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Zhou X, Xu R, Wu Y, Zhou L, Xiang T. The role of proteasomes in tumorigenesis. Genes Dis 2024; 11:101070. [PMID: 38523673 PMCID: PMC10958230 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.06.037] [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: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Protein homeostasis is the basis of normal life activities, and the proteasome family plays an extremely important function in this process. The proteasome 20S is a concentric circle structure with two α rings and two β rings overlapped. The proteasome 20S can perform both ATP-dependent and non-ATP-dependent ubiquitination proteasome degradation by binding to various subunits (such as 19S, 11S, and 200 PA), which is performed by its active subunit β1, β2, and β5. The proteasome can degrade misfolded, excess proteins to maintain homeostasis. At the same time, it can be utilized by tumors to degrade over-proliferate and unwanted proteins to support their growth. Proteasomes can affect the development of tumors from several aspects including tumor signaling pathways such as NF-κB and p53, cell cycle, immune regulation, and drug resistance. Proteasome-encoding genes have been found to be overexpressed in a variety of tumors, providing a potential novel target for cancer therapy. In addition, proteasome inhibitors such as bortezomib, carfilzomib, and ixazomib have been put into clinical application as the first-line treatment of multiple myeloma. More and more studies have shown that it also has different therapeutic effects in other tumors such as hepatocellular carcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, glioblastoma, and neuroblastoma. However, proteasome inhibitors are not much effective due to their tolerance and singleness in other tumors. Therefore, further studies on their mechanisms of action and drug interactions are needed to investigate their therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyi Zhou
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Ruqing Xu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yue Wu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Li Zhou
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Tingxiu Xiang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400030, China
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2
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Xun J, Ohtsuka H, Hirose K, Douchi D, Nakayama S, Ishida M, Miura T, Ariake K, Mizuma M, Nakagawa K, Morikawa T, Furukawa T, Unno M. Reduced expression of phosphorylated ataxia-telangiectasia mutated gene is related to poor prognosis and gemcitabine chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:835. [PMID: 37674118 PMCID: PMC10481509 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-11294-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loss of expression of the gene ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM), occurring in patients with multiple primary malignancies, including pancreatic cancer, is associated with poor prognosis. In this study, we investigated the detailed molecular mechanism through which ATM expression affects the prognosis of patients with pancreatic cancer. METHODS The levels of expression of ATM and phosphorylated ATM in patients with pancreatic cancer who had undergone surgical resection were analyzed using immunohistochemistry staining. RNA sequencing was performed on ATM-knockdown pancreatic-cancer cells to elucidate the mechanism underlying the invlovement of ATM in pancreatic cancer. RESULTS Immunohistochemical analysis showed that 15.3% and 27.8% of clinical samples had low levels of ATM and phosphorylated ATM, respectively. Low expression of phosphorylated ATM substantially reduced overall and disease-free survival in patients with pancreatic cancer. In the pancreatic cancer cell lines with ATM low expression, resistance to gemcitabine was demonstrated. The RNA sequence demonstrated that ATM knockdown induced the expression of MET and NTN1. In ATM knockdown cells, it was also revealed that the protein expression levels of HIF-1α and antiapoptotic BCL-2/BAD were upregulated. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate that loss of ATM expression increases tumor development, suppresses apoptosis, and reduces gemcitabine sensitivity. Additionally, loss of phosphorylated ATM is associated with a poor prognosis in patients with pancreatic cancer. Thus, phosphorylated ATM could be a possible target for pancreatic cancer treatment as well as a molecular marker to track patient prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyu Xun
- Department of Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Hideo Ohtsuka
- Department of Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Miyagi, Japan.
| | - Katsuya Hirose
- Department of Investigative Pathology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Daisuke Douchi
- Department of Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Shun Nakayama
- Department of Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Masaharu Ishida
- Department of Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Takayuki Miura
- Department of Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Kyohei Ariake
- Department of Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Masamichi Mizuma
- Department of Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Kei Nakagawa
- Department of Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Takanori Morikawa
- Department of Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Toru Furukawa
- Department of Investigative Pathology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Michiaki Unno
- Department of Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Miyagi, Japan
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3
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Wang X, Li J, Chen R, Li T, Chen M. Active Ingredients from Chinese Medicine for Combination Cancer Therapy. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:3499-3525. [PMID: 37497002 PMCID: PMC10367560 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.77720] [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: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Combination therapy against cancer has gained increasing attention because it can help to target multiple pathways to tackle oncologic progression and improve the limited antitumor effect of single-agent therapy. Chinese medicine has been studied extensively in cancer therapy and proven to be efficacious in many cases due to its wide spectrum of anticancer activities. In this review, we aim to summarize the recent progress of active ingredients from Chinese medicine (AIFCM) in combination with various cancer therapeutic modalities, including chemotherapy, gene therapy, radiotherapy, phototherapy and immunotherapy. In addition to highlighting the potential contribution of AIFCM in combination cancer therapy, we also elucidate the underlying mechanisms behind their synergistic effect and improved anticancer efficacy, thereby encouraging the inclusion of these AIFCM as part of effective armamentarium in fighting intractable cancers. Finally, we present the challenges and future perspectives of AIFCM combination therapy as a feasible and promising strategy for the optimization of cancer treatment and better clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, 999078, China
| | - Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, 999078, China
| | - Ruie Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, 999078, China
| | - Ting Li
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, 999078, China
| | - Meiwan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, 999078, China
- MoE Frontiers Science Center for Precision Oncology, University of Macau, Macau, 999078, China
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4
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Unraveling the molecular mechanism of l-menthol against cervical cancer based on network pharmacology, molecular docking and in vitro analysis. Mol Divers 2023; 27:323-340. [PMID: 35467269 DOI: 10.1007/s11030-022-10429-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Cervical cancer is a major cause of gynecological related mortalities in developing countries. Cisplatin, a potent chemotherapeutic agent used for treating advanced cervical cancer exhibits side effects and resistance development. The current study was aimed to investigate the repurposing of l-menthol as a potential therapeutic drug against cervical cancer. L-menthol was predicted to be non-toxic with good pharmacokinetic properties based on SwissADME and pkCSM analysis. Subsequently, 543 and 1664 targets of l-menthol and cervical cancer were identified using STITCH, BATMAN-TCM, PharmMapper and CTD databases. STRING and Cytoscape analysis of the merged protein-protein interaction network revealed 107 core targets of l- menthol against cervical cancer. M-CODE identified highly connected clusters between the core targets which through KEGG analysis were found to be enriched in pathways related to apoptosis and adherence junctions. Molecular docking showed that l- menthol targeted E6, E6AP and E7 onco-proteins of HPV that interact and inactivate TP53 and Rb1 in cervical cancer, respectively. Molecular docking also showed good binding affinity of l-menthol toward proteins associated with apoptosis and migration. Molecular dynamics simulation confirmed stability of the docked complexes. In vitro analysis confirmed that l-menthol was cytotoxic towards cervical cancer CaSki cells and altered expression of TP53, Rb1, CDKN1A, E2F1, NFKB1, Akt-1, caspase-3, CDH1 and MMP-2 genes identified through network pharmacology approach. Schematic representation of the work flow depicting the potential of l-menthol to target cervical cancer.
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5
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Xu Q, Pan G, Wang Z, Wang L, Tang Y, Dong J, Qin JJ. Platycodin-D exerts its anti-cancer effect by promoting c-Myc protein ubiquitination and degradation in gastric cancer. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1138658. [PMID: 36950011 PMCID: PMC10025306 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1138658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Platycodin D (PD) is a triterpene saponin extracted from the root of Platycodon grandiflorum. It has been reported to exhibit multiple pharmacological and biological properties. There is substantial evidence to support that PD displays a wide range of anti-tumor activities. However, the detailed molecular mechanism still needs further elaboration. In the present study, to explore whether PD inhibits gastric cancer (GC) cell viability, eight GC cell lines and the GES-1 cell line (a gastric mucosal cell line) were tested. We found that PD exhibited better inhibitory activity on GC cell lines than on the non-tumor cell line. Besides, treatment with PD led to a significant cell cycle arrest, thereby causing subsequent apoptosis. Regarding the cell growth inhibition mechanism, PD can downregulate the protein level of c-Myc rather than its mRNA level in a dose-dependent manner. Further studies revealed that PD disturbed the overall ubiquitination level in GC cell lines and enhanced the ubiquitination-dependent degradation of c-Myc. Interestingly, the inhibition of cell viability by PD could be restored to a certain extent when the expression of c-Myc was recovered, suggesting that PD-mediated GC cell growth inhibition is closely associated with c-Myc expression. Our study proposes a novel molecular mechanism for PD inhibiting GC cell proliferation and growth by destabilizing the c-Myc protein. This work may lay a preliminary foundation for developing PD as an anti-cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Xu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Guangzhao Pan
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Prevention, Diagnosis and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Guangzhao Pan, ; Jiang-Jiang Qin,
| | - Zhonglan Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lingling Wang
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yancheng Tang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jinyun Dong
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Prevention, Diagnosis and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiang-Jiang Qin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Prevention, Diagnosis and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Guangzhao Pan, ; Jiang-Jiang Qin,
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6
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Bailly C. Anti-inflammatory and anticancer p-terphenyl derivatives from fungi of the genus Thelephora. Bioorg Med Chem 2022; 70:116935. [PMID: 35901638 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2022.116935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Fungi from the genus Thelephora have been exploited to identify bioactive compounds. The main natural products characterized are para-terphenyl derivatives, chiefly represented by the lead anti-inflammatory compound vialinin A isolated from species T. vialis and T. terrestris. Different series of p-terphenyls have been identified, including vialinins, ganbajunins, terrestrins, telephantins and other products. Their mechanism of action is not always clearly identified, and different potential molecule targets have been proposed. The lead vialinin A functions as a protease inhibitor, efficiently targeting ubiquitin-specific peptidases USP4/5 and sentrin-specific protease SENP1 which are prominent anti-inflammatory and anticancer targets. Protease inhibition is coupled with a powerful inhibition of the cellular production of tumor necrosis factor TNFα. Other mechanisms contributing to the anti-inflammatory or anti-proliferative action of these p-terphenyl compounds have been invoked, including the formation of cytotoxic copper complexes for derivatives bearing a catechol central unit such vialinin A, terrestrin B and telephantin O. These p-terphenyl compounds could be further exploited to design novel anticancer agents, as evidenced with the parent compound terphenyllin (essentially found in Aspergillus species) which has revealed marked antitumor and anti-metastatic effects in xenograft models of gastric and pancreatic cancer. This review shed light on the structural and functional diversity of p-terphenyls compounds isolated from Thelephora species, their molecular targets and pharmacological properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Bailly
- OncoWitan, Scientific Consulting Office, Lille (Wasquehal) 59290, France.
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7
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Yu D, Qi S, Guan X, Yu W, Yu X, Cai M, Li Q, Wang W, Zhang W, Qin JJ. Inhibition of STAT3 Signaling Pathway by Terphenyllin Suppresses Growth and Metastasis of Gastric Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:870367. [PMID: 35401187 PMCID: PMC8993145 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.870367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer is a common type of malignant tumor with a relatively poor prognosis and presents a serious threat to global health. Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription-3 (STAT3) has been strongly implicated in many cancers, and its constitutive activation promotes growth, angiogenesis, inflammation, and immune evasion. Therefore, considerable efforts have been put into developing effective and safe STAT3 inhibitors. In this study, we performed a virtual screening by molecular docking and found that terphenyllin, a marine-derived natural product, directly interacted with STAT3. We further found that terphenyllin inhibited the phosphorylation and activation of STAT3 and decreased the protein levels of STAT3-dependent target genes, including c-Myc and Cyclin D1. Subsequently, we demonstrated that terphenyllin exerted its potent anticancer efficacy against gastric cancer in vitro and in vivo. Terphenyllin concentration-dependently inhibited growth, proliferation, and colony formation and induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of gastric cancer cells in vitro. Moreover, terphenyllin treatment suppressed the tumor growth and metastasis in a gastric cancer orthotopic mouse model without notable toxicity in vivo. Taken together, our results indicated that terphenyllin exerts its anticancer activity by inhibiting the STAT3 signaling pathway and may serve as a potent STAT3 inhibitor for gastric cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dehua Yu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.,The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Simin Qi
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.,The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoqing Guan
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenkai Yu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.,The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xuefei Yu
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Maohua Cai
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.,The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qinglin Li
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weiyi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biogenetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen, China
| | - Weidong Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.,Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research and Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiang-Jiang Qin
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.,The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
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8
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Qi S, Guan X, Zhang J, Yu D, Yu X, Li Q, Yin W, Cheng XD, Zhang W, Qin JJ. Targeting E2 ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme UbcH5c by small molecule inhibitor suppresses pancreatic cancer growth and metastasis. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:70. [PMID: 35272681 PMCID: PMC8908661 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01538-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal cancers worldwide. The IAPs function as E3 ubiquitin ligases and contribute to pancreatic cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis. Although IAP-targeted therapies have been developed and shown anticancer efficacy in preclinical settings, none of them has been approved yet. METHODS Transcriptome data from public datasets were used to analyze the correlation of IAPs and E2s, and the biological function of E2 UbcH5c in pancreatic cancer. A structure-based virtual screen was used to identify UbcH5c inhibitor, and surface plasmon resonance analysis and cellular thermal shift assays were employed to evaluate the binding affinity. The anticancer activities were demonstrated through in vitro and in vivo assays, while the related mechanisms were explored through transcriptomic and proteomic analyses and confirmed by western blot, immunofluorescence, and qRT-PCR. RESULTS UbcH5c is positively correlated with the expression of IAPs in pancreatic cancer. We further found that UbcH5c is overexpressed and associated with a poor prognosis in pancreatic cancer. We identified a small-molecule UbcH5c inhibitor, termed DHPO, which directly bound to UbcH5c protein. DHPO inhibited cell viability and colony formation, induced apoptosis, and suppressed migration and invasion of pancreatic cancer cells in vitro. The compound inhibited UbcH5c-mediated IκBα degradation and NF-κB activation, which is critical for its anticancer activity. Furthermore, DHPO suppressed the tumor growth and metastasis in two orthotopic pancreatic tumor mouse models. CONCLUSIONS These results indicated that inhibiting UbcH5c is a novel and effective strategy for treating pancreatic cancer and DHPO represents a new class of UbcH5c inhibitor and may be further developed as an anti-pancreatic cancer therapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simin Qi
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Xiaoqing Guan
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jia Zhang
- Shanxi Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, 030012, China
| | - Dehua Yu
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Xuefei Yu
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qinglin Li
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wenjuan Yin
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiang-Dong Cheng
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Weidong Zhang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Jiang-Jiang Qin
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China.
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
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Li M, Tang D, Yang T, Qian D, Xu R. Apoptosis Triggering, an Important Way for Natural Products From Herbal Medicines to Treat Pancreatic Cancers. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:796300. [PMID: 35222011 PMCID: PMC8863938 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.796300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer, a poor prognosis and high morbidity and mortality cancer, is a malignant tumor occurring in pancreatic exocrine glands. Currently, surgery and gemcitabine (Gem) are commonly used to treat pancreatic cancers. However, the high recurrence rate and resistance makes the therapeutic effects still unsatisfied. Apoptosis is comprehensively recognized as one of the major ways of the programmed cell death, refers to the autonomous and orderly death process of cells in order to maintain the stability of the body's environment after receiving a certain signal or stimulation. Currently, it has also been proven to be a promising way for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. Nowadays, some active ingredients from herbal medicine have been reported to be effective for the treatment of pancreatic cancer via inducing cells apoptosis. Therefore, this article reviews the current references regarding anti pancreatic cancer effects of natural products derived from herbal medicines via triggering apoptosis, and summarizes the related potential signal pathways, including death receptors mediated apoptotic pathway, mitochondrial dependent apoptotic pathway, NF-κB mediated apoptotic pathways, MAPK mediated apoptotic pathway, ERS mediated apoptotic pathway, PI3K-Akt mediated apoptotic pathway, and other pathways such as JAK-STAT signal pathway, which can lay a certain foundation for the research and development of new natural products against pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiyan Li
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Dandan Tang
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Ting Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Die Qian
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Runchun Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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10
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Miquel M, Zhang S, Pilarsky C. Pre-clinical Models of Metastasis in Pancreatic Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:748631. [PMID: 34778259 PMCID: PMC8578999 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.748631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a hostile solid malignancy coupled with an extremely high mortality rate. Metastatic disease is already found in most patients at the time of diagnosis, resulting in a 5-year survival rate below 5%. Improved comprehension of the mechanisms leading to metastasis is pivotal for the development of new targeted therapies. A key field to be improved are modeling strategies applied in assessing cancer progression, since traditional platforms fail in recapitulating the complexity of PDAC. Consequently, there is a compelling demand for new preclinical models that mirror tumor progression incorporating the pressure of the immune system, tumor microenvironment, as well as molecular aspects of PDAC. We suggest the incorporation of 3D organoids derived from genetically engineered mouse models or patients as promising new tools capable to transform PDAC pre-clinical modeling and access new frontiers in personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Miquel
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Erlangen, Germany
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Shuman Zhang
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Erlangen, Germany
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christian Pilarsky
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Erlangen, Germany
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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11
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Kim A, Ha J, Kim J, Cho Y, Ahn J, Cheon C, Kim SH, Ko SG, Kim B. Natural Products for Pancreatic Cancer Treatment: From Traditional Medicine to Modern Drug Discovery. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13113801. [PMID: 34836055 PMCID: PMC8625071 DOI: 10.3390/nu13113801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer, the seventh most lethal cancer around the world, is considered complicated cancer due to poor prognosis and difficulty in treatment. Despite all the conventional treatments, including surgical therapy and chemotherapy, the mortality rate is still high. Therefore, the possibility of using natural products for pancreatic cancer is increasing. In this study, 68 natural products that have anti-pancreatic cancer effects reported within five years were reviewed. The mechanisms of anti-cancer effects were divided into four types: apoptosis, anti-metastasis, anti-angiogenesis, and anti-resistance. Most of the studies were conducted for natural products that induce apoptosis in pancreatic cancer. Among them, plant extracts such as Eucalyptus microcorys account for the major portion. Some natural products, including Moringa, Coix seed, etc., showed multi-functional properties. Natural products could be beneficial candidates for treating pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahyeon Kim
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea; (A.K.); (J.H.); (J.K.)
| | - Jiwon Ha
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea; (A.K.); (J.H.); (J.K.)
| | - Jeongeun Kim
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea; (A.K.); (J.H.); (J.K.)
| | - Yongmin Cho
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea; (Y.C.); (J.A.); (S.-H.K.)
- Korean Medicine-Based Drug Repositioning Cancer Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea; (C.C.); (S.-G.K.)
| | - Jimyung Ahn
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea; (Y.C.); (J.A.); (S.-H.K.)
| | - Chunhoo Cheon
- Korean Medicine-Based Drug Repositioning Cancer Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea; (C.C.); (S.-G.K.)
| | - Sung-Hoon Kim
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea; (Y.C.); (J.A.); (S.-H.K.)
| | - Seong-Gyu Ko
- Korean Medicine-Based Drug Repositioning Cancer Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea; (C.C.); (S.-G.K.)
| | - Bonglee Kim
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea; (A.K.); (J.H.); (J.K.)
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea; (Y.C.); (J.A.); (S.-H.K.)
- Korean Medicine-Based Drug Repositioning Cancer Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea; (C.C.); (S.-G.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-961-9217
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12
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Hiremath IS, Goel A, Warrier S, Kumar AP, Sethi G, Garg M. The multidimensional role of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in human malignancies. J Cell Physiol 2021; 237:199-238. [PMID: 34431086 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Several signaling pathways have been identified as important for developmental processes. One of such important cascades is the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, which can regulate various physiological processes such as embryonic development, tissue homeostasis, and tissue regeneration; while its dysregulation is implicated in several pathological conditions especially cancers. Interestingly, deregulation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway has been reported to be closely associated with initiation, progression, metastasis, maintenance of cancer stem cells, and drug resistance in human malignancies. Moreover, several genetic and experimental models support the inhibition of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway to answer the key issues related to cancer development. The present review focuses on different regulators of Wnt pathway and how distinct mutations, deletion, and amplification in these regulators could possibly play an essential role in the development of several cancers such as colorectal, melanoma, breast, lung, and leukemia. Additionally, we also provide insights on diverse classes of inhibitors of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, which are currently in preclinical and clinical trial against different cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishita S Hiremath
- Department of Bioengineering, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
| | - Arul Goel
- La Canada High School, La Canada Flintridge, California, USA
| | - Sudha Warrier
- Division of Cancer Stem Cells and Cardiovascular Regeneration, Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore, Karnataka, India.,Cuor Stem Cellutions Pvt Ltd, Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Alan Prem Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore.,Cancer Science Institute of Singapore and Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore.,NUS Centre for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore.,NUS Centre for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Manoj Garg
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Manesar, Haryana, India
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13
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Orel VB, Vitkovskaya NM, Bobkov AS, Semenova NV, Schmidt EY, Trofimov BA. Aldol Condensation Versus Superbase-Catalyzed Addition of Ketones to Acetylenes: A Quantum-Chemical and Experimental Study. J Org Chem 2021; 86:7439-7449. [PMID: 34014087 DOI: 10.1021/acs.joc.1c00388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The mechanism of aldol condensation of ketones in KOH/DMSO superbasic media has been investigated using the B2PLYP(D2)/6-311+G**//B3LYP/6-31+G* quantum-chemical approach. It is found that the interaction of three ketone molecules resulting in the formation of the cyclohex-2-enone structure [isophorone or 3,5-dicyclohexyl-5-methylspiro(5.5)undec-2-en-1-one] is thermodynamically more favorable than the interaction of two, three, or four molecules of ketone, resulting in the formation of linear products of the condensation. The formation of the condensation products with the isophorone skeleton can significantly hinder the cascade reactions of ketones with acetylenes [to afford 6,8-dioxabicyclo(3.2.1)octanes or acylcyclopentenols] promoted by superbases. In particular, the kinetically more preferable reactions of autovinylation of 2-methyl-3-butyn-2-ol and autocondensation of acetone are the reasons why interaction of acetone with acetylene does not lead to the products of the cascade assemblies. The predominant formation of the products of these side reactions is confirmed experimentally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir B Orel
- Laboratory of Quantum-Chemical Modeling of Molecular Systems, Irkutsk State University, 1 K. Marx Street, 664003 Irkutsk, Russian Federation.,A.E. Favorsky Irkutsk Institute of Chemistry, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 1 Favorsky Street, 664033 Irkutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Nadezhda M Vitkovskaya
- Laboratory of Quantum-Chemical Modeling of Molecular Systems, Irkutsk State University, 1 K. Marx Street, 664003 Irkutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Alexander S Bobkov
- Laboratory of Quantum-Chemical Modeling of Molecular Systems, Irkutsk State University, 1 K. Marx Street, 664003 Irkutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Nadezhda V Semenova
- A.E. Favorsky Irkutsk Institute of Chemistry, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 1 Favorsky Street, 664033 Irkutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Elena Yu Schmidt
- A.E. Favorsky Irkutsk Institute of Chemistry, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 1 Favorsky Street, 664033 Irkutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Boris A Trofimov
- A.E. Favorsky Irkutsk Institute of Chemistry, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 1 Favorsky Street, 664033 Irkutsk, Russian Federation
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14
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Yu D, Xu Z, Cheng X, Qin J. The role of miRNAs in MDMX-p53 interplay. J Evid Based Med 2021; 14:152-160. [PMID: 33988919 DOI: 10.1111/jebm.12428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous noncoding RNAs of 19-24 nucleotides in length and are tightly related to tumorigenesis and progression. Recent studies have demonstrated that the tumor suppressor p53 and its negative controller MDMX are regulated by miRNAs in different ways. Some miRNAs directly target p53 and regulate its expression and function, whereas some miRNAs target MDMX and regulate p53's activity indirectly. The overexpression of several miRNAs can restore the activity of p53 by negatively regulating MDMX in cancer cells. Therefore, a better understanding of the miRNAs-MDMX-p53 network will put forward potential research directions for developing anticancer therapeutics. In the present review, we mainly focus on the regulatory effects of miRNAs on the MDMX-p53 interplay as well as the role of the miRNAs-MDMX-p53 network in human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dehua Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhiyuan Xu
- Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiangdong Cheng
- Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiangjiang Qin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
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15
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Xu B, Yuan L, Hu Y, Xu Z, Qin JJ, Cheng XD. Synthesis, Characterization, Cellular Uptake, and In Vitro Anticancer Activity of Fullerenol-Doxorubicin Conjugates. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:598155. [PMID: 33568999 PMCID: PMC7868567 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.598155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Doxorubicin (DOX) is one of the most commonly used chemotherapeutic agents for treating human cancer. However, its clinical use has been limited by DOX-induced cardiotoxicity as well as other side effects. In the present study, we designed and synthesized the fullerenol (FU)-DOX conjugates and folic acid (FA)-grafted FU-DOX conjugates for improving the selectivity and activity of DOX in cancer cells. We further characterized the physicochemical properties and examined the release kinetics, cellular uptake, and in vitro anticancer activities of FU-DOX and FA-FU-DOX. The results showed that FU-DOX and FA-FU-DOX had a mean diameter of <200 nm and a low polydispersity. Both FU-DOX and FA-FU-DOX exhibited pH sensitivity and their DOX release rates were higher at pH 5.9 vs. pH 7.4. The cellular uptake studies indicated that FU conjugation enhanced the intracellular accumulation of DOX in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell lines (BEL-7402 and HepG2) and the immortalized normal human hepatocytes (L02). The conjugation of FA to FU-DOX further promoted the drug internalization in an FR-dependent manner and enhanced the cytotoxicity against HCC cells. In conclusion, the newly prepared FA-FU-DOX conjugates can optimize the safety and efficacy profile of DOX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beihua Xu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Li Yuan
- Institute of Cancer and Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,First Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ying Hu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Pharmaceutical College, Ningbo, China
| | - Zhiyuan Xu
- Institute of Cancer and Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiang-Jiang Qin
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.,Institute of Cancer and Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiang-Dong Cheng
- Institute of Cancer and Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, China
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16
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Liao Y, Hong X, Yang J, Qin JJ, Zhang B, Lin J, Shao Z, Wang W. Structure elucidation of a novel cyclic tripeptide from the marine-derived fungus Aspergillus ochraceopetaliformis DSW-2. Nat Prod Res 2021; 36:3572-3578. [PMID: 33397147 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2020.1869969] [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] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
A novel cyclic tripeptide, sclerotiotide M (1), was isolated from the culture of a marine derived fungus Aspergillus ochraceopetaliformis DSW-2, together with four known compounds (2-5). The planar structure of 1 was established by 1 D and 2 D NMR data, supported by mass spectrometry, and the relative configuration was established by calculated NMR chemical shifts coupled with a statistical method (DP4+). All the compounds (1-5) displayed weak cytotoxic activities against cancer cell lines HPAC and BXPC3, with IC50 values over 20 μM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Liao
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, China
| | - Xuan Hong
- Fujian Universities and Colleges Engineering Research Center of Marine Biopharmaceutical Resources, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Institute of Cancer and Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiang-Jiang Qin
- Institute of Cancer and Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Beibei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biogenetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen, China
| | - Jianhui Lin
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biogenetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen, China
| | - Zongze Shao
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biogenetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen, China
| | - Weiyi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, China.,Key Laboratory of Marine Biogenetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen, China
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17
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p-MEK expression predicts prognosis of patients with adenocarcinoma of esophagogastric junction (AEG) and plays a role in anti-AEG efficacy of Huaier. Pharmacol Res 2021; 165:105411. [PMID: 33401002 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The incidence rate of adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG) is increasing worldwide with poor prognosis and unclear pathogenesis. Trametes robiniophila Murr. (Huaier), a traditional Chinese medicine has been used in the clinical treatment of a variety of solid tumors, including AEG. However, its anticancer components and molecular mechanisms are still unclear. In our previous studies, we have found that Huaier n-butanol extract (HBE) shows the most potent anticancer activity among different extracts. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the clinical relevance of p-MEK expression in AEG patients and the role of the MEK/ERK signaling pathway in the anti-AEG efficacy of HBE in vitro and in vivo. We herein demonstrate that p-MEK expression in AEG tissues was significantly higher than that in paracancerous tissues and correlated with a poor prognosis in AEG patients. We further found that HBE inhibited the colony formation, migration, and invasion in AEG cell lines in a concentration-dependent manner in vitro. HBE also suppressed the growth of AEG xenograft tumors without causing any host toxicity in vivo. Mechanistically, HBE caused the inactivation of the MEK/ERK signaling pathway by dephosphorylating MEK1 at S298, ERK1 at T202, and ERK2 at T185 and modulating the expression of EMT-related proteins. In summary, our results demonstrate that the high expression of p-MEK may be an independent factor of poor prognosis in patients with AEG. The clinically used anticancer drug Huaier may exert its anti-AEG efficacy by inhibiting the MEK/ERK signaling pathway.
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18
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Stoica AF, Chang CH, Pauklin S. Molecular Therapeutics of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Targeted Pathways and the Role of Cancer Stem Cells. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2020; 41:977-993. [PMID: 33092892 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2020.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most lethal cancers in humans due to late detection and highly metastatic characteristics. PDAC cells vary in their tumorigenic capabilities with the presence of a subset of PDAC cells known as pancreatic cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are more resistant to currently used therapeutics. Here, we describe the role of CSCs and tumour stroma in developing therapeutic strategies for PDAC and suggest that developmental plasticity could be considered a hallmark of cancers. We provide an overview of the molecular targets in PDAC treatments, including targeted therapies of cellular processes such as proliferation, evasion of growth suppressors, activating metastasis, and metabolic effects. Since PDAC is an inflammation-driven cancer, we also revisit therapeutic strategies targeting inflammation and immunotherapy. Lastly, we suggest that targeting epigenetic mechanisms opens therapeutic routes for heterogeneous cancer cell populations, including CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrei-Florian Stoica
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Old Road, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LD, UK
| | - Chao-Hui Chang
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Old Road, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LD, UK
| | - Siim Pauklin
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Old Road, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LD, UK.
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19
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Yu WK, Xu ZY, Yuan L, Mo S, Xu B, Cheng XD, Qin JJ. Targeting β-Catenin Signaling by Natural Products for Cancer Prevention and Therapy. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:984. [PMID: 32695004 PMCID: PMC7338604 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The mutations and deregulation of Wnt signaling pathway occur commonly in human cancer and cause the aberrant activation of β-catenin and β-catenin-dependent transcription, thus contributing to cancer development and progression. Therefore, β-catenin has been demonstrated as a promising target for cancer prevention and therapy. Many natural products have been characterized as inhibitors of the β-catenin signaling through down-regulating β-catenin expression, modulating its phosphorylation, promoting its ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation, inhibiting its nuclear translocation, or other molecular mechanisms. These natural product inhibitors have shown preventive and therapeutic efficacy in various cancer models in vitro and in vivo. In the present review, we comprehensively discuss the natural product β-catenin inhibitors, their in vitro and in vivo anticancer activities, and underlying molecular mechanisms. We also discuss the current β-catenin-targeting strategies and other potential strategies that may be examined for identifying new β-catenin inhibitors as cancer preventive and therapeutic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Kai Yu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Yuan Xu
- Institute of Cancer and Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Li Yuan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shaowei Mo
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Beihua Xu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiang-Dong Cheng
- Institute of Cancer and Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiang-Jiang Qin
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.,Institute of Cancer and Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, China
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