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Zargar S, Wani TA, Rizwan Ahamad S. An Insight into Wheat Germ Oil Nutrition, Identification of Its Bioactive Constituents and Computer-Aided Multidimensional Data Analysis of Its Potential Anti-Inflammatory Effect via Molecular Connections. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13020526. [PMID: 36836883 PMCID: PMC9960255 DOI: 10.3390/life13020526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Wheat germ oil (WGO) is the richest source of unexplored antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. In this study, we identified the constituents of WGO by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The physicochemical and pharmacokinetic behaviors were evaluated for the top 12 constituents with the common target FABP4. Three fatty acids with significant anti-inflammatory activity were evaluated for their interaction with FABP4 by molecular docking. The molecular mechanisms involved in anti-inflammatory responses were analyzed by various in-silico analytical tools and multidimensional data analysis. WGO showed anti-inflammatory activities via FABP4 interacting physically with target genes (77.84%) and by co-expressing with 8.01% genes. Primary targets for inflammatory pathways were PPARα, PPARγ, LPL, LEP, and ADIPOQ, as depicted by gene network enrichment analysis. The key pathways implicated were the metabolism of lipids, PPAR signaling, cellular response to alcohol, oxygen and nitrogen pathway, inflammatory response pathway, and regulation of the inflammatory pathway. The common transcription factors implicated were HNF1, AP2α, CEBP, FOX, STATS, MYC, Zic, etc. In this study, we found that WGO possesses anti-inflammatory potential via FABP4 binding to PPARα, PPARγ, LPL, LEP, and ADIPOQ gene expression by regulatory transcription factors HNF, AP2α, and CEPB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seema Zargar
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence:
| | - Tanveer A. Wani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Syed Rizwan Ahamad
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
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MI S, GU J, CAO X, LI Y, XU Q, CHEN W, ZHANG Y. Regulatory mechanism of fermented wheat germ on lipid metabolism in hyperlipidemia rats via activation of AMPK pathway. FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/fst.57222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shengquan MI
- Beijing Union University, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functional Foods, China
| | - Junxia GU
- Beijing Union University, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functional Foods, China
| | - Xuelian CAO
- Beijing Union University, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functional Foods, China
| | - Yi LI
- Beijing Union University, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functional Foods, China
| | - Qile XU
- Beijing Union University, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functional Foods, China
| | - Wen CHEN
- Beijing Union University, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functional Foods, China
| | - Yanzhen ZHANG
- Beijing Union University, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functional Foods, China
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Fermented Wheat Germ Extract as a Redox Modulator: Alleviating Endotoxin-Triggered Oxidative Stress in Primary Cultured Rat Hepatocytes. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2020; 2020:3181202. [PMID: 33456668 PMCID: PMC7787767 DOI: 10.1155/2020/3181202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Bioactive compounds such as benzoquinone derivates presented in fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE) have several positive effects on overall health status of humans and animals alike. Since available data regarding the antioxidant activity of FWGE are limited, the aim of our study was to investigate its effects on the cellular redox homeostasis applying primary hepatocyte cell cultures of rat origin. Cultures were challenged to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment for 2 or 8 hours to trigger inflammatory response. Further, culture media were concomitantly supplemented with or without FWGE (Immunovet®, 0.1% and 1%). In order to monitor the metabolic activity of the cell cultures, CCK-8 test was applied, while reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was measured using Amplex Red method. Malondialdehyde concentration of culture media as a specific marker of lipid peroxidation and the activity of glutathione peroxidase in cell lysates were also determined to monitor the redox status of the cultures. Based on our findings, it can be concluded that FWGE did not show cytotoxic effects in any applied concentration in cell cultures. Furthermore, FWGE efficiently decreased cellular ROS production and lipid peroxidation rate in case of LPS-induced inflammatory response. However, without LPS treatment, higher concentration of FWGE increased the rate of both ROS and malondialdehyde synthesis. This observation may refer to the prooxidant activity of high dose FWGE, which is an important beneficial effect regarding tumor cells. However, in case of noninflamed hepatocytes, considering the results of glutathione peroxidase activity, the application of the product did not result in severe oxidative distress. In accordance with the abovementioned findings, FWGE as a redox modulator, applied in the appropriate concentration, can serve as a promising candidate in the supplementary therapy of patients suffering from various inflammatory diseases, decreasing the free radical generation, thus avoiding the occurrence of cytotoxic effects.
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Bencze G, Bencze S, Rivera KD, Watson JD, Hidvegi M, Orfi L, Tonks NK, Pappin DJ. Mito-oncology agent: fermented extract suppresses the Warburg effect, restores oxidative mitochondrial activity, and inhibits in vivo tumor growth. Sci Rep 2020; 10:14174. [PMID: 32843660 PMCID: PMC7447799 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-71118-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction and significant changes in metabolic pathways accompany cancer development and are responsible for maintaining the tumor microenvironment. Normal mitochondria can trigger intrinsic apoptosis by releasing cytochrome c into the cytosol. The survival of malignant cells highly depends on the suppression of this function. We validated that A250, a highly purified fraction of fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE), increases the carbon flux into the mitochondria, the expression of key elements of the Krebs cycle and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). The increased respiratory chain activity is related to the mitochondria’s ability to release cytochrome c into the cytosol, which triggers the apoptotic cascade. The 68% tumor growth inhibitory effect observed in the murine melanoma study is related to this effect, as proteomic analysis validated similar changes in mitochondrial protein levels in the isolated tumor tissue samples. Blood count data indicated that this effect was not accompanied by general toxicity. This study is significant, as it shows that a highly concentrated form of FWGE is an effective agent that increases normal mitochondrial functionality. The lack of hepatotoxic and general toxic effects makes A250 an excellent candidate targeting mitochondria function in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gyula Bencze
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA. .,American Biosciences, Inc, Blauvelt, NY, 10913, USA.
| | - Szilvia Bencze
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
| | - Keith D Rivera
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
| | - James D Watson
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
| | - Mate Hidvegi
- Jewish Theological Seminary-University of Jewish Studies, Budapest, 1084, Hungary
| | - Laszlo Orfi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Semmelweis University, Budapest, 1085, Hungary
| | - Nicholas K Tonks
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
| | - Darryl J Pappin
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
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Liaqat H, Jeong E, Kim KJ, Kim JY. Effect of wheat germ on metabolic markers: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Food Sci Biotechnol 2020; 29:739-749. [PMID: 32523783 PMCID: PMC7256174 DOI: 10.1007/s10068-020-00769-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to evaluate the association of wheat germ interventions and metabolic markers. An electronic search was performed by mid-May 2019 in the PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases. Quality was evaluated using the risk of bias assessment tools. Thirty-three randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified, among which ten were suitable and systematically reviewed based on biomarkers (cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, and oxidative stress). Three biomarkers in five eligible studies were investigated by meta-analysis. Total cholesterol showed non-significant results (p = 0.98), with standard mean difference (SMD) of − 0.01 (95% confidence interval; − 0.17, 0.16). The SMD was − 0.06 (95% CI − 0.41, 0.29, n = 4) for triglycerides and − 0.09 (95% CI − 0.62, 0.45, n = 2) for glucose. No biomarkers showed heterogeneity (0%). This review revealed non-significant association between wheat germ interventions and metabolic markers. Sensitive analysis with high-quality RCTs may be worth trying.
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Affiliation(s)
- Humna Liaqat
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, 232, Gongneung-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul, 01811 Korea
| | - Eunseon Jeong
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, 232, Gongneung-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul, 01811 Korea
| | - Kyeong Jin Kim
- Department of Nano Bio Engineering, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, 232, Gongneung-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul, 01811 Korea
| | - Ji Yeon Kim
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, 232, Gongneung-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul, 01811 Korea.,Department of Nano Bio Engineering, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, 232, Gongneung-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul, 01811 Korea
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Hung HS, Bau DT, Yeh CA, Kung ML. Evaluation of cellular uptake mechanisms for AuNP-collagen-Avemar nanocarrier on transformed and non-transformed cell lines. Colloids Surf A Physicochem Eng Asp 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfa.2019.123791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Zhurakivska K, Troiano G, Caponio VCA, Dioguardi M, Arena C, Lo Muzio L. The Effects of Adjuvant Fermented Wheat Germ Extract on Cancer Cell Lines: A Systematic Review. Nutrients 2018; 10:nu10101546. [PMID: 30347664 PMCID: PMC6213720 DOI: 10.3390/nu10101546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Revised: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE; trade name AVEMAR) is a natural compound derived from industrial fermentation of wheat germ. Its potential anticancer properties has emerged from recent studies. The aim of this systematic review is to summarize the data available in the scientific literature concerning the in vitro activity of FWGE on malignant cells. A systematic review of English articles in electronic databases has been performed. The primary outcomes of the review regarded types of cancer cell lines subjected to the investigation and the main results concerning cell viability, proliferation, and apoptosis observed within the studies. Sixteen articles were included in the final qualitative analysis. Various types of cancer cells treated with FWGE have been analyzed, showing mainly cytotoxic effects, alteration of the cell cycle, antiproliferative effects, and induction of apoptosis. FWGE can be a promising drug component in cancer treatment; however, further in vitro and in vivo studies are necessary to prove its effectiveness and safety in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khrystyna Zhurakivska
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Troiano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy.
| | | | - Mario Dioguardi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy.
| | - Claudia Arena
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy.
| | - Lorenzo Lo Muzio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy.
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Barisone GA, O’Donnell RT, Ma Y, Abuhay MW, Lundeberg K, Gowda S, Tuscano JM. A purified, fermented, extract of Triticum aestivum has lymphomacidal activity mediated via natural killer cell activation. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0190860. [PMID: 29304125 PMCID: PMC5755921 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0190860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) affects over 400,000 people in the United States; its incidence increases with age. Treatment options are numerous and expanding, yet efficacy is often limited by toxicity, particularly in the elderly. Nearly 70% patients eventually die of the disease. Many patients explore less toxic alternative therapeutics proposed to boost anti-tumor immunity, despite a paucity of rigorous scientific data. Here we evaluate the lymphomacidal and immunomodulatory activities of a protein fraction isolated from fermented wheat germ. Fermented wheat germ extract was produced by fermenting wheat germ with Saccharomyces cerevisiae. A protein fraction was tested for lymphomacidal activity in vitro using NHL cell lines and in vivo using mouse xenografts. Mechanisms of action were explored in vitro by evaluating apoptosis and cell cycle and in vivo by immunophenotyping and measurement of NK cell activity. Potent lymphomacidal activity was observed in a panel of NHL cell lines and mice bearing NHL xenografts. This activity was not dependent on wheat germ agglutinin or benzoquinones. Fermented wheat germ proteins induced apoptosis in NHL cells, and augmented immune effector mechanisms, as measured by NK cell killing activity, degranulation and production of IFNγ. Fermented wheat germ extract can be easily produced and is efficacious in a human lymphoma xenograft model. The protein fraction is quantifiable and more potent, shows direct pro-apoptotic properties, and enhances immune-mediated tumor eradication. The results presented herein support the novel concept that proteins in fermented wheat germ have direct pro-apoptotic activity on lymphoma cells and augment host immune effector mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo A. Barisone
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, United States of America
| | - Robert T. O’Donnell
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, United States of America
| | - Yunpeng Ma
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, United States of America
| | - Mastewal W. Abuhay
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, United States of America
| | - Kathleen Lundeberg
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, United States of America
| | - Sonia Gowda
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, United States of America
| | - Joseph M. Tuscano
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, United States of America
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Northern California Healthcare System, Mather, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Otto C, Hahlbrock T, Eich K, Karaaslan F, Jürgens C, Germer CT, Wiegering A, Kämmerer U. Antiproliferative and antimetabolic effects behind the anticancer property of fermented wheat germ extract. BMC COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2016; 16:160. [PMID: 27245162 PMCID: PMC4888675 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-016-1138-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2015] [Accepted: 05/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE) sold under the trade name Avemar exhibits anticancer activity in vitro and in vivo. Its mechanisms of action are divided into antiproliferative and antimetabolic effects. Its influcence on cancer cell metabolism needs further investigation. One objective of this study, therefore, was to further elucidate the antimetabolic action of FWGE. The anticancer compound 2,6-dimethoxy-1,4-benzoquinone (DMBQ) is the major bioactive compound in FWGE and is probably responsible for its anticancer activity. The second objective of this study was to compare the antiproliferative properties in vitro of FWGE and the DMBQ compound. METHODS The IC50 values of FWGE were determined for nine human cancer cell lines after 24 h of culture. The DMBQ compound was used at a concentration of 24 μmol/l, which is equal to the molar concentration of DMBQ in FWGE. Cell viability, cell cycle, cellular redox state, glucose consumption, lactic acid production, cellular ATP levels, and the NADH/NAD(+) ratio were measured. RESULTS The mean IC50 value of FWGE for the nine human cancer cell lines tested was 10 mg/ml. Both FWGE (10 mg/ml) and the DMBQ compound (24 μmol/l) induced massive cell damage within 24 h after starting treatment, with changes in the cellular redox state secondary to formation of intracellular reactive oxygen species. Unlike the DMBQ compound, which was only cytotoxic, FWGE exhibited cytostatic and growth delay effects in addition to cytotoxicity. Both cytostatic and growth delay effects were linked to impaired glucose utilization which influenced the cell cycle, cellular ATP levels, and the NADH/NAD(+) ratio. The growth delay effect in response to FWGE treatment led to induction of autophagy. CONCLUSIONS FWGE and the DMBQ compound both induced oxidative stress-promoted cytotoxicity. In addition, FWGE exhibited cytostatic and growth delay effects associated with impaired glucose utilization which led to autophagy, a possible previously unknown mechanism behind the influence of FWGE on cancer cell metabolism.
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Wang CW, Wang CK, Chang YJ, Choong CY, Lin CS, Tai CJ, Tai CJ. Preclinical evaluation on the tumor suppression efficiency and combination drug effects of fermented wheat germ extract in human ovarian carcinoma cells. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2015; 2015:570785. [PMID: 25815037 PMCID: PMC4359848 DOI: 10.1155/2015/570785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Accepted: 08/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE) is a nutrient supplement and a potential antitumor ingredient for developing an integrated chemotherapy with standard chemotherapeutic drugs for treating ovarian cancer patients. In this study, we evaluated the tumor suppression efficiency of FWGE in human ovarian carcinoma cells, SKOV-3 and ES-2, and found the half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50s) to be 643.76 μg/mL and 246.11 μg/mL after 48 h of FWGE treatment. FWGE treatment also induced programmed cell death by activating the caspase-7 cleavage in both SKOV-3 and ES-2 cells, but only caspase-3 and poly(adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase cleavages were activated in SKOV-3 cells. Moreover, FWGE exhibited combination drug effects with cisplatin and docetaxel in SKOV-3 and ES-2 cells by enhancing the cytotoxicity of both drugs. In conclusion, we found that FWGE not only suppressed cell growth but also induced caspase-3-related and caspase-7-related cell death in human ovarian carcinoma cells. FWGE treatment further enhanced the cytotoxicity of cisplatin and docetaxel, suggesting that FWGE is a potential ingredient in the development of adjuvant chemotherapy with cisplatin or docetaxel for treating ovarian cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Woei Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Kai Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, 252 Wu Hsing Street, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, 252 Wu Hsing Street, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Jia Chang
- Cancer Research Center, Taipei Medical University and Hospital, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Department of Surgery, Taipei Medical University and Hospital, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Yen Choong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Shian Lin
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Jeng Tai
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, 252 Wu Hsing Street, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Jei Tai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, 252 Wu Hsing Street, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Traditional Herbal Medicine Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 110, Taiwan
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Ovarian cancer spheroid cells with stem cell-like properties contribute to tumor generation, metastasis and chemotherapy resistance through hypoxia-resistant metabolism. PLoS One 2014; 9:e84941. [PMID: 24409314 PMCID: PMC3883678 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0084941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 248] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2013] [Accepted: 11/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cells with sphere forming capacity, spheroid cells, are present in the malignant ascites of patients with epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) and represent a significant impediment to efficacious treatment due to their putative role in progression, metastasis and chemotherapy resistance. The exact mechanisms that underlie EOC metastasis and drug resistance are not clear. Understanding the biology of sphere forming cells may contribute to the identification of novel therapeutic opportunities for metastatic EOC. Here we generated spheroid cells from human ovarian cancer cell lines and primary ovarian cancer. Xenoengraftment of as few as 2000 dissociated spheroid cells into immune-deficient mice allowed full recapitulation of the original tumor, whereas >105 parent tumor cells remained non-tumorigenic. The spheroid cells were found to be enriched for cells with cancer stem cell-like characteristics such as upregulation of stem cell genes, self-renewal, high proliferative and differentiation potential, and high aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity. Furthermore, spheroid cells were more aggressive in growth, migration, invasion, scratch recovery, clonogenic survival, anchorage-independent growth, and more resistant to chemotherapy in vitro. 13C-glucose metabolic studies revealed that spheroid cells route glucose predominantly to anaerobic glycolysis and pentose cycle to the detriment of re-routing glucose for anabolic purposes. These metabolic properties of sphere forming cells appear to confer increased resistance to apoptosis and contribute to more aggressive tumor growth. Collectively, we demonstrated that spheroid cells with cancer stem cell-like characteristics contributed to tumor generation, progression and chemotherapy resistance. This study provides insight into the relationship between tumor dissemination and metabolic attributes of human cancer stem cells and has clinical implications for cancer therapy.
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Fermented wheat germ extract induced cell death and enhanced cytotoxicity of Cisplatin and 5-Fluorouracil on human hepatocellular carcinoma cells. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2013; 2013:121725. [PMID: 24454483 PMCID: PMC3881523 DOI: 10.1155/2013/121725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2013] [Accepted: 10/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Due to the difficulties of early diagnosis, curative treatments are not available for most patients. Palliative treatments such as chemotherapy are often associated with low response rate, strong adverse effects and limited clinical benefits for patients. The alternative approaches such as fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE) with anti-tumor efficacy may provide improvements in the clinical outcome of current therapy for HCC. This study aimed to clarify antitumor efficacy of FWGE and the combination drug effect of FWGE with chemotherapeutic agents, cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu) in human HCC cells, HepG2, Hep3B, and HepJ5. The present study indicated that FWGE exhibited potential to suppress HepG2, Hep3B, and HepJ5 cells, with the half maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) of FWGE were 0.494, 0.371 and 1.524 mg/mL, respectively. FWGE also induced Poly (Adenosine diphosphate ribose) polymerase (PARP) associated cell death in Hep3B cells. Moreover, the FWGE treatment further enhanced the cytotoxicity of cisplatin in all tested HCC cells, and cytotoxicity of 5-Fu in a synergistic manner in HepJ5 cells. Collectively, the results identified the anti-tumor efficacy of FWGE in HCC cells and suggested that FWGE can be used as a supplement to effectively improve the tumor suppression efficiency of cisplatin and 5-Fu in HCC cells.
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TKTL-1 expression in lung cancer. Pathol Res Pract 2012; 208:203-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2012.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2011] [Revised: 11/30/2011] [Accepted: 01/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Diaz-Moralli S, Tarrado-Castellarnau M, Alenda C, Castells A, Cascante M. Transketolase-like 1 expression is modulated during colorectal cancer progression and metastasis formation. PLoS One 2011; 6:e25323. [PMID: 21980427 PMCID: PMC3181277 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0025323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2010] [Accepted: 09/01/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Transketolase-like 1 (TKTL1) induces glucose degradation through anaerobic pathways, even in presence of oxygen, favoring the malignant aerobic glycolytic phenotype characteristic of tumor cells. As TKTL1 appears to be a valid biomarker for cancer prognosis, the aim of the current study was to correlate its expression with tumor stage, probability of tumor recurrence and survival, in a series of colorectal cancer patients. Methodolody/Principal Findings Tumor tissues from 63 patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer at different stages of progression were analyzed for TKTL1 by immunohistochemistry. Staining was quantified by computational image analysis, and correlations between enzyme expression, local growth, lymph-node involvement and metastasis were assessed. The highest values for TKTL1 expression were detected in the group of stage III tumors, which showed significant differences from the other groups (Kruskal-Wallis test, P = 0.000008). Deeper analyses of T, N and M classifications revealed a weak correlation between local tumor growth and enzyme expression (Mann-Whitney test, P = 0.029), a significant association of the enzyme expression with lymph-node involvement (Mann-Whitney test, P = 0.0014) and a significant decrease in TKTL1 expression associated with metastasis (Mann-Whitney test, P = 0.0004). Conclusions/Significance To our knowledge, few studies have explored the association between variations in TKTL1 expression in the primary tumor and metastasis formation. Here we report downregulation of enzyme expression when metastasis appears, and a correlation between enzyme expression and regional lymph-node involvement in colon cancer. This finding may improve our understanding of metastasis and lead to new and more efficient therapies against cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santiago Diaz-Moralli
- Departament de Bioquimica i Biologia Molecular, Facultat de Biologia, Institut de Biomedicina at Universitat de Barcelona IBUB and IDIBAPS-Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miriam Tarrado-Castellarnau
- Departament de Bioquimica i Biologia Molecular, Facultat de Biologia, Institut de Biomedicina at Universitat de Barcelona IBUB and IDIBAPS-Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Alenda
- Pathology Department, Hospital General Universitario de Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | - Antoni Castells
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Clínic, IDIBAPS, CIBEREHD, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Cascante
- Departament de Bioquimica i Biologia Molecular, Facultat de Biologia, Institut de Biomedicina at Universitat de Barcelona IBUB and IDIBAPS-Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- * E-mail:
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Fruit and vegetable consumption is inversely associated with having pancreatic cancer. Cancer Causes Control 2011; 22:1613-25. [PMID: 21915615 DOI: 10.1007/s10552-011-9838-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2011] [Accepted: 08/26/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Studies on fruit, vegetable, fiber, and grain consumption and pancreatic cancer risk are inconclusive. We used a clinic-based case-control study specifically designed to address limitations of both cohort and case-control studies to examine the relationship. METHODS Participants were excluded who reported changing their diet within 5 years prior to study entry. And 384 rapidly ascertained cases and 983 controls (frequency matched on age (±5 years), race, sex, and residence) completed epidemiologic surveys and 144-item food frequency questionnaires. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using logistic regression adjusted for age, sex, smoking, body mass index, energy intake, and alcohol consumption. RESULTS Comparing highest to lowest quintiles, we observed significant inverse associations (OR < 0.8) with significant trends (p (trend) < 0.05) for citrus, melon, and berries, other fruits, dark green vegetables, deep yellow vegetables, tomato, other vegetables, dry bean and pea, insoluble fiber, soluble fiber, whole grains, and orange/grapefruit juice, and an increased association with non-whole grains. Results were similar after adjusting for diabetes or total sugar intake. CONCLUSIONS We provide evidence that lower consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fiber is associated with having pancreatic cancer. This may have a role in developing prevention strategies.
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Mueller T, Voigt W. Fermented wheat germ extract--nutritional supplement or anticancer drug? Nutr J 2011; 10:89. [PMID: 21892933 PMCID: PMC3179707 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2891-10-89] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2011] [Accepted: 09/05/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE) is a multisubstance composition and, besides others, contains 2-methoxy benzoquinone and 2, 6-dimethoxy benzoquinone which are likely to exert some of its biological effects. FWGE interferes with anaerobic glycolysis, pentose cycle and ribonucleotide reductase. It has significant antiproliferative effects and kills tumor cells by the induction of apoptosis via the caspase-poly [ADP-ribose] polymerase-pathway. FWGE interacts synergistically with a variety of different anticancer drugs and exerted antimetastatic properties in mouse models. In addition, FWGE modulates immune response by downregulation of MHC-I complex and the induction of TNF-α and various interleukins. Data in the F-344 rat model provide evidence for a colon cancer preventing effect of FWGE. Clinical data from a randomized phase II trial in melanoma patients indicate a significant benefit for patients treated with dacarbazine in combination with FWGE in terms of progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Similarly, data from studies in colorectal cancer suggested a benefit of FWGE treatment. Besides extension of OS and PFS, FWGE improved the quality of life in several studies. Conclusion In conclusion, available data so far, justify the use of FWGE as a non-prescription medical nutriment for cancer patients. Further randomized, controlled and large scale clinical studies are mandatory, to further clarify the value of FWGE as a drug component of future chemotherapy regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Mueller
- University of Halle, Department of Internal Medicine, Oncology/Hematology and Hemostaseology, Halle/Saale, Germany
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Mueller T, Jordan K, Voigt W. Promising cytotoxic activity profile of fermented wheat germ extract (Avemar®) in human cancer cell lines. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2011; 30:42. [PMID: 21496306 PMCID: PMC3104483 DOI: 10.1186/1756-9966-30-42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2011] [Accepted: 04/16/2011] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE) is currently used as nutrition supplement for cancer patients. Limited recent data suggest antiproliferative, antimetastatic and immunological effects which were at least in part exerted by two quinones, 2-methoxy benzoquinone and 2,6-dimethoxybenzquinone as ingredients of FWGE. These activity data prompted us to further evaluate the in vitro antiproliferative activity of FWGE alone or in combination with the commonly used cytotoxic drugs 5-FU, oxaliplatin or irinotecan in a broad spectrum of human tumor cell lines. We used the sulforhodamine B assay to determine dose response relationships and IC50-values were calculated using the Hill equation. Drug interaction of simultaneous and sequential drug exposure was estimated using the model of Drewinko and potential clinical activity was assessed by the model of relative antitumor activity (RAA). Apoptosis was detected by DNA gel electrophoresis. FWGE induced apoptosis and exerted significant antitumor activity in a broad spectrum of 32 human cancer cell lines. The highest activity was found in neuroblastoma cell lines with an average IC50 of 0.042 mg/ml. Furthermore, IC50-range was very narrow ranging from 0.3 mg/ml to 0.54 mg/ml in 8 colon cancer cell lines. At combination experiments in colon cancer cell lines when FWGE was simultaneously applied with either 5-FU, oxaliplatin or irinotecan we observed additive to synergistic drug interaction, particularly for 5-FU. At sequential drug exposure with 5-FU and FWGE the observed synergism was abolished. Taken together, FWGE exerts significant antitumor activity in our tumor model. Simultaneous drug exposure with FWGE and 5-FU, oxaliplatin or irinotecan yielded in additive to synergistic drug interaction. However, sequential drug exposure of 5-FU and FWGE in colon cancer cell lines appeared to be schedule-dependent (5-FU may precede FWGE). Further evaluation of FWGE as a candidate for clinical combination drug regimens appeared to be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Mueller
- University of Halle, Department Internal Medicine, Oncology/Hematology and Hemostaseology, Ernst-Grube Str, 40, 06120 Halle/Saale, Germany
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Selivanov VA, Vizán P, Mollinedo F, Fan TWM, Lee PWN, Cascante M. Edelfosine-induced metabolic changes in cancer cells that precede the overproduction of reactive oxygen species and apoptosis. BMC SYSTEMS BIOLOGY 2010; 4:135. [PMID: 20925932 PMCID: PMC2984393 DOI: 10.1186/1752-0509-4-135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2010] [Accepted: 10/06/2010] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Metabolic flux profiling based on the analysis of distribution of stable isotope tracer in metabolites is an important method widely used in cancer research to understand the regulation of cell metabolism and elaborate new therapeutic strategies. Recently, we developed software Isodyn, which extends the methodology of kinetic modeling to the analysis of isotopic isomer distribution for the evaluation of cellular metabolic flux profile under relevant conditions. This tool can be applied to reveal the metabolic effect of proapoptotic drug edelfosine in leukemia Jurkat cell line, uncovering the mechanisms of induction of apoptosis in cancer cells. Results The study of 13C distribution of Jukat cells exposed to low edelfosine concentration, which induces apoptosis in ≤5% of cells, revealed metabolic changes previous to the development of apoptotic program. Specifically, it was found that low dose of edelfosine stimulates the TCA cycle. These metabolic perturbations were coupled with an increase of nucleic acid synthesis de novo, which indicates acceleration of biosynthetic and reparative processes. The further increase of the TCA cycle fluxes, when higher doses of drug applied, eventually enhance reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and trigger apoptotic program. Conclusion The application of Isodyn to the analysis of mechanism of edelfosine-induced apoptosis revealed primary drug-induced metabolic changes, which are important for the subsequent initiation of apoptotic program. Initiation of such metabolic changes could be exploited in anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vitaly A Selivanov
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Biomedicine of University of Barcelona (IBUB) and IDIBAPS, Unit Associated with CSIC, Barcelona, Spain
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20
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Telekes A, Hegedus M, Chae CH, Vékey K. Avemar (wheat germ extract) in cancer prevention and treatment. Nutr Cancer 2010; 61:891-9. [PMID: 20155632 DOI: 10.1080/01635580903285114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Many healthy foods are derived from wheat germ. The molecular composition of these products, however, greatly differs as shown by normal-phase HPLC-mass spectrometry analysis; thus, experimental data obtained by one of them is not necessarily true for the other. Avemar is a nontoxic wheat germ extract registered as a special nutriment for cancer patients in Hungary. It shows potent anticancer activity on cell lines by deeply interfering with glucose metabolism and affecting expressions of several kinases. In in vivo experimental models, Avemar is also effective by enhancing the activity of the immune system such as stimulating NK cell activity (by reducing MHC I molecule expression), enhancing TNF secretion of the macrophages, increasing ICAM 1 molecule expression on the vascular endothelial cells. All of these lead to apoptosis of tumor cells. The wide range of biological activity of Avemar probably cannot be explained by only one active ingredient. Since there are numerous experimental data and the clinical benefit repeatedly confirmed Avemar can be one of the most potent and best researched food supplements available for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- András Telekes
- Department of Oncology, Bajcsy-Zsilinszky Municipal Hospital, Budapest, Hungary.
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Vizán P, Sánchez-Tena S, Alcarraz-Vizán G, Soler M, Messeguer R, Pujol MD, Lee WNP, Cascante M. Characterization of the metabolic changes underlying growth factor angiogenic activation: identification of new potential therapeutic targets. Carcinogenesis 2009; 30:946-52. [PMID: 19369582 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgp083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis is a fundamental process to normal and abnormal tissue growth and repair, which consists of recruiting endothelial cells toward an angiogenic stimulus. The cells subsequently proliferate and differentiate to form endothelial tubes and capillary-like structures. Little is known about the metabolic adaptation of endothelial cells through such a transformation. We studied the metabolic changes of endothelial cell activation by growth factors using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), [1,2-(13)C(2)]-glucose and mass isotopomer distribution analysis. The metabolism of [1,2-(13)C(2)]-glucose by HUVEC allows us to trace many of the main glucose metabolic pathways, including glycogen synthesis, the pentose cycle and the glycolytic pathways. So we established that these pathways were crucial to endothelial cell proliferation under vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF) stimulation. A specific VEGF receptor-2 inhibitor demonstrated the importance of glycogen metabolism and pentose cycle pathway. Furthermore, we showed that glycogen was depleted in a low glucose medium, but conserved under hypoxic conditions. Finally, we demonstrated that direct inhibition of key enzymes to glycogen metabolism and pentose phosphate pathways reduced HUVEC viability and migration. In this regard, inhibitors of these pathways have been shown to be effective antitumoral agents. To sum up, our data suggest that the inhibition of metabolic pathways offers a novel and powerful therapeutic approach, which simultaneously inhibits tumor cell proliferation and tumor-induced angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Vizán
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Barcelona, Spain
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22
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Xu X, Zur Hausen A, Coy JF, Löchelt M. Transketolase-like protein 1 (TKTL1) is required for rapid cell growth and full viability of human tumor cells. Int J Cancer 2009; 124:1330-7. [PMID: 19065656 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.24078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cancer cells display high rates of aerobic glycolysis, a phenomenon known as the Warburg effect. Lactate and pyruvate, the end products of glycolysis, are overproduced by cancer cells even in the presence of oxygen. The pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) allows glucose conversion to ribose for nucleic acid synthesis, glucose degradation to lactate, and regeneration of redox equivalents. The nonoxidative part of the PPP is controlled by transketolase (TKT) enzymes. One TKT isoform, the transketolase-like protein 1 (TKTL1) is specifically upregulated in different human cancers and its overexpression predicts a poor patient's survival. This finding implicates that an increased TKTL1 expression may activate the PPP leading to enhanced cancer cell growth and survival. To analyze the functional role of TKTL1 in malignant progression, we inhibited TKTL1 by RNAi technologies in human HCT116 colon carcinoma cells. TKTL1 suppression resulted in a significantly slowed cell growth, glucose consumption and lactate production. In TKTL1 knockdown-cells, the intracellular reactive oxygen species levels were not significantly increased, whereas the sensitivity towards oxidative stress-induced apoptosis was clearly enhanced. These data provide new clues on the importance of TKTL1 dys-regulation in tumor cells and indicate that TKTL1 overexpression may be considered not only as a new tumor marker but also as a good target for anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojun Xu
- Department of Genome Modifications and Carcinogenesis, Research Program Infection and Cancer, German Cancer Research Centre, Heidelberg, Germany
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Abstract
The metabolic phenotype of tumor cells promote the proliferative state, which indicates that (a) cell transformation is associated with the activation of specific metabolic substrate channels toward nucleic acid synthesis and (b) increased expression phosphorylation, allosteric or transcriptional regulation of intermediary metabolic enzymes and their substrate availability together mediate unlimited growth. It is evident that cell transformation due to various K-ras point mutations is associated with the activation of specific metabolic substrate channels that increase glucose channeling toward nucleic acid synthesis. Therefore, phosphorylation, allosteric and transcriptional regulation of intermediary metabolic enzymes and their substrate availability together mediate cell transformation and growth. In this review, we summarize opposite changes in metabolic phenotypes induced by various cell-transforming agents, and tumor growth-inhibiting drugs or phytochemicals, or novel synthetic antileukemic drugs such as imatinib mesylate (Gleevec). Metabolic enzymes that further incite growth signaling pathways and thus promote malignant cell transformation serve as high-efficacy nongenetic novel targets for cancer therapies.
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Demidov LV, Manziuk LV, Kharkevitch GY, Pirogova NA, Artamonova EV. Adjuvant Fermented Wheat Germ Extract (Avemar™) Nutraceutical Improves Survival of High-Risk Skin Melanoma Patients: A Randomized, Pilot, Phase II Clinical Study with a 7-Year Follow-Up. Cancer Biother Radiopharm 2008; 23:477-82. [DOI: 10.1089/cbr.2008.0486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lev V. Demidov
- Melanoma Unit, Department of General Surgery, N.N. Blokhin Cancer Research Center, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Ljudmila V. Manziuk
- Melanoma Unit, Department of General Surgery, N.N. Blokhin Cancer Research Center, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Galina Y. Kharkevitch
- Department of New Anticancer Drug Investigation, N.N. Blokhin Cancer Research Center, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Nina A. Pirogova
- Department of Medical Statistics, N.N. Blokhin Cancer Research Center, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Elena V. Artamonova
- Department of New Anticancer Drug Investigation, N.N. Blokhin Cancer Research Center, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow, Russian Federation
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25
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Telekes A, Resetar A, Balint G, Blazso G, Falkay G, Lapis K, Raso E, Szende B, Ehrenfeld M, Shoenfeld Y, Hidvegi M. Fermented wheat germ extract (avemar) inhibits adjuvant arthritis. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2007; 1110:348-61. [PMID: 17911450 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1423.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Anti-inflammatory efficacy of the fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE, Avemar) in the rat adjuvant arthritis (AA) model was examined. To Wistar rats with AA, different doses of FWGE and anti-inflammatory drugs (indomethacin, dexamethasone) as monotherapies were administered and FWGE and either diclofenac or dexamethasone were also given in combination. Besides plethysmographies of the paws, histological investigations of synovial tissues were also performed along with detection of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes. Gene expressions of COX-1 and 2 were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). FWGE monotherapy significantly inhibited the development of the secondary (immune-mediated) response in AA, and dexamethasone and indomethacin exerted inhibitory effects in a degree comparable to that of FWGE. Histological analysis of the affected joints confirmed the results. FWGE inhibited COX-1 and -2, while indomethacin enhanced COX-2 gene expressions. FWGE had an additive interaction with diclofenac. It is concluded that FWGE has significant anti-inflammatory efficacy confirmed by plethysmography, histology, and real-time PCR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andras Telekes
- Chemotherapy Day-Ward, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
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26
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Saiko P, Ozsvar-Kozma M, Madlener S, Bernhaus A, Lackner A, Grusch M, Horvath Z, Krupitza G, Jaeger W, Ammer K, Fritzer-Szekeres M, Szekeres T. Avemar, a nontoxic fermented wheat germ extract, induces apoptosis and inhibits ribonucleotide reductase in human HL-60 promyelocytic leukemia cells. Cancer Lett 2007; 250:323-8. [PMID: 17137710 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2006.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2006] [Revised: 10/04/2006] [Accepted: 10/23/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Avemar (MSC) is a nontoxic fermented wheat germ extract demonstrated to significantly improve the survival rate in patients suffering from various malignancies. We investigated its effects in human HL-60 promyelocytic leukemia cells. After 24, 48, and 72 h of incubation, Avemar inhibited the growth of HL-60 cells with IC50 values of 400, 190, and 160 microg/ml, respectively. Incubation with MSC caused dose-dependent induction of apoptosis in up to 85% of tumor cells. In addition, Avemar attenuated the progression from G2-M to G0-G1 phase of the cell cycle and was also found to significantly reduce the in situ activity of ribonucleotide reductase, the key enzyme of de novo DNA synthesis. We conclude that Avemar exerts a number of beneficial effects which could support conventional chemotherapy of human malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Saiko
- Clinical Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Vienna, General Hospital of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
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27
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Telekes A, Kiss-Tóth E, Nagy T, Qwarnstrom EE, Kúsz E, Polgár T, Resetár A, Dower SK, Duda E. Synergistic effect of Avemar on proinflammatory cytokine production and Ras-mediated cell activation. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2006; 1051:515-28. [PMID: 16126992 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1361.096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Macrophages activated by lipopolysaccharide and/or phorbol esters exhibited high sensitivity to Avemar, a fermented wheat germ extract. Avemar synergized with lipopolysaccharide and PMA in the induction of the transcription of cytokine genes and release of inflammatory cytokines. At higher concentrations the preparation had a significant negative effect on the proliferation and survival of activated myeloid cell types. Avemar treatment induced the synthesis of ICAM-1 and synergized with the ICAM-inducing effect of TNF, but had no effect on VCAM-1 expression on microvascular endothelial cells. The effect of Avemar on signaling pathways, which are involved in cell activation was studied on HeLa cells as a model system. Avemar treatment increased the activity of stress kinases in a concentration-dependent way, resulting in the activation of AP-1 transcription factor. NF-kappa B-sensitive reporters were also activated by Avemar; in contrast, no effect of the preparation was observed on PKA-sensitive signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- András Telekes
- Chemotherapy Day-Ward Unit, National Institute of Oncology, Ráth György u. 7-9, 1122 Budapest, Hungary.
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28
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Langbein S, Zerilli M, zur Hausen A, Staiger W, Rensch-Boschert K, Lukan N, Popa J, Ternullo MP, Steidler A, Weiss C, Grobholz R, Willeke F, Alken P, Stassi G, Schubert P, Coy JF. Expression of transketolase TKTL1 predicts colon and urothelial cancer patient survival: Warburg effect reinterpreted. Br J Cancer 2006; 94:578-85. [PMID: 16465194 PMCID: PMC2361175 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6602962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 198] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumours ferment glucose to lactate even in the presence of oxygen (aerobic glycolysis; Warburg effect). The pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) allows glucose conversion to ribose for nucleic acid synthesis and glucose degradation to lactate. The nonoxidative part of the PPP is controlled by transketolase enzyme reactions. We have detected upregulation of a mutated transketolase transcript (TKTL1) in human malignancies, whereas transketolase (TKT) and transketolase-like-2 (TKTL2) transcripts were not upregulated. Strong TKTL1 protein expression was correlated to invasive colon and urothelial tumours and to poor patients outcome. TKTL1 encodes a transketolase with unusual enzymatic properties, which are likely to be caused by the internal deletion of conserved residues. We propose that TKTL1 upregulation in tumours leads to enhanced, oxygen-independent glucose usage and a lactate-based matrix degradation. As inhibition of transketolase enzyme reactions suppresses tumour growth and metastasis, TKTL1 could be the relevant target for novel anti-transketolase cancer therapies. We suggest an individualised cancer therapy based on the determination of metabolic changes in tumours that might enable the targeted inhibition of invasion and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Langbein
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Mannheim, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - M Zerilli
- Department of Surgical and Oncological Sciences, University of Palermo, Via Liborio Giuffrè, 5, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - A zur Hausen
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Freiburg, Albertstr. 19, 79002 Freiburg, Germany
| | - W Staiger
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | | | - N Lukan
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - J Popa
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Mannheim, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - M P Ternullo
- Institute of Pathology, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro, 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - A Steidler
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Mannheim, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - C Weiss
- Department of Biostatistics, University Hospital Mannheim, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - R Grobholz
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - F Willeke
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - P Alken
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Mannheim, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - G Stassi
- Department of Surgical and Oncological Sciences, University of Palermo, Via Liborio Giuffrè, 5, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - P Schubert
- R-Biopharm AG, Landwehrstrasse 54, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - J F Coy
- TAVARTIS GmbH, Kroetengasse 10, 64853 Otzberg, Germany
- R-Biopharm AG, Landwehrstrasse 54, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
- TAVARTIS GmbH, Kroetengasse 10, 64853 Otzberg, Germany. E-mail: or
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29
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Vizan P, Boros LG, Figueras A, Capella G, Mangues R, Bassilian S, Lim S, Lee WNP, Cascante M. K-ras codon-specific mutations produce distinctive metabolic phenotypes in NIH3T3 mice [corrected] fibroblasts. Cancer Res 2005; 65:5512-5. [PMID: 15994921 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-05-0074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Among K-ras mutations, codon 12 mutations have been identified as those conferring a more aggressive phenotype. This aggressiveness is primarily associated with slow proliferation but greatly increased resistance to apoptosis. Using transfected NIH3T3 fibroblasts with a mutated K-ras minigene either at codon 12 (K12) or at codon 13 (K13), and taking advantage of [1,2-13C2]glucose tracer labeling, we show that codon 12 mutant K-ras (K12)-transformed cells exhibit greatly increased glycolysis with only a slight increase in activity along pathways that produce nucleic acid and lipid synthesis precursors in the oxidative branch of the pentose phosphate pathway and via pyruvate dehydrogenase flux. K13 mutants display a modest increase in anaerobic glycolysis associated with a large increase in oxidative pentose phosphate pathway activity and pyruvate dehydrogenase flux. The distinctive differences in metabolic profiles of K12 and K13 codon mutated cells indicate that a strong correlation exists between the flow of glucose carbons towards either increased anaerobic glycolysis, and resistance to apoptosis (K12), or increased macromolecule synthesis, rapid proliferation, and increased sensitivity to apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Vizan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, Spain
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30
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Boros LG, Nichelatti M, Shoenfeld Y. Fermented Wheat Germ Extract (Avemar) in the Treatment of Cancer and Autoimmune Diseases. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2005; 1051:529-42. [PMID: 16126993 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1361.097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Avemar, the product of industrial fermentation of wheat germ, possesses unique cancer-fighting characteristics. Taken orally, Avemar can inhibit metastatic tumor dissemination and proliferation during and after chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. Benefits of Avemar treatment have been shown in various human cancers, in cultures of in vitro grown cancer cells, in the prevention of chemical carcinogenesis, and also in some autoimmune conditions. This document reviews the clinical and experimental results obtained with this extract so far. Special references are made for its safety, including its coadministration with anticancer drugs, as well as for its immunomodulatory activity, its molecular targets, and its use in cancer clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laszlo G Boros
- Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
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31
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Marcsek Z, Kocsis Z, Jakab M, Szende B, Tompa A. The efficacy of tamoxifen in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer cells is enhanced by a medical nutriment. Cancer Biother Radiopharm 2005; 19:746-53. [PMID: 15665622 DOI: 10.1089/cbr.2004.19.746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Avemar, a fermented wheat germ extract, has been applied in the supplementary therapy of human cancers. Because tamoxifen is commonly used in the therapy of ER+ breast cancer, in this study the combined effect of tamoxifen and Avemar treatment was investigated on MCF-7 breast cancer cells, in order to detect a possible agonistic or antagonistic action. Cytotoxicity was measured by MTT assay, the percentage of mitoses and apoptotic cells was determined morphologically, apoptosis and S-phase was measured by flow cytometry, and estrogen-receptor activity was determined by semiquantitative measurement of the estrogen-responsive pS2 gene mRNA production. Tamoxifen (1 nM) alone had no effect on the percentage of the apoptotic cell fraction and significantly reduced the percentage of the S-phase, compared to untreated cells. Avemar (625 microg/mL) significantly increased apoptosis after 48 hours of treatment. Tamoxifen together with Avemar significantly increased apoptosis already 24 hours after starting treatment but had only a slight (not significant) effect on mitosis and S-phase. Estrogen-receptor activity of MCF-7 cells was enhanced by Avemar, decreased by tamoxifen, and was further decreased by combined tamoxifen and Avemar treatment. As apoptosis increased when Avemar was added to tamoxifen treatment, the use of supplementary therapy with Avemar in the case of ER+ breast tumors may enhance the therapeutic effects of tamoxifen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoltán Marcsek
- National Institute of Chemical Safety, "József Fodor" National Center for Public Health, Budapest, Hungary.
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Illmer C, Madlener S, Horvath Z, Saiko P, Losert A, Herbacek I, Grusch M, Krupitza G, Fritzer-Szekeres M, Szekeres T. Immunologic and biochemical effects of the fermented wheat germ extract Avemar. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2005; 230:144-9. [PMID: 15673563 DOI: 10.1177/153537020523000209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Avemar (MSC) is a nontoxic fermented wheat germ extract demonstrated to have antitumor effects. Avemar has the potential to significantly improve the survival rate in patients suffering from malignant colon tumors. We studied its effects in the HT-29 human colon carcinoma cell line. Avemar had an inhibiting effect on colonies of HT-29 cells with an IC50 value of 118 microg/ml (7 days of incubation); this value could be decreased to 100 and 75 microg/ml in the presence of vitamin C. In the cell line examined, Avemar induced both necrosis and apoptosis, as demonstrated by Hoechst/propidium iodide staining. The incubation of cells with 3200 microg/ml Avemar for 24 hrs caused necrosis in 28% and the induction of apoptosis in 22% of the cells. Avemar inhibited the cell-cycle progression of HT-29 cells in the G1 phase of the cell cycle. In addition, Avemar inhibited the activity of the key enzyme of de novo DNA synthesis, ribonucleotide reductase. In addition, we determined the effects of Avemar on the activity of cyclooxygenase-1 and -2. Both enzymes were significantly inhibited by Avemar with IC50 values of 100 and 300 microg/ml, respectively. We outline new explanations for its antitumor activity, which might serve as the basis for further studies using Avemar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Illmer
- Clinical Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Vienna, General Hospital of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
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Du MX, Sim J, Fang L, Yin Z, Koh S, Stratton J, Pons J, Wang JJX, Carte B. Identification of novel small-molecule inhibitors for human transketolase by high-throughput screening with fluorescent intensity (FLINT) assay. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 9:427-33. [PMID: 15296642 DOI: 10.1177/1087057104263913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The metabolic enzyme transketolase (TK) plays a crucial role in tumor cell nucleic acid synthesis, using glucose through the elevated nonoxidative pentose phosphate pathway (PPP). Identification of inhibitors specifically targeting TK and preventing the nonoxidative PPP from generating the RNA ribose precursor, ribose-5-phosphate, provides a novel approach for developing effective anticancer therapeutic agents. The full-length human transketolase gene was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli and the recombinant human transketolase protein purified to homogeneity. A fluorescent intensity (FLINT) assay was developed and optimized. Library compounds were screened in a high-throughput screening (HTS) campaign using the FLINT assay. Fifty-four initial hits were identified. Among them, 2 scaffolds with high selectivity, ideal physiochemical properties, and low molecular weight were selected for lead optimization studies. These compounds specifically inhibited in vitro TK enzyme activity and suppressed tumor cell proliferation in at least 3 cancer cell lines: SW620, LS174T, and MIA PaCa-2. Identification of these active scaffolds represents a good starting point for development of drugs specifically targeting TK and the nonoxidative PPP for cancer therapy.
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Schlichtholz B, Turyn J, Goyke E, Biernacki M, Jaskiewicz K, Sledzinski Z, Swierczynski J. Enhanced citrate synthase activity in human pancreatic cancer. Pancreas 2005; 30:99-104. [PMID: 15714131 DOI: 10.1097/01.mpa.0000153326.69816.7d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Assuming that a high flux of carbohydrate is strictly connected with lipid synthesis in neoplastic cells, one can hypothesize that the activity of citrate synthase, which plays an important role in glucose to lipid conversion, is enhanced in pancreatic cancer. The aim of the present study was to verify this hypothesis. METHODS The activity of citrate synthase (as well as lactate and glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenases) was measured using tissue extract prepared from specimens (pancreatic cancer and control specimens taken from the adjacent pancreatic normal tissue) obtained from 24 patients with ductal carcinoma who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy or total pancreatomy. RESULTS The average of citrate synthase activity in human pancreatic ductal carcinoma is significantly higher comparing with adjacent nonneoplastic tissue: 40.2 +/- 27.2 and 18.3 +/- 13.6 nmole/min/mg protein, respectively (P = 0.001). The lactate dehydrogenase and glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity in human pancreatic ductal carcinoma were also higher than in adjacent nonneoplastic tissues. CONCLUSION It is likely that enhanced citrate synthase activity contributes to the conversion of glucose to lipids in pancreatic cancer providing substrate for membrane lipids synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beata Schlichtholz
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
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Boros LG, Serkova NJ, Cascante MS, Lee WNP. Use of metabolic pathway flux information in targeted cancer drug design. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ddstr.2004.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Bai J, Sata N, Nagai H, Wada T, Yoshida K, Mano H, Sata F, Kishi R. Genistein-induced changes in gene expression in Panc 1 cells at physiological concentrations of genistein. Pancreas 2004; 29:93-8. [PMID: 15257099 DOI: 10.1097/00006676-200408000-00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the effect of genistein on gene expression in Panc 1 cells using microarray technology. METHODS Panc 1 cells were treated with 10 micromol/L genistein or DMSO (vehicle control) for 0, 1, 3, 6, or 12 hours. Total RNA from each sample was isolated, and biotin-labeled probes were hybridized to the human genome U133A chip, after which the chip was washed and scanned. Data were analyzed using DMT software (Affymetrix). For genes that showed large changes in expression due to genistein, these changes were confirmed using real-time PCR assays. RESULTS Two independent microarray experiments showed that genistein significantly changed the expression of 47 genes: up-regulating of egr-1 and IL-8 and down-regulating of EGF-R AKT2, CYP1B1, NELL2, SCD, DNA ligase III, Rad as well as 18s and 28s rRNA and others. These alterations in expression were confirmed using real-time PCR, although the increase in change was not exactly the same in the 2 assays. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest the reported apparent ability of genistein to inhibit carcinogenesis may involve a number of pathways. The most obvious target is the EGF-R signaling pathway since the expression of 5 genes related to this pathway was reduced (EGFR, egr-1, AKT2, CYP1B1, and NELL2). Genistein may also act by disabling cancer cell self-protection by inhibiting expression of AKT2, CYP1B1, and DNA ligase III. Furthermore, genistein may inhibit car-cinogenesis by inhibiting expression of SCD. Finally, our data support findings indicating that genistein inhibits rRNA formation, which is an important mechanism by which genistein regulates tumor cell growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianfeng Bai
- Department of Surgery, Jichi Medical School, Tochigi, Japan
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Minamiyama Y, Takemura S, Yoshikawa T, Okada S. Fermented grain products, production, properties and benefits to health. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY 2003; 9:221-227. [PMID: 14567925 DOI: 10.1016/s0928-4680(03)00022-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Fermented foods such as Japanese traditional food "miso (fermented soy bean paste)" have been shown to be rich source of micronutrients with the potential to prevent various human diseases. We have introduced effects of a new dietary supplement of fermented grain foods mixture containing extracts from wheat germ, soybeans, rice bran, tear grass, sesame, wheat, citrus lemon, green tea, green leaf extract and malted rice under the trade name of antioxidant biofactor (AOB). Chemical analysis of AOB shows the presence of various phenolic compounds (catechins, rutin, genistin, daidzin, etc.). AOB has strong antioxidant properties and additional biological effects, which might be of importance in context with the prevention of degenerative diseases. This paper focuses on the effect of supplementing AOB in various animal models and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukiko Minamiyama
- Department of Food and Health Science, Graduate School of Medicine and Dentistry, Okayama University, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, 700-8558, Okayama, Japan
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Jakab F, Shoenfeld Y, Balogh Á, Nichelatti M, Hoffmann A, Kahán Z, Lapis K, Mayer Á, Sápy P, Szentpétery F, Telekes A, Thurzó L, Vágvölgyi A, Hidvégi M. A medical nutriment has supportive value in the treatment of colorectal cancer. Br J Cancer 2003; 89:465-9. [PMID: 12888813 PMCID: PMC2394381 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6601153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
MSC (Avemar) is a medical nutriment of which preclinical and observational clinical studies suggested an antimetastatic activity with no toxicity. This open-label cohort trial has compared anticancer treatments plus MSC (9 g once daily) vs anticancer treatments alone in colorectal patients, enrolled from three oncosurgical centres; cohort allocation was on the basis of patients' choice. Sixty-six colorectal cancer patients received MSC supplement for more than 6 months and 104 patients served as controls (anticancer therapies alone): no statistical difference was noted in the time from diagnosis to the last visit between the two groups. End-point analysis revealed that progression-related events were significantly less frequent in the MSC group (new recurrences: 3.0 vs 17.3%, P<0.01; new metastases: 7.6 vs 23.1%, P<0.01; deaths: 12.1 vs 31.7%, P<0.01). Survival analysis showed significant improvements in the MSC group regarding progression-free (P=0.0184) and overall survivals (P=0.0278) probabilities. Survival predictors in Cox's proportional hazards were UICC stage and MSC treatment. Continuous supplementation of anticancer therapies with MSC for more than 6 months is beneficial to patients with colorectal cancer in terms of overall and progression-free survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Jakab
- Department of Surgery and Vascular Surgery, Uzsoki Teaching Hospital of Budapest, Hungary
| | - Y Shoenfeld
- Department of Medicine ‘B’, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer 52621, Israel
- Department of Medicine ‘B’, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer 52621, Israel. E-mail:
| | - Á Balogh
- Clinic of Surgery, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - M Nichelatti
- Biostatistics Unit, Associazione Malattie del Sangue, Hospital Niguarda Cà Granda, Milan, Italy
| | - A Hoffmann
- Biromedicina First Hungarian Corporation for Cancer Research and Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zs Kahán
- Clinic of Oncotherapy, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - K Lapis
- 1st Institute of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Á Mayer
- Budapest Center of Onco-Radiology, Uzsoki Teaching Hospital of Budapest, Hungary
| | - P Sápy
- 2nd Clinic of Surgery, University of Debrecen, Hungary
| | - F Szentpétery
- Department of Surgery and Vascular Surgery, Uzsoki Teaching Hospital of Budapest, Hungary
| | - A Telekes
- Biromedicina First Hungarian Corporation for Cancer Research and Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - L Thurzó
- Clinic of Oncotherapy, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - A Vágvölgyi
- 2nd Clinic of Surgery, University of Debrecen, Hungary
| | - M Hidvégi
- Jewish University, Budapest, Hungary
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Bulotta A, Perfetti R, Hui H, Boros LG. GLP-1 stimulates glucose-derived de novo fatty acid synthesis and chain elongation during cell differentiation and insulin release. J Lipid Res 2003; 44:1559-65. [PMID: 12777469 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.m300093-jlr200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1, 7-36) is capable of restoring normal glucose tolerance in aging, glucose-intolerant Wistar rats and is a potent causal factor in differentiation of human islet duodenal homeobox-1-expressing cells into insulin-releasing beta cells. Here we report stable isotope-based dynamic metabolic profiles of rat pancreatic epithelial (ARIP) and human ductal tumor (PANC-1) cells responding to 10 nM GLP-1 treatment in 48 h cultures. Macromolecule synthesis patterns and substrate flow measurements using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (MS) and the stable [1,2-13C2]glucose isotope as the tracer showed that GLP-1 induced a significant 20% and 60% increase in de novo fatty acid palmitate synthesis in ARIP and PANC-1 cells, respectively, and it also induced a significant increase in palmitate chain elongation into stearate utilizing glucose as the primary substrate. Distribution of 13C in other metabolites indicated no changes in the rates of nucleic acid ribose synthesis, glutamate oxidation, or lactate production. Tandem high-performance liquid chromatography-ion trap MS analysis of the culture media demonstrated mass insulin secretion by GLP-1-treated tumor cells. Metabolic profile changes in response to GLP-1-induced cell differentiation include selective increases in de novo fatty acid synthesis from glucose and consequent chain elongation, allowing increased membrane formation and greater insulin availability and release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Bulotta
- Division of Endocrinology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center 8723 Alden Drive, SSB 290 Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
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Comin-Anduix B, Boros LG, Marin S, Boren J, Callol-Massot C, Centelles JJ, Torres JL, Agell N, Bassilian S, Cascante M. Fermented wheat germ extract inhibits glycolysis/pentose cycle enzymes and induces apoptosis through poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase activation in Jurkat T-cell leukemia tumor cells. J Biol Chem 2002; 277:46408-14. [PMID: 12351627 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m206150200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The fermented extract of wheat germ, trade name Avemar, is a complex mixture of biologically active molecules with potent anti-metastatic activities in various human malignancies. Here we report the effect of Avemar on Jurkat leukemia cell viability, proliferation, cell cycle distribution, apoptosis, and the activity of key glycolytic/pentose cycle enzymes that control carbon flow for nucleic acid synthesis. The cytotoxic IC(50) concentration of Avemar for Jurkat tumor cells is 0.2 mg/ml, and increasing doses of the crude powder inhibit Jurkat cell proliferation in a dose-dependent fashion. At concentrations higher than 0.2 mg/ml, Avemar inhibits cell growth by more than 50% (72 h of incubation), which is preceded by the appearance of a sub-G(1) peak on flow histograms at 48 h. Laser scanning cytometry of propidium iodide- and annexin V-stained cells indicated that the growth-inhibiting effect of Avemar was consistent with a strong induction of apoptosis. Inhibition by benzyloxycarbonyl-Val-Ala-Asp fluoromethyl ketone of apoptosis but increased proteolysis of poly(ADP-ribose) indicate caspases mediate the cellular effects of Avemar. Activities of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and transketolase were inhibited in a dose-dependent fashion, which correlated with decreased (13)C incorporation and pentose cycle substrate flow into RNA ribose. This decrease in pentose cycle enzyme activities and carbon flow toward nucleic acid precursor synthesis provide the mechanistic understanding of the cell growth-controlling and apoptosis-inducing effects of fermented wheat germ. Avemar exhibits about a 50-fold higher IC(50) (10.02 mg/ml) for peripheral blood lymphocytes to induce a biological response, which provides the broad therapeutic window for this supplemental cancer treatment modality with no toxic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Begona Comin-Anduix
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, CeRQT-PCB at Barcelona Scientific Park, University of Barcelona, 1 Marti i Franquès, Barcelona 08028, Spain
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Boros LG, Cascante M, Lee WNP. Metabolic profiling of cell growth and death in cancer: applications in drug discovery. Drug Discov Today 2002; 7:364-72. [PMID: 11893545 DOI: 10.1016/s1359-6446(02)02179-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Metabolic profiling using stable-isotope tracer technology enables the measurement of substrate redistribution within major metabolic pathways in living cells. This technique has demonstrated that transformed human cells exhibit profound metabolic shifts and that some anti-cancer drugs produce their effects by forcing the reversion of these metabolic changes. By revealing tumor-specific metabolic shifts in tumor cells, metabolic profiling enables drug developers to identify the metabolic steps that control cell proliferation, thus aiding the identification of new anti-cancer targets and screening of lead compounds for anti-proliferative metabolic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- László G Boros
- Harbor-UCLA Research and Education Institute, UCLA School of Medicine, 1124 West Carson Street RB1, 90502, Torrance, CA 90502, USA.
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Cascante M, Boros LG, Comin-Anduix B, de Atauri P, Centelles JJ, Lee PWN. Metabolic control analysis in drug discovery and disease. Nat Biotechnol 2002; 20:243-9. [PMID: 11875424 DOI: 10.1038/nbt0302-243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 222] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Metabolic control analysis (MCA) provides a quantitative description of substrate flux in response to changes in system parameters of complex enzyme systems. Medical applications of the approach include the following: understanding the threshold effect in the manifestation of metabolic diseases; investigating the gene dose effect of aneuploidy in inducing phenotypic transformation in cancer; correlating the contributions of individual genes and phenotypic characteristics in metabolic disease (e.g., diabetes); identifying candidate enzymes in pathways suitable as targets for cancer therapy; and elucidating the function of "silent" genes by identifying metabolic features shared with genes of known pathways. MCA complements current studies of genomics and proteomics, providing a link between biochemistry and functional genomics that relates the expression of genes and gene products to cellular biochemical and physiological events. Thus, it is an important tool for the study of genotype-phenotype correlations. It allows genes to be ranked according to their importance in controlling and regulating cellular metabolic networks. We can expect that MCA will have an increasing impact on the choice of targets for intervention in drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Cascante
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, CeRQT--Parc Científic de Barcelona (PCB), Institut d'Investigacions Biomediques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, Marti i Franques 1, Barcelona, Catalonia, 08028 Spain
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tumor cells, just as other living cells, possess the potential for proliferation, differentiation, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis. There is a specific metabolic phenotype associated with each of these conditions, characterized by the production of both energy and special substrates necessary for the cells to function in that particular state. Unlike that of normal living cells, the metabolic phenotype of tumor cells supports the proliferative state. AIM To present the metabolic hypothesis that (1) cell transformation and tumor growth are associated with the activation of metabolic enzymes that increase glucose carbon utilization for nucleic acid synthesis, while enzymes of the lipid and amino acid synthesis pathways are activated in tumor growth inhibition, and (2) phosphorylation and allosteric and transcriptional regulation of intermediary metabolic enzymes and their substrate availability together mediate and sustain cell transformation from one condition to another. CONCLUSION Evidence is presented that demonstrates opposite changes in metabolic phenotypes induced by TGF-beta, a cell-transforming agent, and tumor growth-inhibiting phytochemicals such as genistein and Avemar, or novel synthetic anti-leukemic drugs such as STI571 (Gleevec). Intermediary metabolic enzymes that mediate the growth signaling pathways and promote malignant cell transformation may serve as high-efficacy nongenetic novel targets for cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laszlo G Boros
- Harbor-University of California Los Angeles Research and Education Institute, UCLA School of Medicine, Torrance, California 90502, USA.
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Boren J, Cascante M, Marin S, Comín-Anduix B, Centelles JJ, Lim S, Bassilian S, Ahmed S, Lee WN, Boros LG. Gleevec (STI571) influences metabolic enzyme activities and glucose carbon flow toward nucleic acid and fatty acid synthesis in myeloid tumor cells. J Biol Chem 2001; 276:37747-53. [PMID: 11489902 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m105796200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic myeloid leukemia cells contain a constitutively active Bcr-Abl tyrosine kinase, the target protein of Gleevec (STI571) phenylaminopyrimidine class protein kinase inhibitor. Here we provide evidence for metabolic phenotypic changes in cultured K562 human myeloid blast cells after treatment with increasing doses of STI571 using [1,2-13C2]glucose as the single tracer and biological mass spectrometry. In response to 0.68 and 6.8 microm STI571, proliferation of Bcr-Abl-positive K562 cells showed a 57% and 74% decrease, respectively, whereas glucose label incorporation into RNA decreased by 13.4% and 30.1%, respectively, through direct glucose oxidation, as indicated by the decrease in the m1/Sigma(m)n ratio in RNA. Based on the in vitro proliferation data, the IC50 of STI571 in K562 cultures is 0.56 microm. The decrease in 13C label incorporation into RNA ribose was accompanied by a significant fall in hexokinase and glucose-6-phosphate 1-dehydrogenase activities. The activity of transketolase, the enzyme responsible for nonoxidative ribose synthesis in the pentose cycle, was less affected, and there was a relative increase in glucose carbon incorporation into RNA through nonoxidative synthesis as indicated by the increase in the m2/Sigma(m)n ratio in RNA. The restricted use of glucose carbons for de novo nucleic acid and fatty acid synthesis by altering metabolic enzyme activities and pathway carbon flux of the pentose cycle constitutes the underlying mechanism by which STI571 inhibits leukemia cell glucose substrate utilization and growth. The administration of specific hexokinase/glucose-6-phosphate 1-dehydrogenase inhibitor anti-metabolite substrates or competitive enzyme inhibitor compounds, alone or in combination, should be explored for the treatment of STI571-resistant advanced leukemias as well as that of Bcr-Abl-negative human malignancies.
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MESH Headings
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Benzamides
- Carbon/metabolism
- Enzyme Inhibitors/pharmacology
- Fatty Acids/biosynthesis
- Glucose/metabolism
- Glucosephosphate Dehydrogenase/metabolism
- Hexokinase/metabolism
- Humans
- Imatinib Mesylate
- Leukemia, Myelogenous, Chronic, BCR-ABL Positive/enzymology
- Leukemia, Myelogenous, Chronic, BCR-ABL Positive/metabolism
- Leukemia, Myelogenous, Chronic, BCR-ABL Positive/pathology
- Nucleic Acids/biosynthesis
- Piperazines/pharmacology
- Protein-Tyrosine Kinases/antagonists & inhibitors
- Protein-Tyrosine Kinases/metabolism
- Pyrimidines/pharmacology
- Transketolase/metabolism
- Tumor Cells, Cultured
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Affiliation(s)
- J Boren
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institut d'Investigacions Biomediques August Pi i Sunyer, University of Barcelona, Marti i Franques 1, Barcelona 08028, Spain
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