Morin, a flavonoid from moraceae, induces apoptosis by induction of BAD protein in human leukemic cells

Gastrointestinal Cancer Therapeutics via Triggering Unfolded Protein Response and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress by 2-Arylbenzofuran

Gastrointestinal cancers are a major global health challenge, with high mortality rates. This study investigated the anti-cancer activities of 30 monomers extracted from Morus alba L. (mulberry) against gastrointestinal cancers. Toxicological assessments revealed that most of the compounds, particularly immunotoxicity, exhibit some level of toxicity, but it is generally not life-threatening under normal conditions. Among these components, Sanggenol L, Sanggenon C, Kuwanon H, 3'-Geranyl-3-prenyl-5,7,2',4'-tetrahydroxyflavone, Morusinol, Mulberrin, Moracin P, Kuwanon E, and Kuwanon A demonstrate significant anti-cancer properties against various gastrointestinal cancers, including colon, pancreatic, and gastric cancers. The anti-cancer mechanism of these chemical components was explored in gastric cancer cells, revealing that they inhibit cell cycle and DNA replication-related gene expression, leading to the effective suppression of tumor cell growth. Additionally, they induced unfolded protein response (UPR) and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, potentially resulting in DNA damage, autophagy, and cell death. Moracin P, an active monomer characterized as a 2-arylbenzofuran, was found to induce ER stress and promote apoptosis in gastric cancer cells, confirming its potential to inhibit tumor cell growth in vitro and in vivo. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of Morus alba L. monomers in gastrointestinal cancers, especially focusing on Moracin P as a potent inducer of ER stress and apoptosis.

Plants against cancer: the immune-boosting herbal microbiome: not of the plant, but in the plant. Basic concepts, introduction, and future resource for vaccine adjuvant discovery

The presence of microorganism communities (MOCs) comprised of bacteria, fungi, archaea, algae, protozoa, viruses, and the like, are ubiquitous in all living tissue, including plant and animal. MOCs play a significant role in establishing innate and acquired immunity, thereby influencing susceptibility and resistance to disease. This understanding has fostered substantial advancements in several fields such as agriculture, food science/safety, and the development of vaccines/adjuvants, which rely on administering inactivated-attenuated MOC pathogens. Historical evidence dating back to the 1800s, including reports by Drs Busch, Coley, and Fehleisen, suggested that acute febrile infection in response to "specific microbes" could trigger spontaneous tumor remission in humans. This discovery led to the purposeful administration of the same attenuated strains, known as "Coley's toxin," marking the onset of the first microbial (pathogen) associated molecular pattern (MAMPs or PAMPs)-based tumor immunotherapy, used clinically for over four decades. Today, these same MAMPS are consumed orally by billions of consumers around the globe, through "specific" mediums (immune boosting "herbal supplements") as carriers of highly concentrated MOCs accrued in roots, barks, hulls, sea algae, and seeds. The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) mandates microbial reduction in botanical product processing but does not necessitate the removal of dead MAMP laden microbial debris, which we ingest. Moreover, while existing research has focused on the immune-modulating role of plant phytochemicals, the actual immune-boosting properties might instead reside solely in the plant's MOC MAMP laden biomass. This assertion is logical, considering that antigenic immune-provoking epitopes, not phytochemicals, are known to stimulate immune response. This review explores a neglected area of research regarding the immune-boosting effects of the herbal microbiome - a presence which is indirectly corroborated by various peripheral fields of study and poses a fundamental question: Given that food safety focuses on the elimination of harmful pathogens and crop science acknowledges the existence of plant microbiomes, what precisely are the immune effects of ingesting MAMPs of diverse structural composition and concentration, and where are these distributed in our botanicals? We will discuss the topic of concentrated edible MAMPs as acid and thermally stable motifs found in specific herbs and how these would activate cognate pattern recognition receptors (PPRs) in the upper gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), including Peyer's patches and the lamina propria, to boost antibody titers, CD8+ and CD4+ T cells, NK activity, hematopoiesis, and facilitating M2 to M1 macrophage phenotype transition in a similar manner as vaccines. This new knowledge could pave the way for developing bioreactor-grown/heat-inactivated MOC therapies to boost human immunity against infections and improve tumor surveillance.

Morin Hydrate Encapsulation and Release from Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Melanoma Therapy

Melanoma incidence, a type of skin cancer, has been increasing worldwide. There is a strong need to develop new therapeutic strategies to improve melanoma treatment. Morin is a bioflavonoid with the potential for use in the treatment of cancer, including melanoma. However, therapeutic applications of morin are restrained owing to its low aqueous solubility and limited bioavailability. This work investigates morin hydrate (MH) encapsulation in mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) to enhance morin bioavailability and consequently increase the antitumor effects in melanoma cells. Spheroidal MSNs with a mean size of 56.3 ± 6.5 nm and a specific surface area of 816 m²/g were synthesized. MH was successfully loaded (MH-MSN) using the evaporation method, with a loading capacity of 28.3% and loading efficiency of 99.1%. In vitro release studies showed that morin release from MH-MSNs was enhanced at pH 5.2, indicating increased flavonoid solubility. The in vitro cytotoxicity of MH and MH-MSNs on human A375, MNT-1 and SK-MEL-28 melanoma cell lines was investigated. Exposure to MSNs did not affect the cell viability of any of the cell lines tested, suggesting that the nanoparticles are biocompatible. The effect of MH and MH-MSNs on reducing cell viability was time- and concentration-dependent in all melanoma cell lines. The A375 and SK-MEL-28 cell lines were slightly more sensitive than MNT-1 cells in both the MH and MH-MSN treatments. Our findings suggest that MH-MSNs are a promising delivery system for the treatment of melanoma.

Biological activities of extracts and compounds from Thai Kae-Lae (Maclura cochinchinensis (Lour.) Corner)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The purpose of this study was to investigate the biological properties of Kae-Lae (Maclura cochinchinensis (Lour.) Corner), a traditional medicinal plant used in Ayurvedic recipes in Thailand. To achieve this objective, heartwood samples were collected from 12 sources across Thailand. Fractional extracts (n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and ethanol) and the dominant compounds (morin, resveratrol, and quercetin) were examined for their abilities on cytotoxicity, antioxidant, anti-inflammation, and antileukaemic activity (Wilms' tumour 1 protein was used as a well-known biomarker for leukaemic cell proliferation).

METHODS

The study used MTT to assess cytotoxicity in leukaemic cells (K562, EoL-1, and KG-1a). Antioxidant activities were evaluated using ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP assays. The anti-inflammatory activity was investigated by detecting IL-2, TNF-α, and NO using appropriate detection kits. Wilms' tumour 1 protein expression was measured by Western blotting to determine the anti-leukaemic activity. The inhibition of cell migration was also analyzed to confirm anticancer progression.

RESULTS

Among the tested extract fraction, ethyl acetate No. 001 displayed strong cytotoxicity specifically in EoL-1 cells, while n-hexane No. 008 demonstrated this effect in three cell lines. Resveratrol, on the other hand, displayed cytotoxicity in all the tested cells. Additionally, the three major compounds, morin, resveratrol, and quercetin, exhibited significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In particular, resveratrol demonstrated a noteworthy decreased Wilms' tumour 1 protein expression and a reduction in cell proliferation across all cells. Moreover, ethyl acetate No. 001, morin, and resveratrol effectively inhibited MCF-7 cell migration. None of these compounds showed any impact on red blood cell haemolysis.

CONCLUSION

Based on these findings, it can be concluded that Kae-Lae has promising chemotherapeutic potential against leukaemic cells, with fractional extracts (ethyl acetate and n-hexane) and resveratrol exhibiting the most potent cytotoxic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cell migration activities.

Crosstalk between xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibiting and cancer chemotherapeutic properties of comestible flavonoids- a comprehensive update

Gout is an inflammatory disease caused by metabolic disorder or genetic inheritance. People throughout the world are strongly dependent on ethnomedicine for the treatment of gout and some receive satisfactory curative treatment. The natural remedies as well as established drugs derived from natural sources or synthetically made exert their action by mechanisms that are closely associated with anticancer treatment mechanisms regarding inhibition of xanthine oxidase, feedback inhibition of de novo purine synthesis, depolymerization and disappearance of microtubule, inhibition of NF-ĸB activation, induction of TRAIL, promotion of apoptosis, and caspase activation and proteasome inhibition. Some anti-gout and anticancer novel compounds interact with same receptors for their action, e.g., colchicine and colchicine analogues. Dietary flavonoids, i.e., chrysin, kaempferol, quercetin, fisetin, pelargonidin, apigenin, luteolin, myricetin, isorhamnetin, phloretinetc etc. have comparable IC₅₀ values with established anti-gout drug and effective against both cancer and gout. Moreover, a noticeable number of newer anticancer compounds have already been isolated from plants that have been using by local traditional healers and herbal practitioners to treat gout. Therefore, the anti-gout plants might have greater potentiality to become selective candidates for screening of newer anticancer leads.

A Brief Review of Natural Products with Urate Transporter 1 Inhibition for the Treatment of Hyperuricemia

Hyperuricemia is a common disease caused by a high level of uric acid. Urate transporter 1 (URAT1) is an important protein and mediates approximately 90% of uric acid reabsorption. Therefore, the URAT1 inhibitor is a class of uricosuric medicines widely used in the clinic for the treatment of hyperuricemia. To find the new medicine with stronger URAT1 inhibition and lower toxicity, researchers have been exploring natural products. This study systematically summarizes the natural products with URAT1 inhibition. The results show that many natural products are potential URAT1 inhibitors, such as flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, coumarins, stilbenes, and steroids, among which flavonoids are the most promising source of URAT1 inhibitors. It is worth noting that most studies have focused on finding natural products with inhibition of URAT1 and have not explored their activities and mechanisms toward URAT1. By reviewing the few existing studies of the structure-activity relationship and analyzing common features of natural products with URAT1 inhibition, we speculate that the rigid ring structure and negative charge may be the keys for natural products to produce URAT1 inhibition. In conclusion, natural products are potential URAT1 inhibitors, and exploring the mechanism of action and structure-activity relationship will be an important research direction in the future.

Diet-derived small molecules (nutraceuticals) inhibit cellular proliferation by interfering with key oncogenic pathways: an overview of experimental evidence in cancer chemoprevention

Discouraging statistics of cancer disease has projected an increase in the global cancer burden from 19.3 to 28.4 million incidences annually within the next two decades. Currently, there has been a revival of interest in nutraceuticals with evidence of pharmacological properties against human diseases including cancer. Diet is an integral part of lifestyle, and it has been proposed that an estimated one-third of human cancers can be prevented through appropriate lifestyle modification including dietary habits; hence, it is considered significant to explore the pharmacological benefits of these agents, which are easily accessible and have higher safety index. Accordingly, an impressive embodiment of evidence supports the concept that the dietary factors are critical modulators to prevent, retard, block, or reverse carcinogenesis. Such an action reflects the ability of these molecules to interfere with multitude of pathways to subdue and neutralize several oncogenic factors and thereby keep a restraint on neoplastic transformations. This review provides a series of experimental evidence based on the current literature to highlight the translational potential of nutraceuticals for the prevention of the disease through consumption of enriched diets and its efficacious management by means of novel interventions. Specifically, this review provides the current understanding of the chemopreventive pharmacology of nutraceuticals such as cucurbitacins, morin, fisetin, curcumin, luteolin and garcinol toward their potential as anticancer agents.

Natural-Derived Molecules as a Potential Adjuvant in Chemotherapy: Normal Cell Protectors and Cancer Cell Sensitizers

BACKGROUND

Cancer is a global threat to humans and a leading cause of death worldwide. Cancer treatment includes, among other things, the use of chemotherapeutic agents, compounds that are vital for treating and preventing cancer. However, chemotherapeutic agents produce oxidative stress along with other side effects that would affect the human body.

OBJECTIVE

To reduce the oxidative stress of chemotherapeutic agents in cancer and normal cells by naturally derived compounds with anti-cancer properties, and protect normal cells from the oxidation process. Therefore, the need to develop more potent chemotherapeutics with fewer side effects has become increasingly important.

METHOD

Recent literature dealing with the antioxidant and anticancer activities of the naturally naturally-derived compounds: morin, myricetin, malvidin, naringin, eriodictyol, isovitexin, daidzein, naringenin, chrysin, and fisetin has been surveyed and examined in this review. For this, data were gathered from different search engines, including Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Scopus, and Scifinder, among others. Additionally, several patient offices such as WIPO, CIPO, and USPTO were consulted to obtain published articles related to these compounds.

RESULT

Numerous plants contain flavonoids and polyphenolic compounds such as morin, myricetin, malvidin, naringin, eriodictyol, isovitexin, daidzein, naringenin, chrysin, and fisetin, which exhibit ‎antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic actions via several mechanisms. These compounds show sensitizers of cancer cells and protectors of healthy cells. Moreover, these compounds can reduce oxidative stress, which is accelerated by chemotherapeutics and exhibit a potent anticancer effect on cancer cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on these findings, more research is recommended to explore and evaluate such flavonoids and polyphenolic compounds.

Morin as an imminent functional food ingredient: an update on its enhanced efficacy in the treatment and prevention of metabolic syndromes

Flavonoids represent polyphenolic plant secondary metabolites with a general structure of a 15-carbon skeleton comprising two phenyl rings and a heterocyclic ring. Over 5000 natural flavonoids (flavanones, flavanonols, and flavans) from various plants have been characterized. Several studies provide novel and promising insights into morin hydrate for its different biological activities against a series of metabolic syndromes. The present review is a rendition of its sources, chemistry, functional potency, and protective effects on metabolic syndromes ranging from cancer to brain injury. Most importantly this systematic review article also highlights the mechanisms of interest to morin-mediated management of metabolic disorders. The key mechanisms (anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory) responsible for its therapeutic potential are well featured after collating the in vitro and in vivo study reports. As a whole, based on the prevailing information rationalizing its medicinal use, morin can be identified as a therapeutic agent for the expansion of human health.

Morin hydrate: A comprehensive review on novel natural dietary bioactive compound with versatile biological and pharmacological potential

Flavonoids are natural plant-derived dietary bioactive compounds having a substantial impact on human health. Morin hydrate is a bioflavonoid mainly obtained from fruits, stem, and leaves of Moraceae family members' plants. Plenty of evidences supported that morin hydrate exerts its beneficial effects against various chronic and life-threatening degenerative diseases. Our current article discloses the recent advances that have been studied to explore the biological/pharmacological properties and molecular mechanisms to better understand the beneficial and multiple health benefits of morin hydrate. Indeed, Morin hydrate exerts free radical scavenging, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancerous, anti-microbial, antidiabetic, anti-arthritis, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, nephroprotective, and hepatoprotective effects. Moreover, morin hydrate exhibits its pharmacological activities by modulating various cellular signaling pathways such as Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-қB), Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), Janus kinases/ Signal transducer and activator of transcription proteins (JAKs/STATs), Kelch-like ECH-associated protein1/Nuclear erythroid-2-related factor (Keap1/Nrf2), Endoplasmic reticulum (ER), Mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis, Wnt/β-catenin, and Mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR). Most importantly, morin hydrate has the potential to modulate a variety of biological networks. Therefore, it can be predicted that this therapeutically potent compound could serve as a dietary agent for the expansion of human health and might be helpful for the development of the novel drug in the future. However, due to the lack of clinical trials, special human clinical trials are needed to address the effects of morin hydrate on various life-threatening disparities to recommend morin and/or morin-rich foods with other foods or bioactive dietary components, as well as dose-response interaction and safety profile.

Oxidative Stress Induces Chondrocyte Apoptosis through Caspase-Dependent and Caspase-Independent Mitochondrial Pathways and the Antioxidant Mechanism of Angelica Sinensis Polysaccharide

Introduction

Chondrocyte apoptosis is considered one of the pathogenic factors of osteoarthritis (OA), but its importance in the pathogenesis of OA remains unclear. Recent research adds progress to the knowledge that the mitochondrial signaling pathway mediates chondrocyte apoptosis in OA.

Method

Rat chondrocyte exposed to H₂O₂ was used as the experimental oxidative stress model. Chondrocyte viability was tested by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Cell apoptosis and ROS were tested by flow cytometry. Contents of malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT), caspase-3, caspase-9, cytochrome C, superoxide dismutase (SOD)-2, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) were evaluated by biochemical detection. The expressions of related genes and proteins were assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and western blot.

Results

H₂O₂ provokes oxidative stress and decreases the viability of chondrocyte, which leads to the release of cytochrome C and inhibition of SOD-2 activity. The damage of mitochondrion disturbs the energy metabolism of chondrocyte and eventually induces chondrocyte apoptosis through the mitochondrial pathway. Furthermore, pretreated with anglicasinensis polysaccharide (ASP) or caspase inhibitors increase the expression of Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL but do not work for the expression of Bax and Bad.

Conclusion

Oxidative stress induces chondrocyte apoptosis through caspase-dependent and caspase-independent mitochondrial pathways. ASP protects chondrocyte from H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress and subsequent cell injury through its antioxidant effect by inhibiting the caspase pathway.

Overview of Morin and Its Complementary Role as an Adjuvant for Anticancer Agents

The Global cancer incidence and mortality data released by the World Health Organization proposes that out of 18.1 million new cancer cases diagnosed, 9.8 million deaths occurred globally in 2018. Cancer is one of the major health burdens among non-communicable diseases globally responsible for impeding life expectancy in the present century. Disrupting hallmarks of cancer (such as prolonged inflammation, increased growth signal, tissue invasion and metastasis, unlimited proliferation and evasion of apoptosis) with dietary agents is of considerable focus for cancer prevention and therapy. In the last decade, a significant contribution has been provided in finding many plant-derived natural agents that can be identified as promising molecular cancer therapeutics. Our focus in this review is on one such natural dietary agent, Morin (3,5,7,2',4'-pentahydroxyflavone): a bioflavonoid. Morin exerts strong pharmacological properties against a multitude of cancer (liver cancer, cervical cancer, melanoma, breast cancer, prostate, and colon cancer). Recent progress has also been made in examining the potential of morin as a natural dietary agent for fostering the pharmacological effects of other well-known anticancer agents. This review provides an overview of morin and its derivatives in combination with anticancer agents for cancer prevention and therapy.

Morin inhibits Listeria monocytogenes virulence in vivo and in vitro by targeting listeriolysin O and inflammation

BACKGROUND

Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes) is a global opportunistic intracellular pathogen that can cause many infections, including meningitis and abortion in humans and animals; thus, L. monocytogenes poses a great threat to public safety and the development of the aquaculture industry. The isolation rate of Listeria monocytogenes in fishery products has always been high. And the pore-forming toxin listeriolysin O (LLO) is one of the most important virulence factors of L. monocytogenes. LLO can promote cytosolic bacterial proliferation and help the pathogen evade attacks from the host immune system. In addition, L. monocytogenes infection can trigger a series of severe inflammatory reactions.

RESULTS

Here, we further confirmed that morin lacking anti-Listeria activity could inhibit LLO oligomerization. We also found that morin can effectively alleviate the inflammation induced by Listeria in vivo and in vitro and exerted an obvious protective effect on infected cells and mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Morin does not possess anti-Listeria activity, neither does it interfere with secretion of LLO. However, morin inhibits oligomerisation of LLO and morin does reduce the inflammation caused during Listeria infection.

Flavonoids as Epigenetic Modulators for Prostate Cancer Prevention

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a multifactorial disease with an unclear etiology. Due to its high prevalence, long latency, and slow progression, PCa is an ideal target for chemoprevention strategies. Many research studies have highlighted the positive effects of natural flavonoids on chronic diseases, including PCa. Different classes of dietary flavonoids exhibit anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-mutagenic, anti-aging, cardioprotective, anti-viral/bacterial and anti-carcinogenic properties. We overviewed the most recent evidence of the antitumoral effects exerted by dietary flavonoids, with a special focus on their epigenetic action in PCa. Epigenetic alterations have been identified as key initiating events in several kinds of cancer. Many dietary flavonoids have been found to reverse DNA aberrations that promote neoplastic transformation, particularly for PCa. The epigenetic targets of the actions of flavonoids include oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, indirectly controlled through the regulation of epigenetic enzymes such as DNA methyltransferase (DNMT), histone acetyltransferase (HAT), and histone deacetylase (HDAC). In addition, flavonoids were found capable of restoring miRNA and lncRNA expression that is altered during diseases. The optimization of the use of flavonoids as natural epigenetic modulators for chemoprevention and as a possible treatment of PCa and other kinds of cancers could represent a promising and valid strategy to inhibit carcinogenesis and fight cancer.

Apoptosis Induced by (-)-Epicatechin in Human Breast Cancer Cells is Mediated by Reactive Oxygen Species

(-)-Epicatechin is a phenolic compound with antioxidant activity that is present in natural food and drinks, such as cocoa and red wine. Evidence suggests that (-)-epicatechin exhibits anticancer activity; however, its mechanism of action is poorly understood. Here, we investigated the anticancer effects of (-)-epicatechin and its mechanism of action in breast cancer cells. We assessed the anticancer activity by cell proliferation assays, apoptosis by DNA fragmentation and flow cytometry. The expression of proteins associated with apoptosis was analyzed by the human apoptosis array. MitoSOXTM Red and biomarkers of oxidative damage were used to measure the effect of (-)-epicatechin on mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cellular damage, respectively. (-)-Epicatechin treatment caused a decreasing in the viability of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells. This cell death was associated with DNA fragmentation and an apoptotic proteomic profile. Further, (-)-epicatechin in MDA-MB-231 cells upregulated death receptor (DR4/DR5), increased the ROS production, and modulated pro-apoptotic proteins. In MCF-7 cells, (-)-epicatechin did not involve death receptor; however, an increase in ROS and the upregulation of pro-apoptotic proteins (Bad and Bax) were observed. These changes were associated with the apoptosis activation through the intrinsic pathway. In conclusion, this study shows that (-)-epicatechin has anticancer activity in breast cancer cells and provides novel insight into the molecular mechanism of (-)-epicatechin to induce apoptosis.

Morin induces endothelium-dependent relaxation by activating TRPV4 channels in rat mesenteric arteries

Morin, a natural flavonol, has been reported to have beneficial pharmacological effects. Although its vascular protective effects have been studied, little is known about its effects on the mesenteric artery and the underlying mechanisms. Transient receptor potential vanilloid type 4 (TRPV4) channels are one of the most important Ca²⁺-permeable cation channels in vascular endothelial cells and play an important role in regulating rat mesenteric vascular tone. In the present study, the myogenic effects of morin were investigated using wire and pressure myography in the isolated mesenteric artery. Morin induced endothelium-dependent relaxation of isolated rat mesenteric arteries in a concentration-dependent manner. In addition, morin stimulated relaxation by activating TRPV4-mediated Ca²⁺ influx without affecting the nitric oxide (NO), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) pathways. In primary cultured rat mesenteric artery endothelial cells and over-expressing TRPV4 HEK 293 cells, the TRPV4 inhibitor HC067047 significantly reduced the morin-induced increase in intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration. Furthermore, in rats with hypertension induced by N^Ꞷ-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), oral administration of morin (50 mg/kg/day) decreased systolic blood pressure. In L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats, morin significantly improved the relaxation response of the arteries to acetylcholine. Thus, we demonstrated that morin induces endothelium-dependent relaxation in the rat mesenteric artery by acting on TRPV4 channels to mediate Ca²⁺ influx and attenuate blood pressure in L-NAME-induced hypertension, thereby highlighting the potential of morin in the treatment of hypertension.

Anticatabolic Effects of Morin through the Counteraction of Interleukin-1β-Induced Inflammation in Rat Primary Chondrocytes

Morin, a flavonoid isolated from various medicinal herbal plants, has an anti-inflammatory effect. This study aimed to elucidate the anticatabolic effects and cellular mechanism of morin against interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in rat primary chondrocytes. Morin at 10-100 μM did not affect the viability of rat primary chondrocytes. Treatment with morin for 21 days ameliorated the IL-1β-induced decrease in extracellular matrix. Furthermore, treatment with morin attenuated IL-1β-induced proteoglycan loss in the articular cartilage through suppression of catabolic factors, such as matrix metalloproteinases, inflammatory mediators, and pro-inflammatory cytokines. These data indicated that morin exerted anticatabolic effects that can prevent and reduce progressive degeneration of the articular cartilage, and thus may be a potential candidate treatment for osteoarthritis.

Morin enhances auranofin anticancer activity by up-regulation of DR4 and DR5 and modulation of Bcl-2 through reactive oxygen species generation in Hep3B human hepatocellular carcinoma cells

Evidence suggests that auranofin (AF) exhibits anticancer activity by inhibiting thioredoxin reductase (TrxR). Here, in this study, we have investigated the synergistic effects of AF and morin and their mechanism for the anticancer effects focusing on apoptosis in Hep3B human hepatocellular carcinoma cells. We assessed the anticancer activities by annexin V/PI double staining, caspase, and TrxR activity assay. Morin enhances the inhibitory effects on TrxR activity of AF as well as reducing cell viability. Annexin V/PI double staining revealed that morin/AF cotreatment induced apoptotic cell death. Morin enhances AF-induced mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) loss and cytochrome c release. Further, morin/AF cotreatment upregulated death receptor DR4/DR5, modulated Bcl-2 family members (upregulation of Bax and downregulation of Bcl-2), and activated caspase-3, -8, and -9. Morin also enhances AF-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. The anticancer effects results from caspase-dependent apoptosis, which was triggered via extrinsic pathway by upregulating TRAIL receptors (DR4/DR5) and enhanced via intrinsic pathway by modulating Bcl-2 and inhibitor of apoptosis protein family members. These are related to ROS generation. In conclusion, this study provides evidence that morin can enhance the anticancer activity of AF in Hep3B human hepatocellular carcinoma cells, indicating that its combination could be an alternative treatment strategy for the hepatocellular carcinoma.

UHPLC-UV Analysis of Morin and Structurally Related Flavonoids with Potential Anticancer Activity

Background:

Flavonoids as secondary metabolites of plants fulfill various functions in cell protection. They are of a considerable scientific interest because of their potentially medical use due to their anticancer, chemoprotective, antimicrobial, antiallergic, anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities. </P><P> Objective: The study aimed to develop a new UHPLC-UV method for morin and 2 other structurally related flavonoids - naringenin and kaempferol as the structural similarity of huge numbers of flavonoids does not limit their various biological functions and activities.

Methods:

Separation of morin and 2 other structurally related flavonoids - naringenin and kaempferol - was achieved by using BEH C18 (1.7 µm, 2.1 x 50 mm) analytical column (Waters® Acquity UPLC) and a mobile phase composed of 0.05%v/v Formic acid in water and acetonitrile in proportion of 77:23 v/v and pumped at a flow rate of 0.4 ml/min. Column temperature was set at 25 ºC and samples were analyzed (3 µl injection volume) at a wavelength of 340 nm. Waters® Xevo G2-S QToF coupled with Waters® Acquity UPLC system with binary Solvent Manager (I-Class) via electrospray ionization (ESI) interface was used to confirm the identity of the peaks in biological samples.

Results:

A rapid and simple UHPLC-UV separation of morin, kaempferol and naringenin is documented including methods validation. The developed method was applied to measuring morin, kaempferol and naringenin in human plasma after a solid phase extraction. Additionally, stability of morin in tissue culture medium was verified. The extraction method and UHPLC-UV elution conditions described provide a practical means to analyze morin, kaempferol and naringenin in biological matrices.

Conclusion:

The developed method is fast and highly sensitive. Moreover, the flavonoids used were stable in human plasma for more than 10 days.

Leukemia therapy by flavonoids: Future and involved mechanisms

Flavonoids are a varied family of phytonutrients (plant chemicals) usually are detected in fruits and vegetables. In this big family, there exist more than 10,000 members that is separated into six chief subtypes: isoflavonols, flavonoenes, flavones, flavonols, anthocyanins, and chalcones. The natural compounds, such as fruits, have visible positive effects in regulating of survival involved signaling pathways that performance as the regulator of cell survival, growth, and proliferation. Researchers have established that commonly consumption up flavonoids decreases incidence and development risk of certain cancers, especially leukemia. Flavonoids have been able to induce apoptosis and stimulate cell cycle arrest in cancer cells via different pathways. Similarly, they have antiangiogenesis and antimetastasis capability, which were shown in wide ranges of cancer cells, particularly, leukemia. It seems that flavonoid because of their widespread approval, evident safety and low rate of side effects, have hopeful anticarcinogenic potential for leukemia therapy. Based on the last decade reports, the most important acting mechanisms of these natural compounds in leukemia cells are stimulating of apoptosis pathways by upregulation of caspase 3, 8, 9 and poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) and proapoptotic proteins, particularly Bax activation. As well, they can induce cell cycle arrest in target cells not only via increasing of activated levels of p21 and p53 but also by inhibition of cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases. Furthermore, attenuation of neclear factor-κB and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 activation, suppression of signaling pathway and downregulation of intracellular antiapoptotic proteins are other significant antileukemic function mechanism of flavonoids. Overall, it appears that flavonoids are promising and effective compounds in the field of leukemia therapy. In this review, we tried to accumulate and revise most promising flavonoids and finally declared their major working mechanisms in leukemia cells.

Morin protects glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis through regulating the mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway

Our aim is to investigate the potential therapeutic value of morin against osteoporosis and elucidate the mechanism of action. Osteoporosis was induced in rats by a subcutaneous injection of dexamethasone (DEX) for 5 weeks. Body weight was regularly monitored. Body mineral density (BMD) was determined at proximal femurs using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Pathological examination was performed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. The relative expression of osteogenic and bone resorption markers was determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting, respectively. Activation of the MAPK signaling pathway was analyzed by Western blotting. Body weight and BMD were both significantly decreased in osteoporotic rats, although BMD was partially restored by intraperitoneal morin administration. Morin treatment also increased the number of trabecular bones in DEX-induced rats. Mechanistically, morin reversed the decrease of osteogenic markers and increase of bone resorption markers, which might eventually be mediated by modulation of MAPK signaling cascades. Here, we uncovered the therapeutic effect of morin against osteoporosis and demonstrated its suppressive action on the MAPK pathway in this disease.

Morin promotes prostate cancer cells chemosensitivity to paclitaxel through miR-155/GATA3 axis

Paclitaxel is a first-line microtubule-stabilizing drug in treating prostate cancer. However, most patients develop resistance and experience relapse. Morin (3,5,7,20,40-pentahydroxyflavone) is an anti-tumor flavonoid in a numerous types of cancer cells including breast, ovarian and lung cancers. We therefore researched the effects of morin as an adjuvant to paclitaxel in in treating DU145 and PC-3 cells in vitro and DU145 derived prostate cancers in nude mice models. The chemosensitivities of these cells to the treatments of morin and paclitaxel were tested through viability assays utilizing cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8) and apoptosis assays through flow cytometry analyses. MicroRNA (miRNA) microarray was employed to determine the changes in miRNA profile of morin treated DU145 cells. The results from microarrays were further certified by quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR). The underlying targets of miR-155 were verified using luciferase assays followed by Western blot assays. In the results, morin was capable of repressing the cell viabilities in the paclitaxel-treated cells. MiR-155might be an effective target that can be down-regulated in morin-treated cells. We also discovered that GATA binding protein 3 (GATA3) was directly repressed by miR-155, and the treatment of morin reversed the expression of GATA3. In conclusion, morin might be a potential adjuvant of paclitaxel in treating prostate cancer through regulating miR-155/GATA3 axis.

Morin inhibits proliferation and self-renewal of CD133+ melanoma cells by upregulating miR-216a

Melanoma is one of the most malignant skin tumors with high mortality rate. Morin has been reported to treat several cancers. However, whether or how Morin affects melanoma progression is still poorly understood. Either Morin treatment or miR-216a overexpression reduced cell viability, sphere formation ability and expressions of stem cell marker genes CD20, CD44, CD133 and Wnt-3A. MiR-216a was induced by Morin treatment in CD133⁺ melanoma cells. Melanoma xenograft model treated by Morin showed reduced tumor size, weight as well as expressions of stemness markers and Wnt-3A. Inhibition of the stemness marker gene expressions in CD133⁺ melanoma cells is mediated by downregulating Wnt-3A through miR-216a. MiR-216a and Wnt-3A may potentially serve as clinical biomarkers of melanoma, and Morin may contribute to the treatment of melanoma.

Morin inhibited lung cancer cells viability, growth, and migration by suppressing miR-135b and inducing its target CCNG2

Lung cancer is one of the most severe threats with the highest mortality rate to humans in the world. Recently, morin has been reported to have anti-tumor properties observed in several types of cancers. However, its mechanism is still unclear. We assessed the influences of morin on cell viability, colony formation, and migration ability of A549 and employed microRNA array to identify the microRNAs affected by morin. We found that morin-treated A549 cells showed statistically decreased cell viability, colony formation, and migration rate when comparing with the dimethyl sulfoxide-treated cells. Microarray results showed that with the treatment of morin, the expression level of miR-135b significantly reduced compared the control group, suggesting that morin may exert its anti-cancer property by suppressing the expression of miR-135b. In addition, we found a potential binding site of miR-135b within 3' untranslated region of CCNG2-encoding cyclin homolog cyclin-G2. We evidenced that miR-135b directly targets CCNG2, which could be a potential biomarker of lung cancer prognosis. Morin exerts its anti-tumor function via downregulating the expression of miR-135b that directly targets and represses CCNG2.

Morin Inhibits Proliferation of SW480 Colorectal Cancer Cells by Inducing Apoptosis Mediated by Reactive Oxygen Species Formation and Uncoupling of Warburg Effect

The study under investigation focuses on in vitro antiproliferative efficacy of the flavonoid morin and the mechanisms by which it inhibits the growth of colon cancer using SW480 colon cancer cells with emphasis on Warburg effect. It was found that the cell proliferation was significantly inhibited by morin in a dose and time dependent manner. Morin induced apoptosis that was correlated with increased levels of reactive oxygen species formation and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential of the cells. In addition, an increase in cleaved PARP, cleaved caspase 3, cleaved caspase 8, cleaved caspase 9 and Bax as well as a decrease in Bcl 2 was observed, indicating morin is inducing both intrinsic as well as extrinsic pathway of apoptosis. This was further confirmed by using downstream caspase 3 inhibitor which indicated that caspase 3 inhibition reduces morin induced cell death. Moreover, the impact of morin on over all energy status when determined in terms of total cellular ATP level showed a decline with low level of glucose uptake and Glut1 expression. The results indicate that morin exerts antiproliferative activity by inducing apoptosis and by reducing Warburg effect in the evaluated cell lines and provide preliminary evidence for its anticancer activity.

Morin, a novel liver X receptor α/β dual antagonist, has potent therapeutic efficacy for nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Morin is a natural occurring flavonoid in many dietary plants and has a wide range of beneficial effects on metabolism; however, the mechanism underlying its action remains elusive.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

A reporter assay and the time-resolved FRET assay were used to identify morin as a dual antagonist of liver X receptor (LXR)-α and -β. Morin (100 mg^. 100 g^-1 diet) was administered to high-fat diet-induced obese or LXRβ^-/- mice. The pharmacological effects and mechanism of action of morin were evaluated by Western blot and RT-PCR analyses.

KEY RESULTS

From the in vitro assays, morin was shown to be a dual antagonist of LXRα and LXRβ. In vivo, morin blunted the development of liver hepatic steatosis, reduced body weight gains, lowered triglyceride levels and improved glucose and insulin tolerance in mice fed a high-fat diet. Mechanistically, morin inhibited 3T3-L1 adipocyte differentiation and lipid formation in human hepatic HepG2 cells and suppressed the mRNA expression of genes downstream of LXR. Consistently, the effects of morin on metabolic disorders were attenuated in LXRβ^-/- mice.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Our data reveal that morin is a dual antagonist of LXRα and LXRβ and suggest that morin may alleviate hepatic steatosis and other associated metabolic disorders via the suppression of LXR signalling and, therefore, shows promise as a novel therapy or nutraceutical for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

Dietary Intervention by Phytochemicals and Their Role in Modulating Coding and Non-Coding Genes in Cancer

Phytochemicals are natural compounds synthesized as secondary metabolites in plants, representing an important source of molecules with a wide range of therapeutic applications. These natural agents are important regulators of key pathological processes/conditions, including cancer, as they are able to modulate the expression of coding and non-coding transcripts with an oncogenic or tumour suppressor role. These natural agents are currently exploited for the development of therapeutic strategies alone or in tandem with conventional treatments for cancer. The aim of this paper is to review the recent studies regarding the role of these natural phytochemicals in different processes related to cancer inhibition, including apoptosis activation, angiogenesis and metastasis suppression. From the large palette of phytochemicals we selected epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), genistein, morin and kaempferol, due to their increased activity in modulating multiple coding and non-coding genes, targeting the main hallmarks of cancer.

Natural and Synthetic Flavonoids: Structure-Activity Relationship and Chemotherapeutic Potential for the Treatment of Leukemia

Flavonoids and their derivatives are polyphenolic secondary metabolites with an extensive spectrum of pharmacological activities, including antioxidants, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral activities. These flavonoids can also act as chemopreventive agents by their interaction with different proteins and can play a vital role in chemotherapy, suggesting a positive correlation between a lower risk of cancer and a flavonoid-rich diet. These agents interfere with the main hallmarks of cancer by various individual mechanisms, such as inhibition of cell growth and proliferation by arresting the cell cycle, induction of apoptosis and differentiation, or a combination of these mechanisms. This review is an effort to highlight the therapeutic potential of natural and synthetic flavonoids as anticancer agents in leukemia treatment with respect to the structure-activity relationship (SAR) and their molecular mechanisms. Induction of cell death mechanisms, production of reactive oxygen species, and drug resistance mechanisms, including p-glycoprotein efflux, are among the best-described effects triggered by the flavonoid polyphenol family.

Established Human Cell Lines as Models to Study Anti-leukemic Effects of Flavonoids

Despite the extensive work on pathological mechanisms and some recent advances in the treatment of different hematological malignancies, leukemia continues to present a significant challenge being frequently considered as incurable disease. Therefore, the development of novel therapeutic agents with high efficacy and low toxicity is urgently needed to improve the overall survival rate of patients. In this comprehensive review article, the current knowledge about the anticancer activities of flavonoids as plant secondary polyphenolic metabolites in the most commonly used human established leukemia cell lines (HL-60, NB4, KG1a, U937, THP-1, K562, Jurkat, CCRF- CEM, MOLT-3, and MOLT-4) is compiled, revealing clear anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, cell cycle arresting, and differentiation inducing effects for certain compounds. Considering the low toxicity of these substances in normal blood cells, the presented data show a great potential of flavonoids to be developed into novel anti-leukemia agents applicable also in the malignant cells resistant to the current conventional chemotherapeutic drugs.

Neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of morin in a murine model of Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders and is characterized by loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN). Although the causes of PD are not understood, evidence suggests that oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammation are associated with its pathogenesis. Morin (3,5,7,2',4'-pentahydroxyflavone) is a flavonol found in wine and many herbs and fruits. Previous studies have suggested that morin prevents oxidative damage and inflammation and ameliorates mitochondrial dysfunction. The present study describes the neuroprotective effects of morin in a 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced mouse model of PD, and we report the results of our investigation into its neuroprotective mechanism in primary neurons and astrocytes. In the mouse model, morin pretreatment ameliorated motor dysfunction, protected against dopaminergic neuronal losses in SN and striatum, and alleviated MPTP-induced astrocyte activation. In vitro studies revealed that morin protected primary cultured neurons against 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridine (MPP(+) )-mediated reactive oxygen species production and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) disruption. In addition, morin effectively reduced MPP(+) -induced astroglial activation and nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-κB in primary cultured astrocytes. These results indicate that morin acts via multiple neuroprotective mechanisms in our mouse model and suggest that morin be viewed as a potential treatment and preventative for PD. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The p53-inducible gene 3 involved in flavonoid-induced cytotoxicity through the reactive oxygen species-mediated mitochondrial apoptotic pathway in human hepatoma cells

Flavonoids have been reported to exhibit prooxidant cytotoxicity against cancer cells, but the underlying mechanism is still poorly understood. Here we investigated the potential mechanism that p53-inducible gene 3 (PIG3), a NADPH:quinone oxidoreductase, mediated the prooxidant cytotoxicity of flavonoids on human hepatoma HepG2 cells. The results showed that flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin, kaempferol, and quercetin) inhibited the growth of HepG2 cells in a dosage- and time-dependent manner, and induced the morphological changes characteristic of apoptosis in HepG2 cells. We also found that expression of PIG3 was increased markedly in HepG2 cells treated with flavonoids at both mRNA and protein levels, which was accompanied by increased intracellular ROS production and a decreased mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). All these effects were largely reversed through knockdown of the PIG3 gene in HepG2 cells. Western blotting indicated that flavonoids increased cytochrome c release, upregulated the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2, and activated the caspases-9 and -3. Moreover, knockdown of PIG3 could reverse the changes of these apoptotic-related proteins. These results suggest that PIG3 plays an important role in regulating the prooxidant activity and apoptosis-inducing action of flavonoids on HepG2 cells though the ROS-triggered mitochondrial apoptotic pathway.