Diosmetin Exerts Synergistic Effects in Combination with 5-Fluorouracil in Colorectal Cancer Cells

Mcl-1 is an important target protein for kaempferol from persimmon leaves in sensitizing ABT-199 to induce apoptosis in hepatoma cancer cells

Overexpression of Mcl-1 causes hepatocellular carcinoma resistance to Bcl-2 inhibitors, but there are currently no direct Mcl-1 inhibitors available for clinical application. Our previous research demonstrated that kaempferol from persimmon leaves (KPL) can sensitize ABT-199 to inhibit liver cancer cell proliferation. This study further explored the effect of KPL sensitizing ABT-199 on liver cancer cell apoptosis and its potential mechanisms. The inhibitory effects of KPL and ABT-199, both individually and in combination, on the proliferation of HepG2, Huh7, and HCCLM3 cells were evaluated. Cell apoptosis and mitochondrial morphology were assessed with flow cytometry and confocal microscopy, respectively. Apoptosis and changes in Mcl-1 protein expression were evaluated after siMcl-1 knockdown. Molecular docking simulations were used to analyze the interactions of KPL and ABT-199, both individually and in combination, with Mcl-1 protein. The effect of KPL on Mcl-1 stability was investigated with proteasome inhibitor MG132. The results demonstrated that KPL showed a strong sensitizing effect on ABT-199 (CI value < 1), enhanced liver cancer cell proliferation inhibition and increased apoptosis rate. Combined treatment led to mitochondrial fragmentation and swelling, and significantly reduced Mcl-1 expression. siMcl-1 interference resulted in little difference in apoptosis rates and Mcl-1 expression between the combination treatment and untreated groups. Molecular docking revealed that KPL increased the affinity of ABT-199 for Mcl-1, whereas MG132 prevented KPL from downregulating Mcl-1 expression. These findings suggest that KPL enhances ABT-199-induced apoptosis in HCC cells by targeting Mcl-1 protein through increasing the affinity between ABT-199 and Mcl-1, while also promoting Mcl-1 degradation by affecting post-translational modifications.

Non-small cell lung cancer sensitisation to platinum chemotherapy via new thiazole-triazole hybrids acting as dual T-type CCB/MMP-9 inhibitors

Cisplatin remains the unchallenged standard therapy for NSCLC. However, it is not completely curative due to drug resistance and oxidative stress-induced toxicity. Drug resistance is linked to overexpression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and aberrant calcium signalling. We report synthesis of novel thiazole-triazole hybrids as MMP-9 inhibitors with T-type calcium channel blocking and antioxidant effects to sensitise NSCLC to cisplatin and ameliorate its toxicity. MTT and whole cell patch clamp assays revealed that 6d has a balanced profile of cytotoxicity (IC50 = 21 ± 1 nM, SI = 12.14) and T-type calcium channel blocking activity (⁓60% at 10 μM). It exhibited moderate ROS scavenging activity and nanomolar MMP-9 inhibition (IC50 = 90 ± 7 nM) surpassing NNGH with MMP-9 over -2 and MMP-10 over -13 selectivity. Docking and MDs simulated its receptor binding mode. Combination studies confirmed that 6d synergized with cisplatin (CI = 0.69 ± 0.05) lowering its IC50 by 6.89 folds. Overall, the study introduces potential lead adjuvants for NSCLC platinum-based therapy.

Iron Overloading Potentiates the Antitumor Activity of 5-Fluorouracil by Promoting Apoptosis and Ferroptosis in Colorectal Cancer Cells

Resistance to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) remains a significant challenge in colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment. Ferric ammonium citrate (FAC) is commonly used as an iron supplement due to its food-fortification properties; however, its potential role as a chemosensitizer in cancer therapy has not been studied. In this study, we explored the ability of FAC to sensitize CRC cells and increase their susceptibility to 5-FU-mediated anticancer effects. We assessed cell viability, cell cycle progression, apoptosis, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, ferroptosis, and iron metabolism-related protein expression using two CRC cell lines. Additionally, we conducted in silico analyses to compare iron markers in normal colon and CRC tumor tissues. Compared to controls, CRC cells pretreated with FAC and then treated with 5-FU exhibited significantly reduced growth and viability, along with increased ROS-mediated ferroptosis. Mechanistically, FAC-pretreated then 5-FU-treated CRC cells showed enhanced apoptosis, increased Bak/Bax expression, MMP depolarization, and decreased antiapoptotic protein levels (Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL). This combined treatment also led to G2/M cell cycle arrest, upregulation of p21 and p27, and downregulation of cyclin D1, c-Myc, survivin, and GPX4. Analysis of human colon tumor tissue revealed decreased expression of IRP-1, HMOX-1, and FTH1 but increased HAMP expression. In contrast, FAC-pretreated/5-FU-treated CRC cells exhibited a reverse pattern, suggesting that FAC-induced chemosensitization enhances 5-FU-mediated anticancer activity in CRC by disrupting iron homeostasis. These findings highlight the potential of iron overload as a chemosensitization strategy for improving CRC chemotherapy.

Synergistic anti-tumorigenic effect of diosmetin in combination with 5-fluorouracil on human colon cancer xenografts in nude mice

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is frequently used to treat colorectal cancer (CRC), but its clinical application is limited by its toxicity. Natural compounds have been combined with chemotherapeutic drugs to reduce chemotherapy-related toxicity. Diosmetin, a natural flavonoid, has demonstrated anticancer effects against CRC. This study investigated diosmetin's potential in combination with 5-FU using a murine model of HCT-116 colon cancer xenografts in nu/nu nude mice. HCT-116 cells were injected into the right flanks of mice, and once tumors reached a size of 50 mm3, the mice were treated with diosmetin (100 mg/kg), 5-FU (30 mg/kg), or a combination of both at two dose levels (100 + 30 mg/kg and 50 + 15 mg/kg) for 4 weeks. Blood and tumors were collected on the final day for further analysis. Mice treated with the higher combination dose exhibited the smallest tumor volume (330.91 ± 88.49 mm3). Biochemistry and histology analysis showed no toxicity or abnormalities in the liver, kidney, and heart with the combination therapy. Immunohistochemistry results revealed a notable reduction in the proliferation marker (Ki67) and inflammation marker (TLR4) in tumors from high-dose combination-treated mice. Moreover, immunofluorescence data indicated increased levels of apoptotic markers (Bax, Caspase-3, p53, p21) and downregulation of anti-apoptotic protein (Bcl-2) in the high-dose combination group. The findings suggest that 100 mg/kg of diosmetin combined with 30 mg/kg 5-FU significantly reduced tumor volume and had a less toxic effect on the heart compared to 5-FU monotherapy.

Combination of Diosmetin With Chrysin Against Hepatocellular Carcinoma Through Inhibiting PI3K/AKT/mTOR/NF-кB Signaling Pathway: TCGA Analysis, Molecular Docking, Molecular Dynamics, In Vitro Experiment

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most prevalent malignant tumor. Hepatocellular carcinogenesis is closely linked to apoptosis, autophagy, and inflammation. Diosmetin and chrysin, are two flavonoid compounds, exhibit anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. In this study, the TCGA database was utilized to identify differentially expressed genes between normal subjects and HCC patients. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics analyses were employed to assess the binding affinity of chrysin and diosmetin to key proteins in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR/NF-κB signaling pathway. Western blotting and RT-qPCR were used to measure the protein and gene expression within this pathway. The results indicated that HCC patients had elevated levels of PI3K, AKT, mTOR, and P65 proteins compared to normal subjects, which adversely affected patient survival. Molecular docking and dynamics studies demonstrated that diosmetin and chrysin are effectively bound to these four proteins. In vitro experiments revealed that the combination of diosmetin and chrysin could induce apoptosis, enhance autophagy, reduce inflammatory mediator production, and improve the tumor cell microenvironment by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR/NF-κB signaling pathway. Notably, the synergy score for the combination of diosmetin (25 μM) and chrysin (10 μM) was 16. Thus, the diosmetin-chrysin combination shows promise as an effective therapeutic approach for hepatocellular carcinoma due to its strong synergistic effect.

Enhanced Antitumor Efficacy of Cytarabine and Idarubicin in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Using Liposomal Formulation: In Vitro and In Vivo Studies

Background: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common type of acute leukemia among adults with the recommend therapy of combination of cytarabine and idarubicin in the induction phase. The uncoordinated pharmacokinetics prevent adequate control of drug ratio following systemic administration. Therefore, the dual-loaded liposomes containing cytarabine and idarubicin for synergistic effects were proposed and investigated. Methods: The molar ratio of cytarabine and idarubicin for synergistic effects was investigated. The dual-loaded liposomes were prepared and characterized by particle size, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, cryo-Transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM), and in vitro stability. The in vitro cytotoxicity and cell uptake of liposomes were determined within CCRF-CEM cells. The PK experiments was carried out in male SD rats. The in vivo antitumor effect was carried out within CD-1 nude female mice. The antitumor mechanism of liposomes was investigated. Results: The synergistic molar ratios were found to be in the range of 20:1~40:1. The size distribution of the dual-loaded liposomes was approximately 100 nm with PDI ≤ 0.1, a zeta potential of approximately -30 mV, an entrapment efficiency of cytarabine and idarubicin of >95% with spherical structure and uniform distribution, and in vitro stability for 21 d. The drugs in the liposomes can be quickly uptaken by the leukemia cells. The PK experiments showed that the molar ratio of cytarabine to idarubicin in plasma was maintained at 30:1 within 4 h. The efficacy of liposomes was significantly enhanced. Conclusions: The dual-loaded liposomes containing cytarabine and idarubicin showed enhanced antitumor efficacy.

Diosmetin: A dietary flavone as modulator of signaling pathways in cancer progression

Flavonoids, constituting the most extensive category of polyphenols, founds in a variety of plants and comprise over 9000 compounds. Diosmetin, O-methylated flavone (3',5,7-trihydroxy-4'-methoxyflavone) of flavonoid aglycone diosmin have witnessed a significant surge in recent years. Many studies showed that flavonoids induced cytotoxicity in different organ specific cancer types. Thus, current review evaluates the anticancer potential of diosmetin and shed light on its mechanism of action such as cell cycle regulation, apoptosis via both intrinsic and extrinsic pathway, autophagy and tumour progression and metastasis. It also provides comprehensive analysis of different cancer targets and their role in breast, colon, hepatic, gliomas, leukemia, lung, prostate and skin cancer. Combination studies of diosmetin to improve drug sensitivity and reduce toxicity towards normal cells has been also discussed. Besides, in vitro studies, present review also discuss the anticancer potential of diosmetin on xenograft mice model. Different natural sources of diosmetin, limitations, pharmacokinetic analysis and toxicity study also summarized in current review. The emphasis on enhancing solubility and permeability for clinical utility has been thoroughly highlighted with particular attention given to the utilization of nano formulations to overcome existing barriers. At last, in-depth analysis of current challenges and a forward-looking perspective deliberated to address the existing gaps and position it as a promising lead compound for clinical applications in cancer treatment. This discussion is boosted by diosmetin's potential anticancer properties on different cancers, makes valuable candidates in the ongoing quest for effective therapeutic interventions against cancer.

Verteporfin Exerts Anticancer Effects and Reverses Resistance to Paclitaxel via Inducing Ferroptosis in Esophageal Squamous Cell Cancer Cells

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors. Ferroptosis is a new form of regulated cell death and targeting ferroptosis provides a novel therapeutic approach for human cancers. Verteporfin (VP) has been identified as a Yes-associated protein (YAP) inhibitor for treatment of several human cancers. However, it remains unclear whether VP exerts anticancer activity by inducing ferroptosis in ESCC cells. In the current study, we found that VP reduced cell viability and led to cell death in ESCC cell lines (KYSE150 and KYSE30) by inhibiting YAP expression. Subsequently, the findings revealed that VP treatment triggered significant ferroptosis events, including accumulation of Fe2+, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), glutathione (GSH) and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) expression. Further study showed that the effects of ESCC cell proliferation and death caused by VP could be reversed by ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1). Moreover, VP enhanced the chemosensitivity of ESCC resistant cells to paclitaxel (PTX). And VP combined with PTX can synergistically inhibit cell proliferation and induce cell death by triggering ferroptosis of PTX-resistant cells. All these data suggested that VP suppressed ESCC cell survival and reversed resistance to PTX through inducing ferroptosis, which may provide a promising therapeutic strategy for ESCC.

Antimigratory Effect of Lipophilic Cations Derived from Gallic and Gentisic Acid and Synergistic Effect with 5-Fluorouracil on Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Cells: A New Synthesis Route

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the world. Standard drugs currently used for the treatment of advanced CRC-such as 5-fluorouracil (5FU)-remain unsatisfactory in their results due to their high toxicity, high resistance, and adverse effects. In recent years, mitochondria have become an attractive target for cancer therapy due to higher transmembrane mitochondrial potential. We synthesized gallic acid derivatives linked to a ten-carbon aliphatic chain associated with triphenylphosphonium (TPP+C10), a lipophilic cationic molecule that induces the uncoupling of the electron transport chain (ETC). Other derivatives, such as gentisic acid (GA-TPP+C10), have the same effects on colorectal cancer cells. Although part of our group had previously reported preparing these structures by a convergent synthesis route, including their application via flow chemistry, there was no precedent for a new methodology for preparing these compounds. In this scenario, this study aims to develop a new linear synthesis strategy involving an essential step of Steglich esterification under mild conditions (open flask) and a high degree of reproducibility. Moreover, the study seeks to associate GA-TPP+C10 with 5FU to evaluate synergistic antineoplastic effects. In addition, we assess the antimigratory effect of GA-TPP+C10 and TPP+C10 using human and mouse metastatic CRC cell lines. The results show a new and efficient synthesis route of these compounds, having synergistic effects in combination with 5FU, increasing apoptosis and enhancing cytotoxic properties. Additionally, the results show a robust antimigratory effect of GATPP+C10 and TPP+C10, reducing the activation pathways linked to tumor progression and reducing the expression of VEGF and MMP-2 and MMP-9, common biomarkers of advanced CRC. Moreover, TPP+C10 and GA-TPP+C10 increase the activity of metabolic signaling pathways through AMPK activation. The data allow us to conclude that these compounds can be used for in vivo evaluations and are a promising alternative associated with conventional therapies for advanced colorectal cancer. Additionally, the reported intermediates of the new synthesis route could give rise to analog compounds with improved therapeutic activity.

A Comprehensive In Vitro Characterization of a New Class of Indole-Based Compounds Developed as Selective Haspin Inhibitors

Haspin is an emerging, but rather unexplored, divergent kinase involved in tumor growth by regulating the mitotic phase. In this paper, the in-silico design, synthesis, and biological characterization of a new series of substituted indoles acting as potent Haspin inhibitors are reported. The synthesized derivatives have been evaluated by FRET analysis, showing very potent Haspin inhibition. Then, a comprehensive in-cell investigation highlighted compounds 47 and 60 as the most promising inhibitors. These compounds were challenged for their synergic activity with paclitaxel in 2D and 3D cellular models, demonstrating a twofold improvement of the paclitaxel antitumor activity. Compound 60 also showed remarkable selectivity when tested in a panel of 70 diverse kinases. Finally, in-silico studies provided new insight about the chemical requirements useful to develop new Haspin inhibitors. Biological results, together with the drug-likeness profile of 47 and 60, make these derivatives deserving further studies.

Topical diosmetin attenuates nociception and inflammation in a ultraviolet B radiation-induced sunburn model in mice

Burns are a global health problem and can be caused by several factors, including ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Exposure to UVB radiation can cause sunburn and a consequent inflammatory response characterised by pain, oedema, inflammatory cell infiltration, and erythema. Pharmacological treatments available to treat burns and the pain caused by them include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, antimicrobials and glucocorticoids, which are associated with adverse effects. Therefore, the search for new therapeutic alternatives is needed. Diosmetin, an aglycone of the flavonoid diosmin, has antinociceptive, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Thus, we evaluated the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of topical diosmetin (0.01, 0.1 and 1%) in a UVB radiation-induced sunburn model in mice. The right hind paw of the anaesthetised mice was exposed only once to UVB radiation (0.75 J/cm2) and immediately treated with diosmetin once a day for 5 days. The diosmetin antinociceptive effect was evaluated by mechanical allodynia and pain affective-motivational behaviour, while its anti-inflammatory activity was assessed by measuring paw oedema and polymorphonuclear cell infiltration. Mice exposed to UVB radiation presented mechanical allodynia, increased pain affective-motivational behaviour, paw oedema and polymorphonuclear cell infiltration into the paw tissue. Topical Pemulen® TR2 1% diosmetin reduced the mechanical allodynia, the pain affective-motivational behaviour, the paw oedema and the number of polymorphonuclear cells in the mice's paw tissue similar to that presented by Pemulen® TR2 0.1% dexamethasone. These findings indicate that diosmetin has therapeutic potential and may be a promising strategy for treating patients experiencing inflammatory pain, especially those associated with sunburn.

The conjugates of 5'-deoxy-5-fluorocytidine and hydroxycinnamic acids - synthesis, anti-pancreatic cancer activity and molecular docking studies

New amide conjugates 1-6 of hydroxycinnamic acids (HCA) and 5'-deoxy-5-fluorocytidine (5-dFCR), the prodrug of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), were synthesized and tested in vitro against pancreatic cancer lines (PDAC). The compounds showed slightly higher efficacy against primary BxPC-3 cells (IC50 values of 14-45 μM) than against metastatic AsPC-1 (IC50 values of 37-133 μM), and similar to that of 5-FU for both PDAC lines. Compound 1, which has a para-(acetyloxy)coumaroyl substituent, was found to be the most potent (IC50 = 14 μM) with a selectivity index of approximately 7 to normal dermal fibroblasts (IC50 = 96 μM). The potential pharmacological profiles were discussed on the basis of the ADME data. Docking to the carboxylesterase CES2 showed that the synthesized compounds have the ability to bind via hydrogen bonding between a specific acetate group of the sugar moiety and Ser228, which belongs to the catalytic triad that causes hydrolysis. Docking to albumin, a major transport protein in the circulatory system, revealed a strong interaction of the conjugates at the binding site which is native to warfarin and responsible for its transport in the body.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties of the Citrus Flavonoid Diosmetin: An Updated Review of Experimental Models

Inflammation is an essential contributor to various human diseases. Diosmetin (3',5,7-trihydroxy-4'-methoxyflavone), a citrus flavonoid, can be used as an anti-inflammatory agent. All the information in this article was collected from various research papers from online scientific databases such as PubMed and Web of Science. These studies have demonstrated that diosmetin can slow down the progression of inflammation by inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators through modulating related pathways, predominantly the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway. In this review, we discuss the anti-inflammatory properties of diosmetin in cellular and animal models of various inflammatory diseases for the first time. We have identified some deficiencies in current research and offer suggestions for further advancement. In conclusion, accumulating evidence so far suggests a very important role for diosmetin in the treatment of various inflammatory disorders and suggests it is a candidate worthy of in-depth investigation.

The Conjugates of Indolo[2,3-b]quinoline as Anti-Pancreatic Cancer Agents: Design, Synthesis, Molecular Docking and Biological Evaluations

New amide conjugates of hydroxycinnamic acids (HCAs) and the known antineoplastic 5,11-dimethyl-5H-indolo[2,3-b]quinoline (DiMIQ), an analog of the natural alkaloid neocryptolepine, were synthesized and tested in vitro for anticancer activity. The compound 9-[((2-hydroxy)cinnamoyl)amino]-5,11-dimethyl-5H-indolo[2,3-b]quinoline (2), which contains the ortho-coumaric acid fragment, demonstrated dose-dependent effectiveness against both normal BxPC-3 and metastatic AsPC-1 pancreatic cancer cells. The IC50 values for AsPC-1 and BxPC-3 were 336.5 nM and 347.5 nM, respectively, with a selectivity index of approximately 5 for both pancreatic cancer cells compared to normal dermal fibroblasts. Conjugate 2 did not exhibit any hemolytic activity against human erythrocytes at the tested concentration. Computational studies were performed to predict the pharmacokinetic profile and potential mechanism of action of the synthesized conjugates. These studies focused on the ADME properties of the conjugates and their interactions with DNA, as well as DNA-topoisomerase alpha and beta complexes. All of the conjugates studied showed approximately one order of magnitude stronger binding to DNA compared to the reference DiMIQ, and approximately two orders of magnitude stronger binding to the topoisomerase II-DNA complex compared to DiMIQ. Conjugate 2 was predicted to have the strongest binding to the enzyme-DNA complex, with a Ki value of 2.8 nM.

[Inhibitory Effect of Ginsenoside Rg3 Combined With 5-Fluorouracil on Tumor Angiogenesis and Tumor Growth of Colon Cancer in Mice: An Experimental Study]

Objective

To evaluate the inhibitory effect of ginsenoside Rg3 combined with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) on tumor angiogenesis and tumor growth in colon cancer in mice.

Methods

CT26 mouse model of colon cancer was established and the mice were randomly assigned to the control group, the ginsenoside Rg3 group, the 5-FU group, and the Rg3 combined with 5-FU group. The 5-FU group was injected intraperitoneally at the dose of 20 mg/kg, 0.2 mL/animal, and once a day for 10 days. Treatment for the Rg3 group was given at the dose of 20 mg/kg, 0.2 mL/animal, and once a day for 21 days via gastric gavage. The dose and the mode of treatment for the Rg3+5-FU combination group were the same as those for the 5-FU and the Rg3 group. The control group was intraperitoneally injected with 0.2 mL/d of normal saline for 10 days. The expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and CD31 and the microvascular density (MVD) of the tumor tissues were examined by immunohistochemistry. The blood flow signals and tumor necrosis were examined by color Doppler flow imaging (CDFI). The quality of life, survival rate, tumor volume, tumor mass, and tumor inhibition rate of the mice were monitored.

Results

After 21 days of treatment, the tumor volume and the tumor mass of all treatment groups were significantly decreased compared with those the control group, with the combination treatment group exhibiting the most significant decrease. The tumor inhibition rates of the Rg3 group, the 5-FU group, and the combination group were 29.96%, 68.78%, and 73.42%, respectively. Rg3 treatment alone had inhibitory effect on tumor growth to a certain degree, while 5-FU treatment alone or 5-FU combined with Rg3 had a stronger inhibitory effect on tumor growth. The tumor inhibition rate of the combination group was higher than that of the 5-FU group, but the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). Color Doppler ultrasound showed that there were multiple localized and large tumor necrotic areas that were obvious and observable in the Rg3 group and the combination group, and that there were only small tumor necrotic areas in the 5-FU group and the control group. The tumor necrosis rate of the combination group was (55.63±3.12)%, which was significantly higher than those of the other groups (P<0.05). CDFI examination of the blood flow inside of the tumor of the mice showed that the blood flow signals in the combination group were mostly grade 0-Ⅰ, and that the blood flow signals in the control group were the most abundant, being mostly grade Ⅱ-Ⅲ. The abundance of the blood flow signals in the Rg3 and 5-FU groups were between those of the control group and the combination group. Compared with those of the control group, the expression levels of MVD and VEGF in the tumor tissues of the Rg3 group, the 5-FU group, and the combination group were significantly decreased, with the combination group showing the most significant decrease (P<0.05). HE staining results indicated that there was significant tumor necrosis in mice in the control group and that there were more blood vessels. In contrast, in the tumor of the Rg3 group and the 5-FU group, there were fewer blood vessels and necrotic gaps appeared within the tumors. In the combination group, the tumor tissues had the fewest blood vessels and rope-like necrosis was observed. The mice started dying on the 18th day after treatment started, and all the mice in the control group died on the 42nd day. By this time, there were 3, 5, and 7 mice still alive in the Rg3 group, the 5-FU group, and the combination group, respectively, presenting a survival rate of 30%, 50%, and 70%, respectively. All mice in all the groups died on day 60 after treatment started.

Conclusion

Ginsenoside Rg3 combined with 5-FU can significantly inhibit tumor angiogenesis and tumor growth of colon cancer in mice and improve the survival and quality of life of tumor-bearing mice.

Sclareol induces cell cycle arrest and ROS-mediated apoptosis and ferroptosis in lung adenocarcinoma cells

Sclareol (SC) has shown significant anticancer activity against breast and colon cancers among others. However, its ability to precipitate similar anticancer effects in lung cancer has yet to be investigated. To address this issue, SC-treated lung adenocarcinoma cells (A549) were assessed for viability and functional competence as well as the expression of genes related to apoptosis and cell cycling. Our results demonstrated that SC treatment inhibited A549 cell clonogenic features and reduced their migration and invasion potential in a dose-dependent manner. Mechanistically, SC treatment downregulated the expression of cyclin D1 and survivin and upregulated that of p21 and p16, which was associated with a significant increase in the percentage of SubG0 cells. SC treatment is also associated with the induction of both the extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways, as evidenced by the increased expression and splitting of PARP1 and procaspases 3 and 9 and the reduced expression of antiapoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL. Increased cell death in SC-treated cells is likely to have resulted from the induction of ferroptosis as suggested by the reduced expression of FPN and the inhibition of the anti-ferroptosis regulator GPX4. In conclusion, the data presented here suggest that SC can reduce lung carcinoma cell growth and metastasis and promote cell death.

Diosmetin inhibits the growth and invasion of gastric cancer by interfering with M2 phenotype macrophage polarization

Overturning M2 phenotype macrophage polarization is a promising therapeutic strategy for gastric cancer (GC). Diosmetin (DIO) is a natural flavonoid with antitumor effect. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of DIO on polarization of M2 phenotype macrophages in GC. THP-1 cells were induced to M2 phenotype macrophages and co-cultured with AGS cells. The effects of DIO were determined by flow cytometry, qRT-PCR, CCK-8, Transwell, and western blot. To explore the mechanisms, THP-1 cells were transfected with adenoviral vectors containing tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 2 (TRAF2) or si-TRAF2. DIO (0, 5, 10, and 20 μM) restrained the M2 phenotype macrophage polarization. In addition, DIO (20 μM) reversed the increased viability and invasion of AGS cells induced by the co-culture of M2 macrophages. Mechanistically, TRAF2 knockdown inhibited the effect of M2 phenotype macrophages on AGS cells' growth and invasion. Furthermore, DIO (20 μM) was found to decrease TRAF2/NF-κB activity in GC cells. However, TRAF2 overexpressed reversed the inhibitory effect of DIO on the co-culture system. The in vivo study confirmed that DIO treatment (50 mg/kg) could repress the growth of GC. DIO treatment markedly reduced the expressions of Ki-67 and N-cadherin, and decreased the protein levels of TRAF2 and p-NF-κB/NF-κB. In conclusion, DIO inhibited the growth and invasion of GC cells by interfering with M2 phenotype macrophage polarization through repression of the TRAF2/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Copper Increases the Sensitivity of Cholangiocarcinoma Cells to Tripterine by Inhibiting TMX2-Mediated Unfolded Protein Reaction Activation

Chemotherapy-induced adaptive resistance is a significant factor that contributes to low therapeutic efficacy in tumor cells. The unfolded protein response (UPR) is a key mechanism in the development of drug resistance and serves as a critical reactive system for endoplasmic reticulum stress. Cu(II) can reduce the abundance of 60S ribosomal subunits and inhibit rRNA processing, leading to a decrease in the translation efficiency of the GRP78/BiP mRNA, which serves as a primary sensor for UPR activation. In this study, CuET-Lipid@Cela, composed of CuET and tripterine (Cela), demonstrates a significant synergistic antitumor effect on cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) cells. RNA-Seq is used to investigate the underlying mechanism, which suggests that the transmembrane protein 2 (TMX2) gene may be crucial in Cu(II) regulation of UPR by inhibiting the activation of GRP78/BiP and PERK/eIF2α. The synergistic antitumor efficacy of CuET-Lipid@Cela via inhibition of TMX2 is also confirmed in a myrAKT/YapS127A plasmid-induced primary CCA mouse model, providing new insights into the reversal of acquired chemotherapy-induced resistance in CCA.

An Organofluorine Isoselenocyanate Analogue of Sulforaphane Affects Antimetabolite 5-Fluorouracil's Anticancer Activity: A Perspective for New Combinatory Therapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Antimetabolites, especially 5-fluorouracil, are commonly used clinically to treat breast, colon, and other cancers. However, their side effects and inefficiency in monotherapy have prompted further searches for new combinations. Thus, the anticancer effect of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and the sulforaphane analogue, 4-isoselenocyanato-1-butyl 4'-fluorobenzyl sulfoxide (ISC), were tested in in vitro and in vivo models of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) as a new option for this treatment-resistant and aggressive type of breast cancer. A synergic interaction between 5-FU and ISC was observed in the TNBC in vitro model MDA-MB-231 cell line, which led to enhanced antiproliferative effects. The results of in vitro studies were confirmed by in vivo tests, which demonstrated stronger tumor growth inhibition and additive interactions between 5-FU and ISC in the murine TNBC model. Moreover, the results of the body mass and blood analysis showed the safety of the tested combination. The mechanistic study revealed that the combined treatment triggered apoptosis and necrosis, as well as inhibited cell migration.

In vitro and in silico study on the effect of carvedilol and sorafenib alone and in combination on the growth and inflammatory response of melanoma cells

Melanoma is an aggressive skin cancer. Increasing evidence has shown the role of β-adrenergic receptors in the pathogenesis of melanoma. Carvedilol is a widely used non-selective β-AR antagonist with potential anticancer activity. The purpose of the study was to estimate the influence of carvedilol and sorafenib alone and in combination on the growth and inflammatory response of C32 and A2058 melanoma cells. Furthermore, this study also aimed to predict the probable interaction of carvedilol and sorafenib when administered together. Predictive study of the interaction of carvedilol and sorafenib was performed using the ChemDIS-Mixture system. Carvedilol and sorafenib alone and in combination showed a growth inhibitory effect on cells. The greatest synergistic antiproliferative effect on both cell lines was observed at Car 5 μM combined with Sor 5 μM. Analysis in silico identified diseases, proteins, and metabolic pathways that can be affected by the interaction of carvedilol and sorafenib. The results obtained demonstrated that carvedilol and sorafenib modulated the secretion of IL-8 by IL-1β-stimulated by melanoma cell lines but the use of a combination of both drugs did not intensify the effect. In summary, the results presented indicate that the combination of carvedilol and sorafenib may have a promising anticancer effect on melanoma cells.

In Vitro Assessment of the Synergistic Effect of Aspirin and 5-Fluorouracil in Colorectal Adenocarcinoma Cells

Although remarkable progress has been made, colorectal cancer remains a significant global health issue. One of the most challenging aspects of cancer treatment is the resistance of tumor cells to classical chemotherapy. Conventional therapy for colorectal cancer often involves the use of 5-fluorouracil as a chemotherapeutic agent. Aspirin, a drug used primarily to prevent cardiovascular complications, became a focus of attention due to its potential use as an antitumor agent. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the potential synergistic cytotoxic effects of aspirin and 5-fluorouracil on colorectal adenocarcinoma cells. The viability of cells, the impact on the morphology and nuclei of cells, the potential antimigratory effect, and the impact on the expression of the major genes associated with cell apoptosis (Bcl-2, Bax, Bad), as well as caspases 3 and 8, were evaluated. The results indicated that the two compounds exerted a synergistic effect, causing a reduction in cell viability accompanied by changes characteristic of the apoptosis process-the condensation of nuclei and the reorganization of actin filaments in cells, the reduction in the expression of the Bcl-2 gene, and the increase in the expression of Bax and Bad genes, along with caspases 3 and 8. Considering all these findings, it appears that aspirin may be investigated in depth in order to be used in conjunction with 5-fluorouracil to increase antitumor activity.

Recent Advances in Nanomaterials-Based Targeted Drug Delivery for Preclinical Cancer Diagnosis and Therapeutics

Nano-oncology is a branch of biomedical research and engineering that focuses on using nanotechnology in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Nanomaterials are extensively employed in the field of oncology because of their minute size and ultra-specificity. A wide range of nanocarriers, such as dendrimers, micelles, PEGylated liposomes, and polymeric nanoparticles are used to facilitate the efficient transport of anti-cancer drugs at the target tumor site. Real-time labeling and monitoring of cancer cells using quantum dots is essential for determining the level of therapy needed for treatment. The drug is targeted to the tumor site either by passive or active means. Passive targeting makes use of the tumor microenvironment and enhanced permeability and retention effect, while active targeting involves the use of ligand-coated nanoparticles. Nanotechnology is being used to diagnose the early stage of cancer by detecting cancer-specific biomarkers using tumor imaging. The implication of nanotechnology in cancer therapy employs photoinduced nanosensitizers, reverse multidrug resistance, and enabling efficient delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 and RNA molecules for therapeutic applications. However, despite recent advancements in nano-oncology, there is a need to delve deeper into the domain of designing and applying nanoparticles for improved cancer diagnostics.

Mind the Curve: Dose-Response Fitting Biases the Synergy Scores across Software Used for Chemotherapy Combination Studies

Drug combinations are increasingly studied in the field of anticancer agents. Mathematical models, such as Loewe, Bliss, and HSA, are used to interpret drug combinations, while informatics tools help cancer researchers identify the most effective combinations. However, the different algorithms each software uses lead to results that do not always correlate. This study compared the performance of Combenefit (Ver. 2.021) and SynergyFinder (Ver. 3.6) in analyzing drug synergy by studying combinations involving non-steroidal analgesics (celecoxib and indomethacin) and antitumor drugs (carboplatin, gemcitabine, and vinorelbine) on two canine mammary tumor cell lines. The drugs were characterized, their optimal concentration-response ranges were determined, and nine concentrations of each drug were used to make combination matrices. Viability data were analyzed under the HSA, Loewe, and Bliss models. Celecoxib-based combinations showed the most consistent synergistic effect among software and reference models. Combination heatmaps revealed that Combenefit gave stronger synergy signals, while SynergyFinder produced better concentration-response fitting. When the average values of the combination matrices were compared, some combinations shifted from synergistic to antagonistic due to differences in the curve fitting. We also used a simulated dataset to normalize each software's synergy scores, finding that Combenefit tends to increase the distance between synergistic and antagonistic combinations. We conclude that concentration-response data fitting biases the direction of the combination (synergistic or antagonistic). In contrast, the scoring from each software increases the differences among synergistic or antagonistic combinations in Combenefit when compared to SynergyFinder. We strongly recommend using multiple reference models and reporting complete data analysis for synergy claiming in combination studies.

Aidi injection enhances the anti-tumor impact of doxorubicin in H22 tumor-containing mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Aidi injection (AD) is a traditional medical preparation that has a Chinese origin. It is extensively used particularly in combination with doxorubicin (DOX) for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the combination's synergistic mechanism has not yet been clarified.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the anti-tumor impact of AD in combination with DOX and their synergistic mechanism in HCC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An H22 mouse xenograft model was utilized to study the impact of AD, DOX, and their combination on HCC in vivo. Their effects on cell vitality, apoptosis, mitochondrial membrane potential, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, caspase-3, and cleaved caspase-3 protein expression were also investigated in H22 cells in vitro. Subsequently, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were utilized to investigate the impacts of AD, DOX, and their combination on cell viability, migration, invasion, tube formation, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) protein expression.

RESULTS

The study established that the tumor inhibition rate of AD combined with DOX reached 79.51%, which was significantly higher than that of AD (25.14%) or DOX (49.48%) alone. Additionally, the Q-value characterizing the synergy between AD and DOX was 1.72, demonstrating a strong synergistic effect. Furthermore, compared to AD or DOX administration alone, the combined administration group significantly decreased the alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level in the serum, increased the tumor necrosis area, increased the Bax/Bcl-2, Cyt-c, caspase-9, Fas, Fasl, caspase-8, and caspase-3 protein expression, and significantly increased the CD31 and Ki67 protein expression in tumor tissue. Compared to AD or DOX alone, AD combined with DOX treatment had a synergistic effect on H22 cells (combination index values < 0.9), which inhibited cell viability, reduced mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), induced apoptosis, promoted MMP loss, and increased ROS generation, cleaved caspase-3/caspase-3 levels, and caspase-3 activity. Moreover, combined administration showed a more pronounced inhibition of cell viability, migration, invasion, tube formation, and VEGF protein expression in HUVECs.

CONCLUSIONS

AD enhances the anti-tumor effect of DOX by promoting apoptosis and inhibiting angiogenesis and cell proliferation. The findings of this study lay experimental foundations for the clinical combination of AD and DOX.

A Synergistic pH-Responsive Serum Albumin-Based Drug Delivery System Loaded with Doxorubicin and Pentacyclic Triterpene Betulinic Acid for Potential Treatment of NSCLC

Nanosized drug delivery systems (DDS) have been studied as a novel strategy against cancer due to their potential to simultaneously decrease drug inactivation and systemic toxicity and increase passive and/or active drug accumulation within the tumor(s). Triterpenes are plant-derived compounds with interesting therapeutic properties. Betulinic acid (BeA) is a pentacyclic triterpene that has great cytotoxic activity against different cancer types. Herein, we developed a nanosized protein-based DDS of bovine serum albumin (BSA) as the drug carrier combining two compounds, doxorubicin (Dox) and the triterpene BeA, using an oil-water-like micro-emulsion method. We used spectrophotometric assays to determine protein and drug concentrations in the DDS. The biophysical properties of these DDS were characterized using dynamic light scattering (DLS) and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, confirming nanoparticle (NP) formation and drug loading into the protein structure, respectively. The encapsulation efficiency was 77% for Dox and 18% for BeA. More than 50% of both drugs were released within 24 h at pH 6.8, while less drug was released at pH 7.4 in this period. Co-incubation viability assays of Dox and BeA alone for 24 h demonstrated synergistic cytotoxic activity in the low μM range against non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) A549 cells. Viability assays of the BSA-(Dox+BeA) DDS demonstrated a higher synergistic cytotoxic activity than the two drugs with no carrier. Moreover, confocal microscopy analysis confirmed the cellular internalization of the DDS and the accumulation of the Dox in the nucleus. We determined the mechanism of action of the BSA-(Dox+BeA) DDS, confirming S-phase cell cycle arrest, DNA damage, caspase cascade activation, and downregulation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression. This DDS has the potential to synergistically maximize the therapeutic effect of Dox and diminish chemoresistance induced by EGFR expression using a natural triterpene against NSCLC.

Cellular and molecular basis of therapeutic approaches to breast cancer

In recent decades, there has been a significant amount of research into breast cancer, with some important breakthroughs in the treatment of both primary and metastatic breast cancers. It's a well-known fact that treating breast cancer is still a challenging endeavour even though physicians have a fantastic toolset of the latest treatment options at their disposal. Due to limitations of current clinical treatment options, traditional chemotherapeutic drugs, and surgical options are still required to address this condition. In recent years, there have been several developments resulting in a wide range of treatment options. This review article discusses the cellular and molecular foundation of chemotherapeutic drugs, endocrine system-based treatments, biological therapies, gene therapy, and innovative techniques for treating breast cancer.

Oxaliplatin-loaded nanoemulsion containing Teucrium polium L. essential oil induces apoptosis in Colon cancer cell lines through ROS-mediated pathway

Oxaliplatin (Oxa)-associated adverse side effects have considerably limited the clinical use of the drug in colon cancer therapy. Mutant p53 has diverse mutational profiles in colon cancer, and it influences the potencies of various chemotherapeutic drugs, including Oxa. Thus, it would be highly beneficial to identify an alternative therapeutic strategy that not only reduces the toxicity of Oxa, but also exerts a synergistic effect against colon cancers, regardless of their p53 profiles. The present study was aimed at preparing and optimizing Teucrium polium L. essential oil nanoemulsion (TPO-NANO) and investigating its effect on the sensitivity of colon cancer cells with differences in p53 status (HCT116 wild-type and HT-29 mutant-type) to Oxa. The viability of treated cells was determined and the combination index (CI) was calculated. Morphological changes were determined under inverted microscopy, while percentage apoptosis was assayed using flow cytometry. Intracellular ROS and the protein levels of p53 and Bax were measured. The colony-forming potential of treated cells was determined using colony assay. The size of TPO-NANO was markedly increased from 12.90 ± 0.04 nm to 14.47 ± 0.53 nm after loading Oxa (p ≤ 0.05). The combination (Oxa + TPO-NANO) produced a synergetic effect in HCT116 and HT-29, with CI of 0.94 and 0.88, respectively. Microscopic examination and flow cytometric analysis revealed that cells treated with Oxa + TPO-NANO had a higher percentage of apoptosis than cells exposed to monotherapy. Cumulatively, Oxa exerted an apoptotic effect on wild or mutant p53 colon cancer cells when combined with TPO-NANO, through a mechanism involving ROS-mediated mitochondrial apoptosis.