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Liu WY, Xu D, Hu ZY, Meng HH, Zheng Q, Wu FY, Feng X, Wang JS. Total cucurbitacins from Herpetospermum pedunculosum pericarp do better than Hu-lu-su-pian (HLSP) in its safety and hepatoprotective efficacy. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1344983. [PMID: 38455959 PMCID: PMC10919163 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1344983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The pericarp of Herpetospermum pedunculosum (HPP) has traditionally been used for treating jaundice and hepatitis. However, the specific hepatoprotective components and their safety/efficacy profiles remain unclear. This study aimed to characterize the total cucurbitacins (TCs) extracted from HPP and evaluate their hepatoprotective potential. As a reference, Hu-lu-su-pian (HLSP), a known hepatoprotective drug containing cucurbitacins, was used for comparison of chemical composition, effects, and safety. Molecular networking based on UHPLC-MS/MS identified cucurbitacin B, isocucurbitacin B, and cucurbitacin E as the major components in TCs, comprising 70.3%, 26.1%, and 3.6% as determined by RP-HPLC, respectively. TCs treatment significantly reversed CCl4-induced metabolic changes associated with liver damage in a dose-dependent manner, impacting pathways including energy metabolism, oxidative stress and phenylalanine metabolism, and showed superior efficacy to HLSP. Safety evaluation also showed that TCs were safe, with higher LD50 and no observable adverse effect level (NOAEL) values than HLSP. The median lethal dose (LD50) and NOAEL values of TCs were 36.21 and 15 mg/kg body weight (BW), respectively, while the LD50 of HLSP was 14 mg/kg BW. In summary, TCs extracted from HPP demonstrated promising potential as a natural hepatoprotective agent, warranting further investigation into synergistic effects of individual cucurbitacin components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Ya Liu
- Center of Molecular Metabolism, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, China
| | - Di Xu
- Center of Molecular Metabolism, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, China
| | - Zi-Yun Hu
- Center of Molecular Metabolism, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, China
| | - Hui-Hui Meng
- Center of Molecular Metabolism, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, China
| | - Qi Zheng
- Center of Molecular Metabolism, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng-Ye Wu
- Center of Molecular Metabolism, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, China
| | - Xin Feng
- Beijing Hospital of Tibetan Medicine, China Tibetology Research Center, Beijing, China
| | - Jun-Song Wang
- Center of Molecular Metabolism, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, China
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2
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Xu X, Wen S, Zhang Y, Cao W, Yue P, Kong J, Liu M, Fan Y, Chen J, Ji Z, Dong Y, Zhou G, Li B, Liu A, Bao F. A key protein from Borrelia burgdorferi could stimulate cytokines in human microglial cells and inhibitory effects of Cucurbitacin IIa. IBRO Neurosci Rep 2023; 15:376-385. [PMID: 38046885 PMCID: PMC10689270 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2023.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Lyme neuroborreliosis (LNB) is an infectious disease of the nervous system caused by Borrelia burgdorferi (Bb) infection. However, its pathogenesis is not fully understood. We used recombinant BmpA (rBmpA) to stimulate human microglia cell HMC3, then collected the culture supernatant and extracted total RNA from cells, and used the supernatant for cytokine chip, then ELISA and qPCR technology were used to validate the results from cytokine chip. After rBmpA stimulation of microglia, 24 inflammation-related cytokines showed elevated expression. Among them, six cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, CCL2, CCL5, CXCL1, and CXCL10) increased significantly in mRNA transcription, three cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, and CXCL10) concentrations in the cell supernatant increased significantly after the rBmpA stimulation, and CuIIa could inhibit expression of these cytokines. The BmpA can stimulate human microglia to produce large amounts of cytokines, leading to the occurrence of inflammation, which may be closely related to the development of LNB. CuIIa can inhibit BmpA-induced cytokine production in microglia, which may have potential therapeutic effects on LNB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xu
- The Institute for Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Yunnan Province Key Laboratory of Children's Major Diseases Research, The Affiliated Children Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Shiyuan Wen
- The Institute for Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- The Institute for Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Yunnan Province Key Laboratory of Children's Major Diseases Research, The Affiliated Children Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Wenjing Cao
- The Institute for Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Peng Yue
- The Institute for Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Jing Kong
- The Institute for Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Meixiao Liu
- The Institute for Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Yuxin Fan
- The Institute for Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Jingjing Chen
- The Institute for Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Zhenhua Ji
- The Institute for Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Yan Dong
- The Institute for Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Guozhong Zhou
- The Institute for Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Bingxue Li
- The Institute for Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Aihua Liu
- The Institute for Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Yunnan Province Key Laboratory of Children's Major Diseases Research, The Affiliated Children Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Fukai Bao
- The Institute for Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Yunnan Province Key Laboratory of Children's Major Diseases Research, The Affiliated Children Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
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3
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Hsu HL, Lin BJ, Lin YC, Tu CC, Nguyen NL, Wang CC, Chen MC, Chen CH. Cucurbitacin E Exerts Anti-Proliferative Activity via Promoting p62-Dependent Apoptosis in Human Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer A549 Cells. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:8138-8151. [PMID: 37886957 PMCID: PMC10605876 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45100514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are the first-line treatment for advanced EGFR-mutated non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, NSCLC patients with wild-type EGFR and KRAS mutation are ineligible for EGFR-TKIs. Therefore, the discovery of new therapeutic agents is urgently needed for NSCLC patients who cannot receive targeted therapies. Natural products possess tremendous chemical diversity and have been extensively investigated for their anticancer activity. In this study, we found that Cucurbitacin E (Cu E), a triterpene of cucurbitacins widely presented in the edible plants of the Cucurbitaceae family, significantly inhibits the viability and proliferation of A549 cells that harbor wild-type EGFR and KRAS mutation. Our results revealed that Cu E increases cell-cycle arrest at G2/M and subG1 phase. Mechanistically, Cu E significantly inhibits the phosphorylation and protein levels of regulatory proteins and hinders G2/M cell-cycle progression. Meanwhile, the treatment of Cu E resulted in DNA damage response and apoptosis. For the first time, we observed that Cu E induces incomplete autophagy as evidenced by increased LC3B-II expression and p62-accumulation. Knockdown of p62 rescued the cells from Cu E-mediated anti-proliferative effect, apoptosis, DNA damage, and ROS production. These findings suggest that Cu E is a promising drug candidate for NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han-Lin Hsu
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 116, Taiwan
- Pulmonary Research Center, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 116, Taiwan
- School of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Bo-Jyun Lin
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chen Lin
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Chieh Tu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Nham-Linh Nguyen
- Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, HCMC University of Technology and Education, Ho Chi Minh 70000, Vietnam
| | - Ching-Chiung Wang
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Traditional Herbal Medicine Research, Center of Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program in Clinical Drug Development of Herbal Medicine, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Pharmacognosy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Chuan Chen
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Traditional Herbal Medicine Research, Center of Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program in Clinical Drug Development of Herbal Medicine, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Han Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Cell Physiology and Molecular Image Research Center, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 116, Taiwan
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Kumar P, Redel U, Lang T, Korsching SI, Behrens M. Bitter taste receptors of the zebra finch ( Taeniopygia guttata). Front Physiol 2023; 14:1233711. [PMID: 37860623 PMCID: PMC10582322 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1233711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the important role of bitter taste for the rejection of potentially harmful food sources, birds have long been suspected to exhibit inferior bitter tasting abilities. Although more recent reports on the bitter recognition spectra of several bird species have cast doubt about the validity of this assumption, the bitter taste of avian species is still an understudied field. Previously, we reported the bitter activation profiles of three zebra finch receptors Tas2r5, -r6, and -r7, which represent orthologs of a single chicken bitter taste receptor, Tas2r1. In order to get a better understanding of the bitter tasting capabilities of zebra finches, we selected another Tas2r gene of this species that is similar to another chicken Tas2r. Using functional calcium mobilization experiments, we screened zebra finch Tas2r1 with 72 bitter compounds and observed responses for 7 substances. Interestingly, all but one of the newly identified bitter agonists were different from those previously identified for Tas2r5, -r6, and -r7 suggesting that the newly investigated receptor fills important gaps in the zebra finch bitter recognition profile. The most potent bitter agonist found in our study is cucurbitacin I, a highly toxic natural bitter substance. We conclude that zebra finch exhibits an exquisitely developed bitter taste with pronounced cucurbitacin I sensitivity suggesting a prominent ecological role of this compound for zebra finch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praveen Kumar
- Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | - Ulrike Redel
- German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Nuthetal, Germany
| | - Tatjana Lang
- Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | | | - Maik Behrens
- Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
- German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Nuthetal, Germany
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5
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Hu G, Liu W, Li L. Identification and quantification of cucurbitacin in watermelon frost using molecular networking integrated with ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. J Sep Sci 2023; 46:e2300019. [PMID: 37269211 DOI: 10.1002/jssc.202300019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Watermelon frost, a traditional Chinese medicine produced using watermelon and Glauber's salt, has been widely used for the therapy of oral and throat disorders. Watermelon contains various phytochemical compounds including cucurbitacins and their glycoside derivatives, which have attracted considerable attention because of their medicinal values. However, whether the composition of cucurbitacins existed in watermelon frost was rarely reported. In this study, three cucurbitacins including cucurbitacin B, isocucurbitacin B, and cucurbitacin E were found from watermelon frost extract assisted by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and molecular networking guided strategy, and the compounds were verified using standard solutions. Furthermore, a quantification method for simultaneously targeted analysis of cucurbitacins was established using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry operating in the multiple reaction monitoring mode. Among them, cucurbitacin B and cucurbitacin E in watermelon frost samples were determined, and the concentrations were 3.78 ± 0.18 and 0.86 ± 0.19 ng/ml, respectively. While isocucurbitacin B was not detected due to the lower content possibly. In conclusion, ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry combined with molecular networking is a very useful technique for the rapid identification of unknown cucurbitacin components in watermelon frost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guizhou Hu
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical School, Huanghe Science and Technology University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
| | - Wenya Liu
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Technology, School of Environmental and Bioengineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, P. R. China
| | - Liyan Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical School, Huanghe Science and Technology University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
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Saurabh CK, Ghosh SK, Sanyal B. Novel detection method to rapidly quantify toxic cucurbitacin in Lagenaria siceraria (bottle gourd). JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2023; 60:160-170. [PMID: 36618033 PMCID: PMC9813295 DOI: 10.1007/s13197-022-05600-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria) is widely used in India for its medicinal properties. Sometimes its consumption as a fruit or juice can lead to serious health issues due to the presence of toxic cucurbitacins (Cuc) like Cuc B at high concentration. In the present study, a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) based method was developed to quantify Cuc B in commercial bottle gourd juice. Cuc B quantification was also done in peel and pulp of fresh bottle gourd fruit. Developed MIP was superior to NIP (non-imprinted polymer) in terms of equilibrium binding, solid-phase extraction, selectivity, and loading capacity of Cuc B. Scatchard plot analysis, adsorption kinetics, and surface area study further strengthen the fact that prepared imprinted polymer was better than NIP for Cuc extraction. TLC and high-resolution LC-MS based analysis revealed that MIP selectively extracts Cuc B from all the studied samples. It was further observed that gamma irradiation and β-glucosidase treatment did not have any significant (p > 0.05) effect on Cuc concentration. The quantity of Cuc in 100 g of juice, peel, and pulp was 2.81 ± 0.26, 3.37 ± 0.31, and 2.39 ± 0.21 mg, respectively. Analytical method validation indicates that the MIP based method was highly linear, precise, and accurate to rapidly quantify toxic Cuc B in bottle gourd consequently assuring its quality. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13197-022-05600-3.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sunil Kumar Ghosh
- Food Technology Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, 400 085 India
| | - Bhaskar Sanyal
- Food Technology Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, 400 085 India
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7
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Potential Focal Adhesion Kinase Inhibitors in Management of Cancer: Therapeutic Opportunities from Herbal Medicine. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232113334. [DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a multifunctional protein involved in cellular communication, integrating and transducing extracellular signals from cell-surface membrane receptors. It plays a central role intracellularly and extracellularly within the tumor microenvironment. Perturbations in FAK signaling promote tumor occurrence and development, and studies have revealed its biological behavior in tumor cell proliferation, migration, and adhesion. Herein we provide an overview of the complex biology of the FAK family members and their context-dependent nature. Next, with a focus on cancer, we highlight the activities of FAK signaling in different types of cancer and how knowledge of them is being used for screening natural compounds used in herbal medicine to fight tumor development.
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8
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Kriek N, Nock SH, Sage T, Khalifa B, Bye AP, Mitchell JL, Thomson S, McLaughlin MG, Jones S, Gibbins JM, Unsworth AJ. Cucurbitacins Elicit Anti-Platelet Activity via Perturbation of the Cytoskeleton and Integrin Function. Thromb Haemost 2022; 122:1115-1129. [PMID: 35253142 PMCID: PMC9385249 DOI: 10.1055/a-1788-5322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Cucurbitacins are dietary compounds that have been shown to elicit a range of anti-tumour, anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerotic activities. Originally identified as signal transducer and activator of transcription, STAT, inhibitors, a variety of mechanisms of action have since been described, including dysregulation of the actin cytoskeleton and disruption of integrin function. Integrin outside-in signalling and cytoskeletal rearrangements are critical for the propagation of stable thrombus formation and clot retraction following platelet adhesion at the site of vessel damage. The effects of cucurbitacins on platelet function and thrombus formation are unknown. We report for the first time anti-platelet and anti-thrombotic effects of cucurbitacins B, E and I in human platelets. Treatment of platelets with cucurbitacins resulted in attenuation of platelet aggregation, secretion and fibrinogen binding following stimulation by platelet agonists. Cucurbitacins were also found to potently inhibit other integrin- and cytoskeleton-mediated events, including adhesion, spreading and clot retraction. Further investigation of cytoskeletal dynamics found treatment with cucurbitacins altered cofilin phosphorylation, enhanced activation and increased F actin polymerisation and microtubule assembly. Disruption to cytoskeletal dynamics has been previously shown to impair integrin activation, platelet spreading and clot retraction. Anti-platelet properties of cucurbitacins were found to extend to a disruption of stable thrombus formation, with an increase in thrombi instability and de-aggregation under flow. Our research identifies novel, anti-platelet and anti-thrombotic actions of cucurbitacins that appear to be linked to dysregulation of cytoskeletal dynamics and integrin function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neline Kriek
- Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Sophie H. Nock
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Tanya Sage
- Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Badrija Khalifa
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander P. Bye
- Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Joanne L. Mitchell
- Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Steven Thomson
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Mark G. McLaughlin
- Department of Chemistry, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Jones
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan M. Gibbins
- Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Amanda J. Unsworth
- Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
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9
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Sankaran H, Negi S, McShane LM, Zhao Y, Krushkal J. Pharmacogenomics of in vitro response of the NCI-60 cancer cell line panel to Indian natural products. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:512. [PMID: 35525914 PMCID: PMC9077913 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-09580-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Indian natural products have been anecdotally used for cancer treatment but with limited efficacy. To better understand their mechanism, we examined the publicly available data for the activity of Indian natural products in the NCI-60 cell line panel. METHODS We examined associations of molecular genomic features in the well-characterized NCI-60 cancer cell line panel with in vitro response to treatment with 75 compounds derived from Indian plant-based natural products. We analyzed expression measures for annotated transcripts, lncRNAs, and miRNAs, and protein-changing single nucleotide variants in cancer-related genes. We also examined the similarities between cancer cell line response to Indian natural products and response to reference anti-tumor compounds recorded in a U.S. National Cancer Institute (NCI) Developmental Therapeutics Program database. RESULTS Hierarchical clustering based on cell line response measures identified clustering of Phyllanthus and cucurbitacin products with known anti-tumor agents with anti-mitotic mechanisms of action. Curcumin and curcuminoids mostly clustered together. We found associations of response to Indian natural products with expression of multiple genes, notably including SLC7A11 involved in solute transport and ATAD3A and ATAD3B encoding mitochondrial ATPase proteins, as well as significant associations with functional single nucleotide variants, including BRAF V600E. CONCLUSION These findings suggest potential mechanisms of action and novel associations of in vitro response with gene expression and some cancer-related mutations that increase our understanding of these Indian natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hari Sankaran
- Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 9609 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, MD, 20850, USA.
| | - Simarjeet Negi
- Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 9609 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, MD, 20850, USA
| | - Lisa M McShane
- Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 9609 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, MD, 20850, USA
| | - Yingdong Zhao
- Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 9609 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, MD, 20850, USA
| | - Julia Krushkal
- Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 9609 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, MD, 20850, USA.
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10
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Ullah MF, Ahmad A, Bhat SH, Abuduhier FM, Mustafa SK, Usmani S. Diet-derived small molecules (nutraceuticals) inhibit cellular proliferation by interfering with key oncogenic pathways: an overview of experimental evidence in cancer chemoprevention. Biol Futur 2022; 73:55-69. [PMID: 35040098 DOI: 10.1007/s42977-022-00110-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Fahad Ullah
- Prince Fahd Research Chair, Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Science, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Aamir Ahmad
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Interim Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Showket H Bhat
- Prince Fahd Research Chair, Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Science, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology and Molecular Diagnostics, Center for Vocational Studies, Islamic University of Science and Technology, Awantipora, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Faisel M Abuduhier
- Prince Fahd Research Chair, Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Science, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Syed Khalid Mustafa
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shazia Usmani
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Integral University, Lucknow, India
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11
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Kanani SH, Pandya DJ. Cucurbitacins: Nature’s Wonder Molecules. CURRENT TRADITIONAL MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.2174/2215083808666220107104220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Abstract:
Over the past decades, several natural constituents belonging to different classes have been isolated from plants for medicinal purposes. Cucurbitacins is one such type of natural compound. Cucurbitacin is any of a class of biochemical compounds that some plants notably members of the pumpkin and gourd family, Cucurbitaceae produce and which function as a defense against herbivores. They and their derivatives have been found in many plant families (including Brassicaceae, Cucurbitaceae, Scrophulariaceae, Begoniaceae, Elaeocarpaceae, Datiscaceae, Desfontainiaceae, Polemoniaceae, Primulaceae, Rubiaceae, Sterculiaceae, Rosaceae, and Thymelaeaceae), in some mushrooms (including Russula and Hebeloma) and even in some marine mollusks. They have been isolated from various plant species, chiefly belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family which comprises around 130 genera and 800 species. Cucurbitacins are a group of tetracyclic triterpenoid substances that are highly oxygenated and contain a cucurbitane skeleton characterized by 9β-methyl−19-norlanosta-5-ene. Cucurbitacins can be categorized into twelve main groups according to variations in their side-chains. Cucurbitacins A, B, C, D, E, F, I, J, K, L, O, P, Q, R, S, and their glycosides are mainly found in Cucurbitaceae family members. These plants have been used as folk medicines in some countries because of their broad spectrum of crucial pharmacological activities such as anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and anti-atherosclerotic effects. The present review explores the possibility of a correlation between the chemistry of various Cucurbitacins and the uses of the plants which contain them, thereby opening avenues for further phytochemical, ethnomedicinal, and modern pharmacological research on these important molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonal H. Kanani
- RK University, Rajkot, Gujarat; Faculty of Pharmacy, Marwadi University, Rajkot, Gujarat
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12
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Sharma S, Katoch V, Kumar S, Chatterjee S. Functional relationship of vegetable colors and bioactive compounds: Implications in human health. J Nutr Biochem 2021; 92:108615. [PMID: 33705954 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2021.108615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Vegetables are essential protective diet ingredients that supply ample amounts of minerals, vitamins, carbohydrates, proteins, dietary fiber, and various nutraceutical compounds for protection against various disease conditions. Color is the most important quality parameter for the farmers to access the harvest maturity while for the consumer's reliable indices to define acceptability or rejection. The colored vegetables contain functional compounds like chlorophylls, carotenoids, betalains, anthocyanins, etc. well recognized for their antioxidant, antimicrobial, hypolipidemic, neuroprotective, antiaging, diuretic, and antidiabetic properties. Recently, there has been a shift in food consumption patterns from processed to semi-processed or fresh fruits and vegetables to ensure a healthy disease-free life. This shifted the focus of agriculture scientists and food processors from food security to nutrition security. This has resulted in recent improvements to existing crops like blue tomato, orange cauliflower, colored and/or black carrots, with improved color, and thus enriched bioactive compounds. Exhaustive laboratory trials though are required to document and establish their minimum effective concentrations, bioavailability, and specific health benefits. Efforts should also be directed to breed color-rich cultivars or to improve the existing varieties through conventional and molecular breeding approaches. The present review has been devoted to a better understanding of vegetable colors with specific health benefits and to provide in-hand information about the effect of specific pigment on body organs, the effect of processing on their bioavailability, and recent improvements in colors to ensure a healthy lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shweta Sharma
- Department of Vegetable Science and Floriculture, CSK HPKV, Palampur-176062 (H.P.), India; MS Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, Solan-173229 (H.P.), India.
| | - Viveka Katoch
- Department of Vegetable Science and Floriculture, CSK HPKV, Palampur-176062 (H.P.), India
| | - Satish Kumar
- College of Horticulture and Forestry, Thunag, Mandi, Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, 173230 (H.P.), India
| | - Subhrajyoti Chatterjee
- Department of Horticulture, MSSSOA, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Odisha, India
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Bailly C, Gao JM. Erinacine A and related cyathane diterpenoids: Molecular diversity and mechanisms underlying their neuroprotection and anticancer activities. Pharmacol Res 2020; 159:104953. [PMID: 32485283 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The presence of a fused 5/6/7 tricyclic core characterizes the group of cyathane diterpene natural products, that include more than 170 compounds, isolated from fungi such as Cyathus africanus and Hericium erinaceus. These compounds have a common biosynthetic precursor (cyatha-3,12-diene) and can be produced bio- or hemi-synthetically, or via total syntheses. Cyathane diterpenes display a range of pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory (possibly through binding to the iNOS protein) and neuroprotective effects. Many cyathanes like cyahookerin C, cyathin Q and cyafranines B and G can stimulate neurite outgrowth in cells, whereas conversely a few molecules (such as scabronine M) inhibit NGF-stimulated neurite outgrowth. The main anticancer cyathanes are erinacine A and cyathins Q and R, with a capacity to trigger cancer cell death dependent on the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). These compounds, active both in vitro and in vivo, activate different signaling pathways in tumor cells to induce apoptosis (and autophagy) and to upregulate the expression of several proteins implicated in the organization and functioning of the actin cytoskeleton. An analysis of the functional analogy between erinacine A and other natural products known to interfere with the actin network in a ROS-dependent manner (notably cucurbitacin B) further supports the idea that erinacine A functions as a perturbator of the cytoskeleton organization. Collectively, we provide an overview of the molecular diversity of cyathane diterpenes and the main mechanisms of action of the lead compounds, with the objective to encourage further research with these fungal products. The anticancer potential of erinacine A deserves further attention but it will be necessary to better characterize the implicated targets and signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jin-Ming Gao
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Natural Products & Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
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Risinger AL, Du L. Targeting and extending the eukaryotic druggable genome with natural products: cytoskeletal targets of natural products. Nat Prod Rep 2020; 37:634-652. [PMID: 31764930 PMCID: PMC7797185 DOI: 10.1039/c9np00053d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Covering: 2014-2019We review recent progress on natural products that target cytoskeletal components, including microtubules, actin, intermediate filaments, and septins and highlight their demonstrated and potential utility in the treatment of human disease. The anticancer efficacy of microtubule targeted agents identified from plants, microbes, and marine organisms is well documented. We highlight new microtubule targeted agents currently in clinical evaluations for the treatment of drug resistant cancers and the accumulating evidence that the anticancer efficacy of these agents is not solely due to their antimitotic effects. Indeed, the effects of microtubule targeted agents on interphase microtubules are leading to their potential for more mechanistically guided use in cancers as well as neurological disease. The discussion of these agents as more targeted drugs also prompts a reevaluation of our thinking about natural products that target other components of the cytoskeleton. For instance, actin active natural products are largely considered chemical probes and non-selective toxins. However, studies utilizing these probes have uncovered aspects of actin biology that can be more specifically targeted to potentially treat cancer, neurological disorders, and infectious disease. Compounds that target intermediate filaments and septins are understudied, but their continued discovery and mechanistic evaluations have implications for numerous therapeutic indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- April L Risinger
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Department of Pharmacology, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78229, USA.
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15
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Li J, Sun K, Muroi M, Gao L, Chang YT, Osada H, Xiang L, Qi J. Cucurbitacin B induces neurogenesis in PC12 cells and protects memory in APP/PS1 mice. J Cell Mol Med 2019; 23:6283-6294. [PMID: 31257716 PMCID: PMC6714235 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2018] [Revised: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cucurbitacin B (CuB) isolated from Cucumis melo by using a PC12 cell bioassay system exhibited significant nerve growth factor (NGF)‐mimic or NGF‐enhancing activity in PC12 and primary neuron cells. It was also demonstrated pro‐neurogenesis effects in ICR and APP/PS1 mice and improved memory deficit of APP/PS1 mice. Its possible mechanism includes significant induction of the phosphorylation of glucocorticoid receptor (GR), protein kinase C (PKC), phospholipase C (PLC) and inhibition of cofilin. ChemProteoBase profiling, binding assay and cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA) were used to determine the target protein. Results revealed that CuB could affect actin dynamics as an actin inhibitor but did not bind with GR. The protein level of cofilin in PC12 cells after treating 0.3 μM and different temperatures was significantly higher than that of control group. Other neurotrophic signalling pathways, such as TrkA/TrkB, were analysed with specific inhibitors and Western blot. The inhibitors of TrkA, PLC, PKC, Ras, Raf and ERK1/2 significantly decreased the percentage of PC12 cells with neurite outgrowth and shortened the length of neurite outgrowth induced by CuB. CuB significantly induced the phosphorylation of TrkA, ERK and CREB. The phosphorylation of these proteins was obviously decreased by their specific inhibitors. These results suggest that cofilin is a candidate target protein of CuB in PC12 cells and that the GR/PLC/PKC and TrkA/Ras/Raf/ERK signalling pathways play important roles in the neuroprotective effect of CuB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kaiyue Sun
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Makoto Muroi
- Chemical Biology Research Group, RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, Saitama, Japan
| | - Lijuan Gao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Young-Tae Chang
- Center for Self-assembly and Complexity, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Pohang, Korea.,Department of Chemistry, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Korea
| | - Hiroyuki Osada
- Chemical Biology Research Group, RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, Saitama, Japan
| | - Lan Xiang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianhua Qi
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Kostrhunova H, Zajac J, Novohradsky V, Kasparkova J, Malina J, Aldrich-Wright JR, Petruzzella E, Sirota R, Gibson D, Brabec V. A Subset of New Platinum Antitumor Agents Kills Cells by a Multimodal Mechanism of Action Also Involving Changes in the Organization of the Microtubule Cytoskeleton. J Med Chem 2019; 62:5176-5190. [PMID: 31030506 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b00489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The substitution inert platinum agent [Pt(1 S,2 S-diaminocyclohexane)(5,6-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline)]2+ (56MeSS, 5) is a potent cytotoxic metallodrug. In contrast to conventional cisplatin or oxaliplatin, the mechanism of action (MoA) of 5 is fundamentally different. However, details of the mechanism by which the 5,6-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline ligand contributes to the cytotoxicity of 5 and its derivatives have not been sufficiently clarified so far. Here, we show that 5 and its Pt(IV) derivatives exhibit an intriguing potency in the triple-negative breast cancer cells MDA-MB-231. Moreover, we show that the Pt(IV) derivatives of 5 act by multimodal MoA resulting in the global biological effects, that is, they damage nuclear DNA, reduce the mitochondrial membrane potential, induce the epigenetic processes, and last but not least, the data provide evidence that changes in the organization of cytoskeleton networks are functionally important for 5 and its derivatives, in contrast to clinically used platinum cytostatics, to kill cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hana Kostrhunova
- Czech Academy of Sciences , Institute of Biophysics , Kralovopolska 135 , CZ-61265 Brno , Czech Republic
| | - Juraj Zajac
- Czech Academy of Sciences , Institute of Biophysics , Kralovopolska 135 , CZ-61265 Brno , Czech Republic
| | - Vojtech Novohradsky
- Czech Academy of Sciences , Institute of Biophysics , Kralovopolska 135 , CZ-61265 Brno , Czech Republic
| | - Jana Kasparkova
- Czech Academy of Sciences , Institute of Biophysics , Kralovopolska 135 , CZ-61265 Brno , Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Malina
- Czech Academy of Sciences , Institute of Biophysics , Kralovopolska 135 , CZ-61265 Brno , Czech Republic
| | - Janice R Aldrich-Wright
- School of Science and Health , Western Sydney University , Penrith South DC 1797 , NSW , Australia
| | - Emanuele Petruzzella
- Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy , The Hebrew University , Jerusalem 91120 , Israel
| | - Roman Sirota
- Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy , The Hebrew University , Jerusalem 91120 , Israel
| | - Dan Gibson
- Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy , The Hebrew University , Jerusalem 91120 , Israel
| | - Viktor Brabec
- Czech Academy of Sciences , Institute of Biophysics , Kralovopolska 135 , CZ-61265 Brno , Czech Republic
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17
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Cheng AC, Hsu YC, Tsai CC. The effects of cucurbitacin E on GADD45β-trigger G2/M arrest and JNK-independent pathway in brain cancer cells. J Cell Mol Med 2019; 23:3512-3519. [PMID: 30912292 PMCID: PMC6484297 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Revised: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cucurbitacin E (CuE), an active compound of the cucurbitacin family, possesses a variety of pharmacological functions and chemotherapy potential. Cucurbitacin E exhibits inhibitory effects in several types of cancer; however, its anticancer effects on brain cancer remain obscure and require further interpretation. In this study, efforts were initiated to inspect whether CuE can contribute to anti-proliferation in human brain malignant glioma GBM 8401 cells and glioblastoma-astrocytoma U-87-MG cells. An MTT assay measured CuE's inhibitory effect on the growth of glioblastomas (GBMs). A flow cytometry approach was used for the assessment of DNA content and cell cycle analysis. DNA damage 45β (GADD45β) gene expression and CDC2/cyclin-B1 disassociation were investigated by quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot analysis. Based on our results, CuE showed growth-inhibiting effects on GBM 8401 and U-87-MG cells. Moreover, GADD45β caused the accumulation of CuE-treated G2/M-phase cells. The disassociation of the CDC2/cyclin-B1 complex demonstrated the known effects of CuE against GBM 8401 and U-87-MG cancer cells. Additionally, CuE may also exert antitumour activities in established brain cancer cells. In conclusion, CuE inhibited cell proliferation and induced mitosis delay in cancer cells, suggesting its potential applicability as an antitumour agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- An-Chin Cheng
- Department of Nutrition and Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chiang Hsu
- Department of Medical Sciences Industry, College of Health Sciences, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chiang-Chin Tsai
- Department of General Surgery, Tainan Sin Lau Hospital, The Presbyterian Church in Taiwan, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Health Care Administration, College of Health Sciences, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan, Taiwan
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Liang J, Zhang XL, Yuan JW, Zhang HR, Liu D, Hao J, Ji W, Wu XZ, Chen D. Cucurbitacin B inhibits the migration and invasion of breast cancer cells by altering the biomechanical properties of cells. Phytother Res 2018; 33:618-630. [PMID: 30548720 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Changes in cellular biomechanical properties affect cell migration and invasion. The natural compound Cucurbitacin B (CuB) has potent anticancer activity; however, the mechanism underlying its inhibitory effect on breast cancer metastasis needs further study. Here, we showed that low-dose CuB inhibited adhesion and altered the viscoelasticity of breast cancer cells, thereby, reducing cell deformability. In vitro and in vivo experiments proved that CuB effectively inhibited the migration and invasion of breast cancer cells. Further studies have found that CuB downregulated the expression of F-actin/vimentin/FAK/vinculin in breast cancer cells, altering the distribution and reorganization of cytoskeletal proteins in the cells. CuB inhibited signaling by the Rho family GTPases RAC1/CDC42/RhoA downstream of integrin. These findings indicate that CuB has been proven to mediate the reorganization and distribution of cytoskeletal proteins of breast cancer cells through RAC1/CDC42/RhoA signaling, which improves the mechanical properties of cell adhesion and deformation and consequently inhibits cell migration and invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Liang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiao-Lan Zhang
- Institute Of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jin-Wei Yuan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Hao-Ran Zhang
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jian Hao
- Tumor hematology, Tianjin 4th Center Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Wei Ji
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University, Ministry of Education, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiong-Zhi Wu
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Dan Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
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Consensus anticancer activity profiles derived from the meta-analysis of reference compounds for widely used cell lines. Future Med Chem 2018; 11:33-42. [PMID: 30526056 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2018-0303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To establish a standard reference for bioactivity of widely used anticancer compounds that might be useful for meaningful interpretation of the cell viability data generated for novel synthetic derivatives. MATERIALS & METHODS Meta-analysis of published IC50 values was carried out for commonly used anticancer compounds and cell viability experiments were performed to validate the role of certain factors in drug activity. RESULTS & CONCLUSION Variability in the published IC50 values was demonstrated. Based on median IC50 values derived from pooled published data, cell lines were classified as either sensitive or resistant. Further, factors that influence IC50 values were discussed, thus encouraging researchers to devise more rational experimental approaches to enhance the success rate in later stages of drug development.
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Garg S, Kaul SC, Wadhwa R. Cucurbitacin B and cancer intervention: Chemistry, biology and mechanisms (Review). Int J Oncol 2017; 52:19-37. [PMID: 29138804 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2017.4203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 10/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the most important healthcare matters, with the worst prognosis but the best possibilities for scientific development. It is likely to increase in the future and cause global havoc designating it as an epidemic. Cancer development requires urgent intervention. Past few decades have witnessed extensive research to challenge carcinogenesis. Treatment involving synthetic discipline is often associated with severe adverse effects, or even worsened prognosis. Accordingly, newer economic and patient friendly molecules are warranted. Many natural substances have proved their potential so far. Cucurbitacin B against cancer and other diseases has achieved towering popularity among the researchers around the world, as detailed in the below sections with summarized tables. In line with the fascinating role of cucurbitacin B against various types of cancers, through various molecular signaling pathways, it is justifiable to propose cucurbitacin B as a mainline chemotherapy before the onset and after the diagnosis of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukant Garg
- Drug Discovery and Assets Innovation Lab, DBT-AIST International Laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan
| | - Sunil C Kaul
- Drug Discovery and Assets Innovation Lab, DBT-AIST International Laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan
| | - Renu Wadhwa
- Drug Discovery and Assets Innovation Lab, DBT-AIST International Laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan
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Martínez-Valdivieso D, Font R, Fernández-Bedmar Z, Merinas-Amo T, Gómez P, Alonso-Moraga Á, Del Río-Celestino M. Role of Zucchini and Its Distinctive Components in the Modulation of Degenerative Processes: Genotoxicity, Anti-Genotoxicity, Cytotoxicity and Apoptotic Effects. Nutrients 2017; 9:E755. [PMID: 28708122 PMCID: PMC5537869 DOI: 10.3390/nu9070755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Revised: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Zucchini (Cucurbita pepo subsp. pepo) is a seasonal vegetable with high nutritional and medical values. Many useful properties of this fruit are attributed to bioactive compounds. Zucchini fruits ("Yellow" and "Light Green" varieties) and four distinctive components (lutein, β-carotene, zeaxanthin and dehydroascorbic acid) were selected. Firstly, the lutein, β-carotene, zeaxanthin and dehydroascorbic acid contents were determined in these fruits. Then, in order to evaluate the safety and suitability of their use, different assays were carried out: (i) genotoxicity and anti-genotoxicity tests to determine the safety and DNA-protection against hydrogen peroxide; (ii) cytotoxicity; and (iii) DNA fragmentation and Annexin V/PI (Propidium Iodide) assays to evaluate the pro-apoptotic effect. Results showed that: (i) all the substances were non-genotoxic; (ii) all the substances were anti-genotoxic except the highest concentration of lutein; (iii) "Yellow" zucchini epicarp and mesocarp exhibited the highest cytotoxic activity (IC50 > 0.1 mg/mL and 0.2 mg/mL, respectively); and (iv) "Light Green" zucchini skin induced internucleosomal DNA fragmentation, β-carotene being the possible molecule responsible for its pro-apoptotic activity. To sum up, zucchini fruit could play a positive role in human health and nutrition due to this fruit and its components were safe, able to inhibit significantly the H₂O₂-induced damage and exhibit anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic activities toward HL60 (human promyelocytic leukemia cells) tumor cells. The information generated from this research should be considered when selecting potential accessions for breeding program purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damián Martínez-Valdivieso
- Department of Genomics and Biotechnology, IFAPA (Andalusian Institute of Agricultural Research and Training, Fisheries, Food and Ecological Production) Center La Mojonera, Camino San Nicolás, 1 La Mojonera, 04745 Almería, Spain.
| | - Rafael Font
- Department of Food and Health, IFAPA Center La Mojonera Camino San Nicolás, 1 La Mojonera, 04745 Almería, Spain.
| | - Zahira Fernández-Bedmar
- Department of Genetics, University of Córdoba, Campus Rabanales, Gregor Mendel Building, 14071 Córdoba, Spain.
| | - Tania Merinas-Amo
- Department of Genetics, University of Córdoba, Campus Rabanales, Gregor Mendel Building, 14071 Córdoba, Spain.
| | - Pedro Gómez
- Department of Genomics and Biotechnology, IFAPA (Andalusian Institute of Agricultural Research and Training, Fisheries, Food and Ecological Production) Center La Mojonera, Camino San Nicolás, 1 La Mojonera, 04745 Almería, Spain.
| | - Ángeles Alonso-Moraga
- Department of Genetics, University of Córdoba, Campus Rabanales, Gregor Mendel Building, 14071 Córdoba, Spain.
| | - Mercedes Del Río-Celestino
- Department of Genomics and Biotechnology, IFAPA (Andalusian Institute of Agricultural Research and Training, Fisheries, Food and Ecological Production) Center La Mojonera, Camino San Nicolás, 1 La Mojonera, 04745 Almería, Spain.
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