Chlorogenic acid inhibits the proliferation of human lung cancer A549 cell lines by targeting annexin A2 in vitro and in vivo

Anticancer properties of Cirsium vulgare (Savi) ten. Dry extracts from different plant parts and phenological stages of Raw material collection

This study explores the anticancer potential of Cirsium vulgare dry extracts in human colorectal adenocarcinoma (HT-29) and gastric carcinoma (KATO III) cell lines using both traditional 2D monolayer models and advanced 3D spheroid systems. Cell viability was assessed via the MTT assay, while the influence on cell migration was evaluated using a wound-healing assay. In 3D cultures, extract activity was further examined through magnetic 3D bioprinting to monitor spheroid growth dynamics, and viability of cells in spheroids was assessed by the WST-1 assay. Among the tested extracts, those derived from C. vulgare inflorescences (U1) and roots (U6, U7, U8, U9) demonstrated higher anticancer activity. The inflorescence extract (U1) exhibited the highest cytotoxic activity against both cancer cell lines, while root-derived extracts, particularly U7, showed potent suppression of HT-29 cell migration, achieving the most significant reduction in wound closure after 36 h (p < 0.05) at a concentration of 0.2 mg/mL. In spheroid models, U1 and U8 extracts reduced HT-29 cancer cell viability by 53.3-77.9% and 56.7-81.5%, respectively, and U1 emerged as the most effective inhibitor of spheroid growth, reducing diameter by 7-10%, compared to untreated controls. These findings underscore the promising anticancer activity of C. vulgare extracts, particularly U1 and U8, highlighting their potential as innovative therapeutic candidates for treating colorectal and gastric cancers. Further investigations are warranted to refine their application in oncological research.

Isolation and Characterization of Secondary Metabolites from Endemic and Edible Polygonum sivasicum with In Vitro Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Activities

Polygonum sivasicum Kit Tan and Yildiz, one of the eight endemic Polygonum species in Türkiye, belongs to the Polygonaceae family. Preliminary phytochemical investigation of methanol and hexane extracts of P. sivasicum resulted in four compounds, namely, annphenone (1), hyperoside (2), daucosterol (3), and β-sitosterol (4). Their structures were elucidated by 1D-, 2D-NMR, and HRESIMS analyses. This study signifies the first isolation of annphenone from the Polygonum genus. Antioxidant capabilities of different extracts of P. sivasicum were carried out using DPPH·, ABTS·+, CUPRAC, metal chelating, and β-carotene linoleic acid bleaching assays, and their effectiveness was quantified through IC50 values. Furthermore, 27 phenolic compounds were identified using LC-HRESIMS from methanol extract, which has the highest antioxidant activity among the P. sivasicum extracts. The major phenolic constituents identified were hyperoside (4535.0 μg/g extract), rutin (4387.4 μg/g extract), and chlorogenic acid (3306.6 μg/g extract). GC-MS analysis determined palmitic acid, α-linolenic acid, and 8,11-octadecadieonic acid as major fatty acids in the hexane extract. The cell viability profile of P. sivasicum methanol extract and its isolates hyperoside, annphenone, and daucosterol was evaluated on fibroblast (CCD-1079Sk), breast carcinoma (MCF-7) and lung carcinoma (A549) cell lines. Annphenone exhibited IC50 values of 0.25 ± 0.01 mg/mL against the A549 cell line and 0.36 ± 0.02 mg/mL against the MCF-7 cell line. The selective cytotoxicity observed for daucosterol against the A549 cell line, with a high selectivity index of 1.44, underscores its potential as a promising candidate for drug development. The study establishes a framework integrating phytochemical profiling with biological assays to identify therapeutic agents from endemic plants.

Anticancer potential of hydroxycinnamic acids: mechanisms, bioavailability, and therapeutic applications

Hydroxycinnamic acids (HCAs) are plant compounds with anticancer potential due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, apoptosis-inducing, and proliferation-inhibiting effects. This review aims to consolidate and analyze current knowledge on the anticancer effects of HCAs, exploring their mechanisms of action, bioavailability challenges, and potential therapeutic applications. A comprehensive literature search on PubMed/MedLine, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar focused on the anticancer properties, mechanisms, bioavailability, and safety profiles of HCAs. Studies have shown that HCAs, such as caffeic acid, ferulic acid, and sinapic acid, inhibit the growth of cancer cells in vitro and in vivo and sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapy and radiation therapy. These effects are mediated by mechanisms including the inhibition of cell survival pathways, modulation of gene expression, and induction of oxidative stress and DNA damage. Additionally, several studies have demonstrated that HCAs exhibit selective toxicity, with a higher propensity to induce cell death in cancerous cells compared to normal cells. However, the toxicity profile of HCAs can vary depending on the specific compound, dosage, and experimental conditions. The anticancer properties of HCAs suggest potential applications in cancer prevention and treatment. However, it is essential to distinguish between their use as dietary supplements and therapeutic agents, as the dosage and formulation suitable for dietary supplements may be insufficient for therapeutic purposes. The regulatory and practical implications of using HCAs in these different contexts require careful consideration. Further research is needed to determine appropriate dosages, formulations, long-term effects, and regulatory frameworks for HCAs as both dietary supplements and therapeutic agents.

Chlorogenic acid alleviate kidney fibrosis through regulating TLR4/NF-қB mediated oxidative stress and inflammation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Chlorogenic acid (CGA), a phenolic acid produced by the interaction of Caffeic acid and Quinic acid, is considered to be the main active ingredient in many heat-clearing and detoxifying Chinese medicines, such as honeysuckle, Houttuynia, Artemisia annua, Gardenia, etc. CGA has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, antibacterial and other properties. However, the effect and process of CGA in kidney fibrosis remain unknown.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the therapeutic effects of CGA on alleviating kidney fibrosis and the underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

C57BL/6 mouse kidney fibrosis model was established by unilateral uretera obstruction (UUO), followed by treatment with CGA (40, 80 mg/kg/d) for 10 days. The serum and kidney tissue were collected. Network pharmacology, molecular docking and transcriptomic analysis were conducted to explore the possible mechanisms. The HK-2 cells were cultured and treated with TGF-β1(10 ng/mL) and CGA (50, 100 μM), to examine the role of TLR4/NF-қB signaling pathway in the therapeutic effect of CGA on kidney fibrosis.

RESULTS

CGA significantly alleviated kidney injury, inflammation, oxidative stress and fibrosis in UUO models. CGA also effectively inhibited the expression of inflammatory factors and the process of oxidative stress both in vivo and in vitro fibrosis models. Further, transcriptomic analysis, molecular docking, and network pharmacology results indicated that the therapeutic effect of CGA on fibrosis was through the regulation of TLR4/NF-қB signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

CGA might provide benefits for the regulation of inflammatory response, oxidative stress and fibrogenesis by modulating TLR4/NF-қB signaling pathway on kidney fibrosis. Hence, CGA is an attractive agent for treating kidney fibrosis. The present study provided a basis for further research on the therapeutic strategies of kidney fibrosis.

Are the Effects of Bioactive Components on Human Health a Myth?: Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.) from Exotic Fruits

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Black elderberry has come to the fore in recent years due to its health benefits. Black elderberry fruit (Sambucus nigra L.), collected from natural sources, has a rich content of protein, vitamins, antioxidants, unsaturated fatty acids, and minerals as it contains conjugated and free forms of amino acids.

RECENT FINDINGS

Black elderberry can prevent oxidative stress and reduce blood pressure and prevent cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, neurodegenerative diseases thanks to the polyphenols it contains. It can prevent diseases, stimulate the immune system, show an antitumor effect, and be effective in the course of disease processes by rising the activity of antioxidant enzymes, including glutathione. Since black elderberry is a promising food in terms of bioactive components, it is considered as promising to treat and prevent many diseases. However, it is not correct to prove its beneficial effects on the prevention of chronic diseases and to make generalisations. Therefore, there is a need of more comprehensive evidence-based clinical studies and data. This review examined current evidence and discussions about the health-related effects of black elderberry, which contains many biologically active components such as polyphenols, phenolic acids, flavonols, proanthocyanidins and anthocyanins, as well as terpenes and lectins, and offered some suggestions on its use in the future.

Synergistic Antioxidant Activity of Lycium barbarum Polysaccharide and Chlorogenic Acid and Its Effect on Inflammatory Response of NR8383 Cells

It is inevitable for polyphenols and polysaccharides to interact during food preparation. Modifications in microstructure can lead to changes in the physical and chemical properties of food systems, which in turn may influence the nutritional characteristics and functional activities of the food. Recent studies have shown that, in addition to traditional Chinese medicine compounds, certain natural polysaccharides and polyphenols exhibit significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These compounds are also associated with beneficial therapeutic effects for the prevention and treatment of acute lung injury. The objective of this study was to examine the synergistic antioxidant effects of chlorogenic acid (CA) and Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) in various ratios, along with their combined antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on LPS-induced inflammation in rat alveolar macrophages. Using the Combination Index (CI), which quantifies the synergistic or antagonistic effect of two substances, all four combinations showed synergistic antioxidant properties over a range of concentrations by in vitro antioxidant property experiments. However, based on comparing them, the four group ratios exhibited the highest antioxidant activity of the infusion at CA:LBP = 1:7, indicating synergistic interactions (CI < 1). In addition, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the CA-LBP complex were observed to alleviate cellular inflammatory injury by reducing LPS-induced nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species production and inhibiting the release of inflammatory factors such as TNF-α and IL-6.

Anti-inflammatory in vitro activities of eleven selected caffeic acid derivatives based on a combination of pro-/anti-inflammatory cytokine secretions and principal component analysis - A comprehensive evaluation

Eleven compounds including caffeic acid (CA), 4 kinds of caffeoylquinic acid (CQA) and 6 kinds of dicaffeoylquinic acid (DCQA), were selected to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effectiveness using mouse primary peritoneal macrophages in the absence or presence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The optimal non-cytotoxic doses of each individual compound were determined using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Pro-inflammatory (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) cytokines secreted by treated macrophages were analyzed using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Cytokine secretion profiles of each individual test sample at optimal non-cytotoxic doses were further analyzed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The results showed that CA and all selected CQAs exhibited lower cytotoxicity (IC50: >50 μmol/l). Both CA and 5-CQA were found to have the most significant contributions for inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines, but increasing anti-inflammatory cytokine secretions, evidencing that CA at 10 μmol/l and 5-CQA at 25 μmol/l can be qualified as potent anti-inflammatory agents for treating inflammation-related diseases.

Modulation of NRF2/KEAP1 Signaling by Phytotherapeutics in Periodontitis

Periodontitis affects up to 40% of adults over 60 years old and is a consequence of gingivitis. Periodontitis is characterized by a chronic inflammation, periodontal damage, and alveolar bone resorption. The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NFE2L2 or NRF2)/Kelch-like ECH-Associated Protein 1 (KEAP1) (NRF2/KEAP1) signaling pathway plays a key role in periodontitis by modulating redox balance and inflammation of the periodontium. However, NRF2 expression is decreased in gingival tissues of patients with periodontitis while oxidative stress is significantly increased in this pathology. Oxidative stress and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) produced by gram-negative bacteria favor the production of inflammatory causing periodontal inflammation and favoring alveolar bone. In this review, we analyzed the current literature regarding the role of natural and synthetic compounds in modulating the NRF2/KEAP1 pathway in in vitro and in vivo models of periodontitis in order to evaluate new potential treatments of periodontitis that can improve the outcome of this disease.

Chlorogenic acid exhibits antitumor effect in patient-derived xenograft models and hydrogel-embedded tissue culture drug susceptibility test of tongue cancer

Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is one of the effective components of Chinese medicine plant such as honeysuckle and Eucommia ulmoides. CGA can inhibits various cancer types, but its effectivity against tongue cancer remains unknown. In the present study, we utilized patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models in conjunction with hydrogel-embedded drug sensitivity tests (HDST) to demonstrate the inhibitory effects of CGA on tongue cancer tissues in both in vivo and ex vivo experimental paradigms. Immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis and TUNEL staining revealed that CGA downregulated the expression of CD31 and Ki-67, while concurrently promoting apoptosis. Furthermore, the involvement of the EGFR-AKT-MMP9 signaling cascade in the tumor-suppressive effects of CGA was confirmed using network pharmacology analysis and immunofluorescent validation techniques. Overall, our findings indicate that CGA robustly inhibits tongue cancer in cellular and organismal models. The EGFR-AKT-MMP9 axis plays a highly significant role in mediating this bioactivity, thereby positioning CGA as a promising candidate for further investigation in oncology. The multifaceted therapeutic potential of CGA, as evidenced by its ability to disrupt angiogenesis, suppress cell proliferation, and induce apoptosis, underscores its value as a novel therapeutic agent for the treatment of tongue cancer.

Baicalin target protein, Annexin A2, is a target of new antitumor drugs

Baicalin is a flavonoid extracted from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi. As it has significant antitumor and apoptosis-inducing effects, baicalin may be useful as a lead compound in new antitumor drug development. However, as the pharmacological actions of baicalin have yet to be elucidated, we isolated its target protein, which was successfully identified as Annexin A2. Annexin A2 forms a heterotetramer with S100A10 protein, which plays an important role in the plasminogen activator system. The heterotetramer bound to tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) activates the conversion of plasminogen to plasmin and promotes the expression of STAT-3 and NF-κB, which are target genes involved in the development of cancer. Moreover, NF-κB and STAT-3 induce the expression of cell inhibitors of apoptotic proteins and inhibit apoptosis. To examine whether these antitumor and apoptosis-inducing effects of baicalin are mediated by Annexin A2, we prepared Annexin A2 knockdown HepG2 cells. We compared mRNA expression by RT-qPCR and apoptosis by caspase-3 activity assays in Annexin A2 knockdown HepG2 cells. The results showed that the antitumor and apoptosis-inducing effects of baicalin are mediated by Annexin A2. The results of this study suggest that agents capable of inhibiting Annexin A2 may be useful candidates for the development of novel antitumor agents.

Lonicerae Japonicae Flos with the homology of medicine and food: a review of active ingredients, anticancer mechanisms, pharmacokinetics, quality control, toxicity and applications

Lonicerae Japonicae Flos (LJF, called Jinyinhua in China), comes from the dried flower buds or flowers to be opened of Lonicera japonica Thunb. in the Lonicera family. It has a long history of medicinal use and has a wide range of application prospects. As modern research advances, an increasing number of scientific experiments have demonstrated the anticancer potential of LJF. However, there is a notable absence of systematic reports detailing the anti-tumor effects of LJF. This review integrates the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with contemporary pharmacological techniques, drawing upon literature from authoritative databases such as PubMed, CNKI, and WanFang to conduct a comprehensive study of LJF. Notably, a total of 507 compounds have been isolated and characterized from the plant to date, which include volatile oils, organic acids, flavonoids, iridoids, triterpenes and triterpenoid saponins. Pharmacological studies have demonstrated that LJF extract, along with components such as chlorogenic acid, luteolin, rutin, luteoloside, hyperoside and isochlorogenic acid, exhibits potential anticancer activities. Consequently, we have conducted a comprehensive review and summary of the mechanisms of action and clinical applications of these components. Furthermore, we have detailed the pharmacokinetics, quality control, and toxicity of LJF, while also discussing its prospective applications in the fields of biomedicine and preventive healthcare. It is hoped that these studies will provide valuable reference for the clinical research, development, and application of LJF.

Covalent binding of withanolides to cysteines of protein targets

Withanolides represent an important category of natural products with a steroidal lactone core. Many of them contain an α,β-unsaturated carbonyl moiety with a high reactivity toward sulfhydryl groups, including protein cysteine thiols. Different withanolides endowed with marked antitumor and anti-inflammatory have been shown to form stable covalent complexes with exposed cysteines present in the active site of oncogenic kinases (BTK, IKKβ, Zap70), metabolism enzymes (Prdx-1/6, Pin1, PHGDH), transcription factors (Nrf2, NFκB, C/EBPβ) and other structural and signaling molecules (GFAP, β-tubulin, p97, Hsp90, vimentin, Mpro, IPO5, NEMO, …). The present review analyzed the covalent complexes formed through Michael addition alkylation reactions between six major withanolides (withaferin A, physalin A, withangulatin A, 4β-hydroxywithanolide E, withanone and tubocapsanolide A) and key cysteine residues of about 20 proteins and the resulting biological effects. The covalent conjugation of the α,β-unsaturated carbonyl system of withanolides with reactive protein thiols can occur with a large set of soluble and membrane proteins. It points to a general mechanism, well described with the leading natural product withaferin A, but likely valid for most withanolides harboring a reactive (electrophilic) enone moiety susceptible to react covalently with cysteinyl residues of proteins. The multiplicity of reactive proteins should be taken into account when studying the mechanism of action of new withanolides. Proteomic and network analyses shall be implemented to capture and compare the cysteine covalent-binding map for the major withanolides, so as to identify the protein targets at the origin of their activity and/or unwanted effects. Screening of the cysteinome will help understanding the mechanism of action and designing cysteine-reactive electrophilic drug candidates.

The Emerging Role of Natural Products in Cancer Treatment

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.

Chlorogenic Acid as a Potential Therapeutic Agent for Cholangiocarcinoma

Chlorogenic acid (CGA) has demonstrated anti-tumor effects across various cancers, but its role in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) remains unclear. Our study revealed CGA's potent anti-tumor effects on CCA, significantly suppressing cell proliferation, migration, colony formation, and invasion while inhibiting the epithelial-mesenchymal transition. CGA induced apoptosis, modulated cell cycle progression, and exhibited a stable binding affinity to AKR1B10 in CCA. AKR1B10 was highly expressed in RBE cells, and CGA treatment reduced AKR1B10 expression. Knocking out AKR1B10 inhibited the proliferation of RBE cells, whereas the overexpression of AKR1B10 promoted their proliferation. Additionally, CGA suppressed the proliferation of RBE cells with AKR1B10 overexpression. Mechanistically, AKR1B10 activated AKT, and CGA exerted its inhibitory effect by reducing AKR1B10 levels, thereby suppressing AKT activation. Furthermore, CGA facilitated the polarization of tumor-associated macrophages towards an anti-tumor phenotype and enhanced T-cell cytotoxicity. These findings underscore CGA's potential as a promising therapeutic agent for CCA treatment.

Hawthorn with "homology of medicine and food": a review of anticancer effects and mechanisms

Over the past few years, there has been a gradual increase in the incidence of cancer, affecting individuals at younger ages. With its refractory nature and substantial fatality rate, cancer presents a notable peril to human existence and wellbeing. Hawthorn, a medicinal food homology plant belonging to the Crataegus genus in the Rosaceae family, holds great value in various applications. Due to its long history of medicinal use, notable effects, and high safety profile, hawthorn has garnered considerable attention and plays a crucial role in cancer treatment. Through the integration of modern network pharmacology technology and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), a range of anticancer active ingredients in hawthorn have been predicted, identified, and analyzed. Studies have shown that ingredients such as vitexin, isoorientin, ursolic acid, and maslinic acid, along with hawthorn extracts, can effectively modulate cancer-related signaling pathways and manifest anticancer properties via diverse mechanisms. This review employs network pharmacology to excavate the potential anticancer properties of hawthorn. By systematically integrating literature across databases such as PubMed and CNKI, the review explores the bioactive ingredients with anticancer effects, underlying mechanisms and pathways, the synergistic effects of drug combinations, advancements in novel drug delivery systems, and ongoing clinical trials concerning hawthorn's anticancer properties. Furthermore, the review highlights the preventive health benefits of hawthorn in cancer prevention, offering valuable insights for clinical cancer treatment and the development of TCM with anticancer properties that can be used for both medicinal and edible purposes.

Chlorogenic Acid: A Systematic Review on the Biological Functions, Mechanistic Actions, and Therapeutic Potentials

Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is a type of polyphenol compound found in rich concentrations in many plants such as green coffee beans. As an active natural substance, CGA exerts diverse therapeutic effects in response to a variety of pathological challenges, particularly conditions associated with chronic metabolic diseases and age-related disorders. It shows multidimensional functions, including neuroprotection for neurodegenerative disorders and diabetic peripheral neuropathy, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, anti-pathogens, mitigation of cardiovascular disorders, skin diseases, diabetes mellitus, liver and kidney injuries, and anti-tumor activities. Mechanistically, its integrative functions act through the modulation of anti-inflammation/oxidation and metabolic homeostasis. It can thwart inflammatory constituents at multiple levels such as curtailing NF-kB pathways to neutralize primitive inflammatory factors, hindering inflammatory propagation, and alleviating inflammation-related tissue injury. It concurrently raises pivotal antioxidants by activating the Nrf2 pathway, thus scavenging excessive cellular free radicals. It elevates AMPK pathways for the maintenance and restoration of metabolic homeostasis of glucose and lipids. Additionally, CGA shows functions of neuromodulation by targeting neuroreceptors and ion channels. In this review, we systematically recapitulate CGA's pharmacological activities, medicinal properties, and mechanistic actions as a potential therapeutic agent. Further studies for defining its specific targeting molecules, improving its bioavailability, and validating its clinical efficacy are required to corroborate the therapeutic effects of CGA.

Bioactive functions of chlorogenic acid and its research progress in pig industry

Chlorogenic acid (CGA), also known as 3-caffeioylquinic acid or coffee tannin, is a water-soluble polyphenol phenylacrylate compound produced through the shikimate pathway by plants during aerobic respiration. CGA widely exists in higher dicotyledons, ferns and many Chinese medicinal materials, and enjoys the reputation of 'plant gold'. Here, we summarized the source, chemical structure, biological activity functions of CGA and its research progress in pigs, aiming to provide a more comprehensive understanding and theoretical basis for the prospect of CGA replacing antibiotics as a pig feed additive.

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

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

Bioactive compounds in coffee and their role in lowering the risk of major public health consequences: A review

This article addresses the bioactive components in coffee aroma, their metabolism, and the mechanism of action in lowering the risk of various potential health problems. The main bioactive components involved in the perceived aroma of coffee and its related health benefits are caffeine, chlorogenic acid (CGA), trigonelline, diterpenes, and melanoids. These compounds are involved in various physiological activities. Caffeine has been shown to have anticancer properties, as well as the ability to prevent the onset and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma and to be anti-inflammatory. CGA exhibits antioxidant action and is implicated in gut health, neurodegenerative disease protection, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease prevention. Furthermore, together with diterpenes, CGA has been linked to anticancer activity. Trigonelline, on the other side, has been found to lower oxidative stress by increasing antioxidant enzyme activity and scavenging reactive oxygen species. It also prevents the formation of kidney stones. Diterpenes and melanoids possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, respectively. Consuming three to four cups of filtered coffee per day, depending on an individual's physiological condition and health status, has been linked to a lower risk of several degenerative diseases. Despite their health benefits, excessive coffee intake above the recommended daily dosage, calcium and vitamin D deficiency, and unfiltered coffee consumption all increase the risk of potential health concerns. In conclusion, moderate coffee consumption lowers the risk of different noncommunicable diseases.

The anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects of Achillea millefolium L. extracts on Clostridioides difficile ribotype 001 in human intestinal epithelial cells

BACKGROUND

Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is one of the most common health care-acquired infections. The dramatic increase in antimicrobial resistance of C. difficile isolates has led to growing demand to seek new alternative medicines against CDI. Achillea millefolium L. extracts exhibit strong biological activity to be considered as potential therapeutic agents. In this work, the inhibitory effects of A. millefolium, its decoction (DEC) and ethanol (ETOH) extracts, were investigated on the growth of C. difficile RT001 and its toxigenic cell-free supernatant (Tox-S) induced inflammation and apoptosis.

METHODS

Phytochemical analysis of extracts was performed by HPLC and GC analysis. The antimicrobial properties of extracts were evaluated against C. difficile RT001. Cell viability and cytotoxicity of Caco-2 and Vero cells treated with various concentrations of extracts and Tox-S were examined by MTT assay and microscopy, respectively. Anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects of extracts were assessed in Tox-S stimulated Caco-2 cells by RT-qPCR.

RESULTS

Analysis of the phytochemical profile of extracts revealed that the main component identified in both extracts was chlorogenic acid. Both extracts displayed significant antimicrobial activity against C. difficile RT001. Moreover, both extracts at concentration 50 µg/mL had no significant effect on cell viability compared to untreated cells. Pre-treatment of cells with extracts (50 µg/mL) significantly reduced the percentage of Vero cells rounding induced by Tox-S. Also, both pre-treatment and co-treatment of Tox-S stimulated Caco-2 cells with extracts significantly downregulated the gene expression level of IL-8, IL-1β, TNF-α, TGF-β, iNOS, Bax, caspase-9 and caspase-3 and upregulated the expression level of Bcl-2.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study for the first time demonstrate the antimicrobial activity and protective effects of A. millefolium extracts on inflammatory response and apoptosis induced by Tox-S from C. difficile RT001 clinical strain in vitro. Further research is needed to evaluate the potential application of A. millefolium extracts as supplementary medicine for CDI prevention and treatment in clinical setting.

Chlorogenic Acid Inhibits Proliferation, Migration and Invasion of Pancreatic Cancer Cells via AKT/GSK-3β/β-catenin Signaling Pathway

BACKGROUND

Chlorogenic acid (CA, United States Patent No. 10772340), a natural biologically active food ingredient, displays potent antitumor activity against a variety of cancer cells. However, the mechanism underlying its anticancer effect is not well elucidated.

OBJECTIVE

In the present study, we hope to dissect the mechanism underlying the anticancer effects of CA in pancreatic cancer cells.

METHODS

The cytotoxicity of CA in pancreatic cancer cells was determined by MTT assay. Flow cytometry was performed to evaluate the cells apoptosis, while a clonogenic assay was carried out to check the colony formation of cancer cells. Transwell assay was performed to assess the cells migration and invasion. The protein expression of AKT/GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling pathway was detected by Western Blot.

RESULTS

Our data indicated that CA inhibited the proliferation of PANC-28 and PANC-1 cells in a dose and time-dependent manner. CA was able to inhibit colony formation, migration, and invasion ability and trigger apoptosis in PANC-28 and PANC-1 cells. Further study showed that CA down-regulated the expression of AKT, p-AKT(Thr308), p-GSK-3β(Ser9), β-catenin, N-cadherin, and vimentin while enhancing the expression of cleaved-caspase 3 and cleaved-caspase 7 in PANC-28 and PANC-1 cells.

CONCLUSION

Our study provides significant evidence that CA is able to inhibit the growth of pancreatic cancer via the AKT/GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling pathway.

Role of natural products in tumor therapy from basic research and clinical perspectives

Cancer is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and is an important barrier to lengthening life expectancy in every country. Natural products are receiving increased attention from researchers globally and increasing numbers of natural products are approved for clinical studies involving cancer in recent years. To gain more insight into natural products that have undergone clinical trials for cancer treatment, a comprehensive search was conducted. The https://clinicaltrials.gov website was searched for relevant clinical trials and natural product information up to December 2022. The search terms included different types of cancers, such as colorectal, lung, breast, gynecologic, kidney, bladder, melanoma, pancreatic, hepatocellular, gastric and haematologic. Then, PubMed and Web of Science were searched for relevant articles up to February 2024. Hence, we listed existing clinical trials about natural products used in the treatment of cancers and discussed the preclinical and clinical studies of some promising natural products and their targets, indications, and underlying mechanisms of action. Our intent was to provide basic information to readers who are interested or majoring in natural products and obtain a deeper understanding of the progress and actions of natural product mechanisms of action.

In silico design of novel bioactive molecules to treat breast cancer with chlorogenic acid derivatives: a computational and SAR approach

Introduction: Cancer is a vast group of diseases comprising abnormal cells that multiply and grow uncontrollably, and it is one of the top causes of death globally. Several types of cancers are diagnosed, but the incidence of breast cancer, especially in postmenopausal women, is increasing daily. Chemotherapeutic agents used to treat cancer are generally associated with severe side effects on host cells, which has led to a search for safe and potential alternatives. Therefore, the present research has been conducted to find novel bioactive molecules to treat breast cancer with chlorogenic acid and its derivatives. Chlorogenic acid was selected because of its known activity in the field. Methods: Several chlorogenic acid derivatives were subjected to computational studies such as molecular docking, determination of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME), druglikeness, toxicity, and prediction of activity spectra for substances (PASS) to develop a potential inhibitor of breast cancer. The Protein Data Bank (PDB) IDs used for docking purposes were 7KCD, 3ERT, 6CHZ, 3HB5, and 1U72. Result: Exhaustive analysis of results has been conducted by considering various parameters, like docking score, binding energy, types of interaction with important amino acid residues in the binding pocket, ADME, and toxicity data of compounds. Among all the selected derivatives, CgE18, CgE11, CgAm13, CgE16, and CgE9 have astonishing interactions, excellent binding energy, and better stability in the active site of targeted proteins. The docking scores of compound CgE18 were -11.63 kcal/mol, -14.15 kcal/mol, and -12.90 kcal/mol against breast cancer PDB IDs 7KCD, 3HB5, and 1U72, respectively. The docking scores of compound CgE11 were -10.77 kcal/mol and -9.11 kcal/mol against breast cancer PDB IDs 3ERT and 6CHZ, respectively, whereas the docking scores of epirubicin hydrochloride were -3.85 kcal/mol, -6.4 kcal/mol, -8.76 kcal/mol, and -10.5 kcal/mol against PDB IDs 7KCD, 3ERT, 6CHZ, and 3HB5. The docking scores of 5-fluorouracil were found to be -5.25 kcal/mol, -3.43 kcal/mol, -3.73 kcal/mol, and -5.29 kcal/mol against PDB IDs 7KCD, 3ERT, 6CHZ, and 3HB5, which indicates the designed compounds have a better docking score than some standard drugs. Conclusion: Taking into account the results of molecular docking, drug likeness analysis, absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) evaluation, and PASS, it can be concluded that chlorogenic acid derivatives hold promise as potent inhibitors for the treatment of breast cancer.

Regulatory Effect of Ficus carica Latex on Cell Cycle Progression in Human Papillomavirus-Positive Cervical Cancer Cell Lines: Insights from Gene Expression Analysis

Cervical cancer presents a significant global health concern with high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPVs) identified as the main cause of this cancer. Although current treatment methods for cervical cancer can eliminate lesions, preventing metastatic spread and minimizing tissue damage remain a major challenge. Therefore, the development of a safer and innovative therapeutic approach is of the utmost importance. Natural products like fig latex, derived from the Ficus carica tree, have demonstrated promising anti-cancer properties when tested on cervical cancer cell lines. However, the specific mechanisms by which fig latex exerts its effects are still unknown. In this study, we conducted RNA-Seq analysis to explore how fig latex may counteract carcinogenesis in HPV-positive cervical cancer cell lines, namely, CaSki (HPV type 16-positive) and HeLa (HPV type 18-positive). Our results from this investigation indicate that fig latex influences the expression of genes associated with the development and progression of cervical cancer, including pathways related to "Nonsense-Mediated Decay (NMD)", "Cell Cycle regulation", "Transcriptional Regulation by TP53", and "Apoptotic Process". This selective impact of fig latex on cancer-related pathways suggests a potential novel therapeutic approach for HPV-related cervical cancer.

Chlorogenic acid induces apoptosis and cell-cycle arrest in colorectal cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Apoptotic agents from natural products like phenolic compounds can be used effectively in the treatment of cancer. Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is one of the phenolic compounds in medicinal plants with anti-cancer properties. In this research, we aimed to explore the anti-cancer mode of action of CGA on colorectal cancer (CRC) cells in vitro conditions.

METHODS

HT-29 and HEK-293 cells were cultured after MTT assay for 24 h with CGA 100 µM, and without CGA. Then, flow cytometry assays and the expression of apoptosis-related genes including caspase 3 and 9, Bcl-2 and Bax, and cell cycle-related genes including P21, P53 and NF-κB at mRNA and protein levels were examined. Finally, we measured the amount of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS).

RESULTS

The cell viability of all two-cell lines decreased in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, CGA induces cell cycle arrest in HT-29 cells by increasing the expression of P21 and P53. It also induces apoptosis in HT-29 cells by mitigating Bcl-2 and NF-κB expression and elevating caspase 3 and 9 expression and ROS levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Considering the cytotoxicity and cell cycle arrest and induction of apoptosis in the colon cancer cell line by CGA, it can be concluded that CGA is a suitable option for the treatment of colon cancer.

The intricate role of annexin A2 in kidney: a comprehensive review

Annexin A2 (Anxa2) is a calcium (Ca2+)-regulated phospholipid binding protein composed of a variable N-terminus and a conserved core domain. This protein has been widely found in many tissues and fluids, including tubule cells, glomerular epithelial cells, renal vessels, and urine. In acute kidney injury, the expression level of this protein is markedly elevated in response to acute stress. Moreover, Anxa2 is a novel biomarker and potential therapeutic target with prognostic value in chronic kidney disease. In addition, Anxa2 is associated not only with clear-cell renal cell carcinoma differentiation but also the formation of calcium-related nephrolithiasis. In this review, we discuss the characteristics and functions of Anxa2 and focus on recent reports on the role of Anxa2 in the kidney, which may be useful for future research.

Health-Promoting Properties: Anti-Inflammatory and Anticancer Properties of Sambucus nigra L. Flowers and Fruits

Sambucus nigra L. has been used for centuries in traditional medicine thanks to its valuable healing properties. The healing properties result from its high content of biologically active compounds, mainly antioxidants, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. In our review, we have presented scientific studies evaluating the anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects of extracts and their components from S. nigra L. flowers and fruits. The results of the research show that the effect of antioxidant phytochemicals contained in their composition reduces the level of free radicals and pro-inflammatory cytokines, prevents mutations that increase the risk of cancer development, and inhibits cell proliferation, induction of apoptosis, and changes in intracellular signaling, consequently inhibiting the growth of malignant tumors and the formation of metastases. Flowers and fruits of S. nigra L. are a valuable source of nutraceutical and pharmacological substances that can support prevention and anti-inflammatory and oncological therapy without negative side effects for the patient.

Thevetia peruviana leaves, HPLC profile, isolation, and in vitro cytotoxicity

Phytochemicals have played a significant role in the discovery of many clinically anticancer medicines. Thevetia peruviana being famous as an ornamental plant, widely cultivated, and including a wide variety of secondary metabolites this motivated us to explore more about its potential medical applications. In this study, the total methanol extract of T. peruviana leaves (family Apocyanaceae) was sequentially fractionated into hexane, methylene chloride, ethyl acetate, and butanol fractions. The total phenolic content of the methanol extract of T. peruviana was determined spectrophotometrically and found to be 72.37 mg g-1, while the total flavonoid content was found to be 12.47 mg g-1. Fourteen polyphenolic compounds were detected by the HPLC analysis of the methanol extract, in addition to five phenolic compounds, which were isolated and identified for the first time from the EtOAc extract. They were identified as gallic acid (C1), chlorogenic acid (C2), p-coumaric acid (C3), quercetin (C4), and rutin (C5). The structures were elucidated by NMR and EI/MS spectroscopic techniques. The cytotoxic activity of the methanol extract was evaluated in vitro by cell viability assay. The cytotoxicity results showed significant anticancer activity against human colon carcinoma HCT-116 with IC50 39.3 μg mL-1 and lesser activity against human lung carcinoma A-549 and human breast carcinoma MCF-7 cell lines with IC50 93.4 and 110.3 μg mL-1, respectively.

In Vitro and In Silico Study on the Impact of Chlorogenic Acid in Colorectal Cancer Cells: Proliferation, Apoptosis, and Interaction with β-Catenin and LRP6

Colorectal cancer mortality rate and highly altered proteins from the Wnt/β-catenin pathway increase the scientific community's interest in finding alternatives for prevention and treatment. This study aims to determine the biological effect of chlorogenic acid (CGA) on two colorectal cancer cell lines, HT-29 and SW480, and its interactions with β-catenin and LRP6 to elucidate a possible modulatory mechanism on the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. These effects were determined by propidium iodide and DiOC6 for mitochondrial membrane permeability, MitoTracker Red for mitochondrial ROS production, DNA content for cell distribution on cell cycle phases, and molecular docking for protein-ligand interactions and binding affinity. Here, it was found that CGA at 2000 µM significantly affects cell viability and causes DNA fragmentation in SW480 cells rather than in HT-29 cells, but in both cell lines, it induces ROS production. Additionally, CGA has similar affinity and interactions for LRP6 as niclosamide but has a higher affinity for both β-catenin sites than C2 and iCRT14. These results suggest a possible modulatory role of CGA over the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in colorectal cancer.

Chlorogenic Acid Inhibited Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition to Treat Pulmonary Fibrosis through Modulating Autophagy

Chlorogenic acid (CGA), derived from dicotyledons and ferns, has been demonstrated with anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and free radical-scavenging effects and can be used to treat pulmonary fibrosis (PF). However, the specific mechanism by which CGA treats PF needs to be further investigated. In this study, in vivo experiment was firstly performed to evaluate the effects of CGA on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and autophagy in bleomycin (BLM)-induced PF mice. Then, the effects of CGA on EMT and autophagy was assessed using transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) 1-induced EMT model in vitro. Furthermore, autophagy inhibitor (3-methyladenine) was used to verify that the inhibitory mechanism of CGA on EMT was associated with activating autophagy. Our results found that 60 mg/kg of CGA treatment significantly ameliorated lung inflammation and fibrosis in mice with BLM-induced PF. Besides, CGA inhibited EMT and promoted autophagy in mice with PF. In vitro studies also demonstrated that 50 µM of CGA treatment inhibited EMT and induced autophagy related factors in TGF-β1-induced EMT cell model. Moreover, the inhibitory effect of CGA on autophagy and EMT in vitro was abolished after using autophagy inhibitor. In conclusion, CGA could inhibit EMT to treat BLM-induced PF in mice through, activating autophagy.

Anti-Cholera toxin activity of selected polyphenols from Careya arborea, Punica granatum, and Psidium guajava

Introduction

Careya arborea, Punica granatum, and Psidium guajava are traditionally used to treat diarrheal diseases in India and were reported to show anti-Cholera toxin activity from our earlier studies. As polyphenols are reported to neutralize Cholera toxin (CT), the present study investigated the inhibitory activity of selected polyphenols from these plants against CTB binding to GM1 receptor using in silico, in vitro, and in vivo approaches.

Methods

Molecular modelling approach was used to investigate the intermolecular interactions of selected 20 polyphenolic compounds from three plants with CT using DOCK6. Based on intermolecular interactions, two phenolic acids, Ellagic acid (EA) and Chlorogenic acid (CHL); two flavonoids, Rutin (RTN) and Phloridzin (PHD) were selected along with their respective standards, Gallic acid (GA) and Quercetrin (QRTN). The stability of docked complexes was corroborated using molecular dynamics simulation. Furthermore, in vitro inhibitory activity of six compounds against CT was assessed using GM1 ELISA and cAMP assay. EA and CHL that showed prominent activity against CT in in vitro assays were investigated for their neutralizing activity against CT-induced fluid accumulation and histopathological changes in adult mouse.

Results and discussion

The molecular modelling study revealed significant structural stability of the CT-EA, CT-CHL, and CT-PHD complexes compared to their respective controls. All the selected six compounds significantly reduced CT-induced cAMP levels, whereas EA, CHL, and PHD exhibited > 50% binding inhibition of CT to GM1. The EA and CHL that showed prominent neutralization activity against CT from in vitro studies, also significantly decreased CT-induced fluid accumulation and histopathological changes in adult mouse. Our study identified bioactive compounds from these three plants against CT-induced diarrhea.

Probing the transcriptome of Boehmeria nivea reveals candidate genes associated with the biosynthesis of chlorogenic acid

Boehmeria nivea (L.) Gaudich is used in traditional Chinese medicine. Chlorogenic acids are major medically active components of Boehmeria nivea, which can be used clinically to treat hyperglycemia, pneumonia, and cancer. To identify the genes involved in chlorogenic acid biosynthesis, we analyzed transcriptome data from leaf, root, and stem tissues of Boehmeria nivea using the Illumina Hi-Seq 4000 platform. A total of 146,790 unigenes were obtained from Boehmeria nivea, of which 106,786 were annotated in public databases. In analyses of the KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genome) database, 484 unigenes that encode the five key enzymes involved in chlorogenic acid biosynthesis were identified, and shikimate O-hydroxycinnamoyl transferase was spatially simulated. Some of these key enzyme unigenes expression levels were verified by RT-qPCR (real-time quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction). Furthermore, multiple genes encoding plant resistance proteins or transcription factors were identified and analyzed. Differentially expressed genes were identified by performing pairwise comparison of genes between tissues. This study increases the number of public transcript datasets of this species and identifies candidate genes related to the biosynthesis of chlorogenic acid, laying a foundation for the further exploration of this pathway in Boehmeria nivea.

The Biological Activity Mechanism of Chlorogenic Acid and Its Applications in Food Industry: A Review

Chlorogenic acid (CGA), also known as coffee tannic acid and 3-caffeoylquinic acid, is a water-soluble polyphenolic phenylacrylate compound produced by plants through the shikimic acid pathway during aerobic respiration. CGA is widely found in higher dicotyledonous plants, ferns, and many Chinese medicine plants, which enjoy the reputation of “plant gold.” We have summarized the biological activities of CGA, which are mainly shown as anti-oxidant, liver and kidney protection, anti-bacterial, anti-tumor, regulation of glucose metabolism and lipid metabolism, anti-inflammatory, protection of the nervous system, and action on blood vessels. We further determined the main applications of CGA in the food industry, including food additives, food storage, food composition modification, food packaging materials, functional food materials, and prebiotics. With a view to the theoretical improvement of CGA, biological activity mechanism, and subsequent development and utilization provide reference and scientific basis.

A Comparative Analysis of the Anatomy, Phenolic Profile, and Antioxidant Capacity of Tussilago farfara L. Vegetative Organs

Tussilago farfara L., a perennial species, is a medicinal herb used in traditional medicine, mainly for the treatment of respiratory tract-related pathology. In traditional Chinese medicine, flower buds are preferred; in Europe, the leaves are used; and in some parts of India, the whole plant is utilized. This preferential usage of the plant organs might be based on differences in the chemical composition due to environmental conditions, along with preferred traditional and cultural approaches. In this article, the impact of pedoclimatic growth conditions on the morpho-anatomical development and phytochemical profile of the plant were studied on T. farfara in the vegetative state, collected from two different locations in the Romanian spontaneous flora, revealing significant variations. Furthermore, the antioxidant profile of the specific extracts from the aerial and subterranean plant parts is also in accordance with these discrepancies. The plant anatomy was assessed histologically by optical microscopy, while the analytical chemistry evaluation was based on LC/MS and spectral methods for the evaluation of the antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory activity. To our knowledge, this is the first comparative analysis contextually reporting on the histology, phenolic profile, antioxidant capacity, and geographical location of the vegetative form of T. farfara.

Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Activities of Chlorogenic Acid Against Yersinia enterocolitica

Nowadays, developing new and natural compounds with antibacterial activities from plants has become a promising approach to solve antibiotic resistance of pathogenic bacteria. Chlorogenic acid (CA), as a kind of phenolic acid existing in many plants, has been found to process multifunctional activities including antibacterial activity. Herein, the antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of CA against Yersinia enterocolitica (Y. enterocolitica) were tested for the first time, and its mechanism of action was investigated. It was demonstrated that CA could exert outstanding antibacterial activity against Y. enterocolitica. Biofilm susceptibility assays further indicated that CA could inhibit biofilm formation and decrease the established biofilm biomass of Y. enterocolitica. It was deduced that through binding to Y. enterocolitica, CA destroyed the cell membrane, increased the membrane permeability, and led to bacterial cell damage. In addition, the transcriptomic analysis revealed that CA could disorder many physiological pathways, mainly including the ones of antagonizing biofilms and increasing cell membrane permeability. Finally, the spiked assay showed that the growth of Y. enterocolitica in milk was significantly inhibited by CA. Taken together, CA, as an effective bactericidal effector with application potential, exerts antagonistic activity against Y. enterocolitica by mainly intervening biofilm formation and membrane permeability-related physiological pathways.

The TCM Prescription Yi-Fei-Jie-Du-Tang Inhibit Invasive Migration and EMT of Lung Cancer Cells by Activating Autophagy

Yi-Fei-Jie-Du-Tang (YFJDT) is a traditional Chinese medicine formulation. Our previous studies have demonstrated that YFJDT can be used to treat non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but its protective effect against NSCLC and its mechanisms remain unclear. In the present study, we evaluated the protective effects and potential mechanisms of YFJDT on a tumor-bearing mouse lung cancer model and A549 cell model. Tumor-bearing mice and A549 cells were treated with YFJDT, tumors were measured during the experiment, and tumor tissues and cell supernatants were collected at the end of the experiment to assess the levels of autophagy and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related proteins. The results showed that YFJDT treatment reduced tumor volume and mass, increased the expression of the autophagy marker LC3, and inhibited EMT-related proteins compared with the model group. Cell survival was reduced in the YFJDT-treated groups compared with the model group, and YFJDT also reduced the migration and invasion ability of A549 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Western blotting detected that YFJDT also upregulated FAT4 in the tumor tissue and A549 cells and downregulated the expression of vimentin. Meanwhile, apoptosis in both tissues and cells was greatly increased with treatment of YFJDT. We further interfered with FAT4 expression in cells and found that the inhibitory effect of YFJDT on EMT was reversed, indicating that YFJDT affects EMT by regulating FAT4 expression. Taken together, results of this study suggested that the inhibitory effect of YFJDT on EMT in lung cancer tumors is through upregulating FAT4, promoting autophagy, and thus inhibiting EMT in cancer cells.

The Chemical Composition and Health-Promoting Effects of the Grewia Species-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Globally grown and organoleptically appreciated Grewia species are known as sources of bioactive compounds that avert the risk of communicable and non-communicable diseases. Therefore, in recent years, the genus Grewia has attracted increasing scientific attention. This is the first systematic review which focusses primarily on the nutritional composition, phytochemical profile, pharmacological properties, and disease preventative role of Grewia species. The literature published from 1975 to 2021 was searched to retrieve relevant articles from databases such as Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science. Two independent reviewers carried out the screening, selection of articles, and data extraction. Of 815 references, 56 met our inclusion criteria. G. asiatica and G. optiva were the most frequently studied species. We found 167 chemical compounds from 12 Grewia species, allocated to 21 categories. Flavonoids represented 41.31% of the reported bioactive compounds, followed by protein and amino acids (10.7%), fats and fatty acids (9.58%), ash and minerals (6.58%), and non-flavonoid polyphenols (5.96%). Crude extracts, enriched with bioactive compounds, and isolated compounds from the Grewia species show antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective/radioprotective, immunomodulatory, and sedative hypnotic potential. Moreover, antimicrobial properties, improvement in learning and memory deficits, and effectiveness against neurodegenerative ailments are also described within the reviewed article. Nowadays, the side effects of some synthetic drugs and therapies, and bottlenecks in the drug development pathway have directed the attention of researchers and pharmaceutical industries towards the development of new products that are safe, cost-effective, and readily available. However, the application of the Grewia species in pharmaceutical industries is still limited.

Sea cucumber peptides inhibit the malignancy of NSCLC by regulating miR-378a-5p targeted TUSC2

Lung cancer is a common cancer with high mortality worldwide, and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for the majority. The clinical treatment effect of NSCLC is not ideal. The aim of this study was to investigate the inhibitory effect of sea cucumber peptide (SCP) on NSCLC and its mechanism. The results showed that SCP could effectively inhibit the proliferation, migration and invasion of A549 cells. In addition, SCP can also inhibit the formation of pleural effusion and tumor growth in lung cancer mice, reduce liver and kidney injury, increase the levels of IL-2 and IL-12, decrease the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α, and prolong the survival time of mice. The microRNA sequencing and immunohistochemistry of mouse tumors showed that the tumor suppressor gene TUSC2 targeted by miR-378a-5p was involved in the inhibition of tumor growth by SCP. This study provides an experimental basis for the further development of SCP as an anti-tumor nutritional supplement, and provides a new idea for exploring the molecular mechanism of food derived active peptides in anti-tumor applications.

Chlorogenic acid: Potential source of natural drugs for the therapeutics of fibrosis and cancer

Fibrosis and cancer is described by some epidemiological studies as chronic stages of different disease conditions typically characterized by uncontrolled accumulation of extra-cellular matrix (ECM), thereby leading to inflammation of tissues and organ (lungs, heart, liver and kidney) dysfunction. It is highly prevalent, and contributes to increased mortality rate worldwide. Currently, the therapeutical approaches involving selected medications (bemcentinib, pirfenidone and nintedanib) obtained synthetically, and used in clinical practices for fibrosis and cancer management and treatment has shown to be unsatisfactorily, especially during progressive stages of the disease. With regards to finding a more potent, effective, and promising curative for fibrosis and cancer, there is need for continuous experimental studies universally. However, phytochemical constituents’ particularly phenolic compounds [Chlorogenic acid (CGA)] obtained from coffee, and coffee beans have been predominantly utilized in experimental studies, due to its multiple pharmacological properties against various disease forms. Considering its natural source alongside minimal toxicity level, CGA, a major precursor of coffee have gained considerable attention nowadays from researchers worldwide, owing to its wide, efficacious and beneficial action against fibrosis and cancer. Interestingly, the safety of CGA has been proven. Furthermore, numerous experimental studies have also deduced massive remarkable outcomes in the use of CGA clinically, as a potential drug candidate against treatment of fibrosis and cancer. In the course of this review article, we systematically discussed the beneficial contributions of CGA with regards to its source, absorption, metabolism, mechanistic effects, and molecular mechanisms against different fibrosis and cancer categorization, which might be a prospective remedy in the future. Moreover, we also highlighted CGA (in vitro and in vivo analytical studies) defensive effects against various disorders.

Onco-Preventive and Chemo-Protective Effects of Apple Bioactive Compounds

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death globally. Epidemiological studies have strongly linked a diet high in fruits to a lower incidence of cancer. Furthermore, extensive research shows that secondary plant metabolites known as phytochemicals, which are commonly found in fruits, have onco-preventive and chemo-protective effects. Apple is a commonly consumed fruit worldwide that is available all year round and is a rich source of phytochemicals. In this review, we summarize the association of apple consumption with cancer incidence based on findings from epidemiological and cohort studies. We further provide a comprehensive review of the main phytochemical patterns observed in apples and their bioavailability after consumption. Finally, we report on the latest findings from in vitro and in vivo studies highlighting some of the key molecular mechanisms targeted by apple phytochemicals in relation to inhibiting multiple 'hallmarks of cancer' that are important in the progression of cancer.

Chlorogenic Acid Enhances Doxorubicin-Mediated Cytotoxic Effect in Osteosarcoma Cells

Despite the recurring outbreak of resistance mechanisms and adverse reactions, doxorubicin (Doxo) still remains the standard-of-care for several cancers, including osteosarcoma (OS). As an appealing source of phytochemical compounds, naturally occurring molecules have extensively been reported to overcome Doxo limitations in preclinical models. Unlike other dietary polyphenols, only few studies recognize chlorogenic acid (CGA) as a potential partner in combination therapy, while, conversely, its anticancer evidence is steadily growing, ultimately in OS. On this basis, herein we examine the cooperating effects between CGA and Doxo in U2OS and MG-63 human OS cells. With respect to Doxo alone, the concomitant administration of CGA further decreased cell viability and growth, promoting cell death potentially via apoptosis induction. Furthermore, a longer-lasting reduction in clonogenic potential deeply supported the CGA ability to improve Doxo efficacy in those cells. Remarkably, CGA treatment ameliorated Doxo-induced cytotoxicity in H9c2 rat cardiomyocyte cells instead. Although inactivation of p44/42 MAPK was detected in response to CGA plus Doxo, PD98059-mediated p44/42 MAPK impairment enhanced the combination outcome in OS cells. These findings firstly propose CGA as a promising chemosensitizer and cardioprotective agent in OS therapy, suggesting the p44/42 MAPK pathway as relevantly involved in CGA-mediated Doxo susceptibility.

Biological Impact of Phenolic Compounds from Coffee on Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is one of the leading death-related diseases worldwide, usually induced by a multifactorial and complex process, including genetic and epigenetic abnormalities and the impact of diet and lifestyle. In the present study, we evaluated the biological impact of two of the main coffee polyphenols, chlorogenic acid (CGA) and caffeic acid (CA), as well as two polyphenol-rich coffee extracts (green coffee extract and toasted coffee Extract) against SW480 and SW620 colorectal cancer cells. First, the total phenolic content and the antioxidant capability of the extracts were determined. Then, cytotoxicity was evaluated by MTT and SBR. Finally, a wound healing assay was performed to determine the impact on the cell migration process. The results showed a cytotoxic effect of all treatments in a time and dose-dependent manner, which decreased the viability in both cell lines at 24 h and 48 h; likewise, the migration capability of cells decreased with low doses of treatments. These results suggest the potential of coffee to modulate biological mechanisms involved in colorectal cancer development; however, more studies are required to understand the mechanistic insights of these observations.

Rapid classification and identification of chemical constituents in Epimedium koreanum Nakai by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS combined with data post-processing techniques

INTRODUCTION

Epimedium koreanum Nakai (EKN), is a well-known Chinese herbal medicine for the treatment of osteoporosis, immunosuppression, tumours and cardiovascular diseases. Comprehensive component identification is essential for elucidation of its pharmacological mechanism and quality control. However, its complex chemical composition has caused certain difficulties in the analysis of this traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Therefore, there is an urgent need to establish a method for rapid classification and identification of EKN chemical components.

OBJECTIVE

To establish a method for rapid classification and identification of the main components of flavonoids, organic acids and alkaloids in EKN.

METHODS

The samples were analysed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) and data post-processing techniques. The UPLC system used a BEH C₁₈ column to separate the total extract of EKN. The mobile phase consisted of 0.1% formic acid in water and acetonitrile, and the EKN extract was analysed by gradient elution at a flow rate of 0.4 mL/min. In both the positive and negative ion modes, the fragment information was obtained and compared with those of the characteristic fragmentations and neutral losses described in the literature to quickly identify the target compounds.

RESULTS

Finally, we successfully screened out 51 chemical components, including 40 flavonoids, nine organic acids, and two alkaloids.

CONCLUSION

The established method not only comprehensively analysed the chemical compositions of EKN, solved the difficult problems of analysis and identification of the complex chemical compositions of the TCM, but also further promoted the development of the application of chemical compositions of TCM.

Chlorogenic acid inhibits proliferation in human hepatoma cells by suppressing noncanonical NF-κB signaling pathway and triggering mitochondrial apoptosis

Chlorogenic acid (CGA), a phenylpropanoid derived from Eucommia ulmoides Oliver, has been shown to exhibit potent cytotoxic and anti-proliferative activities against several human cancers. However, the effects of CGA on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the underlying mechanisms have not been intensively studied. In this study, the CGA treatment effects on the viability of human hepatoma cells were investigated by MTT assay. Our data showed that CGA could dose-dependently inhibit the activity of human hepatoma cells Hep-G2 and Huh-7, but did not affect the activity and growth of normal human hepatocyte QSG-7701. The genes and pathways influenced by CGA treatment were explored by RNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis, which identified 323 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in multiple pharmacological signaling pathways such as MAPK, NF-κB, apoptosis and TGF-β signaling pathways. Further analyses by real-time quantitative PCR, Western blot and flow cytometry revealed that CGA effectually suppressed the noncanonical NF-κB signaling pathway, meanwhile it activated the mitochondrial apoptosis of HCC by upregulation of the BH3-only protein Bcl-2 binding component 3 (BBC3). Our findings demonstrated the potential of CGA in suppressing human hepatoma cells and provided a new insight into the anti-cancer mechanism of CGA.