Cytotoxicity of pomegranate polyphenolics in breast cancer cells in vitro and vivo: potential role of miRNA-27a and miRNA-155 in cell survival and inflammation

Phenolic Components and Biological Activity of Pomegranate

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) have been subject of extensive studies for its abundance of phytochemicals and numerous biological and medicinal properties. It is a fruit-bearing tree, which is widely consumed as a nutraceutical source as well as functional food for putative health benefits. The phenolic components are the characteristic bioactive constitutes of pomegranate, including hydrolysable tannins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. The whole plant of this tree has many medicinal folkloric uses and good therapeutic effect, such as anticancer, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, hypoglycemic, lipid-lowering, cardioprotection and digestive system protection. Through comprehensive search of available literature, this narrative review can provide an up-to-date overview of the current knowledge of characteristic bioactive constituents's structure and potential health benefits of Pomegranate, which can be used as reference for the future clinical and basic research, and also helpful for the development of pomegranate into functional food and nutraceuticals.

Non-coding RNAs mediated inflammation in breast cancers

Breast cancer is the major cancer that affects women all over the world. The awareness over past several decades has led to intensive screening and detection as well as successful treatments. Still, the breast cancer mortality is unacceptable and needs to be urgently addressed. Among many factors, inflammation has often been associated with tumorigenesis, including breast cancer. More than a third of all breast cancer deaths are marked by deregulated inflammation. The exact mechanisms are still not completely known but among the many putative factors, the epigenetic changes, particularly those mediated by non-coding RNAs are fascinating. microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs as well as circular RNAs seem to impact the inflammation in breast cancer which further highlights their important regulatory role in breast cancer pathogenesis. Understanding inflammation in breast cancer and its regulation by non-coding RNAs is the primary objective of this review article. We attempt to provide the most complete information on the topic in hopes of opening new areas of research and discoveries.

Antiproliferative and cytotoxic effects of polyphenols from pomegranate peel and coffee pulp on cancer cells

Pomegranate peel (PP) and coffee pulp (CP) are by-products of the food industry that can cause environmental pollution if not handled adequately. These by-products contain a significant amount of polyphenolic compounds which have antioxidant and possibly anticancer properties. We investigated the antiproliferative and cytotoxic activities of polyphenols from PP, CP and a 50-50% mixture of both against HeLa, A549, MDA-MB and Hek-293 cells. The total phenolic content of the PP and CP extracts was determined by high performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionisation/mass spectrometry, and the antiproliferative and cytotoxic potentials were evaluated by MTT (3- (4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide) and Lactate Dehydogenase assays, respectively. Results showed antiproliferative and cytotoxic effects of polyphenols from PP and CP when administered at different concentrations or mixtures on HeLa, A549 and MDA-MB cells. No significant antiproliferative effects were observed on Hek-293 cells treated under similar conditions. These results suggest the potential of PP and CP polyphenols, individually or in combination, to modulate biological mechanisms involved in cervical, breast and lung cancer.

Understanding the multifaceted role of miRNAs in Alzheimer's disease pathology

Small non-coding RNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression by binding to mRNA and mediating its degradation or inhibiting translation. Since miRNAs can regulate the expression of several genes, they have multiple roles to play in biological processes and human diseases. The majority of miRNAs are known to be expressed in the brain and are involved in synaptic functions, thus marking their presence and role in major neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). In AD, amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) are known to be the major hallmarks. The clearance of Aβ and tau is known to be associated with miRNA dysregulation. In addition, the β-site APP cleaving enzyme (BACE 1), which cleaves APP to form Aβ, is also found to be regulated by miRNAs, thus directly affecting Aβ accumulation. Growing evidences suggest that neuroinflammation can be an initial event in AD pathology, and miRNAs have been linked with the regulation of neuroinflammation. Inflammatory disorders have also been associated with AD pathology, and exosomes associated with miRNAs are known to regulate brain inflammation, suggesting for the role of systemic miRNAs in AD pathology. Several miRNAs have been related in AD, years before the clinical symptoms appear, most of which are associated with regulating the cell cycle, immune system, stress responses, cellular senescence, nerve growth factor (NGF) signaling, and synaptic regulation. Phytochemicals, especially polyphenols, alter the expression of various miRNAs by binding to miRNAs or binding to the transcriptional activators of miRNAs, thus control/alter various metabolic pathways. Awing to the sundry biological processes being regulated by miRNAs in the brain and regulation of expression of miRNAs via phytochemicals, miRNAs and the regulatory bioactive phytochemicals can serve as therapeutic agents in the treatment and management of AD.

From inflammation to metastasis: The central role of miR-155 in modulating NF-κB in cancer

Cancer is a multifaceted, complex disease characterized by unchecked cell growth, genetic mutations, and dysregulated signalling pathways. These factors eventually cause evasion of apoptosis, sustained angiogenesis, tissue invasion, and metastasis, which makes it difficult for targeted therapeutic interventions to be effective. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are essential gene expression regulators linked to several biological processes, including cancer and inflammation. The NF-κB signalling pathway, a critical regulator of inflammatory reactions and oncogenesis, has identified miR-155 as a significant participant in its modulation. An intricate network of transcription factors known as the NF-κB pathway regulates the expression of genes related to inflammation, cell survival, and immunological responses. The NF-κB pathway's dysregulation contributes to many cancer types' development, progression, and therapeutic resistance. In numerous cancer models, the well-studied miRNA miR-155 has been identified as a crucial regulator of NF-κB signalling. The p65 subunit and regulatory molecules like IκB are among the primary targets that miR-155 directly targets to alter NF-κB activity. The molecular processes by which miR-155 affects the NF-κB pathway are discussed in this paper. It also emphasizes the miR-155's direct and indirect interactions with important NF-κB cascade elements to control the expression of NF-κB subunits. We also investigate how miR-155 affects NF-κB downstream effectors in cancer, including inflammatory cytokines and anti-apoptotic proteins.

Effects of Functional and Nutraceutical Foods in the Context of the Mediterranean Diet in Patients Diagnosed with Breast Cancer

Several studies report that breast cancer survivors (BCS) tend to have a poor diet, as fruit, vegetable, and legume consumption is often reduced, resulting in a decreased intake of nutraceuticals. Moreover, weight gain has been commonly described among BCS during treatment, increasing recurrence rate and mortality. Improving lifestyle and nutrition after the diagnosis of BC may have important benefits on patients' general health and on specific clinical outcomes. The Mediterranean diet (MD), known for its multiple beneficial effects on health, can be considered a nutritional pool comprising several nutraceuticals: bioactive compounds and foods with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Recent scientific advances have led to the identification of nutraceuticals that could amplify the benefits of the MD and favorably influence gene expression in these patients. Nutraceuticals could have beneficial effects in the postdiagnostic phase of BC, including helping to mitigate the adverse effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Moreover, the MD could be a valid and easy-to-follow option for managing excess weight. The aim of this narrative review is to evaluate the recent scientific literature on the possible beneficial effects of consuming functional and nutraceutical foods in the framework of MD in BCS.

Pomegranate-specific natural compounds as onco-preventive and onco-therapeutic compounds: Comparison with conventional drugs acting on the same molecular mechanisms

Pomegranate, scientifically known as Punica granatum, has been a traditional medicinal remedy since ancient times. Research findings have shown that using pomegranate extracts can positively affect a variety of signaling pathways, including those involved in angiogenesis, inflammation, hyperproliferation, cellular transformation, the beginning stages of tumorigenesis, and lastly, a reduction in the final stages of metastasis and tumorigenesis. This is due to the fact that pomegranate extracts are rich in polyphenols, which are known to inhibit the activity of certain signaling pathways. In the United States, cancer is the second biggest cause of death after heart disease. The number of fatalities caused by cancer in the United States escalates yearly. Altering one's diet, getting involved in regular physical activity, and sustaining a healthy body weight are three easy steps an individual may follow to lower their cancer risk. Simply garnishing one's diet with vegetables and fruits has the potential to avert at least 20% of all cancer diagnoses and around 200,000 deaths caused by cancer each year. Vegetables, fruits, and other dietary constituents, such as minerals and phytochemicals, are currently being researched for their potential to prevent cancer. It is being done because they are safe, have minimal toxicity, possess antioxidant properties, and are universally accepted as dietary supplements. Ancient civilizations used the fruit of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) to prevent and cure a number of diseases. The anti-tumorigenic, anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative qualities of pomegranate have been shown in studies with the fruit, juice, extract, and oil of the pomegranate. Pomegranate has the capacity to affect several signaling pathways, which implies that it may have the potential to be employed not only as a chemopreventive agent but also as a chemotherapeutic drug. This article elaborates on some recent preclinical and clinical research which shows that pomegranate seems to have a role in the prevention and treatment of a number of cancers, including but not limited to breast, bladder, skin, prostate, colon, and lung cancer, among others.

Exosome Derived from Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Cell Exerts Immunomodulatory Effects on B Cells from SLE Patients

Background

Excessive proliferation and activation of B cells, resulting in the production of various autoantibodies, is a crucial link and significant feature of the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), as well as the pathological basis of systemic multiorgan damage. However, whether exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hucMSCs-Exo) are involved in the immune regulation of SLE has not been clarified.

Objectives

Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the efficacy of hucMSCs-Exo for treating SLE.

Methods

hucMSCs-Exo and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of SLE patients were cocultured in vitro, and B cell apoptosis, activation, proliferation, and inflammation levels were detected by flow cytometry. Subsequently, the expression level of miR-155 in B lymphocytes of SLE patients was detected by qRT-PCR, and the target gene relationship between miR-155 and SHIP-1 was found through bioinformatics and dual luciferase activity experiments, which verified the inhibition of miR-155 in B lymphocytes of SLE patients to regulate immunity.

Results

We found that hucMSCs-Exo promoted B cell apoptosis, prevented B cell overactivation, and reduced inflammation. MicroRNA-155 (miR-155) has a powerful regulatory function in B cells. It was demonstrated that hucMSCs-Exo acts synergistically with miR-155 inhibitors to target SHIP-1 to B cells more effectively than exosomes alone.

Conclusion

Our results provide insight into how hucMSCs-Exo regulates autoimmunity in patients with lupus and suggest targeting miR-155 for autoimmunity while protecting immunity.

Quercetin modulates signal transductions and targets non-coding RNAs against cancer development

In recent decades, various investigations have indicated that natural compounds have great potential in the prevention and treatment of different chronic disorders including different types of cancer. As a bioactive flavonoid, Quercetin (Qu) is a dietary ingredient enjoying high pharmacological values and health-promoting effects due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characterization. Conclusive in vitro and in vivo evidence has revealed that Qu has great potential in cancer prevention and development. Qu exerts its anticancer influences by altering various cellular processes such as apoptosis, autophagy, angiogenesis, metastasis, cell cycle, and proliferation. In this way, Qu by targeting numerous signaling pathways as well as non-coding RNAs regulates several cellular mechanisms to suppress cancer occurrence and promotion. This review aimed to summarize the impact of Qu on the molecular pathways and non-coding RNAs in modulating various cancer-associated cellular mechanisms.

An Epidemiological Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis on Biomarker Role of Circulating MicroRNAs in Breast Cancer Incidence

Breast cancer (BC) is a multifactorial disease caused by an interaction between genetic predisposition and environmental exposures. MicroRNAs are a group of small non-coding RNA molecules, which seem to have a role either as tumor suppressor genes or oncogenes and seem to be related to cancer risk factors. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to identify circulating microRNAs related to BC diagnosis, paying special attention to methodological problems in this research field. A meta-analysis was performed for microRNAs analyzed in at least three independent studies where sufficient data to make analysis were presented. Seventy-five studies were included in the systematic review. A meta-analysis was performed for microRNAs analyzed in at least three independent studies where sufficient data to make analysis were presented. Seven studies were included in the MIR21 and MIR155 meta-analysis, while four studies were included in the MIR10b metanalysis. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of MIR21 for BC diagnosis were 0.86 (95%CI 0.76-0.93) and 0.84 (95%CI 0.71-0.92), 0.83 (95%CI 0.72-0.91) and 0.90 (95%CI 0.69-0.97) for MIR155, and 0.56 (95%CI 0.32-0.71) and 0.95 (95%CI 0.88-0.98) for MIR10b, respectively. Several other microRNAs were found to be dysregulated, distinguishing BC patients from healthy controls. However, there was little consistency between included studies, making it difficult to identify specific microRNAs useful for diagnosis.

Mechanism-Driven and Clinically Focused Development of Botanical Foods as Multitarget Anticancer Medicine: Collective Perspectives and Insights from Preclinical Studies, IND Applications and Early-Phase Clinical Trials

Cancer progression and mortality remain challenging because of current obstacles and limitations in cancer treatment. Continuous efforts are being made to explore complementary and alternative approaches to alleviate the suffering of cancer patients. Epidemiological and nutritional studies have indicated that consuming botanical foods is linked to a lower risk of cancer incidence and/or improved cancer prognosis after diagnosis. From these observations, a variety of preclinical and clinical studies have been carried out to evaluate the potential of botanical food products as anticancer medicines. Unfortunately, many investigations have been poorly designed, and encouraging preclinical results have not been translated into clinical success. Botanical products contain a wide variety of chemicals, making them more difficult to study than traditional drugs. In this review, with the consideration of the regulatory framework of the USFDA, we share our collective experiences and lessons learned from 20 years of defining anticancer foods, focusing on the critical aspects of preclinical studies that are required for an IND application, as well as the checkpoints needed for early-phase clinical trials. We recommend a developmental pipeline that is based on mechanisms and clinical considerations.

The Therapeutic Alliance between Pomegranate and Health Emphasizing on Anticancer Properties

Pomegranate is a fruit bearing-plant that is well known for its medicinal properties. Pomegranate is a good source of phenolic acids, tannins, and flavonoids. Pomegranate juice and by-products have attracted the scientific interest due to their potential health benefits. Currently, the medical community has showed great interest in exploiting pomegranate potential as a protective agent against several human diseases including cancer. This is demonstrated by the fact that there are more than 800 reports in the literature reporting pomegranate's anticancer properties. This review is an update on the research outcomes of pomegranate's potential against different types of human diseases, emphasizing on cancer. In addition, perspectives of potential applications of pomegranate, as a natural additive aiming to improve the quality of animal products, are discussed.

Exosome-derived CIRP: An amplifier of inflammatory diseases

Cold-inducible RNA-binding protein (CIRP) is an intracellular stress-response protein and a type of damage-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) that responds to various stress stimulus by altering its expression and mRNA stability. Upon exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light or low temperature, CIRP get translocated from the nucleus to the cytoplasm through methylation modification and stored in stress granules (SG). During exosome biogenesis, which involves formation of endosomes from the cell membrane through endocytosis, CIRP also gets packaged within the endosomes along with DNA, and RNA and other proteins. Subsequently, intraluminal vesicles (ILVs) are formed following the inward budding of the endosomal membrane, turning the endosomes into multi-vesicle bodies (MVBs). Finally, the MVBs fuse with the cell membrane to form exosomes. As a result, CIRP can also be secreted out of cells through the lysosomal pathway as Extracellular CIRP (eCIRP). Extracellular CIRP (eCIRP) is implicated in various conditions, including sepsis, ischemia-reperfusion damage, lung injury, and neuroinflammation, through the release of exosomes. In addition, CIRP interacts with TLR4, TREM-1, and IL-6R, and therefore are involved in triggering immune and inflammatory responses. Accordingly, eCIRP has been studied as potential novel targets for disease therapy. C23 and M3, polypeptides that oppose eCIRP binding to its receptors, are beneficial in numerous inflammatory illnesses. Some natural molecules such as Luteolin and Emodin can also antagonize CIRP, which play roles similar to C23 in inflammatory responses and inhibit macrophage-mediated inflammation. This review aims to provide a better understanding on CIRP translocation and secretion from the nucleus to the extracellular space and the mechanisms and inhibitory roles of eCIRP in diverse inflammatory illnesses.

Chemopreventive and therapeutic properties of anthocyanins in breast cancer: A comprehensive review

Anthocyanins have received the attention of the scientific community because of their antioxidant, antimetastatic, and cancer-inhibitory properties. The aim of this review is to comprehensively summarize the possible mechanisms by which anthocyanins exhibit anticarcinogenic properties in breast cancer (BC) cell lines and animal models. Anthocyanins inhibit proinflammatory, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell pathways and increase the activities of detoxification enzymes. In addition, downregulation of metalloproteinases by anthocyanins inhibits tumor invasion and metastatic processes in experimental systems. Anthocyanins mediate anticancer and angiogenic effects by modifying multiple receptor families. Furthermore, inhibition of cell-cycle upstream polo-like kinase signaling, the chromosomal replication checkpoint, and ataxia telangiectasia mutated signaling may contribute to the anticarcinogenic effects of anthocyanins. Finally, anthocyanins induce mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis and downregulate the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/AKT/mTOR pathway. In conclusion, anthocyanins have been shown to exert potential antitumor effects against breast carcinogenesis in vitro and in vivo, providing insights into the use of anthocyanins as a natural chemopreventive intervention in BC.

Tackling heterogeneity in treatment-resistant breast cancer using a broad-spectrum therapeutic approach

Tumor heterogeneity can contribute to the development of therapeutic resistance in cancer, including advanced breast cancers. The object of the Halifax project was to identify new treatments that would address mechanisms of therapeutic resistance through tumor heterogeneity by uncovering combinations of therapeutics that could target the hallmarks of cancer rather than focusing on individual gene products. A taskforce of 180 cancer researchers, used molecular profiling to highlight key targets responsible for each of the hallmarks of cancer and then find existing therapeutic agents that could be used to reach those targets with limited toxicity. In many cases, natural health products and re-purposed pharmaceuticals were identified as potential agents. Hence, by combining the molecular profiling of tumors with therapeutics that target the hallmark features of cancer, the heterogeneity of advanced-stage breast cancers can be addressed.

Differential Expression of miRNAs in Trichloroethene-Mediated Inflammatory/Autoimmune Response and Its Modulation by Sulforaphane: Delineating the Role of miRNA-21 and miRNA-690

Trichloroethene (TCE), an occupational and ubiquitous environmental contaminant, is associated with the induction of autoimmune diseases (ADs). Although oxidative stress plays a major role in TCE-mediated autoimmunity, the underlying molecular mechanisms still need to be delineated. Altered non-coding RNAs, including the expression of microRNAs (miRNAs), can influence target genes, especially related to apoptosis and inflammation, and contribute to ADs. Therefore, the objective of this study was to delineate the contribution of miRNAs in TCE-mediated inflammatory and autoimmune response. To achieve this, we treated female MRL+/+ mice with TCE (10 mmol/kg in corn oil, i.p., every fourth day) with/without antioxidant sulforaphane (SFN; 8 mg/kg in corn oil, i.p., every other day) for 6 weeks. With the use of miRNA microarray, 293 miRNAs were analyzed, which included 35 miRNAs that were relevant to inflammation and ADs. Among those 35 miRNAs, 8 were modulated by TCE and/or TCE+SFN exposure. TCE treatment led to increased expression of 3 miRNAs and also decreased expression of 3 miRNAs. Interestingly, among the 35 differentially expressed miRNAs, antioxidant SFN modulated the expression of 6 miRNAs. Based on the microarray findings, we subsequently focused on two miRNAs (miRNA-21 and miRNA-690), which are known to be involved in inflammation and autoimmune response. The increases in miRNA-21 and miR-690 (observed using miRNA microarray) were further validated by RT-PCR, and the TCE-mediated increases in miR-21 and miR-690 were ameliorated by SFN treatment. Modulating miR-21 and miR-690 by respective inhibitors or mimics suppressed the expression of NF-κB (p65) and IL-12 in RAW 264.7 cells. Our findings suggest a contributory role of miR-21 and miR-690 in TCE-mediated and its metabolite dichloroacetyl chloride (DCAC)-mediated inflammation and autoimmune response and support that antioxidant SFN could be a potential therapeutic candidate for inflammatory responses and ADs.

Novel biomarkers for acute respiratory distress syndrome: genetics, epigenetics and transcriptomics

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) can be induced by multiple clinical factors, including sepsis, acute pancreatitis, trauma, intestinal ischemia/reperfusion and burns. However, these factors alone may poorly explain the risk and outcomes of ARDS. Emerging evidence suggests that genomic-based or transcriptomic-based biomarkers may hold the promise to establish predictive or prognostic stratification methods for ARDS, and also to help in developing novel therapeutic targets for ARDS. Notably, genetic/epigenetic variations correlated with susceptibility and prognosis of ARDS and circulating microRNAs have emerged as potential biomarkers for diagnosis or prognosis of ARDS. Although limited by sample size, ethnicity and phenotypic heterogeneity, ongoing genetic/transcriptomic research contributes to the characterization of novel biomarkers and ultimately helps to develop innovative therapeutics for ARDS patients.

MicroRNAs: Important Players in Breast Cancer Angiogenesis and Therapeutic Targets

The high incidence of breast cancer (BC) is linked to metastasis, facilitated by tumor angiogenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that have an essential role in gene expression and are significantly linked to the tumor development and angiogenesis process in different types of cancer, including BC. There's increasing evidence showed that various miRNAs play a significant role in disease processes; specifically, they are observed and over-expressed in a wide range of diseases linked to the angiogenesis process. However, more studies are required to reach the best findings and identify the link among miRNA expression, angiogenic pathways, and immune response-related genes to find new therapeutic targets. Here, we summarized the recent updates on miRNA signatures and their cellular targets in the development of breast tumor angiogenetic and discussed the strategies associated with miRNA-based therapeutic targets as anti-angiogenic response.

Polyphenol-Enriched Blueberry Preparation Controls Breast Cancer Stem Cells by Targeting FOXO1 and miR-145

Scientific evidence supports the early deregulation of epigenetic profiles during breast carcinogenesis. Research shows that cellular transformation, carcinogenesis, and stemness maintenance are regulated by epigenetic-specific changes that involve microRNAs (miRNAs). Dietary bioactive compounds such as blueberry polyphenols may modulate susceptibility to breast cancer by the modulation of CSC survival and self-renewal pathways through the epigenetic mechanism, including the regulation of miRNA expression. Therefore, the current study aimed to assay the effect of polyphenol enriched blueberry preparation (PEBP) or non-fermented blueberry juice (NBJ) on the modulation of miRNA signature and the target proteins associated with different clinical-pathological characteristics of breast cancer such as stemness, invasion, and chemoresistance using breast cancer cell lines. To this end, 4T1 and MB-MDM-231 cell lines were exposed to NBJ or PEBP for 24 h. miRNA profiling was performed in breast cancer cell cultures, and RT-qPCR was undertaken to assay the expression of target miRNA. The expression of target proteins was examined by Western blotting. Profiling of miRNA revealed that several miRNAs associated with different clinical-pathological characteristics were differentially expressed in cells treated with PEBP. The validation study showed significant downregulation of oncogenic miR-210 expression in both 4T1 and MDA-MB-231 cells exposed to PEBP. In addition, expression of tumor suppressor miR-145 was significantly increased in both cell lines treated with PEBP. Western blot analysis showed a significant increase in the relative expression of FOXO1 in 4T1 and MDA-MB-231 cells exposed to PEBP and in MDA-MB-231 cells exposed to NBJ. Furthermore, a significant decrease was observed in the relative expression of N-RAS in 4T1 and MDA-MB-231 cells exposed to PEBP and in MDA-MB-231 cells exposed to NBJ. Our data indicate a potential chemoprevention role of PEBP through the modulation of miRNA expression, particularly miR-210 and miR-145, and protection against breast cancer development and progression. Thus, PEBP may represent a source for novel chemopreventative agents against breast cancer.

The Role of miR-155 in Nutrition: Modulating Cancer-Associated Inflammation

Nutrition plays an important role in overall human health. Although there is no direct evidence supporting the direct involvement of nutrition in curing disease, for some diseases, good nutrition contributes to disease prevention and our overall well-being, including energy level, optimum internal function, and strength of the immune system. Lately, other major, but more silent players are reported to participate in the body’s response to ingested nutrients, as they are involved in different physiological and pathological processes. Furthermore, the genetic profile of an individual is highly critical in regulating these processes and their interactions. In particular, miR-155, a non-coding microRNA, is reported to be highly correlated with such nutritional processes. In fact, miR-155 is involved in the orchestration of various biological processes such as cellular signaling, immune regulation, metabolism, nutritional responses, inflammation, and carcinogenesis. Thus, this review aims to highlight those critical aspects of the influence of dietary components on gene expression, primarily on miR-155 and its role in modulating cancer-associated processes.

Redox-sensitive Nrf2 and MAPK signaling pathways contribute to trichloroethene-mediated autoimmune disease progression

Trichloroethene (TCE) exposure is associated with the induction of autoimmune diseases (ADs). Although oxidative stress plays a major role in TCE-mediated autoimmunity, the underlying molecular mechanisms still need to be delineated. Dysregulation of redox-sensitive nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like2 (Nrf2), resulting in uncontrolled antioxidant and cytoprotective genes, and pro-inflammatory MAPK signaling pathways could be critical in TCE-mediated disease progression. This study was, therefore, focused on establishing status and contribution of Nrf2 and MAPK signaling in TCE-mediated inflammatory and autoimmune responses, especially during disease progression. To achieve these objectives, time-response studies were conducted by treating female MRL+/+ mice with TCE (0.5 mg/mL, a dose relevant to human exposure) for 24, 36 and 52 wks. TCE exposure led to reduction in Nrf2 expression, but increased phos-NF-κB (p65) and iNOS along with increased phosphorylation of MAPKs (p38, ERK and JNK) and downstream pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-12, TNF-α and RANTES in the livers in a time-dependent manner. These changes were also associated with time-dependent increases in liver protein carbonyls and induction of serum anti-dsDNA antibodies (marker of systemic lupus erythematosus disease), further supporting the role of oxidative stress and Nrf2/MAPK signaling in TCE-mediated autoimmune response progression. The mechanistic role of MAPK in TCE-mediated autoimmunity was further established by treating MRL+/+ mice with sulforaphane (SFN; 8 mg/kg, i.p., every other day) along with TCE (10 mmol/kg, i.p., every 4th day) for 6 wks using an established protocol, and by in vitro treatment of T cells with dichloroacetyl chloride (a TCE metabolite) with/without p38 MAPK inhibitor. SFN treatment attenuated the TCE-mediated phosphorylation of p38 MAPK. More importantly, treatment with SFN or p38 inhibitor led to suppression of downstream pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-12 and TNF-α. These findings thus support the contribution of Nrf2 and MAPK signaling pathways and help in delineating novel potential therapeutic targets against TCE-mediated autoimmunity.

Enhancing the Nrf2 Antioxidant Signaling Provides Protection Against Trichloroethene-mediated Inflammation and Autoimmune Response

Trichloroethene (trichloroethylene, TCE) and one of its reactive metabolites dichloroacetyl chloride (DCAC) are associated with the induction of autoimmunity in MRL+/+ mice. Although oxidative stress plays a major role in TCE-/DCAC-mediated autoimmunity, the underlying molecular mechanisms still need to be delineated. Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like2 (Nrf2) is an oxidative stress-responsive transcription factor that binds to antioxidant responsive element (ARE) and provides protection by regulating cytoprotective and antioxidant gene expression. However, the potential of Nrf2 in the regulation of TCE-/DCAC-mediated autoimmunity is not known. This study thus focused on establishing the role of Nrf2 and consequent inflammatory responses in TCE-/DCAC-mediated autoimmunity. To achieve this, we pretreated Kupffer cells (KCs) or T cells with/without tert-butylhydroquinone (tBHQ) followed by treatment with DCAC. In both KCs and T cells, DCAC treatment significantly downregulated Nrf2 and HO-1 expression along with induction of Keap-1 and caspase-3, NF-κB (p65), TNF-α, and iNOS, whereas pretreatment of these cells with tBHQ attenuated these responses. The in vitro findings were further verified in vivo by treating female MRL+/+ mice with TCE along with/without sulforaphane. TCE exposure in mice also led to reduction in Nrf2 and HO-1 but increased phospho-NF-κB (p-p65) and iNOS along with increased anti-dsDNA antibodies. Interestingly, sulforaphane treatment led to amelioration of TCE-mediated effects, resulting in Nrf2 activation and reduction in inflammatory and autoimmune responses. Our results show that TCE/DCAC mediates an impairment in Nrf2 regulation. Attenuation of TCE-mediated autoimmunity via activation of Nrf2 supports that antioxidants sulforaphane/tBHQ could be potential therapeutic agents for autoimmune diseases.

A unique understanding of traditional medicine of pomegranate, Punica granatum L. and its current research status

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Pomegranate, Punica granatum L., has been used in traditional medicine in China and several regions of the world including Ayurveda, Islamic, and Persian for the treatment of atherosclerosis, diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and several types of cancer, as well as for peptic ulcer and oral diseases for hundreds of years. Presently, pomegranate is treated as both a "medicine food homology" herbal medicine and a healthy food supplemental product.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this work is to develop an overview of pomegranate in the context of the status of its traditional medicine theories, the spread along the Silk Road, ethnopharmacological uses, chemical compositions, pharmacological activities, toxicology, and the involved pathways.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Information on P. granatum L. was acquired from published materials, including monographs on medicinal plants, ancient and modern recorded classical texts; and pharmacopoeias and electronic databases (PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, Google Scholar, CNKI, and Wanfang Data).

RESULTS

Pomegranate has been used in many traditional medical systems throughout history. It is widely cultivated in Central Asia and spread throughout China along the Silk Road. Many phytochemicals, such as tannins, organic acids, flavonoids, alkaloids, and volatile oils have been identified from different parts of pomegranate, these compounds have a wide range of activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-oncogenic properties, as well as conferring resistance to cerebrovascular disease. Furthermore, A summary of the four promising pharmacological pathways is provided.

CONCLUSIONS

The traditional uses, chemical compositions, pharmacological activities, and signaling pathways of pomegranate are summarized comprehensively in the review. It can be treated as a guidance for the future clinical and basic research. The information provided in this review will be very useful for further studies to develop novel therapeutic directions for application of pomegranate.

Pharmacological and Therapeutic Properties of Punica granatum Phytochemicals: Possible Roles in Breast Cancer

Background: Pomgranate (Punica granatum) represents a high source of polyphenols with great bioavailability. The role of this fruit in the prevention and treatment of various malignant pathologies has been long time cited in both scientific and non-scientific literature, making thus important to identify its involvement in the pathophysiological processes. The treatment for breast cancer had focused on the inhibition of the mechanisms that governs the estrogen activity. These mechanisms are covered either by the antagonism of the estrogen receptor (ER) or by the inhibition of the estrogen synthesis. Our interest in identifying a bioactive compound rich in polyphenols, which induces both the antagonism of the estrogen receptor, and the inhibition of the estrogen synthesis, revealed us the pomegranate fruit and its derivatives: peel and seeds. Pomegranates' chemical composition include many biological active substances such as flavonols, flavanols, anthocyanins, proanthocyanidins, ellagitannins and gallotannins. Materials and Methods: We performed a review of the scientific literature by using the following keywords: "pomegranate", "breast cancer", "Punica granatum", "pomegranate polyphenols". Our search was performed in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases, and it included only original research written in English from the last 20 years. None of the articles were excluded due to affiliation. A total number of 28 original papers, which mentioned the beneficial activity of pomegranate against breast cancer, were selected. Both clinical and preclinical studies were considered for this review. Results: Recent discoveries pointed out that polyphenols from Punica granatum possess strong anti-cancer activity, exhibited by a variety of mechanisms, such as anti-estrogenic, anti-proliferative, anti-angiogenetic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-metastatic. Pomegranate extracts induced cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase, and induced cytotoxicity in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Moreover, several polyphenols extracted from pomegranate inhibited the invasion potential, migration and viability of breast cancer cells. The effects of pomegranate juice on serum estrogens and other sexual hormones levels were also investigated on two human cohorts. Conclusions: Punica granatum represents a promising area in oncology. The large availability and low cost, associated with the lack of side effects, made from this natural product a great strategy for the management of breast cancer. There are several mechanistic studies in mouse models and in breast cancer cell lines, suggesting the possible pathways through which polyphenols from pomegranate extracts act, but larger and better-controlled studies are necessary in the future. Only two small clinical trials were conducted on humans until now, but their results are contradictory and should be considered preliminary.

The combined effect of pomegranate extract and tangeretin on the DMBA-induced breast cancer model

The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects of pomegranate extract and tangeretin alone or in combination in DMBA-induced rat breast cancer model. A total of 68 female rats were randomly divided into 8 groups. The first 4 groups were designed as controls for cancer and treatment groups, and the control groups were composed of only control (C), Pomegranate (P), Tangeretin (T), and Pomegranate+Tangeretin (P+T) groups. The other four groups were designed as cancer and treatment groups and were composed of DMBA (D) and DMBA+Pomegranate (D+P), DMBA+Tangeretin (D+T), DMBA+Pomegranate+Tangeretin (D+P+T) groups. Tumor markers and angiogenesis parameters were studied from plasma samples obtained from rats. Histopathological, immunohistochemical, and TUNEL analyses and expressions of proteins affecting apoptosis and cell cycle were determined in breast tissue samples. In the DMBA group, plasma CA15-3, CEA, VEGF, MMP-9, and NF-κB levels were significantly increased compared to the controls, but significant decreases were observed in these parameters except MMP-9 in the treatment groups. It was observed that p53 and Bax expressions significantly increased in both D+P and D+P+T groups compared to the DMBA group, and these findings were supported by Tunel and immunohistochemical findings. Cyclin D1 expressions were found to be significantly decreased only in the D+T group and supported by TUNEL and immunohistochemical findings. Immunohistochemical ER-α and Ki-67 immune reactivities were significantly decreased in all treatment groups compared to the DMBA group. Our results showed that combined application of pomegranate extract and tangeretin may be more beneficial in preventing breast cancer development.

Effect of Pomegranate Extract in Mesenchymal Stem Cells by Modulation of microRNA-155, microRNA-21, microRNA-23b, microRNA-126a, and PI3K\AKT1\NF- κ B Expression

Today, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are candidates for various autoimmune disease treatments due to immunomodulatory activity in these cells. Much research has recently been done to improve the immunomodulatory activity of MSCs. Genetic variation is one of these methods. microRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that control most of the cell's biological activities. Recent studies have shown that miRNAs play a significant role in the regulation of MSC immunomodulatory activity. Pomegranate is a fruit that has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties and has been used for many years for therapeutic purposes. The objective of this research is to evaluate the immunoregulatory-related miRNAs level of adipose-derived MSCs (Ad-MSCs) obtained from adipose tissue in the presence or lack of pomegranate (Punica granatum) extract (PGE). Our results showed that miRNA-23 and miRNA-126 were upregulated by PGE treatment in MSCs, and in contrast, miRNA-21 and miRNA-155 were downregulated by PGE treatment in MSCs. In addition this research shows that PGE can downregulate the expression of PI3K\AKT1\NF-κ B in Ad-MSCs. Our bioinformatics data have shown that the target of these four miRNAs and the signaling pathways, in which these targets are involved, can play an important role in regulating the immunomodulation function of stem cells. In conclusion, PGE can inhibit the expression of PI3K\AKT1\NF-κ B genes involved in inflammatory pathways via miRNA-23 and miRNA-126 overexpression or miRNA-21 and miRNA-155 downregulation that plays a role in the pathways of immune modulation in Ad-MSCs. These results may provide insight into the mechanism underlying the regulation of the immunomodulatory activity of Ad-MSCs by PGE.

miRNA-5119 regulates immune checkpoints in dendritic cells to enhance breast cancer immunotherapy

Dendritic cell (DC) based immunotherapy is a promising approach to clinical cancer treatment. miRNAs are a class of small non-coding RNA molecules that bind to RNAs to mediate multiple events which are important in diverse biological processes. miRNA mimics and antagomirs may be potent agents to enhance DC-based immunotherapy against cancers. miRNA array analysis was used to identify a representative miR-5119 potentially regulating PD-L1 in DCs. We evaluated levels of ligands of immune cell inhibitory receptors (IRs) and miR-5119 in DCs from immunocompetent mouse breast tumor-bearing mice, and examined the molecular targets of miR-5119. We report that miRNA-5119 was downregulated in spleen DCs from mouse breast cancer-bearing mice. In silico analysis and qPCR data showed that miRNA-5119 targeted mRNAs encoding multiple negative immune regulatory molecules, including ligands of IRs such as PD-L1 and IDO2. DCs engineered to express a miR-5119 mimic downregulated PD-L1 and prevented T cell exhaustion in mice with breast cancer homografts. Moreover, miR-5119 mimic-engineered DCs effectively restored function to exhausted CD8⁺ T cells in vitro and in vivo, resulting in robust anti-tumor cell immune response, upregulated cytokine production, reduced T cell apoptosis, and exhaustion. Treatment of 4T1 breast tumor-bearing mice with miR-5119 mimic-engineered DC vaccine reduced T cell exhaustion and suppressed mouse breast tumor homograft growth. This study provides evidence supporting a novel therapeutic approach using miRNA-5119 mimic-engineered DC vaccines to regulate inhibitory receptors and enhance anti-tumor immune response in a mouse model of breast cancer. miRNA/DC-based immunotherapy has potential for advancement to the clinic as a new strategy for DC-based anti-breast cancer immunotherapy.

Impact of polyphenols in phagocyte functions

Polyphenols are a broad group of substances with potential health benefits found in plant species. Several of these compounds are capable of influencing the activation of intracellular signaling pathways, such as NF-kB, MAPK and JAK-STAT, responsible for the production of various inflammatory mediators such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) and 12 (IL-12), enzymes involved in the production of reactive species such as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and superoxide dehydrogenase (SOD), as well as enzymes involved in the production of eicosanoids, such as cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LO). There is increased interest in the use of polyphenol-rich foods because of their immunomodulatory effect; however, the mechanisms used during macrophage responses are extremely complex and little is known about the effects of polyphenols on these cells. As such, this review summarizes the current view of polyphenol influences on macrophages.

Epigenetic Gene Regulation by Dietary Compounds in Cancer Prevention

Traditionally, cancer has been viewed as a set of diseases that are driven by the accumulation of genetic mutations, but we now understand that disruptions in epigenetic regulatory mechanisms are prevalent in cancer as well. Unlike genetic mutations, however, epigenetic alterations are reversible, making them desirable therapeutic targets. The potential for diet, and bioactive dietary components, to target epigenetic pathways in cancer is now widely appreciated, but our understanding of how to utilize these compounds for effective chemopreventive strategies in humans is in its infancy. This review provides a brief overview of epigenetic regulation and the clinical applications of epigenetics in cancer. It then describes the capacity for dietary components to contribute to epigenetic regulation, with a focus on the efficacy of dietary epigenetic regulators as secondary cancer prevention strategies in humans. Lastly, it discusses the necessary precautions and challenges that will need to be overcome before the chemopreventive power of dietary-based intervention strategies can be fully harnessed.

miR-149-3p reverses CD8+ T-cell exhaustion by reducing inhibitory receptors and promoting cytokine secretion in breast cancer cells

Blockade of inhibitory receptors (IRs) is one of the most effective immunotherapeutic approaches to treat cancer. Dysfunction of miRNAs is a major cause of aberrant expression of IRs and contributes to the immune escape of cancer cells. How miRNAs regulate immune checkpoint proteins in breast cancer remains largely unknown. In this study, downregulation of miRNAs was observed in PD-1-overexpressing CD8+ T cells using miRNA array analysis of mouse breast cancer homografts. The data reveal that miR-149-3p was predicted to bind the 3'UTRs of mRNAs encoding T-cell inhibitor receptors PD-1, TIM-3, BTLA and Foxp1. Treatment of CD8+ T cells with an miR-149-3p mimic reduced apoptosis, attenuated changes in mRNA markers of T-cell exhaustion and downregulated mRNAs encoding PD-1, TIM-3, BTLA and Foxp1. On the other hand, T-cell proliferation and secretion of effector cytokines indicative of increased T-cell activation (IL-2, TNF-α, IFN-γ) were upregulated after miR-149-3p mimic treatment. Moreover, the treatment with a miR-149-3p mimic promoted the capacity of CD8+ T cells to kill targeted 4T1 mouse breast tumour cells. Collectively, these data show that miR-149-3p can reverse CD8+ T-cell exhaustion and reveal it to be a potential antitumour immunotherapeutic agent in breast cancer.

MicroRNA targeting by quercetin in cancer treatment and chemoprotection

A growing number of evidences from clinical and preclinical studies have shown that dysregulation of microRNA (miRNA) function contributes to the progression of cancer and thus miRNA can be an effective target in therapy. Dietary phytochemicals, such as quercetin, are natural products that have potential anti-cancer properties due to their proven antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative effects. Available experimental studies indicate that quercetin could modulate multiple cancer-relevant miRNAs including let-7, miR-21, miR-146a and miR-155, thereby inhibiting cancer initiation and development. This paper reviews the data supporting the use of quercetin for miRNA-mediated chemopreventive and therapeutic strategies in various cancers, with the aim to comprehensively understand its health-promoting benefits and pharmacological potential. Integration of technology platforms for miRNAs biomarker and drug discovery is also presented.

Peripheral Circulating Exosome-Mediated Delivery of miR-155 as a Novel Mechanism for Acute Lung Inflammation

Emerging evidence has revealed that excessive activation of macrophages may result in an adverse lung inflammation involved in sepsis-related acute lung injury (ALI). However, it has never been clearly identified whether peripheral circulating serum exosomes participate in the pathogenesis of sepsis-related ALI. Therefore, the purposes of our study were to investigate the effect of serum exosomes on macrophage activation and elucidate a novel mechanism underlying sepsis-related ALI. Here we found that exosomes were abundant in the peripheral blood from ALI mice and selectively loaded microRNAs (miRNAs), such as miR-155. In vivo experiments revealed that intravenous injection of serum exosomes harvested from ALI mice, but not control mice, increased the number of M1 macrophages in the lung, and it caused lung inflammation in naive mice. In vitro, we demonstrated that serum exosomes from ALI mice delivered miR-155 to macrophages, stimulated nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) activation, and induced the production of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin (IL)-6. Furthermore, we also showed that serum exosome-derived miR-155 promoted macrophage proliferation and inflammation by targeting SHIP1 and SOCS1, respectively. Collectively, our data suggest the important role of circulating exosomes secreted into peripheral blood as a key mediator of septic lung injury via exosome-shuttling miR-155.

The role of inflammation and its related microRNAs in breast cancer: A narrative review

Breast cancer is recognized as the most common type of cancer among women with a high rate of mortality all over the world. Over the past years, growing attention has been regarded to realize more about the mechanisms underlying the disease process. It is revealed that the progression of breast cancer may be strongly linked to chronic inflammation owing to the role of inflammatory factors in genetic instability and subsequent cancer predisposition. Although the association between breast cancer and inflammatory pathways has been well-defined now, only recent evidence pointed towards the inflammation-related microRNAs (miRNAs) as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets involved in the crosstalk of multiple pathways during breast cancer development. Moreover, the practical interactions between these miRNAs and inflammatory factors are also a little characterized. In this review, we intended to describe the effects of predominant inflammatory pathways such as cytokines, phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B, and nuclear factor kappa B in association with tumor promoting and tumor suppressing miRNAs on breast cancer progression. Providing new studies in the field of combining biomarkers for early diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring breast cancer are very important. Notably, understanding the underlying mechanisms of miRNAs as a possible link between inflammation and tumorigenesis may offer a novel insight for combating this epidemic.

A Comprehensive Review on Ethnomedicinal, Pharmacological and Phytochemical Basis of Anticancer Medicinal Plants of Pakistan

The widespread emergence of cancer and development of resistance to chemotherapeutic agents is increasing the interest of scientists in the use of ethnomedicinal preparations and isolated phytochemicals in the treatment and prevention of disease. Medicinal plants have been used in Pakistan since prehistoric times. The present review was designed to identify anticancer plants of ethnomedicinal significance and to summarize the anticancer activities carried out on these medicinal plants to establish the pharmacological and phytochemical basis of their use. Pakistani anticancer medicinal plants of ethnopharmacological significance were reviewed. Conservation status, worldwide distribution and ethno-botanical preparations of these medicinal plants were also tabulated. These medicinal plants and their isolated phytochemicals were also explored for their anticancer activities. It was revealed that there were 108 anticancer medicinal plants used to treat different neoplastic conditions on the folklore basis throughout Pakistan. Among these anticancer plants, 64 plants were found to be investigated previously for anticancer activity through in vivo and in vitro methods. Several ethnomedicinal plants have been validated for their anticancer activities through in vitro and animal models. These medicinal plants and phytochemicals resulted in the inhibition of initiation, progression or metastasis of neoplasm. Some medicinal plants (10) are endangered species. Half of folkloric Pakistani plants have been validated for use against various cancers through in vitro or in vivo methods. It is necessary to carry out further pharmacological and toxicological evaluation of these folkloric anticancer plants of Pakistan. It is also necessary to identify and isolate further potential phytochemicals so as to be evaluated in cancer patients.

Role of microRNA (miRNA) and Viroids in Lethal Diseases of Plants and Animals. Potential Contribution to Human Neurodegenerative Disorders

Both plants and animals have adopted a common strategy of using ~18-25-nucleotide small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs), known as microRNAs (miRNAs), to transmit DNA-based epigenetic information. miRNAs (i) shape the total transcriptional output of individual cells; (ii) regulate and fine-tune gene expression profiles of cell clusters, and (iii) modulate cell phenotype in response to environmental stimuli and stressors. These miRNAs, the smallest known carriers of gene-encoded post-transcriptional regulatory information, not only regulate cellular function in healthy cells but also act as important mediators in the development of plant and animal diseases. Plants possess their own specific miRNAs; at least 32 plant species have been found to carry infectious sncRNAs called viroids, whose mechanisms of generation and functions are strikingly similar to those of miRNAs. This review highlights recent remarkable and sometimes controversial findings in miRNA signaling in plants and animals. Special attention is given to the intriguing possibility that dietary miRNAs and/or sncRNAs can function as mobile epigenetic and/or evolutionary linkers between different species and contribute to both intra- and interkingdom signaling. Wherever possible, emphasis has been placed on the relevance of these miRNAs to the development of human neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease. Based on the current available data, we suggest that such xeno-miRNAs may (i) contribute to the beneficial properties of medicinal plants, (ii) contribute to the negative properties of disease-causing or poisonous plants, and (iii) provide cross-species communication between kingdoms of living organisms involving multiple epigenetic and/or potentially pathogenic mechanisms associated with the onset and pathogenesis of various diseases.

Plant natural modulators in breast cancer prevention: status quo and future perspectives reinforced by predictive, preventive, and personalized medical approach

In contrast to the genetic component in mammary carcinogenesis, epigenetic alterations are particularly important for the development of sporadic breast cancer (BC) comprising over 90% of all BC cases worldwide. Most of the DNA methylation processes are physiological and essential for human cellular and tissue homeostasis, playing an important role in a number of key mechanisms. However, if dysregulated, DNA methylation contributes to pathological processes such as cancer development and progression. A global hypomethylation of oncogenes and hypermethylation of tumor-suppressor genes are characteristic of most cancer types. Moreover, histone chemical modifications and non-coding RNA-associated multi-gene controls are considered as the key epigenetic mechanisms governing the cellular homeostasis and differentiation states. A number of studies demonstrate dietary plant products as actively affecting the development and progression of cancer. "Nutri-epigenetics" focuses on the influence of dietary agents on epigenetic mechanisms. This approach has gained considerable attention; since in contrast to genetic alterations, epigenetic modifications are reversible affect early carcinogenesis. Currently, there is an evident lack of papers dedicated to the phytochemicals/plant extracts as complex epigenetic modulators, specifically in BC. Our paper highlights the role of plant natural compounds in targeting epigenetic alterations associated with BC development, progression, as well as its potential chemoprevention in the context of preventive medicine. Comprehensive measures are stated with a great potential to advance the overall BC management in favor of predictive, preventive, and personalized medical services and can be considered as "proof-of principle" model, for their potential application to other multifactorial diseases.

Simultaneous downregulation of miR-21 and miR-155 through oleuropein for breast cancer prevention and therapy

Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer mortality in women worldwide. It recently was proven that miRNAs play a critical role in BC development. The use of natural agents for control of cancer by modulating miRNAs is promising. Oleuropein is a natural polyphenolic agent with anti-neoplastic properties and is well tolerated by humans. This study was undertaken to determine the therapeutic effects of oleuropein through modulation of master oncomiRs (miR-21 and miR-155) in BC cells. The present study provides the first link between miRNA and oleuropein as a mechanism in BC. MCF-7 cells were tested with and without oleuropein and the cell viability, apoptosis, and migration were examined. The effect of oleuropein on miR-21 and miR-155 expression was assessed through qRT-PCR. It was found that oleuropein induced apoptosis and retarded cell migration and invasion in a dose-dependent manner in the human MCF7 BC cell line. It was observed that oleuropein significantly decreased expression of both miR-21 and miR-155 over time in a dose-dependent manner. These results demonstrate that oleuropein is a potential therapeutic and preventive agent for BC. Oleuropein exhibits an anti-cancer effect by modulation of tumor suppressor gene expression, which is targeted by oncomiRs.

Nanoparticle-Mediated Therapeutic Agent Delivery for Treating Metastatic Breast Cancer-Challenges and Opportunities

Breast cancer (BC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in American women and more than 90% of BC-related death is caused by metastatic BC (MBC). This review stresses the limited success of traditional therapies as well as the use of nanomedicine for treating MBC. Understanding the biological barriers of MBC that nanoparticle in vivo trafficking must overcome could provide valuable new insights for translating nanomedicine from the bench side to the bedside. A view about nanomedicine applied in BC therapy has been summarized with their present status, which is gaining attention in the clinically-applied landscape. The progressions of drug/gene delivery systems, especially the status of their preclinical or clinical trials, are also discussed. Here we highlight that the treatment of metastasis, in addition to the extensively described inhibition of primary tumor growth, is an indispensable requirement for nanomedicine. Along with more innovations in material chemistry and more progressions in biology, nanomedicine will constantly supply more exciting new approaches for targeted drug/gene delivery against MBC.

Plant and Animal microRNAs (miRNAs) and Their Potential for Inter-kingdom Communication

microRNAs (miRNAs) comprise a class of ~18-25 nucleotide (nt) single-stranded non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) that are the smallest known carriers of gene-encoded, post-transcriptional regulatory information in both plants and animals. There are many fundamental similarities between plant and animal miRNAs-the miRNAs of both kingdoms play essential roles in development, aging and disease, and the shaping of the transcriptome of many cell types. Both plant and animal miRNAs appear to predominantly exert their genetic and transcriptomic influences by regulating gene expression at the level of messenger RNA (mRNA) stability and/or translational inhibition. Certain miRNA species, such as miRNA-155, miRNA-168, and members of the miRNA-854 family may be expressed in both plants and animals, suggesting a common origin and functional selection of specific miRNAs over vast periods of evolution (for example, Arabidopsis thaliana-Homo sapiens divergence ~1.5 billion years). Although there is emerging evidence for cross-kingdom miRNA communication-that plant-enriched miRNAs may enter the diet and play physiological and/or pathophysiological roles in human health and disease-some research reports repudiate this possibility. This research paper highlights some recent, controversial, and remarkable findings in plant- and animal-based miRNA signaling research with emphasis on the intriguing possibility that dietary miRNAs and/or sncRNAs may have potential to contribute to both intra- and inter-kingdom signaling, and in doing so modulate molecular-genetic mechanisms associated with human health and disease.

Effects of pomegranate peel extract on histopathology, testosterone levels and sperm of testicular torsion–detorsion induced in adult Wistar rats

Background

In the present study, effects of pomegranate peel extract have been evaluated on decreasing the damage induced by testis torsion.

Methods

In this study, 30 adult Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups of control, experimental (1) and experimental (2). Control: no ischemia, received vehicle alone, exposed to sham operation. Experimental (1): Received the vehicle alone during ischemia followed by 60 days’ reperfusion. Experimental (2): After performing ischemia reperfusion, 500 mg/kg of pomegranate peel extract has been used for 60 days. Blood samples and sperm samples were collected. Testes were harvested and stained with haematoxylin and eosin to study the structure of seminiferous tubules.

Results

The statistical comparison between sperm count and their viability and testosterone hormone amount showed a significant difference between control and experimental (1) groups and control and experimental (2) groups. The results showed an improvement of morphological condition of seminiferous tubules.

Conclusions

Pomegranate peel extract has revealed desirable changes on the effective parameters in infertility.

Role of MicroRNA Regulation in Obesity-Associated Breast Cancer: Nutritional Perspectives

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy diagnosed in women, and the incidence of breast cancer is increasing every year. Obesity has been identified as one of the major risk factors for breast cancer progression. The mechanisms by which obesity contributes to breast cancer development is not yet understood; however, there are a few mechanisms counted as potential producers of breast cancer in obesity, including insulin resistance, chronic inflammation and inflammatory cytokines, adipokines, and sex hormones. Recent emerging evidence suggests that alterations in microRNA (miRNA) expressions are found in several diseases, including breast cancer and obesity; however, miRNA roles in obesity-linked breast cancer are beginning to unravel. miRNAs are thought to be potential noninvasive biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of cancer patients with comorbid conditions of obesity as well as therapeutic targets. Recent studies have evidenced that nutrients and other dietary factors protect against cancer and obesity through modulation of miRNA expressions. Herein, we summarize a comprehensive overview of up-to-date information related to miRNAs and their molecular targets involved in obesity-associated breast cancer. We also address the mechanisms by which dietary factors modulate miRNA expression and its protective roles in obesity-associated breast cancer. It is hoped that this review would provide new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of obesity-associated breast cancer to reduce the burden of breast cancer.

Polyphenols as Promising Drugs against Main Breast Cancer Signatures

Breast cancer is one of the most common neoplasms worldwide, and in spite of clinical and pharmacological advances, it is still a clinical problem, causing morbidity and mortality. On the one hand, breast cancer shares with other neoplasms some molecular signatures such as an imbalanced redox state, cell cycle alterations, increased proliferation and an inflammatory status. On the other hand, breast cancer shows differential molecular subtypes that determine its prognosis and treatment. These are characterized mainly by hormone receptors especially estrogen receptors (ERs) and epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). Tumors with none of these receptors are classified as triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) and are associated with a worse prognosis. The success of treatments partially depends on their specificity and the adequate molecular classification of tumors. New advances in anticancer drug discovery using natural compounds have been made in the last few decades, and polyphenols have emerged as promising molecules. They may act on various molecular targets because of their promiscuous behavior, presenting several physiological effects, some of which confer antitumor activity. This review analyzes the accumulated evidence of the antitumor effects of plant polyphenols on breast cancer, with special attention to their activity on ERs and HER2 targets and also covering different aspects such as redox balance, uncontrolled proliferation and chronic inflammation.

Pomegranate Extract Alters Breast Cancer Stem Cell Properties in Association with Inhibition of Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have become an important target population in cancer therapy and prevention due to their ability to self-renew, initiate tumors, and resist therapy. We examined whether pomegranate extract (PE) alters characteristics of breast CSCs. Ability to grow as mammospheres is a hallmark of breast CSCs. PE inhibited mammosphere formation in two different cell lines, neoplastic mammary epithelial HMLER and breast cancer Hs578T. In addition, mammosphere-derived cells from PE treatment groups showed reduced mammosphere formation for at least two serial passages. These data indicate that PE inhibits CSC's ability to self-renew. In addition, incubation of mammospheres with PE reversed them into adherent cultures, indicating promotion of CSC differentiation. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a key program in generating CSCs and maintaining their characteristics. Thus, we examined the effect of PE on EMT. PE reduced cell migration, a major feature of the EMT phenotype. In addition, PE downregulated genes involved in EMT, including the EMT-inducing transcription factor Twist family basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor 1 (TWIST1). This suggests that PE suppresses CSC characteristics in part due to inhibition of EMT. The ability of PE to suppress CSCs can be exploited in the prevention of breast cancer.