Curcumin inhibits intracellular fatty acid synthase and induces apoptosis in human breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells

Natural products and derivatives for breast cancer treatment: From drug discovery to molecular mechanism

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer stands as the most common malignancy among women globally and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Conventional treatments, such as surgery, hormone therapy, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and small-molecule targeted therapy, often fall short of addressing the complexity and heterogeneity of certain breast cancer subtypes, leading to drug resistance and metastatic progression. Thus, the search for novel therapeutic targets and agents is imperative. Given their low toxicity and abundant variety, natural products and their derivatives are increasingly considered valuable sources for small-molecule anticancer drugs.

PURPOSE

This review aims to elucidate the pharmacological impacts and underlying mechanisms of active compounds found in select natural products and their derivatives, primarily focusing on breast cancer treatment. It intends to underscore the potential of these substances in combating breast cancer and guide future research directions for the development of natural product-based therapeutics.

METHODS

We conducted comprehensive searches in electronic databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus until October 2023, using keywords such as 'breast cancer', 'natural products', 'derivatives', 'mechanism', 'signaling pathways', and various keyword combinations.

RESULTS

The review presents a spectrum of phytochemicals, including but not limited to flavonoids, polyphenols, and alkaloids, and examines their actions in various animal and cellular models of breast cancer. The anticancer effects of these natural products and derivatives are manifested through diverse mechanisms, including induction of cell death via apoptosis and autophagy, and suppression of tumor angiogenesis.

CONCLUSION

An increasing array of natural products and their derivatives are proving effective against breast cancer. Future therapeutic strategies can benefit from strategic enhancement of the anticancer properties of natural compounds, optimization for targeted action, improved bioavailability, and minimized side effects. The forthcoming research on natural products should prioritize these facets to maximize their therapeutic potential.

An amplified sonodynamic therapy by a nanohybrid of titanium dioxide-gold-polyethylene glycol-curcumin: HeLa cancer cells treatment in 2D monolayer and 3D spheroid models

The utilization of ultrasound (US) to activate sonosensitizers for sonodynamic therapy (SDT) has faced challenges such as low activation efficiency and limited therapeutic outcomes, which have hampered its clinical applications. In this study, a nanohybrid of titanium dioxide-gold-polyethylene glycol-curcumin (TiO2-Au-PEG-Cur NH), as a novel US sensitizer, was synthesized, characterized, and applied for SDT of HeLa cancer cells in 2D monolayer model, and also a 3D spheroid model to bridge the gap between 2D cell culture and in vivo future studies. TiO2-Au-PEG-Cur NH contained TiO2 nanoparticles of 36 ± 11 nm in diameter, PEG-curcumin as a filler, and gold nanoparticles of 21 ± 7 nm in diameter with a high purity and a 35:17 of Ti:Au ratio (W/W), and it had a band gap of 2.4 eV, a zeta potential of -23 ± 7 mV, high stability upon US radiation cycles as well as one year storage. SDT of HeLa cells using TiO2-Au-PEG-Cur NH was investigated in the courses of cytotoxicity assessment in vitro, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation capability, colony formation, cell migration, and the way to form spheroid. IC50 values of 122 and 38 μg mL-1 were obtained for TiO2-Au-PEG-Cur NH without and with US radiation, respectively. TiO2-Au-PEG-Cur NH not only exhibited an inherent capacity to generate ROS, but also represented an excellent therapeutic performance on the cancer cells through ROS generation and enhanced inhibitory effects on cell migration and spheroid formation.

Targeting dysregulated lipid metabolism in the tumor microenvironment

The reprogramming of lipid metabolism and its association with oncogenic signaling pathways within the tumor microenvironment (TME) have emerged as significant hallmarks of cancer. Lipid metabolism is defined as a complex set of molecular processes including lipid uptake, synthesis, transport, and degradation. The dysregulation of lipid metabolism is affected by enzymes and signaling molecules directly or indirectly involved in the lipid metabolic process. Regulation of lipid metabolizing enzymes has been shown to modulate cancer development and to avoid resistance to anticancer drugs in tumors and the TME. Because of this, understanding the metabolic reprogramming associated with oncogenic progression is important to develop strategies for cancer treatment. Recent advances provide insight into fundamental mechanisms and the connections between altered lipid metabolism and tumorigenesis. In this review, we explore alterations to lipid metabolism and the pivotal factors driving lipid metabolic reprogramming, which exacerbate cancer progression. We also shed light on the latest insights and current therapeutic approaches based on small molecular inhibitors and phytochemicals targeting lipid metabolism for cancer treatment. Further investigations are worthwhile to fully understand the underlying mechanisms and the correlation between altered lipid metabolism and carcinogenesis.

Phytochemicals Target Multiple Metabolic Pathways in Cancer

Cancer metabolic reprogramming is a complex process that provides malignant cells with selective advantages to grow and propagate in the hostile environment created by the immune surveillance of the human organism. This process underpins cancer proliferation, invasion, antioxidant defense, and resistance to anticancer immunity and therapeutics. Perhaps not surprisingly, metabolic rewiring is considered to be one of the "Hallmarks of cancer". Notably, this process often comprises various complementary and overlapping pathways. Today, it is well known that highly selective inhibition of only one of the pathways in a tumor cell often leads to a limited response and, subsequently, to the emergence of resistance. Therefore, to increase the overall effectiveness of antitumor drugs, it is advisable to use multitarget agents that can simultaneously suppress several key processes in the tumor cell. This review is focused on a group of plant-derived natural compounds that simultaneously target different pathways of cancer-associated metabolism, including aerobic glycolysis, respiration, glutaminolysis, one-carbon metabolism, de novo lipogenesis, and β-oxidation of fatty acids. We discuss only those compounds that display inhibitory activity against several metabolic pathways as well as a number of important signaling pathways in cancer. Information about their pharmacokinetics in animals and humans is also presented. Taken together, a number of known plant-derived compounds may target multiple metabolic and signaling pathways in various malignancies, something that bears great potential for the further improvement of antineoplastic therapy.

Involvement of the pro-oncogenic enzyme fatty acid synthase in the hallmarks of cancer: a promising target in anti-cancer therapies

An accelerated de novo lipogenesis (DNL) flux is a common characteristic of cancer cells required to sustain a high proliferation rate. The DNL enzyme fatty acid synthase (FASN) is overexpressed in many cancers and is pivotal for the increased production of fatty acids. There is increasing evidences of the involvement of FASN in several hallmarks of cancer linked to its ability to promote cell proliferation via membranes biosynthesis. In this review we discuss about the implication of FASN in the resistance to cell death and in the deregulation of cellular energetics by increasing nucleic acids, protein and lipid synthesis. FASN also promotes cell proliferation, cell invasion, metastasis and angiogenesis by enabling the building of lipid rafts and consequently to the localization of oncogenic receptors such as HER2 and c-Met in membrane microdomains. Finally, FASN is involved in immune escape by repressing the activation of pro-inflammatory cells and promoting the recruitment of M2 macrophages and T regulatory cells in the tumor microenvironment. Here, we provide an overview of the involvement of the pro-oncogenic enzyme in the hallmarks of cancer making FASN a promising target in anti-cancer therapy to circumvent resistance to chemotherapies.

Antitumor Properties of Curcumin in Breast Cancer Based on Preclinical Studies: A Systematic Review

Simple Summary

Natural formulations and phytotherapies have shown promising antitumor activities. This review assesses the antitumor effects of curcumin on breast cancer. In particular, we discuss the effects of curcumin on the proliferation, viability, and apoptosis of breast cancer cell lineages and tumor volume. Studies have shown that curcumin administered at different concentrations inhibited proliferation, decreased viability, and induced apoptosis in human and animal breast cancer cells. Nanoparticle formulations of curcumin administered orally, via implant, or intraperitoneally reduced the tumor volume of human and murine mammary cells in vivo. Moreover, curcumin nanoformulations facilitate tumor growth inhibition in animal models of breast cancer. Randomized clinical trials are warranted to assess the efficacy and safety of curcumin formulations for clinical use.

Abstract

Breast cancer is one of the most common neoplasms among women. Anticancer strategies using natural formulations and phytotherapies are promising antitumor treatment alternatives. This review assesses the antitumor effects of curcumin on breast cancer reported in preclinical in vitro and in vivo animal models. We used five databases to search for preclinical studies published up to May 2021. The assessments included the effects of curcumin on the proliferation, viability, and apoptosis of breast cancer cell lineages and on tumor volume. In total, 60 articles met the inclusion criteria. Curcumin administered at different concentrations and via different routes of administration inhibited proliferation, decreased viability, and induced apoptosis in human and animal breast cancer cells. Nanoparticle formulations of curcumin administered orally, via implant, and intraperitoneally reduced the tumor volume of human and murine mammary cells in vivo. Moreover, curcumin nanoformulations exert positive effects on tumor growth inhibition in animal models of breast cancer. Further randomized clinical trials are warranted to assess the efficacy and safety of curcumin formulations for clinical use.

α-Linolenic Acid Suppresses Proliferation and Invasion in Osteosarcoma Cells via Inhibiting Fatty Acid Synthase

Fatty acid synthase (FASN) is highly expressed in multiple types of human cancers and is recognized as one of the targets for treating cancer metastasis. α-Linolenic acid is an omega-3 essential fatty acid and it possesses various biological activities. The present study was designed to reveal the effects of α-linolenic acid on osteosarcoma and to reveal whether the mechanism of α-linolenic acid in anticancer activity may be related to FASN inhibition. The cytotoxicity of α-linolenic acid was assessed in osteosarcoma MG63, 143B, and U2OS cells. Cell viability was detected by the MTT assay. The protein expression level was detected by western blotting. Flow cytometry, Annexin V/propidium iodide dual staining, and Hoechst 33258 staining were performed to assess the apoptotic effects. Wound healing assay was applied to detect the inhibitory effect of α-linolenic acid on osteosarcoma cells migration. The results showed that α-linolenic acid downregulated FASN expression. α-Linolenic acid inhibited osteosarcoma cell proliferation and migration in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, α-linolenic acid regulated endoplasmic reticulum transmembrane receptors and signal protein expression in osteosarcoma cells. The findings of the present study suggested that α-linolenic acid suppresses osteosarcoma cell proliferation and metastasis by inhibiting FASN expression, which provides a basis as a potential target for osteosarcoma treatment.

Anticancer properties of medicinal plants and their bioactive compounds against breast cancer: a review on recent investigations

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common and recurring diseases and the second leading cause of death in women. Despite prevention, diagnostics, and therapeutic options such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, the number of occurrences increases every year. Therefore, novel therapeutic drugs targeting specifically different checkpoints should be developed against breast cancer. Among drugs that can be developed to treat breast cancer, natural products, such as plant-derived compounds, showed significant anti-breast cancer properties. These substances belong to different chemical classes such as flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolic acids, and alkaloids. They exert their in vitro and in vivo cytotoxic activities against breast cancer cell lines via different mechanisms, including the inhibition of extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways, the arrest of the cell cycle, and the activation of autophagy. Moreover, they also exhibit anti-angiogenesis and antimetastatic action. Moreover, chemoprevention effects of these bioactive compounds were signaled only for certain drugs. Therefore, the aim of this review is to highlight the pharmacological actions of medicinal plants and their bioactive compounds on breast cancer. Moreover, the role of these substances in breast cancer chemoprevention was also discussed.

Pharmacological Mechanisms and Clinical Applications of Curcumin: Update

Curcumin, a well-known hydrophobic polyphenol extracted from the rhizomes of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), has attracted great interest in the last ten years due to its multiple pharmacological activities. A growing body of evidence has manifested that curcumin has extensive pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxygenation, lipid regulation, antiviral, and anticancer with hypotoxicity and minor adverse reactions. However, the disadvantages of low bioavailability, short half-life in plasma, low drug concentration in blood, and poor oral absorption severely limited the clinical application of curcumin. Pharmaceutical researchers have carried out plenty of dosage form transformations to improve the druggability of curcumin and have achieved remarkable results. Therefore, the objective of this review summarizes the pharmacological research progress, problems in clinical application and the improvement methods of curcumin's druggability. By reviewing the latest research progress of curcumin, we believe that curcumin has a broad clinical application prospect for its wide range of pharmacological activities with few side effects. The deficiencies of lower bioavailability of curcumin could be improved by dosage form transformation. However, curcumin in the clinical application still requires further study regarding the underlying mechanism and clinical trial verification.

The Potential of Natural Products in the Treatment of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype of breast cancer that lacks receptors for targeted therapy. Consequently, chemotherapy is currently the mainstay of systemic treatment options. However, the enrichment of cancer stem cells (CSC, a subpopulation with stem-cell characteristics and tumor-initiating propensity) promotes chemo-resistance and tumorigenesis, resulting in cancer recurrence and relapse. Furthermore, toxic side effects of chemotherapeutics reduce patient wellbeing. Natural products, specifically compounds derived from plants, have the potential to treat TNBC and target CSCs by inhibiting CSC signaling pathways. Literature evidence from six promising compounds were reviewed, including sulforaphane, curcumin, genistein, resveratrol, lycopene, and epigallocatechin-3-gallate. These compounds have been shown to promote cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in TNBC cells. They also could inhibit the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) that plays an important role in metastasis. In addition, those natural compounds have been found to inhibit pathways important for CSCs, such as NF-κB, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, Notch 1, Wnt/β-catenin, and YAP. Clinicals trials conducted on these compounds have shown varying degrees of effectiveness. Epidemiological case-control studies for the compounds commonly consumed in certain human populations have also been summarized. While in vivo and in vitro data are promising, further basic and clinical investigations are required. Likely, natural products in combination with other drugs may hold great potential to improve TNBC treatment efficacy and patient outcomes.

Antitumoral Activities of Curcumin and Recent Advances to ImProve Its Oral Bioavailability

Curcumin, a main bioactive component of the Curcuma longa L. rhizome, is a phenolic compound that exerts a wide range of beneficial effects, acting as an antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer agent. This review summarizes recent data on curcumin's ability to interfere with the multiple cell signaling pathways involved in cell cycle regulation, apoptosis and the migration of several cancer cell types. However, although curcumin displays anticancer potential, its clinical application is limited by its low absorption, rapid metabolism and poor bioavailability. To overcome these limitations, several curcumin-based derivatives/analogues and different drug delivery approaches have been developed. Here, we also report the anticancer mechanisms and pharmacokinetic characteristics of some derivatives/analogues and the delivery systems used. These strategies, although encouraging, require additional in vivo studies to support curcumin clinical applications.

Review on target domains and natural compound-based inhibitors of fatty acid synthase for anticancer drug discovery

Cancer cells require a higher amount of energy in the form of fatty acids for their uncontrolled proliferation and growth. Fatty acid synthase (FASN) plays a crucial role in the synthesis of palmitate, which is involved in most of the critical malignant pathways. Hence, by targeting FASN, tumour growth can be controlled. By designing and developing FASN inhibitors with catalytic domain specificity, safe and potential anticancer drugs can be achieved. The article draws light towards the catalytic domains of FASN, their active site residues and interaction of some of the reported natural FASN inhibitors (resveratrol, lavandulyl flavonoids, catechins, stilbene derivatives, etc). The rationality (structure-activity relationship) behind the variation in the activity of the reported natural FASN inhibitors (butyrolactones, polyphenolics, galloyl esters and thiolactomycins) has also been covered. Selective, safe and potentially active FASN inhibitors could be developed by: (i) having proper understanding of the function of all catalytic domains of FASN (ii) studying the upstream and downstream FASN regulators (iii) identifying cancer-specific FASN biomarkers (that are non-essential/absent in the normal healthy cells) (iv) exploring the complete protein structure of FASN, e-screening of the compounds prior to synthesis and study their ADME properties (v) predicting the selectivity based on their strong affinity at the catalytic site of FASN.

Curcumin-cisplatin chemotherapy: A novel strategy in promoting chemotherapy efficacy and reducing side effects

The efficacy of chemotherapy in cancer therapy is limited due to resistance, treatment selectivity, and severe adverse effects. Immunotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation, and surgery are the most common therapeutic strategies for treatment, with chemotherapy being the most successful. Nonetheless, these treatments exhibit poor effectiveness due to toxicity and resistance. Therefore, combination therapies of natural products may be used as an effective and novel strategy to overcome such barriers. Cisplatin is a platinum-based chemotherapy agent, and when administered alone, it can lead to severe adverse effects and resistance mechanism resulting in therapeutic failure. Curcumin is a polyphenolic compound extracted from turmeric (Curcuma longa) exhibiting anticancer potential with minimal adverse effects. The combination therapy of curcumin and cisplatin is a novel strategy to mitigate/attenuate cisplatin-related adverse effects and improve the barrier of resistance reducing unwanted effects. However, there are uncertainties on the efficacy of curcumin, and more in depth and high-quality studies are needed. This review aims to explain the adverse effects related to individual cisplatin delivery, the positive outcome of individual curcumin delivery, and the combination therapy of curcumin and cisplatin from nano platform as a novel strategy for cancer therapy.

Curcumin: Modulator of Key Molecular Signaling Pathways in Hormone-Independent Breast Cancer

Simple Summary

Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer death among females worldwide. It is a highly heterogeneous disease, classified according to hormone and growth factor receptor expression. Patients with triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) (estrogen receptor-negative/progesterone receptor-negative/human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER2)-negative) and hormone-independent HER2 overexpressing subtypes still represent highly aggressive behavior, metastasis, poor prognosis, and drug resistance. Thus, new alternative anticancer agents based on the use of natural products have been receiving enormous attention. In this regard, curcumin is a promising lead in cancer drug discovery due its ability to modulate a diverse range of molecular targets and signaling pathways. The current review has emphasized the underlying mechanism of curcumin anticancer action mediated through the modulation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR, JAK/STAT, MAPK, NF-ĸB, p53, Wnt/β-catenin, apoptosis, and cell cycle pathways in hormone-independent breast cancer, providing frameworks for future studies and insights to improve its efficiency in clinical practice.

Abstract

Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide. Despite the overall successes in breast cancer therapy, hormone-independent HER2 negative breast cancer, also known as triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), lacking estrogens and progesterone receptors and with an excessive expression of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), along with the hormone-independent HER2 positive subtype, still remain major challenges in breast cancer treatment. Due to their poor prognoses, aggressive phenotype, and highly metastasis features, new alternative therapies have become an urgent clinical need. One of the most noteworthy phytochemicals, curcumin, has attracted enormous attention as a promising drug candidate in breast cancer prevention and treatment due to its multi-targeting effect. Curcumin interrupts major stages of tumorigenesis including cell proliferation, survival, angiogenesis, and metastasis in hormone-independent breast cancer through the modulation of multiple signaling pathways. The current review has highlighted the anticancer activity of curcumin in hormone-independent breast cancer via focusing on its impact on key signaling pathways including the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, JAK/STAT pathway, MAPK pathway, NF-ĸB pathway, p53 pathway, and Wnt/β-catenin, as well as apoptotic and cell cycle pathways. Besides, its therapeutic implications in clinical trials are here presented.

Curcumin inhibits classical swine fever virus replication by interfering with lipid metabolism

Although previous reports have shown that Curcumin inhibits many viruses, including some important members of different genera of Flaviviridae family (Japanese encephalitis virus, dengue virus and hepatitis C virus), the antiviral activity of curcumin against Classical swine fever virus (CSFV), which belongs to Pestivirus genus, is still unclear. In this study, we found that curcumin inhibited CSFV replication in a dose-dependent manner, but had no effect on virus adsorption and entry. Furthermore, the results showed that curcumin inhibited the expression of FASN, one of the key enzymes of fatty acid synthesis pathway, thereby, causing the reduction of the production of LDs upon infection. To this end, we detected transcription factor 6 (ATF6), the key factor of regulating lipid metabolism along with other related molecules (CHOP and GPR78) and found that curcumin significantly impaired the gene synthesis of ATF6, while CSFV infection promoted ATF6 expression. Therefore, it is confirmed that curcumin inhibited CSFV replication by interfere lipid metabolism. In addition, our subsequent studies found that curcumin played an antiviral role by promoting the innate immune independent of NF-κB signaling pathway. Taken together, our finding highlights that curcumin is a potential candidate drug against CSFV for controlling CSF.

Potential Therapeutic Targets of Curcumin, Most Abundant Active Compound of Turmeric Spice: Role in the Management of Various Types of Cancer

BACKGROUND

Curcumin, an active compound of turmeric spice, is one of the most-studied natural compounds and has been widely recognized as a chemopreventive agent. Several molecular mechanisms have proven that curcumin and its analogs play a role in cancer prevention through modulating various cell signaling pathways as well as in the inhibition of the carcinogenesis process.

OBJECTIVE

To study the potential role of curcumin in the management of various types of cancer through modulating cell signalling molecules based on available literature and recent patents.

METHODS

A wide-ranging literature survey was performed based on Scopus, PubMed, PubMed Central, and Google scholar for the implication of curcumin in cancer management, along with a special emphasis on human clinical trials. Moreover, patents were searched through www.google.com/patents, www.freepatentsonline.com, and www.freshpatents.com.

RESULT

Recent studies based on cancer cells have proven that curcumin has potential effects against cancer cells as it prevents the growth of cancer and acts as a cancer therapeutic agent. Besides, curcumin exerted anti-cancer effects by inducing apoptosis, activating tumor suppressor genes, cell cycle arrest, inhibiting tumor angiogenesis, initiation, promotion, and progression stages of tumor. It was established that co-treatment of curcumin and anti-cancer drugs could induce apoptosis and also play a significant role in the suppression of the invasion and metastasis of cancer cells.

CONCLUSION

Accumulating evidences suggest that curcumin has the potential to inhibit cancer growth, induce apoptosis, and modulate various cell signaling pathway molecules. Well-designed clinical trials of curcumin based on human subjects are still needed to establish the bioavailability, mechanism of action, efficacy, and safe dose in the management of various cancers.

Betulinic acid improves nonalcoholic fatty liver disease through YY1/FAS signaling pathway

The increasing prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) worldwide indicates the urgent need to develop novel and effective treatment strategies. Betulinic acid (BA), a naturally occurring plant-derived pentacyclic triterpenoid, has an outstanding effect in improving metabolism. However, the pharmacological action and mechanism of BA in NAFLD remain unclear. Here, we show that BA-treated high-fat diet mice and methionine-choline deficient diet-fed mice are resistant to hepatic steatosis when compared with vehicle-treated mice. BA alleviates fatty acid synthesis, fibrosis, and inflammation and promotes fatty acid oxidation. Meanwhile, fatty acid synthase (FAS) expression and activity are markedly inhibited with BA treatment both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, BA inhibits FAS expression through transcriptional suppression of Yin Yang 1 (YY1), leading to retard hepatocytes triglyceride accumulation. Collectively, BA protects hepatocytes from abnormal lipid deposition in NAFLD through YY1/FAS pathway. Our findings establish a novel role of BA in representing a possible therapeutic strategy to reverse NAFLD.

Stable Isotope Tracing Metabolomics to Investigate the Metabolic Activity of Bioactive Compounds for Cancer Prevention and Treatment

A major hallmark of cancer is the metabolic reprogramming of cancer cells to fuel tumor growth and proliferation. Various plant-derived bioactive compounds efficiently target the metabolic vulnerabilities of cancer cells and exhibit potential as emerging therapeutic agents. Due to their safety and common use as dietary components, they are also ideal for cancer prevention. However, to render their use as efficient as possible, the mechanism of action of these phytochemicals needs to be well characterized. Stable isotope tracing is an essential technology to study the molecular mechanisms by which nutraceuticals modulate and target cancer metabolism. The use of positionally labeled tracers as exogenous nutrients and the monitoring of their downstream metabolites labeling patterns enable the analysis of the specific metabolic pathway activity, via the relative production and consumption of the labeled metabolites. Although stable isotope tracing metabolomics is a powerful tool to investigate the molecular activity of bioactive compounds as well as to design synergistic nutraceutical combinations, this methodology is still underutilized. This review aims to investigate the research efforts and potentials surrounding the use of stable isotope tracing metabolomics to examine the metabolic alterations mediated by bioactive compounds in cancer.

Nelumbo nucifera Leaves Prevent NMU-Induced Mammary Tumor through Downregulation of Fatty Acid Synthase, Estrogen Receptor-α and Her2 Expression

Diet polyphenol can reportedly prevent the formation of breast-cancer cells. Nelumbo nucifera leaf extract (NLE) is enriched with polyphenols and has several cellular functions, such as anti-atherosclerosis, anti-inflammation, and antitumor. In this study, we investigated the role of NLE in the prevention of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (NMU)-induced mammary tumor formation. Cotreatment with NLE significantly reduced the NMU-induced tumor incidence, number, and volume. NLE administration significantly repressed the tumor growth and weight of nude mice upon inoculation with BT-474 cancer cells. Immunohistochemical staining indicated that fatty acid synthetase, estrogen receptor (ER)-α, and phosphorylated ER-α were obviously reduced in the cancer part of BT-474 inoculated nude mice upon administration of 2% NLE. Western blot analysis revealed that NLE and NLPE (polyphenol-rich NLE) repressed ER-α expression and phosphorylation and decreased the phosphorylation of Her-2 without affecting their expression. Overall, NLE and NLPE exhibited more effective antitumor abilities in NMU-induced mammary cancer formation than with tamoxifen and Herceptin.

Bioactive Compounds: Multi-Targeting Silver Bullets for Preventing and Treating Breast Cancer

Each cell in our body is designed with a self-destructive trigger, and if damaged, can happily sacrifice itself for the sake of the body. This process of self-destruction to safeguard the adjacent normal cells is known as programmed cell death or apoptosis. Cancer cells outsmart normal cells and evade apoptosis and it is one of the major hallmarks of cancer. The cardinal quest for anti-cancer drug discovery (bioactive or synthetic compounds) is to be able to re-induce the so called “programmed cell death” in cancer cells. The importance of bioactive compounds as the linchpin of cancer therapeutics is well known as many effective chemotherapeutic drugs such as vincristine, vinblastine, doxorubicin, etoposide and paclitaxel have natural product origins. The present review discusses various bioactive compounds with known anticancer potential, underlying mechanisms by which they induce cell death and their preclinical/clinical development. Most bioactive compounds can concurrently target multiple signaling pathways that are important for cancer cell survival while sparing normal cells hence they can potentially be the silver bullets for targeting cancer growth and metastatic progression.

Antitumor effects of curcumin: A lipid perspective

Lipid metabolism plays an important role in cancer development due to the necessities of rapidly dividing cells to increase structural, energetic, and biosynthetic demands for cell proliferation. Basically, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other related diseases, and cancer are associated with a common hyperactivated "lipogenic state." Recent evidence suggests that metabolic reprogramming and overproduction of enzymes involved in the synthesis of fatty acids are the new hallmarks of cancer, which occur in an early phase of tumorigenesis. As the first evidence to confirm dysregulated lipid metabolism in cancer cells, the overexpression of fatty acid synthase (FAS) was observed in breast cancer patients and demonstrated the role of FAS in cancer. Other enzymes of fatty acid synthesis have recently been found to be dysregulated in cancer, including ATP-dependent citrate lyase and acetyl-CoA carboxylase, which further underscores the connection of these metabolic pathways with cancer cell survival and proliferation. The degree of overexpression of lipogenic enzymes and elevated lipid utilization in tumors is closely associated with cancer progression. The question that arises is whether the progression of cancer can be suppressed, or at least decelerated, by modulating gene expression related to fatty acid metabolism. Curcumin, due to its effects on the regulation of lipogenic enzymes, might be able to suppress, or even cause regression of tumor growth. This review discusses recent evidence concerning the important role of lipogenic enzymes in the metabolism of cancer cells and whether the inhibitory effects of curcumin on lipogenic enzymes is therapeutically efficacious.

Sophoraflavanone G from Sophora flavescens induces apoptosis in triple-negative breast cancer cells

BACKGROUND

A compound isolated from Sophora flavescens-sophoraflavanone G (SG)-showed anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory properties. We previously demonstrated that SG promoted apoptosis in human leukemia HL-60 cells. In the present study, we investigated the effects of SG on apoptosis in human breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells, and explored the underlying molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

MDA-MB-231 cells were treated with various SG concentrations, and cell viability was evaluated by MTT assay. Apoptotic signal proteins were detected by western blotting, and cell apoptosis was assessed using flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Our results demonstrated that SG induced nuclear condensation, DNA fragmentation, reactive oxygen species production, and increased cell apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 cells. SG also suppressed migration and invasion, likely via blockage of the MAPK pathway. In the apoptotic signaling pathway, SG increased cleaved caspase-8, caspase-3, and caspase-9. SG treatment also decreased Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL expression, increased Bax expression, and prompted release of more cytochrome c from mitochondria to the cytoplasm in MDA-MB-231 cells.

CONCLUSION

Overall, our findings suggest that SG might increase apoptosis, and decrease migration and invasion, in MDA-MB-231 cells through suppression of a MAPK-related pathway.

Development of curcumin-loaded gemini surfactant nanoparticles: Synthesis, characterization and evaluation of anticancer activity against human breast cancer cell lines

BACKGROUND

Curcumin, the polyphenolic constituent of turmeric, has been recognized as an effective anticancer agent in the treatment of breast cancer. However, the poor bioavailability of curcumin triggers finding of new approaches for elevating its therapeutic efficiency.

PURPOSE

We aimed to use gemini surfactant nanocarriers for curcumin in order to overcome its limitations.

STUDY DESIGN

We investigated the in vitro characterization of gemini surfactant-curcumin (Gemini-Cur) and examined its antiproliferative & apoptotic activities on breast cancer cell lines.

METHODS

Gemini-Cur polymersomes were synthesized through nanoprecipitation method and characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission and scanning electron microscopies, HPLC and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The anticancer effect of Gemini-Cur nanoparticles was studied on three different breast cancer cell lines including MCF-7, SkBr-3 and MDA-MB-231 through uptake kinetics, viability & cytotoxicity recordings and apoptotic assays. Furthermore, qRT-PCR was performed to evaluate the expression of apoptotic genes including p16INK4a, p14ARF, Bax and Bcl-2.

RESULTS

According to physicochemical analysis, the average particle size, zeta potential value and drug entrapment efficiency for Gemini-Cur compound were recorded as 161 ± 6.2 nm, +5.32 mV and 89.13% ± 0.93, respectively. XRD analysis also confirmed the incorporation of curcumin in gemini surfactant micelles. Regarding the enhanced cellular uptake of sphere shaped Gemini-Cur, our data showed that this nano compound suppresses cancer cell proliferation via induction of apoptosis. Moreover, qRT-PCR analysis revealed that Gemini-Cur could effectively upregulate the expression of p16INK4a, p14ARF and Bax, while significantly decreasing the Bcl-2 expression in these breast cancer cells.

CONCLUSION

Our data demonstrates the great potential of gemini surfactants for efficient delivery of curcumin and subsequently, the improvement of its anticancer effect. Therefore, it is sagacious to support the idea that Gemini-Cur nano compound might have the potential to be considered as an anticancer agent.

Fatty acids: Adiposity and breast cancer chemotherapy, a bad synergy?

Globally, breast cancer continues to be a major concern in women's health. Lifestyle related risk factors, specifically excess adipose tissue (adiposity) has reached epidemic proportions and has been identified as a major risk factor in the development of breast cancer. Dysfunctional adipose tissue has evoked research focusing on its association with metabolic-related conditions, breast cancer risk and progression. Adipose dysfunction in coordination with immune cells and inflammation, are responsible for accelerated cell growth and survival of cancer cells. Recently, evidence also implicates adiposity as a potential risk factor for chemotherapy resistance. Chemotherapeutic agents have been shown to negatively impact adipose tissue. Since adipose tissue is a major storage site for fatty acids, it is not unlikely that these negative effects may disrupt adipose tissue homeostasis. It is therefore argued that fatty acid composition may be altered due to the chemotherapeutic pharmacokinetics, which in turn could have severe health related outcomes. The underlying molecular mechanisms elucidating the effects of fatty acid composition in adiposity-linked drug resistance are still unclear and under explored. This review focuses on the potential role of adiposity in breast cancer and specifically emphasizes the role of fatty acids in cancer progression and treatment resistance.

Curcumin-Mediated Induction of Apoptosis in Human Glioma CHME Cells

Background

Curcumin has clear anti-tumor activity in various carcinomas. It regulates various signaling pathways like Wnt/β-catenin and JAK2/STAT3, which play vital roles in cell proliferation of several carcinomas, but to the best of our knowledge, there are currently no published reports on human glioma CHME cells. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the effect of curcumin on human glioma CHME cells.

Material/Methods

The CHME cell line was purchased from American Type Culture Collection (ATCC). The expressions of caspases 3, caspases 9, PARP, BAX, and BCL2 were detected by Western blot. Annexin V FITC, mitochondrial membrane potential, and reactive oxygen species were detected by flow cytometry. DAPI staining was detected by fluorescence microscopy. Cell viability was assessed by 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT) assay.

Results

We found that curcumin has cytotoxic activity in human glioma CHME cells, as shown by DAPI staining, annexin V/PI, and nuclear morphology. We found that cell growth decreased with increased concentration of curcumin, as well as sowing effects on expression of caspase-3, caspase-9, and cleavage of PARP, which suggests apoptotic cascade activity. The increase in reactive oxygen species and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψmt) in concentration-dependent manners suggests biochemical induction of apoptosis in CHME cells.

Conclusions

Curcumin has effective anticancer activity in human glioma CHME cells by inducing the apoptotic pathway.

Molecular targets of curcumin in breast cancer (Review)

Curcumin (diferuloylmethane), an orange‑yellow component of turmeric or curry powder, is a polyphenol natural product isolated from the rhizome of Curcuma longa. For centuries, curcumin has been used in medicinal preparations and as a food colorant. In recent years, extensive in vitro and in vivo studies have suggested that curcumin possesses activity against cancer, viral infection, arthritis, amyloid aggregation, oxidation and inflammation. Curcumin exerts anticancer effects primarily by activating apoptotic pathways in cancer cells and inhibiting pro‑cancer processes, including inflammation, angiogenesis and metastasis. Curcumin targets numerous signaling pathways associated with cancer therapy, including pathways mediated by p53, Ras, phosphatidylinositol‑3‑kinase, protein kinase B, Wnt‑β catenin and mammalian target of rapamycin. Clinical studies have demonstrated that curcumin alone or combined with other drugs exhibits promising anticancer activity in patients with breast cancer without adverse effects. In the present review, the chemistry and bioavailability of curcumin and its molecular targets in breast cancer are discussed. Future research directions are discussed to further understand this promising natural product.

The "Yin and Yang" of Natural Compounds in Anticancer Therapy of Triple-Negative Breast Cancers

Among the different types of breast cancers, triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) are highly aggressive, do not respond to conventional hormonal/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-targeted interventions due to the lack of the respective receptor targets, have chances of early recurrence, metastasize, tend to be more invasive in nature, and develop drug resistance. The global burden of TNBCs is increasing regardless of the number of cytotoxic drugs being introduced into the market each year as they have only moderate efficacy and/or unforeseen side effects. Therefore, the demand for more efficient therapeutic interventions, with reduced side effects, for the treatment of TNBCs is rising. While some plant metabolites/derivatives actually induce the risk of cancers, many plant-derived active principles have gained attention as efficient anticancer agents against TNBCs, with fewer adverse side effects. Here we discuss the possible oncogenic molecular pathways in TNBCs and how the purified plant-derived natural compounds specifically target and modulate the genes and/or proteins involved in these aberrant pathways to exhibit their anticancer potential. We have linked the anticancer potential of plant-derived natural compounds (luteolin, chalcones, piperine, deguelin, quercetin, rutin, fisetin, curcumin, resveratrol, and others) to their ability to target multiple dysregulated signaling pathways (such as the Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, NF-κB, PI3K/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and Hedgehog) leading to suppression of cell growth, proliferation, migration, inflammation, angiogenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastasis, and activation of apoptosis in TNBCs. Plant-derived compounds in combination with classical chemotherapeutic agents were more efficient in the treatment of TNBCs, possibly with lesser side effects.

Mechanistic evaluation of phytochemicals in breast cancer remedy: current understanding and future perspectives

Breast cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers around the globe and accounts for a large proportion of fatalities in women. Despite the advancement in therapeutic and diagnostic procedures, breast cancer still represents a major challenge. Current anti-breast cancer approaches include surgical removal, radiotherapy, hormonal therapy and the use of various chemotherapeutic drugs. However, drug resistance, associated serious adverse effects, metastasis and recurrence complications still need to be resolved which demand safe and alternative strategies. In this scenario, phytochemicals have recently gained huge attention due to their safety profile and cost-effectiveness. These phytochemicals modulate various genes, gene products and signalling pathways, thereby inhibiting breast cancer cell proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis and inducing apoptosis. Moreover, they also target breast cancer stem cells and overcome drug resistance problems in breast carcinomas. Phytochemicals as adjuvants with chemotherapeutic drugs have greatly enhanced their therapeutic efficacy. This review focuses on the recently recognized molecular mechanisms underlying breast cancer chemoprevention with the use of phytochemicals such as curcumin, resveratrol, silibinin, genistein, epigallocatechin gallate, secoisolariciresinol, thymoquinone, kaempferol, quercetin, parthenolide, sulforaphane, ginsenosides, naringenin, isoliquiritigenin, luteolin, benzyl isothiocyanate, α-mangostin, 3,3'-diindolylmethane, pterostilbene, vinca alkaloids and apigenin.

Antiinflammation and Antioxidant Effects of Thalidomide on Pulmonary Fibrosis in Mice and Human Lung Fibroblasts

In this study, the potential effects of thalidomide (Thal) on bleomycin (BLM)-induced pulmonary fibrosis were investigated. BALB/C mice model of pulmonary fibrosis induced by an intratracheal instillation of BLM was adopted, and then was intraperitoneally injected with Thal (10, 20, 50 mg/kg) daily for 8 days, while the control and BLM-treated mouse groups were injected with a saline solution. The effects of Thal on pulmonary injury were evaluated by the lung wet/dry weight ratios and histopathological examination. Inflammation of lung tissues was assessed by measuring the levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Oxidative stress was evaluated by detecting the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in lung tissue. The results indicated that Thal treatment remarkably attenuated pulmonary fibrosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation in mouse lungs. The antiinflammatory and antioxidant effects of Thal were also found in human lung fibroblasts. Thal administration significantly enhanced the activity of thioredoxin reductase; however, the other enzymes or proteins involved in biologic oxidation-reduction equilibrium were not affected. Our findings indicate that Thal-mediated suppression of pulmonary fibrosis is related to the inhibition of oxidative stress and inflammatory response. In summary, these results may provide a rationale to explore clinical application of Thal for the prevention of pulmonary fibrosis.

Curcumin exerts its antitumor effects in a context dependent fashion

Proteome profiling profoundly contributes to the understanding of cell response mechanisms to drug actions. Such knowledge may become a key to improve personalized medicine. In the present study, the effects of the natural remedy curcumin on breast cancer model systems were investigated. MCF-7, ZR-75-1 and TGF-β1 pretreated fibroblasts, mimicking cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), were treated independently as well as in tumor cell/CAF co-cultures. Remarkably, co-culturing with CAF-like cells (CLCs) induced different proteome alterations in MCF-7 and ZR-75-1 cells, respectively. Curcumin significantly induced HMOX1 in single cell type models and co-cultures. However, other curcumin effects differed. In the MCF-7/CLC co-culture, curcumin significantly down-regulated RC3H1, a repressor of inflammatory signaling. In the ZR-75-1/CLC co-culture, curcumin significantly down-regulated PEG10, an anti-apoptotic protein, and induced RRAGA, a pro-apoptotic protein involved in TNF-alpha signaling. Furthermore, curcumin induced AKR1C2, an important enzyme for progesterone metabolism. None of these specific curcumin effects were observed in single cell type cultures. All high-resolution mass spectrometry data are available via ProteomeXchange with the identifier PXD008719. The present data demonstrate that curcumin induces proteome alterations, potentially accounting for its known antitumor effects, in a strongly context-dependent fashion.

BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Better means to understand and potentially predict individual variations of drug effects are urgently required. The present proteome profiling study of curcumin effects demonstrates the massive impact of the cell microenvironment on cell responses to drug action. Co-culture models apparently provide more biologically relevant information regarding curcumin effects than single cell type cultures.

Curcumin and dietary polyphenol research: beyond drug discovery

Numerous natural products available over the counter are commonly consumed by healthy, sub-healthy or ill people for the treatment and prevention of various chronic diseases. Among them, a few dietary polyphenols, including the curry compound curcumin, have been attracting the most attention from biomedical researchers and drug developers. Unlike many so-called "good drug candidates", curcumin and several other dietary polyphenols do not have a single known therapeutic target or defined receptor. In addition, the bioavailability of these polyphenols is usually very low due to their poor absorption in the gut. These recently debated features have created enormous difficulties for drug developers. In this review, I do not discuss how to develop curcumin, other dietary polyphenols or their derivatives into pharmaceutical agents. Instead, I comment on how curcumin and dietary polyphenol research has enriched our knowledge of insulin signaling, including the presentation of my perspectives on how these studies will add to our understanding of the famous hepatic insulin function paradox.

Immobilization of gold nanoparticles on folate-conjugated dendritic mesoporous silica-coated reduced graphene oxide nanosheets: a new nanoplatform for curcumin pH-controlled and targeted delivery

In the present study, a new sandwich-like nanocomposite as a multifunctional smart nanocarrier for curcumin (Cur) targeted delivery and cell imaging was prepared by immobilization of gold nanoparticles on folic acid-modified dendritic mesoporous silica-coated reduced graphene oxide nanosheets (AuNPs@GFMS). The physical and chemical properties of the nanocomposite were investigated by atomic force microscopy (AFM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-Vis, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), Fourier transformation infrared (FT-IR), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area analysis. The nanocarrier exhibits a number of interesting properties, including good biocompatibility, biodegradability, and suitable surface area, which results in high drug loading capacity. In addition, this new drug delivery system showed sustained-release and pH-responsive properties. The in vitro cytotoxicity test of the free curcumin, free nanocarrier (AuNPs@GFMS), curcumin-loaded folate-conjugated nanocarriers (Cur-AuNPs@GFMS), and curcumin-loaded nanocarriers without folate-conjugation (Cur-AuNPs@GAMS) against two human cancer cell lines, including MCF-7 (human breast carcinoma cell lines) and A549 (human lung carcinoma cell lines) demonstrated that the therapeutic efficacy of Cur-AuNPs@GFMS is significantly greater than those of other compounds because the cancerous cells can uptake the folate-conjugated drug nanocarrier via a receptor-mediated mechanism. Fluorescence microscopic images and different staining techniques were also used to visualize the cellular uptake, anticancer activity, specific targeting ability, and photothermal potency of Cur-AuNPs@GFMS toward the MCF-7 cancer cells. The obtained results proved that the proposed system, Cur-AuNPs@GFMS, can be used as a potent anticancer agent in targeted cancer therapies for breast cancer.

Patuletin induces apoptosis of human breast cancer SK-BR-3 cell line via inhibiting fatty acid synthase gene expression and activity

Fatty acid synthase (FASN) is a key enzyme involved in fatty acid biosynthesis and serves an important role in breast cancer development. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of patuletin on the gene expression and activity of FASN in the human breast cancer SK-BR-3 cell line, and the apoptotic effects of patuletin to breast cancer cells. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, western blotting and intracellular FASN activity assays were used to evaluate FASN gene expression, protein expression and activity in patuletin-treated SK-BR-3 cells. MTT assays and flow cytometry were used to measure cell growth and cell apoptosis, respectively, following patuletin treatment. As a result, it was demonstrated that patuletin dose-dependently reduces FASN expression and intracellular activity in human breast cancer cells, and induces apoptosis in FASN over-expressing SK-BR-3 cells. Notably, apoptosis is associated with the reduction of intracellular FASN activity. The present study demonstrates that patuletin may be considered as a novel natural inhibitor of FASN, may induce anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects in certain human breast cancer cells and may be useful for preventing and/or treating human breast cancer.

Curcumin reduces mitomycin C resistance in breast cancer stem cells by regulating Bcl-2 family-mediated apoptosis

Background

Curcumin, a natural compound derived from the turmeric rhizome Curcuma longa Linn, has anticancer and chemoresistance reduction biological activities. We evaluated the efficacy of curcumin in sensitizing chemotherapy drugs through regulation of Bcl-2-mediated apoptosis in breast cancer stem-like cells (BCSCs).

Methods

Cell survival was measured using MTT assay. Apoptosis-related proteins were observed using western blot analysis. Apoptosis was detected with flow cytometric analysis and by Hoechst 33258 staining. The mitochondrial membrane potential was observed with flow cytometric analysis.

Results

The ability of BCSCs to propagate decreased gradually along the passages and was completely lost at the fifth passage [0.1 μmol/L mitomycin C (MMC) with 5 μmol/L curcumin in MCF-7 and 0.5 μmol/L MMC with 5 μmol/L curcumin in MDA-MB-231 cells]. Curcumin combined with MMC treatment significantly decreased the levels of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 and Bcl-w expression, increased the levels of proapoptotic Bax, Bak, Bad, Bik, and Bim expression, and activated caspase-3 and caspase-9 in MCF-7 BCSCs. In the presence of Bcl-2 siRNA, the apoptosis rate increased by 15% in cells treated with curcumin and MMC. The mitochondrial membrane potential decreased by approximately 20% in MCF-7 BCSCs undergoing the combination treatment of curcumin and MMC. The combination-induced decrease in Bcl-2 was regulated by the presence of the Wnt-specific inhibitor PFK115-584 and PI3k inhibitor LY294002.

Conclusions

Our study indicates that curcumin might represent a novel therapeutic agent for treating breast cancer chemoresistance induced by MMC.

Phytotherapy and Nutritional Supplements on Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most frequent type of nonskin malignancy among women worldwide. In general, conventional cancer treatment options (i.e., surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, biological therapy, and hormone therapy) are not completely effective. Recurrence and other pathologic situations are still an issue in breast cancer patients due to side effects, toxicity of drugs in normal cells, and aggressive behaviour of the tumours. From this point of view, breast cancer therapy and adjuvant methods represent a promising and challenging field for researchers. In the last few years, the use of some types of complementary medicines by women with a history of breast cancer has significantly increased such as phytotherapeutic products and nutritional supplements. Despite this, the use of such approaches in oncologic processes may be problematic and patient's health risks can arise such as interference with the efficacy of standard cancer treatment. The present review gives an overview of the most usual phytotherapeutic products and nutritional supplements with application in breast cancer patients as adjuvant approach. Regardless of the contradictory results of scientific evidence, we demonstrated the need to perform additional investigation, mainly well-designed clinical trials in order to establish correlations and allow for further validated outcomes concerning the efficacy, safety, and clinical evidence-based recommendation of these products.

Curcumin: the spicy modulator of breast carcinogenesis

Worldwide breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. For many years clinicians and the researchers are examining and exploring various therapeutic modalities for breast cancer. Yet the disease has remained unconquered and the quest for cure is still going on. Present-day strategy of breast cancer therapy and prevention is either combination of a number of drugs or a drug that modulates multiple targets. In this regard natural products are now becoming significant options. Curcumin exemplifies a promising natural anticancer agent for this purpose. This review primarily underscores the modulatory effect of curcumin on the cancer hallmarks. The focus is its anticancer effect in the complex pathways of breast carcinogenesis. Curcumin modulates breast carcinogenesis through its effect on cell cycle and proliferation, apoptosis, senescence, cancer spread and angiogenesis. Largely the NFkB, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, MAPK and JAK/STAT are the key signaling pathways involved. The review also highlights the curcumin mediated modulation of tumor microenvironment, cancer immunity, breast cancer stem cells and cancer related miRNAs. Using curcumin as a therapeutic and preventive agent in breast cancer is perplexed by its diverse biological activity, much of which remains inexplicable. The information reviewed here should point toward potential scope of future curcumin research in breast cancer.

Jolkinolide A and Jolkinolide B Inhibit Proliferation of A549 Cells and Activity of Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells

Background

Jolkinolide A (JA) and Jolkinolide B (JB) are diterpenoids extracted from the roots of Euphorbia fischeriana Steud and have been shown to have anti-tumor activity. However, their effects on the ability of tumor cells to invade blood vessels and metastasize remain largely unknown. Investigations into the effects of JA and JB on the angiogenesis of tumor tissues may facilitate the identification of new natural drugs with anti-tumor growth and metastasis activities.

Material/Methods

We used different concentrations of JA and JB (20 μg/ml, 40 μg/ml, 60 μg/ml, 80 μg/ml, and 100 μg/ml) to stimulate A549 cells and then studied the effects on the growth and metastasis of lung cancers. In addition, we used conditional media from A549 cells (A549-CM) stimulated by either JA or JB in different concentrations to culture human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs).

Results

We found that both JA and JB significantly inhibited the Akt-STAT3-mTOR signaling pathway and reduced the expression of VEGF in A549 cells, but JB exhibited more significant inhibitory effects than JA. The JB-stimulated A549 cell conditional media had a greater inhibitory effect on the proliferation and migration of HUVECs than did the conditional media of JA-stimulated A549 cells. This effect gradually increased with increasing concentrations of either type of Jolkinolide.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that JA and JB inhibited VEGF expression in A549 cells through the inhibition of the Akt-STAT3-mTOR signaling pathway, and directly inhibited the proliferation and migration of HUVECs. These findings are of great significance for the development of new plant-derived chemotherapy agents for the treatment of cancer.

Recent advances in targeting the fatty acid biosynthetic pathway using fatty acid synthase inhibitors

INTRODUCTION

Elevated lipogenesis has been associated with a variety of diseases including obesity, cancer and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Fatty acid synthase (FASN) plays a pivotal role in de novo lipogenesis, making this multi-catalytic protein an attractive target for therapeutic intervention. Recently, the first FASN inhibitor successfully advanced through the drug development process and entered clinical evaluation in oncology. Areas covered: This review discusses the biological roles of FASN in three prominent disease areas: cancer, obesity-related disorders and NAFLD. Recent advances in drug discovery strategies and design of newer FASN inhibitors are also highlighted. Expert opinion: Despite the abundance of evidence linking the lipogenic pathway to cancer, progression of FASN-targeted molecules has been rather slow and challenging and no compounds have moved past the preclinical phase. The landscape has recently changed with the recent advancement of the first FASN inhibitor into clinical evaluation for solid tumors. Needless to say, the successful translation into the clinical setting will open opportunities for expanding the therapeutic utility of FASN inhibitors not just in oncology but in other diseases associated with elevated lipogenesis such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and NAFLD.

Dimethoxy Curcumin Induces Apoptosis by Suppressing Survivin and Inhibits Invasion by Enhancing E-Cadherin in Colon Cancer Cells

Background

Dimethoxy curcumin (DMC) is a kind of lipophilic analog of curcumin with great improvement in chemical and metabolic stability. DMC has been studied in breast and renal cancer, but no research in colon cancer has been found yet.

Material/Methods

Two colon cancer cells (HT-29 and SW480) and one normal human colon mucosal epithelial cell (NCM460) were used in this study. We studied the effect of DMC on the proliferation in vitro and in vivo. Transwell migration assay was used to estimate the inhibition of DMC on invasion. Moreover, the expressions of PARP, caspase-3, survivin and E-cadherin were detected to uncover the related signaling pathways by western blotting assay both in vitro and in vivo.

Results

DMC significantly inhibited the growth of colon cancer cells in dose-dependent manner; IC50 for DMC was calculated to be 43.4, 28.2 and 454.8μM on HT-29, SW480 and NCM460. DMC significantly increased the apoptosis in both HT-29 (p=0.0051) and SW480 (p=0.0013) cells in vitro, and significantly suppressed the growth of both cell lines in vivo. Moreover, DMC reduced the number of migrated cells in both HT-29 (p=0.007) and SW480 (p=0.004) cells. By western blotting analysis, the cleavage of pro-caspases-3 and PARP were clearly induced by DMC to their active form, while the expression of survivin was reduced and E-cadherin was enhanced in both cells in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusions

DMC may exert an effective anti-tumor effect in colon cancer cells by down-regulating survivin and upregulating E-cadherin.

How Diet Intervention via Modulation of DNA Damage Response through MicroRNAs May Have an Effect on Cancer Prevention and Aging, an in Silico Study

The DNA damage response (DDR) is a molecular mechanism that cells have evolved to sense DNA damage (DD) to promote DNA repair, or to lead to apoptosis, or cellular senescence if the damage is too extensive. Recent evidence indicates that microRNAs (miRs) play a critical role in the regulation of DDR. Dietary bioactive compounds through miRs may affect activity of numerous genes. Among the most studied bioactive compounds modulating expression of miRs are epi-gallocatechin-3-gallate, curcumin, resveratrol and n3-polyunsaturated fatty acids. To compare the impact of these dietary compounds on DD/DDR network modulation, we performed a literature search and an in silico analysis by the DIANA-mirPathv3 software. The in silico analysis allowed us to identify pathways shared by different miRs involved in DD/DDR vis-à-vis the specific compounds. The results demonstrate that certain miRs (e.g., -146, -21) play a central role in the interplay among DD/DDR and the bioactive compounds. Furthermore, some specific pathways, such as "fatty acids biosynthesis/metabolism", "extracellular matrix-receptor interaction" and "signaling regulating the pluripotency of stem cells", appear to be targeted by most miRs affected by the studied compounds. Since DD/DDR and these pathways are strongly related to aging and carcinogenesis, the present in silico results of our study suggest that monitoring the induction of specific miRs may provide the means to assess the antiaging and chemopreventive properties of particular dietary compounds.