1
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Ghosh S, Das SK, Sinha K, Ghosh B, Sen K, Ghosh N, Sil PC. The Emerging Role of Natural Products in Cancer Treatment. Arch Toxicol 2024:10.1007/s00204-024-03786-3. [PMID: 38795134 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-024-03786-3] [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: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024]
Abstract
The exploration of natural products as potential agents for cancer treatment has garnered significant attention in recent years. In this comprehensive review, we delve into the diverse array of natural compounds, including alkaloids, carbohydrates, flavonoids, lignans, polyketides, saponins, tannins, and terpenoids, highlighting their emerging roles in cancer therapy. These compounds, derived from various botanical sources, exhibit a wide range of mechanisms of action, targeting critical pathways involved in cancer progression such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Through a meticulous examination of preclinical and clinical studies, we provide insights into the therapeutic potential of these natural products across different cancer types. Furthermore, we discuss the advantages and challenges associated with their use in cancer treatment, emphasizing the need for further research to optimize their efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and delivery methods. Overall, this review underscores the importance of natural products in advancing cancer therapeutics and paves the way for future investigations into their clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit Ghosh
- Department of Zoology, Ramakrishna Mission Vidyamandira, Belur Math, Howrah, 711202, India
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, Kolkata, 700054, India
| | - Sanjib Kumar Das
- Department of Zoology, Jhargram Raj College, Jhargram, 721507, India
| | - Krishnendu Sinha
- Department of Zoology, Jhargram Raj College, Jhargram, 721507, India.
| | - Biswatosh Ghosh
- Department of Zoology, Bidhannagar College, Kolkata, 700064, India
| | - Koushik Sen
- Department of Zoology, Jhargram Raj College, Jhargram, 721507, India
| | - Nabanita Ghosh
- Department of Zoology, Maulana Azad College, Kolkata, 700013, India
| | - Parames C Sil
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, Kolkata, 700054, India.
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2
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Kazemi A, Iraji A, Esmaealzadeh N, Salehi M, Hashempur MH. Peppermint and menthol: a review on their biochemistry, pharmacological activities, clinical applications, and safety considerations. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2024:1-26. [PMID: 38168664 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2023.2296991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
In this manuscript, we conducted a comprehensive review of the diverse effects of peppermint on human health and explored the potential underlying mechanisms. Peppermint contains three main groups of phytochemical constituents, including essential oils (mainly menthol), flavonoids (such as hesperidin, eriodictyol, naringenin, quercetin, myricetin, and kaempferol), and nonflavonoid phenolcarboxylic acids. Peppermint exhibits antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anti-cancer, anti-aging, and analgesic properties and may be effective in treating various disorders, including gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome, dyspepsia, constipation, functional gastrointestinal disorders, nausea/vomiting, and gallbladder stones). In addition, peppermint has therapeutic benefits for psychological and cognitive health, dental health, urinary retention, skin and wound healing, as well as anti-depressant and anti-anxiety effects, and it may improve memory. However, peppermint has paradoxical effects on sleep quality and alertness, as it has been shown to improve sleep quality in patients with fatigue and anxiety, while also increasing alertness under conditions of monotonous work and relaxation. We also discuss its protective effects against toxic agents at recommended doses, as well as its safety and potential toxicity. Overall, this review provides the latest findings and insights into the properties and clinical effects of peppermint/menthol and highlights its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for various health conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma Kazemi
- Nutrition Research Center, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Aida Iraji
- Research Center for Traditional Medicine and History of Medicine, Department of Persian Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Stem Cells Technology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Niusha Esmaealzadeh
- Department of Traditional Pharmacy, School of Persian Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Traditional Persian Medicine and Complementary Medicine (PerCoMed) Student Association, Students' Scientific Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Salehi
- Traditional and Complementary Medicine Research Center (TCMRC), Department of Traditional Medicine, School of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hashem Hashempur
- Research Center for Traditional Medicine and History of Medicine, Department of Persian Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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3
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Zhao Y, Pan H, Liu W, Liu E, Pang Y, Gao H, He Q, Liao W, Yao Y, Zeng J, Guo J. Menthol: An underestimated anticancer agent. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1148790. [PMID: 37007039 PMCID: PMC10063798 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1148790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Menthol, a widely used natural, active compound, has recently been shown to have anticancer activity. Moreover, it has been found to have a promising future in the treatment of various solid tumors. Therefore, using literature from PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Ovid, ScienceDirect, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases, the present study reviewed the anticancer activity of menthol and the underlying mechanism. Menthol has a good safety profile and exerts its anticancer activity via multiple pathways and targets. As a result, it has gained popularity for significantly inhibiting different types of cancer cells by various mechanisms such as induction of apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, disruption of tubulin polymerization, and inhibition of tumor angiogenesis. Owing to the excellent anticancer activity menthol has demonstrated, further research is warranted for developing it as a novel anticancer agent. However, there are limitations and gaps in the current research on menthol, and its antitumor mechanism has not been completely elucidated. It is expected that more basic experimental and clinical studies focusing on menthol and its derivatives will eventually help in its clinical application as a novel anticancer agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijia Zhao
- Dermatological Department, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Huafeng Pan
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - E. Liu
- Dermatological Department, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yaobin Pang
- Dermatological Department, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongjin Gao
- Dermatological Department, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Qingying He
- Dermatological Department, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenhao Liao
- Dermatological Department, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yejing Yao
- Dermatological Department, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jinhao Zeng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Jinhao Zeng, ; Jing Guo,
| | - Jing Guo
- Dermatological Department, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Jinhao Zeng, ; Jing Guo,
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4
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Research on the chemical composition of Mentha haplocalyx volatile oils from different geographical origins by comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography/time-of-flight mass spectrometry in combination with principal component analysis and the enrichment of bioactive compounds by particle-assisted solvent sublation. Microchem J 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.microc.2023.108477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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5
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Naksawat M, Norkaew C, Charoensedtasin K, Roytrakul S, Tanyong D. Anti-leukemic effect of menthol, a peppermint compound, on induction of apoptosis and autophagy. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15049. [PMID: 36923503 PMCID: PMC10010179 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Menthol, a natural compound in peppermint leaves, has several biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial and anticancer properties. This study revealed the anti-leukemic effects and its underlying mechanisms of the menthol related apoptosis signaling pathway and autophagy in both NB4 and Molt-4 leukemic cell lines. Methods Both leukemic cells were treated with menthol in various concentration. Cell viability was assessed using MTT assay, whereas apoptosis and autophagy were analyzed by flow cytometry using Annexin V-FITC/PI and anti-LC3/FITC antibodies staining, respectively. Apoptotic and autophagic related gene and protein expression were detected using RT-qPCR and western blot analysis, respectively. Moreover, STITCH database was used to predicts the interaction between menthol and proposed proteins. Results Menthol significantly decreased cell viability in NB4 and Molt-4 cell lines in dose dependent manner. In combination of menthol and daunorubicin, synergistic cytotoxic effects were observed in leukemic cells. However, there was a minimal effect found on normal, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Moreover, menthol significantly induced apoptosis induction via upregulation of caspase-3, BAX, p53 and downregulation of MDM2 mRNA expression. Autophagy was also induced by menthol through upregulating ATG3 and downregulating mTOR mRNA expression. For protein expression, menthol significantly increased caspase-3 whereas decreased mTOR in both leukemic cells. Conclusions. These results suggest that menthol exhibits cytotoxic activities by inhibition of cell proliferation, induction of apoptosis and autophagy through activating the caspase cascade, altering BAX and p53/MDM2, and regulating autophagy via the ATG3/mTOR signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mashima Naksawat
- Department of Clinical Microscopy, Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Chosita Norkaew
- Department of Clinical Microscopy, Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Kantorn Charoensedtasin
- Department of Clinical Microscopy, Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Sittiruk Roytrakul
- Functional Proteomics Technology Laboratory, Functional Ingredients and Food Innovation Research Group, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, National Science and Technology for Development Agency, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Dalina Tanyong
- Department of Clinical Microscopy, Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
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Menthol Inhibits Candida albicans Growth by Affecting the Membrane Integrity Followed by Apoptosis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:1297888. [PMID: 36337581 PMCID: PMC9635957 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1297888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Inclusion of Candida albicans in the list of pathogens with potential drug resistance threat in recent years has compelled scientists to explore novel and potent antifungal agents. In this study, we have evaluated anti-Candida potential of menthol against different growth forms and synergistic potential with fluconazole. Menthol inhibited planktonic growth of all the isolates completely at ≤3.58 mM and killed 99.9% inoculum at MIC, indicating that menthol is fungicidal. Menthol inhibited hyphal form growth completely at 0.62 mM. It has inhibited developing a biofilm by 79% at 3.58 mM, exhibiting excellent activity against recalcitrant biofilms. FIC index values of 0.182 and 0.093 indicate excellent synergistic activity between fluconazole and menthol against planktonic and biofilm growth, respectively. Menthol enhanced rate of OxPhos among 22% cells; arrested 71% cells at G2-M phase of cell cycle and induced apoptosis in 15% cells. Thus, menthol exhibits excellent anti-Candida activity against differentially susceptible isolates as well as various growth and morphological forms of C. albicans. Menthol affects membrane integrity thereby inducing oxidative stress followed by cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Considering the excellent anti-Candida potential and as it is Generally Recognized as Safe by the Food and Drug Administration, it may find use in antifungal chemotherapy, alone or in combination.
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Therapeutic Potential of Certain Terpenoids as Anticancer Agents: A Scoping Review. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051100. [PMID: 35267408 PMCID: PMC8909202 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a life-threatening disease and is considered to be among the leading causes of death worldwide. Chemoresistance, severe toxicity, relapse and metastasis are the major obstacles in cancer therapy. Therefore, introducing new therapeutic agents for cancer remains a priority to increase the range of effective treatments. Terpenoids, a large group of secondary metabolites, are derived from plant sources and are composed of several isoprene units. The high diversity of terpenoids has drawn attention to their potential anticancer and pharmacological activities. Some terpenoids exhibit an anticancer effect by triggering various stages of cancer progression, for example, suppressing the early stage of tumorigenesis via induction of cell cycle arrest, inhibiting cancer cell differentiation and activating apoptosis. At the late stage of cancer development, certain terpenoids are able to inhibit angiogenesis and metastasis via modulation of different intracellular signaling pathways. Significant progress in the identification of the mechanism of action and signaling pathways through which terpenoids exert their anticancer effects has been highlighted. Hence, in this review, the anticancer activities of twenty-five terpenoids are discussed in detail. In addition, this review provides insights on the current clinical trials and future directions towards the development of certain terpenoids as potential anticancer agents.
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8
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Zielińska-Błajet M, Pietrusiak P, Feder-Kubis J. Selected Monocyclic Monoterpenes and Their Derivatives as Effective Anticancer Therapeutic Agents. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:4763. [PMID: 33946245 PMCID: PMC8124601 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Terpenes-a diverse group of secondary metabolites-constitute the largest class of natural products abundant in almost every plant species. The properties of concrete terpenes and essential oils have been intensively studied due to their widespread use in the pharmaceutical, food and cosmetics industries. Despite the popularity of these aromatic compounds, their derivatives, terpenoids, are still not comprehensively characterized despite exhibiting potent bioactive properties. This review aims to assess the anticancer properties of selected monoterpenes including carvone, carvacrol, perillyl alcohol, perillaldehyde, limonene, menthol and their derivatives while also evaluating potential applications as novel anticancer treatments. Special attention is paid to functional groups that improve the bioactivity of monoterpene molecules. This review also covers the therapeutic potential of deep eutectic solvents that contain monoterpene substances. Taken together, the literature supports the use of monoterpene derivatives in the development of new alternatives for disease treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariola Zielińska-Błajet
- Faculty of Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370 Wrocław, Poland;
| | | | - Joanna Feder-Kubis
- Faculty of Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370 Wrocław, Poland;
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9
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Transcriptome Analysis of the Anti-TGFβ Effect of Schisandra chinensis Fruit Extract and Schisandrin B in A7r5 Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11020163. [PMID: 33672474 PMCID: PMC7926316 DOI: 10.3390/life11020163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Schisandra chinensis fruit extract (SCE) has been used as a traditional medicine for treating vascular diseases. However, little is known about how SCE and schisandrin B (SchB) affect transcriptional output-a crucial factor for shaping the fibrotic responses of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) signaling pathways in in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). In this study, to assess the pharmacological effect of SCE and SchB on TGFβ-induced transcriptional output, we performed DNA microarray experiments in A7r5 VSMCs. We found that TGFβ induced distinctive changes in the gene expression profile and that these changes were considerably reversed by SCE and SchB. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) with Hallmark signature suggested that SCE or SchB inhibits a range of fibrosis-associated biological processes, including inflammation, cell proliferation and migration. With our VSMC-specific transcriptional interactome network, master regulator analysis identified crucial transcription factors that regulate the expression of SCE- and SchB-effective genes (i.e., TGFβ-reactive genes whose expression are reversed by SCE and SchB). Our results provide novel perspective and insight into understanding the pharmacological action of SCE and SchB at the transcriptome level and will support further investigations to develop multitargeted strategies for the treatment of vascular fibrosis.
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10
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Gao C, Liang J, Zhu Y, Ling C, Cheng Z, Li R, Qin J, Lu W, Wang J. Menthol-modified casein nanoparticles loading 10-hydroxycamptothecin for glioma targeting therapy. Acta Pharm Sin B 2019; 9:843-857. [PMID: 31384543 PMCID: PMC6663921 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2019.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2018] [Revised: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy outcomes for the treatment of glioma remains unsatisfactory due to the inefficient drug transport across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and insufficient drug accumulation in the tumor region. Although many approaches, including various nanosystems, have been developed to promote the distribution of chemotherapeutics in the brain tumor, the delivery efficiency and the possible damage to the normal brain function still greatly restrict the clinical application of the nanocarriers. Therefore, it is urgent and necessary to discover more safe and effective BBB penetration and glioma-targeting strategies. In the present study, menthol, one of the strongest BBB penetration enhancers screened from traditional Chinese medicine, was conjugated to casein, a natural food protein with brain targeting capability. Then the conjugate self-assembled into the nanoparticles to load anti-cancer drugs. The nanoparticles were characterized to have appropriate size, spheroid shape and high loading drug capacity. Tumor spheroid penetration experiments demonstrated that penetration ability of menthol-modified casein nanoparticles (M-CA-NP) into the tumor were much deeper than that of unmodified nanoparticles. In vivo imaging further verified that M-CA-NPs exhibited higher brain tumor distribution than unmodified nanoparticles. The median survival time of glioma-bearing mice treated with HCPT-M-CA-NPs was significantly prolonged than those treated with free HCPT or HCPT-CA-NPs. HE staining of the organs indicated the safety of the nanoparticles. Therefore, the study combined the advantages of traditional Chinese medicine strategy with modern delivery technology for brain targeting, and provide a safe and effective approach for glioma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caifang Gao
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, Shanghai 201203, China
- Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jianming Liang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, Shanghai 201203, China
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Ying Zhu
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Chengli Ling
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Zhekang Cheng
- School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Ruixiang Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jing Qin
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Weigen Lu
- Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai 201203, China
- Corresponding authors. Fax: +86 21 51980087.
| | - Jianxin Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, Shanghai 201203, China
- Corresponding authors. Fax: +86 21 51980087.
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Currin A, Dunstan MS, Johannissen LO, Hollywood KA, Vinaixa M, Jervis AJ, Swainston N, Rattray NJW, Gardiner JM, Kell DB, Takano E, Toogood HS, Scrutton NS. Engineering the "Missing Link" in Biosynthetic (-)-Menthol Production: Bacterial Isopulegone Isomerase. ACS Catal 2018; 8:2012-2020. [PMID: 29750129 PMCID: PMC5937688 DOI: 10.1021/acscatal.7b04115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Revised: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
![]()
The
realization of a synthetic biology approach to microbial (1R,2S,5R)-(−)-menthol (1) production relies on the identification
of a gene encoding an isopulegone isomerase (IPGI), the only enzyme
in the Mentha piperita biosynthetic
pathway as yet unidentified. We demonstrate that Δ5-3-ketosteroid
isomerase (KSI) from Pseudomonas putida can act as an IPGI, producing (R)-(+)-pulegone
((R)-2) from (+)-cis-isopulegone (3). Using a robotics-driven semirational
design strategy, we identified a key KSI variant encoding four active
site mutations, which confer a 4.3-fold increase in activity over
the wild-type enzyme. This was assisted by the generation of crystal
structures of four KSI variants, combined with molecular modeling
of 3 binding to identify key active site residue targets.
The KSI variant was demonstrated to function efficiently within cascade
biocatalytic reactions with downstream Mentha enzymes pulegone reductase and (−)-menthone:(−)-menthol
reductase to generate 1 from 3. This study
introduces the use of a recombinant IPGI, engineered to function efficiently
within a biosynthetic pathway for the production of 1 in microorganisms.
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Schisandrol B and schisandrin B inhibit TGFβ1-mediated NF-κB activation via a Smad-independent mechanism. Oncotarget 2017; 9:3121-3130. [PMID: 29423034 PMCID: PMC5790451 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.23213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Aberrant transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) signaling plays a pathogenic role in the development of vascular fibrosis. We have reported that Schisandra chinensis fruit extract (SCE), which has been used as a traditional oriental medicine, suppresses TGFβ1-mediated phenotypes in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). However, it is still largely unknown about the pharmacologic effects of SCE on various TGFβ1 signaling components. In this study, we found that SCE attenuated TGFβ1-induced NF-κB activation and nuclear translocation in VSMCs. Among the five active ingredients of SCE that were examined, schisandrol B (SolB) and schisandrin B (SchB) most potently suppressed TGFβ1-mediated NF-κB activation. In addition, SolB and SchB effectively inhibited IKKα/β activation and IκBα phosphorylation in TGFβ1-treated VSMCs. The pharmacologic effects of SolB and SchB on NF-κB activation were independent of the Smad-mediated canonical pathway. Therefore, our study demonstrates that SCE and its active constituents SolB and SchB suppress TGFβ1-mediated NF-κB signaling pathway in a Smad-independent mechanism. Our results may help further investigations to develop novel multi-targeted therapeutic strategies that treat or prevent vascular fibrotic diseases.
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GC Method Validation for the Analysis of Menthol in Suppository Pharmaceutical Dosage Form. Int J Anal Chem 2017; 2017:1728414. [PMID: 28367216 PMCID: PMC5358475 DOI: 10.1155/2017/1728414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2016] [Revised: 01/22/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Menthol is widely used as a fragrance and flavor in the food and cosmetic industries. It is also used in the medical and pharmaceutical fields for its various biological effects. Gas chromatography (GC) is considered to be a sensitive method for the analysis of menthol. GC chromatographic separation was developed using capillary column (VF-624) and a flame ionization detector (FID). The method was validated as per ICH guidelines for various parameters such as precision, linearity, accuracy, solution stability, robustness, limit of detection, and quantification. The tested validation parameters were found to be within acceptable limits. The method was successfully applied for the quantification of menthol in suppositories formulations. Quality control departments and official pharmacopeias can use our developed method in the analysis of menthol in pharmaceutical dosage formulation and raw material.
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Lee S, Park YR, Kim SH, Park EJ, Kang MJ, So I, Chun JN, Jeon JH. Geraniol suppresses prostate cancer growth through down-regulation of E2F8. Cancer Med 2016; 5:2899-2908. [PMID: 27683099 PMCID: PMC5083744 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Revised: 07/04/2016] [Accepted: 07/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Geraniol, an acyclic dietary monoterpene, has been found to suppress cancer survival and growth. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the antitumor action of geraniol has not been investigated at the genome-wide level. In this study, we analyzed the microarray data obtained from geraniol-treated prostate cancer cells. Geraniol potently altered a gene expression profile and primarily down-regulated cell cycle-related gene signatures, compared to linalool, another structurally similar monoterpene that induces no apparent phenotypic changes. Master regulator analysis using the prostate cancer-specific regulatory interactome identified that the transcription factor E2F8 as a specific target molecule regulates geraniol-specific cell cycle signatures. Subsequent experiments confirmed that geraniol down-regulated E2F8 expression and the knockdown of E2F8 was sufficient to suppress cell growth by inducing G2 /M arrest. Epidemiological analysis showed that E2F8 is up-regulated in metastatic prostate cancer and associated with poor prognosis. These results indicate that E2F8 is a crucial transcription regulator controlling cell cycle and survival in prostate cancer cells. Therefore, our study provides insight into the role of E2F8 in prostate cancer biology and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanghoon Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84112 5650
| | - Yu Rang Park
- Office of Clinical Research Information, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05535, Korea
| | - Su-Hwa Kim
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Korea
| | - Eun-Jung Park
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Korea
| | - Min Ji Kang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05535, Korea
| | - Insuk So
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Korea.,Institute of Human-Environment Interface Biology, Seoul National University, Seoul, 03080, Korea
| | - Jung Nyeo Chun
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Korea. .,Institute of Human-Environment Interface Biology, Seoul National University, Seoul, 03080, Korea.
| | - Ju-Hong Jeon
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Korea. .,Institute of Human-Environment Interface Biology, Seoul National University, Seoul, 03080, Korea.
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15
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Yeap S, Akhtar MN, Lim KL, Abu N, Ho WY, Zareen S, Roohani K, Ky H, Tan SW, Lajis N, Alitheen NB. Synthesis of an anthraquinone derivative (DHAQC) and its effect on induction of G2/M arrest and apoptosis in breast cancer MCF-7 cell line. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2015; 9:983-92. [PMID: 25733816 PMCID: PMC4338775 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s65468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Anthraquinones are an important class of naturally occurring biologically active compounds. In this study, anthraquinone derivative 1,3-dihydroxy-9,10-anthraquinone-2- carboxylic acid (DHAQC) (2) was synthesized with 32% yield through the Friedel–Crafts condensation reaction. The mechanisms of cytotoxicity of DHAQC (2) in human breast cancer MCF-7 cells were further investigated. Results from the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay showed that DHAQC (2) exhibited potential cytotoxicity and selectivity in the MCF-7 cell line, comparable with the naturally occurring anthraquinone damnacanthal. DHAQC (2) showed a slightly higher IC50 (inhibitory concentration with 50% cell viability) value in the MCF-7 cell line compared to damnacanthal, but it is more selective in terms of the ratio of IC50 on MCF-7 cells and normal MCF-10A cells. (selective index for DHAQC (2) was 2.3 and 1.7 for damnacanthal). The flow cytometry cell cycle analysis on the MCF-7 cell line treated with the IC50 dose of DHAQC (2) for 48 hours showed that DHAQC (2) arrested MCF-7 cell line at the G2/M phase in association with an inhibited expression of PLK1 genes. Western blot analysis also indicated that the DHAQC (2) increased BAX, p53, and cytochrome c levels in MCF-7 cells, which subsequently activated apoptosis as observed in annexin V/propidium iodide and cell cycle analyses. These results indicate that DHAQC (2) is a synthetic, cytotoxic, and selective anthraquinone, which is less toxic than the natural product damnacanthal, and which demonstrates potential in the induction of apoptosis in the breast cancer MCF-7 cell line.
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Affiliation(s)
- SweeKeong Yeap
- Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Nadeem Akhtar
- Faculty of Industrial Sciences and Technology, Universiti Malaysia Pahang, Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
| | - Kian Lam Lim
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Nadiah Abu
- Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia ; Bright Sparks Unit, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Wan Yong Ho
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Seema Zareen
- Faculty of Industrial Sciences and Technology, Universiti Malaysia Pahang, Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
| | - Kiarash Roohani
- Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Huynh Ky
- Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Sheau Wei Tan
- Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Nordin Lajis
- Scientific Chairs Unit, Taibah University, Medina, Saudi Arabia
| | - Noorjahan Banu Alitheen
- Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia ; Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
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16
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Phytochemicals: a multitargeted approach to gynecologic cancer therapy. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:890141. [PMID: 25093186 PMCID: PMC4100437 DOI: 10.1155/2014/890141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2014] [Accepted: 06/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Gynecologic cancers constitute the fourth most common cancer type in women. Treatment outcomes are dictated by a multitude of factors, including stage at diagnosis, tissue type, and overall health of the patient. Current therapeutic options include surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, although significant unmet medical needs remain in regard to side effects and long-term survival. The efficacy of chemotherapy is influenced by cellular events such as the overexpression of oncogenes and downregulation of tumor suppressors, which together determine apoptotic responses. Phytochemicals are a broad class of natural compounds derived from plants, a number of which exhibit useful bioactive effects toward these pathways. High-throughput screening methods, rational modification, and developments in regulatory policies will accelerate the development of novel therapeutics based on these compounds, which will likely improve overall survival and quality of life for patients.
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17
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Kamatou GPP, Vermaak I, Viljoen AM, Lawrence BM. Menthol: a simple monoterpene with remarkable biological properties. PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2013; 96:15-25. [PMID: 24054028 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2013.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 217] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2013] [Accepted: 08/09/2013] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Menthol is a cyclic monoterpene alcohol which possesses well-known cooling characteristics and a residual minty smell of the oil remnants from which it was obtained. Because of these attributes it is one of the most important flavouring additives besides vanilla and citrus. Due to this reason it is used in a variety of consumer products ranging from confections such as chocolate and chewing gum to oral-care products such as toothpaste as well as in over-the-counter medicinal products for its cooling and biological effects. Its cooling effects are not exclusive to medicinal use. Approximately one quarter of the cigarettes on the market contain menthol and small amounts of menthol are even included in non-mentholated cigarettes. Natural menthol is isolated exclusively from Mentha canadensis, but can also be synthesised on industrial scale through various processes. Although menthol exists in eight stereoisomeric forms, (-)-menthol from the natural source and synthesised menthol with the same structure is the most preferred isomer. The demand for menthol is high and it was previously estimated that the worldwide use of menthol was 30-32,000 metric tonnes per annum. Menthol is not a predominant compound of the essential oils as it can only be found as a constituent of a limited number of aromatic plants. These plants are known to exhibit biological activity in vitro and in vivo such as antibacterial, antifungal, antipruritic, anticancer and analgesic effects, and are also an effective fumigant. In addition, menthol is one of the most effective terpenes used to enhance the dermal penetration of pharmaceuticals. This review summarises the chemical and biological properties of menthol and highlights its cooling effects and toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy P P Kamatou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
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18
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Icilin inhibits E2F1-mediated cell cycle regulatory programs in prostate cancer. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2013; 441:1005-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2013.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2013] [Accepted: 11/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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