Boswellic acid has anti-inflammatory effects and enhances the anticancer activities of Temozolomide and Afatinib, an irreversible ErbB family blocker, in human glioblastoma cells

BA inhibits LPS-stimulated inflammatory response and apoptosis in human middle ear epithelial cells by regulating the Nf-Kb/Iκbα axis

Otitis media (OM) is a prevalent childhood ear disease characterized by inflammation of the middle ear cavity, which can lead to ear pain, fever, and hearing loss. The pathogenesis of OM is multifaceted, encompassing a variety of factors including bacterial or viral infections, host immune responses, and the function of middle ear epithelial cells. Boswellic acid (BA), a natural triterpene compound extracted from frankincense resin, has been proven to possess significant anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. This study aims to investigate the effects of BA on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated inflammatory responses and apoptosis in human middle ear epithelial cells (HMEECs) and its potential mechanisms. Our findings demonstrated that BA enhances the proliferation of LPS-stimulated HMEECs and concurrently inhibits their apoptosis. In addition, BA blocked LPS-stimulated HMEEC inflammation. Mechanistically, BA suppressed the NF-κB/IκBα axis in LPS-stimulated HMEECs. In conclusion, BA effectively inhibits LPS-stimulated inflammation and apoptosis by mediating the NF-κB/IκBα axis, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent for OM.

Soloxolone para-methylanilide effectively suppresses aggressive phenotype of glioblastoma cells including TGF-β1-induced glial-mesenchymal transition in vitro and inhibits growth of U87 glioblastoma xenografts in mice

Soloxolone amides are semisynthetic triterpenoids that can cross the blood-brain barrier and inhibit glioblastoma growth both in vitro and in vivo. Here we investigate the impact of these compounds on processes associated with glioblastoma invasiveness and therapy resistance. Screening of soloxolone amides against glioblastoma cells revealed the ability of compound 7 (soloxolone para-methylanilide) to inhibit transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1)-induced glial-mesenchymal transition Compound 7 inhibited morphological changes, wound healing, transwell migration, and expression of mesenchymal markers (N-cadherin, fibronectin, Slug) in TGF-β1-induced U87 and U118 glioblastoma cells, while restoring their adhesiveness. Confocal microscopy and molecular docking showed that 7 reduced SMAD2/3 nuclear translocation probably by direct interaction with the TGF-β type I and type II receptors (TβRI/II). In addition, 7 suppressed stemness of glioblastoma cells as evidenced by inhibition of colony forming ability, spheroid growth, and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity. Furthermore, 7 exhibited a synergistic effect with temozolomide (TMZ) on glioblastoma cell viability. Using N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) and flow cytometry analysis of Annexin V-FITC-, propidium iodide-, and DCFDA-stained cells, 7 was found to synergize the cytotoxicity of TMZ by inducing ROS-dependent apoptosis. Further in vivo studies showed that 7, alone or in combination with TMZ, effectively suppressed the growth of U87 xenograft tumors in mice. Thus, 7 demonstrated promising potential as a component of combination therapy for glioblastoma, reducing its invasiveness and increasing its sensitivity to chemotherapy.

Anti-cancer properties of boswellic acids: mechanism of action as anti-cancerous agent

With the advent of highly effective plant-based medications with few or no side effects, the use of phytomedicines against complex diseases such as cancer is becoming more widespread. The broadly recognized pentacyclic triterpenes known as boswellic acids (BAs) are derived from the oleogum resin, or frankincense, extracted from the plant species of the genus Boswellia. The frankincense mixture contains various BA types, each having a different potential and helping treat certain cancers. This review focuses on details regarding the traits of the BAs, their roles as anti-cancer agents, the mechanism underlying their activities, and the function of their semi-synthetic derivatives in managing and treating certain cancers. The review also explores the biological sources of BAs, how they are conserved, and how biotechnology might help preserve and improve in vitro BA production. The review concludes that the BAs and their semi-synthetic derivatives are effective against a broad spectrum of cancer cell lines. The detailed information in the review can be helpful for researchers to gain more information about BAs and BA-based medications for efficient and cost-effective cancer treatments.

Improved Survival and Quality of Life Through an Integrative, Multidisciplinary Oncological Approach: Pathophysiological Analysis of Four Clinical Cancer Cases and Review of the Literature

Objectives: According to the National Cancer Institute, the integrative medicine (IM) approach to medical care combines standard medicine with complementary and alternative medicine practices that have proved safe and effective.

Methods: We describe the clinical cases of four patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM), diffuse malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (DMPM), intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, and breast cancer (BC) who received supportive treatment (ST) according to an IM approach after the failure of standard cancer treatments or the appearance of serious adverse events caused by antiblastic chemotherapy. The critical role of complementary drugs in reducing the side effects of cancer treatments and normalizing the white cell count is especially apparent in the case of the patient with metastatic BC, who experienced prolonged neutropenia.

Results: The IM approach was well-tolerated and had no adverse side effects. It improved the quality of life (QoL) of all patients and in two cases extended overall survival.

Conclusion: The extended clinical and instrumental response to IM of the patients with malignant mesothelioma and the improved health-related QoL and good tolerance of the ST demonstrated in all cases support the value of this approach in patients whose cancer therapies have failed but who show a good performance status. Our data require confirmation in a well-designed prospective clinical trial.

Galvanotactic Migration of Glioblastoma and Brain Metastases Cells

Galvanotaxis, the migration along direct current electrical fields, may contribute to the invasion of brain cancer cells in the tumor-surrounding tissue. We hypothesized that pharmacological perturbation of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor and downstream phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway prevent galvanotactic migration. In our study, patient-derived glioblastoma and brain metastases cells were exposed to direct current electrical field conditions. Velocity and direction of migration were estimated. To determine the effects of EGF receptor antagonist afatinib and AKT inhibitor capivasertib, assays of cell proliferation, apoptosis and immunoblot analyses were performed. Both inhibitors attenuated cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner and induced apoptosis. We found that most of the glioblastoma cells migrated preferentially in an anodal direction, while brain metastases cells were unaffected by direct current stimulations. Afatinib presented only a mild attenuation of galvanotaxis. In contrast, capivasertib abolished the migration of glioblastoma cells without genetic alterations in the PI3K/AKT pathway, but not in cells harboring PTEN mutation. In these cells, an increase in the activation of ERK1/2 may in part substitute the inhibition of the AKT pathway. Overall, our data demonstrate that glioblastoma cells migrate in the electrical field and the PI3K/AKT pathway was found to be highly involved in galvanotaxis.

Molecular evidences on anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and memory-boosting effects of frankincense

Chemical diversity of natural products with drug-like features has attracted much attention from medicine to develop more safe and effective drugs. Their anti-inflammatory, antitumor, analgesic, and other therapeutic properties are sometimes more successful than chemical drugs in controlling disease due to fewer drug resistance and side effects and being more tolerable in a long time. Frankincense, the oleo gum resin extracted from the Boswellia species, contains some of these chemicals. The anti-inflammatory effect of its main ingredient, boswellic acid, has been traditionally used to treat many diseases, mainly those target memory functions. In this review, we have accumulated research evidence from the beneficial effect of Frankincense consumption in memory improvement and the prevention of inflammation and cancer. Besides, we have discussed the molecular pathways mediating the therapeutic effects of this natural supplement.

Molecular characteristics of single patient-derived glioma stem-like cells from primary and recurrent glioblastoma

Glioblastoma has high recurrence, while the sensitivity of recurrent glioblastoma to chemotherapy is lower than that of primary glioblastoma. Moreover, there is no standardized treatment for recurrent glioblastoma. Unfortunately, the biological mechanism of recurrent glioblastoma is still unclear, and there are few related studies. We compared the phenotypes of clinical glioblastoma specimens, in-vitro cultured glioma stem-like cells (GSCs) and patient-derived xenograft tumor (PDX) models to explore the molecular genetic characteristics of primary and recurrent glioblastoma from the same patient. In vitro, SU5-2, GSCs derived from recurrent glioblastoma specimens, had stronger proliferative activity and self-renewal ability. Meanwhile, SU5-2 was more resistant to temozolomide and invasive than SU5-1, which derived from primary glioblastoma specimens. Further analysis of the expression of costimulatory molecules showed that the expression of B7-H1, B7-H2 and B7-H3 of SU5-2 were upregulated. In vivo, Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis showed that the median survival of the recurrent PDX group was worse. The results of gene detection in vitro, PDX model and clinical samples were consistent. Our results showed that the GSCs based on glioblastoma specimens and the PDX models could replicate the main molecular genetic characteristics of original tumors, which provided a reliable experimental platform for both tumor translation kinds of research and screening of molecular therapeutic targets.

The effectiveness of olibanum orally disintegrating tablet in the treatment of oral aphthous ulcers: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial

Background:

Boswellia serrata oleo-gum-resin (frankincense; olibanum) has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial effects. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of frankincense extract in the treatment of oral aphthous ulcers.

Materials and Methods:

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, patients with aphthous ulcers were randomly assigned to either experimental (Frankincense extract) or placebo groups to use orally disintegrating tablets (ODT) of frankincense and placebo, respectively, four times a day for 3 days. The size of aphthous ulcers and the pain severity by visual analogue scale were recorded at days 0, 2, and 4 and compared between the groups.

Results:

Twenty-five patients in each group completed the study. Olibanum extract ODT significantly reduced the ulcer size on the second (P < 0.001) and fourth (P < 0.001) days as well as the pain score on the second (P = 0.002) and fourth (P < 0.001) days of the intervention compared to placebo. Furthermore, at the end of the intervention, the number of patients with complete ulcer healing and pain relief in the experimental group was significantly more than the placebo group (5 vs. 0, P = 0.02; and 11 vs. 0, P < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion:

Taking olibanum extract ODTs reduces the ulcer size and pain severity and accelerates the healing process in the oral aphthous lesions.

Multiple Effects of Ascorbic Acid against Chronic Diseases: Updated Evidence from Preclinical and Clinical Studies

Severe disease commonly manifests as a systemic inflammatory process. Inflammation is associated withthe enhanced production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species and with a marked reduction in the plasma concentrations of protective antioxidant molecules. This imbalance gives rise to oxidative stress, which is greater in patients with more severe conditions such as sepsis, cancer, cardiovascular disease, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and burns. In these patients, oxidative stress can trigger cell, tissue, and organ damage, thus increasing morbidity and mortality. Ascorbic acid (ASC) is a key nutrient thatserves as an antioxidant and a cofactor for numerous enzymatic reactions. However, humans, unlike most mammals, are unable to synthesize it. Consequently, ASC must be obtained through dietary sources, especially fresh fruit and vegetables. The value of administering exogenous micronutrients, to reestablish antioxidant concentrations in patients with severe disease, has been recognized for decades. Despite the suggestion that ASC supplementation may reduce oxidative stress and prevent several chronic conditions, few large, randomized clinical trials have tested it in patients with severe illness. This article reviews the recent literature on the pharmacological profile of ASC and the role of its supplementation in critically ill patients.

Boswellic Acid Synergizes With Low-Level Ionizing Radiation to Modulate Bisphenol Induced-Lung Toxicity in Rats by Inhibiting JNK/ERK/c-Fos Pathway

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a low molecular weight chemical compound that has a deleterious effect on the endocrine system. It was used in plastics manufacturing with injurious effects on different body systems. Occupational exposure to low-level ionizing radiation (<1 Gy) is shown to attenuate an established inflammatory process and therefore enhance cell protection. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the protective effect of boswellic acid (BA) accompanied by whole-body low-dose gamma radiation (γ-R) against BPA-induced lung toxicity in male albino rats. BPA intoxication induced with 500 mg/kg BW. Rats received 50 mg BA/kg BW by gastric gavage concomitant with 0.5 Gy γ-R over 4 weeks. The immunoblotting and biochemical results revealed that BA and/or γ-R inhibited BPA-induced lung toxicity by reducing oxidative damage biomolecules; (MDA and NADPH oxidase gene expression), inflammatory indices (MPO, TNF-α, IL-6, and gene expression of CXCR-4). Moreover, BA and or/γ-R ameliorated the lung inflammation via regulation of the JNK/ERK/c-Fos and Nrf2/ HO-1 signaling pathways. Interestingly, our data demonstrated that BA in synergistic interaction with γ-R is efficacious control against BPA-induced lung injury via anti-oxidant mediated anti-inflammatory activities.

Evidences of CTLA-4 and PD-1 Blocking Agents-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Cellular and Preclinical Models

Background: Several strategies based on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been developed for cancer therapy, opening to advantages in cancer outcomes. However, several ICI-induced side effects have emerged in these patients, especially a rare but clinically significant cardiotoxicity with high rate of mortality. We studied the cytotoxic and pro-inflammatory properties of Ipilimumab and Nivolumab, the underlying pathways and cytokine storm involved. Methods: Co-cultures of human cardiomyocytes and lymphocytes were exposed to Ipilimumab or Nivolumab; cell viability and expression of leukotrienes, NLRP3, MyD88, and p65/NF-kB were performed. C57 mice were treated with Ipilimumab (15 mg/kg); analysis of fractional shortening, ejection fraction, radial and longitudinal strain were made before and after treatments through 2D-echocardiography. Expression of NLRP3, MyD88, p65/NF-kB, and 12 cytokines were analyzed in murine myocardium. Results: Nivolumab and Ipilimumab exert effective anticancer, but also significant cardiotoxic effects in co-cultures of lymphocytes and tumor or cardiac cells. Both ICIs increased NLRP3, MyD88, and p65/NF-kB expression compared to untreated cells, however, the most pro-inflammatory and cardiotoxic effects were seen after exposure to Ipilimumab. Mice treated with Ipilimumab showed a significant decrease in fractional shortening and radial strain with respect to untreated mice, coupled with a significant increase in myocardial expression of NLRP3, MyD88, and several interleukins. Conclusions: Nivolumab and Ipilimumab exert cytotoxic effects mediated by the NLRP3/IL-1β and MyD88 pathways, leading to pro-inflammatory cytokine storm in heart tissue.

Phospholipase D1 inhibition sensitizes glioblastoma to temozolomide and suppresses its tumorigenicity

Resistance of glioblastoma to the chemotherapeutic compound temozolomide is associated with the presence of glioblastoma stem cells in glioblastoma and is a key obstacle for the poor prognosis of glioblastoma. Here, we show that phospholipase D1 is elevated in CD44^High glioblastoma stem cells and in glioblastoma, especially recurring glioblastoma. Phospholipase D1 elevation positively correlated with the level of CD44 and poor prognosis in glioblastoma patients. Temozolomide significantly upregulated the expression of phospholipase D1 in the low and moderate CD44 populations of glioblastoma stem cells, but not in the CD44^High population in which phospholipase D1 is highly expressed. Phospholipase D1 conferred resistance to temozolomide in CD44^High glioblastoma stem cells and increased their self‐renewal capacity and maintenance. Phospholipase D1 expression significantly correlated with levels of temozolomide resistance factors, which were suppressed by microRNA‐320a and ‐4496 induced by phospholipase D1 inhibition. Genetic and pharmacological targeting of phospholipase D1 attenuated glioblastoma stem cell‐derived intracranial tumors of glioblastoma using the microRNAs, and improved survival. Treatment solely with temozolomide produced no benefits on the glioblastoma, whereas in combination, phospholipase D1 inhibition sensitized glioblastoma stem cells to temozolomide and reduced glioblastoma tumorigenesis. Together, these findings indicate that phospholipase D1 inhibition might overcome resistance to temozolomide and represents a potential treatment strategy for glioblastoma. © 2020 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.

Hesperidin Loaded on Gold Nanoparticles as a Drug Delivery System for a Successful Biocompatible, Anti-Cancer, Anti-Inflammatory and Phagocytosis Inducer Model

Hesperidin is a flavonoid glycoside with proven therapeutic activities for various diseases, including cancer. However, its poor solubility and bioavailability render it only slightly absorbed, requiring a delivery system to reach its therapeutic target. Hesperidin loaded on gold nanoparticles (Hsp-AuNPs) was prepared by a chemical synthesis method. Various characterization techniques such as UV-VIS spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, FESEM, TEM and EDX, Zeta potential analysis, particle size analysis, were used to confirm the synthesis of Hsp-AuNPs. The cytotoxic effect of Hsp-AuNPs on human breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231) was assessed using MTT and crystal violet assays. The results revealed significant decrease in proliferation and inhibition of growth of the treated cells when compared with human normal breast epithelial cell line (HBL-100). Determination of apoptosis by fluorescence microscope was also performed using acridine orange-propidium iodide dual staining assay. The in vivo study was designed to evaluate the toxicity of Hsp-AuNPs in mice. The levels of hepatic and kidney functionality markers were assessed. No significant statistical differences were found for the tested indicators. Histological images of liver, spleen, lung and kidney showed no apparent damages and histopathological abnormalities after treatment with Hsp-AuNPs. Hsp-AuNPs ameliorated the functional activity of macrophages against Ehrlich ascites tumor cells-bearing mice. The production of the pro-inflammatory cytokines was also assessed in bone marrow–derived macrophage cells treated with Hsp-AuNPs. The results obviously demonstrated that Hsp-AuNPs treatment significantly inhibited the secretion of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF.

Acetyl-11-Keto-β-Boswellic Acid Exerts the Anti-Cancer Effects via Cell Cycle Arrest, Apoptosis Induction and Autophagy Suppression in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells

Objective

Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA) is a triterpenoid, which is the main component of boswellic acid from Boswellia Serrata, a medicinal plant that has shown immense potential in anti-cancer therapy. This study aims to explore the roles and molecular mechanisms of AKBA on cell behavior in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells.

Materials and Methods

The effects of AKBA on the cell viability in A549, H460, H1299, and BEAS-2B cells were determined by the CCK-8 assay. The colony formation assay was used to identify the effects of AKBA on cell proliferation. Potential roles of AKBA in regulating the cell cycle, apoptosis, and autophagy in A549 were evaluated by flow cytometry, Western blotting, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunofluorescence (IF).

Results

AKBA reduced cell viability in A549, H460, H1299, and BEAS-2B. In A549 cells, AKBA suppressed the clone formation, arrested the cell cycle at the G₀/G₁ phase, induced cellular apoptosis. We found that AKBA suppressed the formation of autolysosome, and decreased the expression levels of Beclin-1, LC3A/B-I, and LC3A/B-II proteins. Furthermore, AKBA also inhibited the expression levels of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway proteins.

Conclusion

AKBA exerts the anti-cancer effects via cell cycle arrest, apoptosis induction, and autophagy suppression in NSCLC cells. This body of evidence supports the potential of AKBA as a promising drug in the treatment of NSCLC.