Caspase-3/MAPK pathways as main regulators of the apoptotic effect of the phyto-mediated synthesized silver nanoparticle from dried stem of Eleutherococcus senticosus in human cancer cells

Green Synthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles Using Moringa Peregrina and Their Toxicity on MCF-7 and Caco-2 Human Cancer Cells

Introduction

The synthesis of nanoparticles using naturally occurring reagents such as vitamins, sugars, plant extracts, biodegradable polymers and microorganisms as reductants and capping agents could be considered attractive for nanotechnology. These syntheses have led to the fabrication of limited number of inorganic nanoparticles. Among the reagents mentioned above, plant-based materials seem to be the best candidates, and they are suitable for large-scale biosynthesis of nanoparticles.

Methods

The aqueous extract of Moringa peregrina leaves was used to synthesize silver nanoparticles. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by various spectral studies including FT-IR, SEM, HR-TEM and XRD. In addition, the antioxidant activity of the silver nanoparticles was studied viz. DPPH, ABTS, hydroxyl radical scavenging, superoxide radical scavenging, nitric oxide scavenging potential and reducing power with varied concentrations. The anticancer potential of the nanoparticles was also studied against MCF-7 and Caco-2 cancer cell lines.

Results

The results showed that silver nanoparticles displayed strong antioxidant activity compared with gallic acid. Furthermore, the anticancer potential of the nanoparticles against MCF-7 and Caco-2 in comparison with the standard Doxorubicin revealed that the silver nanoparticles produced significant toxic effects against the studied cancer cell lines with the IC50 values of 41.59 (Caco-2) and 26.93 (MCF-7) µg/mL.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the biosynthesized nanoparticles using M. peregrina leaf aqueous extract as a reducing agent showed good antioxidant and anticancer potential on human cancer cells and can be used in biological applications.

Bimetallic Gold/Silver and Bioactive Camptothecin Hybrid Nanoparticles for Eradication of Cancer Stem Cells in a Combination Manner

The defeat of cancer is still a challenge due to the existence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) because they resist conventional chemotherapy via multifactor regulated mechanisms. Consequently, one-dimensional action toward CSCs cannot work. Herein, we used rationally designed hybrid nanoparticles as a combined cancer therapy, hoping to form a multidimensional control network. In this paper, gold/silver alloy nanoparticle decorated camptothecin nanocrystals were formulated according to complementary anti-CSC mechanisms from gold, silver, and organic drug. This smart drug formulation could combine chemotherapy and thermotherapy, target different tumor sites, and demonstrate versatile toxicity profiles from each component. Major results indicated that this nanosystem demonstrated indiscriminately effective cytotoxic/proapoptotic/necrotic activity against bulk MCF-7 cells and their CSC subpopulation, in particular under laser ablation. Moreover, this nanosystem displayed enhanced antineoplastic activity against CSC spheroids, resulting in a significant reduction in their number and size, that is, their self-renewal capacity. All the results indicated that CSCs upon treatment of these new hybrid nanoparticles underwent reduced stemness and conversion from the original quiescent state and recovered their sensitivity toward chemotherapy. The relevant anticancer mechanism was ascribed to NIR-pH dual responsive drug release, synergistic/combined thermo-chemotherapy of organic drug and inorganic alloy nanoparticles, enhanced cellular uptake mediated by alloy nanoparticles, and Ag+-induced biomembrane damage. This thermo-chemotherapy platform provides a new combinatorial strategy for inorganic and organic agents in the complete elimination of CSCs.

Caspase-driven cancer therapies: Navigating the bridge between lab discoveries and clinical applications

Apoptosis is the cell's natural intrinsic regulatory mechanism of normal cells for programmed cell death, which plays an important role in cancer as a classical mechanism of tumor cell death causing minimal inflammation without causing damage to other cells in the vicinity. Induction of apoptosis by activation of caspases is one of the primary targets for cancer treatment. Over the years, a diverse range of natural, synthetic, and semisynthetic compounds and their derivatives have been investigated for their caspase-mediated apoptosis-induced anticancer activities. The review aims to compile the preclinical evidence and highlight the critical mechanistic pathways related to caspase-induced cell apoptosis in cancer treatment. The focus is placed on the key components of the mechanisms, including their chemical nature, and specific attention is given to phytochemicals derived from natural sources and synthetic and semisynthetic compounds. 180+ compounds from the past two decades with potential as anticancer agents are discussed in this review article. By summarizing the current knowledge and advancements in this field, this review provides a comprehensive overview of potential therapeutic strategies targeting apoptosis in cancer cells. The findings presented herein contribute to the ongoing efforts to combat cancer and stimulate further research into the development of effective and targeted anticancer therapies.

Sustainable fabrication of hybrid silver-copper nanocomposites (Ag-CuO NCs) using Ocimum americanum L. as an effective regime against antibacterial, anticancer, photocatalytic dye degradation and microalgae toxicity

In this study, a sustainable fabrication of hybrid silver-copper oxide nanocomposites (Ag-CuO NCs) was accomplished utilizing Ocimum americanum L. by one pot green chemistry method. The multifarious biological and environmental applications of the green fabricated Ag-CuO NCs were evaluated through their antibacterial, anticancer, dye degradation, and microalgae growth inhibition activities. The morphological features of the surface functionalized hybrid Ag-CuO NCs were confirmed by FE-SEM and HR-TEM techniques. The surface plasmon resonance λ_max peak appeared at 441.56 nm. The average hydrodynamic size distribution of synthesized nanocomposite was 69.80 nm. Zeta potential analysis of Ag-CuO NCs confirmed its remarkable stability at -21.5 mV. XRD and XPS techniques validated the crystalline structure and electron binding affinity of NCs, respectively. The Ag-CuO NCs demonstrated excellent inhibitory activity against Vibrio cholerae (19.93 ± 0.29 mm) at 100 μg/mL. Anticancer efficacy of Ag-CuO NCs was investigated against the A549 lung cancer cell line, and Ag-CuO NCs exhibited outstanding antiproliferative activity with a low IC₅₀ of 2.8 ± 0.05 μg/mL. Furthermore, staining and comet assays substantiated that the Ag-CuO NCs hindered the progression of the A549 cells and induced apoptosis as a result of cell cycle arrest at the G₀/G₁ phase. Concerning the environmental applications, the Ag-CuO NCs displayed efficient photocatalytic activity against eosin yellow degradation up to 80.94% under sunlight irradiation. Microalgae can be used as an early bio-indicator/prediction of environmental contaminants and toxic substances. The treatment of the Ag-CuO NCs on the growth of marine microalgae Tetraselmis suecica demonstrated the dose and time-dependent growth reduction and variations in the chlorophyll content. Therefore, the efficient multifunctional properties of hybrid Ag-CuO NCs could be exploited as a regime against infective diseases and cancer. Further, the findings of our investigation witness the remarkable scope and potency of Ag-CuO NCs for environmental applications.

The Role of Silver Nanoparticles in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Cancer: Are There Any Perspectives for the Future?

Cancer is a fatal disease with a complex pathophysiology. Lack of specificity and cytotoxicity, as well as the multidrug resistance of traditional cancer chemotherapy, are the most common limitations that often cause treatment failure. Thus, in recent years, significant efforts have concentrated on the development of a modernistic field called nano-oncology, which provides the possibility of using nanoparticles (NPs) with the aim to detect, target, and treat cancer diseases. In comparison with conventional anticancer strategies, NPs provide a targeted approach, preventing undesirable side effects. What is more, nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems have shown good pharmacokinetics and precise targeting, as well as reduced multidrug resistance. It has been documented that, in cancer cells, NPs promote reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, induce cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, activate ER (endoplasmic reticulum) stress, modulate various signaling pathways, etc. Furthermore, their ability to inhibit tumor growth in vivo has also been documented. In this paper, we have reviewed the role of silver NPs (AgNPs) in cancer nanomedicine, discussing numerous mechanisms by which they render anticancer properties under both in vitro and in vivo conditions, as well as their potential in the diagnosis of cancer.

Apoptotic changes in the intestinal epithelium of Cryptosporidium-infected mice after silver nanoparticles treatment versus nitazoxanide

Cryptosporidium has been identified as one of the prevalent opportunistic parasites that cause diarrhea, which may be persistent and fatal. Current chemotherapeutic agents, including nitazoxanide (NTZ), are frequently associated with therapeutic failure, and their roles in the induction of apoptosis in cryptosporidiosis remain to be a topic of debate. Thus, this study aimed to assess the apoptotic changes in cryptosporidiosis in immunocompetent (IC) and immunosuppressed (IS) mice after treatment with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and NTZ either alone or after loading. In total, 120 laboratory-bred Swiss albino mice were divided into two groups. Group A included IC mice, while Group B included IS mice. Both groups were divided into six subgroups: noninfected nontreated, infected nontreated, infected AgNP-treated, infected NTZ-treated, infected AgNP-loaded NTZ (full-dose)-treated, and infected AgNP-loaded NTZ (half-dose)-treated. The assessment was achieved through parasitological, histopathological, and apoptotic marker expression evaluation. AgNP-loaded NTZ (different doses) treatment showed the highest oocyst shedding reduction and remarkable improvement in histopathological changes, followed by individual treatment with NTZ and then AgNPs in IC and IS mice. Results of apoptotic marker expression revealed that AgNP-loaded NTZ treatment exhibited a promising role in regulating apoptotic changes in cryptosporidiosis through the expression of the lowest levels of cytochrome C and caspase-3 in IC and IS mice at the end of the experiment. Therefore, AgNP-loaded NTZ can be a potential therapeutic agent against cryptosporidiosis for IC and IS mice.

Inorganic nanoparticle-based advanced cancer therapies: promising combination strategies

Inorganic nanoparticles for drug delivery in cancer treatment offer many potential advantages because they can maximize therapeutic effect through targeting ligands while minimizing off-target side-effects through drug adsorption and infiltration. Although inorganic nanoparticles were introduced as drug carriers, they have emerged as having the capacity for combined therapeutic capabilities, including anticancer effects through cytotoxicity, suppression of oncogenes and cancer cell signaling pathway inhibition. The most promising advanced strategies for cancer therapy are as synergistic platforms for RNA interference (siRNA, miRNA, shRNA) and as synergistic drug delivery agents for the inhibition of cancer cell signaling pathways. The present work summarizes relevant current work, the promise of which is suggested by a projected compound annual growth rate of ∼20% for drug delivery alone.

Exploring potential mechanism of ciwujia tablets for insomnia by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS, network pharmacology, and experimental validation

Insomnia, whether chronic or intermittent, is a common central nervous system disease. Ciwujia Tablet (CWT) is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) made from the extract of Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. & Maxim.) Maxim. This medication is commonly used for treating insomnia in China, but the lack of in-depth research focused on the chemical ingredients of CWT creates a gap in knowledge regarding its effective constituents against insomnia. Considering that the therapeutic material basis, targets, and pathways related to this drug have not been fully investigated by scholars in the field, the focus of this study is on identifying the chemical ingredients or structural characteristics of CWT by the UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS technique. Besides, concepts of network pharmacology were also used to investigate the targets and pathways of CWT. An insomnia rat model was established by intraperitoneal injection of p-chlorophenylalanine, and the results were verified through various experiments. A total of 46 ingredients were identified in CWT, such as eleutheroside B, eleutheroside E, isofraxidin, and chlorogenic acid. Among them, 17 ingredients with good solubility, favorable gastrointestinal absorption, and high bioavailability were selected for network pharmacological analysis. It was concluded that CWT participated in the regulation of neurotransmitter levels, modulation of ion transport, neurotransmitter receptor activity, synaptic transmission, dopaminergic transmission and other essential processes. Results from the animal experiments showed that CWT can increase the content of inhibitory neurotransmitters 5-HT and GABA in the brain, reduce the synthesis of excitatory escalating transmitters DA and NE, shorten the sleep latency and prolong the sleep duration of insomnia rats. Furthermore, CWT could significantly alleviate the symptoms of insomnia in model rats. Identifying the chemical ingredients of CWT in this experiment is of great significance for exploring its potential curative effects, which provides a solid basis for further understanding the therapeutic value of this medication.

Phenolic Profile, Antioxidant, Anti-Enzymatic and Cytotoxic Activity of the Fruits and Roots of Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. et Maxim.) Maxim

Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. et Maxim.) Maxim. is well-known for its adaptogenic properties in traditional Eastern medicine. It has been categorized as an endangered species due to the over-exploitation of the roots. As a result, alternatives must be found, including the usage of renewable aerial parts such as fruits. The goal of this research was to determine the phenolic compounds and the enzymatic, antioxidant, and cytotoxic activities of the intractum gained from the E. senticosus fruits and the mixture of chloroform-methanol roots extract with naringenin (3:7:5). The obtained results showed, that the intractum contained 1.02 mg/g ext. of polyphenols, 0.30 mg/g ext. of flavonoids, and 0.19 mg/g ext. of phenolic acids. In turn, the mixture of chloroform-methanol roots extract with naringenin (3:7:5) contained 159.27 mg/g ext. of polyphenols, 137.47 mg/g ext. of flavonoids, and 79.99 mg/g ext. of phenolic acids. Regarding the anti-enzymatic assay, the IC₅₀ values for tyrosinase and hyaluronidase were equal to 586.83 and 217.44 [μg/mL] for the intractum, and 162.56 and 44.80 [μg/mL] for the mixture, respectively. Both preparations have possessed significant antioxidant activity in the ABTS, DPPH, and ferrozine tests. No cytotoxic effect on the FaDu and HEP G2 cancer cell lines was observed. Our findings support the traditional use of fruits and roots. Moreover, the results indicate also that adaptogens are rather nontoxic for normal and cancer cells, which corresponds with some hypotheses on adaptogens activity.

Anticancer Effects of Vitis vinifera L. Mediated Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles and Cotreatment with 5 Fluorouracil on HT-29 Cell Line

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anticancer effects of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (Vv-AgNPs) from grape (Vitis vinifera L.) seed aqueous extract, alone or in combination with 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) on HT-29 cell line. Vv-AgNPs were characterized by techniques such as UV-vis spectrophotometer (surface plasmon peak 454 nm), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). HT-29 cells were treated with different concentrations (0-80 μg/mL for MTT) and (0-20 μg/mL for BrdU) of Vv-AgNPs alone and combined with (200 μg/mL) 5-FU for 72 h. The cytotoxic effects were analyzed by [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2- yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide] (MTT) assay (IC₅₀ values 13.74 and 5.35 μg/mL, respectively). Antiproliferative effects were examined 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) assay (IC₅₀ values 9.65 and 5.00 μg/mL, respectively). Activation of caspase-3 and protein expression levels of p53 were determined by Western blotting analysis. It was observed that Vv-AgNPs significantly increased the cleavage of the proapoptotic proteins caspase 3 and obviously enhanced the expression of p53 in a dose-dependent manner. The increased amount of total oxidant status (TOS) in the 10 μg/mL Vv-AgNPs + 5-FU treatment group, despite the increasing amount of total antioxidant status (TAS), caused an increase in Oxidative Stress Index (OSI) compared to the control. In this study, it has been shown in vitro that the use of successfully biosynthesized Vv-AgNPs in combination with 5-FU exhibits synergistic cytotoxic, antiproliferative, apoptotic, and oxidative effects against HT-29 cell line.

Quercetin Abrogates Oxidative Neurotoxicity Induced by Silver Nanoparticles in Wistar Rats

This study aimed to investigate the oxidative neurotoxicity induced by silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and assess the neuroprotective effects of quercetin against this toxicity. Forty adult male rats were divided into four equal groups: control, AgNPs (50 mg/kg intraperitoneally), quercetin (50 mg/kg orally), and quercetin + AgNPs. After 30 days, blood and brain tissue samples were collected for further studies. AgNP exposure increased lipid peroxidation and decreased glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase activities in brain tissue. AgNPs decreased serum acetylcholine esterase activity and γ-aminobutyric acid concentrations. AgNPs upregulated tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and Bax transcript levels. AgNPs reduced the transcripts of claudin-5, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, paraoxonase, nuclear factor-erythroid factor 2 (Nrf2), and Bcl-2. Histopathologically, AgNPs caused various degenerative changes and neuronal necrosis associated with glial cell reactions. AgNPs increased the immunohistochemical staining of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in the cerebrum and cerebellum. Oral treatment with quercetin efficiently counteracted the opposing effects of AgNPs on brain tissue via modulation of tight junction proteins, Nrf2, and paraoxonase, and its positive mechanism in modulating pro-inflammatory cytokines and the downregulation of GFAP expression, and the apoptotic pathway. AgNPs also altered the severity of histopathological lesions and modulated GFAP immunostaining in the examined tissue.

Leaf extract of Osbeckia octandra induces apoptosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma cells

Background

Osbeckia octandra is a plant endemic to Sri Lanka and is used in ethnomedicine for treating various diseases. However, the anti-cancer properties of O. octandra are yet to be fully investigated. In the present study, we evaluated the anti-cancer effects of O. octandra on oral cancer cells.

Methods

Human oral cancer cell lines (HSC2, YD10B, YD38, YD9, and YD32) were used in this study. BrdU incorporation, cell cycle and annexin-V/PI staining were all evaluated using flow cytometry to determine the extent to which O. octandra leaf extract inhibits cell proliferation and induces apoptosis. Cell viability and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were also measured in order to investigate the anti-cancer effects of O. octandra extracts. Western blotting was performed to detect cell cycle related protein such as cyclin d1 and cdk4, and to detect apoptosis-related proteins such as Bcl-2, Bcl-X_L, Bax, Caspase-9, Cleaved caspase-3, Fas, Caspase-8, and Bid.

Results

Leaf extract of O. octandra reduced oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cell viability in a dose-dependent manner. Leaf extract of O. octandra has non-toxic in normal keratinocytes. Also, O. octandra extract interrupted the DNA replication via G1 phase arrests, and this effect was independent of ROS generation. In the apoptosis-related experiments, the population of annexin V-positive cells increased upon treatment with O. octandra extract. Furthermore, the expression of anti-apoptotic protein (Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL) was decreased, whereas the expression of cleaved caspase-3 protein was increased in O. octandra-treated OSCC cells.

Conclusions

The results suggest that a leaf extract of O. octandra inhibited the proliferation of OSCC cells through G₁ phase arrest and interrupting DNA replication. The leaf extract of O. octandra could trigger the apoptotic response via caspase 3 activation in OSCC cells. These results suggest that O. octandra has the potential to be developed as an alternative medicine for treating OSCC.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-022-03505-4.

Cancer Therapy by Silver Nanoparticles: Fiction or Reality?

As an emerging new class, metal nanoparticles and especially silver nanoparticles hold great potential in the field of cancer biology. Due to cancer-specific targeting, the consequently attenuated side-effects and the massive anti-cancer features render nanoparticle therapeutics desirable platforms for clinically relevant drug development. In this review, we highlight those characteristics of silver nanoparticle-based therapeutic concepts that are unique, exploitable, and achievable, as well as those that represent the critical hurdle in their advancement to clinical utilization. The collection of findings presented here will describe the features that distinguish silver nanoparticles from other anti-cancer agents and display the realistic opportunities and implications in oncotherapeutic innovations to find out whether cancer therapy by silver nanoparticles is fiction or reality.

Preparation of Liposomal Raloxifene-Graphene Nanosheet and Evaluation of Its In Vitro Anticancer Effects

Background

In current years, researchers have shown their prime interest in developing multifunctional drug delivery systems, especially against cancers, for effective anticancer outcomes.

Methodology

Raloxifene (RLX) loaded liposomal-graphene nanosheet (GNS) was developed. The novelty of this work was to enhance the solubilization of RLX and improvement of its bioavailability in the disease area. So, the selection of optimized formula design of experiment was implemented which produced the desired formula with the particle size of 156.333 nm. Further, encapsulation efficiency, in vitro release, and thermodynamic stability of optimized formulation were evaluated. The optimized formulation exhibited prolonged release of RLX for a longer period of 24 h, which can minimize the dose-related toxicity of the drug. Furthermore, optimized formulation demonstrated remarkable thermodynamic stability in terms of phase separation, creaming, and cracking.

Results

The cytotoxicity study on the A549 cell line exhibited significant ( P < .05) results in favor of optimized formulation than the free drug. The apoptotic activity was carried out by Annexin V staining and Caspase 3 analysis, which demonstrated remarkable promising results for optimized liposomal formulation.

Conclusion

From the findings of the study, it can be concluded that the novel optimized liposomal formulation could be pondered as a novel approach for the treatment of lung cancer.

Panos-Fermented Extract-Mediated Nanoemulsion: Preparation, Characterization, and In Vitro Anti-Inflammatory Effects on RAW 264.7 Cells

This study focused on developing Panos nanoemulsion (P-NE) and enhancing the anti-inflammatory efficacy for the treatment of inflammation. The effects of P-NE were evaluated in terms of Nitric oxide (NO production) in Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), induced RAW 264.7 cells, Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation using Human Keratinocyte cells (HaCaT), and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis. Sea buckthorn oil, Tween 80, and span 80 were used and optimize the process. Panos extract (P-Ext) was prepared using the fermentation process. Further high-energy ultra-sonication was used for the preparation of P-NE. The developed nanoemulsion (NE) was characterized using different analytical methods. Field emission transmission electron microscopy (FE-TEM) analyzed the spherical shape and morphology. In addition, stability was analyzed by Dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis, where particle size was analyzed 83 nm, and Zeta potential −28.20 ± 2 (mV). Furthermore, 90 days of stability was tested using different temperatures conditions where excellent stability was observed. P-NE are non-toxic in (HaCaT), and RAW264.7 cells up to 100 µg/mL further showed effects on ROS and NO production of the cells at 50 µg/mL. The qPCR analysis demonstrated the suppression of pro-inflammatory mediators for (Cox 2, IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α, NF-κB, Ikkα, and iNOS) gene expression. The prepared NE exhibited anti-inflammatory effects, demonstrating its potential as a safe and non-toxic nanomedicine.

Scorpion Venom-Functionalized Quercetin Phytosomes for Breast Cancer Management: In Vitro Response Surface Optimization and Anticancer Activity against MCF-7 Cells

Breast cancer is a dangerous type of cancer in women. Quercetin (QRT), a naturally occurring flavonoid, has wide biological effects including antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, and antiviral activities. The anticancer activity is considered the most valuable effect of QRT against several types of cancer, including prostate, liver, lung, colon, and breast cancer. Scorpion venom peptides (SV) has been found to induce apoptosis and aggravate cancer cells, making it a promising anticancer agent. QRT, SV, and Phospholipon^® 90H (PL) were incorporated in a nano-based delivery platform to assess QRT's cellular uptake and antiproliferative efficacy against a lung cancer cell line derived from human breast cancer cells MCF-7. Several nanovesicles were prepared and optimized, using four-factor Box-Behnken, in an experimental design. The optimized phytosomes showed vesicle size and zeta potential values of 116.9 nm and 31.5 mV, respectively. The IC50 values revealed that MCF-7 cells were significantly more sensitive to the optimized QRT formula than the plain formula and raw QRT. Cell cycle analysis revealed that optimized QRT formula treatment resulted in significant cell cycle arrest at the S phase. The results also indicated that treatment with QRT formula significantly increased caspase-9, Bax, Bcl-2, and p53 mRNA expression, compared with the plain formula and QRT. In terms of the inflammatory markers, the QRT formula significantly reduced the activity of TNF-α and NF-κB, in comparison with the plain formula and QRT only. Overall, the findings from the study proved that a QRT formulation could be a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of breast cancer.

Light Tailoring: Impact of UV-C Irradiation on Biosynthesis, Physiognomies, and Clinical Activities of Morus macroura-Mediated Monometallic (Ag and ZnO) and Bimetallic (Ag-ZnO) Nanoparticles

A nano-revolution based on the green synthesis of nanomaterials could affect all areas of human life, and nanotechnology represents a propitious platform for various biomedical applications. During the synthesis of nanoparticles, various factors can control their physiognomies and clinical activities. Light is one of the major physical factors that can play an important role in tuning/refining the properties of nanoparticles. In this study, biocompatible monometallic (AgNPs and ZnONPs) and bimetallic Ag-ZnONPs (0.1/0.1 and 0.1/0.5) were synthesized under UV-C light irradiation from the leaf extract of Morus macroura, which possesses enriched TPC (4.238 ± 0.26 mg GAE/g DW) and TFC (1.073 ± 0.18 mg QE/g DW), as well as strong FRSA (82.39%). These green synthesized NPs were evaluated for their anti-diabetic, anti-glycation, and biocompatibility activities. Furthermore, their anti-cancerous activity against HepG2 cell lines was assessed in terms of cell viability, production of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species, mitochondrial membrane potential, and apoptotic caspase-3/7 expression and activity. Synthesized NPs were characterized by techniques including ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, SEM, EDX, FTIR, and XRD. UV-C mediated monometallic and bimetallic NPs showed well-defined characteristic shapes with a more disperse particle distribution, definite crystalline structures, and reduced sizes as compared to their respective controls. In the case of clinical activities, the highest anti-diabetic activity (67.77 ± 3.29% against α-amylase and 35.83 ± 2.40% against α-glucosidase) and anti-glycation activity (37.68 ± 3.34% against pentosidine-like AGEs and 67.87 ± 2.99% against vesperlysine-like AGEs) was shown by UV-C mediated AgNPs. The highest biocompatibility (IC50 = 14.23 ± 1.68 µg/mL against brine shrimp and 2.48 ± 0.32% hemolysis of human red blood cells) was shown by UV-C mediated ZnONPs. In the case of anti-cancerous activities, the lowest viability (23.45 ± 1.40%) with enhanced ROS/NOS production led to a significant disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential and greater caspase-3/7 gene expression and activity by UV-C mediated bimetallic Ag-ZnONPs (0.1/0.5). The present work highlights the positive effects of UV-C light on physico-chemical physiognomies as well as the clinical activities of NPs.

In Vitro Evaluation of Anti-Lung Cancer and Anti-COVID-19 Effects using Fermented Black Color Ginseng Extract

Ginseng is known as the “king” of herbal plants and has been used widely in Asia for centuries. Ginseng contains active saponins, including protopanaxadiols, protopanaxatriols, and other compounds. There are many methods for processing ginseng, such as steaming, fermentation, expansion, and conversion of active compounds, which can improve its biological activity. In this study, we investigated the cytotoxic and oxidative effects of fermented black color ginseng (FBCG), black ginseng (BG), and white ginseng (WG) on a human lung carcinoma cell line (A549). Moreover, we found that treatment with FBCG induced oxidative stress in the A549 cell line and increases the apoptosis percentage; these effects were linked to the stimulation of the caspase 3/mitogen-activated protein kinase (caspase 3/MAPK) pathway. We also evaluated the anti-coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) effect of FBCG on a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-infected Vero E6 cell line. Our results suggest that FBCG not only inhibits the replication of this strain of virus in the cell but also reduces the number of viral RNA (vRNA) copies in the extracellular environment. Taken together, these data show that FBCG has both potential anti-lung cancer and anti-COVID-19 effects.

Trends in targeted delivery of nanomaterials in colon cancer diagnosis and treatment

Colon cancer is an adenocarcinoma, which subsequently develops into malignant tumors, if not treated properly. The current colon cancer therapy mainly revolves around chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery, but the search continues for more effective interventions. With the advancement of nanoparticles (NPs), it is now possible to diagnose and treat colon cancers with different types, shapes, and sizes of NPs. Nanoformulations such as quantum dots, iron oxide, polymeric NPs, dendrimers, polypeptides, gold NPs, silver NPs, platinum NPs, and cerium oxide have been either extensively used alone or in combination with other nanomaterials or drugs in colon cancer diagnosis, and treatments. These nanoformulations possess high biocompatibility and bioavailability, which makes them the most suitable candidates for cancer treatment. The size and shape of NPs are critical to achieving an effective drug delivery in cancer treatment and diagnosis. Most NPs currently are under different testing phases (in vitro, preclinical, and clinical), whereas some of them have been approved for therapeutic applications. We have comprehensively reviewed the recent advances in the applications of NPs-based formulations in colon cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The intractum from the Eleutherococcus senticosus fruits affects the innate immunity in human leukocytes: From the ethnomedicinal use to contemporary evidence-based research

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In the ethnomedicine of Russia, the Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. et Maxim.) Maxim. fruits and roots are used to treat immune-related diseases. Because of the overexploitation of the roots, the species is considered to be endangered and is put on the Red List in some countries (e.g. the Republic of Korea). Therefore, the aerial parts of E. senticosus might be explored as a new sustainable source of compounds with an adaptogenic activity.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study is aimed to evaluate the adaptogenic activity of the Eleutherococcus senticosus fruits intractum to support the use of the fruits in folk medicine of Russia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effect on IL-2 and IL-10 release by peripheral blood leukocytes (PBLs) was measured by the ELISA, the CPE on the A549 and PBLs were determined with trypan blue and the MTT. The innate immunity assay was done in the VSV-PBLs model. Metabolic profiling was done using HPLC-DAD and HPLC-RID.

RESULTS

We report for the first time that the intractum (300 μg/mL) and eleutheroside E (100 μg/mL) and B (100 μg/mL) do not act as a virucidal agent (VSV). The intractum and eleutherosides E and B caused the increase of the PBLs proliferation up to 24.61 and 100%, resp. The decreased viral replication in the VSV-PBLs-Int model might be associated with an increased secretion of IL-10 (328 pg/mL). Eleutheroside E and B did not affect the innate immunity. No eleutherosides were determined in the intractum, the ethyl acetate layer contained caffeic and protocatechuic acids. A large amount of myo-inositol and D-mannitol was found (267.5 and 492.5 mg/g DE).

CONCLUSIONS

Our observations justify the traditional use of the fruits in Russia in immune-related diseases. The results mean that there are other compounds than eleutherosides responsible for the adaptogenic effect, probably myo-inositol and caffeic acid, for which an immunostimulatory activity has already been confirmed.

Silver nanoparticles functionalized Paclitaxel nanocrystals enhance overall anti-cancer effect on human cancer cells

For chemotherapeutic drugs, precise tumor-targeting and high anti-cancer efficiency is equally important in order to enhance chemotherapy and reverse drug resistance. The combination of multifunctional agents to achieve synergy should be a promising strategy. In our study, we have successfully developed novel multifunctionalized drug nanocrystals to realize co-delivery of the organic drug Paclitaxel (PTX), inorganic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and a tumor targeting agent. To be specific, PTX nanocrystals were first prepared as a template, then coated with polydopamine (PDA). The PDA layer was utilized as the connection bridge to produce and deposit AgNPs in situ, and provide sites for tumor-targeting peptide NR1 (RGDARF) grafting. As a result, these NR1/AgNP-decorated drug nanocrystals exhibited dramatically improved cellular uptake efficiency, in vitro anti-cancer activity and an anti-migratory effect against a variety of cancer cells, which was attributable to the synergistic, or at least additive, effect of the AgNPs and PTX, enhanced cellular uptake efficiency through NR1-receptor interaction, pH-responsive drug release and the nanoscaled nature. In particular, high anti-cancer activity and low side effects from these NR1/AgNP-decorated PTX nanocrystals were well balanced in terms of good selectivity and biocompatibility. Moreover, these novel drug nanocrystals displayed strong apoptotic-inducing potency, resulting in cell membrane lysis, nuclear damage, mitochondria dysfunction, excessive ROS release and double-stranded DNA breakage. The potential acting mechanism and molecular basis of these novel drug nanocrystals is relevant to the regulation of mitochondria-mediated apoptosis with a greater Bax-to-Bcl-2 ratio and the activation of pro-apoptotic P53 and caspase 3.

An Updated Review on Silver Nanoparticles in Biomedicine

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) represent one of the most explored categories of nanomaterials for new and improved biomaterials and biotechnologies, with impressive use in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry, anti-infective therapy and wound care, food and the textile industry. Their extensive and versatile applicability relies on the genuine and easy-tunable properties of nanosilver, including remarkable physicochemical behavior, exceptional antimicrobial efficiency, anti-inflammatory action and antitumor activity. Besides commercially available and clinically safe AgNPs-based products, a substantial number of recent studies assessed the applicability of nanosilver as therapeutic agents in augmented and alternative strategies for cancer therapy, sensing and diagnosis platforms, restorative and regenerative biomaterials. Given the beneficial interactions of AgNPs with living structures and their nontoxic effects on healthy human cells, they represent an accurate candidate for various biomedical products. In the present review, the most important and recent applications of AgNPs in biomedical products and biomedicine are considered.

Biogenic nanoparticles: a comprehensive perspective in synthesis, characterization, application and its challenges

BACKGROUND

Translating the conventional scientific concepts into a new robust invention is a much needed one at a present scenario to develop some novel materials with intriguing properties. Particles in nanoscale exhibit superior activity than their bulk counterpart. This unique feature is intensively utilized in physical, chemical, and biological sectors. Each metal is holding unique optical properties that can be utilized to synthesize metallic nanoparticles. At present, versatile nanoparticles were synthesized through chemical and biological methods. Metallic nanoparticles pose numerous scientific merits and have promising industrial applications. But concerning the pros and cons of metallic nanoparticle synthesis methods, researchers elevate to drive the synthesis process of nanoparticles through the utilization of plant resources as a substitute for use of chemicals and reagents under the theme of green chemistry. These synthesized nanoparticles exhibit superior antimicrobial, anticancer, larvicidal, leishmaniasis, wound healing, antioxidant, and as a sensor. Therefore, the utilization of such conceptualized nanoparticles in treating infectious and environmental applications is a warranted one.

CONCLUSION

Green chemistry is a keen prudence method, in which bioresources is used as a template for the synthesis of nanoparticles. Therefore, in this review, we exclusively update the context of plant-based metallic nanoparticle synthesis, characterization, and applications in detailed coverage. Hopefully, our review will be modernizing the recent trends going on in metallic nanoparticles synthesis for the blooming research fraternities.

Dendropanax Morbifera Extract-Mediated ZnO Nanoparticles Loaded with Indole-3-Carbinol for Enhancement of Anticancer Efficacy in the A549 Human Lung Carcinoma Cell Line

Dendropanax morbifera is a versatile plant that has been used as a herbal medicine due to its various useful medicinal effects. To protect its active component from biological stress and increase its drug efficacy as well as drug bioavailability, nanoemulsion was prepared. Dendropanax morbifera zinc oxide nanoparticles (DM-ZnO NPs) were synthesized using the plant extract via the co-precipitation method and loaded with active indole-3-carbinol for nanoemulsion formulation using the ultrasonication process. Field emission transmission electron microscope revealed the flower shape of the Dendropanax morbifera indole-3-carbinol zinc oxide nanoemulsion (DM-ZnO-I3C-NE). In contrast, DM-ZnO NPs showed a spheroid shape that coincides agreeably with field emission electron scanning microscope. The hydrodynamic sizes by dynamic light scattering are about 65 ± 3 nm and 239.6 ± 6 nm and the crystallite sizes from X-ray diffraction are 11.52 nm and 16.07 nm for DM-ZnO NPs and DM-ZnO-I3C-NE, respectively. In vitro analysis revealed the cytotoxicity of DM-ZnO-I3C-NE against a human lung cancer cell line (A549) at 12.5 µg/mL as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. The DM-ZnO-I3C-NE-induced ROS generation level was higher than that of DM-ZnO NPs and free indole-3-carbinol. The synergistic effect of DM-ZnO and indole-3-carbinol indicates DM-ZnO-I3C-NE as a potential candidate for future lung cancer drug and could be scope for functional food.

Biosynthesis of Ag nanoparticles and two-dimensional element distribution in Arabidopsis

Metallic nanoparticles can be synthesised in living plants, which provide a friendly approach. In this work, the authors aimed to study the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in Arabidopsis and the two-dimensional (2D) distribution of Ag and other elements (Ca, P, S, Mg, and CI) in the Arabidopsis plant tissues. The concentrations of Ag in the plant tissues were determined by inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometer, showing that the majority of Ag was retained in the roots. Transmission electron micrographs showed the morphology of AgNPs and the location in plant cells. The distributions of Cl and Ag were consistent in plant tissues by 2D proton-induced X-ray emission. In conclusion, this is the first report of the AgNP synthesis in Arabidopsis living plants and its 2D distribution of important elements, which provide a new clue for further research.

Cantharidic acid induces apoptosis in human nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells through p38-mediated upregulation of caspase activation

Cantharidic acid (CA) is the hydrolysis product of the acid anhydride cantharidin, which is a natural toxin secreted by several species of blister beetles. Several studies have indicated that as an inhibitor of protein phosphatase 2 (PP2A), CA induces apoptosis in various human cancer cells. However, the effect of CA on human nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) cells and the underlying pathways have not been addressed. In our current study, we tested the hypothesis that CA treatment reduces the viability of human NPC cells (HONE-1, NPC-39, and NPC-BM) by inducing apoptosis. Results indicated that CA markedly reduced cell viability, which was revealed by the upregulation of caspase activation in extrinsic and intrinsic apoptosis pathways as well as the upregulation of extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), p38, and c-Jun N-terminal kinase 1/2 (JNK1/2) pathways. Coadministration of a p38 inhibitor (SB203580) with CA abolished the activation of caspase proteins. These findings indicated that CA treatment leads to apoptosis in human NPC cells through the upregulation of caspase activation, mediated particularly by the p38 pathway. Hence, CA is a promising therapeutic agent for human NPC.

Unveiling the cytotoxicity of phytosynthesised silver nanoparticles using Tinospora cordifolia leaves against human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cell line

Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using plant extract is a cheap, easily accessible and natural process in which the phyto-constituents of the plants act as capping, stabilising and reducing agent. The present study explored the biosynthesis of AgNPs using aqueous leaf extract of Tinospora cordifolia and characterised via various techniques such as Fourier transform infrared, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis and X-ray diffraction. Here, TEM confirmed the spherical morphology with 25-50 nm size of synthesised AgNPs. Further, anticancer efficiency of AgNPs synthesised using T. cordifolia leaves were evaluated against human lung adenocarcinoma cell line A549 by MTT, trypan blue assay, apoptotic morphological changes using Annexin V-FITC and Propidium iodide (PI), nuclear morphological changes by DAPI (4, 6-diamidino-2-phenylindole dihydrochloride) staining, reactive oxygen species generation and mitochondrial membrane potential determination. Results confirmed the AgNPs synthesised using T. cordifolia leaves are found to be highly toxic against human lung adenocarcinoma cell line A549.

Comparative study of intratracheal and oral gefitinib for the treatment of primary lung cancer

Oral gefitinib tablets are widely applied for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) though its broad distribution in the body may result in weak therapeutic efficiency and undesired side effects. Here, liposomal gefitinib dry powder inhalers (LGDs) were prepared using the injection-lyophilization method. LGDs were rough porous particles under a scanning electron microscope, which can be rapidly rehydrated to liposomes. LGDs and gefitinib powders were separately intratracheally (i.t.) administered into the lungs of primary lung cancer rats, while powdered gefitinib tablets were orally administered. Gefitinib was rapidly absorbed from the lung after i.t. administration of LGDs. The maximal gefitinib concentration in the circulation and the area under curve (AUC) of i.t. LGDs were higher than those of i.t. gefitinib powders and oral gefitinib. More importantly, much higher concentration and longer retention of gefitinib in the lung were shown after i.t. administration of LGDs and gefitinib powders but remarkably less drug distribution in the liver compared to oral gefitinib. LGDs showed higher therapeutic effect on rat primary lung cancer than i.t. gefitinib powders and oral gefitinib with reduction of inflammation, weak lung injury, and high apoptosis. Combination of inhalation and liposomes of anticancer drugs is a promising strategy for treatment of primary lung cancer.

Optimized Icariin Phytosomes Exhibit Enhanced Cytotoxicity and Apoptosis-Inducing Activities in Ovarian Cancer Cells

Icariin (ICA) is a flavonol glycoside that has pleiotropic pharmacological actions. It has cytotoxic effects against ovarian cancer cells and increases their chemosensitivity to chemotherapeutic drugs. Phytosomes are identified for their potential in drug delivery of cytotoxic agents. Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine the potential enhancement of ICA cytotoxicity activity in OVCAR-3 ovarian cancer cells via its formulation in phytosomes. ICA-phytosomal formulation was optimized using a Box-Behnken design. Particle size, shape, and in vitro drug release were used to characterize the optimized formula. The optimized formulation exhibited enhanced in vitro drug release. ICA-phytosomes exhibited enhanced cytotoxicity against ovarian cancer cells. Cell cycle analysis indicated accumulation of cells challenged with ICA-phytosomes in G2/M and pre-G1 phases. Staining of cells with annexin V indicated significant elevation of percentage cells with early and late apoptosis as well as total cell death. In addition, the formulation significantly disturbed mitochondrial membrane potential and cellular content of caspase 3. In addition, intracellular release of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was enhanced by ICA-phytosomes. In conclusion, phytosome formulation of ICA significantly potentiates its cytotoxic activities against OVCAR-3 cells. This is mediated, at least partly, by enhanced ICA cellular permeation, apoptosis, and ROS.

Meriolin1 induces cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, autophagy and targeting the Akt/MAPKs pathways in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells

OBJECTIVES

Meriolins, a kind of chemical hybrid between meridianins and variolins, have lately been determined as kinase inhibitors and reportedly have antitumour activity. However, there is currently no in-depth study for the action mechanism. This study aimed to elucidate the potentially antitumour action mechanism of Meriolin1 on human neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) cells.

METHODS

Firstly, cell viability was detected by MTT assay. Secondly, cell cycle, cell apoptosis, cell autophagy, reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) were measured by flow cytometry. Then, cell cycle-associated proteins, Bcl-2 family proteins, Akt/MAPK proteins and autophagy-associated proteins expressions were evaluated by Western blot. Bcl-2 and Bax mRNA expressions were also evaluated by qRT-PCR. Furthermore, cell adhesion assay and Hoechst 33258 fluorescent staining were carried out to detect the effect of Meriolin1 on cell adhesion and morphology. Finally, to gain further insight into mechanism of action of Meriolin1 to CDK protein, the molecular docking study was performed by using the CDOCKER module of DS software.

KEY FINDINGS

Meriolin1 could exert the antitumour activity on SH-SY5Y cells by inducing cell cycle arrest, cell autophagy, the mitochondrion-dependent cell apoptosis and targeting the Akt/MAPKs signalling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

Meriolin1 might be a promising therapeutic candidate for neuroblastoma.

Antibiofilm potential of Seabuckthorn silver nanoparticles (SBT@AgNPs) against Pseudomonas aeruginosa

In era of antibiotic resistance, antibacterial silver nanoparticles are considered as potential alternative therapeutic agent to combat drug resistant pathogens. The aim of present study was to evaluate the antibacterial, antibiofilm and biocompatible potential of green synthesized Seabuckthorn silver nanoparticles (SBT@AgNPs). In the study, antibacterial efficiency of SBT@AgNPs was studied against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli and methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus. SBT@AgNPs were found to possess high antibacterial activity which was indicated in terms of low minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations (2-4 µg/ml) obtained against test pathogens. Anti-biofilm activity of SBT@AgNPs on young as well as mature P. aeruginosa biofilms was also evaluated. SBT@AgNPs were able to eradicate the P. aeruginosa biofilms, which was further confirmed by field emission scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Quorum sensing assay also revealed the quorum quenching activity of SBT@AgNPs. Biocompatibility and cytocompatibility results demonstrated SBT@AgNPs to exhibit first-rate non-toxicity as no membrane damage on RBCs or detrimental morphology variation was seen in human dermal fibroblast. LC-MS analysis was also carried out to analyze the potential antibacterial chemical compounds present in aqueous extract of Seabuckthorn leaves. To the best of our knowledge this is first study in which green synthesized silver nanoparticles were exploited to eradicate young as well as mature biofilms of P. aeruginosa. Results showed that SBT@AgNPs are highly antibacterial, antibiofilm, nontoxic in nature and consequently can aid in biomedical applications.

Inhibition of EPAC2 Attenuates Intracerebral Hemorrhage-Induced Secondary Brain Injury via the p38/BIM/Caspase-3 Pathway

Exchange proteins directly activated by cAMP (EPACs) are critical cAMP-dependent signaling pathway intermediaries that have been implicated in the pathogenesis of several human diseases, particularly neurological disorders. However, their pathogenic role in secondary brain injury (SBI) induced by intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) is unknown. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of EPAC2 on ICH-induced SBI and its underlying mechanisms. An in vivo ICH model was established in Sprague-Dawley rats by autologous blood injection. In addition, rat primary cortical neuronal cultures were exposed to oxyhemoglobin to simulate ICH in vitro. The function of EPAC2 in SBI induced by ICH was studied using the EPAC2-specific inhibitor ESI-05. In this study, we found that EPAC2 protein expression was significantly increased in the ICH models in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, EPAC2 activation was inhibited by ESI-05 under ICH conditions. Inhibition of EPAC2 decreased the apoptosis rate of nerve cells in the cortex accompanied by a corresponding decrease in the protein expression of phosphorylated p38, Bcl-2-like protein 11 (BIM), and caspase-3. In summary, this study showed that inhibition of EPAC2 activation by ESI-05 suppressed SBI induced by ICH via the p38/BIM/caspase-3 signaling pathway.

Apoptotic role of marine sponge symbiont Bacillus subtilis NMK17 through the activation of caspase-3 in human breast cancer cell line

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the diverse potential biological activity of partially purified crude extract (PPCEBS) of marine Bacillus subtilis NMK17 associated with marine sponge Clathria frondifera. Symbionts were isolated from a marine sponge, only the potential strain which exhibited apoptosis was sequenced using 16S rRNA and extract of the active strain was subjected to purification using HPLC. The potential pro-apoptotic role of PPCEBS was investigated in MCF-7 human breast cancer cell line for cytotoxicity by MTT assay, which showed dose-dependent cytotoxicity on 24 h of exposure. The apoptotic findings demonstrated that PPCEBS significantly induces apoptosis, which was characterised by apoptotic morphological changes. Further, an increased expression of the Caspase 3 and Bax whereas decreased Bcl-2 was confirmed by immunofluorescence and western blotting analysis in MCF-7 cell line, which revealed that PPCEBS has potent apoptosis-inducing property. Added to the desirable apoptotic activity, PPCEBS exhibited excellent antibacterial and antioxidant activities too. The pharmacological effect of the marine sponge-associated bacteria from Gulf of Mannar India needs further attention in discovering new bioactive compounds. Our results suggested that the compounds present in the PPCEBS in marine bacterial B. subtilis NMK17 could be candidates for developing an apoptosis-specific drug with minimal toxicity. This study indicated that marine sponge-associated bacteria could be a good source to find the cytotoxic metabolites which would induce apoptosis and cause cancer cell death. Also, this study explores that marine natural products as a potential source of pharmaceuticals.

Potential role of α-lipoic acid and Ginkgo biloba against silver nanoparticles-induced neuronal apoptosis and blood-brain barrier impairments in rats

AIMS

This study explored whether silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) can disrupt tight-junctions integrity resulted in blood-brain barrier dysfunction along with oxidative stress, pro-inflammation, and apoptosis induction. Additionally, neuroprotective activities of α-lipoic acid (LA) and Ginkgo biloba (GB) were investigated.

MAIN METHODS

Forty adults rats were enrolled into; Control, AgNPs (50 mg/kg), LA (100 mg/kg) + AgNPs, and GB (120 mg/kg) + AgNPs. After 30 days, neuronal changes were assessed biochemically and histopathologically. Brain tissues oxidative indices, mRNA expression of proinflammatory cytokines and tight-junction proteins and pro-apoptotic biomarker, caspase-3 were investigated.

KEY FINDINGS

AgNPs exposure enhanced lipid peroxidation (+195%) along with declines in glutathione (-43%), glutathione peroxidase (-34%), glutathione S-transferase (-31%), catalase (-43%), and superoxide dismutase (-38%) activities in brain tissues. The apparent brain oxidative damage was associated with obvious neuronal dysfunction that was ascertained by neuropathological lesions. AgNPs lowered serum acetylcholine esterase, iron and copper levels, and increased creatine phosphokinase and creatine phosphokinase-brain type activities. Following AgNPs exposure, brain silver and iron contents were increased, but the copper level was decreased. AgNPs up-regulated TNF-α (6.5-fold) and IL-1β (8.9-fold) transcript levels, and simultaneously over-expressed the caspase-3 protein in cerebrum and cerebellum inducing cell apoptosis. Moreover, AgNPs down-regulated the transcript levels of tight-junction proteins; JP-1 (0.65-fold) and JAM-3(0.81-fold).

SIGNIFICANCE

LA and relatively GB improved the serious effects of AgNPs on the blood-brain barrier function and tight-junction proteins through their antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic efficacies. Co-treatment with LA or GB may be favorable in ameliorating the neurotoxic side effects of AgNPs.

Rhizome of Anemarrhena asphodeloides as mediators of the eco-friendly synthesis of silver and gold spherical, face-centred cubic nanocrystals and its anti-migratory and cytotoxic potential in normal and cancer cell lines

The water extract of Anemarrhena asphodeloides, the traditional oriental medicinal plant, mediated the eco-friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Aa-AgNPs) and gold nanoparticles (Aa-AuNPs). First, its therapeutic rhizome was powdered prior to water extraction and then silver, gold nanoparticles were synthesized. Aa-AgNPs and Aa-AuNPs were found to be spherical, face-centred cubic nanocrystals with a Z-average hydrodynamic diameter of 190 and 258 nm, respectively. In addition, proteins and aromatic biomolecules were the plausible players associated with the production and stabilization of Aa-AgNPs; instead, phenolic compounds were responsible for the synthesis and stability of Aa-AuNPs. In vitro cytotoxic analysis revealed that up to 50 μg.mL^-1 concentration Aa-AuNPs did not exhibit any toxicity on 3T3-L1, HT29 and MCF7 cell lines, while being specifically cytotoxic to A549 cell line. On the contrary, Aa-AgNPs displayed a significantly higher toxicity in comparison to Aa-AuNPs in all cell lines specially MCF7 cell line. Since cancer cells were more sensitive to Aa-Au/AgNPs treatments, further evaluation was done in order to determine their anticancer potential. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was not affected by Aa-AuNPs, on the other hand, Aa-AgNPs treatment exhibited a higher potential to induce oxidative stress in A549 cells than HT29 and MCF7 cells. In addition, Aa-Ag/AuNPs reduced cell migration in A549 cells at 10 and 50 μg.mL^-1, respectively. So far, this is the only report uncovering the ability of A. asphodeloides to synthesize silver and gold nanoparticles with anticancer potential and also indirectly enabling its large-scale utilization with value addition.