1
|
Taiyab A, Choudhury A, Haidar S, Yousuf M, Rathi A, Koul P, Chakrabarty A, Islam A, Shamsi A, Hassan MI. Exploring MTH1 inhibitory potential of Thymoquinone and Baicalin for therapeutic targeting of breast cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 173:116332. [PMID: 38430630 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116332] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancers frequently have increased ROS levels due to disrupted redox balance, leading to oxidative DNA and protein damage, mutations, and apoptosis. The MTH1 protein plays a crucial role by sanitizing the oxidized dNTP pools. Hence, cancer cells rely on MTH1 to prevent the integration of oxidized dNTPs into DNA, preventing DNA damage and allowing cancer cell proliferation. We have discovered Thymoquinone (TQ) and Baicalin (BC) as inhibitors of MTH1 using combined docking and MD simulation approaches complemented by experimental validations via assessing binding affinity and enzyme inhibition. Docking and MD simulations studies revealed an efficient binding of TQ and BC to the active site pocket of the MTH1, and the resultant complexes are appreciably stable. Fluorescence measurements estimated a strong binding affinity of TQ and BC with Ka 3.4 ×106 and 1.0 ×105, respectively. Treating breast cancer cells with TQ and BC significantly inhibited the growth and proliferation (IC50 values 28.3 µM and 34.8 µM) and induced apoptosis. TQ and BC increased the ROS production in MCF7 cells, imposing substantial oxidative stress on cancer cells and leading to cell death. Finally, TQ and BC are proven strong MTH1 inhibitors, offering promising prospects for anti-cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aaliya Taiyab
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Arunabh Choudhury
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Shaista Haidar
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Natural Sciences, Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, NH91, Tehsil Dadri, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Uttar Pradesh 201314, India
| | - Mohd Yousuf
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Aanchal Rathi
- Department of Bioscience, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Priyanka Koul
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Anindita Chakrabarty
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Natural Sciences, Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, NH91, Tehsil Dadri, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Uttar Pradesh 201314, India
| | - Asimul Islam
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Anas Shamsi
- Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman 364, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Md Imtaiyaz Hassan
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
da Silva MCM, Pereira RSB, Araujo ACA, Filho EGDS, Dias ADL, Cavalcante KS, de Sousa MS. New Perspectives about Drug Candidates Targeting HTLV-1 and Related Diseases. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1546. [PMID: 38004412 PMCID: PMC10674638 DOI: 10.3390/ph16111546] [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: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Among the human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV) types, HTLV-1 is the most prevalent, and it has been linked to a spectrum of diseases, including HAM/TSP, ATLL, and hyperinfection syndrome or disseminated strongyloidiasis. There is currently no globally standard first-line treatment for HTLV-1 infection and its related diseases. To address this, a comprehensive review was conducted, analyzing 30 recent papers from databases PubMed, CAPES journals, and the Virtual Health Library (VHL). The studies encompassed a wide range of therapeutic approaches, including antiretrovirals, immunomodulators, antineoplastics, amino acids, antiparasitics, and even natural products and plant extracts. Notably, the category with the highest number of articles was related to drugs for the treatment of ATLL. Studies employing mogamulizumab as a new perspective for ATLL received greater attention in the last 5 years, demonstrating efficacy, safe use in the elderly, significant antitumor activity, and increased survival time for refractory patients. Concerning HAM/TSP, despite corticosteroid being recommended, a more randomized clinical trial is needed to support treatment other than corticoids. The study also included a comprehensive review of the drugs used to treat disseminated strongyloidiasis in co-infection with HTLV-1, including their administration form, in order to emphasize gaps and facilitate the development of other studies aiming at better-directed methodologies. Additionally, docking molecules and computer simulations show promise in identifying novel therapeutic targets and repurposing existing drugs. These advances are crucial in developing more effective and targeted treatments against HTLV-1 and its related diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Anderson de Lima Dias
- Institute of Health Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Para, Belem 66079-420, Brazil
| | - Kassio Silva Cavalcante
- Institute of Health Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Para, Belem 66079-420, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhang YF, Huang J, Zhang WX, Liu YH, Wang X, Song J, Jin CY, Zhang SY. Tubulin degradation: Principles, agents, and applications. Bioorg Chem 2023; 139:106684. [PMID: 37356337 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
The microtubule system plays an important role in the mitosis and growth of eukaryotic cells, and it is considered as an appealing and highly successful molecular target for cancer treatment. In fact, microtubule targeting agents, such as paclitaxel and vinblastine, have been approved by FDA for tumor therapy, which have achieved significant therapeutic effects and sales performance. At present, microtubule targeting agents mainly include microtubule-destabilizing agents, microtubule-stabilizing agents, and a few tubulin degradation agents. Although there are few reports about tubulin degradation agents at present, tubulin degradation agents show great potential in overcoming multidrug resistance and reducing neurotoxicity. In addition, some natural drugs could specifically degrade tubulin in tumor cells, but have no effect in normal cells, thus showing a good biosafety profile. Therefore, tubulin degradation agents might exhibit a better application. Currently, some small molecules have been designed to promote tubulin degradation with potent antiproliferative activities, showing the potential for cancer treatment. In this work, we reviewed the reports on tubulin degradation, and focused on the degradation mechanism and important functional groups of chemically synthesized compounds, hoping to provide help for the degradation design of tubulin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Fan Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Drug Discovery & Development, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies (Ministry of Education), Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Jiao Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Drug Discovery & Development, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies (Ministry of Education), Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Wei-Xin Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Drug Discovery & Development, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies (Ministry of Education), Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Yun-He Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Drug Discovery & Development, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies (Ministry of Education), Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Jian Song
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
| | - Cheng-Yun Jin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Drug Discovery & Development, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies (Ministry of Education), Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
| | - Sai-Yang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Nakajima S, Okuma K. Mouse Models for HTLV-1 Infection and Adult T Cell Leukemia. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11737. [PMID: 37511495 PMCID: PMC10380921 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411737] [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: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult T cell leukemia (ATL) is an aggressive hematologic disease caused by human T cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) infection. Various animal models of HTLV-1 infection/ATL have been established to elucidate the pathogenesis of ATL and develop appropriate treatments. For analyses employing murine models, transgenic and immunodeficient mice are used because of the low infectivity of HTLV-1 in mice. Each mouse model has different characteristics that must be considered before use for different HTLV-1 research purposes. HTLV-1 Tax and HBZ transgenic mice spontaneously develop tumors, and the roles of both Tax and HBZ in cell transformation and tumor growth have been established. Severely immunodeficient mice were able to be engrafted with ATL cell lines and have been used in preclinical studies of candidate molecules for the treatment of ATL. HTLV-1-infected humanized mice with an established human immune system are a suitable model to characterize cells in the early stages of HTLV-1 infection. This review outlines the characteristics of mouse models of HTLV-1 infection/ATL and describes progress made in elucidating the pathogenesis of ATL and developing related therapies using these mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shinsuke Nakajima
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata 573-1010, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kazu Okuma
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata 573-1010, Osaka, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Al-Rawashde FA, Al-Sanabra OM, Alqaraleh M, Jaradat AQ, Al-Wajeeh AS, Johan MF, Wan Taib WR, Ismail I, Al-Jamal HAN. Thymoquinone Enhances Apoptosis of K562 Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Cells through Hypomethylation of SHP-1 and Inhibition of JAK/STAT Signaling Pathway. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:884. [PMID: 37375831 DOI: 10.3390/ph16060884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The epigenetic silencing of tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) is critical in the development of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). SHP-1 functions as a TSG and negatively regulates JAK/STAT signaling. Enhancement of SHP-1 expression by demethylation provides molecular targets for the treatment of various cancers. Thymoquinone (TQ), a constituent of Nigella sativa seeds, has shown anti-cancer activities in various cancers. However, TQs effect on methylation is not fully clear. Therefore, the aim of this study is to assess TQs ability to enhance the expression of SHP-1 through modifying DNA methylation in K562 CML cells. The activities of TQ on cell cycle progression and apoptosis were evaluated using a fluorometric-red cell cycle assay and Annexin V-FITC/PI, respectively. The methylation status of SHP-1 was studied by pyrosequencing analysis. The expression of SHP-1, TET2, WT1, DNMT1, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B was determined using RT-qPCR. The protein phosphorylation of STAT3, STAT5, and JAK2 was assessed using Jess Western analysis. TQ significantly downregulated the DNMT1 gene, DNMT3A gene, and DNMT3B gene and upregulated the WT1 gene and TET2 gene. This led to hypomethylation and restoration of SHP-1 expression, resulting in inhibition of JAK/STAT signaling, induction of apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest. The observed findings imply that TQ promotes apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in CML cells by inhibiting JAK/STAT signaling via restoration of the expression of JAK/STAT-negative regulator genes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ola M Al-Sanabra
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Science, Al-Balqa Applied University, Al-Salt 19117, Jordan
| | - Moath Alqaraleh
- Pharmacological and Diagnostic Research Center (PDRC), Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman 19328, Jordan
| | - Ahmad Q Jaradat
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Mutah University, Al-Karak 61710, Jordan
| | | | - Muhammad Farid Johan
- Department of Haematology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian 16150, Malaysia
| | - Wan Rohani Wan Taib
- School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), Kuala Terengganu 21300, Malaysia
| | - Imilia Ismail
- School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), Kuala Terengganu 21300, Malaysia
| | - Hamid Ali Nagi Al-Jamal
- School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), Kuala Terengganu 21300, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Fu B, Shao R, Wang H, Chen G, Bai S, Wang H. Integrated assessment of the clinical and biological value of ferroptosis-related genes in multiple myeloma. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:326. [PMID: 36274128 PMCID: PMC9588243 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02742-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent mode of cell death that could be induced by erastin and exert antitumor effects. However, the clinical and biological roles of ferroptosis-related gene (FRG) signature and the therapeutic value of erastin in multiple myeloma (MM) remained unknown. Methods Clinical and gene expression data of MM subjects were extracted from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) public database. Univariable cox analysis was applied to determine FRGs related to survival and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis was used to develop a prognostic model. Prediction accuracy of the model was estimated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Functional pathway enrichments and infiltrating immune status were also analyzed. We conducted in vitro experiments to investigate the combination therapy of erastin and doxorubicin. Results 17 FRGs were strongly associated with patient survival and 11 genes were identified to construct the prognostic model. ROC curves indicated great predictive sensitivity and specificity of the model in all cohorts. Patients were divided into low- and high-risk groups by median risk score in each cohort and the survival of the low-risk group was significantly superior than that of the high-risk group. We also observed a close relevance between functional pathways and immune infiltration with risk scores. Moreover, we combined erastin and doxorubicin in our in vitro experiments and found synergetic antitumor effects of the two agents, and the underlying mechanism is the overgeneration of intracellular Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS). Conclusions We demonstrated the important value of ferroptosis in patient prognosis and as a potential antitumor target for MM. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12935-022-02742-4.
Collapse
|
7
|
Combination Anticancer Therapies Using Selected Phytochemicals. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27175452. [PMID: 36080219 PMCID: PMC9458090 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27175452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is still one of the most widespread diseases globally, it is considered a vital health challenge worldwide and one of the main barriers to long life expectancy. Due to the potential toxicity and lack of selectivity of conventional chemotherapeutic agents, discovering alternative treatments is a top priority. Plant-derived natural products have high potential in cancer treatment due to their multiple mechanisms of action, diversity in structure, availability in nature, and relatively low toxicity. In this review, the anticancer mechanisms of the most common phytochemicals were analyzed. Furthermore, a detailed discussion of the anticancer effect of combinations consisting of natural product or natural products with chemotherapeutic drugs was provided. This review should provide a strong platform for researchers and clinicians to improve basic and clinical research in the development of alternative anticancer medicines.
Collapse
|
8
|
Alam M, Hasan GM, Ansari MM, Sharma R, Yadav DK, Hassan MI. Therapeutic implications and clinical manifestations of thymoquinone. PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2022; 200:113213. [PMID: 35472482 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2022.113213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Thymoquinone (TQ), a natural phytochemical predominantly found in Nigella sativa, has been investigated for its numerous health benefits. TQ showed anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, validated in various disease models. The anti-cancer potential of TQ is goverened by anti-proliferation, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis induction, ROS production, anti-metastasis and anti-angiogenesis, inhibition of cell migration and invasion action. Additionally, TQ exhibited antitumor activity via the modulation of multiple pathways and molecular targets, including Akt, ERK1/2, STAT3, and NF-κB. The present review highlighted the anticancer potential of TQ . We summarize the anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties of TQ, focusing on its molecular targets and its promising action in cancer therapy. We further described the molecular mechanisms by which TQ prevents signaling pathways that mediate cancer progression, invasion, and metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manzar Alam
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, 110025, India
| | - Gulam Mustafa Hasan
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 173, Al-Kharj, 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Md Meraj Ansari
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, SAS Nagar, Mohali, Punjab, 160062, India
| | - Rishi Sharma
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, 249203, India
| | - Dharmendra Kumar Yadav
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University of Medicine and Science, Hambakmoeiro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon City, 21924, South Korea.
| | - Md Imtaiyaz Hassan
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, 110025, India.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ng CX, Affendi MM, Chong PP, Lee SH. The Potential of Plant-Derived Extracts and Compounds to Augment Anticancer Effects of Chemotherapeutic Drugs. Nutr Cancer 2022; 74:3058-3076. [PMID: 35675271 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2022.2069274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Plant extracts comprise a complex mixture of natural compounds with diverse biological activities including anticancer activities. This has made the use of plant extracts a trending strategy in cancer treatment. In addition, plants' active constituents such as polyphenols could confer protective effects on normal cells against damage by free radicals as well as lessen the toxicity of chemotherapeutic drugs. Recently, many emerging studies revealed the combinatory uses of plant extracts and individual therapeutic compounds that could be a promising panacea in hampering multiple signaling pathways involved in cancer development and progression. Besides enhancing the therapeutic efficacy, this has also been proven to reduce the dosage of chemotherapeutic drugs used, and hence overcome multiple drug resistance and minimize treatment side effects. Notably, combined use of plant extracts with chemotherapeutics drugs was shown to enhance anticancer effects through modulating various signaling pathways, such as P13K/AKT, NF-κB, JNK, ERK, WNT/β-catenin, and many more. Hence, this review aims to comprehensively summarize both In Vitro and In Vivo mechanisms of actions of well-studied plant extracts, such as Ganoderma Lucidum, Korean red ginseng, Garcinia sp., curcumin, and luteolin extracts in augmenting anticancer properties of the conventional chemotherapeutic drugs from an extensive literature search of recent publications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chu Xin Ng
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Muzaira Mazrul Affendi
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, International Medical University, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Pei Pei Chong
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Sau Har Lee
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.,Centre for Drug Discovery and Molecular Pharmacology (CDDMP), Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Selangor, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Jehan S, Huang J, Farooq U, Basheer I, Zhou W. Combinatorial effect of thymoquinone with chemo agents for tumor therapy. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 98:153936. [PMID: 35114449 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.153936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most chemotherapeutics used in cancer therapies exhibit considerable side effects to the patients. Thus, developing new chemo agents to treat cancer patients with minimal toxic and side effects is urgently needed. Recently, the combination of different chemotherapeutics has become a promising strategy to treat malignancies. Thymoquinone (TQ) is a primary bioactive compound derived from the folk medicinal plant Nigella sativa, which has been found an antitumor, chemopreventive and chemopotentiating agent against human neoplastic diseases. PURPOSE We briefly summarize the current research of the biomolecular mechanisms of TQ and evaluate the existing literature on TQ adjuvant therapies against various cancers. METHOD The data in this review were gathered by several search engines including, Google Scholar, PubMed and ScienceDirect. We highlighted and classified the outcomes of both in vitro and in vivo experiments of TQ adjuvant therapies against human cancers and their chemopreventive activities on vital organs. RESULTS Several studies have shown that TQ synergistically potentiated the antitumor activity of numerous chemo agents against human neoplastic disease, including lung, breast, liver, colorectal, skin, prostate, stomach, bone and blood cancers. TQ also acted as a chemopreventive agent and reduced the toxicity of many chemo agents to vital organs, such as the heart, liver, kidneys and lungs. CONCLUSION In summary, we highly recommend an advanced evaluation of TQ adjuvant therapies at the level of preclinical and clinical trials, which could lead to a novel combinatorial therapy for cancer treatment with low or tolerable adverse effects on patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shah Jehan
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Tongzipo Road 172, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China; Key Laboratory of Saline-alkali Vegetation Ecology Restoration, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Jiaxin Huang
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Tongzipo Road 172, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Umar Farooq
- Key Laboratory of Saline-alkali Vegetation Ecology Restoration, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Irum Basheer
- Key Laboratory of Saline-alkali Vegetation Ecology Restoration, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Wenhu Zhou
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Tongzipo Road 172, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abd-Rabou AA, Edris AE. Cytotoxic, apoptotic, and genetic evaluations of Nigella sativa essential oil nanoemulsion against human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines. Cancer Nanotechnol 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s12645-021-00101-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Phytochemicals and plant extracts are showing promising anticancer potentials. In the current study, the volatile faction (essential oil) of Nigella sativa seeds was evaluated against some hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The essential oil was extracted and characterized by chromatographic techniques to reveal its chemical composition, especially thymoquinone. Then, the oil was fabricated in two nanoemulsion formulations (F1 and F2), which differ in their composition of surfactants. The cytotoxicity and apoptotic activities of the essential oil and its nanoemulsions were evaluated in vitro against HepG2 and Huh-7 cell lines. Normal WI-38 cell line was also included in that evaluation to study the selectivity and safety of the different formulations on normal cells.
Results
Gas chromatographic analysis indicated that the essential oil is composed mainly of p-cymene (40.0%), thymoquinone (31.2%) and trans-α-thujene (12.8%). Particle size of the nanoemulsions ranged between 9.4 and 119.7 nm depending on the type of surfactant used in the formulation process. The pure essential oil and its two nanoemulsions (F1 and F2) showed dose-dependent antiproliferative activity against both HCC cells. This activity reached its highest cell inhibition in the case of nanoemulsion (F2) where the proliferation percentage was only 21.9% and 9.2% against HepG2 and Huh-7 cells, respectively. The same nanoemulsion (F2) also showed the lowest IC50 values (55.7 and 35.5 µg/ml) against both HepG2 and Huh-7 cells, respectively, compared to 100 µg/ml for the reference drug Doxorubicin. Flow cytometric analysis also confirmed that nanoemulsion (F2) has the highest apoptotic activity compared to nanoemulsion (F1) and the pure unformulated essential oil. Genetic expressions of pro-apoptotic (Bax) and the anti-apoptotic (Bcl-2) gene markers evaluation revealed that nanoemulsion (F2) has better activity in upregulating (Bax) and down-regulate (Bcl-2) with the highest Bax/Bcl-2 ratio (69) was found against Huh-7 cells. All N. sativa nanoemulsions showed minimal cytotoxicity on the normal WI-38 cell, indicating wide safety margins due to selective properties.
Conclusion
Overall, the study revealed the potentials of N. sativa essential oil, after formulation in specially tailored nanoemulsion for application as potential adjuvant liver anticancer agent.
Graphical Abstract
Collapse
|
12
|
Samra YA, Abdelghany AM, Zaghloul RA. Polydatin gold nanoparticles potentiate antitumor effect of doxorubicin in Ehrlich ascites carcinoma-bearing mice. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2021; 35:e22869. [PMID: 34339076 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.22869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer is a leading cause of death. Anticancer treatment such as gold nanoparticles (AuNP) seems highly promising in this regard. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the beneficial effect of doxorubicin (Dox) and polydatin (PD) AuNP in Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) and the ability of PD-AuNP to protect the heart from Dox's deteriorating effects. EAC was induced in mice. The mice were divided into nine groups: normal, EAC, PD: received PD (20 mg/kg), Dox: received Dox (2 mg/kg), PD-AuNPH: received 10 ppm AuNP of PD, PD-AuNPL: received 5 ppm AuNP of PD, Dox-AuNP: received Dox-AuNP, PD-Dox-AuNP: received PD-Dox-AuNP, AuNP: received AuNP. On the 21st day from tumor inoculation, the mice were sacrificed and tumor and heart tissues were removed. Tumor β-catenin/Cyclin D1 and p53 were assessed by immunohistochemistry. IL-6 was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. PD-AuNP and Dox-AuNP showed a significant reduction in tumor volume and weight more than their free forms. Also, PD-AuNP and Dox-AuNP showed markedly less dense tumor cells. β-catenin and Cyclin D1 were markedly decreased and p53 was highly upregulated by PD-AuNP and Dox-AuNP. Moreover, PD-AuNP and Dox-AuNP have the ability to decrease IL-6 production. PD-AuNP protected the heart from Dox-induced severe degeneration. Therefore, PD-AuNP could be a tool to decelerate the progression of breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yara A Samra
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Amr M Abdelghany
- Department of Spectroscopy, Physics Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt.,Basic Science Department, Horus University, New Damietta, Damietta, Egypt
| | - Randa A Zaghloul
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Fatfat Z, Fatfat M, Gali-Muhtasib H. Therapeutic potential of thymoquinone in combination therapy against cancer and cancer stem cells. World J Clin Oncol 2021; 12:522-543. [PMID: 34367926 PMCID: PMC8317652 DOI: 10.5306/wjco.v12.i7.522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The long-term success of standard anticancer monotherapeutic strategies has been hampered by intolerable side effects, resistance to treatment and cancer relapse. These monotherapeutic strategies shrink the tumor bulk but do not effectively eliminate the population of self-renewing cancer stem cells (CSCs) that are normally present within the tumor. These surviving CSCs develop mechanisms of resistance to treatment and refuel the tumor, thus causing cancer relapse. To ensure durable tumor control, research has moved away from adopting the monotreatment paradigm towards developing and using combination therapy. Combining different therapeutic modalities has demonstrated significant therapeutic outcomes by strengthening the anti-tumor potential of monotreatment against cancer and cancer stem cells, mitigating their toxic adverse effects, and ultimately overcoming resistance. Recently, there has been growing interest in combining natural products from different sources or with clinically used chemotherapeutics to further improve treatment efficacy and tolerability. Thymoquinone (TQ), the main bioactive constituent of Nigella sativa, has gained great attention in combination therapy research after demonstrating its low toxicity to normal cells and remarkable anticancer efficacy in extensive preclinical studies in addition to its ability to target chemoresistant CSCs. Here, we provide an overview of the therapeutic responses resulting from combining TQ with conventional therapeutic agents such as alkylating agents, antimetabolites and antimicrotubules as well as with topoisomerase inhibitors and non-coding RNA. We also review data on anticancer effects of TQ when combined with ionizing radiation and several natural products such as vitamin D3, melatonin and other compounds derived from Chinese medicinal plants. The focus of this review is on two outcomes of TQ combination therapy, namely eradicating CSCs and treating various types of cancers. In conclusion, the ability of TQ to potentiate the anticancer activity of many chemotherapeutic agents and sensitize cancer cells to radiotherapy makes it a promising molecule that could be used in combination therapy to overcome resistance to standard chemotherapeutic agents and reduce their associated toxicities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zaynab Fatfat
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Maamoun Fatfat
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Hala Gali-Muhtasib
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
- Center for Drug Discovery, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Sublethal hyperthermia enhances anticancer activity of doxorubicin in chronically hypoxic HepG2 cells through ROS-dependent mechanism. Biosci Rep 2021; 41:228846. [PMID: 34060621 PMCID: PMC8200658 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20210442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Thermal ablation in combination with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) has been reported to exert a more powerful antitumor effect than thermal ablation alone in hepatocellular carcinoma patients. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate whether sublethal hyperthermia encountered in the periablation zone during thermal ablation enhances the anticancer activity of doxorubicin in chronically hypoxic (encountered in the tumor area after TACE) liver cancer cells and to explore the underlying mechanisms. In the present study, HepG2 cells precultured under chronic hypoxic conditions (1% oxygen) were treated in a 42°C water bath for 15 or 30 min, followed by incubation with doxorubicin. Assays were then performed to determine intracellular uptake of doxorubicin, cell viability, apoptosis, cell cycle, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and total antioxidant capacity. The results confirmed that sublethal hyperthermia enhanced the intracellular uptake of doxorubicin into hypoxic HepG2 cells. Hyperthermia combined with doxorubicin led to a greater inhibition of cell viability and increased apoptosis in hypoxic HepG2 cells as compared with hyperthermia or doxorubicin alone. In addition, the combination induced apoptosis by increasing ROS and causing disruption of MMP. Pretreatment with the ROS scavenger N-acetyl cysteine significantly inhibited the apoptotic response, suggesting that cell death is ROS-dependent. These findings suggested that sublethal hyperthermia enhances the anticancer activity of doxorubicin in hypoxic HepG2 cells via a ROS-dependent mechanism.
Collapse
|
15
|
Pal RR, Rajpal V, Singh P, Saraf SA. Recent Findings on Thymoquinone and Its Applications as a Nanocarrier for the Treatment of Cancer and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:775. [PMID: 34067322 PMCID: PMC8224699 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13060775] [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: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer causes a considerable amount of mortality in the world, while arthritis is an immunological dysregulation with multifactorial pathogenesis including genetic and environmental defects. Both conditions have inflammation as a part of their pathogenesis. Resistance to anticancer and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) happens frequently through the generation of energy-dependent transporters, which lead to the expulsion of cellular drug contents. Thymoquinone (TQ) is a bioactive molecule with anticancer as well as anti-inflammatory activities via the downregulation of several chemokines and cytokines. Nevertheless, the pharmacological importance and therapeutic feasibility of thymoquinone are underutilized due to intrinsic pharmacokinetics, including short half-life, inadequate biological stability, poor aqueous solubility, and low bioavailability. Owing to these pharmacokinetic limitations of TQ, nanoformulations have gained remarkable attention in recent years. Therefore, this compilation intends to critically analyze recent advancements in rheumatoid arthritis and cancer delivery of TQ. This literature search revealed that nanocarriers exhibit potential results in achieving targetability, maximizing drug internalization, as well as enhancing the anti-inflammatory and anticancer efficacy of TQ. Additionally, TQ-NPs (thymoquinone nanoparticles) as a therapeutic payload modulated autophagy as well as enhanced the potential of other drugs when given in combination. Moreover, nanoformulations improved pharmacokinetics, drug deposition, using EPR (enhanced permeability and retention) and receptor-mediated delivery, and enhanced anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. TQ's potential to reduce metal toxicity, its clinical trials and patents have also been discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ravi Raj Pal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (A Central University), VidyaVihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow 226025, Uttar Pradesh, India; (R.R.P.); (P.S.)
| | - Vasundhara Rajpal
- Department of Biotechology, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (A Central University), VidyaVihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow 226025, Uttar Pradesh, India;
| | - Priya Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (A Central University), VidyaVihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow 226025, Uttar Pradesh, India; (R.R.P.); (P.S.)
| | - Shubhini A. Saraf
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (A Central University), VidyaVihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow 226025, Uttar Pradesh, India; (R.R.P.); (P.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Thymoquinone, as a Novel Therapeutic Candidate of Cancers. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14040369. [PMID: 33923474 PMCID: PMC8074212 DOI: 10.3390/ph14040369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
To date, natural products are widely used as pharmaceutical agents for many human diseases and cancers. One of the most popular natural products that have been studied for anticancer properties is thymoquinone (TQ). As a bioactive compound of Nigella sativa, TQ has shown anticancer activities through the inhibition of cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. The anticancer efficacy of TQ is being investigated in several human cancers such as pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, colon cancer, hepatic cancer, cervical cancer, and leukemia. Even though TQ induces apoptosis by regulating the expression of pro- apoptotic and anti-apoptotic genes in many cancers, the TQ effect mechanism on such cancers is not yet fully understood. Therefore, the present review has highlighted the TQ effect mechanisms on several signaling pathways and expression of tumor suppressor genes (TSG). Data from relevant published experimental articles on TQ from 2015 to June 2020 were selected by using Google Scholar and PubMed search engines. The present study investigated the effectiveness of TQ alone or in combination with other anticancer therapeutic agents, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors on cancers, as a future anticancer therapy nominee by using nanotechnology.
Collapse
|
17
|
Thabet NA, El-Khouly D, Sayed-Ahmed MM, Omran MM. Thymoquinone chemosensitizes human colorectal cancer cells to imatinib via uptake/efflux genes modulation. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2021; 48:911-920. [PMID: 33783002 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.13476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Imatinib (IM) is a pharmaceutical drug that inhibits tyrosine kinase enzymes that are responsible for the activation of many proteins by signal transduction cascades as c-Abl, c-Kit and the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) receptor. Thymoquinone (TQ) is an active constituent of Nigella sativa seeds. Thymoquinone benefits are attributed to its medicinal uses as antioxidant, anticancer and antimicrobial agent. This study aimed to investigate the impact of using TQ with IM in the HCT116 human colorectal cancer cell line model. The HCT116 cells were treated with IM or/and TQ in non-constant ratios, in which the fixed concentrations of TQ (5, 10 or 20 µmol/L) were co-treated with various concentrations of IM (7.5-120 µmol/L) for 24, 48 and 72 hours. Imatinib-TQ interaction was analysed using CompuSyn software. The IC50 values for IM were 105, 72 μmol/L after 48 and 72 hours, respectively, and were significantly reduced to 7.3, 7 and 5.5 μmol/L after combination with TQ (10 μmol/L) and to 5.8, 5.6 and 4.6 μmol/L after combination with TQ (20 μmol/L) to 24, 48 and 72 hours, respectively. The combination index (CI) and dose reduction index (DRI) values indicate a significant synergism in HCT-116 cells at different treatment time points. Thymoquinone significantly enhances the cellular uptake of IM in HCT116 cells in a time and concentration-dependent manner. A significant downregulation in ATP-binding cassette (ABC) subfamily B member 1 (ABCB1), ABC subfamily G member 2 (ABCG2) and human organic cation transporter 1 (hOCT1) genes was observed in the cells exposed to IM+TQ combination as compared to IM alone, which resulted in a substantial elevation in uptake/efflux ratio in combination group. In conclusion, TQ potentiates IM efficacy on HCT116 cells via uptake/efflux genes modulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadia A Thabet
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Cancer Biology, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Dalia El-Khouly
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahram Canadian University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mohamed M Sayed-Ahmed
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Cancer Biology, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mervat M Omran
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Cancer Biology, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Elgohary S, Elkhodiry AA, Amin NS, Stein U, El Tayebi HM. Thymoquinone: A Tie-Breaker in SARS-CoV2-Infected Cancer Patients? Cells 2021; 10:302. [PMID: 33540625 PMCID: PMC7912962 DOI: 10.3390/cells10020302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the beginning of the SARS-CoV-2(severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2) pandemic, arace to develop a vaccine has been initiated, considering the massive and rather significant economic and healthcare hits that this virus has caused. The pathophysiology occurring following COVID-19(coronavirus disease-2019) infection has givenhints regarding the supportive and symptomatic treatments to establish for patients, as no specific anti-SARS-CoV-2 is available yet. Patient symptoms vary greatly and range from mild symptoms to severe fatal complications. Supportive treatments include antipyretics, antiviral therapies, different combinations of broad-spectrum antibiotics, hydroxychloroquine and plasma transfusion. Unfortunately, cancer patients are at higher risk of viral infection and more likely to develop serious complications due to their immunocompromised state, the fact that they are already administering multiple medications, as well as combined comorbidity compared to the general population. It may seem impossible to find a drug that possesses both potent antiviral and anticancer effects specifically against COVID-19 infection and its complications and the existing malignancy, respectively. Thymoquinone (TQ) is the most pharmacologically active ingredient in Nigella sativa seeds (black seeds); it is reported to have anticancer, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in various settings. In this review, we will discuss the multiple effects of TQ specifically against COVID-19, its beneficial effects against COVID-19 pathophysiology and multiple-organ complications, its use as an adjuvant for supportive COVID-19 therapy and cancer therapy, and finally, its anticancer effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sawsan Elgohary
- Molecular Pharmacology Research Group, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, 11835 Cairo, Egypt; (S.E.); (A.A.E.); (N.S.A.)
| | - Aya A. Elkhodiry
- Molecular Pharmacology Research Group, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, 11835 Cairo, Egypt; (S.E.); (A.A.E.); (N.S.A.)
| | - Nada S. Amin
- Molecular Pharmacology Research Group, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, 11835 Cairo, Egypt; (S.E.); (A.A.E.); (N.S.A.)
| | - Ulrike Stein
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany;
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125 Berlin, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hend M. El Tayebi
- Molecular Pharmacology Research Group, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, 11835 Cairo, Egypt; (S.E.); (A.A.E.); (N.S.A.)
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Qiu Y, Li A, Lee J, Lee JE, Lee EW, Cho, N, Yoo HM. Inhibition of Jurkat T Cell Proliferation by Active Components of Rumex japonicus Roots Via Induced Mitochondrial Damage and Apoptosis Promotion. J Microbiol Biotechnol 2020; 30:1885-1895. [PMID: 33144550 PMCID: PMC9728342 DOI: 10.4014/jmb.2007.07018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Rumex japonicus Houtt (RJH) is a valuable plant used in traditional medicine to treat several diseases, such as scabies and jaundice. In this study, Jurkat cell growth inhibitory extracts of R. japonicus roots were subjected to bioassay-guided fractionation, resulting in the isolation of three naphthalene derivatives (3-5) along with one anthraquinone (6) and two phenolic compounds (1 and 2). Among these compounds, 2-methoxystypandrone (5) exhibited potent anti-proliferative effects on Jurkat cells. Analysis by flow cytometry confirmed that 2-methoxystypandrone (5) could significantly reduce mitochondrial membrane potential and promote increased levels of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), suggesting a strong mitochondrial depolarization effect. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis was also performed, and the results revealed that the accumulation of ROS was caused by reduced mRNA expression levels of heme oxygenase (HO-1), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). In addition, 2-methoxystypandrone (5) triggered strong apoptosis that was mediated by the arrest of the G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle. Furthermore, 2-methoxystypandrone (5) downregulated p-IκB-α, p-NF-κB p65, Bcl2, and Bcl-xl and upregulated BAX proteins. Taken together, these findings revealed that 2-methoxystypandrone (5) isolated from RJH could potentially serve as an early lead compound for leukemia treatment involving intracellular signaling by increasing mitochondrial ROS and exerting anti-proliferative effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yinda Qiu
- College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 686, Republic of Korea
| | - Aoding Li
- College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 686, Republic of Korea
| | - Jina Lee
- Biometrology Group, Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science (KRISS), Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Eun Lee
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 4141, Republic of Korea,Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon 3113, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Woo Lee
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 4141, Republic of Korea
| | - Namki Cho,
- College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 686, Republic of Korea,Corresponding authors N.Cho Phone: +82-62-530-2926 E-mail:
| | - Hee Min Yoo
- Biometrology Group, Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science (KRISS), Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea,H.M.Yoo Phone: 82-42-868-5362 E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Gomathinayagam R, Ha JH, Jayaraman M, Song YS, Isidoro C, Dhanasekaran DN. Chemopreventive and Anticancer Effects of Thymoquinone: Cellular and Molecular Targets. J Cancer Prev 2020; 25:136-151. [PMID: 33033708 PMCID: PMC7523033 DOI: 10.15430/jcp.2020.25.3.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Thymoquinone (TQ) is a bioactive component derived from the seeds of Nigella sativa that are commonly as black cumin. Evidences indicate that the medicinal properties of TQ have been recognized for more than 2000 years. TQ has been shown to possess potent chemopreventive properties that include anti-inflammatory and anti-neoplastic activities. Recent studies have unraveled the multiple mechanisms through which TQ exerts its chemopreventive and anticancer activity in different cancer cells in a contextual manner. The present review aims to provide a brief compendium on the molecular mechanisms through which TQ inhibits signaling pathways underlying cancer genesis, progression, and metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rohini Gomathinayagam
- Stephenson Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Ji Hee Ha
- Stephenson Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Muralidharan Jayaraman
- Stephenson Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Yong Sang Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Research Institute, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ciro Isidoro
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology and NanoBioImaging, Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Danny N Dhanasekaran
- Stephenson Cancer Center, Department of Cell Biology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Almatroodi SA, Almatroudi A, Alsahli MA, Khan AA, Rahmani AH. Thymoquinone, an Active Compound of Nigella sativa: Role in Prevention and Treatment of Cancer. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2020; 21:1028-1041. [DOI: 10.2174/1389201021666200416092743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2019] [Revised: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Background:
Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide and the current mode of cancer
treatment causes side effects on normal cells and are still the key challenges in its’ treatment. However,
natural products or active compounds of medicinal plants have shown to be safe, affordable, and
effective in diseases cure.
Methods:
In this context, scientific studies evidence the health-promoting effects of natural products,
which work through its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer activity. Thymoquinone (TM),
a predominant active compound of Nigella sativa, has confirmed anti-neoplastic activity through its
ability to regulate various genetic pathways. In addition, thymoquinone has established anti-cancerous
effects through killing of various cancerous cells,and inhibiting the initiation, migration, invasion, and
progression of the cancer. The anti-cancer effects of TM are chiefly mediated via regulating various
cell signaling pathways such as VEGF, bcl2/bax ratio, p53, NF-kB, and oncogenes.
Results:
The anti-cancer drugs have limitations in efficacy and also causes adverse side effects on
normal cells. The combination of anti-cancer drugs and thymoquinone improves the efficacy of drugs
which is evident by decrease resistance to drugs and regulation of various cell signaling pathways.
Moreover, combination of anti-cancer drugs as well as thymoquinone shows synergistic effect on killing
of cancer cells and cells viability. Thus, TM, in combination with anti-cancer drugs, can be a good
strategy in the management of various types of cancer.
Conclusion:
In this review article, we deliver an outline of thymoquinone role in cancer inhibition and
prevention of cancer-based on in vivo and in vitro studies. Further studies on thymoquinone based on
clinical trials are highly required to explore the benefits of thymoquinone in cancer management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saleh A. Almatroodi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad Almatroudi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed A. Alsahli
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amjad A. Khan
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arshad H. Rahmani
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Khatoon E, Banik K, Harsha C, Sailo BL, Thakur KK, Khwairakpam AD, Vikkurthi R, Devi TB, Gupta SC, Kunnumakkara AB. Phytochemicals in cancer cell chemosensitization: Current knowledge and future perspectives. Semin Cancer Biol 2020; 80:306-339. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2020.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
23
|
Thymoquinone-chemotherapeutic combinations: new regimen to combat cancer and cancer stem cells. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2020; 393:1581-1598. [PMID: 32458010 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-020-01898-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is a worldwide disease that causes millions of cases of mortality and morbidity. The major problem associated with the cancer is its resistance to conventional therapy and a high relapse rate. The use of chemotherapy to treat cancer began at the start of the twentieth century with attempts to control cancer. In time advance, many cancer chemotherapeutic agents have been developed for cancer treatment with different mechanisms of action including the alkylating agents, antimetabolites, antimicrotubule, topoisomerase inhibitors, and cytotoxic antibiotics, all of which have toxic effects toward normal cells in the body. Here, we reviewed chemotherapeutics' anticancer role potentiation and safety by thymoquinone (TQ) alone or in combination with the most common therapeutic drugs. Our search was done through PubMed, Science Direct, Springer Link, Taylor & Francis Online, Wiley Online Library, Nature publication group, SAGE Journals, and Web of Science databases. We recognized that TQ-chemotherapeutics combination increased chemo-modulation to the anticancer effect of different chemotherapeutics and protected the normal body cells from the toxic injuries that are induced by chemotherapeutics based on its antioxidant power. Moreover, the current study investigates the possible combinatory effect of TQ and chemotherapeutics to control cancer stem cells through molecular docking targeting of wingless/integrated (Wnt) and Hedgehog (Hh). We found that TQ modulates the Wnt and Hh pathways, by binding with tankyrase-2 and smoothened 7TM receptor, respectively, more efficiently than most chemotherapeutics drugs, while methotrexate showed high-binding affinity compared with TQ. Therefore, we encourage researchers to investigate the chemo-modulatory potential and protective effects of TQ in combination with chemotherapeutics for either cancer or cancer stem cell treatment.
Collapse
|
24
|
Ashtar M, Tenshin H, Teramachi J, Bat-Erdene A, Hiasa M, Oda A, Tanimoto K, Shimizu S, Higa Y, Harada T, Oura M, Sogabe K, Nakamura S, Fujii S, Sumitani R, Miki H, Udaka K, Takahashi M, Kagawa K, Endo I, Tanaka E, Matsumoto T, Abe M. The Roles of ROS Generation in RANKL-Induced Osteoclastogenesis: Suppressive Effects of Febuxostat. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E929. [PMID: 32283857 PMCID: PMC7226249 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12040929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL), a critical mediator of osteoclastogenesis, is upregulated in multiple myeloma (MM). The xanthine oxidase inhibitor febuxostat, clinically used for prevention of tumor lysis syndrome, has been demonstrated to effectively inhibit not only the generation of uric acid but also the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS has been demonstrated to mediate RANKL-mediated osteoclastogenesis. In the present study, we therefore explored the role of cancer-treatment-induced ROS in RANKL-mediated osteoclastogenesis and the suppressive effects of febuxostat on ROS generation and osteoclastogenesis. RANKL dose-dependently induced ROS production in RAW264.7 preosteoclastic cells; however, febuxostat inhibited the RANKL-induced ROS production and osteoclast (OC) formation. Interestingly, doxorubicin (Dox) further enhanced RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis through upregulation of ROS production, which was mostly abolished by addition of febuxostat. Febuxostat also inhibited osteoclastogenesis enhanced in cocultures of bone marrow cells with MM cells. Importantly, febuxostat rather suppressed MM cell viability and did not compromise Dox's anti-MM activity. In addition, febuxostat was able to alleviate pathological osteoclastic activity and bone loss in ovariectomized mice. Collectively, these results suggest that excessive ROS production by aberrant RANKL overexpression and/or anticancer treatment disadvantageously impacts bone, and that febuxostat can prevent the ROS-mediated osteoclastic bone damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohannad Ashtar
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Tokushima University Graduate School of Oral Sciences, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (M.A.); (K.T.); (S.S.); (Y.H.)
- Department of Hematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (A.O.); (T.H.); (M.O.); (K.S.); (S.N.); (S.F.); (R.S.); (K.U.); (M.T.); (K.K.)
| | - Hirofumi Tenshin
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (M.H.); (E.T.)
| | - Jumpei Teramachi
- Department of Tissue Regeneration, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan;
| | - Ariunzaya Bat-Erdene
- Department of Immunology, School of Bio-Medicine, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar 14210, Mongolia;
| | - Masahiro Hiasa
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (M.H.); (E.T.)
| | - Asuka Oda
- Department of Hematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (A.O.); (T.H.); (M.O.); (K.S.); (S.N.); (S.F.); (R.S.); (K.U.); (M.T.); (K.K.)
| | - Kotaro Tanimoto
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Tokushima University Graduate School of Oral Sciences, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (M.A.); (K.T.); (S.S.); (Y.H.)
| | - So Shimizu
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Tokushima University Graduate School of Oral Sciences, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (M.A.); (K.T.); (S.S.); (Y.H.)
| | - Yoshiki Higa
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Tokushima University Graduate School of Oral Sciences, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (M.A.); (K.T.); (S.S.); (Y.H.)
| | - Takeshi Harada
- Department of Hematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (A.O.); (T.H.); (M.O.); (K.S.); (S.N.); (S.F.); (R.S.); (K.U.); (M.T.); (K.K.)
| | - Masahiro Oura
- Department of Hematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (A.O.); (T.H.); (M.O.); (K.S.); (S.N.); (S.F.); (R.S.); (K.U.); (M.T.); (K.K.)
| | - Kimiko Sogabe
- Department of Hematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (A.O.); (T.H.); (M.O.); (K.S.); (S.N.); (S.F.); (R.S.); (K.U.); (M.T.); (K.K.)
| | - Shingen Nakamura
- Department of Hematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (A.O.); (T.H.); (M.O.); (K.S.); (S.N.); (S.F.); (R.S.); (K.U.); (M.T.); (K.K.)
| | - Shiro Fujii
- Department of Hematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (A.O.); (T.H.); (M.O.); (K.S.); (S.N.); (S.F.); (R.S.); (K.U.); (M.T.); (K.K.)
| | - Ryohei Sumitani
- Department of Hematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (A.O.); (T.H.); (M.O.); (K.S.); (S.N.); (S.F.); (R.S.); (K.U.); (M.T.); (K.K.)
| | - Hirokazu Miki
- Division of Transfusion Medicine and Cell Therapy, Tokushima University Hospital, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan;
| | - Kengo Udaka
- Department of Hematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (A.O.); (T.H.); (M.O.); (K.S.); (S.N.); (S.F.); (R.S.); (K.U.); (M.T.); (K.K.)
| | - Mamiko Takahashi
- Department of Hematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (A.O.); (T.H.); (M.O.); (K.S.); (S.N.); (S.F.); (R.S.); (K.U.); (M.T.); (K.K.)
| | - Kumiko Kagawa
- Department of Hematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (A.O.); (T.H.); (M.O.); (K.S.); (S.N.); (S.F.); (R.S.); (K.U.); (M.T.); (K.K.)
| | - Itsuro Endo
- Department of Chronomedicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan;
| | - Eiji Tanaka
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (M.H.); (E.T.)
| | - Toshio Matsumoto
- Fujii Memorial Institute of Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan;
| | - Masahiro Abe
- Department of Hematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (A.O.); (T.H.); (M.O.); (K.S.); (S.N.); (S.F.); (R.S.); (K.U.); (M.T.); (K.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Houssein M, Fatfat M, Habli Z, Ghazal N, Moodad S, Khalife H, Khalil M, Gali-Muhtasib H. Thymoquinone synergizes with arsenic and interferon alpha to target human T-cell leukemia/lymphoma. Life Sci 2020; 251:117639. [PMID: 32272181 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.117639] [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: 12/28/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To reduce the dose of arsenic used against human T-cell leukemia/lymphoma and to sensitize cells to drug treatment, we combined arsenic/interferon-alpha (As/IFN-α) with thymoquinone (TQ) in HTLV-I positive (HuT-102 and C91) and HTLV-1 negative (CEM and Jurkat) cell lines. MAIN METHODS Cells were treated with TQ, As/IFN-α and combinations. Trypan blue and flow cytometry were used to investigate viability and cell cycle effects. Annexin-V staining, rhodamine assay and western blotting were used to determine apoptosis induction and changes in protein expression. Efficacy of single drugs and combinations were tested in adult T-cell leukemia (HuT-102) mouse xenograft model. KEY FINDINGS TQ/As/IFN-α led to a more pronounced and synergistic time-dependent inhibitory effect on HTLV-I positive cells in comparison to As/IFN-α. While As/IFN-α combination was not effective against CEM or Jurkat cells, the triple combination TQ/As/IFN-α sensitized these two cell lines and led to a pronounced time-dependent inhibition of cell viability. TQ/As/IFN-α significantly induced apoptosis in all four cell lines and disrupted the mitochondrial membrane potential. Apoptosis was confirmed by the cleavage of caspase 3 and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), downregulation of Bcl-2 and XIAP and upregulation of Bax. TQ alone or in combination activated p53 in HTLV-1 positive cell lines. Strikingly, TQ/As/IFN-α resulted in a pronounced significant decrease in tumor volume in HuT-102 xenograft mouse model, as compared to separate treatments or double combination therapy. SIGNIFICANCE Our results suggest a strong potential for TQ to enhance the drug targeting effects of the standard clinical drugs As and IFN-α against CD4+ malignant T-cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marwa Houssein
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Beirut Arab University, Lebanon
| | - Maamoun Fatfat
- Center for Drug Discovery, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Zeina Habli
- Center for Drug Discovery, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nasab Ghazal
- Department of Biology and Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Sara Moodad
- Department of Biology and Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut, Lebanon; Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hala Khalife
- Rammal Laboratory (ATAC), Faculty of Sciences I, Lebanese University Hadath, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mahmoud Khalil
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Beirut Arab University, Lebanon
| | - Hala Gali-Muhtasib
- Department of Biology and Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, American University of Beirut, Lebanon; Center for Drug Discovery, American University of Beirut, Lebanon.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Chae IG, Song NY, Kim DH, Lee MY, Park JM, Chun KS. Thymoquinone induces apoptosis of human renal carcinoma Caki-1 cells by inhibiting JAK2/STAT3 through pro-oxidant effect. Food Chem Toxicol 2020; 139:111253. [PMID: 32165235 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2020.111253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Currently, there are limited effective treatment options for renal cell carcinoma (RCC), due to its poor responses to conventional therapies. Instead of using extrinsic anti-cancer drugs, cancer cell-intrinsic reactive oxygen species (ROS) can be a weapon of RCC treatment. In the present study, we found that the phytochemical thymoquinone (TQ), a bioactive natural product obtained from the black cumin seeds of Nigella sativa, generates intracellular ROS in human renal cancer Caki-1 cells. Treatment of Caki-1 cells with high concentration of TQ up-regulated pro-apoptotic p53 and Bax expression, while downregulated anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl expression. Simultaneously, TQ suppressed the pro-oncogenic JAK2/STAT3 pathway, resulting in decreased expression of Bcl-2, Bcl-xl, cyclin D1, cyclin D2, and survivin. Thus, TQ can integrate between apoptosis and the pro-survival JAK2/STAT3 pathway through the Bcl family members, collectively magnifying Caki-1 cell apoptosis. However, treatment with the ROS scavenger N-acetyl cysteine significantly blocked TQ-induced apoptosis as well as incorporated signaling pathways, supporting that its pro-oxidant property is crucial for Caki-1 cell apoptosis. Moreover, TQ reduced the tumor xenograft growth of Caki-1 cells in nude mice. Taken together, these data suggest that TQ is a prominent anti-cancer drug to treat human RCC by enhancing apoptosis through its pro-oxidant nature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- In Gyeong Chae
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, Daegu, 42601, South Korea
| | - Na-Young Song
- Department of Oral Biology, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, Seoul, 03722, South Korea
| | - Do-Hee Kim
- Department of Chemistry, College of Convergence and Integrated Science, Kyonggi University, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, 16227, South Korea
| | - Moo-Yeol Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, 410-820, South Korea
| | - Jung-Min Park
- College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, 410-820, South Korea
| | - Kyung-Soo Chun
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, Daegu, 42601, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|