Bioactivity and mechanism of action of sanguinarine and its derivatives in the past 10 years

Advances in fluorescent natural products for imaging localization and biological applications

Natural products play a crucial role in biological activities, yet the quest for novel natural products faces increasing challenges due to the complexities of structural exploration and efficacy evaluation. Besides, traditional methods for evaluating natural products primarily focus on non-fluorescent efficacy studies at animal level or multicellular accumulation level, lacking of intuitive fluorescence presentation at the single cell or organelle level. This limitation disrupts our understanding of the effectiveness of natural products and constrains their biological activities. The most striking example is that fluorescent natural products offer a unique but often overlooked dual function: they not only exhibit biological activities but also may provide real-time fluorescent signals for tracking within biological systems. This review highlights the exciting advances in imaging localization of fluorescent natural products combined with advanced imaging techniques, summarizes the structural characteristics and application criteria of fluorescent natural products, and explores their feasibility in visual localization and biological activities. This synthesis underscores the need for a systematic exploration of fluorescent natural products, towards a transformative impact on drug development and disease understanding.

Structural simplification of quaternary benzophenanthridine alkaloids generating a candidate for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer

Quaternary benzophenanthridine alkaloids (QBAs), such as sanguinarine, chelerythrine, and nitidine, possess diverse pharmacological activities. This study presents a simplified structure for QBAs, yielding twelve three-membered phenanthridine alkaloids. Notably, compound 6f demonstrates enhanced potency in selectively inhibiting thioredoxin reductase (TrxR, TXNRD) and exhibits significant cytotoxicity against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. While TrxR is a selenoenzyme, many of its inhibitors react with biological thiols; however, 6f shows minimal reactivity with thiols such as glutathione (GSH) and cysteine. Mechanistic investigations reveal that 6f stimulates reactive oxygen species production, reduces intracellular thiols, and decreases the GSH/GSSG ratio, leading to cell apoptosis through oxidative stress. Moreover, significant tumor regression has been observed in nude mice with NSCLC following treatment with 6f. The pronounced anticancer activity and possible mechanism of action of 6f suggest its potential as a candidate for further development in NSCLC therapy.

Multi-enzymatic biomimetic cerium-based MOFs mediated precision chemodynamic synergistic antibacteria and tissue repair for MRSA-infected wounds

Antibiotic-resistant pathogens represent a significant global public health challenge, particularly in refractory infections associated with biofilms. Urgent development of innovative, safe, and therapeutically adaptive strategies to combat these resistant biofilms is essential. We present a novel biomimetic antibacterial system inspired by the multifunctional enzymatic properties of cerium-based metal-organic frameworks. This system utilizes the inherent oxidase and peroxidase activities of a nanozyme to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) for bacterial eradication, while its phosphate-ester hydrolase activity disrupts bacterial genetic material and energy metabolism. By the reversible covalent binding between boronic acid groups and cis-diol groups on bacterial surfaces, combined with abundant cerium catalytic sites from the porous structure and the potent antibacterial effects of sanguinarine, we enhance targeted antibacterial activity. This system effectively penetrates extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and demonstrates precise regulation of ROS, allowing for localized delivery of ROS and sanguinarine for biofilm eradication. Transcriptomic analyses indicate that this approach disrupts the cellular environment, impairs energy metabolism, inhibits bacterial attachment to EPS, and promotes biofilm dispersion by modulating drug resistance-related genes. In vivo experiments confirm that this nanocatalyst composite effectively treats biofilm-induced wounds with efficacy comparable to vancomycin, presenting a promising solution for managing chronic infections caused by antibiotic-resistant biofilms.

Pinosylvin and Sanguinarine Combination to Enhance Antifungal Activity against Candida albicans

Candida albicans is one of the major sources of fungal infections that can lead to life-threatening systemic infections. However, effective control of C. albicans remains a great challenge. Herein, this study aimed at investigating the antifungal effect of a combination of two natural compounds, pinosylvin (PIN) and sanguinarine (SAN), against C. albicans. In order to investigate the antifungal effect and mechanism of the combination of PIN and SAN, antimicrobial assay, time-kill assay, biofilm formation assay, cell membrane integrity assay, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) assay were performed. The results showed that the combination of PIN and SAN was more effective against C. albicans than PIN or SAN alone. PIN and SAN could jointly inhibit biofilm formation and thus attenuate C. albicans adhesion and colonization ability. PIN mainly targeting the cell membrane while SAN mainly inducing the cell to produce large amounts of ROS. Besides, PIN promoted the entry of SAN into C. albicans. Finally, the hemolysis experiment demonstrated that the combination of PIN and SAN is biocompatible. Taken together, the combination of PIN and SAN enhanced the antifungal effect against C. albicans, which has a broad application prospect in the control of C. albicans.

Disrupting cross-adaptation in high-risk MRSA: Sanguinarine as a multi-effective stress sensitizer for environmental and food safety

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) represents a significant public health concern owing to its formidable antibiotic resistance and robust capacity for biofilm formation. The cross-adaptation mechanism enables MRSA to develop tolerance to environmental stressors such as antibiotics, acid, heat and osmotic pressure, leading to the persistence infections and environmental contamination. The cross-adaptation mechanism enables MRSA to develop tolerance to environmental stressors, such as antibiotics, acid, heat and osmotic pressure, leading to the persistence infections and environmental contamination. Here, we identified 261 strains of S. aureus and 9 high-risk MRSA from the environment of dairy farms and raw milk. The natural product Sanguinarine (SAN), derived from feed additives, exhibits effective anti-MRSA and anti-biofilm activity. Notably, SAN enhances the sensitivity of MRSA to antibiotics, acid, heat, and osmotic pressure by disrupting the cross-adaptation mechanism. Mechanistic investigations revealed that SAN significantly reduces the transcriptional level of type I (dnaK, groEL, etc.) and type III (clpB, clpP, etc.) heat stress response genes while markedly upregulating type II (σB) gene. Furthermore, SAN upregulates Na+/H+ antiporters activity, F0F1-ATPase activity and purine metabolism, while broadly downregulating DNA damage repair genes and disrupting ribosomal function. Additionally, SAN induces non-synonymous mutations in key stress response factors ClpB/L, leading to a loss of conformational homeostasis. SAN elicits a distinct stress response compared to environmental stressors, weakening MRSA's resilience and demonstrating promising capabilities for MRSA clearance and biofilm inhibition. Overall, SAN provides an effective strategy for the clearance of high-risk MRSA and the assurance of public health security.

Transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis of the antibacterial mechanism of sanguinarine against Enterobacter cloacae in vitro

BACKGROUND

Enterobacter cloacae (E. cloacae) is a notorious pathogen that poses serious threat to both human and animal health, causing severe gut infections and contributing to food spoilage. Traditional chemical treatment have led to increased drug resistance and environmental pollution. This study investigates the potential of Sanguinarine (SAN), a natural plant extract, as an alternative to chemical antibiotics.

RESULTS

In light of the escalating issue of antibiotic resistance, we examined the antibacterial efficacy and mechanisms of SAN against E. cloacae in vitro. Our findings revealed a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 100 µg/mL for SAN. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) demonstrated substantial morphological disruptions in E. cloacae cells treated with SAN. Concurrently, a significant increase in absorbance at 260 nm suggested nucleic acid leakage, indicative of compromised cell membrane integrity. Comprehensive transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses revealed that SAN primarily disrupts amino acid synthesis and energy metabolism pathway in E. cloacae.

CONCLUSIONS

SAN exhibited potential antibacterial activity against E. cloacae, which can effectively inhibit its growth and disrupt its bacterial morphology and exert antibacterial effect through multiple pathways, and can be used as a potential substitute for antibiotics.

(+)/(-)-Corydecumbenpines A and B, two pairs of dimeric phthalide-benzophenanthridine alkaloids with cytotoxicity from Corydalis decumbens

Four pairs of previously undescribed enantiomers, including two pairs of dimeric phthalide-benzophenanthridine alkaloid and two pairs phthalides derivatives, corydecumbenpines A-D, were isolated from the rhizomes of Corydalis decumbens. Their planar structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis including UV, IR, HRESIMS, 1D and 2D NMR. Optically pure compounds were obtained by chiral chromatography and their absolute configurations were determined by single-crystal X-ray crystallography and comparison of experimental and calculated ECD spectra. Corydecumbenpines A and B were previously undescribed phthalideisoquinolines which were benzophenanthridine linked to phthalide and corydecumbenpines C and D were previously undescribed phthalide hemiacetal derivatives. (+)-Corydecumbenpine A showed cytotoxic activity on A549, GIST-882, and PANC-1 cell lines with IC50 values of 10.1 μM, 8.2 μM, and 7.1 μM respectively.

The role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in lung cancer progression and therapy: a comprehensive review

Most instances of lung cancer (LC), which is the primary cause of cancer-related death worldwide, are non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Genetic predispositions, environmental exposures, and smoking are risk factors that lead to the development of LC, and the ineffectiveness of existing treatments emphasizes the need for innovative approaches to therapy. Through its regulation of cell proliferation, apoptosis, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and cancer stem cell maintenance, the Wnt/β-catenin signaling system is essential to advancing LC. This study offers a thorough examination of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in LC, emphasizing how miRNAs, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), circular RNAs (circRNAs), protein-coding genes, enzymes, and both natural and synthetic drugs affect this signaling. Recent research supports the dual function of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in tumor development and repression, which we describe. We also emphasize the therapeutic potential of Wnt/β-catenin inhibitors despite issues including off-target effects and bioavailability. This study highlights the potential of focusing on Wnt/β-catenin signaling to enhance LC patient outcomes by combining computational studies with molecular insights. It also lays the groundwork for further research and treatment development.

Research Progress of Genomics Applications in Secondary Metabolites of Medicinal Plants: A Case Study in Safflower

Medicinal plants, recognized as significant natural resources, have gained prominence in response to the increasing global demand for herbal medicines, necessitating the large-scale production of these plants and their derivatives. Medicinal plants are exposed to a variety of internal and external factors that interact to influence the biosynthesis and accumulation of secondary metabolites. With the rapid development of omics technologies such as genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, multi-omics technologies have become important tools for revealing the complexity and functionality of organisms. They are conducive to further uncovering the biological activities of secondary metabolites in medicinal plants and clarifying the molecular mechanisms underlying the production of secondary metabolites. Also, artificial intelligence (AI) technology accelerates the comprehensive utilization of high-dimensional datasets and offers transformative potential for multi-omics analysis. However, there is currently no systematic review summarizing the genomic mechanisms of secondary metabolite biosynthesis in medicinal plants. Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) has rich and diverse bioactive flavonoids, among of which Hydroxysafflor yellow A (HSYA) is specific to safflower and emerging as a potential medication for treating a wide range of diseases. Hence, significant progress has been made in the study of safflower as an excellent example for the regulation of secondary metabolites in medicinal plants in recent years. Here, we review the progress on the understanding of the regulation of main secondary metabolites at the multi-omics level, and summarize the influence of various factors on their types and contents, with a particular focus on safflower flavonoids. This review aims to provide a comprehensive insight into the regulatory mechanisms of secondary metabolite biosynthesis from the perspective of genomics.

Attenuation of cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury by sanguinarine: modulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, and cellular damage

Introduction

Cisplatin (CP)-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) is a significant side effect of CP chemotherapy, driven by oxidative stress and inflammation. Sanguinarine (SANG), an alkaloid from the rhizomes of Sanguinaria canadensis and poppy-fumaria species, exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study examined SANG's effect on CP-induced AKI in mice and its underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Mice were orally administered 5 mg/kg SANG for 10 days. On the seventh day, they received a single intraperitoneal CP injection (20 mg/kg) and were sacrificed on the 11th day.

Results

SANG significantly improved CP-induced decreases in body weight, water intake, urine volume, relative kidney weight, creatinine clearance, albumin-to-creatinine ratio, and plasma urea and creatinine levels. It also reduced elevated plasma neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, kidney injury molecule-1, cystatin C, and adiponectin levels, as well as renal markers of inflammation and oxidative stress induced by CP administration. SANG normalized kidney mitochondrial dysfunction, DNA damage, and apoptosis caused by CP. It also inhibited the CP-induced increase in the expression of phosphorylated nuclear factor-κB and autophagy markers in the kidney. Histological analysis showed that SANG reduced acute tubular necrosis and intraluminal protein accumulation due to CP.

Discussion

In conclusion, SANG mitigated CP-induced AKI by reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, DNA damage, apoptosis, and autophagy. Pending more comprehensive pharmacological and toxicological assessments, SANG may be regarded as a potential therapeutic agent for mitigating CP-induced AKI.

Functional characterization and regioselectivity manipulation of two Benzylisoquinoline alkaloids O-methyltransferases from Stephania yunnanensis

Benzylisoquinoline alkaloids (BIAs) constitute a vast and diverse class of plant-derived secondary metabolites, renowned for their potent therapeutic activities. O-methylation, catalyzed by O-methyltransferases (OMTs), is a prevalent feature of BIA molecules, which is intrinsically related to their bioactivities. Herein, we described the identification and characterization of two functionally identical but phylogenetically different BIA 7OMTs, SyOMT4 and SyOMT5, from the transcriptomic data of Stephania yunnanensis-a well-known anti-COVID-19 drug cepharanthine producing plant. Through multiple sequence alignment, structural modeling as well as site-directed mutagenesis, three residues (R143/L156/H163 in SyOMT4, and F154/F167/G174 in SyOMT5) were identified to be involved in substrate binding micro-environment. Their manipulation led to redirection of the catalytic regioselectivities of SyOMT4 and SyOMT5. SyOMT4 was adeptly transformed into a highly specific BIA 6OMT, namely SyOMT4-WFE, and unexpectedly SyOMT5 was engineered into BIA NMTs, designated SyOMT5-WFE and SyOMT5-WFD). This study shed light on protein engineering to expand the functional repertoire of BIA OMTs by manipulating their substrate binding micro-environments, enlarging the enzymatic toolkit for the production of medicinally important BIAs by using synthetic biology and metabolic engineering strategies.

Exploring new drug treatment targets for immune related bone diseases using a multi omics joint analysis strategy

In the field of treatment and prevention of immune-related bone diseases, significant challenges persist, necessitating the urgent exploration of new and effective treatment methods. However, most existing Mendelian randomization (MR) studies are confined to a single analytical approach, which limits the comprehensive understanding of the pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets of these diseases. In light of this, we propose the hypothesis that genetic variations in specific plasma proteins have a causal relationship with immune-related bone diseases through the MR mechanism, and that key therapeutic targets can be accurately identified using an integrated multi-omic analysis approach. This study comprehensively applied a variety of analytical methods. Firstly, the protein quantitative trait locus (pQTLs) data from two large plasma protein databases and the Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) data of nine immune-related bone diseases were used for Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. At the same time, we employed the Summary-based Mendelian Randomization (SMR) method, combined with the Bayesian colocalization analysis method of coding genes, as well as the Linkage Disequilibrium Score Regression (LDSC) analysis method based on genetic correlation analysis, as methods to verify the genetic association between genes and complex diseases, thus comprehensively obtaining positive results. In addition, a Phenome-wide Association Study (PheWAS) was conducted on significantly positive genes, and their expression patterns in different tissues were also explored. Subsequently, we integrated Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) network analysis, Gene Ontology (GO) analysis. Finally, based on the above analytical methods, drug prediction and molecular docking studies were carried out with the aim of accurately identifying key therapeutic targets. Through a comprehensive analysis using four methods, namely the Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis study, Summary-based Mendelian Randomization (SMR) analysis study, Bayesian colocalization analysis study, and Linkage Disequilibrium Score Regression (LDSC) analysis study. We found that through MR, SMR, and combined with Bayesian colocalization analysis, an association was found between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and HDGF. Using the combination of MR and Bayesian colocalization analysis, as well as LDSC analysis, it was concluded that RA was related to CCL19 and TNFRSF14. Based on the methods of MR and Bayesian colocalization, an association was found between GPT and Crohn's disease-related arthritis, and associations were found between BTN1A1, EVI5, OGA, TNFRSF14 and multiple sclerosis (MS), and associations were found between ICAM5, CCDC50, IL17RD, UBLCP1 and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Specifically, in the MR analysis of RA, HDGF (P_ivw = 0.0338, OR = 1.0373, 95%CI = 1.0028-1.0730), CCL19 (P_ivw = 0.0004, OR = 0.3885, 95%CI = 0.2299-0.6566), TNFRSF14 (P_ivw = 0.0007, OR = 0.6947, 95%CI = 0.5634-0.8566); in the MR analysis of MS, BTN1A1 (P_ivw = 0.0000, OR = 0.6101, 95%CI = 0.4813-0.7733), EVI5 (P_ivw = 0.0000, OR = 0.3032, 95%CI = 0.1981-0.4642), OGA (P_ivw = 0.0005, OR = 0.4599, 95%CI = 0.2966-0.7131), TNFRSF14 (P_ivw = 0.0002, OR = 0.4026, 95%CI = 0.2505-0.6471); in the MR analysis of PsA, ICAM5 (P_ivw = 0.0281, OR = 1.1742, 95%CI = 1.0174-1.3552), CCDC50 (P_ivw = 0.0092, OR = 0.7359, 95%CI = 0.5843-0.9269), IL17RD (P_ivw = 0.0006, OR = 0.7887, 95%CI = 0.6886-0.9034), UBLCP1 (P_ivw = 0.0021, OR = 0.6901, 95%CI = 0.5448-0.8741); in the MR analysis of Crohn's disease-related arthritis, GPT (P_ivw = 0.0006, OR = 0.0057, 95%CI = 0.0003-0.1111). In the Bayesian colocalization analysis of RA, HDGF (H4 = 0.8426), CCL19 (H4 = 0.9762), TNFRSF14 (H4 = 0.8016); in the Bayesian colocalization analysis of MS, BTN1A1 (H4 = 0.7660), EVI5 (H4 = 0.9800), OGA (H4 = 0.8569), TNFRSF14 (H4 = 0.8904); in the Bayesian colocalization analysis of PsA, ICAM5 (H4 = 0.9476), CCDC50 (H4 = 0.9091), IL17RD (H4 = 0.9301), UBLCP1 (H4 = 0.8862); in the Bayesian colocalization analysis of Crohn's disease-related arthritis, GPT (H4 = 0.8126). In the SMR analysis of RA, HDGF (p_SMR = 0.0338, p_HEIDI = 0.0628). In the LDSC analysis of RA, CCL19 (P = 0.0000), TNFRSF14 (P = 0.0258). By comprehensively analyzing plasma proteomic and transcriptomic data, we successfully identified key therapeutic targets for various clinical subtypes of immune-associated bone diseases. Our findings indicate that the significant positive genes associated with RA include HDGF, CCL19, and TNFRSF14; the positive gene linked to Crohn-related arthropathy is GPT; for MS, the positive genes are BTN1A1, EVI5, OGA, and TNFRSF14; and for PsA, the positive genes are ICAM5, CCDC50, IL17RD, and UBLCP1. Through this comprehensive analytical approach, we have screened potential therapeutic targets for different clinical subtypes of immune-related bone diseases. This research not only enhances our understanding of the pathogenesis of these conditions but also provides a solid theoretical foundation for subsequent drug development and clinical treatment, with the potential to yield significant advancements in the management of patients with immune-related bone diseases.

Mulberry Leaves-Derived Carbon Dots for Photodynamic Treatment of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus-Infected Wounds via Metabolic Perturbation

Antibiotic-resistant pathogens pose a significant global public health challenge, particularly in refractory infections associated with biofilms. The urgent development of innovative, safe, and therapeutically adaptive strategies to combat these resistant biofilms is essential. We present a novel, precise, and controllable photodynamic antibacterial carbon dot (B-M-CD) inspired by the natural antibacterial properties of the mulberry leaf and the bacterial targeting function of boric acid. This photocatalytic antibacterial agent exhibits good biocompatibility and utilizes its inherent antibacterial activities, along with photoactivated oxidase-mimicking activity, to generate reactive oxygen species for the eradication of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). By leveraging the reversible covalent binding between boronic acid groups and cis-diol groups on bacterial surfaces, we further enhance the targeted antibacterial activity. B-M-CDs effectively penetrate extracellular polymeric substances and demonstrate a precise photodynamic antibacterial effect, allowing for localized delivery aimed at biofilm inhibition and destruction. Metabolomic analyses reveal that B-M-CDs disrupt amino acid metabolism, protein synthesis, electron transport chain, and energy metabolism in MRSA. In vivo experiments confirm that this photocatalyst effectively treats MRSA-induced wounds with an efficacy comparable to that of vancomycin while also exhibiting high biocompatibility. This study represents the first development of a precise, photoactivated, controllable, and targeted carbon-based antibacterial nanozyme derived from the traditional Chinese herb, mulberry leaf, providing a novel strategy for designing intelligent antibacterial nanoagents and underscoring their potential as candidate therapeutics for conditions analogous to MRSA infections.

Multi-omic biomarkers associated with multiple sclerosis: from Mendelian randomization to drug prediction

Currently, the treatment and prevention of multiple sclerosis (MS) continue to encounter significant challenges. Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis has emerged as a crucial research method in the pursuit of new therapeutic strategies. Accordingly, we hypothesize that there exists a causal association between genetic variants of specific plasma proteins and MS through MR mechanisms, and that key therapeutic targets can be precisely identified by integrating multi-omics analytical approaches. In this study, we developed a comprehensive analytical framework aimed at identifying and validating potential therapeutic targets for MS. The framework commenced with a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study utilizing two large plasma protein quantitative trait locus (pQTL) datasets. Building on this foundation, we performed Bayesian co-localization analysis of coding genes, followed by a full phenotype-wide association study (PheWAS) on the co-positive genes identified through both analytical methods. This approach allowed us to explore the functions of key genes and the mechanisms of co-morbidity associated with the disease. Subsequently, we integrated protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, gene ontology (GO) analysis, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis to facilitate drug prediction and molecular docking studies. This study conducted a systematic analysis between two large plasma pQTLs datasets and MS. In the MR analysis, the MR analysis of Icelandic plasma pQTLs and MS identified 88 positive plasma proteins, while the MR analysis of the UK Biobank database pQTLs and MS identified 122 positive plasma proteins. By comparison, uroporphyrinogen III synthase (UROS) and glutathione S-transferase theta 2B (GSTT2B) were found to be the positive proteins shared by the two datasets. After false discovery rate (FDR) correction, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) was a significantly positive protein in the analysis of Icelandic plasma pQTLs. In the analysis of the UK Biobank database pQTLs, advanced glycosylation end product-specific receptor (AGER), allograft inflammatory factor 1 (AIF1), butyrophilin subfamily 1 member A1 (BTN1A1), cluster of differentiation 58 (CD58), desmoglein 4 (DSG4), ecotropic viral integration site 5 (EVI5), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 14 (TNFRSF14) were significantly positive proteins. After Bonferroni correction, AGER, CD58, EVI5, and TNF remained significantly positive proteins in the analysis of the UK Biobank database pQTLs. In the Bayesian colocalization analysis, EVI5 (PPH4 = 0.9800), O-GlcNAcase (OGA) (PPH4 = 0.8569), and TNFRSF14 (PPH4 = 0.8904) were the common positive genes in the two analysis methods. In conclusion, EVI5, OGA, and TNFRSF14 may be potential therapeutic targets for MS. Through the comprehensive application of MR analysis and Bayesian colocalization analysis, we have successfully identified that EVI5, OGA, and TNFRSF14 may be key therapeutic targets for MS. These findings may provide a scientific basis for the development of novel immunotherapies, combination treatment regimens, or targeted intervention strategies.

High-Throughput Repurposing Screen Reveals Compounds with Activity against Toxoplasma gondii Bradyzoites

Toxoplasma gondii causes widespread chronic infections that are not cured by current treatments due to the inability to affect semidormant bradyzoite stages within tissue cysts. To identify compounds to eliminate chronic infection, we developed an HTS using a recently characterized strain of T. gondii that undergoes efficient conversion to bradyzoites in vitro. Stage-specific expression of luciferase was used to selectively monitor the growth inhibition of bradyzoites by the Library of Pharmacological Active Compounds, consisting of 1280 drug-like compounds. We identified 44 compounds with >50% inhibitory effects against bradyzoites, including new highly potent compounds, several of which have precedent for antimicrobial activity. Subsequent characterization of the compound sanguinarine sulfate revealed potent and rapid killing against in vitro-produced bradyzoites and bradyzoites harvested from chronically infected mice, including potent activity against intact cysts. These findings provide a platform for expanded screening and identify promising compounds for further preclinical development against T. gondii bradyzoites that are responsible for chronic infection.

Downregulation of RORl via STAT3 and P300 Promotes P38 Pathway- Dependent Lens Epithelial Cells Apoptosis in Age-Related Cataract

Lens Epithelial Cells (LECs) apoptosis is a critical driving factor of age-related cataract (ARC), but the specific molecular mechanisms remain undefined. Herein, a novel target of ROR1 regulation was identified, the mechanism was elucidated by which ROR1 and its associated pathway proteins influence hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced apoptosis of LECs in ARC. We found decreased ROR1 expression in human cataract lens capsules compared to normal ones, the trend was also observed in young and old mice. Experiments including CCK8, Hoechst 33,342 staining, and Western blot analysis confirmed that reduced ROR1 levels were linked to H2O2-induced apoptosis in HLEB3 cells. To investigate its effects on cell viability and apoptosis, we created a ROR1 interference plasmid and an overexpression plasmid. The overexpression of ROR1 effectively inhibited H2O2-induced apoptosis of HLEB3 cells while ROR1 knockdown lowered the viability and increased the apoptosis of HLEB3 cells. Additionally, increased P38 phosphorylation was identified as a contributor to lens epithelial cell apoptosis and ARC, with ROR1 influencing this through the phosphorylation of the P38. Similarly, the relationships between P300 and STAT3, upstream of ROR1, in apoptosis of LECs and ARC were explored, and it was found that P300 and STAT3 were negatively correlated with apoptosis of LECs and ARC. In addition, the double luciferase report showed that P300 and STAT3 synergistically up-regulated the expression of ROR1. Overall, this study demonstrates that the STAT3/ROR1/P38 pathway mitigates apoptosis of LECs in ARC progression, offering a novel strategy for ARC prevention and treatment in clinical settings.

A Review of Bavachinin and Its Derivatives as Multi-Therapeutic Agents

Extracting natural active ingredients from plants is an effective way to develop and screen modern drugs. Psoralea corylifolia (PC) is a leguminous plant whose seeds have long been used as a Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat psoriasis, rheumatism, dermatitis, and other diseases. To date, several main compounds, including coumarins, flavonoids, monoterpene phenols, and benzofurans, have been identified from the seeds of PC. Among them, bavachinin is a type of flavonoid with various biological activities. In this article, the biological activities and mechanisms of action of bavachinin and its derivatives are reviewed. It includes the pharmacokinetic characteristics of bavachinin and its derivatives, as well as its prominent anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antibacterial, and antiviral pharmacological activities and related metabolic studies. Bavachinin displayed these activities through different receptors, such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), as well as multiple signaling pathways and enzyme systems. In summary, bavachinin and its derivatives have potential drug development value in many fields, such as anti-inflammatory, antitumor, nervous system disease, and diabetes. We believe that this review will lay a foundation for bavachinin-based drug development throughout the world.

Studies on pharmacokinetic properties and intestinal absorption mechanism of sanguinarine chloride: in vivo and in situ

Sanguinarine (SAN) is an alkaloid with multiple biological activities, mainly extracted from Sanguinaria canadensis or Macleaya cordata. The low bioavailability of SAN limits its utilization. At present, the nature and mechanism of SAN intestinal absorption are still unclear. The pharmacokinetics, single-pass intestinal perfusion test (SPIP), and equilibrium solubility test of SAN in rats were studied. The absorption of SAN at 20, 40, and 80 mg/L in different intestinal segments was investigated, and verapamil hydrochloride (P-gp inhibitor), celecoxib (MPR2 inhibitor), and ko143 (BCRP inhibitor) were further used to determine the effect of efflux transporter proteins on SAN absorption. The equilibrium solubility of SAN in three buffer solutions (pH 1.2, 4.5 and 6.8) was investigated. The oral pharmacokinetic results in rats showed that SAN was rapidly absorbed (Tmax=0.5 h), widely distributed (Vz/F = 134 L/kg), rapidly metabolized (CL = 30 L/h/kg), and had bimodal phenomena. SPIP experiments showed that P-gp protein could significantly affect the effective permeability coefficient (Peff) and apparent absorption rate constant (Ka) of SAN. Equilibrium solubility test results show that SAN has the best solubility at pH 4.5. In conclusion, SAN is a substrate of P-gp, and its transport modes include efflux protein transport, passive transport and active transport.

Sanguinarine Inhibits Cell Growth in EBV-Positive Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma

To investigate the effects of Sanguinarine (SAG) on the progression of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and to explore its underlying mechanism, this study utilized Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-positive DLBCL cell lines, FARAGE, and GM12878S. Cell counting kit-8 and bromodeoxyuridine assays were used to assess the effects of SAG on the cell proliferation. Flow cytometry and immunoblotting were employed to analyze cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Additionally, the molecular mechanism was explored through further immunoblotting analysis of the mechanism. SAG suppressed the growth of EBV-positive DLBCL cells. Furthermore, SAG induced cell cycle arrest and promoted apoptosis in these cells. Mechanistically, SAG suppressed the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, thereby suppressing DLBCL progression in vitro. SAG effectively inhibits cell growth and induces apoptosis in EBV-positive DLBCL via Wnt/β-catenin pathway, offering potential therapeutic insights for this lymphoma subtype.

Sanguinarine identified as a natural dual inhibitor of AURKA and CDK2 through network pharmacology and bioinformatics approaches

Cervical cancer (CA) continues to be a female malignant tumor with limited therapeutic options, resulting in a high mortality rate. Sanguinarine (SANG), a naturally occurring alkaloid, has demonstrated notable efficacy in preclinical treatment of CA. However, the mechanism through which SANG acts against CA is not fully understood. To address this, utilizing nine drug target prediction databases, we have successfully identified 379 potential targets for SANG. Venn diagram analysis compared 2367 CA-related targets from the GeneCards disease database, 2618 CA-closely related targets derived from multiple datasets in GEO through WGCNA analysis, and the 379 potential targets of SANG, resulting in 35 shared targets. Subsequently, by employing PPI network analysis, the Cytohubba plugin, the Human Protein Atlas, TCGA database data, and ROC curve analysis, we have identified AURKA and CDK2 as key targets of SANG in combating CA. Single-gene GSEA results suggest that the overexpression of AURKA and CDK2 is closely correlated with DNA replication, cell cycle progression, and various DNA repair pathways in CA. Molecular docking and molecular simulation dynamics analyses have confirmed the stable binding of both AURKA and CDK2 to SANG. In summary, by integrating diverse methodological approaches, this study discovered that SANG potentially inhibits the malignant features of CA by targeting AURKA and CDK2, thereby regulating DNA replication, cell cycle progression, and multiple DNA repair pathways. This lays a solid foundation for further exploring the pharmacological role of SANG in CA therapy. However, further in-depth in vitro and in vivo experiments are required to corroborate our findings.

High Throughput Repurposing Screen Reveals Compounds with Activity Against Toxoplasma gondii Bradyzoites

Toxoplasma gondii causes widespread chronic infections that are not cured by current treatments due to inability to affect semi-dormant bradyzoite stages within tissue cysts. To identify compounds to eliminate chronic infection, we developed a HTS using a recently characterized strain of T. gondii that undergoes efficient conversion to bradyzoites in intro. Stage-specific expression of luciferase was used to selectively monitor growth inhibition of bradyzoites by the Library of Pharmacological Active Compounds, consisting of 1,280 drug-like compounds. We identified 44 compounds with >50% inhibitory effects against bradyzoites, including new highly potent compounds, several of which have precedent for antimicrobial activity. Subsequent characterization of the compound Sanguinarine sulfate revealed potent and rapid killing against in vitro produced bradyzoites and bradyzoites harvested from chronically infected mice. These findings provide a platform for expanded screening and identify promising compounds for further preclinical development against T. gondii bradyzoites responsible for chronic infection.

Natural products for enhancing the sensitivity or decreasing the adverse effects of anticancer drugs through regulating the redox balance

Redox imbalance is reported to play a pivotal role in tumorigenesis, cancer development, and drug resistance. Severe oxidative damage is a general consequence of cancer cell responses to treatment and may cause cancer cell death or severe adverse effects. To maintain their longevity, cancer cells can rescue redox balance and enter a state of resistance to anticancer drugs. Therefore, targeting redox signalling pathways has emerged as an attractive and prospective strategy for enhancing the efficacy of anticancer drugs and decreasing their adverse effects. Over the past few decades, natural products (NPs) have become an invaluable source for developing new anticancer drugs due to their high efficacy and low toxicity. Increasing evidence has demonstrated that many NPs exhibit remarkable antitumour effects, whether used alone or as adjuvants, and are emerging as effective approaches to enhance sensitivity and decrease the adverse effects of conventional cancer therapies by regulating redox balance. Among them are several novel anticancer drugs based on NPs that have entered clinical trials. In this review, we summarize the synergistic anticancer effects and related redox mechanisms of the combination of NPs with conventional anticancer drugs. We believe that NPs targeting redox regulation will represent promising novel candidates and provide prospects for cancer treatment in the future.

Mini-review: research and progress of oxeiptosis in diseases

Oxeiptosis is a novel cell death pathway that was introduced in 2018. As a form of regulated cell death, it operates independently of caspases and is induced by ROS. Distinguished from other cell death pathways such as apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis, oxeiptosis features unique damage causes pivotal genes, and signaling pathways (KEAP1/PGAM5/AIFM1). Emerging studies indicate that oxeiptosis plays a significant role in the progression of various diseases and its regulation could serve as a promising therapeutic target. However, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying oxeiptosis remain to be fully elucidated. In this mini-review, we systematically summarize the latest developments in oxeiptosis-related diseases while detailing the molecular mechanisms and regulatory networks of oxeiptosis. These insights offer a foundation for a deeper understanding of oxeiptosis.