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Abdel-Kader MS, Radwan MM, Metwaly AM, Eissa IH, Hazekamp A, Sohly MA. Chemistry and Biological Activities of Cannflavins of the Cannabis Plant. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023; 8:974-985. [PMID: 37756221 PMCID: PMC10714118 DOI: 10.1089/can.2023.0128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Throughout history, Cannabis has had a significant influence on human life as one of the earliest plants cultivated by humans. The plant was a source of fibers used by the oldest known civilizations. Cannabis was also used medicinally in China, India, and ancient Egypt. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the main psychoactive compound in the plant was identified in 1964 followed by more than 125 cannabinoids. More than 30 flavonoids were isolated from the plant including the characteristic flavonoids called cannflavins, which are prenylated or geranylated flavones. Material and Methods: In this review, the methods of extraction, isolation, identification, biosynthesis, chemical synthesis, analysis and pharmacological activity of these flavonoids are described. Results: The biosynthetic routes of the cannflavins from phenylalanine and malonyl CoA as well as the microbial biotransformation are also discussed. Details of the chemical synthesis are illustrated as an alternative to the isolation from the plant materials along with other possible sources of obtaining cannflavins. Detailed methods discussing the analysis of flavonoids in cannabis are presented, including the techniques used for separation and detection. Finally, the various biological activities of cannflavins are reviewed along with the available molecular docking studies. Conclusion: Despite the low level of cannflavins in cannabis hamper their development as naturally derived products, efforts need to be put in place to develop high yield synthetic or biosynthetic protocols for their production in order for their development as pharmaceutical products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maged S. Abdel-Kader
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Mohamed M. Radwan
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
- National Center for Natural Products Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi, USA
| | - Ahmed M. Metwaly
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Medicinal Plants, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim H. Eissa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Medicinal Chemistry & Drug Design, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Mahmoud A. Sohly
- National Center for Natural Products Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi, USA
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Pino S, Espinoza L, Jara-Gutiérrez C, Villena J, Olea AF, Díaz K. Study of Cannabis Oils Obtained from Three Varieties of C. sativa and by Two Different Extraction Methods: Phytochemical Characterization and Biological Activities. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:plants12091772. [PMID: 37176831 PMCID: PMC10180737 DOI: 10.3390/plants12091772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Currently, much effort is being placed into obtaining extracts and/or essential oils from Cannabis sativa L. for specific therapeutic purposes or pharmacological compositions. These potential applications depend mainly on the phytochemical composition of the oils, which in turn are determined by the type of C. sativa and the extraction method used to obtain the oils. In this work, we have evaluated the contents of secondary metabolites, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and cannabidiol (CBD), in addition to the total phenolic, flavonoids, and anthraquinone content in oils obtained using solid-liquid extraction (SLE) and supercritical fluid extraction (SCF). Different varieties of C. sativa were chosen by using the ratio of THC to CBD concentrations. Additionally, antioxidant, antifungal and anticancer activities on different cancer cell lines were evaluated in vitro. The results indicate that oils extracted by SLE, with high contents of CBD, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds, exhibit a high antioxidant capacity and induce a high decrease in the cell viability of the tested breast cancer cell line (MCF-7). The observed biological activities are attributed to the entourage effect, in which CBD, phenols and flavonoids play a key role. Therefore, it is concluded that the right selection of C. sativa variety and the solvent for SLE extraction method could be used to obtain the optimal oil composition to develop a natural anticancer agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastián Pino
- LABSUN (Laboratorio Sustentable Natural), Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
| | - Luis Espinoza
- Departamento de Química, Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
| | - Carlos Jara-Gutiérrez
- Laboratorio de Investigación-Estrés Oxidativo, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CIB), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Valparaíso, Viña del Mar 2520000, Chile
| | - Joan Villena
- Laboratorio de Investigación-Estrés Oxidativo, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CIB), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Valparaíso, Viña del Mar 2520000, Chile
| | - Andrés F Olea
- Grupo QBAB, Instituto de Ciencias Químicas Aplicadas, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, El Llano Subercaseaux 2801, Santiago 8900000, Chile
| | - Katy Díaz
- Departamento de Química, Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
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Alfonzetti T, Moreau M, Yasmin-Karim S, Ngwa W, Avery S, Goia D. Phytoradiotherapy to enhance cancer treatment outcomes with cannabidiol, bitter melon juice, and plant hemoglobin. Front Oncol 2023; 12:1085686. [PMID: 36776362 PMCID: PMC9909600 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1085686] [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: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite technological advances in radiation therapy for cancer treatment, many patient populations still experience mediocre survival percentages, local control, and quality of life. Additionally, much of the world lacks access to expensive, modern treatment options. The need for innovative, cost-effective solutions that can improve patient treatment outcomes is essential. Phytomedicines have been shown to induce apoptotic tumor cell death, diminish tumor progression, reduce cancer incidence, alleviate harmful hypoxic conditions, and more. While an ample amount of research is available that characterizes many phytomedicines as having anti-cancer properties that increase tumor cell killing/control and mitigate the harmful side effects of radiation damage, little work has been done to investigate the synergistic effect of phytoradiotherapy: combining radiation treatment with phytomedicines. In this study, a protocol for testing the radiosensitizing effects of phytomedicines was validated and used to investigate the well-known plant based medicine cannabidiol (CBD) and the lesser-known medicinal fruit Bitter Melon. Additionally, based on its high concentration of plant hemoglobin which has been shown to abate hypoxia, the African-indigenous Justicia plant was tested in pancreatic adenocarcinoma mouse models. The studies reveal that these phytomedicines can effectively enhance tumor cell killing, minimize tumor growth, and prolong mice survival. There is certainly the need for additional research in this regard, however, phytoradiotherapy: the use of phytomedicines to enhance radiation therapy treatment outcomes, continues to show potential as a promising, innovative way to improve cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Alfonzetti
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Michele Moreau
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Sayeda Yasmin-Karim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States,Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Wilfred Ngwa
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Stephen Avery
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States,*Correspondence: Stephen Avery,
| | - Denisa Goia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Markowski A, Zaremba-Czogalla M, Jaromin A, Olczak E, Zygmunt A, Etezadi H, Boyd BJ, Gubernator J. Novel Liposomal Formulation of Baicalein for the Treatment of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Design, Characterization, and Evaluation. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15010179. [PMID: 36678808 PMCID: PMC9865389 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15010179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the deadliest cancers so there is an urgent need to develop new drugs and therapies to treat it. Liposome-based formulations of naturally-derived bioactive compounds are promising anticancer candidates due to their potential for passive accumulation in tumor tissues, protection against payload degradation, and prevention of non-specific toxicity. We chose the naturally-derived flavonoid baicalein (BAI) due to its promising effect against pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and encapsulated it into a liposomal bilayer using the passive loading method, with an almost 90% efficiency. We performed a morphological and stability analysis of the obtained BAI liposomal formulation and evaluated its activity on two-dimensional and three-dimensional pancreatic cell models. As the result, we obtained a stable BAI-encapsulated liposomal suspension with a size of 100.9 nm ± 2.7 and homogeneity PDI = 0.124 ± 0.02, suitable for intravenous administration. Furthermore, this formulation showed high cytotoxic activity towards AsPC-1 and BxPC-3 PDAC cell lines (IC50 values ranging from 21 ± 3.6 µM to 27.6 ± 4.1 µM), with limited toxicity towards normal NHDF cells and a lack of hemolytic activity. Based on these results, this new BAI liposomal formulation is an excellent candidate for potential anti-PDAC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Markowski
- Department of Lipids and Liposomes, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wrocław, Joliot-Curie 14a, 50-383 Wrocław, Poland
- Correspondence: (A.M.); (A.J.)
| | - Magdalena Zaremba-Czogalla
- Department of Lipids and Liposomes, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wrocław, Joliot-Curie 14a, 50-383 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Anna Jaromin
- Department of Lipids and Liposomes, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wrocław, Joliot-Curie 14a, 50-383 Wrocław, Poland
- Correspondence: (A.M.); (A.J.)
| | - Ewa Olczak
- Department of Lipids and Liposomes, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wrocław, Joliot-Curie 14a, 50-383 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Adrianna Zygmunt
- Department of Lipids and Liposomes, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wrocław, Joliot-Curie 14a, 50-383 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Haniyeh Etezadi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ben J. Boyd
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University (Parkville Campus), 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Jerzy Gubernator
- Department of Lipids and Liposomes, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wrocław, Joliot-Curie 14a, 50-383 Wrocław, Poland
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Tomko AM, Whynot EG, Dupré DJ. Anti-cancer properties of cannflavin A and potential synergistic effects with gemcitabine, cisplatin, and cannabinoids in bladder cancer. J Cannabis Res 2022; 4:41. [PMID: 35869542 PMCID: PMC9306207 DOI: 10.1186/s42238-022-00151-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Several studies have shown anti-tumor effects of components present in cannabis in different models. Unfortunately, little is known about the potential anti-tumoral effects of most compounds present in cannabis in bladder cancer and how these compounds could potentially positively or negatively impact the actions of chemotherapeutic agents. Our study aims to evaluate the effects of a compound found in Cannabis sativa that has not been extensively studied to date, cannflavin A, in bladder cancer cell lines. We aimed to identify whether cannflavin A co-treatment with agents commonly used to treat bladder cancer, such as gemcitabine and cisplatin, is able to produce synergistic effects. We also evaluated whether co-treatment of cannflavin A with various cannabinoids could produce synergistic effects. Methods Two transitional cell carcinoma cell lines were used to assess the cytotoxic effects of the flavonoid cannflavin A up to 100 μM. We tested the potential synergistic cytotoxic effects of cannflavin A with gemcitabine (up to 100 nM), cisplatin (up to 100 μM), and cannabinoids (up to 10 μM). We also evaluated the activation of the apoptotic cascade using annexin V and whether cannflavin A has the ability to reduce invasion using a Matrigel assay. Results Cell viability of bladder cancer cell lines was affected in a concentration-dependent fashion in response to cannflavin A, and its combination with gemcitabine or cisplatin induced differential responses—from antagonistic to additive—and synergism was also observed in some instances, depending on the concentrations and drugs used. Cannflavin A also activated apoptosis via caspase 3 cleavage and was able to reduce invasion by 50%. Interestingly, cannflavin A displayed synergistic properties with other cannabinoids like Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, cannabichromene, and cannabivarin in the bladder cancer cell lines. Discussion Our results indicate that compounds from Cannabis sativa other than cannabinoids, like the flavonoid cannflavin A, can be cytotoxic to human bladder transitional carcinoma cells and that this compound can exert synergistic effects when combined with other agents. In vivo studies will be needed to confirm the activity of cannflavin A as a potential agent for bladder cancer treatment. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s42238-022-00151-y.
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Oswald IWH, Ojeda MA, Pobanz RJ, Koby KA, Buchanan AJ, Del Rosso J, Guzman MA, Martin TJ. Identification of a New Family of Prenylated Volatile Sulfur Compounds in Cannabis Revealed by Comprehensive Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatography. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:31667-31676. [PMID: 34869990 PMCID: PMC8638000 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c04196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis sativa L. produces over 200 known secondary metabolites that contribute to its distinctive aroma. Studies on compounds traditionally associated with the scent of this plant have focused on those within the terpenoid class. These isoprene-derived compounds are ubiquitous in nature and are the major source of many plant odors. Nonetheless, there is little evidence that they provide the characteristic "skunk-like" aroma of cannabis. To uncover the chemical origins of this scent, we measured the aromatic properties of cannabis flowers and concentrated extracts using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography equipped with time-of-flight mass spectrometry, flame ionization detection, and sulfur chemiluminescence. We discovered a new family of volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) containing the prenyl (3-methylbut-2-en-1-yl) functional group that is responsible for this scent. In particular, the compound 3-methyl-2-butene-1-thiol was identified as the primary odorant. We then conducted an indoor greenhouse experiment to monitor the evolution of these compounds during the plant's lifecycle and throughout the curing process. We found that the concentrations of these compounds increase substantially during the last weeks of the flowering stage, reach a maximum during curing, and then drop after just one week of storage. These results shed light on the chemical origins of the characteristic aroma of cannabis and how volatile sulfur compound production evolves during plant growth. Furthermore, the chemical similarity between this new family of VSCs and those found in garlic (allium sativum) suggests an opportunity to also investigate their potential health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iain W. H. Oswald
- Department
of Research and Development, Abstrax Tech, 2661 Dow Avenue, Tustin, California 92618, United States
| | - Marcos A. Ojeda
- Department
of Research and Development, Abstrax Tech, 2661 Dow Avenue, Tustin, California 92618, United States
| | - Ryan J. Pobanz
- Department
of Research and Development, Abstrax Tech, 2661 Dow Avenue, Tustin, California 92618, United States
| | - Kevin A. Koby
- Department
of Research and Development, Abstrax Tech, 2661 Dow Avenue, Tustin, California 92618, United States
| | - Anthony J. Buchanan
- SepSolve
Analytical Ltd., 4 Swan
Court, Forder Way, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE7 8GX, United Kingdom
| | - Josh Del Rosso
- Josh
D, 325 18th Street, Huntington Beach, California 92648, United States
| | - Mario A. Guzman
- Elysian
Group Inc., 1650 Westwood
Blvd. Suite #200, Los Angeles, California 90024, United States
| | - Thomas J. Martin
- Department
of Research and Development, Abstrax Tech, 2661 Dow Avenue, Tustin, California 92618, United States
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7
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Wishart G, Gupta P, Nisbet A, Velliou E, Schettino G. Novel Anticancer and Treatment Sensitizing Compounds against Pancreatic Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:2940. [PMID: 34208295 PMCID: PMC8231164 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13122940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The isolation of chemical compounds from natural origins for medical application has played an important role in modern medicine with a range of novel treatments having emerged from various natural forms over the past decades. Natural compounds have been exploited for their antioxidant, antimicrobial and antitumor capabilities. Specifically, 60% of today's anticancer drugs originate from natural sources. Moreover, the combination of synthetic and natural treatments has shown applications for (i) reduced side effects, (ii) treatment sensitization and (iii) reduction in treatment resistance. This review aims to collate novel and natural compounds that are being explored for their preclinical anticancer, chemosensitizing and radiosensitizing effects on Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC), which is a lethal disease with current treatments being inefficient and causing serve side effects. Two key points are highlighted by this work: (i) the availability of a range of natural compounds for potentially new therapeutic approaches for PDAC, (ii) potential synergetic impact of natural compounds with advanced chemo- and radio-therapeutic modalities for PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Wishart
- Bioprocess and Biochemical Engineering Group (BioProChem), Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK; (G.W.); (P.G.); (E.V.)
- Department of Physics, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK
| | - Priyanka Gupta
- Bioprocess and Biochemical Engineering Group (BioProChem), Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK; (G.W.); (P.G.); (E.V.)
| | - Andrew Nisbet
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK;
| | - Eirini Velliou
- Bioprocess and Biochemical Engineering Group (BioProChem), Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK; (G.W.); (P.G.); (E.V.)
- Centre for 3D Models of Health and Disease, UCL-Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Charles Bell House, 43-45 Foley Street, Fitzrovia, London W1W 7TY, UK
| | - Giuseppe Schettino
- Department of Physics, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK
- National Physical Laboratory, Teddington TW11 0LW, UK
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Clark TM. Scoping Review and Meta-Analysis Suggests that Cannabis Use May Reduce Cancer Risk in the United States. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2021; 6:413-434. [PMID: 33998861 PMCID: PMC8612444 DOI: 10.1089/can.2019.0095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Cannabis smoke contains carcinogens similar to tobacco, in addition to compounds with antitumor activity. Cannabis use reduces the risk of obesity and cannabinoids inhibit chronic inflammation, known causes of cancer. The net effect of Cannabis use on cancer risk is not known. Objective: To examine the association between Cannabis use and cancer risk in the United States. Methods: Identify and analyze published data on cancer risk in Cannabis users. Results: A total of 55 data points, consisting of risk ratios of cancer in Cannabis users and nonusers, were identified from 34 studies. Of these, 5 did not contain data essential for inclusion in the meta-analysis. The remaining data showed a nonsignificant trend to an association with reduced risk (relative risk [RR]=0.90, p>0.06, N=50) although heterogeneity is high (I2=72.4%). Removal of data with high risk of selection bias (defined as those from North Africa and those that failed to adjust for tobacco) and data with high risk of performance bias (defined as those with fewer than 20 cases or controls among Cannabis users) resulted in an RR <1.0 (RR=0.86, p<0.017, N=24) and large effect size (Hedges g=0.66), but did not decrease heterogeneity (I2=74.9). Of all cancer sites, only testicular cancer showed an RR value >1, although this was not significant and had a negligible effect size (RR=1.12, p=0.3, Hedges g=0.02). Following removal of testicular cancers the remaining data showed a decrease in risk (RR=0.87, p<0.025, N=41). Cancers of the head and neck showed a negative association with cancer risk (RR=0.83, p<0.05), with a large effect size (Hedges g=0.55), but high heterogeneity (I2=79.2%). RR did not reach statistical significance in the remaining cancer site categories (lung, testicular, obesity-associated, other). The data are consistent with a negative association between Cannabis use and nontesticular cancer, but there is low confidence in this result due to high heterogeneity and a paucity of data for many cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M Clark
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indiana University South Bend, South Bend, Indiana, USA
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9
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Zeng B, Liao B, Zhou D, Bai Y, Chen H, Chen B, Zhu Z. [Inhibitory effect of Xinhui citrus fermentation liquor on liver fibrosis in mice]. NAN FANG YI KE DA XUE XUE BAO = JOURNAL OF SOUTHERN MEDICAL UNIVERSITY 2021; 41:588-592. [PMID: 33963720 DOI: 10.12122/j.issn.1673-4254.2021.04.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the inhibitory effect of Xinhui citrus fermentation liquor on liver fibrosis in mice. OBJECTIVE Mouse models of liver fibrosis were established by intraperitoneal injection of CCl4 in 105 male C57BL/6 mice, followed by gavage of 0.1 mL 40% CCl4 olive oil 3 times a week (model group, n=49) or daily gavage of citrus liquor at the dose of 0.26 mL (citrus liquor group, n=56) for 8 weeks. Seven mice receiving only olive oil treatment (0.1 mL, 3 times a week) and another 7 treated with citrus liquor served as the control group. Liver tissues and serum samples were collected from 7 mice in the citrus liquor group and model group each week and from the mice in the two control groups at the 8th week for pathological examination of the liver tissues using HE staining and Sirius red staining and for determination of the biochemical indexes of liver function. OBJECTIVE The mice in the model group showed progressively worsened liver fibrosis with obvious hepatic steatosis, necrosis and inflammatory cell infiltration. These liver pathologies were much ameliorated in citrus liquor group, which showed significantly reduced vacuolation, inflammatory cell infiltration, collagen deposition and the Ishak score of the liver tissue (P < 0.05). Serum levels of cholyglycine, alanine aminotransferase, transglutaminase and alanine aminotransferase were all significantly lower in citrus liquor group than in the model group (P < 0.05). OBJECTIVE Xinhui citrus fermentation liquor has protective effect on the liver and can significantly ameliorate liver fibrosis in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Zeng
- Clinical Research Center, TCM-Integrated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510315, China
| | - B Liao
- Clinical Research Center, TCM-Integrated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510315, China
| | - D Zhou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, TCM-Integrated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510315, China
| | - Y Bai
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, TCM-Integrated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510315, China
| | - H Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, TCM-Integrated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510315, China
| | - B Chen
- Guangdong Xinbaotang Biological Technology Co, Ltd., Jiangmen 529100, China
| | - Z Zhu
- Clinical Research Center, TCM-Integrated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510315, China
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Construction of a lncRNA/pseudogene-hsa-miR-30d-5p-GJA1 regulatory network related to metastasis of pancreatic cancer. Genomics 2021; 113:1742-1753. [PMID: 33839271 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2021.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer, the most lethal malignant tumor, is notorious for its poor prognosis and metastatic potential. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are reported to play key roles in cancer metastasis. In this study, miRNA and gene expression profiles between metastatic pancreatic cancer cell M8 and its parental cell BxPC.3 were determined. Using differential expression analysis, survival analysis, target gene prediction, pathway enrichment analysis, intersection analysis and correlation analysis, hsa-miR-30d-5p/GJA1 axis was identified as the most potential pathway involved in metastasis of pancreatic cancer. Subsequently, two upstream lncRNAs (HELLPAR and OIP-AS1) and four upstream pseudogenes (AC093616.1, AC009951.1, TMEM183B and PABPC1P4) of hsa-miR-30d-5p/GJA1 axis were predicted and were then identified via assessment of RNA-RNA expression relationship. Furthermore, CTNNA1, CTNNB1 and CTNND1 were regarded as three crucial molecules to be participated in hsa-miR-30d-5p/GJA1-mediated metastatic potential in pancreatic cancer. In conclusion, we established a novel lncRNA/pseudogene-hsa-miR-30d-5p-GJA1 regulatory network linked to metastasis of pancreatic cancer.
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Bautista J, Yu S, Tian L. Flavonoids in Cannabis sativa: Biosynthesis, Bioactivities, and Biotechnology. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:5119-5123. [PMID: 33681553 PMCID: PMC7931196 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c00318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Although Cannabis sativa synthesizes a wide range of phytochemicals, much attention has been primarily given to two phytocannabinoids, Δ9-tetrahydocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), due to their distinctive activities in humans. These bioactivities can be further enhanced through the interaction of THC and CBD with other phytocannabinoids or non-phytocannabinoid chemicals, such as terpenes and flavonoids, a phenomenon that is termed the entourage effect. Flavonoid metabolism in C. sativa and the entourage effect are currently understudied. This mini-review examines recent advances in the biosynthesis and bioactivities of cannflavins, which are prenylated (C5) and geranylated (C10) flavones that are relatively unique to C. sativa. We also discuss the rapidly developing omics tools that enable discoveries in flavonoid metabolism in C. sativa and manipulation of flavonoid production through biotechnology. These advances set the stage for interrogating the health benefits of C. sativa flavonoids, deciphering the contribution of flavonoids to the entourage effect, and developing drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Li Tian
- . Telephone: +1 530 7520940. Fax: +1 530 7529659
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Peng H, Shahidi F. Cannabis and Cannabis Edibles: A Review. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2021; 69:1751-1774. [PMID: 33555188 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.0c07472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis is an excellent natural source of fiber and various bioactive cannabinoids. So far, at least 120 cannabinoids have been identified, and more novel cannabinoids are gradually being unveiled by detailed cannabis studies. However, cannabinoids in both natural and isolated forms are especially vulnerable to oxygen, heat, and light. Therefore, a diversity of cannabinoids is associated with their chemical instability to a large extent. The research status of structural conversion of cannabinoids is introduced. On the other hand, the use of drug-type cannabis and the phytocannabinoids thereof has been rapidly popularized and plays an indispensable role in both medical therapy and daily recreation. The recent legalization of edible cannabis further extends its application into the food industry. The varieties of legal edible cannabis products in the current commercial market are relatively monotonous due to rigorous restrictions under the framework of Cannabis Regulations and infancy of novel developments. Meanwhile, patents/studies related to the safety and quality assurance systems of cannabis edibles are still rare and need to be developed. Furthermore, along with cannabinoids, many phytochemicals such as flavonoids, lignans, terpenoids, and polysaccharides exist in the cannabis matrix, and these may exhibit prebiotic/probiotic properties and improve the composition of the gut microbiome. During metabolism and excretion, the bioactive phytochemicals of cannabis, mostly the cannabinoids, may be structurally modified during enterohepatic detoxification and gut fermentation. However, the potential adverse effects of both acute and chronic exposure to cannabinoids and their vulnerable groups have been clearly recognized. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the chemistry, metabolism, toxicity, commercialization, and regulations regarding cannabinoid edibles is reviewed and updated in this contribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Peng
- Department of Biochemistry Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada A1B 3X9
| | - Fereidoon Shahidi
- Department of Biochemistry Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada A1B 3X9
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Alfonzetti T, Yasmin-Karim S, Ngwa W, Avery S. Phytoradiotherapy: An Integrative Approach to Cancer Treatment by Combining Radiotherapy With Phytomedicines. Front Oncol 2021; 10:624663. [PMID: 33628736 PMCID: PMC7898963 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.624663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy (RT) is an effective method of cancer treatment, but like any other method of cancer treatment, there are inherent limitations. While technological advances and a growing understanding of its biological effects have improved its results dramatically, the use of RT is still limited to certain patient populations and by normal tissue toxicities. The harmful side effects of treating patients with radiation can offset its therapy benefits, limiting its use in certain cases. Phyto, or plant-based, medicines offer a way to add to radiation treatment, while also protecting patients from its toxic side effects. Phytomedicines such as cannabinoids (CBD) and bitter melon extract have demonstrated therapeutic properties, including the ability to activate apoptotic death in cancer cells, diminish tumor progression, and generally decrease the incidence of several cancer types. In addition, herbal drugs have been shown to be powerful antioxidants with the ability to decrease toxicity of RT without the adverse side effects found in synthetic drugs. Furthermore, a number of phytomedicines have been shown to mitigate hypoxic conditions within the tumor microenvironment, creating a more radiosensitive disease and preventing tumorigenesis. The purpose of this article is to examine the merits and demerits of employing phytomedicines during RT. Results from studies that have tested the effects of combining radiotherapy with supplemental herbal treatment are discussed along with perspectives on where additional research is needed to advance "Phytoradiotherapy". Overall, experimental evidence points to the fact that phytomedicines have significant potential to enhance RT, with need for cross-disciplinary collaborations to establish optimal dosing combinations with evidence-base for clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Alfonzetti
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sayeda Yasmin-Karim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Wilfred Ngwa
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Stephen Avery
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Franco GDRR, Smid S, Viegas C. Phytocannabinoids: General Aspects and Pharmacological Potential in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021; 19:449-464. [PMID: 32691712 PMCID: PMC8206465 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x18666200720172624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last few years research into Cannabis and its constituent phytocannabinoids has burgeoned, particularly in the potential application of novel cannabis phytochemicals for the treatment of diverse illnesses related to neurodegeneration and dementia, including Alzheimer's (AD), Parkinson's (PD) and Huntington's disease (HD). To date, these neurological diseases have mostly relied on symptomatological management. However, with an aging population globally, the search for more efficient and disease-modifying treatments that could delay or mitigate disease progression is imperative. In this context, this review aims to present state of the art in the research with cannabinoids and novel cannabinoid-based drug candidates that have been emerged as novel promising alternatives for drug development and innovation in the therapeutics of a number of diseases, especially those related to CNS-disturbance and impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Cláudio Viegas
- Address correspondence to this author at the PeQuiM-Laboratory of Research in Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Alfenas, 37133-840, Brazil; Tel/Fax: +55 35 3701-1880; E-mail:
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Jentzsch V, Davis JAA, Djamgoz MBA. Pancreatic Cancer (PDAC): Introduction of Evidence-Based Complementary Measures into Integrative Clinical Management. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E3096. [PMID: 33114159 PMCID: PMC7690843 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12113096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The most common form of pancreatic cancer is pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), which comprises some 85% of all cases. Currently, this is the fourth highest cause of cancer mortality worldwide and its incidence is rising steeply. Commonly applied clinical therapies offer limited chance of a lasting cure and the five-year survival rate is one of the lowest of the commonly occurring cancers. This review cultivates the hypothesis that the best management of PDAC would be possible by integrating 'western' clinical medicine with evidence-based complementary measures. Protecting the liver, where PDAC frequently first spreads, is also given some consideration. Overall, the complementary measures are divided into three groups: dietary factors, nutraceutical agents and lifestyle. In turn, dietary factors are considered as general conditioners, multi-factorial foodstuffs and specific compounds. The general conditioners are alkalinity, low-glycemic index and low-cholesterol. The multi-factorial foodstuffs comprise red meat, fish, fruit/vegetables, dairy, honey and coffee. The available evidence for the beneficial effects of the specific dietary and nutraceutical agents was considered at four levels (in order of prominence): clinical trials, meta-analyses, in vivo tests and in vitro studies. Thus, 9 specific agents were identified (6 dietary and 3 nutraceutical) as acceptable for integration with gemcitabine chemotherapy, the first-line treatment for pancreatic cancer. The specific dietary agents were the following: Vitamins A, C, D and E, genistein and curcumin. As nutraceutical compounds, propolis, triptolide and cannabidiol were accepted. The 9 complementary agents were sub-grouped into two with reference to the main 'hallmarks of cancer'. Lifestyle factors covered obesity, diabetes, smoking, alcohol and exercise. An integrative treatment regimen was devised for the management of PDAC patients. This involved combining first-line gemcitabine chemotherapy with the two sub-groups of complementary agents alternately in weekly cycles. The review concludes that integrated management currently offers the best patient outcome. Opportunities to be investigated in the future include emerging modalities, precision medicine, the nerve input to tumors and, importantly, clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie Jentzsch
- Department of Life Sciences, Neuroscience Solutions to Cancer Research Group, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK; (V.J.); (J.A.A.D.)
- Business School, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - James A. A. Davis
- Department of Life Sciences, Neuroscience Solutions to Cancer Research Group, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK; (V.J.); (J.A.A.D.)
| | - Mustafa B. A. Djamgoz
- Department of Life Sciences, Neuroscience Solutions to Cancer Research Group, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK; (V.J.); (J.A.A.D.)
- Biotechnology Research Centre, Cyprus International University, Haspolat, Nicosia, TRNC, Mersin 10, Turkey
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Zhu J, Lv J, Chen J, Zhang X, Ji Y. Down-regulated microRNA-223 or elevated ZIC1 inhibits the development of pancreatic cancer via inhibiting PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway activation. Cell Cycle 2020; 19:2851-2865. [PMID: 33064959 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2020.1827189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are known to participate in the progression of human cancers, such as pancreatic cancer (PC), while the mechanisms of miR-223 in PC remain largely unknown. This study was for the investigation of the status of microRNA (miR)-223 in the growth of PC with the involvement of ZIC1 and the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Methods: MiR-223 and ZIC1 expression in PC tissue and cell lines was detected. PANC-1 cells and SW1990 cells were screened for subsequent experiments. Screened cells were transfected with miR-223- or ZIC1-related oligonucleotides or plasmids, or AZD8055, the dual inhibitor of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway to test the functions of miR-223, ZIC1 or PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in the biological functions of PC cells. The expression of miR-223, ZIC1, or PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway-related proteins was examined. Tumor xenograft in nude mice was conducted for the detection of tumor growth of PC. Results: Up-regulated miR-223 and declined ZIC1 existed in PC tissues of patients and cell lines. ZIC1 was determined to be a target gene of miR-223. Down-regulated miR-223 or up-regulated ZIC1 led to suppressed proliferation, migration, invasion, and cell cycle entry, volume and weight of tumors, while elevated apoptosis in PC cells through declining phosphorylation levels of PI3K, Akt and mTOR. MiR-223 up-regulation or ZIC1 down-regulation induced opposite results on PC cells. Conclusion: This study highlights that down-regulated miR-223 or elevated ZIC1 inhibits the development of PC via restricting activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, which has important meanings for exploring the mechanism of PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jingjiang People's Hospital , Jingjiang, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Jian Lv
- Department of General Surgery, Jingjiang People's Hospital , Jingjiang, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Pathology, Jingjiang People's Hospital , Jingjiang, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Xuesong Zhang
- Department of Central Laboratory, Jingjiang People's Hospital , Jingjiang, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Yong Ji
- Department of General Surgery, Jingjiang People's Hospital , Jingjiang, Jiangsu, P. R. China
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Erridge S, Mangal N, Salazar O, Pacchetti B, Sodergren MH. Cannflavins - From plant to patient: A scoping review. Fitoterapia 2020; 146:104712. [PMID: 32858172 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2020.104712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cannflavins are a group of prenylflavonoids derived from Cannabis sativa L.. Cannflavin A (CFL-A), B (CFL-B) and C (CFL-C) have been heralded for their anti-inflammatory properties in pre-clinical evaluations. This scoping review aims to synthesise the evidence base on cannflavins to provide an overview of the current research landscape to inform research strategies to aid clinical translation. METHODS A scoping review was conducted of EMBASE, MEDLINE, Pubmed, CENTRAL and Google Scholar databases up to 26th February 2020. All studies describing original research on cannflavins and their isomers were included for review. RESULTS 26 full text articles were included. CFL-A and CFL-B demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory activity via inhibition of 12-o-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate induced PGE2 release (CFL-A half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50): 0.7 μM; CFL-B IC50: 0.7 μM) and microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1 (CFL-A IC50: 1.8 μM; CFL-B IC50: 3.7 μM). Outcomes were also described in preclinical models of anti-oxidation (CFL-A), anti-parasitic activity (CFL-A, CFL-C), neuroprotection (CFL-A) and cancer (Isocannflavin B, a CFL-B isomer). In-silico screening identified that CFL-A has binding affinity with viral proteins that warrant further investigation. CONCLUSIONS Cannflavins demonstrate a number of promising therapeutic properties, most notably as an anti-inflammatory agent. Low yields of extraction however have previously limited research to small pre-clinical investigations. Identification of cannflavin-rich chemovars, novel extraction techniques and recent identification of a biosynthetic pathway will hopefully allow research to be scaled appropriately. In order to fully evaluate the therapeutic properties of cannflavins focused research now needs to be embedded within institutions with a track-record of clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Erridge
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Nagina Mangal
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Oliver Salazar
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, UK
| | | | - Mikael H Sodergren
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, UK; Emmac Life Sciences, London, UK.
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Anti-Cancer Potential of Cannabinoids, Terpenes, and Flavonoids Present in Cannabis. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12071985. [PMID: 32708138 PMCID: PMC7409346 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12071985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, and even more since its legalization in several jurisdictions, cannabis and the endocannabinoid system have received an increasing amount of interest related to their potential exploitation in clinical settings. Cannabinoids have been suggested and shown to be effective in the treatment of various conditions. In cancer, the endocannabinoid system is altered in numerous types of tumours and can relate to cancer prognosis and disease outcome. Additionally, cannabinoids display anticancer effects in several models by suppressing the proliferation, migration and/or invasion of cancer cells, as well as tumour angiogenesis. However, the therapeutic use of cannabinoids is currently limited to the treatment of symptoms and pain associated with chemotherapy, while their potential use as cytotoxic drugs in chemotherapy still requires validation in patients. Along with cannabinoids, cannabis contains several other compounds that have also been shown to exert anti-tumorigenic actions. The potential anti-cancer effects of cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids, present in cannabis, are explored in this literature review.
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Potential of Flavonoid-Inspired Phytomedicines against COVID-19. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25112707. [PMID: 32545268 PMCID: PMC7321405 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25112707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Flavonoids are widely used as phytomedicines. Here, we report on flavonoid phytomedicines with potential for development into prophylactics or therapeutics against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). These flavonoid-based phytomedicines include: caflanone, Equivir, hesperetin, myricetin, and Linebacker. Our in silico studies show that these flavonoid-based molecules can bind with high affinity to the spike protein, helicase, and protease sites on the ACE2 receptor used by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 to infect cells and cause COVID-19. Meanwhile, in vitro studies show potential of caflanone to inhibit virus entry factors including, ABL-2, cathepsin L, cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, Mip-1α, TNF-α), and PI4Kiiiβ as well as AXL-2, which facilitates mother-to-fetus transmission of coronavirus. The potential for the use of smart drug delivery technologies like nanoparticle drones loaded with these phytomedicines to overcome bioavailability limitations and improve therapeutic efficacy are discussed.
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Wang W, Liu B, Sun S, Lan L, Chen Y, Han S, Li X, Li Z. Downregulation of miR-486-5p Enhances the Anti-Tumor Effect of 5-Fluorouracil on Pancreatic Cancer Cells. Onco Targets Ther 2020; 13:1649-1659. [PMID: 32158231 PMCID: PMC7047986 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s231153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background 5-Fluorouracil (5-Fu) has been applied to treat pancreatic cancer, which is one of the most common types of digestive system tumors. Evidence has shown that miR-486-5p could promote the proliferation of pancreatic cancer cells. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate whether downregulation of miR-486-5p could enhance the anti-tumor effect of 5-Fu on pancreatic cancer cells. Methods Cell Counting Kit 8 assay, flow cytometry and wound healing assays were used to detect proliferation, apoptosis and migration in PANC-1 cells. The expressions of Bcl-2, Bax, cleaved caspase 3, PTEN, p-Akt and p-ERK in PANC-1 cells were detected with Western blot assay. Results In this study, the inhibitory effects of 5-Fu on the proliferation, migration and invasion of PANC-1 cells were significantly enhanced following transfection with miR-486-5p antagonist. In addition, downregulation of miR-486-5p markedly enhanced the pro-apoptosis effect of 5-Fu on PANC-1 cells. Moreover, bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assay identified that PTEN was the directly binding target of miR-486-5p. Meanwhile, downregulation of miR-486-5p markedly enhanced the anti-tumor effect of 5-Fu in PANC-1 cells via upregulation of the level of PTEN, and downregulation of the expressions of p-ERK and p-Akt. In vivo experiments confirmed that knockdown of miR-486-5p could enhance the anti-tumor effect of 5-Fu in PANC-1 xenograft model. Conclusion We found that the downregulation of miR-486-5p could enhance the anti-tumor effect of 5-Fu on pancreatic cancer cells. Therefore, miR-486-5p antagonist plus 5-Fu might be considered as a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University/Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
| | - Bowei Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, People's Republic of China
| | - Suofeng Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Lan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanhai Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, Guangdong 528200, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuangyin Han
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiuling Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaoshen Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University/Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
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Differences between KC and KPC pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma mice models, in terms of their modeling biology and their clinical relevance. Pancreatology 2020; 20:79-88. [PMID: 31780287 DOI: 10.1016/j.pan.2019.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is among the dangerous human cancers, is the 10th highly prevalent cancer, and the fourth sole cause of cancer-related mortality in the United States of America. Notwithstanding the significant commitment, the forecast for people with this burden continues to have a five-year survival rate of just 4-6%. The most critical altered genes within PDAC consist of K-ras the proto-oncogene which is usually mutationally activated above 90% cases and tumor suppressors likeTrp53 are altered at 55%. To face the burden of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, a variety of genetically engineered pancreatic cancer mice models have been created over the last past years. These models have distinctive features and are not all appropriate for preclinical studies. In this review, we focus on differences between two mice models K-rasLSL.G12D/+;Pdx-1-Cre(KC) and K-rasLSL.G12D/+; Trp53R172H/+; Pdx-1-Cre(KPC) in terms of their modeling biology and their clinical relevance.
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