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Lu D, Yang Y, Du Y, Zhang L, Yang Y, Tibenda JJ, Nan Y, Yuan L. The Potential of Glycyrrhiza from "Medicine Food Homology" in the Fight against Digestive System Tumors. Molecules 2023; 28:7719. [PMID: 38067451 PMCID: PMC10708138 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28237719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Glycyrrhiza has a long history of applications and a wide range of pharmacological effects. It is known as the "king of all herbs". Glycyrrhiza is effective in clearing heat, detoxifying, relieving cough, and tonifying qi and has good bioactivity in multiple inflammatory, immune, and tumor diseases. This review aims to summarize the origin, distribution, and anti-digestive system tumor mechanism of glycyrrhiza and its homologous applications in medicine and food. The active compounds include triterpenoids, flavonoids, and coumarins, which are widely used in clinical treatments, disease prevention, and daily foods because of their "enhancement of efficacy" and "reduction of toxicity" against digestive system tumors. This paper reviews the use of glycyrrhiza in digestive system tumors and provides an outlook on future research and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doudou Lu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China;
| | - Yating Yang
- Traditional Chinese Medicine College, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China;
| | - Yuhua Du
- College of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China; (Y.D.); (J.J.T.)
| | - Lei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization of Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China;
| | - Yi Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China;
| | - Joanna Japhet Tibenda
- College of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China; (Y.D.); (J.J.T.)
| | - Yi Nan
- Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization of Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China;
| | - Ling Yuan
- College of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China; (Y.D.); (J.J.T.)
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Dutra RP, de Sousa MM, Mignoni MSPM, de Oliveira KGM, Pereira EB, Figueredo AS, da Costa AAC, Dias TG, Vasconcelos CC, Silva LA, Reis AS, Lopes AJO. Brazilian Amazon Red Propolis: Leishmanicidal Activity and Chemical Composition of a New Variety of Red Propolis. Metabolites 2023; 13:1027. [PMID: 37755307 PMCID: PMC10535413 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13091027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is caused by protozoans of the genus Leishmania, and its treatment is highly toxic, leading to treatment discontinuation and the emergence of resistant strains. In this study, we assessed the leishmanicidal activity and chemical composition of red propolis collected from the Amazon-dominated region of northern Tocantins State, Brazil. The MTT assay was employed to determine the samples' activity against Leishmania amazonensis promastigotes and their cytotoxicity against RAW macrophages. Spectrophotometric assays were utilised to measure the concentrations of total phenolics and flavonoids, while high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer (LC-MS/MS) was used to determine the chemical composition. An in silico study was conducted to evaluate which compounds from Brazilian Amazon red propolis may correlate with this biological activity. Brazilian Amazon red propolis exhibited a high concentration of phenolic compounds and an inhibitory activity against L. amazonensis, with an IC50 ranging from 23.37 to 36.10 µg/mL. Moreover, fractionation of the propolis yielded a fraction with enhanced bioactivity (16.11 µg/mL). Interestingly, neither the propolis nor its most active fraction showed cytotoxicity towards macrophages at concentrations up to 200 µg/mL. The red colour and the presence of isoflavonoid components (isoflavones, isoflavans, and pterocarpans) confirm that the substance is Brazilian red propolis. However, the absence of polyprenylated benzophenones suggests that this is a new variety of Brazilian red propolis. The in silico study performed with two of the main leishmanicidal drug targets using all compounds identified in Amazon red propolis reported that liquiritigenin was the compound that exhibited the best electronic interaction parameters, which was confirmed in an assay with promastigotes using a standard. The findings indicate that Amazon red propolis possesses leishmanicidal activity, low toxicity, and significant biotechnological potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Pereira Dutra
- Laboratory of Natural Products Chemistry, Federal University of Maranhão, Imperatriz 65915-240, Brazil
- Program in Health and Technology, Federal University of Maranhão, Imperatriz 65915-240, Brazil
| | - Marcos Marinho de Sousa
- Laboratory of Natural Products Chemistry, Federal University of Maranhão, Imperatriz 65915-240, Brazil
- Program in Health and Technology, Federal University of Maranhão, Imperatriz 65915-240, Brazil
| | - Maria Simone Pereira Maciel Mignoni
- Laboratory of Natural Products Chemistry, Federal University of Maranhão, Imperatriz 65915-240, Brazil
- Program in Health and Technology, Federal University of Maranhão, Imperatriz 65915-240, Brazil
| | | | - Euzineti Borges Pereira
- Laboratory of Natural Products Chemistry, Federal University of Maranhão, Imperatriz 65915-240, Brazil
| | - Aline Santana Figueredo
- Laboratory of Pathology and Immunoparasitology, Federal University of Maranhão, São Luís 65080-805, Brazil
- Biological and Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Maranhão, Av. dos Portugueses 1966, São Luís 65085–580, Brazil
| | - Arthur André Castro da Costa
- Laboratory of Pathology and Immunoparasitology, Federal University of Maranhão, São Luís 65080-805, Brazil
- Biological and Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Maranhão, Av. dos Portugueses 1966, São Luís 65085–580, Brazil
| | - Tatielle Gomes Dias
- Program in Health and Technology, Federal University of Maranhão, Imperatriz 65915-240, Brazil
| | - Cleydlenne Costa Vasconcelos
- Biological and Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Maranhão, Av. dos Portugueses 1966, São Luís 65085–580, Brazil
| | - Lucilene Amorim Silva
- Laboratory of Pathology and Immunoparasitology, Federal University of Maranhão, São Luís 65080-805, Brazil
- Biological and Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Maranhão, Av. dos Portugueses 1966, São Luís 65085–580, Brazil
| | - Aramys Silva Reis
- Program in Health and Technology, Federal University of Maranhão, Imperatriz 65915-240, Brazil
| | - Alberto Jorge Oliveira Lopes
- Chemistry Postgraduate Program, Federal Institute of Science Education and Technology of Maranhão, São Luís 65030-005, Brazil
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3
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Biotransformation of Liquiritigenin into Characteristic Metabolites by the Gut Microbiota. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27103057. [PMID: 35630532 PMCID: PMC9146493 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27103057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The bioavailability of flavonoids is generally low after oral administration. The metabolic transformation of flavonoids by the gut microbiota may be one of the main reasons for this, although these metabolites have potential pharmacological activities. Liquiritigenin is an important dihydroflavonoid compound found in Glycyrrhiza uralensis that has a wide range of pharmacological properties, such as antitumor, antiulcer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-AIDS effects, but its mechanism of action remains unclear. This study explored the metabolites of liquiritigenin by examining gut microbiota metabolism and hepatic metabolism in vitro. Using LC-MS/MS and LC/MSn-IT-TOF techniques, three possible metabolites of liquiritigenin metabolized by the gut microbiota were identified: phloretic acid (M3), resorcinol (M4), and M5. M5 is speculated to be davidigenin, which has antitumor activity. By comparing these two metabolic pathways of liquiritigenin (the gut microbiota and liver microsomes), this study revealed that there are three main metabolites of liquiritigenin generated by intestinal bacteria, which provides a theoretical basis for the study of pharmacologically active substances in vivo.
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Wu Y, Wang Z, Du Q, Zhu Z, Chen T, Xue Y, Wang Y, Zeng Q, Shen C, Jiang C, Liu L, Zhu H, Liu Q. Pharmacological Effects and Underlying Mechanisms of Licorice-Derived Flavonoids. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2022; 2022:9523071. [PMID: 35082907 PMCID: PMC8786487 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9523071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma is the most frequently prescribed natural medicine in China and has been used for more than 2,000 years. The flavonoids of licorice have garnered considerable attention in recent decades due to their structural diversity and myriad pharmacological effects, especially as novel therapeutic agents against inflammation and cancer. Although many articles have been published to summarize different pharmacological activities of licorice in recent years, the systematic summary for flavonoid components is not comprehensive. Therefore, in this review, we summarized the pharmacological and mechanistic data from recent researches on licorice flavonoids and their bioactive components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufan Wu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Zhuxian Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Qunqun Du
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Zhaoming Zhu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Tingting Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yaqi Xue
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yuan Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Quanfu Zeng
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Chunyan Shen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Cuiping Jiang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Li Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Hongxia Zhu
- Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510315, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
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In Vitro Comparison of the Anti-Proliferative Effects of Galenia africana on Human Skin Cell Lines. Sci Pharm 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/scipharm89010012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is the major cause of skin cancer-related deaths. Surgery in combination with radiotherapy, immunotherapy or chemotherapy is used to eradicate cancer cells, however, this treatment option is limited by the tolerance of the surrounding healthy tissue. The extracts from Galenia africana have been shown to possess anti-cancer flavonoid compounds and can be a safer and cost-effective alternative treatment. The study aimed to compare the anti-proliferative effects of G. africana on human skin cells (HaCaT) and human malignant melanoma cells (A375). The cells were exposed to various concentrations of the G. africana extract at different times. In vitro assays were employed to determine cell viability and cytotoxicity. Hoechst 33342 staining was performed to observe the nuclear changes, including apoptosis. G. africana significantly reduced the cell viability of the A375 cells in a dose and time-dependent manner, while having no effect on the HaCaT cells. The A375 cells displayed nuclear condensation, brightly stained nuclei and nuclear fragmentation indicative of apoptosis. This suggests a clinical rationale for the use of G. africana as a potential anti-melanoma agent offering efficacy and low toxicity. This study provides new insights for future work on investigating the utilization of G. africana in malignant melanoma treatment.
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Wang JR, Li TZ, Wang C, Li SM, Luo YH, Piao XJ, Feng YC, Zhang Y, Xu WT, Zhang Y, Zhang T, Wang SN, Xue H, Wang HX, Cao LK, Jin CH. Liquiritin inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in HepG2 hepatocellular carcinoma cells via the ROS-mediated MAPK/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2020; 393:1987-1999. [PMID: 31956937 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-019-01763-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Liquiritin (LIQ), a major constituent of Glycyrrhiza Radix, exhibits various pharmacological activities. In this study, to explore the potential anti-cancer effects and its underlying molecular mechanisms of LIQ in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. LIQ significantly decreased viability and induced apoptosis in HepG2 cells by decreasing mitochondrial membrane potential and regulating Bcl-2 family proteins, cytochrome c, cle-caspase-3, and cle-PARP. The cell cycle analysis and western blot analysis revealed that LIQ induced G2/M phase arrest through increased expression of p21 and decreased levels of p27, cyclin B, and CDK1/2. The flow cytometry and western blot analysis also suggested that LIQ promoted the accumulation of ROS in HepG2 cells and up-regulated the phosphorylation expression levels of p38 kinase, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and inhibitor of NF-κB (IκB-α); the phosphorylation levels of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), protein kinase B (AKT), signal transducer activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) were down-regulated. However, these effects were reversed by N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), MAPK, and AKT inhibitors. The findings demonstrated that LIQ induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis via the ROS-mediated MAPK/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway in HepG2 cells, and the LIQ may serve as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of human HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Ru Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science & Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, China
| | - Tian-Zhu Li
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, School of Basic Medical Science, Chifeng University, Chifeng, 024000, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Pharmacy Department, Daqing Oilfield General Hospital, Daqing, 163001, China
| | - Shu-Mei Li
- Hemodialysis Center, Daqing Oilfield General Hospital, Daqing, 163001, China
| | - Ying-Hua Luo
- Department of Grass Science, College of Animal Science & Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, China
| | - Xian-Ji Piao
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Daqing, 163316, China
| | - Yu-Chao Feng
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, College of Food Science & Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science & Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, China
| | - Wan-Ting Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science & Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science & Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, China
| | - Tong Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science & Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, China
| | - Shi-Nong Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science & Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, China
| | - Hui Xue
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science & Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, China
| | - Hong-Xing Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science & Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, China
| | - Long-Kui Cao
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, College of Food Science & Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, China. .,National Coarse Cereals Engineering Research Center, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Cheng-Hao Jin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science & Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, China. .,Department of Food Science and Engineering, College of Food Science & Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, China. .,National Coarse Cereals Engineering Research Center, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China.
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Hu X, Teng S, He J, Sun X, Du M, Kou L, Wang X. Pharmacological basis for application of scutellarin in Alzheimer's disease: Antioxidation and antiapoptosis. Mol Med Rep 2018; 18:4289-4296. [PMID: 30221730 PMCID: PMC6172399 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2018.9482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Scutellarin (SC), mainly extracted from the Chinese herb Erigeron breviscapus (vant.), has been reported to possess various pharmacological activities; however, its effects on Alzheimer's disease (AD) have not been systemically reported. The protective effects of SC on AD were investigated using an L‑glutamic acid (L‑Glu)‑damaged HT22 cell apoptosis model and an aluminum chloride plus D‑galactose‑induced AD mouse model. In L‑Glu‑damaged HT22 cells, SC significantly increased cell viability, inhibited lactate dehydrogenase release, reduced caspase‑3 activity and suppressed apoptosis, which were determined via an MTT assay, an in vitro Toxicology Assay kit, a Caspase‑3 activity assay kit, and propidium iodide and Annexin V staining. Furthermore, SC suppressed the accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), restored the dissipation of mitochondrial membrane potential, enhanced the expression of antiapoptotic proteins and reduced the expression of pro‑apoptotic proteins, as determined by immunofluorescence assays and western blotting. In AD mice, SC enhanced vertical and horizontal movements in an autonomic activity test, and reduced the escape latency time in the water maze test. SC reduced the deposition of amyloid β1‑42 (Aβ1‑42) and the expression of phosphorylated‑Tau in the hippocampus as determined by immunohistochemistry analysis, but enhanced the serum levels of Aβ1‑42 of AD mice as determined by ELISA. ELISA analyses also revealed that SC enhanced the levels of acetylcholine, and superoxide dismutase in serum and brain lysate, whereas reduced the levels of ROS in brain lysate of AD mice. The present study confirmed that the protective effects of SC in AD in vitro and in vivo are associated with its antioxidant and antiapoptotic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Hu
- Faculty of Clinical Medicine, Changchun Medical College, Changchun, Jilin 130031, P.R. China
| | - Shanshan Teng
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 13001, P.R. China
| | - Jiawei He
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 13001, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoqi Sun
- Faculty of Clinical Medicine, Changchun Medical College, Changchun, Jilin 130031, P.R. China
| | - Mingzhao Du
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 13001, P.R. China
| | - Ling Kou
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 13001, P.R. China
| | - Xiaofeng Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 13001, P.R. China
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Flavonoids Effects on Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Murine Models: A Systematic Review. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2018; 2018:6328970. [PMID: 29681978 PMCID: PMC5850900 DOI: 10.1155/2018/6328970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second most common cause of cancer deaths worldwide. It occurs primarily as manifestation of other pathological processes, such as viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, and toxin exposure that affect directly the cellular process. Studies were selected from PubMed and Scopus databases according to the PRISMA statement. The research filters were constructed using three parameters: flavonoids, hepatocellular carcinoma, and animal model. The bias analysis of the 34 selected works was done using the ARRIVE guidelines. The most widely used flavonoid in the studies was epigallocatechin gallate extracted from green tea. In general, the treatment with different flavonoids presented inhibition of tumor growth and antiangiogenic, antimetastatic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. The bias analysis evidenced the absence of methodological processes in all studies, such as the age or weight of the animals, the method of flavonoids' extraction, or the experimental designs, analytical methods, and outcome measures. It has been known that flavonoids have a protective effect against HCC. However, the absence or incomplete characterization of the animal models, treatment protocols, and phytochemical and toxicity analyses impaired the internal validity of the individual studies, making it difficult to determine the effectiveness of plant-derived products in the treatment of HCC.
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9
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Huang CH, Chan WH. Protective Effects of Liquiritigenin against Citrinin-Triggered, Oxidative-Stress-Mediated Apoptosis and Disruption of Embryonic Development in Mouse Blastocysts. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18122538. [PMID: 29186930 PMCID: PMC5751141 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18122538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2017] [Revised: 11/24/2017] [Accepted: 11/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The mycotoxin citrinin (CTN), a natural contaminant in foodstuffs and animal feeds, exerts cytotoxic and genotoxic effects on various mammalian cells and embryos. A previous investigation by our group revealed potentially hazardous effects of CTN on mouse oocyte maturation and pre- and post-implantation embryo development via the induction of apoptosis. The present study showed that CTN induces apoptosis and inhibits cell proliferation in the inner cell mass of mouse blastocysts. Notably, we observed for the first time that both these effects are suppressed by liquiritigenin (LQ). LQ is a type of flavonoid isolated from Glycyrrhiza radix with several biochemical and pharmacological activities, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The preincubation of blastocysts with LQ clearly prevented CTN-induced disruption of pre- and post-implantation embryonic development and fetal weight loss, both in vitro and in vivo. CTN-induced damage processes directly promoted reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and activation of caspase-9 and caspase-3, which were effectively blocked by LQ. Moreover, in an animal model, intravenous injection of dams with CTN (3 mg/kg/day) triggered apoptosis of blastocysts, disruption of embryonic development from the zygote to the blastocyst stage and a decrease in fetal weight. Pre-injection with LQ (5 mg/kg/day) effectively reduced apoptosis and impaired the cytotoxic effects of CTN on development. Our in vivo findings further confirm that CTN exposure via injection has the potential to impair pre- and post-implantation development, leading to apoptosis and the suppression of sequent embryonic development, which can be effectively prevented by LQ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Hsun Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health & Welfare, Taoyuan City 33004, Taiwan.
| | - Wen-Hsiung Chan
- Department of Bioscience Technology and Center for Nanotechnology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung Li District, Taoyuan City 32023, Taiwan.
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.
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10
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Kim H, Ham S, Lee JY, Jo A, Lee GH, Lee YS, Cho M, Shin HM, Kim D, Pletnikova O, Troncoso JC, Shin JH, Lee YI, Lee Y. Estrogen receptor activation contributes to RNF146 expression and neuroprotection in Parkinson's disease models. Oncotarget 2017; 8:106721-106739. [PMID: 29290984 PMCID: PMC5739769 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.21828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 09/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
RNF146 is an E3 ubiquitin ligase that specifically recognizes and polyubiquitinates poly (ADP-ribose) (PAR)-conjugated substrates for proteasomal degradation. RNF146 has been shown to be neuroprotective against PAR polymerase-1 (PARP1)-induced cell death during stroke. Here we report that RNF146 expression and RNF146 inducers can prevent cell death elicited by Parkinson’s disease (PD)-associated and PARP1-activating stimuli. In SH-SY5Y cells, RNF146 expression conferred resistance to toxic stimuli that lead to PARP1 activation. High-throughput screen using a luciferase construct harboring the RNF146 promoter identified liquiritigenin as an RNF146 inducer. We found that RNF146 expression by liquiritigenin was mediated by estrogen receptor activation and contributed to cytoprotective effect of liquiritigenin. Finally, RNF146 expression by liquiritigenin in mouse brains provided dopaminergic neuroprotection in a 6-hydroxydopamine PD mouse model. Given the presence of PARP1 activity and RNF146 deficits in PD, it could be a potential therapeutic strategy to restore RNF146 expression by natural compounds or estrogen receptor activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyojung Kim
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, Suwon 440-746, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangwoo Ham
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, Suwon 440-746, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon Yeop Lee
- National Development Institute of Korean Medicine, Gyeongsan 38540, Republic of Korea
| | - Areum Jo
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, Suwon 440-746, Republic of Korea
| | - Gum Hwa Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Chosun University, Gwangju 501-759, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Song Lee
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, Suwon 440-746, Republic of Korea
| | - MyoungLae Cho
- National Development Institute of Korean Medicine, Gyeongsan 38540, Republic of Korea
| | - Heung-Mook Shin
- National Development Institute of Korean Medicine, Gyeongsan 38540, Republic of Korea
| | - Donghoon Kim
- Department of Neurology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Olga Pletnikova
- Department of Pathology, Division of Neuropathology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Juan C Troncoso
- Department of Neurology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Pathology, Division of Neuropathology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Joo-Ho Shin
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, Suwon 440-746, Republic of Korea.,Single Cell Network Research Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, Gyeonggi-Do 440-746, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Il Lee
- Well Aging Research Center, Daegu Geongbuk Institute of Science and Technology, Daegu 42988, South Korea.,Companion Diagnostics and Medical Technology Research Group, Daegu Geongbuk Institute of Science and Technology, Daegu 42988, South Korea
| | - Yunjong Lee
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, Suwon 440-746, Republic of Korea
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Therapeutic effects of Euphorbia Pekinensis and Glycyrrhiza glabra on Hepatocellular Carcinoma Ascites Partially Via Regulating the Frk-Arhgdib-Inpp5d-Avpr2-Aqp4 Signal Axis. Sci Rep 2017; 7:41925. [PMID: 28165501 PMCID: PMC5292954 DOI: 10.1038/srep41925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
To clarify unknown rationalities of herbaceous compatibility of Euphorbia Pekinensis (DJ) and Glycyrrhiza glabra (GC) acting on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ascites, peritoneum transcriptomics profiling of 15 subjects, including normal control (Con), HCC ascites mouse model (Mod), DJ-alone, DJ/GC-synergy and DJ/GC-antagonism treatment groups were performed on OneArray platform, followed by differentially expressed genes (DEGs) screening. DEGs between Mod and Con groups were considered as HCC ascites-related genes, and those among different drug treatment and Mod groups were identified as DJ/GC-combination-related genes. Then, an interaction network of HCC ascites-related gene-DJ/GC combination-related gene-known therapeutic target gene for ascites was constructed. Based on nodes’ degree, closeness, betweenness and k-coreness, the Frk-Arhgdib-Inpp5d-Avpr2-Aqp4 axis with highly network topological importance was demonstrated to be a candidate target of DJ/GC combination acting on HCC ascites. Importantly, both qPCR and western blot analyses verified this regulatory effects based on HCC ascites mice in vivo and M-1 collecting duct cells in vitro. Collectively, different combination designs of DJ and GC may lead to synergistic or antagonistic effects on HCC ascites partially via regulating the Frk-Arhgdib-Inpp5d-Avpr2-Aqp4 axis, implying that global gene expression profiling combined with network analysis can offer an effective way to understand pharmacological mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions.
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Tricholoma matsutake Aqueous Extract Induces Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Apoptosis via Caspase-Dependent Mitochondrial Pathway. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016. [PMID: 28018916 DOI: 10.1155/2016/9014364.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Tricholoma matsutake, one of widely accepted functional mushrooms, possesses various pharmacological activities, and its antitumor effect has become an important research point. Our study aims to evaluate the cytotoxicity activities of T. matsutake aqueous extract (TM) in HepG2 and SMMC-7721 cells. In in vitro experiments, TM strikingly reduced cell viability, promoted cell apoptosis, inhibited cell migration ability, induced excessive generation of ROS, and caused caspases cascade and mitochondrial membrane potential dissipation in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. In in vivo experiments, 14-day TM treatment strongly suppressed tumor growth in HepG2 and SMMC-7721-xenografted nude mice without influence on their body weights and liver function. Furthermore, TM increased the levels of cleaved poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP), Bad, and Bax and reduced the expressions of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) in treated cells and tumor tissues. All aforementioned results suggest that caspase-dependent mitochondrial apoptotic pathways are involved in TM-mediated antihepatocellular carcinoma.
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Tricholoma matsutake Aqueous Extract Induces Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Apoptosis via Caspase-Dependent Mitochondrial Pathway. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:9014364. [PMID: 28018916 PMCID: PMC5149606 DOI: 10.1155/2016/9014364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Tricholoma matsutake, one of widely accepted functional mushrooms, possesses various pharmacological activities, and its antitumor effect has become an important research point. Our study aims to evaluate the cytotoxicity activities of T. matsutake aqueous extract (TM) in HepG2 and SMMC-7721 cells. In in vitro experiments, TM strikingly reduced cell viability, promoted cell apoptosis, inhibited cell migration ability, induced excessive generation of ROS, and caused caspases cascade and mitochondrial membrane potential dissipation in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. In in vivo experiments, 14-day TM treatment strongly suppressed tumor growth in HepG2 and SMMC-7721-xenografted nude mice without influence on their body weights and liver function. Furthermore, TM increased the levels of cleaved poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP), Bad, and Bax and reduced the expressions of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) in treated cells and tumor tissues. All aforementioned results suggest that caspase-dependent mitochondrial apoptotic pathways are involved in TM-mediated antihepatocellular carcinoma.
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Alrushaid S, Davies NM, Martinez SE, Sayre CL. Pharmacological characterization of liquiritigenin, a chiral flavonoid in licorice. Res Pharm Sci 2016; 11:355-365. [PMID: 27920817 PMCID: PMC5122824 DOI: 10.4103/1735-5362.192484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Liquiritigenin is a chiral flavonoid present in plant based food, nutraceuticals, and traditional medicines. It is also an important ingredient present in licorice. The purpose of this study is to explore the pharmacological activity of racemic liquiritigenin utilizing several in vitro assays with relevant roles in colon cancer and diabetes. Where possible, the pure enantiomers were tested to identify the stereospecific contribution to the activity. In vitro antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory activities (cyclooxygenase inhibition), antidiabetic activities (alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase inhibition) as well as cytochrome P450 (CYP450) inhibitory activities were assessed. Racemic liquiritigenin demonstrated a dose-dependent inhibition of alpha-amylase enzyme whereas its pure enantiomers did not. Racemic liquiritigenin showed moderate antiproliferative activity on a HT-29 (human colorectal adenocarcinoma) cancer cell line that was dose-dependent and potent inhibitory effects on the cyclooxygenase-2 enzyme. The flavonoid did not inhibit the activity of cytochrome CYP2D6 over the concentration range studied but was a potent antioxidant. The current study demonstrated the importance of understanding the stereospecific pharmacological effects of liquiritigenin enantiomers in alpha-amylase inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samaa Alrushaid
- College of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Neal M Davies
- College of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Stephanie E Martinez
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States
| | - Casey L Sayre
- College of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada; College of Pharmacy, Roseman University of Health Sciences, South Jordan, Utah, United States
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Sareddy GR, Vadlamudi RK. Cancer therapy using natural ligands that target estrogen receptor beta. Chin J Nat Med 2015; 13:801-807. [PMID: 26614454 PMCID: PMC4896163 DOI: 10.1016/s1875-5364(15)30083-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) is one of the two key receptors (ERα, ERβ) that facilitate biological actions of 17β-estradiol (E2). ERβ is widely expressed in many tissues, and its expression is reduced or lost during progression of many tumors. ERβ facilitates estrogen signaling by both genomic (classical and non-classical) and extra-nuclear signaling. Emerging evidence suggests that ERβ functions as a tissue-specific tumor suppressor with anti-proliferative actions. Recent studies have identified a number of naturally available selective ERβ agonists. Targeting ERβ using its naturally available ligands is an attractive approach for treating and preventing cancers. This review presents the beneficial actions of ERβ signaling and clinical utility of several natural ERβ ligands as potential cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gangadhara R Sareddy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Ratna K Vadlamudi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; Cancer Therapy & Research Center, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
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16
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Liquiritigenin Protects Rats from Carbon Tetrachloride Induced Hepatic Injury through PGC-1α Pathway. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2015. [PMID: 26199636 PMCID: PMC4496487 DOI: 10.1155/2015/649568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The lack of effective treatment for liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinomas imposes serious challenges to the healthcare system. Here, we investigated the efficacy and mechanism of liquiritigenin involved in preventing or retarding the progression of liver diseases in a rat model with chronic carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) exposure. Sprague Dawley rats were given CCl4 and lliquiritigenin alone or simultaneously for 8 weeks before liver was harvested to check histological changes by Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining, apoptosis by TUNEL assay, ROS by dihydroethidium staining, antioxidant enzyme activities and malondialdehyde using specific kits, and gene expression by quantitative real-time PCR and western blot. Chronic CCl4 exposure caused profound changes in liver histology with extensive hepatocyte death (necrosis and apoptosis), fat accumulation, and infiltration of inflammatory cells, accompanied by depressed activities of antioxidant enzymes, increased oxidative stress, elevated expression of inflammation and fibrotic genes, and downregulation of PGC-1α, ND1, and Bcl-x in rat liver. All these changes were abolished or alleviated by lliquiritigenin. The results demonstrated that liquiritigenin is effective in protecting liver from injury or treating chronic liver diseases. The modulation of PGC-1α and its downstream genes might play a critical role in relieving CCl4-induced hepatic pathogenesis by liquiritigenin.
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Su CC, Chen JYF, Din ZH, Su JH, Yang ZY, Chen YJ, Wang RYL, Wu YJ. 13-acetoxysarcocrassolide induces apoptosis on human gastric carcinoma cells through mitochondria-related apoptotic pathways: p38/JNK activation and PI3K/AKT suppression. Mar Drugs 2014; 12:5295-315. [PMID: 25342459 PMCID: PMC4210900 DOI: 10.3390/md12105295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2014] [Revised: 10/15/2014] [Accepted: 10/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
13-acetoxysarcocrassolide (13-AC), an active compound isolated from cultured Formosa soft coral Sarcophyton crassocaule, was found to possess anti-proliferative and apoptosis-inducing activities against AGS (human gastric adenocarcinoma cells) gastric carcinoma cells. The anti-tumor effects of 13-AC were determined by MTT assay, colony formation assessment, cell wound-healing assay, TUNEL/4,6-Diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining, Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide (PI) staining and flow cytometry. 13-AC inhibited the growth and migration of gastric carcinoma cells in a dose-dependent manner and induced both early and late apoptosis as assessed by flow cytometer analysis. 13-AC-induced apoptosis was confirmed through observation of a change in ΔΨm, up-regulated expression levels of Bax and Bad proteins, down-regulated expression levels of Bcl-2, Bcl-xl and Mcl-1 proteins, and the activation of caspase-3, caspase-9, p38 and JNK. Furthermore, inhibition of p38 and JNK activity by pretreatment with SB03580 (a p38-specific inhibitor) and SP600125 (a JNK-specific inhibitor) led to rescue of the cell cytotoxicity of 13-AC-treated AGS cells, indicating that the p38 and the JNK pathways are also involved in the 13-AC-induced cell apoptosis. Together, these results suggest that 13-AC induces cell apoptosis against gastric cancer cells through triggering of the mitochondrial-dependent apoptotic pathway as well as activation of the p38 and JNK pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Chyuan Su
- Antai Medical Care Cooperation Antai Tian-Sheng Memorial Hospital, Pingtung 92842, Taiwan.
| | - Jeff Yi-Fu Chen
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
| | - Zhong-Hao Din
- Graduate Institute of Applied Healthy and Biotechnology, Meiho University, Pingtung 91202, Taiwan.
| | - Jui-Hsin Su
- National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium, Pingtung 94446, Taiwan.
| | - Zih-Yan Yang
- Graduate Institute of Food Science, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 91202, Taiwan.
| | - Yi-Jen Chen
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
| | - Robert Y L Wang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Research Center for Emerging Viral Infections, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan.
| | - Yu-Jen Wu
- Department of Beauty Science, Meiho University, Pingtung 91202, Taiwan.
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Studies on the Identification of Constituents in Ethanol Extract of Radix Glycyrrhizae and Their Anti-Primary Hepatoma Cell Susceptibility. J CHEM-NY 2014. [DOI: 10.1155/2014/134379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this paper is to study the chemical constituents of Radix Glycyrrhizae and to apply the resulting natural products in the study of drug susceptibility of hepatoma cells so as to provide a scientific basis for quality standards and clinical application of medicinal Radix Glycyrrhizae. Chromatographic materials were used for isolation and purification; structural identification was performed based on physicochemical properties and spectral data. MTT colorimetry was used to detect the proliferation inhibition rate against primary hepatoma cells by natural products, and flow cytometry was used to detect the changes in cell cycle progression. Five compounds were isolated and identified, namely, liquiritigenin (1), liquiritin (2), isoliquiritigenin (3), betulinic acid (4), and oleanolic acid (5). In the study, 5-FU (5-fluorouracil) is used as a positive control to the hepatoma cells. Primary hepatoma cells were highly susceptible to 5-FU and liquiritigenin, both of which markedly inhibited the proliferation of hepatoma cells; flow cytometry results showed an increase in G0/G1 phase cells, a decrease in S phase cells, and a relative increase in G2/M phase cells. Primary hepatoma cells are highly susceptible to liquiritigenin, a natural product; the testing of tumor cell susceptibility is of important significance to the improvement of therapeutic effect of cancer.
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