Modulation of Aromatase by Phytoestrogens

Mechanisms of Action of Phytoestrogens and Their Role in Familial Adenomatous Polyposis

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a rare disease characterized by the development of adenomatous polyps in the colon and rectum already in adolescence. If left untreated, patients develop colorectal cancer (CRC) with a 100% probability. To date, the gold standard of FAP management is surgery, which is associated with morbidity and mortality. A chemopreventive agent capable of delaying, preventing and reversing the development of CRC has been sought. Several classes of drugs have been used but to date no chemopreventive drug has been found for the management of this disease. In recent years, the importance of estrogen receptors in FAP and CRC, particularly the β subtype, has emerged. Indeed, the expression of the latter is strongly reduced in adenomatous polyps and CRC and is inversely correlated with the aggressiveness of the disease. Since phytoestrogens have a high affinity for this receptor, they have been suggested for use as chemopreventive agents in FAP and CRC. A combination of phytoestrogens and insoluble fibres has proved particularly effective. In this review, the various mechanisms of action of phytoestrogens were analyzed and the effectiveness of using phytoestrogens as an effective chemopreventive strategy was discussed.

A mechanistic toxicology study to grasp the mechanics of zearalenone estrogenicity: Spotlighting aromatase and the effects of its genetic variability

Zearalenone (ZEN) is a mycoestrogen produced by Fusarium fungi contaminating cereals and in grain-based products threatening human and animal health due to its endocrine disrupting effects. Germane to the mechanisms of action, ZEN may activate the estrogen receptors and inhibit the estrogens-producing enzyme aromatase (CYP19A1). Both show single nucleotide variants (SNVs) among humans associated with a diverse susceptibility of being activated or inhibited. These variations might modify the endocrine disrupting action of ZEN, requiring dedicated studies to improve its toxicological understanding. This work focused on human aromatase investigating via 3D molecular modelling whether some of the SNVs reported so far (n = 434) may affect the inhibitory potential of ZEN. It has been also calculated the inhibition capability of α-zearalenol, the most prominent and estrogenically potent phase I metabolite of ZEN, toward those aromatase variants with an expected diverse sensitivity of being inhibited by ZEN. The study: i) described SNVs likely associated with a different susceptibility to ZEN and α-zearalenol inhibition - like T310S that is likely more susceptible to inhibition, or D309G and S478F that are possibly inactive variants; ii) proofed the possible existence of inter-individual susceptibility to ZEN; iii) prioritized aromatase variants for future investigations toward a better comprehension of ZEN xenoestrogenicity at an individual level.

Identifying synergistic combinations of Doxorubicin-Loaded polyquercetin nanoparticles and natural Products: Implications for breast cancer therapy

Combining chemotherapeutic agents with bioactive natural products is an attractive cancer treatment modality to reduce the dose and side effects of chemotherapy. Combination treatments with drugs having different mechanisms of action can also be beneficial in combatting the development of drug resistance by cancer cells. Nanoparticle (NP)-mediated drug delivery can further improve the therapeutic index of cytotoxic agents by enabling passive and/or active targeting to tumor tissues in vivo. Using doxorubicin (DOX) as a model chemotherapeutic agent, we developed three NP formulations based on polyquercetin (pQCT), an emerging nanocarrier platform. The NPs were co-assembled with DOX, pQCT, and either Pluronic P123, methoxy poly(ethylene glycol)-amine, or D-α-tocopheryl poly(ethylene glycol) 1000 succinate (TPGS). Physicochemical characterization of the NPs revealed them to have a spherical morphology with high monodispersity, excellent drug loading capacity, and sustained drug release. Then, the NPs were evaluated in vitro to determine their potential synergism when combined with the bioactive natural products curcumin (CUR), tannic acid (TA), and thymoquinone (TQ) against breast cancer cells (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231). Surprisingly, most of the combinations were found to be antagonistic. However, combinations containing CUR exhibited greater pro-apoptotic effects compared to the single agents, with polymer-modified pQCT NPs presenting as a promising nanoplatform for enhancing DOX's ability to promote cancer cell apoptosis. Our findings provide insights into the potential application of pQCT in nanomedicine, as well as the use of bioactive natural products in combination with DOX as a free agent and as an NP formulation in the treatment of breast cancer.

In-silico and in-vitro study reveals ziprasidone as a potential aromatase inhibitor against breast carcinoma

Aromatase enzyme plays a fundamental role in the development of estrogen receptors, and due to this functionality, the enzyme has gained significant attention as a therapeutic for reproductive disorders and cancer diseases. The currently employed aromatase inhibitors have severe side effects whereas our novel aromatase inhibitor is more selective and less toxic, therefore has greater potential to be developed as a drug. The research framework of this study is to identify a potent inhibitor for the aromatase target by profiling molecular descriptors of the ligand and to find a functional pocket in the target by docking and MD simulations. For assessing cellular and metabolic activities as indicators of cell viability and cytotoxicity, in-vitro studies were performed by using the colorimetric MTT assay. Aromatase activities were determined by a fluorometric method. Cell morphology was assessed by phase-contrast light microscopy. Flow cytometry and Annexin V-FITC/PI staining assay determined cell cycle distribution and apoptosis. This study reports that CHEMBL708 (Ziprasidone) is the most promising compound that showed excellent aromatase inhibitory activity. By using better drug design methods and experimental studies, our study identified a novel compound that could be effective as a high-potential drug candidate against aromatase enzyme. We conclude that the compound ziprasidone effectively blocks the cell cycle at the G1-S phase and induces cancer cell death. Further, in-vivo studies are vital for developing ziprasidone as an anticancer agent. Lastly, our research outcomes based on the results of the in-silico experiments may pave the way for identifying effective drug candidates for therapeutic use in breast cancer.

Rosmarinic Acid Improves Cognitive Abilities and Glucose Metabolism in Aged C57Bl/6N Mice While Disrupting Lipid Profile in Young Adults in a Sex-Dependent Fashion

A growing body of evidence suggests that regular consumption of natural products might promote healthy aging; however, their mechanisms of action are still unclear. Rosmarinic acid (RA) is a polyphenol holding anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and neuroprotective properties. The aim of this study was to characterise the efficacy of an oral administration of RA in promoting healthspan in a mouse model of physiological aging. Aged C57Bl/6 male and female (24-month-old) mice were either administered with RA (500 mg/Kg) or a vehicle in drinking bottles for 52 days while 3-month-old mice receiving the same treatment were used as controls. All subjects were assessed for cognitive abilities in the Morris water maze (MWM) and for emotionality in the elevated-plus maze test (EPM). Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) protein levels were evaluated in the hippocampus. Since the interaction between metabolic signals and cerebral functions plays a pivotal role in the etiopathogenesis of cognitive decline, the glycaemic and lipid profiles of the mice were also assessed. RA enhanced learning and memory in 24-month-old mice, an effect that was associated to improved glucose homeostasis. By contrast, the lipid profile was disrupted in young adults. This effect was associated with worse glycaemic control in males and with reduced BDNF levels in females, suggesting powerful sex-dependent effects and raising a note of caution for RA administration in young healthy adult subjects.

Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Propolis and Its Polyphenolic Compounds against Cancer

In recent years, interest in natural products such as alternative sources of pharmaceuticals for numerous chronic diseases, including tumors, has been renewed. Propolis, a natural product collected by honeybees, and polyphenolic/flavonoid propolis-related components modulate all steps of the cancer progression process. Anticancer activity of propolis and its compounds relies on various mechanisms: cell-cycle arrest and attenuation of cancer cells proliferation, reduction in the number of cancer stem cells, induction of apoptosis, modulation of oncogene signaling pathways, inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases, prevention of metastasis, anti-angiogenesis, anti-inflammatory effects accompanied by the modulation of the tumor microenvironment (by modifying macrophage activation and polarization), epigenetic regulation, antiviral and bactericidal activities, modulation of gut microbiota, and attenuation of chemotherapy-induced deleterious side effects. Ingredients from propolis also "sensitize" cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents, likely by blocking the activation of the transcription factor nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB). In this review, we summarize the current knowledge related to the the effects of flavonoids and other polyphenolic compounds from propolis on tumor growth and metastasizing ability, and discuss possible molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in the modulation of inflammatory pathways and cellular processes that affect survival, proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis, and metastasis of the tumor.

Drug-herb combination therapy in cancer management

Cancer is the second leading cause of fatality all over the world. Various unwanted side effects are being reported with the use of conventional chemotherapy. The plant derived bioactive compounds are the prominent alternative medicinal approach for reduction of chemotherapy associated side effects. The data is collected from Pubmed, Sci-hub, Google scholar, and Research gate were systematically searched up to year 2020. Several herbal drugs have been investigated and found with grateful anti-cancer potentials hence, it can be used in combination with chemotherapy for the depletion of associated side-effects. Herbal drugs and their extracts contain a mixture of active ingredients, which show interactions within themselves and along with chemotherapeutic agents to show either synergistic or antagonistic therapeutic effects. Therefore, it is necessary to develop alternative treatment to control chemotherapy associated side-effects. In this review, we discussed some of the significant chemical compounds, which could be efficient against cancer. This review focuses on the different herbal drugs that play an important role in the treatment of cancer and its associated side-effects. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of herbal treatment in combination with chemotherapy for cancer treatment.

Herbal Ingredients in the Prevention of Breast Cancer: Comprehensive Review of Potential Molecular Targets and Role of Natural Products

Among various cancers, breast cancer is the most prevalent type in women throughout the world. Breast cancer treatment is challenging due to complex nature of the etiology of disease. Cell division cycle alterations are often encountered in a variety of cancer types including breast cancer. Common treatments include chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy, and hormonal therapy; however, adverse effects and multidrug resistance lead to complications and noncompliance. Accordingly, there is an increasing demand for natural products from medicinal plants and foods. This review summarizes molecular mechanisms of signaling pathways in breast cancer and identifies mechanisms by which natural compounds may exert their efficacy in the treatment of breast cancer.

Chemotherapeutics activities of dietary phytoestrogens against prostate cancer: From observational to clinical studies

Prostate cancer remains one of the most frequent and deadliest malignancies in males, where the rate of disease progression is closely associated with the type of dietary intake, specifically Western-style diet. Indeed intake of the Asian diet, which contains abundant phytoestrogens, is inversely correlated with a higher risk of prostate cancer, suggesting a chemoprotective effect of phytoestrogen against cancer progression. Although the role of phytoestrogens in cancer treatment was well documented, their impact on prostate cancer is not well understood. Therefore, the present review discusses the possible chemopreventive effect of phytoestrogens, emphasizing their efficacy at the different stages of carcinogenesis. Furthermore, phytoestrogens provide a cytoprotective effect in conventional chemotherapy and enhance chemosensitivity to tumor cells, which have also been discussed. This compilation provides a solid basis for future research on phytoestrogens as a promising avenue for anticancer drug development and also recommends these beneficiary compounds in the daily diet to manage and prevent prostate cancer.

Multiple Skeletal Anomalies of Sprague Dawley Rats following Prenatal Exposure to Anastatica hierochuntica, as Delineated by a Modified Double-Staining Method

Anastatica hierochuntica (A. hierochuntica) is a plant that originates from Middle Eastern countries. This herb is commonly consumed by pregnant women to ease the process of childbirth. However, consumption of A. hierochuntica during the prenatal period may disrupt foetal development. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the potential effects of four different doses (0, 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg) of A. hierochuntica aqueous extract (AHAE) on the skeletal development of Sprague Dawley rat foetuses. The AHAE was administered from gestational day (GD) 6 till GD20. We also aimed to produce a simplified and reproducible skeletal staining procedure for proper skeletal assessment of full-term Sprague Dawley rat foetuses. Skeletal structures were stained using a modified method that utilised Alcian Blue 8GX and Alizarin Red S dyes. The staining procedure involved fixation, skinning, evisceration, cartilage staining, bone staining and clearing. Our modified staining technique has successfully showed a clear demarcation between the bone and cartilage components, which enabled objective assessment of the skeletal ossification following administration of AHAE. Some skeletal anomalies such as sacrocaudal agenesis and maxillary defect (cleft lip) were observed in 250 and 1000 mg/kg groups, respectively. These findings indicate potential toxicity effects of AHAE on the developing foetuses.

Pharmacological Properties to Pharmacological Insight of Sesamin in Breast Cancer Treatment: A Literature-Based Review Study

The use of dietary phytochemical rather than conventional therapies to treat numerous cancers is now a well-known approach in medical science. Easily available and less toxic dietary phytochemicals present in plants should be introduced in the list of phytochemical-based treatment areas. Sesamin, a natural phytochemical, may be a promising chemopreventive agent aiming to manage breast cancer. In this study, we discussed the pharmacological properties of sesamin that determine its therapeutics opportunity to be used in breast cancer treatment and other diseases. Sesamin is available in medicinal plants, especially in Sesamum indicum, and is easily metabolized by the liver. To better understand the antibreast cancer consequence of sesamin, we postulate some putative pathways related to the antibreast cancer mechanism: (1) regulation of estrogen receptor (ER-α and ER-β) activities, (2) suppressing programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) overexpression, (3) growth factor receptor inhibition, and (4) some tyrosine kinase pathways. Targeting these pathways, sesamin can modulate cell proliferation, cell cycle arrest, cell growth and viability, metastasis, angiogenesis, apoptosis, and oncogene inactivation in various in vitro and animal models. Although the actual tumor intrinsic signaling mechanism targeted by sesamin in cancer treatment is still unknown, this review summarized that this phytoestrogen suppressed NF-κB, STAT, MAPK, and PIK/AKT signaling pathways and activated some tumor suppressor protein in numerous breast cancer models. Cotreatment with γ-tocotrienol, conventional drugs, and several drug carriers systems increased the anticancer potentiality of sesamin. Furthermore, sesamin exhibited promising pharmacokinetics properties with less toxicity in the bodies. Overall, the shreds of evidence highlight that sesamin can be a potent candidate to design drugs against breast cancer. So, like other phytochemicals, sesamin can be consumed for better therapeutic advantages due to having the ability to target a plethora of molecular pathways until clinically trialed standard drugs are not available in pharma markets.

Urinary Isoflavones Levels in Relation to Serum Thyroid Hormone Concentrations in Female and Male Adults in the U.S. General Population

Isoflavones are phytoestrogens found in plant-based foods and nutritional supplements. Experimental studies show a positive association between isoflavones and hypothyroidism, but epidemiological findings are conflicting. We used multivariable linear regression to examine the association between urinary isoflavone concentrations and serum thyroid hormone concentrations in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2007-2010). In this study, we found that Daidzein and O-DMA associations with free T4 were stronger among women: a 10-fold increase in daidzein was associated with a 3.2% (95% CI: 1.9%, 4.5%) increase in women and a 0.6% (95% CI: -1.7%, 0.6%) decrease in men and a 10-fold increase in O-DMA was related to a 2.0% (95% CI: 1.1%, 2.9%) increase in women and a 0.3% (95% CI: -1.2%, 0.5%) decrease in men. In this study, selected urinary isoflavone concentrations were associated with serum thyroid hormone concentration in a sex-dependent fashion.

Beneficiary and Adverse Effects of Phytoestrogens: A Potential Constituent of Plant-based Diet

BACKGROUND

Phytoestrogens are non-endocrine, non-steroidal secondary derivatives of plants and consumed through a plant-based diet also named as "dietary estrogens". The major sources of phytoestrogens are soy and soy-based foods, flaxseed, chickpeas, green beans, dairy products, etc. The dietary inclusion of phytoestrogen based foods plays a crucial role in the maintenance of metabolic syndrome cluster, including obesity, diabetes, blood pressure, cancer, inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, postmenopausal ailments and their complications. In recent days, phytoestrogens are the preferred molecules for hormone replacement therapy. On the other hand, they act as endocrine disruptors via estrogen receptor-mediated pathways. These effects are not restricted to adult males or females and identified even in development.

OBJECTIVE

Since phytoestrogenic occurrence is high at daily meals for most people worldwide, they focused to study for its beneficiary effects towards developing pharmaceutical drugs for treating various metabolic disorders by observing endocrine disruption.

CONCLUSION

The present review emphasizes the pros and cons of phytoestrogens on human health, which may help to direct the pharmaceutical industry to produce various phytoestrongen based drugs against various metabolic disorders.

Anti-estrogenic and anti-aromatase activities of citrus peels major compounds in breast cancer

Estrogen signaling is crucial for breast cancer initiation and progression. Endocrine-based therapies comprising estrogen receptor (ER) modulators and aromatase inhibitors remain the mainstay of treatment. This study aimed at investigating the antitumor potential of the most potent compounds in citrus peels on breast cancer by exploring their anti-estrogenic and anti-aromatase activities. The ethanolic extract of different varieties of citrus peels along with eight isolated flavonoids were screened against estrogen-dependent breast cancer cell lines besides normal cells for evaluating their safety profile. Naringenin, naringin and quercetin demonstrated the lowest IC_50s and were therefore selected for further assays. In silico molecular modeling against ER and aromatase was performed for the three compounds. In vivo estrogenic and anti-estrogenic assays confirmed an anti-estrogenic activity for the isolates. Moreover, naringenin, naringin and quercetin demonstrated in vitro inhibitory potential against aromatase enzyme along with anticancer potential in vivo, as evidenced by decreased tumor volumes. Reduction in aromatase levels in solid tumors was also observed in treated groups. Overall, this study suggests an antitumor potential for naringenin, naringin and quercetin isolated from citrus peels in breast cancer via possible modulation of estrogen signaling and aromatase inhibition suggesting their use in pre- and post-menopausal breast cancer patients, respectively.

Network pharmacology-based analysis for unraveling potential cancer-related molecular targets of Egyptian propolis phytoconstituents accompanied with molecular docking and in vitro studies

Cancer is one of the predominant causes of death worldwide. The new trend nowadays is to exploit natural products with the hope of developing new anticancer agents with fewer side effects. Propolis is one of these natural products which showed effectiveness in cancer treatment. The aim of this study is to understand the multi-level mechanism of action of propolis constituents in cancer treatment using an integrated approach of network pharmacology-based analysis, molecular docking and in vitro cytotoxicity testing. An inhouse database of chemical constituents from Egyptian propolis was compiled and assessed for its ADME properties using the QikProp module in the Schrodinger software. STITCH, UniProt, STRING, KEGG and DAVID databases were used for construction of constituent-target gene, gene-pathway, and constituent-target gene-pathway networks with the aid of Cytoscape 3.8.2. The network pharmacology-based analysis showed that the hit propolis constituents related to cancer targets were genistein, luteolin, benzoic acid, quercetin and vanillic acid, whereas the main cancer-associated targets were CYP1A1, CYP19A1, ESR1, NOS3, CASP3 and AKT1. Twenty-four cancer-related pathways were recognized where the most enriched ones were pathways in cancer and estrogen signaling pathway. The most enriched biological processes involved in the mechanism of action of propolis constituents in cancer treatment were negative regulation of the apoptotic process and the metabolic process and negative regulation of cellular glucuronidation. Molecular docking analysis of the top hit compounds against the most enriched target proteins in the constructed networks was carried out using the Maestro interface of the Schrodinger software. Among hit compounds, quercetin and genistein exhibited the most stabilized interaction. Finally, confirmation of the potential anticancer activity of propolis was assured by in vitro cytotoxicity testing of propolis extract on human prostate cancer (DU-145), breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) and colorectal adenocarcinoma (Caco-2) cell lines. This study presents deeper insights about propolis molecular mechanisms of action in cancer for the first time using an integrated approach of network pharmacology, molecular docking and in vitro testing.

Gut microbiota and metabolic marker alteration following dietary isoflavone-photoperiod interaction

Introduction

The interaction between isoflavones and the gut microbiota has been highlighted as a potential regulator of obesity and diabetes. In this study, we examined the interaction between isoflavones and a shortened activity photoperiod on the gut microbiome.

Methods

Male mice were exposed to a diet containing no isoflavones (NIF) or a regular diet (RD) containing the usual isoflavones level found in a standard vivarium chow. These groups were further divided into regular (12L:12D) or short active (16L:8D) photoperiod, which mimics seasonal changes observed at high latitudes. White adipose tissue and genes involved in lipid metabolism and adipogenesis processes were analysed. Bacterial genomic DNA was isolated from fecal boli, and 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing was performed.

Results

NIF diet increased body weight and adipocyte size when compared to mice on RD. The lack of isoflavones and photoperiod alteration also caused dysregulation of lipoprotein lipase (Lpl), glucose transporter type 4 (Glut-4) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (Pparg) genes. Using 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing, we found that mice fed the NIF diet had a greater proportion of Firmicutes than Bacteroidetes when compared to animals on the RD. These alterations were accompanied by changes in the endocrine profile, with lower thyroid-stimulating hormone levels in the NIF group compared to the RD. Interestingly, the NIF group displayed increased locomotion as compared to the RD group.

Conclusion

Together, these data show an interaction between the gut bacterial communities, photoperiod length and isoflavone compounds, which may be essential for understanding and improving metabolic health.

Engagement of phytoestrogens in breast cancer suppression: Structural classification and mechanistic approach

Cancer is the world's devastating disease, and breast cancer is the most common reason for the death of women worldwide. Many synthetic drugs and medications are provided with their beneficial actions, but all of these have side effects and resistance problems. Natural remedies are coming forward to overcome the disadvantages of synthetic drugs. Among the natural categories, phytoestrogens having a structural similarity of mammalian oestradiol proves its benefit with various mechanisms not only in the treatment of breast cancer but even to prevent the occurrence of postmenopausal symptoms. Phytoestrogens are plant-derived compounds that were utilized in ancient medications and traditional knowledge for its sex hormone properties. Phytoestrogens exert pleiotropic effects on cellular signalling and show effects on estrogen-dependent diseases. However, because of activation/inhibition of steroid hormonal receptor ER-α or ER-β, these compounds induce or inhibit steroid hormonal (estrogen) action and, therefore, have the potential to disrupt hormone (estrogen) signalling pathway. In this review, we have discussed and summarize the effect of certain phytoestrogens and their possible mechanisms that can substantiate advantageous benefits for the treatment of post-menopausal symptoms as well as for breast cancer.

Polyphenols in Farm Animals: Source of Reproductive Gain or Waste?

Reproduction is a complex process that is substantially affected by environmental cues, specifically feed/diet and its components. Farm animals as herbivorous animals are exposed to a large amount of polyphenols present in their natural feeding system, in alternative feed resources (shrubs, trees, and agro-industrial byproducts), and in polyphenol-enriched additives. Such exposure has increased because of the well-known antioxidant properties of polyphenols. However, to date, the argumentation around the impacts of polyphenols on reproductive events is debatable. Accordingly, the intensive inclusion of polyphenols in the diets of breeding animals and in media for assisted reproductive techniques needs further investigation, avoiding any source of reproductive waste and achieving maximum benefits. This review illustrates recent findings connecting dietary polyphenols consumption from different sources (conventional and unconventional feeds) with the reproductive performance of farm animals, underpinned by the findings of in vitro studies in this field. This update will help in formulating proper diets, optimizing the introduction of new plant species, and feed additives for improving reproductive function, avoiding possible reproductive wastes and maximizing possible benefits.

Estrogenic Effect of Scoparia dulcis (Linn) Extract in Mice Uterus and In Silico Molecular Docking Studies of Certain Compounds with Human Estrogen Receptors

Background:

Scoparia dulcis Linn. is reported to be used by women of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh in northeast India for treating menstrual disorders. Scoparia dulcis contains compounds that bind with estrogen receptors (ERα and ERβ) evidenced by increased PCNA in endometrial epithelium.

Methods:

Crude extract was orally administered at the dose of 500 mg/kg body weight/day to the female mice (60–70 days old) in five different groups. Each group containing six females included: (I) cyclic control, (II) cyclic extract treated, (III) Ovariectomized (OVX)-vehicle treated (Control), (IV) OVX-E2 treated (V) OVX- extract treated. Extract was administered for eight days to the cyclic groups and three days to the OVX groups. PCNA was detected immunohistochemically in uterine tissues and signals were analyzed by Image J software (NIH, USA). Compounds were separated by GC-MS and identified using NIST. In silico molecular docking studies was performed with human estrogen receptors (ERα and ERβ). Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of the best interacting compound was done using gromacs.

Results:

The results showed cell proliferation in the uterine endometrium evidenced by PCNA. Two phytocompounds, Octadecanoic acid and methyl stearate showed binding affinity with ERα and ERβ.

Conclusion:

Scoparia dulcis contains compounds having binding affinity with ERα and ERβ. The present study is the first report on compounds from Scoparia dulcis showing binding affinity with human estrogen receptors which may have biological effect on female reproduction.

Potential toxicity effects of Anastatica hierochuntica aqueous extract on prenatal development of Sprague-Dawley rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Anastatica hierochuntica (A. hierochuntica) is a plant consumed in folk medicine for the treatment of reproductive system related problems and metabolic disorders. It is of concern that the herb is commonly consumed by pregnant women towards the end of pregnancy to ease the process of labour, despite the lack of studies evaluating its safety.

AIM OF THIS STUDY

This study aimed to investigate the potential toxicity effects of A. hierochuntica in pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats and their developing foetuses.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Experiments were conducted in accordance to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development guideline 414. Animals were randomly divided into four groups (n = 10 females per group): negative control (received the vehicle only), experimental animals received 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg A. hierochuntica aqueous extracts (AHAE), respectively. Treatment was administered daily by oral gavage from gestational day (GD) 6-20, and caesarian section performed on GD21.

RESULTS

There were significant reduction in the corrected maternal weight gain of dams and body weight of foetuses in the lowest and highest dose of AHAE-treated animals compared to the control. These findings were associated with the increase in anogenital distance index and multiple congenital anomalies observed in some of the offspring. On the other hand, rats treated with 500 mg/kg showed higher embryonic survival rate with absence of significant treatment-related effect.

CONCLUSION

Findings showed that highest and lowest doses of AHAE have prenatal toxicity effects in SD rats. Therefore, AHAE is potentially harmful to the developing foetuses especially when consumed during the period of implantation and organogenesis. As for the rats treated with 500 mg/kg AHAE, there was no significant treatment-related effect. Hence, we postulate that this finding suggests that the disruption on the hormonal regulation could have been compensated by negative feedback response. The compensated effects of AHAE at 500 mg/kg and the presence of lowest observed adverse effect level (LOAEL) at 250 mg/kg has resulted in a non-monotonous dose response curve (NMDRC), which complicates the determination of the value of no-observed-adverse effect level (NOAEL).

Effects of Isolated Isoflavones Intake on Health

BACKGROUND

Isoflavones are naturally occurring flavonoids, commonly found in the food consumed for centuries in the East-Asian population, characterized by a structure able to exert nonsteroidal estrogen-like activity on human cells. They have attracted researcher interest all around the word, following the results obtained in epidemiological and clinical studies. The involvement of isoflavones and their metabolites in various biological processes suggests that they can influence several metabolic pathways and can influence the gene expression at epigenetic level, involving effects that probably are due to early life exposure. They show positive health effects on several diseases, especially in the prevention of coronary heart and neurological diseases, hormone-related cancers, osteoporosis, and postmenopausal symptoms.

METHODS

We have performed a critical evaluation of available literature trough a structured search of bibliographic databases about isoflavones health promoting properties, risk assessment and mechanisms of action. In addition, we supplied useful information on their biochemical properties, sources and bioavailability.

RESULTS

Although these molecules have been the subjects of numerous researches, their role for the wellness of the human organism remains controversial. Moreover, there are substantial inconsistencies between the results obtained by epidemiologic studies conducted on Eastern population, which found high health promoting properties, and Western clinical trials, which found much less positive effects.

CONCLUSION

Further epidemiologic studies and well-designed prospective human studies are to determine the beneficial effects of isoflavones exposure, as well as establishing its safe therapeutic.

Prenylflavonoid Icariin Induces Estrogen Response Element-Independent Estrogenic Responses in a Tissue-Selective Manner

Icariin, a flavonoid phytoestrogen derived from Herba epimedii, has been reported to exert estrogenic effects in bone and activate phosphorylation of estrogen receptor (ER) α in osteoblastic cells. However, it is unclear whether icariin selectively exerts estrogenic activities in bone without inducing undesirable effects in other estrogen-sensitive tissues. The present study aimed to investigate the tissue-selective estrogenic activities of icariin in estrogen-sensitive tissues in vivo and in vitro. Long-term treatment with icariin effectively prevented bone of ovariectomized (OVX) rats from estrogen deficiency–induced osteoporotic changes in bone structure, bone mineral density, and trabecular properties. Moreover, icariin regulated the transcriptional events of estrogen-responsive genes related to bone remodeling and prevented dopaminergic neurons against OVX-induced changes by rescuing expression of estrogen-regulated tyrosine hydroxylase and dopamine transporter in the striatum. Unlike estrogen, icariin did not induce estrogenic effects in the uterus and breast in mature OVX rats or immature CD-1 mice. In vitro studies demonstrated that icariin exerted estrogen-like activities and regulated the expression of estrogen-responsive genes but did not induce estrogen response element–dependent luciferase activities in ER-positive cells. Our results support the hypothesis that icariin, through its distinct mechanism of actions in activating ER, selectively exerts estrogenic activities in different tissues and cell types.

Comparative Analysis of the Effects of 17-Beta Estradiol on Proliferation, and Apoptosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Hep G2 and LCL-PI 11 Cell Lines

Background:

Phytoestrogens are a group of natural compounds with estrogen-like activity and similar structure to estradiol that structurally mimic the mammalian estrogen 17-β estradiol (E2). They have a biphasic effect and exert pleiotropic effects which induce or inhibit estrogen action by activation/inhibition of the estrogen receptors (ERs). These compounds can induce apoptosis at high concentrations. The previous finding indicated that E2 inhibited cell growth and induced apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) PLC/PRF/5 cell line. The aim of the present study was to investigate the apoptotic and proliferative effects of E2 on hepatocellular carcinoma HepG 2 and LCL-PI 11 cells.

Methods:

The Hep G2 and LCL-PI 11 cells were cultured and treated with E2 for different time periods and then MTT [3-(4, 5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl) -2, 5-diphenyl -2H- tetrazolium bromide] assay and flow cytometry assay were done to determine cell viability and cell apoptosis respectively.

Results:

E2 had inhibitory and apoptotic effects on Hep G2 cell line, whereas it indicated a biphasic effect on LCL-PI 11 cell line. The half-maximum inhibitory concentration (IC50) value was 3 μM. The inhibitory effect of E2 on Hep G2 cells was observed with all concentrations of E2 (P <0.087), whereas E2 showed a biphasic effect on LCL-PI 11. This compound induced significant apoptosis in Hep G2 cell line at the all treatment times versus control groups, whereas, in the LCL-PI 11 cell, significant apoptotic cells were observed after 72 and 96h (P <0.001).

Conclusion:

E2 can inhibit cell growth and induce apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma HepG 2 and LCL-PI 11 cell lines.

The Beneficial Effect of Proanthocyanidins and Icariin on Biochemical Markers of Bone Turnover in Rats

Nutrition is an important factor that influences bone metabolism, the endocrine and/or paracrine system, and bone-active mineral elements homeostasis. We studied antiosteoporotic effects of grape seed proanthocyanidins extract, icariin or alendronate (ALN) in retinoic acid-induced (13cRA) bone loss in rats. Proanthocyanidins and icariin have beneficial effects on bone health; they have improved the bone weight reduction, the length and the diameter of the bone, calcium, and phosphorus content in bone ash, bone mineral density (BMD), the biochemical markers of bone turnover and uterus atrophy induced by 13cRA. All results suggest that proanthocyanidins and icariin reverse osteoporosis in 13cRA rats by stimulating bone formation or regulating bone resorption by their antioxidative and estrogenic-like activity without toxic side-effects observed in ALN treatment.

Natural Products for the Management and Prevention of Breast Cancer

Among all types of cancer, breast cancer is one of the most challenging diseases, which is responsible for a large number of cancer related deaths. Hormonal therapy, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy have been used as treatment of breast cancer, for a very long time. Due to severe side effects and multidrug resistance, these treatment approaches become increasingly ineffective. However, adoption of complementary treatment approach can be a big solution for this situation, as it is evident that compounds derived from natural source have a great deal of anticancer activity. Natural compounds can fight against aggressiveness of breast cancer, inhibit cancerous cell proliferation, and modulate cancer related pathways. A large number of research works are now focusing on the natural and dietary compounds and trying to find out new and more effective treatment strategies for the breast cancer patients. In this review, we discussed some significant natural chemical compounds with their mechanisms of actions, which can be very effective against the breast cancer and can be more potent by their proper modifications and further clinical research. Future research focusing on the natural anti-breast-cancer agents can open a new horizon in breast cancer treatment, which will play a great role in enhancing the survival rate of breast cancer patients.

Diverse Phytochemicals and Bioactivities in the Ancient Fruit and Modern Functional Food Pomegranate (Punica granatum)

Having served as a symbolic fruit since ancient times, pomegranate (Punica granatum) has also gained considerable recognition as a functional food in the modern era. A large body of literature has linked pomegranate polyphenols, particularly anthocyanins (ATs) and hydrolyzable tannins (HTs), to the health-promoting activities of pomegranate juice and fruit extracts. However, it remains unclear as to how, and to what extent, the numerous phytochemicals in pomegranate may interact and exert cooperative activities in humans. In this review, we examine the structural and analytical information of the diverse phytochemicals that have been identified in different pomegranate tissues, to establish a knowledge base for characterization of metabolite profiles, discovery of novel phytochemicals, and investigation of phytochemical interactions in pomegranate. We also assess recent findings on the function and molecular mechanism of ATs as well as urolithins, the intestinal microbial derivatives of pomegranate HTs, on human nutrition and health. A better understanding of the structural diversity of pomegranate phytochemicals as well as their bioconversions and bioactivities in humans will facilitate the interrogation of their synergistic/antagonistic interactions and accelerate their applications in dietary-based cancer chemoprevention and treatment in the future.

Modulation of estrogen synthesis and metabolism by phytoestrogens in vitro and the implications for women's health

Phytoestrogens are increasingly used as dietary supplements due to their suggested health promoting properties, but also by women for breast enhancement and relief of menopausal symptoms. Generally, phytoestrogens are considered to exert estrogenic activity via estrogen receptors (ERs), but they may also affect estrogen synthesis and metabolism locally in breast, endometrial and ovarian tissues. Considering that accurate regulation of local hormone levels is crucial for normal physiology, it is not surprising that interference with hormonal synthesis and metabolism is associated with a wide variety of women's health problems, varying from altered menstrual cycle to hormone-dependent cancers. Yet, studies on phytoestrogens have mainly focused on ER-mediated effects of soy-derived phytoestrogens, with less attention paid to steroid synthesis and metabolism or other phytoestrogens. This review aims to evaluate the potential of phytoestrogens to modulate local estrogen levels and the implications for women's health. For that, an overview is provided of the effects of commonly used phytoestrogens, i.e. 8-prenylnaringenin, biochanin A, daidzein, genistein, naringenin, resveratrol and quercetin, on estrogen synthesizing and metabolizing enzymes in vitro. The potential implications for women's health are assessed by comparing the in vitro effect concentrations with blood concentrations that can be found after intake of these phytoestrogens. Based on this evaluation, it can be concluded that high-dose supplements with phytoestrogens might affect breast and endometrial health or fertility in women via the modulation of steroid hormone levels. However, more data regarding the tissue levels of phytoestrogens and effect data from dedicated, tissue-specific assays are needed for a better understanding of potential risks. At least until more certainty regarding the safety has been established, especially young women would better avoid using supplements containing high doses of phytoestrogens.

Anti-GD2-ch14.18/CHO coated nanoparticles mediate glioblastoma (GBM)-specific delivery of the aromatase inhibitor, Letrozole, reducing proliferation, migration and chemoresistance in patient-derived GBM tumor cells

Aromatase is a critical enzyme in the irreversible conversion of androgens to oestrogens, with inhibition used clinically in hormone-dependent malignancies. We tested the hypothesis that targeted aromatase inhibition in an aggressive brain cancer called glioblastoma (GBM) may represent a new treatment strategy. In this study, aromatase inhibition was achieved using third generation inhibitor, Letrozole, encapsulated within the core of biodegradable poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs). PLGA-NPs were conjugated to human/mouse chimeric anti-GD2 antibody ch14.18/CHO, enabling specific targeting of GD2-positive GBM cells. Treatment of primary and recurrent patient-derived GBM cells with free-Letrozole (0.1 μM) led to significant decrease in cell proliferation and migration; in addition to reduced spheroid formation. Anti-GD2-ch14.18/CHO-NPs displayed specific targeting of GBM cells in colorectal-glioblastoma co-culture, with subsequent reduction in GBM cell numbers when treated with anti-GD2-ch14.18-PLGA-Let-NPs in combination with temozolomide. As miR-191 is an estrogen responsive microRNA, its expression, fluctuation and role in Letrozole treated GBM cells was evaluated, where treatment with premiR-191 was capable of rescuing the reduced proliferative phenotype induced by aromatase inhibitor. The repurposing and targeted delivery of Letrozole for the treatment of GBM, with the potential role of miR-191 identified, provides novel avenues for target assessment in this aggressive brain cancer.

Resveratrol, 4' Acetoxy Resveratrol, R-equol, Racemic Equol or S-equol as Cosmeceuticals to Improve Dermal Health

Phytochemicals are botanical compounds used in dermatology applications as cosmeceuticals to improve skin health. Resveratrol and equol are two of the best-known polyphenolic or phytoestrogens having similar chemical structures and some overlapping biological functions to 17β-estradiol. Human skin gene expression was reviewed for 28 different biomarkers when resveratrol, 4′ acetoxy resveratrol (4AR), R-equol, racemic equol or S-equol were tested. Sirtuin 1 activator (SIRT 1) was stimulated by resveratrol and 4AR only. Resveratrol, R-equol and racemic equol were effective on the aging biomarkers proliferating cell nuclear factor (PCNA), nerve growth factor (NGF), 5α-reductase and the calcium binding proteins S100 A8 and A9. Racemic equol and 4AR displayed among the highest levels for the collagens, elastin and tissue inhibitor of the matrix metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP 1). S-equol displayed the lowest level of effectiveness compared to the other compounds. The 4AR analog was more effective compared to resveratrol by 1.6-fold. R-equol and racemic equol were almost equal in potency displaying greater inhibition vs. resveratrol or its 4′ analog for the matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), but among the inflammatory biomarkers, resveratrol, 4AR, R-equol and racemic equol displayed high inhibition. Thus, these cosmeceuticals display promise to improve dermal health; however, further study is warranted to understand how phytochemicals protect/enhance the skin.