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Antov GG, Gospodinova ZI, Novakovic M, Tesevic V, Krasteva NA, Pavlov DV, Valcheva-Kuzmanova SV. Molecular mechanisms of the anticancer action of fustin isolated from Cotinus coggygria Scop. in MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer cell line. Z NATURFORSCH C 2025; 80:233-250. [PMID: 39331583 DOI: 10.1515/znc-2024-0140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/29/2024]
Abstract
The aim of the present work was to investigate some of the molecular mechanisms and targets of the anticancer action of the bioflavonoid fustin isolated from the heartwood of Cotinus coggygria Scop. in the triple-negative breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231. For this purpose, we applied fluorescence microscopy analysis to evaluate apoptosis, necrosis, and mitochondrial integrity, wound healing assay to study fustin antimigratory potential and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction to analyze the expression of genes associated with cell cycle control, programmed cell death, metastasis, and epigenetic alterations. A complex network-based bioinformatic analysis was also employed for protein-protein network construction, hub genes identification, and functional enrichment. The results revealed a significant induction of early and late apoptotic and necrotic events, a slight alteration of the mitochondria-related fluorescence, and marked antimotility effect after fustin treatment. Of 34 analyzed genes, seven fustin targets were identified, of which CDKN1A, ATM, and MYC were significantly enriched in pathways such as cell cycle, intrinsic apoptotic signaling pathway in response to DNA damage and generic transcription pathway. Our findings outline some molecular mechanisms of the anticancer action of fustin pointing it out as a potential oncotherapeutic agent and provide directions for future in vivo research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgi G Antov
- Laboratory of Genome Dynamics and Stability, Institute of Plant Physiology and Genetics, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Zlatina I Gospodinova
- Laboratory of Genome Dynamics and Stability, Institute of Plant Physiology and Genetics, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Miroslav Novakovic
- Department of Chemistry, University of Belgrade - Institute of Chemistry, Technology and Metallurgy, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Vele Tesevic
- University of Belgrade - Faculty of Chemistry, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Natalia A Krasteva
- Department of Electroinduced and Adhesive Properties, Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Danail V Pavlov
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Medicine and Nutrigenomics with Laboratory of Nutrigenomics, Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University "Prof. Dr. Paraskev Stoyanov", Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Stefka V Valcheva-Kuzmanova
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University "Prof. Dr. Paraskev Stoyanov", Varna, Bulgaria
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2
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Deshpande A, Mahale S, Kanduri C. Beyond the Transcript: Translating Non-Coding RNAs and Their Impact on Cellular Regulation. Cancers (Basel) 2025; 17:1555. [PMID: 40361481 PMCID: PMC12071610 DOI: 10.3390/cancers17091555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2025] [Revised: 04/30/2025] [Accepted: 05/02/2025] [Indexed: 05/15/2025] Open
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) constitute the majority of the human transcriptome and play diverse structural, catalytic, and regulatory roles. The ability of ncRNAs to be translated into functional peptides and microproteins expands our understanding of their regulatory potential beyond their established non-coding functions. Our comprehensive search identified 86 translating "non-coding" RNAs. While translating ncRNAs have traditionally been categorized as "peptide-encoding", in this study, we introduce a novel classification based on amino acid length, distinguishing their products as ncRNA encoded peptides (ncRNA-PEPs), which are less than 60 amino acids, or ncRNA encoded microproteins (ncRNA-MPs) ranging from 61 to 200 amino acids. These peptides and microproteins act as co-regulators in cell signaling, transcriptional regulation, and protein complex assembly, playing a role in both health and disease. We outline the molecular pathways by which ncRNA-PEPs and ncRNA-MPs could govern cell cycle progression, highlighting their influence on cell cycle transitions, oncogenic and tumor suppressor pathways, metabolic homeostasis, autophagy, and on key cell cycle regulators like PCNA, Rad18, and CDK-cyclin complexes. Furthermore, we highlight recent advancements in their detection and characterization, exploring their evolutionary origins, species-specific conservation, and potential therapeutic applications. Our findings underscore the emerging significance of ncRNA-PEPs and ncRNA-MPs as integral regulators of cellular processes, highlighting their functional versatility and opening promising avenues for further research and potential therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Chandrasekhar Kanduri
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg, SE-40530 Gothenburg, Sweden; (A.D.); (S.M.)
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3
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Chen G, Zhang C, Zou J, Zhou Z, Zhang J, Yan Y, Liang Y, Tang G, Chen G, Xu X, Wang N, Feng Y. Coptidis rhizoma and berberine as anti-cancer drugs: A 10-year updates and future perspectives. Pharmacol Res 2025; 216:107742. [PMID: 40258505 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2025.107742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2025] [Accepted: 04/16/2025] [Indexed: 04/23/2025]
Abstract
Cancer continues to be among the most substantial health challenges globally. Among various natural compounds, berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid obtained from Coptidis Rhizoma, has garnered considerable attention for its broad-spectrum biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-obesity, and anti-microbial activities. Furthermore, berberine exhibits a broad spectrum of anti-cancer efficacy against various malignancies, such as ovarian, breast, lung, gastric, hepatic, colorectal, cervical, and prostate cancers. Its anti-cancer mechanisms are multifaceted, encompassing the inhibition of cancer cell proliferation, the prevention of metastasis, the induction of apoptosis, the facilitation of autophagy, the modulation of the tumor microenvironment and gut microbiota, and the enhancement of the efficacy of conventional therapeutic strategies. This paper offers an exhaustive overview of the cancer-fighting characteristics of Coptidis Rhizoma and berberine, while also exploring recent developments in nanotechnology aimed at enhancing the bioavailability of berberine. Furthermore, the side effects and safety of berberine are addressed as well. The potential role of artificial intelligence in optimizing berberine's therapeutic applications is also highlighted. This paper provides precious perspectives on the prospective application of Coptidis Rhizoma and berberine in the prevention and management of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoming Chen
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Cheng Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Jiayi Zou
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zitian Zhou
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiayi Zhang
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Yan
- The School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yinglan Liang
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guoyi Tang
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Guang Chen
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Xiaoyu Xu
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Ning Wang
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Yibin Feng
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
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4
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Lu S, Yang Y, Song Z, Cao J, Han Z, Chen L, He Y, Wang J, Teng Y, Zhang Z, Zou J, Ge J, Yang H, Cheng L. Dual functional nanoplatforms potentiate osteosarcoma immunotherapy via microenvironment modulation. Natl Sci Rev 2025; 12:nwaf002. [PMID: 39936146 PMCID: PMC11812574 DOI: 10.1093/nsr/nwaf002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2024] [Revised: 12/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/06/2025] [Indexed: 02/13/2025] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS), a highly aggressive bone tumor, presents significant challenges in terms of effective treatment. We identified that cellular autophagy was impaired within OS by comparing clinical OS samples through bioinformatic analyses and further validated the inhibition of mitochondrial autophagy in OS at the transcriptomic level. Based on this finding, we investigated the therapeutic potential of a dual functional metal nanoplatform (MnSx) to facilitate a transition from the protective effect of low-level autophagy in OS to the killing effect of high-level autophagy in OS. MnSx facilitated intracellular H2S generation via endocytosis, leading to the S-sulfhydration of ubiquitin-specific peptidase 8 (USP8) and subsequent promotion of mitochondrial autophagy in vitro. Additionally, MnSx activated the cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway, further enhancing the cellular autophagic response and accelerating tumor cell death. Moreover, it was demonstrated in vivo that MnSx, on the one hand, mediated the activation of tumor autophagy by USP8 via intracellular H2S, while Mn2+ promoted the maturation of dendritic cells, activated cytotoxic T lymphocytes and contributed to tumor eradication. Such tumor killing could be suppressed by the autophagy inhibitor chloroquine. Importantly, synergistic combination therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors showed promise for achieving complete remission of OS. This study highlights the potential of MnSx as a dual-functional therapeutic platform for OS treatment and offers novel directions for future research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunyi Lu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yuqi Yang
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Zhuorun Song
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jie Cao
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Zhihui Han
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Linfu Chen
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yunfei He
- Soochow University Institues for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jiayi Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Yun Teng
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Zengli Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health School of Public Health, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jun Zou
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jun Ge
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Huilin Yang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Liang Cheng
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
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5
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Qian S, Long Y, Tan G, Li X, Xiang B, Tao Y, Xie Z, Zhang X. Programmed cell death: molecular mechanisms, biological functions, diseases, and therapeutic targets. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e70024. [PMID: 39619229 PMCID: PMC11604731 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.70024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 11/02/2024] [Accepted: 11/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2025] Open
Abstract
Programmed cell death represents a precisely regulated and active cellular demise, governed by a complex network of specific genes and proteins. The identification of multiple forms of programmed cell death has significantly advanced the understanding of its intricate mechanisms, as demonstrated in recent studies. A thorough grasp of these processes is essential across various biological disciplines and in the study of diseases. Nonetheless, despite notable progress, the exploration of the relationship between programmed cell death and disease, as well as its clinical application, are still in a nascent stage. Therefore, further exploration of programmed cell death and the development of corresponding therapeutic methods and strategies holds substantial potential. Our review provides a detailed examination of the primary mechanisms behind apoptosis, autophagy, necroptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis. Following this, the discussion delves into biological functions and diseases associated dysregulated programmed cell death. Finally, we highlight existing and potential therapeutic targets and strategies focused on cancers and neurodegenerative diseases. This review aims to summarize the latest insights on programmed cell death from mechanisms to diseases and provides a more reliable approach for clinical transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shen'er Qian
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgeryThe Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Yao Long
- Cancer Research InstituteSchool of Basic MedicineCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Department of PathologyXiangya Hospital, Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Guolin Tan
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgeryThe Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Xiaoguang Li
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgeryShanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
- Ear InstituteShanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key LabShanghaiChina
| | - Bo Xiang
- Cancer Research InstituteSchool of Basic MedicineCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Furong LaboratoryCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Yongguang Tao
- Cancer Research InstituteSchool of Basic MedicineCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Zuozhong Xie
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgeryThe Second Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Xiaowei Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgeryThe Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
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6
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Cao Z, Tian K, Ran Y, Zhou H, Zhou L, Ding Y, Tang X. Beclin-1: a therapeutic target at the intersection of autophagy, immunotherapy, and cancer treatment. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1506426. [PMID: 39650649 PMCID: PMC11621085 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1506426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2024] [Accepted: 11/01/2024] [Indexed: 12/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The significant identification of Beclin-1's function in regulating autophagy flow signified a significant progression in our understanding of cellular operations. Beclin-1 acts as a scaffold for forming the PI3KC3 complex, controlling autophagy and cellular trafficking processes in a complicated way. This intricate protein has garnered considerable attention due to its substantial impact on the development of tumors. Strong evidence indicates Beclin-1 plays a critical role in controlling autophagy in various human cancer types and its intricate connection with apoptosis and ferroptosis. The potential of Beclin-1 as a viable target for cancer therapy is highlighted by its associations with key autophagy regulators such as AMPK, mTOR, and ATGs. Beclin-1 controls the growth and dissemination of tumors by autophagy. It also affects how tumors react to therapies such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The role of Beclin-1 in autophagy can influence apoptosis, depending on whether it supports cell survival or leads to cell death. Beclin-1 plays a crucial role in ferroptosis by increasing ATG5 levels, which in turn promotes autophagy-triggered ferroptosis. Finally, we analyzed the possible function of Beclin-1 in tumor immunology and drug sensitivity in cancers. In general, Beclin-1 has a significant impact on regulating autophagy, offering various potentials for medical intervention and altering our understanding of cancer biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhumin Cao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Seventh People’s Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
| | - Ke Tian
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Seventh People’s Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
| | - Yincheng Ran
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Seventh People’s Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
| | - Haonan Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Seventh People’s Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
| | - Lei Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Seventh People’s Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
| | - Yana Ding
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, District Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaowei Tang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, District Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Chongqing, China
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7
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Lee Y, Tuan NM, Lee GJ, Kim B, Park JH, Lee CH. Regulatory Mechanisms Governing the Autophagy-Initiating VPS34 Complex and Its inhibitors. Biomol Ther (Seoul) 2024; 32:723-735. [PMID: 39370737 PMCID: PMC11535298 DOI: 10.4062/biomolther.2024.094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 10/08/2024] Open
Abstract
VPS34 is a crucial protein in cells, essential for handling cellular stress through its involvement in autophagy and endocytosis. This protein functions as a Class III phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, producing phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate, which is necessary for autophagy and vesicle trafficking. Additionally, VPS34 forms two mutually exclusive complexes, each playing a vital role in autophagy and endocytic sorting. These complexes share common subunits, including VPS15, VPS34, and Beclin 1, with complex I having ATG14 as a specific subunit. Due to its association with various human diseases, regulation of the VPS34 complex I has garnered significant interest, emerging as a potential therapeutic target for drug discovery. Summaries of the structure, function of VPS34 complexes, and developed VPS34 inhibitors have been provided, along with discussions on the regulation mechanism of VPS34, particularly in relation to the initiation complex I of autophagy. This offers valuable insights for treating autophagy-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongook Lee
- BK21 FOUR Team and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea
| | - Nguyen Minh Tuan
- BK21 FOUR Team and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi Jeong Lee
- BK21 FOUR Team and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea
| | - Boram Kim
- BK21 FOUR Team and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Ho Park
- BK21 FOUR Team and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Hoon Lee
- BK21 FOUR Team and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea
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8
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Lee M, Kim HG. Anti-Cancer Strategy Based on Changes in the Role of Autophagy Depending on the Survival Environment and Tumorigenesis Stages. Molecules 2024; 29:5134. [PMID: 39519774 PMCID: PMC11547988 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29215134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2024] [Revised: 10/21/2024] [Accepted: 10/29/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a crucial mechanism for recycling intracellular materials, and under normal metabolic conditions, it is maintained at low levels in cells. However, when nutrients are deficient or under hypoxic conditions, the level of autophagy significantly increases. Particularly in cancer cells, which grow more rapidly than normal cells and tend to grow in a three-dimensional manner, cells inside the cell mass often face limited oxygen supply, leading to inherently higher levels of autophagy. Therefore, the initial development of anticancer drugs targeting autophagy was based on a strategy to suppress these high levels of autophagy. However, anticancer drugs that inhibit autophagy have not shown promising results in clinical trials, as it has been revealed that autophagy does not always play a role that favors cancer cell survival. Hence, this review aims to suggest anticancer strategies based on the changes in the role of autophagy according to survival conditions and tumorigenesis stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Lee
- Division of Life Sciences, College of Life Sciences and Bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon 22012, Republic of Korea
- Institute for New Drug Development, Incheon National University, Incheon 22012, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Gyo Kim
- Division of Life Sciences, College of Life Sciences and Bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon 22012, Republic of Korea
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9
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Li D, Geng D, Wang M. Advances in natural products modulating autophagy influenced by cellular stress conditions and their anticancer roles in the treatment of ovarian cancer. FASEB J 2024; 38:e70075. [PMID: 39382031 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202401409r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2024] [Revised: 08/20/2024] [Accepted: 09/13/2024] [Indexed: 10/10/2024]
Abstract
Autophagy is a conservative catabolic process that typically serves a cell-protective function. Under stress conditions, when the cellular environment becomes unstable, autophagy is activated as an adaptive response for self-protection. Autophagy delivers damaged cellular components to lysosomes for degradation and recycling, thereby providing essential nutrients for cell survival. However, this function of promoting cell survival under stress conditions often leads to malignant progression and chemotherapy resistance in cancer. Consequently, autophagy is considered a potential target for cancer therapy. Herein, we aim to review how natural products act as key modulators of autophagy by regulating cellular stress conditions. We revisit various stressors, including starvation, hypoxia, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and oxidative stress, and their regulatory relationship with autophagy, focusing on recent advances in ovarian cancer research. Additionally, we explore how polyphenolic compounds, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and other natural products modulate autophagy mediated by stress responses, affecting the malignant biological behavior of cancer. Furthermore, we discuss their roles in ovarian cancer therapy. This review emphasizes the importance of natural products as valuable resources in cancer therapeutics, highlighting the need for further exploration of their potential in regulating autophagy. Moreover, it provides novel insights and potential therapeutic strategies in ovarian cancer by utilizing natural products to modulate autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongxiao Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Danbo Geng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Min Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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10
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Mohammed WH, Sulaiman GM, Abomughaid MM, Klionsky DJ, Abu-Alghayth MH. The dual role of autophagy in suppressing and promoting hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1472574. [PMID: 39463763 PMCID: PMC11502961 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1472574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 09/25/2024] [Indexed: 10/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The 5-year survival rate for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a deadly form of liver cancer, is quite low. Although drug therapy is successful, patients with advanced liver cancer frequently develop resistance because of the significant phenotypic and genetic heterogeneity of these cells. The overexpression of drug efflux transporters, downstream adaptive responses, malfunctioning DNA damage repair, epigenetic modification, the tumor microenvironment, and the extracellular matrix can all be linked to drug resistance. The evolutionary process of autophagy, which is in charge of intracellular breakdown, is intimately linked to medication resistance in HCC. Autophagy is involved in both the promotion and suppression of cancer by influencing treatment resistance, metastasis, carcinogenesis, and the viability of stem cells. Certain autophagy regulators are employed in anticancer treatment; however, because of the dual functions of autophagy, their use is restricted, and therapeutic failure is increased. By focusing on autophagy, it is possible to reduce HCC expansion and metastasis, and enhance tumor cell reactivity to treatment. Macroautophagy, the best-characterized type of autophagy, involves the formation of a sequestering compartment termed a phagophore, which surrounds and encloses aberrant or superfluous components. The phagophore matures into a double-membrane autophagosome that delivers the cargo to the lysosome; lysosomes and autophagosomes fuse to degrade and recycle the cargo. Macroautophagy plays dual functions in both promoting and suppressing cancer in a variety of cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wasnaa H. Mohammed
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Applied Sciences, University of Technology, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Ghassan M. Sulaiman
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Applied Sciences, University of Technology, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Mosleh M. Abomughaid
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Bisha, Bisha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Daniel J. Klionsky
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Mohammed H. Abu-Alghayth
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Bisha, Bisha, Saudi Arabia
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11
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Zhao Q, Han B, Peng C, Zhang N, Huang W, He G, Li JL. A promising future of metal-N-heterocyclic carbene complexes in medicinal chemistry: The emerging bioorganometallic antitumor agents. Med Res Rev 2024; 44:2194-2235. [PMID: 38591229 DOI: 10.1002/med.22039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Metal complexes based on N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands have emerged as promising broad-spectrum antitumor agents in bioorganometallic medicinal chemistry. In recent decades, studies on cytotoxic metal-NHC complexes have yielded numerous compounds exhibiting superior cytotoxicity compared to cisplatin. Although the molecular mechanisms of these anticancer complexes are not fully understood, some potential targets and modes of action have been identified. However, a comprehensive review of their biological mechanisms is currently absent. In general, apoptosis caused by metal-NHCs is common in tumor cells. They can cause a series of changes after entering cells, such as mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) variation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, cytochrome c (cyt c) release, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, lysosome damage, and caspase activation, ultimately leading to apoptosis. Therefore, a detailed understanding of the influence of metal-NHCs on cancer cell apoptosis is crucial. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of recent advances in metal-NHC complexes that trigger apoptotic cell death via different apoptosis-related targets or signaling pathways, including B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2 family), p53, cyt c, ER stress, lysosome damage, thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) inhibition, and so forth. We also discuss the challenges, limitations, and future directions of metal-NHC complexes to elucidate their emerging application in medicinal chemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Bo Han
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Cheng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Department of Dermatology & Venerolog, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Gu He
- Department of Dermatology & Venerolog, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jun-Long Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Anti-Infective Agent Creation Engineering Research Centre of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Industrial Institute of Antibiotics, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
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Hu K, Wu S, Xu J, Zhang Y, Zhang Y, Wu X, Miao J, Yao Y, Zhu S, Chen G, Ren J. Pongamol Alleviates Neuroinflammation and Promotes Autophagy in Alzheimer's Disease by Regulating the Akt/mTOR Signaling Pathway. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024. [PMID: 38841893 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c00836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), one of the neurodegenerative disorders, is highly correlated with the abnormal hyperphosphorylation of Tau and aggregation of β-amyloid (Aβ). Oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and abnormal autophagy are key drivers of AD and how they contribute to neuropathology remains largely unknown. The flavonoid compound pongamol is reported to possess a variety of pharmacological activities, such as antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory. This study investigated the neuroprotective effect and its mechanisms of pongamol in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced BV2 cells, d-galactose/sodium nitrite/aluminum chloride (d-gal/NaNO2/AlCl3)-induced AD mice, and Caenorhabditis elegans models. Our research revealed that pongamol reduced the release of inflammatory factors IL-1β, TNF-α, COX-2, and iNOS in LPS-induced BV2 cells. Pongamol also protected neurons and significantly restored memory function, inhibited Tau phosphorylation, downregulated Aβ aggregation, and increased oxidoreductase activity in the hippocampus of AD mice. In addition, pongamol reversed the nuclear transfer of NF-κB and increased the levels of Beclin 1 and LC3 II/LC3 I. Most importantly, the anti-inflammatory and promoter autophagy effects of pongamol may be related to the regulation of the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. In summary, these results showed that pongamol has a potential neuroprotective effect, which greatly enriched the research on the pharmacological activity of pongamol for improving AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, No. 1. Gehu Middle Road, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Shaojun Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, No. 1. Gehu Middle Road, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Jiaxin Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, No. 1. Gehu Middle Road, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Yongzhen Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, No. 1. Gehu Middle Road, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Yanan Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, No. 1. Gehu Middle Road, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Xinyuan Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, No. 1. Gehu Middle Road, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Jie Miao
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, No. 1. Gehu Middle Road, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Yongxu Yao
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, No. 1. Gehu Middle Road, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Susu Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, No. 1. Gehu Middle Road, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Guangtong Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, No. 19. Qixiu Road, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Jie Ren
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, No. 1. Gehu Middle Road, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
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13
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Fu J, Lin J, Dai Z, Lin B, Zhang J. Hypoxia-associated autophagy flux dysregulation in human cancers. Cancer Lett 2024; 590:216823. [PMID: 38521197 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
A general feature of cancer is hypoxia, determined as low oxygen levels. Low oxygen levels may cause cells to alter in ways that contribute to tumor growth and resistance to treatment. Hypoxia leads to variations in cancer cell metabolism, angiogenesis and metastasis. Furthermore, a hypoxic tumor microenvironment might induce immunosuppression. Moreover, hypoxia has the potential to impact cellular processes, such as autophagy. Autophagy refers to the catabolic process by which damaged organelles and toxic macromolecules are broken down. The abnormal activation of autophagy has been extensively recorded in human tumors and it serves as a regulator of cell growth, spread to other parts of the body, and resistance to treatment. There is a correlation between hypoxia and autophagy in human malignancies. Hypoxia can regulate the activity of AMPK, mTOR, Beclin-1, and ATGs to govern autophagy in human malignancies. Furthermore, HIF-1α, serving as an indicator of low oxygen levels, controls the process of autophagy. Hypoxia-induced autophagy has a crucial role in regulating the growth, spread, and resistance to treatment in human malignancies. Hypoxia-induced regulation of autophagy can impact other mechanisms of cell death, such as apoptosis. Chemoresistance and radioresistance have become significant challenges in recent years. Hypoxia-mediated autophagy plays a crucial role in determining the response to these therapeutic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiding Fu
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510095, China
| | - Jie Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510095, China
| | - Zili Dai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510095, China
| | - Baisheng Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510095, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510095, China.
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14
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Kapuy O. Mechanism of Decision Making between Autophagy and Apoptosis Induction upon Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4368. [PMID: 38673953 PMCID: PMC11050573 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Dynamic regulation of the cellular proteome is mainly controlled in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Accumulation of misfolded proteins due to ER stress leads to the activation of unfolded protein response (UPR). The primary role of UPR is to reduce the bulk of damages and try to drive back the system to the former or a new homeostatic state by autophagy, while an excessive level of stress results in apoptosis. It has already been proven that the proper order and characteristic features of both surviving and self-killing mechanisms are controlled by negative and positive feedback loops, respectively. The new results suggest that these feedback loops are found not only within but also between branches of the UPR, fine-tuning the response to ER stress. In this review, we summarize the recent knowledge of the dynamical characteristic of endoplasmic reticulum stress response mechanism by using both theoretical and molecular biological techniques. In addition, this review pays special attention to describing the mechanism of action of the dynamical features of the feedback loops controlling cellular life-and-death decision upon ER stress. Since ER stress appears in diseases that are common worldwide, a more detailed understanding of the behaviour of the stress response is of medical importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orsolya Kapuy
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Semmelweis University, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary
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15
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Milani SZ, Rezabakhsh A, Karimipour M, Salimi L, Mardi N, Narmi MT, Sadeghsoltani F, Valioglu F, Rahbarghazi R. Role of autophagy in angiogenic potential of vascular pericytes. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1347857. [PMID: 38380339 PMCID: PMC10877016 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1347857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The vasculature system is composed of a multiplicity of juxtaposed cells to generate a functional biological barrier between the blood and tissues. On the luminal surface of blood vessels, endothelial cells (ECs) are in close contact with circulating cells while supporting basal lamina and pericytes wrap the abluminal surface. Thus, the reciprocal interaction of pericytes with ECs is a vital element in the physiological activity of the vascular system. Several reports have indicated that the occurrence of pericyte dysfunction under ischemic and degenerative conditions results in varied micro and macro-vascular complications. Emerging evidence points to the fact that autophagy, a conserved self-digestive cell machinery, can regulate the activity of several cells like pericytes in response to various stresses and pathological conditions. Here, we aim to highlight the role of autophagic response in pericyte activity and angiogenesis potential following different pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soheil Zamen Milani
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Aysa Rezabakhsh
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Karimipour
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Leila Salimi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Narges Mardi
- Biotechnology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | | | - Ferzane Valioglu
- Technology Development Zones Management CO., Sakarya University, Sakarya, Türkiye
| | - Reza Rahbarghazi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Applied Cellular Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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16
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Liu S, Li X, Chen C, Lin X, Zuo W, Peng C, Jiang Q, Huang W, He G. Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of novel discoidin domain receptor inhibitors for the treatment of lung adenocarcinoma and pulmonary fibrosis. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 265:116100. [PMID: 38171149 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.116100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Discoidin domain receptors (DDR) play crucial roles in cell proliferation and differentiation. When DDRs are overexpressed, it has been associated with various diseases such as cancers, fibrotic disorders, and inflammation. This study aimed to expand on previous research by using a structure-based drug design approach to develop a series of new indole-urea derivatives as potent inhibitors of DDR1. Through biochemical analyses, it was found that these compounds effectively inhibited DDR1/2, with compound 7s demonstrating the highest activity against A549 cells (IC50 value of 1.84 μM) while maintaining selectivity for other kinases. In vivo studies showed that compound 7s exhibited stronger antitumor activity compared to dasatinib, without causing significant weight loss at a dose of 30 mg/kg. Further investigation revealed that compound 7s hindered the migration of A549 cells by targeting the ERK, Akt1, and EMT pathways. Additionally, cellular experiments demonstrated that compound 7s suppressed the activation of fibroblasts induced by TGF-β1. In vivo experiments confirmed that compound 7s, at a dose of 30 mg/kg, effectively inhibited DDR1 activation, resulting in a reduction of lung injury and fibrosis induced by bleomycin. Overall, these findings highlight the potential of these novel DDR1 inhibitors as promising therapeutic candidates for the treatment of DDR-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shangke Liu
- Department of Dermatology & Venerology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Department of Dermatology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610031, China
| | - Xiang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Can Chen
- Clinical Medical College, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610500, China; Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610500, China
| | - Xinyu Lin
- Department of Dermatology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610031, China
| | - Weifang Zuo
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Cheng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Qinglin Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610500, China.
| | - Wei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
| | - Gu He
- Department of Dermatology & Venerology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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