1
|
Lee K, Choi YJ, Lim HI, Cho KJ, Kang N, Ko SG. Network pharmacology study to explore the multiple molecular mechanism of SH003 in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. BMC Complement Med Ther 2024; 24:70. [PMID: 38303001 PMCID: PMC10832243 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-024-04347-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the leading causes of human death worldwide. Herbal prescription SH003 has been developed to treat several cancers including NSCLC. Due to the multi-component nature of SH003 with multiple targets and pathways, a network pharmacology study was conducted to analyze its active compounds, potential targets, and pathways for the treatment of NSCLC. METHODS We systematically identified oral active compounds within SH003, employing ADME criteria-based screening from TM-MC, OASIS, and TCMSP databases. Concurrently, SH003-related and NSCLC-associated targets were amalgamated from various databases. Overlapping targets were deemed anti-NSCLC entities of SH003. Protein-protein interaction networks were constructed using the STRING database, allowing the identification of pivotal proteins through node centrality measures. Empirical validation was pursued through LC-MS analysis of active compounds. Additionally, in vitro experiments, such as MTT cell viability assays and western blot analyses, were conducted to corroborate network pharmacology findings. RESULTS We discerned 20 oral active compounds within SH003 and identified 239 core targets shared between SH003 and NSCLC-related genes. Network analyses spotlighted 79 hub genes, including TP53, JUN, AKT1, STAT3, and MAPK3, crucial in NSCLC treatment. GO and KEGG analyses underscored SH003's multifaceted anti-NSCLC effects from a genetic perspective. Experimental validations verified SH003's impact on NSCLC cell viability and the downregulation of hub genes. LC-MS analysis confirmed the presence of four active compounds, namely hispidulin, luteolin, baicalein, and chrysoeriol, among the eight compounds with a median of > 10 degrees in the herb-compounds-targets network in SH003. Previously unidentified targets like CASP9, MAPK9, and MCL1 were unveiled, supported by existing NSCLC literature, enhancing the pivotal role of empirical validation in network pharmacology. CONCLUSION Our study pioneers the harmonization of theoretical predictions with practical validations. Empirical validation illuminates specific SH003 compounds within NSCLC, simultaneously uncovering novel targets for NSCLC treatment. This integrated strategy, accentuating empirical validation, establishes a paradigm for in-depth herbal medicine exploration. Furthermore, our network pharmacology study unveils fresh insights into SH003's multifaceted molecular mechanisms combating NSCLC. Through this approach, we delineate active compounds of SH003 and target pathways, reshaping our understanding of its therapeutic mechanisms in NSCLC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kangwook Lee
- Department of Food and Biotechnology, Korea University, Sejong, 30019, South Korea
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, South Korea
| | - Yu-Jeong Choi
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, South Korea
| | - Hae-In Lim
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, South Korea
| | - Kwang Jin Cho
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, South Korea
| | - Nuri Kang
- Department of Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, South Korea
| | - Seong-Gyu Ko
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
LEE SEOYEON, KIM TAEHOON, CHOI WONGEUN, CHUNG YOONHEY, KO SEONGGYU, CHEON CHUNHOO, CHO SUNGGOOK. SH003 Causes ER Stress-mediated Apoptosis of Breast Cancer Cells via Intracellular ROS Production. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2023; 20:88-116. [PMID: 36581346 PMCID: PMC9806670 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women all over the world and new treatment options are urgent. ER stress in cancer cells results in apoptotic cell death, and it is being proposed as a new therapeutic target. SH003, a newly developed herbal medicine, has been reported to have anti-cancer effects. However, its molecular mechanism is not yet clearly defined. MATERIALS AND METHODS Microarray was performed to check the differential gene expression patterns in various breast cancer cell lines. Cell viability was measured by MTT assays to detect cytotoxic effects. Annexin V-FITC and 7AAD staining, TUNEL assay and DCF-DA staining were analyzed by flow cytometry to evaluate apoptosis and ROS levels, respectively. Protein expression was examined in SH003-breast cancer cells using immunoblotting assays. The expression of C/EBP Homologous Protein (CHOP) mRNA was measured by real-time PCR. The effects of CHOP by SH003 treatment were investigated using transfection method. RESULTS Herein, we investigated the molecular mechanisms through which SH003 causes apoptosis of human breast cancer cells. Both cell viability and apoptosis assays confirmed the SH003-induced apoptosis of breast cancer cells. Meanwhile, SH003 altered the expression patterns of several genes in a variety of breast cancer cell lines. More specifically, it upregulated gene sets including the response to unfolded proteins, independently of the breast cancer cell subtype. In addition, SH003-induced apoptosis was due to an increase in ROS production and an activation of the ER stress-signaling pathway. Moreover, CHOP gene silencing blocked SH003-induced apoptosis. CONCLUSION SH003 causes apoptosis of breast cancer cells by upregulating ROS production and activating the ER stress-mediated pathway. Thus, our findings suggest that SH003 can be a potential therapeutic agent for breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- SEO YEON LEE
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - TAE HOON KIM
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - WON GEUN CHOI
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - YOON HEY CHUNG
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - SEONG-GYU KO
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea,Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - CHUNHOO CHEON
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - SUNG-GOOK CHO
- Department of Biotechnology, Korea National University of Transportation, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
General Use of Chinese Herbal Products among Female Patients with Mastitis in Taiwan. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:3876240. [PMID: 35368771 PMCID: PMC8975662 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3876240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Little information is available regarding the use of Chinese herbal medicine to treat mastitis. This study evaluated the prescription patterns of Chinese herbal medicine products in women with mastitis in Taiwan. Design This is a population-based cross-sectional study. Setting. 8,531 women aged 20–49 years, who received a diagnosis of mastitis between 2004 and 2013, were identified from the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database in Taiwan. We collected data on demographic characteristics, including age, monthly insurance premium, and urbanization level. The ten most Chinese herbal medicines prescribed for mastitis were assessed, including frequency, percentage, average daily dose, and average duration of prescription. Main outcome measures. We analysed the ten most single Chinese herbs and Chinese herbal formulae prescribed for mastitis. Results Overall, 437 (5.1%) women received Chinese herbal medicine to treat mastitis. Mai Men Dong (Ophiopogon japonicus (Thunb.) Ker Gawl.; 22.3%), Pu Gong Yin (Taraxacum mongolicum Hand.-Mazz.; 7.8%), and Wang Bu Liu Xing (Vaccaria hispanica (Mill.) Rauschert; 3.5%) were three of the most commonly prescribed single Chinese herbs for mastitis. Xian-Fang-Huo-Ming-Yin (18.2%), Jia-Wei-Xiao-Yao-San (9.1%), and Chai-Hu-Shu-Gan-San (8.4%) were three of the most commonly prescribed Chinese herbal formulae. Conclusion Xian-Fang-Huo-Ming-Yin can clear heat, detoxify body, alleviate swelling, activate blood, and relieve pain. It was the most frequently prescribed Chinese herbal formula in patients with mastitis.
Collapse
|
4
|
Lee JH, Kim B, Ko SG, Kim W. Analgesic Effect of SH003 and Trichosanthes kirilowii Maximowicz in Paclitaxel-Induced Neuropathic Pain in Mice. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2022; 44:718-730. [PMID: 35723335 PMCID: PMC8929024 DOI: 10.3390/cimb44020050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pacliatxel is a taxol-based chemotherapeutic drug that is widely used to treat cancer. However, it can also induce peripheral neuropathy, which limits its use. Although several drugs are prescribed to attenuate neuropathies, no optimal treatment is available. Thus, in our study, we analyzed whether SH003 and its sub-components could alleviate paclitaxel-induced neuropathic pain. Multiple paclitaxel injections (cumulative dose 8 mg/kg, i.p.) induced cold and mechanical allodynia from day 10 to day 21 after the first injection in mice. Oral administration of SH003, an herbal mixture extract of Astragalus membranaceus, Angelica gigas, and Trichosantheskirilowii Maximowicz (Tk), dose-dependently attenuated both allodynia. However, when administered separately only Tk decreased both allodynia. The effect of Tk was shown to be mediated by the spinal noradrenergic system as intrathecal pretreatment with α1- and α2-adrenergic-receptor antagonists (prazosin and idazoxan), but not 5-HT1/2, and 5-HT3-receptor antagonists (methysergide and MDL-72222) blocked the effect of Tk. The spinal noradrenaline levels were also upregulated. Among the phytochemicals of Tk, cucurbitacin D was shown to play a major role, as 0.025 mg/kg (i.p.) of cucurbitacin D alleviated allodynia similar to 500 mg/kg of SH003. These results suggest that Tk should be considered when treating paclitaxel-induced neuropathic pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ji Hwan Lee
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea;
- Korean Medicine-Based Drug Repositioning Cancer Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea; (B.K.); (S.-G.K.)
| | - Bonglee Kim
- Korean Medicine-Based Drug Repositioning Cancer Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea; (B.K.); (S.-G.K.)
| | - Seong-Gyu Ko
- Korean Medicine-Based Drug Repositioning Cancer Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea; (B.K.); (S.-G.K.)
| | - Woojin Kim
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea;
- Korean Medicine-Based Drug Repositioning Cancer Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea; (B.K.); (S.-G.K.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Herbal Prescription SH003 Alleviates Docetaxel-Induced Neuropathic Pain in C57BL/6 Mice. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:4120334. [PMID: 34422067 PMCID: PMC8373497 DOI: 10.1155/2021/4120334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Docetaxel-based therapy has been applied to kill cancers including lung and breast cancers but frequently causes peripheral neuropathy such as mechanical allodynia. Lack of effective drugs for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) treatment leads us to find novel drugs. Here, we investigated whether and how novel anticancer herbal prescription SH003 alleviates mechanical allodynia in mouse model of docetaxel-induced neuropathic pain. Docetaxel-induced mechanical allodynia was evaluated using von Frey filaments. Nerve damage and degeneration in paw skin of mice were investigated by immunofluorescence staining. Neuroinflammation markers in bloodstream, lumbar (L4-L6) spinal cord, and sciatic nerves were examined by ELISA or western blot analysis. Docetaxel (15.277 mg/kg) was intravenously injected into the tail vein of C57BL/6 mice, and mechanical allodynia was followed up. SH003 (557.569 mg/kg) was orally administered at least 60 min before the mechanical allodynia test, and von Frey test was performed twice. Docetaxel injection induced mechanical allodynia, and SH003 administration restored withdrawal threshold. Meanwhile, degeneration of intraepidermal nerve fibers (IENF) was observed in docetaxel-treated mice, but SH003 treatment suppressed it. Moreover, docetaxel injection increased levels of TNF-α and IL-6 in plasma and expressions of phospho-NF-κB and phospho-STAT3 in both of lumbar spinal cord and sciatic nerves, while SH003 treatment inhibited those changes. Taken together, it is worth noting that TNF-α and IL-6 in plasma and phospho-NF-κB and phospho-STAT3 in spinal cord and sciatic nerves are putative biomarkers of docetaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy (DIPN) in mouse models. In addition, we suggest that SH003 would be beneficial for alleviation of docetaxel-induced neuropathic pain.
Collapse
|
6
|
Cheon C, Ko SG. A Phase I Study to Evaluate the Safety of the Herbal Medicine SH003 in Patients With Solid Cancer. Integr Cancer Ther 2021; 19:1534735420911442. [PMID: 32186413 PMCID: PMC7081467 DOI: 10.1177/1534735420911442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Cancer is a major health problem worldwide and the
leading cause of death in many countries. Preclinical studies have shown the
therapeutic anticancer effects of SH003, a novel herbal medicine containing
Astragalus membranaceus, Angelica gigas, and
Trichosanthes kirilowii. The present study investigated the
maximum tolerated dose of SH003 in patients with solid cancers.
Methods: This open-label, dose-escalation trial used the
traditional 3 + 3 dose-escalation design. Patients with solid cancers were
recruited and administered 1 to 4 tablets of SH003 thrice daily for 3 weeks
according to the dose level. Adverse events were evaluated according to the
Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE). Dose-limiting toxicities
(DLTs) were defined as Grade 3 or higher adverse events based on CTCAE. The
maximum tolerated dose was defined as the highest dose at which no more than 1
of 6 patients experienced DLT. Results: The present study enrolled
11 patients. A total of 31 adverse events occurred. According to the CTCAE, all
the observed adverse events were grade 2 or less and no adverse events of grade
3 or more corresponding to DLT occurred. Conclusion: The study
results indicated that the maximum tolerated dose of SH003 was 4800 mg/day. A
Phase 2 study is required to determine the efficacy of SH003 in patients with
cancer at a dose of 4800 mg/day or less.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunhoo Cheon
- Department of Korean Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Gyu Ko
- Department of Korean Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Cheon C, Ko SG. Phase I study to evaluate the maximum tolerated dose of the combination of SH003 and docetaxel in patients with solid cancer: A study protocol. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e22228. [PMID: 32957363 PMCID: PMC7505292 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000022228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cancer is the second leading cause of death, and the burden of cancer continues to grow globally. Research on the efficacy of combined administration of herbal medicine and anticancer drugs is also increasing. SH003 is a new herbal medicine composed of Astragalus membranaceus, Angelica gigas, and Trichosanthes kirilowii. SH003 alone up to 4800 mg daily was found to be safe. Preclinical studies have shown SH003 to have a synergistic effect with coadministration of anticancer drugs. This study aimed to determine the maximum tolerated dose of SH003 combined with docetaxel in patients with lung or breast cancer. METHODS This is an open-label, dose-escalation study to evaluate the safety of SH003 combined with docetaxel. Patients with lung or breast cancer will be recruited. The participants will be divided into 3 groups based on SH003 daily dose (2400, 3600, and 4800 mg); the medication will be taken orally for 21 days. The traditional 3 + 3 design will be adopted for the dose escalation. Dose-limiting toxicities are defined as grade 3 or 4 adverse events according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events. The highest dose at which no more than 1 of the 6 patients experience dose-limiting toxicity will be determined as the maximum tolerated dose of SH003 combined with docetaxel. DISCUSSION This study investigates the safety of SH003 when combined with docetaxel. The results of this study will provide a safe dose range for conducting therapeutic exploratory trials. TRIAL REGISTRATIONS ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04360317.
Collapse
|