1
|
Kundu S, Sarkar S, Acharya Chowdhury A. Anti-Leukemic Attributes of Natural Compounds Targeting Autophagy: A Closer Look into the Molecular Mechanisms. Nutr Cancer 2024; 76:236-251. [PMID: 38263604 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2024.2306682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Leukemia is a heterogeneous clonal cancer that affects millions of individuals around the world. Despite substantial breakthroughs in cancer treatment, traditional chemotherapy and radiotherapy remain ineffective, and therapeutic resistance still stands as a big obstacle. As a result, there is an increasing attention being paid currently toward the potency of natural compounds as a complementary or alternative therapy for leukemia. Autophagy, a conserved cellular process where damaged or defective cytosolic components and macromolecules are destroyed and recycled, plays a dual role in promoting or suppressing the continuance of cancer at different junctures of its development. Current studies have reported that autophagy has a cardinal function in the genesis and progression of leukemia, making it a promising target for novel treatments. In this review, we have explored the effectiveness of certain natural compounds, such as curcumin, resveratrol, tanshinone IIA, quercetin, tetrandrine, parthenolide, berberine, pristimerin, and alantolactone, that modulate autophagy and regulate its associated signaling cascades at a molecular level in different types of leukemia. They have been shown to have synergistic effects with conventional chemotherapy, emphasizing their potential as supplementary medicines. However, additional research is required to fully comprehend their mechanisms of action and to maximize their role in clinical perspectives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sweta Kundu
- Department of Biosciences, JIS University, Kolkata, India
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tamane P, Mahadik K, Pokharkar V. Buccal spray of standardized Berberis aristata extract causes tumour regression, chemoprotection and downregulation of inflammatory mediators in oral cancer hamster model. J Ethnopharmacol 2023; 317:116732. [PMID: 37315644 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Berberis aristata (BA) has been described in Ayurveda in formulations for treating conditions related to the buccal cavity, including tumours and inflammation. Oral cancer (OC) is a major global health problem with high rates of recurrence and metastasis. Natural product based therapies are being explored as safer therapeutic strategies for OC. AIM OF THE STUDY Evaluating the potential of standardized BA extract loaded buccal spray formulation in OC. MATERIAL AND METHODS BA stem bark extract was prepared using sonication and standardized with respect to Berberine. The standardized extract was characterized and formulated as a buccal spray (SBAE-BS) using hydroxyl propyl methyl cellulose K15M, polyethylglycol 400, Miglyol®812N and ethanol. The SBAE-BS was characterized and evaluated in vitro in KB cell line and in vivo in OC hamster model. RESULTS The SBAE-BS had pH, viscosity, mucoadhesive strength and BBR content corresponding to 6.8, 25.9 cP, 345 dyne/cm2 and 0.6 mg/mL respectively. In vitro cytotoxicity of SBAE-BS was comparable to 5 fluorouracil (5FU). In hamsters, SBAE-BS treatment lead to tumour regression (p = 0.0345), improved body weights (p < 0.0001), no organ toxicity, downregulation of inflammatory mediators and improved survival outcomes as compared to standard systemic 5FU. CONCLUSION Thus, SBAE-BS showed cytotoxic and chemo-protective effects in the OC hamster model, evidencing its ethnopharmacological use and demonstrating translational potential to be developed as therapy for OC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Preeti Tamane
- Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Poona College of Pharmacy, Erandwane, Pune, 411 038, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Kakasaheb Mahadik
- Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Poona College of Pharmacy, Erandwane, Pune, 411 038, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Varsha Pokharkar
- Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Poona College of Pharmacy, Erandwane, Pune, 411 038, Maharashtra, India.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhang L, Yang Z, Li X, Hua Y, Fan G, He F. Anti-atherosclerotic effects of naringenin and quercetin from Folium Artemisiae argyi by attenuating Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β)/ matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9): network pharmacology-based analysis and validation. BMC Complement Med Ther 2023; 23:378. [PMID: 37880698 PMCID: PMC10601115 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-023-04223-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Effective components and related target genes of Folium Artemisiae argyi were screened from Traditional Chinese Medicines for Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform. The therapeutic targets of atherosclerosis were searched in the MalaCards and OMIM databases. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis were performed in WebGestalt online and verified according to ClueGo and Pedia apps in Cytoscape. Then, the protein-protein interaction network was analyzed using the STRING database and constructed using Cytoscape. Differential expression of target genes was identified in GSE9128 and GSE71226 by GEO2R. And then, molecular docking was performed using the Molecular Operating Environment. Finally, we validated the protein expression of Interleukin-6 (IL-6)/IL-1β /MMP9 by qRT-PCR and Western blot in Raw264.7 which was induced by LPS. A total of 232 potential target genes and 8 ingredients of Folium Artemisiae argyi were identified. Quercetin and naringenin are potential candidate bioactive agents in treating atherosclerosis. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGFA), MMP9 and IL-1β could be potential target genes. KEGG analysis demonstrated that the fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis pathway play a crucial role in the anti-atherosclerosis effect of Folium Artemisiae argyi. Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) validation demonstrated that VEGFA was downregulated, while MMP9 and IL-1β were upregulated in patients with atherosclerosis. Molecular docking suggested that only MMP9 had a good combination with quercetin. The cell experiment results suggested that naringenin and quercetin have strong anti-inflammation effects, and significantly inhibit the expression of MMP9. Practical ApplicationsArtemisiae argyi is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine that has been widely used for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. This research demonstrated the bioactive ingredients, potential targets, and molecular mechanism of Folium Artemisiae argyi in treating atherosclerosis. It also suggests a reliable approach in investigating the therapeutic effect of traditional Chinese herbal medicine in treating Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Economic Forest Germplasm Improvement and Resources Comprehensive Utilization, Huanggang Normal University, Huanggang, 438000, China
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for the Characteristic Resources Exploitation of Dabie Mountains, Huanggang Normal University, Huanggang, 438000, China
| | - Zhihui Yang
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Translational Research of TCM Prescription and Syndrome, Tianjin, China
| | - Xinyi Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Economic Forest Germplasm Improvement and Resources Comprehensive Utilization, Huanggang Normal University, Huanggang, 438000, China
| | - Yunqing Hua
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Translational Research of TCM Prescription and Syndrome, Tianjin, China
| | - Guanwei Fan
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Translational Research of TCM Prescription and Syndrome, Tianjin, China
| | - Feng He
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Economic Forest Germplasm Improvement and Resources Comprehensive Utilization, Huanggang Normal University, Huanggang, 438000, China.
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for the Characteristic Resources Exploitation of Dabie Mountains, Huanggang Normal University, Huanggang, 438000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Bisht A, Tewari D, Kumar S, Chandra S. Network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation to elucidate the mechanism of anti-aging action of Tinospora cordifolia. Mol Divers 2023:10.1007/s11030-023-10684-w. [PMID: 37439907 DOI: 10.1007/s11030-023-10684-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Scientific research has demonstrated that Tinospora cordifolia acts as an anti-aging agent in several experimental models, generating global interest in its underlying molecular mechanisms of this activity. The aim of the study was to identify the possible phytochemical compounds of T. cordifolia that might combat age-related illness through integrating network pharmacology, molecular docking techniques, and molecular dynamics (MD) study to explore their potential mechanisms of action. To carry out this study, several databases were used, including PubChem, KNApSAcK family database, PubMed, SwissADME, Molsoft, SwissTargetPrediction, GeneCards, and OMIM database. For network development and GO enrichment analysis KEGG, ShinyGo 0.77, and the STRING database were used. For better analysis, the networks were also constructed using Cytoscape 3.9.1. The Cytoscape network analyzer tool was used for data analysis, and molecular docking was done via Vina-GPU-2.0. The best compounds and AKT1 were finally subjected to MD simulation for 100 ns. The CytoHubba plugin of Cytoscape identified ten key targets, commonly called hub genes, including AKT1, GAPDH, and TP53, and so on. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed the relevant biological processes, cellular components, and molecular functions involved in treating aging-related disorders. KEGG pathway analysis involved neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions, lipid and atherosclerosis, and cAMP signaling. The docking of 100 T. cordifolia compounds with AKT1 demonstrated good binding affinity, particularly for Amritoside, Sitagliptin, Berberine, and Piperine. Finally, the relative stability of four-hit phytochemicals was validated by MD simulation, which may be the most crucial compound for anti-aging activity. In conclusion, this study used network pharmacology, molecular docking, and MD simulation to identify the compounds in T. cordifolia and proposed a potential mechanism for anti-aging activity. These results suggest future directions for the prevention and treatment of age-related diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amisha Bisht
- Department of Botany, P.G. College Bageshwar, Bageshwar, Uttarakhand, 263642, India
| | - Disha Tewari
- Department of Biotechnology, Kumaun University, Bhimtal, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Sanjay Kumar
- Department of Botany, P.G. College Bageshwar, Bageshwar, Uttarakhand, 263642, India.
| | - Subhash Chandra
- Computational Biology & Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Botany, Soban Singh Jeena University, Almora, 263601, India.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Xing P, Zhong Y, Cui X, Liu Z, Wu X. Natural products in digestive tract tumors metabolism: Functional and application prospects. Pharmacol Res 2023; 191:106766. [PMID: 37061144 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Abstract
Digestive tract diseases are presently the hotspot of clinical diagnosis and treatment, and the incidence of digestive tract tumor is increasing annually. Surgery remains the main therapeutic schedule for digestive tract tumor. Though benefits were brought by neoadjuvant chemotherapy, a part of patients lose the chance of surgery because of late detection or inappropriate intervention. Therefore, the treatment of inoperable patients has become an urgent need. At the same time, tumor metabolism is an extremely complex and diverse process. Natural products are confirmed effective to inhibit the development of tumors in vitro and in vitro. There are many kinds of natural products and their functions remain not clear. However, some natural products such as polyphenols have been proven to have definite anti-cancer effects, and some terpenoids have definite anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, anti-tumor, and other effects. Therefore, the anti-tumor characteristics of natural products should arouse our high attention. Although there are many obstacles to study the activities of natural products in tumor, including the difficulty in detection or distinguishing each component due to their low levels in tumor tissue, etc., the emergence of highly sensitive and locatable spatial metabolomics make the research and application of natural products a big step forward. In this review, natural products such as phenols, terpenoids and biotinoids were summarized to further discuss the development and therapeutic properties of natural metabolites on digestive tract tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peng Xing
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Breast Surgery, General Surgery, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yifan Zhong
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiao Cui
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhe Liu
- Department of Pancreatic-Biliary Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Xingda Wu
- Department of Pancreatic-Biliary Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Yang Z, Bian M, Ma J, Dong Y, Yang D, Qiu M, Gao Z. Berberine regulates pulmonary inflammatory microenvironment and decreases collagen deposition in response to bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2023; 132:154-170. [PMID: 36433932 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.13818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore the protective effect and potential mechanism of berberine on bleomycin (BLM)-induced fibrosis after lung injury in conjunction with network pharmacology. Berberine and pulmonary fibrosis prediction targets were collected for Gene Ontology (GO) functional analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis and so forth. A single intranasal dose of BLM (2.5 mg/kg) was administered to establish a model of fibrosis after lung injury, and berberine (50 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally daily for treatment. Network pharmacology results suggested that the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling pathway may be a potential mechanism of berberine in delaying pulmonary fibrosis. The results of animal experiments showed that compared with the BLM group, after 14 days of berberine treatment, lung inflammatory cell aggregation was reduced and the expression levels of tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-8 and IL-6 were down-regulated in mice (p < 0.05); after 42 days of berberine treatment, the expression levels of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, platelet-derived growth factor-AB (PDGF-AB), hydroxyproline (HYP) and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were significantly down-regulated (p < 0.05), and the expression levels of total p38 MAPKα and p38 MAPKα (pT180/Y182) were down-regulated also (p < 0.05), inhibited collagen production and deposition, and increased the survival rate of mice to 70%. In conclusion, berberine attenuated inflammation mice, inhibited collagen production and showed some anti-pulmonary fibrosis potential in the MAPK signalling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
| | - Mengni Bian
- Department of Pharmacy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China.,Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Third Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Baotou, China
| | - Junbing Ma
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
| | - Yonghe Dong
- Department of Pharmacy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
| | - Dan Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
| | - Min Qiu
- Department of Pharmacy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
| | - Zhixiang Gao
- Department of Pharmacy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Li SY, Shi CJ, Fu WM, Zhang JF. Berberine inhibits tumour growth in vivo and in vitro through suppressing the lincROR-Wnt/β-catenin regulatory axis in colorectal cancer. J Pharm Pharmacol 2023; 75:129-138. [PMID: 36130331 DOI: 10.1093/jpp/rgac067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Berberine, a non-prescription medicine clinically applied for diarrhoea and gastroenteritis. Recent studies have demonstrated that it possesses anti-tumour properties in colorectal cancer, but the exact molecular mechanism remains obscure. OBJECTIVES To elucidate the underly molecular mechanisms of berberine in colorectal cancer from a perspective of epigenetics, and tried to explore the role of lincROR-Wnt/β-catenin molecular axis in the berberine induced the anti-tumour activity in colorectal cancer. METHODS The effects of berberine on cell growth, cell cycle and apoptosis were examined in CRC cells. The in vivo effect of berberine on tumour growth was investigated using a xenograft mice model. Moreover, lincROR and Wnt/β-catenin signalling were detected by luciferase activity, qRT-PCR and western blotting assays. KEY FINDINGS Berberine suppressed cell growth in vitro via inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in CRC cell, and inhibited tumourigenesis in vivo. LincROR was significantly down-regulated by berberine, inducing the inactivation of the canonical Wnt/β-catenin signalling, meanwhile, the overexpression of lincROR partially reversed the suppressive effects on tumour growth and Wnt/β-catenin signalling induced by berberine. CONCLUSIONS Berberine inhibits tumour growth partially via regulating the lincROR-Wnt/β-catenin regulatory axis, which provides a strategy for the design of anti-tumour drugs for CRC patients after our advanced validation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Ying Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 511458, PR China
| | - Chuan-Jian Shi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 511458, PR China
| | - Wei-Ming Fu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 511458, PR China
| | - Jin-Fang Zhang
- Cancer center, Shenzhen Hospital (Futian) of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Achi IT, Sarbadhikary P, George BP, Abrahamse H. Multi-Target Potential of Berberine as an Antineoplastic and Antimetastatic Agent: A Special Focus on Lung Cancer Treatment. Cells 2022; 11:3433. [PMID: 36359829 PMCID: PMC9655513 DOI: 10.3390/cells11213433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite therapeutic advancements, lung cancer remains the principal cause of cancer mortality in a global scenario. The increased incidence of tumor reoccurrence and progression and the highly metastatic nature of lung cancer are of great concern and hence require the investigation of novel therapies and/or medications. Naturally occurring compounds from plants serve as important resources for novel drugs for cancer therapy. Amongst these phytochemicals, Berberine, an alkaloid, has been extensively explored as a potential natural anticancer therapeutic agent. Several studies have shown the effectiveness of Berberine in inhibiting cancer growth and progression mediated via several different mechanisms, which include cell cycle arrest, inducing cell death by apoptosis and autophagy, inhibiting cell proliferation and invasion, as well as regulating the expression of microRNA, telomerase activity, and the tumor microenvironment, which usually varies for different cancer types. In this review, we aim to provide a better understanding of molecular insights of Berberine and its various derivative-induced antiproliferative and antimetastatic effects against lung cancer. In conclusion, the Berberine imparts its anticancer efficacy against lung cancers via modulation of several signaling pathways involved in cancer cell viability and proliferation, as well as migration, invasion, and metastasis.
Collapse
|
9
|
Sarbadhikary P, George BP. A Review on Traditionally Used African Medicinal Plant Annickia chlorantha, Its Phytochemistry, and Anticancer Potential. Plants 2022; 11:plants11172293. [PMID: 36079675 PMCID: PMC9460708 DOI: 10.3390/plants11172293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Annickia chlorantha Setten & P.J.Maas belongs to the Annonaceae family and is a multi-purpose medicinal plant, which has been extensively used for the traditional treatment option for malaria in western and central Africa. Its phytochemical composition is dominated particularly by various biologically active protoberberines and acetogenins. This review aims to provide a comprehensive review on the traditional uses, phytochemical profiles, and the toxicology of this plant from a myriad of available publications. Even after its tremendous applications against several different human ailments, this plant has been underestimated for its anticancer potential. Herein, based on the phytochemical composition, we discuss the probable mode of mechanism for its antiproliferative activity, which highlights its importance for cytotoxicity screenings against cancer cells. Additionally, this article discusses several research questions and suggests the future directions of its applications in medicinal plant-based anticancer research.
Collapse
|
10
|
Chen J, Cao D, Jiang S, Liu X, Pan W, Cui H, Yang W, Liu Z, Jin J, Zhao Z. Triterpenoid saponins from Ilex pubescens promote blood circulation in blood stasis syndrome by regulating sphingolipid metabolism and the PI3K/AKT/eNOS signaling pathway. Phytomedicine 2022; 104:154242. [PMID: 35728385 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blood stasis syndrome (BSS) is a severe disorder involving disturbances in glycerophosphocholine metabolism. Ilex pubescens (IP) can regulate the levels of lipids, such as lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) and lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE); however, the main active constituent of IP and its corresponding mechanism in BSS treatment are still unclear. PURPOSE To explore the mechanisms by which triterpenoid saponins of IP (IPTS) promote blood circulation using system pharmacology-based approaches. METHODS Sprague-Dawley (SD) rat BSS model was prepared by oral administration of IPTS for 7 days followed by adrenaline hydrochloride injection before immersion in ice water. Coagulation parameters in plasma and thromboxane B2 (TXB2), endothelin (ET) and 6-keto-PGF1α in serum were measured. The possible influence on abdominal aortas was evaluated by histopathology assessment. Human vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were incubated with ox-LDL, and the effects of IPTS on cell viability and LDH release were investigated. UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS was used for metabolic profile analysis of lipid-soluble components in rat plasma and intracellular metabolites in HUVECs. Network pharmacology was used to predict the relevant targets and model pathways of BSS and the main components of IPTS. Molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and biochemical assays were used to predict molecular interactions between the active components of IPTS and target proteins. RT-PCR was used to detect the mRNA level of target proteins. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were used to verify the mechanisms by which IPTS promotes blood circulation in BSS. RESULTS IPTS improved blood biochemical function in the process of BSS and played a role in vascular protection and maintenance of the normal morphology of blood vessels. Furthermore, metabolite pathways involved in steroid biosynthesis and sphingolipid metabolism were significantly perturbed. Both metabolomics analysis and network pharmacology results showed that IPTS ameliorates vascular injury and that lipid accumulation may be mediated by PI3K/AKT signaling pathway activation. MD simulation and enzyme inhibitory activity results suggested that the main components of IPTS can form stable complexes with PI3K, AKT and eNOS and that the complexes have significant binding affinity. PI3K, AKT, p-AKT, and eNOS mRNA and protein levels were considerably elevated in the IPTS-treated group. Thus, IPTS protects the vasculature by regulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, activating eNOS and increasing the release of NO. CONCLUSION A possible mechanism by which IPTS prevents BSS is proposed: IPTS can promote blood circulation by modulating sphingolipid metabolism and activating the PI3K/AKT/eNOS signaling pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Di Cao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Pharmacy, Wannan Medical College, Anhui, 241002, China
| | - Shiqin Jiang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Xia Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Wencong Pan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Hui Cui
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Weiqun Yang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Zhongqiu Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jing Jin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Zhongxiang Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Song L, Wu Q, Fu X, Wang W, Dai Z, Gu Y, Zhuo Y, Fang S, Zhao W, Wang X, Wang Q, Fang J. In Silico Identification and Mechanism Exploration of Active Ingredients against Stroke from An-Gong-Niu-Huang-Wan (AGNHW) Formula. Oxid Med Cell Longev 2022; 2022:5218993. [PMID: 35432729 PMCID: PMC9006076 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5218993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
An-Gong-Niu-Huang-Wan (AGNHW) is a well-known formula for treating cerebrovascular diseases, with roles including clearing away heat, detoxification, and wake-up consciousness. In recent years, AGNHW has been commonly used for the treatment of ischemic stroke, but the mechanism by which AGNHW relieves stroke has not been clearly elucidated. In the current study, we developed a multiple systems pharmacology-based framework to identify the potential antistroke ingredients in AGNHW and explore the underlying mechanisms of action (MOA) of AGNHW against stroke from a holistic perspective. Specifically, we performed a network-based method to identify the potential antistroke ingredients in AGNHW by integrating the drug-target network and stroke-associated genes. Furthermore, the oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) model was used to validate the anti-inflammatory effects of the key ingredients by determining the levels of inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. The antiapoptotic effects of the key ingredients were also confirmed in vitro. Integrated pathway analysis of AGNHW revealed that it might regulate three biological signaling pathways, including IL-17, TNF, and PI3K-AKT, to play a protective role in stroke. Moreover, 30 key antistroke ingredients in AGNHW were identified via network-based in silico prediction and were confirmed to have known neuroprotective effects. After drug-like property evaluation and pharmacological validation in vitro, scutellarein (SCU) and caprylic acid (CA) were selected for further antistroke investigation. Finally, systems pharmacology-based analysis of CA and SCU indicated that they might exert antistroke effects via the apoptotic signaling pathway and inflammatory response, which was further validated in an in vitro stroke model. Overall, the current study proposes an integrative systems pharmacology approach to identify antistroke ingredients and demonstrate the underlying pharmacological MOA of AGNHW in stroke, which provides an alternative strategy to investigate novel traditional Chinese medicine formulas for complex diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Song
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510404, China
| | - Qihui Wu
- Clinical Research Center, Hainan Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Haikou 570100, China
| | - Xiaomei Fu
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Wentao Wang
- School of Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK
| | - Zhao Dai
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Yong Gu
- Clinical Research Center, Hainan Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Haikou 570100, China
| | - Yue Zhuo
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Shuhuan Fang
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Xiaoyun Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510404, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Jiansong Fang
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chen L, Fan XD, Qu H, Bai RN, Shi DZ. Berberine Protects against TNF- α-Induced Injury of Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells via the AMPK/NF- κB/YY1 Signaling Pathway. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2021; 2021:6518355. [PMID: 35003308 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6518355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Endothelial injury, characterized by an inflammatory response and increased permeability, is an initial stage of atherosclerosis (AS). Adenosine 5′-monophosphate (AMP), activated protein kinase (AMPK), and Nuclear Factor kappa B (NF-κB)/Yin Yang 1(YY1) signaling pathways play important roles in the process of endothelial injury. Berberine (BBR), a bioactive alkaloid isolated from several herbal substances, possesses multiple pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, anticancer, and antioxidant activities. Previous studies showed a protective effect of berberine against endothelial injury. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. We explored the potential effect of BBR on TNF- (tumor necrosis factor-) α-induced injury of human umbilical endothelial cells (HUVECs) and studied its possible molecular mechanism. In the present study, HUVECs were divided into three groups. HUVEC viability was measured with Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. Extracellular lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) concentration was measured with LDH leakage assay. Endothelial microparticle (EMP) numbers were evaluated by flow cytometry analysis assay. The expression of proinflammatory cytokines was evaluated by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). The mRNA expression of NF-κB and YY1 was detected by Real-Time PCR (RT-PCR). The protein expression of NF-κB, YY1, and AMPK was detected by immunofluorescence microscopy assay or western blot analysis. The results showed that LDH concentration, EMPs numbers, and the expression of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, and IL-1β) increased in TNF-α-induced injured HUVECs, but ameliorated by BBR pretreatment. BBR pretreatment upregulated the expression of phosphorylated AMPK and downregulated the expressions of NF-κB and YY1 in injured HUVECs induced by TNF-α, which were offset by the AMPK inhibitor Compound C (CC). The results indicated that BBR protected against TNF-α-induced endothelial injury via the AMPK/NF-κB/YY1 signaling pathway.
Collapse
|
13
|
Wang K, Li K, Chen Y, Wei G, Yu H, Li Y, Meng W, Wang H, Gao L, Lu A, Peng J, Guan D. Computational Network Pharmacology-Based Strategy to Capture Key Functional Components and Decode the Mechanism of Chai-Hu-Shu-Gan-San in Treating Depression. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:782060. [PMID: 34867413 PMCID: PMC8633106 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.782060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) usually plays therapeutic roles on complex diseases in the form of formulas. However, the multicomponent and multitarget characteristics of formulas bring great challenges to the mechanism analysis and secondary development of TCM in treating complex diseases. Modern bioinformatics provides a new opportunity for the optimization of TCM formulas. In this report, a new bioinformatics analysis of a computational network pharmacology model was designed, which takes Chai-Hu-Shu-Gan-San (CHSGS) treatment of depression as the case. In this model, effective intervention space was constructed to depict the core network of the intervention effect transferred from component targets to pathogenic genes based on a novel node importance calculation method. The intervention-response proteins were selected from the effective intervention space, and the core group of functional components (CGFC) was selected based on these intervention-response proteins. Results show that the enriched pathways and GO terms of intervention-response proteins in effective intervention space could cover 95.3 and 95.7% of the common pathways and GO terms that respond to the major functional therapeutic effects. Additionally, 71 components from 1,012 components were predicted as CGFC, the targets of CGFC enriched in 174 pathways which cover the 86.19% enriched pathways of pathogenic genes. Based on the CGFC, two major mechanism chains were inferred and validated. Finally, the core components in CGFC were evaluated by in vitro experiments. These results indicate that the proposed model with good accuracy in screening the CGFC and inferring potential mechanisms in the formula of TCM, which provides reference for the optimization and mechanism analysis of the formula in TCM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Wang
- National Key Clinical Specialty/Engineering Technology Research Center of Education Ministry of China, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Brain Function Repair and Regeneration, Neurosurgery Institute, Department of Neurosurgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangzhou, China.,Institute of Integrated Bioinformedicine and Translational Science, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kai Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yupeng Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Genxia Wei
- Huiqiao Medical Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hailang Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Radiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Meng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Handuo Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Gao
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Aiping Lu
- Institute of Integrated Bioinformedicine and Translational Science, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Junxiang Peng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Daogang Guan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Single Cell Technology and Application, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Yang L, Cao J, Wei J, Deng J, Hou X, Hao E, Du Z, Zou L, Li P. Antiproliferative activity of berberine in HepG2 cells via inducing apoptosis and arresting cell cycle. Food Funct 2021; 12:12115-12126. [PMID: 34787617 DOI: 10.1039/d1fo02783b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The therapeutic targets of berberine for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its detailed mechanisms remain unexplored. Here, an integration of network pharmacology, proteomic, bioinformatic and in vitro biochemical approach was proposed to reveal therapeutic targets and pathways underlying the antiproliferative activity of berberine against HepG2 cells. Results indicated that berberine caused the cytotoxicity and inhibited the growth of HepG2 cells with IC50 values ranging from 92 μM to 118 μM. Network pharmacology analysis revealed that targeting apoptosis and cell cycle pathways by berberine contributed to its antitumor efficacy against HCC. Proteomic analysis demonstrated that mitochondria-related apoptosis pathways were involved in the cytotoxic action of berberine, as evidenced by the expression of mitochondrial dysfunction-mediated proteins. Moreover, a total of 160 significantly altered proteins were screened, among which AKAP12 presented significantly increased levels under berberine treatment. Bioinformatic analysis of various public datasets showed that expression of AKAP12 in HCC liver tissues was downregulated, emphasizing its role as a tumor suppressor. Immunoblotting validated the increased levels of AKAP12, while co-immunoprecipitation identified its interaction with Cyclin D1. These data, together with flow cytometry analysis, suggested that AKAP12 mediated cell cycle arrest, thereby suppressing cell proliferation. Altogether, the antiproliferative action of berberine in HepG2 cells involves both apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. Regulating AKAP12 signalling by berberine might provide a promising strategy for HCC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lele Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China.
| | - Jiliang Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China.
| | - Jinchao Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China.
| | - Jiagang Deng
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Research on Functional Ingredients from Agricultural Residues, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Efficacy Study on Chinese Materia Medica, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning 530200, China
| | - Xiaotao Hou
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Research on Functional Ingredients from Agricultural Residues, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Efficacy Study on Chinese Materia Medica, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning 530200, China
| | - Erwei Hao
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Research on Functional Ingredients from Agricultural Residues, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Efficacy Study on Chinese Materia Medica, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning 530200, China
| | - Zhengcai Du
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Research on Functional Ingredients from Agricultural Residues, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Efficacy Study on Chinese Materia Medica, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning 530200, China
| | - Liang Zou
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs), School of Food and Biological Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China.
| | - Peng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Djamgoz MBA, Jentzsch V. Integrative Management of Pancreatic Cancer (PDAC): Emerging Complementary Agents and Modalities. Nutr Cancer 2021; 74:1139-1162. [PMID: 34085871 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2021.1934043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a devastating disease. The standard first-line treatment for PDAC is gemcitabine chemotherapy which, unfortunately, offers only limited chance of a lasting cure. This review further evaluates the hypothesis that the effectiveness of gemcitabine can be improved by combining it with evidence-based complementary measures. Previously, supported by clinical trial data, we suggested that a number of dietary factors and nutraceuticals can be integrated with gemcitabine therapy. Here, we evaluate a further 10 agents for which no clinical trials have (yet) been carried out but there are promising data from in vivo and/or in vitro studies including experiments involving combined treatments with gemcitabine. Two groups of complementary agents are considered: Dietary factors (resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate, vitamin B9, capsaicin, quercetin and sulforaphane) and nutraceutical agents (artemisinin, garcinol, thymoquinone and emodin). In addition, we identified seven promising agents for which there is currently only basic (mostly in vitro) data. Finally, as a special case of combination therapy, we highlighted synergistic drug combinations involving gemcitabine with "repurposed" aspirin or metformin. We conclude overall that integrated management of PDAC currently is likely to produce the best outcome for patients and for this a wide range of complementary measures is available.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa B A Djamgoz
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Biotechnology Research Centre, Cyprus International University, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Valerie Jentzsch
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Cai C, Wu Q, Hong H, He L, Liu Z, Gu Y, Zhang S, Wang Q, Fan X, Fang J. In silico identification of natural products from Traditional Chinese Medicine for cancer immunotherapy. Sci Rep 2021; 11:3332. [PMID: 33558586 PMCID: PMC7870934 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-82857-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in immunotherapy have revolutionized treatments in many types of cancer. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which has a long history of clinical adjuvant application against cancer, is emerging as an important medical resource for developing innovative cancer treatments, including immunotherapy. In this study, we developed a quantitative and systems pharmacology-based framework to identify TCM-derived natural products for cancer immunotherapy. Specifically, we integrated 381 cancer immune response-related genes and a compound-target interaction network connecting 3273 proteins and 766 natural products from 66 cancer-related herbs based on literature-mining. Via systems pharmacology-based prediction, we uncovered 182 TCM-derived natural products having potential anti-tumor immune responses effect. Importantly, 32 of the 49 most promising natural products (success rate = 65.31%) are validated by multiple evidence, including published experimental data from clinical studies, in vitro and in vivo assays. We further identified the mechanism-of-action of TCM in cancer immunotherapy using network-based functional enrichment analysis. We showcased that three typical natural products (baicalin, wogonin, and oroxylin A) in Huangqin (Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi) potentially overcome resistance of known oncology agents by regulating tumor immunosuppressive microenvironments. In summary, this study offers a novel and effective systems pharmacology infrastructure for potential cancer immunotherapeutic development by exploiting the medical wealth of natural products in TCM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chuipu Cai
- Department of Computer Science, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Manufacturing Technology of Ministry of Education, Shantou University, Shantou, 515000, China.,Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Qihui Wu
- Clinical Research Center, Hainan Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Haikou, 570100, China
| | - Honghai Hong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liying He
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Zhihong Liu
- Guangdong Institute of Microbiology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Yong Gu
- Clinical Research Center, Hainan Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Haikou, 570100, China
| | - Shijie Zhang
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Xiude Fan
- Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA.
| | - Jiansong Fang
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ilyas S, Tabasum R, Iftikhar A, Nazir M, Hussain A, Hussain A, Ali MS, Saleem F, Saleem U, Froeyen M, Abdullah I, Mirza MU, Ahmad S. Effect of Berberis vulgaris L. root extract on ifosfamide-induced in vivo toxicity and in vitro cytotoxicity. Sci Rep 2021; 11:1708. [PMID: 33462261 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-80579-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ifosfamide is a widely used chemotherapeutic agent having broad-spectrum efficacy against several tumors. However, nephro, hepato, neuro cardio, and hematological toxicities associated with ifosfamide render its use limited. These side effects could range from organ failure to life-threatening situations. The present study aimed to evaluate the attenuating efficiency of Berberis vulgaris root extract (BvRE), a potent nephroprotective, hepatoprotective, and lipid-lowering agent, against ifosfamide-induced toxicities. The study design comprised eight groups of Swiss albino rats to assess different dose regimes of BvRE and ifosfamide. Biochemical analysis of serum (serum albumin, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, total cholesterol, and triglycerides) along with complete blood count was performed. Kidney, liver, brain, and heart tissue homogenates were used to find malondialdehyde, catalase, and glutathione S-transferase levels in addition to the acetylcholinesterase of brain tissue. The results were further validated with the help of the histopathology of the selected organs. HeLa cells were used to assess the effect of BvRE on ifosfamide cytotoxicity in MTT assay. The results revealed that pre- and post-treatment regimens of BvRE, as well as the combination therapy exhibited marked protective effects against ifosfamide-induced nephro, hepato, neuro, and cardiotoxicity. Moreover, ifosfamide depicted a synergistic in vitro cytotoxic effect on HeLa cells in the presence of BvRE. These results corroborate that the combination therapy of ifosfamide with BvRE in cancer treatment can potentiate the anticancer effects of ifosfamide along with the amelioration of its conspicuous side effects.
Collapse
|
18
|
Ashrafizadeh M, Najafi M, Mohammadinejad R, Farkhondeh T, Samarghandian S. Berberine Administration in Treatment of Colitis: A Review. Curr Drug Targets 2020; 21:1385-1393. [PMID: 32564751 DOI: 10.2174/1389450121666200621193758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Berberine (Brb) is one of the well-known naturally occurring compounds exclusively found in Berberis vulgaris and other members of this family, such as Berberis aristata, Berberis aroatica, and Berberis aquifolium. This plant-derived natural compound has a variety of therapeutic impacts, including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and anti-tumor. Multiple studies have demonstrated that Brb has great anti-inflammatory activity and is capable of reducing the levels of proinflammatory cytokines, while it enhances the concentrations of anti-inflammatory cytokines, making it suitable for the treatment of inflammatory disorders. Colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease with chronic nature. Several factors are involved in the development of colitis and it appears that inflammation and oxidative stress are the most important ones. With respect to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of Brb, its administration seems to be beneficial in the treatment of colitis. In the present review, the protective effects of Brb in colitis treatment and its impact on molecular pathways are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Masoud Najafi
- Radiology and Nuclear Medicine Department, School of Paramedical Sciences, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Reza Mohammadinejad
- Pharmaceutics Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences,
Kerman, Iran
| | - Tahereh Farkhondeh
- Cardiovascular Diseases Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran,Faculty of Pharmacy, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Saeed Samarghandian
- Healthy Ageing Research Center, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Mishra R, Nathani S, Varshney R, Sircar D, Roy P. Berberine reverses epithelial-mesenchymal transition and modulates histone methylation in osteosarcoma cells. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:8499-8511. [PMID: 33074411 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-05892-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Osteosarcoma is the most frequently occurring cancer in children as well as young adolescents and the metastatic forms worsen this condition to a further great extent. The metastatic dissemination of cancer cells is often acquired through a process of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Since, phytochemicals have attracted intense interest in recent years due to their diverse pharmacological effects, in the present study, we investigated if berberine, a naturally occurring isoquinoline quaternary alkaloid, could modulate the EMT in osteosarcoma cells. Our experimental studies showed that berberine reduced cell viability, colony formation, wound healing ability and migration of osteosarcoma cells. Also, berberine significantly reduced the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, suggesting its inhibitory action on the matrix metalloproteinases that are required for cancer cell invasion. The significant reduction in the expression of vimentin, N-cadherin, fibronectin and increased expression of E-cadherin further suggested its role in the inhibition of EMT in osteosarcoma cells. The downregulation of H3K27me3, as well as the decreased expression of the histone methyl transferase enzyme EZH2, further substantiated the fact that the plant alkaloid can be used as an epigenetic modulator in the treatment of osteosarcoma. In conclusion, our findings suggest that berberine inhibits proliferation and migration of osteosarcoma cells and most importantly reverses EMT along with modulation of key epigenetic regulators.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rutusmita Mishra
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247 667, India
| | - Sandip Nathani
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247 667, India
| | - Ritu Varshney
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247 667, India
| | - Debabrata Sircar
- Plant Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247 667, India
| | - Partha Roy
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247 667, India.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Gao Y, Wang KX, Wang P, Li X, Chen JJ, Zhou BY, Tian JS, Guan DG, Qin XM, Lu AP. A Novel Network Pharmacology Strategy to Decode Mechanism of Lang Chuang Wan in Treating Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:512877. [PMID: 33117150 PMCID: PMC7562735 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.512877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Complex disease is a cascade process which is associated with functional abnormalities in multiple proteins and protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks. One drug one target has not been able to perfectly intervene complex diseases. Increasing evidences show that Chinese herb formula usually treats complex diseases in the form of multi-components and multi-targets. The key step to elucidate the underlying mechanism of formula in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is to optimize and capture the important components in the formula. At present, there are several formula optimization models based on network pharmacology has been proposed. Most of these models focus on the 2D/3D similarity of chemical structure of drug components and ignore the functional optimization space based on relationship between pathogenetic genes and drug targets. How to select the key group of effective components (KGEC) from the formula of TCM based on the optimal space which link pathogenic genes and drug targets is a bottleneck problem in network pharmacology. To address this issue, we designed a novel network pharmacological model, which takes Lang Chuang Wan (LCW) treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) as the case. We used the weighted gene regulatory network and active components targets network to construct disease-targets-components network, after filtering through the network attribute degree, the optimization space and effective proteins were obtained. And then the KGEC was selected by using contribution index (CI) model based on knapsack algorithm. The results show that the enriched pathways of effective proteins we selected can cover 96% of the pathogenetic genes enriched pathways. After reverse analysis of effective proteins and optimization with CI index model, KGEC with 82 components were obtained, and 105 enriched pathways of KGEC targets were consistent with enriched pathways of pathogenic genes (80.15%). Finally, the key components in KGEC of LCW were evaluated by in vitro experiments. These results indicate that the proposed model with good accuracy in screening the KGEC in the formula of TCM, which provides reference for the optimization and mechanism analysis of the formula in TCM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yao Gao
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
- Institute of Integrated Bioinformedicine and Translational Science, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Ke-xin Wang
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
- Institute of Integrated Bioinformedicine and Translational Science, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Peng Wang
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiao Li
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jing-jing Chen
- Institute of Integrated Bioinformedicine and Translational Science, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- Zhijiang College, Zhejiang University of Technology, Shaoxing, China
| | - Bo-ya Zhou
- Department of Ultrasound, Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jun-sheng Tian
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Dao-gang Guan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Single Cell Technology and Application, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xue-mei Qin
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Ai-ping Lu
- Institute of Integrated Bioinformedicine and Translational Science, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Guo F, Tang X, Zhang W, Wei J, Tang S, Wu H, Yang H. Exploration of the mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine by AI approach using unsupervised machine learning for cellular functional similarity of compounds in heterogeneous networks, XiaoErFuPi granules as an example. Pharmacol Res 2020; 160:105077. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
22
|
Wu Q, Chen Y, Gu Y, Fang S, Li W, Wang Q, Fang J, Cai C. Systems pharmacology-based approach to investigate the mechanisms of Danggui-Shaoyao-san prescription for treatment of Alzheimer's disease. BMC Complement Med Ther 2020; 20:282. [PMID: 32948180 PMCID: PMC7501700 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-020-03066-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia in the elderly, characterized by a progressive and irreversible loss of memory and cognitive abilities. Currently, the prevention and treatment of AD still remains a huge challenge. As a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescription, Danggui-Shaoyao-san decoction (DSS) has been demonstrated to be effective for alleviating AD symptoms in animal experiments and clinical applications. However, due to the complex components and biological actions, its underlying molecular mechanism and effective substances are not yet fully elucidated. Methods In this study, we firstly systematically reviewed and summarized the molecular effects of DSS against AD based on current literatures of in vivo studies. Furthermore, an integrated systems pharmacology framework was proposed to explore the novel anti-AD mechanisms of DSS and identify the main active components. We further developed a network-based predictive model for identifying the active anti-AD components of DSS by mapping the high-quality AD disease genes into the global drug-target network. Results We constructed a global drug-target network of DSS consisting 937 unique compounds and 490 targets by incorporating experimental and computationally predicted drug–target interactions (DTIs). Multi-level systems pharmacology analyses revealed that DSS may regulate multiple biological pathways related to AD pathogenesis, such as the oxidative stress and inflammatory reaction processes. We further conducted a network-based statistical model, drug-likeness analysis, human intestinal absorption (HIA) and blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetration prediction to uncover the key ani-AD ingredients in DSS. Finally, we highlighted 9 key ingredients and validated their synergistic role against AD through a subnetwork. Conclusion Overall, this study proposed an integrative systems pharmacology approach to disclose the therapeutic mechanisms of DSS against AD, which also provides novel in silico paradigm for investigating the effective substances of complex TCM prescription.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qihui Wu
- Clinical Research Center, Hainan Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Haikou, 570000, China.,Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Yunbo Chen
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Yong Gu
- Clinical Research Center, Hainan Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Haikou, 570000, China
| | - Shuhuan Fang
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Weirong Li
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510000, China.
| | - Jiansong Fang
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510000, China.
| | - Chuipu Cai
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510000, China. .,School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Samadi P, Sarvarian P, Gholipour E, Asenjan KS, Aghebati-Maleki L, Motavalli R, Hojjat-Farsangi M, Yousefi M. Berberine: A novel therapeutic strategy for cancer. IUBMB Life 2020; 72:2065-2079. [PMID: 32735398 DOI: 10.1002/iub.2350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cancer, even currently, is one of the main reasons for mortality and morbidity, worldwide. In recent years, a great deal of effort has been made to find efficient therapeutic strategies for cancer, however, particularly with regards to side effects and the possibility of complete remission. Berberine (BBR) is a nature-driven phytochemical component originated from different plant groups such as Berberis vulgaris, Berberis aquifolium, and Berberis aristata. BBR is a well-known nutraceutical because of its wide range of pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antibacterial, antiparasitic, antidiarrheal, antihypertensive, hypolipidemic, and fungicide. In addition, it exhibits inhibitory effects on multiple types of cancers. In this review, we have elaborated on the anticancer effects of BBR through the regulation of different molecular pathways such as: inducing apoptosis, autophagy, arresting cell cycle, and inhibiting metastasis and invasion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Samadi
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Parisa Sarvarian
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Elham Gholipour
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Karim Shams Asenjan
- Hematology Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Roza Motavalli
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hojjat-Farsangi
- Immune and Gene Therapy Lab, Department of Oncology-Pathology, Cancer Center Karolinska (CCK), Karolinska University Hospital Solna and Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mehdi Yousefi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Kim DY, Kim SH, Cheong HT, Ra CS, Rhee KJ, Jung BD. Berberine Induces p53-Dependent Apoptosis through Inhibition of DNA Methyltransferase3b in Hep3B Cells. Korean J Clin Lab Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.15324/kjcls.2020.52.1.69] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Dae-Yeon Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine & Institute of Veterinary Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Seon-Hyoung Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine & Institute of Veterinary Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Hee-Tae Cheong
- College of Veterinary Medicine & Institute of Veterinary Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Chang-Six Ra
- College of Animal Life Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Ki-Jong Rhee
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Yonsei University at Wonju, Wonju, Korea
| | - Bae Dong Jung
- College of Veterinary Medicine & Institute of Veterinary Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Ding Z, Zhong R, Yang Y, Xia T, Wang W, Wang Y, Xing N, Luo Y, Li S, Shang L, Shu Z. Systems pharmacology reveals the mechanism of activity of Ge-Gen-Qin-Lian decoction against LPS-induced acute lung injury: A novel strategy for exploring active components and effective mechanism of TCM formulae. Pharmacol Res 2020; 156:104759. [PMID: 32200026 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Acute lung injury (ALI), a severe and life-threatening inflammation of the lung, with high morbidity and mortality, underscoring the urgent need for novel treatments. Ge-Gen-Qin-Lian decoction (GQD), a classic Chinese herbal formula, has been widely used to treat intestine-related diseases in the clinic for centuries. In recent years, a growing number of studies have found that GQD has a favorable anti-inflammatory effect. With the further study on the viscera microbiota, the link between the lungs and the gut-the gut-lung axis has been established. Based on the theory of the gut-lung axis, we used systems pharmacology to explore the effects and mechanisms of GQD treatment in ALI. Hypothesizing that GQD inhibits ALI progression, we used the experimental model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI in Balb/c mice to evaluate the therapeutic potential of GQD. Our results showed that GQD exerted protective effects against LPS-induced ALI by reducing pulmonary edema and microvascular permeability. Meanwhile, GQD can downregulate the expression of LPS-induced TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in lung tissue, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BLAF), and serum. To further understand the molecular mechanism of GQD in the treatment of ALI, we used the network pharmacology to predict the disease targets of the active components of GQD. Lung tissue and serum samples of the mice were separately analyzed by transcriptomics and metabolomics. KEGG pathway analysis of network pharmacology and transcriptomics indicated that PI3K/Akt signaling pathway was significantly enriched, suggesting that it may be the main regulatory pathway for GQD treatment of ALI. By immunohistochemical analysis and apoptosis detection, it was verified that GQD can inhibit ALI apoptosis through PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Then, we used the PI3K inhibitor LY294002 to block the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, and reversely verified that the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway is the main pathway of GQD anti-ALI. In addition, differential metabolites in mice serum samples indicate that GQD can inhibit the inflammatory process of ALI by reversing the imbalance of energy metabolism. Our study showed that, GQD did have a better therapeutic effect on ALI, and initially elucidated its molecular mechanism. Thus, GQD could be exploited to develop novel therapeutics for ALI. Moreover, our study also provides a novel strategy to explore active components and effective mechanism of TCM formula combined with TCM theory to treat ALI.
Collapse
|
26
|
Mortazavi H, Nikfar B, Esmaeili SA, Rafieenia F, Saburi E, Chaichian S, Heidari Gorji MA, Momtazi-Borojeni AA. Potential cytotoxic and anti-metastatic effects of berberine on gynaecological cancers with drug-associated resistance. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 187:111951. [PMID: 31821990 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.111951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Gynaecological disorders, such as cervical, ovarian, and endometrial cancers are the second most prevalent cancer types in women worldwide. Therapeutic approaches for gynaecological cancers involve chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. However, lifespan is not improved, and novel medications are required. Among various phytochemicals, berberine, a well-known natural product, has been shown to be a promising cancer chemopreventive agent. Pharmacokinetics, safety, and efficacy of berberine have been investigated in the several experiments against numerous diseases. Here, we aimed to provide a literature review from available published investigations showing the anticancer effects of berberine and its various synthetic analogues against gynaecological disorders, including cervical, ovarian, and endometrial cancers. In conclusion, berberine has been found to efficiently inhibit viability, proliferation, and migration of cancer cells, mainly, via induction of apoptosis by both mitochondrial dependent and -independent pathways. Additionally, structural modification of berberine showed that berberine analogues can improve its antitumor effects against gynaecological cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Mortazavi
- Geriatric Care Research Center, Department of Geriatric Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Banafsheh Nikfar
- Pars Advanced and Minimally Invasive Medical Manners Research Center, Pars Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed-Alireza Esmaeili
- Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Rafieenia
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ehsan Saburi
- Medical Genetics and Molecular Medicine Department, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Shahla Chaichian
- Endometriosis Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Heidari Gorji
- Diabetes Research Center, Department of Medical-Surgical Nursing, Nasibeh Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
| | - Amir Abbas Momtazi-Borojeni
- Halal Research Center of IRI, FDA, Tehran, Iran; Nanotechnology Research Center, Bu-Ali Research Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Medical Biotechnology, Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
|
28
|
Song L, Luo Y, Wang X, Almutairi MM, Pan H, Li W, Liu Y, Wang Q, Hong M. Exploring the active mechanism of berberine against HCC by systematic pharmacology and experimental validation. Mol Med Rep 2019; 20:4654-4664. [PMID: 31545468 PMCID: PMC6797955 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2019.10698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Berberine (BBR) is the main component of Coptidis rhizoma, the dried rhizome of Coptis chinensis and is a potential plant alkaloid used for the treatment of cancer due to its high antitumor activity. The present study examined the therapeutic potential and molecular mechanism of action of BBR against HCC, using systematic pharmacology combined with a molecular docking approach and experimental validation in vitro. Through systematic pharmacological analysis, it was found that BBR serves a significant role in inhibiting HCC by affecting multiple pathways, especially the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Furthermore, the docking approach indicated that the binding of BBR to AKT could lead to the suppression of AKT activity. The present study examined the inhibitory effect of BBR on the PI3K/AKT pathway in HCC and identified that BBR downregulated the expressions of phosphorylated AKT and PI3K in MHCC97-H and HepG2 cells, inhibiting their growth, cell migration and invasion in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, inhibition of the AKT pathway by BBR also contributed to cell apoptosis in MHCC97-H and HepG2 cells. Taken together, the results of the present study suggested that BBR may be a promising antitumor drug for HCC that acts by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Song
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Yi Luo
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Xinyue Wang
- Sun Yat‑sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510060, P.R. China
| | - Mohammed M Almutairi
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
| | - Huafeng Pan
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Weirong Li
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Yongqiang Liu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Qi Wang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Ming Hong
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|