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Acheampong F, Ostlund T, Mahnashi M, Halaweish F. Antiproliferation and apoptosis studies of estrone pharmacophores in triple-negative breast cancer. Chem Biol Drug Des 2023; 102:1050-1066. [PMID: 37500540 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.14303] [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: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer that shows high metastatic capability and poor prognosis. The aggressive behavior of TNBC may involve amplified EGFR expression. Currently, no targeted therapy has been approved for treating TNBC, which urgently needs novel treatment options. In this study, we report that estrone analogs with novel pharmacophores exhibited high potency toward TNBC cells through multiple mechanisms, inhibition of cell proliferation via EGFR receptor, and induction of mitochondrial apoptosis. Molecular docking studies revealed that hit analogs MMA307 and MMA321 were potent against the EGFR receptor (pdb code: 1M17) in silico and were over 10-fold more potent than sorafenib (positive control) when dosed against MDA-MB-468 cells in vitro. MMA307 and MMA321 induced mitochondrial apoptosis as characterized by condensed nuclei with fragmented chromatin, phosphatidylserine flip and modulated expressions of Apaf1, cytochrome c, and caspases 3 and 9. MMA307 and MMA321 inhibited TNBC proliferation through suppression of EGFR and activated EGFR (Y1068) expressions. Similarly, EGFR signaling pathways, RAF/ERK and AKT/mTOR, were inhibited as pARaf, pERK1/2 (characterizes RAF/ERK pathway) and pAKT, pmTOR, p70S6Kα (characterizes AKT/mTOR pathway) were all suppressed. Moreover, MMA307 and MMA321 inhibited TNBC cell growth through downregulation of cyclin D1 expression and arresting TNBC cells in the G1 phase of cell cycle. This study reports for the first time that estrone congeners with novel pharmacophores may be an effective therapy for TNBC. Findings from this research provide a solid foundation for further preclinical and clinical studies in developing estrone derivatives as novel TNBC therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Acheampong
- Department of Preclinical Pharmacology, Verve Therapeutics Inc., Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Trevor Ostlund
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, South Dakota State University, Brookings, South Dakota, USA
| | - Mater Mahnashi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fathi Halaweish
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, South Dakota State University, Brookings, South Dakota, USA
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2
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Radiosensitization of Breast Cancer Cells with a 2-Methoxyestradiol Analogue Affects DNA Damage and Repair Signaling In Vitro. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043592. [PMID: 36835001 PMCID: PMC9965329 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiation resistance and radiation-related side effects warrant research into alternative strategies in the application of this modality to cancer treatment. Designed in silico to improve the pharmacokinetics and anti-cancer properties of 2-methoxyestradiol, 2-ethyl-3-O-sulfamoyl-estra-1,3,5(10)16-tetraene (ESE-16) disrupts microtubule dynamics and induces apoptosis. Here, we investigated whether pre-exposure of breast cancer cells to low-dose ESE-16 would affect radiation-induced deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage and the consequent repair pathways. MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and BT-20 cells were exposed to sub-lethal doses of ESE-16 for 24 h before 8 Gy radiation. Flow cytometric quantification of Annexin V, clonogenic studies, micronuclei quantification, assessment of histone H2AX phosphorylation and Ku70 expression were performed to assess cell viability, DNA damage, and repair pathways, in both directly irradiated cells and cells treated with conditioned medium. A small increase in apoptosis was observed as an early consequence, with significant repercussions on long-term cell survival. Overall, a greater degree of DNA damage was detected. Moreover, initiation of the DNA-damage repair response was delayed, with a subsequent sustained elevation. Radiation-induced bystander effects induced similar pathways and were initiated via intercellular signaling. These results justify further investigation of ESE-16 as a radiation-sensitizing agent since pre-exposure appears to augment the response of tumor cells to radiation.
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3
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Lotfi N, Yousefi Z, Golabi M, Khalilian P, Ghezelbash B, Montazeri M, Shams MH, Baghbadorani PZ, Eskandari N. The potential anti-cancer effects of quercetin on blood, prostate and lung cancers: An update. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1077531. [PMID: 36926328 PMCID: PMC10011078 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1077531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is caused by abnormal proliferation of cells and aberrant recognition of the immune system. According to recent studies, natural products are most likely to be effective at preventing cancer without causing any noticeable complications. Among the bioactive flavonoids found in fruits and vegetables, quercetin is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. This review aims to highlight the potential therapeutic effects of quercetin on some different types of cancers including blood, lung and prostate cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noushin Lotfi
- Department of Medical Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Zahra Yousefi
- School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Marjan Golabi
- Department of Medical Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Parvin Khalilian
- Department of Medical Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Behrooz Ghezelbash
- Department of Medical Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mina Montazeri
- Department of Medical Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Shams
- Department of Medical Immunology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | | | - Nahid Eskandari
- Department of Medical Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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4
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Sharma N, Raut PW, Baruah MM, Sharma A. Combination of quercetin and 2-methoxyestradiol inhibits epithelial-mesenchymal transition in PC-3 cell line via Wnt signaling pathway. Future Sci OA 2021; 7:FSO747. [PMID: 34737887 PMCID: PMC8558868 DOI: 10.2144/fsoa-2021-0028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: We have previously reported that quercetin (Qu) regulates epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) by modulating Wnt signaling components. In this study, we investigated the synergistic effect of Qu and 2-methoxyestradiol (2-ME) and the role of Wnt signaling components in regulating EMT in PC-3 cells. Materials & methods: EMT was induced by treating PC-3 cells with TGF-β, followed by evaluation of expression of EMT markers and Wnt signaling proteins in naive, induced and after exposing induced cells to Qu and 2-ME at both gene and protein level by real-time PCR (RT-PCR) and western blot, respectively. Results: Qu and 2-ME synergistically downregulated mesenchymal markers with simultaneous upregulation of epithelial markers. Wnt signaling proteins expression was also downregulated by Qu and 2-ME in TGF-β-induced EMT in PC-3 cells. Conclusion: Thus, combination therapy of Qu and 2-ME could be a new promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of prostate cancer. The current study describes the synergistic effect of quercetin and 2-methoxyestradiol and the role of Wnt signaling components in regulating epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in PC-3 cells. EMT was induced by treating PC-3 cells with TGF-β, followed by the evaluation of expression of EMT markers and Wnt signaling proteins in naive and induced states. Quercetin and 2-methoxyestradiol could synergistically downregulate mesenchymal markers with simultaneous upregulation of epithelial markers along with the downregulation of Wnt signaling proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neeti Sharma
- School of Engineering, Ajeenkya DY Patil University, Charholi Budruk, Pune, 412105, India
| | - Piyush W Raut
- Symbiosis School of Biological Sciences, Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Gram - Lavale; Taluka - Mulshi, Pune, India
| | - Meghna M Baruah
- Symbiosis School of Biological Sciences, Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Gram - Lavale; Taluka - Mulshi, Pune, India
| | - Akshay Sharma
- Symbiosis School of Biological Sciences, Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Gram - Lavale; Taluka - Mulshi, Pune, India
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In Vitro Effects of Papaverine on Cell Proliferation, Reactive Oxygen Species, and Cell Cycle Progression in Cancer Cells. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26216388. [PMID: 34770797 PMCID: PMC8587410 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26216388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Papaverine (PPV) is an alkaloid isolated from the Papaver somniferum. Research has shown that PPV inhibits proliferation. However, several questions remain regarding the effects of PPV in tumorigenic cells. In this study, the influence of PPV was investigated on the proliferation (spectrophotometry), morphology (light microscopy), oxidative stress (fluorescent microscopy), and cell cycle progression (flow cytometry) in MDA-MB-231, A549, and DU145 cell lines. Exposure to 150 μM PPV resulted in time- and dose-dependent antiproliferative activity with reduced cell growth to 56%, 53%, and 64% in the MDA-MB-231, A549, and DU145 cell lines, respectively. Light microscopy revealed that PPV exposure increased cellular protrusions in MDA-MB-231 and A549 cells to 34% and 23%. Hydrogen peroxide production increased to 1.04-, 1.02-, and 1.44-fold in PPV-treated MDA-MB-231, A549, and DU145 cells, respectively, compared to cells propagated in growth medium. Furthermore, exposure to PPV resulted in an increase of cells in the sub-G1 phase by 46% and endoreduplication by 10% compared to cells propagated in growth medium that presented with 2.8% cells in the sub-G1 phase and less than 1% in endoreduplication. The results of this study contribute to understanding of effects of PPV on cancer cell lines.
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Mercier AE, Prudent R, Pepper MS, De Koning L, Nolte E, Peronne L, Nel M, Lafanechère L, Joubert AM. Characterization of Signalling Pathways That Link Apoptosis and Autophagy to Cell Death Induced by Estrone Analogues Which Reversibly Depolymerize Microtubules. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26030706. [PMID: 33572896 PMCID: PMC7866274 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26030706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The search for novel anti-cancer compounds which can circumvent chemotherapeutic drug resistance and limit systemic toxicity remains a priority. 2-Ethyl-3-O-sulphamoyl-estra-1,3,5(10)15-tetraene-3-ol-17one (ESE-15-one) and 2-ethyl-3-O-sulphamoyl-estra-1,3,5(10)16-tetraene (ESE-16) are sulphamoylated 2-methoxyestradiol (2-ME) analogues designed by our research team. Although their cytotoxicity has been demonstrated in vitro, the temporal and mechanistic responses of the initiated intracellular events are yet to be determined. In order to do so, assays investigating the compounds' effects on microtubules, cell cycle progression, signalling cascades, autophagy and apoptosis were conducted using HeLa cervical- and MDA-MB-231 metastatic breast cancer cells. Both compounds reversibly disrupted microtubule dynamics as an early event by binding to the microtubule colchicine site, which blocked progression through the cell cycle at the G1/S- and G2/M transitions. This was supported by increased pRB and p27Kip1 phosphorylation. Induction of apoptosis with time-dependent signalling involving the p-JNK, Erk1/2 and Akt/mTOR pathways and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential was demonstrated. Inhibition of autophagy attenuated the apoptotic response. In conclusion, the 2-ME analogues induced a time-dependent cross-talk between cell cycle checkpoints, apoptotic signalling and autophagic processes, with an increased reactive oxygen species formation and perturbated microtubule functioning appearing to connect the processes. Subtle differences in the responses were observed between the two compounds and the different cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne E. Mercier
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (E.N.); (M.N.); (L.L.); (A.M.J.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +27-(0)-12-319-2141
| | - Renaud Prudent
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Regulation and Pharmacology of the Cytoskeleton, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, 38700 Grenoble, France; (R.P.); (L.P.)
| | - Michael S. Pepper
- Institute for Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, SAMRC Extramural Unit for Stem Cell Research and Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
| | - Leanne De Koning
- RPPA Platform, Institut Curie Centre de Recherche, PSL Research University, Paris 75248, France;
| | - Elsie Nolte
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (E.N.); (M.N.); (L.L.); (A.M.J.)
| | - Lauralie Peronne
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Regulation and Pharmacology of the Cytoskeleton, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, 38700 Grenoble, France; (R.P.); (L.P.)
| | - Marcel Nel
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (E.N.); (M.N.); (L.L.); (A.M.J.)
| | - Laurence Lafanechère
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (E.N.); (M.N.); (L.L.); (A.M.J.)
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Regulation and Pharmacology of the Cytoskeleton, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, 38700 Grenoble, France; (R.P.); (L.P.)
| | - Anna M. Joubert
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (E.N.); (M.N.); (L.L.); (A.M.J.)
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Dysregulation of Catalase by a Sulphamoylated Estradiol Analogue Culminates in Antimitotic Activity and Cell Death Induction in Breast Cancer Cell Lines. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26030622. [PMID: 33504098 PMCID: PMC7866153 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26030622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent findings revealed that 2-ethyl-17-oxoestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-3-yl sulfamate (ESE-one) induces antiproliferative activity and cell rounding dependent on the generation of superoxide anion, hydrogen peroxide and peroxyl radical. In the current study, the role of these reactive oxygen species was assessed in the activity exerted by ESE-one on cell cycle progression, mitochondrial membrane potential and cell death induction in breast tumorigenic cells. The influence of ESE-one was also investigated on superoxide dismutase and catalase activity. ESE-one induced a time-dependent accumulation of cells in the G1 phase and G2/M phase that is partially impaired by tiron and trolox and N,N′-dimethylthiourea suggesting that superoxide anion, hydrogen peroxide and peroxyl radical are required for these effects exerted by ESE-one. Flow cytometry data in MCF-7 cells demonstrated that tiron decreased depolarization of the membrane potential in ESE-one exposed cells, indicating that superoxide anion plays a role in the depolarization effects induced by ESE-one. Spectrophotometry data showed that ESE-one decreased catalase activity in both cell lines. This study contributes towards pertinent information regarding the effects of an in silico-designed sulfamoylated compound on antioxidant enzymes leading to aberrant quantities of specific reactive oxygen species resulting in antimitotic activity culminating in the induction of cell death in breast cancer cell lines.
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8
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Sulphamoylated Estradiol Analogue Induces Reactive Oxygen Species Generation to Exert Its Antiproliferative Activity in Breast Cancer Cell Lines. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25184337. [PMID: 32971805 PMCID: PMC7570675 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25184337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
2-Methoxyestradiol (2ME), a 17β-estradiol metabolite, exerts anticancer properties in vitro and in vivo. To address 2ME’s low bioavailability, research led to the in silico design of sulphamoylated 2ME analogues. However, the role of oxidative stress induced in the activity exerted by sulphamoylated compounds remains elusive. In the current study, the influence of 2-Ethyl-17-oxoestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-3-yl sulphamate (ESE-one) on reactive oxygen species (ROS) induction and its effect on cell proliferation, as well as morphology, were assessed in breast tumorigenic cells (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231). Fluorescent microscopy showed that sulphamoylated estradiol analogues induced hydrogen peroxide and superoxide anion, correlating with decreased cell growth demonstrated by spectrophotometry data. ESE-one exposure resulted in antiproliferation which was repressed by tiron (superoxide inhibitor), trolox (peroxyl inhibitor) and N,N′-dimethylthiourea (DMTU) (hydrogen peroxide inhibitor). Morphological studies demonstrated that tiron, trolox and DMTU significantly decreased the number of rounded cells and shrunken cells in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells induced by ESE-one. This in vitro study suggests that ESE-one induces growth inhibition and cell rounding by production of superoxide anion, peroxyl radical and hydrogen peroxide. Identification of these biological changes in cancer cells caused by sulphamoylated compounds hugely contributes towards improvement of anticancer strategies and the ROS-dependent cell death pathways in tumorigenic breast cells.
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Yano N, Zhang L, Wei D, Dubielecka PM, Wei L, Zhuang S, Zhu P, Qin G, Liu PY, Chin YE, Zhao TC. Irisin counteracts high glucose and fatty acid-induced cytotoxicity by preserving the AMPK-insulin receptor signaling axis in C2C12 myoblasts. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2020; 318:E791-E805. [PMID: 32182124 PMCID: PMC7272726 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00219.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Irisin, a newly identified myokine, is critical to modulating body metabolism and biological homeostasis. However, whether irisin protects the skeletal muscles against metabolic stresses remains unknown. In this study, we determine the effect of irisin on high glucose and fatty acid-induced damages using irisin-overexpressed mouse C2C12 (irisin-C2C12) myoblasts and skeletal muscle from irisin-injected mice. Compared with empty vector-transfected control C2C12 cells, irisin overexpression resulted in a marked increase in cell viability and decrease in apoptosis under high-glucose stress. Progression of the cell cycle into the G2/M phase in the proliferative condition was also observed with irisin overexpression. Furthermore, glucose uptake, glycogen accumulation, and phosphorylation of AMPKα/insulin receptor (IR) β-subunit/Erk1/2 in response to insulin stimulation were enhanced by irisin overexpression. In irisin-C2C12 myoblasts, these responses of phosphorylation were preserved under palmitate treatment, which induced insulin resistance in the control cells. These effects of irisin were reversed by inhibiting AMPK with compound C. In addition, high glucose-induced suppression of the mitochondrial membrane potential was also prevented by irisin. Moreover, suppression of IR in irisin-C2C12 myoblasts by cotransfection of shRNA against IR also mitigated the effects of irisin while not affecting AMPKα phosphorylation. As an in vivo study, soleus muscles from irisin-injected mice showed elevated phosphorylation of AMPKα and Erk1/2 and glycogen contents. Our results indicate that irisin counteracts the stresses generated by high glucose and fatty acid levels and irisin overexpression serves as a novel approach to elicit cellular protection. Furthermore, AMPK activation is a crucial factor that regulates insulin action as a downstream target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naohiro Yano
- Department of Surgery, Boston University School of Medicine, Roger Williams Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Ling Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Dennis Wei
- Department of Surgery, Boston University School of Medicine, Roger Williams Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Patrycja M Dubielecka
- Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Lei Wei
- Department of Orthopedics, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Shougang Zhuang
- Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Ping Zhu
- Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gangjian Qin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Paul Y Liu
- Plastic Surgery, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Y Eugene Chin
- Translation Medicine Center, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ting C Zhao
- Department of Surgery, Boston University School of Medicine, Roger Williams Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island
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10
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Arun A, Ansari MI, Popli P, Jaiswal S, Mishra AK, Dwivedi A, Hajela K, Konwar R. New piperidine derivative DTPEP acts as dual-acting anti-breast cancer agent by targeting ERα and downregulating PI3K/Akt-PKCα leading to caspase-dependent apoptosis. Cell Prolif 2018; 51:e12501. [PMID: 30091186 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In our ongoing studies to develop ER targeting agents, we screened for dual-acting molecules with a hypothesis that a single molecule can also target both ER positive and negative groups of breast cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS 1-(2-(4-(Dibenzo[b,f]thiepin-10-yl)phenoxy)ethyl)piperidine (DTPEP) was synthesized and screened in both MCF-7 (ER+ve) and MDA-MB-231 (ER-ve) cells. Assays for analysis of cell cycle, ROS, apoptosis and MMP loss were carried out using flow cytometry. Its target was investigated using western blot, transactivation assay and RT-PCR. In vivo efficacy of DTPEP was validated in LA-7 syngeneic rat mammary tumour model. RESULTS Here, we report identification of dual-acting molecule DTPEP that downregualtes PI3K/Akt and PKCα expression, induces ROS and ROS-dependent apoptosis, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, induces expression of caspase indicative of both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. In MCF-7 cells, DTPEP downregulates ERα expression and activation. In MDA-MB-231 cells, primary cellular target of DTPEP is not clearly known, but it downregualtes PI3K/Akt and PKCα expression. In vivo study showed regression of LA-7 syngeneic mammary tumour in SD rat. CONCLUSIONS We identified a new dual-acting anti-breast cancer molecules as a proof of concept which is capable of targeting both ER-positive and ER-negative breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Arun
- Endocrinology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, UP, India
| | - M I Ansari
- Medicinal and Process Chemistry Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, UP, India
| | - P Popli
- Endocrinology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, UP, India
| | - S Jaiswal
- Medicinal and Process Chemistry Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, UP, India
| | - A K Mishra
- Department of Endocrine Surgery, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, UP, India
| | - A Dwivedi
- Endocrinology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, UP, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute Campus, Lucknow, UP, India
| | - K Hajela
- Medicinal and Process Chemistry Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, UP, India
| | - R Konwar
- Endocrinology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, UP, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute Campus, Lucknow, UP, India
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11
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Nel M, Joubert AM, Dohle W, Potter BV, Theron AE. Modes of cell death induced by tetrahydroisoquinoline-based analogs in MDA-MB-231 breast and A549 lung cancer cell lines. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2018; 12:1881-1904. [PMID: 29983544 PMCID: PMC6025772 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s152718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Background A and B rings of the steroidal microtubule disruptor, 2-methoxyestradiol, and its analogs can be mimicked with a tetrahydroisoquinoline (THIQ) core. THIQs are cytotoxic agents with potential anticancer activities. The aim of this in vitro study was to investigate the modes of cell death induced by four nonsteroidal THIQ-based analogs, such as STX 2895, STX 3329, STX 3451 and STX 3450, on MDA-MB-231 metastatic breast and A549 epithelial lung carcinoma cells. Materials and methods Cytotoxicity studies determined the half-maximal growth inhibitory concentration of the analogs to be at nanomolar concentrations without the induction of necrosis. Light and fluorescent microscopy determined that compounds caused microtubule depolymerization and displayed morphological hallmarks of apoptosis. Results Flow cytometric analyses confirmed apoptosis induction as well as an increased G2/M phase on cell cycle analysis. Furthermore, intrinsic pathway signaling was implicated due to increased cytochrome c release and a decrease in mitochondrial transmembrane potential. Potential involvement of autophagy was observed due to increased acidic vacuole formation and increased aggresome activation factor. Conclusion Thus, it can be concluded that these four THIQ-based analogs exert anti-proliferative and antimitotic effects, induce apoptosis and involve autophagic processes. Further investigation into the efficacy of these potential anticancer drugs will be conducted in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcel Nel
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa,
| | - Anna M Joubert
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa,
| | - Wolfgang Dohle
- Medicinal Chemistry & Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Barry Vl Potter
- Medicinal Chemistry & Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Anne E Theron
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa,
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12
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Rárová L, Sedlák D, Oklestkova J, Steigerová J, Liebl J, Zahler S, Bartůněk P, Kolář Z, Kohout L, Kvasnica M, Strnad M. The novel brassinosteroid analog BR4848 inhibits angiogenesis in human endothelial cells and induces apoptosis in human cancer cells in vitro. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2018; 178:263-271. [PMID: 29307714 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2018.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Revised: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 01/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
We report the synthesis and detailed biological study of the synthetic brassinosteroid analog 2α,3α-dihydroxy-6-oxo-5α-androstan-17β-yl N-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-D,L-valinate (BR4848). The panel of cancer cell lines was used for characterization of its antiproliferative activity, yet had no adverse effects in normal human fibroblasts. In HeLa cells, BR4848-induced apoptosis was accompanied by increase of apoptotic subG1 cells, PARP-1 and caspase-7 fragmentation, downregulation of Bcl-2 and Mcl-1, an increase in caspase activity and G2/M phase cell cycle arrest. Antiproliferative properties of BR4848 were exhibited by inhibition of phosphorylation of Akt, Erk1/2 and FAK. Furthermore, the developed analog exhibited in vitro antiangiogenic activity in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). BR4848-induced apoptosis accompanied with G2/M arrest was detected in endothelial cells. BR4848 also inhibited adhesion, tube formation and migration of endothelial cells by inhibition of FAK, Erk 1/2, CDK5, VEGFR2, TNFα-stimulated production of IL-6, angiopoietin-2 and Jagged1. Finally, BR4848 did not modulate the activity nor nuclear translocation of any of the steroid receptors (ERα, ERβ, AR, MR and PR) included in reporter cell-based assays, which excludes the genomic activity of steroid receptors as a contributing factor to the observed biological activities of BR4848.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Rárová
- Department of Chemical Biology and Genetics, Centre of the Region Haná for Biotechnological and Agricultural Research, Faculty of Science, Palacký University, Šlechtitelů 27, 783 71, Olomouc, Czech Republic.
| | - David Sedlák
- CZ-OPENSCREEN: National Infrastructure for Chemical Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Vídeňská 1083, 142 20, Praha 4, Czech Republic.
| | - Jana Oklestkova
- Laboratory of Growth Regulators, Institute of Experimental Botany ASCR & Palacký University, Šlechtitelů 27, 78371, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Steigerová
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Palacký University, Hněvotínská 5, 77900, Olomouc, Czech Republic; Institute of Molecular and Translation Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University and Faculty Hospital in Olomouc, Hněvotínská 5, 77900, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Johanna Liebl
- Department of Pharmacy, LMU Munich - Center for Drug Research - Pharmaceutical Biology, Butenandtstr. 5-13, Munich, 81377, Germany
| | - Stefan Zahler
- Department of Pharmacy, LMU Munich - Center for Drug Research - Pharmaceutical Biology, Butenandtstr. 5-13, Munich, 81377, Germany
| | - Petr Bartůněk
- CZ-OPENSCREEN: National Infrastructure for Chemical Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Vídeňská 1083, 142 20, Praha 4, Czech Republic
| | - Zdeněk Kolář
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Palacký University, Hněvotínská 5, 77900, Olomouc, Czech Republic; Institute of Molecular and Translation Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University and Faculty Hospital in Olomouc, Hněvotínská 5, 77900, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Ladislav Kohout
- Laboratory of Growth Regulators, Institute of Experimental Botany ASCR & Palacký University, Šlechtitelů 27, 78371, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslav Kvasnica
- Laboratory of Growth Regulators, Institute of Experimental Botany ASCR & Palacký University, Šlechtitelů 27, 78371, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslav Strnad
- Laboratory of Growth Regulators, Institute of Experimental Botany ASCR & Palacký University, Šlechtitelů 27, 78371, Olomouc, Czech Republic
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The in vitro effects of a novel estradiol analog on cell proliferation and morphology in human epithelial cervical carcinoma. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2018; 23:10. [PMID: 29568313 PMCID: PMC5859677 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-018-0079-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The majority of novel chemotherapeutics target the cell cycle, aiming to effect arrest and cause apoptosis. One such agent, 2-methoxyestradiol (2ME), has been shown to possess anticancer properties against numerous cancer types, both in vitro and in vivo. Despite its promise, 2ME has exhibited limitations, including low oral bioavailability and rapid hepatic enzymatic inactivation in vivo. A novel sulphamoylated estrogen analog, 2-ethyl-3-O-sulphamoyl-estra-1,3,5(10)16-tetraene (ESE-16), was in silico-designed in our laboratory to overcome these issues. It was then synthesized by a pharmaceutical company and used in an in vitro antiproliferative effect study on a human cervical carcinoma (HeLa) cell line. Results Cell proliferation data obtained from the crystal violet assay and real-time cell analysis demonstrated that 0.2 μM of ESE-16 had a significant inhibitory effect on the HeLa cells 24 h post-exposure. Immunofluorescence showed that ESE-16 is a microtubule disruptor that causes cells to undergo a mitotic block. Qualitative morphological studies using polarization-optical transmitted light differential interference contrast (PlasDIC) and light microscopy revealed a decrease in cell density and an increase in the number of cells arrested in metaphase. After ESE-16 exposure, hallmarks of apoptosis were also observed, including membrane blebbing, chromatin condensation and the presence of apoptotic bodies. Flow cytometry provided quantitative results from cell cycle progression analysis, indicating cells undergoing apoptosis and cells in the G2/M phase of the cell cycle, confirming cell cycle arrest in metaphase after ESE-16 treatment. Quantification of the ESE-16-mediated upregulation of cyclin B in HeLa cells and spectrophotometric and flow cytometric confirmation of cell death via apoptosis further confirmed the substance's impact. Conclusion ESE-16 exerts its antiproliferative effects through microtubule disruption, which induces a mitotic block culminating in apoptosis. This research provided information on ESE-16 as a potential antitumor agent and on cellular targets that could aid in the design of prospective microtubule-disrupting compounds. Further in vitro and in vivo investigations of this novel compound are needed.
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Visagie MH, van den Bout I, Joubert AM. A bis-sulphamoylated estradiol derivative induces ROS-dependent cell cycle abnormalities and subsequent apoptosis. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0176006. [PMID: 28410397 PMCID: PMC5391954 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0176006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical trials have revealed that the potential anticancer agent, 2-methoxyestradiol (2ME2) has limitations due to its low bioavailability. Subsequently, 2ME2 derivatives including (8R,13S,14S,17S)-2-ethyl-13-methyl-7,8,9,11,12,13,14,15,16,17-decahydro-6H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthrane-3,17-diyl bis(sulphamate) (EMBS) have shown improved efficacies in inducing apoptosis. However, no conclusive data exist to explain the mode of action exerted by these drugs. This study investigated the mode of action used by EMBS as a representative of the sulphamoylated 2ME2 derivatives. Hydrogen peroxide and superoxide production was quantified using dichlorofluorescein diacetate and hydroethidine. Cell proliferation and mitochondrial metabolism were investigated using crystal violet and Alamar Blue. Apoptosis was assessed using Annexin V-FITC while mitochondrial integrity was assessed using Mitocapture. Autophagy was visualised using LC3B II antibodies. The effects of EMBS on H2A phosphorylation and nuclei were visualised using phospho H2A antibody and 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole, dihydrochloride. Data showed that EMBS exposure leads to increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production which is correlated with loss of cell proliferation, mitochondrial membrane damage, decreased metabolic activity, G2/M arrest, endoreduplication, DNA double stranded breaks, micronuclei and apoptosis induction. Treatment of EMBS-exposed cells with the ROS scavenger, N-acetyl cysteine, abrogated ROS production, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis implying an essential role for ROS production in EMBS signaling. The inhibition of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) activity also inhibited EMBS-induced apoptosis suggesting that EMBS triggers apoptosis via the JNK pathway. Lastly, evaluation of LC3IIB protein levels indicated that autophagy is not activated in EMBS-exposed cells. Our data shows that EMBS targets a pathway that leads to increased ROS production as an early event that culminates in G2/M arrest and apoptosis by means of JNK-signaling in cancer cells. This study suggests a novel oxidative stress-dependent mode of action for sulphamoylated derivatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Helen Visagie
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | - Iman van den Bout
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Anna Margaretha Joubert
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
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Verwey M, Nolte EM, Joubert AM, Theron AE. Autophagy induced by a sulphamoylated estrone analogue contributes to its cytotoxic effect on breast cancer cells. Cancer Cell Int 2016; 16:91. [PMID: 27980456 PMCID: PMC5146855 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-016-0367-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Autophagy can either be protective and confer survival to stressed cells, or it can contribute to cell death. The antimitotic drug 2-ethyl-3-O-sulpamoyl-estra-1,3,5(10),15-tetraen-17-ol (ESE-15-ol) is an in silico-designed 17-β-estradiol analogue that induces both autophagy and apoptosis in cancer cells. The aim of the study was to determine the role of autophagy in ESE-15-ol-exposed human adenocarcinoma breast cancer cells; knowledge that will contribute to future clinical applications of this novel antimitotic compound. By inhibiting autophagy and determining the cytotoxic effects of ESE-15-ol-exposure, deductions could be made as to whether the process may confer resistance to the drug, or alternatively, contribute to the cell death process. Methods and results Spectophometrical analysis via crystal violet staining was used to perform cytotoxicity studies. Morphology studies were done using microscopic techniques namely polarization-optical transmitted light differential interference light microscopy, fluorescent microscopy using monodansylcadaverine staining and transmission electron microscopy. Flow cytometry was used to quantify the autophagy inhibition and assess cell viability. Results obtained indicated that 3-methyladenine inhibited autophagy and increased cell survival in both MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines. Conclusion This in vitro study inferred that autophagy inhibition with 3-methyladenine does not confer increased effectiveness of ESE-15-ol in inducing cell death. Thus it may be concluded that the autophagic process induced by ESE-15-ol exposure in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells plays a more significant role in cell death than conferring survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcel Verwey
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0007 Gauteng South Africa
| | - Elsie M Nolte
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0007 Gauteng South Africa
| | - Anna M Joubert
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0007 Gauteng South Africa
| | - Anne E Theron
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0007 Gauteng South Africa
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Visagie MH, Jaiswal SR, Joubert AM. In vitro assessment of a computer-designed potential anticancer agent in cervical cancer cells. Biol Res 2016; 49:43. [PMID: 27806731 PMCID: PMC5093968 DOI: 10.1186/s40659-016-0104-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2016] [Accepted: 10/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Computer-based technology is becoming increasingly essential in biological research where drug discovery programs start with the identification of suitable drug targets. 2-Methoxyestradiol (2ME2) is a 17β-estradiol metabolite that induces apoptosis in various cancer cell lines including cervical cancer, breast cancer and multiple myeloma. Owing to 2ME2’s poor in vivo bioavailability, our laboratory in silico-designed and subsequently synthesized a novel 2ME2 analogue, 2-ethyl-3-O-sulphamoyl-estra-1,3,5(10),15-tetraen-17-ol (ESE-15-ol), using receptor- and ligand molecular modeling. In this study, the biological effects of ESE-15-ol (180 nM) and its parent molecule, 2ME2 (1 µM), were assessed on morphology and apoptosis induction in cervical cancer cells. Results Transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and polarization-optical transmitted light differential interference contrast (PlasDIC) images demonstrated morphological hallmarks of apoptosis including apoptotic bodies, shrunken cells, vacuoles, reduced cell density and cell debris. Flow cytometry analysis showed apoptosis induction by means of annexin V-FITC staining. Cell cycle analysis showed that ESE-15-ol exposure resulted in a statistically significant increase in the G2M phase (72%) compared to 2ME2 (19%). Apoptosis induction was more pronounced when cells were exposed to ESE-15-ol compared to 2ME2. Spectrophotometric analysis of caspase 8 activity demonstrated that 2ME2 and ESE-15-ol both induced caspase 8 activation by 2- and 1.7-fold respectively indicating the induction of the apoptosis. However, ESE-15-ol exerted all of the above-mentioned effects at a much lower pharmacological concentration (180 nM) compared to 2ME2 (1 µM physiological concentration). Conclusion Computer-based technology is essential in drug discovery and together with in vitro studies for the evaluation of these in silico-designed compounds, drug development can be improved to be cost effective and time consuming. This study evaluated the anticancer potential of ESE-15-ol, an in silico-designed compound in vitro. Research demonstrated that ESE-15-ol exerts antiproliferative activity accompanied with apoptosis induction at a nanomolar concentration compared to the micromolar range required by 2ME2. This study is the first study to demonstrate the influence of ESE-15-ol on morphology, cell cycle progression and apoptosis induction in HeLa cells. In silico-design by means of receptor- and ligand molecular modeling is thus effective in improving compound bioavailability while preserving apoptotic activity in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Helen Visagie
- Department of Physiology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X 323, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0007, South Africa.
| | - Seema Rummurat Jaiswal
- Department of Physiology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X 323, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0007, South Africa
| | - Anna Margaretha Joubert
- Department of Physiology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X 323, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0007, South Africa
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Song J, Wang Y, Teng M, Zhang S, Yin M, Lu J, Liu Y, Lee RJ, Wang D, Teng L. Cordyceps militaris induces tumor cell death via the caspase‑dependent mitochondrial pathway in HepG2 and MCF‑7 cells. Mol Med Rep 2016; 13:5132-40. [PMID: 27109250 PMCID: PMC4878560 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2016.5175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2015] [Accepted: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cordyceps militaris (CM), an entomopathogenic fungus belonging to the class ascomycetes, possesses various pharmacological activities, including cytotoxic effects, on various types of human tumor cells. The present study investigated the anti-hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and anti-breast cancer effects of CM in in vitro and in vivo models. CM aqueous extract reduced cell viability, suppressed cell proliferation, inhibited cell migration ability, caused the over-release of lactate dehydrogenase, induced mitochondrial dysfunction and enhanced apoptotic rates in MCF-7 and HepG2 cells. The expression levels of cleaved poly (ADP ribose) polymerase and caspase-3, biomarkers of apoptosis, were increased following treatment with CM aqueous extract for 24 h. Furthermore, in the MCF-7 and HepG2 cells, enhanced levels of B cell-associated X protein and cleaved caspase-8 were observed in the CM-treated cells. Finally, the antitumor activities of CM in HCC and breast cancer were also confirmed in MCF-7- and HepG2-xengraft nude mice models. Collectively, the data obtained in the present study suggested that the cytotoxic effects of CM aqueous extract on HCC and breast cancer are associated with the caspase-dependent mitochondrial pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Song
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130012, P.R. China
| | - Yingwu Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130012, P.R. China
| | - Meiyu Teng
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130012, P.R. China
| | - Shiqiang Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130012, P.R. China
| | - Mengya Yin
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130012, P.R. China
| | - Jiahui Lu
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130012, P.R. China
| | - Yan Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130012, P.R. China
| | - Robert J Lee
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130012, P.R. China
| | - Di Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130012, P.R. China
| | - Lesheng Teng
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130012, P.R. China
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Aquino-Gálvez A, González-Ávila G, Delgado-Tello J, Castillejos-López M, Mendoza-Milla C, Zúñiga J, Checa M, Maldonado-Martínez HA, Trinidad-López A, Cisneros J, Torres-Espíndola LM, Hernández-Jiménez C, Sommer B, Cabello-Gutiérrez C, Gutiérrez-González LH. Effects of 2-methoxyestradiol on apoptosis and HIF-1α and HIF-2α expression in lung cancer cells under normoxia and hypoxia. Oncol Rep 2015; 35:577-83. [PMID: 26548300 PMCID: PMC4699616 DOI: 10.3892/or.2015.4399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxic tumor cells are known to be more resistant to conventional chemotherapy and radiation than normoxic cells. However, the effects of 2-methoxyestradiol (2-ME), an anti-angiogenic, antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic drug, on hypoxic lung cancer cells are unknown. The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of 2-ME on cell growth, apoptosis, hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) and HIF-2α gene and protein expression in A549 cells under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. To establish the optimal 2-ME concentration with which to carry out the apoptosis assay and to examine mRNA and protein expression of HIFs, cell growth analysis was carried out through N-hexa-methylpararosaniline staining assays in A549 cell cultures treated with one of five different 2-ME concentrations at different times under normoxic or hypoxic growth conditions. The 2-ME concentration of 10 mM at 72 h was selected to perform all further experiments. Apoptotic cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. Western blotting was used to determine HIF-1α and HIF-2α protein expression in total cell extracts. Cellular localization of HIF-1α and HIF-2α was assessed by immunocytochemistry. HIF-1α and HIF-2α gene expression was determined by real-time PCR. A significant increase in the percentage of apoptosis was observed when cells were treated with 2-ME under a normoxic but not under hypoxic conditions (p=0.006). HIF-1α and HIF-2α protein expression levels were significantly decreased in cells cultured under hypoxic conditions and treated with 2-ME (p<0.001). Furthermore, 2-ME decreased the HIF-1α and HIF-2α nuclear staining in cells cultured under hypoxia. The HIF-1α and HIF-2α mRNA levels were significantly lower when cells were exposed to 2-ME under normoxia and hypoxia. Our results suggest that 2-ME could have beneficial results when used with conventional chemotherapy in an attempt to lower the invasive and metastatic processes during cancer development due to its effects on the gene expression and protein synthesis of HIFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnoldo Aquino-Gálvez
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias 'Ismael Cosío Villegas', Mexico City, DF, Mexico
| | - Georgina González-Ávila
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias 'Ismael Cosío Villegas', Mexico City, DF, Mexico
| | - Javier Delgado-Tello
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias 'Ismael Cosío Villegas', Mexico City, DF, Mexico
| | - Manuel Castillejos-López
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias 'Ismael Cosío Villegas', Mexico City, DF, Mexico
| | - Criselda Mendoza-Milla
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias 'Ismael Cosío Villegas', Mexico City, DF, Mexico
| | - Joaquín Zúñiga
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias 'Ismael Cosío Villegas', Mexico City, DF, Mexico
| | - Marco Checa
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias 'Ismael Cosío Villegas', Mexico City, DF, Mexico
| | | | - Axel Trinidad-López
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias 'Ismael Cosío Villegas', Mexico City, DF, Mexico
| | - José Cisneros
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias 'Ismael Cosío Villegas', Mexico City, DF, Mexico
| | | | | | - Bettina Sommer
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias 'Ismael Cosío Villegas', Mexico City, DF, Mexico
| | - Carlos Cabello-Gutiérrez
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias 'Ismael Cosío Villegas', Mexico City, DF, Mexico
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Minorics R, Bózsity N, Molnár J, Wölfling J, Mernyák E, Schneider G, Ocsovszki I, Zupkó I. A molecular understanding of D-homoestrone-induced G2/M cell cycle arrest in HeLa human cervical carcinoma cells. J Cell Mol Med 2015; 19:2365-74. [PMID: 26228523 PMCID: PMC4594678 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2014] [Accepted: 03/03/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
2-Methoxyestradiol (ME), one of the most widely investigated A-ring-modified metabolites of estrone, exerts significant anticancer activity on numerous cancer cell lines. Its pharmacological actions, including cell cycle arrest, microtubule disruption and pro-apoptotic activity, have already been described in detail. The currently tested d-ring-modified analogue of estrone, d-homoestrone, selectively inhibits cervical cancer cell proliferation and induces a G2/M phase cell cycle blockade, resulting in the development of apoptosis. The question arose of whether the difference in the chemical structures of these analogues can influence the mechanism of anticancer action. The aim of the present study was therefore to elucidate the molecular contributors of intracellular processes induced by d-homoestrone in HeLa cells. Apoptosis triggered by d-homoestrone develops through activation of the intrinsic pathway, as demonstrated by determination of the activities of caspase-8 and -9. It was revealed that d-homoestrone-treated HeLa cells are not able to enter mitosis because the cyclin-dependent kinase 1-cyclin B complex loses its activity, resulting in the decreased inactivation of stathmin and a concomitant disturbance of microtubule formation. However, unlike 2-ME, d-homoestrone does not exert a direct effect on tubulin polymerization. These results led to the conclusion that the d-homoestrone-triggered intracellular processes resulting in a cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in HeLa cells differ from those in the case of 2-ME. This may be regarded as an alternative mechanism of action among steroidal anticancer compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renáta Minorics
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Biopharmacy, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Noémi Bózsity
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Biopharmacy, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Judit Molnár
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Biopharmacy, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - János Wölfling
- Department of Organic Chemistry, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Erzsébet Mernyák
- Department of Organic Chemistry, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gyula Schneider
- Department of Organic Chemistry, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Imre Ocsovszki
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - István Zupkó
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Biopharmacy, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
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20
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Yang F, Song L, Wang H, Wang J, Xu Z, Xing N. Combination of Quercetin and 2-Methoxyestradiol Enhances Inhibition of Human Prostate Cancer LNCaP and PC-3 Cells Xenograft Tumor Growth. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0128277. [PMID: 26011145 PMCID: PMC4444352 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0128277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2014] [Accepted: 04/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Quercetin and 2-Methoxyestradiol (2-ME) are promising anti-cancer substances. Our previous in vitro study showed that quercetin synergized with 2-Methoxyestradiol exhibiting increased antiproliferative and proapoptotic activity in both androgen-dependent LNCaP and androgen-independent PC-3 human prostate cancer cell lines. In the present study, we determined whether their combination could inhibit LNCaP and PC-3 xenograft tumor growth in vivo and explored the underlying mechanism. Human prostate cancer LNCaP and PC-3 cells were inoculated subcutaneously in male BALB/c nude mice. When xenograft tumors reached about 100 mm3, mice were randomly allocated to vehicle control, quercetin or 2-Methoxyestradiol singly treated and combination treatment groups. After therapeutic intervention for 4 weeks, combination treatment of quercetin and 2-ME i) significantly inhibited prostate cancer xenograft tumor growth by 46.8% for LNCaP and 51.3% for PC-3 as compared to vehicle control group, more effective than quercetin (28.4% for LNCaP, 24.8% for PC3) or 2-ME (32.1% for LNCaP, 28.9% for PC3) alone; ii) was well tolerated by BALB/c mice and no obvious toxic reactions were observed; iii) led to higher Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, cleaved caspase-3 protein expression and apoptosis rate; and iv) resulted in lower phosphorylated AKT (pAKT) protein level, vascular endothelial growth factor protein and mRNA expression, microvascular density and proliferation rate than single drug treatment. These effects were more remarkable compared to vehicle group. Therefore, combination of quercetin and 2-ME can serve as a novel clinical treatment regimen owning the potential of enhancing antitumor effect on prostate cancer in vivo and lessening the dose and side effects of either quercetin or 2-ME alone. These in vivo results will lay a further solid basis for subsequent researches on this novel therapeutic regimen in human prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feiya Yang
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Liming Song
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Huiping Wang
- Department of Reproductive Immunology and Pharmacology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Zhiqing Xu
- Institute of Neuroscience, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Regeneration and Repair, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Nianzeng Xing
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China
- * E-mail:
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Visagie MH, Birkholtz LM, Joubert AM. A 2-methoxyestradiol bis-sulphamoylated derivative induces apoptosis in breast cell lines. Cell Biosci 2015; 5:19. [PMID: 25908963 PMCID: PMC4407428 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-015-0010-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Research involving antimitotic compounds identified 2-methoxyestradiol (2ME2), as a promising anticancer endogenous metabolite. Owing to its low bioavailability, several in silico-designed 2ME2 analogues were synthesized. Structure-activity relationship studies indicated that an already existing 17-β-estradiol analogue, namely (8R,13S,14S,17S)-2-ethyl-13-methyl-7,8,9,11,12,13,14,15,16,17-decahydro-6H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthrane-3,17-diyl bis(sulphamate) (EMBS) to exert potential in vitro anticancer activity. Methods This study investigated the in vitro apoptotic influence of EMBS in an estrogen receptor-positive breast adenocarcinoma epithelial cell line (MCF-7); an estrogen receptor-negative breast epithelial cell line (MDA-MB-231) and a non-tumorigenic breast cell line (MCF-12A). Cell cycle progression, a phosphatidylserine flip, caspase 6-, 7- and 8 enzyme activity levels, Bcl-2 phosphorylation status at serine 70 and Bcl-2- and p53 protein levels were investigated to identify a possible action mechanism for apoptotic induction. Results The xCELLigence real-time label-independent approach revealed that EMBS exerted antiproliferative activity in all three cell lines after 24 h of exposure. A G2M block was observed and apoptosis induction was verified by means of flow cytometry using propidium iodide and Annexin V-FITC respectively. EMBS-treated cells demonstrated a reduced mitochondrial membrane potential. EMBS exposure resulted in a statistically significant increase in p53 protein expression, decreased Bcl-2 protein expression and a decrease in pBcl-2(s70) phosphorylation status in all three cell lines. Results support the notion that EMBS induces apoptosis in all three cell lines. Conclusion This study includes investigation into the apoptotic hallmarks exerted by EMBS after exposure of three cell lines namely MCF-7-, MDA-MDA-231- and MCF-12A cells. Increased caspase 6-, caspase 7- and caspase 8 activities, upregulation of p53 protein expression and a decrease in phosphorylation status of Bcl-2 at serine 70 in tumorigenic and non-tumorigenic lines were demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Helen Visagie
- Department of Physiology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X 323, Arcadia, 0007 South Africa
| | - Lyn-Marie Birkholtz
- Department of Biochemistry, Centre for Sustainable Malaria Control, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028 South Africa
| | - Anna Margaretha Joubert
- Department of Physiology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X 323, Arcadia, 0007 South Africa
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Pinto MP, Medina RA, Owen GI. 2-methoxyestradiol and disorders of female reproductive tissues. Discov Oncol 2014; 5:274-83. [PMID: 24764201 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-014-0181-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2014] [Accepted: 04/16/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
2-Methoxyestradiol (2ME) is an endogenous metabolite of 17β-estradiol. Once thought of as a mere degradation product, 2ME has gained attention as an important component of reproductive physiology and as a therapeutic agent in reproductive pathologies such as preeclampsia, endometriosis, infertility, and cancer. In this review, we discuss the involvement of 2ME in reproductive pathophysiology and summarize its known mechanisms of action: microtubule disruption, inhibition of angiogenesis and stimulation of apoptosis. Currently, the clinical uses of 2ME as a single agent are limited due to its poor water solubility and thus low bioavailability; however, 2ME analogs and derivatives have been recently developed and tested as cancer treatments. Despite some isolated success stories and ongoing research, 2ME derivatives have not yet provided the expected results. The adjuvant use of 2ME derivatives with chemotherapeutic agents is hindered by their intrinsic toxicity confounding the unwanted secondary effects of chemotherapy. However, due to the well-tested tolerance of the body to high doses of native 2ME, it may the combination of native 2ME with conventional treatments that will offer novel clinically relevant regimens for cancer and other reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio P Pinto
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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