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Ren L, Fang Z, Xu J, Wu X, Zhang Y, Cai H, Han Z. Matrine Inhibits Breast Cancer Cell Proliferation and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Through Regulating the LINC01116/miR-9-5p/ITGB1 Axis. Balkan Med J 2025; 42:54-65. [PMID: 39757516 PMCID: PMC11725677 DOI: 10.4274/balkanmedj.galenos.2024.2024-8-49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2024] [Accepted: 12/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/07/2025] Open
Abstract
Background Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent solid cancer affecting women's health globally. Matrine (MAT), a traditional Chinese herb, has exhibited antitumor effects against BC. However, its mechanism of action, particularly whether it involves the control of cell proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), remains unknown. Aims To explore MAT's role in BC and its regulatory mechanisms, as well as to identify targets for the development of novel medicines and improvement of BC treatment modalities. Study Design Experimental study. Methods The UALCAN and Lnc2Cancer 3.0 databases were used to predict the expression of LINC01116 in BC. The BC cells (MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7) were treated with various concentrations of MAT, and the optimal dose and timing of MAT action were determined using CCK-8 and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assays. Functional assays such as CCK-8, EdU, Transwell, Western blot, and flow cytometry assays were performed on the BC cells, and the impacts of LINC01116, miR-9-5p, and ITGB1 expression levels on MAT's mechanism of action were assessed. The association between LINC01116, miR-9-5p, and ITGB1 was evaluated using dual luciferase and RNA immunoprecipitation assays. Furthermore, the size and weight of the subcutaneous tumors in mice model were assessed. The effect of LINC01116 overexpression on the in vivo action of MAT and histopathological staining (TUNEL immunofluorescence, hematoxylin & eosin staining, immunohistochemistry staining for Ki67 and Bax) were also assessed. Results The optimal dose and duration of MAT administration were 8 μm and 24 h, respectively. MAT effectively inhibited BC cell proliferation, EMT progression, and biological functions, while promoting BC cell apoptosis. The animal model experiments also demonstrated that MAT inhibited BC tumor growth in vivo. Furthermore, MAT inhibited LINC01116, which acted as a sponge for miR-9-5p, increasing the ITGB1 level. Conclusion MAT suppresses BC cell and EMT proliferation via the LINC01116/miR-9-5p/ITGB1 pathway. Thus, MAT may be a promising target for adjuvant anti-BC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Ren
- Department of Integration of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, China
| | - Ziru Fang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, China
| | - Jiaojiao Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Wu
- Department of Pathology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, China
| | - Yongjun Zhang
- Department of Integration of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, China
| | - Hu Cai
- Department of Integration of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, China
| | - Zhicun Han
- Department of Acupuncture, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, China
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Guo J, Qu H, Huang Z, Xue Y. Puerarin Decreases the Expression of FUS-Dependent MAPK4 to Inhibit the Development of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Chem Biol Drug Des 2024; 104:e14617. [PMID: 39223105 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.14617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2024] [Revised: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Puerarin has been reported to have anticancer properties; however, its mechanism in regulating triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) remains unclear. Cell function was assessed using a cell counting kit-8 assay, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine assay, flow cytometry, and transwell assay. Additionally, the glucose assay kit, lactate assay kit, and ADP/ATP ratio assay kit were used to analyze glucose metabolism. mRNA and protein expression levels were analyzed using qRT-PCR and western blotting assays, respectively. The relationship between FUS RNA binding protein (FUS) and mitogen-activated protein kinase 4 (MAPK4) was determined using an RNA immunoprecipitation assay. TNBC cell malignancy in vitro was validated using a xenograft mouse model assay. Puerarin treatment or MAPK4 knockdown effectively inhibited TNBC cell proliferation, invasion, and glucose metabolism, and induced cell apoptosis. Additionally, puerarin treatment downregulated MAPK4 and FUS expression. Conversely, MAPK4 overexpression attenuated the effects of puerarin in TNBC cells. FUS stabilized MAPK4 mRNA expression in TNBC cells. Furthermore, puerarin decreased MAPK4 expression by downregulating FUS in TNBC cells. Finally, puerarin inhibited tumor formation in vivo. Puerarin inhibited TNBC development by decreasing the expression of FUS-dependent MAPK4, indicating that puerarin may serve as a promising therapeutic agent to hind TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Guo
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Huiheng Qu
- Department of General Surgery, Jiangnan University Medical Center, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhigang Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Xue
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
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Zhu Z, Wang H, Qian X, Xue M, Sun A, Yin Y, Tang J, Zhang J. Inhibitory Impact Of Cinobufagin In Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Metastasis: Involvements Of Macrophage Reprogramming Through Upregulated MME and Inactivated FAK/STAT3 Signaling. Clin Breast Cancer 2024; 24:e244-e257.e1. [PMID: 38378361 DOI: 10.1016/j.clbc.2024.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cinobufagin (CBG), a key bioactive component in cinobufacini, exhibits antitumor properties. This study explores CBG's impact on triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) metastasis and elucidates the underpinning mechanism. METHODS Murine xenograft and orthotopic metastatic TNBC models were generated and treated with CBG. The burden of metastatic tumor in the mouse lung, the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers, and macrophage polarization markers within the tumors were examined. The phenotype of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and mobility of TNBCs in vitro in a macrophage-TNBC cell coculture system were analyzed. Physiological targets of CBG were identified by bioinformatics analyses. RESULTS CBG treatment significantly alleviated lung tumor burden and EMT activity. It triggered an M2-to-M1 shift in TAMs, resulting in decreased TNBC cell migration, invasion, and EMT in vitro. CBG upregulated membrane metalloendopeptidase (MME) expression, suppressing FAK and STAT3 phosphorylation. Silencing of MME, either in mice or TAMs, counteracted CBG effects, reinstating M2 TAM predominance and enhancing TNBC cell metastasis. Cotreatment with Defactinib, a FAK antagonist, reversed M2 TAM polarization and TNBC cell metastasis. Notably, MME silencing in TNBC cells had no impact on CBG-suppressed malignant properties, indicating MME's indirect involvement in TNBC cell behavior through TAM mediation. CONCLUSION This study unveils CBG's ability to enhance MME expression, deactivate FAK/STAT3 signaling, and inhibit TNBC metastasis by suppressing M2-skewed macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohui Zhu
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu, PR China; Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, The Affiliated Huai'an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai'an 223001, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Hanlu Wang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, The Fifth People's Hospital of Huai'an, Huai'an 223300, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Xu Qian
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, The Affiliated Huai'an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai'an 223001, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Meiling Xue
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, The Affiliated Huai'an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai'an 223001, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Aijun Sun
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, The Affiliated Huai'an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai'an 223001, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Yifei Yin
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, The Affiliated Huai'an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai'an 223001, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Jinhai Tang
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu, PR China; Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, Jiangsu, PR China.
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, Jiangsu, PR China.
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Li H, Li J, Zhang Y, Zhao C, Ge J, Sun Y, Fu H, Li Y. The therapeutic effect of traditional Chinese medicine on breast cancer through modulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1401979. [PMID: 38783943 PMCID: PMC11111876 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1401979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer, the most prevalent malignant tumor among women globally, is significantly influenced by the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, which plays a crucial role in its initiation and progression. While conventional chemotherapy, the standard clinical treatment, suffers from significant drawbacks like severe side effects, high toxicity, and limited prognostic efficacy, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) provides a promising alternative. TCM employs a multi-targeted therapeutic approach, which results in fewer side effects and offers a high potential for effective treatment. This paper presents a detailed analysis of the therapeutic impacts of TCM on various subtypes of breast cancer, focusing on its interaction with the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Additionally, it explores the effectiveness of both monomeric and compound forms of TCM in the management of breast cancer. We also discuss the potential of establishing biomarkers for breast cancer treatment based on key proteins within the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Our aim is to offer new insights into the prevention and treatment of breast cancer and to contribute to the standardization of TCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongkun Li
- College of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiawei Li
- College of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yifan Zhang
- College of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Chengcheng Zhao
- Experimental Teaching and Practical Training Center, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Jun Ge
- College of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yujiao Sun
- College of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Hui Fu
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yingpeng Li
- College of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
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5
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Kan LLY, Chan BCL, Yue GGL, Li P, Hon SSM, Huang D, Tsang MSM, Lau CBS, Leung PC, Wong CK. Immunoregulatory and Anti-cancer Activities of Combination Treatment of Novel Four-Herb Formula and Doxorubicin in 4T1-Breast Cancer Bearing Mice. Chin J Integr Med 2024; 30:311-321. [PMID: 37594703 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-023-3745-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the in vivo immunomodulatory and anti-tumor mechanisms of the combined treatment of novel Four-Herb formula (4HF) and doxorubicin in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). METHODS Murine-derived triple-negative mammary carcinoma cell line, 4T1 cells, was cultured and inoculated into mouse mammary glands. Sixty-six mice were randomly assigned into 6 groups (n=11 in ench): naïve, control, LD 4HF (low dose 4HF), HD 4HF (high dose 4HF), LD 4HF + D (low dose and doxorubicin), and D (doxorubicin). Apart from the naïve group, each mouse received subcutaneous inoculation with 5 × 105 4T1 cells resuspended in 100 µL of normal saline in the mammary fat pads. Starting from the day of tumor cell inoculation, tumors were grown for 6 days. The LD and HD groups received daily oral gavage of 658 and 2,630 mg/kg 4HF, respectively. The LD 4HF+D group received daily oral gavage of 658 mg/kg 4HF and weekly intraperitoneal injection of doxorubicin (5 mg/kg). The D group received weekly intraperitoneal injections of doxorubicin (5 mg/kg). The treatment naïve mice received daily oral gavage of 0.2 mL double distilled water and 0.1 mL normal saline via intraperitoneal injection once a week. The control group received daily oral gavage of 0.2 mL double-distilled water. The treatment period was 30 days. At the end of treatment, mice organs were harvested to analyze immunological activities via immunophenotyping, gene and multiplex analysis, histological staining, and gut microbiota analysis. RESULTS Mice treated with the combination of 4HF and doxorubicin resulted in significantly reduced tumor and spleen burdens (P<0.05), altered the hypoxia and overall immune lymphocyte landscape, and manipulated gut microbiota to favor the anti-tumor immunological activities. Moreover, immunosuppressive genes, cytokines, and chemokines such as C-C motif chemokine 2 and interleukin-10 of tumors were significantly downregulated (P<0.05). 4HF-doxorubicin combination treatment demonstrated synergetic activities and was most effective in activating the anti-tumor immune response (P<0.05). CONCLUSION The above results provide evidence for evaluating the immune regulating mechanisms of 4HF in breast cancer and support its clinical significance in its potential as an adjunctive therapeutic agent or immune supplement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Ling-Yu Kan
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ben Chung-Lap Chan
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Grace Gar-Lee Yue
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Peiting Li
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Sharon Sze-Man Hon
- Department of Chemical Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Danqi Huang
- Department of Chemical Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Miranda Sin-Man Tsang
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- China-Australia International Research Centre for Chinese Medicine, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, STEM College, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Clara Bik-San Lau
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ping-Chung Leung
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chun-Kwok Wong
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
- Department of Chemical Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
- Li Dak Sum Yip Yio Chin R & D Centre for Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong, China.
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Püsküllüoğlu M, Michalak I. The therapeutic potential of natural metabolites in targeting endocrine-independent HER-2-negative breast cancer. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1349242. [PMID: 38500769 PMCID: PMC10944949 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1349242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is a heterogenous disease, with prognosis and treatment options depending on Estrogen, Progesterone receptor, and Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-2 (HER-2) status. HER-2 negative, endocrine-independent BC presents a significant clinical challenge with limited treatment options. To date, promising strategies like immune checkpoint inhibitors have not yielded breakthroughs in patient prognosis. Despite being considered archaic, agents derived from natural sources, mainly plants, remain backbone of current treatment. In this context, we critically analyze novel naturally-derived drug candidates, elucidate their intricate mechanisms of action, and evaluate their pre-clinical in vitro and in vivo activity in endocrine-independent HER-2 negative BC. Since pre-clinical research success often does not directly correlate with drug approval, we focus on ongoing clinical trials to uncover current trends. Finally, we demonstrate the potential of combining cutting-edge technologies, such as antibody-drug conjugates or nanomedicine, with naturally-derived agents, offering new opportunities that utilize both traditional cytotoxic agents and new metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirosława Püsküllüoğlu
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Kraków, Poland
| | - Izabela Michalak
- Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Advanced Material Technologies, Wrocław, Poland
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Wang D, Zhang Z, Zhao L, Yang L, Lou C. Recent advances in natural polysaccharides against hepatocellular carcinoma: A review. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:126766. [PMID: 37689300 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignant tumor of the digestive system that poses a serious threat to human life and health. Chemotherapeutic drugs commonly used in the clinic have limited efficacy and heavy adverse effects. Therefore, it is imperative to find effective and safe alternatives, and natural polysaccharides (NPs) fit the bill. This paper summarizes in detail the anti-HCC activity of NPs in vitro, animal and clinical trials. Furthermore, the addition of NPs can reduce the deleterious effects of chemotherapeutic drugs such as immunotoxicity, bone marrow suppression, oxidative stress, etc. The potential mechanisms are related to induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, block of angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis, stimulation of immune activity and targeting of MircoRNA. And on this basis, we further elucidate that the anti-HCC activity may be related to the monosaccharide composition, molecular weight (Mw), conformational features and structural modifications of NPs. In addition, due to its good physicochemical properties, it is widely used as a drug carrier in the delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs and small molecule components. This review provides a favorable theoretical basis for the application of the anti-HCC activity of NPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dazhen Wang
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Zhengfeng Zhang
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Lu Zhao
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin 150081, China
| | - ChangJie Lou
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin 150081, China.
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Yang X, Yang R, Zhang Y, Shi Y, Ma M, Li F, Xie Y, Han X, Liu S. Xianlinglianxiafang Inhibited the growth and metastasis of triple-negative breast cancer via activating PPARγ/AMPK signaling pathway. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115164. [PMID: 37478577 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer characterized by high invasion and metastasis rates. Xian-Ling-Lian-Xia formula (XLLX) is a traditional Chinese medicine prescription widely used in China for treating TNBC. Clinical studies have shown that XLLX significantly reduces the recurrence and metastasis rate of TNBC and improves disease-free survival. However, the potential molecular mechanisms of XLLX on TNBC are not clear yet. Here, we investigated the effects of XLLX on TNBC using a mouse model and tumor cell lines. The results showed that XLLX significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of TNBC cell lines MDA-MB-231 and 4T1 in vitro, induced apoptosis, and regulated the expression of proliferation, apoptosis, and EMT marker proteins in tumor cells. In in vivo experiments, XLLX treatment significantly reduced the progression of TNBC tumors and lung metastasis. Transcriptomics reveals that XLLX treatment significantly enriched differentially expressed genes in the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and AMP-dependent protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathways. The western blot results confirmed that XLLX significantly upregulated the protein expression of PPARγ and p-AMPK in TNBC cells, tumors, and lung tissues. It is noteworthy that GW9662 (a PPARγ inhibitor) and Compound C (an AMPK inhibitor) partially reversed the anti-proliferation and anti-metastasis effects of XLLX in TNBC cells. Therefore, XLLX may effectively inhibit the growth and metastasis of TNBC by activating the PPARγ/AMPK signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojuan Yang
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Rui Yang
- department of breast surgery, Shanxi Provincial Cancer Hospital, Shanxi, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Youyang Shi
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mei Ma
- Institute of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Feifei Li
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Xie
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xianghui Han
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Sheng Liu
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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Sodium New Houttuyfonate Induces Apoptosis of Breast Cancer Cells via ROS/PDK1/AKT/GSK3β Axis. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15051614. [PMID: 36900408 PMCID: PMC10000396 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15051614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sodium new houttuyfonate (SNH) has been reported to have anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and anti-cancer effects. However, few studies have investigated the effect of SNH on breast cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate whether SNH has therapeutic potential for targeting breast cancer. METHODS Immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis were used to examine the expression of proteins, flow cytometry was used to detect cell apoptosis and ROS levels, and transmission electron microscopy was used to observe mitochondria. RESULTS Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between breast cancer-related gene expression profiles (GSE139038 and GSE109169) from GEO DataSets were mainly involved in the immune signaling pathway and the apoptotic signaling pathway. According to in vitro experiments, SNH significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasiveness of MCF-7 (human cells) and CMT-1211 (canine cells) and promoted apoptosis. To explore the reason for the above cellular changes, it was found that SNH induced the excessive production of ROS, resulting in mitochondrial impairment, and then promoted apoptosis by inhibiting the activation of the PDK1-AKT-GSK3β pathway. Tumor growth, as well as lung and liver metastases, were suppressed under SNH treatment in a mouse breast tumor model. CONCLUSIONS SNH significantly inhibited the proliferation and invasiveness of breast cancer cells and may have significant therapeutic potential in breast cancer.
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Xu H, Li L, Qu L, Tu J, Sun X, Liu X, Xu K. Atractylenolide-1 affects glycolysis/gluconeogenesis by downregulating the expression of TPI1 and GPI to inhibit the proliferation and invasion of human triple-negative breast cancer cells. Phytother Res 2023; 37:820-833. [PMID: 36420870 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Atractylenolide-1 (AT-1) is a major octanol alkaloid isolated from Atractylodes Rhizoma and is widely used to treat various diseases. However, few reports have addressed the anticancer potential of AT-1, and the underlying molecular mechanisms of its anticancer effects are unclear. This study aimed to assess the effect of AT-1 on triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell proliferation and migration and explore its potential molecular mechanisms. Cell invasion assays confirmed that the number of migrating cells decreased after AT-1 treatment. Colony formation assays showed that AT-1 treatment impaired the ability of MDA-MB-231 cells to form colonies. AT-1 inhibited the expression of p-p38, p-ERK, and p-AKT in MDA-MB-231 cells, significantly downregulated the proliferation of anti-apoptosis-related proteins CDK1, CCND1, and Bcl2, and up-regulated pro-apoptotic proteins Bak, caspase 3, and caspase 9. The gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy results showed that AT-1 downregulated the metabolism-related genes TPI1 and GPI through the glycolysis/gluconeogenesis pathway and inhibited tumor growth in vivo. AT-1 affected glycolysis/gluconeogenesis by downregulating the expression of TPI1 and GPI, inhibiting the proliferation, migration, and invasion of (TNBC) MDA-MB-231 cells and suppressing tumor growth in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiying Xu
- Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center of Chinese Materia Medica Processing, College of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Lanqing Li
- Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center of Chinese Materia Medica Processing, College of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Linghang Qu
- Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center of Chinese Materia Medica Processing, College of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiyuan Tu
- Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center of Chinese Materia Medica Processing, College of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiongjie Sun
- Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center of Chinese Materia Medica Processing, College of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Xianqiong Liu
- Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center of Chinese Materia Medica Processing, College of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Kang Xu
- Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center of Chinese Materia Medica Processing, College of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
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Basavarajappa GM, Rehman A, Shiroorkar PN, Sreeharsha N, Anwer MK, Aloufi B. Therapeutic effects of Crataegus monogyna inhibitors against breast cancer. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1187079. [PMID: 37180727 PMCID: PMC10174464 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1187079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a silent killer disorder among women and a serious economic burden in healthcare management. Every 19 s, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, and every 74 s, a woman worldwide passes away from the disease. Despite the increase in progressive research, advanced treatment approaches, and preventive measures, breast cancer rates continue to increase. This study provides a combination of data mining, network pharmacology, and docking analysis that surely could revolutionize cancer treatment by exploiting prestigious phytochemicals. Crataegus monogyna is a small, rounded deciduous tree with glossy, deeply lobed leaves and flat sprays of cream flowers, followed by dark red berries in autumn. Various studies demonstrated that C. monogyna is therapeutically effective against breast cancer. However, the particular molecular mechanism is still unknown. This study is credited for locating bioactive substances, metabolic pathways, and target genes for breast cancer treatment. According to the current investigation, which examined compound-target genes-pathway networks, it was found that the bioactive compounds of C. monogyna may operate as a viable solution against breast cancer by altering the target genes implicated in the disease pathogenesis. The expression level of target genes was analyzed using GSE36295 microarray data. Docking analysis and molecular dynamic simulation studies further strengthened the current findings by validating the effective activity of the bioactive compounds against putative target genes. In summary, we propose that six key compounds, luteolin, apigenin, quercetin, kaempferol, ursolic acid, and oleanolic acid, contributed to the development of breast cancer by affecting the MMP9 and PPARG proteins. Integration of network pharmacology and bioinformatics revealed C. monogyna's multitarget pharmacological mechanisms against breast cancer. This study provides convincing evidence that C. monogyna might partially alleviate breast cancer and ultimately lays a foundation for further experimental research on the anti-breast cancer activity of C. monogyna.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abdur Rehman
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- *Correspondence: Nagaraja Sreeharsha, ; Abdur Rehman,
| | | | - Nagaraja Sreeharsha
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Hofuf, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Vidya Siri College of Pharmacy, Bangalore, India
- *Correspondence: Nagaraja Sreeharsha, ; Abdur Rehman,
| | - Md. Khalid Anwer
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Alkharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bandar Aloufi
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
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12
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Feng F, Pan L, Wu J, Liu M, He L, Yang L, Zhou W. Schisantherin A inhibits cell proliferation by regulating glucose metabolism pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1019486. [PMID: 36425581 PMCID: PMC9679220 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1019486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 08/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Schisantherin A (STA) is a traditional Chinese medicine extracted from the plant Schisandra chinensis, which has a wide range of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and other pharmacological effects. This study investigates the anti-hepatocellular carcinoma effects of STA and the underlying mechanisms. STA significantly inhibits the proliferation and migration of Hep3B and HCCLM3 cells in vitro in a concentration-dependent manner. RNA-sequencing showed that 77 genes are upregulated and 136 genes are downregulated in STA-treated cells compared with untreated cells. KEGG pathway analysis showed significant enrichment in galactose metabolism as well as in fructose and mannose metabolism. Further gas chromatography-mass spectrometric analysis (GC-MS) confirmed this, indicating that STA significantly inhibits the glucose metabolism pathway of Hep3B cells. Tumor xenograft in nude mice showed that STA has a significant inhibitory effect on tumor growth in vivo. In conclusion, our results indicate that STA can inhibit cell proliferation by regulating glucose metabolism, with subsequent anti-tumor effects, and has the potential to be a candidate drug for the treatment of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Feng
- National Innovation and Attracting Talents “111” Base, Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, College of Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lianhong Pan
- Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Antitumor Natural Drugs, Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiaqin Wu
- National Innovation and Attracting Talents “111” Base, Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, College of Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Mingying Liu
- School of Comprehensive Health Management, XiHua University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Long He
- School of Artificial Intelligence, Chongqing University of Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Yang
- National Innovation and Attracting Talents “111” Base, Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, College of Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Zhou
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
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13
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Li J, Yuan M, Qiu T, Lu M, Zhan S, Bai Y, Yang M, Liu X, Zhang X. A glutathione-sensitive drug delivery system based on carboxymethyl chitosan co-deliver Rose Bengal and oxymatrine for combined cancer treatment. JOURNAL OF BIOMATERIALS SCIENCE, POLYMER EDITION 2022; 34:650-673. [PMID: 36272104 DOI: 10.1080/09205063.2022.2139977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
At present, monotherapy of tumor has not met the clinical needs, due to high doses, poor efficacy, and the emergence of drug resistance. Combination therapy can effectively solve these problems, which is a better option for tumor suppression. Based on this, we developed a novel glutathione-sensitive drug delivery nanoparticle system (OMT/CMCS-CYS-RB NPs) for oral cancer treatment. Briefly, carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) was used as a carrier to simultaneously load Rose Bengal (RB) and oxymatrine (OMT). The OMT/CMCS-CYS-RB NPs prepared by ion crosslinking were spheres with a stable structure. In addition, the nanoparticles can be excited in vitro to generate a large amount of singlet oxygen, which has a good photodynamic effect. In vitro anti-tumor activity study showed that the nanoparticles after the laser enhanced therapeutic efficacy on tumor cells compared with the free drug and exhibited well security. Furthermore, OMT/CMCS-CYS-RB NPs could inhibit the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in oxidative stress, and realize tumor apoptosis through mitochondria-related pathways. In conclusion, this combination delivery system for delivering RB and OMT is a safe and effective strategy, which may provide a new avenue for the tumor treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juncan Li
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Sciences, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ming Yuan
- Wuhan Wuchang District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuhan, China
| | - Tong Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Mengli Lu
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Sciences, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Siwen Zhan
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Sciences, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuting Bai
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) and Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | | | - Xia Liu
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Sciences, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xueqiong Zhang
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Sciences, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
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14
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Yang Y, Lu Y, Zhang C, Guo Q, Zhang W, Wang T, Xia Z, Liu J, Cheng X, Xi T, Jiang F, Zheng L. Phenazine derivatives attenuate the stemness of breast cancer cells through triggering ferroptosis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:360. [PMID: 35690642 PMCID: PMC11072418 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04384-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) are positively correlated with the metastasis, chemoresistance, and recurrence of breast cancer. However, there are still no drugs targeting BCSCs in clinical using for breast cancer treatment. Here, we tried to screen out small-molecule compounds targeting BCSCs from the phenazine library established by us before. We focused on the compounds without affecting cell viability and screened out three potential compounds (CPUL119, CPUL129, CPUL149) that can significantly attenuate the stemness of breast cancer cells, as evident by the decrease of stemness marker expression, CD44+/CD24- subpopulation, mammary spheroid-formation ability, and tumor-initiating capacity. Additionally, these compounds suppressed the metastatic ability of breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Combined with the transcriptome sequencing analysis, ferroptosis was shown on the top of the most upregulated pathways by CPUL119, CPUL129, and CPUL149, respectively. Mechanistically, we found that these three compounds could trigger ferroptosis by accumulating and sequestering iron in lysosomes through interacting with iron, and by regulating the expression of proteins (IRP2, TfR1, ferritin) engaged in iron transport and storage. Furthermore, inhibition of ferroptosis rescued the suppression of these three compounds on breast cancer cell stemness. This study suggests that CPUL119, CPUL129, and CPUL149 can specifically inhibit the stemness of breast cancer cells through triggering ferroptosis and may be the potential compounds for breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yang
- School of Life Science and Technology, School of Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Road, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Lu
- School of Life Science and Technology, School of Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Road, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunhua Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, School of Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Road, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Qianqian Guo
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, 127 Dongming Road, Zhengzhou, 450003, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenzhou Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, 127 Dongming Road, Zhengzhou, 450003, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, School of Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Road, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhuolu Xia
- School of Life Science and Technology, School of Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Road, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Liu
- School of Life Science and Technology, School of Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Road, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangyu Cheng
- School of Life Science and Technology, School of Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Road, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Xi
- School of Life Science and Technology, School of Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Road, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China.
| | - Feng Jiang
- School of Life Science and Technology, School of Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Road, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China.
| | - Lufeng Zheng
- School of Life Science and Technology, School of Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Road, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China.
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