Icariin-Curcumol promotes docetaxel sensitivity in prostate cancer through modulation of the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and the Warburg effect

Curcumol Ameliorates Cisplatin-induced Nephrotoxicity by Targeting TAK1 and Inhibiting MAPK and NF-κB Pathways

BACKGROUND

Although cisplatin (Cis) is a foundational chemotherapeutic agent, its dose-limiting nephrotoxicity lacks clinically effective drugs. Curcumol (CUR), a bioactive sesquiterpenoid derived from Curcuma zedoariae rhizome, exhibits multi-organ protective effects. However, its therapeutic potential and molecular targets in Cis-provoked acute kidney injury (AKI) remain unexplored.

PURPOSE

This study systematically investigated the nephroprotection and underlying mechanism of CUR in Cis-induced nephrotoxicity.

METHODS

C57BL/6 mice received intraperitoneal administration of 20 mg/kg Cis to induce AKI. Dual-concentration CUR (40/80 mg/kg) was administered pre- and post-treatment in Cis-challenged mice, with longitudinal monitoring of renal function. Human tubular epithelial cells (HK-2 cells) were used to evaluate CUR's nephroprotection in vitro. RNA-sequencing transcriptomics identified pathway-level mechanisms, while structure-based molecular docking (MOD) prioritized target proteins.

RESULTS

CUR exhibited dose-responsive nephroprotection, reducing apoptosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation more effectively than N-acetylcysteine in pre- and post-Cis treatment regimens. Mechanistically, we revealed that nephroprotection of CUR primarily involves suppression of phosphorylation-mediated MAPK/NF-κB pathway activation, thereby mitigating the inflammatory response. Notably, MOD and Cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA) data suggested a direct interaction between CUR and TAK1. Functional validation experiments demonstrated that TAK1 silencing attenuated cisplatin-induced tubular cell injury, and TAK1 activity was essential for CUR's protective effects.

CONCLUSION

CUR ameliorated Cis-triggered AKI by targeting TAK1 and inhibiting MAPK and NF-κB pathways. These findings suggest that CUR may serve as a promising adjuvant to overcome the primary limitation of Cis.

Metabolic Plasticity in Prostate Cancer: The Warburg Effect and Its Clinical Relevance

OBJECTIVES

This paper examines the life and research of Otto Warburg (1883 to 1970), who identified the so-called Warburg effect. Warburg personal life and scientific career were notable.

METHODS

This study summarizes the key aspects of his life, the Warburg effect, and its significance in prostate cancer.

RESULTS

Despite being classified as non-Aryan, Warburg continued his research as the director of the Kaiser Wilhelm Institute for Cell Physiology during World War II. He also cohabited openly with a male partner. The Warburg effect is a metabolic hallmark of cancer, where cells preferentially utilize glycolysis over oxidative phosphorylation, even in the presence of oxygen. This metabolic shift confers key advantages to tumor survival, including rapid ATP production, biosynthetic support for proliferation, and resistance to apoptosis. In prostate cancer, the metabolism undergoes a unique transformation. Normal prostate cells are characterized by citrate secretion; however, as malignancy develops, the cells adapt to oxidative metabolism. At the metastatic stage, the Warburg effect becomes more pronounced and is influenced by the tumor microenvironment and interactions with cancer-associated fibroblasts and bone marrow adipocytes. These metabolic changes have significant clinical implications. While FDG-PET scans serve as a diagnostic tool in many cancers, their utility in early-stage prostate cancer is limited owing to its delayed metabolic shift. Metabolic-targeted therapies, such as dichloroacetate (DCA) and glycolysis inhibitors, are emerging as promising strategies to enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Elucidating the role of metabolic reprogramming in prostate cancer could reveal new avenues for treatment, particularly for castration-resistant and metastatic diseases.

Epimedium and its chemical constituents in cancer treatment: A comprehensive review of traditional applications, antitumor effects, pharmacokinetics, delivery systems, and toxicology

ETHNIC PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Epimedium, recognized within traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as a tonic, is noted for its role in enhancing kidney Yang, fortifying muscles and bones, and alleviating wind and dampness. It also exhibits therapeutic and preventive properties against cancer. This study systematically analyzes the botany, traditional uses, principal chemical components, antitumor mechanisms, pharmacokinetics, toxicology, and drug delivery systems of Epimedium. It aims to further prospect the antitumor capabilities of Epimedium based on existing research.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This review aims to explore the traditional antitumor applications of Epimedium and the contemporary pharmacological actions of its chemical components, providing robust theoretical support for further elucidating Epimedium's antitumor mechanisms. It also offers a comprehensive view for the research and development of cancer treatments involving Epimedium.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted searches in classical Chinese herbal medicine resources, PubMed, Web of Science, Wanfang Database, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) for studies on the antitumor effects of Epimedium and its components. Existing experimental and clinical studies were systematically summarized and analyzed to understand the mechanisms by which Epimedium treats cancer.

RESULTS

In the realm of Chinese medicine, Epimedium is recognized for its cancer-treating capabilities. Besides its traditional effects, flavonoids and polysaccharides from Epimedium can inhibit tumor cell proliferation, induce apoptosis, promote autophagy, reduce drug resistance, and improve the tumor immune microenvironment (TIM), addressing cancers of the digestive system, such as liver, colon, and gastric cancers, and of the reproductive system, including breast, cervical, and ovarian cancers. Although the bioavailability of Epimedium flavonoids is low due to rapid absorption and elimination, the use of nanotechnology has significantly enhanced the efficacy of targeted antitumor therapies. Nevertheless, the mechanisms and safety of Epimedium in cancer treatment merit further investigation. Despite its low acute and long-term toxicity, additional research is required to clarify its hepatotoxicity, particularly in vivo, and to further explore its metabolic pathways, distribution, and mechanisms within the body.

CONCLUSION

Epimedium and its chemical constituents have been shown to inhibit tumor initiation and progression, however, further clinical studies are required to validate these findings. Despite its potential, significant limitations remain in the current research on Epimedium, necessitating more comprehensive studies on its potent bioactive components, potential pharmacological effects, and administration methods.

One new prenylated flavonoid with cytotoxic activity from Epimedium brevicornu maxim

One previously undescribed prenylated flavonoid (1) and three known ones (2-4) were isolated from leaves of Epimedium brevicornu maxim. Their structures were determined through extensive spectroscopic analysis and comparison with the NMR data in the literature. Compound 1 showed a moderate cytotoxicity with an IC50 value of 18.7 μM, while known compounds 2 and 3 elicited weak cytotoxicities with IC50 values of 29.2 and 32.8 μM against Lewis Lung cancer cells (LLC cells), respectively.

Bibliometric analysis of glycolysis and prostate cancer research from 2004 to 2024

BACKGROUND

Prostate cancer (PCa) ranks as the second most common disease among men and the fourth most prevalent cancer worldwide. Enhanced glycolysis and excessive lactate secretion are recognized as critical factors driving the progression of various cancers. This study systematically investigated the research trends associated with glycolysis in PCa through bibliometric analysis.

METHOD

In this study, we conducted a systematic search of the Web of Science and PubMed databases for literature pertaining to the glycolysis of PCa that was published between January 1, 2004, and June 30, 2024. To achieve this objective, we employed CiteSpace software to generate visualizations that illustrate countries/regions, institutions, journals, and keywords. Additionally, we extracted pertinent quantitative data. Furthermore, we utilized VOSviewer software to create a collaboration network map among various journals.

RESULTS

Between 2004 and 2024, a total of 408 research articles on glycolysis in PCa were published, indicating a consistent upward trend in the annual publication rate. In this field, the United States not only leads in the volume of research papers but also has the highest degree of centrality. The journal "Cancer Research" is recognized as the most influential in the field, whereas "Prostate and Cancer" serves as a significant platform for disseminating research related to glycolysis in PCa. Keyword analysis has identified four primary research directions that have dominated this field over the past two decades. The role of glycolysis and its associated enzymes in PCa underpins this research. Glycolysis has also demonstrated significant clinical value in the diagnosis and prognosis of PCa. Moreover, drugs targeting glycolytic inhibitors and natural products have exhibited therapeutic potential against this disease. By modulating glycolytic mechanisms, there is potential to increase resistance in PCa. Currently, leading research in this area encompasses the application of nanotechnology to PCa glycolysis, the roles of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) in this metabolic pathway, and the interactions between glycolysis and other biological processes in PCa.

CONCLUSION

This study employs bibliometric analysis to provide a comprehensive overview of research on glycolysis in PCa over the past two decades. It highlights the current state of knowledge in this field, identifies key research hotspots, and explores emerging frontiers, particularly nanotechnology, lncRNA, and miRNA, which are driving innovative research directions.

Micellar curcumol for maintenance therapy of ovarian cancer by activating the FOXO3a

Maintenance therapy (MT) for ovarian cancer (OC) is crucial for preventing disease relapse. Curcumol shows effective anti-OC ability and low-toxicity to the normal ovarian epithelial cells, however, its bioavailability is low. Herein, micellar loaded curcumol (MC) was prepared and the anti-tumor ability of MC were performed on OC cells. The results indicated that the IC50 values of MC in two kinds of OC cells were 37.69 ± 2.43 and 28.54 ± 1.58 μg/mL, respectively. Mechanistically, curcumol could interact with the AKTThr308 site, inhibiting the phosphorylation of FOXO3a, which promoted FOXO3a nuclear locating and recruited it to the PERK promoter, activating the ERS induced apoptosis pathway. Moreover, MC inhibited the growth of SKOV3 cells on tumor-bearing nude mice and the DiR-labeled MC could quickly accumulate in the tumor region. MC provides great feasibility to achieve efficient MT for OC based on the nanoplatforms of active ingredients from natural products.

The role of ESM1 in the lipids metabolic reprogramming and angiogenesis of lung adenocarcinoma cells

Background

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is one of the respiratory diseases with high mortality and incidence. As an important angiogenic factor, (Endothelial cell-specific molecule 1) ESM1 plays an important role in the occurrence and development of LUAD. However, the role and molecular mechanism of ESM1 on LUAD metabolic reprogramming and angiogenesis remain unclear.

Methods

We used multiple databases to analyze the prognostic significance and potential function of ESM1 in patients with LUAD. The expression of ESM1 in LUAD cells was down-regulated/overexpressed by RNA interference, and the effects of ESM1 on the proliferation, migration, lipid metabolism and angiogenesis of LUAD cells in vitro and in vivo were analyzed using MTT, EdU, wound healing, oil red O, tubule formation, xenograft tumor model and chicken embryo allantoic model.

Results

ESM1 is closely associated with poor prognosis in LUAD patients. ESM1 promotes LUAD proliferation, migration, fatty acid synthesis and angiogenesis. It also accelerates the proliferation, migration, lipid synthesis and tubule formation of endothelial cells in the tumor microenvironment in the form of secreted protein. Mechanically, ESM1 can promote the activation of AKT signaling pathway and up-regulate the expression of SCD1 and FASN.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that ESM1 promotes the proliferation, migration, lipid reprogramming, and angiogenesis of LUAD cells by activating the AKT signaling pathway, suggesting that ESM1 may be a potential therapeutic target and prognostic marker in LUAD patients.

Integrative Chinese-Western medicine strategy to overcome docetaxel resistance in prostate cancer

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCMs) have emerged as a promising complementary therapy in the management of prostate cancer (PCa), particularly in addressing resistance to Docetaxel (DTX) chemotherapy.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review aims to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the development of resistance to DTX in PCa and explore the innovative approach of integrating TCMs in PCa treatment to overcome this resistance. Key areas of investigation include alterations in microtubule proteins, androgen receptor and androgen receptor splice variant 7, ERG rearrangement, drug efflux mechanisms, cancer stem cells, centrosome clustering, upregulation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, enhanced DNA damage repair capability, and the involvement of neurotrophin receptor 1/protein kinase C.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

With "Prostate cancer", "Docetaxel", "Docetaxel resistance", "Natural compounds", "Traditional Chinese medicine", "Traditional Chinese medicine compound", "Medicinal plants" as the main keywords, PubMed, Web of Science and other online search engines were used for literature retrieval.

RESULTS

Our findings underscore the intricate interplay of molecular alterations that collectively contribute to the resistance of PCa cells to DTX. Moreover, we highlight the potential of TCMs as a promising complementary therapy, showcasing their ability to counteract DTX resistance and enhance therapeutic efficacy.

CONCLUSION

The integration of TCMs in PCa treatment emerges as an innovative approach with significant potential to overcome DTX resistance. This review not only provides insights into the mechanisms of resistance but also presents new prospects for improving the clinical outcomes of patients with PCa undergoing DTX therapy. The comprehensive understanding of these mechanisms lays the foundation for future research and the development of more effective therapeutic interventions.

Anaerobic Glycolysis and Ischemic Stroke: From Mechanisms and Signaling Pathways to Natural Product Therapy

Ischemic stroke is a serious condition that results in high rates of illness and death. Anaerobic glycolysis becomes the primary means of providing energy to the brain during periods of low oxygen levels, such as in the aftermath of an ischemic stroke. This process is essential for maintaining vital brain functions and has significant implications for recovery following a stroke. Energy supply by anaerobic glycolysis and acidosis caused by lactic acid accumulation are important pathological processes after ischemic stroke. Numerous natural products regulate glucose and lactate, which in turn modulate anaerobic glycolysis. This article focuses on the relationship between anaerobic glycolysis and ischemic stroke, as well as the associated signaling pathways and natural products that play a therapeutic role. These natural products, which can regulate anaerobic glycolysis, will provide new avenues and perspectives for the treatment of ischemic stroke in the future.

Icariin‑curcumol promotes ferroptosis in prostate cancer cells through Nrf2/HO‑1 signaling

Ferroptosis is a form of regulatory cell death that relies on iron and reactive oxygen species (ROS) to inhibit tumors. The present study aimed to investigate whether icariin-curcumol could be a novel ferroptosis inducer in tumor inhibition. Various concentrations of icariin-curcumol were used to stimulate prostate cell lines (RWPE-2, PC-3, VCAP and DU145). Small interfering negative control (si-NC) and si-nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) were used to transfect DU145 cells. Cell viability was determined by using cell counting kit-8. Ferroptosis-related factor levels were analyzed using western blotting and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were used to assess the ferrous (Fe2+), glutathione and malondialdehyde (MDA) content. The ROS fluorescence intensity was assessed using flow cytometry. DU145 cells were most sensitive to icariin-curcumol concentration. The Fe2+ content, ROS fluorescence intensity and MDA level gradually increased, while solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11) level, glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) level, GSH content, Nrf2 and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) decreased with icariin-curcumol in a dose-dependent manner. After si-Nrf2 was transfected, the cell proliferation ability, SLC7A11 and GPX4 levels declined compared with the si-NC group. In contrast to the control group, the icariin + curcumol group showed reductions in Nrf2 and HO-1 levels, cell proliferation, SLC7A11 and GPX4 levels, with an increase in Fe2+ content and ROS fluorescence intensity. Overexpression of Nrf2 reversed the regulation observed in the icariin + curcumol group. Icariin-curcumol induced ferroptosis in PCa cells, mechanistically by inhibiting the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. Icariin-curcumol could be used as a new type of ferroptosis inducer to treat PCa effectively.