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Bird JK, Feskens EJM, Melse-Boonstra A. A Systematized Review of the Relationship Between Obesity and Vitamin C Requirements. Curr Dev Nutr 2024; 8:102152. [PMID: 38666038 PMCID: PMC11039309 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2024.102152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Obesity rates have increased globally in recent decades. Body weight is used as a modifiable factor in determining vitamin requirements. Accordingly, vitamin C requirements are volumetrically scaled from data for healthy weight males to other age- and sex-based categories. Likewise, it is possible that increases in body weight due to obesity may affect vitamin C needs. A systematized literature review was performed to summarize evidence on whether obesity affects vitamin C intake or status. The literature was also scanned for potential mechanisms for the relationship. Many observational studies showed that vitamin C status is lower in overweight and obese children and adults; this may be explained by lower vitamin C intakes. Nevertheless, a reanalysis of carefully conducted intervention studies has demonstrated a lower vitamin C status in participants who were overweight or obese when given the same dose of vitamin C as subjects of normal weight. Several mechanisms have been proposed to potentially explain why vitamin C status is lower in people with obesity: changes in vitamin C partitioning between lean and adipose tissue, volumetric dilution, metabolic alterations due to obesity, and gut microbial dysbiosis. Depletion-repletion or pharmacokinetic studies that include individuals of diverse body weights and ages would be helpful to further investigate whether obesity increases requirements for vitamin C. The current evidence base supports a lower vitamin C status in people who are overweight or obese; however, the association may be attenuated by lower vitamin C intakes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia K Bird
- Division of Human Nutrition and Health, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Edith JM Feskens
- Division of Human Nutrition and Health, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Alida Melse-Boonstra
- Division of Human Nutrition and Health, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
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2
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Kabelitz D, Cierna L, Juraske C, Zarobkiewicz M, Schamel WW, Peters C. Empowering γδ T-cell functionality with vitamin C. Eur J Immunol 2024:e2451028. [PMID: 38616772 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202451028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a potent antioxidant and a cofactor for various enzymes including histone demethylases and methylcytosine dioxygenases. Vitamin C also exerts direct cytotoxicity toward selected tumor cells including colorectal carcinoma. Moreover, vitamin C has been shown to impact immune cell differentiation at various levels including maturation and/or functionality of T cells and their progenitors, dendritic cells, B cells, and NK cells. γδ T cells have recently attracted great interest as effector cells for cell-based cancer immunotherapy, due to their HLA-independent recognition of a large variety of tumor cells. While γδ T cells can thus be also applied as an allogeneic off-the-shelf product, it is obvious that the effector function of γδ T cells needs to be optimized to ensure the best possible clinical efficacy. Here we review the immunomodulatory mechanisms of vitamin C with a special focus on how vitamin C enhances the effector function of γδ T cells. We also discuss future directions of how vitamin C can be used in the clinical setting to boost the efficacy of adoptive cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dieter Kabelitz
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Lea Cierna
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Claudia Juraske
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, and Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine (SGBM), University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michal Zarobkiewicz
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Wolfgang W Schamel
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, and Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine (SGBM), University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Centre for Chronic Immunodeficiency (CCI), Medical Centre Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christian Peters
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
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3
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Satawiriya M, Khongphatthanayothin A, Limsuwan A. Reversible severe pulmonary hypertension related to scurvy in children. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2024; 24:24. [PMID: 38172747 PMCID: PMC10765653 DOI: 10.1186/s12872-023-03629-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe pulmonary hypertension (PH) in childhood is rare and can manifest as a life-threatening episode. We present 2 children with restrictive dietary habits with severe pulmonary hypertension secondary to scurvy and iron deficiency anemia with treatment and outcome. CASE PRESENTATION The first case is a 2-year-old boy who presented with vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. After rehydration, he had recurrent episodes of hypotension with intermittent abdominal pain. Fluid resuscitation and inotropic medication were given. Then he suddenly collapsed. After 4-min cardiopulmonary resuscitation, his hemodynamic was stabilized. Most of the medical workup was unremarkable except for PH from the echocardiogram with estimated systolic pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) at 67 mmHg. Transient PH was diagnosed, and milrinone was prescribed. Since he had restrictive dietary habits and sclerotic rim at epiphysis in chest films, his vitamin C level was tested and reported low-level result. The second case is a 6-year-old boy with acute dyspnea, a month of low-grade fever, mild cyanosis, and a swollen left knee. Echocardiogram indicated moderate TR with estimated systolic PAP at 56 mmHg (systolic blood pressure 90 mmHg). Milrinone was given. Right cardiac catheterization showed PAP 66/38 (mean 50) mmHg and PVRi 5.7 WU.m2. Other medical conditions causing PH were excluded. With a history of improper dietary intake and clinical suspicion of scurvy, vitamin C was tested and reported undetectable level. Administration of vitamin C in both cases rapidly reversed pulmonary hypertension. CONCLUSION Pediatric PH related to vitamin C deficiency can manifest with a wide range of symptoms, varying from mild and nonspecific to severe life-threatening episodes characterized by pulmonary hypertensive crises. PH associated with scurvy is entirely reversible with appropriate investigation, diagnosis, and treatment. Our report highlights the importance of considering nutritional deficiencies as potential confounding factors in pediatric PH, emphasizing the need for comprehensive evaluation and management of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marin Satawiriya
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, 270 Rama 6 Rd, Rachathewi, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Apichai Khongphatthanayothin
- Bangkok Heart Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Arrhythmia Research Chulalongkorn University, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Alisa Limsuwan
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, 270 Rama 6 Rd, Rachathewi, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand.
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4
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Chugaeva UY, Raouf M, Morozova NS, Mahdavian L. Effects of L-ascorbic acid (C 6H 8O 6: Vit-C) on collagen amino acids: DFT study. Amino Acids 2023; 55:1655-1664. [PMID: 37782378 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-023-03339-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Vitamin C plays a very important role in the repair of connective tissue, especially for sports whose training causes the most damage to this tissue. Therefore, many people believe that L-ascorbic acid (C6H8O6: vitamin C) reduces the recovery time between sports exercises. The most abundant form of structural protein in the body is collagen. Collagen is characterized by a high concentration of the three amino acids glycine (Gly), proline (Pro), and hydroxyproline (Hyp), which creates its characteristic triple helix structure. Therefore, in this study, the effect of vitamin C presence on the sequence, interaction, and orientation of amino acids for collagen formation is investigated using computational simulation. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of action of vitamin C in terms of thermodynamics and structure of the reaction. The calculations are performed using density function theory (DFT) by the base set of B3LYP/6-311++G (p,d). The results show that the presence of vitamin C is effective in the formation of collagen protein for this interaction and the mechanism of amino acid sequence (Gly-Hyp-Pro) is better in the formation of collagen protein in the presence of vitamin C. The presence of Vit-C in the formation and direction of hydroxyproline (Hyp) causes its separation from the prolyl 5-hydroxylase enzyme. In the absence of vitamin C, the reaction stops at this stage and proline cannot be converted into hydroxyproline. The computational data shows vitamin C prevents unwanted interactions and directs amino acid reactions to repair connective tissue (collagen). Therefore, vitamin C acts as a cofactor in the Prolyl 5-Hydroxylase enzyme and causes it to convert proline to hydroxyl.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uliana Y Chugaeva
- Department of Pediatric, Preventive Dentistry and Orthodontics, Institute of Dentistry, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Mahmoud Raouf
- Department of Physical Education, Doroud Branch, Islamic Azad University, Doroud, Iran
| | - Natalia S Morozova
- Department of Pediatric, Preventive Dentistry and Orthodontics, Institute of Dentistry, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Leila Mahdavian
- Department of Chemistry, Doroud Branch, Islamic Azad University, Doroud, Iran.
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5
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Praditi C, Bozonet SM, Dachs GU, Vissers MCM. Ascorbate Uptake and Retention by Breast Cancer Cell Lines and the Intracellular Distribution of Sodium-Dependent Vitamin C Transporter 2. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1929. [PMID: 38001782 PMCID: PMC10669237 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12111929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Ascorbate plays a vital role as a co-factor for a superfamily of enzymes, the 2-oxoglutarate dependent dioxygenases (2-OGDDs), which govern numerous pathways in cancer progression, including the hypoxic response and the epigenetic regulation of gene transcription. Ascorbate uptake into most cells is through active transport by the sodium-dependent vitamin C transporter 2 (SVCT2). The aims of this study were to determine the kinetics of ascorbate uptake and retention by breast cancer cell lines under various oxygen conditions, and to investigate the role of SVCT2 in mediating ascorbate uptake and intracellular trafficking. Human MDA-MB231 cells accumulated up to 5.1 nmol ascorbate/106 cells, human MCF7 cells 4.5 nmol/106 cells, and murine EO771 cells 26.7 nmol/106 cells. Intracellular ascorbate concentrations decreased rapidly after reaching maximum levels unless further ascorbate was supplied to the medium, and there was no difference in the rate of ascorbate loss under normoxia or hypoxia. SVCT2 was localised mainly to subcellular compartments, with the nucleus apparently containing the most SVCT2 protein, followed by the mitochondria. Much less SVCT2 staining was observed on the plasma membrane. Our data showed that careful management of the doses and incubation times with ascorbate in vitro allows for an approximation of in vivo conditions. The localisation of SVCT2 suggests that the distribution of ascorbate to intracellular compartments is closely aligned to the known function of ascorbate in supporting 2-OGDD enzymatic functions in the organelles and with supporting antioxidant protection in the mitochondria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Citra Praditi
- Mātai Hāora—Centre for Redox Biology and Medicine, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand; (C.P.); (S.M.B.)
| | - Stephanie M. Bozonet
- Mātai Hāora—Centre for Redox Biology and Medicine, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand; (C.P.); (S.M.B.)
| | - Gabi U. Dachs
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand;
| | - Margreet C. M. Vissers
- Mātai Hāora—Centre for Redox Biology and Medicine, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand; (C.P.); (S.M.B.)
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6
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Kietzmann T. Vitamin C: From nutrition to oxygen sensing and epigenetics. Redox Biol 2023; 63:102753. [PMID: 37263060 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitamin C is unbeatable - at least when it comes to sales. Of all the vitamin preparations, those containing vitamin C sell best. This is surprising because vitamin C deficiency is extremely rare. Nevertheless, there is still controversy about whether the additional intake of vitamin C supplements is essential for our health. In this context, the possible additional benefit is in most cases merely reduced to the known effect as an antioxidant. However, new findings in recent years on the mechanisms of oxygen-sensing and epigenetic control underpin the multifaceted role of vitamin C in a biological context and have therefore renewed interest in it. In the present article, therefore, known facts are linked to these new key data. In addition, available clinical data on vitamin C use of cancer therapy are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Kietzmann
- University of Oulu, Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Biocenter Oulu, P.O. Box 3000, 90014, Oulu, Finland.
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7
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Tyuryaeva I, Lyublinskaya O. Expected and Unexpected Effects of Pharmacological Antioxidants. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119303. [PMID: 37298254 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
In this review, we have collected the existing data on the bioactivity of antioxidants (N-acetylcysteine, polyphenols, vitamin C) which are traditionally used in experimental biology and, in some cases, in the clinic. Presented data show that, despite the capacity of these substances to scavenge peroxides and free radicals in cell-free systems, their ability to exhibit these properties in vivo, upon pharmacological supplementation, has not been confirmed so far. Their cytoprotective activity is explained mainly by the ability not to suppress, but to activate multiple redox pathways, which causes biphasic hormetic responses and highly pleiotropic effects in cells. N-acetylcysteine, polyphenols, and vitamin C affect redox homeostasis by generating low-molecular-weight redox-active compounds (H2O2 or H2S), known for their ability to stimulate cellular endogenous antioxidant defense and promote cytoprotection at low concentrations but exert deleterious effects at high concentrations. Moreover, the activity of antioxidants strongly depends on the biological context and mode of their application. We show here that considering the biphasic and context-dependent response of cells on the pleiotropic action of antioxidants can help explain many of the conflicting results obtained in basic and applied research and build a more logical strategy for their use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Tyuryaeva
- Department of Intracellular Signaling and Transport, Institute of Cytology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Tikhoretskii pr. 4, 194064 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Olga Lyublinskaya
- Department of Intracellular Signaling and Transport, Institute of Cytology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Tikhoretskii pr. 4, 194064 St. Petersburg, Russia
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8
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Thiamine insufficiency induces Hypoxia Inducible Factor-1α as an upstream mediator for neurotoxicity and AD-like pathology. Mol Cell Neurosci 2022; 123:103785. [PMID: 36241022 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2022.103785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Insufficiencies of the micronutrient thiamine (Vitamin B1) have been associated with inducing Alzheimer's disease (AD)-like neuropathology. The hypometabolic state associated with chronic thiamine insufficiency (TI) has been demonstrated to be a contributor towards the development of amyloid plaque deposition and neurotoxicity. However, the molecular mechanism underlying TI induced AD pathology is still unresolved. Previously, we have established that TI stabilizes the metabolic stress transcriptional factor, Hypoxia Inducible Factor-1α (HIF1α). Utilizing neuronal hippocampal cells (HT22), TI-induced HIF1α activation triggered the amyloidogenic cascade through transcriptional expression and increased activity of β-secretase (BACE1). Knockdown and pharmacological inhibition of HIF1α during TI significantly reduced BACE1 and C-terminal Fragment of 99 amino acids (C99) formation. TI also increased the expression of the HIF1α regulated pro-apoptotic protein, BCL2/adenovirus E1B 19 kDa protein-interacting protein (BNIP3). Correspondingly, cell toxicity during TI conditions was significantly reduced with HIF1α and BNIP3 knockdown. The role of BNIP3 in TI-mediated toxicity was further highlighted by localization of dimeric BNIP3 into the mitochondria and nuclear accumulation of Endonuclease G. Subsequently, TI decreased mitochondrial membrane potential and enhanced chromatin fragmentation. However, cell toxicity via the HIF1α/BNIP3 cascade required TI induced oxidative stress. HIF1α, BACE1 and BNIP3 expression was induced in 3xTg-AD mice after TI and administration with the HIF1α inhibitor YC1 significantly attenuated HIF1α and target genes levels in vivo. Overall, these findings demonstrate a critical stress response during TI involving the induction of HIF1α transcriptional activity that directly promotes neurotoxicity and AD-like pathology.
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9
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Maekawa T, Miyake T, Tani M, Uemoto S. Diverse antitumor effects of ascorbic acid on cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment. Front Oncol 2022; 12:981547. [PMID: 36203466 PMCID: PMC9531273 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.981547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ascorbic acid has attracted substantial attention for its potential antitumor effects by acting as an antioxidant in vivo and as a cofactor in diverse enzymatic reactions. However, solid proof of its clinical efficacy against cancer and the mechanism behind its effect have not been established. Moreover, cancer forms cancer-specific microenvironments and interacts with various cells, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), to maintain cancer growth and progression; however, the effect of ascorbic acid on the cancer microenvironment is unclear. This review discusses the effects and mechanisms of ascorbic acid on cancer, including the role of ascorbic acid concentration. In addition, we present future perspectives on the effects of ascorbic acid on cancer cells and the CAF microenvironment. Ascorbic acid has a variety of effects, which contributes to the complexity of these effects. Oral administration of ascorbic acid results in low blood concentrations (<0.2 mM) and acts as a cofactor for antioxidant effects, collagen secretion, and HIFα degradation. In contrast, intravenous treatment achieves large blood concentrations (>1 mM) and has oxidative-promoting actions that exert anticancer effects via reactive oxygen species. Therefore, intravenous administration at high concentrations is required to achieve the desired effects on cancer cells during treatment. Partial data on the effect of ascorbic acid on fibroblasts indicate that it may also modulate collagen secretion in CAFs and impart tumor-suppressive effects. Thus, future studies should verify the effect of ascorbic acid on CAFs. The findings of this review can be used to guide further research and clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeru Maekawa
- Division of Gastrointestinal, Breast, Pediatric, and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Toru Miyake
- Division of Gastrointestinal, Breast, Pediatric, and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
- *Correspondence: Toru Miyake,
| | - Masaji Tani
- Division of Gastrointestinal, Breast, Pediatric, and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
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10
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Manda G, Milanesi E, Genc S, Niculite CM, Neagoe IV, Tastan B, Dragnea EM, Cuadrado A. Pros and cons of NRF2 activation as adjunctive therapy in rheumatoid arthritis. Free Radic Biol Med 2022; 190:179-201. [PMID: 35964840 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2022.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease with an important inflammatory component accompanied by deregulated redox-dependent signaling pathways that are feeding back into inflammation. In this context, we bring into focus the transcription factor NRF2, a master redox regulator that exerts exquisite antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The review does not intend to be exhaustive, but to point out arguments sustaining the rationale for applying an NRF2-directed co-treatment in RA as well as its potential limitations. The involvement of NRF2 in RA is emphasized through an analysis of publicly available transcriptomic data on NRF2 target genes and the findings from NRF2-knockout mice. The impact of NRF2 on concurrent pathologic mechanisms in RA is explained by its crosstalk with major redox-sensitive inflammatory and cell death-related pathways, in the context of the increased survival of pathologic cells in RA. The proposed adjunctive therapy targeted to NRF2 is further sustained by the existence of promising NRF2 activators that are in various stages of drug development. The interference of NRF2 with conventional anti-rheumatic therapies is discussed, including the cytoprotective effects of NRF2 for alleviating drug toxicity. From another perspective, the review presents how NRF2 activation would be decreasing the efficacy of synthetic anti-rheumatic drugs by increasing drug efflux. Future perspectives regarding pharmacologic NRF2 activation in RA are finally proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina Manda
- Radiobiology Laboratory, Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Elena Milanesi
- Radiobiology Laboratory, Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Sermin Genc
- Neurodegeneration and Neuroprotection Laboratory, Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey; Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey; Department of Neuroscience, Health Science Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Cristina Mariana Niculite
- Radiobiology Laboratory, Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania; Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ionela Victoria Neagoe
- Radiobiology Laboratory, Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Bora Tastan
- Neurodegeneration and Neuroprotection Laboratory, Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey; Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Elena Mihaela Dragnea
- Radiobiology Laboratory, Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Antonio Cuadrado
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College, Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas "Alberto Sols" (CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Paz (IdiPaz), Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain.
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11
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Burgess ER, Crake RLI, Phillips E, Morrin HR, Royds JA, Slatter TL, Wiggins GAR, Vissers MCM, Robinson BA, Dachs GU. Increased Ascorbate Content of Glioblastoma Is Associated With a Suppressed Hypoxic Response and Improved Patient Survival. Front Oncol 2022; 12:829524. [PMID: 35419292 PMCID: PMC8995498 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.829524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme is a challenging disease with limited treatment options and poor survival. Glioblastoma tumours are characterised by hypoxia that activates the hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) pathway and controls a myriad of genes that drive cancer progression. HIF transcription factors are regulated at the post-translation level via HIF-hydroxylases. These hydroxylases require oxygen and 2-oxoglutarate as substrates, and ferrous iron and ascorbate as cofactors. In this retrospective observational study, we aimed to determine whether ascorbate played a role in the hypoxic response of glioblastoma, and whether this affected patient outcome. We measured the ascorbate content and members of the HIF-pathway of clinical glioblastoma samples, and assessed their association with clinicopathological features and patient survival. In 37 samples (37 patients), median ascorbate content was 7.6 μg ascorbate/100 mg tissue, range 0.8 – 20.4 μg ascorbate/100 mg tissue. In tumours with above median ascorbate content, HIF-pathway activity as a whole was significantly suppressed (p = 0.005), and several members of the pathway showed decreased expression (carbonic anhydrase-9 and glucose transporter-1, both p < 0.01). Patients with either lower tumour HIF-pathway activity or higher tumour ascorbate content survived significantly longer than patients with higher HIF-pathway or lower ascorbate levels (p = 0.011, p = 0.043, respectively). Median survival for the low HIF-pathway score group was 362 days compared to 203 days for the high HIF-pathway score group, and median survival for the above median ascorbate group was 390 days, compared to the below median ascorbate group with 219 days. The apparent survival advantage associated with higher tumour ascorbate was more prominent for the first 8 months following surgery. These associations are promising, suggesting an important role for ascorbate-regulated HIF-pathway activity in glioblastoma that may impact on patient survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor R Burgess
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Rebekah L I Crake
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand.,Metastasis Research Laboratory, GIGA-Cancer, University of Liège, Liege, Belgium
| | - Elisabeth Phillips
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Helen R Morrin
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand.,Cancer Society Tissue Bank, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Janice A Royds
- Department of Pathology, Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Tania L Slatter
- Department of Pathology, Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - George A R Wiggins
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Margreet C M Vissers
- Centre for Free Radical Research, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Bridget A Robinson
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand.,Canterbury Regional Cancer and Haematology Service, Canterbury District Health Board, and Department of Medicine, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Gabi U Dachs
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand
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12
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High-Dose Vitamin C Supplementation as a Legitimate Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Prophylaxis in Healthy Subjects—Yes or No? Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14050979. [PMID: 35267953 PMCID: PMC8912816 DOI: 10.3390/nu14050979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin C has a number of acitvities that could contribute to its immune-modulating effects. The only question is whether we should provide ourselves with only the right level of it, or do we need much more during a pandemic? The possibility of reducing the incidence of viral diseases in a well-nourished population through the use of dietary supplements based on vitamin C is not supported in the literature. Despite this, the belief that an extra intake of vitamin C can increase the efficacy of the immune system is still popular and vitamin C is advertised as a remedy to prevent infectious disease. This article refers to the justification of the use of vitamin C in high doses as an anti-SARS-CoV-2 prophylaxis in healthy subjects. Does it make sense or not? As it turns out, any effects of vitamin C supplementation may be more prominent when the baseline vitamin C level is low, for example in physically active persons. People with hypovitaminosis C are more likely to respond to vitamin C administration. No studies regarding prevention of COVID-19 with high-dose vitamin C supplementation in healthy subjects were found.
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13
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Raghavan PR. Metadichol®: A Novel Nanolipid Formulation That Inhibits SARS-CoV-2 and a Multitude of Pathological Viruses In Vitro. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:1558860. [PMID: 35039793 PMCID: PMC8760534 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1558860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Increasing outbreaks of new pathogenic viruses have promoted the exploration of novel alternatives to time-consuming vaccines. Thus, it is necessary to develop a universal approach to halt the spread of new and unknown viruses as they are discovered. One such promising approach is to target lipid membranes, which are common to all viruses and bacteria. The ongoing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has reaffirmed the importance of interactions between the virus envelope and the host cell plasma membrane as a critical mechanism of infection. Metadichol®, a nanolipid emulsion of long-chain alcohols, has been demonstrated as a strong candidate that inhibits the proliferation of SARS-CoV-2. Naturally derived substances, such as long-chain saturated lipid alcohols, reduce viral infectivity, including that of coronaviruses (such as SARS-CoV-2) by modifying their lipid-dependent attachment mechanism to human host cells. The receptor ACE2 mediates the entry of SARS-CoV-2 into the host cells, whereas the serine protease TMPRSS2 primes the viral S protein. In this study, Metadichol® was found to be 270 times more potent an inhibitor of TMPRSS2 (EC50 = 96 ng/mL) than camostat mesylate (EC50 = 26000 ng/mL). Additionally, it inhibits ACE with an EC50 of 71 ng/mL, but it is a very weak inhibitor of ACE2 at an EC50 of 31 μg/mL. Furthermore, the live viral assay performed in Caco-2 cells revealed that Metadichol® inhibits SARS-CoV-2 replication at an EC90 of 0.16 μg/mL. Moreover, Metadichol® had an EC90 of 0.00037 μM, making it 2081 and 3371 times more potent than remdesivir (EC50 = 0.77 μM) and chloroquine (EC50 = 1.14 μM), respectively.
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14
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Abstract
Significance: Vitamin C (ascorbate), in regard to its effectiveness against malignancies, has had a controversial history in cancer treatment. It has been shown that in vitro and in vivo anticancer efficacy of ascorbate relies on its pro-oxidant effect mainly from an increased generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). A growing understanding of its anticancer activities and pharmacokinetic properties has prompted scientists to re-evaluate the significance of ascorbate in cancer treatment. Recent Advances: A recent resurge in ascorbate research emerged after discovering that, at high doses, ascorbate preferentially kills Kirsten-Ras (K-ras)- and B-raf oncogene (BRAF)-mutant cancer cells. In addition, some of the main hallmarks of cancer cells, such as redox homeostasis and oxygen-sensing regulation (through inhibition of hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha [HIF-1α] activity), are affected by vitamin C. Critical Issues: Currently, there is no clear consensus from the literature in regard to the beneficial effects of antioxidants. Results from both human and animal studies provide no clear evidence about the benefit of antioxidant treatment in preventing or suppressing cancer development. Since pro-oxidants may affect both normal and tumor cells, the extremely low toxicity of ascorbate represents a main advantage. This guarantees the safe inclusion of ascorbate in clinical protocols to treat cancer patients. Future Directions: Current research could focus on elucidating the wide array of reactions between ascorbate and reactive species, namely ROS, reactive nitrogen species as well as reactive sulfide species, and their intracellular molecular targets. Unraveling these mechanisms could allow researchers to assess what could be the optimal combination of ascorbate with standard treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe Glorieux
- Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Pedro Buc Calderon
- Química y Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Arturo Prat, Iquique, Chile.,Research Group in Metabolism and Nutrition, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
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15
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Böttger F, Vallés-Martí A, Cahn L, Jimenez CR. High-dose intravenous vitamin C, a promising multi-targeting agent in the treatment of cancer. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:343. [PMID: 34717701 PMCID: PMC8557029 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02134-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Mounting evidence indicates that vitamin C has the potential to be a potent anti-cancer agent when administered intravenously and in high doses (high-dose IVC). Early phase clinical trials have confirmed safety and indicated efficacy of IVC in eradicating tumour cells of various cancer types. In recent years, the multi-targeting effects of vitamin C were unravelled, demonstrating a role as cancer-specific, pro-oxidative cytotoxic agent, anti-cancer epigenetic regulator and immune modulator, reversing epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, inhibiting hypoxia and oncogenic kinase signalling and boosting immune response. Moreover, high-dose IVC is powerful as an adjuvant treatment for cancer, acting synergistically with many standard (chemo-) therapies, as well as a method for mitigating the toxic side-effects of chemotherapy. Despite the rationale and ample evidence, strong clinical data and phase III studies are lacking. Therefore, there is a need for more extensive awareness of the use of this highly promising, non-toxic cancer treatment in the clinical setting. In this review, we provide an elaborate overview of pre-clinical and clinical studies using high-dose IVC as anti-cancer agent, as well as a detailed evaluation of the main known molecular mechanisms involved. A special focus is put on global molecular profiling studies in this respect. In addition, an outlook on future implications of high-dose vitamin C in cancer treatment is presented and recommendations for further research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Böttger
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, OncoProteomics Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU University Medical Center, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Andrea Vallés-Martí
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, OncoProteomics Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU University Medical Center, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Loraine Cahn
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, OncoProteomics Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU University Medical Center, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Connie R Jimenez
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, OncoProteomics Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU University Medical Center, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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16
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David BT, Curtin JJ, Brown JL, Coutts DJC, Boles NC, Hill CE. Treatment with hypoxia-mimetics protects cultured rat Schwann cells against oxidative stress-induced cell death. Glia 2021; 69:2215-2234. [PMID: 34019306 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Schwann cell (SC) grafts promote axon regeneration in the injured spinal cord, but transplant efficacy is diminished by a high death rate in the first 2-3 days postimplantation. Both hypoxic preconditioning and pharmacological induction of the cellular hypoxic response can drive cellular adaptations and improve transplant survival in a number of disease/injury models. Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α), a regulator of the cellular response to hypoxia, is implicated in preconditioning-associated protection. HIF-1α cellular levels are regulated by the HIF-prolyl hydroxylases (HIF-PHDs). Pharmacological inhibition of the HIF-PHDs mimics hypoxic preconditioning and provides a method to induce adaptive hypoxic responses without direct exposure to hypoxia. In this study, we show that hypoxia-mimetics, deferoxamine (DFO) and adaptaquin (AQ), enhance HIF-1α stability and HIF-1α target gene expression. Expression profiling of hypoxia-related genes demonstrates that HIF-dependent and HIF-independent expression changes occur. Analyses of transcription factor binding sites identify several candidate transcriptional co-regulators that vary in SCs along with HIF-1α. Using an in vitro model system, we show that hypoxia-mimetics are potent blockers of oxidative stress-induced death in SCs. In contrast, traditional hypoxic preconditioning was not protective. The robust protection induced by pharmacological preconditioning, particularly with DFO, indicates that pharmacological induction of hypoxic adaptations could be useful for promoting transplanted SC survival. These agents may also be more broadly useful for protecting SCs, as oxidative stress is a major pathway that drives cellular damage in the context of neurological injury and disease, including demyelinating diseases and peripheral neuropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian T David
- Burke Neurological Institute, White Plains, New York, USA.,Weill Cornell Medicine, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jessica J Curtin
- Burke Neurological Institute, White Plains, New York, USA.,Weill Cornell Medicine, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jennifer L Brown
- Burke Neurological Institute, White Plains, New York, USA.,Weill Cornell Medicine, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - David J C Coutts
- Burke Neurological Institute, White Plains, New York, USA.,Weill Cornell Medicine, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Caitlin E Hill
- Burke Neurological Institute, White Plains, New York, USA.,Weill Cornell Medicine, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, New York, New York, USA.,Neural Stem Cell Institute, Rensselaer, New York, USA
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17
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Abstract
Excessive gut luminal iron contributes to the initiation and progression of colorectal cancer. However, emerging evidence suggests that reduced iron intake and low systemic iron levels are also associated with the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer. This is important because patients with colorectal cancer often present with iron deficiency. Iron is necessary for appropriate immunological functions; hence, iron deficiency may hinder cancer immunosurveillance and potentially modify the tumor immune microenvironment, both of which may assist cancer development. This is supported by studies showing that patients with colorectal cancer with iron deficiency have inferior outcomes and reduced response to therapy. Here, we provide an overview of the immunological consequences of iron deficiency and suggest ensuring adequate iron therapy to limit these outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Phipps
- O. Phipps, M.J. Brookes, and H.O. Al-Hassi are with the Research Institute in Healthcare Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew J Brookes
- O. Phipps, M.J. Brookes, and H.O. Al-Hassi are with the Research Institute in Healthcare Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, United Kingdom.,Royal Wolverhampton Hospitals NHS Trust, Gastroenterology Unit Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, United Kingdom
| | - Hafid O Al-Hassi
- O. Phipps, M.J. Brookes, and H.O. Al-Hassi are with the Research Institute in Healthcare Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, United Kingdom
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18
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Crake RLI, Burgess ER, Royds JA, Phillips E, Vissers MCM, Dachs GU. The Role of 2-Oxoglutarate Dependent Dioxygenases in Gliomas and Glioblastomas: A Review of Epigenetic Reprogramming and Hypoxic Response. Front Oncol 2021; 11:619300. [PMID: 33842321 PMCID: PMC8027507 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.619300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Gliomas are a heterogeneous group of cancers that predominantly arise from glial cells in the brain, but may also arise from neural stem cells, encompassing low-grade glioma and high-grade glioblastoma. Whereas better diagnosis and new treatments have improved patient survival for many cancers, glioblastomas remain challenging with a highly unfavorable prognosis. This review discusses a super-family of enzymes, the 2-oxoglutarate dependent dioxygenase enzymes (2-OGDD) that control numerous processes including epigenetic modifications and oxygen sensing, and considers their many roles in the pathology of gliomas. We specifically describe in more detail the DNA and histone demethylases, and the hypoxia-inducible factor hydroxylases in the context of glioma, and discuss the substrate and cofactor requirements of the 2-OGDD enzymes. Better understanding of how these enzymes contribute to gliomas could lead to the development of new treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekah L. I. Crake
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Eleanor R. Burgess
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Janice A. Royds
- Department of Pathology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Elisabeth Phillips
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Margreet C. M. Vissers
- Centre for Free Radical Research, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Gabi U. Dachs
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand
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19
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High-Dose Vitamin C in Advanced-Stage Cancer Patients. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13030735. [PMID: 33652579 PMCID: PMC7996511 DOI: 10.3390/nu13030735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
High-dose intravenously administered vitamin C (IVC) is widely used in cancer patients by complementary and alternative medicine practitioners. The most frequent indications for IVC therapy result from the belief in its effectiveness as a potent anti-cancer agent which additionally enhances chemosensitivity of cancer cells and reduces chemotherapy-related toxicities and fatigue intensity. In this narrative review, we decided to deal with this issue, trying to answer the question whether there is any scientific evidence supporting the rationale for application of high-dose IVC therapy in advanced-stage cancer patients. Although results obtained from preclinical studies demonstrated that millimolar ascorbate plasma concentrations achievable only after IVC administration were cytotoxic to fast-growing malignant cells and inhibited tumor growth as well as prolonged the survival of laboratory animals, such positive effects were not found in human studies with advanced-stage cancer patients. We also have not found the rationale for the use of IVC to increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy and to reduce the chemotherapy-induced toxicity in the above mentioned group. Nevertheless, in palliative care, high-dose IVC might be considered as a therapy improving the quality of life and reducing cancer-related symptoms, such as fatigue and bone pain. However, because of the absence of placebo-controlled randomized trials on IVC efficacy in advanced-stage cancer patients, the placebo effect cannot be excluded.
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20
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McCarty MF, DiNicolantonio JJ, Lerner A. A Fundamental Role for Oxidants and Intracellular Calcium Signals in Alzheimer's Pathogenesis-And How a Comprehensive Antioxidant Strategy May Aid Prevention of This Disorder. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2140. [PMID: 33669995 PMCID: PMC7926325 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22042140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress and increased cytoplasmic calcium are key mediators of the detrimental effects on neuronal function and survival in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Pathways whereby these perturbations arise, and then prevent dendritic spine formation, promote tau hyperphosphorylation, further amplify amyloid β generation, and induce neuronal apoptosis, are described. A comprehensive program of nutraceutical supplementation, comprised of the NADPH oxidase inhibitor phycocyanobilin, phase two inducers, the mitochondrial antioxidant astaxanthin, and the glutathione precursor N-acetylcysteine, may have important potential for antagonizing the toxic effects of amyloid β on neurons and thereby aiding prevention of AD. Moreover, nutraceutical antioxidant strategies may oppose the adverse impact of amyloid β oligomers on astrocyte clearance of glutamate, and on the ability of brain capillaries to export amyloid β monomers/oligomers from the brain. Antioxidants, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and vitamin D, have potential for suppressing microglial production of interleukin-1β, which potentiates the neurotoxicity of amyloid β. Epidemiology suggests that a health-promoting lifestyle, incorporating a prudent diet, regular vigorous exercise, and other feasible measures, can cut the high risk for AD among the elderly by up to 60%. Conceivably, complementing such lifestyle measures with long-term adherence to the sort of nutraceutical regimen outlined here may drive down risk for AD even further.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Aaron Lerner
- Chaim Sheba Medical Center, The Zabludowicz Research Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Tel Hashomer 5262000, Israel
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21
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Vitamin C-Sources, Physiological Role, Kinetics, Deficiency, Use, Toxicity, and Determination. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13020615. [PMID: 33668681 PMCID: PMC7918462 DOI: 10.3390/nu13020615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) has been known as an antioxidant for most people. However, its physiological role is much larger and encompasses very different processes ranging from facilitation of iron absorption through involvement in hormones and carnitine synthesis for important roles in epigenetic processes. Contrarily, high doses act as a pro-oxidant than an anti-oxidant. This may also be the reason why plasma levels are meticulously regulated on the level of absorption and excretion in the kidney. Interestingly, most cells contain vitamin C in millimolar concentrations, which is much higher than its plasma concentrations, and compared to other vitamins. The role of vitamin C is well demonstrated by miscellaneous symptoms of its absence—scurvy. The only clinically well-documented indication for vitamin C is scurvy. The effects of vitamin C administration on cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and infections are rather minor or even debatable in the general population. Vitamin C is relatively safe, but caution should be given to the administration of high doses, which can cause overt side effects in some susceptible patients (e.g., oxalate renal stones). Lastly, analytical methods for its determination with advantages and pitfalls are also discussed in this review.
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22
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Abstract
2-Oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases (2OGDDs) are a superfamily of enzymes that play diverse roles in many biological processes, including regulation of hypoxia-inducible factor-mediated adaptation to hypoxia, extracellular matrix formation, epigenetic regulation of gene transcription and the reprogramming of cellular metabolism. 2OGDDs all require oxygen, reduced iron and 2-oxoglutarate (also known as α-ketoglutarate) to function, although their affinities for each of these co-substrates, and hence their sensitivity to depletion of specific co-substrates, varies widely. Numerous 2OGDDs are recurrently dysregulated in cancer. Moreover, cancer-specific metabolic changes, such as those that occur subsequent to mutations in the genes encoding succinate dehydrogenase, fumarate hydratase or isocitrate dehydrogenase, can dysregulate specific 2OGDDs. This latter observation suggests that the role of 2OGDDs in cancer extends beyond cancers that harbour mutations in the genes encoding members of the 2OGDD superfamily. Herein, we review the regulation of 2OGDDs in normal cells and how that regulation is corrupted in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie-Aurore Losman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Peppi Koivunen
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Biocenter Oulu, Oulu Center for Cell-Matrix Research, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - William G Kaelin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), Chevy Chase, MD, USA.
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23
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Kovina AP, Petrova NV, Razin SV, Kantidze OL. L-Ascorbic Acid in the Epigenetic Regulation of Cancer Development and Stem Cell Reprogramming. Acta Naturae 2020; 12:5-14. [PMID: 33456974 PMCID: PMC7800602 DOI: 10.32607/actanaturae.11060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have significantly expanded our understanding of the mechanisms of L-ascorbic acid (ASC, vitamin C) action, leading to the emergence of several hypotheses that validate the possibility of using ASC in clinical practice. ASC may be considered an epigenetic drug capable of reducing aberrant DNA and histone hypermethylation, which could be helpful in the treatment of some cancers and neurodegenerative diseases. The clinical potency of ASC is also associated with regenerative medicine; in particular with the production of iPSCs. The effect of ASC on somatic cell reprogramming is most convincingly explained by a combined enhancement of the activity of the enzymes involved in the active demethylation of DNA and histones. This review describes how ASC can affect the epigenetic status of a cell and how it can be used in anticancer therapy and stem cell reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. P. Kovina
- Institute of Gene Biology Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119334 Russia
| | - N. V. Petrova
- Institute of Gene Biology Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119334 Russia
| | - S. V. Razin
- Institute of Gene Biology Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119334 Russia
| | - O. L. Kantidze
- Institute of Gene Biology Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119334 Russia
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Tiana M, Acosta-Iborra B, Hernández R, Galiana C, Fernández-Moreno MÁ, Jimenez B, Del Peso L. Metabolic labeling of RNA uncovers the contribution of transcription and decay rates on hypoxia-induced changes in RNA levels. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2020; 26:1006-1022. [PMID: 32295863 PMCID: PMC7373995 DOI: 10.1261/rna.072611.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2020] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Cells adapt to environmental changes, including fluctuations in oxygen levels, through the induction of specific gene expression programs. However, most transcriptomic studies do not distinguish the relative contribution of transcription, RNA processing, and RNA degradation processes to cellular homeostasis. Here we used metabolic labeling followed by massive parallel sequencing of newly transcribed and preexisting RNA fractions to simultaneously analyze RNA synthesis and decay in primary endothelial cells exposed to low oxygen tension. We found that changes in transcription rates induced by hypoxia are the major determinant of changes in RNA levels. However, degradation rates also had a significant contribution, accounting for 24% of the observed variability in total mRNA. In addition, our results indicated that hypoxia led to a reduction of the overall mRNA stability from a median half-life in normoxia of 8.7 h, to 5.7 h in hypoxia. Analysis of RNA content per cell confirmed a decrease of both mRNA and total RNA in hypoxic samples and that this effect is dependent on the EGLN/HIF/TSC2 axis. This effect could potentially contribute to fundamental global responses such as inhibition of translation in hypoxia. In summary, our study provides a quantitative analysis of the contribution of RNA synthesis and stability to the transcriptional response to hypoxia and uncovers an unexpected effect on the latter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Tiana
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM) and Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas "Alberto Sols" (CSIC-UAM), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- IdiPaz, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Bárbara Acosta-Iborra
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM) and Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas "Alberto Sols" (CSIC-UAM), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosana Hernández
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM) and Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas "Alberto Sols" (CSIC-UAM), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Clara Galiana
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM) and Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas "Alberto Sols" (CSIC-UAM), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Ángel Fernández-Moreno
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM) and Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas "Alberto Sols" (CSIC-UAM), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER). Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid 28029, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid 28041, Spain
| | - Benilde Jimenez
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM) and Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas "Alberto Sols" (CSIC-UAM), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- IdiPaz, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Del Peso
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM) and Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas "Alberto Sols" (CSIC-UAM), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- IdiPaz, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Unidad Asociada de Biomedicina CSIC-UCLM, 02006, Albacete, Spain
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25
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Moritz B, Schmitz AE, Rodrigues ALS, Dafre AL, Cunha MP. The role of vitamin C in stress-related disorders. J Nutr Biochem 2020; 85:108459. [PMID: 32745879 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2020.108459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Stress-related disorders, such as depression and anxiety, present marked deficits in behavioral and cognitive functions related to reward. These are highly prevalent disabling conditions with high social and economic costs. Furthermore, a significant percentage of affected individuals cannot benefit from clinical intervention, opening space for new treatments. Although the literature data have reported limited and variable results regarding oxidative stress-related endpoints in stress-related disorders, the possible neuroprotective effect of antioxidant compounds, such as ascorbic acid (vitamin C), emerges as a possible therapy strategy for psychiatric diseases. Here, we briefly present background information on biological activity of ascorbic acid, particularly functions related to the CNS homeostasis. Additionaly, we reviewed the available information on the role of ascorbic acid in stress-related diseases, focusing on supplementation and depletion studies. The vitamin C deficiency is widely associated to stress-related diseases. Although the efficacy of this vitamin in anxiety spectrum disorders is less stablished, several studies showed that ascorbic acid supplementation produces antidepressant effect and improves mood. Interestingly, the modulation of monoaminergic and glutamatergic neurotransmitter systems is postulated as pivotal target for the antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of this vitamin. Given that ascorbic acid supplementation produces fast therapeutic response with low toxicity and high tolerance, it can be considered as a putative candidate for the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, especially those that are refractory to current treatments. Herein, the literature was reviewed considering the potential use of ascorbic acid as an adjuvant in the treatment of anxiety and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bettina Moritz
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina, 88040-900, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Ariana E Schmitz
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina, 88040-900, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Ana Lúcia S Rodrigues
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina, 88040-900, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Alcir L Dafre
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina, 88040-900, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Mauricio P Cunha
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina, 88040-900, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil.
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Panahi M, Rahimi B, Rahimi G, Yew Low T, Saraygord-Afshari N, Alizadeh E. Cytoprotective effects of antioxidant supplementation on mesenchymal stem cell therapy. J Cell Physiol 2020; 235:6462-6495. [PMID: 32239727 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are earmarked as perfect candidates for cell therapy and tissue engineering due to their capacity to differentiate into different cell types. However, their potential for application in regenerative medicine declines when the levels of the reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) increase from the physiological levels, a phenomenon which is at least inevitable in ex vivo cultures and air-exposed damaged tissues. Increased levels of RONS can alter the patterns of osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation and inhibit proliferation, as well. Besides, oxidative stress enhances senescence and cell death, thus lowering the success rates of the MSC engraftment. Hence, in this review, we have selected some representatives of antioxidants and newly emerged nano antioxidants in three main categories, including chemical compounds, biometabolites, and protein precursors/proteins, which are proved to be effective in the treatment of MSCs. We will focus on how antioxidants can be applied to optimize the clinical usage of the MSCs and their associated signaling pathways. We have also reviewed several paralleled properties of some antioxidants and nano antioxidants which can be simultaneously used in real-time imaging, scaffolding techniques, and other applications in addition to their primary antioxidative function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Panahi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Bahareh Rahimi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Golbarg Rahimi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Esfahan, Esfahan, Iran
| | - Teck Yew Low
- UKM Medical Molecular Biology Institute (UMBI), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Neda Saraygord-Afshari
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Effat Alizadeh
- Drug Applied Research Center and Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Peters C, Kouakanou L, Kabelitz D. A comparative view on vitamin C effects on αβ- versus γδ T-cell activation and differentiation. J Leukoc Biol 2020; 107:1009-1022. [PMID: 32034803 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.1mr1219-245r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin C (VitC) is an essential vitamin that needs to be provided through exogenous sources. It is a potent anti-oxidant, and an essential cofactor for many enzymes including a group of enzymes that modulate epigenetic regulation of gene expression. Moreover, VitC has a significant influence on T-cell differentiation, and can directly interfere with T-cell signaling. Conventional CD4 and CD8 T cells express the αβ TCR and recognize peptide antigens in the context of MHC presentation. The numerically small population of γδ T cells recognizes antigens in an MHC-independent manner. γδ T cells kill a broad variety of malignant cells, and because of their unique features, are interesting candidates for cancer immunotherapy. In this review, we summarize what is known about the influence of VitC on T-cell activation and differentiation with a special focus on γδ T cells. The known mechanisms of action of VitC on αβ T cells are discussed and extrapolated to the effects observed on γδ T-cell activation and differentiation. Overall, VitC enhances proliferation and effector functions of γδ T cells and thus may help to increase the efficacy of γδ T cells applied as cancer immunotherapy in adoptive cell transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Peters
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Léonce Kouakanou
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Dieter Kabelitz
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, Kiel, Germany
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Pro- and Antioxidant Effects of Vitamin C in Cancer in correspondence to Its Dietary and Pharmacological Concentrations. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2019; 2019:7286737. [PMID: 31934267 PMCID: PMC6942884 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7286737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that may scavenge reactive oxygen species preventing DNA damage and other effects important in cancer transformation. Dietary vitamin C from natural sources is taken with other compounds affecting its bioavailability and biological effects. High pharmacological doses of vitamin C may induce prooxidant effects, detrimental for cancer cells. An oxidized form of vitamin C, dehydroascorbate, is transported through glucose transporters, and cancer cells switch from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis in energy production so an excess of vitamin C may limit glucose transport and ATP production resulting in energetic crisis and cell death. Vitamin C may change the metabolomic and epigenetic profiles of cancer cells, and activation of ten-eleven translocation (TET) proteins and downregulation of pluripotency factors by the vitamin may eradicate cancer stem cells. Metastasis, the main reason of cancer-related deaths, requires breakage of anatomical barriers containing collagen, whose synthesis is promoted by vitamin C. Vitamin C induces degradation of hypoxia-inducible factor, HIF-1, essential for the survival of tumor cells in hypoxic conditions. Dietary vitamin C may stimulate the immune system through activation of NK and T cells and monocytes. Pharmacological doses of vitamin C may inhibit cancer transformation in several pathways, but further studies are needed to address both mechanistic and clinical aspects of this effect.
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Lim S, Oh YI, Jeong JW, Song KH, Koo TS, Seo KW. Pharmacokinetics of intravenous administered two different high doses of ascorbic acid in healthy beagle dogs. J Adv Vet Anim Res 2019; 6:481-485. [PMID: 31819875 PMCID: PMC6882724 DOI: 10.5455/javar.2019.f371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2019] [Revised: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: We performed a randomized two-way crossover study to evaluate the pharmacokinetic profiles of two high-dose ascorbic acid (AA) after IV infusion in healthy beagle dogs. Materials and Methods: The dogs were administered IV AA at two doses of 1.5 and 3 gm/kg for 4 h, and the AA concentration in plasma and urine pH was measured before and after administration. Results: The plasma concentrations of AA in both groups peaked 3 h after administration. Among the two groups, the urine pH was not significantly different (p = 0.1299–0.7944). High-dose IV AA did not induce serious adverse events in dogs. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that the high dose of AA which reaches the therapeutic dose for cancer and supports the safety of high-dose IV AA in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seula Lim
- Department of Veterinary Internal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Ye-In Oh
- Department of Veterinary Internal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Woo Jeong
- Graduate School of New Drug Discovery and Development, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Kun-Ho Song
- Department of Veterinary Internal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Sung Koo
- Graduate School of New Drug Discovery and Development, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung-Won Seo
- Department of Veterinary Internal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
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30
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Chappell GA, Rager JE, Wolf J, Babic M, LeBlanc KJ, Ring CL, Harris MA, Thompson CM. Comparison of Gene Expression Responses in the Small Intestine of Mice Following Exposure to 3 Carcinogens Using the S1500+ Gene Set Informs a Potential Common Adverse Outcome Pathway. Toxicol Pathol 2019; 47:851-864. [PMID: 31558096 PMCID: PMC6827348 DOI: 10.1177/0192623319873882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Carcinogenesis of the small intestine is rare in humans and rodents. Oral exposure to hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) and the fungicides captan and folpet induce intestinal carcinogenesis in mice. Previously (Toxicol Pathol. 330:48-52), we showed that B6C3F1 mice exposed to carcinogenic concentrations of Cr(VI), captan, or folpet for 28 days exhibited similar histopathological responses including villus enterocyte cytotoxicity and regenerative crypt epithelial hyperplasia. Herein, we analyze transcriptomic responses from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded duodenal sections from the aforementioned study. TempO-Seq technology and the S1500+ gene set were used to analyze transcription responses. Transcriptional responses were similar between all 3 agents; gene-level comparison identified 126/546 (23%) differentially expressed genes altered in the same direction, with a total of 25 upregulated pathways. These changes were related to cellular metabolism, stress, inflammatory/immune cell response, and cell proliferation, including upregulation in hypoxia inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) and activator protein 1 (AP1) signaling pathways, which have also been shown to be related to intestinal injury and angiogenesis/carcinogenesis. The similar molecular-, cellular-, and tissue-level changes induced by these 3 carcinogens can be informative for the development of an adverse outcome pathway for intestinal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jeffrey Wolf
- Experimental Pathology Laboratories, Sterling, VA, USA
| | - Milos Babic
- BioSpyder Technologies, Inc., Carlsbad, CA, USA
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Macan AM, Harej A, Cazin I, Klobučar M, Stepanić V, Pavelić K, Pavelić SK, Schols D, Snoeck R, Andrei G, Raić-Malić S. Antitumor and antiviral activities of 4-substituted 1,2,3-triazolyl-2,3-dibenzyl-L-ascorbic acid derivatives. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 184:111739. [PMID: 31586832 PMCID: PMC7115614 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.111739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Two series of 6-(1,2,3-triazolyl)-2,3-dibenzyl-l-ascorbic acid derivatives with the hydroxyethylene (8a−8u) and ethylidene linkers (10c−10p) were synthesized and evaluated for their antiproliferative activity against seven malignant tumor cell lines and antiviral activity against a broad range of viruses. Conformationally unrestricted spacer between the lactone and 1,2,3-triazole units in 8a−8u series had a profound effect on antitumor activity. Besides, the introduction of a long side chain at C-4 of 1,2,3-triazole that led to the synthesis of decyl-substituted 2,3-dibenzyl-l-ascorbic acid 8m accounted for a selective and potent antiproliferative activity on breast cancer MCF-7 cells cells in the nM range. Further analysis showed that compound 8m strongly enhanced expression of hypoxia inducible transcription factor 1 α (HIF-1α) and to some extent decreased expression of nitric oxide synthase 2 (NOS2) suggesting its role in regulating HIF-1α signalling pathway. The p-methoxyphenyl-substituted derivative 10g displayed specific anti-cytomegalovirus (CMV) potential, whereas aliphatic-substituted derivatives 8l and 8m had the most potent, yet relatively non-specific, anti-varicella-zoster (VZV) activity. Two series of 1,2,3-triazolyl 2,3-dibenzyl-l-ascorbic acid conjugates were synthesized. Conformationally unrestricted spacer had a major effect on antitumor activities. Decyl-substituted l-ascorbic acid 8m caused inhibition of breast cancer MCF-7 cells in the nM range. 8m increased the expression of hypoxia inducible transcription factor HIF-1α. p-Methoxyphenyl-substituted derivative 10g had specific anti-CMV activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrijana Meščić Macan
- University of Zagreb, Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Marulićev Trg 20, HR-10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Anja Harej
- University of Rijeka, Department of Biotechnology, Centre for High-throughput Technologies Radmile Matejčić 2, HR-51000, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Ines Cazin
- University of Zagreb, Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Marulićev Trg 20, HR-10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marko Klobučar
- University of Rijeka, Department of Biotechnology, Centre for High-throughput Technologies Radmile Matejčić 2, HR-51000, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Višnja Stepanić
- Ruđer Bošković Institute, Division of Molecular Medicine, Bijenička Cesta 54, 10 000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Krešimir Pavelić
- Juraj Dobrila University of Pula, Zagrebačka 30, 52100, Pula, Croatia
| | - Sandra Kraljević Pavelić
- University of Rijeka, Department of Biotechnology, Centre for High-throughput Technologies Radmile Matejčić 2, HR-51000, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Dominique Schols
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Minderbroedersstraat 10, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Robert Snoeck
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Minderbroedersstraat 10, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Graciela Andrei
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Minderbroedersstraat 10, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Silvana Raić-Malić
- University of Zagreb, Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Marulićev Trg 20, HR-10000, Zagreb, Croatia.
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Causes and Consequences of A Glutamine Induced Normoxic HIF1 Activity for the Tumor Metabolism. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20194742. [PMID: 31554283 PMCID: PMC6802203 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20194742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 09/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF1) is the crucial regulator of genes that are involved in metabolism under hypoxic conditions, but information regarding the transcriptional activity of HIF1 in normoxic metabolism is limited. Different tumor cells were treated under normoxic and hypoxic conditions with various drugs that affect cellular metabolism. HIF1α was silenced by siRNA in normoxic/hypoxic tumor cells, before RNA sequencing and bioinformatics analyses were performed while using the breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 as a model. Differentially expressed genes were further analyzed and validated by qPCR, while the activity of the metabolites was determined by enzyme assays. Under normoxic conditions, HIF1 activity was significantly increased by (i) glutamine metabolism, which was associated with the release of ammonium, and it was decreased by (ii) acetylation via acetyl CoA synthetase (ACSS2) or ATP citrate lyase (ACLY), respectively, and (iii) the presence of L-ascorbic acid, citrate, or acetyl-CoA. Interestingly, acetylsalicylic acid, ibuprofen, L-ascorbic acid, and citrate each significantly destabilized HIF1α only under normoxia. The results from the deep sequence analyses indicated that, in HIF1-siRNA silenced MDA-MB-231 cells, 231 genes under normoxia and 1384 genes under hypoxia were transcriptionally significant deregulated in a HIF1-dependent manner. Focusing on glycolysis genes, it was confirmed that HIF1 significantly regulated six normoxic and 16 hypoxic glycolysis-associated gene transcripts. However, the results from the targeted metabolome analyses revealed that HIF1 activity affected neither the consumption of glucose nor the release of ammonium or lactate; however, it significantly inhibited the release of the amino acid alanine. This study comprehensively investigated, for the first time, how normoxic HIF1 is stabilized, and it analyzed the possible function of normoxic HIF1 in the transcriptome and metabolic processes of tumor cells in a breast cancer cell model. Furthermore, these data imply that HIF1 compensates for the metabolic outcomes of glutaminolysis and, subsequently, the Warburg effect might be a direct consequence of the altered amino acid metabolism in tumor cells.
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Harej A, Macan AM, Stepanić V, Klobučar M, Pavelić K, Pavelić SK, Raić-Malić S. The Antioxidant and Antiproliferative Activities of 1,2,3-Triazolyl-L-Ascorbic Acid Derivatives. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20194735. [PMID: 31554245 PMCID: PMC6801448 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20194735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The novel 4-substituted 1,2,3-triazole L-ascorbic acid (L-ASA) conjugates with hydroxyethylene spacer as well as their conformationally restricted 4,5-unsaturated analogues were synthesized as potential antioxidant and antiproliferative agents. An evaluation of the antioxidant activity of novel compounds showed that the majority of the 4,5-unsaturated L-ASA derivatives showed a better antioxidant activity compared to their saturated counterparts. m-Hydroxyphenyl (7j), p-pentylphenyl (7k) and 2-hydroxyethyl (7q) substituted 4,5-unsaturated 1,2,3-triazole L-ASA derivatives exhibited very efficient and rapid (within 5 min) 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•) radical scavenging activity (7j, 7k: IC50 = 0.06 mM; 7q: IC50 = 0.07 mM). In vitro scavenging activity data were supported by in silico quantum-chemical modelling. Thermodynamic parameters for hydrogen-atom transfer and electron-transfer radical scavenging pathways of anions deprotonated at C2-OH or C3-OH groups of L-ASA fragments were calculated. The structure activity analysis (SAR) through principal component analysis indicated radical scavenging activity by the participation of OH group with favorable reaction parameters: the C3-OH group of saturated C4-C5(OH) derivatives and the C2-OH group of their unsaturated C4=C5 analogues. The antiproliferative evaluation showed that p-bromophenyl (4e: IC50 = 6.72 μM) and p-pentylphenyl-substituted 1,2,3-triazole L-ASA conjugate (4k: IC50 = 26.91 μM) had a selective cytotoxic effect on breast adenocarcinoma MCF-7 cells. Moreover, compound 4e did not inhibit the growth of foreskin fibroblasts (IC50 > 100 μM). In MCF-7 cells treated with 4e, a significant increase of hydroxylated hypoxia-inducible transcription factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α) expression and decreased expression of nitric oxide synthase 2 (NOS2) were observed, suggesting the involvement of 4e in the HIF-1α signaling pathway for its strong growth-inhibition effect on MCF-7 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Harej
- Centre for High-throughput Technologies, Department of Biotechnology, University of Rijeka, Radmile Matejčić 2, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia.
| | - Andrijana Meščić Macan
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, University of Zagreb, Marulićev trg 20, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Višnja Stepanić
- Division of Electronics, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Marko Klobučar
- Centre for High-throughput Technologies, Department of Biotechnology, University of Rijeka, Radmile Matejčić 2, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia.
| | - Krešimir Pavelić
- Faculty of medicine, Juraj Dobrila University of Pula, Zagrebačka 30, 52100 Pula, Croatia.
| | - Sandra Kraljević Pavelić
- Centre for High-throughput Technologies, Department of Biotechnology, University of Rijeka, Radmile Matejčić 2, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia.
| | - Silvana Raić-Malić
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, University of Zagreb, Marulićev trg 20, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
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Edgar JA. L-ascorbic acid and the evolution of multicellular eukaryotes. J Theor Biol 2019; 476:62-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2019.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Mousavi S, Bereswill S, Heimesaat MM. Immunomodulatory and Antimicrobial Effects of Vitamin C. Eur J Microbiol Immunol (Bp) 2019; 9:73-79. [PMID: 31662885 PMCID: PMC6798581 DOI: 10.1556/1886.2019.00016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Humans have lost their vitamin C-synthesizing capacities during evolution. Therefore, the uptake of this essential compound from external sources is mandatory in order to prevent vitamin C-deficient conditions resulting in severe morbidities such as scurvy. The potent antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and antiinfectious effects of vitamin C are known since the 1930s. We here (i) review the impact of vitamin C on innate and adaptive immune functions, (ii) provide an overview of its antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic, and antifungal properties, and finally, (iii) discuss vitamin C as an adjunct treatment option for the combat of human infections by bacteria, particularly by emerging multidrug-resistant species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soraya Mousavi
- Institute of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Gastrointestinal Microbiology Research Group, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stefan Bereswill
- Institute of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Gastrointestinal Microbiology Research Group, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Markus M Heimesaat
- Institute of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Gastrointestinal Microbiology Research Group, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
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Karl M, Sommer C, Gabriel CH, Hecklau K, Venzke M, Hennig AF, Radbruch A, Selbach M, Baumgrass R. Recruitment of Histone Methyltransferase Ehmt1 to Foxp3 TSDR Counteracts Differentiation of Induced Regulatory T Cells. J Mol Biol 2019; 431:3606-3625. [PMID: 31362003 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2019.07.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 07/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Differentiation toward CD4+ regulatory T (Treg) cells is essentially dependent on an epigenetic program at Treg signature genes, which involves remodeling of the Treg-specific demethylated regions (TSDRs). In particular, the epigenetic status of the conserved non-coding sequence 2 of Foxp3 (Foxp3 TSDR) determines expression stability of the master transcription factor and thus Treg lineage identity. However, the molecular mechanisms controlling the epigenetic remodeling at TSDRs in Treg and conventional T cells are largely unknown. Using a combined approach of DNA pull-down and mass spectrometric analysis, we report a novel regulatory mechanism in which transcription factor Wiz recruits the histone methyltransferase Ehmt1 to Foxp3 TSDR. We show that both Wiz and Ehmt1 are crucial for shaping the region with the repressive histone modification H3K9me2 in conventional T cells. Consistently, knocking out either Ehmt1 or Wiz by CRISPR/Cas resulted in the loss of H3K9me2 and enhanced Foxp3 expression during iTreg differentiation. Moreover, the essential role of the Wiz-Ehmt1 interaction as observed at several TSDRs indicates a global function of Ehmt1 in the Treg differentiation program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Karl
- Signal Transduction, German Rheumatism Research Center (DRFZ), A Leibniz Institute, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian Sommer
- Proteome Dynamics, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Robert-Rössle-Str. 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian H Gabriel
- Signal Transduction, German Rheumatism Research Center (DRFZ), A Leibniz Institute, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Katharina Hecklau
- Signal Transduction, German Rheumatism Research Center (DRFZ), A Leibniz Institute, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Melanie Venzke
- Signal Transduction, German Rheumatism Research Center (DRFZ), A Leibniz Institute, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Anna Floriane Hennig
- Signal Transduction, German Rheumatism Research Center (DRFZ), A Leibniz Institute, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Radbruch
- Cell Biology, German Rheumatism Research Center (DRFZ), A Leibniz Institute, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; Charité-University Medicine, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Matthias Selbach
- Proteome Dynamics, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Robert-Rössle-Str. 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Ria Baumgrass
- Signal Transduction, German Rheumatism Research Center (DRFZ), A Leibniz Institute, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany.
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Therapeutic Perspective of Vitamin C and Its Derivatives. Antioxidants (Basel) 2019; 8:antiox8080247. [PMID: 31357509 PMCID: PMC6721080 DOI: 10.3390/antiox8080247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
l-Ascorbic acid (ASA), vitamin C, is a ubiquitous carbohydrate-like compound that has an essential role in a number of cellular processes, such as collagen synthesis, cellular oxidation, and various hydroxylation reactions. ASA is a biomolecule of critical importance for protection of cellular components against oxidative damage caused by toxic free radicals and other reactive oxygen species (ROS) that are involved in the development of various types of chronic diseases. Vitamin C has a switchover role from being an antioxidant in physiological conditions to a prooxidant under pathologic conditions. Moreover, some l-ascorbic acid derivatives exhibit strong and selective antitumor and antiviral activity. This review emphasizes the advances on diverse and potent biological profiles of l-ascorbic acid and its derivatives, and their perspective in the development of new bioactive chemical entities in the future. The work is primarily addressed at antioxidant, anticancer, and antiviral potencies of l-ascorbic acid and compounds containing its butenolide structural motif.
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Gu X, Luo X, Wang Y, He Z, Li X, Wu K, Zhang Y, Yang Y, Ji J, Luo X. Ascorbic acid attenuates cell stress by activating the fibroblast growth factor 21/fibroblast growth factor receptor 2/adiponectin pathway in HepG2 cells. Mol Med Rep 2019; 20:2450-2458. [PMID: 31322211 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2019.10457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing prevalence of obesity‑induced non‑alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non‑alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) has been reported. Ascorbic acid (AA), also known as vitamin C, an excellent antioxidant, has been shown to exert beneficial effects on NAFLD; however, the underlying mechanisms are yet to be fully elucidated. In the present study, the role of AA on cell stress in tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα)‑treated HepG2 cells was investigated. Our findings revealed that exposure to AA effectively ameliorated TNFα‑induced cell stresses, including hypoxia, inflammation and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress by reducing the expression of Hif1α and its target genes (glucose transporter 1), pro‑inflammatory genes (monocyte chemoattractant 1) and ER stress‑related genes (glucose‑regulated protein, 78 kDa). AA also decreased the protein level of HIF1α. Additionally, AA significantly increased the secretion of total adiponectin and high molecular weight (HMW) adiponectin. Mechanistically, AA was determined to increase the expression of fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) and its receptor, fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2). Knockdown of FGFR2 not only decreased the levels of total adiponectin and HMW adiponectin, but almost abolished the beneficial effects of AA in ameliorating cell stress. Collectively, the findings of our study demonstrated that AA may attenuate hepatocyte stress induced by TNFα via activation of the FGF21/FGFR2/adiponectin pathway. This could a novel mechanism of action of AA, and its potential for the treatment of NAFLD/NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinqian Gu
- Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Xiao Luo
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Yanxin Wang
- Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Zhangya He
- Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Xiaomin Li
- Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Kunjin Wu
- Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Yifan Zhang
- Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Yafeng Yang
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Xian Yang Central Hospital, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712000, P.R. China
| | - Jing Ji
- Department of Obstetrics, Northwest Women and Children Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoqin Luo
- Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
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Wohlrab C, Kuiper C, Vissers MC, Phillips E, Robinson BA, Dachs GU. Ascorbate modulates the hypoxic pathway by increasing intracellular activity of the HIF hydroxylases in renal cell carcinoma cells. HYPOXIA 2019; 7:17-31. [PMID: 31192266 PMCID: PMC6527796 DOI: 10.2147/hp.s201643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: Protein levels and activity of the hypoxia-inducible transcription factors HIF-1 and HIF-2 are controlled by hydroxylation of the regulatory alpha chains. Proline hydroxylases (PHDs) target the protein for degradation via the von-Hippel-Lindau (VHL)-ubiquitin-ligase complex, and asparagine hydroxylation by Factor Inhibiting HIF (FIH) leads to transcriptional inactivation. In cell-free systems, these enzymes require ascorbate as a cofactor, and this is also inferred to be an intracellular requirement for effective hydroxylation. However, how intracellular concentrations of ascorbate affect hydroxylase activity is unknown. In this study, we investigated the modulation of the regulatory hydroxylases in cancer cells by intracellular ascorbate. Materials and methods: To facilitate this investigation, we used clear cell renal carcinoma cell lines that were VHL-proficient (Caki-1), with a normal hypoxic response, or VHL-defective (Caki-2 and 786-0), with uncontrolled accumulation of HIF-α chains. We monitored the effect of intracellular ascorbate on the hypoxia-induced accumulation of HIF-1α, HIF-2α and the expression of downstream HIF targets BNIP3, cyclin D1 and GLUT1. Changes in hydroxylation of the HIF-1α protein in response to ascorbate were also investigated in 786-0 cells gene-modified to express full-length HIF-1α (786-HIF1). Results: In VHL-proficient cells, hypoxia induced accumulation of HIF-1α and BNIP3 which was dampened in mild hypoxia by elevated intracellular ascorbate. Increased HIF-2α accumulation occurred only under severe hypoxia and this was not modified by ascorbate availability. In VHL-defective cells, ascorbate supplementation induced additional accumulation of HIF under hypoxic conditions and HIF pathway proteins were unchanged by oxygen supply. In 786-HIF1 cells, levels of hydroxylated HIF-1α were elevated in response to increasing intracellular ascorbate levels. Conclusion: Our data provide evidence that the hypoxic pathway can be modulated by increasing HIF hydroxylase activity via intracellular ascorbate availability. In VHL-defective cells, accumulation of HIF-alpha proteins is independent of hydroxylation and is unaffected by intracellular ascorbate levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Wohlrab
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Caroline Kuiper
- Centre for Free Radical Research, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Margreet Cm Vissers
- Centre for Free Radical Research, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Elisabeth Phillips
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Bridget A Robinson
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand.,Canterbury Regional Cancer and Hematology Service, Canterbury District Health Board, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Gabi U Dachs
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
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Campbell EJ, Dachs GU, Morrin HR, Davey VC, Robinson BA, Vissers MCM. Activation of the hypoxia pathway in breast cancer tissue and patient survival are inversely associated with tumor ascorbate levels. BMC Cancer 2019; 19:307. [PMID: 30943919 PMCID: PMC6448303 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-019-5503-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The transcription factor hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) -1 drives tumor growth and metastasis and is associated with poor prognosis in breast cancer. Ascorbate can moderate HIF-1 activity in vitro and is associated with HIF pathway activation in a number of cancer types, but whether tissue ascorbate levels influence the HIF pathway in breast cancer is unknown. In this study we investigated the association between tumor ascorbate levels and HIF-1 activation and patient survival in human breast cancer. Methods In a retrospective analysis of human breast cancer tissue, we analysed primary tumor and adjacent uninvolved tissue from 52 women with invasive ductal carcinoma. We measured HIF-1α, HIF-1 gene targets CAIX, BNIP-3 and VEGF, and ascorbate content. Patient clinical outcomes were evaluated against these parameters. Results HIF-1 pathway proteins were upregulated in tumor tissue and increased HIF-1 activation was associated with higher tumor grade and stage, with increased vascular invasion and necrosis, and with decreased disease-free and disease-specific survival. Grade 1 tumors had higher ascorbate levels than did grade 2 or 3 tumors. Higher ascorbate levels were associated with less tumor necrosis, with lower HIF-1 pathway activity and with increased disease-free and disease-specific survival. Conclusions Our findings indicate that there is a direct correlation between intracellular ascorbate levels, activation of the HIF-1 pathway and patient survival in breast cancer. This is consistent with the known capacity of ascorbate to stimulate the activity of the regulatory HIF hydroxylases and suggests that optimisation of tumor ascorbate could have clinical benefit via modulation of the hypoxic response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J Campbell
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, 8011, New Zealand.,Centre for Free Radical Research, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, 8140, New Zealand
| | - Gabi U Dachs
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, 8011, New Zealand
| | - Helen R Morrin
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, 8011, New Zealand.,Cancer Society Tissue Bank, University of Otago, Christchurch, 8011, New Zealand
| | - Valerie C Davey
- Christchurch Breast Cancer Patient Register, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, 8011, New Zealand
| | - Bridget A Robinson
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, 8011, New Zealand.,Canterbury Regional Cancer and Haematology Service, Canterbury District Health Board, Christchurch, and Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, 8011, New Zealand
| | - Margreet C M Vissers
- Centre for Free Radical Research, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, 8140, New Zealand.
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Lee HJ, Jung YH, Choi GE, Kim JS, Chae CW, Han HJ. Role of HIF1 α Regulatory Factors in Stem Cells. Int J Stem Cells 2019; 12:8-20. [PMID: 30836734 PMCID: PMC6457711 DOI: 10.15283/ijsc18109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF1) is a master transcription factor that induces the transcription of genes involved in the metabolism and behavior of stem cells. HIF1-mediated adaptation to hypoxia is required to maintain the pluripotency and survival of stem cells under hypoxic conditions. HIF1 activity is well known to be tightly controlled by the alpha subunit of HIF1 (HIF1α). Understanding the regulatory mechanisms that control HIF1 activity in stem cells will provide novel insights into stem cell biology under hypoxia. Recent research has unraveled the mechanistic details of HIF1α regulating processes, suggesting new strategies for regulating stem cells. This review summarizes recent experimental studies on the role of several regulatory factors (including calcium, 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenase, microtubule network, importin, and coactivators) in regulating HIF1α activity in stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Jik Lee
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Research Institute for Veterinary Science, and BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research, Seoul National Universit
| | - Young Hyun Jung
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Research Institute for Veterinary Science, and BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research, Seoul National Universit
| | - Gee Euhn Choi
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Research Institute for Veterinary Science, and BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research, Seoul National Universit
| | - Jun Sung Kim
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Research Institute for Veterinary Science, and BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research, Seoul National Universit
| | - Chang Woo Chae
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Research Institute for Veterinary Science, and BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research, Seoul National Universit
| | - Ho Jae Han
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Research Institute for Veterinary Science, and BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research, Seoul National Universit
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42
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4-O-Methylascochlorin inhibits the prolyl hydroxylation of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α, which is attenuated by ascorbate. J Antibiot (Tokyo) 2019; 72:271-281. [PMID: 30796332 DOI: 10.1038/s41429-019-0157-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Revised: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
4-O-Methylascochlorin (MAC), a methylated derivative of ascochlorin, was previously shown to promote the accumulation of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α in human breast adenocarcinoma MCF-7 cells. In the present study, we further investigated the effects of MAC on the expression and function of HIF-1α in human fibrosarcoma HT-1080 cells. MAC promoted the accumulation of the HIF-1α protein without affecting its constitutive mRNA expression and augmented the transcriptional activation of HIF target genes. Ascorbate, but not N-acetylcysteine, attenuated MAC-mediated HIF-1α accumulation. MAC-induced increases in HIF-1α transcriptional activity were also attenuated by ascorbate. MAC inhibited the hydroxylation of HIF-1α at the proline 564 residue, while it was reversed by ascorbate. MAC slightly decreased the intracellular concentration of ascorbate. The present results demonstrated that MAC promoted the accumulation of HIF-1α by preventing prolyl hydroxylation, and ascorbate attenuated the MAC-mediated inhibition of HIF-1α prolyl hydroxylation.
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43
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Elmadfa I, Meyer AL. The Role of the Status of Selected Micronutrients in Shaping the Immune Function. Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets 2019; 19:1100-1115. [PMID: 31142256 PMCID: PMC7360912 DOI: 10.2174/1871530319666190529101816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This narrative review gives an overview on the essential role of adequate nutrition to an optimally functioning immune defence. Micronutrients act as regulators of the immune response, with the focus of this review on the immunomodulatory effects of the trace elements iron, zinc and selenium, and the vitamins A, D, E, C, B6 and B12 and folic acid. RESULTS Iron deficiency especially impairs the Th1 cell-borne cellular immunity. T lymphocytes are also most affected by a deficiency of zinc, needed for their maturation and the balance between the different T cell subpopulations and acting as a redox signal in the regulation of many enzymes. Selenium is also involved in redox reactions as the glutathione peroxidases and other redox enzymes are selenoproteins. Selenium status has shown special effects on cellular immunity and resistance to viral infections. Vitamin A in the form of retinoic acid induces a humoral Th2 cell response via antigen-presenting cells and is involved in maintaining intestinal immune defence and tolerance through its nuclear receptor RAR and via kinase signalling cascades. Immune tolerance is particularly promoted by vitamin D acting through dendritic cells to stimulate the differentiation of regulatory T cells. Vitamin E has antiinflammatory effects and stimulates naïve T cells especially in the elderly. Besides its antioxidative properties, vitamin C has effects on cell signalling and epigenetic regulation. The B vitamins are required for cytotoxic cellular immunity and modulate T cell responses. CONCLUSION A diverse diet and regular exposure to sunlight are the best sources for a balanced nutrient supply to maintain an optimal immune defence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Elmadfa
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexa L. Meyer
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Wohlrab C, Vissers MCM, Phillips E, Morrin H, Robinson BA, Dachs GU. The Association Between Ascorbate and the Hypoxia-Inducible Factors in Human Renal Cell Carcinoma Requires a Functional Von Hippel-Lindau Protein. Front Oncol 2018; 8:574. [PMID: 30555801 PMCID: PMC6284050 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia-inducible transcription factors (HIFs) drive angiogenesis and cancer cell growth, contributing to an aggressive tumor phenotype. HIF-α protein levels and activity are controlled at the post-translational level by HIF hydroxylases. Hydroxylated HIF-α is recognized by the von Hippel Lindau (VHL) tumor suppressor and targeted for degradation. The HIF hydroxylases are members of the iron and 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases, which require ascorbate as cofactor for activity. Clear cell renal cell carcinomas (ccRCC) harbor mutations in the VHL gene, whereas papillary RCC (pRCC) have a functional VHL. These natural occurring VHL variants in RCC enable the testing, in clinical samples, of the hypothesis that ascorbate modulates HIF-α levels through its role as a cofactor for the HIF hydroxylases. We measured ascorbate, HIF-1α, and HIF-2α protein and HIF downstream targets BNIP3, CA9, cyclin D1, GLUT1, and VEGF (combined to generate the HIF pathway score) in VHL-defective ccRCC (n = 73) and VHL-proficient pRCC human tumor tissue (n = 41). HIF and ascorbate levels were increased in ccRCC and pRCC tumors compared to matched renal cortex. HIF-1 and total HIF pathway activation scores were decreased with higher ascorbate in pRCC tumors (Spearman r = −0.38, p < 0.05 and r = −0.35, p < 0.05). This was not evident for ccRCC tumors. In mechanistic studies in vitro, ascorbate influenced HIF-1 activity in VHL-proficient, but not VHL-defective ccRCC cells. Our results indicate that ccRCC, which lacks a functional VHL, does not respond to ascorbate-mediated modulation of the HIF response. This contrasts with the demonstrated association between ascorbate content and the HIF pathway observed in pRCC and other tumors with a functional VHL. The results support a role for ascorbate as a modulator of HIF activity and tumor aggression in cancer types with a functional hypoxic response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Wohlrab
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Margreet C M Vissers
- Centre for Free Radical Research, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Elisabeth Phillips
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Helen Morrin
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand.,Cancer Society Tissue Bank, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Bridget A Robinson
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand.,Canterbury Regional Cancer and Haematology Service, Canterbury District Health Board, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Gabi U Dachs
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
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Muñoz‐Sánchez J, Chánez‐Cárdenas ME. The use of cobalt chloride as a chemical hypoxia model. J Appl Toxicol 2018; 39:556-570. [DOI: 10.1002/jat.3749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Muñoz‐Sánchez
- Laboratorio de Patología Vascular CerebralInstituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurología (INNN) Insurgentes Sur 3877, la Fama 14269 Tlalpan Ciudad de México Mexico
| | - María E. Chánez‐Cárdenas
- Laboratorio de Patología Vascular CerebralInstituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurología (INNN) Insurgentes Sur 3877, la Fama 14269 Tlalpan Ciudad de México Mexico
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Tóth SZ, Lőrincz T, Szarka A. Concentration Does Matter: The Beneficial and Potentially Harmful Effects of Ascorbate in Humans and Plants. Antioxid Redox Signal 2018; 29:1516-1533. [PMID: 28974112 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2017.7125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE Ascorbate (Asc) is an essential compound both in animals and plants, mostly due to its reducing properties, thereby playing a role in scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and acting as a cofactor in various enzymatic reactions. Recent Advances: Growing number of evidence shows that excessive Asc accumulation may have negative effects on cellular functions both in humans and plants; inter alia it may negatively affect signaling mechanisms, cellular redox status, and contribute to the production of ROS via the Fenton reaction. CRITICAL ISSUES Both plants and humans tightly control cellular Asc levels, possibly via biosynthesis, transport, and degradation, to maintain them in an optimum concentration range, which, among other factors, is essential to minimize the potentially harmful effects of Asc. On the contrary, the Fenton reaction induced by a high-dose Asc treatment in humans enables a potential cancer-selective cell death pathway. FUTURE DIRECTIONS The elucidation of Asc induced cancer selective cell death mechanisms may give us a tool to apply Asc in cancer therapy. On the contrary, the regulatory mechanisms controlling cellular Asc levels are also to be considered, for example, when aiming at generating crops with elevated Asc levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Szilvia Z Tóth
- 1 Institute of Plant Biology , Biological Research Centre of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Tamás Lőrincz
- 2 Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Applied Biotechnology and Food Science, Budapest University of Technology and Economics , Budapest, Hungary
| | - András Szarka
- 2 Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Applied Biotechnology and Food Science, Budapest University of Technology and Economics , Budapest, Hungary
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Dean T, Kaushik N, Williams S, Zinter M, Kim P. Cardiac arrest and pulmonary hypertension in scurvy: a case report. Pulm Circ 2018; 9:2045894018812052. [PMID: 30351242 PMCID: PMC6457075 DOI: 10.1177/2045894018812052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
We report a case of a six-year-old boy who presented after a cardiac arrest, likely due to a pulmonary hypertensive crisis in the setting of vitamin C deficiency. After initially presenting with subacute multifocal bone lesions of unknown etiology, he experienced a pulseless electrical activity cardiac arrest while undergoing a diagnostic procedure under sedation. During his post-arrest convalescence, he developed persistent tachycardia and peripheral edema. An echocardiogram revealed findings consistent with significant pulmonary arterial hypertension, which was found to be responsive to inhaled nitric oxide. Laboratory investigation revealed undetectable levels of vitamin C, resulting in disclosure of a history of severe restrictive eating behavior. With ascorbate supplementation, the patient's pulmonary vasodilators were weaned and discontinued. Given his complete recovery, we suspect that the cardiac arrest and pulmonary hypertension were the consequence of a rare, but reversible, complication of scurvy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terry Dean
- 1 University of California San Francisco Benioff Children's Hospital - Oakland, Oakland, CA, USA.,2 University of California San Francisco Benioff Children's Hospital - Mission Bay, San Francisco, USA
| | - Neeru Kaushik
- 1 University of California San Francisco Benioff Children's Hospital - Oakland, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Sharron Williams
- 1 University of California San Francisco Benioff Children's Hospital - Oakland, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Matthew Zinter
- 1 University of California San Francisco Benioff Children's Hospital - Oakland, Oakland, CA, USA.,2 University of California San Francisco Benioff Children's Hospital - Mission Bay, San Francisco, USA
| | - Paul Kim
- 1 University of California San Francisco Benioff Children's Hospital - Oakland, Oakland, CA, USA
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Vitamin C and immune cell function in inflammation and cancer. Biochem Soc Trans 2018; 46:1147-1159. [PMID: 30301842 PMCID: PMC6195639 DOI: 10.1042/bst20180169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Revised: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin C (ascorbate) is maintained at high levels in most immune cells and can affect many aspects of the immune response. Intracellular levels generally respond to variations in plasma ascorbate availability, and a combination of inadequate intake and increased turnover during severe stress can result in low plasma ascorbate status. Intracellular ascorbate supports essential functions and, in particular, acts as an enzyme cofactor for Fe- or Cu-containing oxygenases. Newly discovered enzymes in this family regulate cell metabolism and epigenetics, and dysregulation of their activity can affect cell phenotype, growth and survival pathways, and stem cell phenotype. This brief overview details some of the recent advances in our understanding of how ascorbate availability can affect the hydroxylases controlling the hypoxic response and the DNA and histone demethylases. These processes play important roles in the regulation of the immune system, altering cell survival pathways, metabolism and functions.
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Ascorbic Acid in Colon Cancer: From the Basic to the Clinical Applications. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19092752. [PMID: 30217071 PMCID: PMC6164730 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Revised: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Given the safety and potential benefits of intravenous ascorbic acid (AA) administration in cancer patients, there is merit in further exploring this therapeutic concept. In this review, we discuss the potential benefits of intravenous AA administration on colorectal cancer and we specifically focus on its effect on glycolysis in mutant and wild type RAS. We perform a PubMed and Ovid MEDLINE search using ascorbic acid, intravenous vitamin C, KRAS mutation, BRAF mutation and colorectal cancer (CRC) as keywords. At the cellular level, colorectal cancer cells undergo a metabolic shift called the Warburg effect to allow for more glucose absorption and utilization of glycolysis. This shift also allows AA to enter which leads to a disruption in the Warburg effect and a shutdown of the downstream KRAS pathway in mutated KRAS colon cancer cells. At the clinical level, AA is associated with tumour regression in advanced disease and improved tolerability and side effects of standard therapy. Based on these findings, we conclude that further clinical trials are needed on a larger scale to examine the therapeutic benefits of AA in colon cancer.
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50
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Vissers MCM, Das AB. Potential Mechanisms of Action for Vitamin C in Cancer: Reviewing the Evidence. Front Physiol 2018; 9:809. [PMID: 30018566 PMCID: PMC6037948 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Whether vitamin C (ascorbate) has a role to play as an anti-cancer agent has been debated for decades. Ascorbate has been used by cancer patients in an unregulated environment, either as a dietary supplement or in pharmacological doses administered by infusion, with numerous reports of clinical benefit, but in the absence of rigorous clinical trial data. The design of appropriate clinical trials has been hindered by a lack of understanding of the mechanism(s) of action that would inform the choice of effective dose, timing of administration and likely responsive cancer models. More recently, expanded understanding of the biological activities of ascorbate has led to a number of plausible hypotheses for mechanisms of anti-cancer activity. Prominent among these are the generation of significant quantities of hydrogen peroxide by the autoxidation of supra-physiological concentrations of ascorbate and stimulation of the 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenase family of enzymes (2-OGDDs) that have a cofactor requirement for ascorbate. Hydrogen peroxide generation is postulated to generate oxidative stress that preferentially targets cancer cells. The 2-OGDDs include the hydroxylases that regulate the hypoxic response, a major driver of tumor survival, angiogenesis, stem cell phenotype and metastasis, and the epigenetic histone and DNA demethylases. The latter are of particular interest, with recent studies suggesting a promising role for ascorbate in the regulation of the ten-eleven translocase (TET) DNA demethylases in hematological cancers. Support for these proposed mechanisms has come from many in vitro studies, and xenograft animal models have consistently shown an anti-cancer effect of ascorbate administration. However, decisive evidence for any particular mechanism(s) of action is not yet available from an in vivo setting. With a number of early phase clinical trials currently underway, evidence for potential mechanism(s) of action is required to inform the most appropriate study design and choice of cancer model. Hopefully such information will result in sound clinical data that will avert adding any further controversy to this already contentious debate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margreet C M Vissers
- Centre for Free Radical Research, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Andrew B Das
- Centre for Free Radical Research, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand
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