Hexane extract of Raphanus sativus L. roots inhibits cell proliferation and induces apoptosis in human cancer cells by modulating genes related to apoptotic pathway

An Insight on Synergistic Anti-cancer Efficacy of Biochanin A and Sulforaphane Combination Against Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a serious malignancy that has higher rate of morbidity and mortality. It has been known to affect the women indifferently. The lack and side effects in the current therapeutic modules result in the search of the wide treatment options including combinatorial treatment. The goal of this study was to investigate combinatorial anti-proliferative efficacy of biochanin A (BCA) and sulforaphane (SFN) against MCF-7 breast cancer cells. The study involves the utilisation of various qualitative techniques including cytotoxicity analysis (MTT), morphogenic analysis, AO/EtBr, DAPI, ROS, cell cycle, and cell migration analysis in order to examine the combinatorial efficacy of BCA and SFN in inducing the cell death. The results had shown that the cytotoxicity of BCA and SFN was found to be around 24.5 µM and 27.2 µM respectively, while the combination of BCA and SFN had shown an inhibitory activity at about 20.1 µM. And furthermore, AO/EtBr and DAPI had shown a profound increase in apoptogenic activity of compounds when treated in combination at lower dose. This apoptogenic activity may be attributed to the increased ROS production. Moreover, it has been shown that the BCA and SFN have been involved in the down-regulation of ERK-1/2 signalling pathway resulting in induction of apoptosis of cancer cells. Thus, our results had concluded that BCA and SFN co-treatment could be used as an efficient therapeutic target against breast cancer. Furthermore, in vivo efficiency by which the co-treatment induces apoptosis has to be deliberated further in near future to make their use commercially.

Micro-grinding-based production for sulforaphene-enriched radish seeds extract via facilitating glucosinolates-myrosinase reaction, and evaluation of its anti-adipogenic effects

Sulforaphene (SFEN), an isothiocyanate (ITC) abundant in radish (Raphanus sativus) seeds (RS), has many health benefits, including anti-obesity effects. SFEN content is affected by multiple factors during processing, such as glucoraphenin (GLE) (the precursor of SFEN) availability, myrosinase (essential for conversion from GLE to SFEN) activity, and SFEN stability. We examined the physiochemical-properties and anti-adipogenic effects of SFEN-enriched RSE produced by two processes, roasting and micro-grinding. The roasting process lowered SFEN content and myrosinase activity over 50 °C. However, among micro-grinding conditions, smaller particle size (#2 grind, ≈11.31 μm) more effectively increased SFEN content in RS compared to larger particles (#1 grind, ≈ 179.50 μm) by accelerating available GLE and myrosinase release from RS. Grind #2 also effectively inhibited the adipogenesis of 3T3-L1 pre-adipocytes compared to #1. Thus, micro-grinding can be suggested for producing SFEN-enriched RSE with anti-adipogenic activity as a functional material for obesity prevention or treatment.

Sulforaphane and bladder cancer: a potential novel antitumor compound

Bladder cancer (BC) is a common form of urinary tract tumor, and its incidence is increasing annually. Unfortunately, an increasing number of newly diagnosed BC patients are found to have advanced or metastatic BC. Although current treatment options for BC are diverse and standardized, it is still challenging to achieve ideal curative results. However, Sulforaphane, an isothiocyanate present in cruciferous plants, has emerged as a promising anticancer agent that has shown significant efficacy against various cancers, including bladder cancer. Recent studies have demonstrated that Sulforaphane not only induces apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in BC cells, but also inhibits the growth, invasion, and metastasis of BC cells. Additionally, it can inhibit BC gluconeogenesis and demonstrate definite effects when combined with chemotherapeutic drugs/carcinogens. Sulforaphane has also been found to exert anticancer activity and inhibit bladder cancer stem cells by mediating multiple pathways in BC, including phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2), zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1)/beta-catenin (β-Catenin), miR-124/cytokines interleukin-6 receptor (IL-6R)/transcription 3 (STAT3). This article provides a comprehensive review of the current evidence and molecular mechanisms of Sulforaphane against BC. Furthermore, we explore the effects of Sulforaphane on potential risk factors for BC, such as bladder outlet obstruction, and investigate the possible targets of Sulforaphane against BC using network pharmacological analysis. This review is expected to provide a new theoretical basis for future research and the development of new drugs to treat BC.

Nematicidal effect of Raphasatin from Raphanus sativus against Meloidogyne incognita

The nematicidal activity of radish bulb (Raphanus sativus) methanol (RME) and aqueous extracts (RAE) was tested against the second stage (J2) root knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita model. The EC50 of RME after 3 d of J2 immersion in test solutions was 312 ± 65 μg/ml. However, no activity was noted for RAE (EC50 > 1,000 μg/ml). The chemical composition analysis of the methanol extract carried out by the GC–MS technique showed that 4-methylthio-3-butenyl isothiocyanate (raphasatin) was the most abundant compound at 20%. This pure compound strongly induced J2 paralysis with an EC50 of 1.3 ± 0.2 μg/ml after 24 hr. Comparison with other 11 selected isothiocyanates with structure similarity showed that the double bond at position 3 of the alkyl side chain is important for nematicidal activity, followed by the sulfur group at position 5 and the benzyl group at position 2. In addition, raphasatin showed the highest nematicidal activity with the corresponding lowest antioxidant activity of about 92 ± 18 μg/ml. In conclusion, the results of this investigation reveal that R. sativus and its major compound raphasatin can be integrated into the pest management system.

Comparative Toxicity of Vegan Red, E124, and E120 Food Dyes on Three Rapidly Proliferating Model Systems

The abuse of artificial food dyes and the evidence that they harm human health recently prompted a significant effort to introduce vegan substitutes prepared from fruits and vegetables. Not much information, however, has been collected on their possible effects on aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems once released as waste in surface waters. For this purpose, we analyzed the effects of a vegan red (VEG) preparation (concentration 1.2 g/L) on three rapidly proliferating models for terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem contamination. In particular, in vitro cells cultures (exposure for 24 h), Artemia salina nauplii and Cucumis sativus seedlings (exposure 5 days). A comparison was made with the effects exerted by the two dyes that vegan red is intended to replace: an animal dye, cochineal E120 and an artificial dye E124. The analyses of conventional endpoints, indicative of cell proliferation, differentiation, and growth rate, demonstrate that the three dyes affect development and that the vegan substitute is as unsafe as the E124 and E120. Vegan red in fact impairs cell growth in in vitro cells, delays naupliar hatching and early growth in Artemia, and reduces shoot/root biomass in Cucumis. Marked hyperplasia and hypertrophy of mesophyll are also observed in Cucumis leaves. Substitution in food and beverages, therefore, should be carefully reconsidered to avoid unnecessary environmental contamination.

Correlation of Glucosinolates and Volatile Constituents of Six Brassicaceae Seeds with Their Antioxidant Activities Based on Partial Least Squares Regression

Brassicaceae comprises various species representing an economically important source of industrial or pharmaceutical crops. The present study aimed to identify glucosinolates (GSLs) and volatile compounds in six Brassicaceae seeds cultivated in Egypt. An (High Performance Liquid Chromatography-Photodiode Array) HPLC–PDA analysis of GSLs in the alcoholic extracts of Raphanus raphanistrum L. (Rr), Raphanus sativus L. (Rs), Brassica oleracea var. capitata L. (Boc), Brassica oleracea var. botrytis L. (Bob), Brassica rapa L. (Br), and Eruca sativa L. (Es) was carried out using a mixture of 23 standard GSLs. Nineteen GSLs were detected in the studied seeds. Rs had the highest GSL content (135.66 μmol/g Dry weight, DW), while Boc had the lowest GSL content (93.66 μmol/g DW). Glucobrassicin was the major identified compound in Rr, Rs, and Bob. Its highest content was in Rs (28.96 μmol/g DW). Sinigrin was the major identified GSL in Boc (18.02 μmol/g DW), although present with higher content in Bob (22.02 μmol/g DW). Neoglucobrassicin was the major GSL in Br (30.98 μmol/g DW), while glucoerucin was the major GSL in Es (17.84 μmol/g DW). The yields of the steam-distilled oils of the studied seeds ranged between 3.25 ± 0.36 and 9.68 ± 0.25% v/w. A GC–MS analysis of the oils could detect 3, 23, 18, 16, 7, and 9 compounds in Rr, Rs, Boc, Bob, Br, and Es oils, respectively. Sulfur and nitrogenous compounds predominated in all studied oils except Rs, which contained a higher percentage of alkanes. The major identified compound in Rr oil was 4-isothiocyanato-1-(methylthio)-1-butene (94.77 ± 1.25%), while in Br it was 3-butenyl isothiocyanate (69.55 ± 1.02%), thiolane in Rs (15.15 ± 0.22%), and erucin in Es (97.02 ± 1.514%). Both Boc and Bob had the same major compound 4-(methylthio) butanenitrile, which represented 40.35 ± 1.15 and 50.52 ± 1.02% in both oils, respectively. Radical scavenging activity for both GSL extracts and essential oils on DPPH radical ranged between 18.01 ± 0.72 and 114.28 ± 1.15 µg/mL (IC50). The highest antioxidant capacity was for Es oil, while the lowest one was for Rr oil. Generally, it was observed that the GSLs had better antioxidant activity than their corresponding essential oils except for Es oil, which had higher activity. A principal component analysis (PCA) was successfully applied to discriminate among six Brassicaceae seeds based on both HPLC and GC–MS, where complete segregation was achieved among all samples with high correlation between Boc and Bob. Partial Least Squares-Regression (PLS-R) models showed that there is a better correlation between the antioxidant activity and glucosinolate profile when being compared to that of a volatile one. This profiling and variation of GSLs and volatile metabolites of the studied Brassicaceae seeds may be employed in further studies regarding their health-promoting properties.

Comparative study of antioxidant and anticancer activities and HPTLC quantification of rutin in white radish (Raphanus sativus L.) leaves and root extracts grown in Saudi Arabia

The nutrient contents of Raphanus sativus L. (white radish) leaves (RSLs) and roots are known to have promising vital effects. We comparatively investigated the leaves and roots of R. sativus grown in Saudi Arabia to estimate the total phenol and flavonoid contents using the standard colorimetric methods. The antioxidant activity of RSLs and R. sativus roots (RSRs) were measured by 2,2′-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays. Both extracts’ cytotoxic activity was assessed by MTT assay against several human cancer cell lines (A549, HepG2, MDA-MB-231, and MCF-7). High-performance thin-layer chromatography was used to identify and quantify the biomarker compound rutin in both extracts. The total phenolic content in RSLs (125.3 mg of gallic acid equivalent [GAE]/g) was higher than that in roots (95.8 of GAE/g), whereas the flavonoid content (44.5 mg of quercetin equivalent [QE]/g) was almost double compared in RSR extract (24.4 of QE/g). Similarly, RSLs exhibited a higher antioxidative activity than RSRs in both DPPH (IC50 216.8 vs 359.7 µg/mL) and ABTS (IC50 326.7 vs 549 µg/mL) models. RSLs also demonstrated the highest antiproliferative efficiency against all cell lines, with IC50 values of 217–453 µg/mL. The reversed-phase-high-performance thin-layer chromatography results showed the presence of rutin (5.2 µg/mg) only in RSLs. Our study indicates RSLs as a promising source of bioactive compounds compared with roots.

Effect of cold plasma and elicitors on bioactive contents, antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity of Thai rat-tailed radish microgreens

BACKGROUND

Raphanus sativus var. caudatus or Thai rat-tailed radish (RTR) contains glucosinolates and isothiocyanates with chemopreventive effects; however, only mature plants have been investigated to date. Thus, the present study aimed to determine isothiocyanates, phenolic compounds and flavonoid compounds, antioxidant activity, cytotoxicity, and antiproliferative activity of RTR microgreens grown from seeds treated with cold plasma (21 kV for 5 min), organic elicitor (160 mmol L^-1 NaCl, 10 mmol L^-1 CaCl₂ or 176 mmol L^-1 sucrose) or both in combination. Seeds were germinated on vermiculite and sprayed with deionized water or elicitor for 7 days before harvest.

RESULTS

Cold plasma had insignificant effect on growth, whereas NaCl and CaCl₂ increased fresh weight. Plasma with CaCl₂ led to the highest total isothiocyanate (ITC) content [1.99 g kg^-1 dry weight (DW)] in RTR microgreens containing raphasatin as the only ITC detected. Plasma treatment gave the highest total phenolic content (7.56 mg gallic acid equivalents g^-1 DW), antioxidant activity from a 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay (7.70 mg trolox equivalents g^-1 DW) and ferric reducing antioxidant power assay (21.72 mg Fe²⁺ g^-1 DW). Microgreen extracts from plasma showed an IC₅₀ value of 29.28 and 13.83 μg mL^-1 towards MCF-7 and HepG2, respectively, with inhibitory properties on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 proteins. Plasma enhanced Bax and Caspase-3 gene expression but reduced Bcl-2 and MMP-9 expression, indicating activation of apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

Cold plasma shows promise as an innovative tool to enhance bioactive compounds with chemopreventive benefits in microgreens. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

Sulforaphene Suppresses Adipocyte Differentiation via Induction of Post-Translational Degradation of CCAAT/Enhancer Binding Protein Beta (C/EBPβ)

Adipocyte differentiation (adipogenesis) is a crucial process that determines the total number and size of mature adipocytes that will develop. In this study, the anti-adipogenic effect of sulforaphene (SFEN), a dietary isothiocyanate (ITC) derived from radish, is investigated both in 3T3-L1 pre-adipocytes and in human adipose tissue-derived stem cells. The results revealed that SFEN significantly inhibit adipogenic cocktail-induced adipocyte differentiation and lipid accumulation at the early stage of adipogenesis. Additionally, the effects are more potent compared to those of other ITCs derived from various cruciferous vegetables. As a related molecular mechanism of action, SFEN promotes the post-translational degradation of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein (C/EBP) β by decreasing the stability of C/EBPβ, which is responsible for decreasing the expression of master regulatory proteins such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ and C/EBPα. Collectively, these results suggest that the intake of SFEN-enriched natural materials could be helpful as a strategy for preventing obesity.

Sulforaphane: Expected to Become a Novel Antitumor Compound

Natural products are becoming increasingly popular in a variety of traditional, complementary, and alternative systems due to their potency and slight side effects. Natural compounds have been shown to be effective against many human diseases, especially cancers. Sulforaphane (SFE) is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have been conducted to evaluate the antitumor effect of SFE. The roles of SFE in cancers are mainly through the regulation of potential biomarkers to activate or inhibit related signaling pathways. SFE has exhibited promising inhibitory effects on breast cancer, lung cancer, liver cancer, and other malignant tumors. In this review, we summarized the reports on the activity and functional mechanisms of SFE in cancer treatment and explored the efficacy and toxicity of SFE.

Deciphering the Nutraceutical Potential of Raphanus sativus-A Comprehensive Overview

Raphanus sativus (Radish) belongs to the Brassicaceae family and is a widely consumed root vegetable all around the world. The nutritional and medicinal values of radishes have been proven by several researches. Extracts prepared from the aerial and underground parts of radishes have been used in the treatment of stomach disorders, urinary infections, hepatic inflammation, cardiac disorders and ulcers in folk medicine since the ancient times. The pharmaceutical potential of radishes is attributed to the presence of its beneficial secondary metabolites, such as glucosinolates, polyphenols and isothiocyanates. The present review has focused on the impact of radish extract administration under pathological complications, such as cancer, diabetes, hepatic inflammation and oxidative stress. In addition, a comprehensive view of molecular mechanism behind the regulation of molecular drug targets associated with different types of cancers and diabetes by the bioactive compounds present in the radish extracts have been discussed in detail.

Are polyphenol antioxidants at the root of medicinal plant anti-cancer success?

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Given the severe side effects associated with most of the conventional cancer medications, as well as the expanding body of evidence indicating secondary toxicity of these drugs, individuals with cancer are increasingly turning to natural alternatives. Similarly, the pharmaceutical industry is in search of natural products to treat cancer. An understanding of the specific active components in plant products with which anti-cancer efficacy is achieved is required for this research to move forward.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To integrate data from cancer-relatestudies on plant-derived products or extracts, to elucidate whether these products may have similar active ingredients and/or mechanisms of action, that can explain their efficacy. This review also includes a discussion of the methodological complexities and important considerations involved in accurate isolation and characterisation of active substances from plant material.

CONCLUSIONS

From the literature reviewed, most plant products with consistently reported anti-cancer efficacy contains high levels of polyphenols or other potent antioxidants and their mechanisms of action correlate to that reported for isolated antioxidants in the context of cancer. This suggests that natural products may indeed become the panacea against this chronic disease - either as therapeutic medicine strategy or to serve as templates for the design of novel synthetic drugs. The recommendation is made that antioxidant activity of plant actives and especially polyphenols, should be the focus of anti-cancer drug discovery initiatives. Lastly, researchers are advised to exploit current techniques of chemical compound characterisation when investigating polyphenol-rich plants to enable the easy consolidation of research findings from different laboratories.

Induction of Apoptosis and Cytotoxicity by Raphasatin in Human Breast Adenocarcinoma MCF-7 Cells

Glucoraphasatin (GRH), a glucosinolate present abundantly in the plants of the Brassicaceae family, is hydrolyzed by myrosinase to raphasatin, which is considered responsible for its cancer chemopreventive activity; however, the underlying mechanisms of action have not been investigated, particularly in human cell lines. The aims of this study are to determine the cytotoxicity of raphasatin, and to evaluate its potential to cause apoptosis and modulate cell cycle arrest in human breast adenocarcinoma MCF-7 cells. The cytotoxicity was determined following incubation of the cells with glucoraphasatin or raphasatin (0–100 µM), for 24, 48, and 72 h. GRH displayed no cytotoxicity as exemplified by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. When myrosinase was added to the incubation system to convert GRH to raphasatin, cytotoxicity was evident. Exposure of the cells to raphasatin stimulated apoptosis, as was exemplified by cell shrinkage, membrane blebbing, chromatin condensation, and nuclear fragmentation. Moreover, using Annexin V-FITC assay, raphasatin induced apoptosis, as witnessed by changes in cellular distribution of cells, at different stages of apoptosis; in addition, raphasatin caused the arrest of the MCF-7 cells at the G₂ + M phase. In conclusion, raphasatin demonstrated cancer chemopreventive potential against human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) cells, through induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest.

Induction of Apoptosis and Cytotoxicity by Isothiocyanate Sulforaphene in Human Hepatocarcinoma HepG2 Cells

Glucoraphenin, a glucosinolate present in large quantities in radish is hydrolysed by myrosinase to form the isothiocyanate sulforaphene, which is believed to be responsible for its chemopreventive activity; however, the underlying mechanisms of action have not been investigated, particularly in human cell lines. The aim of the study is to assess the cytotoxicity of sulforaphene in HepG2 cells and evaluate its potential to enhance apoptosis. The cytotoxicity of sulforaphene in HepG2 cells was carried out ensuing an initial screening with two other cell lines, MFC-7 and HT-29, where sulforaphene displayed highest toxicity in HepG2 cells following incubation at 24, 48 and 72 h. In contrast, the intact glucosinolate showed no cytotoxicity. Morphological studies indicated that sulforaphene stimulated apoptosis as exemplified by cell shrinkage, blebbing, chromatin condensation, and nuclear fragmentation. The Annexin V assay revealed significant increases in apoptosis and the same treatment increased the activity of caspases -3/7 and -9, whereas a decline in caspase-8 was observed. Impairment of cell proliferation was indicated by cell cycle arrest at the Sub G₀/G₁ phase as compared to the other phases. It may be concluded that sulforaphene, but not its parent glucosinolate, glucoraphenin, causes cytotoxicity and stimulates apoptosis in HepG2 cells.

Sulforaphene, an isothiocyanate present in radish plants, inhibits proliferation of human breast cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Isothiocyanates derived from the Brassicaceae plants possess chemopreventive and anticancer activities. One of them is sulforaphene (SF), which is abundant in Rhapanus sativus seeds. The underlying mechanism of its anticancer activity is still underexplored.

PURPOSE

SF properties make it an interesting candidate for cancer prevention and therapy. Thus, it is crucial to characterize the mechanism of its activity.

STUDY DESIGN

We investigated the mechanism of antiproliferative activity of SF in breast cancer cells differing in growth factor receptors status and lacking functional p53.

METHODS

Viability of SKBR-3 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells treated with SF was determined by SRB and clonogenic assays. Cell cycle, cell death and oxidative stress were analyzed by flow cytometry or microscopy. The levels of apoptosis and autophagy markers were assessed by immunoblotting.

RESULTS

SF efficiently decreased the viability of breast cancer cells, while normal cells (MCF10A) were less sensitive to the analyzed isothiocyanate. SF induced G2/M cell cycle arrest, as well as disturbed cytoskeletal organization and reduced clonogenic potential of the cancer cells. SF induced apoptosis in a concentration-dependent manner which was associated with the oxidative stress, mitochondria dysfunction, increased Bax:Bcl2 ratio and ADRP levels. SF also potentiated autophagy which played a cytoprotective role.

CONCLUSIONS

SF exhibits cytotoxic activity against breast cancer cells even at relatively low concentrations (5-10µM). This is associated with induction of the cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. SF might be considered as a potent anticancer agent.

Sulforaphene enhances radiosensitivity of hepatocellular carcinoma through suppression of the NF-κB pathway

Sulforaphene (SFE), a naturally occurring isothiocyanate found in cruciferous vegetables, has attracted increasing attention for its anti-cancer effect in many cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the precise role of SFE in the radiosensitivity of HCC is still unclear. Here, cell proliferation and apoptosis were detected by MTT and flow cytometry assay, respectively. The activity of NF-κB was further evaluated by ELISA. We also observed the effect of SFE and/or radiation on tumor growth. The results showed that SFE inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in HCC cells. Radiation increased NF-kB activity, while PDTC, a NF-kB inhibitor, enhanced radiation-induced cell death. SFE inhibited NF-kB activity and the downstream gene expressions of the NF-kB pathway in HCC cells. Moreover, SFE enhanced the inhibitory effect of radiation on tumor growth both in vitro and in vivo. This study indicated that SFE sensitized the radiosensitivity of HCC by blocking the NF-kB pathway.

Raphanus sativus Sprout Causes Selective Cytotoxic Effect on p53-Deficient Human Lung Cancer Cells in vitro

Raphanus sativus L. (Brassicaceae) is widely consumed in many different forms worldwide. Its sprouts, in particular, are commonly consumed as a health food. R. sativus sprout has recently been shown to have anti-tumor activity on human colon cancer cells, suggesting that it may have potential use in cancer prevention and treatment. The extent of this anti-tumor activity and its underlying mechanisms, however, remain to be investigated in other types of cancer cells. In this study, we showed that the MeOH extract from R. sativus sprout exhibits significant but variable cytotoxic effects on human lung adenocarcinoma cells depending on their p53 status. The MeOH extract decreased the viability of p53-deleted human lung cancer cells (H1299 and Calu-6) by inducing apoptosis; this effect, however, did not occur for wild-type p53 cancer cells (A549), for cells expressing a p53 mutant lacking the C terminus (H1264), or for non-tumor fibroblast cells (NIH3T3). Phytochemical analyses of the MeOH extract allowed us to identify and isolate β-sitosterol as a major component of the MeOH extract. Direct treatment with β-sitosterol significantly reduced the viability of Calu-6 cells, suggesting that it may, in part, contribute to R. sativus sprout's anti-tumor activity. This work provides experimental evidence for a novel biological application of R. sativus sprout in treating human lung cancer, and it identifies the main component involved in this effect, further supporting its potential use as a functional food for cancer management.

4-Methylthio-3-butenyl isothiocyanate (raphasatin) exerts chemopreventive effects against esophageal carcinogenesis in rats

To examine the effects of 4-methylthio-3-butenyl isothiocyanate on esophageal carcinogenesis, male 6-week-old F344 rats were subcutaneously injected with 0.5 mg/kg body weight N-nitrosomethylbenzylamine three times per week for 5 weeks and fed a diet supplemented with 80 ppm 4-methylthio-3-butenyl isothiocyanate, equivalent to 6.05 mg/kg body weight/day for the initiation stage, 4.03 mg/kg body weight/day for the promotion stage, or 4.79 mg/kg body weight/day for all stages. Although the incidence of lesions was not affected by 4-methylthio-3-butenyl isothiocyanate treatment, the multiplicity of squamous cell papilloma in the esophagus was significantly decreased in rats in the 4-methylthio-3-butenyl isothiocyanate initiation stage group (1.13 ± 0.74), 4-methylthio-3-butenyl isothiocyanate promotion stage group (1.47 ± 0.99), and 4-methylthio-3-butenyl isothiocyanate all stage group (1.47 ± 1.13) as compared with rats treated with N-nitrosomethylbenzylamine alone (3.00 ± 1.46). Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that 4-methylthio-3-butenyl isothiocyanate induced apoptosis, suppressed cell proliferation, and increased p21 expression when administered in the promotion phase. These modifying effects were not observed in the rats treated with 4-methylthio-3-butenyl isothiocyanate alone. Our results indicated that 4-methylthio-3-butenyl isothiocyanate may exert chemopreventive effects against N-nitrosomethylbenzylamine-induced esophageal carcinogenesis in rats.

Variation in biochemical and antioxidant attributes of Raphanus sativus in response to foliar application of plant leaf extracts as plant growth regulator

The present study was aimed to appraise the variations in biochemical, antioxidant and nutritional attributes of radish (Raphanus sativus L.) under foliar application of plant leaf aqueous extracts i.e., mulberry leaf extract (MLE), brassica leaf extract (BLE), sorghum leaf extract (SLE) and moringa leaf extract (MoLE) as natural growth regulators. Samples were collected after three sprays of extracts and analyzed. Total phenolic constituents were determined using Folin-Ciocalteu reagent method, whereas antioxidant potential was evaluated by 1,1 diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical radical scavenging and reducing power assays. Results revealed that application of MLE, BLE, SLE, and MoLE not only improved growth, but also enhanced biochemical and antioxidant activities. Foliar spray of MoLE furnished relatively three folds higher amounts of extractable bioactive compounds (37.65 ± 0.94%), phenolic constituents (54.51-182.71 mg GAE/g f.w). The radical scavenging capacity (RSC) and reducing potential were also enhanced considerably. Furthermore, the moisture, dietary fiber, crude protein, and carotenoids were also enhanced in response of foliar spray of plant extracts. From results, it is concluded that plant extracts are effective sources of natural growth regulars and might be useful for the production of vegetables with improved nutritional value and antioxidant activity.

Sulforaphene suppresses growth of colon cancer-derived tumors via induction of glutathione depletion and microtubule depolymerization

SCOPE

Cruciferous vegetables harbor a number of isothiocyanates that have been recognized for their cancer-related properties. Out of these, sulforaphene (a naturally occurring derivative of sulforaphane) has received little attention in studies of colon cancer and its mechanism of action remains to be elucidated.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We observed that sulforaphene inhibited growth of human colon cancer cell lines HCT116, HT-29, KM12, SNU-1040, and DLD-1, while exhibiting negligible toxicity toward nonmalignant cells. Sulforaphene induced G2/M phase cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of colon cancer cells analyzed by flow cytometry, concomitant with phosphorylation of CDK1 and CDC25B at inhibitory sites, and upregulation of the p38 and JNK pathways. It was further determined that sulforaphene is a potent inhibitor of microtubule polymerization while generating reactive oxygen species via the depletion of glutathione. These observations further extended into inhibitory effects against colon tumor growth in a mouse xenograft model.

CONCLUSION

These findings demonstrate that sulforaphene may contribute to the anti-tumor effects of cruciferous vegetables that contain sulforaphene and other isothiocyanates.

Green synthesis of biogenic silver nanomaterials using Raphanus sativus extract, effects of stabilizers on the morphology, and their antimicrobial activities

The present study explores the reducing and capping potentials of aqueous Raphanus sativus root extract for the synthesis of silver nanomaterials for the first time in the absence and presence of two stabilizers, namely, water-soluble starch and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). The surface properties of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were determined by dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersion X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) techniques. The mean size of AgNPs, ranging from 3.2 to 6.0 nm, could be facilely controlled by merely varying the initial [extract], [CTAB], [starch], and [Ag(+)] ions. The agglomeration number, average number of silver atoms per nanoparticle, and changes in the fermi potentials were calculated and discussed. The AgNPs were evaluated for their antimicrobial activities against different pathogenic organisms. The inhibition action was due to the structural changes in the protein cell wall.

Protective effects of Raphanus sativus extract on intestinal mucosal peroxide damage in rats with incomplete intestinal obstruction

AIM: To investigate the protective effects of Raphanus sativus extract (Rex) on intestinal mucosal peroxide damage in a rat model of incomplete intestinal obstruction (IIO).

METHODS: Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into a normal group (group A, n = 14), a sham-operation group (group B, n = 14), an intestinal obstruction group (group C, n = 20) and an intestinal obstruction + Rex group (group D, n = 20). IIO was induced by surrounding the terminal ileum with a sterile pipe. After that, the animals in group D was given Rex (100 mg/kg body weight), while the rest groups were given equal volumes of saline. On days 5 and 7, the abdominal cavity was opened to collect 3 mL blood from the abdominal aorta for determining superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Meanwhile, two segments of the small intestine were taken 4 cm above the obstructive for hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and for measuring diamine oxidase (DAO), respectively.

RESULTS: At each corresponding time point, compared with group B, SOD and DAO levels were significantly lower (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01) and MDA content and mucosal injury score were significantly higher (P < 0.01) in group C. Swelling, necrosis and shedding were visible in epithelial cells. Meanwhile, the submucosa, muscular and serosa had apparent congestion with infiltration of inflammatory cells. Compared with group C, treatment with Rex in group D significantly increased SOD activity (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01) and DAO content (P < 0.01), while MDA content and mucosal injury score were significantly decreased (P < 0.01). The damage of the ileum mucosa, infiltration of inflammatory cells and vascular responses in the ileum were significantly alleviated after treatment with Rex.

CONCLUSION: Rex can elevate serum SOD activity, reduce MDA content and increase tissue DAO levels in rats with IIO to protect the intestinal mucosal from being damaged by oxidative stress reaction effectively.

Use of TD-GC-TOF-MS to assess volatile composition during post-harvest storage in seven accessions of rocket salad (Eruca sativa)

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We present a robust method for VOC analysis from rocket salad packaging headspace.

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TD-GC–TOF-MS putatively identified 39 volatile compounds.

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VOC profiles for Eruca sativa varied significantly between accessions.

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Isothiocyanate compounds degrade significantly over shelf-life.

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Changes in VOC profiles could provide a useful tool for assessment of leaf quality.

An important step in breeding for nutritionally enhanced varieties is determining the effects of the post-harvest supply chain on phytochemicals and the changes in VOCs produced over time. TD-GC–TOF-MS was used and a technique for the extraction of VOCs from the headspace using portable tubes is described. Forty-two compounds were detected; 39 were identified by comparison to NIST libraries. Thirty-five compounds had not been previously reported in Eruca sativa. Seven accessions were assessed for changes in headspace VOCs over 7 days. Relative amounts of VOCs across 3 time points were significantly different – isothiocyanate-containing molecules being abundant on ‘Day 0’. Each accession showed differences in proportions/types of volatiles produced on each day. PCA revealed a separation of VOC profiles according to the day of sampling. Changes in VOC profiles over time could provide a tool for assessment of shelf life.

Formation and Stabilization of Raphasatin and Sulforaphene from Radish Roots by Endogenous Enzymolysis

The biologically active compounds raphasatin and sulforaphene are formed during the hydrolysis of radishes by an endogenous myrosinase. Raphasatin is very unstable, and it is generated and simultaneously degraded to less active compounds during hydrolysis in aqueous media. This study determined the hydrolysis conditions to maximize the formation of raphasatin and sulforaphene by an endogenous myrosinase and minimize their degradation during the hydrolysis of radish roots. The reaction parameters, such as the reaction medium, reaction time, type of mixing, and reaction temperature were optimized. A stability test for raphasatin and sulforaphene was also performed during storage of the hydrolyzed products at 25°C for 10 days. The formation and breakdown of raphasatin and sulforaphene in radish roots by endogenous enzymolysis was strongly influenced by the reaction medium, reaction time, and type of mixing. The production and stabilization of raphasatin in radishes was efficient in water and dichloromethane with shaking for 15 min at 25°C. For sulforaphene, the favorable condition was water as the reaction medium without shaking for 10 min at 25°C. The maximum yields of raphasatin and sulforaphene were achieved in a concurrent hydrolysis reaction without shaking in water for 10 min and then with shaking in dichloromethane for 15 min at 25°C. Under these conditions, the yields of raphasatin and sulforaphene were maximized at 12.89 and 1.93 μmol/g of dry radish, respectively. The stabilities of raphasatin and sulforaphene in the hydrolyzed products were 56.4% and 86.5% after 10 days of storage in water and dichloromethane at 25°C.

Analysis and Antioxidant Activity of Extracts from Broccoli (Brassica oleracea L.) Sprouts

Samples prepared from fresh broccoli (Brassica oleracea L.) sprouts by water distillation or freeze-drying were examined for antioxidant activity using three assays. All samples exhibited dose-dependent antioxidant activity. The antioxidant activity ranged from 74.48 ± 0.46% (less volatile sample) to 93.2 ± 0.2% (dichloromethane extract sample) at the level of 500 μg/mL. Both dichloromethane extract samples from a water distillate of broccoli sprouts and freeze-dried broccoli sprouts showed potent antioxidant activity, which was comparable to that of BHT. Among the 43 compounds positively identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, 5-methylthiopentylnitrile (31.64 μg/g) was found in the greatest concentration, followed by 4-methylthiobutylisothiocyanate (14.55 μg/g), 4-methylthiobutylnitrile (10.63 μg/g), 3-methylthiopropylisothiocyanate (3.00 μg/g), and 4-methylpentylisothiocyanate (2.48 μg/g). These isothiocyanates are known to possess antioxidant properties. Possible phenolic antioxidants found are 4-(1-methylpropyl)phenol (0.012 μg/g), 4-methylphenol (0.159 μg/g), and 2-methoxy-4-vinylphenol (0.009 μg/g). The present study demonstrates that broccoli sprouts are a good source of natural antioxidants.

Estonian folk traditional experiences on natural anticancer remedies: from past to the future

CONTEXT

Despite diagnostic and therapeutic advancements, the burden of cancer is still increasing worldwide. Toxicity of current chemotherapeutics to normal cells and their resistance to tumor cells highlights the urgent need for new drugs with minimal adverse side effects. The use of natural anticancer agents has entered into the area of cancer research and increased efforts are being made to isolate bioactive products from medicinal plants.

OBJECTIVE

To lead the search for plants with potential cytotoxic activity, ethnopharmacological knowledge can give a great contribution. Therefore, the attention of this review is devoted to the natural remedies traditionally used for the cancer treatment by Estonian people over a period of almost 150 years.

METHODS

Two massive databases, the first one stored in the Estonian Folklore Archives and the second one in the electronic database HERBA ( http://herba.folklore.ee/ ), containing altogether more than 30 000 ethnomedicinal texts were systematically reviewed to compile data about the Estonian folk traditional experiences on natural anticancer remedies.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

As a result, 44 different plants with potential anticancer properties were elicited, 5 of which [Angelica sylvestris L. (Apiaceae), Anthemis tinctoria L. (Asteraceae), Pinus sylvestris L. (Pinaceae), Sorbus aucuparia L. (Rosaceae), and Prunus padus L. (Rosaceae)] have not been previously described with respect to their tumoricidal activities in the scientific literature, suggesting thus the potential herbal materials for further investigations of natural anticancer compounds.

Micropropagation effect on the anti-carcinogenic activitiy of polyphenolics from Mexican oregano (Poliomintha glabrescens Gray) in human colon cancer cells HT-29

Phenolic extracts obtained from spices are known to have anti-carcinogenic activities but little is known about the effect of micropropagation on these beneficial effects. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxic activity of flavonoid-enriched extracts (FEE) from the leaves of wild (WT), in vitro (IN), and ex vitro (EX) grown oregano plants in colon cancer cells HT-29 and the non-cancer cells CCD-18Co. Cell proliferation of HT-29 cells was reduced to 50 % by WT, IN, and EX at concentrations of 4.01, 1.32, and 4.84 mg of gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/L, respectively. In contrast, in CCD-18Co cells, higher concentrations were required for the same cytotoxic effect. At 6 mg GAE/L, WT and IN reduced the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) of lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-stimulated control cells to 59.89 and 59.43 %, respectively, and EX to 73.89 %. The mRNA of Caspase-3 was increased 1.53-fold when cells were treated with 4 mg GAE/L of IN extract, and tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, member 6 (FAS), and BCL2-associated X protein (BAX) mRNA increased 2.55 and 1.53 fold, respectively. Results on protein expression corroborated the apoptotic effects with a significant decrease of B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) expression for all treatments but more remarkable for EX that also showed the most intense signal of BAX. Overall, FEE extracts derived from micropropagation had increased pro-apoptotic effects, however extracts from the in vitro plants produced more efficacy at the transcriptional level while extracts from the ex vitro plant were superior at the traductional level.

Instability and Structural Change of 4-Methylsulfinyl-3-butenyl Isothiocyanate in the Hydrolytic Process

Sulforaphene (4-methylsulfinyl-3-butenyl isothiocyanate), which has significant chemopreventive activities, is an important phytochemical ingredient produced by myrosinase hydrolysis of glucoraphenin (4-methylsulfinyl-3-butenyl glucosinolate) found in radish seeds. In this research, we found that sulforaphene was unstable and converted rapidly to a water-soluble degradation product in the hydrolytic process. The degradation product was successfully purified by preparative high-performance liquid chromatography on a C18 column using 10% methanol in water as the mobile phase. On the basis of MS and NMR spectroscopy data, the degradation product was identified to be 6-[(methylsulfinyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazinan-2-thione. The degradation pathway of sulforaphene was proposed in our study. Furthermore, low pH and metal ions were also found to have an effective inhibition to the degradation reaction of sulforaphene. Through adjusting the pH value of the system or adding metal ions after the content of sulforaphene has reached its maximum, the yield of sulforaphene increased significantly compared with that of the control.

Glucosinolate variation in leaves of Brassica rapa crops

Total and individual glucosinolate (GSL) content of leaves of vegetable turnip rape (Brassica rapa L. var. rapa) was determined in a set of 45 varieties consisting in early, medium and late types grown at two locations in northwestern Spain. The objectives were to determine the diversity among varieties in GSL content and to relate that variation with earliness and plant habit. Eight GSL were identified, being two aliphatic GSL, gluconapin (84.4 % of the total GSL) and glucobrassicanapin (7.2 % of the total GSL) the most abundant. Indolic and aromatic GSL content were low but also showed significant differences among varieties. Differences in total and individual GSL content were found among varieties, plant habit groups, and earliness groups. Total GSL content ranged from 19 to 37.3 μmol g(-1) dw in early and extra-late groups, respectively, and from 19.5 to 36.3 μmol g(-1) dw for turnips and turnip greens groups, respectively. These differences were consistent to values found for gluconapin content where the turnip group had the highest values (31.8 μmol g(-1) dw) and the turnip top group had the lowest (15.7 μmol g(-1) dw). Two varieties, MBG-BRS0429 and MBG-BRS0550 (from turnip greens and extra-late groups) and MBG-BRS0438 (from turnips and late groups), stood out as they had the highest total GSL content and could be used as a good source of these beneficial bioactive compounds. Elucidation of genetic diversity among crops can provide useful information to assist plant breeders to design improved breeding strategies in order to obtain varieties rich on GSL.

Preparative separation and purification of sulforaphene from radish seeds by high-speed countercurrent chromatography

Sulforaphene, a kind of isothiocyanates, derived from glucoraphenin which is the important ingredient of radish (Raphanus sativus L.) seeds, has shown significant pharmacological activities. In this paper, the separation and purification of sulforaphene from radish seeds, was achieved by high-speed countercurrent chromatography (HSCCC). A two-phase solvent system consisted of n-hexane-ethyl acetate-methanol-water (35:100:35:100, v/v/v/v) was applied. The revolution speed of the separation column, flow rate of the mobile phase and separation temperature were 800 rpm, 2 ml/min and 30°C, respectively. From about 1000 mg amount of the crude plant extract, 249.4 mg of pure sulforaphene was obtained by one-step separation on a 280 ml HSCCC column. The purified sulforaphene was at a high purity of 96.9% and the mass recovery was more than 95%. The purity of sulforaphene was determined by HPLC analysis and its chemical structure was assessed by MS, (1)H NMR, (13)C NMR and DEPT-135 NMR.

Phytochemical composition and biological activity of 8 varieties of radish (Raphanus sativus L.) sprouts and mature taproots

Radishes (Raphanus sativus L.) are members of the cruciferous vegetable family that contain many classes of biologically active phytochemicals. This study determined the phytochemical composition of the sprouts and mature taproots of 8 radish varieties. Radish sprouts contained significantly greater concentrations of glucosinolates (3.8-fold) and isothiocyanates (8.2-fold) than the mature radish taproot and also contained significantly greater concentrations of phenolics (on average 6.9-fold). The anthocyanin concentrations of the mature radish taproot were significantly greater than in the sprouts of red, pink, and purple varieties. The primary anthocyanidins present in the red and pink radish varieties were pelargonidin and delphinidin, while the primary anthocyanidin in the purple radish variety was cyanidin. Radish sprouts were between 9- and 59-fold more potent than the corresponding mature taproot at activating the antioxidant response element (ARE) in a stably transfected hepatoma cell line. The ARE activity of the radish sprouts and mature taproots was significantly correlated with the total isothiocyanate concentration of the radishes. Practical Application: Understanding the influence variety and developmental stage has on the biological activity of cruciferous vegetables provides important information for further studies examining the in vivo effects of radish treatment and foundation for providing recommendations to reduce the risk of chronic disease through dietary intervention.

Lipid-soluble ginseng extract induces apoptosis and G0/G1 cell cycle arrest in NCI-H460 human lung cancer cells

This study was performed to elucidate the anticancer mechanism of a lipid-soluble ginseng extract (LSGE) by analyzing induction of apoptosis and arrest of cell cycle progression using the NCI-H460 human lung cancer cell line. Proliferation of NCI-H460 cells was potently inhibited by LSGE in a dose-dependent manner. The cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase in NCI-H460 cells was induced by LSGE. The percentage of G0/G1 phase cells significantly increased, while that of S phase cells decreased after treatment with LSGE. The expression levels of cyclin-dependent kinase2 (CDK2), CDK4, CDK6, cyclin D3 and cyclin E related to G0/G1 cells progression were also altered by LSGE. In addition, LSGE-induced cell death occurred through apoptosis, which was accompanied by increasing the activity of caspases including caspase-8, caspase-9 and caspase-3. Consistent with enhancement of caspase activity, LSGE increased protein levels of cleaved caspase-3, caspase-8, caspase-9, and poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP). These apoptotic effects of LSGE were inhibited by the pan-caspase inhibitor Z-VAD-fmk. These findings indicate that LSGE inhibits NCI-H460 human lung cancer cell growth by cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase and induction of caspase-mediated apoptosis.