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Zhu JF, Wang YQ, Yang SM, Wang YL, Hu Y, Dai XY. Exploring the mechanism of Bruceine D against cervical cancer by network pharmacology and the effect of Bruceine D on the EGFR pathway. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2025; 262:116887. [PMID: 40239560 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2025.116887] [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: 01/10/2025] [Revised: 03/25/2025] [Accepted: 04/08/2025] [Indexed: 04/18/2025]
Abstract
Cervical cancer (CC) remains a formidable challenge in oncology due to its high incidence and mortality rates. Despite recent advances in treatment, an immediate necessity exists for innovating advanced pharmacological interventions boasting augmented effectiveness. Bruceine D (BD), a quassinoid derived from the traditional Chinese medicinal plant Brucea javanica, has been demonstrated to possess notable anticancer properties against a range of malignant conditions, including lung, liver, leukemia, and pancreatic cancers. However, its specific effects on CC have not been thoroughly explored. This study sought to decode the effects of BD on CC through a combined method involving molecular docking analysis, network pharmacology, and data mining. From the PharmMapper database, we identified 58 potential targets of BD, and through GeneCards, we pinpointed 14 intersecting targets relevant to CC. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network highlighted pivotal targets such as ESR1, HSP90AA1, ANXA5, EGFR, CASP7, and CCNA2. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses underscored significant biological processes and pathways, notably the EGFR signaling pathway. Molecular docking analysis revealed a strong binding affinity of BD to EGFR. Cell-based assays demonstrated that BD potently curtailed the viability, colony formation, adhesion, and mobility of Hela and Caski cells, escalating apoptosis in a dose-proportional manner. Supplementary evidence via western blot evaluations underscored BD's capability to obstruct the EGFR signaling pathway. These findings suggest that BD exerts potent anticancer effects against CC through multiple mechanisms, positioning it as a promising therapeutic agent for further investigation and clinical validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Fan Zhu
- Institute of Organoid Technology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
| | - Yuan-Qiu Wang
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China
| | - Si-Meng Yang
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China
| | - Yu-Li Wang
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China
| | - Yan Hu
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China.
| | - Xin-Yue Dai
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China.
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2
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Zhao X, Wu G, Tao X, Dong D, Liu J. Targeted mitochondrial therapy for pancreatic cancer. Transl Oncol 2025; 54:102340. [PMID: 40048984 PMCID: PMC11928980 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2025.102340] [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: 09/17/2024] [Revised: 01/05/2025] [Accepted: 02/27/2025] [Indexed: 03/18/2025] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a highly invasive tumor characterized by delayed diagnosis, rapid progress, and resistance to chemotherapy. Mitochondria, as the "power chamber" of cells, not only play a central role in energy metabolism but also participate in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), calcium signaling, regulation, and differentiation of the cell cycle. The abnormal activity of mitochondria is closely related to the development of PC. In this paper, we discussed the key role of mitochondria in PC, including mitochondrial DNA, mitochondrial biogenesis, mitochondrial dynamics, metabolic regulation, ROS generation, and mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis. We elaborated on the importance of these mitochondrial mechanisms in the development of PC and emphasized the potential of targeted mitochondrial therapy strategies for these mechanisms in the treatment of PC. In addition, this article also reviews the latest developments in innovative drug carriers such as cell-penetrating peptides, nucleic acid aptamers, and nanomaterials, which can achieve precise localization of mitochondria and drug delivery. Therefore, this article comprehensively analyzed the important role of mitochondria in the treatment of PC and clarified the effectiveness and necessity of targeting mitochondria in the treatment of PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinya Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, China; College of Pharmacy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China
| | - Guoyu Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, China
| | - Xufeng Tao
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, China.
| | - Deshi Dong
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116011, China.
| | - Jing Liu
- Stem Cell Clinical Research Center, National Joint Engineering Laboratory, Regenerative Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China.
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3
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Nguyen MH, Nguyen TYN, Le THN, Le TNT, Chau NTN, Le TMH, Huy Nguyen BQ. Medicinal plants as a potential resource for the discovery of novel structures towards cancer drug resistance treatment. Heliyon 2024; 10:e39229. [PMID: 39492898 PMCID: PMC11530815 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e39229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 10/09/2024] [Indexed: 11/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite extensive research in chemotherapy, global cancer concerns persist, exacerbated by the challenge of drug resistance, which imposes economic and medical burdens. Natural compounds, particularly secondary metabolites from medicinal plants, present promising avenues for overcoming cancer drug resistance due to their diverse structures and essential pharmacological effects. This review provides a comprehensive exploration of cancer cell resistance mechanisms and target actions for reversing resistance and highlights the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of noteworthy alkaloids, flavonoids, and other compounds, emphasizing their potential as therapeutic agents. The molecular properties supporting ligand interactions are thoroughly examined, providing a robust theoretical foundation. The review concludes by discussing methods including quantitative structure-activity relationships and molecular docking, offering insights into screening potential candidates. Current trends in clinical treatment, contributing to a holistic understanding of the multifaceted approaches to address cancer drug resistance are also outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minh Hien Nguyen
- University of Health Sciences, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, YA1 Administrative Building, Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street, Dong Hoa Ward, Di An City, Binh Duong Province, Viet Nam
- Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, Linh Trung Ward, Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh city, Viet Nam
| | - Thi Yen Nhi Nguyen
- University of Health Sciences, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, YA1 Administrative Building, Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street, Dong Hoa Ward, Di An City, Binh Duong Province, Viet Nam
- Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, Linh Trung Ward, Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh city, Viet Nam
- Faculty of Applied Science, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, 268 Ly Thuong Kiet Street Ward 14, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Thien Han Nguyen Le
- University of Health Sciences, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, YA1 Administrative Building, Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street, Dong Hoa Ward, Di An City, Binh Duong Province, Viet Nam
| | - Thi Ngoc Tam Le
- University of Health Sciences, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, YA1 Administrative Building, Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street, Dong Hoa Ward, Di An City, Binh Duong Province, Viet Nam
| | - Ngoc Trong Nghia Chau
- University of Health Sciences, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, YA1 Administrative Building, Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street, Dong Hoa Ward, Di An City, Binh Duong Province, Viet Nam
| | - Tu Manh Huy Le
- University of Health Sciences, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, YA1 Administrative Building, Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street, Dong Hoa Ward, Di An City, Binh Duong Province, Viet Nam
| | - Bui Quoc Huy Nguyen
- The University of Danang - VN-UK Institute for Research and Executive Education, 41 Le Duan Street, Hai Chau 1 Ward, Hai Chau District, Danang City, Viet Nam
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4
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Borrmann K, Troschel FM, Brücksken KA, Espinoza-Sánchez NA, Rezaei M, Eder KM, Kemper B, Eich HT, Greve B. Antioxidants Hydroxytyrosol and Thioredoxin-Mimetic Peptide CB3 Protect Irradiated Normal Tissue Cells. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:961. [PMID: 39199207 PMCID: PMC11351936 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13080961] [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: 06/24/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Reducing side effects in non-cancerous tissue is a key aim of modern radiotherapy. Here, we assessed whether the use of the antioxidants hydroxytyrosol (HT) and thioredoxin-mimetic peptide CB3 (TMP) attenuated radiation-induced normal tissue toxicity in vitro. We used primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and human epidermal keratinocytes (HaCaT) as normal tissue models. Cells were treated with HT and TMP 24 h or immediately prior to irradiation. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were assessed via luminescent- and fluorescence-based assays, migration was investigated using digital holographic microscopy, and clonogenic survival was quantified by colony formation assays. Angiogenesis and wound healing were evaluated via time-dependent microscopy. Secreted cytokines were validated in quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) studies. Treatment with HT or TMP was well tolerated by cells. The application of either antioxidant before irradiation resulted in reduced ROS formation and a distinct decrease in cytokines compared to similarly irradiated, but otherwise untreated, controls. Antioxidant treatment also increased post-radiogenic migration and angiogenesis while accelerating wound healing. HT or TMP treatment immediately before radiotherapy increased clonogenic survival after radiotherapy, while treatment 24 h before radiotherapy enhanced baseline proliferation. Both antioxidants may decrease radiation-induced normal tissue toxicity and deserve further pre-clinical investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Borrmann
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | | | | | - Nancy Adriana Espinoza-Sánchez
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Maryam Rezaei
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Kai Moritz Eder
- Biomedical Technology Center, Medical Faculty, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany (B.K.)
| | - Björn Kemper
- Biomedical Technology Center, Medical Faculty, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany (B.K.)
| | - Hans Theodor Eich
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Burkhard Greve
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
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Li H, Zhu X, Sun Z, Wang Q, Song S, Xu Y, He G, Mao X. Bruceine B Displays Potent Antimyeloma Activity by Inducing the Degradation of the Transcription Factor c-Maf. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2024; 7:176-185. [PMID: 38230274 PMCID: PMC10789117 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.3c00222] [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: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
The oncogenic transcription factor c-Maf has been proposed as an ideal therapeutic target for multiple myeloma (MM), a not-yet-curable malignancy of plasma cells. In the present study, we establish a c-Maf-based luciferase screen system and apply it to screen a homemade library composed of natural products from which bruceine B (BB) is identified to display potent antimyeloma activity. BB is a key ingredient isolated from the Chinese traditional medicinal plant Brucea javanica (L.) Merr. (Simaroubaceae). BB inhibits MM cell proliferation and induces MM cell apoptosis in a caspase-3-dependent manner. The mechanism studies showed that BB inhibits c-Maf transcriptional activity and downregulates the expression of CCND2 and ITGB7, the downstream genes typically modulated by c-Maf. Moreover, BB induces c-Maf degradation via proteasomes by inducing c-Maf for K48-linked polyubiquitination in association with downregulated Otub1 and USP5, two proven deubiquitinases of c-Maf. We also found that c-Maf activates STAT3 and BB suppresses the STAT3 signaling. In the in vivo study, BB displays potent antimyeloma activity and almost suppresses the growth of myeloma xenografts in 7 days but shows no overt toxicity to mice. In conclusion, this study identifies BB as a novel inhibitor of c-Maf by promoting its degradation via the ubiquitin-proteasomal pathway. Given the safety and the successful clinical application of bruceine products in traditional medicine, BB is ensured for further investigation for the treatment of patients with MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyue Li
- Institute
of Clinical Pharmacology, Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China
- Guangdong
Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Degradation,
School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou
Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoting Zhu
- Institute
of Clinical Pharmacology, Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China
- Guangdong
Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Degradation,
School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou
Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, P. R. China
| | - Ziying Sun
- Guangdong
Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Degradation,
School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou
Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, P. R. China
| | - Qi Wang
- Institute
of Clinical Pharmacology, Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Shaojiang Song
- Department
of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, Shenyang
Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Yujia Xu
- Guangdong
Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Degradation,
School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou
Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, P. R. China
| | - Guisong He
- Department
of Orthopaedics, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, P. R. China
| | - Xinliang Mao
- Institute
of Clinical Pharmacology, Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China
- Guangdong
Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Degradation,
School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou
Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, P. R. China
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6
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Chen H, Han X, Zhang Y, Wang K, Liu D, Hu Z, Wang J. Bruceine D suppresses CAF-promoted TNBC metastasis under TNF-α stimulation by inhibiting Notch1-Jagged1/NF-κB(p65) signaling. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 123:154928. [PMID: 38043386 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has a poor prognosis because of its high degree of malignancy and the lack of effective treatment options. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) comprise the most abundant stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), leading to functional impairments and facilitating tumor metastasis. Excessive TNF-α further promotes cross-talk between different cells in TME. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop more effective therapies and potential drugs that target the key factors that promote TNBC metastasis. PURPOSE The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Bruceine D, an active compound derived from the Chinese herb Brucea javanica, in inhibiting metastasis and elucidate the underlying mechanism of action in TNBC. METHODS In vitro, the clonogenic and the Transwell assays were used to assess the effects of Bruceine D on the proliferation, migration and invasion abilities of co-cultured CAFs and MDA-MB-231 (4T1) cells under TNF-α stimulation. TNF-α, IL-6, CXCL12, TGF-β1, and MMP9 levels in the supernatant of co-cultured cells were determined using ELISA. Western blotting was utilized to detect the expression levels of proteins related to the Notch1-Jagged1/NF-κB(p65) pathway. In vivo, the anti-tumor growth and anti-metastatic effectiveness of Bruceine D was evaluated by determining tumor weight, number of metastatic lesions, and pathological changes in the tumor and lung/liver tissues. The inhibitory effect of Bruceine D on α-SMA+ CAFs activation and CAF-medicated extracellular matrix remodeling was accessed using immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and Masson and Sirius Red staining. The expression levels of Notch1, Jagged1 and p-NF-κB(p65) proteins in the primary tumors were measured by immunohistochemistry and western blotting. RESULTS In vitro, Bruceine D significantly inhibited the migration and invasion of co-cultured CAFs and MDA-MB-231 (4T1) cells under TNF-α stimulation, reduced the expression of tumor-promoting and matrix-remodeling cytokines secreted by CAFs, and hindered the mutual activation of Notch1-Jagged1 and NF-κB(p65). In vivo, Bruceine D significantly suppressed tumor growth and the formation of lung and liver metastases by decreasing TNF-α stimulated α-SMA+ CAFs activation, collagen fibers, MMPs production, and inhibited Notch1-Jagged1/NF-κB(p65) signaling in TNBC-bearing mice. CONCLUSION Bruceine D effectively weakened the "tumor-CAF-inflammation" network by inhibiting the mutual activation of Notch1-Jagged1 and NF-κB(p65) and thereby suppressed TNBC metastasis. This study first explored that Bruceine D disrupted the cross-talk between CAFs and tumor cells under TNF-α stimulation to inhibit the metastasis of TNBC, and highlighted the potential of Bruceine D as therapeutic agent for suppressing tumor metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shengli Street, 750004, Yinchuan, China; The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Medical University, 48 Fenghao West Road, Lianhu District, 710082, Xian, China
| | - Xue Han
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shengli Street, 750004, Yinchuan, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shengli Street, 750004, Yinchuan, China
| | - Ke Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shengli Street, 750004, Yinchuan, China
| | - Da Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shengli Street, 750004, Yinchuan, China
| | - Zhiqiang Hu
- Oncology Hospital, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, 804 Shengli Street, 750004, Yinchuan, China.
| | - Jing Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shengli Street, 750004, Yinchuan, China; Key Laboratory of Ningxia Minority Medicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, 1160 Shengli Street, 750004, Yinchuan, China.
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7
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Zhang J, Xu HX, Zhu JQ, Dou YX, Xian YF, Lin ZX. Natural Nrf2 Inhibitors: A Review of Their Potential for Cancer Treatment. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:3029-3041. [PMID: 37416770 PMCID: PMC10321279 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.82401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a transcription factor that regulates redox homeostasis, plays a pivotal role in several cellular processes such as cell proliferation and survival, and has been found to be aberrantly activated in many cancers. As one of the key oncogenes, Nrf2 represents an important therapeutic target for cancer treatment. Research has unraveled the main mechanisms underlying the Nrf2 pathway regulation and the role of Nrf2 in promoting tumorigenesis. Many efforts have been made to develop potent Nrf2 inhibitors, and several clinical trials are being conducted on some of these inhibitors. Natural products are well-recognized as a valuable source for development of novel therapeutics for cancer. So far, a number of natural compounds have been identified as Nrf2 inhibitors, such as apigenin, luteolin, and quassinoids compounds including brusatol and brucein D. These Nrf2 inhibitors have been found to mediate an oxidant response and display therapeutic effects in different types of human cancers. In this article, we reviewed the structure and function of the Nrf2/Keap1 system and the development of natural Nrf2 inhibitors with an emphasis on their biological function on cancer. The current status regarding the Nrf2 as a potential therapeutic target for cancer treatment was also summarized. It is hoped that this review will stimulate research on naturally occurring Nrf2 inhibitors as therapeutic candidates for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hong-Xi Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jia-Qian Zhu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yao-Xing Dou
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan-Fang Xian
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Zhi-Xiu Lin
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Hong Kong Institute of Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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8
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Zhu J, Wang L, Yang Y, Han M, Yang Y, Feng R, Hu Y. Bruceine D and afatinib combination inhibits ovarian cancer cells proliferation and migration through DNA damage repair and EGFR pathway. J Investig Med 2023; 71:511-525. [PMID: 36859802 DOI: 10.1177/10815589231158043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
Owing to the high rates of relapse and migration, ovarian cancer (OC) has been recognized as the most lethal gynecological malignancy worldwide. The activity of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling pathway is frequently associated with OC cell proliferation and migration. Despite this knowledge, inhibition of EGFR signaling in OC patients failed to achieve satisfactory therapeutic effects. In this study, we identified that bruceine D (BD) and EGFR inhibitor, afatinib, combination resulted in synergistic anti-OC effects. The results indicated that compared with one of both drugs alone, the combination of BD and afatinib slowed the DNA replication rate, inhibition of cell viability, and proliferation and clone formation. This resulted in cell cycle arrest and cell apoptosis. In addition, the combination of BD and afatinib possessed a stronger ability to inhibit the OC cell adhesion and migration than treatment with BD or afatinib alone. Mechanistically, the combined treatment triggered intense DNA damage, suppressed DNA damage repair, and enhanced the inhibition of the EGFR pathway. These results demonstrated that compared with each pathway inhibition, combined blocking of both DNA damage repair and the EGFR pathway appears to more effective against OC treatment. The results support the potential of BD and afatinib combination as a therapeutic strategy for OC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jufan Zhu
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Luo Wang
- Medical College of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuanjun Yang
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mengfei Han
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yiheng Yang
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Renqian Feng
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yan Hu
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
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9
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Jung YY, Mohan CD, Rangappa S, Um JY, Chinnathambi A, Alharbi SA, Rangappa KS, Ahn KS. Brucein D imparts a growth inhibitory effect in multiple myeloma cells by abrogating the Akt-driven signaling pathway. IUBMB Life 2023; 75:149-160. [PMID: 36262053 DOI: 10.1002/iub.2684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The Akt signaling pathway is an oncogenic cascade activated in the bone marrow microenvironment of multiple myeloma (MM) cells and contributes to their uncontrolled proliferation. Abrogation of Akt signaling has been presented as one of the prime therapeutic targets in the treatment of MM. In the present report, we have investigated the effect of Brucein D (BD) on Akt-driven signaling events in MM cells. BD (300 nM) substantially inhibited cell viability and imparted growth-inhibitory effects in U266 cells as evidenced by cell viability assays and flow cytometric analysis. Effect of BD on cell viability was evaluated by MTT assay. Apoptotic cells and cell cycle arrest by BD were analyzed by flow cytometer. The results of the TUNEL assay and western blotting showed that BD induces apoptosis of MM cells by activating caspase-8 and 9 with subsequent reduction in the expression of antiapoptotic proteins (Bcl-2, Bcl-xl, survivin, cyclin D1, COX-2, VEGF, MMP-9). Analysis of activated kinases by Phospho-Kinase Array Kit revealed that Akt, p70S6K, HSP60, p53, and WNK1 were strongly expressed in untreated cells and BD treatment reversed this effect. Using transfection experiments, AKT depletion led to a decrease in phosphorylation of Akt, mTOR, p70S6K, and WNK. However, Akt overexpression led to increase in phosphorylation of these proteins. Depletion of Akt potentiated the apoptosis-inducing effect of BD whereas overexpression displayed resistance to BD-induced apoptosis suggesting the role of Akt in chemoresistance. Taken together, BD mitigates Akt-dependent signaling pathways in MM cells to impart its anticancer activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Yun Jung
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Shobith Rangappa
- Adichunchanagiri Institute for Molecular Medicine, BG Nagara, India
| | - Jae-Young Um
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Arunachalam Chinnathambi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Sulaiman Ali Alharbi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Kwang Seok Ahn
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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10
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Zhao C, Xiong K, Bi D, Zhao F, Lan Y, Jin X, Li X. Redox-associated messenger RNAs identify novel prognostic values and influence the tumor immune microenvironment of lung adenocarcinoma. Front Genet 2023; 14:1079035. [PMID: 36873939 PMCID: PMC9977811 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1079035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: An imbalance of redox homeostasis participates in tumorigenesis, proliferation, and metastasis, which results from the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, the biological mechanism and prognostic significance of redox-associated messenger RNAs (ramRNAs) in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) still remain unclear. Methods: Transcriptional profiles and clinicopathological information were retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) of LUAD patients. A total of 31 overlapped ramRNAs were determined, and patients were separated into three subtypes by unsupervised consensus clustering. Biological functions and tumor immune-infiltrating levels were analyzed, and then, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. The TCGA cohort was divided into a training set and an internal validation set at a ratio of 6:4. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression were used to compute the risk score and determine the risk cutoff in the training set. Both TCGA and GEO cohort were distinguished into a high-risk or low-risk group at the median cutoff, and then, relationships of mutation characteristics, tumor stemness, immune differences, and drug sensitivity were investigated. Results: Five optimal signatures (ANLN, HLA-DQA1, RHOV, TLR2, and TYMS) were selected. Patients in the high-risk group had poorer prognosis, higher tumor mutational burden, overexpression of PD-L1, and lower immune dysfunction and exclusion score compared with the low-risk group. Cisplatin, docetaxel, and gemcitabine had significantly lower IC50 in the high-risk group. Conclusion: This study constructed a novel predictive signature of LUAD based on redox-associated genes. Risk score based on ramRNAs served as a promising biomarker for prognosis, TME, and anti-cancer therapies of LUAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Zhao
- Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Kewei Xiong
- Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,School of Mathematics and Statistics, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China
| | - Dong Bi
- Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Fangrui Zhao
- Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanfang Lan
- Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaorui Jin
- Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiangpan Li
- Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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11
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Xing F, Hu Q, Qin Y, Xu J, Zhang B, Yu X, Wang W. The Relationship of Redox With Hallmarks of Cancer: The Importance of Homeostasis and Context. Front Oncol 2022; 12:862743. [PMID: 35530337 PMCID: PMC9072740 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.862743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Redox homeostasis is a lifelong pursuit of cancer cells. Depending on the context, reactive oxygen species (ROS) exert paradoxical effects on cancers; an appropriate concentration stimulates tumorigenesis and supports the progression of cancer cells, while an excessive concentration leads to cell death. The upregulated antioxidant system in cancer cells limits ROS to a tumor-promoting level. In cancers, redox regulation interacts with tumor initiation, proliferation, metastasis, programmed cell death, autophagy, metabolic reprogramming, the tumor microenvironment, therapies, and therapeutic resistance to facilitate cancer development. This review discusses redox control and the major hallmarks of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faliang Xing
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiangsheng Hu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Qin
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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12
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Zhang J, Xu HX, Dou YX, Huang QH, Xian YF, Lin ZX. Major Constituents From Brucea javanica and Their Pharmacological Actions. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:853119. [PMID: 35370639 PMCID: PMC8971814 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.853119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Brucea javanica (Ya-dan-zi in Chinese) is a well-known Chinese herbal medicine, which is traditionally used in Chinese medicine for the treatment of intestinal inflammation, diarrhea, malaria, and cancer. The formulation of the oil (Brucea javanica oil) has been widely used to treat various types of cancer. It has also been found that B. javanica is rich in chemical constituents, including quassinoids, triterpenes, alkaloids and flavonoids. Pharmacological studies have revealed that chemical compounds derived from B. javanica exhibit multiple bioactivities, such as anti-cancer, anti-bacterial, anti-diabetic, and others. This review provides a comprehensive summary on the pharmacological properties of the main chemical constituents presented in B. javanica and their underlying molecular mechanisms. Moreover, the review will also provide scientific references for further research and development of B. javanica and its chemical constituents into novel pharmaceutical products for disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, China
| | - Hong-Xi Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yao-Xing Dou
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiong-Hui Huang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, China
| | - Yan-Fang Xian
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, China
- *Correspondence: Yan-Fang Xian, ; Zhi-Xiu Lin,
| | - Zhi-Xiu Lin
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, China
- Hong Kong Institute of Integrative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, China
- *Correspondence: Yan-Fang Xian, ; Zhi-Xiu Lin,
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13
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Zhang J, Xu HX, Cho WCS, Cheuk W, Li Y, Huang QH, Yang W, Xian YF, Lin ZX. Brucein D augments the chemosensitivity of gemcitabine in pancreatic cancer via inhibiting the Nrf2 pathway. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:90. [PMID: 35272669 PMCID: PMC8908700 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02270-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gemcitabine (GEM) is the first-line chemotherapeutic drug used to treat pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma carcinoma (PDAC), but chemoresistance is often encountered clinically. Nrf2, an oxidative stress responsive transcription factor, is an important contributor to chemoresistance and poor prognosis of PDAC. Brucein D (BD), a naturally occurring quassinoid, has been reported to exert anti-tumor effect in several cancers including PDAC. In this study, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of BD and the role of Nrf2 axes on the chemosensitivity of GEM and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. METHODS Analyses of clinical samples of PDAC and GEPIA database were first conducted to identify the expression of Nrf2 in PDAC. We then established cell lines with stable deletion of Nrf2 through transfecting lentivirus into PDAC cells. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blotting were performed to determine the expression of Nrf2 in these cell lines. The effects of BD and Nrf2 axes on PDAC cell proliferation, colony-formation, tumor growth and chemosensitivity were determined both in vitro and in vivo. Orthotopic xenograft and genetically engineered KPC mouse models of PDAC were used to evaluate the anti-pancreatic cancer effects of BD and GEM. RESULTS Nrf2 was highly expressed in PDAC in the clinical samples and GEPIA analysis. Gain- and lost-function study demonstrated that Nrf2 affected the chemosensitivity of GEM on PDAC cells both in vitro and in vivo. We further found that BD effectively inhibited PDAC cell proliferation and enhanced the chemosensitivity of GEM. Mechanistic studies revealed that BD sensitized GEM in PDAC cells through the ubiquitin-proteasome-dependent degradation of Nrf2, and downregulating the Nrf2 pathway. Silencing of Nrf2 plus BD treatment resulted in more potent inhibitory effects of GEM. In contrast, Nrf2 activation attenuated the chemosensitivity of GEM, indicating that the action of BD was Nrf2 dependent. Finally, the efficacy of BD alone and in combination with GEM on PDAC was validated on both orthotopic xenograft and genetically engineered KPC mouse models. CONCLUSIONS BD was able to enhance the chemosensitivity of GEM in PDAC through inhibition of the Nrf2 pathway. Our experimental findings indicate that BD, a potent Nrf2 inhibitor, holds promise for further development into a novel adjuvant therapy for PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T. Hong Kong SAR, HK 999077 P.R. China
| | - Hong-Xi Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203 P.R. China
| | - William Chi Shing Cho
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China
| | - Wah Cheuk
- Department of Pathology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China
| | - Yang Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203 P.R. China
| | - Qiong-Hui Huang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T. Hong Kong SAR, HK 999077 P.R. China
| | - Wen Yang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T. Hong Kong SAR, HK 999077 P.R. China
| | - Yan-Fang Xian
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T. Hong Kong SAR, HK 999077 P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Xiu Lin
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T. Hong Kong SAR, HK 999077 P.R. China
- Hong Kong Institute of Integrative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
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14
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Li M, Tang D, Yang T, Qian D, Xu R. Apoptosis Triggering, an Important Way for Natural Products From Herbal Medicines to Treat Pancreatic Cancers. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:796300. [PMID: 35222011 PMCID: PMC8863938 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.796300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer, a poor prognosis and high morbidity and mortality cancer, is a malignant tumor occurring in pancreatic exocrine glands. Currently, surgery and gemcitabine (Gem) are commonly used to treat pancreatic cancers. However, the high recurrence rate and resistance makes the therapeutic effects still unsatisfied. Apoptosis is comprehensively recognized as one of the major ways of the programmed cell death, refers to the autonomous and orderly death process of cells in order to maintain the stability of the body's environment after receiving a certain signal or stimulation. Currently, it has also been proven to be a promising way for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. Nowadays, some active ingredients from herbal medicine have been reported to be effective for the treatment of pancreatic cancer via inducing cells apoptosis. Therefore, this article reviews the current references regarding anti pancreatic cancer effects of natural products derived from herbal medicines via triggering apoptosis, and summarizes the related potential signal pathways, including death receptors mediated apoptotic pathway, mitochondrial dependent apoptotic pathway, NF-κB mediated apoptotic pathways, MAPK mediated apoptotic pathway, ERS mediated apoptotic pathway, PI3K-Akt mediated apoptotic pathway, and other pathways such as JAK-STAT signal pathway, which can lay a certain foundation for the research and development of new natural products against pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiyan Li
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Dandan Tang
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Ting Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Die Qian
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Runchun Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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15
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Zhang P, Tao W, Lu C, Fan L, Jiang Q, Yang C, Shang E, Cheng H, Che C, Duan J, Zhao M. Bruceine A induces cell growth inhibition and apoptosis through PFKFB4/GSK3β signaling in pancreatic cancer. Pharmacol Res 2021; 169:105658. [PMID: 33992797 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive cancers with a poor prognosis and 5-year low survival rate. In the present study, we report that bruceine A, a quassinoid found in Brucea javanica (L.) Merr. has a strong antitumor activity against human pancreatic cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo. Human proteome microarray reveals that 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase 4 (PFKFB4) is the candidate target of bruceine A and both fluorescence measurement and microscale thermophoresis suggest bruceine A binds to PFKFB4. Bruceine A suppresses glycolysis by inhibiting PFKFB4, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in MIA PaCa-2 cells. Furthermore, glycogen synthase kinase-3 β (GSK3β) is identified as a downstream target of PFKFB4 and an PFKFB4-interacting protein. Moreover, bruceine A induces cell growth inhibition and apoptosis through GSK3β, which is dysregulated in pancreatic cancer and closely related to the prognosis. In all, these findings suggest that bruceine A inhibits human pancreatic cancer cell growth via PFKFB4/GSK3β-mediated glycolysis, and it may serve as a potent agent for curing human pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Zhang
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, National and Local Collaborative Engineering Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization and Formulae Innovative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Weiwei Tao
- School of Chinese Medicine & School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Cai Lu
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, National and Local Collaborative Engineering Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization and Formulae Innovative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Lu Fan
- School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Qihang Jiang
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, National and Local Collaborative Engineering Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization and Formulae Innovative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Chengbin Yang
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, National and Local Collaborative Engineering Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization and Formulae Innovative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Erxin Shang
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, National and Local Collaborative Engineering Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization and Formulae Innovative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Haibo Cheng
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Jiangsu Province of Cancer Prevention and Treatment of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Chuntao Che
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | - Jinao Duan
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, National and Local Collaborative Engineering Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization and Formulae Innovative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Ming Zhao
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, National and Local Collaborative Engineering Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization and Formulae Innovative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
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16
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Brucein D modulates MAPK signaling cascade to exert multi-faceted anti-neoplastic actions against breast cancer cells. Biochimie 2021; 182:140-151. [PMID: 33484785 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2021.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is a prominent type of malignancy among women with a high rate of mortality. A number of previous studies have demonstrated the anticancer potential of brucein D (BD), a quassinoid extracted from Brucea javanica, against the cancers of the pancreas, bone, and liver. We investigated the impact of BD on apoptotic as well on mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling cascades in breast cancer cells. The effect of BD on p38 MAPK and JNK signaling pathways and its downstream functions was deciphered in both MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cell lines. We noted that BD decreased the viability of breast cancer cells without affecting the growth of healthy mammary epithelial cells (MCF-10A). Flow cytometric analysis revealed that BD can increase sub-G1 cells and enhanced annexin-V-PI stained cells. The apoptogenic impact of BD was further substantiated by cleavage of procaspase-3/8 and downregulation of antiapoptotic proteins (Bcl-xL, XIAP, and survivin). Furthermore, BD also downmodulated the migratory ability, and chemokine triggered invasion of breast cancer cells. Interestingly, the pharmacological inhibition of p38 MAPK and JNK kinases abrogated the observed anticancer actions of BD. Overall, the data indicated that BD can induce substantial apoptosis and interfere with cellular invasion by modulating MAPK signaling pathway in breast cancer cells.
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17
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Sin ZW, Bhardwaj V, Pandey AK, Garg M. A brief overview of antitumoral actions of bruceine D. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2020; 1:200-217. [PMID: 36046775 PMCID: PMC9400783 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2020.00013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer remains the second leading cause of mortality globally. In combating cancer, conventional chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy are administered as first-line therapy. However, these are usually accompanied with adverse side effects that decrease the quality of patient’s lives. As such, natural bioactive compounds have gained an attraction in the scientific and medical community as evidence of their anticancer properties and attenuation of side effects mounted. In particular, quassinoids have been found to exhibit a plethora of inhibitory activities such as anti-proliferative effects on tumor development and metastasis. Recently, bruceine D, a quassinoid isolated from the shrub Brucea javanica (L.) Merr. (Simaroubaceae), has come under immense investigation on its antineoplastic properties in various human cancers including pancreas, breast, lung, blood, bone, and liver. In this review, we have highlighted the antineoplastic effects of bruceine D and its mode of actions in different tumor models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi Wayne Sin
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
| | - Vipul Bhardwaj
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida 201313, India
| | - Amit Kumar Pandey
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Haryana, Manesar, Haryana 122413, India
| | - Manoj Garg
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida 201313, India
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18
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Fan J, Ren D, Wang J, Liu X, Zhang H, Wu M, Yang G. Bruceine D induces lung cancer cell apoptosis and autophagy via the ROS/MAPK signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:126. [PMID: 32071301 PMCID: PMC7028916 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-2317-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Worldwide, lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer mortality. Bruceine D (BD) has been shown to induce pancreatic cancer cell death via several different mechanisms. In this study, we demonstrated that BD inhibited lung cancer cell proliferation. Apoptosis and autophagy were the most important mechanisms involved in BD-induced lung cancer cell death, and complete autophagic flux was observed in A549 and NCI-H292 cells. In addition, BD significantly improved intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. BD-mediated cell apoptosis and autophagy were almost inhibited in cells pretreated with N-acetylcysteine (NAC), an ROS scavenger. Furthermore, MAPK signaling pathway activation contributed to BD-induced cell proliferation inhibition and NAC could eliminate p-ERK and p-JNK upregulation. Finally, an in vivo study indicated that BD inhibited the growth of lung cancer xenografts. Overall, BD is a promising candidate for the treatment of lung cancer owing to its multiple mechanisms and low toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangjiang Fan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, 250012, P. R. China
| | - Dongmei Ren
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, 250012, P. R. China
| | - Jinxia Wang
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, 250012, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoqing Liu
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, 250012, P. R. China
| | - Huaran Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, 250012, P. R. China
| | - Mingsheng Wu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, 250012, P. R. China
| | - Guotao Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, 250012, P. R. China.
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19
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Luo C, Wang Y, Wei C, Chen Y, Ji Z. The anti-migration and anti-invasion effects of Bruceine D in human triple-negative breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells. Exp Ther Med 2019; 19:273-279. [PMID: 31853299 PMCID: PMC6909795 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2019.8187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Brucein D (BD) is a naturally occurring major active quassinoid extracted from the Chinese medicinal herb Brucea javanica, which has been previously demonstrated to exhibit anticancer activities. The present study aimed to investigate the anticancer effects of BD on MDA-MB-231 cells, a human triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell line. An MTT assay was performed to assess cell viability, whilst wound healing and Transwell assay were applied to measure cell migration and invasion, respectively. Western blot analysis was performed to assess the expression of E-cadherin, vimentin and β-catenin, which are proteins associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT), and PI3K, AKT and p-AKT, which are key components of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. BD was indicated to reduce cell viability in a dose- and time-dependent manner, whilst cell invasion and migration were also significantly inhibited in a dose-dependent manner. Western blot analysis demonstrated that BD treatment significantly upregulated the expression of E-cadherin and downregulated the expression of vimentin and β-catenin. Additionally, BD downregulated the expression of PI3K and reduced AKT phosphorylation. In conclusion, BD can inhibit MDA-MB-231 cell viability, migration and invasion, suggesting the potential use of BD for the treatment of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Can Luo
- Department of Oncology, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241001, P.R. China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Oncology, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241001, P.R. China
| | - Cheng Wei
- Department of Oncology, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241001, P.R. China
| | - Yuxin Chen
- Department of Oncology, Gaoyou People's Hospital, Gaoyou Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Gaoyou, Jiangsu 225600, P.R. China
| | - Zhaoning Ji
- Department of Oncology, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241001, P.R. China
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20
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Xie JH, Lai ZQ, Zheng XH, Xian YF, Li Q, Ip SP, Xie YL, Chen JN, Su ZR, Lin ZX, Yang XB. Apoptosis induced by bruceine D in human non‑small‑cell lung cancer cells involves mitochondrial ROS‑mediated death signaling. Int J Mol Med 2019; 44:2015-2026. [PMID: 31638181 PMCID: PMC6844635 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2019.4363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Bruceine D is one of the active components of Brucea javanica (L.) Merr., which is widely used to treat cancer in China. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the potential effect of bruceine D against non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells and delineate its underlying mechanisms. The results indicated that treatment with bruceine D markedly inhibited the proliferation of wild-type NSCLC cells and epidermal growth factor receptor-mutant cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner, and significantly decreased the colony-forming ability and migration of A549 cells. Hoechst 33342 staining and flow cytometric analysis demonstrated that treatment with bruceine D effectively induced apoptosis of A549 cells. In addition, the proapoptotic effect of bruceine D was found to be associated with G0-G1 cell cycle arrest, accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde, depletion of glutathione levels and disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential. Additionally, pretreatment with N-acetylcysteine, a ROS scavenger, significantly attenuated the bruceine D-induced inhibition in A549 cells. Western blotting demonstrated that treatment with bruceine D significantly suppressed the expression of the anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2, BclxL and X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis, enhanced the expression levels of apoptotic proteins Bax and Bak, and inhibited the expression of pro-caspase-3 and pro-caspase-8. Based on these results, it may be suggested that inhibition of A549 NSCLC cell proliferation by bruceine D is associated with the modulation of ROS-mitochondrial-mediated death signaling. This novel insight may provide further evidence to verify the anticancer efficacy of B. javanica, and support a role for bruceine D in the anti-NSCLC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Hui Xie
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510120, P.R. China
| | - Zheng-Quan Lai
- Department of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, P.R. China
| | - Xing-Han Zheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Development and Research of Chinese Medicine, Mathematical Engineering Academy of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Yan-Fang Xian
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, SAR 999077, P.R. China
| | - Qian Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510120, P.R. China
| | - Siu-Po Ip
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, SAR 999077, P.R. China
| | - You-Liang Xie
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Development and Research of Chinese Medicine, Mathematical Engineering Academy of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Jian-Nan Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Development and Research of Chinese Medicine, Mathematical Engineering Academy of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Zi-Ren Su
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Development and Research of Chinese Medicine, Mathematical Engineering Academy of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Xiu Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Development and Research of Chinese Medicine, Mathematical Engineering Academy of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Bo Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510120, P.R. China
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21
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Karakuş F, Yılmaz K, Eyol E, Ünüvar S. Combination of 2 Bioactive Compounds for Treatment of Breast Cancer: Triterpenoid Cucurbitacin I and Phenolic CAPE. Nat Prod Commun 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x19857492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been demonstrated that both cucurbitacin I (Cu I) and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) have anticancer activities. The current study aimed to examine the proliferation, migration, and colony formation actions of Cu I and CAPE on MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells. The antimigration, antiproliferative, and colony inhibition effects of different dosages of Cu I, CAPE, and Cu I + CAPE on cells were determined by the 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT) cell viability assay, wound healing, and colony formation assays, respectively. Compared with single treatment, combination of 2 bioactive compounds enhanced the anticancer activity. When Cu I and CAPE were combined, a strong inhibitor effect was shown on cell growth, colony formation, and cell migration compared with the compounds used singly. The concomitant treatment with Cu I and CAPE showed stronger antiproliferative activities on both MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells compared with individual treatment with either Cu I or CAPE. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester is a specific inhibitor of Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB). It shows anticancer activity depending on this inhibition. It is a bioactive phenolic compound that is derived from propolis. Cucurbitacin I is a selective Januskinase/signal transducer and a transcription-3 signal pathway inhibitor. Combination of these 2 natural anticancer compounds is beneficial in the treatment of cancer, as well as the side effects associated with classical chemotherapeutics not being observed with the use of these compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuat Karakuş
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Kadir Yılmaz
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Art and Science, İnönü University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Ergül Eyol
- Chemotherapy and Toxicology Unit, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Songül Ünüvar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, İnönü University, Malatya, Turkey
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22
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Tan B, Huang Y, Lan L, Zhang B, Ye L, Yan W, Wang F, Lin N. Bruceine D induces apoptosis in human non-small cell lung cancer cells through regulating JNK pathway. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 117:109089. [PMID: 31226632 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.109089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2019] [Revised: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Bruceine D (BD) is the quassinoids isolated from the traditional Chinese herbal medicine Brucea javanica's fruit, which exhibits anti-cancer activity. Here, we demonstrated that BD inhibited human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines in vitro that were attributed to the induction of cell apoptosis. Human NSCLC H460 and A549 cell lines were treated with BD, and cell viability was conducted with CCK-8 assay. Cell clone formation was observed by clone formation assay. Cell apoptosis was measured using DAPI staining and flow cytometry. Protein levels was analyzed by western blot. The results showed BD inhibited the cell viability of H460 and A549 cells in a dose-dependent manner with IC50 values of 0.5 and 0.6 μmol/L, respectively, at 48 h of treatment. Treatment with BD (0.125-1.0 μmol/L) dose-dependently promoted chromatin condensation, Annexin V-positive cell population and caspase-dependent apoptosis in H460 and A549 cells. Mechanistically, BD stimulated the phosphorylation of JNK. Furthermore, the anti-cancer effects of BD were alleviated effectively by a specific JNK inhibitor SP600125 in NSCLC cells. In conclusion, the results demonstrated that BD exerted anti-cancer activity against NSCLC cells through JNK activation, which suggests its potent usefulness for prevention and treatment of NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biqin Tan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, China
| | - Yuyu Huang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, China
| | - Lihua Lan
- Institute of Agricultural Bio-Environmental Engineering, College of Biosystem Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, China
| | - Lijun Ye
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, China
| | - Wei Yan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, China.
| | - Nengming Lin
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, China.
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23
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Meiyanto E, Larasati YA. The Chemopreventive Activity of Indonesia Medicinal Plants Targeting on Hallmarks of Cancer. Adv Pharm Bull 2019; 9:219-230. [PMID: 31380247 PMCID: PMC6664113 DOI: 10.15171/apb.2019.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer remains a complex disease with increasing global mortality and morbidity. Numerous theories have been established to understand the biological mechanism underlying cancer. One of the most renowned frameworks is the hallmark of cancer proposed by Hanahan and Weinberg that covers ten eminent characteristics of cancer: (i) genome instability and mutation, (ii) sustaining proliferative signaling, (iii) evading growth suppressor, (iv) enabling replicative immortality, (v) resisting cell death, (vi) inducing angiogenesis, (vii) activating invasion and metastasis, (viii) avoiding immune destruction, (ix) tumor-promoting inflammation, and (x) deregulating cellular energetics. These hallmarks provide a rational approach to design an anticancer therapy. In the current review, we summarized specific target molecules on each hallmark of cancer. Further, we evaluated the biological activity of several Indonesia medicinal plants against those specific targets. We explicated the anticancer and chemopreventive activities of some medicinal plants that have been used for centuries by local communities in Indonesia, including Curcuma genus, Brucea javanica, Boesenbergia pandurata, Caesalpinia sappan, and Nigella sativa. Interestingly, these medicinal plants target several hallmarks of cancer, and even Curcuma genus exhibited biological activities that target all hallmarks of cancer. Further, we also discuss several strategies to develop those medicinal plants and/or their active compounds as anticancer and chemopreventive agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edy Meiyanto
- Cancer Chemoprevention Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Sekip Utara, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia.,Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Sekip Utara, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia
| | - Yonika Arum Larasati
- Cancer Chemoprevention Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Sekip Utara, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia
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24
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Bhuvanalakshmi G, Gamit N, Patil M, Arfuso F, Sethi G, Dharmarajan A, Kumar AP, Warrier S. Stemness, Pluripotentiality, and Wnt Antagonism: sFRP4, a Wnt antagonist Mediates Pluripotency and Stemness in Glioblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 11:E25. [PMID: 30591679 PMCID: PMC6356444 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11010025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemotherapeutic resistance of glioblastoma has been attributed to a self-renewing subpopulation, the glioma stem cells (GSCs), which is known to be maintained by the Wnt β-catenin pathway. Our previous findings demonstrated that exogeneous addition of the Wnt antagonist, secreted fizzled-related protein 4 (sFRP4) hampered stem cell properties in GSCs. METHODS To understand the molecular mechanism of sFRP4, we overexpressed sFRP4 (sFRP4 OE) in three human glioblastoma cell lines U87MG, U138MG, and U373MG. We also performed chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) sequencing of sFRP4 OE and RNA sequencing of sFRP4 OE and sFRP4 knocked down U87 cells. RESULTS We observed nuclear localization of sFRP4, suggesting an unknown nuclear role. ChIP-sequencing of sFRP4 pulldown DNA revealed a homeobox Cphx1, related to the senescence regulator ETS proto-oncogene 2 (ETS2). Furthermore, miRNA885, a p53-mediated apoptosis inducer, was upregulated in sFRP4 OE cells. RNA sequencing analysis suggested that sFRP4-mediated apoptosis is via the Fas-p53 pathway by activating the Wnt calcium and reactive oxygen species pathways. Interestingly, sFRP4 OE cells had decreased stemness, but when knocked down in multipotent mesenchymal stem cells, pluripotentiality was induced and the Wnt β-catenin pathway was upregulated. CONCLUSIONS This study unveils a novel nuclear role for sFRP4 to promote apoptosis by a possible activation of DNA damage machinery in glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurubharathi Bhuvanalakshmi
- Division of Cancer Stem Cells and Cardiovascular and Neuronal Regeneration, School of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore 560 065, India.
| | - Naisarg Gamit
- Division of Cancer Stem Cells and Cardiovascular and Neuronal Regeneration, School of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore 560 065, India.
| | - Manasi Patil
- Division of Cancer Stem Cells and Cardiovascular and Neuronal Regeneration, School of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore 560 065, India.
| | - Frank Arfuso
- Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia.
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia.
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore.
| | - Arun Dharmarajan
- Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia.
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia.
| | - Alan Prem Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore.
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore.
- Cancer Program, Medical Science Cluster, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore.
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia.
| | - Sudha Warrier
- Division of Cancer Stem Cells and Cardiovascular and Neuronal Regeneration, School of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore 560 065, India.
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia.
- Cuor Stem Cellutions Pvt Ltd., School of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore 560 065, India.
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25
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Redox control in cancer development and progression. Mol Aspects Med 2018; 63:88-98. [PMID: 29501614 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2018.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Revised: 02/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide after cardiovascular diseases. This has been the case for the last few decades despite there being an increase in the number of cancer treatments. One reason for the apparent lack of drug effectiveness might be, at least in part, due to unspecificity for tumors; which often leads to substantial side effects. One way to improve the treatment of cancer is to increase the specificity of the treatment in accordance with the concept of individualized medicine. This will help to prevent further progression of an existing cancer or even to reduce the tumor burden. Alternatively it would be much more attractive and efficient to prevent the development of cancer in the first place. Therefore, it is important to understand the risk factors and the mechanisms of carcinogenesis in detail. One such risk factor, often associated with tumorigenesis and tumor progression, is an increased abundance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) arising from an imbalance of ROS-producing and -eliminating components. A surplus of ROS can induce oxidative damage of macromolecules including proteins, lipids and DNA. In contrast, ROS are essential for an adequate signal transduction and are known to regulate crucial cellular processes like cellular quiescence, differentiation and even apoptosis. Therefore, regulated ROS-formation at physiological levels can inhibit tumor formation and progression. With this review we provide an overview on the current knowledge of redox control in cancer development and progression.
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26
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Bagheri E, Hajiaghaalipour F, Nyamathulla S, Salehen NA. Ethanolic extract of Brucea javanica inhibit proliferation of HCT-116 colon cancer cells via caspase activation. RSC Adv 2018; 8:681-689. [PMID: 35538944 PMCID: PMC9076850 DOI: 10.1039/c7ra09618f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Brucea javanica (L.) Merr. is a well-known plant in Chinese System of Medicine. Its fruits and seeds have been reported to possess curative properties against various ailments. The chemical constituents and biological activity of this plant have been an interesting area in plant and chemistry medicine. The aim of this study is to evaluate the antiproliferative effects of the B. javanica extract against a colon cancer cell line and identification of the chemical components derived from the extract. An ethanolic extract from B. javanica fruits was prepared by cold maceration method, subjected to LC-MS profiling to elucidate the composition abbreviated as BJEE. The extract was screened for the cytotoxicity effects on HCT-116 colon cancer cells via MTT and LDH methods. Additionally, AO/PI staining verified apoptosis features in HCT-116 cells through microscopic analysis. ROS, caspase activity, and gene expression has been performed to identify its possible mechanism of actions which contribute to apoptosis. Output data from this study showed BJEE inhibited the cell proliferation of HCT-116 colon cancer cells at IC50 value of 8.9 ± 1.32 (μg mL-1) and significantly increased the levels of caspase-8, 9, and 3/7 in treated cells in comparison to untreated. The changes in expression of caspase genes and some apoptosis genes like Bax and Bcl-2 were confirmed using RT-PCR. Phytochemical analysis by LC-MS identified six major active compounds (bruceine D, isobrucein A, quassimarin, C16 sphinganine, phytosphingosine, and enigmol) in BJEE that may play a key role in cell apoptosis. The current study showed BJEE could be a promising agent for colorectal cancer therapy by significant increase in caspase activity level, and up-regulation of the specific apoptotic genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Bagheri
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya 50603 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
| | - F Hajiaghaalipour
- Institute of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya 50603 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
| | - S Nyamathulla
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya 50603 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
| | - N A Salehen
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya 50603 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
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27
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Lai ZQ, Ip SP, Liao HJ, Lu Z, Xie JH, Su ZR, Chen YL, Xian YF, Leung PS, Lin ZX. Brucein D, a Naturally Occurring Tetracyclic Triterpene Quassinoid, Induces Apoptosis in Pancreatic Cancer through ROS-Associated PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:936. [PMID: 29311937 PMCID: PMC5744014 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Brucein D (BD), a major active quassinoid in Brucea javanica, has exhibited pronounced anticancer activities. However, the biologic mechanisms have not been fully explored. In this study, BD exhibited more potent cytotoxic effect on pancreatic cancer (PanCa) cell lines, while exerted weaker cytotoxic effects on GES-1 cells (non-tumorigenic). BD was shown to elicit apoptosis through inducing both the intrinsic and extrinsic mitochondria-mediated caspase activations. Furthermore, the BD-induced apoptotic effects were dependent on the accumulated reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inactivation of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Pretreatment with tempol completely prevented the cellular apoptosis induced by BD, and recovered the inactivation of AKT, which suggested ROS essentially involved in BD-elicited apoptosis and down-regulation of PI3K/Akt pathway. In addition, the results obtained from orthotopic xenograft in nude mice were congruent with those of the in vitro investigations. These results support the notion that BD held good potential to be further developed into an effective pharmaceutical agent for the treatment of PanCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng-Quan Lai
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Siu-Po Ip
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Hui-Jun Liao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Services, Shenzhen Sixth People's Hospital - Nanshan Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zheng Lu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong.,Liver Cirrhosis Diagnosis and Treatment Center, Beijing 302 Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Hui Xie
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zi-Ren Su
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Development and Research of Chinese Medicine, Mathematical Engineering Academy of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yun-Long Chen
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Yan-Fang Xian
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Po-Sing Leung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Zhi-Xiu Lin
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
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28
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Malainer C, Schachner D, Sangiovanni E, Atanasov AG, Schwaiger S, Stuppner H, Heiss EH, Dirsch VM. Eurycomalactone Inhibits Expression of Endothelial Adhesion Molecules at a Post-Transcriptional Level. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2017; 80:3186-3193. [PMID: 29148754 PMCID: PMC5744186 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.7b00503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The C-19 quassinoid eurycomalactone (1) has recently been shown to be a potent (IC50 = 0.5 μM) NF-κB inhibitor in a luciferase reporter model. In this study, we show that 1 with similar potency inhibited the expression of the NF-κB-dependent target genes ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and E-selectin in TNFα-activated human endothelial cells (HUVECtert) by flow cytometry experiments. Surprisingly, 1 (2 μM) did not inhibit TNFα-induced IKKα/β or IκBα phosphorylation significantly. Also, the TNFα-induced degradation of IκBα remained unchanged in response to 1 (2 μM). In addition, pretreatment of HUVECtert with 1 (2 μM) had no statistically significant effect on TNFα-mediated nuclear translocation of the NF-κB subunit p65 (RelA). Quantitative RT-PCR revealed that 1 (0.5-5 μM) exhibited diverse effects on the TNFα-induced transcription of ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and SELE genes since the mRNA level either remained unchanged (ICAM-1, E-selectin, and VCAM-1 at 0.5 μM 1), was reduced (VCAM-1 at 5 μM 1), or even increased (E-selectin at 5 μM 1). Finally, the time-dependent depletion of a short-lived protein (cyclin D1) as well as the measurement of de novo protein synthesis in the presence of 1 (2-5 μM) suggested that 1 might act as a protein synthesis inhibitor rather than an inhibitor of early NF-κB signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clemens Malainer
- Department
of Pharmacognosy, University of Vienna, Althanstrasse 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniel Schachner
- Department
of Pharmacognosy, University of Vienna, Althanstrasse 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Enrico Sangiovanni
- Department
of Pharmacognosy, University of Vienna, Althanstrasse 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Department
of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti, 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Atanas G. Atanasov
- Department
of Pharmacognosy, University of Vienna, Althanstrasse 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Institute
of Genetics and Animal Breeding of the Polish Academy of Sciences, 05-552 Jastrzebiec, Poland
| | - Stefan Schwaiger
- Institute
of Pharmacy/Pharmacognosy, Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck, University Innsbruck, Innrain 80/82, Innsbruck 6020, Austria
| | - Hermann Stuppner
- Institute
of Pharmacy/Pharmacognosy, Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck, University Innsbruck, Innrain 80/82, Innsbruck 6020, Austria
| | - Elke H. Heiss
- Department
of Pharmacognosy, University of Vienna, Althanstrasse 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Verena M. Dirsch
- Department
of Pharmacognosy, University of Vienna, Althanstrasse 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Tel: +43-1-4277-55270. Fax: +43-1-4277-55969. E-mail:
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29
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Amawi H, Karthikeyan C, Pathak R, Hussein N, Christman R, Robey R, Ashby CR, Trivedi P, Malhotra A, Tiwari AK. Thienopyrimidine derivatives exert their anticancer efficacy via apoptosis induction, oxidative stress and mitotic catastrophe. Eur J Med Chem 2017; 138:1053-1065. [PMID: 28759878 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2017.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Revised: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In this study, a series of 13 structural variants of thieno[2,3d]pyrimidine derivatives (6a-6m) were synthesized and screened for cytotoxicity in a panel of colorectal, ovarian, and brain cancer cell lines. The selectivity of the compounds was assessed by determining the cytotoxicity in normal epithelial cell line (CHO). The most potent compound, 6j, was efficacious (with IC50 range of 0.6-1.2 μM) in colon (HCT116 and HCT15), brain (LN-229 and GBM-10) and ovarian (A2780 and OV2008) cancer cell lines. In contrast, in the normal cell line (CHO), the IC50 values for 6j were 14 ± 1.3 μM. Compound 6j significantly inhibited the clonogenic potential of HCT116, OV2008 and A2780 cell lines in concentration - dependent (0.5-4 μM) manner. Also, 6j induced 1) formation of reactive oxygen species; 2) apoptosis and 3) mitotic catastrophe in HCT116 and OV2008 cells (IC50 = 0.5-2 μM). Furthermore, apoptosis was the predominant mechanism of death in A2780 cells. The cytotoxicity of 6j in wild type HCT116 cells was similar to that in HCT116 cells lacking the apoptotic genes for Bax, Bak, or Bak and Bax, indicating that 6j induces mitotic catastrophe as alternative mechanism of death when when certain apoptotic proteins are absent. In summary, this study has identified a lead molecule, 6j, that selectively induces oxidative stress, apoptosis and mitotic catastrophe in specific cancer (colon and ovarian) cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haneen Amawi
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toledo, OH, USA
| | - Chandrabose Karthikeyan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidyalaya, Airport Bypass Road, Gandhi Nagar, Bhopal MP, India.
| | - Rekha Pathak
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidyalaya, Airport Bypass Road, Gandhi Nagar, Bhopal MP, India
| | - Noor Hussein
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toledo, OH, USA
| | - Ryann Christman
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toledo, OH, USA
| | - Robert Robey
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Charles R Ashby
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, St. John's University Queens, NY, USA
| | - Piyush Trivedi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidyalaya, Airport Bypass Road, Gandhi Nagar, Bhopal MP, India
| | - Ashim Malhotra
- School of Pharmacy, Pacific University, 222 SE 8th Ave, Hillsboro, OR, USA
| | - Amit K Tiwari
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toledo, OH, USA.
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30
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Kello M, Kulikova L, Vaskova J, Nagyova A, Mojzis J. Fruit Peel Polyphenolic Extract-Induced Apoptosis in Human Breast Cancer Cells Is Associated with ROS Production and Modulation of p38MAPK/Erk1/2 and the Akt Signaling Pathway. Nutr Cancer 2017; 69:920-931. [PMID: 28718669 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2017.1339819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Polyphenols represent a large group of natural substances with different biological properties. Currently, polyphenols are well studied due to their free radicals' scavenging and antioxidant activities. However, some studies indicate that polyphenols also exhibit pro-oxidant properties. In this study, the possible involvement of the pro-oxidant activities of fruit polyphenols was investigated in relation to apoptosis induction. To determine the type of cell death induced by fruit polyphenols (Flavine; F7), we assessed a series of assays, including measurements of caspase-7 activation, membrane mitochondrial potential changes, reactive oxygen (ROS) and nitrogen species production, lipid peroxidation, antioxidant enzymes activities, and PARP cleavage. Moreover, the effect of F7 on selected pro- and antisurvival signaling pathways was determined. We demonstrated that fruit polyphenols induced caspase-dependent cell death associated with increased oxidative stress. We also showed fruit polyphenol-mediated release of mitochondrial pro- and antiapoptotic proteins of the Bcl-2 family and modulation activity of the Akt, p38 MAPK, and Erk 1/2 pathways as well as the signaling of ROS-mediated DNA damage. Our data demonstrated that fruit peel polyphenols suppressed breast cancer cell growth through increased intracellular oxidative stress and the activation of p38 MAPK and de-activation of the Erk 1/2 and Akt signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Kello
- a Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology , P.J. Safarik University , Kosice , Slovak Republic
| | - Lucia Kulikova
- b Faculty of Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine , P.J. Safarik University , Kosice , Slovak Republic
| | - Janka Vaskova
- c Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry , P.J. Safarik University , Kosice , Slovak Republic
| | - Alexandra Nagyova
- a Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology , P.J. Safarik University , Kosice , Slovak Republic
| | - Jan Mojzis
- a Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology , P.J. Safarik University , Kosice , Slovak Republic
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Lu Z, Lai ZQ, Leung AWN, Leung PS, Li ZS, Lin ZX. Exploring brusatol as a new anti-pancreatic cancer adjuvant: biological evaluation and mechanistic studies. Oncotarget 2017; 8:84974-84985. [PMID: 29156697 PMCID: PMC5689587 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.17761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2016] [Accepted: 04/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is highly resistant to chemotherapeutic agents and is known to have a poor prognosis. The development of new therapeutic entities is badly needed for this deadly malignancy. In this study, we demonstrated for the first time that brusatol, a natural quassinoid isolated from a Chinese herbal medicine named Bruceae Fructus, possessed potent cytotoxic effect against different pancreatic adenocarcinoma cell lines. Its anti-pancreatic cancer effect was comparable to that of the first-line chemotherapeutic agents such as gemcitabine and 5-fluorouracil, with a more favorable safety profile. In addition, brusatol showed a synergistic anti-proliferative effect toward PANC-1 and Capan-2 cell lines when combined with gemcitabine or 5-fluorouracil. The results of flow cytometry suggested that brusatol combination treatment with gemcitabine or 5-fluorouracil was able to cause cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase, and accentuate apoptosis in PANC-1 cells. Moreover, brusatol deactivated gemcitabine/5-fluorouracil-induced NF-κB activation. Western blot analysis and qRT-PCR results showed that brusatol significantly down-regulated the expression of vimentin and Twist, and markedly stimulated the expression of E-cadherin, the key regulatory factors of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition process. Furthermore, treatment with combination of brusatol and gemcitabine or 5-fluorouracil significantly reduced in vivo tumor growth when compared with treatment of either brusatol or gemcitabine/5-fluorouracil alone. Taken together, these results have amply demonstrated that brusatol is a potent anti-pancreatic cancer natural compound, and the synergistic anti-pancreatic cancer effects of brusatol and gemcitabine/5-fluorouracil observed both in vitro and in vivo are associated with the suppression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition process, indicating that brusatol is a promising adjunct to the current chemotherapeutic regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Lu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Changhai Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China.,Liver Cirrhosis Diagnosis and Treatment Center, Beijing 302 Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zheng-Quan Lai
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, China
| | - Albert W N Leung
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, China
| | - Po Sing Leung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, China
| | - Zhao-Shen Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changhai Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhi-Xiu Lin
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, China
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Ablat A, Halabi MF, Mohamad J, Hasnan MHH, Hazni H, Teh SH, Shilpi JA, Mohamed Z, Awang K. Antidiabetic effects of Brucea javanica seeds in type 2 diabetic rats. Altern Ther Health Med 2017; 17:94. [PMID: 28166749 PMCID: PMC5294771 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-017-1610-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 01/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Background Brucea javanica (B. javanica) seeds, also known as “Melada pahit” in Indo-Malay region are traditionally used to treat diabetes. The objective of this study was to determine antidiabetic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of B. javanica seeds on nicotinamide (NA)-streptozotocin (STZ) induced type 2 diabetic (T2D) rats and to analyze its chemical composition that correlate with their pharmacological activities. Methods A hydroethanolic extract of B. javanica seeds was fractionated with n-hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate. An active fraction was selected after screening for its ability to inhibit α-glucosidase and glycogen phosphorylase α (GP-α). Isolation and characterization were carried out by using column chromatography, NMR and LCMS/MS. All isolates were assayed for inhibition of GP-α and α-glucosidase. Antidiabetic effect of active fraction was further evaluated in T2D rat model. Blood glucose and body weight were measured weekly. Serum insulin, lipid profile, renal function, liver glycogen and biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation were analyzed after 4-week treatment and compared with standard drug glibenclamide. Results Ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) exerted good inhibitory potential for α-glucosidase and GP-α compared with other fractions. Chromatographic isolation of the EAF led to the identification of seven compounds: vanillic acid (1), bruceine D (2), bruceine E (3), parahydroxybenzoic acid (4), luteolin (5), protocatechuic acid (6), and gallic acid (7). Among them, Compound (5) was identified as the most potent inhibitor of GP-α and α-glucosidase and its GP-α inhibitory activity (IC50 = 45.08 μM) was 10-fold higher than that of caffeine (IC50 = 457.34 μM), and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity (IC50 = 26.41 μM) was 5.5-fold higher than that of acarbose (IC50 = 145.83 μM), respectively. Compounds (4), (6), and (7) inhibited GP-α activity in a concentration-dependent manner with IC50 values of 357.88, 297.37, and 214.38 μM, and their inhibitory effect was higher than that of caffeine. These compounds exhibited weak potency on α-glucosidase compared with acarbose. Compounds (1), (2), and (3) showed no inhibition on both GP-α and α-glucosidase. In vivo study showed that EAF treatment significantly reduced blood glucose level, increased insulin and glycogen contents, decreased markers of oxidative stress and inflammation, and lipid levels in T2D rats compared with untreated group. Conclusions The EAF has potential therapeutic value for the treatment of T2D via acting as GP-α and α-glucosidase inhibitors by improving hepatic glucose and carbohydrate metabolism, suppressing oxidative stress, and preventing inflammation in T2D rats. According to the results, the efficacy of EAF could be due to the presence of luteolin along with synergistic effect of multiple compounds such as parahydroxybenzoic acid, protocatechuic acid, and gallic acid in B. javanica seeds.
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Fouani L, Menezes SV, Paulson M, Richardson DR, Kovacevic Z. Metals and metastasis: Exploiting the role of metals in cancer metastasis to develop novel anti-metastatic agents. Pharmacol Res 2017; 115:275-287. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2016.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2016] [Revised: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Liu Z, Qu Y, Wang J, Wu R. Selenium Deficiency Attenuates Chicken Duodenal Mucosal Immunity via Activation of the NF-κb Signaling Pathway. Biol Trace Elem Res 2016; 172:465-473. [PMID: 26728795 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-015-0589-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Accepted: 12/11/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Selenium (Se) deficiency can cause intestinal mucosal inflammation, which is related to activation of nuclear transcription factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling pathway. However, the mechanism of inflammatory response in chicken duodenal mucosa caused by Se deficiency and its relationship with the NF-κB signaling pathway remain elusive. In this study, we firstly obtained Se-deficient chickens bred with 0.01 mg/kg Se and the normal chickens bred with 0.4 mg/kg Se for 35 days. Then, NF-κB signaling pathway, secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA), inflammatory cytokines, oxidized glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione activities were determined. The results showed that Se deficiency obviously enhanced p50, p65, and p65 DNA-binding activities. The phosphorylation of IκB-α and phosphorylation of kappa-B kinase subunit alpha (IKKα) and IKKα were elevated, but IκB-α was decreased (P < 0.05). Moreover, Se deficiency reduced SIgA amount in the duodenal mucosa but increased the level of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-17A, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interferon gamma (IFN-γ). In contrast, anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as TGF-β1 and IL-10, were significantly suppressed. Additionally, Se deficiency increased oxidized glutathione activity, whereas decreased glutathione peroxidase and glutathione activities (P < 0.05), suggesting that Se deficiency affected the regulation function of redox. Taken together, our results demonstrated that Se deficiency attenuated chicken duodenal mucosal immunity via activation of NF-κB signaling pathway regulated by redox activity, which suggested that Se is a crucial host factor involved in regulating inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Liu
- College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang, 163319, People's Republic of China
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, 2 Xinyang Road, Daqing, Heilongjiang, 163319, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanpeng Qu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, 2 Xinyang Road, Daqing, Heilongjiang, 163319, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianfa Wang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, 2 Xinyang Road, Daqing, Heilongjiang, 163319, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Wu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, 2 Xinyang Road, Daqing, Heilongjiang, 163319, People's Republic of China.
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Zhang Y, Zhen Y, Zhang Y, Liu S. Development and validation of a sensitive LC-MS/MS assay for quantification of bruceine D in rat plasma. Biomed Chromatogr 2016; 30:1873-1876. [PMID: 27012305 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.3724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2016] [Revised: 03/10/2016] [Accepted: 03/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yining Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics; the First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University; Changchun 130021 China
| | - Yong Zhen
- Department of Neurosurgery; Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital; Yangzhou 225001 China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics; the First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University; Changchun 130021 China
| | - Shouyue Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery; the Second Hospital of Jilin University; Changchun 130041 China
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Zhang JY, Lin MT, Tung HY, Tang SL, Yi T, Zhang YZ, Tang YN, Zhao ZZ, Chen HB. Bruceine D induces apoptosis in human chronic myeloid leukemia K562 cells via mitochondrial pathway. Am J Cancer Res 2016; 6:819-826. [PMID: 27186433 PMCID: PMC4859886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2015] [Accepted: 04/18/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), an acquired malignant myeloproliferative disorder of hematopoietic stem cells, is one of the three most common forms of leukemia. In this study, we investigated the effects of bruceine D, which have been isolated from Brucea javanica (L.) Merr. on human chronic myeloid leukemia K562 cells. MTT assay was used to evaluate cell growth inhibition. Flow cytometry was performed to analyze mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). Western blot was applied to detect expression of cytochrome c, caspases-9, -3, PARP and other proteins. Bruceine D exhibited potent cytotoxicity to K562 cells with IC50 of 6.37 ± 0.39 μM. It led to loss of ΔΨm, release of cytochrome c, activation of caspases-9, -3 and cleavage of PARP, which suggested that bruceine D induced apoptosis of K562 cells through mitochondrial pathway. In addition, bruceine D inhibited the phosphorylation of AKT and ERK. It's indicative that the potent anticancer activity of bruceine D be related to MAPK and PI3K pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Ye Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist UniversityKowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, The People’s Republic of China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University195 Dongfeng Road West, Guangzhou, Guangdong, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Min-Ting Lin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University195 Dongfeng Road West, Guangzhou, Guangdong, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Ho-Yi Tung
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist UniversityKowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Si-Li Tang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University195 Dongfeng Road West, Guangzhou, Guangdong, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Tao Yi
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist UniversityKowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Ya-Zhou Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist UniversityKowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi-Na Tang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist UniversityKowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhong-Zhen Zhao
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist UniversityKowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Hu-Biao Chen
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist UniversityKowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, The People’s Republic of China
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Reactive Oxygen Species and Targeted Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2016; 2016:1616781. [PMID: 26881012 PMCID: PMC4735911 DOI: 10.1155/2016/1616781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2015] [Revised: 11/28/2015] [Accepted: 12/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are generally increased in pancreatic cancer cells compared with normal cells. ROS plays a vital role in various cellular biological activities including proliferation, growth, apoptosis, and invasion. Besides, ROS participates in tumor microenvironment orchestration. The role of ROS is a doubled-edged sword in pancreatic cancer. The dual roles of ROS depend on the concentration. ROS facilitates carcinogenesis and cancer progression with mild-to-moderate elevated levels, while excessive ROS damages cancer cells dramatically and leads to cell death. Based on the recent knowledge, either promoting ROS generation to increase the concentration of ROS with extremely high levels or enhancing ROS scavenging ability to decrease ROS levels may benefit the treatment of pancreatic cancer. However, when faced with oxidative stress, the antioxidant programs of cancer cells have been activated to help cancer cells to survive in the adverse condition. Furthermore, ROS signaling and antioxidant programs play the vital roles in the progression of pancreatic cancer and in the response to cancer treatment. Eventually, it may be the novel target for various strategies and drugs to modulate ROS levels in pancreatic cancer therapy.
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The Relevance of Nrf2 Pathway and Autophagy in Pancreatic Cancer Cells upon Stimulation of Reactive Oxygen Species. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2015; 2016:3897250. [PMID: 26682003 PMCID: PMC4670682 DOI: 10.1155/2016/3897250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2015] [Revised: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Nrf2 (NF-E2-related factor 2) pathway and autophagy both can respond to oxidative stress to promote cancer cells to survive in the tumor microenvironment. We, therefore, explored the relevance between Nrf2 pathway and autophagy in pancreatic cancer cells upon stimulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Pancreatic cancer cells were cultured under controlled ROS stressing condition or basal condition. Different inhibitors were used to prevent autophagy at particular stages. Nrf2 siRNA was used to inhibit Nrf2 pathway activation. Ad-mRFP-GFP-LC3 infection was used to monitor autophagic flux. The result shows that a small amount of exogenous hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) can significantly improve the level of intracellular ROS. Moreover, our findings indicate that ROS promotes the activation of both Nrf2 pathway and autophagy in pancreatic cancer cells. Moreover, our data demonstrate that suppression of autophagic activity at particular stages results in an increased promotion of Nrf2 pathway activation upon ROS stimulation. Furthermore, we found that silencing of Nrf2 promotes autophagy upon ROS stimulation. In addition, Nrf2 interference effectively promotes autophagic flux upon ROS stimulation. In summary, our findings suggest that Nrf2 pathway and autophagy have a negative interaction with each other upon ROS stimulation.
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Afanas'ev I. Mechanisms of superoxide signaling in epigenetic processes: relation to aging and cancer. Aging Dis 2015; 6:216-27. [PMID: 26029480 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2014.0924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2014] [Accepted: 09/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Superoxide is a precursor of many free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in biological systems. It has been shown that superoxide regulates major epigenetic processes of DNA methylation, histone methylation, and histone acetylation. We suggested that superoxide, being a radical anion and a strong nucleophile, could participate in DNA methylation and histone methylation and acetylation through mechanism of nucleophilic substitution and free radical abstraction. In nucleophilic reactions superoxide is able to neutralize positive charges of methyl donors S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) and acetyl-coenzyme A (AcCoA) enhancing their nucleophilic capacity or to deprotonate cytosine. In the reversed free radical reactions of demethylation and deacetylation superoxide is formed catalytically by the (Tet) family of dioxygenates and converted into the iron form of hydroxyl radical with subsequent oxidation and final eradication of methyl substituents. Double role of superoxide in these epigenetic processes might be of importance for understanding of ROS effects under physiological and pathological conditions including cancer and aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Afanas'ev
- Vitamin Research Institute, Moscow, Russia, Porto, Portugal
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40
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Silva RL, Lopes AH, França RO, Vieira SM, Silva ECC, Amorim RCN, Cunha FQ, Pohlit AM, Cunha TM. The quassinoid isobrucein B reduces inflammatory hyperalgesia and cytokine production by post-transcriptional modulation. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2015; 78:241-9. [PMID: 25667960 DOI: 10.1021/np500796f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Isobrucein B (1) is a quassinoid isolated from the Amazonian medicinal plant Picrolemma sprucei. Herein we investigate the anti-inflammatory and antihyperalgesic effects of this quassinoid. Isobrucein B (1) (0.5-5 mg/kg) inhibited carrageenan-induced inflammatory hyperalgesia in mice in a dose-dependent manner. Reduced hyperalgesia was associated with reduction in both neutrophil migration and pronociceptive cytokine production. Pretreatment with 1 inhibited in vitro production/release of cytokines TNF, IL-1β, and KC/CXCL1 by lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages. To investigate its molecular mechanism, RAW 264.7 macrophages with a luciferase reporter gene controlled by the NF-κB promoter were used (RAW 264.7-Luc). Quassinoid 1 reduced the luminescence emission by RAW 264.7-Luc stimulated by different compounds. Unexpectedly, NF-κB translocation to macrophage nuclei was not inhibited by 1 when evaluated by Western blotting and immunofluorescence. Furthermore, quassinoid 1 did not change the levels of TNF mRNA transcription in stimulated macrophages, suggesting post-transcriptional modulation. In addition, constitutive expression of luciferase in RAW 264.7 cells transiently transfected with a plasmid containing a universal promoter was inhibited by 1. Thus, isobrucein B (1) displays anti-inflammatory and antihyperalgesic activities by nonselective post-transcriptional modulation, resulting in decreased production/release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and neutrophil migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rangel L Silva
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo , São Paulo, Brazil
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Vieira SM, Silva RL, Lemos HP, Amorim RCDN, Silva ECC, Reinach PS, Cunha FQ, Pohlit AM, Cunha TM. Gastro-protective effects of isobrucein B, a quassinoid isolated from Picrolemma sprucei. Fitoterapia 2014; 95:8-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2014.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2014] [Revised: 02/15/2014] [Accepted: 02/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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Li L, Leung PS. Use of herbal medicines and natural products: an alternative approach to overcoming the apoptotic resistance of pancreatic cancer. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2014; 53:224-36. [PMID: 24875648 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2014.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2014] [Revised: 05/08/2014] [Accepted: 05/16/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer has a poor prognosis with a 5-year survival rate of <5%. It does not respond well to either chemotherapy or radiotherapy, due partly to apoptotic resistance (AR) of the cancer cells. AR has been attributed to certain genetic abnormalities or defects in apoptotic signaling pathways. In pancreatic cancer, significant mutations of K-ras and p53, constitutive activation of NFκB, over-expression of heat shock proteins (Hsp90, Hsp70), histone deacetylase (HDACs) and the activities of other proteins (COX-2, Nrf2 and bcl-2 family members) are closely linked with resistance to apoptosis and invasion. AR has also been associated with aberrant signaling of MAPK, PI3K-AKT, JAK/STAT, SHH, Notch, and Wnt/β-catenin pathways. Strategies targeting these signaling molecules and pathways provide an alternative for overcoming AR in pancreatic cancer. The use of herbal medicines or natural products (HM/NPs) alone or in combination with conventional anti-cancer agents has been shown to produce beneficial effects through actions upon multiple molecular pathways involved in AR. The current standard first-line chemotherapeutic agents for pancreatic cancer are gemcitabine (Gem) or Gem-containing combinations; however, the efficacy is dissatisfied and this limitation is largely attributed to AR. Meanwhile, emerging data have pointed to a combination of HM/NPs that may augment the sensitivity of pancreatic cancer cells to Gem. Greater understanding of how these compounds affect the molecular mechanisms of apoptosis may propel development of HM/NPs as anti-cancer agents and/or adjuvant therapies forward. In this review, we give a critical appraisal of the use of HM/NPs alone and in combination with anti-cancer drugs. We also discuss the potential regulatory mechanisms whereby AR is involved in these protective pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Li
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Po Sing Leung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
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Ling S, Feng T, Jia K, Tian Y, Li Y. Inflammation to cancer: The molecular biology in the pancreas (Review). Oncol Lett 2014; 7:1747-1754. [PMID: 24932227 PMCID: PMC4049733 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2014.2003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2013] [Accepted: 03/11/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory responses are known to be correlated with cancer initiation and progression, and exploration of the route from inflammation to cancer makes a great contribution in elucidating the mechanisms underlying cancer development. Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a lethal disease with a low radical-resection rate and a poor prognosis. As chronic pancreatitis is considered to be a significant etiological factor for PC development, the current review aims to describe the molecular pathways from inflammation to pancreatic carcinogenesis, in support of the strategies for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunbin Ling
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116023, P.R. China
| | - Tingting Feng
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116023, P.R. China
| | - Kaiqi Jia
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116023, P.R. China
| | - Yu Tian
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116023, P.R. China
| | - Yan Li
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cells, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116044, P.R. China ; College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116044, P.R. China
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Xiao Z, Ching Chow S, Han Li C, Chun Tang S, Tsui SKW, Lin Z, Chen Y. Role of microRNA-95 in the anticancer activity of Brucein D in hepatocellular carcinoma. Eur J Pharmacol 2014; 728:141-50. [PMID: 24530415 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2014.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2013] [Revised: 02/03/2014] [Accepted: 02/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Brucea javanica fruit has been used to treat amebic dysentery, malaria and various parasites and it has been applied as an anti-cancer agent in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Brucein D (BD) is a naturally occurring compound extracted from Brucea javanica fruit which shows anti-cancer activity against pancreatic cancer. Here, we further demonstrated that BD inhibited hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell growth in vitro and tumor growth in vivo that were attributed to the induction of cell apoptosis. BD did not exert growth inhibition on non-tumorigenic human hepatocytes. MTT assay was used to measure cell viability. Annexin V and TUNEL assay were applied to identify apoptotic cells in cell suspension and in tissue section respectively. Downstream micro-RNA (miRNA) targets of BD were screened out by miRNA array. miRNAs and their target proteins were identified by bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assay. 39 miRNAs regulated by BD in HCC were identified. miR-95 was found to be a potential drug target of BD. We further identified CUG triplet repeat RNA-binding protein 2 (CUGBP2) as the downstream target of miR-95. Our data suggested that BD exerted its anti-cancer activity against HCC through modulation of miR-95 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhangang Xiao
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong
| | - Sheung Ching Chow
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong
| | - Chi Han Li
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong
| | - Shing Chun Tang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong
| | - Stephen K W Tsui
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong
| | - Zhixiu Lin
- School of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong
| | - Yangchao Chen
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong; Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518057, China.
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Wang SL, Wu R. Progress in research of hypoxia and angiogenesis in pancreatic cancer. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2013; 21:3217-3221. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v21.i30.3217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most lethal solid tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. Hypoxia is the driving force behind angiogenesis in cancer. Angiogenesis is an essential factor for tumors to grow and metastasize. Studies in recent years have demonstrated that hypoxia and angiogenesis play important roles in the pathogenesis of pancreatic cancer. In this paper we will review recent advances in understanding the role of hypoxia and angiogenesis in the pathogenesis of pancreatic cancer.
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Xiao P, Hao Y, Zhu X, Wu X. p53 contributes to quercetin-induced apoptosis in human rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes. Inflammation 2013; 36:272-8. [PMID: 22983795 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-012-9543-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we sought to explore the mechanism of quercetin-induced apoptosis in rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes (RAFLSs). DNA fragmentation assay was used to detect quercetin-induced apoptosis in RAFLSs. The cleavages of caspase-3 and caspase-9 and the accumulation of cytosolic cytochrome C were measured by western blot in quercetin-treated RAFLSs. Mitochondrial membrane potential was tested by flow cytometry. Small interfering RNAs were used to knock down the expression of protein 53 (p53) and analyze the role of p53 in quercetin-induced apoptosis in RAFLSs. DNA fragmentation assay showed that quercetin dose-dependently elevated the apoptosis of RAFLSs, accompanying with enhanced caspase-3 and caspase-9 cleavages. Moreover, quercetin caused a concentration-dependent loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and cytochrome c release to cytosol and also decreased Bcl-2/Bax ratio, indicating that quercetin-induced apoptosis is through mitochondrial pathway. Quercetin also elevated p53 phosphorylation at ser15. Pretreatment with pifithrin-α, a p53 inhibitor, significantly diminished p53 phosphorylation at the concentration of 30 μM and abrogated quercetin-induced apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. Quercetin-induced apoptosis was also significantly blocked by p53 silencing, further suggesting the involvement of p53 in quercetin-induced apoptosis in RAFLSs. Our study indicated that quercetin-induced apoptosis of RAFLSs is through mitochondrial pathway, in which p53 plays an important role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Xiao
- Department of Orthopaedics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, 1 Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
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The activation of HMGB1 as a progression factor on inflammation response in normal human bronchial epithelial cells through RAGE/JNK/NF-κB pathway. Mol Cell Biochem 2013; 380:249-57. [PMID: 23712703 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-013-1680-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2013] [Accepted: 05/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular high-mobility group box-1 (HMGB-1) has been implicated in the inflammation response leading to the precancerous lesions of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the role of HMGB-1 in the inflammation response in normal human bronchial epithelial (NHBE) cells and its underlying mechanisms were still not fully understood. In this study, the inflammation response in NHBE cells was stimulated by 2.5, 5, and 10 μg/ml HMGB-1. However, the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) blocker RAGE-Ab (5 μg/ml) or 10 μM c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK) inhibitor SP600125 could inhibit HMGB1-induced the release of inflammation cytokines including TNF-α, IL-8, IL-10, and MCP-1 in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, HMGB1-induced RAGE protein expression, JNK and NF-κB activation were attenuated by the pretreatment with RAGE-Ab or JNK inhibitor SP600125 in Western blot analysis. Our data indicated that HMGB-1 induced inflammation response in NHBE cells through activating RAGE/JNK/NF-κB pathway. HMGB-1 could act as a therapeutic target for inflammation leading NHBE cells to the precancerous lesions of NSCLC.
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(-)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate induces apoptosis in human endometrial adenocarcinoma cells via ROS generation and p38 MAP kinase activation. J Nutr Biochem 2012; 24:940-7. [PMID: 22959059 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2012.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2012] [Revised: 06/08/2012] [Accepted: 06/12/2012] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
(-)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), the major polyphenol in green tea, has been shown to inhibit carcinogenesis of various tumor types. The aim of this study was to elucidate the antiproliferative potential of EGCG and its mechanism in human endometrial cancer cells (Ishikawa cells) and primary endometrial adenocarcinoma cells. The antiproliferative effect of EGCG was evaluated by cell viability assay. Apoptosis was measured by annexin/propidium iodide staining. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was measured by using 2',7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate dye. Expression of mitogen-activated protein kinases, proliferation and apoptotic markers were measured by immunoblot analysis. EGCG was found to inhibit proliferation in Ishikawa as well as in primary endometrial adenocarcinoma cells and effectively down-regulated the expression of proliferation markers, i.e., estrogen receptor α, progesterone receptor, proliferating cell nuclear antigen and cyclin D1. EGCG also decreased the activation of ERK and downstream transcription factors fos and jun. EGCG caused apoptotic cell death accompanied by up-regulation of proapoptotic Bax and down-regulation of antiapoptotic protein Bcl2. EGCG induced the cleavage of caspase-3 and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase, the hallmark of apoptosis. EGCG significantly induced the ROS generation as well as p38 activation in Ishikawa cells, which appeared to be a critical mediator in EGCG-induced apoptosis. The apoptotic effect of EGCG and the p38 activation were blocked by pretreatment of cells with the ROS scavenger N-acetylcysteine. EGCG reduced the glutathione levels, which might be responsible for enhanced ROS generation causing oxidative stress in endometrial cancer cells. Taken together, these results suggest that EGCG inhibits cellular proliferation via inhibiting ERK activation and inducing apoptosis via ROS generation and p38 activation in endometrial carcinoma cells.
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Li L, Yue GGL, Lau CBS, Sun H, Fung KP, Leung PC, Han Q, Leung PS. Eriocalyxin B induces apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells through caspase- and p53-dependent pathways. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2012; 262:80-90. [PMID: 22561874 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2012.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2012] [Revised: 04/11/2012] [Accepted: 04/17/2012] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is difficult to detect early and responds poorly to chemotherapy. A breakthrough in the development of new therapeutic agents is urgently needed. Eriocalyxin B (EriB), isolated from the Isodon eriocalyx plant, is an ent-kaurane diterpenoid with promise as a broad-spectrum anti-cancer agent. The anti-leukemic activity of EriB, including the underlying mechanisms involved, has been particularly well documented. In this study, we demonstrated for the first time EriB's potent cytotoxicity against four pancreatic adenocarcinoma cell lines, namely PANC-1, SW1990, CAPAN-1, and CAPAN-2. The effects were comparable to that of the chemotherapeutic camptothecin (CAM), but with much lower toxicity against normal human liver WRL68 cells. EriB's cytoxicity against CAPAN-2 cells was found to involve caspase-dependent apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase. Moreover, the p53 pathway was found to be activated by EriB in these cells. Furthermore, in vivo studies showed that EriB inhibited the growth of human pancreatic tumor xenografts in BALB/c nude mice without significant secondary adverse effects. These results suggest that EriB should be considered a candidate for pancreatic cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Li
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Acquired platinum resistance enhances tumour angiogenesis through angiotensin II type 1 receptor in bladder cancer. Br J Cancer 2011; 105:1331-7. [PMID: 21970881 PMCID: PMC3241561 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2011.399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We investigated the changes in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and angiogenesis through angiotensin II (Ang II) type 1 receptor (AT1R) after the development of acquired platinum resistance in bladder cancer. METHODS Four invasive human bladder cancer cell lines, T24, 5637, T24PR, and 5637PR, were used in vitro, whereas in vivo, T24 and T24PR cells were used. T24PR and 5637PR cells were newly established at our institution as acquired platinum-resistant sublines by culturing in cisplatin (CDDP)-containing conditioned medium for 6 months. RESULTS Ang II induced significantly higher vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production in T24PR and 5637PR cells than in their corresponding parent cells in vitro, whereas Ang II induced a further increase in VEGF production. These platinum-resistant cells also showed significantly higher AT1R expression than their corresponding parent cells. ROS was also significantly upregulated in T24PR and 5637PR cells, whereas increased AT1R expression was significantly downregulated by scavenging free radicals. We also demonstrated the efficacy of AT1R blockade at suppressing the growth of platinum-resistant xenograft model. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate a new molecular mechanism for upregulated AT1R signalling through increased ROS when tumours progressed after the CDDP-based regimens, and shed light on the importance of AT1R blockade for platinum-resistant bladder cancers.
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