prostate. We provide an overview and discussion of the use of anti-androgen medications in clinical practice and explore the increasing recognition of the benefits of plant-derived anti-androgens, for example, spearmint tea in the management of PCOS, for which some evidence about efficacy is beginning to emerge. Other agents covered include red reishi, which has been shown to reduce levels 5-alpha reductase, the enzyme that facilitates conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT); licorice, which has phytoestrogen effects and reduces testosterone levels; Chinese peony, which promotes the aromatization of testosterone into estrogen; green tea, which contains epigallocatechins and also inhibits 5-alpha reductase, thereby reducing the conversion of normal testosterone into the more potent DHT; black cohosh, which has been shown to kill both androgenresponsive and non-responsive human prostate cancer cells; chaste tree, which has a reduces prolactin from the anterior pituitary; and saw palmetto extract, which is used as an anti-androgen although it shown no difference in comparison to placebo in clinical trials.

Bioassay-Guided Isolation of Cytotoxic Cycloartane Triterpenoid Glycosides from the Traditionally Used Medicinal Plant Leea indica

Leea indica is a medicinal plant used traditionally to cure cancer. In this study, the cytotoxic compounds of L. indica were isolated using bioassay-guided approach. Two cycloartane triterpenoid glycosides, mollic acid arabinoside (MAA) and mollic acid xyloside (MAX), were firstly isolated from L. indica. They inhibited the growth of Ca Ski cervical cancer cells with IC₅₀ of 19.21 μM (MAA) and 33.33 μM (MAX). MRC5 normal cell line was used to calculate selectivity index. MAA and MAX were about 8 and 4 times more cytotoxic to Ca Ski cells compared to MRC5. The cytotoxicity of MAA was characterized by both cytostatic and cytocidal effects. MAA decreased the expression of proliferative cell nuclear antigen, increased sub-G1 cells, and arrested cells in S and G2/M phases. This study provides the evidence for the ethnomedicinal use of L. indica and paves the way for future mechanism studies on the anticancer effects of MAA.

Induction of Mitochondria-Mediated Apoptosis in Ca Ski Human Cervical Cancer Cells Triggered by Mollic Acid Arabinoside Isolated from Leea indica

Leea indica is a medicinal plant traditionally used to treat cancer. Through bioassay-guided approach, we isolated mollic acid arabinoside (MAA), for the first time from Leea indica. Here, we present the apoptosis-inducing effect of MAA on Ca Ski cervical cancer cells. Based on DAPI staining, MAA-treated cells manifested nuclear shrinkage, condensation, and fragmentation. We further confirmed the fragmentation of DNA using TUNEL assay. During early apoptosis, MAA caused the perturbation of plasma membrane through externalization of PS, followed by the formation of apoptotic blebs. Prior to these events, MAA triggered rapid dissipation of the mitochondrial membrane potential. In the upstream, MAA increased the expression of Bax, decreased the expression of Bcl-2, and augmented the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. These findings suggested that MAA induced mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis in Ca Ski cells and thus provide the scientific explanation for the traditional application of this herbal medicine in cancer treatment.